Tropical Cyclone Alfred is bringing opportunity and local support for our local businesses as they begin to pack up for the rising flood levels later in the week.Yesterday, in South Lismore, there were cars lined up down Union Street for 500 metres in both directions as the Lismore Garden Centre held a Flash 50% Off Sale for their plants.It is on again today.The reason is not to take advantage of a coming flood, but to reduce stock, so there is less to move or less will be destroyed either by water or destructive gale force winds.Bi-Rite and Furniture Court on Molesworth Street are also holding a Floor Clearance Sale for this reason.The Enchanted Florist on Magellan Street has 50% of their gift items this week to save packing, they can even deliver.The Northern Rivers Hotel have started packing up their bottle shop, and is encouraging locals to shop downtown to save owners and managers a lot of time in the packing process.If you were thinking about purchasing plants, a fridge, a microwave, a bed, a lounge or something for Mother's Day, get into the CBD or South Lismore to help save local businesses time on their flood pack up.As we have experienced before, there has been some panic buying at supermarkets. Bread, eggs and vegetables were priorities as the shelves emptied at Lismore Square and Goonellabah.

The Tropical Cyclone Alfred picture should become clearer this afternoon and into the early hours of Wednesday morning as it does its u-turn and starts to head towards the Queensland coast as a Category 2 system.The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Tropical Cyclone Watch extending down to Grafton. Gale force winds will start to develop from Wednesday evening.The likely crossing is either late Thursday night or in the early hours of Friday morning as a Category 2 or potentially a Category 1 system.The Bureau's Sarah Scully said the effects will be widespread, "So not just near the actual crossing point. In fact, the greatest impacts were expected on the southern flank of the cyclone, and those impacts would include damaging to destructive winds. So, these are winds that are strong enough to bring down trees, power lines, cause damage to property, major power outages, and as well, heavy to intense rainfall that may lead to life-threatening flash flooding.""But as well, the tropical cyclones likely to create a very large storm surge, which increases the risk of coastal inundation and does make it difficult for the water to escape from the river systems."Once it crosses the coast, Alfred is expected to be quickly downgraded to a tropical low. However, the effects may be felt into the weekend. Saturday's rainfall forecast has increased to 20-70mm.Lismore business owners are closely monitoring the situation as they enact their flood plans and make preparations for what is to come.Lismore Floor Coverings is on the low end of Woodlark Street, near the Dawson Street roundabout, where it floods often, through storm water or flooding.Chantelle said they have started their plan and are moving pallets of products and rolls of carpet to a shed in Goonellabah.Next door, Sue from Floret is already pushing the go button."We get 1500mm in store before the levee is topped, so our flood plan is ready to go. We have a Pantec truck coming down from Queensland on Wednesday and we are packing now."Sue said people laughed at her when she started packing early in 2022. She has a mezzanine level to store her stock, but says her motto is "Go out not up".Dave and Sharon Martin, owners of Instyle Sleep Centre, said their philosophy is "whatever you don't need, take it away. We watch and wait."Over at Daley's Homewares & Monogramming, Matt Healy said he was "alert but not alarmed"."I am watching the situation very, very closely, but I am not worried. We will not be taking any action until we hear something more concrete. We'll make a call tomorrow afternoon, what we do."Business Lismore Secretary and Scoops and Candy owner Felicity Hyde said Shoppe One is packing up and Curious Craft Ale is packing their back area up."People are just getting prepared, which is good," Felicity said, "Many are changing their ordering for this week. 'Being aware and being prepared' si how I would describe the situation currently."The bigger retailers like Bi-Rite Home Appliances and Furniture Court are enacting the first part of their flood plan.Elton Cummings said, "We are watching it, but I don't think we'll know anything until tomorrow afternoon. I am hoping the pumps will be operating. I am concerned, not worried.""We have done our pre-flood prep. Our bulk storage items like mattresses and lounges are up in Goonellabah. We have topped up the generator with fuel and cleaned up all the old fridges and pallets that could possibly break glass.One aspect of this upcoming flood is that Lismore businesses are so much better prepared than 2022. The flood plans have been written, and now they are being put to the test.

