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Christmas Message: Janelle Saffin State Member for Lismore
Christmas Message: Janelle Saffin State Member for Lismore

24 December 2024, 6:31 PM

I wish to thank people for their wonderful messages and support over 2024 and extend my message of thanks to all who are working hard for our ongoing recovery.After another busy year, this is a time for recharging the batteries, reconnecting with loved ones or reaching out to others who might be doing it tough.I love Christmas and being able to wish people a very Merry Christmas.The season and what it stands for evokes feelings of goodwill and can bring out our best.The holiday season can also be a difficult time for many people - for those who are suffering and alone, for those struggling financially, and for those who live in fear of violence in their daily lives.  It is incumbent upon those of us who have much in terms of inner and outer resources to share with all at this time.Sadly, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day are times when, historically, there is a spike in domestic violence-related assaults. When emotions are running high and the alcohol is flowing, we need to make an extra effort to look out for each other.Every single adult and child has a right to safety and I urge anyone who needs support over the holiday period to reach out for it.If you think someone might be in trouble, speak up. We can all play a role in creating a safer community.If you are concerned about your safety or that of someone you know, please call the NSW Domestic Violence Hotline on 1800 656 463 or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732In an emergency, contact Triple Zero; 000I wish you all a safe and happy holiday season.  May we all do what we can to keep each other safe on our roads, on our beaches and swimming spots, and safe from violence at home and in the community.And in the year ahead I look forward to sharing good news with you about progress on flood recovery and rebuilding to help our community thrive.Janelle SaffinState Member for Lismore

Christmas Message: Bishop Greg Homeming
Christmas Message: Bishop Greg Homeming

24 December 2024, 5:59 PM

Each Christmas, we gather together in great joy and festivity to have our Christmas dinner, our Christmas lunch, to open presents. But if the truth be known, it's a very hectic, busy time in which we struggle. And in this time of our lives, we're struggling to put the food on the table this year. We're struggling to buy the gifts which we want to buy, and as we move towards Christmas, we recognise so much of what we don't have. We recognise the stress that the world's under and also our own difficulties. This Christmas, I ask you to do one very simple thing that is to recognise that all these things that bother us are in fact not about Christmas at all. Christmas is not about Santa Claus, and not about reindeers, not about Christmas trees or presents. It's about that little image that we often forget of the manger with Jesus, Mary and Joseph, perhaps a few cows looking on, and maybe a few straggling shepherds that happen to be passing by. I recommend that you enter that manger. Enter the manger and enter the silence of the manger. The manger is in stark contrast to where we come from. We come from noise, we come from stress. We come from wanting things that we can't have. Enter the manger, where the only thing that matters is who is there and the silence. Take on that silence into your life. Receive the silence of the manger into your hearts, and then you will begin to find direction, proportion, and understanding of what life is. Life is not the way life is outside the manger, but life's possibility is given in that silence of midnight. It's given in that quiet. As you enter that, you will begin to see who you are, what really matters, and that everything that you thought was important fades into nothingness, and you'll begin to see as Mary, Joseph and Jesus see each other. You'll begin to see what is important in life. You'll begin to recognise the people that you love, and in the silence, you'll begin to know how to love, because Christmas is about the gift of love, which is taught to us in the silence of the manger. Let us go there. This Christmas, I will pray for you and I give you my blessing, my prayers and my wishes. Happy Christmas.Bishop Greg Homeming

GSAC and Memorial Baths operating days
GSAC and Memorial Baths operating days

23 December 2024, 11:00 PM

The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting a sunny 27-degree day for Christmas Day 2024. We couldn't ask for better weather.The Bureau then says temperatures will ramp up into the 30's before some potential rain days from Saturday afternoon.To escape the heat, people who have remained in Lismore over the holidays usually look for some water activities to stay cool. Besides a short drive to the beach, GSAC and the Memorial Baths will be open during the non-public holiday days.Lismore City Council has said:Goonellabah Sports & Aquatic Centre (GSAC)Open throughout the Christmas period, excluding public holidays. Closures include:- Wednesday, 25 December- Thursday, 26 December- Sunday, 29 December- Wednesday, 1 JanuaryLismore Memorial BathsOpen over the Christmas break, excluding public holidays. Closures include:- Wednesday, 25 December- Thursday, 26 December- Wednesday, 1 JanuaryOther council facilities include: LibrariesBoth Lismore and Goonellabah Libraries are closed, and will reopen on Thursday, 2 January at 9.30am.Lismore Regional GalleryThe gallery is closed for Christmas and Boxing Day. It will be open on Friday, December 27 and Saturday, December 28, then close until Thursday, January 2, 2025. Lismore Recycling & Recovery Centre, Nimbin Transfer Station and Lismore Revolve ShopOpen throughout the Christmas break, excluding public holidays. These facilities will be closed on the following dates:- Wednesday, 25 December- Thursday, 26 December- Wednesday, 1 JanuaryPlease note: The Lismore Revolve Shop will also be closed on Saturday, 28 December.Waste collection will continue, with pickups starting at 2.15am on Christmas morning, allowing drivers to spend the day with their families and friends.Corporate CentreThe corporate centre is closed, and will reopen at 8.30am on Thursday, 2 January.

