The NSW Government is calling on the state’s 6.4 million drivers and riders to make safer choices on the road in 2026, and to do their part to help reduce the annual road toll.In 2025, NSW recorded a total of 355 people dying on our roads. Sadly, that is 28 more deaths on our roads than in 2024.The message to every road user is simple: slow down, stay alert, and never drive impaired or fatigued.Speed remains the biggest killer on NSW roads.In 2025, 134 people died in crashes where speeding was a contributing factor, representing almost four in every ten deaths.Evidence continues to show that many fatal speed crashes occur at relatively low levels of excess speed, including going less than 10km/h over the speed limit. An important reminder that the speed limit is the limit. Far too many lives are being lost on regional roads.In 2025, 241 people died on roads in rural and regional areas – the highest since 2017 and equal to 2023 – reinforcing the government’s commitment to invest $1.25 billion in regional road maintenance and critical safety upgrades. The 2025 figures also show increased trauma among vulnerable road users and older people, including:54 pedestrian deaths, with most occurring on everyday suburban streetsCyclist deaths increasing from 5 to 15, including three e-bike riders75 motorcyclist deaths, up 7 compared to 2024Older road user fatalities (70+) increasing 38 per cent to 72 deaths (including 18 pedestrians)Fatigue, alcohol and drug use remain preventable factors in too many deaths. In the first seven months of 2025, preliminary information shows drug-related deaths increased slightly and alcohol-related deaths fell marginally.The NSW Government is investing $2.8 billion in road safety initiatives through safer roads, enforcement, technology, education and reform, including:Supporting new enforcement measures, including the Average Speed Camera trial for light vehicles, which at its halfway mark has seen speeding non-compliance drop by over 30 per cent between May and October this yearAnnouncing the introduction of the most significant reform to motorcycle safety regulations in nearly 20 years, an outcome of our 2025 NSW Motorcycle Safety RoundtableImproving transparency and targeting of safer road upgrades through published star ratings across 35,000km of state and regional roadsDeveloping a new five-year Road Safety Action Plan 2031, with consultation with the community to commence in 2026Working closely with major industry stakeholders, including hosting the 2026 Australasian Road Safety Conference, bringing together national and international experts to help shape safer roads and reduce deaths and serious injuriesFor further details on road death data visit: https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/roadsafety/statistics.Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison said, “NSW has ended 2025 with 355 people losing their lives on our roads. That number should stop every one of us in our tracks.“This first week of January is when many families are together – but for the families and friends of those we lost last year, there is no fresh start. There is an empty seat at the table, and a loved one who isn’t coming home.“We are investing more than $2.8 billion in road safety: safer roads, stronger enforcement, new technology and major reforms, and we are developing our next Road Safety Action Plan with nothing off the table.“But even with all of that, government cannot be in the driver’s seat for you. These tragedies continue because of the choices people make: speeding, driving tired, driving distracted, or driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.“With speeding involved in almost four in every ten deaths, I’m asking people to take their foot off the accelerator. It doesn’t have to be extreme speeding to be deadly, even a few kilometres over the limit can be the difference between a near-miss and a funeral.“Slow down. Plan ahead so you’re not driving tired. Never drive after drinking or taking drugs. And look out for pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists – they have the same right to get home safely as you do.”Transport for NSW Secretary, Josh Murray said, “This is not the way any of us want to begin a new year, but ignoring the reality would be worse. Every one of these deaths was in some way preventable.“Today’s numbers are parents, children, friends, neighbours and colleagues whose lives ended on streets we all use. Roads we drive to work on, where children walk to school, families ride bikes and older people simply try to cross safely.  “For those left behind, the loss is permanent, not marked in an annual tally. “We have continued to act throughout 2025 with new and safer roads, enhanced technology, strengthened enforcement, education and working closely with Police and health authorities, victims and the broader community. But infrastructure, enforcement and policy alone will not stop people dying.“As we develop the next Road Safety Action Plan, we will ask the community, stakeholders and experts to help shape it. As the Minister has committed, nothing is off the table when it comes to reducing deaths and serious injuries. At Transport for NSW, we are committed to driving all these initiatives further. “But if 2026 is going to be any different, then this will also require personal responsibility. Slow down. Put the phone away. Never drive under the influence. Stay alert. Look out for others. Road safety must be a commitment we all make. Every trip, every day.”

