Condolence motions following the Bondi attack have now been debated in both State and Federal Parliament. Both of Lismore’s representatives delivered speeches shaped by loss and solidarity. Speaking in Federal Parliament yesterday, Kevin Hogan addressed the motion acknowledging the trauma felt by families, survivors and communities across the country.“I rise to commend this motion. Obviously, a lot of very heartfelt speeches have been made today. There's been a lot of grief and trauma in this chamber today. We've had survivors and families of the victims here, and we respect and pay our acknowledgements to them,” he said.Mr Hogan described the events of 14 December as a moment that has permanently altered the national psyche.“We literally had evil, in its worst form, walking on the soil of Bondi… Australia has changed forever. Bondi has changed everything, and I'm sure a lot of us agree on that,” he said.He spoke at length about the randomness and brutality of the violence, the symbolism of Bondi as a location, and the fear and hatred directed at people because of their faith.“There are lots of forms of evil, but there's a form of evil in our country called Islamic extremism,” Mr Hogan said. “Islamic extremists hate people of a certain different religion. We have to acknowledge that. In acknowledging that, we can arm ourselves to do what we need to do to combat it.”Mr Hogan also reflected on visiting Bondi shortly after the attack.“You could feel the grief. You could feel an emotion in the air, almost coming from the clouds. It was oppressive,” he said. “It was very traumatic just being there.”Despite the horror, he noted moments of unity, including spontaneous singing of the national anthem and Waltzing Matilda, before closing with words of support.“I commend this motion and give my love and wishes to the Jewish community in our country,” he said.Those sentiments closely echoed words spoken late last year in State Parliament by Janelle Saffin, when Parliament was recalled early to address the same tragedy.“I rise today to speak in support of this condolence motion, and I do so with a heavy heart,” Ms Saffin told the chamber. “We honour the memory of the fifteen innocent people who were killed. Each of these wonderful people mattered. Each person was cherished. Each person leaves behind family, friends and communities forever changed.”Ms Saffin extended condolences on behalf of the state, saying, “I hope you know that the Parliament of New South Wales, the people of NSW, and the NSW Government led by our Premier Chris Minns stand with you. That your grief is shared. That your loved ones will be remembered.”She spoke directly about the impact on the Jewish community and the enduring nature of trauma.“The trauma experienced by witnesses, first responders, by everyone there cannot be overestimated, by our Jewish community most of all - who have once again been forced to confront fear and insecurity simply for practising their faith,” she said.Grounding her speech in her home community, Ms Saffin shared what she had heard locally.“In Lismore, where I live and serve, members of our Jewish community have told me of their shock, their sadness, and their concern for their children and families,” she said.She described attending vigils in both Sydney and Lismore.“In Lismore, people gathered to lay flowers at the Rotary Peace Pole in Lismore's Riverside Park. There we stood shoulder to shoulder in solidarity with our Jewish community – our community.”As Minister for Recovery, Ms Saffin drew on her experience supporting communities through disaster.“Healing requires more than resources. It requires listening. It requires presence. It requires trust. It requires a sense that you are not alone. And above all, it requires action,” she said.“This motion is a collective declaration of who we are and what we stand for.”Across two parliaments, the messages from Lismore’s representatives have been consistent: grief shared, hatred rejected, and community upheld.

Regular readers of the Lismore App would know that St Vincent's Private Hospital in East Lismore has undergone renovations since late 2024.The renovations began when then-CEO Alan Cooper decided not to sell the hospital, Australia's only private hospital owned by a diocese. Instead, it was decided to set St Vincent's on a new and groundbreaking path. That journey started with an aesthetic refresh that included patient ward rooms and bathrooms, lifts, public bathrooms and a complete paint job.The renovations look impressive and have certainly enhanced the visual appeal for its patients and their loved ones.What is more impressive is St Vincent's move into the world of robotic surgery to improve patient care.St Vincent's became the first private hospital in Australia, and only the second hospital nationally, to introduce the Medbot TOUMAI® Surgical Robotic System. According to its Facebook page, doctors have been training in China to master the game-changing technology.(St Vincent's doctors training on the new robotic surgery equipment. Photo: St Vincent's Private Hospital)The Lismore App understands that St Vincent's will launch the robotic system in early to mid-February. Details of what surgeries will be performed in Lismore and how that benefits patients will be revealed at the launch.The renovations and the robotic surgery are part of what St Vincent's calls 'Best Care. Right Here.' That is their new slogan as they aim to provide a leading standard in patient experience.Another step in the process is the appointment of a new hospital Career Medical Officer (CMO), Dr Andrew Pearson. Dr Pearson comes from the Wesley Hospital, a 500+ bed private facility in Brisbane, bringing extensive experience in Cardio-Thoracic Intensive Care, General Intensive Care, Coronary Care and Hospital Medicine. His addition will increase hospital services for higher-acuity patients - those with severe, unstable or complex health conditions - and drive the upgrade of hospital services, including High Dependency patient services, broader specialist cover, and specialist general medicine.Dr Pearson has implemented weekly advanced training for nurses, which bolsters their current nurse education program.Importantly, he has also moved the hospital to a 24/7, on-site Hospital Medical Officer (HMO) model. He has recruited an HMO team that will follow an ‘on-call’ roster around the clock to attend to patients where necessary.The benefit here could be to the Lismore and Northern Rivers community by diverting some private health insurance patients needing urgent medical attention away from Lismore Base Hospital. This can be done directly through GPs and specialists across the region.In order to streamline direct admissions from GPs, St Vincent’s has also created a ‘Clinical Care Manager’ role.Jenni Prosser, a senior nurse manager, now takes calls directly from a GP and specialist network in order to facilitate admissions for urgent (non-critical) private patients. Essentially, a one-stop phone call to cut through unnecessary wait times.Patients who meet certain criteria can be taken directly into care, eliminating the need to wait in a crowded emergency department. The Clinical Care Manager does the legwork for bed checks, fund checks, patient condition, and works with Dr Pearson to have the patient admitted to St Vincent’s under the appropriate doctor for urgent care.“St Vincent’s Lismore has always provided the community with the excellent health service it deserves here in Lismore. In 2026, we aim to be the hospital of choice for private patients from Coffs Harbour to the Tweed, and with an exciting addition soon to come online in our operating theatres, we are looking forward to game-changing outcomes for surgical patients this year,” St Vincent's CEO, Peter Fahey, said.The journey St Vincent's Private Hospital has been on since the sale was taken off the table has been extensive. The new focus is nearly complete, and the future of healthcare in our region is exciting for private health insurance patients.

