All household types recorded an increase in quarterly living costs in the June 2024 quarter, according to the latest data from the Australia Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Whilst not good news for Lismore retailers who have had tough trading conditions in 2024, it does help them understand why sales have been a little slow.​Michelle Marquardt, ABS head of prices statistics, said: “Increases in living costs in the June 2024 quarter ranged from 1.2 per cent to 1.4 per cent, depending on the spending patterns of the different household types, compared to a rise of 1.0 per cent in the Consumer Price Index. ​“This is the first time since December 2010 that increases in living costs for all household types were higher than the increase in the CPI.” ​Insurance and financial services, which include mortgage interest charges and Food and non-alcoholic beverages, were the main contributors across all household types. Housing also contributed to higher living costs for all household types except Self-funded retirees. ​Higher premiums for motor vehicle, house and home contents insurance, and higher fruit and vegetable prices reflecting unfavourable growing conditions, impacted living costs for all household types. ​Other government transfer recipients whose main source of income is government payments recorded the largest rise of all household types.​“Other government transfer recipient households were most impacted by higher rental prices reflecting a tight rental market,” Ms Marquardt said.A significant difference between the Living Cost Indexes and the CPI is that the Living Cost Indexes include mortgage interest charges rather than the cost of building new dwellings.​Employee households were most impacted by rising mortgage interest charges over the quarter, which are a larger part of their spending than for other household types. ​“Mortgage interest charges rose 2.6 per cent in the June 2024 quarter driven by the continued rollover of some expired fixed rate mortgages to higher variable rate mortgages,” Ms Marquardt said. Annual living cost rises remain highest for Employee households​“Employee households recorded the largest annual rise in living costs of all household types with a rise of 6.2 per cent. However, this was down from 6.5 per cent in the previous quarter, and down from the peak of 9.6 per cent in the June 2023 quarter,” Ms. Marquardt said. ​“Mortgage interest charges rose 26.5 per cent annually, continuing the moderation seen since the peak of 91.6 per cent in the June 2023 quarter. This reflects fewer rises in the Reserve Bank of Australia’s cash rate in the last 12 months and a slowing in the rollover of expired fixed rate mortgages to higher variable rate mortgages,” Ms Marquardt said. ​Higher insurance premiums, food and housing costs over the last 12 months also contributed to annual living cost increases for all household types. Pensioner and Beneficiary Living Cost Index (PBLCI)​The PBLCI measures living costs for age pensioner and other government transfer recipient households. The PBLCI rose 4.1 per cent over the year, compared to a rise of 3.8 per cent in the CPI.​“Age pensioner and other government transfer recipient households living costs include interest charges which rose between 20 and 24 per cent for these household types annually. Insurance also makes up a larger proportion of spending for these households compared to the CPI. Insurance premiums rose over the year contributing to higher living costs for these households.” ​“Government pensions are indexed on 20 September (and 20 March) by the greater of the rise in the PBCLI and CPI over a six-month period,” Ms Marquardt said. ​Over the six months between the December 2023 quarter and June 2024 quarter, the PBCLI rose 2.6 per cent. In that same period, the CPI rose 2.0 per cent. It has been more positive news for local retailers recently, with employees benefitting from Federal Govt tax cuts on July 1 putting more money in their pockets. The price of fruit and vegetables is decreasing as we head towards spring, as well as the price of lamb and beef as farmer's stocks return to more normal levels following flooding across the state in 2022/23.The signs are there for a more positive end to 2024 than the start of it.

The winners of the 2024 Northern NSW Local Health District Quality Awards have been announced at a ceremony held last week. The annual awards showcase innovative solutions, projects and programs initiated by health staff to improve the quality of care and the experience provided to patients, the sustainability and capacity of the local health system and health outcomes for communities. NNSWLHD Chief Executive, Tracey Maisey, praised the dedication of staff to finding ways to continually improve the healthcare they deliver, and tailor services to meet the needs of patients. “This year we saw a wide field of 39 nominations, and awarded teams and individual awards across ten (10) categories, a testament to the incredible work being done by staff right across our health district,” Ms Maisey said. “Staff know their patients best, and when they are empowered to develop local solutions, it can lead to significant benefits not only for our patients, but also for our staff. “Congratulations to all our staff who submitted entries into this year’s awards, and well done to our winning teams and individuals.” Alongside the team categories presented on the night, were Volunteer of the Year and Staff Member of the Year. Volunteer of the Year winner, Ros Fleetwood, is a longstanding member of the NNSWLHD Maternity and Neonatal Services Committee and the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA). Ros provides invaluable support to patients, carers, and families, and is committed to promoting breastfeeding and supporting new parents in Northern NSW, as well as influencing health system change, through her evidence-based insights into policies and procedures. Staff Member of the Year, Kate Willock, leads the Perinatal Substance Use Service as part of the Alcohol and Other Drugs Service. Kate is innovative and person-focussed, and has been instrumental in significantly improving patient care and treatment outcomes throughout her lengthy career, thanks to her teamwork and insights. Her leadership extends to strategic direction and partnerships in AOD Services, achieving positive outcomes amidst complex challenges.  2024 Quality Awards Winners:Excellence in Aboriginal Healthcare AwardWinner: Rheumatic Heart Disease Project - Closing the Gap Highly Commended: Little Jarjums Swim Safe Program Excellence in the Provision of Mental Health or Alcohol and Other Drugs ServicesWinner: Richmond Clarence Mental Health Discharge ClinicHighly Commended: Tweed Safe Haven: Towards Zero Suicide Initiative – Community Mental Health Health InnovationWinner: Sustainable Imaging for our CommunityHighly Commended: Improving Domestic and Family Violence identification workflows in Child and Family Health Agency for Clinical Innovation Rural Innovation AwardWinner: Connecting Critical Care – expertise at the bedside Health ResearchWinner: It All Started with a Question – North Coast Cancer Institute, Lismore Keeping People HealthyWinner: A Sweet Partnership. Paediatric Diabetes Outreach in an Aboriginal Medical Service Patient Safety FirstWinner: Redefining Paediatric Burns Management - The Local Approach Highly Commended: Northern NSW Health Literacy Project People and CultureWinner: Class of 2023 – Grow Our Own Health and Security Assistants Highly Commended: Rural Research Collaborative Learning Network Transforming Patient ExperienceWinner: Are you pregnant and feel too sick to eat and drink? Hyperemesis Gravidarum ProjectHighly Commended: Creating a safe and respectful space for children and adolescents seeking mental health care in the Richmond CommunityHighly Commended: Model of Care Re-design: Improving patient outcomes in Knee Reconstruction Surgery Volunteer of the YearWinner: Ros Fleetwood, NNSWLHD Maternity ServicesHighly Commended: Margaret McQuilty, Hospital Auxiliary, Nimbin MPS Staff Member of the YearWinner: Kate Willock, NNSWLHD Alcohol and Other Drugs Services Highly Commended: Lauren Proudfoot, Health Promotion.