Lismore and Northern Rivers residents will start 2026 with cheaper medicines, 1800MEDICARE and more mental health support.Cheaper MedicinesFrom today, general patients will now pay no more than $25 per PBS script. The last time PBS medicines cost no more than $25 was 2004 – more than 20 years ago.This is a more than 20 per cent cut in the maximum cost of PBS medicines and will save Australians over $200 million each year.Pensioners and concession cardholders will continue to benefit from the freeze to the cost of their PBS medicines, with the cost frozen at its current level of $7.70 until 2030.1800MEDICAREAustralians will have even better access to free health advice as 1800MEDICARE launches today.Whether you need expert health advice or reassurance, the registered nurses at 1800MEDICARE will be there 24/7, to provide advice and refer you to the health service you need, whether that’s your regular GP, the local hospital or a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic.If you need urgent GP care that can’t wait for your regular GP to be available, the triage nurses can connect you to a free telehealth session with a 1800MEDICARE GP via phone or video, available all weekend and weeknights between 6pm and 8am.On your phone and in the comfort of your home, a 1800MEDICARE GP will provide the free care you need, like an emergency prescription for your regular medication, or treatment for an illness or injury.It is expected that around 250,000 Australians will avoid an unnecessary trip to a hospital emergency department each year because of the health advice and services provided by 1800MEDICARE. This includes up to 130,000 free urgent telehealth GP services each year by the end of the decade.  From today (1 January), people can call 1800MEDICARE (1800 633 422), visit medicare.gov.au/1800 or download the new 1800MEDICARE app to access services.Medicare Mental Health Check-InThe Federal Government’s Medicare Mental Health Check-In is now online, giving easy and free access to early support for Australians experiencing mild mental health challenges.Medicare Mental Health Check-In is part of the Albanese Government’s commitment to ensure Australians can receive free mental health care when they need it. Run by St Vincent’s Health Australia, the service will initially provide evidence-based resources to help people manage symptoms.The service will expand from 30 March, when Australians will be able to access low-intensity cognitive behavioural therapy, delivered by trained professionals via phone or video.In time, it is expected to help more than 150,000 people each year.Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, "“Australia is the best country on earth because we look out for each other.“There’s a reason the Medicare card is green and gold - Medicare is the best of Australian values put into practice, people being looked after when they need it no matter who they are.“We’re cutting the cost of PBS medicines because Australians shouldn’t have to worry about whether they can afford to fill a script.“From 1 January 2026, patients will pay no more than $25 per PBS script – the last time that was the case was 2004 – more than 20 years ago.“Across the board, my government is firmly focused on delivering for Australians and relieving cost of living pressures.”

Police praised locals and tourists alike for their behaviour as New Year's Eve went off safely and in a friendly manner in Lismore and across the Northern Rivers last night.There was only one arrest for assault; otherwise, it was a non-eventful night that pleased Richmond Police District Commander Dave Roptell."There was no issue whatsoever at the Tropical Fruits festival, and right around our whole district."The focus was more or less down around the beach areas, so Lennox Head and Evans. We had 47 police deployed right across the district for the operation. I worked myself for a period of that time, and I was very, very happy with our results. "There was only one arrest for assault. That's all it was for New Year's Eve, right across that whole footprint, so very, very pleasing results."This was Commander Roptell's first New Year's Eve in the Northern Rivers below Tweed, and he was impressed at how celebrations remained friendly and respectful of the law."I understand it was about the same number of people as previous years; however, there were less people causing issues. No one was really taking advantage of the foreshores and drinking or anything like that. The strategy was that we got in nice and early, and set the tone straight away, and people understood, were compliant and no issues." 

As the year comes to a close, the Lismore App looks back on the events and news stories that interested you in 2025.TOP 10 NEWS STORIES 2025No. 10: BoM long-term weather forecast says a wet winterWeather, as you would expect, plays a big part in our Top 10 new stories. The start of the year was wetter than usual, and on May 20 we published the BoM's long-term forecast for June, July and August. Thankfully, the wetter than usual winter didn't eventuate and it proved to be the start of a dry spell for Lismore and the Northern Rivers.No. 9: Premier declares he will demolish Pine Street houses after learning of illegal squattersThe illegal Pine Street squatters made headlines around Australia, not just in Lismore. Premier Chris Minns was in Lismore when ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred visited in March. On March 11, the Premier learned about the squatters and declared they would be moved out of the houses so the NSW Reconstruction Authority could get on with the job of assessing them for buybacks or demolition.(Premier Chris Minns addresses the media during ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March at the Lismore Workers Sports Club in Goonellabah)No. 8: Sarah Morrow pleads guilty to supplying prohibited drugsThis story dates back to February 2024, when Strike Force McClelland arrested a number of people for supplying commercial quantities of prohibited drugs and firearm offences. Local business owner Sarah Morrow was one of the group. On May 29, she pled guilty to five charges of supplying, take part in supplying and deemed to supply a prohibited drug.On August 28, Sarah was sentenced to a Community Correction Order for a period of 2 years in Lismore Local Court.No. 7: NSW SES say potential for moderate floodAs ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred was off the coast and heading towards a crossing, SES Superintendent Scott McLennan asked residents to prepare for a moderate flood on March 3. That potential became a reality on March 8 when the flood gauge peaked at 9.31 metres, just under the 9.7 major flood mark.No.6 : Hundreds line up at Lismore Square for free food vouchersOn April 9, the Lismore Square queue started at Coles supermarket and snaked down the escalators, through the carpark and onto Brewster Street. The reason? To receive a $100 or $200 Coles voucher, thanks to Australian billionaire Adrian Portelli. In total $70,000 was given to those in the community who need help.(Adrian Portelli makes his way along the queue towards Coles in Lismore Square)No. 5: Bureau issues initial flood watchThe Bureau of Meteorology issued its first flood watch on March 2 as Alfred prepared to cross the coastline. At that stage, it was for a moderate to major flood for the Wilsons and Richmond Rivers.No. 4: Richmond River High School On FireMarch was the busiest month for news. Once Alfred's devastation had died down, the old Richmond River High School was on fire on March 28.A large crowd gathered to watch a number of fire trucks try to contain the blaze that affected the historic part of the high school that started life as Lismore High in 1920, before it moved to Keen Street. Richmond River opened its doors to a group of new students in 1958.(Richmond River High School on fire. Photo: Matt Arnett)No. 3: Storm Rips Through Lismore, Casino, and Kyogle causing blackoutJanuary 23 2025, was the date that a storm cell ripped through Lismore and the Northern Rivers, causing widespread damage and a blackout that affected over 25,600 households and businesses.NSW SES Superintendent Scott McLennan said the storm began in Grafton and gradually made its way up along the ranges, striking Casino, Kyogle, Lismore, Nimbin, and Uki before hitting the Tweed Valley. Gusts of wind were being recorded between 70 and 80 kmh, but there were wind gusts of up to 102 kmh at Cape Byron.196 incidents were reported across the region.(Trees down on Kyogle Road earlier today. Photo: Annemarie Spicer)No. 2: Darren buys a house for $50 while another goes for $125,000As the Resilient Homes Program buyback auctions ramped up towards the end of this year, there were some bargains to be had. On November 18, Alex purchased a North Lismore house for $50, and Darren a 4-bedroom house for $320. The most expensive house on the night was sold for $125,000."I reckon I got the bargain of the night, actually," Darren said, "My wife and I are going to relocate it and we're going to live in it." Darren and his wife were planning to relocate their new house to Grafton.No. 1: Supreme Court Rules Against Squatters as more buyback houses go up for saleThe most-read news story of 2025 was when the NSW Supreme Court ruled against the squatters occupying the Pine Street houses.The squatters moved into NSW Reconstruction Authority-owned buyback houses at the start of 2024. They started as a few locals and many overseas tourists looking for a free place to stay before moving up the coast, before turning into a homeless housing movement.Pine Street was cleared of squatters on 6 August when a team from the Sheriff's Office enforced the Supreme Court writs.(Members of the Sheriff's Office move in to enforce the Supreme Court ruling)Thank you for reading and supporting the Lismore App in 2025. We look forward to providing you with trusted, local news and sport in 2026.Happy New Year!