After more than 20 years as a trusted destination for cooks and chefs across the Northern Rivers, The Kitchen Shelf has entered a new chapter, with Patricia and Daryl Hellyar taking over the business.The couple officially took ownership just before Christmas, and have spent the time building up stock, before reopening the doors this week. Patricia says the response from the community has already been encouraging.“Since we took over on the 19th of December, it’s actually been not too bad so far,” she said. “People are starting to get to know that we are open again.”Known as a comprehensive store for professional chefs and serious home cooks, The Kitchen Shelf stocks everything from specialist kitchen equipment and cookware to dinnerware, drinkware and cooking accessories.Under Patricia and Daryl, that offering is expanding, while staying true to what locals already know and love. One of the biggest additions is a stronger focus on Weber, with a larger range of barbecues and accessories now coming in.“We’re bringing in a bigger range of the Weber barbecues and accessories,” Patricia said. “And we’re getting back more into a bit of the café supplies as well.”They’re also introducing new brands, including Seed and Sprout, aimed at health-conscious customers looking for glass containers, lunch boxes and sustainable kitchen solutions.Behind the scenes, the change marks a significant shift for the Hellyars, who spent decades in the transport industry before making the leap into retail.“Daryl’s been a driver for over 30 years,” Patricia said. “He started driving for his father, who had started the business over 35 years ago. But with the changes in the transport industry over the last few years, we felt it was time to step back and try something different.”That “something different” came about unexpectedly - during the store’s retirement sale.“Daryl actually came in to buy a pan,” Patricia said. “And he pretty much decided on the business there and then on the spot.”They were drawn not just to the opportunity, but to the strong foundations laid by previous owners Terry and Kay.“They had a really good business here,” Patricia said. “It’s been here for over 20 years, and it was just too good a business for Lismore to lose.”With floods an ever-present reality in the CBD, the new owners have also made practical changes, setting the store up to be as flood-ready as possible.“We’ve tried to make it easy to clean out and easy to move stock and fixtures if we need to,” Patricia said. “That was always in the back of our minds when setting the shop back up.”The Kitchen Shelf continues to serve cafés, schools and commercial customers, but Patricia says everyday home cooks are just as important.“We get a lot of general public customers, and they’ve been fantastic,” she said. “Even while we’re waiting on more stock, they’re happy to come back and check again.”As they settle into their new role, Patricia says the support they’ve received has meant everything.“We’ve been overwhelmed and humbled by the support of family, friends and the community,” she said. “It’s been really encouraging.”For Lismore locals, The Kitchen Shelf’s reopening is another sign of confidence in the town - and for Patricia and Darryl, it’s just the beginning.“Onwards and upwards,” Patricia said.

Community safety, especially in the CBD and Goonellabah, has been a social media discussion point for most of 2025.We know that a new PACER (Police, Ambulance, Clinical Early Response) person has been employed by Northern NSW Health and is attached to Richmond Police District on Zadoc Street. The new person is only getting their feet under the desk in January 2026, so we can't expect miracles in the next two weeks.For those who are still concerned about safety, there will be an open Community Safety Forum that will bring together community members, Federal and State MPs, Police, Ambulance and Health representatives, local businesses and key stakeholders to openly discuss local safety and crime concerns. The forum will focus on what’s currently happening, what’s working and where improvements can be made, with time set aside for questions and community input.Facilitated by Ben Roche, Pro Vice-Chancellor at Southern Cross University, this session follows a Council resolution to hold an open public consultation to consider and identify practical, community-led solutions to safety issues and to ensure the right agencies are working together to address them. It’s an opportunity to hear directly from those involved, share your perspective and learn how reporting and data play a role in improving outcomes for the whole community.The Details:When: Tuesday, 17 February, between 5pm–7.30pmWhere: J Block, Southern Cross University on Military Road. J Block is The Campus Grind cafe, opposite Goodman Plaza (up from the gym and pool).For more information and to register, click here.Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.

