The Lismore Speedway is to go ahead this Saturday night at the Lismore Showground. This was confirmed by Promoter David Lander today.The second race meet of the 2019/2020 season is due to get underway at 5:30pm and conclude at its normal time of 10pm and features the Wingless Sprintcars, AMCA Nationals, Production Sedans, Junior Sedans, National 4's and the Street Stocks.Adults are $25, Pensioners and TPI $20, High School Students with card $15, two Adults and two High School Students is $65 while kids under 12 are free.Some residents have voiced concern on social media about the welfare of the horses being stabled at the Lismore Showgrounds if the speedway meeting were to go ahead.Mark Bailey, National North Coast A&I Secretary Manager, said " two separate government departments, the NSW Department of Primary Industries and NSW Land Services have sent two vets to inspect the horses this morning". He went on to say "their advice was to move the horses to the beef holding areas and for the owners to stay with their horses during the event, then it won't be an issue".The Lismore Showground has been the temporary home for 150 people and 140 horses in the last four to five days because of the Mt Nardi bush fires. Mark Bailey told the Lismore App that this number is down to 40 people and 30 horses as people are moving back to check on their homes in areas that are in no immediate danger.While the Mt Nardi bush fire alert is at 'Advice' level and poses no immediate threat to homes in areas of The Channon, Dunoon, Whian Whian and other smaller communities it is still not under control. Residents of areas where the fire is active like Tuntable Falls, Tuntable Creek and Ternia Creek are advised to monitor conditions closely. If you are going back to your property or have gone, the NSW RFS reminds residents to stay vigilant, regularly monitor news sources (Bush Fires) and keep your evacuation plan in place. Advise family and friends of your decision to return to your property. If you have officially registered that you have left your property and are now retuning, please inform the appropriate organisation. Stay vigilant and stay safe.

The North Coast Public Health Unit is reminding people to continue to be vigilant about their health, and to take precautions while bushfire smoke affects air quality in Northern NSW. North Coast Public Health Unit, acting director Greg Bell said the fine particles in smoke can affect the human cardiovascular and respiratory systems and aggravate existing health conditions by penetrating deep into the lungs and entering the blood system. “For most people, smoke causes mild symptoms like sore eyes, nose and throat. However, people with conditions like asthma, emphysema and angina are more likely to be sensitive to the health effects of smoke,” Mr Bell said. “People with these conditions should avoid outdoor physical activity when there’s smoke around.For contacts and information and about bushfires, the Lismore App has a bushfires button on the main page: Bush Fires“Smoke exposure can lead people with lung disease or chronic bronchitis to develop shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing, many days after smoke is inhaled. “People should closely monitor their symptoms and follow their asthma or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) action plan.” Mr Bell advised residents to stay indoors until the air clears and avoid strenuous exercise or heavy outdoor work where possible. “Symptoms can occur for several days after smoke is inhaled, so people with chronic respiratory and cardiac conditions need to be vigilant with their medication or treatment programs,” Mr Bell said. “If symptoms do not settle, contact your doctor.” Residents who may have lost medication due to bush fires, or who don’t have their Medicare, DVA or Centrelink card, should speak to their pharmacist.“In many circumstances, they may be able to provide additional supply,” Mr Bell said. “In accordance with emergency supply provisions, you can receive a 3-day supply of many medications without a prescription.” In the event of an emergency, always remember to dial Triple Zero (000). For more information, visit the NSW Health air quality web page at: http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/factsheets/Pages/bushfiresmoke.aspx

Gianna Saputo and her daughter Larah still don’t know when they will be able to go home.They are among the many displaced people as a result of the ongoing bushfires in the Nightcap National Park.They left their home on Gungas Road, in the Tuntable Falls area of Nimbin on Monday, looking for shelter at Lismore Showgrounds and are still camping there.For contacts and information and about bushfires, the Lismore App has a bushfires button on the main page: Bush FiresGianna Saputo and her daughter Larah with the donated camper trailer.Gianna told the Lismore App they attended the community meeting at Nimbin Town Hall on Sunday, where “we were warned and told to get out”.“We went back home but the smoke in the air was too much for us and the car was full of ash - so we decided to get out on Monday night.” she said.“Gungas Road only has one way in and out and now we have peace of mind. “We had a small tent we were camping in for the first two nights, then someone brought a fully set up camper trailer to the showground and we were lucky enough to be allowed to sleep in it."It’s great, we can sleep on a comfortable bed now and it’s cool in the daytime. “We want to thank David and Karl for donating it.”Gianna said they still didn’t know what they would do in the near future, and they might be camping out for a while.“We’re not going home until the fire is extinguished,” she said.“We were monitoring the fire’s progress and saw it was slowly moving toward our house.“It’s scary - we heard that one man went back home and saw smoke and fire bombs near him. “When embers started hitting his roof, he grabbed his stuff and left.”Gianna said they felt there were some confused messages about whether it was safe or not to return home.“The wind keeps changing direction and the fire situation in unpredictable,” she said. “It’s confusing about whether it will be safe or not. “I hope it rains. The bushland around has been dry for so long.”Gianna and Larah moved to Gungas Road 18 months ago, and at this stage, they are not even sure if they want to live there anymore.