Police are appealing for assistance to locate a teenage girl missing from Lismore.Mickalya Schipp, aged 15, was last seen in Lismore on Thursday, 25 December 2025.When she could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Richmond Police District were contacted on Friday, 26 December 2025 and commenced inquiries into her whereabouts.Police and family hold concerns for her welfare due to her age.Mickalya is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 147cm tall, of medium build, with bright, red hair, freckles and grey eyes.She was last seen wearing a long-sleeved jumper with pictures of movie characters on it, black tights and black shoes.She may be travelling with others in a Suzuki.Mickayla is known to frequent the Lismore, Ballina, Wollongbar, Clunes and Goonellabah areas.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is handled on a confidential basis.The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

The NSW Government has extended the closure of the Wollumbin Summit and Track until 30 June 2027, with a view to reopening the summit once practical safety and culturally appropriate options are resolved. Wollumbin (Mount Warning) summit track and Aboriginal Place (Wollumbin Summit) were originally closed during the pandemic to address public safety risks and allow for consultation with the Aboriginal community and other stakeholders about future management of the site. NSW Minister for the Environment Penny 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 number of tobacconists around the CBD block has been a talking point for Lismore City Councillors and residents for most of 2025, whether they are combined with the 'convenience store' tag.There has been an ongoing debate about the high federal government taxes on tobacco that has seen smokers turn to purchasing illegal tobacco products in droves. That has meant legal tobacco sales have decreased from 11 billion in 2022 to a forecast 1.9 billion in 2026, while illegal sales have increased from 3.1 billion to a forecast 8 billion in 2026.The government's answer has been to spend more money on policing the sale of illegal tobacco products following an increase in fines and prison sentences through NSW legislation changes.A recent visit by NSW Health, supported by officers from the Richmond Police District, reduced the number of tobacconists by two. The raids resulted in the closure of the shops for three months under the Public Health (Tobacco) Act 2008.Woodlark Convenience and Keen Street Tobacconist were issued a short-term closure order for:a. The sale of illicit tobaccob. The retail sale of tobacco products or non-tobacco smoking products by a person who does not hold a retail licence that is in effect.There were other short-term closure orders in the Northern Rivers, which include:Ballina - Ballina Tobacconist on Tamar Street and River Street TobacconistGrafton - The Premises at 36 Prince Street and Grafton Tobacconist on King StreetThe NSW Health Secretary or delegate can issue a short-term closure order of up to 90 days if the Secretary or delegate reasonably suspects illicit tobacco or illegal vaping goods have been or are likely to be sold from the premises, or tobacco or non-tobacco smoking products have been or are likely to be sold or are likely to be sold without a licence.A NSW Local Court can issue a long-term closure order of up to one year if it is satisfied that illicit tobacco or illegal vaping goods have been or are likely to be sold from the premises, or tobacco or non-tobacco smoking products have been or are likely to be sold or are likely to be sold without a licence.

