Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan has spoken out about the youth crime crisis that is affecting our communities."Just this past weekend, three teenagers armed with knives broke into a home in Casino and attacked a 67-year-old woman. Some of my friends were also threatened and attacked in Yamba," Mr. Hogan said.“This isn’t a one-time thing. I receive regular reports of similar crimes in places like Goonellabah, Maclean, Grafton, and Coraki. Many people feel scared and unsafe as youth crime continues to increase.”"We need to get these young people off the streets - not just to protect our communities but to help them as well. They need to learn accountability and responsibility.”As part of the Coalition’s plan to get Australia Back on Track, Mr Hogan shared how they would deal with this issue. A Coalition Government would:Work with state and territory governments to create tougher laws to address youth crime.Make bail laws stricter to restore consequences for actions.Crack down on knife crime, by restricting the sale and possession of knives, and giving police the powers to stop and search.Ban using social media to brag about crimes, stopping the trend of offenders glorifying their actions online.Provide $7.5 million in additional funding to Crime Stoppers to expand its operations and protect more Australians from the impact of crime in our communities."People deserve to feel safe in their homes, on their streets, and in their towns. It’s time to take action to solve this problem and keep families and individuals safe," he said.A Coalition Government will get Australia back on track by tackling the crime and anti-social behaviour that threatens the safety of our communities.

Those who travel by NSW TrainLink to connect with NSW trains are invited to have a say on proposed NSW TrainLink coach timetable changes due to come into effect in mid-2026. This includes removing Eltham from the coach network.NSW TrainLink is the state’s long-distance, regional public transport provider.  Its coach network services an area including Lismore, Ballina, Casino, Grafton, Port Macquarie, Taree, Newcastle, Tweed Heads and Murwillumbah, connecting communities and providing links to rail services and larger centres.  The proposed changes to NSW TrainLink’s coach network include adjusted timetables to meet passenger needs, streamlined routes to improve journey times and improved connectivity at key transport hubs. There would be increased frequency on some more popular routes and new stops on some journeys, and many locations will enjoy improved journey times. Ballina would be better serviced with day and night services in both directions connecting with trains at Casino. An enhanced service between Port Macquarie and Wauchope would enable passengers to travel to and from Port Macquarie to centres such as Grafton, Coffs Harbour, the Northern Rivers, the Gold Coast and Brisbane, for the first time. Connections to and from Sydney would also be improved. A new route is proposed to operate on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday between Armidale and Port Macquarie and return, providing an Armidale to North Coast connection for the first time. At Wauchope the coach connects with rail services giving access to and from Coffs Harbour, Grafton, the Northern Rivers, Gold Coast and Brisbane.  Some routes servicing the far north coast are proposed to be simplified or merged due to lower passenger demand. However, passengers will still have access to coach services to connect them to local centres and trains to and from Sydney.   Two locations are proposed to be removed from the NSW TrainLink coach network: Robina would no longer be serviced because other transport options exist for passengers, including the Gold Coast bus network; and Eltham due to low passenger demand and ongoing issues with local road conditions. The planned changes are based on extensive community and stakeholder feedback from a range of sources, including regular customer and operator feedback and the NSW Bus Taskforce. The proposed coach timetable would not impact train times or services. Following public consultation, a final service plan will be developed, and coach operators will be able to apply for new NSW TrainLink contracts that are proposed to take effect from mid-2026. Community members can find details of the proposed routes and provide feedback at haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/trainlink-coach-network-review until Friday, 14 February. Across the NSW TrainLink network there are currently 571 coach services each week across 39 routes, with over 420,000 passenger journeys made each year.  Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said, “The proposed NSW TrainLink coach plan will deliver improved connections to strategic centres and major cities. “This will lead to better transport integration with other modes such as train, bus and plane so that members of the community are better able to access vital services including health, education and employment. “Improved NSW TrainLink coach services also allow community members to stay connected with family and friends and enjoy entertainment and recreation in major centres, so there are numerous wellbeing benefits.“We know that the NSW TrainLink coach network particularly helps some of the most disadvantaged in our society, including those in rural and remote areas and Aboriginal communities, who often have little or no access to other forms of affordable, accessible transport.  “I encourage everyone to provide feedback so we can best plan for future need and make sure people can get where they need to go when they need to travel.” 