Community urged to look out for one another over the festive season
Community urged to look out for one another over the festive season

23 December 2024, 9:02 PM

As New South Wales enters the festive season, the NSW Government is asking the community to help them in their ongoing work to create a safer New South Wales by looking out for one another and standing together against domestic, family and sexual violence. Data released by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) is a sobering reminder that while for many this is a period of joy where loved ones come together to celebrate the holiday season, there will be some who do not feel safe in their own homes; who are victims of domestic and family violence.The data highlights the heightened risk of assault during public holidays in New South Wales, with a significant spike in domestic and family violence expected over the Christmas and New Years period. Sadly, Christmas Day and Boxing Day have historically seen 78% more domestic violence-related assaults than on the average day.New Year's Day sees a projected increase of 118% for domestic violence-related assaults and a 166% increase in non-domestic violence-related assaults.This increase is uniformly seen across public holidays in the state, with a 62% increase in domestic violence-related assaults on Australia Day and ANZAC Day. For non-domestic violence-related assaults, there is an increase of 89% and 78%, respectively on these days.As the community joins together in celebrations over the holiday period, where many will be consuming alcohol, the NSW Government is asking that everyone plays a part in ensuring that all members of the community are safe and respected. If you witness unacceptable behaviour, call it out.If you are concerned about the safety of someone you know or your own, please contact:The NSW Domestic Violence Line on: 1800 656 463Or, 1800 RESPECT on: 1800 737 732If it is an emergency, please contact Triple Zero: 000Every single person has a right to safety, and the NSW Government urges anyone who needs support or help over the holiday period to reach out for it.The Government genuinely understands its responsibility to unrelentingly work to address domestic and family violence across the state, but while that work continues, they are asking the community to help.Over this holiday period the Government is asking the community to check on their loved ones, to not ignore signs of concerning behaviour, and to help them in their ongoing work towards creating a safer New South Wales. Minister for Police Yasmin Catley said, "This data is a devastating reminder of the urgent importance of action to address domestic and family violence across the state.“To our state’s police who will continue to work over this period to keep our community safe, to those who will be at the end of the phone when someone reaches out for help, to those in our health system who will offer urgent care over this period, thank you.“Our state’s police stand with the NSW Government in having zero tolerance for domestic and family violence and are working hard every single day and night to do their bit to address this crisis facing our state, but they cannot do it alone. "If you think someone might be in trouble, don’t stay silent—speak up. Talk to someone, contact the police, and take action. Every single person has a role to play in creating a safer New South Wales.” Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison, said, “As we end 2024, we must reassert our commitment to address domestic and family violence in all communities across our state.“The NSW Government is committed to taking meaningful and ongoing action to ensure women across our state are safe, but we know we cannot do this without the community’s help.“The data released today is sobering, but it is more than data, each statistic is a person who has had their right to safety taken away from them where they should feel safest.“We will continue to work across the entire government, across party lines, with victim-survivors, experts and advocates to urgently address this crisis.“But Government policy alone is not enough. To create lasting cultural change, we need every member of the community to join us in this work to create a safer New South Wales.”New South Wales Women’s Safety Commissioner Hannah Tonkin said, "The holiday season should be a joyful time for us all to gather with family and friends. However, it is also one of the most high-risk periods for people experiencing domestic and family violence. "Over the coming weeks, many women and children will be living in fear for their safety in their own homes, and police and support services will be working tirelessly to deal with increased rates of domestic and family violence. This is totally unacceptable and it takes a heavy toll on families."If you are experiencing violence or abuse, you do not have to face this alone. Help and support is available."And if you are concerned that your own behaviour might be putting the safety of family members at risk, there are services to call who can help you to change."I encourage everyone to look after each other during this holiday period. Together, as a community, we can work to end domestic and family violence and ensure that everyone is safe and respected."

South Lismore PO is celebrating Christmas, success and the community
South Lismore PO is celebrating Christmas, success and the community

23 December 2024, 8:01 PM

Six months ago, Tracy Ward was a woman with a vision. The vehicle to make that happen was a post office and her imagination.Tracy’s vision was to make “Hearts soar higher than a river ever could”. She never expected just how high that would be.  With children's excitement surrounding her Christmas “Nice List” and the tasks for the elderly in the community, she transformed “Ettie” (named after its first postmistress) into a gingerbread house.Tracy’s efforts have been recognised within the community, statewide and internationally.The 2022 floods severely impacted Tracy’s life. Another challenge in a life that has not been easy. But Tracy’s courage, vision and effort to not lose sight of her dream has been “successful beyond words.”“For as much as people think that I bring joy to the community, this community has saved me and my family.  “Lismore has stood by me.“You’ve held me and this space in which people are allowing me to create, allowing me to be exactly who I am, and asking nothing of me other than a smile - this place where I feel so fully accepted and safe standing in my own presence exactly as I am.If you haven't seen Ettie, yet, make sure you get down to see the whole effect...“I am home for the first time in my life. I am home.”Tracy has worked exceedingly hard for weeks to make a special Christmas event happen, and on the big day when the Rail Trail opened, and Santa was due to arrive at the Post Office, she spent the morning in hospital with one broken and two dislocated fingers!  Just making it back in time, Tracy got to see the Mayor, Steve Krieg, as a jolly Santa, making the children laugh and show pure delight when they got to ring the Santa Bell. Tracy also got to take in her daughters, stepping up their own efforts for the community.The various works Tracy has been involved in have seen countless words of appreciation from the community, and more formal acknowledgement has started coming in. Australia Post has voted her on the NSW State Council for licensed post offices in Australia. “That is a big deal, even for someone that has been at post for 20 years. I feel very privileged to be recognised.”The Faculty of Education at Southern Cross University has recognised her efforts, and Tracy has been awarded the 2024 Dean’s Honour List. Tracy was surprised and honoured to receive the award for Outstanding Achievement in her studies where she is currently working towards supporting children's experiences in a program called Quantum Kids.“It’s about offsetting the long-term implications of adverse childhood experiences with the objective of lowering the occurrence of domestic violence, a subject close to my heart."Last week saw Tracy recognised in a competition she didn’t know existed, let alone entered into - the National Christmas Lights Display competition. This has generated global attention, and on Saturday, CNN was at the Post Office wanting to speak with Tracy about it.  One of Tracy’s goals was to make Ettie into an Australian Icon. She has had visitors from interstate and even overseas, but having a global media network on her doorstep was something she never counted on. Tracy is delighted that Lismore is being recognised internationally for more than the 2022 floods.Tracy's youngest daughter, Heidi, played Santa at the light up. (Image Credit; Tracy Ward)However, Tracy acknowledges that recovery is still very real and is particularly concerned about the younger generation who had the double whammy of covid and floods.“There is a whole generation of children that didn't get to go to birthday parties. They didn't get to go to circuses or movies or understand what it was to go to a show and look at the chickens.”In Tracy’s eyes, this reality makes the children's efforts even more impressive. “We actually achieved 960 Christmas cards for our elderly and underprivileged residents. That’s a spectacular effort.“We wanted to hit 1000, but we aren't finished, we've still got a couple of days before Christmas.”Posting letters for Santa and the community on the Rail Trail opening day.There is one thing that concerns Tracy about her new venture, and that is whether or not Ettie can survive another flood. Tracy has been applying for grants to get her lifted.  “I am working tirelessly to achieve a grant.“If we can't raise her, we may not be able to sustain her through another big flood event, and that would be absolutely devastating.“Not just because it's the hub of our community and my personal family business, but mostly because she's been there since 1880 - she has served the community for that long, and she served it largely with single women at the helm.”There is a way for people to help, and Tracy asks, ”We need loads of support—letters of support from the community. If you love us, if we've served you well, and if you'd love to see us continue to operate, write that letter.“From your business, write that letter personally from your family, flood us with support so we can take it to all of the grants that are available and demonstrate how incredibly important Ettie is to the community.”Tracy is fighting for more than a building.“Every day I go to work, and I'm happy. Every day, my customers come in, and they laugh with us. If you gave me any job on the planet, I don't think I would ever find myself as happy and as at home as I am in Ettie at South Lismore.”

