Lismore's Back Alley Gallery along Eggins Lane has been devoid of businesses for quite some time. Mostly, it is used as a service or loading lane for a number of Keen Street premises.In two weeks' time, that is about to change when the new Blah Bar opens at 25 Eggins Lane, opposite the drop-off point for the Salvos Carrington Street shop.The Blah Bar is the brainchild of two brothers, Pat and Eddie Stanton.The unusual name stuck when Pat was tired of talking about what he should name his new business."I was trying to come up with names, and every suggestion I had, you'd either have people that would like it or people that wouldn't like it. You can't make people happy, and I'm a bit of a people pleaser. Out of frustration, I was just sick of talking about it, actually, blah blah blah."I was going to go Blah Blah Bar, but then I was like, No, that's too much."This is Pat's first foray into opening up a business; his history is working in kitchens as a chef around the Northern Rivers. Pat wanted to get out of the kitchen and start something of his own with his brother."What we wanted to create was an eclectic spot, something that was like, you're still in the laneway when you come in here. Council put a lot of money into the laneway; they were quite pleased when I approached them with the idea of doing this, just because no one's opening businesses in the laneway."I was walking around town at the beginning of the year when I was planning on opening up like a restaurant or a cafe, and I thought, what's the point? There's quite a few of them, but there's nothing that actually brings people in to eat at these places. So I thought, I'll just open a little bar with a bit of food and maybe put on a little bit of live music. And slowly, people started catching word of it, and it sort of took on a life of its own.The Lismore community got in Pat's ear as he moved from his initial concept to the end business plan."My intention was to have a nice, quiet life and just put out a bit of good food, some cheap drinks, and just have a spot. But the people of Lismore are just creative people.""To be honest, all the musicians in town were desperate for a set spot to go play at. So, I started looking into it, and I said, All right, I'll make some adjustments to what I want to do. I don't have a choice now but to make it a live music venue, which wasn't my intention.The space is relaxed, low-key, with second-hand furniture, a pool table, and community art and graffiti adorning the walls. The stage is a small set-up that can be easily set up or taken down."We're not going to do a whole lot more to the place. We're going to have paint pens out so people can draw on the walls. We're going to get some local artists in to do murals, but people can draw and sticker stuff."We're not here to try and steal customers from somewhere else. The idea is to add to things, you know. People can come here for a bite to eat and a drink, and then go to another bar for a cocktail and a nice wine in a nicer environment. Or, if you want a beer on tap, there's pubs. Our idea is to fit in and create something that's not really here for people. Not everyone wants to sit in a flashy place and have cocktails. Some people just want to come to a grimy spot and have a good bit of finger food and drink a beer from a can and listen to music."Pat and Eddy plan on offering simple food, beer from a can, wine and cocktails."I'd like to potentially look at opening the kitchen up to have chefs come in and do like a kitchen takeover for the day, where they can do their own little thing as a function. They take their sales, and we'll take our sales and just sort of work by promoting others. We're interested in working with other businesses in the area."We're running just cans. We're not going to have kegs or anything like that. It's going to be a very simple, simple menu that is affordable. The Same with the drinks."The food will be more like a couple of substantial meals, like burgers, but not like burgers do, something nicer, and then probably a range of skewers. We're looking at maybe going with a Middle Eastern flair on it, because there's not a lot of Middle Eastern in town doing lamb skewers and sort of chicken shawarma and that sort of thing. And then make some falafel, and make our own fresh dips and things to go with it."So, all things like that, little finger food kind of stuff. And again, trying to keep it as low as possible.""We'll have wines, and we'll have cocktails. I've got a small distillery with a friend down in Orange, so we'll be doing a lot of brandy-based stuff. We've got a lot of brandy to move. We want to try and bring back the 70s brandy, which has a lot of nice brandy cocktails. So where we're going to aim to do that again, and that will keep the cost down. It means that we can sell affordable cocktails that won't break your bank every night."The doors will open for the first time on Saturday, November 21, and then will be open seven days a week from 2pm. Pat and Eddie do have neighbours, so they have soundproofed their room as best they can, passing soundproof tests, but want to be respectful of neighbouring businesses and upstairs tenants."When a lot of the food places close, we'll open, then we'll serve food from then. We're not really allowed to have loud music until about 6pm, when they're done upstairs most days by about four anyway, so we just keep in contact with them and then they let us know when they're done, and we can turn the music up."We want to try and operate when there's nothing happening in town. When you come in on Sunday or Monday, it's just dead, and I'm sure people want something to do, but there's just nothing to do to bring them in. So, we're going to start doing Sunday sessions, just start with bands and music on a Sunday."We have bands from Sweden, bands from America, and we've got bands from Japan interested in playing here. So, a few international acts want to play. Bands coming down from Brissie. We've been put in contact with a guy that runs a clubhouse. He's got an excess of bands that have nowhere to play between the Gold Coast and wherever they're travelling, so people are desperate for a venue."Pat and Eddie want to create a safe space for everyone, so there is one rule."Just don't be a dickhead, basically, or be a good dickhead. Good dickheads keep the bad dickheads out."The Blah Bar will open on Saturday, November 21, at 25 Eggins Lane, Lismore CBD, in the Back Alley Gallery. Check them out, and support another new business that is helping to grow the Lismore CBD.