If you drove around Zadoc or Keen Street just before Christmas, you would have seen long queues snaking out of Swifty's Fresh Seafood as people lined up to pick up their Christmas orders.The popularity of the local seafood business has been growing since it first opened its doors on November 1 2021.That popularity has led owner Michael Swift to open Swifty's Fresh Seafood in Goonellabah.The shop is a retail outlet in The Village Shopping Centre and is located next to the laundromat just down from Coles.The reason why Michael opened the new shop in Goonellabah is the amount of people who don't travel downtown."People, like the retirees, people here don't always have access to Lismore. It's more common than what you realise. A lot of people, after the floods, came down, and the ones I've been talking to came down and said, what happened?" Michael said tongue in cheek."So, we wanted to supply Goonellabah as well as Lismore. We're pretty well known in Lismore, and there's a lot of people that don't know us in Goonellabah."Due to the shop's size, most of the work still happens in Lismore.(Michael serving a new Goonellabah customer at The Village Shopping Centre)"We take orders to provide as much as we can with the size limits, but it's also an opportunity to open up seven days because nothing happens downtown on Sundays, but it's quite busy up here in the shopping centre.Like any business, Swifty's Fresh Seafood Goonellabah will open on Sunday, provided it is supported by the community."We'll be open four hours on Saturday and Sunday, from 10 o'clock to 2. Monday to Wednesday, we're open 9am to 5:15pm, and 5:30pm on Thursdays and Fridays."While the shop is open and operating, it is not the finished product. Over the coming weeks, Michael will be putting photos of Iluka on the walls."I like to display where everything comes from. We've got the trawlers and Iluka Bay on the front window of both shops. My old trawler is in that picture. But, you know, we'd like to just decorate it and make it functional."(Michael with his old trawler photo on the right)"It's always a work in progress; we're always changing and evolving. And, people's feedback helps us as well. It'll be a couple of weeks before I'm running smoothly, I think. But then I'm going, for hopefully, 10 years or longer,"Iluka has a special place in Michael's heart because of his old fishing days, and he still gets part of his fresh seafood from there daily."Iluka can only supply, maybe a quarter or even less of our needs as far as variety goes. Local fish, like jewfish, mackerel, flathead, whiting, mullet, blackfish, that sort of thing comes from Iluka. Reef fish, etc, we get through the Gold Coast. It's sourced through North Queensland and Darwin. And then we source some fish from New Zealand and down south, obviously Victoria and Tasmania, even Western Australia with their lobsters and scallops etc. So, we source from everywhere, but we always have local stocks"If the Lismore shop doesn't have what you want on-site, it can be ordered and delivered from the Lismore store."People can order anything they want. We can get it up here during the day sometimes, but guarantee the next day. And you can order anything from anywhere in Australia, and we can get it here within three or four days, most likely."As for opening specials, Michael said he will give 20% off frozen fish until the end of January.When you are shopping in Goonellabah, pop in and check out the new Swifty's Fresh Seafood shop at The Village Goonellabah.Easter is not quite as big as Christmas for Swifty's, but plan ahead as Easter is only three months away, and book your seafood order early.

Resilient Lismore has been at the centre of the Northern Rivers flood recovery efforts for nearly the last three years. The organisation began life as Helping Hands soon after the 2017 floods.The registered charity and grassroots, community-based organisation is dedicated to fostering disaster preparedness, recovery, and resilience in Lismore and the Northern Rivers.Recently, Resilient Lismore released its 2024 Annual Report. This has caused some questions to be asked by some members of the community and has drawn criticism from other sources.The Lismore App decided to sit down and chat with Executive Director Elly Bird in a Talking Lismore podcast to ask questions about the million-dollar wage bill and the million dollars paid to contractors as part of Resilient Lismore's flood recovery efforts.Resilient Lismore employed about 20 staff during that time. Ms Bird said the staffing costs reflect the need for a dedicated workforce to support the ongoing recovery effort.“It’s a million dollars going into the wages of local people working in our recovery who live here in this community, who are doing work to support community members across our region,” she said.She argued that relying on volunteers for the long-term recovery would not be feasible or sustainable.“The nature of the work that our employees do is not the nature of work that volunteers would do,” she said. “Volunteers like to come and spend time with you one day a week, two days a week. Maybe if they’re really passionate, we need staff in roles three to five days a week to have the consistency and the professional standards that are required to deliver projects like the ones that we deliver. We are out helping people in their homes who are not living the greatest of lives that require a certain level of professionalism. There’s a whole lot of standards that you have to meet. There’s compliance, there’s reporting, there’s governance, there’s all the things that NGO charity organisations have to do to do this work well, and that requires paid positions.”Bird also addressed the criticism directed at her personally regarding her salary. She emphasised that she worked for the organisation voluntarily for eight years before taking on a paid role when the organisation secured grant funding.“I worked in this organisation voluntarily between 2017 and 2022 when I developed enough skills to attract enough grant funding to resource the organisation the way that it needs to be resourced, and that’s myself and a number of our key operational staff,” she said.Regarding the contractors’ expenses, Bird explained that the funds were used to pay local tradespeople to repair homes damaged by the floods.“We were successful in attracting $5 million from the New South Wales government thanks to Janelle Saffin’s advocacy in the last state election. So when you look at our financial reports and you see contractors, that money has all gone to local tradespeople to help repair people’s homes,” she said.The organisation’s Repair to Return project, funded by a $5 million grant from the NSW government, has facilitated repairs to more than 100 bathrooms and 250 properties in the region. The project covers a large area, from Murwillumbah in the north to Bungawalbin, Wardell and Woodburn in the south.Through the Repair to Return program, Resilient Lismore has conducted three rounds of door-to-door outreach in the Lismore community, checking on residents, offering referrals to recovery support services, and assisting with home repairs.According to the report, approximately 25% of homes in the Lismore flood zone still require significant repairs, highlighting the ongoing need for support. Ms Bird emphasised that this figure represents a need for substantial repairs, as it accounts for specific areas within homes like bathrooms and kitchens.She acknowledged the challenges faced by residents, stating, "Fundamentally, it comes down to money. Not everyone can afford to restore their home completely." She highlighted the lack of insurance coverage, insufficient payouts, and the reliance on personal savings or loans as contributing factors to the slow pace of repairs.The report also revealed that a lack of awareness regarding available financial assistance programs hindered some residents' recovery efforts. Ms Bird emphasised the importance of community outreach in ensuring residents are informed of the support available to them.Part of Resilient Lismore's success in 2024 and one of the priorities for 2025 is the Disaster Ready Together (DRT) project, which is funded for the next two year..The DRT project brought together hundreds of community service organisations across the Lismore, Richmond Valley, and Kyogle local government areas. The project focused on providing training, networking opportunities, and peer support to these organisations, many of which were also impacted by the floods.The organisation will also pilot the Person Centered Emergency Planning framework, supporting individuals with disabilities and illnesses in developing personalised disaster plans.One of the first projects for 2025 will see Resilient Lismore urging the government for further funding to continue its work for the unfinished Repair to Return project. The project is set to expire in May.Elly Bird emphasised that the need for assistance has not diminished as new residents continue to seek support daily. “We opened for the first time to the public this week, and on our first day, we already had four new people,” she said, highlighting the importance of continued support. Looking ahead to the third anniversary of the 2022 floods, Resilient Lismore plans to host a community event, acknowledging the journey of recovery and community strength.When asked about the community’s preparedness for future floods, Ms Bird acknowledged the heightened awareness and proactive measures taken by residents and businesses, particularly in terms of evacuation plans and flood-resilient designs. You can listen to the complete conversation with Elly Bird on the Talking Lismore podcast. You can also go to the website https://lismoreapp.com.au and click on the Talking Lismore podcast tab in the News button.

