This is the first long weekend since the King's birthday in early June. If you are taking to the roads this long weekend, you can expect to see police out in force in New South Wales to ensure the safety of all road users.Operation Labour Day 2025 started at 12.01am this morning (Friday, 3 October 2025) and concludes at 11.59pm on Monday, 6 October 2025.Officers will be targeting drink and drug driving, fatigue, mobile phone use, speeding and seat belt and helmet offences, with double demerits in place for the duration of the operation.Operation Labour Day will be led by officers from Traffic and Highway Patrol Command with the assistance of general duties and specialist police from all police commands and districts across the state.Since Wednesday, 1 January 2025, 271 people have died in crashes on NSW roads – 192 of those in regional areas.Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley, has urged drivers to take extra care on the roads this long weekend as the state heads into one of the most anticipated times of the year.“As we welcome in one of the best times of the year, we're pleading with drivers to be careful on the roads,” Minister Catley said.“No one can afford the price of a split-second decision gone wrong. It could mean years behind bars, the loss of a loved one or losing your own life. It's simply not worth it.“Make the right decision, one that gets you and your family to and from your destination safely, and you’ll make it a weekend to remember for all the right reasons.“While many of us spend the long weekend with our families, police officers are on the roads pulling over dangerous drivers, responding to crashes and delivering heartbreaking news. Their work saves lives and we thank them.”Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Driver APM, said the aim this weekend is to ensure all road users get to their destinations safely.“New South Wales Police Force is committed to ensuring our roads are safe, and we need everyone to do their part,” Assistant Commissioner Driver said.“You can expect to see officers anywhere, anytime on the road to deter any dangerous behaviour that impacts the safety of road users.“This means not driving while you are tired, taking breaks on long trips, driving to the conditions and not getting behind the wheel if you have been drinking alcohol, have taken illicit drugs or are impaired in any way.“All road users need to be constantly aware of the ever-changing circumstances they find themselves in.“Being distracted includes simply not concentrating on what you are doing, whether it be driving, riding or crossing the road.“When it comes down to it, we are responsible for our behaviour behind the wheel, and we urge all road users to do the right thing – it could save your life.”Transport for NSW Executive Director of Transport Safety, Chadi Chalhoub said everyone on the road has a responsibility to obey the rules and make safe decisions to ensure everyone has a safe long weekend.“Every decision you make behind the wheel can be the difference between someone reaching their destination safely or tragically never returning home, and no one should lose a loved one because someone didn’t follow the road rules,” Mr Chalhoub said.“There are simple things everyone can do to help make our roads safer. That includes staying under the speed limit and driving to the conditions, wearing a seatbelt, never driving when tired, not using a mobile phone while driving, having a Plan B before drinking and never, ever driving if affected by drugs or alcohol.“Fans attending the NRL Grand Final on Sunday are encouraged to take public transport as travel is included with match tickets. However, if you must drive, you must pre-book parking before and are reminded to allow extra travel time, be patient and drive safely as the roads are expected to be busy.”Plan your trip by downloading the Live Traffic NSW app, visiting livetraffic.com, calling 132 701, or using the TfNSW journey planning tool myjourneynsw.info.Members of the public are urged to report motorists engaged in dangerous driving to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

An Investigation is underway following the two-car accident on the M1 earlier this afternoon, where a man has died.About 2.35pm (Thursday, 2 October 2025), emergency services were called to the M1 southbound at Bangalow following reports of a two-vehicle crash.Officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District attended and were told two vehicles – an SUV and a four-wheel-drive – had collided.The driver of one of the vehicles died at the scene and has yet to be formally identified.The driver of the other vehicle, a 44-year-old man, was taken to Lismore Base Hospital for the treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.A crime scene has been established, and inquiries into the incident are underway by the Crash Investigation Unit.As inquiries continue, anyone with information or dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.Motorists are urged to avoid the area and follow the directions of police and traffic control southbound on the M1.Reduce your speed, prepare to merge, expect delays. Traffic is expected to remain heavy for several hours.For live traffic updates, visit https://www.livetraffic.com/incident-details/251367.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

UPDATE 6:25PMIncident has ended, and traffic is flowing again. You may experience delays.ORIGINAL STORYA two-car accident on the Pacific Motorway has closed traffic heading in a southbound direction between Ewingsdale Road and Tamarind Drive.The accident happened around 2:45pm.Emergency services, Transport for NSW and tow trucks are in attendance.Southbound motorists, prior to the crash site, are forming a single lane and using the slow shoulder to pass.Ongoing police investigations are expected to take some time.Diversions:All southbound vehicles: Ewingsdale Rd, Hinterland Way, and return to the motorway at Tintenbar.Unless specified otherwise, operators of Class 1,2 & 3 vehicles travelling under a Notice must consult their relevant enforceable network map to confirm a suitable approved alternative route.Operators of Class 1, 2 & 3 vehicles travelling under a Permit must not travel off the approved route listed in the permit unless an updated permit is obtained from the NHVR

The 2022 big flood caused significant structural damage to the majority of Lismore's remote road network. You may remember the photos from Tuntable Creek Road, where the road was completely washed away.The higher traffic roads, such as Tuntable Creek Road and Nimbin Road, were given preference by Lismore City Council to keep the Lismore LGA road network open. The engineering and structural solutions to stabilise the ground on which to rebuild a road took some time in the planning stages before construction could begin.Yesterday, Lismore City Council revealed that the first five roads to be restored under its Landslip Restoration Package have now commenced. Council is embarking on a multi-year process to reconnect communities and villages impacted by the 2022 natural disasters. These initial priority sites are:  Stony Chute Road, Stony Chute (near Zouch Road) Cawongla Road, Larnook (near Martin Road) Oakey Creek Road, Georgica (near McLennan Road) Terania Creek Road, Terania Creek (near Lawler Road) Wyrallah Road / Emily Street, Wyrallah (near Bridge Street)  Up to 60 damages will be repaired through to late 2027 under the package, which is jointly funded by the Commonwealth and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.   CMC Hull JV – a joint venture between CMC Group and JF Hull Holdings – has been selected as the construction contractor to deliver works on Council’s behalf. To support the effort, CMC Hull JV has established a site office and storage yard on Blue Knob Road in Blue Knob, north of Nimbin.   Motorists may notice increased heavy vehicle movement, noise and dust as work is undertaken, and are asked to please observe traffic controls, including ‘stop-go’ directions from ground personnel and all traffic lights in operation.    Forward schedules for landslip restoration works are now available via Lismore City Council’s new Project Pipeline, www.lismore.nsw.gov.au/Building-and-planning/Flood-Restoration-Portfolio/FR-Landslip-Restoration-Package.   Lismore City Council thanks residents and visitors for their support as it works to rebuild and reconnect our roads and communities as soon as possible.

