The NSW Government has launched a new online tool that will save farmers thousands of dollars and months of work as they negotiate often complex planning laws when applying for development approvals to build key on-farm infrastructure. The platform, called myFarmPlanner, is part of the NSW Government’s plan to strengthen the state’s $20 billion agriculture sector and to boost productivity by helping farmers use the latest technology to make practical, cost-effective decisions. myFarmPlanner provides farmers with all the information they need to know to lodge a development application in as little as 15 minutes using a tailored questionnaire and interactive map.The app brings together information from all approval organisations, including local councils, consenting authorities and industry guidelines.It provides clear information about approval pathways and consent authorities, required licences, permits and approvals, details relevant legislation, regulations and guidelines and provides location-specific constraints including flood zones, bushfire areas and sensitive receptors.  Under normal circumstances, it can take up to 12 months for a farmer to gather all the required DA information needed to build farm buildings, animal housing, processing facilities and other infrastructure, particularly after a flood, bushfire or a storm.By entering farm data individually, producers using the tool can also save money, with the self-service capabilities estimated to eliminate up to $2,000 in consultant fees per application. The new tool supersedes a 2021 beta version of the tool, which was targeted at the poultry industry, and is now expanded to cover dairy, horticulture, poultry and agritourism. Future updates of the myFarmPlanner platform will aim to include additional agriculture sectors and integrate with the Planning Portal to improve efficiencies even further. The development of the myFarmPlanner platform was jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments through the Storm and Flood Industry Recovery Program (SFIRP). To access the tool, visit https://myfarmplanner.dpi.nsw.gov.au.  Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said, “Farmers across NSW are increasingly using online tools to save money and boost productivity. “This new tool is the latest in the Government’s ongoing commitment to ensure farmers have the latest technologies to help producers make practical, cost effective on farm decisions. “myFarmPlanner addresses critical barriers to agricultural resilience by simplifying the development application process and providing immediate, location-specific guidance on planning requirements, reducing the need for expensive consultants and enabling faster recovery decisions.  Dairy Farmer, Woodview NSW, Terry Toohey said, "myFarmPlanner will be a very useful tool for the dairy industry as a lot of farmers are land locked, and this will be further intensified by building barns and feedpads etc.  “The tool will enable farmers to look at their expansion options on their farm and whether the land can accommodate their expansion plans.” Molong Viticulturalist Martin Gransden said: “MyFarmPlanner is a handy tool for landowners to use in the initial stages of planning their farm development to navigate the approvals required." 

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg welcomed a record 80 new citizens on Citizenship Day at the recently repaired old Municipal Building.The new citizens have come from Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Denmark, France, Germany, Guatemala, India, Iran, Iraq, Kenya, Nepal, New Zealand, Nigeria, Philippines, Sri Lanka, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States of America, Thailand, Vietnam and Zimbabwe.Mayor Krieg said it’s an honour to take part in welcoming new citizens to our nation.“One of the best parts of my job is to warmly welcome new Australian citizens who are now part of the common bond that unites all Australians and respects diversity,” he said.“Congratulations and welcome to our new citizens. Australia is one of the most culturally diverse nations in the world, and since 1949, we have welcomed more than five million new citizens to our shores.”Each year, 17 September is Australian Citizenship Day and a special day to reflect on and celebrate being an Australian citizen. Australian citizenship is more than just a legal status. It is our common bond that represents our shared democratic beliefs and gives us a sense of belonging and pride in our achievements as a nation. This day contributes to educating students and brings greater cultural awareness, a sense of social unity and belonging for all Australians.​The Lismore City Council, representing the Department of Home Affairs, organises regular citizenship ceremonies to warmly welcome new Australian citizens into our community.For more information about Australian citizenship, visit www.citizenship.gov.au.

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) is currently responding to a Khapra Beetle detection associated with a brand of nappy pants imported to Australia and sold in Woolworths stores.The detection was reported on 7 September to the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development after larvae were found in the nappy pants.This detection – in Little One’s Ultra Dry Nappy Pants - Walker Size 5 (42pk) - was referred to DAFF, who directed that the remaining stock be removed and secured.The nappy pants were sold nationally only through Woolworths stores, and no other nappy sizes or brands are considered to be affected at this stage.DAFF recommends that members of the public who have purchased Little One’s Nappy Pants or any goods with signs of insect or pest activity do not use the goods and do not dispose of the goods or their packaging - where possible, seal the goods and their packaging in a bag to prevent any pest spread, and call 1800 798 636 or visit Report a pest or disease concern.What to look forAdult beetles are:light yellowish brown to dark brown in colouroval shapedtiny, just 1.6 to 3 millimetres long.Larvae typically:appear very hairy, forming distinctive tufts over the body and giving the appearance of a short tailrange in size from 1.6 to 4.5 millimetres longare initially pale yellow and become golden-brown when they grow.Khapra beetles are a serious pest of stored grain and dry foodstuffs worldwide. The beetle is not currently present in Australia, and if it spreads, it would pose a major threat to Australia’s grains and other plant industries. Khapra beetles can cause some skin irritation and can be allergenic, but do not pose an immediate risk to human health in this context.The importer and Woolworths – who stocked the product nationally – have been working with DAFF to ensure all goods associated with this shipment have been traced and treated where appropriate, to ensure they do not pose an ongoing biosecurity risk.DAFF continues to work closely with state and territory governments and key industry bodies on tracing and treatment requirements. If you do find something, please report it immediately by going online to Report a pest or disease concern or by calling 1800 798 636.