The Summer Holiday Hockey & Multi-Sports Camp, scheduled from January 20th to 24th, has successfully received 65 registrations for children aged 5 to 16 years.With just one week remaining until the commencement of the camp, there are only 10 more places available.This community-based holiday program has attracted interest from children across the Northern Rivers region, including Lennox, Ballina, Teven/Tintenbar, Wyrallah, Tregeagle, Rous, Wilson Park, Caniaba, Modanville, Eureka, Eltham, Bexhill, and Lismore. Additionally, a number of participants from local Home Schooling groups have registered this summer, providing an opportunity to expand their social networks. Children with Autism, ADHD, and other challenges have registered, overcoming any initial concerns about being in a new environment. A Child Support Officer will be present to ensure every child has a positive experience.The camp will offer five days of activities, featuring a range of sports, such as Hockey, Tennis, Taekwondo, and Table Tennis, along with various interactive games to complement the structured sports activities.The program will run from 9am to 3:30pm, aligning with normal school hours for the convenience of parents. The staff includes qualified coaches (WWCC), Child Safety Officers, First Aid & CPR Officers, and a Child Support Worker, all ready if required.The cost is $75 for the week for kids 5 to 11, and it is free for kids 12+, thanks to funding from the state government under the NSW Regional Youth Holiday Break Program.Parents should prepare for their children to get wet from the sprinklers and water games that are planned, as well as having a lot of fun.THE DETAILS:Dates: Monday, 20th January to Friday, 24th January 2025* (9am – 3.30pm)Venue: Hockey fields behind Lismore Workers Sports Club, 214 Oliver Avenue, GoonellabahFree - Children 12 years and older$75 – Children 5 to 11 yearsTo learn more or to book your child/children a spot in the Summer Holiday Hockey & Multi-Sports Camp, click here.

The Lismore City Council provided an update for its Flood Restoration – Roads & Bridges Program for December on Friday.Below is a list of roads that have been completed or are in the process of being restored.COMPLETED: Gravel Roads Program – Multiple SitesThroughout December, several roads were completed within the gravel roads program. Grading and drainage restoration works were completed for Ashlin Rd and Fox Rd. Furthermore, emergency grading and drainage works were completed on Boundary Crk Rd, Bentley Rd, Blade Rd, Chelmsford Rd, Cordyline Rd, Emerson Rd, Lindsay Rd, Maso Rd, Quilty Rd, Starkey Rd, Suffolk Rd, and Robb Rd with emergency temporary culvert repairs also completed on Wyrallah Rd. Fox RdCURRENT WORKS: Flood Restoration – Roads & Bridges ProgramBlue Knob Road (Site DM00680)The contractor, CMC, has completed the shotcrete placement and no-fines concrete backfilling. Following the Christmas break, CMC will commence preparations for the guardrail footing pour.Blue Knob Road (Site DM00680)The CMC subcontractor has completed the additional acceptance testing required by geotechnical contractor, GHD. However, due to heavy rainfall and drilling contractor unavailability, the installation of additional soil nails was postponed until 2025. To prevent collapses during the Christmas break, CMC covered the excavation with plastic sheeting.Blue Knob Road (Site DM01366)The CMC subcontractor has successfully completed the installation of all soil nails and the necessary acceptance tests. Furthermore, CMC has partially installed the no-fines concrete backfill and placed the galvanised mesh, in preparation for the first lift of the final shotcrete layer on walls 3 and 4 following the Christmas break.Blue Knob Road (Site DM01361/DM01449)Gravel Roads Program (Multiple Sites)Works continue for grading over 150 kms of unsealed gravel roads. Current and upcoming works include Armstrong Rd, Beacoms Rd, Lychee Rd, and Nightcap Range Rd.Gwynne RoadWorks are progressing on Gwynee Road; however, the works have been extended and will continue until the end of March.Leycester RoadWorks are nearing completion, with the pavement stabilisation and bituminous sealing successfully finished this week. Some minor finishing will continue in early 2025. Leycester RoadRepentance Creek RoadPavement stabilisation and bituminous sealing works were completed during December with the project continuing finishing works in the new year, progressing towards completion.Repentance Creek RoadRural Drain Cleaning ProgramLast month, our contractor, HXR was busy cleaning out and flushing stormwater pipes for Boyle Rd, Bishop Creek Rd, Sibley St, Anderson Rd, Gungas Rd, Blue Knob Rd, Emerson Rd, Coopers Creek Rd and Frasers Rd.Terania Creek Road (Branch Creek Bridge)In December, significant progress was made, key accomplishments included the backfilling of abutments, installation of bearing pads, successful landing of pre-stressed concrete beams, and the completion of the concrete bridge deck, which involved forming up, steel tying, and pouring. Looking ahead to January and February, the project will focus on finalising the construction of new bridge approach works and demolishing the existing causeway structure. Additional tasks scheduled include bitumen sealing of the approaches, road furniture installation, and site de-establishment. These upcoming works will mark the projects final stages, bringing it closer to completion.Branch Creek BridgeTuntable Creek Road (DM01136)Pavement stabilisation and bituminous sealing works were completed during December with the project continuing finishing works in the new year, progressing towards completion.Woodlawn RoadThe temporary sidetrack is now 80% complete, and weather permitting, traffic will be diverted onto the temporary road mid-Jan to facilitate the landslip remediation and pavement failure, which is expected to take approximately five months.