The NSW SES is saying the Wilsons River may reach a moderate flood level for Lismore given the latest information from the Bureau of Meteorology.As local anxiety rises with Tropical Cyclone Alfred due to change direction tomorrow towards the west, Superintendent Scott McLennan's words will bring a level of comfort to the majority of Lismore and Northern Rivers residents and businesses."As we've all been watching, Tropical Cyclone Alfred has been slowly making his way southward along the Queensland coast, and is now expected to come across the coast sometime later this week. Tropical Cyclone Alfred is bringing with him significant wind gusts. It's a Category 2 at the moment that has wind speeds of 89 kilometers to 100 kilometers per hour, with some gusts up to 125 kilometers an hour."We're going to see some of those impacts from those wind gusts, including coastal erosion along the coast from today and tomorrow being Tuesday, and that will actually start to increase as the week progresses. All of our river catchments have now been included in the Flood Watch."That Flood Watch is really a preparation tool that the Bureau uses to ensure that all of our visitors, our farmers and all of the residents and businesses have four days or more to ensure that they are prepared. Some of those catchments include the Tweed, the Wilsons, the Richmond, the Clarence, the Orarra, the Brunswick and Marshalls and the Coffs Coast."The advice today is that some of those catchments will achieve moderate flooding at some point this week. We are expecting significant rainfall to start from Wednesday, with daily totals of in excess of 100 mm right across the region. Some of those daily totals could actually achieve 300 mm, and that could be on Thursday, Friday or Saturday."This rain event, and this wind event is an event that is not common for northern New South Wales. However, in saying that we are prepared. We are conducting a range of different activities right throughout today, tomorrow and Wednesday, to ensure that we are prepared, and you are prepared."Take the time today and tomorrow to ensure that you have enough medicines, that you don't need to travel on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, and that you are prepared to move if we ask you to. Clear out your gutters, clear out your drains, make sure all your loose items in and around your properties are nice and tied down and secured so they don't become missiles."And then look at your medication list and run through what your evacuation plan is. Have a chat with friends and family. Check on your neighbours, see if they're okay. It's a time that we can come together, and the best way to deal with anxiety is being able to control what you can control, and that's what you do. So take the time now to prepare."For readers living near the coast, Supt McLennan spoke about coastal erosion from waves that will be 3 and 7 metres high."Ballina won't necessarily flood, but there will be significant storm surge issues with some of those drains. We are actually working with The Bureau to ensure that we understand where those locations are, and we're actually working to prepare them."For Lismore, the forecast is that we may see a moderate flood depending on when the rain starts falling. The word from Supt McLennan for Lismore residents and businesses was clear, "Everyone in Lismore understands what their triggers are, and we are actually asking people to realise what their triggers are for themselves, so they can make those decisions early."With the amount of rain to be dumped on Lismore from Wednesday, flash flooding will be an issue."Flash flooding is going to be a major issue with this particular event. We're now asking people just to be mindful of where those flash flood areas are and do not, please do not drive through flood water, even if you have been through there before. Don't drive through it again."In terms of why we have such a wide range of potential rainfall, Supt McLenna said, "Tropical cyclones pick up more water the slower they are, and Alfred has been moving particularly slowly. So the more the slower he moves towards the coast, the more rain he's going to bring with him. If he moves faster, it'll actually be better, because it won't bring as much rain, but we just have to wait and see. We're preparing for the worst and hoping for the best."Sandbags, sand and shovels are available in these locations now:Lismore Workers Golf Club, Barham Street, East LismoreNesbitt Street Park, Casino Street, South LismoreThere are other sites in Ballina, Yamba, Casino, Kyogle and Woodburn.MULLUMBIMBY: Mullumbimby Unit - 33 Coolamon Scenic Drive (for residents of Mullumbimby and Byron)OCEAN SHORES: Soccer Field Carpark (Shara Blvd) for residents of Ocean Shores, New Brighton and South Golden BeachCASINO: NSW SES Unit - Corner Neville Bienke Memorial Drive and East Street, CasinoWOODBURN: NSW SES Woodburn Unit– 3 Uralba St, WoodburnCORAKI: NSW SES Coraki Unit – 18 Adams Street, Corner of Richmond Terrace & Adams (near the bridge)BALLINA: Council Depot – Tamarind Drive (opposite Ballina Fair shopping centre)GRAFTON: NSW SES Grafton City Unit – Irene Street, Grafton, NSW 2460For those with mobility or transport limitations, please call 132 500 for assistance. Drive carefully in the sandbag location and be patient if there is a queue.You are asked to take your own shovel, and depending on the location, they may have volunteers to help fill the sandbags. However, there will be some locations where you will have to fill your own sandbags.Communication and miscommunication have been an issue with previous floods, especially as people speculate what will happen on various social media pages. That appears to be one area that has changed since 2022."For today and moving forward for us, we are working very closely with all of our political stakeholders. We are working very closely with council. We are working very closely with community. There will be a community meeting held online, and that will be streamed live tonight as well.For those who wish to join tonight's community meeting, it will be held at at 6pm tonight (3/3/25). Use this link here: https://ow.ly/ypnw50V95wE."We will do press conferences every single day at 1230 this week to ensure that you remain informed as quickly as what we do. When the situation changes, we will be out in front with you, helping lead the way and leading the response. We are working very closely with all of our emergency service partners, whether that be Fire and Rescue, New South Wales Police or any of the other partners, including Ambulance New South Wales, to ensure that you remain safe."Please heed the warnings when they come. Listen to the advice and please don't leave it to the last minute. If we ask you to evacuate, please evacuate. If you need assistance, always call us on 132 500."We've got this Northern Rivers. We've done it before, and we can do it again. Stay informed with Hazards Near Me, or visit us at www.scs.nsw.gov.au if you need any assistance, including preparedness advice, call us on 132, 500.

Following feedback from the community, Lismore City Council has launched a new flood preparedness campaign – Live Flood Ready – to raise awareness in households, on how to prepare for one of Lismore’s most recognised natural hazards.Council has partnered with the lead emergency service, the NSW SES, to bring together up-to-date information and tips on how to prepare for a flood in one easy-to-access location so households can make informed decisions about their flood risk.Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said the approach of tropical Cyclone Alfred was a reminder that is important that we do not become complacent.“Those who have lived in Lismore all their lives understand the reality is Lismore is built on a floodplain, and we will flood again,” he said.“It is up to each one of us to ensure that we are prepared, we have a plan, and we are ready to act if we need to. We all have a role to play and should not solely rely on SES volunteers in a severe weather event.”The four-week campaign, which will encourage the community to go to the updated flood information section of Council’s website, will include jargon-free flood terminology, tips and tools to Live Flood Ready, available apps to download, and links to the NSW SES and other useful websites and social media pages to follow and stay informed.Simply go to the ‘natural hazards’ section on Council’s website at www.lismore.nsw.gov.au and hit the Floods icon.In addition to this education campaign, Council will also work closely with the NSW Reconstruction Authority and NSW SES on a regional program later this year to increase community flood-risk awareness. The Australian Government will fund this work through the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program (NRRRP). Did you know Council’s role during a local flood emergency is to:Serve as a conduit for key information on the emergency event from the State Emergency Service and police.Support the NSW SES, the lead agency in an emergency, with the resources, people and equipment they need to manage the emergency and any follow-up recovery actions.Continue our constant and close monitoring of Council-managed open spaces, reserves, facilities, telemetry, levee system and roads for any impactsMobilise our own resources, people and equipment to respond to any identified impacts.Provide key information to the community and relevant stakeholders about how Council’s services or facilities are impacted such as Water and Sewer Services, Waste Collection and availability of Council Services.Support community led approaches to coping with emergencies. Council works closely with the Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC) to ensure that all aspects of Emergency Prevention, Preparedness, Response, and Recovery are well supported and resourced.