Lismore City Council is offering free entry to the Lismore Memorial Baths for families who have evacuated because of the bushfires.Evacuated families can use the pool for free from 10am to 2.30pm Monday to Friday, and from noon to 5pm on Sunday.For contacts and information and about bushfires, the Lismore App has a bushfires button on the main page: Bush FiresThe Lismore Showground has also formally been designated as a Disaster Welfare Assistance Point.The Showground can accommodate people with their own camping equipment. The Showground can also cater for large animals. Smaller domestic animals should be contained or on leads.Evacuees are encouraged to stay with family and friends as a first option.If this is not an option, the Evacuation Centres are there to accommodate you. If evacuees do not have camping equipment, they should attend the Evacuation Centre at Southern Cross University. This Centre can also accommodate people with small domestic animals.The Nimbin Showgrounds remain open as an Evacuation Centre for the surrounding community that need to evacuate.All Evacuation Centres are staffed from 7am – 10pm.People who have evacuated are urged to register at Register. Find. Reunite (https://register.redcross.org.au) so that family and friends know you are safe

Level 1 water restrictions in the Lismore area could be brought in earlier than expected.Rous County Council has called an extraordinary meeting next Wednesday about changing the water restriction ‘trigger level’ of Rocky Creek Dam to 70% of its capacity.As of Wednesday this week, Rocky Creek Dam was at 78% and Emigrant Creek Dam at 66%.The normal level 1 trigger level is 60% capacity, under the Council’s Regional Drought Management Plan.Rous County Council general manager Phillip Rudd told the Lismore App the driver for the change in bringing in water restrictions was to make sure that “we stay ahead of the coming summer weather”.“The medium-term forecast is below average rainfall and above average temperatures,” Mr Rudd said.“We want to make sure everyone in the community does their bit to minimise water use now so we can drastically reduce usage over the next several months.”Mr Rudd said because the fires in the local area are “quite recent”, we are not seeing any impact on water usage from fire fighting activities at the moment.“But that information will take a while to come through,” he said.“We’ll see over the next few weeks if water usage is trending up or down.“It’s difficult because there are a range of factors impacting on it such as the humidity.“It’s extremely dry and a big driver of water use is people with tanks who don’t have water and are calling on water tankers deliver water to them.”Mr Rudd said the management of the water supply was complex and needed to consider how Rous County Council works with partner councils. “It’s sometimes forgotten that while we don’t supply water to Casino, which is under water restrictions, we supply water to other parts of Richmond Valley and Mullumbimby.“We need to work in partnership and there’s a lot going on.”Kyogle Council is on level 2 restrictions and Richmond Valley Council is on level 3 restrictions.Pictured: Rous County Council's website shows dam levels and water restriction levels and what they mean.At the moment, water restrictions are “every day water saving measures”, but level 1 water restrictions will include hose and irrigation restrictions, such as the banning of water sprinklers and alternate watering days for residents.“People need to think about things like do I need to wash my car or car I leave it until next week?” Mr Rudd said.“And not watering the garden in the middle of the day and taking a couple of minutes less when having a shower.Mr Rudd said Rous County Council has updated its website to make water levels and restrictions information easier to access and understand.The extraordinary meeting next Wednesday, November 20 will start at 1pm and is open to the public.To find out more about water restrictions and dam levels, click here: https://rous.nsw.gov.au/cp_themes/default/page.asp?p=DOC-OWX-54-47-20To find out more about what the water restrictions are for residential urban and rural premises and commercial businesses, click here: https://www.rous.nsw.gov.au/page.asp?f=RES-QKD-14-08-70

11pmContainment has been the most used word when the NSW RFS talk about the Mt Nardi bush fire. Our tireless firefighters are continuing to establish containment lines and patrol fires that are coming down the ridge towards properties. As this happens certain properties will be at risk so, while the immediate danger is over for most of the affected areas there is a great deal of caution for some areas around Tuntable Creek and Terania Creek. The fire will still be visible along the ridges and expectations are that this bush fire could burn for many more weeks due to large parts of the Nightcap National Park being in accessible, making it impossible to fight the fire until it reaches areas that can be accessed by firefighters. The fire coverage area is now 4,900 hectares according to the NSW RFS.Terri Nicholson from the Nimbin Hook Up Discussion Board posted some amazing photos of our firies at work and of Protestor Falls.A reminder that the Nightcap National Park is closed and the public is to not venture inside any part of the park.There is another Total Fire Ban in place and the alert for the Mt Nardi Fire now sits at 'advice'. This means there is no immediate threat but conditions must be monitored closely. The not so good news of the evening is that the amount of rainfall forecast for Sunday has dropped to 2-6mm. Let's hope this increases as well as the 60% chance of rain on Sunday.Liina Flynn will have more updates tomorrow.10amConditions continue to improve for residents in our fire affected areas this morning.The NSW RFS website no longer says that the bush fires are heading towards houses in Tuntable Falls and Tuntable Creek, but the warning is not to become complacent as conditions can change quickly with wind changes and high temperatures that are expected tomorrow and over the weekend.The Mt Nardi fire has been downgraded to 'Advice' at this stage with the Bush Fire Warning at 'Very High'.Firefighters met this morning to continue their brilliant work to establish containment lines for the coming days.A press release yesterday by Federal MP Kevin Hogan said that "the disaster assistance has been extended tonight to Lismore, Kyogle and Ballina Council areas to help those worst-hit by the NSW bushfires. Assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. Federal Member for Page, Kevin Hogan said we’ve acted swiftly to provide immediate financial support to bushfire-hit communities. “The funding is in addition to disaster assistance already made available to Richmond Valley, Clarence Valley and Coffs Harbour council areas.”“The Disaster Recovery Payment will immediately put cash into the pockets of those in need, providing $1000 for eligible adults and $400 for eligible children,” Mr Hogan said.The payment is available to people whose homes has been severely damaged or destroyed, who have been seriously injured or who have lost a family member in the fires.Assistance measures available under the Disaster Recovery Funding may include;·         support for affected local councils to help with the costs of cleaning up and restoring damaged essential public assets;·         Disaster Recovery Allowance providing eligible applicants up to 13 weeks income support, for people who have lost their income as a direct result of the fires.·         freight subsidies for primary producers; and,·         grants to eligible non-profit organisations.We hope to continue the positive news throughout the day.