It is the dream of some people to own their own business and be in control of their destiny. Henry's Bakery is a dream for its new owners, as it was sold in December last year (2024).2025 could be the year to make the dream a reality.There are some long-established businesses on the market at the start of the new year; these are some of the Lismore businesses for sale:Hobby and Gaming Retail - In-Store & Online - $595,000 + SAV (stock at valuation)Regretful sale due to ongoing health diagnosis.A strong and successful online and in-store retail business based in the Collector, Hobby and Gaming industry that is seeing exceptional growth through hard-working and professional staff, expanding inventory and recent investment in key areas of the business.The business is in the top tier of retailers in Australia in several categories we cover. With long-established wholesale arrangements of which a number are exclusive.Established and Profitable Outdoor Retail Business For Sale $290,000 + SAVFirst established in 1990, the original owners have decided it is time for them to retire and are offering their much-loved business for sale. With 700m2 of retail display in store, there is ample space to expand and grow sales.As the new owners of this business, you will have purchased the premier outdoor operation of its type in Northern NSW. Known and respected throughout the region, it offers an impressive range of the best brands of lifestyle and travel clothing, footwear, hiking, caravan and camping gear, and water sports equipment. It is exciting to assist your customers to select great equipment, to enhance the joy of their holiday adventures.The business also includes an integrated online store that is an excellent advertising tool and will allow new owners to tap into an expanding e-commerce market.Established & Profitable Bicycle Retail & Repair Shop in Lismore $99,000 + stockAre you passionate about cycling and eager to dive into the industry? Look no further! A golden opportunity has emerged with the sale of an iconic bicycle shop boasting over a century of history. As the current owners step into semi-retirement, they're offering you the chance to carry forward their legacy.This esteemed establishment, with a rich history spanning 105 years, has become a cornerstone of the cycling community. Known for its reliability and expertise, it provides a comprehensive range of services. Whether it's bicycle sales or expert repairs, customers can find all their cycling needs met under one roof. The dedicated and experienced team ensures every bike leaves the shop in top-notch condition.Long Established Mechanical Workshop - Profitable Opportunity $599,000 in LismoreFor sale is a long-established automotive mechanical workshop that has been serving the local community for over 48 years. Specialising in radiator repairs, brake and exhaust services, as well as steering and suspension solutions, this business is fully equipped to handle all types of vehicle repairs.It is located in a prime, high-visibility position on a busy main highway, offering excellent street frontage and prominent signage that ensures strong exposure. The purpose-built facility provides easy accessibility and is ideally positioned to cater to customers from both the CBD and surrounding areas.Pizza shop for sale in Goonellabah $190,000Takeaway Pizzeria for Sale!Currently approved as a Cafe'/Takeaway shop, with no restriction on trading hours or hidden shopping centre fees.2.5 years left on the current lease, plus a 5-year option to follow.Rent + outgoings $3700 including GST, per month.Fully fit-out kitchen including two canopies and all the equipment you need to run any menu you want (cooked breakfast, burgers, etc.)Plus, state-of-the-art pizza equipment cooks over 100 pizzas an hour-Moretti Forni T96 conveyor ovenSottoriva Spiral Mixer t90Sigma Spritza Dough SpreaderWaste Solutions Products Manufacturer - Profitable Operation in South Lismore $1.3 millionThis is your opportunity to own and grow a valuable asset that can support you today and sustain you into the future!Established for over 27 years, this manufacturing business specialises in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of innovative hands-free bin apparatuses and bin-tipping machines. This profitable business is focused on providing high-quality service and supplies products to some of Australia's most recognised companies with plenty of repeat business. Providing a unique range of foot-pedal bins, bin-tippers, and other innovative adaptations, this business addresses the need for hygienic prevention of cross-contamination and operator safety during the process of disposing of waste.Successful Wood-Fired Pizza Shop - Easy to Run - Limited Hours - Good Profits in Lismore. Price: contact the agentThis successful wood-fired pizza shop offers more than just delicious pizzas it provides a lifestyle of simplicity and profit with a nearly decade-long legacy, the business has become a beloved staple in the community by locals and visitors alike.Lifestyle: Escape the hustle & bustle of traditional business ownership with this easy-to-run takeaway pizza shop. Operating just 4 nights pw, you'll have ample time to enjoy life outside of work while still reaping the rewards.For more information on any of the above businesses, click on the Commercial Real Estate website.