Lismore Council considers new landfill option at Blakebrook Quarry
Lismore Council considers new landfill option at Blakebrook Quarry

23 December 2024, 7:00 PM

Just over twelve months ago, Lismore City Council voted to explore Balanced Regional Model C as its preferred waste management model and strategy.A year later, one significant change forced council to move from C to Balanced Regional Model A.The catalyst for the change was the one-off $5 million state government grant to council to purchase nine (9) new garbage trucks fitted with the latest technology. Before this grant was allocated, due to its financial position and the $ 5 million cost of replacing its ageing fleet of waste trucks, the decision was made to outsource kerbside pickup.So, Balanced Regional Model C was adopted at the last council meeting.Council has been reviewing its waste strategy and management plan. It is taking time to focus on the long-term viability of its waste decisions to benefit the community, not just in the next five years but well into the future.Lismore City Council's Chief Operating Officer, Brendan Logan, sat down for a chat about its waste facility and the options that are being discussed in our Talking Lismore podcast.Council is now working to understand the suitability of the Wyrallah Road landfill site and is considering both greenfield and brownfield sites as alternatives.Due to the damage done to Cell 2B and the constant rain that hinders council's chances of performing a full lining assessment, which includes EPA issues, they have discovered the lifespan of the Wyrallah Road site is shorter than expected. This left Mr Logan and his team to investigate other options. Blakebrook Quarry is one of those options.Blakebrook Quarry is much larger than Wyrallah Road and could lead to regional solutions if the opportunity arose.“Any decision would need to consider environmental constraints and the capacity to accommodate a waste facility and quarry operations simultaneously,” Mr Logan added.Mr Logan also discussed the council's plans for recycling and organics processing. He noted that the council recently shut down its materials recycling facility (commonly known as the MURF) due to safety concerns and is currently temporarily sending its recycling material up to Chinderah. However, he raised concerns about the long-term viability of recycling at Wyrallah Road and suggested that the site could be better utilised. The goal is to minimise the percentage of waste that goes into landfill. Technology now says that 90+% of waste can be recycled. Currently, Lismore City Council's number is around 70%.“I saw an announcement by Premier Minns a couple of weeks ago about a heavy industry manufacturing Centre of Excellence in Wollongong,” Logan said. “And I read the article and looked at the footprint down there in the industrial zone, and thought, well, we could have something similar for recycling and a circular economy in Lismore."Mr Logan also discussed the council's plans for organic waste processing and noted that the council is working with the Byron Bay Council to explore potential solutions. He said that the council is making small investments in its shredding and compost support infrastructure to ensure that it can continue to provide the service at Wyrallah Road. However, it is also exploring emerging technologies that could be used to process organic waste more efficiently.The process of moving our waste facilities back online may take longer than expected, but the end result may be worth waiting for.Hear the complete podcast by clicking Talking Lismore podcast.

Protect yourself from COVID-19 this holiday season
Protect yourself from COVID-19 this holiday season

22 December 2024, 10:00 PM

People who live in or are visiting Northern NSW are being urged to take simple precautions to protect themselves and others from COVID-19 during the holiday period.Early indications suggest that COVID-19 activity will continue to increase in the coming weeks across the state, including in Northern NSW.The latest NSW Respiratory Surveillance Report shows there were 150 COVID-19 cases reported in Northern NSW in the week ending 14 December 2024, compared with 110 for the week prior.Director of North Coast Population and Public Health, Dr Valerie Delpech said people should be alert for cold or flu-like symptoms as the statistics represent only a small proportion of the actual number of people with COVID-19.“The Report shows Northern NSW had the highest rate of COVID-19 in the state for the week ending 14 December,” Dr Delpech said.“With extra people visiting our region for the holiday period and gathering together, we want to ensure people take steps to protect themselves and those around them from COVID-19.”We want to remind the community of these simple measures to protect themselves and others:Stay up to date with your recommended COVID-19 vaccinationsStay home if you are sick, and wear a mask if you need to leave homePeople with cold or flu symptoms should avoid visiting high-risk settings such as hospitals, aged and disability care facilities, or people who are at higher risk of severe illness.Gather outdoors or in well-ventilated indoor settings.People should talk with their doctor if they are at a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses. Their doctor may recommend a PCR test if they get sick, and they may be eligible for antivirals.Regular COVID-19 vaccinations are the best way to maintain your protection against severe illness from COVID-19. They are especially important for anyone aged 65 years or older and people at higher risk of severe COVID-19.To find out if you are recommended to get your next COVID-19 vaccination, visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/health/covid-19/vaccination.

