Geoscientists from Southern Cross University (SCU) have made a world-first discovery in revealing the lethal threat of soils scorched by bushfires.The team, led by SCU's Professor Ed Burton, has found the naturally occurring metal chromium 3 can be converted by extreme bushfire heat into the highly toxic and cancerous chromium 6.Chromium 6 is the substance made infamous by renowned American environmentalist Erin Brockovich, who blew the whistle on high concentrations in the water supply of her home town in southern California.Professor Burton’s breakthrough research has confirmed bushfire temperatures of up to 1000 degrees can create a real danger to human health long after the flames have gone out.“We’ve seen bushfires create conditions in the surface soil that transform the safe, naturally occurring chromium-3 into the toxic, cancer-causing chromium-6,” Professor Burton said.“Chromium-6 can cause lung cancer and leach into waterways.”Professor Burton, an expert on the geochemistry and mineralogy of soils, sediments and groundwater systems, said frontline firefighters are immediately at risk but the contamination of water within catchment areas posed a wider threat.“We know that firefighters have higher incidences of chromium in their urine and are more susceptible to cancer than other groups.“This research is trying to predict with greater accuracy the potential harm of this carcinogenic toxin and to mitigate the risk to human health by seeking to determine the reach and duration of the post-fire danger zone."The role of high temperatures in potential chemical contamination has been underplayed, so it's also important to learn which soils are most prone to contamination, and for how long.”While chromium 3 is a healthy nutrient in humans for insulin, sugar and lipid metabolism, its transformation into the DNA-damaging chromium 6 in bushfires was discovered when Professor Burton’s team used the Australian Synchrotron particle separator in Melbourne to shine a highly-focussed light - millions of times brighter than the sun - on a series of soil and mineral samples.

Aspiring nurses can now apply for the 2020 Enrolled Nurse Scholarships which cover course fees and guarantee a job upon completion. NSW Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer said applicants can study nursing at 24 campuses across the state, including seven in Sydney and 17 across every regional Local Health District. “If you’re interested in a rewarding career as a nurse at one of our public health facilities or hospitals, don’t miss this incredible opportunity,” Ms Cross said. “The scholarship includes course fees for a Diploma of Nursing and an opportunity to work as an Enrolled Nurse as part of our nursing team in NSW Health when you successfully complete the program. “Our Enrolled Nurses work across a variety of NSW Health clinical settings including in acute medical and surgical units, operating theatres and mental health, caring for people when they need it most. “We’re particularly encouraging Aboriginal people to apply for the scholarships, to build the Aboriginal workforce across NSW and improve local health outcomes.” Ashley Gamble, a scholarship recipient who is now an Enrolled Nurse said her role is incredibly rewarding and she recommended the program to anyone interested in a career in nursing. “I really love my role as an Enrolled Nurse. Every day you’re challenged, every day you’re learning, you’re surrounded by people that are so knowledgeable and who are just willing to teach you,” Ms Gamble said. “It is the most rewarding experience you will ever have in your life.” The NSW Government is investing $2.8 billion to recruit 8,300 extra frontline staff over the next four years, including an additional 5000 nurses and midwives. The scholarships run in partnership with TAFE NSW and the NSW Health Registered Training Organisation. To be eligible you must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident living in NSW. Applications close on 19 February. To apply, visit https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/nursing/scholarship/Pages/enrolled-nurse-scholarships.aspx

Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate a man wanted on an outstanding warrant in Lismore.Hayden Hardke, aged 25, is known to frequent the Lismore area.The public is urged not to approach Hayden, but if he is seen to contact your local police station or Triple Zero (000) immediately.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.auInformation is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report crime via NSW Police social media pages.