Flood mitigation will be the hot topic of conversation from June 30 this year. That is when the CSIRO is due to release its Richmond River Catchment results after running two bundles with six scenarios in each bundle, replicating three floods: 2008 (which affected the Richmond River towns of Kyogle and Casino), 2017 and 2022.As the CSIRO high-performance computers whirl away, Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin has been performing a deep dive on another flood mitigation option, Nature-Based Solutions. The Lismore App sat down and recorded a Talking Lismore podcast to discover her learnings.Ms Saffin began by saying the community has two distinct views, with no middle ground. You are either in the grey camp - man-made - or the green camp - nature-based."It seems like both groups have them put up as their holy grail," Ms Saffin said. "And I say it's not either. Nature-based has been around forever. It's not new, and in fact, some of the principles of it inform the grey engineering, because it is about engineering."Ultimately, it's about engineering, understanding the hydrology of the river, and what slows that water flow down.Ms Saffin's deep dive, included a visit to the Australian National University in Canberra, with her team and the staff from the NSW Reconstruction Authority. She also read a paper called Nature-Based Solutions that was written by scientific leaders in the flood mitigation field with a focus on mitigating riverine flooding. The authors included Prabhari Herath, Roslyn Prinsely, Barry Croke, Carmel Pollino and Jai Vaze, a familiar name to Lismore and the Northern Rivers residents."These are all very highly skilled, capable people. They're academics, so research-based. Whatever they do and promote has a research basis to it. So, I thought that was important to have the conversation at that level with them."Riverine flooding, and they say it here, is the most destructive natural hazard globally. It leads to economic losses, poses serious threats to lives and infrastructure, and nature-based solutions have emerged, not just here but elsewhere, as sustainable alternatives to what we call conventional flood management."Nature based can, in a sense, mimic what I call the natural flows of water and diversions and all sorts of things that happen. But again, there has to be some science to it. You don't go, oh, it's nature-based, and I'll plant 1000 trees and let them bloom and see what happens. But we know that we can plant trees, certain trees, in certain areas, and they can help slow down that water a little bit. It can hold water back."This document that I just referred to, it was a systematic review and analysis of 141 academic and seven grey literature documents to assess the effectiveness of nature-based solutions globally and in Australia, of course. So, it looked at it for flood mitigation at catchment scale."What they came up with was that nature based strategies for flood mitigation operate through three fundamental strategies. Detaining floods, so some sort of detention that's temporarily or permanently storing excess water, wetlands, forests, leaky weirs, like North Ipswich, which we'll come to."The second one was reducing flood energy. That's slowing water movement by increasing surface roughness and infiltration, afforestation, riparian vegetation, diverting flood water, altering flow routes to protect vulnerable areas, bypass channels, paleochannels, like Moree."The other thing they did was a categorisation of the nature-based interventions into four main categories, and the four are managing catchment land cover - that's forests, grasslands, agricultural practices, land use, land cover, surface permeability."Storing excess water - wetlands, offline and online water retention measures and wetlands, I call wetlands the lungs, they're the lungs, and they breed fish, and they do all sorts of things. We had quite a bit of wetland restoration in Ballina. I got money for it years ago, up and down the East Coast"Managing the floodplain - stream channel management, riparian vegetation, floodplain reconnection."Alternative routes - comes back to the bypass channels, paleochannels, etc."So, really, combined and hybrid approaches, that's the nature-based solutions, conventional infrastructure, they show enhanced flood mitigation potential. So not either or."When I look worldwide, and I have had a look myself at different projects, one in Italy, some in India, I mean, I've looked at various ones where they do use both."Ms Saffin is very sure that nature-based solutions on their own can not solve our flood mitigation issues."No. That is the evidence to date. I'm talking about evidence, not my view or my belief. There are limitations and considerations, and this analysis lets us know that effectiveness diminishes during extreme flood events. Benefits observed in small catchments may not scale to larger basins. Vegetation-based interventions require maturation periods, and there's knowledge gaps as well."Studies show that nature-based can reduce the stormwater runoff by 30% to 75% in urban contexts, and significantly lower flood peaks in rural catchments. But, they work best for low to moderate flood events, as part of integrated flood management, not standalone solutions."That's what I keep reading everywhere."For those who have the time and are inclined, you can read the full Nature-Based Solutions document by clicking on the link.Post June 30, our community will start its most important discussion about how to minimise flood heights in the Richmond River Catchment, if the modelling shows it can be achieved. Of course, it may show that nothing can be achieved."Often, when we have debates and discussions in Lismore, we do get a bit stuck. And I think it's more ideologically stuck, or what I call the holy grails, that things are held up as sort of holy grails, and it's like, okay, let's just be quite practical about this. CSIRO have been really clear. What they're looking at is what can help and not harm."We've got to not mock each other on what we think will work. Let's have mature conversations about it, and just look at the evidence and engage in that discussion and that debate, because, particularly those of us in leadership, because we've got to lead in our community, so it behoves us to be as informed as we can be."To listen to the full 20-minute podcast, click on the Talking Lismore podcast link.