As forecast by the Bureau of Meteorology, Tropical Cyclone Alfred was downgraded to a category one system on Sunday, but as of Monday morning, it has strengthened back to a Category 2 system. John How from The Bureau said they are seeing winds near the centre of 95 km/h and wind gusts up to 130 km/h."As of Monday morning, it is currently a category two system over the Coral Sea, about 465 kilometers northeast of Brisbane and 410 kilometers northeast of Maroochydore on the Sunshine Coast. It is moving in a south-easterly direction at around 13 kilometers an hour, sort of about a running pace, moving down towards the south-east."As we know, there are a number of warnings for both South East Queensland and North East New South Wales already in place."So first, we do have marine wind warnings all the way from K'gari down through the Sunshine Coast off Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Northern Rivers of New South Wales. That's for strong to gale force winds, and we'll see those strong winds extending down to even the mid north coast of New South Wales over the next few days. "There is also a coastal hazard warning for parts of the Queensland coast. That is for very powerful waves, which you have been seeing over the weekend, as well as normally high tides. And the combination of very powerful waves and these high tides does mean that we are already seeing beach erosion across southern parts of Queensland. Those high tide peaks will gradually start to recede from today, but those strong waves coming in from the east will persist for several days as Tropical Cyclone Alfred sits off the coast of Queensland. "Other warnings. We do also have a hazardous surf warning for parts of the south east, Queensland coast and North East New South Wales. That does mean that if you are heading out to the water, this will be dangerous for activities like swimming, boating and also rock fishing. In addition to this, the Bureau has also issued an initial flood watch for both Queensland and New South Wales. "For Queensland, it does include quite a few catchments across the south east of the state, this is a heads up for heavy rainfall, increasing from late Wednesday, continuing into Thursday and Friday. Catchments across South East Queensland are dry to moderately wet, and as well as that normally high tide coming through, it does increase the risk of flooding for those coastal low lying areas, but once the rainfall does pick up, we could see widespread, minor to major flooding across the Queensland FLOOD WATCH area from late Tuesday, late Wednesday and also into Thursday, but the location of the highest rainfall will determine where we do see that flooding. "We also have an initial flood watch for the Northern Rivers and also the mid north coast. This is also for the potential of up to major riverine flooding as you start to see that rainfall coming through late Wednesday into Thursday, and also Friday. So across both these areas, we are reminding residents to keep across the latest warnings and also flood watches as well, and later on Monday, we are expected to issue the first tropical cyclone watch that's for the onset of gales across mainland areas likely to be on onset from sort of Wednesday and into Thursday as well. So quite a few warnings, and we are expecting more warnings to be issued over the coming days."Jonathon said Alfred is expected to continue to move towards the southeast today and may be downgraded to a Category 1 but then is still expected to move back towards the west towards southeast Queensland coast as a Category 2 system.The forecast path of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, shown above, is the Bureau's best estimate of the cyclone's future movement and intensity. There is always some uncertainty associated with tropical cyclone forecasting and the grey zone indicates the range of likely tracks of the cyclone centre.You can stay up to date with the Bureau's weather updates via the Lismore App Weather or through the website https://reg.bom.gov.au/nsw/forecasts/lismore.shtml.

UPDATE: 2:50pm Monday March 3This event has been cancelled due to the weatherThis Saturday, March 8, is International Women's Day. To celebrate, the Northern Rivers Women and Children's Services Inc. (NORWACS) is putting on the Lismore Women's Festival, a vibrant and inclusive event celebrating women at the Quad in Lismore from 9am to 4pm. Organisers say this year's festival promises a day filled with enriching activities and performances. Attendees can look forward to a variety of workshops hosted in the Art Gallery, the Con, and the Library.  The Festival will also feature food and market stalls, providing a delightful array of local products and culinary treats.  The day will commence with a Welcome to Country by Aunty Queenie Speeding, setting a respectful and inclusive tone for the day’s celebration. The festival will be hosted by the dynamic Mistress of Ceremony, Lissie Turner, and will feature a keynote address by the acclaimed journalist and author Jess Hill. The festivities will conclude with an all-inclusive participatory Flash Bang Mob choir, where Eve Jeffery from Byron Bay Singing will be inviting everyone to join in a joyful and harmonious celebration. A NORWACS spokesperson said, "We are proud to host the Lismore Women’s Festival for the fifth consecutive year. With Lissie Turner as the MC and keynote speaker Jess Hill, we anticipate this year’s festival to be the biggest yet! Join us on Saturday, March 8th, at the Quad and surrounding Arts Precinct for a jam-packed program. Everyone is welcome!NORWACS invites everyone to join in this celebration of women's achievements and contributions. The Lismore Women's Festival is a free event open to all members of the community. Find all the details here: https://norwacs.org.au/lismore-womens-festival/.

