Lismore City Council is building a skilled local workforce through its Lismore Employment Acceleration Pathways (LEAP) program, which is supported by the NSW Government’s A Fresh Start for Local Government Apprentices, Trainees and Cadets initiative.LEAP is an annual program designed to create employment opportunities for those looking to start or change careers. The initiative provides funded traineeships and apprenticeships, allowing participants to gain hands-on experience in Council roles while earning formal qualifications.The program has already started strongly this year, with Council securing six funded positions in Round One of the Fresh Start initiative to bolster the eight trainees/apprentices we currently have.Five apprentices and trainees have already commenced, with another set to join in the coming weeks. This intake includes roles in water operations, civil construction, business administration, parks and gardens and electrical trades—key areas that will strengthen Council’s workforce for the future.Lismore City Council General Manager Jon Gibbons said the LEAP program, supported by Fresh Start funding, is an investment in the future of Council and the community.“By bringing in enthusiastic apprentices and trainees, we’re not only creating career pathways for local people but also ensuring Lismore City Council has the skilled workforce it needs for years to come,” he said.“This initiative strengthens our capability, supports local jobs and helps us continue delivering essential services to our LGA.”After posting an advertisement online via the Council's website and SEEK, more than 100 Expressions of Interest were received, demonstrating the strong demand for local career pathways.Kamron Thurgood, one of Lismore City Council’s new Business Support Officer Trainees, has found her experience smooth and rewarding.“The onboarding process was smooth and organised, and the team has been so patient and supportive—I’ve learned a lot really quickly without feeling rushed,” she said.“With Youth Week approaching, I have been assisting in developing the program, which includes a fantastic range of events and activities.“I want to gain as many experiences and skills as I can. I don’t want to be limited in what I can do, so I’m taking on as much as possible while I have the chance.”During the recruitment process, more than 30 candidates, parents and caregivers attended an information session in December to learn about the opportunities available and hear directly from Council teams.Following a competitive application process, Council was awarded six funded roles: Apprentice Electrician – Water & Wastewater Trades Team Water Operations Trainee – Wastewater Team Civil Construction Trainee – Water Capital Team Parks & Gardens Apprentice – Open Spaces Team Business Administration Trainee – Stakeholder Engagement Team Business Administration Trainee – Rates/Finance Team Each successful applicant is now gaining real-world experience under the guidance of experienced mentors while working towards a nationally recognised qualification.Lismore City Council’s Acting Manager of People and Culture, Dianne Parker, said the Fresh Start funding has been instrumental in supporting the LEAP program.“The aim is to create talent pipelines in difficult-to-fill roles to ensure local government workforces can meet the community's needs,” she said.“This funding allows Council to attract and support a broader range of candidates and promote Lismore City Council as an exciting place to kick-start their careers.”The Fresh Start program is part of a NSW Government initiative, with $252.2 million allocated over six years to help councils develop sustainable workforces.Across four funding rounds, up to 1300 positions will be supported state-wide.LEAP is an annual program, with applications opening at the end of each year. It is open to people of all ages looking to start or change careers. The Council thanks the local schools participating in the program and Training NSW for their assistance.For more information regarding careers at Lismore City Council, visit www.lismore.nsw.gov.au/Council/Careers-at-Council.

