Today is the start of NAIDOC Week and the Minns Labor Government is helping communities across the Electorate of Lismore celebrate their Aboriginal histories and cultures with grant funding.Lismore MP Janelle Saffin congratulated five local community organisations and groups for securing NAIDOC Grants Program funding ranging from $500 to $5,000 to assist with hosting NAIDOC activities.Over the coming months, this year’s grant recipients will be hosting community-driven events that align with the theme of NAIDOC Week 2025: ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy’,” Ms Saffin said.Locally, initiatives include:Tenterfield Local Aboriginal Education Group – Ngarrabul NAIDOC Festival: By showcasing the achievements and contributions of Aboriginal youth and Elders, fostering a sense of community pride, and promoting cultural understanding. NAIDOC Ball followed by a yarning circle day honouring Elders to share their wisdom and stories. Encourage young people to share their views for the future.Kyogle Family Support Services Incorporated – NAIDOC celebrations with the Muli Muli community: Elders, children, young people, and community benefit from celebrations shaped by community input. Funding supports children’s activities they wouldn’t otherwise access like obstacle courses, art and face painting – and a shared event that strengthens connection, celebrates culture, and brings everyone together in a safe, inclusive space.Nimbin NAIDOC Day 2025: A whole-of-community inclusive event to celebrate NAIDOC Week held during July in Nimbin, showcasing First Nations performers and artists, Bundjalung language game and NAIDOC Day quiz. Featuring a range of activities by/for the jarjums (children).NAIDOC Week with Northern United Rugby League Football Club: Northern United Rugby League games, played on the land of the Widjabul Wia-bal people, provides a well organised venue for all people to come together to celebrate NAIDOC Week. The all-day event provides meaningful activities for all ages to celebrate their culture.Legacy Wall: Strong Roots, Bold Futures: The Legacy Wall is a youth-led mural guided by a local Aboriginal artist, celebrating NAIDOC 2025. Unveiled at Northern Rivers Community Gateway, it reflects the theme, The Next Generation – Strength, Vision and Legacy through intergenerational stories of identity, culture, and hope for the future.To find out more about the recipients and upcoming grant opportunities, visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/noindex/2025-07/2025-naidoc-grants_successful-applicants.xlsx

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan today launched a community petition calling on the Federal and State Labor Governments to ask the CSIRO to model a scenario where a flood event is 1-2 metres lower than it otherwise would be.Mr Hogan was joined at the launch on River Street in Woodburn, out the front of the site where the old IGA used to stand, by local MPs, Councillors, business leaders, and community members who are united in their call for action.“We need action to keep us safe, protect our homes, our businesses and our families. If we lower flood risk, it improves mental health, protects us financially, helps with insurance, and gives our region a future,” Mr Hogan said.“This petition is calling on the Government to use the new CSIRO hydrodynamic tool to model engineering solutions that could lower future flood heights by 1-2 metres. This includes options to hold back, slow down, and divert floodwaters.”“This scenario would be modelled across the entire Richmond River catchment — from Bungawalbin Creek through Coraki, Eden Creek through Kyogle, Richmond River through Casino, and Terania, Leycester and Wilsons through Lismore onto Ballina.”Mr Hogan urged residents to show their support by signing the petition, which you can do by clicking on the link: https://www.kevinhogan.com.au/flood-petition/.(Mr Hogan discussing the petition with a Woodburn resident before she signed.)“This is our chance to make sure governments take real action to keep us safe.”When asked who makes the decision about which scenarios and options are tested using the new hydrodynamic model, Mr Hogan replied, "I would hope the CSIRO do, but I mean, there'll be ministers involved in this."Member for Richmond Valley, Richie Williamson, said, "It's now up to the community to tell the CSIRO and governments what their recovery looks like. We always back our community, and we'll continue to back our community in this very long, frustrating and drawn-out recovery process that we're continuing to go down."Norco CEO Michael Hampson talked about how flood risk is harming business investment."There are so many business opportunities in this region to provide jobs for people and futures for our children that are not occurring because of flood risk. We're here at the site of one, in a town with no supermarket. Do you think this would be a fantastic business opportunity for a supermarket, the only one in town?(The vacant block that was the site of the now-demolished IGA supermarket)"We need to do something about flooding in this entire region, not just for the business community, but it's for people's lives and livelihoods."This was reiterated by Amanda Moss, a nurse at Woodburn Health, "There are people that have lived here three, four generations. We need to take on board everybody's opinion. And I think we can get a body like the CSIRO to come in and come up with these solutions for us, and then we can move forward."Local cattle and sugar cane farmer Tony Carusi said he and other farmers are still fixing equipment and repairing infrastructure from the 2022 flood, and that even 1 metre off a flood would make a huge difference to homes and businesses."We often hear about the weather changing, climate change, and all the rest of it. We need some dedicated action, not just talk. The old saying talk is cheap. It's time for people in government and in power to make some hard-nosed decisions and to really put some money where their thinking is, to try and bolster the economy and protect us from some of the extremes."Business Lismore President Michael Ackrell told the Lismore App, "I think we need to have a resolution. The problem we've got at the moment is that there are so many stories that actually don't come close to what we probably need. I think we need to go back to everyone and say, what are the options? What do you want to see happening? Because we know we can't stop the flood. There's just no way in the world we can stop the flood. We can take one or two meters off and give people some transparency around what the flood is going to be like, and some options around how long it will be before the flood water gets here."So, I think if that means signing a petition, talking to Kevin, talking to Janelle, talking to Chris Minns, talking to Albanese, I honestly don't care. I just want it fixed. After 2022, PTSD is rife throughout the whole community, not just in Lismore, but everywhere in the Northern Rivers. Anything that can give us some idea of what's going to happen in future is more important than anything else."If community members would like to attend the in-person consultations, the CSIRO is hosting meetings in Casino, Lismore, Woodburn, Kyogle and Ballina from Thursday, July 31 to Friday, August 8. Click here for more information or to register your interest to attend: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/national-emergency-managment-agency-91910409563.To sign the petition, click: https://www.kevinhogan.com.au/flood-petition/.