Smiles and thanks for Natasha’s continuing efforts helping Lismore
Smiles and thanks for Natasha’s continuing efforts helping Lismore

22 December 2024, 9:00 PM

Natasha Shearer has been continuing her efforts to help those flood affected, and has made one more household happy by getting it finished off by Christmas.The flood-affected family was hesitant to go on the record - after almost three years of reclaiming their home, they are looking forward to putting the ordeal behind them. Still, it doesn’t make them less appreciative of Natasha and her team.Natasha feels the appreciation; it keeps her motivated. “My highlight is putting smiles on those in need the most, especially during Christmas," she said.Natasha and her helpers made a list of people that they wanted to help after the floods, and she is still working through that list, “I promised them I was going to do something.” Natasha's principle is as simple as that.“We keep going and see people whenever we can, it might be a whole weekend, or to go down to paint a house, or I'll get a plumber in, or whatever.”There are still things that have been donated or are being donated that are being distributed, “And then we've got different people who don't want to be acknowledged, but behind the scenes that will pay for different things.”That helps when donated goods aren’t enough - to hire a tradesperson to get a job done. A couple of organisations have recently given acknowledgement to Natasha's efforts.Resilient Lismore sent gratitude to those they have worked with, and Natasha received a well-deserved recognition.Elly Bird, the Executive Director of Resilient Lismore, said, “We've worked alongside Natasha since the 2022 floods. “We worked together to distribute significant amounts of goods into the community, and she's been forced to be reckoned with. She has always done everything out of the goodness of her heart, and her contribution to the recovery can't be understated.”Natasha lives in Queensland, and has since before the floods. She comes to Lismore for family and mob and those who need help.  Her children attend a school in Bilambil, and she travels to keep her children in the school where they were before the move to QLD to keep them happy and secure. Jeff Robinson, the Principal of Bilambal Public School, has worked with Natasha, and his description of her efforts speaks to her dedication to those she cares for - community - in another aspect of her community spirit in action“She's one of the only people I know that would literally give you the shirt off her back if she felt that you needed her more than she did. She's just the most beautiful soul, most gorgeous person giving of her time, of her possessions and things that she can organise for you. Natasha perform with the Caring for Country dance troup at the Murwillumbah kinship festival, which she involved many members from Bilambil Public School.‘We have a Community Contributor award. So, usually, that goes to a PNC member or people who are involved in the school in a voluntary capacity. This year, there were a couple of nominations, but the vote for Natasha was unanimous.“She's the sort of person who just is so community-minded. In particular, since the floods her charitable work in sourcing resources from businesses and individuals from across the Gold Coast and in the Tweed area to help and support the people in Lismore in particular was just astounding.”Natasha has also been very active in strengthening her indigenous culture in the school and community. “At NAIDOC, with our artworks and yarning circle and the country dance group. We love having her and her kids as part of that. She's so generous with her time and efforts - just incredible.”If you want to find Natasha to help her in her mission, the best place to find her is on Facebook.

There is a new burger joint in town; Charby’s near the Gollan Hotel
There is a new burger joint in town; Charby’s near the Gollan Hotel

22 December 2024, 8:00 PM

Local man Charlie Pickford has started a family burger joint in Lismore’s Woodlark St, and it looks and smells amazing.Charlie, his siblings and friends are having a lot of fun with the new business.Charlie has a thing for burgers, “I just like burgers. I like eating them. I thought I could make a pretty good one. Lismore didn't really have many burgers for a bit, so I thought I’d open a burger shop.“So, originally, I had a food truck where I was selling burgers out of. We had a lot of customers, but the wait was getting long.“Now that we have a shop, it all goes smoother - much faster, and it's a lot easier.”Charlie is serious about burgers. He has a good menu with variety, but it is a work in progress. And he sets a high standard for burger quality…“I tried to make a veggie burger. It's really good, but I feel like it wasn't good enough to put on the menu, so I’m holding off on that. We've got a good vegetarian population around here to think about. The Garden Plate do a veggie burger really well. I loved mine, but I want it to fit the standard of the other burgers.”Asking about his recommendations, Charlie instantly made a couple, “ The double special is really good. Spicy Charlie, that's my favourite chicken burger. And the loaded fries, they're always good.”Charlie is learning the ropes in his business, but his passion for good food drives him.“I always really wanted to do something with food and business, and I was the guy who likes making burgers. It’s fun!”Charlie has his brother, Alby, and sister, Molly, as well as friends working with him at the shop. Aspects of the business are still being completed - like the interior. There is some great artwork going up on the walls.“Kyahna's a great artist. She's not finished yet, but it’s coming along, really nicely.”Charlie is also considering an ice cream bar. So when you call in for a bite, let him know if you think it is a good idea or not….

Changes to international student visas a present for SCU and Lismore
Changes to international student visas a present for SCU and Lismore