Rous Road in Goonellabah, opposite the Lismore GP Super Clinic, could be the location of a new 320 m2 food pantry on a 4,792 m2 block of land if Lismore City Council approves a new development application (DA).The $1.93 million development will see two houses demolished and seven trees removed to make way for a new food pantry, called 'The Good Pantry', that will offer low-cost grocery items and free donated goods, such as fresh produce (fruits, vegetables and bread), clothing, books, toys and furniture.Currently, The Good Pantry operates from a leased building on Wyrallah Road in East Lismore. As it is prone to flooding and deemed inadequate in other respects, the plan is to move it to the new purpose-built building in Goonellabah.The five separate blocks are zone R1 General Zone; however, because it is a community facility, the DA can be approved according to the Lismore Local Environmental Plan 2012.A food pantry is also offered at the community hall or the former Church of Christ hall one day a week (Wednesdays) between 10am and 2pm.The DA says the service aims to support not only the homeless or marginalised but also anyone facing daily living cost challenges.The existing community hall/Church of Christ hall will remain, and there will be 31 car parking spaces with entry via Rous Road and Pleasant Street and exit via Rous Road, just up from the Pleasant Street roundabout. A loading bay is also in the plans.The food pantry is expected to operate five days a week between 10am and 2pm, with an expected 50 visitors per day. The anticipation is for 20 vehicles per day, as most people will be using public transport. Given the existing dwellings and the Church of Christ Hall, operating an existing food pantry, the increase in traffic is expected to be four vehicles per day.The Good Pantry in East Lismore has over 600 user members. In July this year, more than 1,200 shopper visits were recorded.It is estimated that there will be one full-time staff member, one part-time and up to 8 volunteer staff eventually.The people running the Food Pantry are well known to Lismore. The land is owned by the Lismore Soup Kitchen, and a charity has been set up called Mountain Blue Foundation. As most of Lismore knows, the Lismore Soup Kitchen operates the Winsome Hotel in North Lismore, looking after our community's most vulnerable people.

North Coast Local Land Services has released a new publication, Bush regeneration in progress: an ongoing management guide for landholders in the North Coast, to support landholders in caring for natural areas on their properties.The guide provides practical, step-by-step advice on maintaining and building ecological restoration projects, with clear information on weed control, planting management, plant identification and monitoring progress.While it is designed to support landholders who have developed a site management plan with Local Land Services, it is also a valuable resource for those undertaking independent restoration projects or seeking best practice approaches outside of Local Land Services programs.Bush regeneration plays a vital role in protecting the unique biodiversity of the North Coast, home to many endangered plants and animals. Healthy native vegetation improves water quality, reduces soil erosion and provides habitat for wildlife, while also helping properties become more resilient to fire, floods and the impacts of climate change.The guide emphasises that regeneration is an ongoing journey, not a one-off event and by steadily reducing weeds and encouraging natural regeneration, landholders can restore native vegetation and create self-sustaining ecosystems.The resource highlights that patience and persistence are key – even small, consistent efforts over time can achieve lasting results for both landholders and the environment.North Coast Local Land Services Senior Land Services Officer, Genevieve Murphy, said the booklet was a valuable tool for landholders committed to caring for their land.“Bush regeneration is not a quick fix; it takes time, care and consistency,” Genevieve said.“This guide gives landholders the knowledge and confidence to keep their projects on track, reduce weeds and help native plants thrive, so that ecosystems can eventually sustain themselves.”The publication draws on the expertise of local practitioners, bush regenerators and community groups, combining scientific knowledge with practical, on-ground experience.It also acknowledges the importance of social and cultural connections to land, encouraging landholders to engage with neighbours, community groups and Traditional Custodians as part of their restoration efforts.Download the guide from the North Coast Landcare website.For bush regeneration advice, landholders can contact Local Land Services on 1300 795 299 or visit www.lls.nsw.gov.au.The publication has been coordinated by North Coast Local Land Services with assistance from Richmond Landcare Incorporated and funded by the NSW Government under the Marine Estate Management Strategy and the Riverbank Rehabilitation Project.The Marine Estate Management Strategy is a 10-year strategy developed by the NSW Marine Estate Management Authority to coordinate the management of the marine estate.The Riverbank Rehabilitation Project is jointly funded by the Australian Government and NSW under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

