Aged Care is not a priority for the upcoming Federal Election; the cost of living, tax cuts, housing, and energy are all issues that will affect the May 3 result. Should Aged Care have more of a focus? After all, it affects wait times in our local hospitals when there are not enough aged-care beds to move older people into after an emergency department visit. And, the situation will only get worse in the coming years as our population ages.Ageing Australia is calling on all parties to ensure aged care remains a national priority ahead of the Federal Election, addressing the workforce crisis, supporting transition to the New Act, and improving access for older Australians.“The number one priority for aged care providers is improving the lives of older Australians. Unfortunately, we face chronic workforce shortages and challenges attracting and retaining workers, on top of financial sustainability pressures,” Ageing Australia CEO Tom Symondson said. There is an estimated shortage of 4,043 registered in aged care alone. That figure is set to blow out to 17,550 by 2035. There is also currently an expected shortfall of up to 35,000 direct care workers. “To address the workforce crisis, we’re calling for streamlined migration, strengthened education and training, and a boost to incentives for regional providers to attract the workers needed,” Mr Symondson said. Ageing Australia is also calling for improved access to aged care, reduced wait times, strengthened affordability measures and support for innovative care models. “We know that people are sometimes waiting over a year for the home care package they need. Many are also waiting for higher-value packages to support their increasing needs. With increasing demand, the official waitlist of 81,000 packages is set to blow out over the coming months, and we’ll need many, many more.” “We need the right number of packages, at the right level, for the people who need them. Staying in your own home isn’t just a preference, it’s a fundamental part of maintaining their independence, dignity and connections to their own communities, close to family and friends.” Transition to the new act is also a priority, with more time needed to implement such sweeping reforms. “We all want these reforms to succeed, but the current timelines are so tight they border on the impossible. For the sake of older Australians, we need to get this right. Without more time, we risk confusion for older people and providers alike.” “Entire computer systems will need to be upgraded or replaced at massive expense to providers, yet we still don’t have the information or funds to get on with the job.” “We have the chance to build an aged care sector that all Australians can be proud of, but we need a measured approach to reforms of such magnitude and that means more time to get them right.” “Failure is not an option. The last thing we want to see is an older person receiving a lower level of care on July 1, just because we rushed reforms. The runway is getting shorter by the day.”

Elide Gava may not be a household name in the Lismore LGA, but she has been a household name in the Italian community for the last forty plus years.Yesterday, Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin named Elide, more commonly known as Ellie Gava, the Lismore Electorate Woman of the Year, at a private function at St Carthage's Community Care in Goonellabah.(Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin talking about Ellie Gava's achievements yesterday.)Ms Saffin praised her community leadership and volunteering over many years. Ellie was to have travelled to Sydney to accept the award from Premier Chris Minns, but she took ill and couldn't make the trip. She wasn't too disappointed, though, because now she could share the award with her lifelong friends."I feel humble," Ellie told the Lismore App, "Humble and proud.""I don't think I've done anything spectacular. I mean, I did what I wanted to do and followed my dreams mostly, and I think I've achieved most of them."I suppose I do get a bit of acclaim for having done this, but I couldn't have done it on my own. I've got to say that the volunteers were a big help."I couldn't do it without them because the first day we started, there were 100 people, and in the next few months, it was a regular 70 to 75. That's a lot of work for the volunteers."They even had to buy the food in those days and prepare the morning tea and lunches, wash up and take the washing home."So, I get the blame for starting it, and I get the acclaim for running it, but it's the volunteers that need all the accolades."Ellie was referring to 1984, the year she had the idea to organise a support group for older Italians. She saw a need for local Italians to be able to meet up weekly, speak Italian, eat Italian food, play cards and tombola (bingo), so she started the Seniors Day Club.The Seniors Day Club is Ellie's legacy; it continues today and is expanding to Casino. The only difference today is that Ellie enjoys the day as a participant rather than a volunteer. It is now run by the staff at St Carthage's Community Care.In her speech, Janelle Saffin said, “When I look at the list of achievements and the many projects and community programs Ellie has initiated and been involved in, I realise this could also be called a lifetime achievement award.” “Ellie is known for her years of work supporting the local Italian community, particularly older Italians – and her efforts have enriched the wider community. “She is someone who would see a community need, think of a solution and work to make it happen. “Talk to anyone in the Italian community and they will have a story of what Ellie has done. That story involves a long list of achievements, such as The New Italy Museum, the Continental Music and Sports Club and Bocce courts that were on Uralba Street, The Lismore Friendship Festival (now called LisAmore!) Casa Serena accommodation for older Italians, the Italo Club (now the Marconi Club), getting the mosaic in Spinks Park to commemorate the early Italian settlers and more.   (Ellie Gava and Janelle Saffin share a joke)“As a child of Italian parents, Ellie understands the contribution made by Italian migrants to the social, commercial and agricultural heritage of this area, and she has helped document this history," Ms Saffin explained.  “Ellie has served our region as a teacher, a tuckshop parent, a seamstress, a judge of sewing and handicrafts at local agricultural shows.  Ellie thanked Ms Saffin for the award, and praised Chris Pauling (now one of Ms Saffin's Lismore backroom staff) for getting her the funding."And I think I have to tell you who my hero is because she is sitting over there today. That is Chris Pauling, who got us our first funding to start the daycare going. She's my hero."This isn't the first time that Ellie has received a prominent award. There have been three Premiers Awards since 2003, all for her volunteer work and the contributions she has made to not only the Italian community but, more broadly, the Lismore community.It is hard to deny Ellie another award for her selfless achievements throughout her life.