It’s 2020 and your chance to have a say and share your vision for the future of Lismore is here.Lismore City Council invites community members to get involved in upcoming workshops to help develop a 10-year Community Strategic Plan and a Local Strategic Planning Statement.This process includes workshops in Lismore, Nimbin and other rural areas to get broad community input into these plans.Lismore City Mayor Isaac Smith said this was a great opportunity for the community to let the council know what its vision is for the future of Lismore.“This is an opportunity for community members to help shape the broad strategic objectives for Lismore, Nimbin and our rural communities through to 2030,” he said.Council is also preparing a Local Strategic Planning Statement, which looks specifically at land use. The community is invited to help develop a 20-year vision for land use in the local area and have input into what special characteristics contribute to local identity, shared community values to be maintained and enhanced, and how growth and change will be managed in decades to come.“If you would like to help shape the future of Lismore, Nimbin and our villages, now is the time to have your say. I encourage people who are interested to register for one of the upcoming workshops,” Councillor Smith said.Workshops will be held at the following locations: Thursday, 6 February, 5.30pm at Clunes Coronation HallMonday, 10 February, 5.30pm at Nimbin Birth & Beyond HallWednesday, 12 February, 5.30pm at Dunoon HallThursday, 13 February, 5.30pm at Adam Gilchrist Pavilion, PerradenyaMonday, 17 February, 5.30pm at Channon Hall Wednesday, 19 February, 5.30pm at Southern Cross University Enterprise Lab (Workshop Room) - The Wednesday workshop is already fully booked, but you can register to secure a place at another location.To register, visit http://www.yoursay.lismore.nsw.gov.au

An emergency grant for local farmers, foresters or fishers who have been affected by recent bushfires will be open for applications soon. Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan said the grants of up to $75,000, will help farming businesses to help recover from the disaster.The grants are part of $100 million in emergency bushfire funding from the Federal Government. “Primary producers across the region have been hit hard by these fires, and these grants will go a long way in being able to help them recover,” Mr Hogan said. “This funding provides critical support for our primary producers in a time when they need it most. “The grant money could be used to get generators on to a property where there is no electricity, install new solar panels on the bore pump, or to assist with immediate labour needs. “We need to ensure that our farmers have everything they need to get their properties back to normal to keep doing what our primary producers do best—produce high quality, fresh and sustainable food and fibre.” This initiative forms part of $2 billion commitment the Coalition Government has made to address the impact of recent bushfires.

The floor’s been redone and there’s great natural light. It’s slightly smaller than the old yoga studio, but Julie Hodges is excited about the fresh start to a new year for Lismore Yoga Studio.After seven years of teaching yoga from her Molesworth Street location, Julie Hodges has moved her studio to 1/142 Keen Street, Lismore, above Ying’s Chinese Restaurant.In the new location, she’s installed the wall ropes and props that are the trademarks of Iyengar yoga classes.“We do lots of things with ropes - they can allow people to hang upside down. It’s great for neck issues and can traction the shoulders, hips and back,” she said. “The ropes also give support in poses, which is good if you are feeling sick or fatigued.“Iyengar yoga is an intelligent practice that uses alignment to bring the mind into focus and keep the joints in the correct place.” Julie said for her, “yoga is like a lifelong friend”.“It grows up with you – it’s something I can see myself doing until my last breath,” she said.“Yoga should be for everybody - as you age, yoga is about adapting the practice to you.”Julie teaches yoga informed by the teachings of BKS Iyengar, with a focus on adapting poses to help with all kinds of practices and ailments, from heart conditions and high blood pressure.“There’s always a modification we can make that people can work with,” she said.Julie has been a yoga teacher since 1996, but said her mother had been practicing yoga since the 1970s.“She’s now 84 and still practices,” Julie said. “She said to me, ‘you should do yoga’.“I started practicing Iyengar yoga in 1992 when I went to a yoga class in Glasgow, Scotland.“On the first class, I felt a connection with something inside myself that was calm and peaceful - and a light bulb went on.“I knew that was what I wanted to do. So, I practiced for two years then moved to Australia in 1994 before I did my yoga teacher training.”Julie now teaches others to become yoga teachers and has a second teacher training course starting this year. “We also have a new beginners course starting on January 30 and a free community class for women on Wednesday’s from 1.15pm-2.30pm, with tea afterwards.“I’m updating the website now with the new location details and I’m excited about the new decade and change. It’s a fresh journey with fresh learning.For information about Lismore Yoga Studio, visit, https://lismoreyogastudio.com.au/