October is Small Business Month, a time to celebrate and support the backbone of local economies in NSW, especially in Lismore, where retailers have been struggling for the last three and a half years.The state’s 870,000 small businesses make up 97 per cent of all NSW businesses. These small businesses employ 1.7 million people in NSW, which is about 40 per cent of the state’s workforce.   This October, Small Business Month is about more than celebration – it’s about action, with government red tape under the microscope as it is one of the biggest barriers to growth, limiting productivity and innovation.Minister for Small Business Janelle Saffin launched Small Business Month at Daleys Homewares in Keen Street this morning."I'm encouraging everybody to come out and say thank you to small business. Not only do they sell great products and deliver great services, we also call upon them all the time to help with social causes, to help with fundraising, all sorts of things that they do in a local community."I want to just make one other announcement, a critical announcement today, everybody in small business says to me, Janelle, we've got too much red tape. I said. I want to do a proper red tape inquiry. I want one that's guided by small business, and today, the acting Small Business Commissioner, Catherine Ellis, will launch a survey that will go to all small businesses in New South Wales. It is asking small businesses, tell me your pain points, tell me about some of the bureaucratic compliance, and we're going to do a deep dive and see if we can ease some of that pressure."Matt Healy, owner of Daleys Homewares, said that one of the biggest and most complicated elements of his business is icare and dealing with the workers comp system."So I'm selling sheets, towels, pillows and blankets. As far as the workers compensation perspective is concerned, it's very, very low risk, but it's eye-wateringly expensive. It's many, many, many hundreds of dollars a month for my little business. That's a big one."And the process of just renewing is really complex. So that's my little one. We did talk earlier about payroll tax and things like that, not really an important part for a small business like me, they tend to be the larger businesses. So in small business months, let's not talk about them."Matt didn't want to preempt the outcome of the Red Tape Inquiry, but would prefer to see what businesses in NSW report and what their pain points are. "Then it's over to Janelle and the Commissioner to actually move it," he said.The result of red tape though, is the amount of time it takes to complete, which should be spent on running his business.Ms Saffin said that business owners have said to her that ti takes around 15 hours per week to deal with government red tape."Some of it's federal, some of it is state. So, I'll deal with the state stuff, but it takes their time, that's money, and it takes their attention away. When asked why this inquiry would be different to previous inquiries, where the results sit in a draw, Ms Saffin replied, "Because I'm committed to help small business, and that's why I said, and I did say this publicly, I didn't want to do a BS red tape inquiry, because I've seen inquiries before, and I've seen them sit on the shelf and with the Acting Small Business Commissioner, we've been doing a deep dive and taking this really seriously. We want to know some of those pain points that Matt talked about, and see if we can we ease that regulatory burden. And that's what we'll do."As Matt said, one step at a time. Even if we ease one particular pain point, that's a good thing. But we'll look at all of them. I've got some examples from local businesses and some of the farmers who are small businesses. Some I already know myself. Even the food vans that go around the markets, what we've done at state level already is that if you're licensed in one LGA, the next LGA can then license you on the basis of that. So, I'll be watching that to see how that plays out as well. It's not like nothing's been done already. We're trying to do things, and with fitness trainers, it's the same thing. So, we'll just continue to work on that.As for small businesses and how they are trading in what has been a tough environment, Matt said it takes a special kind of crazy to be a small business owner."At the moment, everybody knows that it's tough out there. It's everywhere. There's a cost-of-living pressure, so people are holding back. As a result, it's very quiet in towns, Lismore in particular. We've got the additional benefit of the flood we're still recovering from, but we're moving onwards. We're moving upwards. As Janelle said, we're involved in the community, we're part of this community. It's my hometown too. We've been here for 150 odd years, my family. So we're out there in the community, supporting the community, providing products for our community. "People haven't got money to spare, so they're not coming into town to spend. So we're having to find ways of getting through this tight period. It's as simple as that. We just have to find ways. So, we've been here for 36 years, we're about to have our 36th birthday. The family started this during the 80s recession, when they borrowed money to start it was at 17-18% interest. So it's tough now, but it's not our first one."There has been some negative talk about the Lismore CBD recently in the media, but Matt has this advice as people shift into Christmas shopping mode in October."Come on down, Lismore's fun. We've got interesting shops down here; it's not the same beige chains that you see in lots of other towns. We've got weird stuff down here. We specialise in weird stuff. So, come down and enjoy our weird stuff.Once the interviews wrapped up, Ms Saffin truly supported Small Business Month by purchasing some new sheets. You can do your bit by spending locally.Small businesses are encouraged to share their experiences with red tape and compliance via an online survey at: https://www.smallbusiness.nsw.gov.au/consultation-red-tapeTo explore and register to attend Small Business Month events, please visit: nsw.gov.au/nsw-small-business-month

