Dementia Australia has opened applications for a new round of Community Engagement grants for up to 12 dementia-friendly community initiatives.  Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan said community groups could apply for up to $10,000 for project ideas that supported their local community to become dementia-friendly.  "For this year’s grants we have a special focus on people living with young onset dementia and young carers,” Professor Buchanan said. “We want to see projects that will engage them in the communities in which they live.  “There are an estimated 29,000 people in Australia living with young onset dementia. This figure is expected to increase to an estimated 41,000 people by 2054. It is important we take action to ensure people living with dementia, no matter their age, feel included, respected and embraced by their communities.” Local community associations, businesses, organisations and groups are encouraged to apply to develop dementia-friendly communities projects that reflect the community need, create local partnerships and draw on in-kind contributions and existing resources.  To date, Dementia Australia’s Community Engagement Program has funded more than 100 grassroots projects, bringing the total funding since 2018 to more than $1.16 million.  Past grant recipient, Lisa Hendry from the Southern Yorke Peninsula Memory Lane Café, said anyone who has an idea to make their community more dementia-friendly should apply.  “We initially piloted two Memory Lane Café sessions,” Ms Hendry said.  “The program has since catered to over 300 participants across several towns, providing a rare and essential combination of social engagement, peer support, community connection, education and access to services,” she said.  “It helps to reduce isolation and stress, it empowers communities with increased understanding , and we’ve had positive feedback on the effectiveness of the program. It is for this reason I encourage anyone else wanting to make their communities more dementia-friendly to apply.” Priority will be given to projects: that directly support individuals with young onset dementia and/or younger carers which meaningfully consult and collaborate with people impacted by dementia in the project design and delivery, bring together collaborative local partnerships and meet the needs of diverse communities that work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, culturally and linguistically diverse, and regional and remote communities. Applications close on 16 February 2026. Previously successful grant recipients of Dementia Australia’s Community Engagement Program are not eligible for a 2025/26 grant.  For more information and to apply, visit dementia.org.au/get-involved/dementia-friendly-communities/community-engagement-program-grants. 

While many people were enjoying time with family and friends over the Christmas and New Year period, care for the 20 koalas at the Northern Rivers Koala Hospital continued without pause, thanks to the commitment of Friends of the Koala’s volunteers and staff. Fresh leaf was cut daily, enclosures were cleaned, and medications were administered. Wildlife hotliners remained rostered on, volunteer rescuers stayed on call, and veterinary staff were ready to respond whenever needed, ensuring koalas received continuous care during one of the busiest times of the year."December is our busiest and most challenging period. This year, we reached capacity both in terms of koalas in care and available volunteers, while managing a high number of intensive cases that required significant time and resources. Despite this, our team worked through Christmas and New Year to ensure every koala received appropriate care,” said Superintendent Vet Kate Thomas.Now marking 40 years of koala conservation across the Northern Rivers, Friends of the Koala has admitted nearly 6,700 koalas into care and successfully returned more than 2,300 to the wild. “Our work extends far beyond hospital care,” said President Rhonda James. “From habitat restoration and community education to research and advocacy, we work with partners across the region to support the long-term survival of koalas.”Five years ago, Friends of the Koala became the only licensed specialist koala hospital in the region. Stage 1 of the Northern Rivers Koala Hospital expansion is now well underway, with new clinical facilities constructed to lock up stage, thanks largely to support from World Wildlife Fund Australia’s Regenerate Australia Program.Friends of the Koala is now seeking $500,000 to complete the fit-out of the expansion, which will increase treatment capacity, support faster recoveries and allow more sick and injured koalas to be safely returned to the wild.Volunteers are urgently needed to support this work. Koala care does not stop for weekends or holidays, and additional volunteers are required now to assist with daily hospital care, recovery and rehabilitation.Those able to volunteer or support the hospital expansion are encouraged to get involved and help ensure koala care continues when it is needed most.To donate, go to: Help Save Koalas! Donate to our Koala Charity today!More information on volunteering: Volunteering Northern Rivers or remote. Volunteer with koalas!

