Lucy Kingsley and her husband Scott McKinnon bought a farm at Wyrallah 15 years ago and started planting trees for koalas. “This morning at my dairy, I saw a koala mum and bub in a tree,” Lucy said. “I know there’s at least two mums and two babies around the dairy area now. But the koala numbers are down on what we saw 10 years ago.”“We thought numbers would increase, but we realised we need more people to rehabilitate land and plant koala food trees so we can keep koalas off the road and in the safety of trees.Lucy wants to encourage more land owners to plant koala trees and help create koala corridors in our region to help our slowly disappearing koala populations.This Friday October 18, landowners, farmers and graziers on the Wilsons and Richmond floodplains are invited to attend Lismore Council’s free field day about living with koalas on rural lands.Lucy Kingsley at her property looking at a koala.Lucy said she hopes people will come to the field day at South Gundurimba to learn about different koala habitat sites and discuss the practical and science-based approaches to looking out for koalas, monitoring koala health and reconnecting broken habitat.“With our diminishing forests, landowners need to help create tree corridors for koalas to move in, rather than across open land.“Then the koalas are safe from cars, predation by eagles, dog attacks and being rumbled by cows who think the koalas are dangerous dogs.“It’s also important that farmers understand the importance of keeping big old farm trees for koalas rather than knock them down for cultivation.“When we bought our farm, we knew we had a small koala community on it because the previous owner has planted koala trees many years ago.“Friends of the Koala (FoK) were harvesting leaves for their care centre and we could see that if we didn’t do something about the number of trees available, we’d be in trouble. Read more about FoK: SUNDAY PROFILE: Ros Irwin: Koala conservationist and ex-councillor“So, we started planting more trees.“We gave FoK a paddock and we all helped plant more trees for harvesting there. “We own a long stretch of riverbank that we fenced off through grant funding and we planted 100 trees there. “Now the trees are big - and we have koalas there and we’re putting in more tree rows so the koalas can safely run between trees.”Lucy said there are different challenges for landowners to create a koala tree forest – like fencing off areas of newly planted trees to stop cows getting in and eating them.“We put our wieners in the fenced areas for a day or so to chew the grass down and give the trees a chance to stabilise and grow,” she said.Lucy said koalas are as inquisitive as the busload of tourists who drive down her road every Saturday are looking for koalas. “A lot of the tourists are visitors not from our area,” she said. “We keep metal containers near the road so the koalas can stay hydrated in the heat.“One of the koalas here has a tracing device on it so researchers can work out how far koalas actually travel. After about four months, the device will fall off.“We know we are doing the best we can to save them from extinction.“It would be a pity if our children don’t get to see a koala in the wild.”About the field dayThe field day – Living with Koalas: Enhancing the habitat and health of koalas on the Richmond floodplains – will be held on Friday, 18 October from 9.30am to 2pm – and includes a free lunch. It will be held at a farm in South Gundurimba and Council will provide address details on registration.To attend, RSVP to Lismore Council on 1300 87 83 87. Lunch is provided and please wear sturdy shoes and a hat for walking.The day will focus on seeing koalas in the field and discussing ways that farmers and graziers can undertake habitat re-establishment within productive environments. Participants will travel to a number of different habitat sites and discuss the practical and science-based approaches to looking out for koalas, monitoring koala health and reconnecting broken habitat.Hosts for the day are a local cane-growing family whose Richmond River property is also home to many resident and travelling koalas.Presentations on the day will include:The impacts of wild dogs on livestock and wildlife (Local Land Services).Isolated paddock trees and windbreaks on the floodplain.Koala hotspots on the floodplains – where they are and why.A vet nurse will explain the differences between a healthy, sick and an older koala, and what to do when you see a sick koala.Koala food tree identification and what to plant if you are planning a revegetation program.This free event is delivered in association with Monaltrie Landcare, Friends of the Koala and Local Land Services.The event is part of Lismore City Council’s Rural Landholder Initiative field days to help local landholders and farmers connect, learn and discuss protecting biodiversity.