Ever wondered how energy efficient your home is?CSIRO's new Energy Rating Finder puts the power in your hands. It indicates the energy performance of your home’s thermal shell – the walls, floors, roof, windows and insulation. These features influence how much energy it takes to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.  It’s like an appliance star label, but for your home.If your address doesn't appear in the database, your home may not have an energy rating yet. But don't worry, there are other ways to estimate its efficiency – we'll get to that shortly.A win for people and the planetCSIRO data scientist and platform developer Melissa James, said the goal was to make energy performance information accessible. "The system is easy to use – simply enter an address, and if data is available, you'll receive an energy-efficiency rating out of ten," Melissa said.A zero-star home offers little protection from external temperatures, while a ten-star home stays comfortable with minimal, if any heating or cooling.You can also search by postcode or street name to help locate the address you're interested in and view its energy-efficiency rating. Melissa hopes this data sparks curiosity and encourages upgrades."We want people to see how their home rates and start thinking about what changes could make a difference," Melissa said.“Energy-efficient homes use less power, cost less to heat and cool and are more comfortable to live in."They also produce fewer carbon emissions, which is better for the planet. In addition, energy-efficient homes can help reduce energy infrastructure costs by lowering overall demand," she said.Powered by a decade of dataThe Energy Rating Finder includes headline certificate data from the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) providing a snapshot of your home's energy performance - watch this video to learn more."All new homes and many undergoing major renovations must demonstrate that they meet the minimum standard specified under the building regulations (currently seven stars for most states). Most do this using software accredited by NatHERS," Melissa said.Average ratings have improved dramatically since the standard was established in 2003, from 1.8 stars for older homes to seven stars for most new builds in 2025. Melissa cautioned that not all properties are included in the database. “CSIRO has been collecting this data since 2016, so only homes built or renovated after this date and assessed using NatHERS – which accounts for 80 per cent of assessments nationwide, will appear in the system,” she said. NatHERS is also expanding NatHERS assessments to existing homes. Eventually, this data may be included in the Energy Rating Finder.If your property isn’t covered, try RapidRate, a CSIRO tool that estimates your home’s energy efficiency using basic information.  Together, these resources give Australians more insight into home energy performance than ever before. Have your sayCSIRO is inviting feedback on the Energy Rating Finder: Tell us what you think.You can easily opt out if you don't want your property's data shown publicly: Find out more.Amp up your home's energy efficiencyThinking about improving your home's energy efficiency? Melissa said performance depends on many factors, from insulation and window design to shading and ventilation. Even roof colour matters. So what impacts your home's energy rating?

2025 was another tough year for people in Lismore and the Northern Rivers. This one was tough on the financial side.Retailers struggled in the first six months, then a few interest rate cuts paved the way for an improved back half of the year. Not great, but improved.Households continued to struggle with the cost-of-living, led by the housing crisis. Homeowners felt some relief; however, renters suffered further financial stress as the lack of rentable housing stock meant increases in rental prices.One of the best ways to gauge how difficult this year has been on people is to talk to those charities that provide services to the most vulnerable in our community. The Lismore App sat down with Captain Philip Sutcliffe of the Northern Rivers Salvos to understand the full impact of events in 2025."People have just kind of reached the end of what they can actually do. So, over the last 18 months, for us, we've just seen so many brand new faces come in through our doors."People who have never had to access any form of assistance from a charity or a community organisation, who have simply come in asking, I've never been here before. What do I do and how? What do you actually offer?"The type of people who are either walking in or calling the emergency assistance line has broadened this year."The heartbreaking stories that we're hearing from people, and more so the people in our community, where both partners are working full time and they are trying to pay off all their bills, and they're trying to make sure that their kids have got something, but by the time they've paid off their bills and they've done X, Y and Z, they've got absolutely nothing left for food at the end of the week."And so they're coming and seeing us and finding a bit of relief and a bit of assistance here. But it is heartbreaking in our community that you know we are hearing these stories where people are working full-time jobs and still can't actually afford to put food on the table at the end of the week."As you can imagine, walking through the doors at Goonellabah for the first time or speaking to someone on the phone for the first time can be daunting and embarrassing."For us and our space here, we want to make sure that it's extremely welcoming, so lots of friendly volunteers are here at the door. We do free barista coffee, and there's lots of activity happening in our building, so when people step in through the doors, it feels like a safe space, and it feels like somewhere that they can just sort of relax a bit."There's no judgment here from any of our volunteers, and they make them feel extremely welcome, and they'll help guide them through our food pantry and other things like that."Their situation isn't just another story, but there's actual, genuine care and compassion. It's amazing how people will break down, and they'll start to share about what's going on in their life. There's always a lot of tears that are shed here, but we always want to make sure that people leave with some form of assistance."Captain Phil said there are a number of assistance options, including financial and food assistance."There's our emergency financial assistance, and that can happen through our phone assessment line or via our face-to-face assessor that we have here on site. So, depending on what's going on in your life and the emergency you might be facing, there's varying amounts of financial assistance that can be offered, and it's not just for food."Our universal eftpos cards can be used pretty much anywhere, so it makes it a lot more manageable for people. And you know, we do help out people, or buy those cards with medical expenses or medications or travel assistance to get to medical appointments. They're some of the really big ones that we find a lot of help with."Then through our low-cost Food Pantry, we provide reduced price groceries, and then if people come in and they can't actually afford anything, we will actually give them a voucher that they can go and shop in there at no cost as well."We do a lot of food rescue, particularly through Woolworths here in Goonellabah. Every week we've always got free bread and lots of fresh produce. So we've got a whole bunch of local farmers that have surplus stock, and so every week's different, and it's always different between Tuesday and Thursday here, but there's lots of different things."Throughout the year as well, we use a lot of that produce that comes in, and frozen products that come from Woolworths, and we actually cook that up into frozen meals that we can give away to people. We generally distribute about 350 frozen meals every month."As well as the financial and food assistance, going through the Salvo doors offers important social benefits."We've got cafe tables in our foyer. We do the free tea and coffee, and people just want to come and sit and chat. It's amazing. In a world of social media and all this technology, most people are actually lonely and isolated. We're connected digitally, but we're not actually connected physically, and so this has become a huge connection point for our community."A significant change in 2025 has been the impact on the 55 and over age bracket, who have lost work and are looking to bridge the gap until they reach pension age."The skill set they have may be very limited, and they're like, Oh, we feel that we're too old to retrain, so they're just in limbo land, before they can actually reach and get the pension and all that kind of stuff."Then also those families in that 30 to 40 age bracket, where they're doing what they can. They're working full time, they're doing all these other things, but just the overall compounding pressure of everything going up."To understand the impact the Salvation Army Northern Rivers branch has on our community, you only have to look at how they helped families over Christmas."This year, the Salvation Army actually partnered with St Vincent de Paul, and we worked together to provide food and toy hampers for our community. Across the Northern Rivers, there was about 500 families that got assistance via food hampers or via toy hampers. It was a great partnership with the team at St Vincent de Paul across Casino, Lismore and Ballina.(The Salvos Christmas Toy gifts 2023)"We had over 550 children that we provided toy gifts for this year as well, and for us at the Salvos, where our main focus is the toys, that was an extra 125 kids than what we did in 2024 so a huge step up, and we couldn't do what we do without the amazing support of our community, the businesses that came on board, that came upas part of the Wishing Tree, those that gave financial donations, all our local service clubs that support us each and every year. It was a huge effort from across the community."That community effort will more than likely be needed in 2026, as the housing crisis continues. The 50 Build to Rent apartments in East Lismore, 20% affordable, should be complete at the end of the year, and the 400-home site next door should start being developed early in the new year.If you or someone you know needs help, The Salvos Northern Rivers Corps Food Pantry is open Tuesday's and Thursday's between 930 and 1130 and the phone assessment line is available 9am to 4pm, five days a week on (02) 8775 7988.You will find The Salvos at 30 Cambridge Street, Goonellabah.