It has been another busy week for the Richmond Police District in the last seven days. Officers charged 45 individuals with 91 offences between January 8 and 14. Of these, 56 offences related to Domestic Violence offences - that's 61.5%, up from 35.6% on the previous week.The top offences by number of charges:Contravene prohibition/restriction in AVO (DV) - 12Assault occasioning actual bodily harm (DV) - 8Stalk/intimidate (DV) - 7Possess prohibited drug - 5Armed w/I commit indictable offence - 4SIGNIFICANT ARRESTS:1. A 35-year-old woman has been charged after allegedly leading police on a high-speed pursuit through South Lismore on 13 January 2026. The driver, who was on a suspended licence, failed to stop for a random breath test and reached speeds up to 130km/h before crashing into a ditch. Officers rescued her from the vehicle and found drug-related items inside, which are being investigated further. After being released from hospital, she was charged with Drive Motor Vehicle while licence suspended – 2nd+ offence; Drive Recklessly/Furiously or Speed/Manner Dangerous – 1st offence; Police Pursuit – Not Stop – Drive Dangerously – 1st Offence. She has been bail refused and will face Lismore Local Court on the 19 of January 2026.2. On the 12th of January 2026, police arrested a 33-year-old West Ballina man after an alleged armed robbery attempt on the 10 January 2026, at a Mobil service station on River Street, Ballina. The man allegedly stole items, threatened the console operator with scissors, and demanded cash before fleeing. Officers later identified him from CCTV and executed a search warrant at his home, locating the clothing worn during the incident and stolen goods. He was arrested and charged with Larceny and Robbery Armed With Offensive Weapon. He will appear before the Ballina Local Court on the 12th of March 2026.3. Police have charged a 21-year-old man following two separate incidents. In the first matter, the man allegedly attempted to break into a Goonellabah home in the early hours of 11 September 2025. He was captured on CCTV entering an enclosed alfresco area, damaging a flyscreen and attempting to access the residence while the occupants slept. The offender fled when confronted by occupants; however, forensic testing later linked him to the scene.Police also investigated an alleged violent incident in East Lismore on the afternoon of 11 January 2026, where the same man is accused of threatening a relative with a knife, chasing them across the street and damaging a vehicle before fleeing. The knife was recovered nearby.On 12 January 2026, officers located the man in North Lismore and arrested him without further incident. He has been charged with 2 x Aggravated Break and Enter w/I – knowing person there; Destroy or Damage Property; Face blackened/Disguised w/I indicatable offence; Common Assault (DV); Armed w/I Commit Indictable Offence; Destroy or Damage Property (DV). He will appear before the Lismore Local Court on the 19th of January and the 11th of March 2026.4. Around 1:30pm on 11 January 2026, police responded to a disturbance at the Clyde Campbell Car Park in Lismore after a 45-year-old woman was heard screaming and smashing glass bottles inside the public toilets. When approached by police, the woman became aggressive, attempted to strike an officer, and damaged his identification. She was arrested and charged for assaulting police, breaching bail by consuming alcohol and possession of a prohibited drug (cannabis). She will appear before Lismore Local Court on 22 January 2026.5. Around 11:40pm on 10 January 2026, security at the Illawong Hotel attempted to remove an intoxicated patron who became aggressive, attempted to strike a security officer with a glass, and violently resisted efforts to escort him out. The 35-year-old man fled the scene, crashed a bicycle, and was later located by police in a nearby vehicle, where he continued to resist arrest. Oleoresin spray was deployed, where he was arrested and charged with Common Assault; Contravene Prohibition/Restriction in AVO (DV); Excluded person fail to leave premises when required and Hinder/Resist law enforcement officer in execution of duty. He will appear before the Casino Local Court on the 22nd of January 2026.6. Police have charged a 28-year-old man after a series of offences in Lismore and Goonellabah. On the 6th of January 2026, the man allegedly assaulted his father during an argument at Lismore Square before taking his father’s vehicle without consent and later crashing it. On the 8th of January 2026, the man attended the Station Grocer in Goonellabah, where he was intoxicated, aggressive and had also stolen food. He was arrested and charged with Assault Occasioning actual bodily harm (DV; Drive Motor Vehicle during Disqualification Period – 2nd+offence; Shoplifting; Take & Drive Conveyance w/o Consent of Owner. He will appear before the Lismore Local Court on the 19th of January 2026.

The NSW Government is progressing the review of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 (POCTAA) with a set of proposed law changes.The review of POCTAA and these proposed changes represent the most comprehensive reform to the state’s animal welfare laws in years, recognising the need for modern legislation to align with community expectations.   Among the proposed changes are offences for leaving dogs in hot vehicles, tougher animal fighting laws and banning the use of painful prong collars.While there is no one register of complaints, in the six years to 2024/25, RSPCA NSW data identifies more than 500 reports from the public of dogs being ‘locked in cars’.The proposed changes have been informed by extensive stakeholder consultation, animal welfare data and scientific evidence.More than 7,000 submissions have been received through a range of consultation processes – including feedback on the re-make of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation in early 2025, and from recent parliamentary inquiries.The NSW Government’s proposed changes aim to strengthen animal welfare protections and set clear expectations on acceptable practices. They include:Strengthening animal fighting offences to address potential loopholes and support NSW police in addressing their links to organised crimeNew offences for:leaving a dog unattended in a hot vehicleusing or possessing prong collars which are a discredited and painful dog training tool that is currently illegal to importpossessing glue traps that are already illegal to set in NSWStrengthening enforcement powers and penalties to send clear signals to perpetrators of animal crueltyRemoving barriers to humane intervention in critical situations – allowing POCTAA inspectors to administer pain relief to animals where necessary and allowing appropriately trained Local Land Services personal to euthanise animals in emergencies.Feedback from the community strongly indicates a desire for this modernisation of the state’s animal welfare laws.The Government will discuss these proposed changes with key stakeholders and expects to present a bill to Parliament in the first half of 2026.The proposals are part of the government’s commitment to delivering important animal welfare reforms and build on achievements already delivered over the last two years including:Banned puppy farms by passing legislation in 2024Delivered over $25.3 million in funding across 2024-26 for approved charitable organisations to carry out animal welfare enforcement activitiesImproved financial and performance reporting for approved charitable organisations receiving taxpayer funds to carry out animal welfare enforcementReformed legislation to prevent people convicted of animal cruelty offences from keeping and breeding animalsMinister for Agriculture, Regional and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty said, “The Minns Government is committed to protecting animals from harm and promoting their welfare.These proposed changes mark the most significant reform to the state’s animal welfare laws in years, delivering modern legislation that reflects contemporary community expectations.“Leaving dogs in locked cars on hot days is not acceptable, and neither is the use of collars with prongs that spike into the necks of puppies and dogs.“I’ve heard firsthand community views that put expectations on our government to take action and set these matters right."Fair minded people and industry stakeholders are requesting improved compliance and enforcement of animal welfare laws.“There has been a significant volume of feedback from the public on animal welfare and that feedback has informed the policy positions we have set out.“Now we are getting on with the job of drafting a bill to change the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.”Animal Welfare League NSW chief executive officer Stephen Albin said, “These proposed new laws address significant gaps in animal welfare.“This package of proposed laws addresses some of the worst examples of animal cruelty“Laws for leaving a dog in a hot car and using prong collars are critical – they are two examples of animal cruelty that require legal action given the harm they cause.“Our inspectors on the front line are often called out to animals in distress, and it is important that they can provide pain relief.“Our inspectors also spend a lot of time educating people about animal welfare, but the new laws provide much-needed new powers to deal with the worst cases and offenders.”Lyn Brown, member of the DOGS NSW Media & Government Legislation Committee said, “As the peak body representing all canines, we are supportive of positive welfare outcomes for all animals. “DOGS NSW supports law changes that promise to deliver added protections for animals by setting clear expectations on acceptable practices pertinent to leaving dogs in hot cars, the use of prong collars, and measures to strengthen animal fighting offences by addressing potential loopholes.“We are looking forward to continuing to be part of the deliberations and look forward to seeing them become law."