In August last year, a select number of Lismore High Campus students started work on building a tiny home that they could sell.The Lismore App can report that the tiny home has been completed, and the auction date is set for Thursday, April 3.This beautifully crafted and designed house is a testament to the talent and hard work of Lismore High School’s students, who were guided by Northern Rivers industry professionals. You can view it today at 4:30 p.m. at the Lismore High Campus in East Lismore.The auction is not just a chance to purchase a one-of-a-kind dwelling; it’s an opportunity to help build futures, construct careers and support an educational project that is building foundations for students in the wider Lismore community that is not often built in the classroom.The Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP) program has provided funding for this seed project, with the proceeds from the auction going back into the Tiny Homes at Lismore High Project. As the project heads into year two, it needs to be self-funded.Thirteen Year 9 and 10 students have been working on the project for the last seven months.In August, principal Chris Williams said, “It's given the students something to look forward to, that they've got ownership of, and they can see a tangible result at the end of each week, and they're really proud of what they're doing.”The students worked on the tiny home on Fridays and signed an agreement to catch up on classes they missed due to the work on the build. As well as learning building skills, the students took turns being the foreman for the day allocating tasks to the rest of the team.All students completed a white card course, had site visits to trade businesses, and worked on the build to decide if a career in the construction industry was for them, whether that be a builder, an electrician or a plumber.The tiny house itself is 6 metres long and 2.5 metres wide, and the roof peak is 3 metres high. A generous deck comes off the front entrance.There is a bedroom on one end, a fully equipped kitchen, with oven, fridge and sink. There is also a bathroom at the other end, with a toilet, shower and sink plus a couple of power outlets.You can be assured of the quality of the build as the Lismore High Campus students had expert trade supervision.The tiny home is definitely worth a walk-through, which you can do this afternoon (Tuesday, 25 March) between 4:30pm and 5:30pm at Lismore High Campus at 118 Dalley Street, East Lismore.The auction will be held on Thursday, April 3 at 4:30pm.The sale of Lismore High's first tiny home will be put towards the 2025/2026 tiny home build, and there is no shortage of participants, with a number of Year 8 students already expressing their interest.

The ordinary Lismore City Council meeting was to be held on Tuesday, March 11; however, due to the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Alfred it was postponed to today (Tuesday, March 25).The top item on the agenda is the Eastwood Estate Development Application (DA) for Precinct 2.Eastwood Estate is a popular residential estate running off Invercauld Road, Goonellabah, near Invercauld House.The McCloy Group began developing land for 136 homesites in mid-2019 when it purchased a 21-hectare parcel of land. Precinct 1 first went on the market in early 2023.In January 2021, the McCloy Group purchased a further 37 hectares that adjoined Precinct 1, then lodged a DA with Lismore City Council for another 203 new residential lots later that same year.Council refused the DA on the grounds relating to environmental impacts, the suitability of the site for the development and the public interest.The McCloy Group appealed the decision to the Land and Environment Court and lost the appeal on two primary grounds:Practical retention of certain koala food trees (KFT’s) during the development of the site was unlikely, due to works in the vicinity of those trees, and so certain KFTs should have been considered removed by proxy; andStormwater management goals and measures were not satisfactorily achieved.Two additional potential issues existed, they were:Potential geotechnical and groundwater impacts associated with infiltration pits, that were proposed in an attempt to resolve the stormwater contention (above); andInsufficient provision of parklands and amenity for future residents.The McCloy Group has gone back to the drawing board and redesigned Precinct 2 to include a reduction in the number of residential sites from 203 to 176, plus three parks/reserves.Council staff provided a summary of the primary design changes made to resolve previous issues, they are:Arborist Report investigates every retained tree individually and provides bespoke measures for each tree to ensure their protection and long-term retention.Stormwater detention has been split across three (3) basins to decentralise flows and minimise downstream impacts. Stormwater infrastructure has been relocated upslope, entirely out of the C3 Environmental Management Zone. Further water sensitive urban design measures have been incorporated (see ‘Stormwater’ for details).The revised stormwater design negates the need for the any infiltration pits, and so the pits were deleted from the proposal. Additionally, groundwater analysis has been prepared that ensures maintenance of groundwater flows; suitable permeability; and appropriate diversion (see ‘Groundwater and Geotechnical’ for details).Suitable parks and reserves have been included in the amended design, sufficient to meet the needs of the local communityAll residential lots exceed the minimum lot size of 400 sqm. Lot sizes are medium-to-large, in the context of contemporary residential subdivision. The proposed residential lots range from 400 sqm to over 1,000 sqm in area. Approximately 40% of the proposed lots are within the 600sqm to 900sqm range.The insufficient parklands have been addressed, so now include two distinct parks/reserves. The first is the Local Park, located on the lower side of a new road. It will include children’s play equipment, covered picnic table