Childcare places have been in short supply for many years in Lismore and the Northern Rivers. The NSW Government is investing $100 million to help community preschools expand their hours and cater for more children to help solve the problem.This next stage of the Government’s early learning reforms will lift the quality of childcare by supporting not-for-profit providers to open longer and serve more families.It forms part of the Government’s commitment to rebalance a sector increasingly dominated by for-profit providers, which have grown by 90 per cent in the past decade and now account for 58 per cent of NSW’s 6,300 services.Community preschools will be encouraged to extend their operating hours, open more days, and expand the age range of children they serve, making it easier for working families to access trusted, quality care.With strong community roots, and an excellent record of quality service, these not-for-profits are widely regarded as among the best providers in NSW.Through the new Expanding Quality Access program, community preschools will be supported to extend beyond current 9am–3pm hours and cater for children from birth through to school age. A strong uptake could see thousands of children gain access to services prioritising early learning.This announcement follows the Government’s landmark legislation introduced last week to prioritise the safety and well-being of children and restore parents’ trust in early childhood education and care. The bill delivers 30 reforms to the Children (Education and Care Services National Law Application) Act 2010, including:Enshrining in law the principle that the rights and best interests of children come first.A 300 per cent increase in fines for non-compliant services, and a 900 per cent increase for large providers operating 25 or more services.A new requirement for providers to display their compliance history and details of any current investigations.The $100 million investment will support eligible preschools over two years to upgrade their facilities, improve IT and administration, and build workforce capability to support expanded services. Applications for the Expanding Quality Access program open today, with providers encouraged to apply.The community preschool sector has been arguing for increased funding and while the NSW Government doesn’t fund wages in the sector, we do provide program funding, and this is a substantial uplift for the sector that can be accessed with an application to the Expanding Quality Access Program. Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos said, “The Minns Labor Government understands the value of early education — it’s central to our commitment to universal preschool for our littlest learners. That’s why we’re backing the community preschool sector to provide more services for families who already value their fantastic, high-quality services.“We believe every child should have access to the best possible education, regardless of their age, and this investment will help community preschools deliver that.“We want more families to access quality early education close to home and at hours that suit them. The community preschool sector’s credentials are trusted by so many families, so it makes perfect sense to support them to grow and reach more.”

With temperatures moving into the mid- and high-20s, gardens in Lismore and the Northern Rivers are looking spectacular.The Zonta Club is offering you the chance to look the amazing Crew Garden in Uralba, as well as raising money for a very worthwhile cause.The Crew Garden is a subtropical paradise with meandering paths and lush gardens with some rare and interesting plants.The garden is open this weekend:Saturday: 9am to 4pmSunday: 9am to 2pmEntry is $12 or $10 concession, with children under 16 free.You will enjoy the collection of palms, heliconias, ornamental gingers, bamboo, begonias, aroids, clivias, euphorbias, calatheas, orchids and zingibers. They also have a cut flower farm, orchard, veggies and other edibles.In the words of the Zonta Club, "There is something here for everyone!"Morning and afternoon tea is available, and an on-site plant sale. Money raised goes to providing much-needed funds for local ZONTA projects and services for women and girls in our community.Zonta funds women-only safe rooms in local court houses, a Zonta room at Lismore Base Hospital for mothers and the family of stillborn babies, counselling vouchers for needy women, a scholarship for an SCU student studying for a degree in Social Justice or Social Work and many other projects.THE DETAILS:Spring Open Day at Crew Garden, 131 Platypus Drive, Uralba.This Saturday (9am to 4pm) and Sunday (9am to 2pm)

During the September 2024 Lismore Council elections, Mayor Steve Krieg mentioned a goal for the future population of Lismore of 60,000. He did not shy away from setting an optimistic population goal by 2030.To follow up on that goal, Lismore City Council has enlisted two of Australia’s most experienced planners to shape a long-term strategy for growth, as the regional centre positions itself for a population of around 60,000 people.  The Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS), now in development, will provide the policy framework to guide land use, infrastructure, and investment priorities across the local government area. It will align with and challenge state, regional, and local strategies, ensuring that growth is coordinated and sustainable.Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said early, and careful planning was critical to securing a prosperous and healthy future for Lismore.“Lismore needs to be ready for appropriately planned growth, whether it comes sooner or later,” he said“This is about building a smart, sustainable regional city that can provide jobs, infrastructure, cultural and lifestyle opportunities for those of us who live here now – as well as the generations to come.” “It is about ensuring we can continue to have the lifestyle we enjoy now while acknowledging the opportunity change presents.”Well-managed growth is critical for regional centres, with research showing stronger populations attract greater health, education, lifestyle, and employment opportunities.The LSPS is expected to identify opportunities not only in Lismore’s urban centre but across its towns and villages, with new investment and housing options anticipated as part of the long-term strategy.Council has engaged Gary White and Brendan Nelson of Solve Property Group to co-author the plan. White, a former chief planner for both NSW and Queensland, was named Australian Planner of the Year in 2018.Nelson, who has served as Deputy Secretary of the NSW Department of Planning and Environment and CEO of the Regional Growth NSW Development Corporation, has twice been recognised as Planner of the Year, and is a past national president of the Planning Institute of Australia.The draft LSPS for Lismore will be released for public exhibition in early 2026, with Council seeking community input before final adoption.“This is a once-in-a-generation chance to get the balance right,” Krieg said. “If we plan well today, Lismore will be positioned as a regional leader tomorrow.”