Lismore City Council has delivered a $2.78 million sewer relining program to improve vital wastewater infrastructure for Lismore homes and businesses across four key locations.More than 5 kilometres of sewer mains and 1.4 kilometres of laterals were upgraded in Union Street, Bruxner Crescent, the Lismore Base Hospital precinct and Heritage Park, most with minimal disruption to the community.While trenchless technology was used for most of the program, some areas required excavation due to pipe condition. In locations where trenchless methods were viable, Council crews and contractors strengthened ageing pipes without the need to dig up roads, footpaths or landscaping. Lateral pipes were lined using a resin-coated liner inserted and cured in place, while the larger reticulation mains were lined using a spiral wound method. This involves mechanically winding a continuous PVC strip into the host pipe through existing manholes, forming a new pipe inside the old one. The liner interlocks to match the shape and diameter of the original pipe, with ends sealed to prevent infiltration. Service connections are reopened using robotic cutters.Both methods improve hydraulic performance, minimise environmental impact and significantly extend the life of the asset.Mayor Steve Krieg said the works are a smart long-term investment in the city’s infrastructure.“Relining means fewer blockages, fewer emergency callouts and less disruption for residents and businesses, plus it also protects our environment by reducing the risk of overflows,” he said.“This is about doing the job once, being innovative in how we work and doing it properly, so our sewer network is safer, stronger and better for the next 50 years.”“Underground projects like this are not flashy, not generally visible and not something the public really notice.“But it is important to call out these investments into our long-term sustainability and to recognise that this work is critical for maintaining basic services for our community.”While trenchless methods were used in most locations, traditional excavation was still necessary in areas where the infrastructure was too damaged for relining. In South Lismore, a significant pipe displacement beneath Norco’s delivery driveway meant a 5.5-metre dig was needed before relining could proceed. Council worked with Norco to time the works and maintain access throughout the process.At Heritage Park, extra care was taken to manage site safety around the popular toddler play areas, and the popular train ride. Despite ongoing wet weather, Council worked closely with local contractors Interflow to remediate dig-up areas and complete the job with restoration works that improved the space for park users.Capital Works Project Officer Joe Morrissey said relining has clear advantages over traditional maintenance practices, particularly when dealing with root intrusion.“Tree roots are a major cause of blockages in our network,” he said.“We normally use high-pressure water jetting every six months to clear them out, but this can damage old pipes, and the roots just grow back.Relining permanently seals the pipe and prevents roots from getting in. It’s a smarter, longer-lasting solution with a 50-year service life.”The delivery of this program reflects Council’s commitment to essential infrastructure and its community-first approach.

Lismore City Council will be holding a NAIDOC event this Wednesday, 9 July, at Crozier Field from 10am to 2pm. The event is a free celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, music and community.This year’s theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy, is about looking to the future while honouring the knowledge and stories of the past. The day will kick off with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, followed by a full program of live music, activities and stalls.Local talent will be in the spotlight. Mitch King, a proud Yaegl and Widjabul Wia-bul man from the Bundjalung Nation, returns to the stage with his unique blend of music, theatre and dance. He’ll be joined by Blakboi (Tom Avery), a Bundjalung-based singer-songwriter whose sound blends folk, reggae and hip-hop with stories drawn from his Gomeroi and Māori roots.Northern United Rugby League Club will also run Rugby League clinics throughout the day for young people wanting to improve their skills or try the game for the first time.Families can expect craft and hands-on cultural activities, plus more community stalls than ever before, offering food, support services, handmade goods and unique finds. Mayor Steve Krieg encourages everyone to come along, bring the family, and take time to explore the wide range of stalls and services on offer.Everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy the day, connect with community and experience the best of Lismore. No bookings needed — just show up.Event details:Date: Wednesday, 9 JulyTime: 10am–2pmLocation: Crozier Field, LismoreCost: Free

It has been well documented that Australia's, NSW's and the Northern Rivers' homeless situation has been exacerbated by the lack of housing, especially social housing, over the past decade.For Lismore, the floods of 2022 was another tipping point in worsening the homeless situation locally. The call-out for homeless people to come to Lismore during the Pine Street squatters saga certainly hasn't helped the situation.Where do the homeless live?It is not widely known, but a significant portion of the homeless community has been living in Lismore motels, paid for by Homes NSW, a state government organisation that is part of the Department of Communities and Justice.Following the 2022 floods, limited motel accommodation was available. As each CBD building was rebuilt and refurbished, Homes NSW began approaching motel owners and managers about housing some of our homeless population.Owners spent a significant amount of money on their rebuilds and refurbishments, and it made financial sense to accept the above-market daily rate and have no vacancies.The Lismore App spoke to some motel owners, who will remain anonymous due to sensitivities around the topic, who said they are being paid $200 to $220 per night. Most motels around Lismore have an average room rate of around $160 to $180 a night. So, over a week, that adds up to $1,400 to $1,540 per room per week. The number of rooms across Lismore motels varies between 15 and 40.The Lismore App understands Homes NSW has different rates with different commercial providers, with rates typically agreed upon as a nightly fee. The initial costs of temporary accommodation arranged via the Link2home service are covered by Homes NSW. Extensions may involve a co-contribution from the occupant, which is assessed depending on individual circumstances. No contribution is expected from those escaping domestic violence.  Link2home is a 24/7, statewide information and referral service in NSW for people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Often, local community housing providers, like Social Futures, will refer people to Link2home for temporary accommodation.Some motel owners who accepted the Homes NSW proposal to house homeless people have recently changed their minds and are now transitioning out of the arrangement. There are extreme circumstances where they would still look after long-term occupants or those suffering from domestic violence.The reasons for the change are that the challenges it brings outweigh the financial gains. Managing people suffering from alcohol, drug and mental health issues is causing social issues for everyday motel guests who are in Lismore for a wedding, sporting event or a holiday. Then there is the damage to motel properties, which will eventually be paid for by Homes NSW.One person mentioned that if there are four or more homeless guests living in the motel, they would congregate and become unmanageable, which would have an effect on other guests. It is a noble idea that doesn’t work practically, was the common phrase used.It appears that now, owners are all in or all out.A quick search for motel bookings for the rest of the year revealed that two are completely sold out for every day of the week until December 31, 2025.There is no timeline on how long an individual can stay in temporary accommodation. One motel has half a dozen people who have been there for approximately three years.Typically, the duration of temporary accommodation (TA) assistance was 28 nights. On 12 July 2023, Minister Rose Jackson waived the 28-night cap on TA for all people and households facing homelessness.  This policy change applies across all Homes NSW services across the state, including Link2home. As a result, there is no set end date for TA where ongoing support may be required to meet the housing needs of affected individuals and families.  It is determined based on an assessment of each client’s immediate housing needs.  Pine Street SquattersWith the Pine Street squatters soon to vacate the NSWRA-owned buyback houses and some motels choosing to no longer participate in housing the homeless, will there be enough options for Homes NSW?According to Homes NSW, they currently have a healthy number of registered TA providers in Lismore and the Northern Rivers.   Homes NSW will assist anyone who is experiencing homelessness who meets the eligibility criteria, even if they have relocated to Lismore from another area. The organisation has already actively engaged with the squatters at Pine Street on multiple occasions throughout 2024 and into 2025. During these interactions, the squatters were provided with comprehensive information on accessing housing assistance, including guidance on applying for TA, Rentstart Bond Loans, and other support services available through Homes NSW and its partner agencies.  A Homes NSW Spokesperson told the Lismore App, “Homes NSW is committed to supporting individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Lismore and the Northern Rivers.  Temporary Accommodation (TA) is not a new program and has long been available to NSW residents without secure housing options, including those impacted by the 2022 floods.  Homes NSW works closely with registered TA providers to assess needs and connect clients with appropriate housing solutions. We continue to deliver responsive, compassionate and practical support to those in need.  If anyone is experiencing or at risk of homelessness, contact LInk2home on 1800 152 152, available 24/7 for information, support and referrals.”  What is the long-term solution for Homes NSW when dealing with the homeless in Lismore? Having a safe, secure, and affordable home addresses homelessness, which means increasing all types of housing, including social housing, affordable and private market rental housing.  Homes NSW is actively addressing homelessness in Lismore by building and funding more social housing in partnership with local community housing providers and builder partners. They are also ensuring that people can access support when in need. They do this by funding local specialist homelessness services and street outreach teams.They have also established the Homelessness Innovation fund. This provides grant funding to local services to develop new homelessness accommodation options and innovative responses to address homelessness. In Lismore, this includes a partnership with Social Futures, which will transform the vacant aged-care facility on Mackenzie Street into temporary accommodation for 30 families and individuals facing homelessness, thanks to a $769,000 grant. You can read the story by clicking here. While longer-term change is coming, it is a little bit like the flood rebuild, it takes longer than anyone would like.