A top-secret cannabis research facility in regional NSW will be the location for a new pioneering study into medical cannabis.The research study will see Southern Cross University (SCU) researchers analyse the plant’s physiology and biochemistry and determine the ideal conditions for producing high quality, year-round, consistent medicinal cannabis products.The $10 million study is a collaboration between SCU, the NSW and Commonwealth Governments, Cann Group Ltd, Aglive and the University of Newcastle. SCU Southern Cross Plant Science director Associate Professor Bronwyn Barkla, said the study was a critical step in the delivery of therapeutically-consistent and safe medicinal cannabis products.“The research team at Southern Cross University will investigate the compounds the plant produces, in what quantity, and where and how the plant synthesises those compounds,” Ass Prof Barkla said.“This is important for quality assurance, ensuring the industry is able to deliver a consistent and safe product of high efficacy to patients.”Cannabis research history in NSWThe first research production trials of medicinal cannabis began in April 2019. The industry-led study was initiated by Cann Group Ltd, the first company to be issued a Cannabis Research License by the Australian Government. The NSW Government was the first in Australia to receive authorisation from the Commonwealth to cultivate medicinal cannabis for research purposes.To date, the NSW Government has spent $25 million to build the evidence base to understand of the therapeutic potential of cannabis medicines.Cannabis supply chainNSW Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall said the study will consider all aspects of the supply chain, including everything from ideal growing conditions to medicinal compound analysis and supply chain traceability.“This collaboration will enable Department of Primary Industries (DPI) to more than triple the number of researchers dedicated to finding the best ways to manage the plants, ensuring they have the highest medicinal benefit,” he said.“It will also ensure our researchers have access to essential industry knowledge and insights, giving us the potential to drive this research much further and faster than would have otherwise been possible.” The Commonwealth Government will co-invest $3 million through its Cooperative Research Centre Program (CRC-P), ‘Growing the medicinal cannabis industry – from precision farming to pharmaceuticals’. CRC programs support industry-led collaborations between industry, researchers and the community.The NSW Government will contribute more than $3 million to the project and the other partners will contribute nearly $4 million.The science of cannabisActive cannabis compounds are produced in small highly efficient bio-factories, known as trichomes or leaf hairs, which predominantly sit on female flowers.SCU Southern Cross Plant Science’s Associate Professor Tobias Kretzschmar and Ass Prof Barkla both have a background in trichome biology, collaborations and translating basic scientific findings into industry applications.“Trichome productivity depends on a range of factors including genetics, developmental stages and the cultivation environment,” Ass Prof Kretzschmar said. “Understanding this complex interplay at the molecular level allows for optimization of active compound production. “This CRC program covers a range of crucial aspects in the development of a robust medicinal cannabis supply chain for Australia, including cultivation and processing, as well as product track-and-trace and compound pharmacology.”SCU deputy vice chancellor of research Professor Mary Spongberg said SCU has been one of the leaders of medicinal plant research in Australia.“We have customised cannabis research infrastructure and more than a decade of experience in cannabis analytical chemistry and cannabis genetics,” Prof Spongberg said.“Globally, medicinal cannabis is a growing multi-billion dollar market and we believe these project outcomes will make Australia internationally competitive in the premium market segment, while nationally this project will lay the foundation to meet long-term client demand of medicinal cannabis products.”

A police car chase to Whian Whian brought concerned Dunoon village locals onto the streets last Friday, concerned about the presence of speeding cars and tactical police in their town.The car chase, in pursuit of a man wanted on an outstanding arrest warrant, resulted in the police seizing the man’s car, but the man escaped being taken by the police.“Richmond District Police are seeking public assistance in locating the driver of the car”, a police statement said.“Matthew Ivan, aged 27, is wanted by virtue of two outstanding arrest warrants.“Officers attached to Richmond Police District have commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.“The man is described as being of Caucasian appearance, approximately 175-180cm tall, with a thin build, black hair and brown eyes.“He is known to frequent the Dunoon, Corndale, Lismore, Ballina and Coffs Harbour areas of Northern NSW.“If you see this man do not approach him and please call triple-zero.”A concerned resident of the Dunoon area said “the insane speeds we had police travelling through our village well after the pursuit was engaged was crazy”.“I want to know what his warrants were for.“If it wasn’t for a dangerous person or an actual emergency, then that’s ridiculous.“The fact the pursuit was not actually through Dunoon, but the police used James Street and Dunoon Road to head him off at speeds I’ve never seen driven past mine.”The resident said there were about 10 paddy wagons and highway patrol cars, as well as police officers in the village.Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact Lismore Police Station on (02) 6626 0599, Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.“Information is treated in strict confidence,” the police statement said.