Federal Member for Page and Shadow Minister for Trade and Tourism Kevin Hogan joined the Talking Lismore podcast last week to discuss some of the hot topics in Lismore and the Northern Rivers. They included the campaign to reopen Wollumbin/Mt Warning, US tariffs and his thoughts on the three years since the 28 February 2022 big flood.Mr Hogan wouldn't be drawn into predicting a date for the 2025 Federal Election; however, he did say there is a chance of an early April election if the Prime Minister calls it soon after the W.A. State Election, or in May. We do know that it must happen on or before Saturday, May 17. This is looking the most likely election option."Obviously it's a pre-election period. When you go into the campaign proper, there's a whole lot of rules that change around what you can and can't do. We live in a wonderful democracy. I know some people might get sort of like, oh, here we go, but look, there's billions, and I say billions of people on this planet that don't get the freedom to vote in an election and have a choice. At least they might vote in an election, but there's only one choice in some countries. So look, we live in a wonderful democracy, and it's a really important part of our democracy."To win 19 seats to win government is a tall ask for the Liberal/National Party. Is he optimistic?"Look, I'm a politician and a part-time farmer, I'm always optimistic. I think, look, it's going to be close, I think it's going to be really close. There's only been one government in the history of Australia, since Federation, so we're 124 years now into our federated system, and only once has a government been one term, and that was the Great Depression. So, it's a big ask to win from opposition in one term, but look, I think it's on. I think it's a real possibility. Labor's primary vote, from what I can see, has gone under 30%, which makes it very difficult for them. They certainly won't be a majority government. If they win, they'll be going into a minority government with The Greens and the Teals. I think that's problematic, if that happens."Our primary seems to be going back through 40, and if we start climbing through 40, I think we're a real chance to win."What about being confident about the seat of Page, which is now considered a safe seat."I am never confident, but optimistic. You know, I've been fortunate enough to be re-elected four times by our community, and I never take it for granted, and I'm always very grateful for that. So, I'm putting myself up to go again. And the public in this beautiful democracy have the right to tell you whether you're doing a good job or not."Last week there were calls for the Wollumbin/Mt Warning walk to be reopened, with local tourism operators and Indigenous elders joining forces to advocate for its accessibility.Mr Hogan visited the mountain with Bundjalung elder Sturt Boyd, emphasised the importance of reopening the track for cultural and economic reasons. He highlighted the potential of the site to attract and educate tourists about First Nation's culture and the importance of the site and generate millions of dollars for the region, stating that up to 100,000 people could walk the track annually."We went up there with Sturt Boyd. Sturt's grandmother, Marlene, was the guardian of that mountain. So, he's an elder. I've seen some very disturbing reports from media outlets saying he's an alleged elder. I've never heard that before, but he didn't suit certain people's narratives. He is an elder. He wants it reopened. The Wollumbin Consulting Group that has been formed, he thinks, is not transparent, is not representative. So he has issues with that," Hogan said."They want to ensure the mountain is accessible to everyone, not just a select few."Mr Hogan acknowledged there are differing viewpoints within the Indigenous community, as well as the broader community. He stressed the importance of respecting those who hold opposing views. He cited the significant public support for reopening the track, noting that over 90% of the 70,000 to 80,000 people reached through his social media platforms expressed their desire for its accessibility.Mr Hogan intends to advocate for the reopening with the relevant state minister, alongside Sturt Boyd and Kimberly Hone, the Nationals candidate for Richmond.When it came to the potential US tariffs on our mining industry products, Kevin Hogan expressed concerns and drew parallels to the previous Trump administration's trade policies, noting that Australia was able to secure an exemption from tariffs on certain products during that period."We were in government then. We had Ambassador Hockey at the time. It was very important to open doors for us and to get meetings with Trump, and we were able to get an exclusion. So Australia was excluded from the tariffs in Trump, Mark 1," Hogan said.Mr Hogan emphasised the importance of the government engaging with the US to secure an exemption, as they did previously."I am concerned about Rudd's effectiveness. He's made some very derogatory comments about Trump. So is he going to be as effective as Joe Hockey? I don't know, and it's disappointing," Hogan said.The Member for Page also criticised the handling of the flood mitigation efforts in Lismore, three years after the devastating floods. He described the decision by the Northern Rivers Reconstruction Corporation (NRRC) to withdraw from the floodplain as a "failure," arguing that it has not provided adequate protection for residents."Withdrawing from the flood plain has failed because of the 2000 homes that were identified, at best, we're going to have probably 800 or 900 and of those 800 or 900, some you'd know personally, like I do, some of them have sold their house on the flood plain through the buyback program, and bought a house around the corner on the flood plain," Hogan said.Mr Hogan mentioned the CSIRO's upcoming report on flood mitigation and suggested that engineering solutions are necessary to effectively address the flood risk. He acknowledged the potential controversy surrounding such proposals with a small percentage of the population but emphasised the need to prioritise safety and enable residents to live securely in their homes and for people to invest in the Lismore CBD.You can listen to the full Talking Lismore podcast via the Lismore App or by clicking here for the website link https://talkinglismore.buzzsprout.com/.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued an initial Flood Watch for rivers within the Northern Rivers in anticipation of the rainfall from Tropical Cyclone Alfred.The Bureau says, "Rainfall associated with Tropical Cyclone Alfred has the potential to cause major flooding along NSW coastal rivers from the Queensland Border to Port Macquarie, with the locations and severity of flooding dependent on the track of the Tropical Cyclone. Flooding may develop from late Wednesday, and continue until at least the weekend."Tropical Cyclone Alfred is currently located off the Queensland Coast and is forecast to move southwards parallel to the coast before tracking westward on Tuesday. This will bring heavy and locally intense rainfall from late Wednesday over the South East of Queensland, and the Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast of New South Wales, and continuing on Thursday, Friday and into the weekend. The heaviest rainfall will be south of the Tropical Cyclone track."Coastal catchments in the flood watch area are relatively wet. Abnormally high tides are expected to increase the flood risk in coastal low lying areas. High sea levels and large waves are likely at coastal locations, and may exacerbate flooding and cause flooding impacts."Moderate to major flooding may develop across the flood watch area from late Wednesday into Thursday. The location of the most severe flooding will depend on the location of the heaviest rainfall, and the areas at risk will continue to be revised during the coming days."Rapid river levels rises and flash flooding is expected across many creeks, associated with the heaviest rainfall with widespread, including major, riverine flooding possible. Flood Classes (minor, moderate, major) are only defined for catchments where the Bureau provides a flood warning service."For the latest flood and weather warnings see www.bom.gov.au/nsw/warnings/For the latest rainfall and weather forecasts see www.bom.gov.au/australia/meteye/For the latest rainfall and river level information see www.bom.gov.au/nsw/floodFlood Safety Advice:This Flood Watch means that people living or working along rivers and streams must monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings and be ready to move to higher ground should flooding develop.Flood Warnings will be issued if Minor Flood Level is expected to be exceeded at key sites along the main rivers for which the Bureau of Meteorology provides a flood warning service.Severe Weather Warnings will be issued or updated if very heavy rain is forecast or observed.For more information on the Flood Watch Service: http://www.bom.gov.au/water/floods/floodWarningServices.shtmlFloodSafe advice is available at www.ses.nsw.gov.auFor emergency assistance call the SES on telephone number 132 500.For life threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately.