Major social media companies removed access to about 4.7 million accounts identified as belonging to children under 16 in the first half of December to comply with Australia’s social media minimum age, according to initial figures gathered by eSafety.  eSafety’s focus since the minimum age obligation took effect on December 10 has shifted from preparation to monitoring and enforcement, concentrating on platforms assessed as age-restricted and identified as having high under-16 usage in Australia. The data released today is an early indication that major platforms are taking meaningful actions to prevent under-16s from holding accounts “I am very pleased with these preliminary results,” eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said. “It is clear that eSafety’s regulatory guidance and engagement with platforms is already delivering significant outcomes.” While eSafety recognises the process of age assurance requires time to complete fairly and accurately, it has clearly articulated its expectations around continuous improvement of age assurance accuracy and efficacy from platforms. It is also the responsibility of industry to prevent circumvention, as outlined in eSafety’s industry guidance. eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant acknowledged reports some under-16s accounts remain active and cautioned it was too early to determine whether progress so far constituted full compliance by platforms, however early signs were encouraging.  “While some kids may find creative ways to stay on social media, it’s important to remember that just like other safety laws we have in society, success is measured by reduction in harm and in re-setting cultural norms,” Ms Inman Grant said. “Speed limits, for instance, are not a failure because some people speed. Most would agree that roads are safer because of them. Over time, compliance increases, norms settle, and the safety benefits grow.” “And while effective age assurance may take time to bed down, we’ve had incredibly positive initial feedback already from three of the largest age assurance providers who have told us that Australia’s implementation of the social media minimum age has been relatively smooth and this was supported by proactive public education and communication about what to expect in the lead up to 10 December.” Ms Inman Grant said the true impact of the social media minimum age won’t be measured in weeks or months, but will likely be generational. “We are still at the very beginning of this journey, and it is evident platforms are taking different approaches based on their individual circumstances, resulting in variations in the data and outcomes currently surfaced,” Ms Inman Grant said. “Of course, while some positive changes will be clearly evident today, some of longer-term normative changes and related positive impacts on Australian children and families may take years to fully manifest.  “This is precisely why eSafety is undertaking an independent, longitudinal evaluation to measure these impacts over time.  As previously announced, we will be measuring these impacts in collaboration with youth mental health experts and the Academic Advisory Group,” Ms Inman Grant said.  eSafety has been clear in its engagement and guidance to age-restricted social media platforms that services are required to self-assess in relation to whether they meet the legislative criteria, and to take reasonable steps to comply accordingly. This messaging and engagement has resulted in services such as BlueSky and Lemon8 assessing themselves as meeting the criteria, and they are working cooperatively with eSafety.  “Given the vast number of online services and the fast-evolving nature of the tech industry, it’s impossible to list all of the services which meet the conditions and are obliged to comply with the social media minimum age obligation,” Ms Inman Grant said. “As I have said for some time now, our compliance focus will remain on platforms with the highest number of Australian users.” eSafety will continue gathering data, reports and information – including any indications of large-scale user migration to other platforms – to ensure compliance, safety and improve industry performance.  So far, eSafety’s analysis has found that migration to other platforms has quickly spiked in terms of downloads but has not necessarily translated into commensurate usage. eSafety will continue to build a more complete picture of platforms’ compliance with their legislative obligation to take reasonable steps to ensure that under-16s do not have accounts on their platforms. To maintain the integrity of its investigations, protect legal privilege and preserve the ability to take appropriate enforcement action where necessary, eSafety will not be publishing specific numbers or detailed information obtained using its information-gathering powers. Information, resources and advice, including eSafety’s regularly updated FAQs for families and young people, are available on eSafety’s Social Media Minimum Age Hub. 

