A free workshop this Wednesday calls to women on the land to get ready.Do you know how to use a chainsaw, or lift a pump from the river if it floods? Or is that something your husband always does?These skills and more will be looked at in a workshop and luncheon this Wednesday, September 18 at Windara Nursery in Casino - and all women working in the rural and agricultural sector are encouraged to attend.With a theme of Storm, Fire and Personal Preparedness, the workshop is run by a group called Women on the Land.Women on the land committee member Tracey Doherty said the event was created as a result of a community consultation after ex-cyclone Debbie which identified that people working on the land and women in general were under-represented.“We wanted to find out what women wanted and needed,” Tracey said.“So we held a meeting and about 70 women came said and told us what an emergency or disaster looked like for them and what skills they needed to gain to see it through. “At the moment, we have fires and drought and financial related stress causing trauma – there’s a massive array of things impacting on people.“One woman said for she had physical health concerns and what to do if her husband was ill, or what if her crop is wiped out.“It was heart breaking and empowering to have these women expressing themselves, talking about what they needed to get through disasters and how to be resilient, and what skill shortages they had.“Vivian Miller told her story of living on a cane farm and has been through a dire situation in a flood losing her house before Christmas.“Tracey said the workshop each other, sharpening their skill sets and knowledge base and making sure their family is included in putting plans together.“If there’s a fire, at what point are you evacuating the house? If the family is home, do they know where to go if they can’t contact each other?"One woman has a bag ready to go with her wedding certificate and photocopies of important documents. “Women can thrive on that information and it can start conversations about what they do at home.“There will be theory and show practical tips, like how to start a chainsaw or a generator if you need to or how to lift a water pump away from rising flood levels, for extinguishers and how to climb a ladder safely and animal welfare.“It’s also about having a plan for fires and information about apps they can put on their phone coming up show the apps they can put on their phone monitor things like fire.“Women in agriculture need to be there – it’s a empowering, worthwhile, practical way of looking at preparing for disaster.“This day will give women confidence to talk to their partners and say show me the generator or what do I do if I can’t get the car out of garage. Tracey Doherty is also a State Emergency Service (SES) volunteer and the Richmond River Cane Growers Association manager.Wearing all her three hats, she said Women on the Land covers all areas and industries working on the land and this workshop will be the third workshop run in the area.“Department of Industry and the Environment and the SES are working in collaboration with the North Coast Rural Producers Consultative Committee on this initiative,” she said.“We also run a workshop called Tough blokes which is about men filling their cup up again to help their families. You can’t pour from an empty cup – it’s a mental health reminder for men that it’s ok to look after themselves.“A representative from the Rural Mental Health Program will also be available if anyone needs to chat to the women at the Wednesday workshop.“So come along, have lunch, learn something new, and meet other rural women in the area, local rural industry reps and emergency service personnel, and learn and share information and experiences.”“We have a great group of women on our organising committee but we are still looking for women to join our group to help plan future events and strategies to support our local women living on the land. If you are interested in joining the group, contact womenontheland@gmail.com or phone Tracey Doherty on 0455 10 7792.Storm, Fire and Personal Preparedness workshop Details:When: Wednesday 18th SeptemberWhere: Windara Nursery – 253 Sextonville Rd, Casino NSW 2470Time: Registration from 9:30, Workshop from 10am – 3pmCost: Free – Morning Tea & Lunch providedDress: Please wear casual clothing, outdoor shoes and a hatTo register, visit https://www.trybooking.com/BENRX

“Lismore High has entered the one-year countdown to its centenary celebrations in September 2020,” Chris Williams, Principal of The Rivers College Lismore High campus, announced today.Lismore High School was officially opened in September 1920 after 7 years of lobbying from the local community for a secondary school in the town and moved into its new buildings in Lake St North Lismore in July 1920.The laying of the foundation stone in November 1918 by local member George Nesbitt MLA was reported by the Northern Star then as “Today’s function at North Lismore will mark a step forward in the unending educational advance in these districts. The transition of Lismore from a remote country village to one of the most prosperous and up to date cities of this state has been rapid.”Lismore High School quickly grew to be the first country based First Class high school in NSW by 1929, with students initially coming from as far north as Murwillumbah and later Mullumbimby and students travelling from across the district by bus or on the north coast mail train. “Lismore High School has played a dominant role in many people’s education and lives since its inception 99 years ago and it is hoped that past students in large numbers will attend the 3-day celebrations scheduled for 11, 12 and 13 September next year,” Williams said.Lismore High School has had three location over its first one hundred years. Firstly, in Lake St North Lismore in the present Richmond river high campus until 1942, when it moved to the Keen St /Magellan St site for 27 years. Then in mid-1969 it moved to its present flood free location in Dalley St East Lismore.The history of Lismore High School will be on display at Lismore High in Dalley St and tours of the three sites will take place on Saturday 12 September.A gala dinner is planned for Saturday night and group reunions on Sunday with a special 100 year edition of The Lens, the school magazine also available.All ex-students are encouraged to the attend the centenary celebrations in September 2020. One hundred years of our eminent country high school is a massive moment for Lismore and the celebrations will provide a great opportunity to catch up with old school friends and remember time spent at Lismore High School. Lismore High has a proud history of turning out well rounded students over the past 100 years, with many notable ex-students including a state governor, judges and lawyers, leading doctors and scientists, musicians, journalists, teachers, builders and other tradespeople, farmers, politicians and at least three Lismore mayors including Lismore’s present mayor Isaac Smith. Over the next year regular upgrades on the centenary celebrations will be issued and ex students are encouraged to register their names and reminiscences on the website https:/Lismore-h.schools.nsw.gov.au via the About Us/alumni tabs or make contact with the Lens centenary committee on LHS.centenary@gmail.com. You may also like to follow us on Facebook https/www.facebook.com/LismoreHighSchool.  Media Contacts: Lismore-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au 66215185 Prue Regan: Lens committee Prueregan@yahoo.com.au , 0430618699