Officers from the Richmond Police District had a busy week leading up to Christmas (18-24 December), where they charged 40 individuals with 73 offences. Of those, 15 were Domestic Violence (DV) related.The top 5 offences for the District were:Common Assault (DV & Non-DV) - 20%Contravene AVO (DV) - 17.5%Stalk/Intimidate - 17.5%Possess Prohibited Drug - 15%Drive with Middle Range PCA - 10%Significant Arrests ‍1. On 18 December 2025, police attended the Lismore Transit Centre and arrested a 20-year-old woman on an outstanding warrant. The accused resisted arrest, became violent, and bit two officers whilst attempting to bite and kick others. One officer was injured, requiring hospital treatment. The accused was eventually secured and taken to Lismore Police Station. She will face Lismore Local Court on 9 February 2026.2. On 19 December 2025, police charged a 47-year-old Ballina man with alleged domestic violence offences, causing injuries and fear to the victim. The accused is alleged to have unlawfully entered the victim's residence, harassed her with over 90 calls and 30 texts, then crashed his car while intoxicated. The male was subsequently arrested by police and is next due to face Byron Bay Local Court on the 19th of January 2026.3. On 19 December, two young persons, aged 15 & 16 years, were charged with an alleged aggravated break and enter in Coraki. The victim found their front door open and encountered the young persons in their house where they were threatened with a knife, before fleeing. The two young persons were arrested by police a short time later, two knives being located and seized. They are due to appear before the court 30th of January 20264. On 22 December 2025, a 31-year-old male was arrested on two outstanding warrants after being sighted by police on Ballina Road, Lismore. He was wanted by police on a number of alleged offences, including common assault DV; Destroy or damage property DV; Contravene prohibition/restriction in AVO (Domestic) x 2; Drive motor vehicle during disqualification period; Goods in personal custody suspected being stolen (not m/v); Police pursuit. He is back before the Lismore Local Court on the 19th of January 2026.5. On 23 December 2025, a 51-year-old woman allegedly stole food from a Lismore CBD shop and bit the shop owner when confronted. The woman ran from the store without paying for the goods. Police obtained CCTV and later located the woman behind Keen Street, Lismore. The woman was arrested in possession of the goods, where she proceeded to kick out and resist arrest, before being taken to Lismore Police Station. She will be back before the Lismore Local Court on the 2nd of February 2026.Noteworthy Court Results 1. In November police charged a 46yr old man following a domestic violence assault in Bonalbo. When arrested he violently resisted and caused actual bodily harm injuries to police. He was subsequently charged with Common Assault DV; Assault Police ABH and Resist Police - On 22 December 2025 the man was convicted at Lismore Local Court and sentenced to 15 months imprisonment, with a non-parole period of 9 months.2. On December 2025, police arrested a 37yr old male after being located in a stolen motor vehicle. He was arrested and charged with further offences he was outstanding for: Enter vehicle without consent of owner and good in custody suspected of being stolen. On 22 December 2025, the man was convicted at Lismore Local Court and sentenced to four months imprisonment.3. Police in Casino arrested a 49-year-old man on Johnston Street on 11 December after he was seen to be acting suspiciously with a female he was not to approach. He was arrested by police for an outstanding warrant and Contravene Apprehended Violence Order (Domestic). On 18 December 2025, the man was convicted at Casino Local Court and sentenced to one month imprisonment.