The NSW Government will provide a new free intranasal influenza vaccine for children aged two years to under five years, with the program set to begin next year ahead of the influenza season.Influenza vaccination rates for children aged under five remain low. While anyone can get influenza, some people are at higher risk of severe illness, including children under five years of age.  The new FluMist intranasal vaccine has been widely used in the Northern Hemisphere for many years and is undergoing regulatory approval in Australia ahead of next year’s influenza season.The vaccine is sprayed into the nose and provides the same protection as the currently available vaccine for this age group. The vaccine will be available through general practitioners.This needle-free alternative to the injectable influenza vaccine for children is expected to increase their uptake of the vaccine ahead of the 2026 winter influenza season.It is expected that the vaccine will also be available in the private market for other age groups, depending on regulatory approval.Influenza in young children causes significant impacts on the individual and the health system more broadly. In 2025 to 31 August, children aged 0 to 4 years old made up 13 per cent of influenza notifications in NSW, and children aged 5 to 9 years old made up 16 per cent of notifications.This year so far, there have been over 3,000 presentations to emergency departments in NSW for influenza-like illness in children less than 5 years old, and over 600 hospital admissions.For more information on vaccination and NSW immunisation programs, visit: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation/pages/default.aspx.Minister for Health Ryan Park said, “This new program will provide an accessible and convenient needle-free option for children and improve vaccination uptake ahead of the 2026 winter flu season.“Vaccination is the best protection from serious illness from influenza for everyone over six months of age.“We hope the offering of a needle-free alternative will support parents’ decisions to protect their children against this serious disease.“We know that EDs have been under pressure from winter illnesses – this innovative new vaccine method is about relieving pressure on our EDs next winter season.”NSW Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant said, “Influenza is a serious illness that can cause pneumonia, make chronic underlying medical conditions like diabetes, lung and heart disease much worse requiring hospital admission, and cause death.“Even previously healthy children can experience severe complications from influenza so it is great that we will be able to offer a new method of vaccination which can help support healthier communities during the winter months.”

They say winners are grinners, and there were plenty of broad grins at the Northern Rivers Hotel yesterday in North Lismore when the Marist Brothers Rams were still celebrating their first-ever NRRRL Premiership, and their first in 22 years.The NRRRL shield had all the big names, mostly from the northern end of the Northern Rivers, like Cudgen, Bilambil, Murwillambah and even Ballina. The Rams were a noticeable omission until just after 5pm on Sunday evening when the Rams beat the Murwillumbah Mustangs 20-12 to etch their names in Lismore folklore.It was a game that had momentum shifts in the first half, and one of the best defensive efforts in the second half from a determined and spirited Rams outfit in warm conditions that saw players suffer cramp towards the end of the Grand Final.It should be noted that the Northern United Ladies Tackle Team also won the Premiership at Crozier Field on Sunday with a thumping 44-6 win over the Bilambil Jets.As you would expect, the 2025 NRRRL Premiers hit the town on Sunday night, with the majority turning up at the Northern yesterday afternoon with a few hangovers, little sleep and still in their playing gear, some boots and all.Rams Coach Darryl Butcher said he had a two-hour window this morning, but was enjoying the celebrations."It'll end at some point this week," he said with a smile. "I don't think it's like the old days anymore, though a few of the young ones will keep going for days, and most of us will be back on the tools and back in the workforce tomorrow. Back to reality. And then we've got our club presentation on Friday night, so that'll be a big celebration for the whole club. I'd say it'll flow on again on Friday night. We'll have a little bit of a spell somewhere in between."When asked what has turned the Rams from a mid-table team into Premier's in three years, Darryl said it's local footballers coming up through the junior ranks that are tight-knit.(The 2025 NRRRL Premiers soak up the presentation with coach Darryl Butcher holding the shield aloft. Photo: Kevin Hogan)"To be honest, we've added a couple of key figures in, as everyone knows, but we still fielded 13 juniors out of our 17 yesterday. People forget that. They carry on about the people that we put in there that are obviously special, but we've got 13 juniors that have come through our junior system, which is a great thing. It's something that I'm really proud of, because I've done a lot of coaching through juniors."They're really tight, to be honest. Everyone says that, but there's a key group of them, about five or six of them, that all come through together since they've been eight years old, so they're obviously tight. And then there's another, older group that have played a lot of football together as well. As it was shown yesterday, they continually just turn up for their mate. To do it at the back end of that game for seven out of nine sets in a row. It was just so good. I had goosebumps as it was happening. I'm just so proud of where they're at."The older group for the Rams includes Paul O'Neil Jr, Mitch Krause and Lennon Bartlett. These are guys in their early to mid-30s who have been playing for a decade or more to achieve the ultimate goal before they retire, and for Mitch and Lennon, that time may well be now, leaving their playing days on a high.Lennon Bartlett reflected when he knew the Rams would win."When it was about two minutes left, you can never ease off in games. I think I looked at the clock, looked at the crowd, and just took it all in and just embraced it for a bit."I didn't know what to do for about two hours after the game. I think we're sitting there lying in the sheds, and I just didn't have a moment to process anything. But once we sat down and processed, the boys were ecstatic."I've lived in Lismore my whole life. I've played for the RAM since I was six years old, 35 now. So, just to get it done for these boys and my family.Lennon had around 20 family and 20 friends at Crozier Field on Sunday to watch him stand on the podium.At 35, will he go around again or leave on high?"I don't know, I don't know. I'll go through preseason and see how I go. We might have to go back to back, hopefully."Co-captain Mitch Krause had told those around him that this was his last game. But you never say never. Mitch was savouring the shield and not letting it go."They will have to kill me to get this out of my hands," he said with a grin. "It's been a big 18 hours post-game, but it's starting to sink in. It's a good feeling. We worked super hard for it, so it's well deserved. Great coaching staff, great team. Yeah, never in doubt, really."It never felt like we were going to lose. We were in control the whole time when we turned them away for those nine sets. Like, if they didn't score then, they weren't going to. It was a good defensive effort. We're a defensive team, but we can score points. So, yes, a good mixture."The 22 years between Grand Final wins is not lost on Mitch."My old man was the last captain. He won the premiership in 2003, so this means a lot. This town's been through a lot, so has the club. We played at Oakes with no sheds, no hot water, no lights for like, a year and a half. So, man, there's been some dark days. But, we got here, mate. It feels good. It's just hard to believe, really, it is honestly hard to believe that it has actually happened."I think I'll end on a high. It's all well and good to be, like, one more year, one more year, but you play to win premierships. I won my first one. Yeah, two would be nice, but nothing's promised. I'll see how I feel in January. You never know, you never know."For now, I won one with my best mate, Paul O'Neill, job done."The other Co-Captain, Paul O'Neil Jr, has also been training and playing for a decade to get to this moment, and it is a sweet reward."Every year you set out to, obviously, achieve that goal. We've been at it a long time, and it's great to finally get a result. You've got a lot of people, over a long period of time, that have been around and through the club that just stuck at it and kept the club alive. And, days like yesterday, you have this surreal feeling. So, it's been great."Lismore itself has always been a really strong sporting town, but obviously rugby league as well. So it's good. The town itself has been through a lot in the last few years, so this is something that everyone can celebrate a little bit, enjoy themselves and have a good time. Paul is one of the older Rams playing group who will be putting the boots on again in 2026."I'll have another run around. I love footy, so I'll just keep doing it as long as I can. The body side of things is all good. It's just time. You know, family, business, all that kind of thing takes a little bit more out of your life these days. But, I'll try and do it as long as I can."Anyone who knows about the Marist Brothers Rams knows Benny the Ram. He's been involved with the club for about 30 years, is the number one fan and has been waiting 22 years for this Premiership."My heart was racing, but we got there in the end. It's been a great feeling for us. I'm very stoked about our win. I just want to keep it going," Benny told the Lismore App. "We can go back to back and get quite a few wins." With the Lismore Rams playing group so young, and some of the older players going around again, there is talk of going back-to-back."I guess so, obviously, that discussion will happen over the next week or so, where we're at and what we want to do," Coach Darryl Butcher said. "There's a couple of our coaching staff that won't go again, but, you know, we're not just going to win one and be done. We're going to put together some guys and go forward and keep these guys succeeding and the club succeeding."For now, the Rams players, family, friends and the city can celebrate a win that shows further signs that Lismore is looking ahead and ready for growth.