In sad news today, resected Bundjalung man and artist Albert (Digby) Moran has died at the age of 71. A message on Facebook from his partner Kerry, said “on behalf of Digby's family and myself I am deeply saddened to inform you all that Digby passed away suddenly yesterday. We are all devastated. He is loved by so many people and will be sorely missed. Thank you all for supporting him, he received great pleasure from reading your comments."Digby was born in Ballina and raised on Cabbage Tree Island. His father was Dungutti and his mother Bundjalung. He is a highly respected member of the Lismore/Ballina community and one of the region’s highly regarded artists.Before he started painting, Digby worked in agriculture and even as a boxer before he turned his hand to art. His dad Teddy Moran passed his skill as a boxer onto his son.Digby spent time in showman Jimmy Sharman's travelling boxing tent watching his father fight as the heavyweight champion of the North Coast.As a child, Digby would watch his grandfather burn designs into boomerangs as a child, but it wasn’t until a battle with alcoholism saw him give up drinking and cigarettes and take up painting.In 1991, he undertook an art course through TAFE which launched his career as an artist. Painting provided a vehicle to express his stories with a strong focus on his time at Cabbage Tree Island. He once said, “Those were my happiest years growing up there”. As a storyteller, Moran accessed traditions passed on to him by his paternal grandfather, using this as his inspiration to paint and express his Bundjalung heritage.His art studio was badly affected by the 2017 Lismore floods, and he lost most of his materials and much work. But after the floods receded, he created a body of work entitled Growing Up on the Island which he exhibited at Lismore Regional Gallery.Lismore Regional Gallery said on Facebook: "Over the past 30 years Mr Moran had established himself as one of the Northern Rivers’ most recognised artists achieving national and international recognition. His esteem came from his unique and deeply personal story, and artworks expressing his place within Bundjalung land."Mr Moran’s Lismore studio was devastated in the 2017 floods, when he lost many works. A subsequent creative outburst resulted in the 2018 exhibition at Lismore Regional Gallery, 'Growing up on The Island'. This show reflected on his time growing up on Cabbage Tree Island, in the Richmond River, for which he had very positive memories. When we spoke with Mr Moran about these works, his infectious laughter and smile would erupt under his curls with these memories."While this exhibition was on, Mr Moran would be present in the gallery on most days, sharing his work, and stories with visitors. Recently we had to put some figures together of exhibition visitation over the last years and were gratified to see that (not including The Archibald Prize), Mr Moran’s exhibition had been the most highly attended, which indicates the huge affection our community had for this artist."Lismore Regional Gallery added: "While Mr Moran was known for his incredible art career, he was equally known for his work supporting young people. He generously committed huge amounts of time teaching art techniques and sharing stories to children across the region. So much so that we are certain that if you asked a young person in the region to name an artist, Mr Moran would be one of the most identified."Digby once also allowed New Italy artist Jeff Gant to paint his likeness for the Northern Rivers Portrait Prize in 2013.St Joseph's Catholic Primary School said on Facebook: "Uncle Digby was such a humble, gentle and wise man who had an incredibly positive impact on so many of our students and staff, whilst he was at our school last term. We are truly grateful to have spent the time we did with such a talented man and feel blessed that he shared his gifts with our school community. Our condolences go out to Uncle Digby's family. He will be terribly missed."The local community mourns his loss and the Northern Rivers will not be the same without him.

Local wildlife rehabilitation groups look set to benefit from the Federal Government’s announcement of $50 million for emergency wildlife and habitat recovery. Federal member for Page Kevin Hogan said the funding was offered in response to the recent devastating bushfires and would support the immediate work to protect Australia’s wildlife. “Our wildlife needs our help and food drops are happening into fire damaged areas now to promote the survival and recovery of endangered species,” Mr Hogan said.“The Government will coordinate with organisations across Australia to ensure the money goes where it is needed.”Wildlife Information and Rescue Emergency Service Northern Rivers (WIRES NR) vice chair Lib Rutenberg said any money would go a long way to covering the costs of the entirely volunteer-run organisation.“WIRES has 28 branches in NSW and we rely on public donations to fund the work of our members rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife,” Lib said. “We don’t get government grants and there has been no government funding before now.”With an estimated loss of over a billion animals in NSW due to the bushfires, the loss of habitat is a major concern for wildlife groups.“The bushfires, horrible as they are, will hopefully focus the planning and integration between land management and wildlife care,” Lib said.“In the Northern Rivers, we are immediately faced with habitat loss. Our members are now raising orphans and wanting to soft release them, but the habitat we planned to release them into has been burned.“We have seen whole populations of flying foxes moved on and behaving differently because of habitat loss.“The Northern Rivers area is so biodiverse – we have a high koala population and lots of species that don’t occur elsewhere – like gliders, macropods and other small mammals."Lib was concerned that the Federal Government’s announcement of funding was just a “band aid” measure.“The Commonwealth Government integrated the vastly different areas of environment with agriculture late last year,” she said. “The mind boggles at having one minister in charge of those two areas.“The Coalition State Government has presided over ripping the guts out of national parks for years and the Office of Environment and Heritage has just been decimated.“The government is throwing money at the problem now, but if they want to make serious change, they need to restructure departments and pay attention to their policies and support.”Lib said a number of other local wildlife organisations could also see a share in the government funding, including Northern Rivers Wildlife Carers, Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers, Seabird Rescue in Ballina and Northern Tablelands Wildlife Carers at Tenterfield.Friends of the Koala (FoK) president Ros Irwin said she hoped the money would filter down to the Lismore-based organisation which was responsible for caring for and rehabilitating injured koalas. “There are certain areas we would be able to take forward if the money is available to us,” Ros said.Ros said the NSW Wildlife Council (of which WIRES and FoK are members) would be instrumental in liaising with government in relation to any distributed funds. Mr Hogan said the $50 million funding will be used for:• Care for and rehabilitate injured wildlife.• Secure viable populations of threatened species.• Control feral predators, other pest animals and noxious weeds that are a major threat to vulnerable animals and plants at this time.• Scientifically map and understand the true impact of these fires.• Work with landowners to protect those precious remaining unburned areas, which will serve as ‘arks’ and allow our native plants and animals to recover.  