The Australian government is considering lowering the default speed limit on country roads without signage from 100 km/h to as low as 70 km/h to reduce the national road toll. This proposal is part of a national road safety initiative that suggests the move could prevent thousands of deaths and injuries, according to government modelling.The move has drawn criticism from groups like the NRMA, the NSW Country Mayors Association and NSW Farmers. NSW Farmers told a Senate inquiry yesterday that better roads, not slower trucks, are what’s needed to reduce the surging road toll in the regions.Studies have shown farm workers are four times more likely to die on the nation’s roads than any other driver, with NSW’s local roads facing a $3.4 billion backlog in repairs. Serious investment in local road funding was long overdue, NSW Farmers’ Business Economics and Trade Committee Chair John Lowe said, with broader solutions to road repair still nowhere in sight. “Drivers have been forced to navigate dangerous potholes, uneven surfaces and other serious hazards on our roads for far too long, and we simply can’t continue with roads like this,” Mr Lowe said. “Serious and sustainable funding to fix our local roads, our truck rest stops, our overtaking lanes and our bridges is money well spent, because it could save lives.”Efficient and connected rail networks were also urgently needed to reduce the pressure trucks were placing on the state’s roads, NSW Farmers said, with better driver education and expanded mobile coverage also key to improve road safety.“Trucks are only adding to the wear and tear on our roads, and rail lines, in the right place, in the right condition, will really take the heat off,” Mr Lowe said. “Drivers also need to have the skills to drive to the conditions, and the ability to call for help when they need to, no matter where they are in the state.“We’ve got a long road ahead to improve our road safety – but it’s only by addressing the root causes of the problem, that we can keep our regional communities safe.”

With global teacher shortages at an all-time high, retaining and recruiting teachers to the education sector is critical. Yet with fragmented support and inconsistent induction processes, nearly a fifth of early-career teachers choose to leave within five years.Education experts at the University of South Australia say that to address teacher shortages, Australia must develop stronger government policies focused on the retention and career development of early-career teachers, particularly those in casual and short-term contract roles. In a new study – conducted in partnership with Western Sydney University, Griffith University, RMIT, and Monash University – researchers examined education induction policies for casual and contract early career teachers from 2016 and 2023, finding that while progress had been made, significant gaps and inequities remained. Chief researcher and member of the UniSA’s Centre for Research in Educational and Social Inclusion, Professor Anna Sullivan, says government policy makers and schools must improve induction procedures for all teacher cohorts. “Casual and contract teachers are essential to the teacher workforce. They cover everything from teacher absenteeism to professional learning and administrative duties, and without them, schools would struggle to deliver effective teaching and learning,” Prof Sullivan says. “Yet the current policy responses do little to recognise or support casual relief or short-term contract teachers. “Our study shows that current teacher induction guidelines mainly cater for teachers with secure employment, creating systemic inequities for those in casual or contract roles. “The irony is that more than half of early career teachers are employed in casual or on short-term contracts. If we don’t appropriately support new teachers entering the profession, retention issues will continue.” UNESCO reports an urgent need for 44 million primary and secondary teachers worldwide by 2030. To safeguard the quality and sustainability of the education workforce, policymakers must urgently introduce and prioritise mandated induction support structures, targeted development pathways, and systemic human resource reform for substitute and temporary teachers. UniSA PhD researcher, Emily Rowe, says the education system must provide support and professional learning for all early career teachers, not just permanent staff. “Effective induction relies on teachers having long-term, continuous employment at one school where they can access regular mentoring, establish relationships, and gain support to develop professional practices,” Rowe says. “Yet the reality is that only 45% of casual relief teachers receive a formal induction. Many early-career teachers experience alienation, culture shock, and a lack of systemic support. “Current induction guidelines place responsibility on teachers to manage their own career progression by building networks and collecting evidence for their portfolios. This puts the onus on new teachers to guide their own induction, rather than receive structured support from schools when they need it most. “Education systems need to nurture talent to keep it. This is vital for attracting and retaining teachers and ensuring that they have fulfilling and long-term careers.”

Government spending on public health activities in Australia is returning to previous levels after surging during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a new report published today by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). The report, Government expenditure on public health activities in Australia 2023–24, presents a new decade-long view of funding by the Australian Government and state and territory governments between 2013–14 and 2023–24.Public health expenditure is a component of Australia’s broader health spending that focuses on preventing disease, promoting health and protecting populations, rather than treating individuals. Total government expenditure on public health activities in Australia was $5.4 billion in 2023–24, a 30% or $2.3 billion decrease from 2022–23. This equates to $201 per person. The proportion of government public health expenditure to total government health expenditure was 2.9% in 2023–24, similar to pre-pandemic levels, and below the 5% target envisaged in the National Preventive Health Strategy. ‘Public health spending grew modestly during the pre-pandemic period, rising 2.5% each year on average,’ said AIHW spokesperson Geoff Callaghan. ‘This growth accelerated significantly during COVID-19, peaking in 2020–21, before returning to pre-pandemic levels.’ Of the $5.4 billion spent in 2023–24, the Australian government funded $3.4 billion, and state and territory governments contributed $2.0 billion. In 2023–24, organised immunisation and communicable disease control continued to account for the highest levels of expenditure, at $2.4 billion and $0.9 billion. Over the 10-year period, the fastest growth rate occurred in communicable disease control in 2020–21, which rose by about 280% in real terms from 2019–20, mainly driven by government spending on the COVID-19 response. ‘This report is a new and important resource for tracking how governments respond financially to emerging public health threats and how that spending evolves over time,’ Mr Callaghan said.The AIHW has recently published the following health expenditure reports: Health expenditure Australia 2023–24Health system spending on disease and injury in Australia 2023–24Health system spending per case of disease and for certain risk factors

As most readers may know, the Nationals made an announcement on Sunday that it will formally abandon a commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2050. The Nats say they are putting Australians first, announcing a plan for cheaper electricity, secure jobs and lower emissions. Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan said it would deliver the lowest possible electricity prices for Australian households and businesses, while maintaining reliability and lowering emissions.“Labor’s ‘net zero’ policy means everyone is paying more for power in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis,” Mr Hogan said.“Families are paying too much. Jobs are being lost. Forests and farmland are being destroyed. Labor’s net zero has failed.“That’s why we will abandon a Net Zero commitment, and have adopted a cheaper, better and fairer energy and climate plan.“Our plan is cheaper because we will lower energy prices first, use all of our resources and abandon the commitment to net zero.“Our plan is better because we will protect our forests and farmland that are being destroyed by the reckless renewable rollout.“Our plan is fairer because we will reduce emissions in line with comparable nations, not ahead of them. We will ensure that costs are distributed fairly, not concentrated on regional Australia.“Australian families and businesses deserve a reliable energy system that keeps costs down and supports local jobs, especially in our regional communities.”You can read more details about the National's Powering Australia First plan by clicking: https://powering.au/.