With just weeks to go until the Byron Coastal Charity Walk on May 3, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service is encouraging locals and visitors alike to sign up and take part in this breathtaking coastal trek to support the delivery of critical care where and when it is needed most. The track is in excellent condition, ready to welcome walkers of all fitness levels as they journey along the stunning coastline, from Byron Bay to Ballina, all while raising vital funds for the Service. Among the many teams gearing up for the challenge is Bunch of Choppers, led by Mark Stephenson and his 16-year-old son, Cooper. The team is walking in gratitude for the service that saved Mark’s life after a serious water ski racing accident in early 2024. “You never know when you might need the service,” Mark said. “It’s a great cause, and they helped me a great deal in my incident. Being able to give back in this way is really special.” Bunch of Choppers has already raised an incredible amount for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, with donations flowing in from family, friends, and the water ski racing community. But Mark says it’s not just about fundraising—it's about giving back and ensuring the service is there for others in their time of need. “The response has been amazing—everyone has chipped in,” Mark said. “When I was in hospital, the amount of people that visited showed how much support was out there. This walk is our way of giving back and making sure the service is there for others when they need it.” With five weeks to go, there’s still time to register and be part of this incredible community event. Whether you walk 12km, 24km, or 36km, every step makes a difference. “Any support helps keep the choppers in the air. You never know if you or a friend will need it.” Join the challenge, enjoy the spectacular scenery, and support this vital cause! For more information or to sign up, visit https://events.rescuehelicopter.com.au/event/byron-coast-charity-walk/home.

Dangerous and damaging LGBTQ+ conversion practices will be banned from today.  The Conversion Practices Ban Act 2024 makes conversion practices, which can include “conversion therapy” and suppression practices, a crime punishable by up to five years imprisonment. It also creates a scheme allowing civil complaints about conversion practices to be made to Anti-Discrimination NSW. Conversion practices are based on the false ideology that LGBTQ+ people have a ‘disorder’ or require treatment.  This can include psychological or medical interventions, counselling, or subtle and repeated messages that LGBTQ+ people can change or suppress their sexual orientation or gender identity with faith or effort. Anti-Discrimination NSW can investigate complaints about conversion practices occurring from 4 April 2025, and, if appropriate, try to resolve the matter through conciliation.  It can also refer matters to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal in certain circumstances. It will also deliver information sessions and resources about the new law including free online videos and tools and referrals to support services.  Conversion practices inflict significant harm on members of the LGBTQ+ community. People who deliver or preform conversion practices that cause substantial mental or physical harm face up to five years’ jail.  Taking someone out of NSW to deliver “conversion therapy” carries a maximum three-year jail sentence.  The ban does not prevent general religious teaching or expressions of religious principles, or parental discussions with their children related to sexual orientation, gender identity, sexual activity or religion.  It is targeted at a practice, treatment or sustained effort directed at someone to change their sexual orientation or gender identity. This follows ongoing work by the NSW Government to progress reforms that ensure all members of our community feel valued, respected and equal. The Premier issued a formal apology last year to people convicted under discriminatory laws that criminalised homosexual acts, and the Government passed legislation that meant more of these offences were able to be extinguished. In September, the NSW Government supported all 19 recommendations delivered by the Special Commission of Inquiry into LGBTIQ hate crimes, which examined the unsolved deaths of LGBTIQ people and found shortfalls in historical responses by the NSW Government. The Government established the inaugural LGBTIQ+ Advisory Council, which is working to develop NSW’s first LGBTIQ+ Inclusion Strategy. The Government supported the amended Equality Bill which passed NSW Parliament after being introduced by the Independent Member for Sydney Alex Greenwich. Attorney General Michael Daley said, “So-called ‘conversion therapy’ inflicts real and significant harm on members of the LGBTQ+ community.  “Everyone deserves to be respected for who they are. There is nothing ‘wrong’ with LGBTQ+ people. They do not need ‘fixing’ or to be ‘saved’. “We are indebted to the survivors of this insidious practice who shared their experiences and advocated for this important reform.”  Minister for Health Ryan Park said, “These sorts of practices are incredibly harmful and dangerous, and they have severe and lasting health impacts. “Today, we’re bringing an end to them. “I want to thank the many individuals and groups who engaged with the Government on this legislation to make this ban a reality.” Founder and CEO of Ambassadors and Bridge Builders International (ABBI) Anthony Venn-Brown OAM said, “The ban on dangerous and discredited LGBTQA conversion practices is a welcome move.  “I grew up when being gay was a criminal offence and mental health professionals believed they could cure people of homosexuality.  “It caused me great stress and anxiety. I did everything to change it, including conversion ‘therapy’.  “I often thought of suicide. “After coming out, I’ve spent decades supporting people who were told they were broken and needed ‘fixing’. Today, people are still taking their lives – or contemplating it – over this issue.  “LGBTQA people should be celebrated, accepted and affirmed. This law will protect vulnerable people from harm, save lives and make NSW a safer place for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.”  CEO of Equality Australia Anna Brown OAM said, "We stand with victim-survivors in welcoming this law which prohibits these archaic and harmful practices, which have already caused untold harm to LGBTQA people. "Abuse dressed up as pastoral care or guidance is a breach of trust and power. Telling someone they are broken or sick because of who they are is profoundly psychologically damaging. "Not only will this law save countless people from a lifetime of pain – and in some cases save lives – it also sends a powerful message that LGBTQA people are whole and valid, just as we are." Support:  If you or someone you know has experienced or witnessed a conversion practice, you can have a confidential discussion with Anti-Discrimination NSW. Call 1800 670 812 (weekdays 9am to 4pm) or email: complaintsadb@justice.nsw.gov.au. For confidential advice, support, and referrals, contact QLife on 1800 184 527, Lifeline on 13 11 14, or 13 YARN on 13 92 76. 