NSW Minister for Recovery and Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin, announced Stage 1 of the Crawford Road development in East Lismore under drizzly skies yesterday. The weather certainly didn't dampen her enthusiasm for the development.Ms Saffin and Landcom's Executive General Manager, Andrew Cooper, revealed further details, including land sizes, internal configurations, backyard sizes, relocatable allocations, and indicative pricing for each townhouse or apartment."Stage 1 is one hundred homes, as I understand it," Ms Saffin told the media. "It will be one and two-bedroom terraces and one to three-bedroom apartments, and there will be some affordable housing, 20% of the whole development.""Also, people who were flood-impacted can have first dibs. Ten of the one hundred dwellings will be for relocatable, if people want to bring their buy-back relocatable here. It's exciting, and it is a good way to start the new year."Ms Saffin mentioned the existing facilities in East Lismore, including roads, health facilities, shopping, recreational facilities, clubs, and schools.Importantly, the Crawford Road homes will be built above the Probable Maximum Flood (PMF) height.(Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin and Landcom's Andrew Cooper discuss the Crawford Road development in East Lismore yesterday)The initial concept plan on Landcom's website said, "We need to carefully consider the site's sloping land and environmental constraints to determine what types of housing are suitable for the site and can be feasibly delivered.Stage 1 covers a 5-hectare area at the northern end of the site and could support around 100 homes by prioritising smaller, more affordable housing types.The draft concept for Stage 1 features:two, three and four-bedroom terracestwo and three-bedroom apartments in low-rise buildingsaround 10 lots to relocate suitable buyback homeshomes set back from flood-prone and vegetated areas to retain habitat for local wildlifelandscaping that celebrates and enhances the site’s natural settingleafy, slow-traffic streets that prioritise walking and cycling to support active, healthy lifestyles and provide easy connections to nearby destinations.Terrace HousesA range of terraces are proposed for Stage 1, with different bedroom, bathroom, parking and outdoor space configurations to suit different households' lifestyles, needs and budgets.Proposed terrace options are summarised below. Prices are indicative and listed as a guide only. Prices are subject to future market conditions at the time of sale and will vary depending on the land size and housing type:Terrace A: 2 bed/1.5 bath plus 1 garage and driveway on 136.5sqm with 30sqm backyard. $475,000 to $575,000 (can convert garage to another bedroom)Terrace B: 2 bed/2.5 bath with common car park on 83.5sqm and access to large communal landscaped area. $425,000 to $525,000.Terrace C: 3 bed/1.5 bath plus 1 garage and driveway on 137-190sqm with 32-53sqm backyard. $550,000 to $650,000.Terrace D: 3 bed/3 bath plus 2 garage or carport spaces on 202sqm with 40-56sqm backyard. $600,000 to $700,000.Terrace E: 3-4 bed/2.5 bath plus rear garage or carport on 137-190sqm with 28-50sqm backyard. $600,000 to $700,000.Terrace F: 3-4 bed/1.5-2 bath with common car park on 137-190sqm plus 40-56sqm backyard. $500,000 to $600,000.(Example of terrace with communal backyard space (source: Juers, Logan, Brisbane)APARTMENTSLow–rise apartment buildings are proposed for the eastern hillside, providing homes for multiple households on a smaller footprint while optimising the amount of indoor living space and outdoor private space:Apartment A: 2 bed/1 bath with 1 car space under building. Internal size 75sqm with private yard approx 30sqm. $500,000 to $700,000.Apartment B: 3 bed/3 bath with 1 car space under unit building. Internal size 109sqm with private yard approx 30sqm, $600,000 to $850,000.Again, prices are indicative only.(Artist’s impression of low-rise apartments proposed for the eastern hillside, viewed from the side. Image is subject to change and approvals.)RELOCATED HOUSESAround 10 lots have been earmarked for relocated buyback homes through the Resilient Homes Program. The NSW Reconstruction Authority will send invitations to registered buyback recipients for expressions of interest:Land size is 450sqm at an indicative cost of $300,000 to $350,000.Relocation cost $100,000 to $150,000.Relocation and refurbishment cost $150,000 to $600,000.Total cost (land, relocation and refurbishment) $$450,000 to $950,000.If you are a Resilient Homes Program participant who has registered for the Resilient Lands Program, extra help is available by contacting the NSW Reconstruction Authority's Concierge Service team to discuss opportunities or for help completing the survey.Contact Information: Phone 1800 844 085 (during business hours to book an appointment) or email: concierge@reconstruction.nsw.gov.au.(An artist's impression of relocated buyback houses.)Landcom is seeking community feedback on the Crawford Road development as part of developing the Master Plan. You can do this by clicking https://www.joinin.landcom.nsw.gov.au/eastlismore/stage1. You have until 9am Monday, 16 February 2026 to make your submission. The survey will take five to 10 minutes.Landcom expects to turn the first sod in the middle of 2026, pending approval from Lismore City Council. The DA (development application) will be lodged following the community consultation and the finalisation of the Master Plan.Crawford Road will be delivered in four stages over the next five years, finishing with 400 new homes in East Lismore.Andrew Cooper gave an update on other Landcom projects that are providing housing options for Lismore.Construction continues on the 50 Build To Rent properties at the front of the Crawford Road development. "We've got a very tight deadline, December 2026. Obviously weather dependent," Mr Cooper said.(Construction on the 50 Build To Rent apartments on Military Road, East Lismore, is well underway.)Bristol Circuit and Cynthia Wilson, Goonellabah: "So, affordable housing projects by Landcom. That's currently with council, and we're hoping to have that out relatively soon, consent."Once approved, a Community Housing Provider will be selected; it is currently part of a tender process, and then construction can begin.We have written about 2026 being the year of construction, it is certainly coming to fruition.

Local country music fans are gearing up to hit the road this week to make the 430km trip to Tamworth for the annual Country Music Festival, which starts on Friday.NSW Police are urging country music fans to plan their trip ahead of time and travel safely on the roads.Attendees will see a high-visibility police operation in full swing for the major event, from Friday 16 January 2026 until Sunday 25 January 2026.Tamworth Country Music Festival is Australia’s largest music festival, with a program featuring more than 700 ticketed and free shows across 10 days.General duties officers from Oxley Police District and across Western Region, assisted by specialist police, will be focusing on road safety, anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related violence to make community safety the number one priority.Western Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner Andrew Holland APM, said this highly anticipated event draws a significant crowd and creates an increase of motorists on regional roadways. “Across the ten-day event, we will see an increase of vehicles on our local roads, and I encourage everyone to plan their trips, be patient and drive to the road conditions,” Assistant Commissioner Holland said.“Not only will there be country music fans travelling across the state from far and wide, but school holiday travellers will also be on our roads.”Assistant Commissioner Holland said police will be saturating roadways in Tamworth and the surrounding areas, targeting dangerous driver behaviour.“If you’re getting behind the wheel – stick to the speed limit, wear a seatbelt, never drive when tired, do not use a mobile phone while driving and never drive if affected by drugs or alcohol,” he said.“Drivers and riders need to follow all road rules and take responsibility for their actions, including the safety of their passengers, and other road users.“This is not about ruining the fun. It’s about protecting lives,” Assistant Commissioner Holland urged.Festivalgoers are also encouraged to be patient when they arrive in Tamworth, as a number of roads will be closed during the 10-day event.“Our number one priority is community safety and officers will be out in force, targeting criminal and anti-social behaviour,” Assistant Commissioner Holland said.“The message is simple – think before you drink, keep an eye on your mates, and enjoy the event responsibly.”With camping the preferred accommodation option for festivalgoers, police offer the following safety and security tips:Plan your trip in advance and if possible, make a booking;Get to know your surrounding campers;In large crowds, be mindful of your own safety and security as well as that of people around you;Leave valuables at home – if you must take valuables with you, ensure they are secured and kept out of sight;Lock your caravan or campervan when unattended;Where possible, use a lock to secure your tent;Where possible, use a portable alarm in your tent or camper;Plan for changes in weather conditions;Ensure valuables are not left in unattended vehicles;Report any suspicious behaviour to police.For comprehensive event details, visit the official festival website: www.tcmf.com.auSpecial-event traffic information can be found at: www.livetraffic.com.