The NSW Government is streamlining and accelerating the roll-out of essential equipment - including temporary shelters, generators and clean water systems – to support communities in their recovery when disaster strikes.A Disaster Recovery Standing Panel will be created to list trusted suppliers who can rapidly deliver essential goods and services to local communities in the aftermath of floods, bushfires, storms and other weather events.The Panel will help speed up and coordinate the procurement of resources, assisting communities in their recovery by ensuring critical equipment is ready wherever needed.The NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) is inviting expressions of interest (EOIs) from capable suppliers to join the Disaster Recovery Standing Panel. Local small businesses are encouraged to put forward applications.The first phase is focused on equipment hire, including temporary shelters, fencing, generators, lighting, portable bathrooms and water purification equipment.Businesses successful in joining the Disaster Recovery Standing Panel will have the opportunity to be part of a network that is ready to help when communities need support most.To apply, businesses must have a valid ABN and be registered as a supplier on the buy.nsw platform.Applications for the EOI opened on 29 October and close on 21 November and can be submitted directly via the Opportunities Hub on buy.nsw.gov.au.Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said, “Disasters can strike without warning – but the Disaster Recovery Standing Panel will help make sure we’re a step ahead.“We have learned from past disasters that getting critical resources on the ground quickly is essential for communities to begin their recovery.“This initiative offers businesses, including local small businesses, a meaningful opportunity to play a key role in disaster recovery and contribute to creating more resilient communities across NSW.” NSW Reconstruction Acting Head of Preparedness and Recovery Ashlee Abbott said, “Every minute counts when disaster strikes. This proactive approach means we’ll no longer be chasing suppliers after the fact – the equipment and capability will already be ready to go.“This approach connects trusted suppliers directly with the communities that need them most. “It ensures we can tap into local capability quickly, while giving businesses the chance to be part of the recovery effort.”

The Lismore CBD is set to gain its first large-format discount pharmacy when a new look Brand's Pharmacy opens in late January 2026, following recent approval from the Pharmacy Council of NSW.The site is in the Quickstop buildings off Ballina Road, at the Dawson Street roundabout. A site that used to be home to Subway, Domino's, Asian Takeaway, and the Grill Shack before the 2022 big flood wiped out all retail, except for Zambrero's, which is not the only shop open.Brand's was always going to move from its Molesworth Street premises, as the building has been up for sale since February this year.New owner, Kyle Wood, Managing Partner and Pharmacist at Southside Chempro, told the Lismore App that the new site will be about 700 m2 once the internal walls are knocked out.'It's a big site. The retail area will be about 500 square metres, so it's by far our biggest pharmacy in the area. I think it'll be one of the biggest pharmacies within the group (Chempro). We've got almost 200 pharmacies in the group, and it will be, by size, one of the biggest pharmacies in the area."(The entire length of the Quickstop precinct building will be the new Brand's Pharmacy)The reason for the move from Moelsworth Street and the large style format was to be different from other CBD pharmacies."Brand's Pharmacy is well known in the community, but when Greg wanted to sell it, we were obviously very interested in that. But the current site has several limitations, including access for customers, parking, and also just the limitations on stock and the stuff that we can keep on site for the business. So moving it to a new site gives a lot better parking, a lot better access for people, and it allows us to just to expand our range in what we want to do."We have a couple of pharmacies in the area, and each pharmacy has its own unique offerings. Places like this are very centred around extra service provision and all those other unique things. But we recognise that there is a lot of competition in that sort of discount pharmacy space. So, what we want to do is still provide the great level of service that place is renowned for, but we would like to provide an offering for people that are very, very price sensitive.""So we'll be leveraging the purchasing power and the back end of the Chempro operation to help make that possible."As was mentioned earlier, the retail space is 500 m2 of retail space, which is on the ground floor. That leaves 200 m2 on the top floor for storage and a flood plan."Upstairs won't be available to the public, but we'll be using that as a flood protection sort of thing. We'll be using that as storage if we need to put things upstairs, we will have an office up there for bits and pieces, and that is also part of our flood plan. We're also looking at other ways that we can use that space productively.There is still a lot of work to be done for the new Brand's Pharmacy to open by late January 2026"There's significant amounts of work to happen there, but I'm hoping to use the tradies that we've got good relationships with. We'll hopefully get our final approval, and we're tentatively locking in an inspection date with the regulators for mid-January. We have to do that before we can load it up with stock and actually move over there."Hopefully, it will look like a pharmacy without stock by mid-January, and then as soon as they do that, it'll be a race to get it full and get trading."The new, large-format Brand's Pharmacy is another example of Lismore entering a period of growth.