Lismore CBD safety and its impact on the local business community have been hot topics of discussion for the last six months.There has been a call to reestablish the PACER (Police Ambulance and Clinical Early Response) program, so those who need medical care can be diagnosed on the spot and taken to the appropriate facility. Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin, has confirmed that the Northern NSW Local Health District is once again recruiting for the PACER Clinician position.“PACER is a unique collaboration between Health, Police and Ambulance, placing a mental health clinician within the local police command to assist in responding to mental health emergencies,” Ms Saffin said. “This program plays a vital role in supporting police officers when they encounter individuals experiencing mental health crises. “The PACER Clinician is a Clinical Nurse Consultant Grade 2 attached to the Richmond Police Command at Lismore Police Station.“This is something that I successfully lobbied to have in our region years ago, and the first PACER clinician started in July 2023.  “Unfortunately, after the clinician left in December 2023, the Local Health District said it faced challenges in recruiting a suitable replacement. “The funding is there for the position.“When I learned that active recruitment had been paused for some time, I pushed for the position to be advertised as a matter of urgency.“This is a role that both the community and local police value highly. The clinician will work directly with police, providing expert assessment and intervention in mental health emergencies. It’s a demanding position, but for the right candidate, it offers a chance to make a meaningful impact.”Applications for the position closed last week.

Australians are nearly five times more likely to prepare for a holiday than for a weather-related disaster, and with high-risk months fast approaching, almost a third of Aussies confess they are not prepared at all for a potential disaster, according to a September poll.The new independent research from Australia Post reveals that when disaster strikes, more than a quarter of Australians say they would turn to Mum first, closely followed by Dad. And when it comes to nominating a ‘household hero’ to create the emergency plan, nearly three in ten households chose Mum, while one in five nominate Dad.  Every day, and during EmergencyRedi week in particular, Australian Red Cross works to remind all Northern Rivers residents of the value in being prepared if disaster strikes. Look out for a 'Prepare' flyer in your letterbox this week, it will be one of 4 million delivered by Australia Post to high-risk areas throughout the country that are likely to be impacted by disaster to raise awareness and drive action. The flyer includes practical and simple tips to help Australians become disaster-ready.Australia Post General Manager of Community & Stakeholder Engagement, Nicky Tracey, said Australia Post’s presence in regional and remote communities allows it to play a unique role in supporting Australians to build their disaster resilience."Our network covers all remote corners of Australia, which means our team members see the impacts of disasters in their communities firsthand.“Our partnership with Australian Red Cross is part of our commitment to Australian communities. Together, we’ve raised vital funds via our Post Offices to support Australians impacted by disaster, as well as building awareness and sharing important information on disaster preparedness.“We know that planning ahead can reduce the impact of an emergency on families and communities, which is why we are working closely with Australian Red Cross to urge people to take the necessary steps to prepare,” Ms Tracey said.The research also highlights what Aussies think the single most essential items to pack in an emergency bag:Important documents such as passports and IDs came out on top, chosen by nearly one in three Australians.First aid kits and water followed closely, with medication also ranking highly.Interestingly, technology like phone chargers was seen as more critical than food, emphasising the importance of staying connected in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. If forced to leave home in just five minutes, more than a third of Aussies said the first thing they would grab is their phone. Pets came a close second, with nearly three in ten saying they’d prioritise taking their furry friends, while one in five would reach for their wallet.Recognising how vital it is to stay connected during emergencies, Australia Post and Australian Red Cross are encouraging Australians to get prepared by completing the co-developed Disaster Quiz on the Australian Red Cross website, with the chance to win an Emergency Radio Torch.With power outages common during disasters, the solar-powered device helps people stay informed through emergency radio updates. The device also acts as a torch and keeps phones charged when they’re needed most.Since 2019, the Australian Red Cross and Australia Post have collaborated to support communities across Australia in building disaster resilience. In 2023, the partnership expanded to support Australian Red Cross’ Pillowcase workshops, an education program for primary school students in high-risk areas. The program teaches children practical skills such as what to pack in their ‘Pillowcase’ emergency kit, as well as how to manage the thoughts and feelings that can arise before, during and after a disaster.Together with Australian Red Cross, Australia Post is encouraging Australians to:Complete the Disaster QuizCreate a household emergency planPack a household emergency kitStart conversations with family members about the importance of being prepared. To take the first step, visit redcross.org.au/prepare.To support Australians impacted by disaster, Australia Post is accepting donations to Australian Red Cross at participating Post Offices or online at auspost.com.au/disaster.