The first stage of the Crawford Road major housing development in East Lismore, which will deliver at least 400 new homes, is underway, and the community is invited to have their say in the Resilient Lands Project. Stage 1 will be delivered under a partnership between Landcom and the NSW Reconstruction Authority and will deliver around 100 smaller and more affordable housing options, including terraces and low-rise apartments. Early master planning is underway for the full 72ha site, with the goal of creating a sustainable, resilient community of at least 400 dwellings that meets post-2022 flood housing needs. Landcom will invest at least $75 million to develop the site, with the NSW Reconstruction Authority contributing $15 million for the land and enabling infrastructure, including new roads, power, water and sewerage connections.(The Crawford Road Stage 1 concept plan. Image: supplied)At least 20 per cent of homes will be set aside as affordable housing for very low to moderate-income households. Resilient Homes Program participants who have accepted a buyback offer will have at least 30 business days to purchase new land and homes before the open market is given access.After the 2022 floods, the Australian and NSW Governments invested $880 million in the Resilient Homes Program, and the NSW Government committed a further $100 million to the Resilient Lands Program to support long-term community recovery. Together, these programs aim to reduce exposure to future flood risk by offering safer housing options and guiding development to more suitable land. Both programs are delivered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority.The East Lismore site is one of three priority locations under the Resilient Lands Program that will provide land and housing supply for flood-impacted residents.  In November 2025, Landcom commenced construction of 50 build-to-rent apartments on the corner of Crawford Road and Military Road, west of the Stage 1 development.Landcom is inviting feedback until 9am, Monday 16 February 2026, to help finalise the plans for Stage 1 and inform site masterplanning. The development application for Stage 1 is expected to be lodged by mid-2026 with Lismore City Council.Subject to approvals, sales are expected to begin in mid-2026, with major works starting later in the year. (An artist's impression of the Crawford Road housing development. Image: supplied)To learn more about the project and share feedback, visit: www.joinin.landcom.nsw.gov.au/eastlismore.Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said: “I am really excited to see these plans and that the process has begun, and know that we begin the New Year with confidence.  It is a real boost to see what these lovely homes are going to look like.  “Lismore has been through a lot, and today’s announcement is another step in providing our community with safe, long-term housing options. “This project reduces future risk while keeping families connected to their community.  “Stage 1 is open to flood-impacted residents and families to have first option, as agreed to from day one.“This partnership between Landcom and the NSW Reconstruction Authority shows our commitment to practical ways to recover. It is about making sure our community can rebuild with confidence.”NSW Reconstruction Authority Executive Director Reconstruction Graham Kennett said, “This development is a cornerstone of the Resilient Lands Program and demonstrates how we are working to move people out of harm’s way while keeping them within their community. By planning for more than 400 resilient homes, we are creating a neighbourhood designed for long-term safety, liveability and affordability.“We know that recovery is not just about replacing what was lost. It’s about ensuring communities have safer options for the future. The work underway at East Lismore is a clear example of how the NSW Reconstruction Authority is delivering that for flood-impacted residents.”Executive General Manager, Built Form, Andrew Cooper said, "Landcom is making homes happen for the people of Lismore.“We’re transforming vacant land into new opportunities.  Stage 1 of the project will unlock around 100 homes - including terraces, to provide more diverse and affordable options. “Our partnership with the Reconstruction Authority will create a new, sustainable neighbourhood with greater housing diversity, resilience and security to help Lismore prepare for the future."

2026 is an important year for the Lismore LGA, with the 2022 post-flood construction phase kicking into gear on a large scale, and the final CSIRO flood mitigation report is due for release by June 30.Of course, the CSIRO report is vitally important to other local councils, as it covers the entire Richmond River Catchment.The Lismore App had a chat with lead scientist Jai Vaze to get an update on the flood mitigation project, the Northern Rivers Resilience Initiative (NRRI), as it is officially known.The most important bit of information was that the exact locations for the detention basins have been identified. These will not be revealed until the completed flood modelling is released in just over five months' time.Lismore App readers would remember that following community consultations in July and August last year, Jai and his team put together two bundles to be modelled. Each bundle will include six scenarios to be modelled. The major difference between the two bundles was the number of detention basins used to hold back water flow, with Tuckean Swamp Upgrade, Opening of Boundary Creek, Bruxner Highway Upgrades and the Tuckombil Upgrade as constants in both bundles.Bundle One included 5 detention basins: Fawcetts Detention, Barlings Detention, Rock Valley Detention, Upper Nimbin Detention, Corndale Detention, Tuckean Swamp Upgrade, Opening of Boundary Creek, Bruxner Highway Upgrades, Tuckombil Upgrade.Bundle Two included 9 detention basins: Fawcetts Detention, Barlings Detention, Rock Valley Detention, Upper Nimbin Detention, Corndale Detention, Tuckean Swamp Upgrade, Opening of Boundary Creek, Bruxner Highway Upgrades, Tuckombil Upgrade, Collins Valley Detention, Bentley Detention, Dunoon Detention, Booyong Detention.Following the community consultations, which included the seven local councils and federal and state ministers, some changes were made.Bundle One: Barlings Detention was replaced by Eden Detention. Eden Creek is further to the northwest of Casino. The proposed Upper Nimbin Detention has been removed, and Dunoon Detention has been added (and was originally only proposed in Bundle Two).Bundle Two: Upper Nimbin Detention has been renamed Goolmangar Detention (same location; name updated to reflect the stream rather than the town), and Eden Detention has been added.To clarify, a detention basin or detention pond temporarily holds back water at various choke points of the catchment so it can be released at precise times during a flood event. The aim is to minimise the flood levels in Lismore and towns further down the Wilsons and along the Richmond River, so Casino, Kyogle, Coraki, and Woodburn as the water flow out to sea quicker."These are not permanent dams; these are detentions, which is when you need to hold water back, you hold. After the flood event peak has passed, you release that water safely, to basically empty. And after that, the river will flow normally. There will be no blockage of the river under normal conditions. It's only holding during those peak periods," Jai explained.Another point Jai wanted to make is that this initiative is not a silver bullet for Lismore and the Northern Rivers."I have never promised that we will reduce it (flood levels) by x or y or z, because until we have done the modelling, we don't know. There are figures quoted by different people. I don't take responsibility for that. Neither myself, my team or CSIRO, has ever quoted a number because we don't know."2022 was a catastrophic event, which it has never reached before. So, 14.4 is a level that is so extreme. That's why we have picked three events to see up to what level we might be able to protect fully, and at what level, like the 2022, what's the max we can reduce. So that's what we'll be testing."The three flood events that Jai and his team will be testing are 2022, as mentioned, 2017 and 2008, which affected Kyogle and Casino more than Lismore. In fact, Lismore never reached the major flood level.In October 2025, the two bundles and six scenarios were approved by the Minister for Emergency Management."After that, in November, we started finalising the exact details and location sizes. Christmas, everything sort of shuts down. People are back now, and we are at a point where we have the locations for Bundle One and Bundle Two. So, now it will be setting that up into the model. It is a complex part. After that, we will start doing the runs. Then we will need to make sure that the implementation is correct.As is the case with the previous reports and models, the data will be reviewed by two independent international experts to ensure it is valid, accurate and credible.June 30 is only just over five months away, and the model is being created to make the number of runs it needs to complete the NRRI project. Is it on time?"I will say yes and no because this is not a factory job where you just run it. The biggest aspect is when exactly to start holding the water, so that we get the maximum benefit in terms of production of peak and flooded areas, and the time it is flooded. So that will need a number of iterations, and given the massive size of the model, it will be touch and go."Hopefully, we will deliver on 30 June. I have delivered everything on time so far; the milestone has been delivered. So, if we can deliver this, then this project you can say that everything was delivered as promised since 2022.