She’s written a song called Hippy Cowgirl, but Wendy Ford says she’s not a cowgirl - but she’s definitely a hippie. “It’s because I stand up for the environment,” she said.The Lismore songwriter has an album of new songs and she’s got her new band ready to release the title track Good Medicine at the Lismore Show on the Community Stage this Thursday at 5.30pm.Read more about the Lismore Show - on this Thursday to Saturday.But first, she’s playing at this year’s NCEIA Dolphin Music Awards tonight (Tuesday, October 15). The annual awards celebrate local songwriting talent and have helped many musicians to gain recognition for their original work. Wendy’s song Clean House from her new album has been named a finalist in the Soul category at the Dolphin Music Awards.“It’s quite an honour to be selected as a finalist - Good Medicine was a pop finalist two years ago at the last Dolphin Awards and Hippy Cowgirl was a finalist in the Protest category,” she said.“Clean House is a duet about a friend’s marriage break up which was agonising for him.”Wendy recorded the new album in Kyogle and finished mastering it this year. Now, she has a Good Medicine video ready to go and intends to release the full album later in the year.“The video for Good Medicine is talking about the rain – we all have engagement in this climate change business and we need to take care of the planet.“My music gives me an opportunity to get the word out that everyday activities influence how our environment is protected or not,” she said.“My song Hippy cowgirl just came to me – I’m not a real cowgirl but I go to the organic market and speak to farmers. “I want to be a voice for some of these people – the green thinking farmers - people who came to the Bentley coal seam gas blockade who are starting to understand how business and the way we live has an impact on the environment.”Wendy said she’s always had the desire to make a change in society.“I was born in the 1960s and it’s in my blood,” she said.“I participated in the Aquarian Festival when I first came to the rainbow region.“It got me out to Nimbin and into the Star Court Theatre and I met Luke Vasella who’s a local icon – at the time, I didn’t know he’d been rockin’ it for years.Wendy said as a songwriter, her heart comes through in songs.“I love songwriting and getting ideas for songs,” she said. “I love to sing - you can’t shut me up.“When I came to this region I became immersed in activism.“I’m a human with concern and I think that compassion is just as necessary as rain.“We need to be looking out for each other - that’s how Lismore people roll with floods and bushfires.“I love the way this community pulls together and it inspires me as a songwriter.“My music gives me an opportunity to get the word out that everyday activities influence how our environment is protected or not.Wendy started singing and playing music in high school before playing her original songs in pubs – around pubs.She’s sang with James Blundell at Tamworth 2018 and in front of 19,000 footy fans at the Wests Tigers Anzac Day win in 2017.Wendy said her new band pays tribute to the song arrangements she created on the album, but it’s not the band line up that recorded the album.“I recorded the album first and then thought I’d better get a band together and now I’ve got a great team,” she said.Her songs address climate and social justice themes with harmony-rich vocals and guitar, keyboard and sax.The band has a revolving line-up based on a core consisting of Ford on lead vocal and rhythm guitar; Electric Bulls keyboardist Gary Pinkerton, Bourbon and Ink drummer Bang Deepaharda, and Hoochers bassist Tony Baron.However at the Show the band will be joined by local musicians Chris Fisher and Marcelle Townsend-Cross from Monkey and the Fish and Lismore App’s Liina Flynn on backing vocals, and The Tides’ Linda Banbury on sax. Fans can stay in the loop on the album release or request links to music by liking @wendyfordband on Facebook. The track Good Medicine is currently streaming on Reverbnation / wendyford and Number One Music / Wendy Ford.Read more about what's on in Lismore: Eat/Drink/Stay

In flood-prone Lismore, it might seem like good news that the Severe Weather Season Outlook prediction from the Bureau of Meteorology shows Australia has a lower risk of widespread flooding.But with an increased chance of heatwaves and bushfires, the Bureau is reminding communities that now is the time to prepare for the months ahead. Parts of the country have already seen bushfires, and the Bureau's head of long-range forecasts, Dr Andrew Watkins, said the current state of Australia's climate drivers meant the likelihood of seeing more bushfire activity than normal was increased."The Bureau outlook shows we're likely to see more warmer and drier than average conditions for the coming months," Dr Watkins said.“This is due largely to a record strong positive Indian Ocean Dipole, that leads to drier air than usual over northwest Australia that supplies much of Australia's rainfall."The increased odds of warmer than average days, coupled with a very dry landscape and a likely late start to the northern wet season, give a clear indication that we're likely to see more heatwaves than normal."It also adds to the potential bushfire risk, particularly when you consider how dry many parts of southern and eastern Australia are at the moment."The Severe Weather Season Outlook also shows Australia has a lower risk of widespread flooding, and a near normal chance of severe thunderstorms, but Dr Watkins said the community needed to be prepared."Severe thunderstorms and significant rainfall events can happen at any time."Not being complacent and taking the time to know your weather and know your risk is one of the best ways to stay safe during the coming severe weather season."The Bureau has also released its Tropical Cyclone Season Outlook, with the odds (65%) favouring fewer cyclones than normal.Despite this, Dr Watkins was quick to point out that the risk from cyclones was always high."We've never had a tropical cyclone season without at least one cyclone crossing the coast. This means that despite a reduced risk this season, all communities in northern Australia must be ready," Dr Watkins said."Even if cyclones stay well out to sea, they can still pose a significant risk to property and lives through strong winds, intense rain and flooding, and storm surges."Dr Watkins said on average, Australia sees roughly 11 cyclones each season, with four of those crossing the coast, but the current state of Australia's climate drivers, particularly the neutral state of the El Nino–Southern Oscillation and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole, meant the chances of seeing that amount this year are slightly reduced.He added that cyclone formation was rarely spread evenly, with history showing quiet periods can be followed by bursts of intense activity."Remember, if your community is affected by severe weather, it's crucial you follow the advice of emergency services, and stay up to date with all the latest forecasts and warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology."Know your weather. Know your risk. Stay up to date with the latest forecasts and warnings via the Bureau of Meteorology website (bom.gov.au), the BOM Weather app or on Twitter.You can view the Bureau's severe weather education page here: http://www.bom.gov.au/knowyourweather/You can view the Bureau's Tropical Cyclone Season Outlook here: http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/cyclones/australia/You can view the Bureau's severe weather outlook video here: https://youtu.be/rW6wEjxmZ_M See The Lismore App Weather page: Weather Weather Radar