The NSW Government says at least 200,000 families across Lismore, the Northern Rivers and the state will be eligible for to access fee relief in 2025.Families can now apply for fee relief at their chosen early childhood education and care service for this year. Eligible services will pass on the savings as a weekly reduction in fees.From January 1, 2025, NSW families can receive:Up to $4,347 a year for three- to five-year-olds attending eligible community and mobile preschoolsUp to $2,174 a year for children aged four and above attending eligible preschool programs in long day care services. This can be received on top of the Australian Government Child Care Subsidy payment. Up to $515 a year for three-year-olds attending eligible preschool programs in long day care services, on top of their Australian Government Child Care Subsidy payment. Research shows that children who attend quality early childhood education and care for two days a week, or 600 hours a year in the two years before starting school, gain lifelong benefits. This supports their social, emotional, and cognitive development, with these benefits evident throughout their schooling years and into further study or the workforce.The state government is also investing an additional $40 million in 2025 to drive improved quality in long-day services, delivering preschool programs for three-year-olds. Funding can be used by the services to pay salaries of early childhood teachers and educators, buy educational resources and develop quality early childhood education programs.The NSW Government is prioritising quality education in the early years of a child’s life, with $1.82 billion invested in early education and care as part of the 2024-25 NSW Budget.In addition to fee relief, the Government has made the largest-ever investment in public preschools. The Government will also build 100 new public preschools in public schools by 2027, the largest-ever expansion in NSW.Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said, “High-quality early childhood education and care should be affordable and accessible for all children across NSW, no matter their postcode or background.“That is why we are making a record investment in fee relief – so more families can access quality preschool and long day care, where they can develop their language and social skills before starting school. “More affordable preschool means more support for parents to return to work, which can make a big difference to hardworking families.”More information on Start Strong fee relief is available on the Department of Education website.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a teenage girl missing from the Lismore area.Crystal Walker, aged 17, was last seen in Goonellabah on Tuesday, 7 January 2025.When she could not be located or contacted, she was reported missing to officers attached to Richmond Police District, who commenced inquiries into her whereabouts.Concerns are held for Crystal’s welfare as she lives with a number of health issues.She is described as being of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance, about 170cm tall and medium build with short dark hair and brown eyes.Crystal is known to frequent the Goonellabah, Ballina, Lismore, Alstonville and Lismore areas; recent information provided to police indicates she may be in the Ballina area.Anyone with information about her whereabouts is urged to call Lismore Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

As many Australians start the year with a New Year’s resolution to increase their physical activity, Dementia Australia is cheering them on. Physical inactivity is the nation’s largest contributing modifiable risk factor for dementia – a significant motivation to get active in the new year. A 2023 study found that in Australia, physical inactivity was the largest modifiable risk factor for developing dementia – exceeding smoking, alcohol consumption and traumatic brain injury. Additionally, in 2024, the Dementia Lancet Commission reported that midlife physical inactivity is a risk factor for dementia.Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan said it is vital Australians know the importance of being physically active, not only for their bodies, but their brains too. “A sedentary lifestyle or low levels of physical activity has consistently been linked to an increased risk for neurodegenerative diseases, including dementia,” Professor Buchanan said. “Dementia Australia is calling on the Australian Federal Government to fund a national discussion about brain health and how to lower our dementia risk – including getting physically active. “In the meantime, it is important that Australians of all ages know the importance of being active. The Dementia Australia library has information and tips for being physically active both before and after a dementia diagnosis.” Dementia Australia Dementia Advocate Heather Cooper, who lives with dementia, enjoys the benefits of regular movement as someone who exercises multiple times a week at age 80. “I run four times a week,” Heather said. “The other two days, I do cross-training, and then I have a rest on one day. The community bus takes us once a week to where there's a pool, so I swim a kilometre there. “And, of course, I walk every day!“I really structure my exercise around keeping my body really limber and looking after it in every way.” For those looking for a way to get active in the new year consider getting involved in Dementia Australia’s largest annual fundraising event – Memory Walk & Jog. With 28 events running across the country in 2025, Memory Walk & Jog is a great way to get active and raise funds in support of people impacted by dementia. For locations, information, and to register, visit memorywalk.com.au. For dementia information and support contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 or visit dementia.org.au for live chat. The National Dementia Helpline operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. 

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin is encouraging residents of the Lismore electorate to celebrate the positive role seniors play in the community by putting in a nomination for the 2025 NSW Seniors Festival Local Achievement Awards.“If you know a senior who helps make our community diverse, inspiring and active, then I encourage you to nominate them for acknowledgement of their contribution“The annual NSW Seniors Festival is about celebrating the positive impact of older people in our families and society.“Nominations are now open for the awards program, one of many initiatives the NSW Government promotes to support the state’s seniors living happy, healthy, and active lives.Winners of the Local Achievement Awards will be announced during the NSW Seniors Festival, which runs from 3rd-16th March 2025By highlighting seniors’ continued efforts in helping the Lismore electorate thrive, we are continuing to challenge ageism and empower seniors to overcome social stigmas.For more information about the NSW Seniors Festival and the Local Achievement Awards, visit seniorsfestival.nsw.gov.au.Nomination forms are available from the Lismore Electorate Office at 55 Carrington Street, or by emailing lismore@parliament.nsw.gov.auNominations close 5pm Friday, 21 February 2025.