Classic car owners and enthusiasts are in for a treat this Wednesday (17 September) at Humbley Park, corner of Brewster and Uralba Streets in the CBD, when a replica 1925 Citroen stops in Lismore on its way around Australia.In 1925, a small Citroën, nicknamed Bubsie, driven by Nevill Westwood, made history by being the first car to travel right around Australia. To commemorate the 100th anniversary of this historic journey, a group of people funded by the Incredible Journey ministry is replicating the record-breaking trip after restoring a tribute car.Classic car owners from Lismore and the Northern Rivers are asked to bring their classic car along to Humbley Park (opposite the Lismore Square) between 10am and 12noon on Wednesday for an informal car show."If you own a classic car, bring it along to meet Bubsie and be admired alongside her. Entry is free," said local Lynne Waldron."There will also be an after-work display between 6pm and 7pm at the Lismore Seventh-day Adventist Church, 44 Uralba St, Lismore. The evening will finish with a 7pm presentation "Record-breakers", telling Nevill Westwood's story. All are welcome."The Right Around Australia website says:Imagine a world without highways, bridges, or even road signs. No GPS, no mobile phone, no internet. Just a tattered map, a trusty car, and Australia’s vast, untamed landscape. In 1925, two ordinary men, Nevill Westwood and Greg Davies, dared to dream of driving a car right around this incredible continent. Their Citroën 5CV, “Bubsie,” became their companion on this epic adventure, battling scorching heat, mechanical breakdowns, and the sheer isolation of the outback.Nevill Westwood and Greg Davies were two ordinary men with an extraordinary dream, dared to drive a car right around Australia. Their Citroën 5CV, “Bubsie,” became their companion, their lifeline, their ticket to history. They faced scorching heat, mechanical breakdowns, and the sheer isolation of the outback. But their shared laughter, stories, and unwavering support fueled them on. They hoped to inspire others with their journey, sharing stories and books of faith and resilience. To commemorate the 100th anniversary of their historic drive, we’re reliving their adventure, telling their story, and celebrating the courage it took to conquer a continent and the enduring human spirit that makes dreams a reality.(Nevill Westwood and Greg Davies In Perth at the finish of the Right Around Australia journey)The story goes that Nevill bought the second-hand 1923 5CV Citroen in Perth. He named the little car Bubsie and left Perth with his friend, Greg Davies, on 4 August 1925, on his trip around Australia. The original Bubsie can be seen in the National Museum of Australia in Canberra. Check out the replica Citroen journey 100 years later, this Wednesday at Humbley Park between 10 and 12noon as they pause for a night in Lismore before continuing Right Around Australia.