The Lismore CBD has gained another local business, The Off Grid Shop, which opened a shop front on Conway Street, not far from Ongmac.The Off Grid Shop owner Mike Haydon had five businesses wiped out in the February 2022 floods. The offices for all five were in Snow Street, South Lismore; nothing survived."We had 24 Hour Solar, which was more focused on grid-connected customers and doing installations, The Off Grid Shop was more selling physical products and people that lived off-grid. We had an investment business, a sort of cryptocurrency business and a media business using YouTube and podcasts."We had all of those businesses, and then overnight, they disappeared after the 2022 flood, and I had to make a decision to pick one. You know, it's like picking your favourite child. I had to pick a business to survive and get back out of the floods. I couldn't run all five businesses again by myself, and we were really struggling to find staff."I chose The Off Grid Shop. It's probably the thing I've been doing the most, the longest and that I'm most passionate about. And at that point in time, it was really easy for me to grow that business because I've been doing it for 15 years without a huge amount of staff."After two and half years of working from home, Mike decided to get an office in the CBD to have more exposure and to let people know, "We're back in business and back in town".The consistent issue for many business owners in Lismore and the Northern Rivers was finding staff, especially immediately after the big flood. Mike has survived the last two years by getting work outside of Lismore, "That is what has kept us alive," Mike said."Now, it's time to grow the business, so we've moved to the CBD. We want a presence here and thought, let's get back into this and get an office."Pre-flood, Mike employed ten (10) staff, and post-flood, Mike lost everyone."The two people that didn't lose their houses, that worked for my team, moved out of town, so it was a bit hard."The good news is that Mike wants to hire more staff again, if he can find the right people."Right now, we've got an advert for a Business Manager. I'd like a right-hand person who can shadow me and understand the business like I do. We've also got a roll-up at the moment for an entry-level front-of-house person that we call 'The Director of First Impressions'. Basically, when someone walks into the shop, they manage the impressions that they first have with our business or through our online media presence.""Then, our next strategic role is to hire a Solar Installer who works for us, but not to actually do installs but to manage our contractors. I think we've had a great deal of success over the years working with some really good contractors, and we've built some good relationships over the years. We want to maintain those relationships and continue to grow working with contractors. But, we do want someone who has all the tickets and licenses.""The next person on the agenda is a Sales Person. We really want someone that's passionate about being self-sufficient. It's not really about the solar batteries, but their whole lifestyle being sustainable.""That was one of the biggest reasons I moved to Lismore. I believed Lismore was one of those communities where everyone was into sustainability and wanting to do the right thing. That was one of the main reasons we picked to move here and bring our kids up here."If you are interested in applying for any of the jobs mentioned, email [email protected] you want to learn more about solar, check out Talking Lismore, our new podcast series. Mike talks about how to save money, what solar panels and inverters you should look at buying, how the big electricity suppliers work, what is the future of solar and are batteries worthwhile adding to your system. Click Podcasts to view the episodes and listen to the episodes.You will find The Off Grid Shop at 3/80 Conway Street, a few doors down from Ongmac. Mike is still waiting to finalise his signage, so look for the 'Solar and Battery Experts Inside' sign out the front or check out his website: https://www.theoffgridshop.com.au.

A police officer has been charged with alleged domestic violence offences.In July 2024, officers attached to Northern Region commands commenced an investigation into alleged domestic violence offences that occurred earlier this year.Following inquiries, a 40-year-old woman was issued a court attendance notice today (Wednesday, 7 August 2024) for eight counts of common assault (DV), two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm (DV) and destroy or damage property (DV).She is due to face Byron Bay Local Court on Tuesday, 8 October 2024.The officer’s employment status is suspended with pay.

Following its success in 2023, the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) Youth Internship Program is returning to Ballina and Casino to empower students to become community leaders.  The internship program invites 15 to 16 year-olds to deepen their understanding of natural disasters and emergency preparedness through hands on demonstrations with experienced NSW SES volunteers.  Once a week for 10 weeks, the students will learn new skills in communication, basic first aid, leadership, and flood and storm response.  Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib, said it was great to see this program inspiring future leaders.  “This internship program is a great example of innovative volunteering. It allows young people to learn new skills through practical experience,” Minister Dib said. “The internship program provides great insight into the benefits of volunteering with an emergency service”.NSW SES Acting Commissioner Debbie Platz APM said the program was an important initiative to help inspire the next generation of volunteers. "Young people are the future of our organisation and our communities. In this program, we provide them with opportunities to discover more about what we do, hopefully inspiring them to join our ranks," Acting Commissioner Platz said.  Commissioner Platz said the program, which was first trialled last year, demonstrated how keen young members of the community were to be mentored as the next cohort of leaders.  “Our volunteer SES mentors also had a great experience training and mentoring the interns,” she said. “I know from last year’s cohort, a quarter of the interns who completed the program went on to become volunteer members of the SES and have been responding to recent weather events.” Program support officer Nikki Ristoski said the program provides lots of transferable skills valuable skills and to work under pressure.  “It gives a sense of purpose and community spirit,” she said. We give students an insight into the various pathways within emergency services and have other agencies such as NSW Police, NSW Ambulance and Fire and Rescue NSW involved as well.” Students who reside in the areas offering the internship should express interest to their school career advisors. 

Frontline emergency staff are going the extra mile to save lives this winter, rolling up their sleeves to donate blood and plasma as part of the 2024 Emergency Services Blood Drive. The Lifeblood Emergency Services Blood Drive has been sparking friendly competition between emergency service teams since 2012, with almost 115,000 donations collected since it began. This year’s challenge has so far seen 2,606 donations of blood and plasma from NSW emergency service teams to provide life-saving treatment to people around the country, helping save up to 7,818 lives.In Lismore and the Northern Rivers, the Emergency Services Blood Drive Tally is 140 over the last eight (8) weeks led by the Rural Fire Service with 39 donations closely followed by members of Fire and Rescue and NSW Ambulance. The Emergency Services Blood Drive runs until 31 August and anyone can take part by picking an emergency services team to join when you make your booking.  To make a booking, visit lifeblood.com.au or call 13 14 95. Minister for Health Ryan Park said, “Our paramedics, firefighters and police serve and care for the community every single day and see firsthand our ongoing need for blood to save lives. “Blood donations help patients across the state in times of trauma, major surgery, cancer treatment and pregnancy. “One in three Australians will require blood or blood products in their lifetime but only one in 30 donate, making drives such as this to help boost supplies across the country even more important.” Lifeblood CEO, Stephen Cornelissen said, “Our emergency services personnel know all too well about our ongoing need for blood, being first on the scene at road accidents and other trauma-related incidents. “Their life-saving efforts don’t stop there. All throughout the year, and especially during the Emergency Services Blood Drive each winter, their generosity continues when they roll up their sleeves and donate their own blood that can be used for numerous life-threatening conditions, including cancer, trauma and during life-saving surgery. “With demand for blood, plasma and blood products increasing, Lifeblood is so grateful to all the teams who join this critical and generous blood donor community.”