As many of our Lismore App users commute either for work or for fun to Ballina and the Gold Coast at all times of the day and night, there are two road work notices that you should be aware of.Alstonville to Uralba: Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions from Sunday on the Bruxner Highway between Alstonville and Uralba while overnight road survey work is carried out. To minimise impacts to traffic, work will be carried out between 6pm and 6am from Sunday to Thursday over two weeks from Sunday 17 to Thursday 28 November. Traffic will be reduced to one lane, alternate flow, with traffic control and reduced speed limits in place for the safety of workers and motorists. Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions, and follow the direction of signs and traffic control. St Helena Tunnel Pacific Hwy: Transport for NSW advises motorists of changed traffic conditions on the Pacific Highway at the St Helena Tunnel next week for essential maintenance work to be carried out. To reduce impacts to motorists, the north and southbound lanes of the tunnel will be closed on Monday 18 November between 7pm and 5am. North and southbound traffic will be diverted onto the Hinterland Way between the Byron Road interchange at Bangalow and the Ewingsdale Road interchange at Ewingsdale. Motorists are advised to allow up to 10 minutes additional travel time for both diversions, to drive to the conditions and follow the direction of signs and traffic control. A scheduled closure for Sunday 17 November has been called off because of potential impacts on the network from bushfires. Routine maintenance of the St Helena Tunnel is carried out every three months and involves a range of measures such as inspecting the various operating and safety systems.

If your home burned down where would you go?Due to the bushfires across the region, there are now 29 displaced and injured koalas in care at the Friends of the Koala (FoK) centre in Lismore.“Every room in the care centre and all the runs are full,” FoK president Ros Irwin told the Lismore App.“We are on call and expect to unfortunately receive more sick and injured koalas from the fires in the coming days and weeks ahead.“We desperately need money to build temporary pens for them."Donations needed“We need thousands of dollars to do this and we are asking the community for help to raise $50,000.“The funds will go straight to their care and it’s going to take a long time for them to recover.” Out of 12 fire affected koalas brought in from the fires, only two, a mum and joey called Flame and Spirit could be released back out into the wild. “It really pains our heart,” Ros said. “We’ve done our best for them and will continue to do our best.”Dire straitsRos said that now, more than ever, Friends of the Koala needs your urgent help. “Our Northern Rivers Koalas have been in dire straits for months," she said.“Our population has been severely affected by deforestation, disease, drought and now horrific fires that are so extensive, we fear hundreds of koalas may have been lost. “For the past couple of months, we’ve had so little rain in Lismore - 18mm in three months.“All the koala leaf has no moisture and the koalas being brought in are showing signs they are dehydrated."Bungawalbin If all goes according to plan, Ros will be going out to the recently bushfire-burned area of Bungawalbin with helpers tomorrow – looking for koalas. “We have a small team of helpers who have been given fire awareness training by NSW Foresty and we’ll be looking at places we think koalas might be still alive,” Ros said.They also hope to be taking Bear – a dog who has been trained to sniff out koalas, just like a scat dog might find animal scats.They will be putting out blinky drinkers – water drinking stations for animals that are raised off the ground, making it safer for animals to escape being preyed upon.“We might even be able to set up cameras on the drinking stations so we can see if they are being used and what condition the animals are in," she said.Ros said before the fires, things weren’t good for our koalas, and then when the fires came “we were unprepared for it”.“Forestry has been so helpful and funded the fire awareness training for ten of our people and we are so grateful,” she said.“We will be prepared next time.”Extinct?Until recent bushfires, Port Macquarie had one of the healthiest koala populations in the State and now, the species'status is deemed "vulnerable".In Port Macquarie, Lake Innes Nature Reserve, which was home to a colony of as many as 600 koalas, lost much of its habitat last week.James Tremain, a spokesman for the NSW Nature Conservation Council said "If we continue at this rate, koalas will be extinct by 2050."DonateFoK rescues more koalas than any other rescue organisation in NSW, yet receives no ongoing government funding.At this critical time FoK needs your help.$20 supplies food for a sick koala for a week.“Just $5 from everyone of you would get us over the line,” Ros said.“It’s just the cost of your cup of coffee tomorrow morning, but one that will help save a life.”Please donate now: https://friends-of-the-koala.giveeasy.org/urgent-help-required?fbclid=IwAR0Ze4DKdT_pL9a005VfRdZmsIyqm1YQN83SZXk80rU-sBbWWyXZeaL_Mt4

Disaster assistance has been extended to Lismore, Kyogle and Ballina Council areas to help those worst-hit by the NSW bushfires. Federal Member for Page, Kevin Hogan said a Disaster Recovery Payment will immediately put cash into the pockets of those in need, providing $1000 for eligible adults and $400 for eligible children.“The payment is available to people whose homes has been severely damaged or destroyed, who have been seriously injured or who have lost a family member in the fires,” Mr Hogan said.Assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.“We’ve acted swiftly to provide immediate financial support to bushfire-hit communities,” Mr Hogan said. “The funding is in addition to disaster assistance already made available to Richmond Valley, Clarence Valley and Coffs Harbour council areas.”Assistance measures available under the Disaster Recovery Funding may include;•     support for affected local councils to help with the costs of cleaning up and restoring damaged essential public assets;•     Disaster Recovery Allowance providing eligible applicants up to 13 weeks income support, for people who have lost their income as a direct result of the fires.•     freight subsidies for primary producers; and,•     grants to eligible non-profit organisations. Further information on disaster assistance is available on the Australian Government’s Disaster Assist website at http://www.disasterassist.gov.au and the NSW emergency information and response website at http://www.emergency.nsw.gov.au 