There were two confidential items that were voted on during last week's Lismore City Council meeting. One was to engage a company that specialises in geotechnical support, GHD, to provide professional services for the Flood Restoration portfolio over the two years to the value of $1.978 million. The other was around a new landfill development project.As most Lismore App readers would know, Council has been shipping its landfill waste to Ipswich in Queensland, as have most other local councils, since the 2022 big flood. The damage caused to Cell 2B, the active landfill waste disposal cell at the Lismore Recycling and Recovery Centre at Wyrallah, was fatal until it could be assessed and repaired.Lismore City Council has said the consistent wet weather has hindered any progress towards reopening Cell 2B."The process of drying out the cell has been a significant challenge, taking over three years due to the region's heavy rainfall. On numerous occasions, the cell was nearly fully drained, only to be refilled by another downpour, such as during Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March," a Lismore City Council spokesperson told the Lismore App.  "Continued wet weather since March 2025 has been an ongoing challenge for Council and our Contractor (Pentacon), with works continuing to progress despite weather challenges."Construction company Pentacon was awarded the contract in June for Landfill Cell 2B Main Restoration Works.Council said that works undertaken have included restoration of the cell liner, and installation of new pumps, collection pipework and drainage aggregate throughout the cell to support effective drainage and removal of leachate. The project is on track for completion by December 2025, which is three months ahead of schedule. So, Lismore City Council could be in a position to look after its own landfill waste once again by the end of the year.Once reinstated, Landfill Cell 2B is expected to reach its capacity in 7-10 years, so by 2032 – 2035. This leads us back to last Tuesday's Lismore council meeting.The confidential session on 12.2 was entitled: New Landfill Development ProjectThat Council progress the Landfill Development Project to concept design and business case development, including: a) further technical studies and investigations b) direct consultation with key stakeholders c) engagement with councils through the Northern Rivers Joint OrganisationThe vote was 7/3, with Cr Hall absent. Against were Councillors Guise, Jensen and Waters.Back in December 2024, Lismore City Council Chief Operating Officer Brendan Logan told the Talking Lismore podcast that Blakebrook Quarry was one of those options being explored.At the time, it was said that Blakebrook Quarry is much larger than Wyrallah Road and could lead to regional solutions if the opportunity arose.“Any decision would need to consider environmental constraints and the capacity to accommodate a waste facility and quarry operations simultaneously,” Mr Logan said at the time.The Northern Rivers seven councils, that is, the Local Government Areas of Ballina, Byron, Clarence Valley, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed, have traditionally operated independently, even with the formation of the Northern Rivers Joint Organisation (NRJO) in 2018. The rule of thumb has been every council for itself.The NRJO is designed to facilitate collaboration between local councils and the NSW Government to deliver initiatives that matter most to regional communities. They represent a commitment to collaborate in the long term to develop and support a shared vision for the region.The February 28 2022, big flood may have just been the tipping point for the seven councils to actually put into practice what their intentions are.Blakebrook Quarry may well be a regional solution for the Northern Rivers waste problem. Time will tell.

A man has died following last night's motorcycle crash in East Lismore.About 7.40pm today (Sunday, 14 September 2025), emergency services were called to Ballina Road, East Lismore, following reports a motorcycle had left the road and crashed into a tree.Officers attached to Richmond Police District commenced CPR on the rider, a 30-year-old man, before he was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics; however, he died at the scene.He is yet to be formally identified.Police established a crime scene and commenced an investigation into the crash.A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.As inquiries continue, anyone with information into the crash or dashcam footage is urged to contact police or Crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.Road closures remain in place and the public should expect delays and allow extra travel time.Please monitor livetraffic.com for updates: https://www.livetraffic.com/incident-details/249525.Live Traffic was reporting Ballina Road closed in both directions at 11:21pm on Sunday night.

UPDATE: 11:14PMBallina Road remains closed in both directions.Lismore App reader Alan has got in touch about the closure of Ballina Road at East Lismore in both directions following a motorcycle accident.Live Traffic says the incident began at 7:48pm is between Diadem Street and Dibbs Street/Kellas Street.Eastbound closed at Diadem Street, westbound at Kellas Street.Emergency services and Transport for NSW are in attendance.Local diversions are in place for light vehicles. Heavy vehicles are being parked.More to come.

The number of overdue surgeries has fallen dramatically in the Northern NSW Local Health District from 1606 in June 2022 to 194 in June 2025, a drop of 88 per cent.  Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin MP said the NSW Government has invested more than $200 million over the past year to further reduce the number of patients waiting longer than clinically recommended for planned surgeries.  “Since the establishment of NSW Surgical Care Governance Taskforce in 2023, a range of innovative statewide strategies have been implemented to cut down wait times as well as improve and maintain access to planned surgery.  “This includes the expansion of same-day surgery across NSW.   “The Surgical Care Strategic Committee is continuing the work of the Taskforce to ensure public hospital surgical services in NSW are sustainable and patients can continue to access the care they need in the recommended timeframes.  “I thank local staff for delivering these significant improvements, and I note that the Northern NSW Local Health District results are above the state average,” Ms Saffin said. “While these improvements are promising, there is still more to be done, and we don’t want to see anyone waiting longer than they need for life-changing surgery.”

Legislation to strengthen protections for victim-survivors of sexual abuse and toughen penalties for perpetrators has passed NSW Parliament.The suite of amendments to the Crimes Act 1900, which passed the upper house last night, includes ensuring offenders who either sexually assault someone or indecently interfere with their body after death cannot escape prosecution if the time of death is unknown.The state government thanked the families of Mona Lisa and Jacinta Rose “Cindy” Smith for their tireless advocacy for this reform following their tragic deaths in 1987.Under the amendment, when it is beyond reasonable doubt that one of these two crimes occurred, but it is uncertain which due to the timing of death, the accused will be sentenced according to whichever offence has the lesser maximum penalty.Previously, they would have gone unpunished. The reform is in direct response to the 2024 coronial findings into the girls’ deaths.Other amendments to the Crimes Act, which passed the Legislative Council on Thursday, bring NSW into line with other jurisdictions and respond to gaps in existing legislation including:Raising the threshold for the definition of ‘child’ from 16 to 18 years for child abuse material offences in line with Commonwealth offences.Strengthening laws criminalising female genital mutilation, ensuring they are in line with community expectations. The amendments clearly state that female genital mutilation is a crime regardless of the reason, motivation or age of the victim, while ensuring medically necessary practices are protected.Making it easier to prosecute people who commit sexual acts in the presence of children with improper intent because of the presence of the child.This passage of the Crimes Amendment (Sexual Offences and Female Genital Mutilation) Bill 2025 is part of the NSW Government’s work to build a safer NSW where women and children are protected and perpetrators held to account. Previous reforms include:Making it harder than ever for alleged domestic violence offenders to get bail.Introducing electronic monitoring for alleged serious domestic violence offenders.Strengthening laws to protect against repeated breaches of ADVOs.Making changes to bail courts across New South Wales to ensure bail decisions are made by magistrates and judges – not registers. Attorney General Michael Daley said, ”It is not acceptable for a perpetrator to escape accountability because of a legal technicality.“The passage of this important legislation means the historical injustice inflicted upon the families of Mona and Cindy will never be repeated.“It strengthens protections for victim-survivors while making it easier to hold the perpetrators of sexual violence to account.” Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison, said, “These changes are an important part of the Government’s work to strengthen protections for women and children, as well as holding perpetrators to account for acts of sexual violence.“We are working with stakeholders and advocates to make sure victim-survivors get the protections and support they deserve.”