As the Northern Rivers prepares to mark the annual global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (November 25 to December 10), the Lismore and Northern Rivers community is invited to come together for a powerful evening of celebration and purpose at the annual Women Up North Gala, to be held this Saturday (8th of November) at the Lismore Workers Club. Hosted by Women Up North Housing Inc. (WUNH), the gala will raise critical funds for women, young people, and children experiencing and at risk of Domestic Violence and the Bugalma Bihyn Aboriginal Women’s Refuge, a culturally safe and trauma-informed space for women and children escaping domestic and family violence.The 2024 Gala raised a very generous $70,000, so there are high expectations again in 2025.The event comes at a time when domestic violence rates in regional NSW are rising at alarming levels. According to the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research, domestic violence-related assaults have increased by up to 24% in some regional areas, with Northern NSW among the hardest hit. In the 12 months to June 2025, 11 children were killed in domestic violence incidents—the highest number in a decade [bocsar.nsw.gov.au].“This is not just a gala—it’s a call to action,” said Jillian Knight-Smith, Executive Officer of Women Up North. “We are seeing more women and children in crisis than ever before. The community’s support is vital to ensure we can continue to provide safe housing and support services.”The gala will feature live entertainment, guest speakers, dinner, raffles, and auctions—all in support of WUNH’s mission to provide safety, dignity, and hope to women across the region.Event Details:Date: Saturday, 8th November 2025Venue: Lismore Workers ClubTime: From 6:00 PMTickets: Available by clicking here or by calling 02 6621 7730Dress Code: Formal / GlamorousTheme: Empowerment & ResilienceThe gala also serves as a lead-in to the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign running from 25 November to 10 December, which calls for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls. In NSW, the campaign is supported by local councils and organisations through events, education, and community engagement. “By attending the gala, you’re not only supporting a local cause—you’re joining a global movement,” Knight-Smith added. “Together, we can create a future where every woman and child is safe, respected, and free.”

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for damaging winds, large hailstones and heavy rainfall for Kyogle, Casino and other western parts of the Northern Rivers.It has not put out a warning for Lismore and the coast; however, it would not be surprising if that changes in the next hour or so as troughs move across the state from the northwest.The highly unstable weather environment is likely to produce damaging winds, large hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Safety adviceThe State Emergency Service advises that people should:* Move your car under cover or away from trees.* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.* Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.* Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill.* Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall.* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.* Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.* Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.* After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.* Unplug computers and appliances.* Avoid using the phone during the storm.* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.The next warning is due to be issued by 9:30 pm.

Christmas Santa Mail is back for another magical year, and children across Australia are once again invited to hand-deliver their Christmas wish lists at their local Post Office.From today, young Santa fans can drop off their letters in store and receive a special reply from the North Pole, plus a festive Pip the Koala Christmas ornament to take home and hang proudly on the tree.Australia Post is encouraging families to join in the much-loved tradition by helping little ones write a letter to Santa, seal it in an envelope (no stamp or return address required), and deliver it to a participating Post Office.To make sure replies arrive before Santa takes flight on Christmas Eve, here’s how it works:Write your letter: Kids can tell Santa what’s on their wish list and share something they’re proud of this year.Drop it off: Head to your local Post Office and hand over the letter.Receive the magic: Each child will receive a reply from Santa along with a Pip the Koala ornament to keep as a special Christmas memento. If your child has already posted their letter to Santa, they can still drop by a Post Office to collect their reply and keepsake.Josh Bannister, Executive General Manager Retail, Brand and Marketing at Australia Post, said the excitement of Santa Mail continues to delight Australians of all ages.“Santa Mail is a treasured tradition for families and something our team looks forward to every year. Seeing children’s faces light up when they hand over their letters is what makes Christmas so magical. We’re proud to help Santa spread a little magic across Australia once again,” said Mr Bannister.Australia Post has also released two new Christmas stamp ranges to help customers share festive cheer.Australia Post’s secular Christmas stamp series features colourful designs that show Santa arriving at dusk as Little Penguins don festive hats and add gifts to a growing pile of presents, while pelicans carry baubles to join in the celebration. The range includes two 65c stamps (‘Santa’ and ‘Presents’) and a $3 international stamp, with a separate religious set also available.