Take a stroll around the Lismore block and discover the heritage of our CBD, tonight, Thursday, November 13 in a Night at the Museum.Lismore Museum invites the community to the launch of a newly published 200-page book - as part of its Night at the Museum program.A Stroll Around the Block – Exploring the CBD's Heritage was written by long term member of the Richmond River Historical Society (RRHS), Robyn Braithwaite, “The book was partly funded through Lismore City Council’s Community Grants Program,” RRHS publicity officer Glenys Ritchie said.“We have had much interest in the book from locals, business owners, and ex-pat Lismore residents.“The book describes the heritage of the buildings, previous owners, as well as the stories of residents who have lived in the CBD.”  Venue: Lismore Museum, 165 Molesworth StreetDate: Thursday, November 14Time: 5pm for 5.30pmDress: Neat casual

11pmWednesday was a quiet day on the Mt Nardi bush fire front. Good news for most residents in the Channon, Dunoon and Whian Whian communities. This was the blessing the southerly change brought into the Nightcap National Park early this morning. The negative of that southerly change was that it pushed the fire into more inhospitable land so the fire is covering a larger area in the last 24 hours. We started the day with a coverage area of 2,600 hectares but as I write it sits at 4,500 hectares in size.The official word from the NSW RFS is that the Mt Nardi bush fire is still heading towards Tuntable Creek, Huonbrook Valley, Upper Wilsons Creek and Upper Coopers Creek. A resident in Tuntable Creek told the Lismore App that the fire was slowly moving to the south back towards Wallace Road.Tonight firefighters are working to protect properties and establish containment lines. Here are more photos from Darren Janezic taken this evening.The Bureau of Meteorology said the the winds are south easterly 20-25 kmh and tending easterly tonight. There is some hope for the chance of a shower on Sunday, at the moment it sits at 60% with a possible thunderstorm. Let's hope the rain does arrive and in the areas we need it most.There are still a lot of school closures as you would expect. You can see them by pushing on this link schools.A reminder that with the change of winds, the behaviour of the Mt Nardi bush fire could alter its course very quickly so stay vigilant and stay safe.That is Wednesday done, more tomorrow.11amOur first update is a little late this morning due to the fact that the southerly change has brought some relief to firefighters at this stage of the day.Nimbin Deputy Captain Charlie Cohen delivered some good news saying that "no more houses were lost at Tuntable and Terania last night. Ongoing battle".Two houses were destroyed in yesterdays bush fire activity. There is still no confirmation on the destruction of the Tuntable Falls Community School.WaterThe Lismore City Council has just posted a notice about the state of Nimbin drinking water:"We have been working with NSW Health to monitor the quality of water in Nimbin during the bushfires. "At this stage, residents in Nimbin DO NOT need to boil their water. "We will continue to monitor the water to ensure it is free of contaminants and safe to drink".Evacuation centresThe Council also mentioned that the GSAC evacuation centre is now closed.As we reported on Monday Southern Cross University is a new evacuation centre on Military Road, Lismore.There are visible signs for those that do not know the area well. Please register at Zest Cafe on the campus.Free Wi-Fi and computers are available. All facilities on the campus are open and available for evacuees.The Nimbin Showgrounds is another evacuation centre.Gatekeeper Paul Gibbon told the Lismore App this morning that 150-200 people at the Showgrounds with a lot of families including children with school closures.Due to the lack of animal holding facilities there were only two horses at Nimbin with these due to be moved today.Lismore Showground: The unofficial evacuation centre, the Lismore Showground is also extremely busy with 150 registered people with a host of animals being accommodated due to the animal infrastructure.Currently there are 10 alpacas, 20 goats, 80 poultry and 80 horses which will grow to 140 when another 60 are due for arrival later today.North Coast National A&I Secretary Mark Bailey said that 120 people were served breakfast this morning by their 350 hard working volunteers.The Lismore Showgrounds can comfortable hold up to 250 people so there is more room available if you or your family and friends need accommodation in the coming days.A lot of people and businesses have been donating their time and their products in helping feed and making life easier for evacuees and their families.Read more: Lismore Showground shelters bushfire survivorsMark wanted to thank those that have helped so far....Special thanks to the following people:Betta Home Living for donating the washing machine, Coles for donating food, SALVOS for donating food, Mr Mozzarella for all the pizzas tonight, Adrian for his coffee van, NORCO for donating milk and softdrinks, DPI for the vets, Ian Philips for the $400 cash, the lady who brought in the cake (I love cake!!) Neil Woods, Sue Brand, Peter Engel & John Gibson for helping me today, Michelle Lee and team from Hookers for cooking breakfast, Shelley Oldham for her advice, Elly Bird, Janelle Saffin and Kevin Hogan for checking in on me, the Chaplins for visiting, the kiddies entertainer who just walked in and started going around with her performance for the kids, the Memorial Baths for the free passes, Donna Star Walker Kerry Shrimpton and Johnny Dawson for help in the office and around the ground and everyone else who I will acknowledge soon.Rhod and Sally Best shelter at Lismore Showgrounds.  The futureWhen a disaster hits our region we can be proud that the 2480 community rallies and gives unconditional support.May that continue in the coming days and weeks of this bush fire disaster.The ABC North Coast Facebook site has mentioned that the Mt Nardi fires could last until Christmas.Rural Fire Service Superintendent Michael Brett speaking about the Mt Nardi fire today said: "This big issue here is that these fires are burning in remote country."We can only really deal with them once they start coming out into the interface with private property."I see us here until Christmas unless we see substantial rainfall."Fires are running in areas where people say they shouldn't be - you know, it's rainforest."But the country is just so dry and until we receive some moisture, the smoke haze is going to be around for some time."We're hopeful the community understands and it becomes part of everyday life that there are fires in the area."They need to be vigilant, they need to be prepared, and if they've got properties they need to start making sure they've got strategies."More news as it comes through.