March and early April have been a trying time for Lismore and the Northern Rivers in terms of the weather. So, when the Bureau of Meteorology forecasts some blue sky, even if it is with the possibility of some more light showers, we better make the most of it.Saturday is mostly sunny, Sunday a shower or two and Monday sunny are the words from the BOM. The rainfall could be only 1mm Saturday and Sunday, so it looks like a good time to get out and about in the garden finally to get some domestic chores complete.Most sporting grounds will be closed, so that leaves Saturday morning free for most families with sport playing children.The most important event this weekend is the end of daylight saving on Sunday morning. At the 3am, our clocks will turn back 1 hour to 2am. Those with manual clocks in the house, office or older cars will need to make the change over the weekend.April is a fairly quiet time for events in Lismore as it involves Easter, ANZAC Day and school holidays (the last day of term is Friday, April 11).May and June are when the major events kick in, so make a note for:Nimbin Mardi Grass 2, 3 and 4 MayGemfest 17 and 18 MayPrimex 15, 16 and 17 MayBeef Week 24 May to 1 JuneLismore Lantern Parade 21 JuneAs for this weekend, the Lismore Farmers Markets get underway at 7:30am at the Lismore showgrounds. It doesn't matter what the conditions are, the Lismore Markets always go-ahead for fresh fruit and veg, coffee/tea, breakfast and plenty of other items for sale.If you are in the mood for some Jazz, the Lismore Jazz Club has the Subterraneans performing on Sunday afternoon from 2pm at the Lismore City Bowling Club at 171A Molesworth Street, Lismore CBD.The Subterraneans are on tour and stopping in Lismore to perform their original music. Cost is $15 for members and $20 non-members, cash at the door.Other live music around town, includes Sam Handford at the Northern Rivers Hotel tonight from 6:30pm, country band Outback Road on Saturday night from 7pm and Ghostown from 3pm in the beer garden for the Sunday Session.The Lismore Workers Club have added three new concerts:Kevin Bloody Wilson Wednesday, June 25Dorothy the Dinosaur Spectacular Show Sunday, July 27The Flying Forties Saturday, October 4You can check out more details or book by clicking here.The next live music performance is a FREE gig by Tommy Memphis on Saturday, May 17. Tommy will play iconic songs from the '80s that shaped a generation.Fuel prices have suffered rises and falls this week depending on where you live. Lismore was steady, Casino had price increases, while Ballina had price drops.Here are the cheapest fuel options in each town:E10 is 175.9 at the 7-Eleven in South Lismore and the Ampol Foodary on Woodlark Street, 173.5 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino, and 164.5 at the Mobil on River Street, Ballina.Unleaded 91 is 177.9 across most service stations in Lismore, 175.5 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino, and 167.5 at the Mobil on River Street.U95 is 186.5 at Bakers Corner, Terania Street, North Lismore, 194.9 at the Ampol on Dyraaba Street and the EG Ampol on Canterbury Street in Casino and 179.5 at The Metro (323 River Street) in Ballina.U98 is 194.9 at the two Liberty's on Ballina Road and Union Street, South Lismore, 195.9 at Liberty's on Hare Street and Centre Street in Casino, and 188.5 at The Metro and the Mobil in Ballina.Diesel is 181.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road in Lismore, 188.5 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino and 187.5 at The Mobil and The Metro on River Street in Ballina.Have a great weekend!Now, have a laugh with the Friday Funnies.....

NSW Farmers says Donald Trump’s trade tariffs will hurt Aussie farmers and American consumers. While the state’s peak farming body was disappointed the Trump Administration imposed a 10 per cent tariff on Australian exports, NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin believed this latest trade challenge would be worked through and urged farmers to remain calm. “Considering the deep history we have with the US and our mutual beneficial partnership, these tariffs are really disappointing to Australian farmers,” Mr Martin said. “There’s no doubt our industry will feel the effects, some commodities more than others, but we have worked through trading issues before, and we’ll do it again.” According to the Red Meat Advisory Council (RMAC), Australian beef contributed to stable food supplies and prices in the United States, being consumed in more than six billion hamburgers every year. RMAC estimated the total impact to the American consumer as a result of tariffs on Australian red meat would be AU$600 million. NSW Farmers continued to work closely with the Australian Government through the National Farmers’ Federation and remained committed to advocating for free and open trade. “A tit-for-tat approach with the US serves no purpose,” Mr Martin said. “The reality is Australian produce is in demand because of its high quality, with other major markets such China, Japan and Korea, worth $3.9 billion, $2.6 billion and $2.5 billion respectively, and there are great growth opportunities in the Middle East and North Africa. “What these tariffs mean in the short term is that Australia invest in these new market opportunities while our farmers continue to do what they do best: Pull on their boots and grow healthy plants and animals.” 