A pedestrian has died after a fail-to-stop crash in Bangalow this morning.About 3.30am (Sunday, 6 July 2025), emergency services responded to reports that a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle on Raftons Road, Bangalow.NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the pedestrian – a man in his 60s – however, he died at the scene.The vehicle left the location prior to police arrival.Officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District established a crime scene, which is being examined by specialist police from the Crash Investigation Unit.As inquiries continue, anyone with information, CCTV, dashcam and or mobile phone footage about the incident is urged to contact Crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.A report will be prepared for the Coroner.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis.The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

FRRR (Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal) and VFFF (Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation) are now inviting applications for grants of $50,000 from individuals to develop innovative ideas that enhance the lives of young people (aged 12-30) in remote, rural, and regional NSW.The grants are available through the Backing the Future program. In NSW, the program has already supported 28 individuals by investing $1.4 million in their rural youth-focused projects.Jenny Wheatley, VFFF CEO, said VFFF is excited about Backing the Future’s potential to discover transformative ideas. “Our experience shows that the hardest part of getting a project off the ground is securing initial funding to test the idea. This is especially true in rural and remote areas, where high costs and smaller populations make piloting new projects even more challenging.“Backing the Future bridges this gap by trusting that leaders in local communities can create transformative opportunities for young people, when provided with the right resources.“Applicants not only get the grant funding, but they are also connected in with the staff from FRRR, who provide additional capacity building, connections and networking to ensure that grantees have an opportunity to pilot innovative ideas,” Ms Wheatley explained.Previous grant recipient, Bianca Bellicanta, said that the grant had more of a personal impact than she even anticipated.“Backing the Future gave me the chance to lead a project that truly made a difference.“With my $50,000 grant and support from the Backing the Future team, I was able to work alongside young emerging artists from across the Bega Valley to bring a stunning mural to life. I created paid opportunities for these young local artists and ran creative programs that connected and inspired young people to talk about environment and community impact.“It’s been a huge learning curve and a really rewarding way to grow my leadership and community-building skills,” Ms Bellicanta shared.Unlike many other programs, VFFF’s granting structure enables Backing the Future to fund individuals without requiring the backing of an established organisation, eliminating traditional barriers to entry.Natalie Egleton, FRRR CEO, said that the innovative partnership between FRRR and VFFF means the Foundation can respond to the needs of young people in each community in an agile way, which has resulted in projects with amazing and ongoing impacts.“The growing Backing the Future network is quickly becoming a high-impact alumni of next-gen rural leaders. “We are keen to keep this momentum growing and make sure more rural NSW communities know about the Backing the Future program. That’s why Dubbo, Forbes, and the mid-Murray region can expect to see the Youth Futures team in late June. We encourage any interested applicants in these regions to reach out to organise a face-to-face chat with our team members about your project ideas. “We have been so impressed by the previous Backing the Future cohort, and are really looking forward to working with this next group of changemakers,” Ms Egleton shared.  The Youth Futures team will also be holding a webinar at 12pm (AEST) Monday, 7 July, and FRRR encourages interested applicants to register to learn more. Register at: https://ow.ly/OWSH50W8a6c.Applications are open to anyone aged 18+ with an idea to benefit young people in their remote, rural or regional NSW community. VFFF’s Stories of Giving and Receiving podcast features the journeys of past recipients, highlighting their learnings, successes and advice. It’s a valuable resource to changemakers looking to apply for Backing the Future. The program is now using an Expression of Interest process, with EOIs open until Monday, 28 July. Successful EOIs will be invited to submit a full application from Wednesday, 13 August. Full applications close 5pm AEST on Monday, 8 September. To learn more, head to www.frrr.org.au/backing-the-future or call 1800 170 020 and speak to FRRR’s Youth Futures Manager, Lauren Ryan.