Food trucks, outdoor fitness trainers and other mobile businesses will be rescued from red tape that stops them moving easily across local council boundaries to do business. Under the new Mutual Recognition Scheme, councils can recognise each other’s approvals for mobile businesses. Once mobile businesses have approval to operate in one council area, they may request recognition across multiple LGAs, without needing to duplicate the process for each new council area.Until now, a mobile business wanting to move from one park or street to another, that happens to be in a different LGA, would face multiple new forms, waiting periods and application fees in each council area. Now, a food truck providing an environmental impact statement, food safety plans, and business registration would only need to submit that detailed information once.Councils will have the discretion to not recognise approvals from other councils if they don’t want to, but they are encouraged to take advantage of the new scheme, which includes the ability to require local conditions to be met.This is the latest push from the NSW Government to cut red tape and costs in order to boost vibrancy across NSW. Outdoor operators, including food trucks, market stalls, buskers and fitness trainers, play an important role in boosting vibrancy and economic activity. This reform will reduce their administrative burden and allow them to meet demand where it exists.This responds to this week’s NSW Productivity and Equality Commissioner’s Review of regulatory barriers impeding a vibrant 24-hour economy, which recommends further reduction in red tape to unlock vibrancy across the state.The Mutual Recognition Scheme builds on the following vibrancy reforms under the Minns Labor Government including supporting more than 20 local councils planning Special Entertainment Precincts, ending single serial noise complaints, extending trading hours for venues that host live entertainment, reducing red tape around entertainment and outdoor spaces, scrapping the 5km sign in rule at clubs and rolling out $14.9 million in Uptown Grants to support entertainment hubs. Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy John Graham said, “Mobile businesses should be mobile, not stuck in unnecessary red tape that stops them moving across imaginary lines.“This is another classic example of unnecessary rules getting in the way of fun and economic activity. We’re on a mission to cut this kind of red tape wherever we find it.“These mobile businesses bring colour and life to our streets, they bring people together and allow businesses to meet changing trends and behaviours. Mutual Recognition is about allowing them to do that without burying them in admin. “Councils are our key partners in the vibrancy agenda – so we’re happy to also ease their paperwork burden through this reform.”Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said, “Councils play an important role in building community connections and making public spaces open and inviting to all. “We should be doing what we can to encourage this and that’s why the government has introduced the Mutual Recognition Scheme.  “For mobile businesses, it means fewer hoops to jump through with council approvals. For councils, it means less paperwork with the added benefit of making it easier to run events and activate public spaces.“The scheme has been designed in close consultation with councils to be flexible and adaptive to local needs.”

Since its establishment by the NSW Government in February 2025, the NSW Rental Taskforce has recovered more than $166,000 in unlawful fees for more than 2,000 renters, issued more than 200 penalty notices totalling just shy of $240,000, and conducted 300 property inspections to check compliance with minimum standards.During that time, the Taskforce also commenced more than 300 investigations, with more than 80 currently ongoing and three court proceedings resulting in the successful prosecution of two people for rental bond fraud. To mark the six months since its inception, the NSW Rental Taskforce is unveiling a new automated compliance monitoring tool which detects unlawful re-letting in near real time.The system began operating in July and uses advanced data-matching to track more than 950,000 rental properties across NSW, cross-referencing landlord reports, rental listings, bond lodgements and tenant complaints.In its first two months, the tool flagged 21 potential breaches of re-letting exclusion periods, which were escalated for further investigation, while more than 2000 properties were added to a watchlist for ongoing compliance monitoring.The intelligence-led approach ensures resources are focused on the highest-risk cases while reducing the burden on compliant landlords and agents, forming part of a broader suite of data-driven initiatives introduced by NSW Fair Trading to strengthen transparency and accountability in the rental market.This includes mandatory landlord reporting on reasons they have ended a lease, end-of-tenancy surveys integrated into the bond claim process, and the popular Rent Check website, which has attracted more than 330,000 visits since launching in September 2024.Education has also been a key focus, with renter awareness of their rights and new laws rising from 33 per cent to 80 per cent during the corresponding education campaign period, bolstered by almost 60 stakeholder events, targeted outreach to Aboriginal and multicultural communities and a surge in website traffic from 35,000 to 330,000 monthly visits.The Government has invested $8.4 million across four years to strengthen compliance and enforcement in the rental market through the Rental Taskforce in NSW Fair Trading.Led by the NSW Rental Commissioner, the 21-person multidisciplinary team includes 14 frontline inspectors dedicated to monitoring and enforcing rental laws, improving transparency, and protecting renters.NSW Fair Trading is committed to protecting renters and ensuring a fair, transparent rental market through strong enforcement and education. To learn more about its compliance and enforcement priorities, please visit: www.nsw.gov.au/fair-trading/compliance-priorities.Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said, “The Taskforce’s results in the first six months speak for themselves – from refunding over $166,000 in illegal fees, to issuing nearly $240,000 in fines, to driving 99 per cent compliance on rent bidding and pet advertising, it is delivering real benefits for renters across the state.“We’re using data and innovation to make compliance easier for honest operators while cracking down on those who break the rules. This is about creating a fairer, more transparent rental market for everyone in NSW.“This new automated tool ensures landlords and agents follow the law by harnessing technology to detect unlawful re-letting in real time so swift action can be taken to protect renters from unfair practices.”NSW Rental Commissioner Trina Jones said, “NSW Fair Trading’s intelligence-led approach means the highest-risk breaches are targeted quickly and effectively, rather than relying on complaints alone. This is smarter regulation in action.“We’ve seen renter awareness jump from 33 to 80 per cent, and that’s critical to making sure people know their rights and where to access help when they need it.“With more than 2200 properties under active monitoring and only 1.1 per cent requiring investigation, instruments like the re-letting tool mean as regulators we can have a greater focus on problem areas without burdening compliant landlords and agents.”