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin says young people from across the Lismore Local Government Area can participate in local activities during these summer school holidays, thanks to the NSW Office for Youth’s Holiday Break program.Ms Saffin says for the first time, the Holiday Break program has expanded statewide, opening the door to fun, free activities for young people across New South Wales.“Young people in our region will now have more opportunities to connect with friends or meet new people locally,” Ms Saffin says.In Lismore, the Family Support Network Incorporated has received $4,988 in NSW Office of Youth funding to offer a guided pottery class and a circus skills class for young people aged 12 to 17 years.Activities will be facilitated by trained professionals with outcomes expected to include community engagement, enhanced social networks, physical exercise and creative development.To find out what’s on near you under the Holiday Break program, visit www.nsw.gov.au/holidaybreak.The Office for Youth will continue to provide Holiday Break activities to young people across NSW throughout 2026, with the next round of funding opening for applications soon.Councils and eligible not-for-profit organisations that would like to participate in the 2026 Autumn/Winter Grant Program can apply from Tuesday, 13 January. Applications close on Friday, 30 January 2026.

The final weekend of 2025 will be significantly cooler than last weekend, with a little rain on Saturday and a mostly sunny Sunday.The show or two for Saturday should be over by the early afternoon with 23 the top, before a pretty perfect Sunday with sunshine and 25 degrees.As you would expect this time of year, there is not a lot happening in Lismore this weekend.The annual Tropical Fruits New Year's Eve celebration will start to build as we head towards 2026.Space Cadets is this year's theme, with a host of entertainment on offer at the Lismore Showgrounds for six days, December 28 to January 4.Due to the number of campers at the showgrounds for Tropical Fruits, there will be no Lismore Markets tomorrow (Saturday).The Nimbin Markets will be on Cullen Street on Sunday between 9am and 3pm.Head to the hills to check out the unique offerings with over 200 stalls selling food, coffee, recycled inventions, arts & crafts and spiritual concepts.Sunday will also see the last Lismore Rainforest Botanic Garden Walk for 2025.The Regenerative Guided Walk with Tracey starts at 9:30am, and will focus on the development and history of the Gardens.You are asked to meet at the Visitor's Centre at 9:15 for the one-hour walk. The cost is $5 per adult, with children free.For those looking to be active, there is the Northern Rivers Rail Trail NRs Rail Trail to explore and the many bush walks in the Lismore LGA Walks.LIVE MUSICComing Up IN 2026 at the Lismore Workers Club:The Noughty Nineties Party featuring all your favourites like Blink 182, Shania Twain, Britney Spears, Robbie Williams and Beyonce. Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 7:30pmThe Ultimate Superstars of Country Friday, 6 February 2026Faulty Towers The Dining Experience Friday, 6 March 2026Inxsive & Gold Chisel Tribute Show Saturday, 21 March 2026The Italian Tenors Sunday, 19 April 2026To book tickets to any of the above concerts, click here.CHEAPEST FUEL PRICESFuel prices were steady across Lismore and the Northern Rivers this week. Here is the list of the cheapest service stations as we head into 2026:E10 is 170.9 across most of Lismore, 175.9 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino, and 172.5 at the Mobil and The Metro on River Street, Ballina.Unleaded 91 is 172.5 at the Astron on Ballina Road, 177.9 at The United on Johnston Street, and the Liberty's on Hare Street and Centre Street in Casino, and 174.5 at the Mobil and the Metro on River Street, Ballina.U95 is 182.9 at the two Independents on Terania Street, North Lismore, the Liberty on Ballina and the Independent on Wyrallah Road, East Lismore, 198.9 at the Independent at 169 Canterbury Street in Casino, and 185.5 at The Metro on River Street, Ballina.U98 is 190.9 at the Liberty on Ballina Road, Lismore, Union Street, South Lismore and the Independent on Wyrallah Road, East Lismore, 197.9 at the Liberty on Hare Street and Centre Street in Casino, and 194.5 at The Metro on River Street in Ballina.Diesel is 189.5 at the Astron on Ballina Road, 187.9 across most of Casino, and 189.5 at the Mobil and The Metro on River Street in Ballina.Have a great weekend!Now, have a laugh with the Friday Funnies.....

New state gun laws were passed by both houses of parliament on Wednesday, following a marathon debate that finished around 3am. The new laws, along with hateful symbols and restricting public access following a terrorist attack, state that an individual can own up to four (4) guns, while primary producers can own up to 10 guns. It limits straight-pull/pump action and button/lever release firearms to primary producers, reduces magazine capacity for category A and B firearms and prohibits firearms using belt-fed magazines.Gun club membership will be mandatory for all firearms licence holders, and people will no longer be able to seek to overturn a licence decision through the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal.Other significant gun reforms include requiring all gun clubs to use the GunSafe online platform, and a mandate of safe storage inspections before the issue of a permit.This legislation will be accompanied by a comprehensive audit of existing firearms licences, as well as a gun buyback scheme, in partnership with the Federal Government.Greens MP Sue Higginson put forward an amendment targeting those with suspected terrorist links, making sure they are never granted a firearms permit, which was passed unanimously.The new gun laws were not supported by the NSW Nationals. Local fourth-generation dairy farmer, Paul Weir, also opposes the new laws.Paul told the Lismore App, "I am totally against it" when referring to the new gun laws."I am really angry with our politicians. It is in-city politics playing political games, and we will achieve nothing."Paul believes that those who own more than 10 guns are mostly collectors. They will have guns from the 1700s and 1800s, reflecting a history of guns during white settlement."I don't see the need for more than 10 guns on my farm," Paul explained. "However, people need to understand that farmers use different guns for different reasons. You need one gun to shoot snakes, another to shoot rabbits, another to shoot pigs, and another to shoot cattle."I had to euthanise an animal this morning when I discovered it had a broken leg. Farmers need guns in everyday farming life."Paul does not believe that the gun amnesty will achieve its desired results."The only people who will give their guns back are the people the government are not worried about. That won't achieve anything. The people they are hoping to target won't hand them in.""We have more deaths through car accidents than guns. Are we going to go back to horses to save lives?""The people who are a threat should be on a government watch list. They're the ones who shouldn't be allowed to have any guns."