As Australia marks National Safe Work Month this October, new data from Beyond Blue highlights demand among employees for meaningful change in workplace mental health practices.Australian employees are calling for more than just awareness when it comes to workplace mental health, with Beyond Blue data revealing a strong demand for real, proactive change that improves people’s day-to-day experiences at work. A community poll commissioned by Beyond Blue, which asked Australians about their experiences of stress and burnout in the workplace, found that 88% of respondents believed burnout was an important issue for workplaces today, while two in three people rejected the idea that burnout was a personal failing.  Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman AO said workers experiencing chronic stress and burnout are at greater risk of mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety.  “Employees are voicing a clear need for greater consideration to be given to wellbeing in their working conditions. That means integrating wellbeing into how work is designed and experienced, from manageable workloads and adequate resourcing to leadership that genuinely supports them,” Ms Harman said. “Most businesses want to do the right thing, but need clearer pathways to get started, so there’s more work to be done. “Mental health at work must be built into systems that help people to stay well. That’s why it’s so important to build wellbeing into the systems and culture of work, not treat it as an add-on or something reactive.  “We want more organisations to normalise help-seeking and encourage conversations about mental health, it’s important they make it clear that seeking support is a strength, not a weakness.” Workers pointed to systemic factors such as inappropriate workload (49%), lack of management support (32%), and inflexible working conditions (21%) as the top causes of burnout. The data also highlighted a range of further challenges workers faced, including emotional exhaustion and disengagement.  Many workers reported feeling disconnected at work. The poll found that 44% of workers felt lonely and, 39% felt excluded at work at least sometimes, and 18% said no one at work “had their back”.  Ms Harman said that by fostering connection, inclusion, and psychological safety, workplaces can create environments where people feel safe to speak up and express concerns without fear of negative consequences.  “Embedding flexibility and compassion into workplace culture, along with visible support from leaders who model psychologically safe behaviours, is key to supporting mental health,” she said. “We also need to equip leaders and managers to recognise early signs of distress and have regular check-ins with workers.” Beyond Blue lived experience speaker Craig knows all too well the impact of chronic stress and a lack of workplace support. In a previous role, Craig supervised 60 people at a multinational company and loved his job, having worked there for the majority of his working career – but when the pressure piled on and support disappeared, everything started to unravel.  “For two years, I was doing the work of three people with little support from my manager, clocking 60-hour weeks with limited breaks and then colleagues who I’d trusted and confided in began backstabbing me and setting me up to fail – it was surreal, and the whole experience completely changed me,” Craig said. “The unrelenting stress took its toll, and while speaking up shouldn’t have cost me my career, it did in my case.” Craig was admitted to hospital to address his declining mental health. “Since leaving my management role, I've since gone back to study, built a routine that helps me manage my mental health and stay well, and am linked in with a psychologist – but the damage has been done – and it all started at work,” the 48-year-old said. “No one should have to go through what I did. Mental health support needs to be built into the system – not just a tick-the-box initiative or employing reactive measures after someone’s already in crisis.” Of the respondents who had experienced burnout at work, half didn’t seek support for it. “People who did reach out for mental health support turned to GPs (43%) and psychologists (36%), while fewer people reached out to wellbeing staff within their own workplace (9%) or online mental health supports (7%),” Ms Harman said. Ms Harman said that given Australians spend a third of their lives at work, it needs to be a setting that helps rather than harms people’s mental health.  “Whether you work in a hospital, a school, a construction site or an office, good work should help you to come home feeling fulfilled and connected, bringing real benefits to your mental health and the people you care about,” she said. “Mental health at work is much more than just having an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). It’s about creating a culture where wellbeing is a shared priority and is woven into how we lead, support and show up for one another every day.” The Productivity Commission estimates that the economic loss due to the effects of mental ill-health on participation, absenteeism and presenteeism is up to $39 billion.  With 14.6 million Australians in the workforce, mentally healthy workplaces benefit everyone. “Our message this Safe Work Month is that workplaces can be proactive about how they look after their people by improving their daily experiences of work. It’s good for your people, and good for your business,” Ms Harmansaid. “Beyond Blue’s work and mental health page has practical tips to help Australians stay well at work, assess their mental health and access resources and information about supporting themselves and a colleague at work.”   For EmployersBeyond Blue has been a leader in workplace mental health for more than 20 years, and will continue to advocate for mentally healthy workplaces through initiatives like its latest unique early intervention service, Before Blue, which provides proven mental health support for workers. Beyond Blue’s 24/7 Support Service can be reached on 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue.org.au/getsupport or visit Beyond Blue’s Forums.  Beyond Blue’s work and mental health page Beyond Blue’s Burnout Check-In Tool 

On Monday, the Lismore App announced that the state government was funding $500,000 worth of defibrillators to sporting organisations around NSW.Yesterday, Lismore MP Janelle Saffin encouraged more local sporting and active recreation organisations to apply for up to $3,000 in funding under the Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program.Ms Saffin said Dunoon United Football Club was one of eight recipients from the electorate in the program’s 2024-25 round and had installed an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) at its Balzer Park home ground.Club President Simon Webster said: “As a rural community football club, we believe it’s very important for us to have a defibrillator on site.“Hopefully we will never need to use it, but it is reassuring to know that it’s there, and that if anything should happen to a player, match official or spectator, we will be able to help,” Mr Webster said.Ms Saffin said since the popular program started, more than 2,300 potentially life-saving defibrillators had been funded for use at sports and recreation facilities across New South Wales.Applications for the 2025-26 Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program close 1 December or when funding is exhausted.For further information, including eligibility criteria, visit: https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/grants/local-sport-defibrillator-grant-programMinister for Sport Steve Kamper also announced that the Heartbeat of Football Foundation will use a $150,000 NSW Government grant to map facilities that have AEDs and those that do not, guiding future government investment in this critical equipment.

Australians are still waiting for the latest official estimate of koala numbers through the National Koala Monitoring Program (NKMP), with the 2025 update delayed for more than seven months. The figures, which guide funding and planning for the endangered species, were finalised earlier this year but have yet to be published.The NKMP began in late 2022 when the Australian Government's Saving Koalas Fund invested $10 million with the CSIRO to build and deliver a robust estimate of koala numbers and build a long-lasting capability to monitor and assess trends in koala populations. This would lead to ongoing recovery and management efforts.The CSIRO developed a Koala Spotter app, to help build the most accurate national population count to date and asked the community for help to record sightings.Populations of the iconic marsupial were officially listed as endangered across New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory and Queensland in February 2022.  In August 2024, CSIRO Quantitative Biologist, Dr Andrew Hoskins, said a range of technologies and methods were needed to count koalas accurately.  “Koalas can be difficult to spot from the ground, and as they are most active at night, they often rest high in trees during the day,” Dr Hoskins said.  “To count the species, scientists have been using thermal drones to spot koalas from above, deploying acoustic recorders in the field and detection dogs, conducting scat analysis, while also carrying out systematic visual surveys and data integration from previous and historic sources."The first NKMP data-driven estimate of the koala population was released in March 2023. The listed koala population range for Queensland, NSW and the ACT was between 117,000 and 244,440. However, the adjusted NKMP estimate in 2023 was between 86,000 and 176,000.The CSIRO explanation is that estimates are derived from modelling of data with known gaps. Adjusting the model for where there is little or no data gives an anticipated listed koala population estimate between 86,000 and 176,000 koalas. This will be improved by collecting and ingesting additional data over time.The second data-driven estimate was released in March 2024. The listed koala population range was between 95,000 and 238,000. There has been no adjusted estimate.The CSIRO states that the increase in the koala population range is not an increase in the number of koalas but a refinement of the modelled estimate.The third and final data-driven estimate was to include more NSW data, which included data from the NSW Government, to help improve the confidence of the estimates. It was also to include more regional data where sufficient data was available.Those results were due to be released in March 2025, seven months ago.The Lismore App first contacted the CSIRO to get an update on when the numbers would be updated on the 12th of May 2025. The reply said that due to the large volume of data collected over the past year, particularly from the audio recorders, it has taken the CSIRO team longer than expected to process and incorporate the data into the updated model. Additionally, there was the Federal Election in May, which caused further delays because the government went into caretaker mode.They then stated that the estimates were finalised and the update will be published shortly.When no data was published by July 14, two months later, another approach was made to CSIRO.The reply was that CSIRO was waiting on a 'go live' date from DCCEEW (Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water of Australia), the client of CSIRO who was funding the NKMP project. They suggested we get in touch with DCCEEW.On August 20, a departmental spokesperson from DCCEEW said, "The Australian Government is partnering with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) to deliver the National Koala Monitoring Program (NKMP), as part of the $76 million Saving Koalas Fund. "NKMP updates are published by the CSIRO at nkmp.org.au as they are finalised. The CSIRO is currently finalising the population estimates data, and we anticipate the next update to the NKMP shortly."There is that word again, 'shortly', as DCCEEW clearly pushed the non-publication issue back to the CSIRO team.On September 22, the Lismore App made another enquiry to CSIRO this time. The reply said that they believed the koala estimates are with DCCEEW, and they are still waiting on the timing of an announcement, which they will lead.An enquiry sent to DCCEEW on September 25 has remained unanswered.Following the email trail, it would appear the DCCEEW is holding back on the release of the 2025 National Koala Monitoring Program numbers.As we enter October, there are more questions than answers:If the count is complete and the data shared with DCCEEW, why have the latest koala population estimates not been published?Is the koala population estimate more than was previously published? Or less?We will, hopefully, get the answers 'shortly'.