19.8mm has fallen at the Lismore Airport over the past three days, and the forecast is for a wet weekend from the Bureau of Meteorology.Saturday looks to be the wettest, with showers and a possible storm the prediction. Once again, there is a broad rainfall estimate with 4-35mm to fall. The recipients of the storm will receive the most rain. A little like this morning when the CBD was relatively dry compared to the build of water on the roads in Goonellabah.Sunday is slightly better, with 2-25mm forecast and the chance of a thunderstorm again.It has been another fairly quiet weekend around Lismore, with a lot of people still away on holidays.Markets lead the charge for what to do this weekend.The Lismore Farmers Markets get underway at 7:30am at the Lismore Showgrounds tomorrow, and as they say, rain, hail or shine! Fresh fruit and veg, coffee/tea and breakfast plus live music from Mish Songsmith is on offer until 11:30am.The Sunday market this week is in the Lismore hinterland at Coronation Park at The Channon between 9am and 3pm, although they do have drumming until dusk.There are over 200 artisan stalls selling local arts and crafts, such as soaps, coffee mugs and wooden products. This month's charity is The Channon Rural Fire Service, so your presence at the markets does make a difference.While up in the hills, check out the bush walks and make a day of it Walks.In Lismore, there is the rail trail to ride if you don't mind potentially getting a bit wet, or you can take the kids rollerskating at Rollerworld in North Lismore.Coming up in February:Legends of Cricket - Saturday, February 15 at Oakes Oval andCountry Championships at the Lismore Turf Club featuring Lismore richest race on Saturday, February 22.Hannah Pearl and Dan Grace will be performing at the Northern Rivers Hotel if you love live music.Hannah kicks off the weekend at 6:30 tonight, with Dan hitting the stage at 7pm tomorrow.The Lismore Workers Club live entertainment kicks off for 2025 with Forever Olivia - A Tribute to Olivia Newton-John on Saturday, February 15, Reputation - the Ultimate Taylor Swift Tribute Show on Friday, February 21 and the Fab Four - The Ultimate Beatles Tribute Show on Friday, March 7.Check out all the live music in 2025 at the Lismore Workers Club website.For the third week in a row, fuel prices have risen. Different fuel grades have seen different price increases, with diesel rising the most.Here are the cheapest fuel options in each town:E10 is 178.9 across the Lismore CBD and South Lismore, 176.8 at the NightOwl Puma on Johnston Street in Casino, with The Metro and the Mobil on River Street in Ballina cheapest at 167.5.Unleaded 91 is 179.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road, Lismore, 178.9 at the Liberty on Centre Street and Hare Street, The United and the Casino Roadhouse on Johnston Street and 169.5 at the Metro and the new Mobil in Ballina.U95 is 188.5 at Bakers Corner, Terania Street, North Lismore, 195.7 at the EG Ampol on Canterbury Street in Casino and 182.5 at the Metro and Mobil on River Street, Ballina.U98 is 196.9 at the Liberty Foodmart on Ballina Road and the Liberty at 113 Union Street, South Lismore, 198.9 at the two Liberty's on Hare Street and Centre Street in Casino and 190.5 at the Metro and Mobil in Ballina.Diesel is 180.9 at the BP Lismore at 131 Dawson Street, 191.9 at the Casino Roadhouse and The United on Johnston Street in Casino and 184.5 at The Mobil and Metro in Ballina.Have a great weekend!

Goonellabah residents who use the Rous Road/Oliver Avenue roundabout regularly would have noticed a build-up of council worker activity in the last few days. The approved road work to upgrade the roundabout to improve safety will begin this Monday (13 January), causing traffic changes and delays. Prior to Christmas Lismore City Council staff replaced water pipes in the same area.During construction, there will be temporary traffic control measures implemented that will cause delays and disruption to motorists. Jubilee Avenue will be closed to through traffic at the roundabout for the remainder of the works. A temporary detour will be in place via Phillip Street, McDermott Avenue and Oliver Avenue. The $1.1 million investment in safety, funded by Transport for NSW under the Australian Government’s Black Spot program, is expected to be complete within eight weeks, weather permitting.“We have seen six accidents on or near the roundabout over the last five years, and something clearly needed to be done,” Mayor Steve Krieg said.“We are committed to ensuring the safety of our community, and this upgrade will deliver that.”Works will initially involve the upgrade of existing drainage infrastructure and widening of the road pavement directly to the north of the current roundabout’s location.Once initial works are complete, construction will begin on a new, larger concrete and asphalt roundabout. The new roundabout will comprise a 6m-wide travel lane and deliver improved access from both Jubilee Avenue and Caroona Marima Care Facility.Mayor Krieg urged everyone to do their part and follow the temporary traffic control measures, including stop/go signs and reduced speed limits.“We all have a role to play in road safety, and I want to thank the community in advance for their cooperation and patience as Council undertakes this important safety improvement.”The busy roundabout was noted in a council Blackspot program. Six recorded accidents occurred in the area between 2018 and 2023, three (3) directly at the roundabout and three (3) east along Oliver Avenue.A range of categories were looked at to highlight the development of blackspot areas. Factors contributing to this design include:Large trees reducing sight distance and light in all three directions.The proximity of Jubilee Avenue to Rous Road is approximately 20 metres, which causes confusion to motorists on where a vehicle is turning.The intersection is over a crest which reduces stopping time if a vehicle exits from Jubilee Avenue onto Oliver Avenue.The change will affect the Caroona driveway entrance and exit. The existing entry/exit onto the roundabout from Caroona will be reduced to an Exit Only, and a new Entry Only point will be constructed off Rous Road approximately 40m west of the roundabout. These driveway modifications will provide safer entry and egress for Caroona and for cars circulating on the roundabout. During the construction, council has said that three (3) trees will be removed on the Northern side of Rous Road, which will be replaced in the same vicinity. These trees are not koala food trees and are outside the biodiversity zone. Council will be going ahead with the roundabout on Reserve Street. It is part of the Rous Road design and is confirmed for development as a separate project, with the timing to be confirmed. 