“Moving and inspiring.”  “A beautiful blend of old and new. The connection to land and history is strong and wonderfully presented.”  “Such a beautiful, powerful, and educational exhibition. Curated beautifully and proudly. Amazing work.” These are just a few of the reflections shared by visitors to Bulaan Buruugaa Ngali Exhibition, a touring exhibition that has stirred audiences in Grafton and Tweed Heads. Now, the exhibition will conclude its celebrated regional tour at Lismore Regional Gallery, opening today (13 September).  A major cultural homecoming, the exhibition brings together nine ancestral woven objects—returned to Country from the Australian Museum—with ten newly commissioned works by contemporary Bundjalung, Yaegl, Gumbaynggirr and Kamilaroi (Gamilaroi) artists. For many visitors, it offers a rare opportunity to connect with ancestral belongings made by their grandmothers, great-grandmothers and Elders.   Curated by Bundjalung artist Kylie Caldwell and presented by Arts Northern Rivers, the project is a continuation of cultural reclamation, collective storytelling and community care.   “The Bulaan Buruugaa Ngali Exhibition, a unique and unprecedented local Bundjalung exhibition that celebrates women's stories from ancient to contemporary forms, is sadly on its last leg of the tour,” says Caldwell.“It is the last chance to see the outstanding, dexterous skills of our Bundjalung ancestral weavers. We are impressed with the warm embrace from both Grafton and Tweed Heads community members, whose strong support and appreciation have been instrumental in making this exhibition a success.” Lismore Regional Gallery Director Ashleigh Ralph adds, “Welcoming the Bulaan Buruugaa Ngali Exhibition to Lismore feels like the closing of a circle. As the final stop on its powerful journey across Bundjalung Country, this exhibition offers our community a meaningful opportunity to engage with cultural knowledge that is both ancestral and present. We are honoured to host these significant works—held in the care of the Australian Museum—and through them, reflect on resilience, memory, and the enduring strength of living culture.”   The exhibition features artists Bindimu, Casino Wake Up Time, Janelle Duncan, Madeleine Grace, Lauren Jarrett, Tania Marlowe, Bianca Monaghan, Krystal Randall, Rhoda Roberts AO, Kyra Togo, and Margaret Torrens, each contributing a contemporary fibre work that draws from ancient traditions while speaking to present-day identity and connection to Country.   The Lismore season also arrives at a moment of momentum for several of the exhibiting artists. Curator Kylie Caldwell has recently been selected by the Aboriginal Regional Arts Alliance (ARAA) as one of five leading regional artists to present at the 2025 Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF). This marks a significant moment of national recognition not only for Caldwell herself, but also for NSW First Nations artists more broadly, as ARAA and the Aboriginal Culture, Heritage & Arts Association (ACHAA) bring a strong NSW Mob presence to DAAF for the first time.   Meanwhile, exhibiting artist Bindimu is presenting her first solo exhibition, NUMBUH, at Lone Goat Gallery in Byron Bay (16 August – 13 September). This striking new body of work extends her exploration of woven forms, culture and connection to place. For the Lismore iteration of Bulaan Buruugaa Ngali Exhibition, Bindimu has also created a new sound work; Ngali Yanbala – a sonic reflection of weaving that sings the ancestral objects home, featuring sounds of gathering fibres and weaving on country, as an ode to the skills passed down from Bundjalung foremothers.    Among the works on display are Slumber Party 2022, a collaborative piece by Casino Wake Up Time originally commissioned by the 23rd Biennale of Sydney and Create Australia, as well as their newly completed public woven artwork at Gold Coast Airport.  Lismore-based arts and cultural leader Rhoda Roberts AO describes weaving as more than an artform, but a continuum. A practicing weaver, festival director, curator, writer and broadcaster, Roberts has also contributed a work to the exhibition. Her piece, Continuous Persistence, is made from Lomandra grass harvested on Country.“Weaving is more than art; it’s an essence of the circular rhythm, something continuous, crafted from the provisions of Country,” Roberts says.(Continuous Persistence, Rhoda Roberts AO. Photo: Chloe Van Dorp)Extending this practice into the public realm, Roberts will join Aunty Janelle Duncan and Tania Marlowe to lead a weaving workshop during the exhibition opening event, inviting the community to experience the ancient practice firsthand.  The Bulaan Buruugaa Ngali Exhibition and accompanying book are a community-led project that honours First Nations women’s weaving traditions and cultural reclamation. Roy Gordan was instrumental in providing Bundjalung Language translation associated with weaving throughout the publication, giving the title of both the book and the exhibition, and a glossary of words for language continuation.By sharing interwoven stories across three regional galleries, the exhibition plays a vital role in preserving and celebrating an unbroken lineage of ancestral knowledge.