A number of small fires were reported in Lismore yesterday.Thankfully, all of them were brought under control by local firefighters.Last night, two out of control grass fires were listed on the Rural Fire Service’s Fires Near Me website.One on Rous Road, Goonellabah and one on Ostrom Street in South Lismore.Another small fire at the Duck Pond in South Lismore was extinguished.Pictured: Remnants of a fire at the South Lismore Duck Pond yesterday.Police are still reminding the public of the total fire ban after already taking action against three men for breaching the state-wide ban, and a child for committing an act of arson.In the first instance, on Monday 11 November, a 27-year-old man allegedly lit a small campfire at Fowler Reserve, Wallacia, to boil water for cups of tea.NSW Police and Rural Fire Service attended and the man immediately extinguished the flames.He was issued with an on-the-spot $2200 infringement notice for failing to comply with a total fire ban order.Then, about 7pm (Monday 11 November 2019), Rural Fire Service members requested police attend a home in Braidwood Drive, Prestons, following reports a man was burning fence palings in a cylindrical barbecue.Embers from this fire fell to the ground and ignited palings, causing a secondary blaze.Both fires were extinguished and the 35-year-old man was also issued with an infringement notice for failing to comply with a total fire ban order.In a further incident, about 5am today (Tuesday 12 November 2019), it’s alleged a 46-year-old man lit a fire in a small coal barbecue at a home in Danny Road, Lalor Park.Fire and Rescue NSW attended and extinguished the fire.NSW Police spoke with the man and arrested him for failing to comply with a total fire ban order and breach of bail.The man is due to appear before Local Court today (Tuesday 12 November 2019).In the latest incident, about 11.35am today (Tuesday 12 November 2019), a small grass fire broke out in long grass behind Sullivan Street, Worrigee.Police and fire crews attended and extinguished the blaze. A nine-year-old boy, who was with a group of other children, subsequently made admissions to the lighting the fire with a blowtorch.Due to the child’s age, he was issued a warning under the Young Offenders Act.A total state-wide fire ban remains in place.A total fire ban means no fires out in the open. This helps limit the potential of fires developing.During a Total Fire Ban you cannot light, maintain or use a fire in the open, or to carry out any activity in the open that causes, or is likely to cause, a fire.General purpose hot works (such as welding, grinding or gas cutting or any activity that produces a spark or flame) are not to be done in the open.For more information on fire bans, please visit https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fdr-and-tobans/total-fire-ban-rulesTo keep up-to-date with major fire updates, please go to: https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/major-fire-updates or download the ‘Fires Near Me’ app: https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fires-near-meAnyone who sees suspicious or illegal behaviour is urged to contact police via Crime Stoppers on 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.

The Live Traffic website has re-opened the roundabout at Bruxner Hwy and River Street so all traffic between Lismore and Ballina can se this route.The Pacific Hwy between Ballina and Woodburn is now open following yesterdays Mile Creek bush fire near New Italy.ORIGINAL STORY - TUESDAYDue to the New Italy bush fires Live Traffic and the Richmond District Police have said that the roundabout at Bruxner Hwy and River Street between Lismore and Ballina is closed.Please use the alternative route between Wollongbar and Teven to get onto the M1 heading south and use the Tamarind Drive exit into Ballina.The Pacific Highway is closed between Ballina and Grafton.Photo: ABC North Coast facebook

Bushfire affected landholders with concerns about their animals and livestock can reach out for assistance on the Agricultural Services Hotline.Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin MP, said the NSW Government’s Agricultural Services Hotline on 1800 814 647 would assist landholders in northern NSW to manage animal welfare-related issues. Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and Local Land Services officers are assisting with:• Emergency fodder and stock water• Animal assessment and veterinary assistance • Stock euthanasia and burial • Livestock feeding and management advice • Care of animals in evacuation centres  With bush fire conditions expected to worsen, Ms Saffin said local landholders should prepare a plan to manage livestock and animals as soon as possible. “There’s range of measures available and I encourage landholders to prepare now and act early,” Ms Saffin said.  “As fires continue to burn across the region, it’s difficult to assess the current damage.” “Unfortunately, infrastructure and stock losses are expected to grow over the coming days.” Landholders are being encouraged to prepare before an emergency by: • Know the risk to you, your animals and property• Know where to go• Know who to call• Know your plan• Have an emergency kit for you and your animals During an emergency, landholders should:  • Act early• Relocate animals and assets to a safer place on/off property• If you are required to evacuate, if possible take your animals with you• Never drive, ride or walk through an active fire zone• Report wildlife injuriesStay up to date on bush fires in your area through the RFS website and the ‘Fires Near Me’ app.

Local police yesterday arrested a Koonorigan man with stolen Rural Fire Service and ambulance equipment.In a Richmond District Police Facebook statement, police allege that at 10:15am on Tuesday, Rural Crime Investigators attended a Cox Road, Koonorigan address where they placed a 36 year old Koonorigan man under arrest for breaching his bail.Police then executed a search warrant on the property,Police located NSW Rural Fire Service uniforms, patches, epaulettes and documentation, a number of NSW Ambulance medic kits, helmets, radios, vehicle registration plates and accessories."It will be alleged the 36 year old is not a member of the RFS or Ambulance Service," the statement said."Police also located documentation related to fraudulent Roads and Motor Services transactions."He was charged with Dishonestly Obtain Financial Advantage By Deception, Goods In Custody, Attempt to Renew Registration by False Statement and Breach Bail."A large amount of seized property and documents is yet to be analysed and further charges may be laid."He was bail refused and will appear at Lismore Local Court today."