seating, and level grassed areas for ball games, picnics, etc. This park will also be appropriately landscaped and will include a sculpture (as delivered in Eastwood Precent 1). The Local Park is on the fringe of the C3 Environmental Management area and will enjoy a natural environmental setting.The second is the Local Reserve. The primary purpose of the Local Reserve is for the protection of threatened species. However, it is also designed as a short nature walk through the estate. A raised timber walkway will be provided over the protected groundcover species, along with signage identifying the purpose of the reserve and the species within.The Biodiversity Report addressed the removal of koala food trees (KFT's). It said the development would retain all KFT's across the site, and limit ree removal to 18 native trees and 3 hollows-bearing trees.It also said that mitigation measures have been proposed to ensure long-term protection of the retained KFTs, and to compensate for the reduced accessibility of those KFTs that will be located within the new urban area. The proposal has demonstrated compliance with the Comprehensive Koala Plan of Management.Council’s Ecologist reviewed the application and is supportive of the proposal on biodiversity grounds. The proposal is compliant with the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016; the Biodiversity & Conservation SEPP; the CKPoM; and LDCP 2012, Chapter 14 - Vegetation Protection.In summary, council staff said, "The proposal will have positive social and economic outcomes, delivering flood-free residential lots that will allow for additional housing in the greater Lismore urban area. This is especially important in context of Lismore’s current post-flood housing shortage, providing opportunity for replacement of necessary housing-stock that was lost in the 2022 disaster. It is recommended that this Development Application be determined as Approved, subject to appropriate conditions of consent."One would expect this DA not to be approved as a unanimous vote from all councillors, given its proximity to Gundurimba Creek and the presence of KFT's, even if Lismore has a severe housing problem.The Lismore City Council meeting will get underway at 10am today (Tuesday), with Public Speakers to address councillors from 9am. This can be viewed through council's Facebook page.

With only three more weeks until the Easter school holidays, young people across Lismore and the Northern Rivers can look forward to an exciting lineup of more than 300 free activities during the upcoming autumn school holidays, thanks to the NSW Government’s Holiday Break program. Designed to provide enriching, educational and enjoyable experiences, the program ensures that young people in regional areas have opportunities to stay engaged and make the most of their school holidays, regardless of financial barriers.  Young people can stay active with rugby and basketball, mountain biking or by joining a colour fun run. Kids with a creative flair will find plenty of ways to express themselves through art workshops, craft sessions and even a unique ‘Paint a Skateboard’ workshop. For social and outdoor fun, there are silent discos, music festivals, skate events and barefoot bowls to enjoy, while movie screenings offer a chance to relax and unwind. In Lismore and the Northern Rivers, which includes Far North Coast Hockey in Goonellabah, a roller skating event at Rollerworld, a soccer skills program in Goonellabah, Ballina and Casino, plus 3x3 basketball in Ballina. To make it easier for families to plan, the program offers an interactive map that makes it easy to find activities nearby. For more details, go to: https://www.nsw.gov.au/regional-nsw/holiday-fun-for-regional-youth.NSW Minister for Regional New South Wales Tara Moriarty said, “This holiday program is providing a fantastic range of activities available to young people in regional areas this autumn school holidays.“We want to ensure young people in our regions can access engaging and meaningful experiences, no matter where they live.“By helping to bridge the gap created by distance and financial barriers, we’re making it easier for young people to stay connected to their local communities, explore new interests, and have fun while they do it.”NSW Minister for Youth Rose Jackson said, “The Holiday Break program is a great way to engage and support young people across regional NSW, helping them to stay active, explore new interests and connect with friends.“With over 300 free activities available this autumn school holidays, we’re making sure that kids and teens have the chance to try something new, build valuable skills and create meaningful relationships. “We know access to these sorts of activities and programs can be more challenging for young people in our regions. We believe growing up in the regions shouldn’t mean fewer opportunities to learn, get involved and have fun. “This program is all about making school holidays in regional areas more enjoyable and accessible for everyone – without costing parents and families a cent.”CEO and Founder of KYUP! Project and Holiday Break grantee Mel Thomas said, “As part of the Holiday Break program, we run half-day self-defence workshops for teens and young adults, focusing on key skills like setting boundaries, handling conflict and de-escalation techniques.  “We’ve been part of the Holiday Break programs since 2022, delivering workshops across the Northern Rivers, South Coast, Central Tablelands and Riverina regions. The program has been a huge success, with growing engagement and incredibly positive feedback from participants. “These free KYUP! workshops are important for young people in regional NSW as they provide essential self-worth and self-defence skills. They equip participants with tools to recognise unsafe situations, trust their intuition and develop the confidence to protect themselves from physical, emotional and cyber-based harm. “Offering these workshops at no cost ensures accessibility for all youth, regardless of their background or financial situation.”