Do you recognise these two women?Lismore police are investigating an incident that took place at Lismore Square on the 26th September. The two pictured women may be able to assist with inquiries.If you know who these two women are please email 43858@police.nsw.gov,au or call Crimestoppers on 1800333000 Police reference is E74351785

When you go into a Vinnies op shop this week, any money you spend will go towards helping people affected by the bushfires in our region.St Vincent de Paul Society NSW chief executive Jack de Groot said all monetary donations made in northern NSW stores during the bushfire period will go to those locally affected."People wanting to donate money can also donate in any Vinnies Shop across north-east and north-west NSW, or over the phone on 13 18 12,” Mr de Groot said. “While we welcome all donations of good-quality items, giving money is the most effective way to help immediately during the current fires.The Rural Fire Service confirmed that 89 homes have been destroyed across the state since the bushfire season began, with Rappville, Drake, Busbys Flat and Tenterfield being particularly affected. “Our thoughts are with those who have been affected by the fires, especially those who have lost their homes, as well as the families of the couple who tragically lost their lives,” Mr de Groot said.“We’re acutely aware that the same people hardest hit by these fires have already been suffering through the drought for months. “Vinnies has been helping at the fire registration centre at St Mary’s Catholic College in Casino, as well as in the communities of Rappville, Busbys Flat, Drake and Tenterfield.“If you’re having a hard time, I encourage you to reach out to our team or drop into your nearest Vinnies Shop. “In Casino, our members are on-hand to help on 6662 4674 and at the Vinnies Shop on Canterbury Street. “We’re able to provide you with vouchers, link you up with services, and provide a shoulder to lean on. “Recent events been deeply distressing, but I’ve also heard from our people on the ground that it’s been moving to see these communities come together at a time of need. “We commend the rapid response from government and non-government agencies, the Rural Fire Service, and the broader community.”

Lismore Police are investigating a scam where a woman had $10,000 stolen from her account by someone pretending to be from the National Broadband Network (NBN).“Last month a local lady received a phone call from someone pretending to be from 'the NBN'”, a Richmond District Police Facebook statement said.“They claimed the woman had compromised files on her computer, and she had to provide her password details. “The scammer then told the victim to provide her internet banking details, then turn her computer off for a few hours.“The next day the victim turned her computer back on and checked her online banking. “She had just under $10,000 withdrawn by the scammer. “Lismore Police are investigating.“If you receive a phone call from anyone asking for access to your computer - it's a scam. “Never share your passwords, especially for online banking.“Stories like this are all too common on the Northern Rivers. “To help combat internet fraud Richmond Police District hold fraud prevention seminars for social groups. “If you would like me a fraud prevention seminar with your social group, email 35603@police.nsw.gov.au.”