Volunteers are what keep our charities and not-for-profits running, in most cases. The problem is that it is getting more and more difficult to attract people to volunteer.Another very well-known organisation, Friends of the Koala, is preparing for its busiest time of year and needs help.Koala breeding season means that for the next five months, the Northern Rivers Koala Hospital (Friends of the Koala), including its rehabilitation centre, will be at capacity, caring for sick, injured, and orphaned koalas. Friends of the Koala have been guardians, advocates and protectors of our koala community for 39 years. Their amazing volunteers work tirelessly as a team providing care, food, transport and rescue support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. (Volunteer Luke Kane releases a koala)During breeding season, many koala carers are also busy responding to rescue calls all over Lismore and the Northern Rivers, which means their koala care teams need extra support to keep up with the demands at the koala hospital.A Friends of the Koala spokesperson said, "We urgently need support from the community to continue to do what we do."If you can spare a day a week, or every second week for 3 months or more, we urgently need the following:Koala CarersAfternoon shifts at East Lismore (7 days a week, 12.30pm - 4.00pm)These volunteers work to maintain the koalas' runs in the hospital rehab, make observations, arrange and provide food to the koalas. Full training provided.Hotline Responders (remote morning, afternoon and evening shifts)Working from home or wherever you are, all you need is a stable phone line, access to the internet/a device and a computer. Online training provided. Leaf Harvesters (7 days a week from 9.00am - 11.00am)Our leafers work in teams of two, collecting koala food in our vans from properties all over the Northern Rivers including our own plantations, for approximately 3 hours every morning. Volunteers must be comfortable working outdoors, have a moderate level of fitness, a fully unrestricted drivers licence and a genuine ability to be responsible and commit for at least a 3 month period one day a week or every other week."We currently have more than one orphaned joey in care. The cost of raising a single young joey from rescue to release ranges between $15,000 and $20,000. As a charity, we rely solely on the generosity of our volunteers and our community."If you are 18 or over and you would like to make a difference to the future of our koalas and their habitat, please get in touch with us!"You can enrol to volunteer on our website www.friendsofthekoala.org or email volunteercoord@friendsofthekoala.org to find out more."

Northern Rivers Women and Children’s Services Inc. (NORWACS) has announced a significant milestone in its journey of supporting women’s health and wellbeing in the region. As of July 1 2025, the organisation is now known as Women’s Health Northern Rivers (WHNR). This change reflects a renewed focus and commitment to delivering inclusive, accessible, and holistic health services for women across the Northern Rivers region. The new name and brand identity better represent the organisation’s core mission and evolving role in the community. “For over 30 years, NORWACS has been a trusted provider of health and support services for women and children,” said Kim Boyd, Chief Executive Officer of WHNR. “As we move forward, our new name – Women’s Health Northern Rivers – more clearly communicates who we are and the vital work we do to empower women through health, education, and advocacy.” The rebranding includes a refreshed visual identity and website, designed to enhance engagement and accessibility for clients, partners, and the broader community. While the name has changed, WHNR remains deeply committed to its values of compassion, equity, and empowerment. WHNR will continue to offer a wide range of services, including:Counselling Domestic and Family Violence Support Health and Wellbeing Groups Women’s Health Nurse Clinic Health Promotion and Community EducationDrop-In Support Information & Referrals Women’s Health Northern Rivers will also expand its outreach and advocacy efforts to address emerging health needs and promote gender equity across the region. Community members, partners, and stakeholders are invited to visit the new website at www.whnr.org.au (still in development) and follow WHNR on social media to stay updated on services, events, and initiatives. 

As a regional city, Lismore understands that freight is critical to Australia’s economy, but a UNSW expert is warning the industry is falling behind on the road to net zero.Freight supply chains underpin nearly every sector of the economy, delivering petrol to service stations, food to supermarket shelves and goods to retail centres across the country.But the freight industry is under growing pressure as it struggles to align with Australia’s sustainability targets - with the sector still heavily reliant on diesel-powered transport.Transport engineering expert, Dr Elnaz Irannezhad from UNSW’s School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, warns that without urgent innovation and coordinated policy action, the industry risks becoming a roadblock to Australia’s path to net zero.“From our ports and rails to our intermodal terminals, where containers are moved between different modes of transport, almost all our freight fleet currently runs on diesel fuel,” she says.“There is a huge opportunity to decarbonise the freight and logistics sector – and it starts with collaboration between industry, researchers and government.”Are we headed in the right direction?Transport accounts for approximately 21% of Australia's total greenhouse gas emissions.Heavy freight makes up about 40% of transport emissions and represents approximately 7% of Australia's total emissions. According to the Federal Government’s Emissions Projections 2024 report, freight emissions are expected to increase by 16% by 2040, due in part to the slow uptake of electric heavy vehicles.“Compared to Europe, where green fleet adoption is further advanced, Australia’s freight challenge is unique,” says Dr Irannezhad.“Our population and infrastructure are spread over vast distances, which makes electrification more complex.”Regulatory inconsistencies between statesBigger distances require bigger batteries for electric freight vehicles. Over the years, most state transport authorities have increased the axle mass limits for the next generation of zero emission heavy vehicles to accommodate for the heavier battery load.While this was a welcome move from the industry, there are still inconsistencies in limits between states and territories.In NSW, zero-emission heavy vehicles can have a higher axle weight limit of up to eight tonnes and a tandem drive axle limit of up to 18.5 tonnes, as long as the total gross vehicle mass does not exceed 26 tonnes.Across the border, Victorian heavy-duty electric trucks can only operate with a 7.5 tonne weight on the steer axle – half a tonne less than NSW.“There is a lack of harmonisation in load per axle regulations across Australia,” says Dr. Irannezhad.“Electric vehicles that comply in one state can become non-compliant once they cross the border, adding another barrier to adoption.”E-commerce growth puts pressure on supply chainsIn 2024, nearly 10 million households made a purchase online, contributing to a record $A56 billion in domestic e-commerce spending. Globally, the market was worth over $US6.3 trillion.With many retailers now offering same or next-day delivery, there is further pressure on the freight and logistics supply chain to move goods to consumers even faster.“During the COVID-19 lockdowns, the closure of shops meant consumers were doing their shopping online – and that behaviour has stuck around,” says Dr. Irannezhad.“Orders that would have once taken days or weeks to be delivered can now arrive on your doorstep the same day or even within a few hours.“Companies are working around the clock on fulfilling the last-mile delivery expectations.”Last-mile delivery – the final leg in the delivery chain from the manufacturer to the customer’s doorstep—is a major contributor to urban congestion.Dr. Irannezhad says there’s been a rise of micro hubs or local fulfilment centres to keep up with demand, especially in larger cities such as New York.“In Australia, a majority of the fleet making these last-mile deliveries are not electric, especially when you move further away from the city centre,” she says.“If we want to reduce environmental impacts, we must connect these fulfilment centres with sustainable transport options.”What needs to happen next?Dr. Irannezhad says the challenge of investing in high-powered charging infrastructure mirrors a familiar dilemma: which comes first — the vehicles or the charging stations?Without widespread charging infrastructure, freight companies are hesitant to adopt electric trucks. But until more low-emission vehicles are on the road, there’s little demand to build the infrastructure.“The same can be said about importing low-emission trucks to Australia. Since we’re a smaller market, the technologies available to us are seven years behind the United States and countries in the European Union.”Similar to the recent New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) , which aims to reduce emissions from new passenger vehicles and light commercial vehicles, Dr. Irannezhad says we also need a fuel-efficiency standard for heavy vehicles.“Currently, heavy vehicles in Australia must comply with Euro V emissions standards under the Australian Design Rules. While these standards regulate criteria pollutants such as CO, HC, NOx, they fail to address CO2 emissions which is directly linked to fuel efficiency,” she says.“In stark contrast, the United States, European Union, India and Canada all have mandated heavy vehicle emissions standards for decades.“For example, the European Union has set emission reduction targets for heavy-duty vehicles (HDV) aiming for a 15 per cent cut by 2025, 30 per cent by 2030, and 45 per cent by 2035, with the ultimate goal of 100 per zero emission HDV sales by 2040.“If Australia is serious about meeting our emission targets, we need to raise the bar.“More incentives and subsidies, and clear fuel-efficiency standards for heavy vehicles are just some of the ways we can help lower our emissions.”