Community organisation Friends of the Koala was one of the local groups recognised for its work in protecting the environment at last night’s Lismore Biodversity Awards.Other winners included educator Emma Stone, founding member of Dharmananda community at The Channon, Leigh Davison and macadamia farmers Bruno Bertolo and Stephen Genrich.The winners were announced in an awards ceremony at Lismore City Hall on September 12, with each winner receiving $1000 as a thank you for their achievements.The biennial event is part of Lismore City Council’s Biodiversity Management Strategy and provides the opportunity to recognise and reward people in the community who are acting to increase and protect local biodiversity, catchment health and demonstrate sustainable agriculture.Lismore City Council environmental strategies officer Vanessa Tallon said “all the nominees show great passion for the environment, and an enduring love for the land that is demonstrated in the legacy they are creating”. “We are so proud of our 2019 winners,” she said. “They are doing great things for our community and we should all be very grateful for their time and commitment to our environment.”Winners, nominees and sponsors with Councillor Neil Marks at the Lismore Biodiversity Awards ceremony at Lismore City Hall on Thursday night.Award winnersNSW Department of Primary Industries Primary Producer AwardBruno Bertolo and Stephen Genrich own a macadamia farm and mixed orchard at Whian Whian and are local leaders for regenerative agriculture.They use large-scale composting to build soil health, constructed a wetland to filter runoff and increase biodiversity, and planted a koala corridor along their boundary. They also host field days on the farm, sharing their knowledge and passion for land stewardship.Winners of the NSW Department of Primary Industries Primary Producer Award Stephen Genrich (left) and Bruno Bertoli with Diana Unsworth from the NSW Department of Primary Industries.North Coast Local Land Services Rural Landholder AwardLeigh Davison is a founding member of the 250-acre Dharmananda community at The Channon, once a heavily cleared dairy then banana farm. Leigh has worked tirelessly for decades to restore remnant rainforest and wet schlerophyll forest on the slopes and creeks, focusing on strategic lantana and camphor control, successfully applying for many grants and more recently employing work teams to continue his great work.Winner of the North Coast Local Land Services Rural Landholder Award Leigh Davison (centre) with Ella Rasmussen from Local Land Services North Coast (left) and Councillor Elly Bird.Educator or School AwardEmma Stone’s passions and activity stretch across the broad scope of Landcare including biodiversity, sustainable agriculture and resilient and connected rural communities. Not only does she work to restore the land on which she lives, she supports all those around her to do the same. Whether it be via a one-on-one site visit with a landholder or running a workshop with the local school, Emma gives generously of her time and expertise. Winner of the Educator or School Award Emma Stone with Jim Kinkead from award sponsor Richmond Landcare Inc.Community Group AwardFriends of the Koala are a Lismore and North Coast institution that has been operating for 30 years. Their aim to enhance and protect koala habitat has seen them become the lead organisation fighting for koalas in the Northern Rivers. They also maintain a 24/7 rescue hotline; rescue, rehabilitate and release sick and injured koalas; and operate both a triage, treatment and pathology clinic as well as an education and administration centre in East Lismore. They have a volunteer base of more than 100 people, have distributed more than 150,000 koala food trees, brought more than 5000 koalas into care and released more than 1230 koalas back into the wild.