NSW parents have delivered eight new names into the Top 100 baby names list, showcasing the latest trends in the names being chosen for our newest residents.Breaking into the top 100 for the first time are boys’ names Louie, Ibrahim, Myles, Matteo, Grayson, Maverick and Malakai, with Lainey making the list for the girls.Charlotte claimed the top spot, jumping up from 5th in 2023, while Noah nails it for the boys, beating previous favourite Oliver.It represents a first entry into the top 10 for Hazel, with Harper making the cut again after six years.Making room for these newcomers, Lily, Ava, and Matilda were pushed out of the top 10 altogether.The biggest mover for the girls is Lainey, jumping an impressive 78 places as this year’s rising star, with Elodie making a significant gain, climbing 62 spots.For boys, a notable shift in the rankings includes Elijah, making an entrance into the top 10, climbing six places to secure 10th. Meanwhile, William dropped out of the top 10 for the first time in 27 years.While Grayson jumped 63 places to 93rd and Louie leapt 46 places to reach number 65, Elias experienced the biggest drop, falling 28 places to 87th, with Hunter not far behind, dropping 24 places to 49th. All births in NSW must be registered with the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages within 60 days of the child’s birth and can be done for free on the Service NSW website or by calling 13 77 88. After registering the birth of a baby, families can access NSW Government services like education and Centrelink.For more information on registering your baby, please visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/family-and-relationships/births/register-your-baby. For the full list of the top 100 baby names for 2024, visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/family-and-relationships/births/popular-baby-names Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said, "Welcoming a new baby into the family is one of life’s most exciting moments. It’s a time filled with joy, love and new beginnings."Choosing a name is a deeply personal moment, whether it’s for your first child or your third. Every one of these names is a top gun choice and a decision that carries meaning for a lifetime.“These trends show the baby name landscape in NSW continues to be diverse, with parents embracing both modern and timeless choices.  "Congratulations to all the families across NSW who welcomed a newborn last year. May this year be filled with love, laughter, and precious memories.”Registrar for NSW Birth, Deaths & Marriages Theresa Fairman said, “Parents are making creative choices when it comes to naming their children, and this top 100 proves evolution in preferences."From classic favourites to emerging trends, the names chosen by parents reflect the ever-changing NSW community and its growing families.”

Yesterday's Lismore High Campus Tiny Home project ended with huge smiles and a lot of excitement all around after a local family who lives next to the school outbid everyone to buy the Tiny Home built by its students.Lauren Flint, her husband Khan Quinlan and their six children have been living in a four-bedroom house very close to Lismore High since December."Two of our boys are in Year 7, so we wanted to support the school," Lauren told the Lismore App, "This is now my husband and my room, and the kids will have the house," she laughed."This is an instant convenience for us. We've been looking at renovating, and all the different options, and definitely putting a granny flat out the back was an option for us. So, when this came up and the ability to support the school, we wanted to do it."A large crowd had turned up for the Tiny Home auction after about a dozen students gave their time to learn a new skill and create a Tiny Home thanks to initial seed funding of $50,000 from the Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP).Jill McCall from RIEP started the project by offering Lismore High's Principal, Chris Williams, the seed money to create a legacy project that will also benefit the students involved."It was post-flood, so it felt like a really important project in terms of looking at issues around sustainability and issues around housing. They've got a really strong STEM project here, so I thought it was really good in terms of that."They were just absolutely happy to run with it. The school has had such a huge commitment and poured lots of resources in terms of teacher resources, time, energy and enthusiasm into it."The group of students who gave up their time each week, along with dedicated teachers like Dean French and a host of local businesses, then created a quality Tiny Home to sell.At 4:30pm, with six registered bidders, the first bid came in at $40,000. As Dave Eller from the Lifestyle Group worked the crowd and the bidders, the number rose to $45,000, $50,000, $55,000 and then $60,000 before the bidding slowed to single digits with an offer of $61,000."Get out of here. There's a five in that other pocket," Dave said, "I'm sure of it."Dave accepted $62,500 before Lauren came back decisively with the wing $65,000 bid, and Dave brought the hammer down to loud applause from the crowd and big hugs among the family.(Auctioneer Dave Ellery brings the hammer down on the winning bid from Lauren Flint)The $65,000 winning bid not only means more comfortable living for Lauren and Khan, but it allows Lismore High to build another Tiny Home later this year, and there is no shortage of student applications."This is a legacy project," Principal Chris Williams said, "So, it's here to stay, and we want to keep doing this every year. We want to keep fostering strong partnerships and connections with our local trades people, and we want to be the go to for them if their looking for someone to join their team as a tradesperson. We want to give them first dibs."The kids who are working on the home are now working with them."Chris is referring to the two full-time apprenticeships that have come from this project, as well as a school-based apprentice who goes to school four days a week and works one day in the industry. They will complete a qualification across two years of Years 11 and 12. When they graduate school, they would have completed the first year of an apprenticeship.As the first Lismore High Tiny Home project has proved so successful, there are 47 applications for the next build. A situation that really pleases an already happy principal."This money means we can order another kit, and those funds will also pay for the staffing, to be able to release the staff a day a week to work with the kids to buy the consumables for the next project."Two of Lauren and Khan's children started Year 7 at Lismore High Campus this year. In three years' time, they might be picked to build the 2028 Tiny Home and complete the circle.