Tropical Cyclone Alfred is taking the path forecast by the Bureau of Meteorology as it moves south parallel to the Queensland coast and away from the coastline.At 11am this morning, Alfred was a Category 2 system 515 kilometres east of Rockhampton and 370 kilometres northeast of Bundaberg moving at 10 kilometres per hour.Alfred has been weakening as it heads south and tonight it is forecast to turn southeast and move further away from the Queensland coast while weakening a little further. Unfortunately, Alfred is then expected to slow down and is likely to turn westward from Tuesday, moving back towards the southern Queensland coast. The forecast path shown above is the Bureau's best estimate of the cyclone's future movement and intensity. There is always some uncertainty associated with tropical cyclone forecasting and the grey zone indicates the range of likely tracks of the cyclone centre.There is hope that the system may take a different path on Tuesday.As you would expect at this early stage of Alfred's path, the rainfall range from The Bureau is wide.The best case scenario at the moment is for 22mm over the four days (Tuesday to Friday), while the worst case scenario is 195mm over the four days.You can keep up to date with Cyclone Alfred through the Lismore App Weather or through this Lismore App website link https://reg.bom.gov.au/nsw/forecasts/lismore.shtml.(Issued at 11:53 am AEDT Sunday 2 March 2025 by the Bureau of Meteorology. No Tropical Cyclone Advice is current for this system.)

Southern Cross University researcher Dr Alana Gall has been awarded an Investigator Grant of more than $640,000 to lead a research program focused on First Peoples' Cultural Medicines (also called bush medicine) in Australian healthcare.The latest round of the prestigious National Health and Medical Research Council’s (NHMRC) Investigator Grants scheme, funded by the Federal government, is worth $422 million.Dr Gall’s project spans two key areas. The first is embedding Cultural Medicines into Australian health policies to improve cultural safety, health and wellbeing. The second is to protect Cultural Medicine knowledge through research that informs research and development in drug discovery, regulation and intellectual property, to realise the self-determination of First Peoples and their communities.“Despite initiatives, including Closing the Gap, disparities persist in health outcomes for First Nations peoples. We need to focus on community-driven solutions that align with First Peoples’ ways of knowing, being and doing,” said Dr Gall.“This encompasses plant medicines, native foods, healing ceremonies, spiritual medicine, Traditional Healers, and both the tangible and intangible healing aspects of Country.”With the boom in recent years of products based on native Australian plants and traditional knowledge, Cultural Medicines face the double dilemma of misleadingly being regulated as a food or appropriated for commercial profit with minimal or no benefits returned to the community.“We need to make sure Cultural Medicines are appropriately regulated for the health and safety of all Australians and that First Nations Intellectual Property is protected from biopiracy,” said Dr Gall.Dr Gall’s project has the backing of three major partners: the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO), the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO).About the Investigator Grant SchemeThe Investigator Grant is NHMRC’s largest funding scheme and plays a critical role in supporting the Australian health and medical research sector by providing a salary (if required) and a significant research support package.It’s the third time in the history of the scheme that women researchers will receive more funding overall.NHMRC CEO Professor Steve Wesselingh congratulated all researchers who were successful in the 2025 funding round.“NHMRC funds investigator-led research where Australia’s highest performing health and medical researchers set out to achieve ambitious goals of improving the health and wellbeing of the Australian community,” he said.

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin is encouraging Lismore seniors to make the most of free events on offer during the NSW Seniors Festival starting next week.“The NSW Government is delivering $10,000 in funding to support Lismore City Council with hosting exciting activities as part of this year’s NSW Seniors Festival. “The NSW Seniors Festival Grant Program backs initiatives which encourage people aged 60 or over to stay healthy, active, and connected to their community.“The Lismore Council program for the two-week festival includes author talks, intergenerational story time, educational seminars, entertainment, dance, movement, social events and fitness and nature based activities.“Lismore Council was one of 35 organisations to receive a share of $200,000 under the NSW Seniors Festival Grant Program to host activities this year.“The NSW Seniors Festival opens the door to a range of fun activities which help older people in our community feel more connected to friends and our local community.”The full program of events for Lismore is available here: seniors-festival-brochure-2025-v3.pdf.