10pmAt the end of Tuesday it feels like we dodged a bullet. The towns of Whian Whian, Tuntable Falls, The Channon and Dunoon did not have to be evacuated as expected but there was some property losses. We are not out of the woods yet, the fire danger is still 'severe' and if there is one thing we have learned in the past four days it is that bush fires are very unpredictable, changing paths very quickly and spreading at a very fast rate. Please remain vigilant as the Mt Nardi Bush Fire is still a 'watch and act' classification.NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons told a news conference at 9pm that the winds were not as strong as expected and did not persist as long as expected leading to the bush fire having less impact toady. The fires also didn't reach as far as modelling thought because of a smoke blanket that started the day.There is a southerly change coming through the far north coast early in the morning making temperatures a great deal cooler than today. These winds should push the Mt Nardi fire north which means away from our towns but into more of the Nightcap National Park. We can expect some easterly winds in the afternoon. While this forecast is positive for home loss and evacuations residents must remain vigilant due to the erratic behaviour of bush fires. Currently the fire covers 2,600 hectares, however this could change when the southerly change moves in.We had two confirmed homes destroyed today in Tuntable Falls plus an unconfirmed report of the Tuntable Falls Community School burning down. Our thoughts are with the owners who must be devastated as I write this story.The following photos were taken by Natasha Tiffany on the Nimbin Hooks Up facebook page of Tuntable Creek Road at 8:40pm looking into Tuntable.Spare a thought for our neighbours to the south and south west who are experiencing the Mile Creek fire near New Italy. Some people have been evacuated to Ballina or our evacuation centre at GSAC. The Pacific Highway is closed between Ballina (at the Bruxner Hwy/River Street roundabout) and Grafton.We will have more updates as the information flows in.4pmThe Total Fire Ban has been extended until midnight Wednesday November 13. This means that no open fires can be lit anywhere in NSW.When firefighters are working under difficult circumstances to save properties, you wonder if some owners could have done more to help their properties;"I'VE BEEN ASKING PEOPLE FOR MONTHS AND YEARS TO CLEAR AROUND THEIR HOUSES - THIS IS WHY!"🏠Senior deputy captain of the Nimbin Rural Fire Service Charlie Cohen says 300 houses are under threat on the western edge of the Nightcap National Park."We're going from house-to-house preparing for ember attack," he said."We'll try to save most of them but not all of them, some are just too hard. Some of them are indefensible."He says it's frustrating seeing homes that have not been adequately prepared."I'm not going to lose firies to save something that someone couldn't care about themselves enough to clear."We have heard from a resident in Tuntable Creek who was allowed into her property for one hour around midday to get a generator and camping gear in case it was needed in the next couple of days. The Mt Nardi bush fire was coming down the Wallace Road ridge towards the Tuntable Falls school and Hall. No official information has been received about the path of the fire or any damage done to the school, hall or homes in the area.Tuntable Falls resident Ginger O'Brien confronted Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin today as the fires got closer to Tuntable Falls https://www.facebook.com/ABCNorthCoast/videos/464763250817765/With the new bush fire erupting near New Italy residents of Woodburn and Evans Head have been advised to head in a northerly direction towards Lismore via the Pacific Highway and Ballina. The evacuation centre is at GSAC at 50 Oliver Avenue, Goonellabah.More details to come.11amIt feels as though everyone is holding their breath at the moment waiting for the northerly wind shift to take place. Reports from people at Tuntable Creek and Dunoon are saying that conditions are calm for now and the communities have packed their cars and activated their bush fire plans in preparation for a possible evacuation later this afternoon.Residents are looking after the elderly and each other by helping clear gutters to get their houses ready for this afternoons events.As you can see by the photos looking at the ridge to the north where the fire is burning, the wind change will push the fire towards the towns of Whian Whian, Tuntable Creek, Dunoon and The Channon.The Lismore City Council has just released this water warning for residents with a private water supply.Fire retardantsFire retardants are being used to slow the spread of fires and protect properties.NSW Health recommends that people with a private drinking water supply maintain an emergency store of drinking water in case a bushfire disrupts your normal supply. Each person requires a minimum of 3 litres of drinking water each day.Ensure you disconnect the down pipe to your rainwater tank as soon as there is a bush fire risk to prevent contaminated water from entering it.If the water tastes, looks or smells unusual do not drink it or give it to animals.The fire retardants currently used in Australia are of low toxicity.If eye contact does occur, rinse eyes with fresh water continuously for several minutes until all contaminant is washed out. If symptoms develop or persist, seek medical attention. If swallowed, rinse your mouth out with fresh water, then consult a doctor. If skin contact occurs wash the affected area with soap and water.For further information call the NSW Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.More news as it happens.8:30amIn case you haven't seen this Facebook post from the Nimbin Rural Fire Brigade, here is what our brave and hardworking fire fighters have been doing over night to protect our properties for todays Severe weather warning......Mt Nardi Fire (Western Division) update...The fire burning around Mt Nardi and east to Terania Creek, Huonbrook and beyond continues to burn out of control. In the early hours of Sunday, Wallace Rd Control lines were breached and crews needed to withdraw from the ridge.TUNTABLE SECTORLocal weather conditions yesterday around Nimbin allowed brigades to reduce some of the lighter, volatile fuel hazards around homes within Tuntable Falls CoOp.While some structures remain indefensible, crews continued working overnight, alongside community members who chose to stay and defend. Back burning operations at the north end of the CoOp continued before dawn.The hope will be to see the Tuntable Sector of this fire push eastward, back on itself and give our teams a real chance at property protection along the Tuntable Creek Valley floor.TERANIA SECTORThere is a deep black edge east below Wallace Rd, along the Terania Creek Valley, but fire continues to burn in inaccessible terrain along the fire’s southwestern flank.For the safety of fire crews, Wallace Rd had to be abandoned as a strategic control line.Today’s West/Southwest winds will put pressure on this southwest edge and we expect the fire to extend southward along the Wallace Rd ridge and Terania Creek Valley.Potential for ember attack further south and east across the valley is high. Variability of local wind, falling trees and spotting has potential for the fire to also creep west (against the WSW winds) into Siddha Farm Community and extend its southern range through the Tuntable Creek ValleyNEWTON SECTORA solid effort by NPWS crews and heavy plant plus retardant drops by the 737 Large Air Tanker has protected the area’s communications infrastructure at Mt Nardi.A CABA equipped crew has been tasked with monitoring the northwest fire activity and protecting the Comms Towers at the top of Newton Drive.It is going to be a dynamic and challenging day for us all. Many roads remain closed and others will no doubt follow suit. The projected range of ember threat from this fire extends many kilometres to the south east.0Please be vigilant and follow all RFS updates to the official website and local instructions as they come to hand. This page is administered by active Nimbin RFB firefighters and unlikely to be updated until today’s end.Stress levels and emotions are running high throughout every community, but cool heads must prevail. Stay safe, be kind and support one another. Peace ❤️We will put out more information as it comes to hand throughout the day.