Two men have been confirmed dead in plane crash north-west of Casino. The deceased men – believed to be aged their 60s from the Toowoomba area – are yet to be formally identified.Wreckage of the aircraft was found in dense bushland by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter approximately 1.5-kilometres into the Koreelah National Park.The aircraft, believed to have two brothers on board, had departed Casino Airport an hour earlier.The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) initiated a search when the single-engine Tailwind aircraft failed to arrive at Boonah in Queensland as planned at about 3pm (NSW time).Officers attached to Richmond Police District were assisted by NSW Police Rescue and SES volunteers to access the site which is located in very steep and heavily-wooded terrain.Police reached the scene of a plane crash yesterday afternoon about 3pm.The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) have been informed and will be responsible for any investigation into the crash.The men’s families are being apprised of the situation and have requested privacy at this time.UPDATE: Missing plane found crashed

Funny women ready to “cut their teeth” in raw comedy - and be paid for it - are urged to put their names down for an upcoming comedy gala in Nimbin.Organiser of the 17th annual Nimbin women’s dinner and comedy gala, Natalie Meyer, said she was still looking for new and emerging talent to book in for a five minute slot in the show on March 5.“The gig is on at Nimbin Town Hall in the week leading up to International Women’s Day,” Natalie said. “It’s all about celebrating the achievements of women and getting together once a year to have a good laugh – and since the bushfires, we need it now more than ever.”Natalie said she already had a couple of well-known comedians booked as headliners, but was still looking for some fresh faces to fill a couple of spots.“It’s a good gig for new talent because not only is it paid, but it is a women only gig and there won’t be any heckling – everyone is supportive.“If you are considering entering the upcoming Raw Comedy heat in Mullumbimby on March 16, this gig can be a great warm up for warm up for you to test your material.“We encourage Mandy Nolan comedy graduates to come and share their jokes in front of audience of up to 200 women.”Natalie said all the people involved in running the gala were women - with the exception of some supportive men who would be baking cakes for the Nimbin gig.“All the paid lighting and sound technicians for the gig are women too, as are the many volunteers,” she said. Last year’s event saw comedians Mandy Nolan and Sarah Gaul headline the event.Natalie describes Sarah as “a feminist Tim Minchin”.“When she went on the Tom Ballard nightly show, I saw her and recruited her from there,” she said. “In previous years, we have had Fiona O’Loughlin as a headliner and local comedians Vanessa Larry Mitchell (of Larry laughs Out Loud) also cut her teeth at this gig.”If you want to put your hand up for a spot at the gig, email Natalie (who is also the manage of the Nimbin Neighbourhood and Information Centre) at admin@nnic.org.au by January 26.For information about the Nimbin Neighbourhood and Information Centre, visit https://www.facebook.com/Nimbin-Neighbourhood-and-Information-Centre-316382298537853/For information about entering Raw Comedy, visit https://comedyfestival.com.au/raw/competition?fbclid=IwAR3ZLG-MoScOCS8_4qHOGXx95nxKl1gp-dUB6np6EmTYGXbF_cO5KMo4XAY