It has been five years since founder John Stewart opened the first Living School in Lismore on Conway Street, opposite the NSW TAFE site.John's goal was to have three sites operational: Conway Street for Years 1, 2, 3 and 4, the Lismore CBD for Years 5, 6, 7 and 8, with The Academy, Years 9, 10, 11 and 12, moving into a purpose-built building at Southern Cross University at Block E.Stages 1 and 2 have been completed. Block E has only recently completed renovations, with students on campus utilising the new learning space.The CBD premises ran into some delays since John purchased the Brown & Jolly building on Woodlark Street in 2021. COVID, the 2022 floods and planning delays have meant his dream of integrating the Living School into the community in Lismore's CBD needed to be pushed back.That is all about to change, as John recently received approval from the Regional Planning Committee. Construction can now begin, not only on the Brown & Jolly building, but also on the buildings in the laneways behind it.Now that the DA has been approved, John wants the community to understand his concept and plans for the Living School's middle-year students, so he is holding a community meeting this Wednesday (5 November) at 10 County Lane, Lismore CBD from 5:30pm. One of the buildings that will be part of the new Living School Middle School campus.The invitation says, "We’d love for you to join us at our open Q&A event — an evening to see the vision, share your thoughts, and connect with neighbours and local businesses as we discuss how the school intends to support the wider Lismore community."John told the Lismore App that the planning has taken years, but now there is excitement within the team."The focus and the scope was to ensure that we meet all the right requirements and regulations, and it's now activated, and we're ready to move."As you would expect, there are a lot of conditions that go with a school moving into Lismore's CBD."We're dealing with Years 5 to 8, so it's not young children. But how do we manage traffic, the pedestrian approach, flood? We've had a really thorough understanding of how we manage floods. And as we always said, you can be in the centre of town if you know how to manage floods properly and appropriately and build with that conscience. And that's what we're doing."One of the community's concerns is that the CBD will see a multitude of cars on Woodlark Street as parents drop off and pick up their children from school."We don't want cars in the middle of town. In fact, the place where we're in is the Back Lane Gallery, so imagine the learning as you're walking through that space."We want to push this understanding that to be a community, you've got to have people in a community in that central business district, and so we have to familiarise children with walking along footpaths again, we have to familiarise children that they can ride to work, ride to school, and that the cycleways around Lismore are safe, and we have to make sure that they can explore their public facilities and amenities not from the window of a car.""So, the Living School is about this intentionally designed pedagogy around kids connecting with community."This Wednesday evening community meeting is so John can impart his vision and to answer any community concerns."We're talking about what the Brown & Jolly activation means and what we're looking to achieve. People will always have concerns. We listen, but we're navigating that to make sure that people understand that the whole purpose and the intention of Living School is to be embedded in the heart of a town."The whole intention of Living School is to connect kids with community. I mean, we cannot improve our future communities without kids being active participants in that community, and the elders of a community seeing kids not as a pack, but as a group of children who want to learn and share their learning with the community. It's logical."John spoke about the history of schools in the CBD of Lismore and many other towns, and the economic and social benefits it will bring to Lismore."My focus is to ensure that our town is a regional centre. And if you look at what the council's plans were through to 2036, it's a city of learning. Everything we're doing is around the strategic goals of not just John Stewart, strategic goals of our council and our state government."Lismore is uniquely different to our ribbon development at the coast. Lismore is a CBD that is a grid pattern. It's got arcades, it's got this amazing facility of people being able to access the diversity of shops, restaurants, facilities and services. It's a central piece that means you walk around a square."I just see it as intentionally designed around bringing a community back together again. And I tell you, we need it. We've got people who do not go out. We've got people who can Uber food in, they can play Fortnite or games for longer than they can be at school. If that's the world we want, we've got detachment. If we want a community, you have to have connection and you've got to have understanding and support."If you have any concerns, questions or just want to learn more about the Living School and how the students will be part of the CBD community, get yourself along to 10 County Lane on Wednesday at 5:30pm. Food and refreshments will be supplied, so click here to register yourself.Event detailsLiving School's Brown & Jolly Development Q&AWhen: Wednesday 5th NovemberWhere: 10 County LaneFood and refreshments providedPlease RSVP using this Eventbrite link.

Lismore roads are having more work done than Joan Rivers had plastic surgery. The difference being, Lismore roads need the work to be completed.Transport for NSW has advised that the final road surface seal work on the Lismore Bangalow Road will start this evening, causing changed traffic conditions.From this evening (Monday, 3 November), work will be carried out on the Lismore Bangalow Road between the Binna Burra Flood Immunity and Hilltop Flood Immunity project areas, Binna Burra. Work will be carried out from 6pm to 5am and is expected to be completed in two nights, weather permitting.Single lane, alternating traffic flow arrangements and a reduced speed limit of 60km/h will be in place during and after work hours for the safety of motorists and workers.Motorists should allow up to ten minutes’ extra travel time.Motorists are advised to drive according to traffic conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.For more information on this work, visit https://www.livetraffic.com/incident-details/253949, download the Live Traffic NSW App or call 132 701. To receive updates direct to your phone, search for ‘Binna Burra’ in your Live Traffic app, select the incident and click ‘Follow’.

On 15 November, the Northern Rivers Wildlife Hospital will host its inaugural Call of the Wild – Live Charity Auction, giving the community a chance to bid on the lifesaving work the hospital does every day.From funding an overnight stay for a patient to supporting a week’s worth of food and care, locals can help make this critical work possible.Hosted by much-loved Australian broadcaster Angela Catterns, the evening will be led by Sotheby’s auctioneer Denzil Lloyd and will combine spirited bidding with art, music and storytelling, all in support of the Northern Rivers Wildlife Hospital, a community-funded, purpose-built hospital located on beautiful crown land at the heart of seven local government areas (Ballina, Byron, Clarence Valley, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed).Spring has brought an overwhelming number of sick, injured and orphaned animals through the hospital’s doors, and the need for community support has never been greater.The Call of the Wild auction is an opportunity to raise vital funds to continue providing life-saving care for native wildlife across the Northern Rivers.General Manager Bronte Potts says the event comes at a crucial time.“Spring has always been trauma season for wildlife, but this year we are really being pushed. Our hospital has been overflowing with patients, and our team has worked tirelessly to provide the best possible care."What makes this night so special is that people can not only bid on beautiful artworks and experiences in our silent auction but also take part in a Sotheby’s live auction where every bid will fund lifesaving work at the hospital, like feeding a patient for a week, sponsoring an overnight stay, or supporting a vet for a month."It means every dollar raised goes straight back to caring for wildlife. Our wildlife can’t ask for help, but we can give it, and stepping up to protect them also safeguards the biodiversity of our region.”She added: “I’d love to see as many of our neighbours, rescuers, carers and community members as possible join us on the night. It’s not just a fundraiser, it’s a celebration of what we can achieve together for our local wildlife.”Every ticket, every bid, and every donation helps fund the treatment and rehabilitation of wildlife across the region.Event Details: Call of the WildSaturday 15 November, 6.00 - 9.00pm Marvell Hall, 37 Marvell St, Byron Bay. Tickets are $35.Learn more about the Northern Rivers Wildlife Hospital by clicking here.