As some families head off for a short winter school holiday vacation, vehicle sales for the first half of 2025 show that more Aussie motorists are buying electric vehicles.The debate over driving long distances and finding convenient charging stations using electric vehicles still rages in regional areas; however, according to the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC), new figures from the EVC and other sources show that more than 14,000 additional battery electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV) have been sold in Australia so far this year compared to the same period in 2024. Between January and June 2025, EVs accounted for more than 12 per cent of all new car sales, up from 9.6 per cent during the same period last year. In June 2025 alone, electric vehicles accounted for almost 16 per cent of all new cars sold.  Electric Vehicle Council CEO Julie Delvecchio said: “Electric vehicle sales are powering ahead in 2025 with more Australians than ever before getting behind the wheel. “An additional 14,000 EVs sold in the first half of this year compared to the same period the year before. Monthly EV sales set a new Australian record in June as well, with market share breaking through 15 per cent for the first time ever. “The transition to electric vehicles is picking up speed - that’s because of federal government support through policies and incentives, and more Australians recognising that making the switch is good for the environment and their wallets. “We’ve seen really important changes come into effect in Australia this year in the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard, which is bringing consumers more choice in electric cars and more competitive prices.  “More than 350,000 people are driving EVs in Australia today: tradies in utes, mums and dads ferrying their kids in SUVs, suburban dwellers zipping around in hatchbacks and small business owners delivering goods from vans. Once people make the switch to electric driving, they tend to stick to it.  “While the growth in electric vehicle sales is encouraging, it’s crucial that Australia maintains this momentum by expanding infrastructure, increasing incentives, and supporting innovation such as vehicle-to-grid technology. “More EVs on our roads benefit all Australians, delivering quieter streets, cleaner air, and greater protection for our environment.”

Lismore City Council’s mission to rebuild, restore and strengthen community assets and infrastructure following the devastating 2022 natural disasters has reached a significant milestone this month, with 100 projects now complete.Delivered by Council’s Flood Restoration Portfolio (FRP), the projects span roads, bridges and landslips; sporting venues, cultural hubs and community facilities; and vital flood resilience infrastructure, including urban stormwater drainage. Combined, they represent approximately 30% of projects in the FRP’s schedule of works, Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said.“Our driving goal has been to deliver the best outcome for the Lismore community – to do it once and do it right,” he said. “The Flood Restoration Portfolio team has been doing great work since the disaster, and following extensive emergency repairs, funding applications, and designing innovative solutions to our unique challenges, it’s now shifting into an exciting new construction phase.” Among the notable achievements so far are: Restoration of 55 road, bridge and landslip damages, including works on Nimbin Road and Blue Knob Road.Restoration of Lismore City Library, Lismore Regional Gallery and Quad, Lismore Municipal Building and Lismore Airport Terminal.Restoration of Albert Park Baseball Complex, Lismore Basketball Stadium, Lismore Workers FC Clubhouse and Marie Mackney Netball Clubhouse.Clearing of more than 8kms of urban stormwater drains.More than 230 additional projects are now in the advanced planning, design and construction stages, with road restorations and flood resilience upgrades to see the highest focus in the coming months and years.The Flood Restoration Portfolio is proudly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments. 

One of the Westpac Rescue Helicopters' annual fundraising events is on tonight at the Northern Rivers Hotel in North Lismore.Rock to the Rescue is the brainchild of the Service’s admin and fundraising coordinator, John Bancroft. Starting in 2015, this is the 9th Rock Fundraiser, thanks to the intervention of COVID-19.“We have seven local bands of varied genres all offering to raise funds for the service," John said. "We charge a donation of $10 at the door and sell t-shirts and do raffles. It’s always a good night”John said the event raises over $2,000 for the rescue helicopter service each year and is one of the vital events that support the free, life-saving service.“We have transported approximately 13,000 patients here in the Northern Rivers, and have flown 11 missions in the last ten days,” he added.“It’s all about keeping the helicopter going, maintaining it, putting fuel in it and making sure it's available 24/7.“The service resonates with many people in the community, and almost everyone knows someone whose life has been affected by the service.“We hope to see lots of people come along and support the gig.THE LINE-UP3:30pm New Vintage4:30pm Plan 95:30pm The Hop Ups6:30pm SLUG7:30pm Ghostown8:30pm The Claymores9:30pm This Kiss KillsEach band will play a 50-minute set.“We’d like to thank the bands for offering their talent and support," John concluded. Rock To The Rescue begins at 3:30pm at the Northern Rivers Hotel on Bridge Street, North Lismore, entry is a $10 donation (or more if you are willing). Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.Food is available from the Bistro, and a courtesy bus will be running until late.