It is finally here! That time of year when we have spring festivals, spring carnivals and spring shows and the Lismore App team are looking forward to getting amongst it.Before we get to this weekend, have you set your calendars yet?The 2019 Lismore Cup is this coming Thursday September 19. It is a gazetted public holiday for the LCC area from 12pm to 6pm so get your dresses, frocks and suits ready to strut your stuff and enjoy a great day of racing and importantly, socialising out at the Lismore Turf Club in North Lismore. Some practical advice, organise your transport to and from the races well before Thursday. There are free shuttle buses running between 12 noon to 1:30pm then again from 4:30pm to 6pm from three locations, Spinks Park - Transit Centre, Workers Club car park and Crowther car park. The weather should be an idyllic Lismore spring day with a top of 26 degrees (at this stage!).The Lismore App and The Lismore Turf Club is giving you the chance to win 10 double tickets into this years Cup saving you $50 as well as two tickets to the Events Party VIP Marquee valued at $160 each. Push here to get yourself into the draw. Win!Next Weekend, September 21 & 22 is the 100th Nimbin Show and to celebrate this milestone the committee has made it FREE entry into this years Nimbin Show. You'll read more about this during the coming week.The 2019 Lismore Show will be happening over the usual three days on October 17, 18 and 19. Put that in your calendar now.The big event this weekend is the 2019 Nimbin Roots Festival on in Cullen Street. Day one kicked off today but there are still amazing days of original roots music to be enjoyed as over 50 acts will be performing plus there is the fine hospitality that Nimbin has to offer. Tickets are still available for purchase, push on this link https://www.nrfest.com/tickets.While on live music, the Gig Guide sees Gleny Rae Virus - Wild West Theme at the Dusty tonight from 7:30 and also tonight there's some Black Friday Karaoke at the Gollan. The Thin White Ukes House Concert is an interesting gig at 9 Parkes Street. They are down from Brisbane playing David Bowie songs over six decades so Space Oddity to Blackstar. Take a plate to share and a drink while entry is by contribution. The Sunday session at the Eltham sees Thor Philips perform from 1pm.A bit of early fog is expected tomorrow morning which will make the Farmers Markets and the Blue Knob Markets a sight to see from 8am and 8:30 respectively. Spring is the time to get those new season vegies and fruit so worth the effort to get out of bed. You can treat yourself breakfast while you are at it.Sunday sees the Lismore Car Boot Markets on at the Square from 7:30am while the Really Really FREE Market is on at the Lismore Community Garden at 50 Brewster Street between 1pm and 3pm.Good luck to Lismore Thistles who travel to Byron Bay for the Football Far North Coast preliminary final on Sunday at 2pm. A win in Byron would see an all Lismore Grand Final, now that would be something.So there you go, you have the lowdown on this weekend and this coming week too. Plenty of options for you to get your family or friends in the car and get around Lismore and surrounds to support what's happening.Enjoy!

While Byron Bay’s controversial silver ‘phallic’ sculpture still stands tall despite public speculation, Lismore’s skyline icon – the tower crane at Lismore base Hospital - has finally come down.Part of the Lismore skyline since May 2018, the tower crane at Lismore Base Hospital has now been removed, concluding another step in the $320 million redevelopment of the hospital. The tower crane was erected to assist with the construction of the new multi-storey North Tower. Lismore Base Hospital general manager Ian Hatton, said the tower crane has been a visual reminder to the community of the redevelopment of Lismore Base Hospital. “The removal of the crane signifies that we are one step closer to the completion of North Tower,” Mr Hatton said. “This is another exciting milestone for the staff, patients, and visitors at Lismore Base Hospital.” Lismore base Hospital before the tower crane's removal.Restricted hours will remain in place for the Helicopter Landing Site while the remainder of work is completed on the North Tower. The new North Tower, to be known operationally within the hospital as “F Block”, will provide increased inpatient capacity, a greater range of services, and improved facilities for patients and staff. It will contain a new larger Intensive Care Unit, Perioperative and Endoscopy units, Imaging department, Pharmacy, Admissions, and Security departments, and two new Inpatient Units. The North Tower construction completion is forecast for late 2019, followed by a commissioning period and staged relocation of existing departments commencing during the first quarter of 2020. Once fully occupied, the next phase of the Stage 3 redevelopment will see a range of refurbishment works undertaken within vacated spaces in the existing hospital buildings.

This week is Foster and Kinship Care Week and respite carer and CASPA employee Fiona Kaminski wants more people to make room in their hearts and take on a carer role for children in the foster care system.As well as being CASPA’s senior assessor and specialist program support officer, on weekends Fiona helps to make a difference in the lives of some of our most vulnerable and traumatised children “When I give respite care to kids on weekends, it also gives their long-term carers a break, so they can have time off and relax,” Fiona said. “It gives the kids something different to do and we try to make it as natural as possible and make them feel comfy - we’re like uncles and aunties.“We keep the same respite carers for the kids so we can build up familiarity.“For me reward is seeing kids go from strength to strength and trust people again.“When they feel safe and able to trust, they become more settled and thrive in their lives and reach their full potential.“During Foster Week, we celebrate foster carers’ selfless commitment and show appreciation for them in caring for our region’s most vulnerable children, giving them love, stability and hope.”Last weekend, to kick of Foster and Kinship Care Week, a Foster Care Family Fun day was held in Lismore which saw over 200 children and their carers join together for a day of activities and fun.The day was organised by a group of local foster care agencies from across the Northern Rivers, including CASPA Services ltd, Challenge Community Services, Foundations Care, Life Without Barriers, Mackillop Family Services, Ngunya Jarjum, UPA and Wesley Mission.One of the children at the family fun day.“The kids had a great day and we show we are working together with great outcomes for kids,” Fiona said. “We had great feedback on activities like the massage therapist for carers and the rock climbing wall for kids.“Foster Care week is about showing apprecation for carers already doing it, but to also raise awareness that we need more carers on board.“We need more people to put their hands up to care for vulnerable child as respite or long term carers, or give restoration support to return children back to parents.“We need a bigger pool of carers in each agency to match a child’s needs.Fiona said there are no specific criteria to be a carer, except to have a spare bedroom in your house for the child to stay in. “There are no age restrictions and all genders and couples, gay or straight, can apply, as long as you as long as you go through the thorough application process.”In NSW right now there are over 17,000 children and young people in out-of-home care with an identified need to recruit an additional 600+ carers in 2019 to cope with demand. For more information about becoming a carer, contact My Forever Family NSW on 1300 782 975 or visit https://www.myforeverfamily.org.au/ to find an accredited foster care agency near you.Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a foster carer? Let’s take a look at some of the biggest myths surrounding becoming a Foster Carer: Foster carers get no support. All local agencies provide 24/7 support to carers plus many local agencies provide constant training opportunities. I can't foster because I've never had kids. Having children is not a pre-requisite to becoming a foster carer. I'll grow connected, then have to say goodbye. This one is complicated. Restoration with the birth family is the primary goal for fostering agencies but as a foster carer you have a say in which types of care you participate in – emergency, respite, restoration or long-term care. I can't foster because I'm in a same-sex relationship. A foster carer is assessed on the ability to meet a child’s needs and provide security and same-sex couples can absolutely be foster carers. Single people can also be foster parents.I won't know how to deal with children's challenging behaviour. Some of the children in care do have challenging behaviours as a result of their experiences prior to coming into care and as a carer you will trained and supported to respond therapeutically to meet a child’s needs. As a foster carer you are part of a team supporting a child, you are not in it alone.My biological child and fostered child won't feel equal. Families can indeed experience this, but carers and their biological children will be supported with staff and strategies to guide you. 