Richmond Police District officers have been busy in the last seven days, charging 40 people with 59 offences. Of these 21, or 35.6%, were Domestic Violence (DV) related.The Top Three Offence Categories were:Traffic - 13Assaults - 11Contravene AVO - 8SIGNIFICANT ARRESTS:1. Just prior to midnight on the 31st of December 2025, police allegedly observed an 18-year-old male carrying alcohol in a designated alcohol prohibition area during New Year’s Eve festivities at Evans Head. After repeated requests to dispose of the alcohol were ignored, the male became aggressive, smashed bottles, grabbed the officer’s shirt, resisted arrest, kicked police, and spat in the officer’s face. He was arrested and charged with failing to comply with a council notice, behaving offensively, and assaulting police. He is due to appear before the Ballina Local Court on the 4th of February 2026.2. On the 2nd January 2026, a 32yr old male had earlier been ejected from the Woodburn Rod and Reel Pub for alleged intoxication and argumentative behaviour, resulting in a police infringement. Later that evening, police attended Evans Head RSL after reports of disorderly patrons. The same male was again allegedly found to be in a heated confrontation and appeared intoxicated. He was argumentative with police and refused to leave the premises. After repeated warnings, police forcibly removed him, during which he resisted and attempted to obstruct officers before being secured in a police vehicle. The accused was charged with Excluded person fail to leave premises when required and Hinder/Resist police officer in the execution of duty. He is due to appear before the Ballina Local Court on the 12th of February 2026.3. On the 2nd of January 2026, police stopped a 24-year-old male in Lismore for allegedly riding a bike without a helmet. He was acting suspiciously and attempted to flee upon sighting police, but was detained. A search of the male revealed a concealed knife and a prohibited drug. The male was issued a Court Attendance Notice for Custody of a knife in a public place – subsequent offence and possess prohibited drug, He is due to appear before the Lismore Local Court on the 23rd of February 2026.4. On the 3rd of January 2026, police responded to reports of two males trespassing at the old Richmond River High School in North Lismore. The pair allegedly took a yellow canoe and tied it to a vehicle. Police located the vehicle, with one of the males. Police questioned the 39-year-old male, who admitted to entering the property and taking the canoe. Police issued a Court Attendance Notice to the male for trespass and larceny. He is due to appear before the Lismore Local Court on the 22nd of January 2026.5. On the 6th of January 2026, Lismore police attempted to stop a white Holden Commodore after observing suspicious behaviour. The driver allegedly fled at high speed through the CBD and Wyrallah Road, Dalley Street and Cynthia Wilson Drive, sparking a pursuit that was terminated for safety reasons. A short time later, the vehicle was found abandoned in Invercauld Drive, Goonellabah, where the 18-year-old driver, who was unlicensed and hiding nearby, was arrested. He was charged with Police pursuit - not stop - drive at speed, Drive motor vehicle while licence suspended and Not comply P1 licence-no P plates. He is due to appear before the Lismore Local Court on the 12th of January 2026.The advice for the public is that community safety is everyone’s responsibility:Secure your homesLock your vehiclesKeep valuables out of sightEnsure your CCTV is working and recordingSimple steps make a big difference. Together, we can prevent crime and keep our community safe.

Demolition and construction are now underway on Rous Road in Goonellabah, marking a major milestone for The Good Pantry as it prepares to move into a purpose-built home designed to support Lismore’s growing need for affordable food and essential goods.The low-cost grocery pantry, operated by Lismore Soup Kitchen, currently runs from a leased building on Wyrallah Road in East Lismore. While the service has grown steadily, the site itself has become increasingly unsuitable, prone to flooding and limited in how it can support the volume of people coming through the doors.The new Goonellabah facility will change that, providing a permanent base designed specifically for purpose. From the new site, The Good Pantry will continue to offer low-cost grocery items alongside free donated goods, including fresh fruit and vegetables, bread, clothing, books, toys and furniture.Ian Phillips from Lismore Soup Kitchen said receiving formal approvals marked a major turning point for the project.“We’ve literally only just received written approval, so we’re now working through what that means,” he said. “We’re certainly hoping to be operational in around six months, but we’ll have a clearer picture as things progress.”The need driving the project is clear. Ian said the pantry is now seeing close to 600 individual people each month, translating to more than 1,000 visits.“In November we saw 543 people, which was over 1,000 actual visits,” he said. “On average, people who come are coming about twice a month, and that number has been growing.”Most of the pantry’s grocery items are sourced through Foodbank New South Wales, with the service purchasing two to three pallets of food each week at cost. Donated items, including excess bread collected daily from Coles, Woolworths and Aldi, are provided free of charge.“What people pay for items is basically what it costs us,” Ian said. “All of our overheads like rent and staffing are covered through community donations. This isn’t about profit. It’s about keeping food accessible for people who are doing it tough.”The new building is being delivered by Joel Jensen Constructions, with owner Joel Jensen describing the project as one of the most meaningful his team has worked on.“These guys are honestly the best bunch of humans,” Joel said. “We were brought in really early and worked alongside them on the vision for what this place could be. That made it special from the start.”Joel said the project stood out not just because of the build itself, but because of the people and purpose behind it.“Everyone involved understands why it matters. To be part of something that will support people in our community for years to come, that’s pretty special for our whole crew.”Construction will progress steadily, with Joel confident that the building will be close to finished by the middle of the year.“It’s going to come together really nicely,” he said. “All going well, we’ll be close to wrapping it up by mid-year, and it’ll be great to hand over a space that’s ready to serve the community.”The project is backed by strong partnerships, with the Lismore Catholic Diocese continuing to help offset operating losses, and the Mountain Blue Foundation funding the construction of the new building.For Ian, the move to Goonellabah represents more than just a change of address.“The need isn’t going away,” he said. “Cost-of-living pressures, housing stress, flood recovery, they’re all still very real for people in Lismore. If this can help give people a bit of breathing room and a bit more dignity, then it’s absolutely worth doing.”