We are in store for a mixed bag of weather this weekend in Lismore and across the Northern Rivers.The Bureau of Meteorology rain range is 0-15mm on Saturday and 0-8mm on Sunday. The reason is due to the potential thunderstorms in the late afternoon or evening. In certain locations, they could be severe, with damaging winds, large hail and heavy rain.While Saturday morning looks sunny, there is still the chance of a thunderstorm on Sunday morning, and a high chance of rain. Temperatures will be in the high 20s, with minimum temps 19 or 20 degrees. Some sticky nights ahead.That weather forecast will stick around for the rest of next week as well.It is basically a market weekend in the Lismore LGA.As usual, the Lismore Farmers Markets kick off the market run tomorrow morning from 7:30 at the Lismore Showgrounds.Fresh fruit and veg, breakfast, tea and coffee, and artisan goods all on sale to 11:30am, with Phil Bromley providing the live music.The Sunday 'Bowlo' markets are at the Lismore City Bowling Club between 9am and 3pm.There will be over 30 stalls for you to browse, including bric-a-brac, books, fruit trees, honey, ceramics, clothes, bags and more.The Lismore Free Market is also on Sunday at the Lismore Community Garden, 50 Brewster Street, between 9am and 11am.This is really a free market, with no goods for sale or to be traded or swapped. They are to be given away to the public.If you are looking to entertain the kids for the last two weeks, check out our Things To Do button, with Walks, Family Fun and NRs Rail Trail to checkout.LIVE MUSICNext Saturday, January 24, is the Noughty Nineties Party at the Lismore Workers Club from 7:30pm, featuring all your favourites from artists like Blink 182, Shania Twain, Britney Spears, Robbie Williams and Beyonce.Coming Up in 2026 at the Lismore Workers Club:The 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 PRICESFuel prices are a cent or two per litre cheaper in Lismore this week for E10 and U91, but otherwise stable. Here is the list of the cheapest service stations for this week:E10 is 169.9 at the Ampol Foodary on Woodlark Street, CBD and on Union Street in South Lismore and the EG Ampol on Diadem Street, 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, 197.9 at the EG Ampol at 130 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 186.5 at the Mobil and Metro on River Street in Ballina.Have a great weekend!Now, have a laugh with the Friday Funnies.....

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for parts of the Northern Rivers.At this stage, the warning borders Lismore, and includes Casino, Kyogle, Evans Head and Yamba. However, this can change quickly.A very moist unstable airmass combined with a low-pressure trough lying close to the east coast, with a developing low-pressure system, is drawing in significant moisture and triggering severe thunderstorms in the northeast part of NSW this afternoon.The severe thunderstorms are likely to produce large hailstones, damaging winds and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours.(The BoM weather radar at 3:24pm)Locations which may be affected include Casino, Kyogle, Grafton, Coffs Harbour, Kempsey, and TabulamSafety adviceThe State Emergency Service advises that people should:* Park your car under secure cover and away from trees, powerlines and drains.* 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.* 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.* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES on 132 500.Stay updated on the Hazards Near Me NSW app or the ACT ESA website (https://esa.act.gov.au).Check https://www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts. Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.The next warning is due to be issued by 5:50 pm.

Emergency crews were called out early this morning after a fire broke out at Kerrong Bridge, west of Lismore. According to Dunoon RFS, crews from Dunoon, The Channon and Boat Harbour Rural Fire Brigades were dispatched around 6.30am to respond to the incident.The fire has led to the closure of Keerrong Road at the bridge, with Lismore City Council confirming the structure is now undergoing a Level 3 structural assessment to determine its condition and safety. The cause of the fire is still being investigated.A Council spokesperson said the bridge will remain closed while assessments are carried out, and residents are asked to use alternative routes in the meantime. An update on how long the closure is expected to last will be provided once the assessment is complete.The incident is a timely reminder for locals travelling rural roads to stay alert and patient as emergency services and Council crews work to ensure the safety of the community.For alternative routes or latest updates, visit https://www.livetraffic.com/incident-details/261768

Federal Parliament will be recalled early next week to debate the government’s new Combatting Antisemitism, Hate and Extremism Bill, but Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan has warned the proposed laws may be missing their intended target.Mr Hogan spoke with the LismoreApp ahead of returning to Canberra, saying while the issue of extremism must be addressed, he has serious concerns about the direction and scope of the legislation being rushed through Parliament.The Prime Minister has recalled Parliament for Monday and Tuesday - two weeks earlier than scheduled - in an effort to pass the bill following last year’s Bondi terror attack. Without Coalition support, Labor will need the backing of the Greens to secure passage of the laws.Mr Hogan said his initial reading of the legislation raised more questions than answers.“I think it’s missing the point,” he said. “We have an issue in our country called Islamic extremism, where we have, unfortunately, people who hate to the extent they’re happy to kill people randomly who support or identify as a certain religion.”He argued that while the government has focused on hate speech and gun laws, broader reforms were being overlooked.“Certainly more than gun reform, we need immigration reform,” Mr Hogan said, pointing to the government’s decision to allow 3,000 people from Gaza to resettle in Australia. “I’m very concerned about that. Hamas is a terrorist organisation, and we are taking in more people from Gaza than any other country in the world.”Mr Hogan said comparable nations were accepting only small numbers by comparison and accused the government of failing to confront extremism directly.“I’d love the Prime Minister to get up and just say Islamic extremism is prevalent in this country and it needs to be removed,” he said. “That type of blunt language he struggles with.”The bill also bundles changes to gun laws with hate speech provisions, an approach Mr Hogan believes could unfairly impact regional communities like those across the Northern Rivers.“Guns are very much practical for people on properties,” he said. “You’re dealing with feral animals, pests, and dangerous situations. People need different firearms for different purposes.”He added that the issue extends beyond the bush. “Sporting clubs, even in cities, have large memberships. It’s a sport for them, and they often need different firearms for different competitions. This isn’t the focus of what this should be about.”Political tensions around the bill continue to build. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has labelled the laws “unsalvageable,” signalling the Coalition is preparing to vote against them. The Greens have said they will not support the legislation without significant amendments, including broader protections for all minority groups.With Parliament reconvening early and negotiations intensifying, Mr Hogan said the coming days will be critical.“We’ve got to keep a very close eye on this bill,” he said.