Level 2 water restrictions will come into effect in Lismore on Monday, January 20. Poor rainfall outlook coupled with high water demand over the holiday period has prompted local water authority Rous County Council (RCC) to elevate the water restrictions.This applies to the council areas of Lismore (excluding Nimbin), Ballina (including Wardell and Meerschaum Vale), Byron (excluding Mullumbimby) and Richmond Valley (excluding Casino).Read more: Nimbin’s time to cut water use is running outRCC advises residents that if water consumption is not cut by 15% under Level 2 restrictions within a reasonable time and if there is no significant rainfall, the region may face Level 3 water restrictions. Rous County Council general manager Phillip Rudd said, “this drop is equivalent to 30 litres per person per day”. “This is equivalent to four minutes in the shower or two full toilet flushes,” Mr Rudd said.The decision to raise water restriction levels comes after RCC acting planning manager Samuel Curran, met with the Regional Drought Management Committee last week to discuss the current outlook.Representatives from Ballina, Lismore, Byron and Richmond Valley Council agreed now is the right time to initiate Level 2 water restrictions.“Water consumption across the Rous supply area for November and December has been more than 10% higher than the same period in 2018. “Rainfall measured at Rocky Creek Dam (as an indicator for the region) for November and December combined was 116mm in 2018 compared to 70mm in 2019,” Mr Curran said.“Most of the Northern Rivers is in intense drought. The Bureau of Meteorology outlook is for a drier and hotter than average summer and a delayed monsoon season.“Water use in January is traditionally high with the summer holiday season. And despite a slight drop in demand after Level 1 water restrictions came into place, we have seen a steady increase in consumption over the last few weeks.”Rocky Creek Dam level is currently sitting around 60% dropping at a continual rate of around 2.2% per week.Mr Rudd said the catchment continues to be particularly dry.“The catchment area of Rocky Creek Dam has not been this dry for more than 45 years,” Mr Rudd said.“To safeguard our drinking water supply, it is critical that we cut down on non-essential use of water. “We need to ensure that both residents and visitors to the region are aware of water restrictions. “Every drop of water saved adds up to make a huge difference.”Mr Rudd said the most significant non-essential use of water happens outdoors. What do Level 2 water restrictions mean?Under Level 2 restrictions, gardens can be watered by watering can or bucket at any time. Hand-held hoses can only be used for 30 minutes before 9am and after 4pm, on odd or even days matching your house number. No watering will be permitted on the 31st of the month.Significant differences from Level 1 to Level 2 water restrictions include:Outdoor watering duration reduced by half. Time of day and odd/even day restrictions still apply.Car washing duration reduced by half. Time of day and odd/even day restrictions still apply.Further restrictions on business water use including public and private pool top ups, vehicle washing and detailing.Water used for dust suppression and road construction should use non-potable water sources.Businesses that rely on outdoor water use as part of their operations will need to contact their local council to apply for an exemption.Fines will apply for breaches of water restrictions - $220 for residential breaches and $550 for businesses. To find out more information, visit http://www.rous.nsw.gov.au/waterrestrictions

Lismore City Council is advising Nimbin residents that despite the introduction of water restrictions, residents and businesses in the village are not meeting water reduction targets.“This means tougher restrictions may soon be needed,” a Council statement said. “Average consumption per person remained the same under Level 2 restrictions.“Following the introduction of Level 3 restrictions late last year, consumption fell to 175 litres per day.“This is short of the daily 150 litres target to ensure the village doesn’t run out of water and can maintain a water supply.“Residents and business are urged to immediately reduce their current water consumption." Nimbin’s water supply is sourced from Mulgum Creek and is operated by Lismore City Council. The water supply for the rest of Lismore Local Government Area is sourced from Rocky Creek Dam and is operated by Rous County Council.  Rous County Council has introduced Level 1 water restrictions for all areas in the Lismore Local Government Area, excluding Nimbin. Under Level 3 water restrictions, Nimbin residents can:• Watering cans or buckets can be used on established gardens at any time.• Hand-held hoses with an on-off nozzle can only be used to water gardens for a maximum of 10 minutes, between the hours of 4pm and 9am, on odd or even days matching your house number. • Other irrigation, such as sprinklers, and unattended hoses are banned. • Filling of new swimming pools is permitted only to reduce structural damage between 4pm and 9am using a hand-held house with one-off nozzle. • Top up of fountains and water features is not permitted except to maintain fish life. • Washing of driveways, paved areas, walls, windows, roofs and paths not permitted except for health and safety reasons by a registered cleaning business only.• Washing of cars permitted with efficient high-pressure, low-flow rate cleaners with trigger control for five minutes between 4pm and 9am on odd and even days matching your house number.  