Two warm, summery days are on the way this weekend, as many people return to work after taking three weeks off over the festive season.A partly cloudy Saturday with a top of 30 degrees and a shower or two for Sunday, but most likely in the afternoon or evening, and a maximum of 31 is what is ahead of us.We are likely to see some rain on Monday as a cooler change moves in from the south, with 4-30mm forecast, and thunderstorms possible in the evening.It is a market weekend across the Lismore LGA.The Lismore Farmers Market gets underway tomorrow (Saturday) morning at 7:30 at the Lismore Showgrounds, selling everything from fresh fruit and veg to beeswax, honey, and plants, along with plenty to drink and eat.The live music is performed by Joe Conroy between 8am and 11am.The Sunday markets make a return for 2026, with The Channon Markets first up.Head up to the hills and make your way to Coronation Park between 9am and 3pm to view over 220 stalls of unique offerings, including condiments, pickles, clothes, soaps and much more.If you are looking for something to do with the kids, check out our Things To Do button, which includes Family Fun, bush walks, parks and the NRs Rail Trail.LIVE MUSICComing Up in 2026 at the Lismore Workers Club:The Noughty Nineties Party featuring all your favourites like Blink 182, Shania Twain, Britney Spears, Robbie Williams and Beyonce. Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 7:30pmThe Ultimate Superstars of Country Friday, 6 February 2026Faulty Towers The Dining Experience Friday, 6 March 2026Inxsive & Gold Chisel Tribute Show Saturday, 21 March 2026The Italian Tenors Sunday, 19 April 2026To book tickets to any of the above concerts, click here.CHEAPEST FUEL PRICESYou had to be quick to catch the really cheap fuel prices in Ballina last week. They have risen about 10 cents a litre this week, while Lismore and Casino are down 1 cent a litre from last week.Here is the list of the cheapest service stations for this week:E10 is 171.9 across most of Lismore, 174.9 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino, and 169.5 at the Mobil and Metro on River Street, Ballina.Unleaded 91 is 170.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road, 176.9 at The United and the Casino Roadhouse on Johnston Street, and the Liberty's on Hare Street and Centre Street in Casino, and 171.5 at the Mobil and Metro on River Street, Ballina.U95 is 179.9 at the two Independents on Terania Street, North Lismore, and the Liberty on Ballina, 198.9 at the Independent at 169 Canterbury Street in Casino, and 183.5 at the Metro on River Street, Ballina.U98 is 187.9 at the Liberty on Ballina Road, 196.9 at the Liberty on Hare Street and Centre Street in Casino, and 191.5 at the Metro on River Street in Ballina.Diesel is 187.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road, 187.9 across most of Casino, and 187.7 at Ampol on Links Avenue in Ballina.Have a great weekend!Now, have a laugh with the Friday Funnies.....

Australian researchers have discovered a hidden climate superpower of trees. Their bark harbours trillions of microbes that help scrub the air of greenhouse and toxic gases.It’s long been known that trees fight global warming by consuming carbon dioxide (CO2) through photosynthesis. But a new study published in Science shows their microbial partners take up vast amounts of other climate-active gases too. The study, conducted primarily by Dr Bob Leung at Monash University’s Biomedicine Discovery Institute (BDI), and Dr Luke Jeffrey at Southern Cross University’s Faculty of Science and Engineering, rewrites our understanding of how trees and their resident microbes shape the atmosphere.“Each tree hosts trillions of microbial cells in its bark,” said Dr Leung, a co-first author. “Yet their existence and roles have been overlooked for many decades until now.”The researchers spent five years sampling trees across eastern Australia, including wetland, upland, and mangrove forests. The sites were located just south of the Gold Coast within the Tweed Shire, particularly the wetland and upland forests between Cabarita and Pottsville.The tree species included paperbark (Melaleuca quinquenervia), Swamp box(Lophostemon suaveolens) and Swamp oak (Casuarina glauca) from freshwater wetland forest; Banksia (Banksia integrifolia) and Golden wattle (Acacia longifolia) from coastal heath forest; Mangrove (Avicennia marina) from mangrove forest; Grey ironbark(Eucalyptus siderophloia) and Grey Gum (Eucalyptus propinqua) from upland forest.(Melaleuca wetland forest on the Tweed coast are hotspots for tree microbial life. Photo: Luke Jeffrey)They then used advanced genomic and biogeochemical techniques to determine, for the first time, the identities, capabilities and activities of the microbes living in their bark.“Remarkably, most of these microbes are tree-adapted specialists that feed on climate-active gases,” Dr Leung said. “They consume methane, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and even volatile compounds released by the trees themselves.”Dr Jeffrey, also a co-first author, said the scale of this hidden process was staggering.“Counting all trees on Earth, the total global surface area of bark covers an area roughly the same as all seven continents combined,” he said. “This microbial activity across this massive ‘bark continent’ is potentially removing millions of tonnes of climate-active gases every year.“These gases can come from the atmosphere or from within tree stems. By consuming these unwanted gases, microbes in bark are essentially cleansing our air and enhancing the benefits of trees in multiple ways.”(Luke Jeffrey holds bark cut out in a wetland. Photo: supplied)The BDI’s Professor Chris Greening, who co-led the study with Southern Cross University’s Professor Damien Maher, said there was much long-term potential to use these findings for climate action.“We now know different trees host different microbes,” Professor Greening said.“If we can identify the trees with the most active gas-consuming microbes, they could become priority targets for reforestation and urban greening projects.”Professor Greening added that the discovery could benefit both climate and human health.“In addition to being a climate-active gas, carbon monoxide is also a toxic air pollutant. Tree microbes are helping scrub it from the air and so improve air quality,” he said.Professor Maher said there were many more discoveries to be made in this research area.“This research is really the tip of the iceberg in terms of expanding our understanding of how trees and microbes interact,” he said.“The diversity of microbes that we found living in the bark of these trees suggests that we may need to rethink how trees and forests control Earth’s climate now and into the future.”