Geoff Hannah, creator of the world-famous Hannah Cabinet, will reveal a new work ‘Jubilee House’ at an exhibition of fine woodwork featuring Geoff Hannah’s works and that of his students at Lismore Regional Gallery. Geoff Hannah and the Hannah Cabinet garnered national attention with an ongoing campaign to keep the million dollar Hannah Cabinet at Lismore Regional Gallery in Geoff’s hometown.Jubilee House will be revealed to the public at the official opening of the Chesta Drawz and the LowBoys exhibition on Friday, October 18, 6pm at Lismore Regional Gallery and then will remain on display until 1 December. Whilst a significantly smaller piece than the Hannah Cabinet, Jubilee House is also an exquisite labour of love that was three years in the making. It is made of Brazilian and Sapele mahogany, ebony and satinwood and includes many stone features including window panes of Brazilian agate, 730 jade roof tiles, 18 ebony columns and a jasper foundation. Works of students who have been studying under Geoff Hannah for years The exhibition also features more than 60 beautiful works by 26 of Geoff Hannah’s students, some of who have been studying under Geoff for more than 19 years. The works include intricate boxes, sideboards, dressers, mirrors, tables and two guitars.The pieces are made of every imaginable wood including Red Cedar, Walnut, Ebony and Brazilian Mahogany. Geoff Hannah and some of his students.Some works are adorned with beautiful marquetry of king parrot, horses, grass trees, plants and street art or simply the elegant lustre, grain and colour of the various woods.  Mike Evans has been studying fine cabinet making under Geoff Hannah for 19 years. His Edwardian Period inspired Corner Display Cabinet is the product of over 2000 hours work over a five-year period. It took hundreds of coats of shellac to get a French polish finish on the grain and the glass front door took almost a year to construct.  “I wanted to make a ‘stand-out’ or heirloom piece and Geoff has helped me do exactly that,” Mike Evans said.“Geoff is a gifted teacher and our Tuesday group are a highly gifted, eclectic unit who are great fun to work with.” Geoff describes his group of students as a family network. “We are together every week and we talk about everything. “Once they’ve finished their work and have that feeling of happiness, it doesn’t get better than that.” The exhibition features the work of Geoff Hannah OAM and his students:Paul Armour (Boori Creek), Sally Bates (Lismore), Rick Billson (Alstonville), Sue Egan (Goonellabah), Brian Emery (Goonengerry), Mike Evans (Marom Creek), Colin Fardon (Lismore), Greg Foster (Goolmangar), David Gilmore (Brisbane), Brian Henry (Goonellabah), Rob Hurford (Ballina), Paul Laird (Coraki), Wendy Laird (Coraki), Carla McGuire (Lismore), Jan Page (Lismore), Barbara Riordan (Tregeagle), Tom Scarrabelotti (Bentley), Gary Shallala-Hudson (Lismore), Darren Shaw (Tintenbar), Ted Slattery (Alstonville), Marek Sojka (Lismore), Lucille Stace (Georgica), Francesco Stassi (Boori Creek), Rick Stewart (Lismore) and Paul Tiernan (Kyogle).Many of the works in the exhibition are for sale. Geoff Hannah and one of his students.Chesta Drawz and the LowBoys: An exhibition of fine woodwork by Geoff Hannah and his students will show from October 19 until December 1.The official opening is Friday 18 October, 6pm.Free daily tours are held at 11am for Chesta Drawz and the LowBoys exhibition and at 11:45am for The Hannah Cabinet at Lismore Regional Gallery, 11 Rural St, LismoreAdmission to Lismore Regional Gallery is a suggested $5 donation.Gallery opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday 10am to 4pm (Thursdays to 6pm).To find out more about the Hannah cabinet, visit http://www.hannahcabinet.com). Geoff Hannah, Gaela Hurford and Brian Henry with the world famous Hannah Cabinet.Opportunity for local High Schools: Geoff Hannah studio visitMaster craftsman Geoff Hannah & Lismore Regional Gallery are offering four high schools from the Northern Rivers Region the amazing opportunity to visit Geoff Hannah's Lismore based workshop and a free tour of Chesta Drawz and the LowBoys, an exhibition of fine woodwork by Geoff Hannah & his Students.High School visits to Geoff's workshop will be available on Thursday afternoons during the exhibition period from Thurs 24 October - 28 November.This is a first in first served offer – please email Claudie Frock claudie.frock@lismore.nsw.gov.au

The long weekend is over, the school holidays are over and importantly, the heat is over! It is back to normal weekend programming.Firstly, the Lismore Show is only six days away. The gates open for the first time next Thursday at 9am at the Lismore Showgrounds.One of the first questions asked is "when are the dogs being shown"? or "when can I see the cattle"?All these questions are answered through the Lismore Show button by pushing 'schedules'.There you will find the days and times for the cattle, horses, chickens, dogs, goats and loads more. Tickets are still available on line for $12.50 for adults with children under 16 free.Secondly, it is going to be a wet start to the weekend....yes, finally some rain!According to the BOM we should see 25-35 mms on Saturday and just a touch on Sunday. I am sure there will be no complaints especially if this rain gets to some of our farmers as well.As you would expect temps are much cooler with tops of 20 and 22 Weather.So, what's on? Markets dominate proceedings once again. Lismore Farmers Markets are on Saturday morning from 8, the Blue Knob Markets from 8:30 and the Channon Markets make their monthly return on Sunday between 9am and 3pm.After the Channon Markets you can make the short trip to the Dunoon Sports Club for 'Pluckers & Poets' where you can enjoy watching people displaying their talents or join in.The Lismore Presbyterian Church on Keen Street will hold its annual Scottish Fair tomorrow between 8am and 2pm with loads of second hand bargains, bric-a-brac, gardening items and more.While out and about in the north of the 2480 postcode, pop in to the Lismore Men's Shed Show and Shine fundraiser on Sunday at the Tullera Hall from 9:30am to 2pm.There will be vintage cars and motorbikes for you to view as well as some great rockabilly music from the Linelockers. There will be a fundraising BBQ happening as well.Most of us would remember the 80's band, Moving Pictures. They had a huge hit with What About Me from the Days Of Innocence album, a favourite of mine in the car in 1982.I mention this because Alex Smith, the band's lead singer, will be at the Dusty Attic Music Lounge on Saturday night. Alex will be on stage at 8pm playing some new originals and his favourite blues tracks.The weather is not going to be kind to the start of the 2019/2020 cricket season in the Far North Coast Cricket Council Two Day L J Hooker League with Marist Brothers hosting Alstonville at Oakes Oval at 1pm.The expanded and newly named Northern Rivers Cricket League kicks off too with First Grade Premiers Goonellabah Workers hosting newcomers, the Kyogle Turkeys, at Blair Oval; Lismore Workers take on another new team in the Casino RSM Redbacks at Nesbitt Park; Marist Brothers take on on Eastern Suburbs at Mortimer Oval and Northern Districts play Casino RSM Magpies at Heaps Oval. All games start at 12 noon.....hopefully!That's the weekend wrap.....enjoy.