Update: 3.01pmNSW Police said authorities have located the crash site of a missing light aircraft in rugged terrain north-west of Casino.The site was located by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter about 9.45am today, approximately 1.5km into the Koreelah National Park.NSW Police, with the assistance of NSW Police Rescue and SES volunteers are currently attempting to access the site from the ground, this will take some time as the site is located in very steep and rugged terrain.More information will be available in due course. The families of those on board are being kept appraised of the search efforts.  8.47amA search is underway for an overdue plane which left Casino Airport, bound for Boonah, Queensland on Sunday afternoon.The single-engine aircraft, with two people on board, left the airport about 2pm on January 12, and was due to arrive in Boonah about 3pm (NSW time).When the plane failed to arrive as planned and the pilot was unable to be contacted, a search was co-ordinated by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA).The Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked to search an area of the Tooloom National Park, west of Woodendong, but nothing was sighted.Search efforts will continue this morning under the direction of AMSA.  Anyone with information about the missing plane to urged to contact Triple Zero (000).Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.auInformation is treated in strict confidence. 

Aboriginal nursing and midwifery students have an opportunity to apply for NSW Health cadetships that provide financial and career support. Applications for the NSW Health Aboriginal Nursing and Midwifery Cadetship Program 2020 are open until January 25. NSW Health Chief Nurse and Midwifery Officer Jacqui Cross said the program aims to improve Aboriginal health outcomes by providing education and employment opportunities for Aboriginal people aspiring to be nurses or midwives. “As part of this fantastic program, cadetships are offered to Aboriginal people to help them undertake and complete nursing or midwifery studies,” Ms Cross said. “The cadetships give these students the chance to be part of a team in a nurturing environment to build their skills as they prepare to be nurses and midwives. “They also provide financial assistance, including a study allowance, to help students manage their expenses while undertaking their studies.” NSW Health developed the program to increase the number of Aboriginal nurses and midwives in rural and remote NSW, and to improve career development opportunities for Aboriginal employees working in the public health system. Elise McCarthy-McPhan is one of 173 recipients of the NSW Health Aboriginal Nursing and Midwifery Cadetship Program. Elise is currently working with the Nursing and Midwifery Office on secondment from the Sydney Children’s Hospital and said it was a life changing experience. “Each opportunity I was given meant more opportunities I was able to give back to my mob which was my motivation for doing nursing, to help provide culturally safe care in order to close the gap,” Ms McCarthy-McPhan said. “I honestly believe that if it wasn’t for the opportunities given during my cadetship program, I wouldn’t be as successful in the position that I’m in today, and with the supportive networks that I have formed.” For more information on the Aboriginal Nursing and Midwifery Cadetship Program 2020 visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/nursing/aboriginal-strategy/Pages/aboriginal-cadetships.aspx

Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions and night work on the Pacific Highway from Monday 13 to Sunday 19 January for the Woolgoolga to Ballina upgrade, weather permitting. From Monday, southbound motorists on the Pacific Highway can expect traffic control in use on Woodburn-Evans Head Road at Woodburn for up to five days to allow vehicles to access the project site and carry out drainage work. Motorists can expect lane closures and traffic control between 6am and 6pm. Also from Monday, there will one night of work at the Yamba interchange to install signage at the heavy vehicle underpass. Motorists can expect traffic control and short stoppages at times between 6pm and 6am. There will be up to six days of work at Jubilee Street, Townsend to allow vehicles to access the project site and carry out work on the new bridge. Motorists can expect lane closures, traffic control and increased stoppages to allow access to the site, with a reduced speed limit of 40km/h between 6am and 6pm. Further south from Monday, there will be up to five days of work on the new overpass bridges at Bondi Hill Road and Byrons Lane, Tyndale and McIntyres Lane at Gulmarrad. Motorists can expect lane closures and traffic control between 6am and 6pm. The old Mororo Bridge is currently temporarily closed while drainage is installed. Motorists can also expect short stoppages on the Pacific Highway at Mororo to allow vehicles to access the project site. Motorists can expect traffic control and a reduced speed limit between 6am and 6pm. Also from Monday, there will be five days of excavation work next to the Pacific Highway at Maclean. Southbound motorists can expect a reduced speed limit of 60km/h between 6am and 6pm. Further south from Monday, there will be six days of work next to the Pacific Highway at Glenugie to install electrical cables. Motorists can expect lane closures, traffic control and a reduced speed limit of 80km/h between 7am and 6pm.  Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions and follow the direction of signs and traffic control. Transport for NSW thanks motorists for their patience during this time. For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit http://www.livetraffic.com or call 132 701.