Lismore Regional Gallery is pleased to present OCCURRENT AFFAIR - a major exhibition featuring new and recent works by influential Aboriginal artist collective proppaNOW.Established in 2003, proppaNOW is one of Australia’s leading cultural collectives – members Vernon Ah Kee, Tony Albert, Richard Bell, Megan Cope, Jennifer Herd, Gordon Hookey and Laurie Nilsen explore the politics of Aboriginal art and culture, re-thinking what it means to be a ‘contemporary Aboriginal artist’.Conceived as a collaborative activist gesture, OCCURRENT AFFAIR addresses current socio-political, economic and environmental issues, while celebrating the strength, resilience and continuity of Aboriginal culture. Engaging wordplay through its title, OCCURRENT AFFAIRreferences the sensational journalistic style of some television current affair programs. OCCURRENT AFFAIR embraces the slippage between language and its associated readings to probe and present new narratives. The exhibition will reflect on the ongoing state of affairs affecting Aboriginal communities – issues that are relevant to all Australians.One of Australia’s leading Indigenous arts collectives, proppaNOW was set up in Brisbane in 2003 to give urban-based Aboriginal artists a voice. They present a unique and controversial perspective of black Australia, which is sometimes confronting and always thought provoking. proppaNOW create art that raises awareness of Aboriginal urban expression that depicts a contemporary story. They reinforce that Aboriginal Australia is a living culture that has evolved over time and dispel the notion that Indigenous art needs to be from a remote area to be ‘authentic’.This will be proppaNOW’s last exhibition as a collective – seeing this historically significant movement at Lismore Regional Gallery is an unmissable opportunity. Ashleigh Ralph, Director at Lismore Regional Gallery, says of the exhibition, "It is with great pleasure that we can showcase some of Australia’s preeminent contemporary artists at Lismore Regional Gallery. OCCURRENT AFFAIR is engaging and thought-provoking, providing a platform for important conversations around socio-political and cultural issues. "Our public programs offer the community meaningful engagement with these themes. Bringing this exhibition to Lismore reinforces the legacy of Lismore Regional Gallery as the cornerstone of cultural life in the Northern Rivers and a gallery that attracts national and international audiences."As part of OCCURRENT AFFAIR, there are a range of public programs. Visit the website for the latest information.OCCURRENT AFFAIR soft openingSunday 2 March, 12 - 1pmFollowed by Gathering Space with Kylie Caldwell for Aboriginal artists and community membersEmbassy programming in the Quad1 March – 27 AprilA platform for First Nations people to have a voice and share stories, poetry, and ideas.Words as activism: placard making workshop with artist Penny EvansSaturday 5 April, 10am – 12pmUsing Richard Bell’s Embassy as inspiration, artist Penny Evans facilitates a placard painting workshop for all ages, exploring the power of words.OCCURRENT AFFAIR closing celebrationSunday 26 April, 1 – 3pmJoin Rhoda Roberts OA in conversation with proppaNOW artists.

Northern NSW Local Health District is advising people to be alert for signs and symptoms of measles after being notified of a confirmed case who was infectious while visiting several locations in Lismore, Casino and Kyogle.The new case is linked to a previously notified case in the area.While the locations no longer pose a risk, people who attended the following locations, during the specific times listed, should watch for the development of symptoms:Monday 17 February 2025 – Ritchies IGA Kyogle, 17-31 Summerland Way, Kyogle, from 1 to 2pm, Kyogle Ampol Fuel, 26 Summerland Way, Kyogle, from 5:10 to 5:50pm. If you attended either of these venues, monitor for symptoms until 7 March 2025.   Tuesday 18 February 2025 – Lismore Base Hospital, from 7am to 4pm. If you attended this venue, monitor for symptoms until 8 March 2025.      Wednesday 19 February 2025 – Lismore Base Hospital, from 7am to 4pm, EG Group service station, cnr Brewster and Uralba Streets, Lismore, from 3:40pm to 4:20pm, Casino Woolworths, 169 Canterbury St, Casino, from 4 to 5pm. If you attended any of these venues, monitor for symptoms until 9 March 2025.    Thursday 20 February 2025 – Lismore Base Hospital, from 6am to 3pm. If you attended this venue, monitor for symptoms until 10 March 2025.   Friday 21 February 2025 – Ritchies IGA Kyogle, 17-31 Summerland Way, Kyogle, from 1 to 2pm. If you attended this venue, monitor for symptoms until 11 March 2025.     Saturday 22 February 2025 – Beansprout Café located within Mitre 10, 142 Summerland Way, Kyogle, from 10:30 am to 12:30pm. If you attended this venue, monitor for symptoms until 12 March 2025.Director of North Coast Population and Public Health, Dr Valerie Delpech, said it can take up to 18 days for symptoms to appear after an exposure.“Symptoms to watch out for include fever, sore eyes, runny nose and a cough, usually followed three or four days later by a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the head and face to the rest of the body,” Dr Delpech said.“It's important for people to stay vigilant if they've been exposed, and if they develop symptoms, to please call ahead to their GP or Emergency Department to ensure they do not spend time in the waiting room with other patients.“We want to remind the community to make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations. The measles vaccine can prevent the disease even after exposure, if given early enough.“This should be a reminder for everyone to check that they are protected against measles, which is highly infectious.“Anyone born after 1965 needs to ensure they have had two doses of measles vaccine. This is especially important before overseas travel, as measles outbreaks are occurring in several regions of the world at the moment."The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective, and is given free for children at 12 and 18 months of age. It is also free in NSW for anyone born after 1965 who hasn't already had two doses.Children under the age of 12 months can have their first dose of MMR up to six months earlier if they are travelling to areas with a high risk for measles. Parents should consult their GP.People who are unsure of whether they have had two doses should get a vaccine, as additional doses are safe. This is particularly important prior to travel. MMR vaccine is available from GPs (all ages) and pharmacies (people over 5 years of age).For more information on measles, view the measles factsheet​.