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is seeking assistance from members of the public after 15 satin bowerbirds died from chemical poisoning in Modanville, near Lismore, in the past few weeks.Investigations conducted by North Coast Local Land Services have confirmed that the bird deaths were caused by the banned insecticide Fenthion. As the responsible regulator for pesticide use, the EPA is exploring the possibility that the birds may have been deliberately targeted. No other bird species is known to have been impacted. Satin bowerbirds are a protected native species.EPA Regional Operations North Coast manager Benjamin Lewin said the killing of native birds, whether through intentional or reckless pesticide misuse, was a serious offence.“We are encouraging anyone with information on these deaths, or anyone who may have seen some activity that could be related to this illegal baiting, to contact the EPA as soon as possible,” Mr Lewin said.Fenthion, which was banned from use in 2014 with a phase out period of one year, is a broad-spectrum organophosphorus insecticide. Fenthion is extremely toxic to birds and substantial penalties exist for the possession and use of Fenthion. The chemical was widely used in the past for insect control on a broad range of fruit crops and for external parasite control on livestock. For more information visit https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/your-environment/pesticides/pesticides-nsw-overview or call the Environment Line on 131 555.

A man found with 24 grams of methamphetamine and a bullet in his car was arrested in Goonellabah yesterday and will face Lismore Local Court.Police from the Richmond Target Action Group (TAG) allege that on Wednesday at 8am, highway patrol stopped a vehicle on Norwood Avenue in Goonellabah, a Richmond Police District Facebook statement said.  “The driver, a 23 year old Yarrabilba (QLD) man tested positive to methamphetamines.“TAG Officers attended and carried out a search of the 23-year-old and the vehicle; they located 24 grams of methamphetamine, almost $2,000 cash, a bullet, jewellery thought to be stolen, a knife, an ice pipe and drug paraphernalia.“The 23-year-old has been charged with Supply Prohibited Drug Greater than Indictable Quantity, Possess Prohibited Drug, Deal With Proceeds of Crime and Goods In Custody A.“Further charge may be laid once the result of his secondary drug test is known. Bail was refused and he was due to appear at Lismore Local Court yesterday.“A juvenile who was also in the car has been charged with Possess Ammunition Without Licence, Goods in Custody and Deal With Proceeds of Crime. “The juvenile was granted conditional bail and will appear at Lismore Children’s Court later this month.”