Rebuilding NR is a pop-up organisation that has helped countless flood victims obtain necessary items and repair 80 of the most susceptible houses since 2022. Their work isn't done yet.This workforce combines the efforts of several charities and hundreds of volunteers coordinated by the tireless efforts of Natasha Shearer and Tracy Laing.“We have completed (rebuilt) 64 homes out of the original list (of 100) and started works on 16 more. Our list is of what we deemed the most vulnerable in the Northern Rivers from Grafton to Tweed Heads,” says Natasha.“Our current list is now at 272 houses needing some sort of help.”61 of the houses are in Lismore.Preparations are underway for a Tradie weekend, as a boost effort to reignite the cause to help fix up the remaining houses. Donations and helpers are being sought for late September or October.(Photo provided by Natasha Shearer)Natasha started her distribution work with a Facebook page and helped match resources to people.  “When the floods initially started I pretty much acted as a conduit to get goods and things to those who needed it. It might be furniture, or food, or may be stock for the pet store.“We did everything and anything.”The network and goods donated became more sizeable. Natasha distributed caravans, tents, furniture, cars as well as her Minions - those that helped accommodate what needed to be done. They started calling themselves Natasha’s Minions.“I was fortunate to meet up with Jordy, who was running the Woodburn Hub before it went to the NRRC. He let me use the space at the back as a storage depot.”Amar Singh from Turbans 4 Australia recognised the work that Natasha was doing and reached out to her to assist with their efforts. Now Natasha’s work fell under the umbrella of a charity. She continued that work for about a year.Natasha’s family from Lismore pitched in, and the Minion crew kept growing, “There were about two hundred people that were helping out.”(Some of the minions. Photo provided by Natasha Shearer)"Then, about 15 months ago, I had an idea. The government wasn't doing anything (in the way of fixing up houses), and I had the idea of rebuilding homes. I put a committee together, and we looked at the situation.”Natasha was well versed in who had suffered and where at this stage, and a list was made to assist the most vulnerable. The red tape and delays in government action had caused much stress amongst those who were affected. Natasha recognised the mental health issues that were becoming more chronic.“When we first started, no one knew who was getting buybacks, or who was getting retrofits, or a house lift. It was still up in the air. Mental health is a big thing, and unfortunately, people were getting desperate. I'd seen it on people’s faces - on the verge of suicide, and unfortunately, there were a few people lost along the way. So that's why I decided to take some kind of action.”To initiate this plan, Natasha reached out to organisations from Chinderah to Grafton to help people rebuild. This took place mid 2023, and this initial effort is when the 80 houses were assisted/rebuilt.“There's a couple of homes that were beyond anything we could do. They've now got a buyback. Some got a lift.” (The list of charities that Natasha works with grew rapidly when she reached out to coordinate a wider network)Natasha was still cognisant of the financial struggle experienced, even by those who got a lift or a buyback. Help is still available to these people, albeit on a smaller scale - supplying paint, for example.  “Some of them might need furniture because they're just getting a new place. So that's another way I can act as a conduit because now I've got connections with local hotels. When they refurbish I get all the unneeded hotel furniture.“We've had churches, and nunneries donate all the furniture as they all do upgrades.”Natasha speaks highly of the help that she was given to make all this happen and looks forward to the next phase.“This was all done with volunteers - not one of us got paid. The majority of the people that helped with this, were flood-affected themselves. “One of the main ladies that helped me, Tracy Laing, still doesn't even have a place - she's still rebuilding her whole place. She doesn't even have walls up yet.”Natasha is set to finish what she started. She is now looking for tradies or anyone who can hold a paintbrush or wield a tool or who has product that they can donate.“So far, we've already got $60,000 in donations since I announced this a week ago.”Here are the ways you can get involved:Join the Rebuilding NR 2022 Facebook page for updates on when and where the tradie weekend will happen.Register on messenger with Rebuilding NR and let Natasha know where you are and how you can help, or If you have an existing relationship with any of the charities mentioned above, contact them and let them know you want to be involved.If you have any products or tools that may be of assistance, a hub is being set up in Lismore. Contact Natasha at Rebuilding NR and arrange to drop them off.You can also make a donation hereNatasha is determined to get help to as many, if not all the grown list of 272 homes. She appreciates the efforts that so many have given.

An upper house inquiry into the impact of the regulatory framework for cannabis in New South Wales will be held in Goonellabah on Tuesday, August 20. Despite Premier Chris Minns stating he will not, “break an election promise,” to change the laws around cannabis decriminalisation, Jeremy Buckingham, MLC and chair of the enquiry, is hopeful that the hearing will find in favour and change the legislation. Mr Buckingham states “We are looking at the laws that have that currently, and may in the future, regulate cannabis in this state. Cannabis has been an illicit substance for 100 years in New South Wales.”314 submissions supporting a change in current legislation act as testimony in the hearing. (The members of the committee assessing cannabis reform) Mr Buckinghams says, “Those submissions are overwhelmingly in favour of some form of reform in this space, or in favour of legalisation. “There are a range of groups - trade unions, doctors, psychiatrists, the nurses and midwives association, plus Drug Law Reform experts, who are all overwhelmingly calling for the legalisation of cannabis in line with other jurisdictions.”The inquiry will look at how cannabis affects life now, and “its impact socio-economically, its impact on the criminal justice system and its impact on particular communities, like First Nations, LGBTIQ plus and regional communities.”It is important to Mr Buckingham that the hearing takes place in Lismore. “It's an area where statistics show people are more likely to come into contact with the criminal justice system because of their use of cannabis. Cannabis use is higher.”Mr Buckingham also refers to strong advocates in the region. “This issue has gone from nothing to real prominence, principally on the work of the people in the Northern Rivers. People like Michael Balderstone and the hemp embassy in Nimbin and David Heilpern (Dean of Law at SCU).Mr Heilpern has seen first-hand how damaging the criminal aspect of cannabis affects everyone’s daily lives. “We have very high numbers of people being dealt for possession of cannabis. There are more possession of drug charges in New South Wales than there are breaches of AVO’s. “If you decriminalise cannabis and take it out of the criminal justice system, the biggest win is that police can then focus on things that people actually care about, which are things like domestic violence and sexual assault of children.”Mr Buckingham has the same perspective, “Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug in Australia. 14% of Australians report using it. It's also the most expensive drug for us to police. It's costing us billions of dollars to deal with the courts and the criminal justice system in terms of incarceration. It's very expensive.”Both Mr Heipern and Mr Buckingham look at the situation in Australia and overseas, and countries such as large parts of the United States, Canada, and a lot of Europe, which has at least decriminalised cannabis.Speaking with Mr Heilpern in regards to medically prescribed cannabis and possession, he says, “That's the insanity of where we are. There's now a wide availability of cannabis by prescription.”This brings about multiple issues with driving with cannabis in your system, which is also a criminal offence.(A map done a couple of months ago to reflect the various cannabis legislation around the world. Image credit: Data Is Beautiful)Mr Heilpern sees the decriminalisation or cannabis as the last big “unnecessary issue” causing lag in the police system.  “When I first started in criminal practice (40 years ago), I represented people charged with homosexuality, that's now legal. Abortion, that's now legal. Book betting on football matches, blasphemy, and there's a whole range of prostitution that's now legal. “We've legalised all of these victimless crimes, except for possession of prohibited drugs. And it's absolutely ridiculous. “We used to have a whole squad called the Vice Squad, just tasked with policing prostitution, at least they're now able to do more useful things. Now we've got whole legions of police involved in the drug squad, and it's all completely unnecessary.”Michael Balderstone considers the government's acquiescence to these changes as a matter of semantics. “They've lost the war. They just haven't quite admitted it to themselves.”As an election promise, Premier Chris Minns has called for a drug summit that will run over four days in October and December later this year. Mr Buckingham says, “I hope that the inquiry and its findings and recommendations inform the drug summit.”The hearing will be held at Invercauld House, Goonellabah, on Tuesday, August 20th. Members of the public are welcome to attend and witness the proceedings.