Lismore has entered the new year on a high, with two summer events drawing thousands of visitors into town and delivering a timely boost for local businesses, accommodation providers, pubs and cafes during what can traditionally be a quieter period.From the colour and energy of Tropical Fruits to the steady buzz created by the annual Lismore Under 12 Cricket Carnival, the city has once again shown its strength as a destination that brings people together.Mayor Steve Krieg said it was fantastic to see so many visitors from outside the region supporting the city and embracing everything that we love about Lismore.“A lot of our businesses traditionally have a quieter patch around this time, so having visitors come in and support the local economy is really important for our business community.”Held annually at Lismore Showground, Tropical Fruits once again delivered big numbers, with around 1200 campers filling the grounds and party attendances reaching capacity.(Photo credit: Brad Mustow)Event Coordinator Guy Grey said the festival continues to attract a loyal following from across Australia and beyond.“We had people travelling from all over the country, and even some international visitors who planned their holidays around the festival,” he said. “For many, it’s a real highlight of their year - some people were attending for the 20th time, others for the eighth or ninth.”That influx was felt well beyond the festival gates. With accommodation booked out months in advance, visitors spilled into Lismore’s CBD, cafes, pubs and retail stores, as well as exploring the broader Northern Rivers.“You can’t get a motel room in Lismore over that time,” Guy said. “People stay extra nights, they’re walking through town, heading out to cafes, day trips and waterfalls. There’s a huge tourism and economic impact, not just for Lismore but the wider region.”The festival’s commitment to local suppliers also added to that benefit, with food, contractors, trades and services sourced almost entirely from Northern Rivers businesses.Almost straight after the festival crowds moved on, the Lismore Under 12 Cricket Carnival brought a different but equally valuable wave of visitors. Teams travelled from Sydney, the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Newcastle, Tamworth, Bathurst and the Hunter Valley, filling motels and keeping local venues busy each evening.Mayor Krieg said the tournament has a proud history and plays an important role in Lismore’s sporting identity.“This is the start of the journey for many young cricketers who go on to higher representative honours,” he said. “To get their grounding here in Lismore is exciting, and the quality of cricket is incredibly high for under 12s.”He also acknowledged the work of council grounds staff, who prepared turf wickets, a rare opportunity for players at that age.“It takes a lot of effort, but it’s very appreciated by visiting teams and families,” he said. “Events like this really highlight Lismore as a nursery for future sporting talent.”As summer rolls on, the combined success of these events has reinforced what locals already know, when Lismore is busy, the whole community benefits.

UPDATE:Incident ended at 4:54pm, and Bangalow Road at Nashua is clear.ORIGINAL STORYLive Traffic is reporting a 2-car accident on Bangalow Road, near Springvale Road, at Nashua that is causing traffic delays.The crash happened at 3:38 this afternoon and is affecting traffic in both directions.Emergency Services are on scene.Transport for NSW is advising drivers to allow for extra travel time if you need to pass the accident site.Keep informed by clicking https://www.livetraffic.com/.

Lismore City Council will soon begin essential upgrades at the Lismore Recycling & Recovery Centre. The initial project involves full pavement rehabilitation of the road between the front gate and weighbridge, including kerb reinstatement and drainage, and will repair damage caused by the 2022 natural disasters and subsequent heavy vehicle usage.  To complete the upgrades safely and efficiently, traffic management will be in place from early February to late March, subject to weather and contractor availability. Operating hours will be reduced during construction, with the waste facility and the Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens closing at 1pm daily.  Council encourages residents and businesses to plan ahead and allow extra time when visiting.  Once this initial upgrade is complete, construction and remediation of roads and hardstands further into the site will begin, as part of the delivery of an exciting new Lismore Recycling & Recovery Centre Masterplan.  “This is the start of a bigger vision: a safer, more efficient Recycling & Recovery Centre that supports our community and the circular economy,” says Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg.   Work is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and will be undertaken by Ireland Civil Contracting.  Lismore City Council appreciates the community’s patience and understanding as these important improvements are delivered.  Further updates will be shared via Council’s website and social media channels.  For more information, visit https://www.lismore.nsw.gov.au/Building-and-planning/Flood-Restoration-Portfolio/Waste/FR-Lismore-Recycling-Recovery-Centre-upgrades.   

It has been nearly four years since Lismore's housing, commercial and industrial stock was dealt a blow by the 2022 big flood. The housing market was already struggling following the migratory effects of COVID-19, which saw house prices rise sharply and rental stocks tighten.2026 finally looks to be the year when heavy machinery will be seen all over the LGA as Lismore moves into the construction phase of the flood rebuild.The 400 block Crawford Road site in East Lismore (at the back of the 50 Built-To-Rent site on Military Road) and the 80 blocks in North Lismore will see some infrastructure construction. Even the Mt Pleasant Estate site in Goonellabah should see some new residents move into the renovated, relocated flood homes, and hopefully, the rest of the estate will see some further building activity.Arguably, Lismore's biggest and most anticipated building site is the approximate 75 hectares on the right side of Oliver Avenue in Goonellabah, as you drive towards Ballina Road.The estate is being branded as Ridgeview Heights, and is a mix of 400 residential and 100 commercial and industrial lots that will be home to over 4,000 ongoing jobs once completed, plus hundreds more during construction.60 hectares was rezoned in July 2025, paving the way for a diversity of housing, including detached, townhouses and units. The commercial and industrial land will help create a new central community in Goonellabah.(Part of the Ridgeview Heights site off Oliver Avenue, Goonellabah. Image: supplied by RWC)Parks, playgrounds and walking and cycling tracks are planned throughout the area, including the regeneration of Tucki Tucki Creek as a green corridor for people and wildlife. Dedicated areas are set aside for shops, childcare and recreation.Ray White Commercial has announced expressions of interest for all or the individual lots of the Ridgeview Heights development. Key property highlights include:Strategically located flood-free land9.55Ha* R1 General Residential land parcel - Lot 1019.73Ha* R3 Medium Density Residential land parcel - Lot 1023.72Ha* E1 Local Centre land parcel - Lot 1038,360m²* Proposed retail drive-thru service station site with main road access - Lot 10426,000* + cars daily traffic countPart of a master plan developmentState government and local council infrastructure incentivesNathan Huxham is the locally born Ray White Agent living on the Gold Coast."There will be six separate titles issued, probably in February or March. So you've got R1 general residential, R3 medium density residential, E1 local centre, that's where we expect a sort of shopping centre, retail precinct to go. There's industrial, and there's also mixed use," Nathan told the Lismore App."If someone wants to take them all in one hit, they're welcome to, but essentially, they'll be individual contracts, so we do imagine they'll be individual buyers for each precinct."Accompanying the email being sent to prospective buyers are artist impressions of the precinct that look impressive.(Artist's impression of Ridgeview Heights. Images: supplied)Part of the email says, "With multiple permissible development options such as a large scale residential subdivision, land lease community development, aged care & retirement facilities, commercial, retail and shopping centres, service station with retail drive thru, childcare facilities, churches and places of worship, function centres, shop-top housing, tavern & hotel/motel accommodation, medical centres and educational facilities to name a few, this opportunity is perfect for visionary developers!"The expectation is that Ridgeview Heights may attract some of Australia's large retailers to the Lismore LGA, such as JB Hi-Fi, another Bunnings, a larger Harvey Norman or the Good Guys.(Artist's impression of the new tavern in Ridgeview Heights. Image: supplied)The proposed tavern/pub will be new, as will a service station (if rezoned) on the Pineapple Road side of Ballina Road.For now, Nathan and Ray White Commercial are taking expressions of interest until January 27."As with any master plan that we sell, we take expressions of interest. If someone only wants, say, 2000 m² of it, we record that and, at the end of the campaign, we present all the EOIs to the vendors. If someone does take that precinct, they get that EOI to assist with their DA." You would expect 75 hectares of flood-free land in Goonellabah will generate a great deal of interest from local, interstate and institutional developers. Watch this space.