22 December 2024, 7:00 PM

The federal government has made changes to international student visa processing. A move that has been welcomed by regional and smaller universities across the country, including Southern Cross University (SCU).The Government will replace Ministerial Direction 107 with Ministerial Direction 111. The changes will give regional and smaller unis fairer access to international students.SCU Vice-Chancellor Tyrone Carlin told the Lismore App that Ministerial Direction 107 was regarded as very damaging to SCU and other regional universities."Our strong view to government was in the absence of your legislation for caps, you know that 107 is doing enormous damage to regional universities. You know that it is privileging a small group of very well-established metro institutions. That connection between the passage of the caps legislation and the removal of 107 is just untenable. And I'm really happy that they've heeded that and moved on to what is now Directive 111.Ministerial Direction 111 basically means that people from overseas applying for a student visa are now being prioritised to join regional universities, like SCU, whereas 107 deprioritised them and prioritised a city uni in Sydney or Melbourne."So, that means that for the immediate future, the visa applications that will be lodged by applicants to Southern Cross University will be accorded the same priority as for all other universities. Now, that state of affairs doesn't go forever. It lasts until you reach a certain threshold of volume. But for us, for the commencement of next year, just in our own case, that's a really, really helpful boost to the year."And then once you get above the magic 80% of your notional cap target, they're still referring back to the caps that they would have liked to legislate for, but they cannot enforce these on a hard basis, then all they do is they revert the priority that is accorded to processing visas for your institution back to what they call standard."Now, we don't know exactly what that means yet. But, the first part of that equation is clearly more favourable for us than the predecessor regime, and it seems to me that the second part of that equation can't be any less favourable. So, the net for an institution like Southern Cross, that's good news."In terms of the Lismore, that should mean more international students on campus."One of the really pleasing things for us because we've introduced a new Masters of Nursing Program that's being offered here at Lismore for the first time in 2025, is we're seeing a more than doubling of our anticipated international students who'll be coming to study at Lismore in 2025."And that's even at this early stage. So, with the relaxation of the visa regime, that will give us still more opportunity to try and get people to come to Lismore. And that's a good thing from my perspective."That is a good thing, not only for SCU but also for Lismore itself.

29 flood-affected buyback homes go up for sale through EOI today
29 flood-affected buyback homes go up for sale through EOI today

22 December 2024, 12:28 AM

We all knew the announcement that the first lot of flood-affected houses purchased through the NSW Reconstruction Authority's Resilient Homes Program (RHP) would be put up for sale was coming. That announcement was made today.Anyone can purchase and relocate the 29 homes through an Expression of Interest (EOI), although priority will be given to people impacted by the 2022 big flood.There is a range of homes on offer in different states of repair, from charming old timber homes with polished floor boards and painted walls to those needing more work to bring them back to their former glory.Many homes feature front verandas, high ceilings, and traditional features. From quaint to grand, this first release offers homes in a variety of sizes and styles.In Lismore, 440 house buybacks have been completed, with another 87 accepted. So, the 29 homes are the first of what is expected to be hundreds to be put on the market to be sold and relocated.Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin explained that each house has to be assessed for safety."Each house that's been bought back, if it's not one of the ones to be relocated, people taking it with them, a gifted one, then it's assessed for safety from asbestos, all sorts of things. Once it goes through that assessment that has been hazmat assessed too, then it can deemed to go on the market. So, it just takes a while to work through that process. But, it should be hundreds and hundreds.""Not being a hazmat expert myself," Ms Saffin laughs, "What I look and see, and what I hear, I think that there'll be that many, and that will be great to have them sold for people to live in them. Some could go eventually, when the land's developed, to East Lismore. I know some people in Nimbin who want some, and I've had a lot of people over the year or so telling me they're interested and I just send them all through to the RA."Under the NSW Government's 'Steps in the EOI process', it says, "Relocation of the home must be undertaken by the buyer within 12 months of purchase as per the conditions of the contract."With the Mt Pleasant Estate in Goonellanbah the only site ready for house relocations, and four have already been moved with no more to be accepted, there are no other Resilient Lands Program (RLP) sites available. The likelihood of anything being ready for house relocations within 12 months, such as North Lismore, is highly unlikely as the infrastructure has to be built. The MOU that was signed with SCU for the East Lismore site has not progressed to a contract, so that is more than 12 months away.That leaves people with the only option to purchase a block of land on the open market to relocate their historic old Lismore home.However, Ms Saffin said she encourages people to negotiate with the NSWRA about their individual circumstances if they have intentions of purchasing an RLP block of land. It may not be a cut-and-dry decision.According to the website, the EOI submissions will be assessed by an evaluation panel. This process will be overseen by an Independent Probity Advisor.All eligible EOIs will be assessed against the following weighted criteria: buyer type (40% weighting), buyer readiness (40%) and financial offer (20%). The highest-ranked EOI submission for each home will be invited to enter contract negotiations with RA to purchase the home.The RA has appointed local real estate agent PRD Northern Rivers to market and manage the sale of the homes in the Northern Rivers.The EOI opens today, 22 December 2024. The homes will be displayed on the PRD Northern Rivers website and will be open for inspection prior to the EOI closing on 14 February 2025. For more information, go to the RA’s website at www.nsw.gov.au/relocatable-homes-eoi or PRD Northern Rivers at www.prd.com.au/northernrivers/relocation-homes.  Ms Saffin said, "I'm happy that it's happened before Christmas because a lot of people say, what's going to happen with the houses on the ground? They want to see movement for all sorts of reasons, and there is movement at the station (laughs) for the word has got around."Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said, “Making sure that people have access to homes that are safely located away from floodplains is an important part of future-proofing our communities in areas like the Northern Rivers.“This initiative is an inventive way of keeping the homes within the region for future generations to enjoy.“Relocating and reusing these homes and giving them a new lease on life is something this community wants to see happen.”Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said, “This important work in the Northern Rivers is being undertaken to preserve the sense of community as well as provide better protection from future floods. “Through this plan, we are helping to retain and conserve older character-filled buildings as well as homes which hold significance to the community, something so clearly articulated to us by locals who love the sense of history.“By relocating these houses away from floodplains, we are saving a home while also moving it to a safer area, with those impacted by the 2022 floods prioritised under the EOI process.” 