Postal vote applications are now open for eligible voters who are unable to vote in person at the upcoming NSW local council elections.  Local council elections will be held in NSW on Saturday, 14 September 2024.  Acting NSW Electoral Commissioner Dr Matthew Phillips, encourages eligible postal voters to apply as early as possible for their postal voting pack.   “Applications opened Tuesday, 6 August, and we’ll start sending out postal voting packs from Monday, 19 August, after all candidates are confirmed and ballot papers can start to be printed.”  “The most efficient way to apply for a postal voting pack is online through the NSW Electoral Commission website. Applying through third parties can result in significant delays.” “Apply now on the Commission website to be first in line to receive your pack. Applications are open at opva.elections.nsw.gov.au.” “Our online portal is simple to use, and postal voting packs can be sent to your home address or any address you nominate within Australia or overseas. If you don’t have internet access, you can phone us,” he said.  Dr Phillips said people who can’t vote in person on election day can also get their vote in ahead of election day by voting at a pre-poll venue.   In addition to postal voting, eligible voters can vote in person one week before election day from Saturday, 7 September to Friday, 13 September (excluding Sunday, 8 September) at pre-poll venues.   “Information on pre-poll locations, accessibility and opening times are available on the NSW Electoral Commission website.” Dr Phillips said voters should start planning how they would vote now. “If you won’t be able to vote in person or will be away on election day, make sure you check your voting options on the website and get set to vote.” Further information about the elections is available at elections.nsw.gov.au General awareness animations covering voting options and how to fill out a postal vote are available on our YouTube channel.  Information in 26 languages about how, when and where to vote is available on our website. 

As part of a grass roots effort to prevent homelessness, real estate agents in Lismore attended a special breakfast event this morning during Homelessness Week.  Hosted and supported by community service organisations Social Futures, Northern Rivers Community Gateway and Northern Rivers Housing - the event explored practical tips that real estate agents, and tenants, can use to help prevent homelessness.  Embracing this year’s theme of “Homelessness Action Now”, agents walked away equipped with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced, and practical ways to make an impact.  Social Futures General Manager, Housing Homelessness and Employment, Martelle Geurts said local homelessness services are conscious of the emotional load Northern Rivers locals are carrying, as rising inflation and the cost-of-living crisis add mounting pressure on those not yet recovered from the pandemic and 2022 flood disaster.  "This year has been a particularly tough one for many with rising cost-of-living pressures on the back of flood recovery,” said Ms Geurts.  “We are grateful for ongoing support from the Diocese of Lismore, whose contributions provide critical relief for everyday people doing it tough. “The thought of tackling a complex, nationwide issue like homelessness can be daunting to those already feeling exhausted and overwhelmed from everything they have been through.  “But by focusing on small, preventative actions, individuals really can make a big difference.”  In the 12 months to June this year, Social Futures’ combined Specialist Homelessness Services programs supported a total of 2,143 people. People experiencing homelessness represented just over 56% of this figure, with the remaining 888 people receiving support while at risk of homelessness.  The Social Futures Connecting Home team will also visit real estate agent offices throughout Lismore, Casino and Kyogle, delivering resources that outline the types of help available for both agents and tenants. Information is available by calling Social Futures on 1800 719 625.  Agents will receive contact details and information about support services that they can refer their tenants to to help them sustain their tenancies.  The team also have resources for tenants with tips for maintaining tenancy, information about the range of financial support available, and where to go for help.  Ms Geurts says the most important message is to seek help early when life hits the skids – don’t wait for problems to compound.   “We are urging agents to encourage tenants who may be struggling financially, emotionally or physically to seek support early. The sooner someone reaches out to us, the sooner plans can be developed to help get them back on track,” said Ms Geurts.  “By connecting people to the right support at the right time, we can help stabilise their life. It reduces the risk of them becoming homeless, and can have positive, life-changing consequences immediately and well into the future."  Reducing homelessness and building stronger communities are goals shared between government, private, and community services sectors. Increased investment and commitment at all levels of government is needed to ensure people are securely housed.   Data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows that during 2022-23, 273,600 people across Australia were helped by homelessness services but a further 108,000 people were unable to be assisted due to shortages of staff, accommodation, or otherservices.  It also indicates that on any given day across NSW in 2023, 334 homelessness services agencies were supporting more than 19,000 clients. Approximately 3,800 of these clients were young people presenting alone.  Connecting Home is a government funded and voluntary service delivered by Social Futures and provided to young people (16-25), adults (of any age), and families. The program provides support across the entire Northern Rivers regions (with offices in Grafton, Lismore and Tweed Heads). For assistance call 1800 719 625, 9am - 4:30pm, Monday-Friday.  Those experiencing domestic and family violence can call specialist homelessness service, Momentum Collective on 24/7 Help Line 1800 387 867 for after-hours crisis support or accommodation. Momentum Collective also provide specialist support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples at risk of or experiencing homelessness.  The NSW Government operates a crisis service for those needing urgent temporary accommodation, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, phone Link2Home on 1800 152 152. 