The first weekend of autumn is looking partly cloudy with maximum temperatures of 29 degrees. A great start to March.The Bureau is forecasting rain from Monday as Lismore and the Northern Rivers feel the effects of Tropical Cyclone Alfred.The exact picture will become clearer over the weekend, and the Lismore App will let you know if Alfred is expected to turn toward the coast. It is too early to tell at this stage.The warm temperatures mean contestants will be feeling the pinch during the Samson Fitness Challenge, which begins this evening and ends tomorrow afternoon at Hepburn Park.Individuals and teams of four will be tackling everything from swimming and running to gruelling challenges like the sled pull, jerry can walk and tyre flip.Motorists driving along Oliver Avenue will need to be aware as contestants run/walk between Hepburn Park and GSAC.Resilient Lismore's 'Stronger Together' community event is on tomorrow in The Quad (110 Magellan Street) starting at 3:30pm and ending at 7pm.There will be live music by Tapestry Road, Lismore Supper Club Soul Band and the All in a Chord Choir.You are welcome to take a picnic or there will be food options available, plus you have local restaurants nearby to support local businesses.ARTEXPRESS 2025 is being displayed at the Lismore Regional Gallery in The Quad between 10am and 4pm Saturday and Sunday.ARTEXPRESS is a selection of outstanding bodies of work from last year's HSC Visual Arts students.Play Little, Win Big is a new photographic exhibition at Lismore Flying Fine Art in the old Timezone building at 161 Keen Street, Lismore. Opening reception is on tomorrow (March 1) between 3pm and 6pm.Organisers describe the exhibition as "A captivating exhibition of never-before-seen photographs by 90-year-old Australian photographer G. G. Rochfort. Showcasing vivid slices of mid-century Americana. These images were taken during Rochfort’s 1959 visit to the United States — a journey prompted by his work as a newly graduated civil engineer on Australia’s ambitious Snowy Mountains Scheme."At 25 years of age, G. G. Rochfort embarked on his first-ever trip overseas. Tasked by the Snowy Mountains Hydro Electric Authority with studying American dam and tunnel construction methods, he found himself enthralled by the bustle and allure of late-1950s America. Driven by the excitement of traveling abroad—a rarity in those days — he captured everyday moments and architectural wonders on film, creating an intimate record of his transpacific adventure. Upon returning home these evocative photographs were carefully stored away for decades, only to be rediscovered 60 years later."The Lismore Evening CWA branch is hosting an important community event on Sunday (2 March) at 1pm. Hannah's Story is an interactive educational workshop to help identify the red flags and early warning signs of coercive control behaviours and helping to drive positive behaviour change.Organisers would love to see as many people as possible to hear this incredible story and to create more awareness and empower members of the community about the early warning signs of coercive control behaviours.The venue will be emailed to those who register for the event. Entrance is free with afternoon tea available for a donation. Registration can be done via - https://forms.gle/7qhkNMZkz8BUB5Ps7.The Lismore Farmers Markets get underway at 7:30am tomorrow at the Lismore Showgrounds.Fresh fruit and vegetables, honey and handmade goods can be purchased as well as coffee/tea and breakfast. Live music is by Broadfoot this week.While on live music, the Lismore Jazz Club has ESTAMPA performing on Sunday from 2pm at the Lismore City Bowling Club.It's $15 for members and $20 non-members. Cash at the door.At the Northern Rivers Hotel tonight Hannah Pearl takes to the stage at 6:30pm and Saturday it's The Hillbilly Skank also from 6:30pm.The Lismore Workers Club has The Fab Four - The Ultimate Beatles Tribute next Friday night (March 7). Tickets are available via their website.While there, check out the live music coming up, including Tommy Memphis and Who's Bad - the Michael Jackson Tribute Show in May.Fuel prices have been stable once again in the last seven days. Here are the cheapest fuel options in each town:E10 is 178.9 across the board in Lismore, 175.9 at the Ampol Foodary on Centre Street (96) in Casino, with The Metro and the Mobil on River Street in Ballina cheapest at 170.5.Unleaded 91 is 179.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road, Lismore, 177.9 at the Liberty's on Hare and Centre streets, the Coles Express and the Ampol Foodary on Centre Street in Casino, and 172.5 at the Metro and the new Mobil in Ballina.U95 is 188.5 at Bakers Corner, Terania Street, North Lismore, 194.9 at the Ampol on Dyraaba Street in Casino and 183.9 at the Shell on River Street (273), Ballina.U98 is 196.9 at the Liberty Foodmart on Ballina Road and the Liberty at 113 Union Street, South Lismore, 197.9 at the two Liberty's on Hare Street and Centre Street in Casino, and 191.9 at the Shell on River Street (273).Diesel is 188.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road and the Independent at Bakers Corner at 111 Terania Street, North Lismore, 189.9 at the Liberty's on Hare Street, Centre Street and the Roadhouse on Johnston Street in Casino and 192.5 at The Mobil and The Metro in Ballina.Have a great weekend!Have a laugh with the Friday Funnies.....

A man has died at a hospital after a crash last month at South Lismore.Emergency services were called to Casino Street, South Lismore, about 10.40am on Saturday (25 January 2025), following reports of a crash.Officers attached to Richmond Police District were told a motorcycle and a sedan had collided with the rider ejected from his motorcycle.The rider – a 19-year-old man – was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being airlifted to Gold Coast University Hospital in a critical condition.The driver of sedan – a 80-year-old woman – and her passenger – a 82-year-old man – were taken to Lismore Base Hospital for further treatment with minor injuries.A crime scene was established and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, with the assistance of crash investigators, commenced.Last Monday (25 February 2025), police were informed that the rider had died in the Gold Coast University Hospital.A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

Two North Lismore teenagers have been arrested following an investigation into property offences.On Sunday, 23 February 2025, two youths allegedly entered a home on Sandra Close, Coffs Harbour, before stealing a bag, purse, keys, and an SUV.Officers attached to Strike Force Imperium were notified and commenced inquiries into the incident.About 1pm on Tuesday, 25 February 2025, officers located the stolen SUV in North Lismore.Following further inquiries, a search warrant was executed at a North Lismore home on Wednesday (26 February 2025).During the search, police allegedly located and seized the stolen purse and keys, along with items including balaclavas, gloves, knives, and 15g of cannabis.Two boys – both aged 14 – were arrested and taken to Lismore Police Station.One of the boys was charged with nine offences:Aggravated break and enter dwelling in company intent to steal (two counts)Enter inclosed land not prescribed premises without lawful excuseFace blackened/disguised with intent commit indictable offenceDrive recklessly/furiously or speed/manner dangerousDrive conveyance taken without consent of ownerCommit s 154A offence and disseminatePossess prohibited drug (two counts)He was refused bail to appear before a children's court yesterday (Thursday, 27 February 2025), where he was formally refused bail to appear before the same court on Monday, 10 March 2025.The other boy was dealt with under the Young Offender's Act.