Justice Health Safeguards program expands to Lismore
Justice Health Safeguards program expands to Lismore

21 December 2024, 10:02 PM

A specialised mental health service for young people at risk of entering the criminal justice system is being expanded to regional areas of NSW, including Lismore to foster better outcomes and prevent youth crime and incarceration.The Justice Health NSW Safeguards Service will establish dedicated regional hubs to help vulnerable young people access on-site care in Dubbo, Wagga Wagga, Lismore, Coffs Harbour and Newcastle.The program currently provides mental health assessment and treatment for at-risk youth in the Sydney metropolitan area, while young people in the regions typically rely on telehealth clinics for psychiatry support.The expanded service will provide young people aged up to 17 years and their families with direct access to a range of health services, including psychiatry, social work, occupational therapy, psychology and Aboriginal mental health care.It addresses a unique and often unmet area of need among youth in crisis, working to improve their mental health and strengthen relationships within the community and family unit.The regional hubs will build on the successful metropolitan service, which has received more than 150 referrals during its 14 months of operation. From these, more than 100 young people have been provided with mental health support, and many were connected to other community-based health services for ongoing care.The NSW Government is investing almost $110 million over four years to roll out 25 Safeguards teams across NSW. The Justice Health NSW Safeguards Service, with its focus on improving community safety, is part of the broader Safeguards Program which provides services to children and teenagers across NSW experiencing acute mental health distress and their families and carers.Minister for Mental Health and Youth Rose Jackson said, “The expansion of Justice Health’s Safeguards service to Dubbo, Lismore, Wagga Wagga, Coffs Harbour and Newcastle acknowledges that vulnerable young people in the regions typically face obstacles in accessing specialised, wraparound care.“This innovative program doesn’t only work to address the serious mental health challenges faced by some young people – it also provides interventions that can prevent future encounters with the justice system.“By making sure these young people have access to mental health support when they need it most, we can help change the trajectory of their lives – improving long-term outcomes for these youth, their families and communities.”Justice Health NSW Chief Executive Wendy Hoey said, The expansion of our Safeguards Team into regional areas will help more young people stay out of the criminal justice system. It will support their family and community connections and encourage them to engage with health services where they live.“This service allows us to intervene early to reduce the number of young people facing court and ensure they get the right care at the right time.“We look forward to working with key stakeholders and the community to extend this important service into regional NSW and to support more vulnerable people get the care they deserve.”

Our Kids get a Platinum sponsor for Christmas
Our Kids get a Platinum sponsor for Christmas

21 December 2024, 9:03 PM

Our Kids have received an early Christmas gift with the announcement of SEE Civil as an Our Kids Platinum Partner, committing to the partnership for three years to support mission and work of Our Kids, and particularly Our Kids' signature events.Joel Barnes, Chief Operating Officer of SEE Group, recently visited Our Kids and the sister charity Our House to see first-hand the incredible impact their contribution will have on families in the Northern Rivers."At SEE Civil, we believe in building stronger communities - not just through the work we do on our projects but by supporting great initiatives that directly impact local families. Our Kids is a great organisation, doing great things, and we're honoured to be part of such a meaningful cause, contributing to the future for the children and families of the Northern Rivers," Mr Barnes said.SEE Civil, as part of SEE Group, is a family-built and local group of companies that was started in the Tweed over 36 years ago. It has offices in the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Northern New South Wales. SEE Civil delivers major infrastructure, urban development, and mining projects across Queensland and New South Wales.Rebekka Battista, Our Kids Fundraising Coordinator, thanked SEE Civil for their willingness to partner with Our Kids.“SEE Civil’s contribution and support will help Our Kids to raise funds to purchase equipment for local Children’s Wards and Special Care Nurseries,” Rebekka said.“Thank you to the SEE Civil team; we appreciate all your support in helping our kids stay local when they need medical care. Welcome to the Our Kids Family.”SEE Civil joins fellow Our Kids Platinum Partners: Southern Cross University, North Coast Petroleum, Connect Business Solutions, Hurfords Harwood, Far North Coast Law Society and Bryon Bay Coffee Company.If you would like to know more about Our Kids or you are interested in becoming a financial or in-kind Our Kids Platinum Partner, please contact the Our Kids team on 0438 417 085 or info@ourkids.org.au.

Help pets find their fur-ever home this Christmas
Help pets find their fur-ever home this Christmas

21 December 2024, 8:03 PM

Families planning to welcome a new cat or dog into their household this festive season are being urged to “Adopt, Don’t Shop”, and help pets in council pounds and rehoming facilities find fur-ever homes.Adopting from a pound or rehoming facility rather than buying from a pet shop or breeder is a great way to welcome a new pet into your family and give them a brighter future.It can also help take the burden off council pounds and rehoming facilities which are continuing to experience challenges with high numbers of animals being surrendered.  Data from the Office of Local Government shows more than 3,837 dogs and 4,473 cats found forever homes after being adopted through council pounds in the year to 30 June 2024.To adopt a pet, contact your local council for information on council pounds, or visit the RSPCA, Animal Welfare League, Cat Protection Society or another approved rehoming organisation.In the lead-up to the festive season, current and prospective pet owners are also being urged to ensure their pets are microchipped and registered.Ensuring your details are correct is an important part of responsible pet ownership and can help reunite owners with pets if they go missing during a family holiday or get spooked by fireworks.Registration is free of charge for desexed cats and dogs adopted from pounds, animal shelters and approved rehoming organisations.Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said, “I’d strongly encourage anyone hoping to find a pet dog or cat under the tree this year to consider adopting.“When it comes to Christmas presents, it’s hard to think of a better gift than giving a pet a second chance at life.“There are many cats and dogs in council pounds and rehoming facilities, and I hope everyone looking to buy a pet will consider adoption instead.“It’s important to remember that owning a pet is a significant responsibility, and I urge anyone who does get a pet for Christmas to make sure they’re ready to take on that commitment.”