More women are taking part in breast cancer screening through the BreastScreen Australia program, with over 1.9 million women aged 50–74, or 52% of the target population, screening in 2023–2024. This is an increase from the 1.8 million or 50% who were screened in 2021–2022.Published today by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), the BreastScreen Australia monitoring report 2025 features the latest data from BreastScreen Australia on breast cancer incidence, mortality and screening participation. The program provides free 2-yearly screening mammograms to women aged 40 and over, actively targeting women aged 50–74. It aims to detect unsuspected breast cancer, providing an opportunity for early treatment that can reduce illness and death.Since the program began in 1991 to 2023, it is estimated that more than 26.7 million mammograms have been carried out and over 137,000 invasive breast cancers have been detected.‘In that time, the age-standardised breast cancer mortality rate for women has halved from 74 to 37 deaths per 100,000 women,’ said AIHW spokesperson Moira Hewitt.‘This decrease is due to the early detection along with advances in the management and treatment of breast cancer.’‘Continued uptake of breast screening is crucially important.’ The proportion of participants aged 50–72 in 2021 who rescreened within 27 months was 54% after having their first screen through BreastScreen Australia, 63% after their second screen and 78% after having their third or higher screen.Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Australian women, with 11,540 new cases diagnosed in women aged 50–74 in 2021. Of these, 49% were detected through BreastScreen Australia. This was an increase from 10,935 in 2020.‘Incidence of breast cancer is much higher in older women, with 81% of breast cancers occurring in women aged 50 and over,’ said Ms Hewitt.‘In fact, women aged 70–74 are most at risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer, with an incidence rate of 427 new cases per 100,000 women in 2021.’

The clock is ticking for two major events in October. The first being Daylight Saving this Sunday, and the second the 2025 Elders North Coast National Lismore Show being held on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, October 16, 17 and 18.Under warm blue skies with the sprinkler on in the main arena, North Coast National A & I Society President John Gibson said the popular Show would return with all the usual favourites, including a rodeo on the final night.“It is not long until the Show, so now is the time to get ready for the return of our regular popular competitions and exhibitions. We already have some great attractions booked, including the HLB Mann Judd Ashton Circus that will perform throughout each day and Monster Trucks on Thursday and Friday,” he said“Again, this year also have the Chill and Charge zone, which is a quiet zone for people to relax over a coffee and recharge themselves and their phones.“The very popular FMX bikes will return, along with Jet Packs, a petting zoo, reptiles, fireworks and a community stage with a range of local acts, plus Dave Graney & the Coral Snakes on Friday night.“The Show has been at the heart of our community since 1885 and is where memories are made.“Once again, I would like to thank our naming rights sponsor, Elders, and all our regular sponsors. Without them, the Show could not go on.“This year we also welcome new major sponsors, including Northern Rivers Ford and North Coast Petroleum Liberty Service Stations, with the latter running an Elders Lismore Show promotion through its four Lismore Liberty Service Stations.Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said Lismore was lucky to have such a great range of community events.“The Lismore Show is one of my favourites. Now in its 140th year, the show has always brought our community together to catch up with old friends and make new ones,” he said.The mayor also confessed to the Led Steers being his favourite part of the Lismore Show."I'm an old school teacher. I worked in agricultural schools in a past life, and was involved when I was a school teacher in helping the kids train their steers, and to see the love and the care. The public sees these kids for one day, there's eight, nine or ten months of work that goes into getting these steers prepared for the show. It's not always the best ending, but, for me, to see the joy on the kids' faces, to see them develop and grow with their animals, is what I love."I love everything that goes on in the ring as well. I love just sitting in the stand, eating some fairy floss and watching everything that goes on. I'm excited that the rodeo is here. I think that's huge as well. They've tried a few times to have the rodeo in Lismore, and for whatever reason, mainly weather, that hasn't eventuated. So, fingers crossed for a dry three or four days, and we'll get it all in."While it is too far out for any weather predictions for the three Show days this year, preparations are underway to make the Lismore Showgrounds in North Lismore the best they can be for the expected 25,000 to 30,000 visitors.John Gibson said that entries across the board are strong, so the pavilion for art, vegetables and baked goods, horses and beef cattle."We've got entries from Tamworth, the Southern Tablelands and South East Queensland, so they travel a long way to get a win at Lismore."State Member for Lismore and Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said she was honoured to be opening the 2025 Elders Love Lismore Show, representing Minister for Lands Steve Kamper.“The North Coast National is an iconic event because it has been bringing the best of the country to town for 140 years,” Ms Saffin said.“A rodeo will be a highlight of Saturday’s program and will add plenty of excitement for the crowd.”Federal Member for Page, Kevin Hogan, said events like the North Coast National support local businesses, highlight our farmers and producers, and give our community a real economic boost.“The Lismore Show has always been about bringing people together. It’s a place where families come back year after year, where our kids get their first taste of the rides or the show ring, and where the whole community takes pride in showcasing the best of the Northern Rivers,” Mr Hogan said.“I encourage everyone, whether you live locally or further afield, to come along, support our community, and enjoy everything this great event has to offer.”Nominations are also now open for the 2025 North Coast National Young Woman and Teen Showgirl Competitions, but hurry, they close this Friday.If you're between 13 and 25, this is your chance to step into the spotlight and make a difference. The Young Woman competition is for those aged 18 to 25 and Teen Showgirl for girls aged 13 to 17.This is your chance to be an ambassador for your community, showcase your passion for agriculture and promote Lismore and the Lismore Show.For more information about how to apply for the Young Woman and Teen Showgirl competitions, go to https://northcoastnational.com.au. Entries close this Friday, 3 October.The gate prices for 2025 are $25 for single tickets, children (12-17)/pensioners and concessions $15, family pass (2 adults/3 children) $45, and children 11 and under are free. Parking is $5.At the end of each Elders Lismore Show night, around 9pm, there will be a fireworks display.See you at the Show.