As towns and cities across Australia swelter over the next few days, as the mercury reaches the mid-40s, the Bureau of Meteorology has released its Climate Summary information for 2025.Climatology Specialist Nadine D’Argent said, according to the primary summary, Australia experienced its fourth-warmest year on record in 2025, with temperatures 1.23 °C above the 1961–1990 average. “This follows Australia’s second-warmest year in 2024,” Ms D’Argent said. “South Australia and Western Australia both recorded their third-warmest years. “Between January and March, and between October and December, large parts of Australia experienced heatwave conditions, reaching extreme severity at times. “Australia’s warmest year was in 2019, when the national annual average temperature was 1.51 °C above average.” State of the Climate 2024 found that Australia’s climate has warmed by an average of 1.51 ± 0.23 °C since national records began in 1910. The warming in Australia is consistent with global trends, with the degree of warming similar to the overall average across the world’s land areas.Rainfall:“Last year, the national average annual rainfall was 7.8% above the 1961–1990 average at 502.2 mm,” Ms D’Argent said. “Rainfall was below average for most of Tasmania, Victoria and South Australia, southern and inland areas of New South Wales and large parts of Western Australia. “Rainfall was above average for much of Queensland, northern and eastern parts of the Northern Territory, coastal areas of New South Wales and northern and some southern areas of Western Australia. “Queensland had its wettest year since 2011 with rainfall 31% above average, while Tasmania had its driest year since 2017 and South Australia its driest since 2019.”The Next Three Months:As locals know, February and March are the wettest months in Lismore and the Northern Rivers. That trend looks set to continue with the BoM's long-term weather forecasts.The median rainfall for January to March is 510.6mm, and the chance of that being exceeded is 63%, while the chance of an unusually wet three months, that is greater than 689mm, is 35%. By comparison, the chance of an unusually dry period is 11%.As for the expected temperatures, it should be slightly warmer than the historical median of 28.2 degrees Celsius. The chance of it being warmer is 66%. The good news here is that the chance of an unusually warm, above 28.7 degrees, is only 10%.The BoM's full Annual Climate Statement for 2025 will be released in early February.

NSW Farmers says any state or federal Royal Commission into the Bondi atrocity must put the causes of hatred, rushed firearms changes and procedural failures under the microscope.NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said the unworkable crackdown on law-abiding firearm owners rushed through NSW Parliament before Christmas was a shocking example of panicked politics running roughshod over practical policy that must be examined.“Let’s be absolutely clear, the Bondi atrocity was an act of hatred that had nothing to do with law-abiding farmers owning firearms in Australia,” Mr Martin said.“It is nonsense to suggest that these new laws, rushed through on Christmas Eve with no apparent thought as to the practical impacts, are anything more than a knee-jerk political response rather than protection from future acts of hatred and terror. “The Australian public deserves to have real answers about what led to this atrocity, whether there were any systemic failures that need to be addressed, and what role politics played in this dysfunctional crackdown on firearms.”Mr Martin said it was deeply disappointing farmers and those involved in agriculture had been unfairly impacted by the new laws, with unworkable requirements making compliance incredibly difficult. NSW Farmers was already working hard to secure practical outcomes in firearms regulations, he said, and had made strong representations to the government on the myriad issues raised by the farming community.“It’s pretty clear we have been unfairly targeted and treated like criminals, despite the fact our law-abiding farmers and those involved in agriculture have only ever used firearms as an essential tool to help feed the nation,” Mr Martin said. “Addressing the scourge of antisemitism and hate preachers – not to mention deepening social divisions – is the real work needed to protect our country. “We expect to see a frank and fearless assessment of the couple of years leading up to the Bondi atrocity, because at the moment we’ve only got hastily-prepared and poorly-drafted legislation that unfairly targets law-abiding firearms owners.”NSW Farmers was advocating for the terms of reference of the state or potential federal Royal Commission to include a focus on:Antisemitism in Australia, particularly following 7 October 2023Hate preachers and those promoting social divisionWhich groups influenced the impractical new firearms lawsExactly how the firearms changes in NSW were determinedMr Martin said NSW Farmers made multiple attempts to provide meaningful input to the NSW Government’s firearms legislation in the week following the Bondi atrocity, but the haste of a pre-Christmas crackdown meant proper consultation to deliver realistic changes did not occur. “It’s clear the pollies picked a magic number out of a hat to decide how many firearms farmers could own – and then they went and banned non-existent firearms in their hasty, poorly-drafted legislation,” Mr Martin said. “That bill was a mad dog’s breakfast, and it could have been even worse if we didn’t put up the fight we did. “We need scrutiny on why governments would rather do anything else than engage with farmers to create workable rules, or address the real problems that are putting our nation at risk, and that’s why we support a Royal Commission into this atrocity.”