Regional care services provider CASPA and The Northern Rivers Autism Association have joined forces to create a community event in recognition of World Autism Understanding Day on Wednesday, 2 April 2025. A variety of local groups and organisations will come together to help celebrate this year’s theme 'My Positive Autistic Identity'. The family-friendly event aims to support, empower and celebrate people with autism while broadening community understanding and acceptance.The free event will be held in the Lismore CBD at The Quad and will feature:Informative and interactive stallsSensory-friendly activitiesLive music with performances from the Little Tucki Creek Band, The Bones, Living School student bands and the RedINC Performance ChoirDelicious lunch options, including The Ugly Dumpling and JunkYard BBQGuest speakersOpportunities to learn and ask questionsCASPA Employee and Community Experience Officer Jessica Fraser said the event is an excellent opportunity to bring the community together again after the effects of Tropical Cyclone Alfred.“Our community is so good at coming together in times of crisis, so it’s nice to give them more opportunities to connect for a celebratory reason, particularly after recent weather events and the resulting stress and damage. While they were less devastating than initially predicted, it was still anxiety-provoking, especially for those affected by the 2022 floods.“There’s power in community showing up and supporting events like these. Sharing in music, food, creativity and lifting each other up. Embracing our community’s diversity makes us stronger.“If you’re working in the Lismore CBD on Wednesday, 2 April, come down, grab something to eat, support people with autism, and celebrate our vibrant community.”

Last Thursday, the Lismore App published an article about Lismore Base Hospital's downward trend in the latest Bureau of Health Information Quarterly Report from October to December 2024.While Lismore did have a busy three months with a 6.7% rise in ambulance arrivals, there were some results that have been a downward trajectory for the last three years, such as starting ED Treatment On Time dropping to 48.3%, less than half.We did ask the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) to explain some of the new strategies that will see these negative results turnaround.Lynne Weir, Director Clinical Operations, Northern NSW Local Health District said the NNSWLHD continually plans and invests in strategies to improve the timeliness of care for patients presenting to Emergency Departments."These strategies include the introduction of new Urgent Care Service in the Tweed and Lismore regions, both of which are now operational, and the expansion of our Hospital in The Home service across the district, which allows eligible patients to receive treatment from nurses and medical staff in the comfort of their own home."Planning is also on track to introduce new Patient Flow Discharge Concierges across the District to assist in the discharge of complex patients. At Lismore Base Hospital, we have also supported the opening of additional permanent ward beds, providing greater capacity for patient flow."Lismore Base Hospital is currently rolling out the Safe Staffing Levels for nurses in its emergency department, with recruitment underway for approximately 27 FTE additional nurses to meet Safe Staffing Level requirements."The Safe Staffing Levels initiative involves the introduction of minimum staffing levels on every shift, improving the experience of patients and boosting capacity and retention of staff. "Lismore is also set to benefit from new Key Health Worker Accommodation as part of a $34.2 million investment from the NSW Government in Northern NSW, which will help attract, recruit and retain more healthcare workers to the region. "The community can support us by saving emergency departments and ambulances for saving lives. If an illness or injury is not serious or life-threatening, we encourage people to call Healthdirect Australia on 1800 022 222 for 24-hour telephone health advice."Lynne did not forecast how long these strategies would take before we see an improvement in the key ED indicators.