Federal Member for Page, Kevin Hogan, has interpreted the NSW Government's announcement two weeks ago that the long-awaited reopening of Mount Warning/Wollumbin will happen in July 2027. NSW Minister for the Environment, Penny Sharpe, extended the closure until 30 June 2027, 'with a view to reopening the summit once practical safety and culturally appropriate options are resolved'.Federal Member for Page, Kevin Hogan, said the announcement is welcome news for the local community, tourism operators and Aboriginal Elders who have been locked out of the mountain for far too long. “This is great news for our region,” Mr Hogan said. “Mount Warning/Wollumbin has been closed for years. Before that, it attracted more than 100,000 hikers every year and was a major driver of local tourism.” “The closure has hurt local businesses and accommodation providers, and it has also prevented access for Aboriginal Elders. Reopening the mountain is an important step forward.” Last year, Mr Hogan joined Cr Kimberly Hone and respected Aboriginal Elder Sturt Boyd to publicly call for the mountain to be reopened, warning that the ongoing closure was damaging both the local economy and cultural access. “We’ve been advocating strongly for a sensible, respectful way forward that recognises Wollumbin’s cultural significance, while also restoring sustainable tourism for our region.” “This will restart tourism trade, support local jobs, and ensure Aboriginal Elders can once again access this culturally significant site,” he said.The NSW Government closed the Mount Warning/Wollumbin summit track during the pandemic in March 2020 to address public safety risks and allow for consultation with the Aboriginal community and other stakeholders about future management of the site.On December 29, Minister Sharpe said, "Over the past year, I continued constructive discussions with a wide range of stakeholders, including user groups, councils, the Wollumbin Consultative Group and other community members. These conversations highlighted Wollumbin’s significance to Aboriginal communities and the wider public."I understand extending the temporary closure will disappoint some visitors. However, a number of practical challenges – such as ensuring safe access – must still be addressed."The additional time will help us create a clear plan for the future of this special place that respects cultural responsibilities and safeguards visitor safety."

The NSW Government has announced $2 million in funding for the NSW Sheep and Goat eID Equipment Rebate, helping producers and livestock agents across the state gain affordable access to electronic identification (eID) equipment.Under the latest rebate program, eligible farmers and others can claim a 50 per cent rebate, up to a maximum of $1,500, on the purchase of a handheld eID reader. The rebate will be made available in early March 2026.The latest round of funding is being offered to producers and livestock agents who may have missed out on the initial infrastructure rebate scheme in 2023.Many producers and livestock agents are now recognising the practical value of this equipment, not just for meeting mandatory requirements such as property-to-property stock movements, but also for improving on-farm management through the collection of accurate individual animal data.This information helps farmers make better-informed decisions, strengthening productivity, especially during challenging or variable seasonal conditions.The equipment rebate follows a strong uptake of eID tags, with some 15.2 million eID tags purchased since November 2024, more than 1.79 million eIDs scanned in saleyards in 2025 and approximately 22.4 per cent of the sheep and goats coming through saleyards already equipped with an eID.The NSW Government has committed $41 million for the implementation of mandatory electronic identification for sheep and goats in the state - the largest funding commitment of any state or territory.Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said, “The equipment rebate is part of the Minns Labor Government’s ongoing financial support for primary producers in the transition to electronic IDs.“Sheep and goat producers, along with livestock agents, will benefit from this rebate, targeted specifically to reduce the cost of meeting mandatory eID requirements.“This program ensures NSW producers will continue to lead the world in biosecurity safety and maintain their export premiums.“We will continue working with producers, agents, saleyards and processors to implement eID in their operations.”

One of Lismore’s most recognisable heritage homes has entered a period of uncertainty, with its future still under assessment after being purchased under the NSW Government’s Resilient Homes Program.The large residence at 7 Coleman Street, widely known as Gwalia House, has stood prominently in the St Andrew’s Heritage Precinct for more than a century. Built in the 1920s, the three-storey home has long drawn attention for its large street presence and layers of local history.Since its flood buyback, speculation has grown about whether the house will be demolished, relocated, or preserved in some form, prompting renewed interest from the community.For Carol Evans, who owned the property for nearly four decades, the conversation is deeply personal. She and her husband purchased the house in 1984 for around $44,000, after spotting it passed in at auction.“My husband was a bit of a carpenter and we thought we’d just buy an old house and fix it up,” Ms Evans said. “We didn’t set out to do anything grand, we just wanted to restore it and make it liveable again.”At the time, the house was in poor condition, having previously operated as a boarding house. Over the years, the Evans’ undertook ongoing restoration work, carefully retaining original features such as timber doors, sash windows, iron detailing and high ceilings. The building was eventually divided into several flats, but its architectural character remained largely intact.“All the original features are still there,” Ms Evans said. “We had to take the iron off, panel beat it, strip it back and get it ready to go back on. It was always a work in progress.”The house has long been a talking point in the neighbourhood, with stories - some factual, others less so - circulating about its past.“People always told me it was a brothel, but no one could ever prove that,” She said. “What I did hear a lot was people saying they lived there when they first got married, or they stayed there years ago. It’s one of those places people remember.”Ms Evans lived in the house for a time herself, and later continued to manage it while living elsewhere in Lismore. She experienced flooding on the property in 2017 and again during the catastrophic 2022 event, when water rose into the upper levels of the building.“In 2022 the water came right up through the ceiling,” she said. “It didn’t quite reach the roof in the top floor, but it came very close. The damage was enormous.”(Gwalia House fenced and boarded up on Coleman Street, Lismore)After the flood, Ms Evans had the house re-stumped, but says the cumulative toll of flood damage across multiple properties, combined with age and health considerations, made continuing untenable.“I didn’t want it knocked down,” she said. “That was never what I wanted. I left the French doors and everything there because it would be such a shame to see it all ripped out.”The property has since been acquired by the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) as part of the flood recovery buyback program. In a statement, an RA spokesperson confirmed that no final decision has yet been made about the home’s future.“The NSW Reconstruction Authority is currently assessing the future use of 7 Coleman St Lismore,” the spokesperson said. “Heritage and conservation considerations form part of this assessment, alongside a range of other factors. Each property is considered on its own merits.”The RA said its priority is to relocate, reuse or recycle buyback homes wherever possible. When demolition is required, materials are salvaged for reuse or recycling, with more than three quarters of eligible materials from demolished homes recycled to date, excluding asbestos-contaminated material.130 homes deemed suitable for reuse have so far been offered for sale through expression-of-interest and auction programs, allowing buyers to pursue private relocation. To date, 32 buyback homes have been successfully relocated.For Ms Evans, the hope remains that Gwalia House’s significance will be recognised in whatever decision is made.“It was part of a heritage precinct. It was special,” she said. “I just hope whatever happens, they think about the history and what it’s meant to this town.”