A body has been located following this morning's fire at a home in East Lismore.About 5.45am (Tuesday, 30 September 2025), emergency services were called to the home on Belvedere Drive following reports of a fire.At the scene, officers found the front rooms of the home fully engulfed in flames.Firefighters responded to the scene and extinguished the blaze; however, the home sustained significant damage.The body of a man was located at the home and is yet to be formally identified.Officers are waiting for the home to be declared structurally sound before the property can be entered.A crime scene has been established, and inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the fire are underway.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

There has been a house fire at Belvedere Drive, East Lismore, early this morning, with one person still unaccounted for.Superintendent Adam Dewberry from Fire and Rescue NSW said the fire started at 5:47 this morning when they received about twenty 000 calls."When firefighters arrived, they were confronted with significant fire activity. There is one person unaccounted for. They are still unaccounted for. We've got five fire trucks on scene, that's about 20 firefighters. We have had a significant structural collapse, which is impeding our ability to get complete extinguishment and conduct a thorough search. "Operations will continue. We will work with New South Wales Police in determining where this person that's unaccounted for is. They'll do the outside inquiries and Fire and Rescue. New South Wales will get in and continue a search, but due to the structural integrity, we are having difficulties getting complete extinguishment and completing that search."More to come.

The Lismore App has discovered that 000 emergency calls to NSW Ambulance have been dropping out since 11:30 yesterday morning, and the issue is ongoing.Anonymous sources raised concerns, and further investigation has led us to believe that multiple 000 calls are dropping out from Coffs Harbour to the Tweed, including Lismore.According to the sources, callers ringing 000 are connecting to the operator, but when the call is routed to NSW Ambulance, it drops out. This is not a one-off occurrence; a caller can experience multiple drop-outs before a successful connection is made.The Lismore App understands that an investigation and a thorough review are underway. We can tell you that no network issues have been found, and there have been no reports of negative outcomes.The number of call drop-outs is believed to be low, so this is not a widespread issue.The Lismore App contacted NSW Ambulance for comment, a spokesperson said, "NSW Ambulance is aware of a small number of reported cases involving unsuccessful attempts to connect to Triple Zero (000) in the Coffs Harbour, Lismore and Tweed regions on Monday 29 September. "NSW Ambulance has referred the reported calls to the Emergency Triple Zero telecommunications provider for review. "eHealth NSW, who manage the telecommunications for NSW Health, confirmed the Triple Zero (000) environment between Telstra and NSW Ambulance was operating as required. "We are undertaking a review of the identified Triple Zero (000) calls received by NSW Ambulance. "NSW Ambulance has not received further reports of concern from callers in the area since Monday morning and has not identified any adverse patient outcomes related to these calls. "NSW Ambulance urges anyone experiencing a medical emergency to call Triple Zero (000)."

The NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) are criticised regularly, often by this very publication, think the Resilient Lands Program. But the RA also do some good work that largely goes unpublished.When an RA-owned buyback house is demolished, it is often put on social media, saying that the RA should be relocating the house or at least saving the old forest timbers, some of which are close to 100 years old.The Lismore App was introduced to Brad Lees, Managing Director, of the Leez Group, a family-owned Northern Rivers-based company who have won contracts from the RA to deconstruct and recycle buyback houses.To put a bulldozer through a buyback house is the easiest and cheapest option to remove it if it is deemed unlivable by the assessor. The timber and concrete can still be recycled, but considerably less than if the house were carefully deconstructed.Brad said the initial assessment is completed by an occupational hygienist and a structural engineer. Once that is complete, the Leez Group will review the assessment report and submit a tender with the RA."We do a further assessment on how much we think we can we can salvage and recycle out of each dwelling from the contamination report. Those reports will be issued to us on the hazardous materials in the dwelling, for example, the asbestos, and how much there is, the quantities, and therefore we'll have to deal with it and price it based off that report."Obviously, there's a massive focus with the New South Wales Reconstruction Authority, and for us, the Leez Group, to salvage and recycle as much as possible in terms of building materials like timber, windows, doors, concrete and brick. Anything like that."The Leez Group has deconstructed six properties so far. Included were two houses in Junction Street, East Lismore, the old Clean and Green Laundry building on Terania Street, North Lismore and the dwelling at the rear, and now Diadem Street in the CBD. Brad said he has another 15 to go as part of this tender.(The house being deconstructed in Diadem Street, Lismore)Brad's goal is to recycle between 80 to 85% of all houses he has to remove."For instance, our previous dwelling, I believe we hit a target of about 80% to 85% of recycled and reclaimed. That was over at Junction Street. So we did some estimates there. We recycled approximately 2,500 metres of timber, and we recycled approximately five ton of building materials, ie doors, windows, roofing sheets, garage doors and the like, so it was quite good.To reach that 80-85% range of recycled material, the process is definitely slower than if it involved a machine only. The average house is five to seven days."It's definitely a lot less machine hours and it's more labour intensive, because obviously the timber and the doors and the windows have to be salvaged for someone to reuse. So, it's carefully deconstructed, so we can then preserve those materials so they can be reused again throughout the community."It takes 5 to 7 days to take it down to the ground, and then we pull up the concrete. That will all go off locally to get crushed up and reused as road base, driveways, and some people are using it for drainage as well, which is great."One of the questions often raised within the community is who is benefiting from the recycled house materials. Where was it going? For Brad and the Leez Group, that involves three local Northern Rivers businesses."We've had a long-term relationship with AJ Magnay in North Lismore for probably ten years now, then there's Solid Grain and Red Neds."Solid Grain sells a lot of reclaimed timber and makes a lot of furniture out of it, and also has the community come and purchase the timber back off him for their projects. Then there's Red Ned's as well, who are up around the Tweed area."What comes across is a commonsense approach to the three local companies acquiring the material. Sometimes it is free, and other times they pay to resell it to the public."It depends on what it is. So, if it's a material that has taken us minimal time to get out, and it's just put aside, they'll just take it, but if it's timber that we've got to de-nail and unbolt, then they'll pay and obviously sell it."I would say that throughout our first six dwellings, we've hit, hit a target of 80 to 85% of recycling and salvage of the materials, which I and the boys are proud of and excited about."AJ Magnay is receiving interior fixings, windows, doors, and smallish type stuff. "I haven't been doing the timber at the moment because I've still got plenty here," AJ told the Lismore App. "Solid Grain has been doing the timber at this point in time."Finally, we are getting some results of actually getting stuff physically recycled through a system that can be sent back out to the public to be reused. They're physically pulling it down, piece by piece. They're salving as much as they possibly can, within reason, some stuff you just can't, it's just not viable to do."But, the Leez Group and some of the other guys who are involved now are actually doing some fantastic stuff with the recycling."As AJ had mentioned, some of the recycled timber he has in his yard on Macaulay Street, North Lismore, has been there for quite a while. He explained that Solid Grain have machinery that can turn the structural four-by-twos into decking material."There's generally copious amounts of four by twos or 100 by 50s. What he's been doing is splitting it down the centre, and then what they call wire brushing them and harassing the edges, so it looks like a weathered decking board. It looks like it's been there for 20 years, whereas the timber itself could be up to 120 to 130 years old. So, they're repurposing that back into what I'd call a modern-day trendy product." The benefit of having the machinery to transform large structural timber into decking timber is better turnover, as there is more need for the product.As we were finishing the interview, AJ Mganay got the last plug in for his local recycling business."If people want, they can come here for timbers, windows and doors, and there'll be more coming. We picked up a little bit more today. It'll be an ongoing thing, and over time, we will start to get timber as well. When I make a little bit of room in the yard."

"Epic" is how Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg described the 2025 Masters Games held over three days from last Friday and ending with finals on Sunday.Lismore City Council estimated that this year's event injected $5.4 million into the local economy when nearly 1,200 people took part in eight sports, including netball, softball, baseball, Oztag and lawn bowls. This was the largest number of participant in Lismore Masters Games history.The reason for the $5.4 million boost to the local economy?"Over 50% of those participants didn't come from the Lismore LGA, and a quarter of them came from across the border, said Mayor Krieg, "So it was an absolutely epic weekend of sport across Lismore, and really good to see. All of our accommodation was full. Cafes and restaurants and pubs were booked out, and sadly, accident and emergency got a fair workout as well, with a few of the Masters getting a few injuries, but that's to be expected."Not only that, it's the families and the kids that they bring along with them. So that 600 participants from outside the Lismore LGA, you could easily double, if not triple. So you're talking about upwards of two, two and a half thousand people that converge on the Lismore CBD."It was such a good time to be in Lismore. We're standing here at Crozier Oval, which has never looked better. All of the fields were just amazing, and there wasn't a drop of rain to be seen. It's the first time in a long time that we've had a dry Masters Games weekend."As Mayor Krieg said, the Masters Games are not really about the results but about the camaraderie among all the participants."There's an Oztag team by the name of the Muppets, who have been mates in school that come together every two years to put an Oztag team together specifically for the Lismore Masters. It's the only time they see each other in that two-year period. Good luck to everyone who won, but for me, to see the social aspect of it, to see not only the Lismore community come together, but people came from the Central Coast and Newcastle, I was speaking to people from South East Queensland, they all come together, and sport is the vehicle to bring these individuals together, which is really pleasing for me."The mayor mentioned that the quality of the facilities, now that Lismore's sporting homes have been successfully renovated, and the new Skateboarding precinct is built, was noticed by the participants this year, and there will be further opportunities as the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games get closer."We're working very closely with the uni. We supported their application to get the synthetic athletics facility at the university. That's something that council was heavily involved in. We see Lismore as the perfect training venue for overseas teams to come and use."When you think we've got the Memorial Baths, an Olympic standard 50 metre swimming pool. We've got Albert Park, which is baseball and softball, which are Olympic sports. We've now got an Olympic-quality skate facility in town, plus Oakes and Crozier and synthetic hockey. We've got synthetic soccer over at the university as well. We are really well set up to host these teams."As a joint organisation with the seven LGAs, we're looking at different sports that we can all host together. Clearly, we don't have rowing or surfing in Lismore, but Ballina and Byron may be able to host those sorts of things. Kyogle have suggested mountain biking and different events there for them. So it's certainly well and truly on our radar."And we're preparing prospectuses as we speak, to be able to distribute to any sporting team that wants to use Lismore as a base. We met with an NRL team last week about holding their pre-season camp here. We're in discussions with A-League teams. The Newcastle Jets were here in August with the Brisbane Roar, making that potentially an annual event. We are working very diligently behind the scenes to generate the level of income, the level of interest in Lismore that we think it deserves.""Obviously, it was a great shot in the arm with the amount of visitors and players and everything turning out over the last couple of days. And it leads into a big summer of sporting activities. Clearly, one of the biggest economic drivers for Lismore, believe it or not, is the state's Under-12 cricket tournament in January. But before that, we've got the national Marist Brothers tournament for cricket that is coming to Lismore as well. That's a national tournament with the Catholic schools in December."We are already starting to prepare all of our cricket facilities for two pretty big events, let alone what happens on a weekend with our weekend warrior sports people as well. So, I'm looking forward to an exciting summer of sport."