What makes a Scottish Fair Scottish? A lone piper, playing the bagpipes and wearing a kilt.This Saturday, Lismore Presbyterian Church on Keen Street (opposite Lismore Centro) will be holding its annual Scottish Fair from 8am till 2pm – and yes, the piper will be playing – but you need to bring your own kilt.Reverend Glenn Samuel said the annual event is a lot of fun and links back to the Presbyterians historical connections to Scotland.“We’ve had the full pipe band in previous years,” he said.“The Scottish Fair is like our monthly Friday church hall bric-a-brac sale, but bigger – it’s on steroids.“As well as lots of second hand bargains, there’s gardening items and clothing. “The ladies who help us fundraise have also been sewing and crafting and will have those for sale too.Money raised from the Fair goes into the community and mission work of the church.“If you’re homeless and need clothes we’ll fill up a bag and give it to you,” Rev Samuel said. “We also run a youth group and a youth camp, and we finance the kids who can’t afford to go.“All our fundraising efforts helps us to give back to the community.”Lismore Show

Lismore’s Bangalow Road at Clunes will see changed traffic conditions from next week. Motorists are advised that Transport for NSW will be rebuilding and widening the road and shoulder on the east of James Gibson Road. Work will be carried out from Monday, October 14 between 7am and 6pm on weekdays and between 8am and 5pm on Saturdays.It is expected to be completed by June 2020, weather permitting.Work on other sections of Lismore Bangalow Road east of Clunes is expected to continue throughout 2020.Work also continues to improve the road surface east of Bexhill near Eltham Road.Traffic in these areas will be reduced to one lane, alternate flow during work hours, with traffic control and a reduced speed limit in place for the safety of workers and motorists.Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions, and follow the directions 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.Read more: Roadworks Cars For Sale 2012 Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport Hatchback2007 Toyota Landcruiser Prado GX

Laughter as therapy and the future of bio-banking are some of the hot topics to be discussed at next week’s Rural Health and Research Congress.Health professionals from across the state will gather in Lismore for the annual event, now in its eighth year.The Congress has become a peak event on the health calendar attracting leading keynote speakers, academics, clinicians, researchers and health leaders for three days of thought-provoking discussion, insights and networking opportunities.Included in the innovative program are presentations on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, laughter as therapy, the power of conversation, the future of bio-banking and more. This year’s theme, “Connecting Communities” will be explored by a line-up of speakers including local humour therapist Mandy Nolan. The Congress supports continual improvement in health service delivery for rural patients, by providing a forum to present, workshop and network the latest research and trends in rural health and evidence to support best practice.The Congress is organised by the Health Education and Training Institute (HETI), with support this year from local host the Northern NSW Local Health District.Health Education and Training Institute (HETI) chief executive, Adjunct Professor, Annette Solman, said in order to maintain and strengthen a world-class rural health system, “we need to further understand the challenges health care professionals face”.“We need to have those conversations about how we can continue to build upon the good work that is occurring to improve health outcomes and celebrate what is working well in rural communities,” she said.“The annual Rural Health and Research Congress provides a unique and crucial opportunity to explore the health requirements of people in rural and remote areas.  “I encourage all health staff and professionals to join us in this discussion.For information about the Congress, visit http://www.nswrhrc.com.auOther speakers at the Congress include:Danielle Dries, Indigenous Allied Health Australia Board Director and GP Registrar with the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine.Alistair Ferguson: Director and Founder, Maranguka Community HubProfessor Nick Goodwin, Director, Central Coast Research Institute (CCRI)Professor Kathy Eagar, Director, Australian Health Services Research Institute (AHSRI)Associate Professor Murray Killingsworth, Founding Director, NSW Brain Clot Bank, Principal Hospital Scientist, South Western Sydney Pathology Service Nic Marchesi and Lucas Patchett, Orange Sky Luke Escombe, Consumer and Creator About Health Education and Training Institute (HETI) The Health Education and Training Institute (HETI) supports the NSW Health system through the delivery of innovative education and training for the NSW Health workforce. Working closely with Local Health Districts (LHDs), Specialty Health Networks (SHNs) and other health organisations, HETI identifies needs, develop and delivers health education and training to build workforce capability and improve health outcomes for patients. 

Lovers of the rock n roll era and vintage vehicles, get ready for the Lismore Men’s Shed Show and Shine fundraiser this Sunday.Tullera Hall will see cars, motorbikes and caravans rolling in from far and wide for a day of showing off and retro fun - with live music from Rockabilly band, the Linelockers.Lismore Men and Community Shed president Bob Grieg said it’s only $5 to enter a vehicle in the show, with proceeds going toward establishing the new Men’s Shed at Norco Lane in Lismore.“The cars will match the rock n roll era,” Bob said. “cars from the 1950s, 1960s and some antiques. “it’s going to be a great day.”Bob said he is a lover of motorbikes and a member of Shadow Riders Australia. “I’ve got a Shadow Rider friend coming down from Brisbane on his Honda Shadow – he might enter it in the show.The Men’s Shed is also putting on a fundraising BBQ on the day.“It’ll be bigger than our Bunnings BBQ,” Bob laughed. “We’ll have burgers, sausages and hotdogs and drinks.“It’s also the same day as the Bathurst races and there will be a TV set up for people to watch the car racing.“Kyogle Motor Vehicle Club is hosting it and it will be fun.”The Lismore Men’s Shed Show and Shine will be held at Tullera Hall on Dunoon Road, on Sunday October 13, from 9.30am until 2.30pm.For information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/2383918125208818/