We can expect a return to some sunny skies this weekend as the winter school holidays get underway, although the forecast is for a possible shower on Sunday morning.Saturday is the pick of the weekend with a top of 20 degrees, following a cold 5-degree start to the day. On Sunday, there is a 30% chance of a shower, but only 1mm, and that is most likely in the morning, with a warm 22 degrees as the top temperature.Any activity next week will be done under clear blue skies.There is quite a bit of activity to get involved in this weekend, ranging from markets, live music and an Italian Festival.The Lismore Farmers Markets get things underway at the Lismore Showgrounds from 7:30am tomorrow.Locally grown fresh fruit and vegetables, honey, meat, hot breakfast, tea and coffee and live music from Malcolm Gladstone will be happening until 11:30am.The 'Through the Heart' photographic exhibition by Jacklyn Wagner can be viewed at the Lismore Regional Gallery from 10am to 4pm over the weekend.Through the Heart captures human stories from the catastrophic February and March floods in 2022. It runs until Sunday, August 10.(Photo: Jacklyn Wagner)The annual Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service 'Rock to the Rescue' fundraiser is on at the Northern Rivers Hotel tomorrow afternoon/night.Seven local bands are volunteering their time to raise over $2,000 for the much-loved charity that has flown approximately 13,000 missions since its inception, 11 of those in the past 10 days.The day gets underway at 3:30 with New Vintage and ends with This Kiss Kills around 10:30pm.It is $10 entry with t-shirt sales and raffles helping raise money that helps run the life-saving rescue chopper.Sunday is Italian day at the Lismore Turf Club, with LisAmore! showcasing everything wonderful about Italy, including its food, wine, live music, dancing, cars and motorbikes.The gates open at 10am and run until 5pm.The Lismore Jazz Club has the Evans Robson Quartet performing at the Lismore City Bowling Club on Molesworth Street on Sunday afternoon between 2pm and 5pm.The cost is $15 for members and $20 for non-members to see Oz Jazz Royalty, as they were described by the Sydney Morning Herald.There is more live music at the Lismore Heights Sports Club, with Dinner with the Divas. Doors open at 6pm, the show starts at 7pm with Donella and RuBella. The cost is $60, which includes a 2 course meal.Tonight at the Northern Rivers Hotel, Chris Fisher performs from 6pm.The Lismore Workers Club has Ino Pio playing in the Main Lounge 5pm tonight, and Hayley Grace on Saturday night.The Workers Club have some tickets available for the 12pm session to see Dorothy The Dinosaur's Spectacular Show this Sunday. Click here to buy tickets for $25 plus booking fee.Coming up, British '60s band Herman Hermits are playing in Lismore for their 60th Anniversary World Tour on Friday, August 8. You'll hear your old favourites, like Mrs Brown You've Got a Lovely Daughter, There's a Kind of Hush and No Milk Today. Tickets are $59 plus booking fee. Click here to purchase.Fuel prices have stabilised following last week's increase. Ballina is the cheapest place to fill the tank.Here is the list of the cheapest service stations, saving you the most money in each town:E10 is 174.9 at the 7-Eleven in South Lismore and the Ampol Foodary on Woodlark Street in Lismore, 176.9 at the NightOwl Puma on Johnston Street in Casino, and 165.5 at the Mobil and The Metro on River Street, Ballina.Unleaded 91 is 176.9 across Lismore, 179.3 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino, and 167.5 at the Metro and the Mobil on River Street, Ballina.U95 is 184.9 at the two Independents (Brad & Sharon) on Terania Street, North Lismore and the Liberty on Ballina Road and the Independent at East Lismore, 198.9 at the Independent on Canterbury Street, and 178.5 at The Metro on River Street, Ballina.U98 is 192.9 at the Liberty on Ballina Road in Lismore, and the Liberty on Union Street, South Lismore, 199.9 at the two Independents on Hare and Centre Street in Casino, and 187.5 at The Metro on River Street in Ballina.Diesel is 181.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road in Lismore, 181.9 at The United and the NightOwl Puma on Johnston Street, the Liberty on Hare Street and the Liberty on Centre Street in Casino, and 188.7 at the Ampol on Links Avenue, East Ballina.Have a great weekend!Now, have a laugh with the Friday Funnies.....

At 3 o'clock this afternoon, school bells will signify the start of the winter school holidays for two weeks.NSW Police are urging drivers to take extra care on the roads during the holiday period, with data indicating 20 per cent of fatal or serious crashes occur during school holiday periods.If you are hitting the road, police are urging you to drive according to the weather conditions, which are typically adverse in the month of July.The winter public school holidays conclude on Friday, 18 July 2025.Officers will be conducting enforcement patrols and operations over the next two weeks to deter drivers from making poor decisions.In the July school holidays last year, eight people lost their lives in fatal crashes; the same number of deaths were recorded for the same period in 2023.NSW Police data shows almost 20 per cent of crashes involving injuries or fatalities occur during the 12 weeks of public school holidays.So far this year, 190 lives have been lost, 29 more deaths than for this time last year.Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Driver, said the July school holidays were typically a time when weather conditions could contribute to serious crashes.“Drivers need to be aware of the risks when travelling in wet and snowing conditions, with black ice a serious hazard on our roads at this time of year,” Assistant Commissioner Driver said.“Our data shows one in five serious or fatal crashes happen in the school holidays.“We also know that about two-thirds of fatal crashes occur on regional areas.”Assistant Commissioner Driver said the school holidays were a time when families typically go on road trips, often in unfamiliar territory.“Take extra care, reduce your speed, and remain focused so you and your family can arrive at your destination safely.“As always, don’t speed, wear a seatbelt, never drive when tired, do not use a mobile phone while driving and never drive if affected by drugs or alcohol.”NSW Police figures:2024 School holiday period (12-week period) there were 2106 crashes where people were injured, including 63 fatalities.2023 School holiday period (12-week period) there were 2228 crashes where people were injured, including 56 fatalities.2025 January and April school holiday period there were 1305 crashes where people were injured, including 37 fatalities.The July school holidays are typically the third-worst period for fatal crashes compared to the other school holidays.Driving Tips:Look out for black ice, a coating of glaze ice on the surface of the road which is transparent and hard to see and can cause a loss of traction.Stay alert during heavy rainfall as it can cause pooling on the road, leading to an inability to control the vehicle and poor visibility.Avoid driving in dark and wet conditions as it carries the risk of not seeing wildlife.Drive to the conditions, especially in regional areas like the Snowy Mountains, Orange, Bathurst and the Blue Mountains.Check your cars are roadworthy before travelling – monitor tyre pressure, fluids, brakes, lights, wipers and car battery to ensure they are in good working condition.