Hi and welcome to the Weekend Wrap.We need to address the relentless summer weather of mid-30 temperatures all week. Saturday is more of the same, sorry for being the bearer of bad news. But Saturday night brings a cooler change and with it a 70% chance of rain between 2 and 8 mm. This brings me to the good news, Sunday is 26 degrees! There is a 90% chance of rain with 10-25mm expected so no need to water those gardens and lawns. There should be some late twenty days during next week too with a little bit more rain.A little bit of rain makes for an interesting Lismore Speedway event on Saturday night at the Lismore Showgrounds. We don't want to much but just enough to make the track loads of fun for us spectators! In action is the V8 Dirt Modifieds Final, the Wingless Sprints, Production Sedans, Junior Sedans and Street Stocks.It is a busy time for the Lismore Speedway with five meetings in fifteen days. The next is on Tuesday night when we see the Worlds Series Sprint Cars return to the Lismore race track. As usual it's a 5:30pm start.All the markets are back in action this weekend.The Lismore Farmers Market from 8am Saturday morning at the Showground, the Blue Knob Markets from 8:30am at 719 Blue Knob Road then on Sunday the Channon Markets are back for the first time in two months. You may remember the December markets were cancelled because of the bush fires. Head to the Channon Road between 9am and 3pm on Sunday.For some live entertainment, Le Fleur are on at the Dusty from 7pm on Saturday night.I want to leave with you with an interesting fact that was posted by Mark Bailey on Lismore What's Happening this morning. Tonight at 8:20pm and 20 seconds it will be 20:20:20 2020! This will never happen again in our lifetime.That is the Weekend Wrap. Have fun and enjoy the rain.

The air con is switched on and the vintage seating has been repaired in the Rochdale Theatre in Goonellabah.The painting and refurbishment of the theatre has “thrilled” Lismore Theatre Company (LTC) members who preparing to bring more productions to the stage of their Rochdale Theatre home in 2020.The makeover of the theatre was possible due to the company receiving a grant of $29,123 from the State Government’s Create NSW.Along with $7000 from Lismore City Council, $6000 of LTC’s own funds and in-kind contributions, a total of $46,8883 has been spent on the refurbishment of the theatre. LTC president Sharon Brodie said project management and preparatory work by committee members added value to the work undertaken.“The grants funded the installation of air conditioning in the auditorium and the supper room and repairs to the vintage red brocade raked seating and painting of the building,” she said.“New signage and a new roof will be added in the coming months.“We love this place that creates wonderful theatre and connects our community.“It’s also perfect timing as we approach our 50th anniversary later in the year.”“Last year was hugely successful for us with sell out shows for Breast Wishes, our Winter Cabaret, Steel Magnolias, Witches Abroad and The Vagina Monologues. “We expect 2020 to be another great year especially as we celebrate our half century.”The first show for 2020 - Educating Rita - opens on March 20. “Rehearsals for that show and the pantomime Puss in Thongs will be staged in the Easter school holidays, and will be so much more comfortable with air conditioning,” Sharon said.Rochdale Theatre is also available for hire. For more information, contact the committee through the website www.lismoretheatrecompany.org.au