Warning: This story talks about suicide. If you are struggling, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.Losing a work colleague to suicide became the inspiration to emblazon a Lismore City Council waste collection and a fuel truck with an R U OK? message.The revamped waste collection truck can be seen driving around the Lismore region from September 12, to coincide with R U OK? Day.Lismore City Council senior law enforcement officer Jody Hynd said Council had “recently lost a staff member recently and it’s a raw issue with council staff”.“I’d prefer to sit down with you for two hours, rather than listen to a 15 minute eulogy,” Jody said.“The idea is to start community conversations where people take the time to talk to others who might be struggling,” Jody said.“R U OK?’s vision is a world where people are connected and protected from suicide. “Our collection trucks travel all over town at all times of day. If someone sees the artwork and that encourages them to ask one person ‘are you ok?’ then it’s doing its job.”Jody said the truck wrapping was instigated by a Council staff member who wanted to promote the campaign in a visible and public way, and management agreed it was an excellent idea.“If we can make a change and get together as a community and start the conversation and we save one person, then it’s been a success.”He said the aim is to inspire and empower everyone to meaningfully connect with people around them and support anyone struggling with life.“Suicide affects everybody – work colleagues, family and friends,” he said. “The flow on effect is heartbreaking.“So many people out there are struggling - not just our workers. We want to encourage people to talk to their neighbours and ask ‘are you ok?’. That may be enough to make a difference.“If someone says they are ok, then ask them ‘how can I help or assist?’ or ‘what do you need?’.“You can also encourage anyone struggling to call Lifeline, and if they won’t, then call Lifeline yourself and ask for ways you can help them.Lismore City Council staff Ian Thomson, Tony Kennedy, Tom Moodie and Jody Hynds. “Although R U OK? Day is just one day a year, we want people to keep asking ‘what’s going on?’ all year round, and roll out the R U OK? message every year.“The essence of the campaign is that a simple conversation could change a life. The premise is that if people feel connected to others and have someone to talk to, they can more effectively work through dark times.“R U OK? encourages you to ask a question if you have a niggling feeling that someone you know or care about isn’t behaving as they normally would, seems out of sorts, agitated, withdrawn or just not themselves."They encourage you to trust that gut instinct and act on it.”The R U OK? campaign started in 1995 following the death of Barry Larkin, whose suicide left family and friends in deep grief and with endless questions.In 2009, his son Gavin Larkin chose to champion just one question to honour his father and try to protect other families from the pain his endured – R U OK?While collaborating with Janina Nearn on a documentary to raise awareness, the team quickly realised the documentary alone wouldn’t be enough.To genuinely change behaviour Australia-wide, a national campaign was needed.And from this realisation, R U OK? was born.Gavin remained a passionate champion of the fact a conversation could change a life, even as cancer ended his in 2011.“We are proud to support this campaign and encourage people to reach out to colleagues, friends and relatives,” Jody said.“We can be deeply disconnected as a society despite all the technology we have that is meant to connect us. “By starting a real conversation and commenting on changes you’ve noticed in someone you know, you could help that family member, friend or workmate open up.It could be the difference between them seeking help or not.”To For more information or advice, visit www.ruok.org.au or call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Lismore’s new deputy mayor Darlene Cook said she’s looking forward to the challenges and responsibilities that come with the role over the next year, until the September 2020 council elections.At Tuesday night’s Lismore City Council meeting, Darlene was voted into the role, taking over from councillor Elly Bird, who has spent the last year wearing the deputy’s hat.Darlene said she was happy to put her hand up for the job, after three years learning and growing as a councillor.“Before I ran for council, I’d never worked in a public forum - It can be scary stuff, especially talking to the media,” she laughed.“I’ve been on a massive learning curve about the local government sector – it’s a huge diverse industry and I was ready to put my hand up and be more visible as a deputy mayor.“I’m one of two councillors that live in the outlying villages – not in urban Lismore or Goonellabah - and I’d like to make myself accessible to communities living in the villages like Whian Whian and Nimbin and get the feel of what people outside the urban areas want - so they feel their voices are heard.”In her new role, she’s ready to take on supporting mayor Isaac Smith, as well as the rest of the councillors and the general manager - and be as accessible as possible to the community.“The workload of the mayor is high – with networking, meetings and community events to attend,” she said. “I share the load when I can - and see the role as one encouragement and support and make sure everybody is ok.”Darlene encourages other people in the community to consider running for council election next year and to come along to A Night with Mandy Nolan for Prospective Councillors on September 18, at Lismore City Bowling Club. (For more information, read Mandy calls you to consider running for local council)“There’s always something to get your teeth into and you are putting back into your community,” she said. “It’s an important role and an exciting journey with highs and lows that gives you a path of challenges.“As a councillor, you get to make lots of decisions and we want people on council who are willing to put in the hard yards and ask questions and be involved in decision making.”Outgoing deputy mayor, councillor Elly Bird, said she was ready to “share the role of deputy mayor around".“I think it’s good for other councillors to get out and amongst it and raise their profile,” she said.  “It’s an absolute privilege to represent our community and feel the joy that comes out of it. It gives us more opportunity to be engaged with things that matter.”

A 28-year-old Lismore woman who threatened to slit the throat of her partner’s cat was arrested earlier today.In a Facebook statement, Richmond District Police allege that on September 8, the Lismore woman abused her partner to the point that the partner had to hide in a cupboard for an hour. “When the victim tried to leave the cupboard, the 28-year-old punched the victim to her face and ears,” the statement said.“The next day the 28-year-old was walking with the victim along a Lismore road and the 28 year old threw a can of drink at the victim and said ‘I'll slit your cat's throat’.a“The women was charged with Assault and Intimidation, and had an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) served on her.” She has been bail refused and will appear at Lismore Local Court.Richmond District Police are encouraging people to contact police if they know someone who is suffering from domestic violence.