Spring is just over three weeks away, which means Lismore events start up again as we head towards Christmas. The 2024 Nimbin Show, Lismore Cup and the Lismore Show are all staples of the event calendar.Since the end of last year's show, the Elders Lismore Show team has been planning this year’s three-day extravaganza, which will be held October 17-19 at the Lismore Showground. President John Gibson says that this year’s Show will feature several exciting new additions to its line-up of activities and entertainment. “Building on last year’s successful Community Connection Zone, we’re building on this format and creating several more dedicated zones,” he said. “This reflects our commitment to evolving and expanding the Show’s offerings, ensuring that there is something for everyone.” One of the standout new attractions will be a PopZone, a pavilion dedicated to the vibrant world of pop culture, a first for Lismore making its debut at the Show. One of the Show’s coordinators, Marny Bonner, said that the PopZone will bring together an eclectic mix of pop art, fandom merchandise, collectibles, a zine scene, author’s hub, and cosplay competitions, all under one roof. The highlight of PopZone will be the Cosplay Stage, where the regional cosplay community will showcase their creativity. “Cosplay is the art of costume play, where participants create and wear costumes to represent specific characters,” Marny explained. “Cosplay has grown rapidly in popularity over the past decade, providing a platform for self-expression, creativity, and community. This sense of belonging and creativity is what makes pop culture events so special.” The Elders Lismore Show promises an unforgettable experience, with PopZone set to captivate and inspire a whole new audience. Mark your calendars for October 17-19. 

Most people who fly out of the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport do not know that it is termed 'uncontrolled airspace', where pilots self-separate from other aircraft using information provided by Airservices Australia.Following a 2022 Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Review of the Ballina Byron Airport, it was decided that air traffic controllers would manage the airport flight paths and air traffic from 2025. This was done to safely accommodate the growth of air traffic in the region.Following the review, both CASA and Airservices have taken steps to enact some of the recommendations to improve safety. These include: • separation of traffic frequencies (used for pilot communication to ensure aircraft are kept separated in the skies) between Ballina and surrounding airports, including Lismore, Casino and Evans Head • installation of an Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) ground station, an advanced airspace surveillance system that enables precise aircraft tracking for pilots and air traffic controllers • introduction of a Surveillance Flight Information Service, a traffic information service that supports pilot self-separation from other aircraft.The move to air traffic controllers means new flight paths will be used in the Northern Rivers. Before they can finalised, Airservices Australia will be holding in-person community engagement sessions at various venues this week:Lennox Head: Tonight (Tuesday, August 6) at the Lennox Head Community Hall, 7 Daybreak Way between 4pm and 7pm.Woodburn: Wednesday, August 7 at the Woodburn Memorial Hall, 127 River Street between 4pm and 7pm.Goonellabah: Thursday, August 8 at the Goonellabah Community Centre, 27 Oliver Avenue between 4pm and 7pmAlstonville: Friday August 9 at the Alstonville Anglicans Parish Ministry Centre Hall, 6-8 The Avenue between 1pm and 4pm.Coraki: Saturday, August 10 at the Coraki Youth Hall, 77 Bridge Street between 9am and 12midday.Some residents may notice changes to flight paths in their local area once the changes are implemented, so it is worth visiting a session to see if it will affect your house and street.To register for a session, click here. You can also view the preliminary flight path design and subscribe to email updates or watch the video below.Airservices Australia is a Federal Government-owned organisation responsible for the safe and efficient management of 11% of the world’s airspace and the provision of aviation rescue fire fighting services at Australia’s busiest airports.

Last Friday morning, the Lismore App profiled independent Mayoral and Councillor candidate John Jenkins. At the end of that story, we asked the question when the Steve Krieg ticket will reveal the complete list of candidates for the upcoming September 14 Local Council Elections.With Steve Krieg, Jeri Hall, Andrew Gordon, Andrew Bing and Electra Jensen confirmed to run again, the Lismore App can confirm that former three-term councillor Gianpiero Battista will stand for council again and will be number six (6) on the Krieg ticket.When asked why he was running again, Gianpiero replied, "Because I was asked by Steve to run on his ticket. And, when he said to me that I was running on position number six, which I'm happy with, I said yes.""If I get elected in that position, that means that I'm in a group that has got a majority. My biggest frustration in the last three terms I did was that often I wasn't able to do the things that I wanted to do. Or, whenever I put an idea up, it wasn't appreciated or supported.""I didn't have the numbers pretty much. Especially in the last term, it was very frustrating. That's why I decided to resign.""I believe Steve's got a good team now and has the experience of one term. With three terms under my belt, I think I can bring some extra experience to everybody. And if we can get all six of us in, and more, we can then do something really good for Lismore."I believe Lismore needs a strong team to enter the next phase of the reconstruction and revitalisation. We don't need a fragmented council at this stage in the life of the city. It would be really bad; we will basically have another four years of nothing."What would you like to see achieved in the next four years if you are voted in again?"Well, I would like to see a flourishing Lismore. You know, Lismore deserves to be the flourishing capital of the Northern Rivers like it used to be. Even more."My first impression when I came here from Italy in 1994, was what a beautiful place. It reminds me of Tuscany. But, there seems to be this, I don't know, this feeling of negativity over the city, and I think we are at a crossroad now. Hopefully, the new flood study will create an opportunity to eliminate the problem of the floods. At that point, if they do that, and if we are able to convince the government that it needs to be done, then there's no reason why Lismore couldn't be the biggest city sitting in the Northern Rivers with more people, more businesses and better services."We've already got the hospital. We don't want to lose any of the services we already have. We have already lost a few services, but we need to get them back and multiply them. So, my job would probably be to make sure that we lobby the government at all levels to make sure that we return to be the capital of the Northern Rivers."What is the biggest threat we are facing as a city?"A fragmented leadership. It's all about leadership. If you have strong leadership at the right time in history, you can get things done. The worst thing that could happen in this election would be to have a fragmented, divisive, negative and combative council.""We've seen what happens when you have that, and I experienced that in my last term, and it was a disaster. It was not good for anyone. It's not good for the city, it's not good for the council, it's not good for the staff and it's not good for anyone that is looking to move here. They see what's happening and they basically don't want to come here.""That would be the worst thing that could happen at the next election. The second one would be, if we don't do anything about the flood. We need to resolve this issue once and for all, or at least mitigate as much as possible because we can't live with the sword of Damocles hanging over our heads. Everybody seems to be freaked out about that report.""If you're a government, New South Wales or the federal government, it would be very difficult for them and for the the the bureaucrats in Canberra and Sydney too to help someone that's divisive. I've noticed that when I was previously a councillor, whenever we were divided on an issue, no one wanted to support us. Because if you support something that is 50/50, that means that the government is going to support half of the population. No, they want somebody that's united 100% behind the idea, whatever that idea is. If we're all united, 100%, they will come on board and help us."Let's work together and try to be united for Lismore. That has always been my mantra when I ran, 'For the Love of Lismore', that was my motto."While the Krieg ticket has six candidates now, a check on the NSW Electoral Commission's website of Registers of Candidates shows some new names:Tara ColesMitchell DowseChristopher KingNardia Pidcock andShaen Springall.Nardia Pidcock was on the Krieg ticket in 2021, Tara Coles is a registered National Party Member, and Shaen Springall is believed to be on the Big Rob ticket.No doubt there is more to come during the week.UPDATE:Big Rob has announced his ticket, in order:Big Rob Shaen SpringallLuke TanttariChristopher KnightStella Coleman