Talking Lismore Podcast: Kevin Hogan speaks about the cost of living, flood mitigation and more
Talking Lismore Podcast: Kevin Hogan speaks about the cost of living, flood mitigation and more

21 December 2024, 7:00 PM

While Christmas is top of mind for the majority of the Northern Rivers, it won't be long before the 2025 Federal Election becomes a priority for the Liberal/National, Labor and Greens parties and the Independents who will run.The federal election is expected to take place in March, April, or May of next year, with the Prime Minister having the discretion to call the election within that timeframe.Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan talked to the Lismore App in its podcast Talking Lismore about the cost of living, flood mitigation, vaping legislation and aged care facilities.Cost of Living is shaping up to be a key issue in the election, or at least one that the Liberal National Party are expected to focus on during its campaign.Mr Hogan said according to independent research, the average Australian family is over $35,000 worse off per year compared to three years ago. This significant financial strain is attributed to a series of 12 interest rate increases, which have resulted in an average mortgage cost increase of over $20,000 per year for families. The rising cost of energy and food, among other essential goods and services, has further exacerbated the financial burden on households.The Liberal National Party believes that the current Labor government has not adequately addressed the cost of living crisis and has, in fact, contributed to the problem by implementing policies like the Truckie Tax, which they claim has increased transportation costs and, consequently, consumer prices. The party argues that excessive government spending contributes to inflationary pressures, further impacting the cost of living.Mr Hogan said the Liberal National Party proposes to target cost-of-living relief by removing the Truckie Tax and alleviating inflationary pressures by controlling government spending. They believe these measures will contribute to lower interest rates and ultimately provide financial relief to struggling families.While cost of living will be a focus for the opposition, Mr Hogan feels nuclear power will be a focus of attack from Labor and The Greens.He believes that the Australian public is open to the idea of nuclear power despite Labor and the Greens' opposition. Mr Hogan cited his own experience, saying that he does not receive any emails about nuclear energy, but receives many emails about the cost of living.Mr Hogan argues that his party's plan for nuclear energy is cheaper than the Labor Party's plan for renewable energy and would result in lower energy prices over time. He referenced a report by Frontier Economics, which supports his claim that his plan is cheaper than Labor's. He also highlighted that 19 out of the top 20 economies in the world have plans for nuclear power, while Australia remains the only one without.When asked about flood mitigation and if a Liberal National party coalition would commit $1 to $2 billion dollars if a scenario took 1 metre or 1.5 metres of a future big flood, Mr Hogan said he would hope so."But it won't be easy because what they will look at and say is, well, we've just spent a billion dollars, and what's that achieved?" in reference to removing people off the floodplain through the Resilient Homes Program. Mr Hogan acknowledged the significant challenges ahead and feels that retention basins will be a real option as part of a scenario, one that will cause community disharmony for some sections of the region. He said there is a vocal minority who philosophically oppose engineering solutions to flood mitigation.A new coalition government would regulate vapes. Mr Hogan argues that the current prohibitionist approach to vaping, which requires a prescription from a doctor, is not working and is driving a black market. He believes that by regulating vapes and making them legal for adults over 18, the government could stamp out youth access and the involvement of organised crime.“We’ve tried to tell the Labor Party that’s not working. We believe in regulation,” Hogan said. “So what does regulation mean? Well, you can go, if you’re over 18, and buy a vape as an adult, like you can go and buy a drink.”Mr Hogan suggested taxing vapes to generate revenue for health programs. He compared this approach to the existing taxes on cigarettes and alcohol, suggesting that the government needs to be careful not to tax these products too much, as it could encourage black market activity and unsafe practices.According to the CEO of the Northern NSW Local Health District, the lack of aged care facilities is one of the main reasons for Lismore Base Hospital's decreasing performance in the emergency department. Aged care facilities is the responsibility of the federal government.Mr Hogan said the Liberal National Party is working on a bipartisan solution with the Labor government to solve the issue.The full Talking Lismore chat can be heard by clicking here.Kevin and Karen Hogan are spending their Christmas at the same local holiday spot as they have for the last 25 years, surrounded by family and friends. Kevin has three weeks to recharge the batteries before a busy election cycle kicks into gear early in 2025.Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the Lismore App

Fishers get Christmas present thanks to FADs or Ocean ‘Fish magnets’
Fishers get Christmas present thanks to FADs or Ocean ‘Fish magnets’

20 December 2024, 10:02 PM

Fishers from the Tweed to Yamba are gearing up for a big summer of fishing, with the annual deployment of Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) along the NSW coast now complete.FADs are GPS-tracked floating buoys anchored to the ocean floor that are effectively ‘fish magnets’.Some prized pelagic fish, including mahi-mahi (dolphinfish), wahoo and tuna, are attracted to floating objects, which makes FADs so effective.Each year ahead of summer, FADs are strategically placed along the NSW coast to provide reliable locations for fishers, especially those targeting the much sought-after Dolphinfish or Mahi Mahi. The FADS remain in the water until early winter, when they are removed for routine maintenance, including cleaning, fitting the GPS systems on individual FAD buoys and replacing anchors, chains and ropes.   FADs are a NSW Government initiative run by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) with support from the Recreational Fishing Trust. Funds raised from the recreational fishing licence fee are placed into the Recreational Fishing Trusts, with the money spent on projects to improve fishing opportunities and recreational fishing across NSW.Recreational fishers are encouraged to keep up to date on FAD deployments, coordinates and responsible fishing tips on the FishSmart app or at: https://bit.ly/3AU3aNP .They are also reminded to check the latest marine weather forecast before heading offshore to wet a line. NSW is home to more than a million recreational fishers. The industry contributes some $3.4 billion in economic activity each year and support the equivalent of 14,000 full-time jobs.Every year fishers pay their licence fee, which in turn is reinvested into enhancing recreational fishing opportunities, like the FADs program.For more information on the FADs program and the code of conduct for FAD fishing, visit https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational/resources/fish-aggregating-devices Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said, “FADs are the fish magnets of the ocean; Aquatic discos where the fish come to hook up.“Recreational fishers in NSW now have an even greater chance at fishing success, with the annual deployment of FADs now complete from the very top to the bottom of our State.“As well as improving fishing opportunities, FADs stimulate significant economic activity for the recreational fishing industry, providing a major boost to the fishing and tourism sectors in the coastal areas where they are deployed.“I encourage fishers to take the opportunity to visit a FAD site during the 2024-25 season and enjoy the great fishing that is delivered through this flagship program.”  