BISHOP GREG'S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FOR 2025 December is always a month in which Jews and Christians rejoice in the Festival of Light. For Jewish communities, it is the feast of Hanukkah, and for us it is Christmas. As such, both communities greet each other with Happy Hanukkah or Merry Christmas. This year, it is different. On Sunday, 14 December 2025, the terrible Bondi Massacre occurred as Jewish people were celebrating the first day of Hanukkah. This was a heinous attack on the Jewish people in Australia. I join with so many other religious and community leaders in rejecting what is happening in Australia. This is not the Australia that I was born in. Christmas is a time in which we remember the love of God made manifest in a small baby born into poverty. I pray, that as we celebrate Christmas, this child may bring peace to anguished hearts and friendship between peoples. Let us not allow hatred and evil to overcome goodness and love. In wishing you a Merry Christmas, I ask you to reach out to all in need and, in particular, to all who may be suffering as a consequence of the Bondi Massacre. Most Revd Gregory Homeming OCD Bishop of Lismore

As we gather with family and friends to celebrate this festive season, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible spirit of our Lismore community.This year has brought its share of challenges, but it has also delivered many achievements and shown the strength, kindness, and generosity that define us.I find it hard to believe that it was nearly twelve months ago that we recognised Neville Graham as our Lismore Citizen of the Year, for his outstanding and tireless work through the SES and other organisations over many decades.It was almost fitting then that we had to call on Nev and all of our emergency services to deal with Tropical Cyclone Alfred, which revived the trauma and stress that is still so raw from the 2022 floods. Fortunately, we didn’t bear the full force of Alfred, but it was very pleasing to see everybody enact their flood plans and to be so well prepared.This is also a wonderful opportunity to recognise and support our local businesses. From the Business Lismore Awards night, hosted by Stephen Bradbury, to celebrating the second anniversary of the reopening of Norco in Lismore, there is no question that our business community, along with our primary producers, are both strong and vibrant.By shopping locally, dining at our cafes and restaurants, and choosing local products and services, we help keep our economy growing and our community thriving. Every purchase makes a difference. I would also like to make special mention of the relaunch of the Lismore Cinema, after nearly four long years. What a great time it is to invest in Lismore and its villages.So much has happened in the last year, from the Legends of Cricket game to the return of the much-loved Eat the Street, 2025 has offered up something for everyone. With big things planned, 2026 is shaping up as an even bigger year, with the first Primex to be held in Lismore, along with some huge yet-to-be-announced new events coming to our city.Tied in with all of this, our recovery and rebuild continues. City Hall is due to be completed by Easter; record urban drain clearing, pothole filling, and road repair will continue, as well as pump station upgrades and other capital works projects. I would like to take a moment to thank our emergency services personnel and volunteers, who work tirelessly over the Christmas and New Year's period to keep us safe, often sacrificing time with their own families during the holidays. While many of us are taking a well-deserved break, spare a thought for those on the front line, in the hospitals and care facilities, or looking after those in need. Your commitment and courage are deeply appreciated by all of us and don’t go unnoticed. And it is these acts of unrecognised kindness and service that is truly the essence of Christmas. A time to reflect on what it means to love and be loved.The atrocities at Bondi earlier this month should serve to strengthen our resolve to do good in the world and to defeat evil at every opportunity.  On behalf of Lismore City Council, my fellow councillors, and my family, I wish you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a safe, happy, and prosperous New Year.Let’s look forward to 2026 with optimism and continue building a strong, connected, and vibrant Lismore together.Steve KriegMayor of Lismore

I WISH all subscribers and viewers of The Lismore App, their families, and friends all the best for a safe and enjoyable festive season.Residents of Lismore and surrounding villages look to The Lismore App for its comprehensive coverage of local events and issues.I also wish Simon and Donna Mumford and their hard-working team a relaxing Christmas-New Year.Taking stock of 2025, it’s been another busy year for our local community, still recovering from the floods of early 2022, having made some significant advances.As NSW Minister for Recovery, Small Business and the North Coast, my focus is on making communities safer through disaster adaptation.Faced with Cyclone Alfred earlier this year, we were much better prepared for its fury, which threatened us but thankfully dissipated.I take this opportunity to thank our first responders from all agencies for answering the call when emergencies arise.My sincere thanks as well to the many volunteers who make a difference to others’ lives by working in charitable organisations, community groups and sporting clubs. We are richer because of you and your efforts, noting for most of you it is a family effort too.I love Christmas and I wish you all a very Merry Christmas. 