Healthy North Coast has announced the first successful recipients of its new Primary Care Impact Grants - innovative, locally designed projects that will support high-quality care for people with chronic diseases across the region.Eighteen (18) grants with a total value of $897,420 have been awarded in this first round, with funding going directly to general practices, Aboriginal Medical Services, allied health businesses and other local providers across Northern NSW and the Mid North Coast, to test and scale creative solutions to current health care challenges. These include local recipients, such as the Dunoon General Practice and Prema House, Lismore.Healthy North Coast CEO Monika Wheeler said the response to the initiative has shown the depth of commitment across general practice and allied health services to improving care for local communities.“Chronic diseases are the leading cause of death and disability in Australia, but we know that nearly 40% of this burden could be prevented by early intervention and addressing risk factors.“GPs, nurses and allied health practitioners delivering care every day across our region are well placed to see where change is needed. These grants are about equipping those frontline providers with funding to test new approaches that reduce the impact of chronic diseases in our community.”The Primary Care Impact Grants are part of Healthy North Coast’s commitment to strengthening the region’s primary health care system through the Australian Government’s Primary Health Network program.$3.4m in total funding has been made available for the coming year, with future rounds still to come. This includes $1.8m through the MyMedicare Multidisciplinary Teams initiative and $1.6m through the Primary Health Network program funding to support the management of complex and chronic disease in high-risk populations.Haley Hodgson, Director at Maclean Medical, was thrilled to be amongst the successful recipients.“We’re incredibly proud to receive this funding to support a coordinated, multidisciplinary model of care for chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, dementia and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in the Clarence Valley,” Ms Hodgson said.“This grant allows us to expand access to timely care, especially for patients in rural and underserved areas, and to pilot new ways of working collaboratively across general practice, allied health and nursing teams.”The Primary Care Impact Grants are designed to support continuous quality improvement in primary care. The grant applications were reviewed using an evaluation rubric that assessed community need, health equity, efficiency and feasibility of each proposal, by a panel of health experts.Successful proposals had a data-informed and evidence-based approach to meeting the needs of their communities, with a focus on reporting outcomes to drive continuous quality improvement.“These are grassroots innovations with the potential for big impact,” Ms Wheeler added.Each grant recipient will provide valuable data back to Healthy North Coast to assist with the evaluation of this innovative new initiative.More information on the Primary Care Impact Grants, including for local health professionals interested in applying for future rounds, is available on Healthy North Coast’s website.List of Round One Primary Care Impact Grant recipientsMultidisciplinary Team Care Grants:• Dunoon General Practice - Multidisciplinary frailty intervention program - $65,040• Hastings Physio and Health + Werin Aboriginal Corporation + PCYC Port Macquarie -Group based chronic disease prevention program for Indigenous Australians - $75,000• Maclean Medical Centre – Diabetes, heart disease, dementia, arthritis, COPD & anxiety program - $64,000• Dr Tenell Holborow, Port Macquarie – MDT care for residents in aged care - $40,000• The Health Lodge Integrated Medical Centre – Supporting families living in water-damaged homes following the 2022 Northern Rivers floods - $50,000• Bulgarr Ngaru Medical Aboriginal Corporation – Expansion of Youth Program - $75,000• Maria Clinic – Improving outcomes for patients with Type 2 diabetes in Casino - $74,880Total Multidisciplinary Team Care Grants awarded: $443,920Chronic Disease Prevention Grants:• Prema House, Lismore - Nurse-led clinic to address chronic disease and cancer risk in Richmond Valley - $30,000• Scotts Head Medical Practice - Iron infusion service for patients with iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) - $15,000• Kennedy Drive Medical Centre, Tweed Heads - Prevention-focused chronic disease program centring on mental health - $29,500• Woopi Medical Centre - Practice-wide chronic disease prevention and management program - $50,000• Rekindling the Spirit - 48-week Aboriginal Healthy Lifestyle Program - $50,000• McKay Street Surgery, Macksville - Early detection, education, lifestyle change, and coordinated care - $30,000• The Physio Movement, Woolgoogla - Pain management program to address chronic musculoskeletal pain - $50,000• Rose Avenue Medical Practice, Coffs Harbour - Raise awareness of hypertension and promote early detection - $50,000• OneBridge, Ballina - Nurse-led chronic disease prevention and management program targeting individuals experiencing homelessness, poverty, and chronic illness - $50,000• CHC Medical, Coffs Harbour - Chronic disease screening program to detect and manage diabetes and cardiovascular risk - $50,000• One more grant TBC - $49,000Total Chronic Disease Prevention Grants awarded: $453,500More information about each of the round one grant recipients can be found on Healthy North Coast’s website.

The NSW Government is collaborating with businesses to build the net-zero workforce of the future by giving students the opportunity to be job-ready for a career in decarbonisation through a new $1 million internship program.Applications are now open for businesses and students who want to take part in NSW Skills for Net Zero. It is a three-year pilot program that will pair 100 tertiary students with businesses in NSW to undertake at least 200 hours of paid work on projects that reduce emissions.Businesses involved in the program will receive end-to-end recruitment and placement support to address specific skills gaps.Workplaces will also receive a $2,500 payment to subsidise the intern’s wage, paid after the internship is completed.Students in their penultimate or final year of tertiary study are encouraged to apply and help businesses contribute to achieving net zero across the state.The types of roles they could take on could involve:Supporting sustainable packaging and emissions reporting in advanced manufacturing.Focusing on reducing emissions in agribusiness.Contributing to more sustainable freight and logistics processes.In addition to boosting skills and supporting businesses and industry, this action will take NSW closer to our legislated net zero targets, to safeguard our state and our planet for future generations.NSW Skills for Net Zero is part of the government’s Net Zero Manufacturing Initiative which provides opportunities for NSW businesses to remain leaders in the net zero transition. The NSW Government has engaged CSIRO to deliver the program.For details, students and businesses are encouraged to visit https://www.csiro.au/en/education/Initiatives/NSW-Skills-for-Net-Zero.Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe said, “This program is a win-win-win for students, businesses and the move to net zero.“Businesses will tell the program what skills they need to further their decarbonisation projects, and we’ll connect them with talented tertiary students from whatever course is required.“I encourage any business working on decarbonising projects to see how they could benefit from having a skilled student intern on staff.”Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said, “The Minns Labor Government is continuing to fund the training and skills development needed to grow our workforce and give students the experience they need to secure the jobs of the future.“I urge passionate tertiary students in their second-last and final-year to explore this fantastic opportunity and see how their skills can contribute to our net zero future.”