Peace, love and organic roots music is coming to Nimbin this weekend at the fourth annual Nimbin Roots Festival.Nimbin will host over 50 of the finest original roots music around and offer sustainable living talks and art installations over three days, from Friday, September 13 until Sunday, September 15.Nimbin Roots Festival organiser Lou Bradley said the first release of festival tickets sold out fast, but more tickets have just been released - so if you don’t have tickets yet, get in and buy one.“We wanted to make sure we had enough venues so everyone can sit in a weatherproof venue and see the acts clearly in a nice environment,” she said.“We have the Nimbin Town Hall, Nimbin Bush Theatre and the Nimbin Bowling Club now.“We also have banjo, fiddle, guitar and yoga workshops and these will take place at Birth and Beyond in Nimbin.”Djanbung Gardens, Nimbin’s permaculture gardens will also be open on Saturday providing tours and talks.“We also have the Roots Music Awards on Sunday at Nimbin Town Hall, with a new award category this year ‘The Bob Brown Best Protest Song'," Lou said.“I’m sure it will be a popular category.”On Saturday afternoon, the All You Need Is Love Peace Parade will take place in the middle of town and Lou said people will dress up and carry banners through the main street.“It’s great that Nimbin can have an event that’s not drug-related and brings people in from all over the country who are curious to see what Nimbin is like,” she said. “This year, we had over 400 acts apply to perform their original music at the festival.“There’s lots of interesting acts you won’t see on the other festival circuits."Nimbin Roots Festival was started four years ago by Lou and her family - including her husband, mother and kids. Lou said her passion for music gave her the inspiration to start a festival where people making original music could come and be heard.Lou Bradley with Philip Chaffer and Rod Coe. Lou Bradley will play at Nimbin Roots Festival. “I had a strong, colourful music career,” Lou said. “I started with a grant from John Butler to do a tour and have been nominated for an ARIA in the music industry.“I understand how hard it can be for musicians to find their way in the music industry and wanted to provide a platform for up and coming artists.”Lou said some of the big acts coming to the festival included Neil Murray, the Glen Cardier duo and Hat Fitx and Cara. Camping is available at the festival.For more information or to buy tickets, visit www.nrfest.com

Lismore Base Hospital, along with Ballina, Byron, Casino and Maclean hospitals recorded an increase of close to, or more than 10% in Emergency Department (ED) presentations in the April to June quarter this year. These figures from the latest Bureau of Health Information Quarterly Report compare the 2019 quarter to the same quarter in 2018.Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) clinical operations director Lynne Weir said the district was seeing “near record activity in our emergency departments”.“More than 52,000 people in total presented to Northern NSW Local Health District Emergency Departments in this quarter,” Ms Weir said."An early and long flu season has been a contributing factor to ED presentations, with over 245,000 patients presenting to hospitals around the state for respiratory presentations this year, far above recent years."While our emergency departments will always treat any patient who presents, we encourage residents to think about the most appropriate place to seek care for less serious illnesses."Patients presenting to emergency departments are always prioritised to treat the most serious cases first."Where appropriate, people can visit their General Practitioner, or call HealthDirect on 1800 022 222 for expert health advice 24 hours a day.“Despite this significant increase in activity, emergency treatment performance remained strong and our hospitals are still performing at very high levels when it comes to providing patients with quality and timely care.”Ms Weir said despite rising demand, the average length of stay in hospital remained stable at 2.5 days.“Thanks to the excellent, efficient care provided by our staff, patients are being discharged back to their own homes or into community care to continue their recovery where they’re most comfortable,” she said.“I’d like to congratulate the whole Northern NSW team for their hard work and education.”This April-June quarter saw a 7.3% increase in ED presentations, up by 3,576 people on the same quarter last year, as well as an 8.3% increase in the number of ambulance arrivals.“The median time for patients leaving our EDs this quarter was just under two hours, well below the state average of two hours and 53 minutes,” Ms Weir said.Elective Surgery PerformanceDespite the continuing high activity, the number of elective surgeries performed remained stable.“I am proud to say that 100% of urgent elective surgery procedures were performed on time, as were 92% of semi-urgent procedures,” Ms Weir said.“However, we also recognise elective surgery is affected by our high activity in the system and we’re working with clinicians and management to improve waiting times.”Seclusion and RestraintNNSWLHD is committed to reducing and where possible, eliminating seclusion and restraint, and providing the best possible mental health care and treatment in the least restrictive environment.Seclusion and restraint are used to maintain safety for a patient, staff or others, after less restrictive alternatives have been trialled or considered.The District is continuing to implement actions from the NSW Health Mental Health Safety and Quality in NSW: A plan to implement the recommendations of the Review of seclusion, restraint and observation of consumers with a mental illness in NSW Health facilities.The introduction of new strategies have already shown positive results in this quarterly report.Both Lismore and Tweed Mental Health Units were below the performance indicator for seclusion rates in the April-June quarter. The state-based KPI for rate of seclusion in 2018-19 is less than 5.1 per 1,000 bed days.“I’d like to acknowledge the significant work our teams have been doing to reduce seclusion rates for patients in their care, which is leading to better experiences for our patients,” Ms Weir said.Lismore recorded a halving of the total number of seclusion events compared to the same quarter in 2018, with an overall rate of four per 1,000 bed days.The average seclusion time for patients in Lismore also decreased significantly, down 28 minutes for an average duration of 2 hours and 13 minutes, well below the NSW Health target of less than four hours.Tweed recorded a seclusion rate of 4.6 per 1,000 bed days, and a reduction of 29 minutes in the average duration of seclusion events, down to two hours and 42 minutesSome initiatives implemented over the past 18 months to improve patient care include supporting nurses to spend more time engaging therapeutically with mental health patients; and a significant uptake among staff completing therapeutic relationship.