The future use of land that will be left when more than 650 flood buyback houses have been removed throughout the Lismore CBD, North Lismore, South Lismore and East Lismore has been a discussion at many dinner tables and pubs across the Lismore LGA in the past couple of years. Well, the planning process is now underway. Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin was joined by Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg on Magellan Street earlier today, opposite Crozier Field, to announce the partnership between the NSW Government and Lismore City Council.To give you some perspective on the size of the available land to be repurposed, it represents 50 hectares of land.While the land can no longer be used for housing, a risk-based approach will be used to determine future uses that are compatible with flooding. Planning will consider how the space connects with surrounding areas, supports community needs and complements the CBD and local economy. Making sure that any future use will not increase flooding risks for neighbouring properties is also critical.  To make planning simpler, Council has split the flood-affected areas into four precincts: Lismore Centre, North Lismore, South Lismore and East Lismore. This is because each precinct will more than likely have its own unique land uses.Lismore Centre will be the first precinct plan to be developed from early 2026, followed by North Lismore, South Lismore and East Lismore.Mayor Krieg said that each precinct having its own focus, such as entertainment, is already being considered."That's already part of the discussion, that you have your entertainment precinct, you have your sporting precinct, you have your commercial precinct. I think that makes sense, but we all know that all levels of government don't necessarily do things that make sense at times," the mayor said jokingly, "Did I say that out loud? But that's clearly the intent of having the precincts, and with precincts comes that funding that Janelle spoke about as well. When you actually have the plan, it's a lot easier to get the funding to make those plans a reality.Mayor Krieg was referring to Ms Saffin's comments, confirming that the funding has been secured for the planning process; however, funding for individual projects within a precinct will need to be sought for them to go ahead.Ms Saffin also painted a picture of connectivity, not only in the CBD but for the other precincts as well."What I envisage is these precincts will have a connectedness we never had before. We're on the outskirts of the CBD, and gradually it's hooking up to the Square, or the Square is hooking up to the CBD."I once said I'd love to see a covered walkway there, so people can walk up and down, even Tuk Tuks, that mightn't be a goer, but there's a whole range of things we can do to have that interconnectivity. And I know Steve drives a lot of the whole sporting area, and that can happen."If you have a look at South, we've already got sport over there, we've got a school, we've got a vibrant business community, we've got the rail trail, and we've got the best post office in Australia. So, there are lots we can do over there, but I see it as connecting us. It'll be four precincts, a staged approach, but I see that it will bring us together. It'll bring the whole of Lismore together."(Buyback houses on Cathcart Street looking towards Crozier Field)As you would expect, the community will be invited to have their say through a mix of in-person and online engagement opportunities throughout 2026. Details about the timing and format of the consultation will be announced later this year.Expressions of interest for planners, engineers and other experts to work on this project will be open within the next month. As for broader timing, all four precinct planning stages will be completed by early 2027. That is because the Resilient Homes program ends at the end of June that year.Funding for construction, landscaping or bush regeneration is more complex as it will require grant applications from an appropriate funding source within the state government.Jamie van Iersel, Acting Head of Planning and Environment for Lismore City Council said, "That is something that we'll be looking to do simultaneously as we go along. If a grant comes up, if we're far enough progressed with one or more of the precinct plans, we'll start looking for funding as soon as we can. "What we'll be doing along the way is making sure the relevant state agencies are involved, not just the RA, but the Department of Education, Transport, etc. Then everyone can be agreeing and endorsing what we'll be looking for in terms of funding."The future land use is another sign that Lismore is moving forward, rather than looking in the rear-view mirror only at how February 28 2022, devastated our community.“It’s about setting Lismore up for the future as a great place to work, invest and raise a family," Mayor Krieg said."We're already a grand city. It's my hometown. I love it," Minister Saffin said, "But we're just going to become such a beautiful city, and we'll showcase, to not only New South Wales and Australia, but the world that we can do this, we can recover from what happened in 2022 and have the best possible place to live, work and play."For more information and to keep up to date, go to: https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/nsw-reconstruction-authority/our-work/resilient-homes-program/home-buybacks/future-buyback-land-use

A key element of Lismore's flood recovery in the $150 million Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program was the upgrade of the pumping stations, especially the Browns Creek Pump Station, which will be able to increase its capacity to remove stormwater by four to five times.Lismore City Council has announced today that this new phase of its flood recovery, the upgrades to essential flood-pumping infrastructure, is set to begin early in the new year.Key projects include the construction of a new pump station in South Lismore and the expansion of the existing Browns Creek pump station – boosting capacity to speed up stormwater removal and help keep roads and evacuation routes open longer. Construction partners for the upgrade of the Magellan Street pump station, located next to the Lismore Transit Centre, and the new Snow Street pump station are now being sought. A tender for work at Browns Creek will open in the coming months.Significant work has been completed to reach this point, from funding to surveys and design to ensure pump stations remain operational throughout construction. Council says it is sincerely grateful to the community for its support and patience during this important phase.These projects are proudly funded by the Australian Government through the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program 2022-23, administered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority.For more info on Lismore’s flood pump upgrades, visit https://www.lismore.nsw.gov.au/Building-and-planning/Flood-Restoration-Portfolio/Flood-resilience.