There has been a bit of news in Lismore and the NRs surrounding counterfeit money that has been circulating in our local economy. What you may not be aware of is that counterfeit postage stamps are also in use, and Australia Post is looking to stop the practice by implementing a Counterfeit Detection Tool designed to authenticate stamps, stamped satchels, and prepaid satchels sold online.The tool automatically identifies counterfeit Australia Post postage, supporting near real-time analytics of counterfeit products. To date, the tool has detected hundreds of counterfeit products, removing several million dollars’ worth of counterfeit items from online marketplaces.Australia Post General Manager Group Security, Kevin Zuccato, said the quantity of counterfeit postage in circulation is deeply concerning and those who knowingly produce, sell, or use counterfeit postage risk prosecution.“Counterfeit postal products aren’t new, but we are seeing a significant increase in their circulation. Our new tool allows us to efficiently identify and promptly remove fraudulent products online. Not only are we scanning for counterfeit stamps, but we’re also watching for fraudulent stamped satchels and prepaid satchels.“The message is simple, use fraudulent postage products and it’s unlikely your parcel or letter will reach its final destination. The safest way to avoid buying counterfeit products is to purchase stamps and satchels directly from any Post Office across Australia or via the Australia Post Online Shop.“The Australia Post network is made up of over 4,000 Post Offices of which 2,700 are Licensed Post Offices who operate as their own small business. They rely on Australians buying stamps and satchels from their Post Office so they can continue to deliver for their communities. Buying counterfeit stamps and satchels is a risk to their viability and livelihood so we’d encourage everyone to support your local Post Office by purchasing directly,” Mr Zuccato said.Australia Post’s two-pronged approach to counterfeit detection includes working closely with Australian Border Force to detect and intercept Australia Post counterfeit goods entering the country, disrupting illegal activity before it reaches consumers. Once intercepted, counterfeit product is taken to a dedicated Australia Post facility that analyses differences in quality and verifies the presence of security features like watermarks.

The Bureau of Meteorology has updated its severe thunderstorm warning for large hailstones, damaging winds and heavy rainfall to include Lismore and most of the Northern Rivers.Moisture and instability to the east of a surface trough has been promoting the development of severe thunderstorm activity this afternoon, but mainly in the tablelands, around Tenterfield and Tabulam.At 6:03, the BoM has moved the warnings to the east, covering most of the Northern Rivers and as far south as Coffs Harbour, including Grafton, which has felt the impact earlier this afternoon.The BoM reported that:Grafton recorded 70mm in 30 minutes to 5:57pm.North Dorrigo (west of Coffs Harbour) reported 6-7cm hail at 3:20pmEmmaville (west of Grafton) reported 5-6cm hail at 1:40pm.VERY DANGEROUS THUNDERSTORMS are likely to produce heavy, locally intense rainfall that may lead to dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding, large hailstones and damaging winds over the next several hours in parts of the Northern Rivers district. Locations which may be affected include Grafton, Maclean and Ulmarra.Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce large hailstones and damaging winds over the next several hours in the Northern Rivers, Northern Tablelands and parts of the Mid North Coast, Hunter, North West Slopes and Plains, Central Tablelands and Central West Slopes and Plains districts. Locations which may be affected include Lismore, Grafton, Armidale, Tamworth, Tenterfield and Gunnedah.Safety adviceThe State Emergency Service advises that people should:* Move your car under cover or away from trees.* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.* Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.* Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill.* Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall.* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.* Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.* Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.* After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.* Unplug computers and appliances.* Avoid using the phone during the storm.* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.The next warning is due to be issued by 9:05 pm.

If you are driving along the Bruxner Highway at Wollongbar on Sunday or Monday night, be aware of roadworks that will affect traffic conditions.From Sunday, 2 November, work will be carried out on the Bruxner Highway between Lindendale Road and Sneaths Road, Wollongbar.Work will be carried out at night from 6pm to 5am and is expected to be completed in two nights, weather permitting.Single lane, alternating traffic flow arrangements and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h will be in place during work hours for the safety of motorists and workers.Motorists should allow up to ten minutes’ extra travel time.Motorists are advised to drive to traffic conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.For more information on this work visit https://www.livetraffic.com/incident-details/253361, download the Live Traffic NSW App or call 132 701.To receive updates direct to your phone, search for ‘Wollongbar’ in your Live Traffic app, select the incident and click ‘Follow’.