Lismore City Council has released Phase 1 of the improvement plan for the Caniaba Recreation Facilities.Community feedback was sourced through an online survey on the Your Say Lismore webpage(108 respondents) and an in-person community BBQ event (50).The Top 3 outcomes for Sporting Facilities and Playgrounds were:Sporting Facility Preferences:Multipurpose CourtCricket NetsTennis CourtPlayground Preferences:SwingsOutdoor Fitness EquipmentSlideThe result for Phase 1 was to create a:Multipurpose Court: The existing tennis court will be converted to accommodate tennis, basketball and pickleball, all on a new, durable acrylic surface. The layout allows for social sport and allows multiple users to be able to play at any one time without needing to wait for the other to finish or to put up nets.Synthetic Cricket Nets: Two new cricket nets will provide local cricketers with dedicated training facilities.(An image of the multi-courts)Phase one is expected to be completed by June 30 this year.Phase 2 of the recreational upgrades is planned for delivery in four to six years, depending on available budget or grant funding.As part of the second phase of the project, future plans include exploring options to replace the playground, focusing on greater space for play, more variety, accessible play and safety in design. Detailed designs will be shared with the community once they are available.

With the rain falling and the ground wet, most people are not thinking about bushfires. However, rainfall means delays in completing fire hazard reduction activities, particularly controlled burning.As regional Australia prepares for bushfire season, Brisbane company Hypha, the critical communications firm, has commenced delivery of state-of-the-art Vehicle-as-a-Node (VaaN) technology that will be installed in 5,000 NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) vehicles. The technology will help fight fires in communication blackspot.The high-speed internet leverages 4G, 5G, and Elon Musk’s Starlink technology, turning Hypha-equipped vehicles into Wi-Fi hotspots for firefighters' mobile devices and internet-enabled equipment.The result is high-speed data access for RFS personnel anytime, anywhere—eliminating communication black spots in rural and remote areas.It means emergency staff will now be better equipped to understand and communicate life-threatening situations on the ground, with command centres, and each other, throughout a bushfire disaster – empowering first responders to make life-saving decisions.The technology enables the latest intelligence, including geolocation data, sophisticated data feeds, and even livestreaming capabilities that were previously out of reach.CEO of Hypha Group Neil Jamieson said the VaaN technology marks a major evolution in mission-critical communications for public safety.“RFS and Hypha have worked tirelessly to finalise this contract and begin the rollout,” he said.“We are all deeply committed to ensuring the safety of communities and the firefighters who protect them, and this is a significant step toward achieving that goal.”Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service has been available in Australia since 2021 and is used by more than 250,000 Australians in remote and regional areas, including a prioritised service for RFS use.Hypha will remotely manage the VaaN equipped vehicles to ensure the units are operating at peak performance with the latest software and interfaces to mobile data terminals and radio systems.  In addition to its own manufacturing and software development, Hypha is proud to have worked with multiple Australian manufactures and some highly nimble international players to deliver the RFS solution.The RFS has welcomed the rollout, which is expected to take two to three years to complete, and will accommodate various types of firefighting vehicles in remote locations.According to the latest RFS Fire Season Outlook report, the prolonged wet weather through 2024 has limited the ability to complete hazard reduction activities, particularly controlled burning, compounding the fire risk across the state.An RFS spokesperson said: “The Hypha team showed a deep understanding of NSW RFS operational and safety challenges, delivering an outstanding commercial and technical solution.“We appreciate the creativity and partnership approach that Hypha exhibits and look forward to enabling our officers on the front line.” 

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for DAMAGING WINDS, LARGE HAILSTONES and HEAVY RAINFALL for Nimbin, Kyogle and western parts of the Northern Rivers.Isolated severe thunderstorms have developed in a moist and unstable environment about the northeast of the state, aided by the passage of an upper trough.Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds, large hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations that may be affected include Casino, Kyogle, Wiangaree and Nimbin.The State Emergency Service advises that people should:* Move your car under cover or away from trees.* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.* Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.* Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill.* Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall.* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.* Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.* Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.* After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.* Unplug computers and appliances.* Avoid using the phone during the storm.* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.The next warning is due to be issued by 7:20 pm.