Wildlife Information and Rescue Service (WIRES) has been receiving many calls and messages from members of the public who are wanting to help wildlife in this terrible bushfire crisis. WIRES would like to thank the community for their concern about local wildlife and express their gratitude for the generous offers of help that are being forwarded to us. WIRES Northern Rivers would like to convey that, at present, there is nothing WIRES volunteers are able to do to rescue animals from the active fire zones as it is unsafe to go into these areas and access is open to fire fighting personnel only. Busby the Eastern Grey joey who survived the recent Busby’s Flats fire is currently in care with WIRES, recovering from burns to his feet. If and when there is opportunity to respond, they will be doing all they can to assist injured animals. Sadly, in severe fires, very little wildlife survives and it is not until later that animals that may have been displaced from their homes move into more populated areas and are reported to us. If anyone in or around the fires finds injured animals in the Northern Rivers area, please contact WIRES on 66281898.Please do not call the Hotline to offer assistance at the moment as it is needed for rescue calls. However, if you are looking for things you CAN do to assist at the moment, WIRES suggests the following: • Consider donating to WIRES. You can do so online by going to https://www.wires.org.au/ Click on the "donate" button.In the Notes field you can indicate if you would like your donation to support fire affected areas or if you would like it to go to the local Northern Rivers branch.You can also donate by cheque to PO Box 1356, Lismore, NSW 2480 – Please provide contact details and a receipt will be posted to you. All local donations support the rehabilitation of Northern Rivers wildlife.• Everyone can assist wildlife in their local area by putting out water for animals. Remember to put in a stick or rock so small animals can’t drown. • If you are keen to make a longer-term commitment to helping wildlife in our area, consider joining WIRES. For more information about how you can join and contribute email wiresnr@wiresnr.com .  • Follow WIRES Northern Rivers on Facebook for further information as the fire crisis unfolds.WIRES relies heavily on the generosity of caring people for support. All donations $2 and over are tax deductible. Now is also a great time to join WIRES and start learning to be a wildlife rescuer. The 24-hour hotline is for all rescue, advice or membership calls in the Northern Rivers - call 6628 1898 or go to http://wiresnr.org/Helping.html to find out how you can help.