Mayor Steve Krieg was joined by Deputy Mayor Jeri Hall for the latest Talking Lismore podcast, where we discuss all things Lismore.On a rainy weekend, click on the link (website version https://talkinglismore.buzzsprout.com/) and listen at home or in the car.This week, topics included the Richmond River Historical Society, trains versus the rail trail, the Lismore airport, sewage treatment plant, the waste facility and the upcoming Eat The Street food festival on November 15.Richmond River Historical SocietyThere appears to be a divide between the Richmond River Historical Society members and Lismore City Council; however, Mayor Krieg said not everyone was unhappy with the new lease being signed for the Goonellabah building."It is really interesting, you say that they're unhappy. I've been down to the municipal building a number of times, and I've actually been speaking to one of their longest-serving members down there, who was by himself getting things moved up to Goonellabah. He was saying that he is actually not disappointed with the move. He's actually happy to be flood-free, and his messaging was hopefully this political handballing will stop now that leases have been signed, and they've got a home. They've requested for years to have a flood-free home.""His message was, we're actually glad. The majority of members are actually glad that they've got a flood-free place to be. It's sad that it's played out in social media circles and different things like this, because Council is fully supportive of the Historical Society where they're going."And it was raised in the meeting, it comes at a cost. Council supports not only this organisation, but some 46 community groups across the LGA, and for whatever reason, council seems to be the easy target, the big, bad bullies, all of that sort of stuff, we don't support this, that and the other. It's so far from the truth, it's not funny. And when you saw the list of demands that particular group, or elements of that particular group gave the council, there was literally not one council-owned asset that fitted every single criteria they had. Not even the Municipal building."Number one on their list was flood-free land, or a flood-free property. And the Municipal building went underwater. Didn't get to the second floor, granted, but it still was affected by the flood, hence the major restoration work that got undertaken there."As a council, we've got to do the best thing, not only for those 46 community groups, but also for the 46,000 people that call the Lismore LGA home. And we've got to be accountable to our ratepayers. And my number one message, Jeri's number one message to the staff, to the organisation, is that word accountability. We have to take accountability for the decisions that we make and be responsible and financially responsible, because we have inherited an absolute mess of a council. That's no surprise to anyone, and we've got to turn a ship around whilst trying to recover from Australia's biggest natural disaster and build what I want to see is the greatest Regional Centre in New South Wales into the future and and therefore, we have to be responsible and accountable for the services we provide to the community groups that ask us for support."The key to understanding council's position when it comes to assets is the release of the Property Strategy. When will the community see that report?"The property strategy is something that I thought wasn't going to be this drawn out to be honest with you, if I can speak frankly about it. Clearly and again, I've mentioned earlier what we inherited when we were elected, these are the sorts of things that you think you should be able to go to a register and pull out every property that your organisation has possession of. Clearly, that's not the case. So, we're building this portfolio from the ground up. We're finding things out that we didn't even know that we owned, and so putting all of that together and then developing a strategy as to best use, again, takes a bit of time, and I know that there will be vocal critics saying that it's all about the conservatives privatising everything and whatever, and again, that's people's opinions, and they're entitled to them as a council."Again, I say that we have to be financially responsible, and we've got to be accountable to our 46,000 residents here. And if we're carrying 200 properties and we only need 65 of them, what are we hanging on to the other 135 for? There's certainly better use than Council mowing them every fortnight, or whatever the case may be, so to me, when we can actually find out exactly what we own, what those properties best uses are, then we can make a decision as an elected body to move forward and to put Council in a far better position in for the long term."Rail Trail v TrainsAnother controversial Council meeting topic was the rail trail versus the trains. At the last meeting council voted to not support the Northern Rivers Rail Limited in its attempts to bring back the trains."Again, I will say that council has a responsibility to their ratepayers. The State Government has responsibility for transportation, and that's why we have an organisation called Transport for New South Wales. That is their job. "Council can only do so much in this space, and I think I mentioned it in the council meeting when I spoke to this, I love the old steam trains I would love to see, and I use the example of Puffing Billy outside of Melbourne, which is a really big tourist attraction, and it runs on a 20 kilometre train line, or something like that. They have foot races once a year to try and beat Puffing Billy. It's really quite a good thing, and would I love to see that as a person, yes. As the mayor and as a councillor, is it the right thing to pursue? No, it's not. A state government shut down our rail line in the late 1990s I believe was the last XPT that came through Lismore. They're responsible for the transport corridor that facilitates the train line.""As the mayor, I'm a strong advocate to complete the rail trail from Lismore right through to Murwillumbah. It doesn't mean that I'm against trains, but I just cannot see the possibility of rebuilding that train line up to a safe standard that's financially viable. It's just not going to happen."Lismore AirportThis week, Ballina Council announced an extra Qantas Link flight leaving Ballina at 7:45am, getting into Sydney at 9:15am for business people who need to be in Sydney earlier for meetings. Does that mean Qantas are out as a potential airline for Lismore?"There are many regional airports that don't have a commercial carrier that is still viable. And again, I will refer back to one of the first points that I made during this podcast. These are the sorts of things that there have been opportunities in the past that have fallen by the wayside, and now this council is left to pursue those other opportunities. I am talking about potential public-private partnerships down the track, possibly. I'm talking about flight schools setting up in Lismore. Maintenance is a big thing with Archerfield now closed, and that was a big hub for private aviation maintenance."Ballina is now taking on more commercial flights, and good luck to Ballina. I wish them all the best. That certainly will make Lismore business people more accessible to the city, which is a good thing. But, there's private aviation companies down there that might be feeling the squeeze, that might look for a new home close to Ballina, and Lismore presents that option."These are only my opinions, and they're not an official Council position on this, but if we don't explore every opportunity to turn the airport around and make that a viable and sustainable business for the council, then we have to explore other options as to to the uses of that. At the moment, we're breaking down every business that council has. We've obviously gone through that with waste, and we've turned that around, from losing a million dollars a year to break-even, and then potentially making the council a little bit of money down the track. That's with the support of the state government."The airport's going to be another business that we're going to have to look at and see how we can generate income for our ratepayers down the track. And that's where you've got to think a little bit outside the box and get a bit creative. But there is money in aviation if you have the right people and the right business model."I know there are people out there that would love us to shut down the airport, and then what do we do with it? So there are opportunities if you explore the market and test the market, and I think when we're in that position, there will be more said about that."Lismore Waste: Cell 2B and Sewage Treatment PlantWill we see our waste dumped in Cell 2B this year, or will we need to continue trucking it to Queensland?"I believe we'll be using Cell 2B definitely before Christmas, which is exceptional work. As I said, a state government agency was put in charge of that, and there was no end date in sight. Council took that project on board, and I can't credit Council staff enough in the work that they're doing. We get slagged off a lot in council, but I tell you what, we are turning the ship, and our staff are kicking goals for this LGA like you wouldn't believe."We've just won a national procurement award, I think it was national, for the way that our flood recovery team has structured our roads and our land slips projects, it's an amazing thing that they've been able to achieve by bundling this all up, and it's saving state and federal taxpayers enormous amounts of money, to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars. That's been driven by Lismore Council staff."Cell 2B is another thing that, as I said, there was no end date in sight, the way it was tracking. Council staff took that project on board, and it'll be open before Christmas. For all the haters out there, dig a little bit deeper, and you'll see some amazing work going on. And Cell 2B is one of them. And, we're well on the way to doing great things at the waste facility."Council was in a battle with the state government over funding to fix the sewage treatment plant at Monaltrie."This is a tricky one. I am of the opinion that we shouldn't settle and you know, to me, Lismore deserves nice things, and it sounds very unusual to say a sewage treatment plan is a nice thing, but given where we've come from to where we want to go, I don't feel that Lismore council should roll over on this and just settle for what the state government wants to give us. I'm prepared to have a bit of a fight over this particular issue, given everything that was promised from the outset, and we've got all that documented."To me, I believe that the right thing to do is what was originally planned, and we'll be pushing as hard as we can to get the money that we need to build a sewerage treatment plant that Lismore doesn't want, it actually needs it."I met with the premier last week, we have a very strong relationship, and I can't emphasise enough the need that this regional centre needs the upgraded sewerage treatment plant. So, we'll continue our efforts to get the money that we need to get what we deserve for the city of Lismore."Deputy Mayor Jeri Hall makes the point that Lismore Council has saved the federal and state governments hundreds of millions of dollars through their procurement activities, but cannot get the money needed ( about $40-50 million) to fix the sewage treatment plant, not just for now, but for increased capacity into the future as Lismore's population grows.Mayor Krieg adds, "We can rebuild our sewerage treatment plant back to capacity from before the 22 flood, and it can sustain our current population and a certain percentage of growth. But what you get when you get people coming to Lismore, when you get people moving to the area, when you get people building is that you get that increased income to enable you to, if you have to, to take out a loan to increase the capacity. Then, you've got that capability of being able to pay down those debts in a short time, or you've already got the income in the bank that you can pay for those sorts of things."At the very least, we want to be able to rebuild our sewage treatment plant back to what it was, then we're able to accommodate the growth in and around SCU, the 400-odd lots on Military Road that is part of the Resilient Lands Program. But then we can also open up the Oliver Avenue development, and we can also look at other options in and around the LGA for that potential and future growth.""The reality is that our staff are working 16 hours a day. Things that should be automated are operated manually by our staff. And it's like that because of the instructions from very early on, just get the thing working. It's meeting EPA requirements. We don't know for how long, but we just need the backing of the state and federal governments to get this thing back to where it needs to be, and then we can accommodate the growth that, as a council, we need down the track.Eat The StreetJeri Hall, as the Deputy Mayor for Social Activities, as she was dubbed by the mayor, was looking forward to Eat The Street."Eat The Street is one of my favourite events in Lismore. We've actually pushed for the last couple of years to get it going again, and trying to work out what we can do to get some grant funds to get it going. It's just such a great time for the entire town."All the vendors, all the shops downtown, they get to open and trade, and the rides that the kids have, and all of the activities, like the circus people down the street that are doing tricks for the kids. It's just a really beautiful, wholesome family event that everybody can really sort of sink their teeth into and get behind."There's a lot of commentary at the moment about anti-social behaviour happening downtown, and it's activities like this that activate the CBD. Might I say, even Council moving back to the Municipal building might help to activate the CBD. It is on Saturday, the 15th of November, so make sure you have a tiny breakfast on the 14th, a tiny lunch and a tiny dinner, and make sure your bellies are very, very empty for the 15th, because I just like to eat my way around the street."You can listen to the full Talking Lismore podcast through the App or https://talkinglismore.buzzsprout.com/ through the website.