Writer of Humans of Lismore, Denise Alison, said she “felt sick” when she thought about what people in the Rappville were going though as a result of the bushfires.Read more: Police treat bushfires near Casino as suspicious  So she started a collection of goods to take to Casino Golf Club, which is coordinating the distribution of needed items and cash to affected people in the Richmond Valley area."Cash donations are the first priority," she said.“I just had a new baby stroller and a Best and Less voucher dropped off to my veranda this morning.“There’s a call for non-perishable food items, bottled water, toiletries, baby items, fuel or shop vouchers, pet food and first aid items like burn cream.“I can’t imagine having nothing but the shirt on your back and no future. “If I was in that situation, I’d want help. “Please don’t donate clothes or furniture because these people have no houses and it’s a big issue about where to put things – even their local hall burned down.”Denise is asking people with items to be donated to drop them off to her.  “I have a friend with a ute who’ll be going with me to Casino tomorrow (Friday) to drop the items off.“Thanks in advance Lismore and surrounds - we as a community know how to pull together in these heartbreaking disasters.”You can contact Denise through the Humans of Lismore Facebook page and send her a private message.Rainbow Wholefoods on Terania Street, North Lismore is also acting as a collection depot for the same sorts of goods which will be delivered to Casino Golf Club.Cash donations neededCasino Golf Club has been acting as a meeting place for Richmond Valley residents while the bushfires are creating havoc in their community.The club posted on Facebook that due to an overwhelming demand from individuals wanting to help, it has set up a donation fund. “The club will coordinate the collection of cash donations which will be distributed to people over the coming weeks once the full damage and needs have been assessed,” the club said.If you wish to donate through Casino Golf Club, you can direct deposit money in their Summerland Credit Union accountName - Over the Range Drought FundraiserBSB - 728 728  ACC – 22321292

You might see magpies, rosellas, lorikeets, wrens or willy wagtails - It depends where you look.The Aussie Backyard Bird Count is on this October and organisers are calling for Lismore residents to get involved.All you need to do is to stay in one place for 20 minutes and count birds. It’s one pf Australia’s biggest citizen science events, held from 21-27 October 2019.This national event enables everyone from school children, senior citizens, families and community groups to participate in capturing a snapshot of Australia’s birds. In doing so, citizen scientists play a vital role in providing important information to BirdLife Australia to help increase our understanding of Australian bird species. All it takes is 20 minutes in your backyard, local park, or favourite outdoor space – anywhere you can count birds.Data and results from the Count will be valuable in many ways, such as guiding on-ground management, analysing bird adaptation to local developments, or identifying good ‘birding spots’ for ecotourism.The Aussie Backyard Bird Count only takes place once per year in National Bird Week.Another survey, Birds In Backyards,runs seasonal surveys (four per year) for you to take part in. For more information about the Backyard Bird Count, visit https://aussiebirdcount.org.au/You can submit your counts to the Aussie Backyard Bird Count website or by downloading the Aussie Bird Count app. Visit https://aussiebirdcount.org.au/#app to download the app.The app is also a Field Guide and Bird Finder to help you identify birds.While you’re waiting for the bird count to begin, you can learn more about attracting native birds to your backyard through bird-friendly gardening by visiting https://aussiebirdcount.org.au/gardening/You can also practise your bird identification and get to know the birds in your backyard by downloading the Aussie Bird Count app and using the Field Guide function.

If you’ve got produce to sell in the Lismore area, it’s now ok to just set up your roadside stall on your property - unless you live on Bangalow Road or the Bruxner Highway. At last night’s Lismore City Council meeting, councillors voted to allow the sale of agricultural produce in small scale rural roadside stalls on “classified roads”, without sellers first having to apply for to council for approval.Lismore councillor Vanessa Ekins said there’s community demand for roadside stalls and they are an important way for people to sell surplus produce."A draft council planning proposal to remove roadside stalls from the proposed Exempt Development (development consent not required subject to criteria), would have meant that the stalls could only be located on roads with low traffic volumes - and as such sale volumes would be low," she said.“Last night council amended the proposal so you can have a stall on any road except Bangalow Road and the Bruxner Highway."On those roads, you still need to apply to council for consent.” Ms Ekins said the planning proposals were designed to ensure people’s safety if they pulled over to a stall on the side of a well trafficked road. “Dunoon Road is a classified road with lots of traffic, but one with lots of people who have produce to sell."It's a good example of a road that will benefit from this amendment.“I like to stop and buy things at roadside stalls – like mandarins, avocados, honey, jam, nuts or flowers."Stalls are part of our country landscape – we’ve been doing it for a long time."Roadside stall rulesIf you are going to have a roadside stall, you need to make sure you are only selling agricultural produce.Your stall must not have a footprint greater than four square metres.You can only have one roadside stall on any landholding.Any relevant approval issued under the Roads Act 1993 must be obtained.Your stall must be located on land within Zone RU1 Primary Production.Zone RU1 is the predominant rural zone in the Lismore LGA (85% of the LGA). Zone RU2 in the Lismore LGA is only applied to flood prone areas peripheral to North Lismore, South Lismore and East Lismore urban zones.  