Turn your trash into treasure at the biggest day of garage sales on the North Coast on September 28.Second Hand Saturday will be held on Saturday, 28 September across Lismore, Ballina, Byron, Clarence Valley, Kyogle, Richmond Valley and Tweed regions.The day gives you the chance to empty out your cupboards and turn your garage into a thrift shop.Registrations for Second Hand Saturday are open until 4pm on Wednesday, September 18.There will also be second chance sales organised for the following Saturday, October 5 if you wish to be involved for two weekends.It is free to register for Second Hand Saturday and your garage sale will be advertised in local media and online. You can do it as an individual, with neighbours or friends, or with your local community group or church.This event promotes recycling, re-using, and a sense of community and fun. During the 2017 and 2018 garage sales, over 4000 wheelie bins’ worth of second-hand items exchanged hands and participants said around 40% of this had been destined for landfill.Register your garage sale now at www.secondhandsaturday.com.au or phone Council on 1300 87 83 87.You can also check out the Facebook page @mysecondhandsaturday

NSW Health is urging parents and carers to keep young children at home if they are sick amid a rise in viral gastro cases. NSW Health’s acting manager of enteric and zoonotic diseases, Keira Glasgow, said the warning has been prompted by an increase in gastroenteritis outbreaks at childcare centres across the state and a high number of children aged under 5 seeking treatment at emergency departments. “Nearly 100 childcare centres reported outbreaks of gastro in August, double the average for this time of year, and at least 820 children and 165 staff have fallen ill,” she said.  “The number of children seeking treatment for the highly-contagious infection at emergency departments has also risen above usual levels, with 609 children seeking medical attention in the last week.” Ms Glasgow said gastro was often spread by direct contact with an infected person. Viral gastroenteritis is usually caused by norovirus or rotavirus. “It spreads easily between people if they haven’t carefully washed their hands after using the toilet or before handling food,” she said. “The best defence is to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 10 seconds before handling and eating food, and always wash your hands after using the toilet, changing nappies or assisting someone who has diarrhoea or vomiting. “Infants or children in childcare or school who develop vomiting or diarrhoea should stay at home for at least 48 hours after their symptoms have stopped.” People whose work involves handling food or looking after children, the elderly or patients, should not return to work until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped to avoid spread of infection. Anyone not involved in these occupations should stay home for at least 24 hours.  Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, abdominal pain, headache and muscle aches. They can take up to three days to develop and usually last between one or two days, sometimes longer. The main treatment for viral gastroenteritis is to rest and drink plenty of fluids. Most people recover without complications, however gastro can be serious for infants, people with suppressed immune systems and the elderly. Anyone recovering from gastroenteritis should avoid visiting hospitals and aged care facilities to avoid spreading the infection to those most vulnerable. For more information visit: www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/gastroenteritis/Pages/default.aspx 

The North Coast Public Health Unit is advising all residents to protect their health as smoke from bushfires in Northern NSW are affecting air quality. People with respiratory and cardiac issues in particular are being urged to stay indoors. Fires scattered across the region are affecting air quality. Depending on prevailing winds, smoke from Southern Queensland is also affecting air quality in the region. Fine smoke particles can affect the human heart and respiratory system and can aggravate existing chronic health conditions by penetrating deep into the lungs and entering the blood system. North Coast Public Health Unit assistant director Greg Bell said the fine particles could cause various health problems such as itchy or burning eyes, throat irritation, runny nose and illnesses such as bronchitis. “We urge people with chronic respiratory or cardiac conditions to be aware of the health effects of being exposed to bushfire smoke and totake steps to protect their health," Mr Bell said. “Not everyone who is exposed to bushfire smoke will have health problems and most healthy adults will find symptoms clear without any long-term consequences. “However, smoke exposure can lead people with lung diseases like asthma or chronic bronchitis may develop shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing, possibly even days after smoke is inhaled. “We recommend these people closely monitor their symptoms and follow their asthma or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) action plan.” People sensitive to smoke should avoid strenuous outdoor activity while it is visibly smoky and can reduce their exposure by staying indoors with the doors and windows shut. “Symptoms can occur for several days after smoke is inhaled, so people with chronic respiratory conditions need to be vigilant with their own medication or treatment programs,” Mr Bell said. “If symptoms do not settle, contact your doctor.” In the event of an emergency, always remember to dial Triple Zero (000) and always follow directions and advice provided by Emergency Services