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail has its supporters and detractors, especially since the Lismore to Bentley section was opened in December 2024.There are a number of businesses at the start of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail in Lismore and at the end in Casino; however, there is not much in between.That will change if a development application (DA) is successful for a farm stay, microbrewery, cafe, and wedding venue at Fernside, about 13km west of Lismore. The operation expects 50% of its trade to come from Rail Trail users.The farm stay part of the operation already exists, with four (4) guest rooms being utilised. Another bungalow will be built on the south side of Kyogle Road, with the rest of the facilities on the north side of Kyogle Road.The DA says the new venture will create a farm experience compromising a farm production brewery (utilising raw materials grown/sourced on-site), a café/restaurant, and a function centre (weddings etc). All parking will be provided on-site.The brewing infrastructure & components will be housed within an existing farm shed.The initial production will be a maximum of 2,500 litres per week, with the ability to increase that to 7,500 in Stage 3 of the development. There will be a cellar door for people to buy the product.The café/restaurant will initially seat 50 people, but it can increase that to 100. Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be available.As for the farm experience, it may include farm tours, horse riding, school groups, fruit picking, cattle husbandry and crop management.The site is located just south of the Lismore to Bentley section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail (NRRT).From the Bungabee Road car park, cyclists can follow Bungabee Road south and access the site via an existing gravel farm track, which is about 2.5km.Based on data from the Tweed section of the NRRT, it is anticipated that around 50% of its customers will be rail trail users. There will be facilities for cyclists on-site, including a bike repair station, limited spare parts, tools, a charging facility and an air pump.The facility is expected to be open seven days a week from 8am to 6pm with the restaurant open Friday and Saturday nights from 6pm to midnight, with a maximum of six weddings/functions per year in Stage 1.The hours will increase and the number of weddings/functions will increase as it moves into Stage 2 and Stage 3.

In the last two days, most of the rainfall has fallen to the west of Lismore, which has led to the Bureau of Meteorology ending the minor flood watch for the Wilsons River but turning it into a flood warning for the Richmond River towns of Caraki and Bungawalbyn.A deep low-pressure system over the southern Tasman Sea will continue to move away to the southeast of NSW tonight while a ridge of high pressure extends across the west and south in its wake. No significant rainfall is forecast for the next few days, with a shower or two the forecast.Whilst that is good news for Lismore, minor flooding is likely at Coraki and Bungawalbyn tonight following local moderate to heavy falls since Tuesday evening. The Richmond River at Coraki is currently at 2.99 metres (4:30pm) and rising, which is below the minor flood level of 3.40m. A peak around minor flood level is likely in the Richmond River at Coraki tonight.The Richmond River at Bungawalbyn is currently at 2.83 metres and rising. This is below the minor flood level of 3.00m. A peak around minor flood level is likely in the Richmond River at Bungawalbyn tonight.Further south, the Clarence River may reach the minor flood level of 2.1m at Prince Street tonight, with further rises possible.For the latest flood and weather warnings, see www.bom.gov.au/nsw/warnings/For the latest rainfall and weather forecasts, see www.bom.gov.au/australia/meteye/For the latest rainfall and river level information,x see www.bom.gov.au/nsw/floodFlood Safety Advice:This Flood Watch means that people living or working along rivers and streams must monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings and be ready to move to higher ground should flooding develop.Flood Warnings will be issued if Minor Flood Level is expected to be exceeded at key sites along the main rivers for which the Bureau of Meteorology provides a flood warning service.Severe Weather Warnings will be issued or updated if very heavy rain is forecast or observed.For more information on the Flood Watch Service: http://www.bom.gov.au/water/floods/floodWarningServices.shtmlFloodSafe advice is available at www.ses.nsw.gov.auFor emergency assistance call the SES on telephone number 132 500For life threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately

The Bruxner Highway from Lismore to Ballina has seen regular accidents each year, many of which are at notorious hotspots, such as the Alphadale intersection or entries and exits going in and out of Wollongbar and Alstonville. Transport for NSW is planning to upgrade the section of the Bruxner Highway around Alstonville to improve safety at this intersection further. It involves Ellis Road and Ballina Road.Key features of the proposal include:New westbound on ramp about 300 metres long from Ellis Road to the Bruxner Highway (Alstonville Bypass), including vegetation removal, changes to crash barriers and pavement widening New T-intersection on Ellis Road about 700 metres north-west of the Ellis Road/Wardell Road intersection, including a dedicated right turn lane to the new ramp Minor adjustments to driveway accesses on Ellis Road near the new intersectionRemoval of the right turn lane out of Ballina Road and provision of a dedicated right and left turn into Ballina Road from the Bruxner Highway. The left turn from Ballina Road onto the Bruxner Highway is to be maintainedDrainage adjustment to suit additional road spaceNew line marking and signageAdditional features of the proposal include:Utility adjustments (primarily minor power pole relocations)Temporary ancillary facilities, including a site compound on the northern side of Ellis Road adjacent to the proposed on-rampRehabilitation of disturbed areas following constructionTransport for NSW is seeking community feedback on the Review of Environmental Factors (REF) for the proposed Bruxner Highway and Ballina Road intersection improvement.The REF has been prepared outlining the features of the proposed design and assesses a range of potential environmental impacts expected during construction and operation. The REF includes:the method Transport plans to construct the intersection how Transport plans to minimise impacts to our environment and the communityHave Your SayYou can provide your feedback by Sunday, 27 April 2025, by completing the online survey or attending one of our community information sessions.The community information sessions are informal sessions where you can drop in at any time. You will have the opportunity to meet the project team, ask questions and learn more about the proposed project.Where: Anglican Church Hall, Daley Street, Alstonville, NSW, 2477When: Thursday 10 April 2025Session 1: 12pm to 2pmSession 2: 4pm to 6pm

Six days ago, the old Richmond River High Campus on Lake Street, North Lismore, suffered major damage following a fire that police are investigating as suspicious. Police have appealed to the community for information about the incident.The site has been secured, security measures at the site are in place, which include fencing, boarding and security cameras and personnel for a period of time.Nickie Bartlett, Director Educational Leadership, Department of Education for the Lismore Network told the Lismore App "That is what will be there for the immediate future while we ascertain what comes next for the buildings. The ag plot and the farms are now available for school use."The building was ultimately going to be demolished as part of the long-term plan to move RRHC to its new location to the left of Dunoon Road as you drive out of Lismore, or opposite the showgrounds, and the land cleared for future use that will be determined once the land is clear.Now that a fire has left parts of the building in a dangerous condition, will that bring the demolition date forward?"That decision will be made by School Infrastructure New South Wales, and because it's heritage listed and damaged, there'll be some additional processes to be followed, but obviously, that will be expedited now because of the fire. "There's was never a plan to relocate or to use the heritage building in the new build, and that process just continues separately to the processes around the heritage building. So, there are some plans to use some parts of the old site, more the materials, in some landscaping."But the new build will be a completely modern new build on the purchased land off Dunoon Road."Nickie said that it is still too early to tell whether some of the materials from the heritage building can still be used in the landscaping for the new RRHC site; however, other parts of the school site were not damaged by the fire."We were extremely grateful to the firefighters and the emergency personnel for the work that they did on Friday night, but that will really have to be ascertained as we look further at what's happened on site." As for the planning of the new RRHC, what is the latest update?"We're in the process of rezoning for the new school site and certainly preparing the reports that are required for any planning approval, and we have a tender out for the main works of construction, and we're expecting to appoint a builder sort of the middle of 2025, so middle of this year." Like Broadwater and Blakebrook Public Schools, the new RRHC will be built in the same manner, which means the build will be faster than a traditional build."It is the same process, but a little bit different because obviously, the facilities will be bigger given that it's a secondary school that will be built to the capacity with the facilities that we would see in a comprehensive public secondary school.The million-dollar question always surrounds the expected opening date of the new RRHC."The new flood-resilient campus is still on track for completion in 2027."When pushed, if that means first term 2027 or by the end of the year, Nickie wouldn't be drawn, confirming that 2027 is the completion date.We can confirm that all RRHC's agricultural education will also take place on the new site. The existing site will be cleared and divested by School Infrastructure NSW, with a future land use to be determined.

It has been a tough run for farmers and the agricultural sector lately, with excessive rainfall in March. One way that the community can support local farmers is to attend the annual Primex expo at Casino.The gates open in six weeks on the 41st Norco Primex agricultural expo, and this year, we are headed back to grassroots and a call to action.Primex director Bruce Wright believes it is time Northern Rivers farmers and communities look toward a singular voice for an agricultural region under stress from any number of issues.“So our theme this year is “Our Future in Farming,” Mr Wright said yesterday.“The Norco Primex Field Days from May 15 will continue to exhibit all manner of machinery, ag technologies and associated industries, this year again complemented by a number of seminars and workshops for specific farming industries. “The Northern Rivers region has rich and fertile lands which we need to preserve and protect. At this year’s Primex we’re keen to facilitate the discussions about the future of this farming area.”This 41st event also celebrates 130 years of dairy industry stalwart Norco and its ten years of partnership with Primex.“Thar underscores the strength and heritage of both brands in the Australian agricultural industry,” says Norco Agrisolutions general manager Luke Couch.“Primex draws visitors from across the country and has provided Norco with a unique platform to connect directly with our loyal customers. At Norco we are immensely proud of our roots and commitment to serving Australian farmers and our partnership with Primex has been instrumental in supporting these values.”Primex is looking toward another bumper year of exhibitors and visitors on the 32-acre site at the Richmond Valley Event Centre with a wide range of displays from earthmoving equipment to a timber industry hub _ showcasing timber from planting to harvesting _ to North Coast Land Services centres and cooking demonstrations. There will also be a host of entertainment and food outlets. Highlights will include a number of new utes, including the likes of the INEOS dual cab quartermaster.Bruce Wright says Primex, a family-owned concern since the inaugural Eastern Coast Rural Trade Expo in 1985, has always been a focal point for innovation, industry and community collaboration.  “There are a tonne of reasons, from machines to workshops to health professionals, for primary producers to attend and spend time to get the most out of it. This is the culmination of decades showcasing agricultural machinery, produce, technologies plus the diversity of primary producers and rural communities across the Northern Rivers.”The 2025 Norco Primex opens on Thursday, May 15 from 9am to 4pm; Friday, May 16 from 9am to 4pm and Saturday, May 17 from 9am to 4pm.Tickets for 2025 will be available for purchase leading up to the event and at the gates.