Bushfire-hit communities in the Lismore Council area will be able to rebuild vital infrastructure sooner with an initial and immediate $1 million grant to council from the Coalition Government. Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan said Council would be able to choose the best way to use the money to help their community recover. “This means locals can get out and rebuild what’s important to them in their Council area,” Kevin Hogan said. “This could go into rebuilding or improving roads and other community infrastructure.  “It can also go to hiring staff to help with the recovery, or staging local events to attract more tourists and business to the Northern Rivers. “This will help get the local economy moving which will help speed up recovery across the whole region.” Prime Minister Scott Morrison said his Government was committed to working hand in hand with regional communities to rebuild towns and villages. “These payments will provide immediate assistance directly into the hands of local councils to rebuild roads and infrastructure, employ staff to help in recovery activities and hold events which bring the community together and bring tourists back to town,” the Prime Minister said. “We are moving immediately to support local councils and our funding will be in state government bank accounts by tomorrow. “Importantly this is a base payment and just the start of our support for local communities, in what we know will be a long recovery.” Funding will be directed to councils which have been ‘activated’ by their respective state government for Category C bushfire disaster recovery relief under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). Payments will not require matched funding from state governments.  Minister for Natural Disaster and Emergency Management David Littleproud said the focus would be on supporting local communities.  “I’ve made it clear this won’t be a Canberra led recovery, it’ll be a locally led recovery and this is our first instalment in that process. We’re empowering local governments to be part of that process today. We’re committed to rebuilding communities but also the lives of those impacted by these devastating fires,” Minister Littleproud said.  Funds will be drawn from the $2 billion allocated to the National Bushfire Recovery Agency and this is in addition to funding that is automatically available to councils through other disaster recovery arrangements. The lump sum payments will be delivered by the Commonwealth by the close of business tomorrow to State Governments who administer payments to councils.  The only condition placed on councils is that they develop a Program of Works within three months and report back to the Commonwealth in 12 months’ time. Councils will be able to spend their $1 million payments on projects and activities that they deem essential for the recovery and renewal of their communities, including:•     Rebuilding damaged or destroyed council assets such as key local roads, bridges, and community facilities;•     Employing additional local staff to take on specialist recovery or planning roles to help coordinate and plan the rebuilding effort;•     Hosting new public activities and events to bring communities together and attract visitors back to affected regions; and•     Immediate maintenance and repairs to relief and evacuation centres.

If you’ve ever fancied a joy flight, or love watching air displays and aerobatics, this weekend’s Great Eastern Fly-in at Evans Head Memorial Aerodrome is for you.Saturday and Sunday will see market and food stalls, displays from car clubs, Star Wars characters, vintage aircraft, giant models and drones. For the past 19 years, the Fly-in has brought life back to the historic 80 year old aerodrome, which was the largest training base during World War 2 (WW2).Read more about pilot Bill Kiernan, who has lived through two wars and now teaches people to fly - in our Sunday Profile, this Sunday, January 12.RAAF training aircraft Winjeels and CT4.The Great Eastern Fly-in coordinator Gai Taylor said before the Fly-in began in 1992, the aerodrome “was looking sad and sorry”.“So, the Evans Head Memorial Aerodrome committee fixed it up and started running a fly in every year on veteran’s weekend for pilots to have a good time and meet up - and it’s progressed from there,” she said.“Richmond Valley Council helped us to fix the runways and we have well-tended camping areas too. “We do it to keep the aerodrome as an ongoing aviation centre for flying – it’s a memorial airport that opened in 1940, so this year is its 80th anniversary – and we’ll have a few veterans here.”Gai said the aerodrome committee successfully applied in 2000 to have the aerodrome heritage listed in NSW. “Over 5000 people trained here and thousands supported them – everyone from cooks, cleaners, aviation mechanics to parachute packers,” she said. WAAAFS at RAAF Station Evans Head in WW2.“Women couldn’t train in the Royal Australian Air Force in WW2, so the women joined the Women’s Army Corps (WAAAFS) and would drive trucks and clean dunnies – it was a big effort.”Gai said the Great Eastern Fly-in was a great event to help celebrate history and promote all aspects of aviation.“We have about 50 volunteers helping to put the event on,” she said. “It’s a community event and anybody can come and give a donation at the gate – we will be giving 10% of all funds raised to the Rural Fires Service (RFS).“Woodburn RFS will be here on site on the day and we’ll have heritage museum displays of model aircraft, including giant three metre models and drones.“On Sunday morning, the local pre-schoolers will be having a paper plane making and throwing competition and throwing and everyone can join in.  “There will be people dressed up as Star Wars characters and they will raise money for Angel Flights by asking for donations for a photo.” Bell 47 – helicopter.If you are interested in taking a joy flight on the day you can visit the website or just turn up on the day. “There is a joy flight for everybody’s taste,” Gai said. “Fly the family over the beach and spot the dolphins, feel the breeze in your hair, thrill seekers can fly upside-down and, for that once in a life-time adventure, experience the raw power of a genuine Warbird.“There are different aircraft to choose from and prices vary from $80 -$480.”The markets open at 8am on Saturday, January 10 and 9am Sunday, January 11 and aerobatic displays begin at 10am.A shuttle bus will be available to Evans Head town centre, beaches, local sites and off-site accommodation.