If you, or someone you know needs help or support call Lifeline on 13 11 14.Looking after our mental health and talking about suicide can be challenging. Tomorrow, October 10, is World Mental Health Day and a free talk at Lismore Regional Gallery looks at how we can support mental health and suicide prevention."Opening Hearts and Minds - how do we talk about suicide?" is part of the Thursday Night Live! talk series and begins at 6pm.The event will be facilitated by Rose Hogan from StandBy NSW Suicide Support, along with a panel of expert speakers. “When we speak of suicide, we speak of people not numbers and accept there will be many grieving this loss,” Rose said.“We open the heart’s capacity for unconditional regard, support and non-judgement knowing my grief experience will be different from yours. “I am here, I walk alongside you."Rose Hogan is a community service provider, educator and strong advocate for collaboration among service providers, acknowledging it takes many to support a healthy, vibrant and diverse community.For the past six years she has managed StandBy - Support after Suicide, a postvention response to support the health and wellbeing of people, including children and young people, bereaved and impacted through suicide loss.Rose will be joined by Luke Rugendyke and Nerida Barclay from Headspace, Ben Karsay from Beyond Empathy and Colin Marsh from Rekindling The Spirit.The Slate Gallery Cafe opens at 5.30pm and the panel conversation begins at 6pm. At the free talk, an Auslan interpreter is available on request.You can listen to the Thursday Night Live! podcast now available on iTunes; Stitcher and Soundcloud.Thursday Night Live! is an evening of provocation, discussion and dialogue. Thursday Night Live! is a partnership event of Southern Cross University and the Lismore Regional Gallery.Suicide facts:Every year globally, close to 800 000 people take their own life and there are many more people who attempt suicide. Every suicide is a tragedy that affects families, communities and entire countries and has long-lasting effects on the people left behind. People of all ages, races, genders, incomes and family backgrounds commit suicide. But young people are especially at risk.Suicide is the leading cause of death among young Australians. About 350 young people aged 15–24 take their own lives every year – more than die on the roads. For every youth suicide, there are 100 to 200 more attempts. Every year:Over 65,000 Australians make a suicide attemptMore than 3,000 Australians died by suicide in 2017 1Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians between 15 and 44 years of age 2Young Australians are more likely to take their own life than die in motor vehicle accidentsIn 2017, about 75% of people who died by suicide were males and 25% were females 1In 2017, the suicide rate among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people was approximately twice that of non-Indigenous Australians 1

When Southern Cross University midwifery student Kirsty Barker thinks back to her Bronze medal success at UniSport Nationals on the Gold Coast this week, she’ll always remember the little bub she helped deliver between games.Kirsty, 20, had just finished playing her second-last match with her Beach Volleyball partner – Southern Cross Uni Occupational Therapy student Taylor Witthun – when she received a call that one of her pregnant midwifery continuity links had gone into labour.“On Wednesday night after our game in Surfers Paradise I got called into Tweed Hospital to help deliver a baby,” the third-year midwifery student said.“It was an overnight nine-hour labour and bub was born just before 5am."I had a quick nap at home after that then headed back to the comp to play our last match where we won bronze!“More than anything I was thrilled mum and bub were healthy but also glad the timing meant I could still play."Crazily enough though the exact same thing actually happened last year as well when I delivered a baby in between two of the early games in the comp.”The Mermaid Beach local says she decided to study midwifery to pursue a rewarding career in healthcare.“Usually after delivering a baby I get a massive adrenaline rush and can’t sleep, but this time I glad I was able to nap before the game,” she said. “I felt a bit tired but I think the excitement and nerves took over with playing in the finals. I’ve helped deliver a few babies now and it’s really rewarding to be part of such a life-changing thing in someone’s life.”Southern Cross University shone at the UniSport Nationals this week with the Women’s Futsal team taking home the gold with the women’s Beach Volleyball also on the podium.Southern Cross University won the UniSport Nationals' Women's Futsal competition.Sport and Recreation Officer Dave Graham said 50 students from Southern Cross University’s Gold Coast, Lismore, Coffs Harbour, online and even Perth satellite campus completed in the week-long event on the Gold Coast.“Congratulations to all of our players, coaches and staff for a massive week and a fantastic effort,” he said.The event brings together competitors from Australia's 43 universities to compete in individual and team sports such as badminton, basketball, futsal, golf, netball, sailing, tenpin bowling and water polo. Next year UniSport Nationals will be held in Perth.