The Richmond Police District are seeking information from the community in locating the following people wanted on outstanding arrest warrants;Naomi ReynoldsNaomi is currently wanted on outstanding warrants for domestic violence-related offences. She is believed to frequent the Evans Head, Lismore & Tamworth areas.Natasha Angela MathewsNatasha, aged 30, is wanted on an outstanding arrest warrant. She is known to frequent the Lismore and Goonellabah areas.Aubrey Binge Aubrey Police is currently wanted on an outstanding warrant for domestic violence-related offences. He is believed to frequent the Ballina area.Hayley KnightHayley, aged 19, is wanted on outstanding arrest warrants. She is known to frequent the Ballina area.Albert AveryAlbert is currently wanted on an outstanding warrant for domestic violence-related offences. He is believed to frequent the Tabulam & Casino areas.Anyone with information about the whereabouts of any of the above is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.

Scams and card fraud are something we are used to in Lismore and the Northern Rivers, especially since the 2022 big flood, but also during COVID when government payments were being claimed fraudulently.The number of Australians who experienced card fraud and scams has risen after data was revealed by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) today.Over two million Australians experienced card fraud and 675,000 responded to a scam in 2023-24, according to new results from the Personal Fraud Survey (PFS).William Milne, ABS head of crime statistics, said: ‘We found that 9.9 per cent of Australians aged 15 years and over were victims of card fraud in 2023-24. This is up from 8.7 per cent in the previous year.’The survey collects details about the most recent incident of card fraud.‘We found 72 per cent of card fraud victims were fully reimbursed by their card issuer,’ Mr Milne said.‘Collectively, the net loss to all victims after any reimbursements were paid out was $477 million.’The number of Australians responding to scams has also been on the rise.‘We found that 3.1 per cent of people were victims of scams in 2023-24, up from 2.5 per cent in the previous year.‘Buying or selling scams, which include things like false billing and online shopping scams, were the most common, experienced by about 308,000 Australians. ‘This was up from the 200,000 victims in the previous financial year,’ said Mr Milne.The survey found 71 per cent of scam victims notified (or were notified by) an authority about the incident, most commonly a bank or financial institution (54 per cent).There was also a rise to 14 per cent in the reporting of scams to a social media or selling site, up from 9.7 per cent in 2022-23.The Personal Fraud Survey covers experiences of card fraud, identity theft, online impersonation and selected scam types. It includes prevalence rates and socio-demographic characteristics of victims. It also includes details about the most recent incidents of card fraud and identity theft, and the most serious incidents of scams.

The Lismore PCYC has been helping our local community since 1937, with a mission to 'empower young people to reach their potential through Police and community partnerships'.The organisation is a registered charity and relies on volunteers to run many of its activities, which include gymnastics, martial arts classes, Safe Drivers Courses and high-impact police programs, such as Fit for Life and Fit for Change.To raise much-needed funds the PCYC Lismore is putting on a Community Open Day this Saturday (April 5) between 10am and 2pm at the PYCY building on Dawson Street, in the old Trinity Catholic College car park.There will be a gymnastics showcase plus some kids 'come and try sessions', martial arts and boxing demonstrations, a fundraising BBQ and raffle (with fantastic prizes donated by local businesses) and face painting.Lismore PCYC Club Manager Rob Johnson said, "I have organised some of my fabulous and committed team to showcase what PCYC has to offer this Saturday. "It's really important the community gets to know that PCYC is a Not-for-Profit Charity that stands strong in its commitment and mission, especially here in Lismore, with its strong history of resilience."The open day is a great opportunity for the community to connect with the PCYC team, get kids active and fundraise for our life-changing programs. We hope to see you there to support us and our cause." The money raised will be put into local youth through a variety of programs:Fit for Life: Early morning intervention program focusing on physical/ mental wellbeing and nutritionFit for Change: School based program combining fitness activities with healthy lunch Improved access to the Safer Drivers CourseWorkplace training initiatives such as our recent fully funded Barista course with students from Lismore High School or our upcoming first aid training with Casino HighDETAILS:PCYC Lismore Community Open DayCorner Orion and Dawson Street, LismoreSaturday, April 510am to 2pm