The 2022 floods unified our community as friends, family, and perfect strangers pitched in to rescue, recover and rebuild the lives of those directly affected by Australia's most costly disaster.An example of that was brought to light recently when the Rotary Club of Goonellabah held a morning tea to celebrate raising an incredible $500,000 to help people get back on their feet through the Repair to Make Liveable Flood Project.Brian Henry, the Flood Recovery Committee Project Manager, said the club recognised there was a longer-term need to assist flood-affected people."Instead of committing our resources to assist in providing immediate emergency needs such as food, clothing, personal items and shelter etc, we focused on the next major stage of assisting in getting residents back into their homes via what was named the “Repair to Make Liveable Program”.(Left to Right Standing: Ruth Harrison from Our House, Steve Smith from Lismore Soup Kitchen, Paul Murphy from Rotary Club of Goonellabah, Greg Isaac from Lismore Catholic Diocese, Brendan Muldoon from Joel Jensen Constructions, Melissa Gahan from Lismore Catholic Diocese, David Pearson from Rotary Australia World Community Service, John Oomen Rotary District 9640 District Governor. Left to Right Sitting: Renee Simpson, a Flood Impacted Resident, Leonie Baxter, a Flood Impacted Resident, Elly Bird from Resilient Lismore and Brian Henry from Rotary Club of Goonellabah)"It was only through a well-organised co-operative approach that we have been successful. We commenced the program with $5,000 donated by club members and then leveraged that with contributions through our Rotary contacts, both locally and around Australia, as well as gaining matching contributions from local philanthropic organisations and a foundation."The $500,000 we raised in itself wasn’t sufficient to get the job done. We needed a cooperative approach from various local organisations and businesses to effectively undertake the repairs."We were fortunate to have the full support of Joel Jensen Construction and his crew of workers. In addition, Resilient Lismore played an important role in arranging and selecting residents who needed assistance with repairs and the Lismore Soup Kitchen support group assisted in coordinating many of the smaller repair projects."Many of the flood-impacted residents in and around Lismore are still living in partially restored homes. There is still much to be done."The success of this project certainly required a coordinated approach with various groups with specific skills. The Rotary Club of Goonellabah was very much hands-on in ensuring that the day-to-day coordination was carried out in an effective and timely manner.The Repair to Make Liveable Flood Project carried out 64 repair projects of which 10 were significant, aimed at restoring a major room, such as a bathroom or kitchen at an average cost of $32,500 each.(Before)(After)The vast majority of the significant projects were located in the South and North Lismore area, together with a couple of rural homes at Dungarubba (between Wardell and Coraki) and one in the river town of Woodburn."Whilst we will investigate the opportunity to raise further funding, we believe this will be difficult given the demand for flood assistance around the Taree area and the fact that the Lismore flood occurred over 3 years ago," Brian said."Regardless, the club has made a donation to the flood-impacted residents on the Mid North Coast through the Rotary Club of Wingham. Interestingly, it is now recognised and officially stated that Lismore will more likely take 10 years of restoration and redevelopment for the town to fully recover."The Rotary Club of Goonellabah would like to thank their sponsors, who included:Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Community Enterprise FoundationRotary Foundation AustraliaRotary 9640 Flood Relief FundRotary Australia World Community ServiceLismore Soup KitchenTwo local philanthropic organisationsBehind the scenes supporters, such as Joel Jenson Constructions Resilience LismoreAnd last but not least, the members of the Rotary Club of GoonellabahTo fully understand and appreciate the significance of what the Rotary Club of Goonellabah has achieved, take a close look at the images below. They tell the full flood story of a house on Phyllis Street, South Lismore, to make it liveable.

Wondering when and if your bus will arrive to take you to your destination is a thing of the past as, for the first time, all NSW regional bus passengers can access real-time bus travel information from their smart devices – the same smart technology Sydney commuters have enjoyed for years. All 3,010 contracted buses across rural and regional NSW, which collectively cover more than 3,880 routes and around 316,000 kilometres per day, are now fitted out with GPS and automatic passenger counting technology. The upgrades give rural and regional communities more reliable trips, with passengers now able to:  Track their bus in real-time using any travel app, including Opal Travel or via Transport for NSW’s Trip Planner website Get accurate arrival times and capacity information  Access interactive maps, digital timetables, and route information  Plan smoother journeys through Transport for NSW's Trip Planner (The technology in each contracted bus. Image: supplied)The smart technology system brings rural and regional NSW in line with Greater Sydney and Outer Metropolitan areas. It means the state’s entire fleet of contracted buses, both on regular and school services, can now be tracked by their passengers. As well as benefiting passengers, this data gives Transport and bus operators the tools to improve operations management to help keep services running on time. The technology was also used by bus operators on the NSW North Coast to cancel trips promptly and consistently during ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. The Transport Connected Bus program was the result of collaboration with 451 contracted bus operators, ranging from large fleet companies to small mum-and-dad businesses, with the fit-outs completed ahead of schedule. More about the Transport Connected Bus program can be found at www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/current-projects/transport-connected-bus-program.  Learn about using the Transport for NSW Trip Planner tool at transportnsw.info/trip or other apps at transportnsw.info/apps. Minister for Roads and Minister Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said, “As someone who represents a regional community, I know how frustrating it is for regional commuters and public transport users who feel left behind when it comes to accessing real-time data. No matter where you live in NSW, you deserve the same quality public transport experience.  “The Minns Labor Government isn't just upgrading buses – we're leveling the playing field and building stronger, more connected regional communities. "With more than 40 million regional bus journeys every year, every passenger deserves a smooth, reliable trip. These upgrades eliminate the guesswork, now you'll know exactly where your bus is and when it will arrive. "This is the Minns Labor Government building better communities and a better NSW, ensuring regional areas aren't left behind but are equipped with the same world-class transport technology as our biggest cities."