Independent testing has reaffirmed that Rous County Council’s (Rous) water remains safe to drink with PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) undetectable at new levels set by the Australian Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).Rous accepted NSW Health’s recent offer to conduct independent laboratory testing for PFAS using samples collected within its water network. Samples were collected from numerous points across the region Rous serves.Since 2023, Rous has been conducting its own routine testing for PFAS using samples taken from water and environmental sources. To date, all results have shown PFAS chemicals are not detectable.The most recent results from NSW Health’s independent tests, received in December 2024, also did not find PFAS in any samples, according to Adam Nesbitt, Group Manager Operations, Rous.“I am pleased to share that the analysis undertaken by NSW Health has returned excellent results with PFAS undetectable in all samples,” said Adam Nesbitt.“These independent test results reaffirm the safety and quality of our drinking water and reflect tests for PFAS that Rous has been undertaking for some time.“Our proactive approach ensures that Rous’ water meets the highest possible water quality standards.“By conducting regular testing and transparent reporting, we ensure that our water supply continues to meet — and exceed — national safety standards.”PFAS are a group of human-made chemicals widely used in industrial processes and consumer products due to their ability to resist heat, water, and grease.This resistance makes them valuable in products such as non-stick cookware, water-repellent fabrics, firefighting foams, and food packaging – to name just a few. However, their durability also means they persist in the environment and can accumulate over time, prompting strict guidelines for safe levels in drinking water.Rous publishes an Annual Water Quality Summary Report, which includes PFAS testing results, on its website. Visit: https://rous.nsw.gov.au/annual-water-quality-summary-reports. For information and updates on the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines, visit nhmrc.gov.au/about-us/publications/australian-drinking-water-guidelines.

Lismore Heights Public School will get a new $3 million special education learning unit as part of the NSW Government's $1.08 billion investment in minor works, which includes $600 million dedicated to essential school maintenance.The work will occur during the school holidays, so over 800 public schools across New South Wales will welcome students and teachers back to classrooms when school starts in early February. The projects aimed to ensure schools are safe, functional, and conducive to learning. Over 3.4 million square meters of buildings were painted, and an area equivalent to 46 Sydney Cricket Grounds received new flooring.Some notable projects completed include:* Lismore Heights Public School: $3 million to create a new special education learning unit.* Morisset High School: $730,000 upgrade to science labs.* Kensington Public School: $180,000 in carpet and vinyl flooring upgrades.* Tuggerah Lakes Secondary College: Over $345,000 to upgrade metalwork classrooms.* Terrigal Public School: $655,000 to replace an aging Covered Outdoor Learning Area.Premier Chris Minns emphasised the government's commitment to providing quality public education, "We are committed to ensuring that NSW public schools are quality places to work and learn." He acknowledged that while not the most glamorous upgrades, these projects are crucial for maintaining safe and functional learning environments.Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of well-maintained schools for thriving communities. She reiterated the government's commitment to investing in and rebuilding public education across NSW.

New research from CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, has unveiled the power of personalised goal setting for achieving sustained weight loss as Australians set health resolutions for the new year.  An analysis of over 22,000 members of the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet revealed that while most participants set ambitious weight loss goals (of around 20 kg) for themselves at the start of the program, only three per cent were able to achieve them within 12 weeks. Importantly, the research found members who achieved a personalised weight loss goal generated by an AI tool within the program experienced the greatest success.  These customised goals facilitated early weight loss and also led to better longer-term outcomes, with 47 per cent of members reaching their personalised goals by losing between 7 and 11 kg in 12 weeks.   The My Journey AI tool is designed to help Australians achieve weight loss success by tailoring goals to an individual’s circumstances. CSIRO Research Scientist Dr Gilly Hendrie emphasised the importance of realistic goal setting when starting and maintaining a successful weight loss journey. “We know that early wins create momentum for weight loss, and by setting goals that are personalised and realistic, members gain the motivation to stay the course and reach bigger milestones,” Dr Hendrie said. Stretch goals are best While an unrealistic goal can be disheartening for weight loss, a stretch goal, which is a deliberately challenging target, can help people have greater early success.  Among CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet members, those who achieved a stretch goal, also personalised by the program, lost substantially more weight at 12 weeks and sustained this success over 12 months.  According to the research, nine out of 10 members who met the stretch goal lost a clinically significant 5 per cent or more of their starting body weight at 12 months. The analysis also highlighted that stretch goals were particularly helpful for those with more weight to lose.  Among members who started in the obese weight status category, 20 per cent achieved a stretch goal, and lost 12 kg within the first 12 weeks; 4 kg more than those that met the personalised goal.  “Stretch goals give people that little extra push to see what’s possible. These goals are not just about losing weight fast - they’re about creating a rhythm of achievement,” Dr Hendrie said. “With the right guidance, members can achieve their weight loss goals and build lasting habits, setting them up for successful longer-term weight management.”   CSIRO sets Australians up for goal-setting success in 2025 In response to the findings, the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet has introduced My Journey—a new AI tool designed to help accelerate Australians ability to set, track, and achieve personalised weight loss goals with real-time guidance. “With My Journey, you can trust the program to create goals that are tailored to your unique circumstances, giving you the best chance to succeed,” Dr Hendrie said.  “Whether you’re starting fresh this January or building on past success, the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet offers the tools and confidence needed to achieve lasting health goals.” Find out more about the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet and My Journey.