Daylight saving is ending this weekend, which means winter is fast approaching, and that means an increase in the number of flu cases. Flu season 2025 looks set to be quite significant if the Northern Hemisphere is any indication. Some UK hospitals were overwhelmed by the winter peak, and the US recorded the largest influenza season since the 2009 Swine Flu Pandemic.In Australia, there have been over 46,300 lab-confirmed influenza cases, more than 50% higher than the previous record of flu cases in Australia during the first quarter (January – March 2024).In 2024, Australia had more than 365,000 reported influenza cases and over 4,200 people admitted to hospital, making it Australia’s biggest flu season since 2019.5,6 Between January and August 2024, there were 810 deaths related to flu, compared to 416 flu-related deaths in the same period the previous year. Dr Jules Bayliss, Medical Director for Vaccines and Biosecurity, CSL Seqirus, said that annual flu vaccination is an important public health intervention.“Flu is unpredictable, but the data shows that the virus is already circulating and notifications are increasing. We don’t know when cases will peak, which is why we've worked hard to ensure our vaccines are available to help protect people.   “This year, we manufactured an extra 100,000 flu vaccines to ensure there were enough doses for every person who wants to be vaccinated. It’s always a source of pride to know that flu vaccines, including those manufactured in Melbourne, are helping protect people from serious complications of flu, as well as helping reduce the burden on clinics and hospitals.”Peter Guthrey, Senior Pharmacist with the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, says the availability of flu vaccines is welcome news, especially with the late-season peak in cases recently seen in the Northern Hemisphere.“Lots of people in the US and UK have been sick with flu, and this has continued late into their flu season. Influenza can spread around the world rapidly through international travel, so Australians need to be ready for the potential of a big flu season here.“Flu vaccination is recommended annually for everyone aged six months and older, and it’s the most important measure to prevent flu and its complications.10 Flu cases are already on the rise, so it’s important that people talk to their pharmacist or doctor early about influenza vaccination.”You should talk to your GP, pharmacist or community nurse to learn more about flu and your flu vaccine options.

The NSW Opposition is calling for Category C funding to be rolled out to businesses and primary producers on the north coast as they struggle to recover from cyclone Alfred. NSW Nationals Leader Dugald Saunders visited impacted farmers in the Tweed region yesterday, alongside Shadow Minister for the North Coast Gurmesh Singh and Shadow Minister for Flood Recovery Geoff Provest. The current support allows small businesses and primary producers to apply for concessional loans, but a Category C-level declaration would also offer clean-up and recovery grants. NSW Nationals Leader Dugald Saunders said Premier Chris Minns needs to urgently make a request to the Commonwealth for the extra assistance. “The impact this natural disaster has had on our primary producers is severe, devastating every part of the agriculture sector from our fishers, to cane and soybean growers, as well as the beef and dairy industries,” Mr Saunders said. (Flooded cane fields on the north coast. Photo: supplied)“Our farmers are there for us each and every day, and the Premier now needs to show he is there for them as well by doing everything he can to help them get back on their feet.” Shadow Minister for the North Coast Gurmesh Singh said it will be a long road to recovery. “We know it could take quite some time to repair the damage Alfred has caused, not only to property but also to businesses and supply chains,” Mr Singh said. “We need these grants made available as soon as possible to help primary producers repair fences, replant crops, dispose of flood debris, and invest in flood-resilient infrastructure moving forward.” Shadow Minister for Flood Recovery Geoff Provest said there are also concerns about whether the timing of the federal election will cause delays. (Banana plantations hit by TC Alfred. Photo: supplied)“We need a guarantee there won’t be any impact on getting this crucial support out the door now that the Federal Government has gone into caretaker mode,” Mr Provest said. “These businesses and producers have already been left in the lurch in the aftermath of this significant weather event, and they simply can’t afford to wait months to get the help they desperately need.”   The Opposition is also calling for bolstered monitoring of red imported fire ants, as flooding increases the risk of spread. "The reality of fire ants establishing in NSW is billions of dollars worth of lost agricultural production every year, and that is not a risk the Government should be willing to take." “This is the time for control not complacency, especially because we’re not yet sure whether the ants have made their way deeper into NSW as a result of these storms.”

Residents in certain parts of Goonellabah would have received a letter in the last week from Landcom, the NSW government-owned land and property developer, providing clarity over the housing development at Bristol Circuit.(A map of the Bristol Circuit site in Goonellabah. Image: Landcom)The initial proposal for 44 Bristol Circuit was to provide 16 affordable rental townhouses for people on very low to moderate incomes that would address Lismore's housing crisis and lack of affordable rentals. Following the community consultation phase held from mid-January to early February this year, the number of townhouses has not changed, but the criteria surrounding who will be renting the properties has.The letter stated that "44 Bristol Circuit, Goonellabah, will provide affordable rental housing for local workers, enabling them to live close to their workplace."The homes will be available to key workers, including teachers, nurses and service industry employees."The low to moderate-income wording has been removed."The development is for the provision of affordable housing where applicants must apply to the community housing provider and meet certain criteria, including local employment and income thresholds.(An artist's impression of the initial layout of Bristol Circuit, Goonellabah. This may change following community consultation. Image: Landcom)"As tenants for the proposed development will not be selected from the NSW Housing Register, there will be no social housing tenants."A Landcom spokesperson told the Lismore App, "Landcom is continuing planning for 16 new affordable rental homes for 44 Bristol Circuit, Goonellabah, all dedicated to affordable rental housing."Our partnership with Lismore Council and a community housing provider will provide critical housing for local residents impacted by current housing crisis "We’re currently reviewing community and stakeholder feedback from a recent round of engagement, which will help shape the final designs of the project."The Development Application is expected to be submitted to Lismore Council later this year."