Lismore City Council is excited to announce Catherine De Vrye as the 2026 Australia Day Ambassador.Catherine is a globally recognised author and keynote speaker whose life story is a testament to resilience, adaptability and hope. Canadian by birth but proudly Australian by choice, she has twice been voted Australian Keynote Speaker of the Year.She is also the bestselling author of nine books, including ‘Hot Lemon and Honey’, ‘Hope Happens!’ and her memoir ‘Who Says I Can’t?’, Catherine’s works have been translated into more than a dozen languages. Endorsed by thought leaders such as Sir Edmund Hillary and Dr Edward de Bono, her books offer timeless wisdom for navigating life’s challenges.The 2026 Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony will be held at the Whitebrook Theatre, Southern Cross University on Monday, 26 January, starting at 9 am.Mayor Steve Krieg expressed his enthusiasm for having a passionate ambassador who champions unity, optimism and the power of perseverance."We are honoured to have Catherine De Vye as our Australia Day Ambassador, someone who believes while we can’t always control change, we can control our attitude toward it,” he said.“She is truly inspiring, and we look forward to hearing her story and insights on Australia Day." The event will open with a Welcome to County, followed by the presentation of the Australia Day Awards and a Citizenship Ceremony. Mayor Krieg said he was looking forward to celebrating Australia Day with the community."It is a great privilege to honour the remarkable individuals in our community through the Australia Day Awards and I look forward to welcoming our newest citizens to the Lismore family,” he said. “We will proudly welcome 52 new citizens from 20 countries in the Citizenship Ceremony.”This year, the Australia Day Awards will recognise achievements across eight categories:Citizen of the YearYoung Citizen of the YearServices in the Community (Individual)Services in the Community (Group)Sportsperson/Team (Junior)Sportsperson/Team (Senior)EnvironmentArts/CultureAustralia Day is a time to Reflect, Respect and Celebrate all Australians' diverse stories and contributions.Join us in showing appreciation for the outstanding volunteers and community members who make Lismore a better place and in welcoming our newest citizens. 

A search has concluded after a missing bushwalker was found safe and well today in the Northern Rivers area.About 10pm yesterday (Tuesday, 13 January 2026), police were called to a property at Rosebank, about 30km north of Lismore, following reports of a missing person.At the property, police were told that a 75-year-old man had failed to return home and regularly walked trails in the nearby Nightcap National Park.Police attached to Richmond Police District commenced a search of the nearby area, including the Quandong Trail, Quandong Falls Track, and Minyon Falls.The search was suspended overnight and resumed in the area about 8am this morning (Wednesday, 14 January 2026).The search involved local police assisted by the Dog Unit, Police Rescue, VRA, RFS and the NSW SES.About 11.10am today, the 75-year-old man was located safe and well on a walking trail about 3.5km from his home.The man did not report any injuries and appeared to be in good spirits.

NSW Recovery Minister and Lismore MP, Janelle Saffin, launched the Berry Good Practice Guide, funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Storm and Flood Industry Recovery Package.The guide, developed by industry association Berries Australia, is designed to support Australian berry growers in adopting sustainable, responsible, and resilient farming practices in the face of a changing climate.Made possible by the Australian and NSW Government's Storm and Flood Industry Recovery Program, the $1 million Sector Recovery and Resilience Grant was provided to help support industry-wide recovery while building preparedness for future natural disasters.Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development Tara Moriarty said the berry sector is a vital part of the Northern NSW economy, driving significant regional employment and delivering remarkable growth.“After facing repeated natural disasters, it’s inspiring to see the sector not only focused on recovery but committed to long-term resilience, a commitment strongly supported by the NSW Government,” Ms Moriarty said.In launching the guide, Minister Saffin acknowledged the significant economic contribution of the berry sector to the Northern NSW economy and its role as a major regional employer.“The berry industry is a Northern NSW success story. The blueberry industry alone has increased in farm gate value from $25 million in 2005 to $507 million today, with around 80% of blueberries being grown right here in Northern NSW,” Minister Saffin said.“With growth comes greater expectations from consumers, regulators, and the broader community. This guide brings together the knowledge and experience of growers, industry leaders, and sustainability experts to outline what ‘good practice’ looks like in today’s berry industry."“As with many other industries in this region, the berry industry has suffered in the face of natural disaster. It is so encouraging that the industry is not just thinking about recovery, but resilience in the face of future disasters, and I am delighted that the NSW Government has been able to support this initiative.”Berries Australia Director, Andrew Bell, said that while many growers are already leading the way, this guide provides a benchmark for others to follow and build on.The guide covers practical steps across key areas such as site selection, agronomy, production systems, environmental management, labour practices, and community engagement. It will also provide a reference point for researchers, policymakers, local government, and the broader community seeking to understand the industry's steps toward sustainability.

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.