Local identity Neil Marks has been Chasing The Dog for nine (9) days today. For those who haven't read about Neil's around Australia trip, he is riding his trusty Triumph about 16,000 km around our big island to raise awareness of mental health and to understand his own journey of depression.Neil rode out of the Lismore Showground gates on Saturday, July 27, with wellwishers giving him a guard of honour.Neil is enjoying a few rest days in Darwin before continuing his journey across the Northern Territory and into the north of Western Australia on his way to Perth.That means Neil has covered 4,862.5 km in eight days, so nearly one-third of the trip in a week. He has ridden from Lismore to Brisbane to Marlborough to Townsville to Cairns, then had a little stop in Ravenshoe. Then moved on to Karumba, north of Normanton, to Gregory, to Camooweal.For most of the trip Neil is sleeping in a one-person swag for most of his journey, apart from one night in a room above the Camooweal pub."It's in Queensland but about 10km from the Northern Territory border," Neil relayed. On a busy day, There are about 122 people in the town, and I had a room on the back verandah on a Friday night. It was a single room with a small TV and a shared bathroom. It was comfortable, but I could have done without the drunks."Into the NT, Neil rode along the Barkly Highway until you hit the Stuart Highway north of Tennant Creek, Katherine and finally Darwin for the well-earned rest days.What has Neil Mark's learned about himself in eight days of travel?"I can ride a motorbike still", he laughed, "I've done more kilometres in a week than I have done in probably about three years. Look, it's been an interesting exercise as far as the head goes because you're in the helmet. You've got plenty of time to think, and I haven't listened to any music or podcasts because, basically, I couldn't hear them anyway. The speakers in my helmet are not that good at the moment, and you get a lot of wind going through, so you really can't hear anything. There have been a lot of conversations in my head."You just think interesting things and wonder why you think certain ways and what you've lost that you had before. Lots of posing those kinds of big-world questions. Sometimes, you just go shut up, don't be stupid and move on. I find I spend a lot of time practising for arguments that never happen. And I put that down to, I guess, as the doctor said when they first diagnosed this, you don't remember stuff because you've been in survival mode. You feel like you've been attacked all the time, so you're in survival mode, and you're not present in conversations. You can remember facts, figures and those sorts of things, but you're not in the present. I have a feeling that's playing out. You know, if someone said this to me, I'm going to say blah. That kind of stupid conversation, which is emotionally draining and completely off the plot."I spend a lot of time doing that, and I keep telling myself, don't, think about other things. It's trying to fight back the negativity, I guess."As Neil fights the constant negative thoughts, he is trying to find the positive."It's easy for the world to criticise somebody, as opposed to saying, Hey, that's good, that's a positive thing. People will find fault in something, and I guess I've just got to that point where it bothers me, that really bugs me. Why do people think like that? Why do I react to people who think like that? I guess I'm trying to find that balance in things."The last couple of days on the bike have been absolutely fantastic. It's like a switch has flicked somewhere. I'm a lot more relaxed, and I'm just sort of going with the flow. I'm not in a hurry. I've gotten to Darwin in fairly quick time, but I don't feel as if I'm in a hurry now.Neil described the first five or six days as listening to people's negativity about why he was riding on his own around Australia and why he is riding long stretches and not stopping more."It's that kind of negativity that really pisses me off. And, I take that on. So, here I am out here riding, thinking I've got to catch that car in front, and then I'll pass them. You're setting yourself targets of where to be and what to do, all those sorts of things not to satisfy yourself but it's to prove to them that you can do this.""Why has my life turned out this way? I don't have answers, but I'm starting to get a clearer picture of what affects me and what triggers me."As you would expect, Neil has met some interesting people on his travels so far."I met a couple of great guys up in Karumba. One of them was a school teacher. He spent a lot of time working in remote areas of the Kimberleys with the Aboriginal communities. His story was he grew up in Sydney in the '80s. He came out of a pub and was beaten almost to death, so he has a brain injury."He spent a lot of time in hospital, a lot of time in therapy and fully understood having to set challenges with yourself and to keep challenging yourself to get better. He wasn't in a good way. He got better, went through teacher's college or university and has now moved out of Sydney and has spent the last 25 to 30 years wandering around the Kimberleys."As the Lismore App published earlier today, the inaugural Men’s Mental Health Forum started today. Its aim is to raise awareness of men's mental health, reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, and work to lower men's suicide rates.Neil Marks is finding an alternative way to understand and improve his own mental health, as well as share experiences with others as he Chases The Dog.

The Inaugural Men's Mental Health Forum begins today as the Minns Labor Government tries to destigmatise conversations about mental health, particularly for men.The landmark Forum, hosted at New South Wales Parliament, will bring together mental health advocates, experts and those with a lived experience of mental illness, with the aim of raising awareness of men’s mental health, reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, and working towards lowering men’s suicide rates.New South Wales accounts for the most male deaths by suicide in Australia. In 2023 alone, there were 934 suspected deaths by suicide in New South Wales, with men accounting for 78 per cent of these tragedies.Led by Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson and in partnership with with the Movember Institute of Men’s Health, the event will include high-profile advocates for men’s mental health, Rugby League legend Greg Inglis and former Australian cricketer and MAFS star, Cam Merchant.The event will be facilitated by Dr Zac Seidler, Movember Men's Health Research.The Forum will:facilitate constructive discussions on men’s mental health and suicide prevention,enable the sharing of knowledge, ideas, and strategies to address men’s suicide and mental health,help guide the direction of future suicide prevention initiatives targeting men, andencourage networking and collaboration between men’s mental health and suicide prevention stakeholders.This event follows the announcement that the NSW Government is working to deliver landmark whole of government suicide prevention legislation within this term of Parliament, with the process of consultation with people with lived and living experiences of suicidal distress beginning in July.If you, or someone you know, is in a life-threatening situation please seek help immediately by calling Triple Zero (000). For those contemplating suicide or experiencing severe distress, the following helplines are available 24/7:Lifeline: 13 11 1413 YARN: 13 92 76Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467Additionally, the NSW Mental Health Line (1800 011 511) offers round-the-clock advice on accessing local specialist mental health services. The NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511 is a 24/7 service that can advise you on appropriate local specialist mental health services for you or a loved one.Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said, “Ensuring people who are experiencing mental health distress have access to services when they need them most is a priority for the NSW Government. Despite high levels of need for men, we know it can be especially difficult for them to ask for help when they need it.“Today, we are taking an important step along the journey to addressing male suicide and mental ill health and this groundbreaking event will help guide our work.“It is vital that we continue to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and ensure that every man in NSW knows that help is available, and that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Together, we can make a meaningful difference and save lives.”Professor Simon Rice, Global Director of the Movember Men’s Health Institute said, “Addressing men’s health is critically important because suicide remains the leading cause of death among Australian men aged 15-44 years, and the third leading cause of premature death among Australian men of any age.“The Movember Institute of Men’s Health is dedicated to bridging the gap between the health sector and government, advocating for tailored support for men and ensuring that their needs are met. Contrary to the misconception that men are reluctant to seek help, our latest Real Face of Men’s Health Report reveals that many do seek care but often fall through the cracks.“Over 50 per cent of Australian men who die by suicide each year had prior contact with a mental health provider, highlighting a significant gap in targeted support.“Programs like Men in Mind are crucial—they offer a world-first approach to training therapists, equipping them with the skills to engage and respond to men’s unique needs effectively. By advancing these initiatives, we are working to ensure that men receive the comprehensive support they need, when they need it.”Greg Inglis said, "As someone who has faced my own battles with mental health, I know firsthand the importance of having open, honest conversations about our struggles.“This Forum is a crucial step in breaking down the barriers that prevent men from seeking the help they need.“I hope from today we can change the narrative around men’s mental health and ensure that no one has to suffer in silence.”

Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin has announced that the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has awarded Lismore City Council a grant of $928,350. This is a new grant to support the ongoing 2022 flood clean-up and recovery work. “Natural disaster clean-up and recovery is a long-term process. Those with experience of disaster recovery will know that bulky and contaminated waste often remains for some time after the initial clean-up. “Often, this waste isn’t revealed until way down the recovery track, so this money is very timely. “The council has been awarded the grant under Round 2 of the EPA’s Illegal Dumping and Flood Waste Recovery Program, which is designed to help public authorities resolve flood waste issues remaining after the initial clean-up phase, including illegally dumped flood waste and bulky flood waste. “Lismore City Council will use the grant money to safely remove and dispose of residual fragments of flood waste containing asbestos. The clean-up works will be project managed by the council using specially trained local contractors and are expected to be completed in 2025. “Significant amounts of hazardous debris were generated by severe flooding events that inundated the Northern Rivers in the early months of 2022. “The EPA has led several clean-up and recovery programs in the region to ensure waste left behind following the floods is removed safely and efficiently.  Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said, “I would like to thank the EPA and State Government for this grant. “As everyone knows the 2022 natural disaster did a great deal of damage to the natural environment as well as the built environment. “The grant is specifically intended to cover the removal of flood generated waste containing asbestos that has been found on public land in the Lismore LGA which will make a safer place to live, work and raise a family.”A Lismore City Council project team is working on the exact project scope with the goal of removing contaminated waste at disposal sites that were erected during the flood waste removal program. More details will be revealed once this scope of work is completed.

There was an air of excitement last Friday when Lismore South Public School staff and students had their first look at designs for their new school, along with the school’s preschool, Ngulliboo Jarjums Preschool.Both schools were extensively damaged during the devastating February 202 floods.Gaye Titcume is the relief Assistant Principal of Lismore South Public School (PS). Gaye described the events leading up to and including 28 February 2022."The morning before the night of the flood, we were lifting the preschool, which is a pretty standard thing to do here when there's a flood coming. So, in the building behind you, all the staff members came in, and the contents of that building were taken upstairs to the library. That's what normally happens. However, on that night, that was also where all the little boats were bringing people to, because that was the only area that was out of the water."It was (the water) 14 metres up the side of the building. So, this building here, those first lot of windows were totally underwater, and it was up to where those posters are. The staircase over here, the boats were pulling in over the top of that and there are about two or three steps that weren't in water at the top of that staircase."Everything else was underwater. Everything else was ruined. All the classrooms, all the contents of everything in the classrooms was totally stripped back and nothing was able to be saved.Emergency schooling for the students was set up in Goonellabah before a temporary school was built using demountables across the road from the Wilson Street site.Gaye began her time at Lismore South PS five weeks before the flood happened. She gave an insight into what the last two and half years have been like for its students."Our students were going through things that people should never go through. Three-quarters of the children lost their homes, and all of them lost their school, so it was a massive disaster. The students, remarkably, were so resilient."Obviously, in the first stages, we were just navigating looking after their well-being, but we've been able to build the stamina back to learning and certainly, once we got back here on our own grounds in our little demountable home, we've been able to get back on with the core business, which is learning and the children."I think it's really changed their outlook. They're very grateful children. So even though some of these children have had nothing, it's actually quite a beautiful story because I think the students have realised that they're just things. I think we've become a more close-knit school. I think the teachers and students and community, we all just kind of cuddled each other through that and now we're on the other side of it. We get to be part of getting excited about this new rebuild."Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin joined three student leaders (Beau, Isabell and Ellie), Gaye Titcume, Nickie Bartlett (Director of Educational Leadership for the Lismore Network of Schools) and Samantha Sainsbury from the P&C to take a first look at the school’s designs.The new school will include 13 modern classrooms, a library, a multi-purpose hall, undercover learning and play areas, a games court, and a preschool.The core school facilities will all be located on the first floor, with a flood-resilient design, 4 metres above natural ground – which is 500 millimetres higher than the 2022 flood level – and supported by engineered flood-resilient structures. The new facilities will be accessed via lifts, ramps and stairs, and connected by an undercover walkway.(The Kyogle Street entrance of Lismore South PS)The raised buildings will minimise disruption from any future flood events, so students can return to face-to-face learning at their school much sooner. They will also provide extensive undercover outdoor teaching and play areas for Lismore South students and staff.The primary school and preschool will share an entrance, and the preschool will have its own first-floor play area and toilets off the main classrooms, as well as toilets and a play area on the ground floor.Lismore South Public School P&Cs Samantha Sainsbury said there is a sense of excitement about the new plans and the fact it is being built on the same site."Everyone's pretty excited that it's going to be rebuilt on the original site. I know the kids are really excited. They've actually mentioned this morning, how they have memories walking across to the old site. There's so many memories here. Some of the students parents went to this school, so I think it's really special and really important that it gets rebuilt on this site."School Captain Beau Carey and Vice Captains Isabell Lanna and Ellie Martin won't step inside the new building as students but were still thrilled to see the plans and have memories from two and a half year's ago.Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin was as excited as the students and staff because she did her practical teaching at Lismore South PS when she was studying to be a primary school teacher."I'm just delighted. I think you can see I'm really happy to be here. This is a good news story. And it's good for our community. It's good for our rebuild, and it's good for our future. And it's good for our future students who will come here."I asked them (the students) if they'd been consulted, and they had been, so they've actually had input into the design. And I think that's wonderful that the school community, the students and any future students and families have all had that input.Nickie Bartlett is the Director of Educational Leadership for the Lismore Network of Schools. Nicki was the person to explain the technical aspects of the build, such as the preschool being on the same level as the primary school classrooms."We have support unit classrooms, we have 12 general learning spaces as part of the school and also specific landscape designs that, very importantly, include the culture of Widjabul Wia-bal, which is an important part of the new design of the school."I think being able to build back here was a really important part of the community consultation process. And I'm just really delighted that we're able to build such an important piece of infrastructure for the Lismore South community.""The flooding events of 2022 had such an impact on the community and for them to be able to be part of any new build is a very important part of the recovery process. And we build schools for communities. So, it's really important that we listen to any feedback that's given and that we are very responsive to that feedback."It's been a long process and a long consultation process, but certainly, we want to get it right. We want to get it right for the students, we want to get it right for the staff, and we want to get it right for the community because what we're building here will be part of education in the Lismore community and in the South Lismore community for generations to come."In terms of a visual representation of the new building height, Nickie explained the first floor would be approximately half a metre higher than the old library in the picture. Nickie also said that it was 0.5 of a metre above the 2022 flood level.(Lismore South students Beau (School Captain), Isabell and Ellie (School Vice Captains), Samatha Sainsbury P&C, Gaye Titcume Relief Assistant Principle and Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin in front of the soon-to-be demolished school library)There is a silver lining in the post-flood rebuild, and that lies in the fact that every building on the site will be demolished, so every part of the rebuild will be new.When the school was built in 1978, it has had additions or extensions over the years, so everything is a bit ad-hoc. Starting from scratch will see a cohesive design maximising the space for learning on the first floor and the play areas on the ground.Media had a chance to view a few of the concept designs when they were revealed. The full set of Lismore South PS masterplan and concept designs will be on display for parents, students, staff and interested community members this Wednesday, August 7 at the current Lismore South Public School COLA site on Wilson Street, South Lismore during an information session between 2:30pm and 5:30pm.As part of the planning process, the Department is preparing a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) to identify any potential impacts the rebuilding of Lismore South Public School may have on the local community. A planning application will be submitted once all the information required by the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure has been completed, including the SIA.The question that most people never want to answer relates to time-frames."That's a good question. We will obviously need to go through the planning approval process and the construction. We're hoping that will take sort of 18 months to two years. We're very much hoping to be completed by 2027, Nickie Bartlett said.While it was acknowledged that Lismore South PS has lost student enrollments because of the flood's impact, Nickie did say, "We were building the school back for the enrollments that were pre-flood."It is very early days, but the new Lismore South PS concept designs and masterplan is another example that Lismore will build back better. It will just take time.