Minister for Veterans David Harris today announced that 27 war memorials across 25 local government areas are receiving nearly $250,000 in NSW Government funding for essential care to ensure the service and sacrifice of veterans are honoured across the state.The grants are awarded to councils, RSL sub-Branches and community groups in cities, regional towns and rural centres from Monaro to Lismore.The Anglican Parish of Lismore received $1,980 to assist with repairs to the stained-glass memorial windows in the Warrior Chapel of the Garrison Church of St Andrew. The windows completed in 2015 will receive upgrades to ensure the memorial can remain protected from the wet weather in northern NSW.Anglican Parish of Lismore coordinator Dr Ross Lehman said, “The Anglican Parish of Lismore greatly appreciates the $1,980 grant, which will be used to help repair the stained-glass memorial windows in the Warrior Chapel of the Garrison Church of St Andrew.“The top section of the central memorial window depicts a soldier overlooking Anzac Cove, and the bottom section displays two Australian flags, positioned over the Seven Point Star and framed by stylised images of wattle and the repairs will ensure that the surroundings of all of the memorial windows in the Warrior Chapel remain leak-proof from the many storms that occur in the Northern Rivers.”The South Grafton War Memorial Baths Gates received $14,210.75.Applications for the 2026/27 Community War Memorials Fund will open from April to June 2026.More information on the program and details on how to apply are available here: https://www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/heritage/community-war-memorials-fund.Minister for Veterans David Harris said, “I am proud that the Minns Labor Government is providing nearly $250,000 to assist with the conservation of 27 war memorials across NSW.“This crucial funding will be used to undertake important conservation work to strengthen our war memorials, ensuring they can continue to honour the service and sacrifice of all veterans who have served our communities.“Local communities across the state are rightly proud of their military history and the vital threads their war memorials weave into our cultural fabric, enabling us to reflect on over 100 years of our veterans’ service and sacrifice.“I want to encourage local communities to consider applying for the 2026 round of the community war memorial fund for any restoration work their memorials may need.”Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said, “I welcome this funding to restore the striking stained glass windows in St Andrew's Warrior Chapel. The windows are a dignified tribute to those who served."Our war memorials are a significant part of the local history of our communities, and these grants ensure the service and sacrifice of our veterans is not forgotten.” 

The Bureau of Meteorology has extended its severe thunderstorm warning to Lismore and the northern parts of the Northern Rivers.An upper trough is triggering severe thunderstorms in an unstable environment this evening.Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce large hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the Northern Rivers and across NSW. Safety adviceThe State Emergency Service advises that people should:* Move your car under cover or away from trees.* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.* Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.* Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill.* Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall.* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.* Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.* Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire-affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.* After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.* Unplug computers and appliances.* Avoid using the phone during the storm.* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.