Operation Christmas and New Year 2025, the annual statewide road traffic safety campaign, concluded on Sunday, with eight people losing their lives on NSW roads during the 17-day period. The high-visibility operation, which ran in conjunction with the double demerits period, began on Friday, 19 December 2025. The operation involved Traffic and Highway Patrol Command police, as well as officers from all commands and districts across the state, and saw police target drink and drug driving, fatigue, mobile phone use, speeding and seat belt and helmet offences. Across NSW, police conducted 29,302 random drug tests, with 2,415 drug-driving offences detected. Police also conducted 597,703 breath tests, with 939 drink-driving offences recorded. 40,875 Traffic Infringement Notices were issued, with officers detecting 12,622 speed-related offences, 1200 mobile phone offences, and 669 seatbelt/helmet-related offences.Closer to home, in the Northern Region, which includes Lismore and the Northern Rivers, there were 11,571 infringements; 4,064 were speeding infringements.There were 116,029 breath tests, 289 PCA charges and 729 positive drug-driving tests.Unfortunately, there were 287 major crashes and three (3) fatalities.One incident of note occurred about 1.45pm on Sunday, 4 January 2026, when officers from Richmond Police District were called to Ferngrove Drive, Ballina, following reports of a single-vehicle crash. Police were told a 61-year-old woman was driving an SUV on Tamarind Drive when she entered a roundabout and allegedly made a left turn from the right lane before she crashed into a pedestrian traffic refuge, ripping out the steel rails. The woman allegedly continued through a Give Way sign and over a roundabout, causing the tyres to deflate before she drove through a wooden fence. She allegedly returned a roadside reading of 0.302 before she refused a breath analysis. She was issued with a Field Court Attendance Notice at Ballina Local Court in February 2026.Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said the operation’s results should concern everyone. “We are seeing alarming rates of drug and drink driving on our roads. There is no excuse to get behind the wheel of a car with alcohol or drugs in your system, the same goes for speeding, distracted driving and not wearing a seatbelt or a helmet. “Anyone who breaks the law is not just gambling with their life, but with the lives of their passengers and others on the road. “Police are doing their job but we need everyone else to do theirs. Drive like your life depends on it – because it does.”Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Driver, said while most drivers were well behaved, police have seen a concerning rise in the number of drug detections made on NSW roads. “Most drivers are heeding advice and not partaking in risky driving behaviour; however, more than 2400 people tested positive to driving with drugs in their system during the 17-day operation,” Assistant Commissioner Driver said. “Our message remains clear and simple: if you choose to consume alcohol or drugs, do not drive. “Tragically, eight people also lost their lives on our roads during the period. That’s eight families whose lives have changed forever. “While Operation Christmas and New Year 2025 has concluded, the school holidays are ongoing and families are on the roads across the state. “We urge everyone to drive to the conditions and take their responsibility as a motorist seriously – it could be the difference in saving someone’s life.” 

What began as a way to meet people after moving to Lismore has grown into a national sporting achievement for pole performer Natalie Wilesmith, who placed third at the National Finals of the Australian Pole Championships on Friday 12 December.Natalie’s journey into pole started shortly after she relocated to the Northern Rivers. Having danced for much of her life, she was looking for something creative and social when she discovered burlesque classes at Roxy Rose Burlesque.“I’d danced for a lot of my life, but when I moved to Lismore I didn’t really know anyone,” Natalie said. “Starting classes was how I made my friends. I honestly didn’t really have any until then.”Those early classes eventually introduced Natalie to pole dancing in 2017. At the time, she had no long-term ambitions beyond personal enjoyment. That changed after watching a fellow student compete at the Queensland Pole Championships.Natalie competing at the NSW State Championships (Image Supplied)“I was pretty amazed by the people on stage,” she said. “So I set a goal just to qualify. When you start, you’re an amateur, and my only goal was to get on stage and perform a routine. That’s where my goals ended.”They didn’t stay there for long. Natalie exceeded her own expectations by placing second at her first competition, which earned her a spot at the Australian Championships as an amateur. After stepping away from competition for several years, she returned in 2024 at the highest level of the sport - professional.This year’s New South Wales Championships became a turning point. Rather than chasing medals, Natalie focused on creativity and enjoyment.“I just wanted to do something really fun and different to anything anyone else does,” she said. “I did a ’90s hip hop mix, and somehow I won it, which was a massive surprise.”That win secured her a place at the national finals, where 13 professional competitors from across Australia took to the stage. First-place winners from each state qualify automatically, with additional wildcard entries selected after judges review performances nationwide.“I went into the Australian finals just wanting to enjoy it,” Natalie said. “So coming third was another massive surprise.”Natalie’s performance style leans towards static pole, favouring speed, power and dynamic movement over flexibility-based routines.“I like fast, showy tricks,” she said. “Lots of flips, moving quickly through combinations. Spin pole is great if you’re really flexy, but I’m not massively flexy, so static suits me.”Behind the scenes, preparing a three-and-a-half-minute routine takes months of commitment. Natalie starts by selecting individual tricks, then building combinations, choosing music and slowly stitching everything together.“I break the routine into chunks,” she said. “It can take a month or more before I can even do half the routine in one go. It’s only three and a half minutes, but it’s really tiring.”Beyond competition, Natalie is passionate about pole as an accessible sport that welcomes people of all backgrounds.“There really is something for everybody,” she said. “All ages, all fitness levels. You can focus more on choreography, stay closer to the ground, or work towards harder tricks. A lot of people don’t even realise how fun a way it is to get fit.”With Lismore home to just one pole studio, Natalie hopes her national result shines a light on the growing local community and encourages others to give it a go.

As the new year begins, almost $5 million is sitting in the state’s unclaimed money pool for the Richmond/Tweed area.Unclaimed money is money that you are legally entitled to, but where a business hasn’t been able to find you.Money typically becomes unclaimed when people forget to update their name or contact details with businesses, have lost paperwork, or when estates are unaware of funds belonging to deceased relatives. The unclaimed money register, managed by Revenue NSW, includes funds from overpayments, uncashed cheques, dividends, refunds, and other amounts owed to individuals.While Sydney’s city and Eastern Suburbs have the highest amount of unclaimed money, with more than $91 million waiting to be claimed, Richmond/Tweed has 15,423 items sitting in the register valued at $4.91 million. Revenue NSW holds an additional $394 million in money for people registered at addresses outside NSW.To find out if you have any unclaimed money, you can search the Revenue NSW website at www.revenue.nsw.gov.au/unclaimed-money. If you have any money owing, you fill in a form and provide your ID and your connection to the money. Claims are typically verified and processed by Revenue NSW within a month.Minister for Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement, Courtney Houssos, said, “Almost $300 million is sitting unclaimed, and we want to make sure as much of that as possible finds its way back to families.“Last financial year, Revenue NSW returned more than $21 million to its rightful owners. With these new reforms, we’re making it faster and easier for people to get what they’re owed.“While Revenue NSW regularly contacts potential owners, incomplete data means people are sometimes missed. That’s why we’re encouraging everyone to take a few minutes to check online – you might be surprised with what you find.”