The 21st annual Big Scrub Rainforest Day includes four days of exciting events across the region from September 19 to 22.The first event on the program is Science in the Pub, which will ask “How can practitioners in bushland management and restoration best respond to the challenges of climate change?”The free event is on Thursday, September 19 at the Lismore City Bowling Club with special guests Dr Nola Hancock from Macquarie University and Dr Kevin Glencross from Southern Cross University.Dr Hancock grew up on a farm in the Mallee district of South Australia. Her research interests are in climate change adaptation in the practice of revegetation.In a past life, Nola worked as a bush regenerator, Bushcare supervisor and local government bushland officer. Her PhD was on the role of provenance in restoration ecology under climate change, completed in 2012.Since then, she has worked at Macquarie University, in the Biodiversity Node of the NSW Adaptation Research Hub. She will talk about climate change predictions for our region and what this means for species selection and provenance strategies in revegetation.Dr Kevin Glencross from Southern Cross University.Dr Kevin Glencross is a research fellow at Southern Cross University, and has been actively involved in the replanting of forests for over 25 years, with a particular focus on carbon sequestration, design and monitoring of biodiversity.He has been restoring his own small farm out near Kyogle since 1993, prior to becoming a researcher.His PhD focused on mixed species rainforest plantations (2002-07) in subtropical and tropical Australia. In the years since, he has been actively involved in reforestation, agroecology and agroforestry research programs in Australia, China and the Pacific region specialising in integrating agriculture and trees, restoration of degraded land and building rural livelihoods.Dr Glencross will present on projects that are striving to make measurable and meaningful contributions to the challenges of changing climate through carbon storage, watershed management, climate regulation, biodiversity conservation and supporting rural livelihoods.During the evening, Big Scrub Landcare will also launch the third edition of their popular Rainforest Restoration Manual. Copies will be available for sale on the night.With free finger food served at 5.30pm, there will be time to charge your glass in the name of science before delving into the science of restoration in the face of climate change.This Science in the Pub event is brought to you by the Northern Rivers Science Hub in partnership with Lismore City Council. Doors open at 5.30pm for a 6pm start.Science in the Pub is one of 15 activities taking place across four days throughout the Northern Rivers as part of Big Scrub Rainforest Day. These activities offer you the chance to touch, see and learn about the Big Scrub and its magnificent biodiversity.The weekend features nature adventure and connection events, landholder field days, community tree plantings, guided rainforest walks, science and ecology talks, and fun family activities.The Big Scrub Rainforest Day is presented by Big Scrub Landcare in association with Rous County Council.For the full program of events, visit www.bigscrubrainforest.org

A man found hiding under building after an alleged police pursuit in Lismore was refused bail and scheduled to face Lismore Local Court."About 9.40pm on Sunday, police were patrolling Hunter Street, Lismore when they noticed a Ford Falcon sedan allegedly travelling more than 100km/hr in a signposted 60km/hr zone”, a police media statement said.“Police activated their warning lights and sirens, but the Ford did not stop. Officers began a pursuit where the Ford damaged several park cars.“A short time later, the driver lost control of the vehicle and collided with a building on Hindmarsh Street, Lismore before fleeing on foot.“Officers from Richmond Police District arrived and established a perimeter before a 24-year-old man was located hiding underneath a building nearby.“No one was injured during the incident.“The man was arrested and taken to Lismore Police Station where he was charged with police pursuit - not stop - drive dangerously, never licensed person drive vehicle on road, use unregistered vehicle, drive recklessly/furiously or speed/manner dangerous and use registrable vehicle not display authorised number-plates.“He was refused bail to face Lismore Local Court on Monday.”

Funny woman Mandy Nolan has no desire to be a councillor, but likes to criticise council and “agitate on the outside”. “That’s a vital role,” she said, laughing.Mandy encourages anyone who’s ever considered running for local council elections to come along to A Night with Mandy Nolan for Prospective Councillors.It’s a night of stories, insights and laughter for anyone interested in becoming a councillor, held at Lismore City Bowling Club on September 18.The next local government elections are in September 2020 and all potential candidates, friends, relatives and interested community members are welcome.The night will include a councillor interview panel with current councillors Isaac Smith, Elly Bird and Neil Marks among those being quizzed by Mandy on the highs and lows of civic leadership.“I want to make it accessible and fun, which people don’t usually associate with council,” Mandy said. “I won’t let it get bogged down in boring, bureaucratic language - people go to sleep in that.”Although she said she’s just a community member, Mandy believes there’s nothing more dynamic than getting involved in local politics as an important way to make a difference in your community.“No-one knows what they are doing when they get into local politics,” she said. “Some of the stories the councillors have can be cringeworthy and people get a chance to ask their burning questions of them.“Questions like: What kind of challenges will come your way? How do you learn not to take things personally? How do you sit through long meetings without falling asleep?”Councillor Neil Marks said he was happy to put his hand up to be on the panel on the night.“Those that think we’re funny will find out we’re not,” he laughed.“Being on council is a great way to lose every friend and contact you’ve ever had.“And you get to introduce yourself to family every week and say ‘remember me?’“But it’s the most rewarding thing you can do to get involved in things you never thought never need to bet involved in.”Neil said he got into council 11 years ago and for his it was about either “standing outside or going inside and getting involved.“It can take up as much time as you want it to,” he said. “You need to be available on Tuesday nights, but then it’s up to you how much you want to be involved. “I’m on five committees and advisory groups with lots of meetings.“You can be reasonable busy and the community expect you are at events and seen to be out and about.“You also spend time answering emails and spend hours reading - people don’t see that. It can take up a fair chunk of time if you allow it to dominate.“But on council, we can put ideas forward to make our city benefit.“I’m keen to stay on council - my wife would kill me if I was home on Tuesday nights,” he laughed. “My youngest son was born the night before my first council meeting and he’s spent his life growing up with council.“I love it because of the of decisions you make, not the politics.“We need people who want to be there making decisions for the right reasons for community.”Join the fun and learn about the challenges and triumphs of local government in a fun and informal atmosphere at A Night with Mandy Nolan for Prospective Councillors at Lismore City Bowling Club on Saturday, September 18, from 6-8.30pm.Entry is free and everyone is welcome.