As we come together to celebrate this special and holy season, it is a time to reflect and appreciate our community. Christmas reminds us of the birth of Jesus, bringing light and hope to the world. It is a time to share and to gather with family and friends. To the volunteers, emergency services and workers who give up time with their own families over Christmas to support others, thank you. What you do matters, and we are thankful for your generosity. There is truly no place I’d rather be than right here in our beautiful Northern Rivers. I hope this Christmas brings you peace and joy, and may the New Year be filled with health and happiness.

Police are appealing for assistance to locate a man wanted on outstanding warrants.Jed Vincent, aged 42, is wanted on outstanding warrants for domestic violence-related offences.Officers attached to Richmond Police District have released an image of Jed as inquiries to locate him continue.Jed is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 180cm call, of medium build, with brown hair and brown eyes.He is known to frequent the Lismore and Tweed Heads areas.Anyone with information in relation to his whereabouts is urged to contact Richmond Police District 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 managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Important reforms tightening gun laws, cracking down on hateful symbols, restricting public assemblies following a terrorist attack and giving police more tools to protect the community have passed NSW Parliament.The Terrorism and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 passed Parliament today following the horrific antisemitic terror attack at Bondi, which killed 15 innocent people earlier this month. Toughest gun law reforms in a generationThe bill ensures that NSW has the toughest gun laws in the country, imposing a cap, meaning that an individual can have no more than 4 firearms, with exemptions for primary producers who can have up to 10.It limits straight-pull/pump action and button/lever release firearms to primary producers, reduces magazine capacity for category A and B firearms and prohibits firearms using belt-fed magazines.Gun club membership will be mandatory for all firearms licence holders, and people will no longer be able to seek to overturn a licence decision through the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal.Other significant gun reforms include requiring all gun clubs to use the GunSafe online platform, and a mandate of safe storage inspections before the issue of a permit.This legislation will be accompanied by a comprehensive audit of existing firearms licences, as well as a gun buyback scheme, in partnership with the Federal Government.Prohibiting hateful symbolsThere is no excuse for hateful symbols which divide and inflame community tensions.The legislation makes it an offence under NSW law to display publicly and without reasonable excuse a prohibited terrorist organisation’s symbol, such as an ISIS, Hamas or Hezbollah flag.This will carry a maximum penalty of two years’ imprisonment or a $22,000 fine or $110,000 for organisations.A reasonable excuse includes for an academic purpose or another purpose in the public interest.Restricting the authorisation of public assembliesThe bill also allows the Police Commissioner or Deputy Commissioner with the Minister for Police to restrict authorised assemblies in specific areas for 14 days following a terrorism declaration.This is designed to deter divisive, inflammatory public assemblies that put community safety and cohesion at risk in the immediate aftermath of an attack.Once a declaration is made, no public assemblies can be authorised in designated areas, including by a court, and police will be able to move people on if their behaviour or presence obstructs traffic or causes fear, harassment or intimidation. The declaration can be extended by 14-day periods for up to three months. It will not stop quiet reflection, prayer or peaceful gatherings, which are not likely to cause fear or safety concerns.The legislation also gives police greater powers to require someone suspected of committing an offence during a public assembly to remove their face covering.Anyone at a public assembly who is suspected of committing an offence can be required to remove their face covering. Previously, this requirement only applied to someone suspected of committing an indictable offence.Further measures to combat hate speechHorrific recent events also show chants and slogans can shatter community cohesion and encourage violence.Serious concerns have been raised over chants like “globalise the intifada”, and hateful statements used to vilify and intimidate our community must be banned.  The Attorney General has asked the Legislative Assembly Committee on Law and Safety to conduct an inquiry into hateful statements.It will recommend what laws should be introduced to tackle this abhorrent conduct with a view to introducing them when parliament returns in the new year.These measures build on previous legislation to combat hate, including new offences for inciting racial hatred and displaying Nazi symbols at Jewish places and additional protections for people seeking to attend their place of worship.Premier Chris Minns said, “None of these measures alone will end antisemitism and violence but together these reforms are the single best thing we can do to keep the people of New South Wales safe and prevent further harm.“I acknowledge that these are very significant changes that not everyone will agree with, but our state has changed following the horrific antisemitic attack on Bondi Beach and our laws must change too.“These laws get the balance right by providing police with the tools they need to calm a combustible situation in our state and keep people safe, while restricting access to dangerous weapons on our streets to reduce the risk of this happening again.”Minister for Police Yasmin Catley said, “The antisemitic terror attack at Bondi Beach has changed us forever and the Government is responding to try to prevent future harm.“These reforms strengthen oversight, improve enforcement and reduce the risk when it comes to firearm ownership.“We’re giving police the powers they need to best ensure the community is safe.”Attorney General Michael Daley said, “These measures form a strong regime to protect the community from those who would seek to do us harm and tear us apart.“There is no place for conduct which espouses hate, threatens or intimidates others and we are giving police the tools they need to hold perpetrators to account. “We are ensuring those who publicly display terrorist symbols are met with the full force of the law.“I know there is more work to do and have asked the Committee on Law and Safety to provide recommendations about further reforms to curb hate speech.“The Government will take whatever measures needed to keep the community safe.”