UPDATE 12:42pm1 of 2 southbound lanes closed.Advice: reduce speed and prepare to merge.Live Traffic is reporting an accident between a truck and a car on the Bruxner Highway, just past the M1 Pacific Motorway.Emergency Services, Transport for NSW, Heavy vehicle tow truck and tow truck are in attendance.The Bruxner Highway is closed in the westbound direction (towards Lismore).You are advised to avoid the area.Light vehicles are asked to detour using Teven Road.More to come.

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan released this statement on the third anniversary of the February 28 2022 flood.Three years ago, our community faced Australia's biggest natural disaster since Cyclone Tracy. The devastating floods tore through Lismore and the Mid-Richmond, destroying thousands of homes and businesses - leaving an entire community with serious questions about its future.In the aftermath, there were only two approaches that could have been taken: remove everyone from the floodplain, or keep them there and implement serious flood mitigation measures to lower the height of the next flood.The NSW State Government chose the strategy of removing those in danger from the floodplain. This has failed. Over 2,000 homes were identified to be unsafe. We are now in a position that less than half of the homes identified will be bought back. Some families who accepted a buyback, have purchased new properties back on the floodplain, highlighting the failure of this plan.Individuals and families had nowhere to live and had to make decisions about their immediate future. Some people started putting money back into their homes and commenced renovations immediately. Others decided to sell their properties on the private market. The new property owners did not qualify for the buyback.After the completion of the buyback program, maybe 900 of the 2000 homes identified by the NRRC will have been bought back. This means over 1000 homes will remain on the flood plain. Those individuals and families will be no safer and are still at risk. The CBD, industrial estates, businesses, villages, farmers and the road network are no safer.The strategy of withdrawing from the floodplain has failed. Flood mitigation is the only strategy that will give the region a sustainable future and safety.Over $800m has been spent on the original strategy of withdrawing from the floodplain. None of this money has lowered the level of the next flooding event. This means no home, business or industrial estate occupant, is in any safer.Our path ahead must include a public commitment to flood mitigation. CSIRO will release a report this year, looking at practical scenarios that include engineering solutions to mitigate future flooding. This work is crucial.If the community knows a metre or more will be taken off future events, they will invest and live in confidence in the Northern Rivers. The McKell Institute’s Cost of Extreme Weather Report found that between 2005 and 2022, the Federal Government spent $23.99 billion on disaster recovery and relief, while only $1.51 billion was allocated for disaster prevention. This imbalance must change. Flood mitigation is the best prevention option for the Northern Rivers to grow and prosper. It will also save future governments—and therefore taxpayers—billions of dollars by reducing the impact of future disasters. The 2022 disaster alone is measured as a $15 billion event.The Government at all levels must act. Decision-makers now will determine whether the next major flooding event in this region kills people, destroys lives financially, or if the region has been made safer. Mistakes have been made, and significant public funds have been spent with marginal return. This can be rectified with a real commitment to flood mitigation and a clear vision for the region’s future.

Hundreds of competitors are set to descend on Lismore this weekend to take part in this year’s Samson Fitness Challenge, tackling everything from swimming and running to gruelling challenges like the sled pull, jerry can walk and tyre flip.The morning competitors will compete in cooler but still warm conditions, while the afternoon group will be working their way through the course in temperatures around 29 degrees.Now in its fifteenth year, the Lismore Samson aims to raise funds for Our Kids, which helps sick children receive medical care locally. Funds raised will go towards the purchase of medical equipment to help with the treatment of retinal issues in premature babies.Powered by NBN News, the event kicks off at 5.30pm on Friday, 28 February at Hepburn Park in Goonellabah with the Samson Solo, where competitors tackle the course individually in heats. The fastest competitor will take home the title.The main event begins on Saturday, 1 March at 7am, with teams of four taking on gruelling challenges, including strength activities, running, swimming, and an outdoor obstacle course. With more than 500 competitors, the atmosphere will be electric.Competition in the Elite Men’s division is fierce, with the title race heating up from 11am. Meanwhile, this year’s women’s teams outnumber both the men’s and mixed teams, making for an exciting competition.Saturday’s schedule also features Teen Sprint (3 km) – a high-energy race for young athletes and the Conlon Bros Samson Kids, a dedicated obstacle course for children under 12 years, run by Mr Brad from Fitness Kidz.Sponsored by Conlon Bros Earth Moving and Sea & Sky Sensory Co, the Teen Sprint includes an inflatable jumping castle and unlimited obstacle course fun for just $10, while the climbing wall is an extra $5. Volunteers from Summerland Christian College will be on hand to ensure everything runs smoothly.Lismore’s local Army Reserve unit, the 41st Battalion Royal New South Wales Regiment (41 RNSWR) will assist on the day, alongside more than 120 volunteers, ensuring a seamless event.Athletes can recover at the Southern Cross University Recovery Zone, while spectators and competitors can enjoy Samson Eat Street, featuring delicious offerings from Amici Food Van, Boost Juice, and the Norths Baseball Club BBQ.For more information, visit the website lismoresamson.com, or Facebook Lismore Samson on Facebook or call 0438 417 085 or simply join us on the day to support the competitors!