The wind was starting to blow more strongly at Lismore Showgrounds this afternoon, where about 30 families and their animals were camping after evacuating from the Mount Nardi bushfire.Lismore Show Society secretary Mark Bailey said at the moment, Lismore Showgrounds is a fire safety area, not an emergency evacuation centre. “There are toilets, showers and drinking water and free coffee,” Mark said.“From tomorrow, breakfast will be made for those staying at the grounds by show society volunteers at Norma’s Kitchen.”The showground is providing shelter for large animals and chickens, but not domestic pets.There are horses, about 80 chickens as well as goats, horses, sheep and alpacas already sheltering at the showground, with pigs due to arrive later.There is water at the site and the owners of the animals are bringing in food for them.Neil Woods, a goat breeder from Modanville who looks after the goats at the annual Lismore Show, said he had now had about 60 goats at his property – most of which had been brought in from people in Tuntable, Koonorigan and Whian Whian areas affected by local bushfires, needing somewhere safe for their animals. “Sheep are the biggest worry in these hot conditions, they don’t do well in the heat,” Neil said.Lismore Show Society president John Gibson said Greg Clark from Lismore Poultry Club is organising the transportation of chickens to the showground if anyone needs help.The Winsome Hotel on Bridge Street, North Lismore is offering free lunch to anyone who needs it every day.Ross Wilson and Avis Newton.People, food and animal coordinationRoss Wilson and his wife Avis Newton were travelling through the area with their caravan and wanted to help out with coordinating people and animals at the Lismore showground.Ross said anyone thinking of coming to the showground with their families and animals should ring him for information about the facilities and what they might need. Ross’s number is 0416 845 377.“A woman from new Italy just rang and asked if she could bring her pigs here”, Ross said.“Another guy has offered to be here to give body work or counselling services if needed.“Mr Mozarella said he’ll be here tonight making free pizzas for everyone. “And the chaplain is here for people.“People have been offering tents and camping supplies if anyone needs it, and the Tiny Homes people have offered the use of their big truck if anything needs to be moved.Ross is filling and checking water for animals throughout the day at the showground. Avis said stall holders from the Channon Market – which was cancelled on Sunday due to the fires - brought their fruit and vegetables to the showground to donate to people who needed it.“So, I got some bags and created individual lots of supplies which were handed out to the families staying at the showground,” Avis said.Free coffeeLismore resident Adrian Smith brought his coffee truck to the showgrounds and is making free coffee and salad rolls for people. He also has free cold drinks and frozen chocolate bananas, which were appreciated in the hot weather.  “It’s the least I could do,” he said.“Our community needs help and it’s not too hard to offer something to others.“I was in a fire at the beginning of this year and I lost everything. “It really resonates with me what people are going though – their feelings are intense. “We can’t even fathom what’s going o in their minds.“I also went down to help out at Rappville HQ when the fires were on there and made coffee for the firies.”EscapeTim Proctor had evacuated from Nightcap Range Road, near Minyon falls and came to get one of Adrian’s frozen treats. “I’ve been living there 28 years and was going back each to day to rescue more stuff from my house, but the RFS are not letting any more people through the roads there,” Tim said.“I’ve got what I could fit in my SUV, but I’ve still got lots of stuff up there. I’m not going back today.“The fire came within five kilometres of my place and wind keeps changing.”Rhod and Sally Best shelter at Lismore Showgrounds.The first wave from Tuntable – Rhod and Sally BestRhod Best and Sally Best came from Tuntable seeking shelter at Lismore Showgrounds on Sunday night. They turned up in a ute with nothing and it turned out one of their friends had just brought in a fully set up caravan for use by fire evacuees.“We were in the first wave of people from Tuntable Creek,” Rhod said. “There are still people out at Tuntable who live down near the creek. I hope they are okay.“We were at the top of the range and we were forced to evacuate by the police. “We thought we had at least an hour to pack but we were told to leave now. “So, we went to the Channon market grounds and there were about six car loads of people there, but no one knew what to do.“The drinking bubblers were on but the shed was locked so there was no cooking facilities or running tap water.“We didn’t want to sleep in our car in a smoky atmosphere, so we decided to come to Lismore.”Rhod and Sally said they were glad they were safe, but were watching the wind direction.“We know that if the smoke starts to come over Lismore again, it means the fire will be travelling toward our house.“Its horrible that if the wind is going the other way, its good for us, but bad for someone else.”They said they were glad to hear the Hugh and Nan Nicolson has defended and saved their property at Terania Creek, near Protestors Falls. “They were instrumental in saving Terania Creek from logging 30 years ago,” Sally said.“I’ve seen the Tuntable valley change so much, from being a cleared area to having lots of trees.Accommodation, evacuation and informationOfficial evacuation centresThe official evacuation centres for people displaced by the bushfire emergency are:Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre (GSAC), 50 Oliver Avenue, Goonellabah.Nimbin Showgrounds, 33-37 Cecil St, Nimbin.Kyogle Memorial Hall, Stratheden Street, KyogleCavanbah Centre, 249 Ewingsdale Road, ByronMullumbimby Ex-Services Club, 58 Dalley Street, MullumbimbyAnimal housing and camping option:Lismore Showgrounds, 116 Alexandra Parade, North Lismore. Call Ross on 0416 845 377 if you're thinking of coming to Lismore ShowgroundKyogle Showground is open for people who have large animals, but it is not an official evacuation centre.People are encouraged to register at the Official Evacuation Centres before they proceed to the showgrounds.DonationsLismore City Councillor Elly Bird said that we are currently in emergency mode and anyone wanting to donate items such as blankets, food and clothing should not drop off items to the official evacuation centres until it is called for.Register If you evacuate, register your details so your family and friends know you are safe.You can register in person at Nimbin Showgrounds, or via the Red Cross website Register.Find.Reunite https://register.redcross.org.au/Information sites and phone numbersA Facebook site has been set up to help with coordination of accommodation for people displaced by the fires:https://www.facebook.com/Northern-NSW-help-and-assistance-with-fires-105569034234379/If you require information about the current bush fires, please call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737.For general information and assistance please call the Public Information Inquiry Centre on 1800 227 228.Stay up to date with all fire activity by monitoring https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.auListen to your local radio stations, especially the ABC, and monitor the NSW Police Facebook site https://www.facebook.com/nswpoliceforce/

People with anorexia nervosa, bulimia and other complex eating disorders will now be able to access new services through Medicare that will help save lives.It is estimated that around 900,000 Australians have an eating disorder.Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan announced this week that the Federal Government will subsidise these life-saving services for the first time. “People will have access to up to 40 psychological services and 20 dietetic services, under the care of their GP or specialist,” Mr Hogan said. “The new items represent a historic advance in the quality and affordability of care provided to those facing the devastating challenge of an eating disorder, enabling those affected, their families and their carers to get the support they desperately need and deserve. “Under the changes, health practitioners will be better able to deliver a full course of treatment as their patients will have one comprehensive care plan and be able to claim the services through Medicare. “These disorders affect not only the patient, but also their families and loved ones, and have one of the highest mortality rates of any psychiatric illness. “The Government asked the expert clinician-led MBS Review Taskforce to provide advice on how the Medicare Benefits Schedule could be improved to assist patients with eating disorders. “The items were developed by the Taskforce through extensive consultation and design of accreditation standards with experts from across the sector. They support a model of best practice, evidence-based care for patients and encourage a multidisciplinary approach involving a range of clinical expertise.” These new services are part of the Government’s commitment to supporting people with eating disorders. This includes: •     $63 million to establish a national network of community based residential eating disorder treatment centres which will provide wrap-around support and specialist care •     $13.6 million from 2016-17 to 2021-22 to support the National Eating Disorders Collaboration (NEDC) to develop a nationally consistent best-practice approach to the prevention and management of eating disorders. •     $1.5 million each year to 2021 for the Butterfly Foundation’s national online counselling service 1800 ED HOPE, which provides free support, counselling and guidance on treatments and referral options to people affected by an eating disorder, including family, friends and health professionals. The Government is also investing in research to support prevention and better identification and treatment of eating disorders. This includes $5 million for research into eating disorders through the Million Minds Health Research Mission and $4 million to the InsideOut Institute for Eating Disorders to develop a strategy for research into eating disorders and translating it into clinical practice. This research will help build understanding of how prevention, early identification, and evidence-based treatment will help Australians with eating disorders to access world-class support. Information regarding the new Medicare items structure can be obtained at MBSOnline.