A man has died following a house fire at Terania Creek last night.Emergency services were called to the home on Wallace Road, Terania Creek about 8.45pm yesterday (Saturday 3 August 2024), and found the building well-alight.Officers from NSW Rural Fire Service extinguished the fire.During a sweep of the building, officers located the body of a man, believed to be aged in his 70s. He is yet to be formally identified.A crime scene was established by officers from Richmond Police District, which will be examined by specialist police.The cause and origin of the fire remains unknown.Police will prepare a report for the information of the Coroner.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Travis Bazzana has become the first Australian to be a Number 1 Draft Pick in the United States Major League Baseball (MLB) with the Cleveland Guardians.With a USD$8.95 million signing bonus, he has become one of the highest-paid athletes in Australia.Travis’s parents, Jenny and Gary Bazzana, grew up in Lismore and couldn’t be more proud of his achievement, but it isn’t entirely surprising. “It was amazing, quite surreal because it was such a big life- changing announcement. It was just satisfying to see him on the path that he wants to be on.”(Taken moments before the announcement was made, Jenny, Travis and Gary were together with him in the US. Image Credit Gary Bazzana)“It's something that he's been working desperately towards - being as good as he could be at the game. From the age of primary school, he dreamed about playing in the major leagues or being selected as a professional. So he's been working towards something like this for probably a decade.”Baseball is in the family. Gary played Junior baseball in Lismore and went to school at Richmond River High School after primary school at Nimbin Central.” Jenny went to Kadina High School.Gary says, “I have fond memories of playing in Lismore, and I’ve had the opportunity to take some kid's teams back there to play at tournaments, such as the Timberjacks Tournament.”(Travis (9) representing Ryde at the 2015 national little league championships at Albert Park. Image credit: Gary Bazzana)“Last weekend, Travis played his first professional game in the minor leagues. It probably wasn't his ideal start. He was not having a fantastic day by his standards.” Although it doesn’t seem he is disappointing the fans and headlines are crediting him with what he achieves. “He's had a really good ability to bounce back from a rough day,’ Gary says, and he is getting a lot of in game practise, “in the professional leagues, they play six days a week.”Travis hit his first home run in MLB this week on Wednesday. “Australian slugger Travis Bazzana hit a grand slam home run on Thursday, marking a special home debut for the Lake County Captains.” This was his third game since signing.(Travis Bazzana)“He's been in America for three years,” Gary reported. Gary and Jenny visited him to see him play and when the announcement was made about which teams were selected. "We also had a chance to go with him when he signed officially with the Cleveland guardians team and spent some induction time there.”To provide a bit of background, Travis is playing in the High A’s league. He will go up or down in the league progression, depending on how he plays. A bit of trivia, only three No. 1 drafts did not make it to play with the big guns in a Major League team. The odds are that he will be there.Eric Balnar from Baseball Australia says, “Travis will be one of the highest-paid Australian sportspeople for 2024. If he makes the MLB, his contract could be worth millions. The minimum MLB salary is USD $740,000. The average is USD$4.5 million per year.”How it works:There are nine starting spots in the line-up on an MLB team. You try to work your way up the levels to secure that spot. 1. MLB – The best in the world. You’ll see this on TV.2. AAA (or “Triple A”) – The level below the Major Leagues. Think of this as your AFL reserves. These players are probably good enough to be in the MLB and many have, but are not quite consistent enough to hold a regular spot.3. AA (or Double A) – Often the league reserved for an organisations best prospects. You see a lot of players make the jump from Double-A to the MLB because they are playing against the best of the best young prospects at this level.4. High-A – The league where the best young players, right below Double-A, go. This is where Travis is. He will play as many games as he needs hhere. When he puts up good enough numbers, he will play Double-A. When he plays well enough at Double-A, then they will call him up.5. Low-A – An introductory to travelling professional baseball for many new professionals.6. Rookie Ball – Basically you stay at a complex and work out and train, but don’t play travel ball games.Fingers crossed, it won't be long until we see Travis playing in the MLB.