NRs Wildlife Hospital suffers delays for opening
NRs Wildlife Hospital suffers delays for opening

20 December 2024, 9:00 PM

The Northern Rivers Wildlife Hospital (NRWH) had hoped to open its new facility in Wollongbar before Christmas. However, it has suffered delays with its build, so January is now the expected date.General Manager Bronte Potts and her team have learnt to be patient. The journey to build a top-class facility to treat wildlife and rehabilitate them started in 2019."That was by a really enthusiastic and passionate group of conservationists, vets, vet nurses, just people in the region who are passionate about wildlife. Since then, it's been quite a journey to find the perfect site to open a wildlife hospital on, and they've managed to, obviously, get this beautiful site on Crown land in Wollongbar," Bronte explained."We decided we wanted a site for the hospital that was to be centrally located in the region. So, being in Wollongbar, we've achieved that, and we'll be servicing seven local government areas, from Casino to Kyogle, Tweed Valley, along the coast and right down to Clarence Valley.(Jasmine Phillips - media and marketing for NRWH and General Manager Bronte Potts)"We're on five acres, and we've built this facility that's completely focused on the care and rehabilitation of wildlife specifically. So, a lot of thought has gone into the design and ensuring that it's going to be the perfect place for us to treat wildlife and rehabilitate it until we can get it out to the carer groups or released into the wild again."We're really close to being at that goal of opening. We're basically in the final stages of building; the floors are going down, the cabinetry is done, all the little bits and pieces and equipment are being sorted. So, we're, we're super close.While the construction of the NRWH building is phase one, the five acres of land it sits on means the facility will grow into one of the preeminent wildlife hospitals in NSW."We're definitely future-proofed in terms of having enough space to build rehabilitation enclosures as the region needs them, and there's already some facilities in the pipeline. Additionally, we're wanting to be able to plant out native species that we can feed to the more common species that we'll see here, so that we can keep their diets as natural as possible while they're in hospital.(Part of NRWH's 5 acres above the building will be used for wildlife rehabilitation in future years.)"There's room for emergency preparedness. Basically, a slab where we can have a field hospital should something like avian influenza hit Australia or hit this region. So, we'll be able to utilise that for any emergencies that arise or in the event of bushfires or floods, we could essentially set up a field hospital on our site."Bronte explained that the new building will have a triage space, a carer consultation room, a treatment room, an x-ray room, a surgical theatre and a wildlife food preparation room."We have a couple of staff rooms, one for sort of board meetings, and one just for breaks, tea breaks and lunches. And we also have a couple of different wildlife wards. We have a reptile Ward specifically, and we have two wards that we haven't decided exactly how those will be run, that will be for the staff to decide. And then we have an intensive care unit with some really impressive intensive care cages for those really sick animals when they initially come in."On top of that, NRWH has a wildlife hospital transport van to pick up wildlife taken to general practice to save time and expense for their carers."We'll also use it to get those patients backed into the care of the care organisations. As you can imagine, driving all over the region costs those carers a lot of money, and we're hoping to really help them out with that because local vets are under a lot of pressure as well. They often provide their services for free to treat wildlife, but the hospital will help alleviate at least a little bit of that pressure."Bronte gave advice to anyone who comes across an injured animal or bird over the festive and school holidays following a record number of callouts in recent months.“Increased traffic, warmer weather, summer storms, and the movement of many species during and post-peak breeding season make this a particularly dangerous time for our native animals,” Bronte told the Lismore App. “We’re seeing an unprecedented need for support, and everyone can play a role in making a difference.”The NRWH is encouraging the public to take some simple steps to help protect wildlife during the holidays. “Quick action and community awareness can mean the difference between life and death for these animals,” Bronte explained.Easy Ways to Help This Summer:Slow Down: With more cars on the road, animals are at greater risk of collisions, especially at dawn and dusk.Provide Water: Place shallow bowls of fresh water in shaded areas to help wildlife cope with heat stress.Look Out After Storms: Severe weather can displace wildlife, including baby birds knocked from nests or injured animals seeking shelter. Check your garden or property for any displaced or distressed wildlife, and contact a wildlife rescue service if you find an animal in need of assistance.Be Prepared: Keep a DR WILD card handy (available for free on the NRWH.com.au website) and download the IFAW Emergency Wildlife App to know what to do if you encounter an injured or orphaned animal.(The DR WILD card can be downloaded by clicking https://nrwh.com.au/resources/.)The NRWH is calling on community members to volunteer in 2025 to help meet the growing demand for wildlife care. Volunteers are needed for a variety of roles, including fundraising, and supporting hospital operations. “As a community-owned, not-for-profit organisation volunteers are the backbone of everything we do,” said Potts. “With the hospital nearing completion, we need hands on deck to ensure we can support the region’s wildlife effectively.”In addition to NRWH, local partner organisations like WIRES and other wildlife rescue groups are also seeking volunteers for critical roles such as wildlife care, transport, and phone support. For some roles, no experience isnecessary and even small amounts of volunteered time are much appreciated.With the NRWH hospital in Wollongbar set to open its doors in the new year, the not-for-profit organisation is currently running a Christmas Appeal to help get the doors open sooner, and the hospital fitted out with life-saving equipment.A generous Foundation Sponsor is matching every dollar donated by the public (up to $50,000), so a gift to wildlife this holiday season will go twice as far. You can donate to the NRWH’s campaign at https://www.givenow.com.au/end-of-year-christmas-appeal-2024.“We’re on the brink of something incredible for our wildlife,” said Potts. “2025 is going to be a game-changer, and we’re inviting everyone to join us in creating this wildlife legacy.”For more information, to donate, or to volunteer, visit www.nrwh.com.au.

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