The first 31 flood-affected homes through the NSWRA (Reconstruction Authority) were offered to the public through an expression of interest (EOI) in December 2024 and closed on the 14th of February 2025.We asked the NSWRA for an update on the relocation process and when the next lot of houses will be put on the market. A NSW RA spokesperson said,"We received 131 offers across 31 homes, with many people expressing their interest in multiple homes."22 of the homes received more than one offer, with three homes receiving 10 or more offers."The RA has undertaken an evaluation process to determine successful buyers based on the program criteria."PRD has commenced contacting successful applicants to invite them to enter a contract with the RA for the purchase and relocation of homes within 12 months."Based on the community’s interest in the EOI, we are confident that all homes will be sold."The RA is keen to expand the EOI process as soon as possible so that more homes can be relocated. A key requirement for that to happen is unobstructed access into the homes so safety and evaluation checks such as asbestos testing can be carried out. This work cannot be undertaken if people are living inside the homes."We will let the community know about future opportunities as soon as they are finalised."The criteria for the 31 homes were assessed against the following weighted criteria: buyer type (40% weighting), buyer readiness (40%) and financial offer (20%). The highest-ranked EOI submission for each home will be invited to enter contract negotiations with RA to purchase the home.RECOVERY ASSISTANCE POINTS (RAPS) from TC AlfredAs part of ongoing work to lead recovery operations, the NSW Reconstruction Authority is continuing to coordinate Recovery Assistance Points (RAPs) to support community members in and near Lismore, Tweed South and Woodburn.RAPs are one-stop shops for accessing support services to help impacted community members back on their feet as quickly as possible.Over the coming days, disaster-affected communities can access practical recovery advice and support at the following locations:Lismore – Southern Cross University, Military Road, East Lismore from today (Monday 24) to Friday 28 March from 9am to 5pmTweed South – Community Hall – Corner Heffron Street and Minjungbal Drive, South Tweed Heads on from Monday 24 to Friday 28 March from 9am to 5pmWoodburn – Woodburn Memorial Hall, 127 River Street, Woodburn on Tuesday 25 March from 12pm to 7pm and Wednesday 26 March from 9am to 3pmThe RA will be present at the RAPS, along with partner agencies: Service NSW, Services Australia, Revenue NSW, NSW Health, Rural Adversity Mental Health Program, Rural Aid, Insurance Council of Australia, Legal Aid, Australian Red Cross, St Vincent de Paul, The Salvation Army, Disaster Recovery Chaplaincy Network and Anglicare.The RA goal is to continue to support people in returning to their daily lives as quickly as possible.

An investigation by Australia’s competition watchdog has found the future of locally-grown fruit and vegetables is under threat unless major changes are made to the nation’s supermarket giants. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) released its final report into the nation’s major supermarkets, finding they increased their average product margins over the past five financial years and appeared among the most profitable supermarket businesses globally. The report recommended greater price transparency, a stronger Food and Grocery Code, and more fairness for farmers. NSW Farmers Vice President Bec Reardon said many farmers felt vindicated by the findings after decades of pain from the nation’s powerful supermarkets. “Farmers have seen prices go up at the checkout and come down at the farmgate, and our major supermarkets can no longer hide behind excuses for their disgustingly huge profits,” Mrs Reardon said. “These giants are world-leader on profits, which ultimately come from shoppers’ pockets and farmers’ incomes. Unfair behaviour is behind these super profits, and it’s pushing the people that grow our food out of business at a rate we’ve never seen before. “With a third of vegetable growers thinking about leaving the industry, who is going to grow the food to feed Aussie families when all our farmers are forced out of business?" A crackdown on unfair behaviour within the grocery sector was long overdue, Mrs Reardon said, with the Australian Government urged to take swift action. “Everywhere you look, the cost of living is a major issue, and I heard this week that food charities are now seeing double-income families turn to them for help. Politicians must act on this report, and fast,” Mrs Reardon said. “If we really want to change the culture of our supermarket sector for good, then we need price transparency systems – as well as divestiture powers to break up these giants when they misbehave. “Families are sick of paying too much for their groceries, and farmers are sick of being paid next to nothing. We all need fair prices, fast, or Aussies won’t just be worried about cost-of-living – we’ll be worried about where our next meal will come from.” 

While all of Lismore and the Northern Rivers anxiously await the release of the CSIRO report for large-scale flood mitigation that will reduce flood-level heights in the Lismore CBD and further downriver at Coraki and Broadwater, smaller resilience measures have been implemented through the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program (NRRRP).Announced in February 2023, the program provided $150 million for a range of resilience projects. Although those projects have been slow in coming to fruition, they have had a positive impact when called upon.The Lismore App asked Brendan Logan, Lismore City Council's COO and CFO, about what measures have been implemented in Lismore and what impact they had.Mr Logan said that since the 2022 flooding events, Lismore City Council has been planning and delivering a ‘Resilience’ program of works that improve our ability to prepare for and respond to flooding events. During Tropical Cyclone Alfred, these works proved their value, in particular, a series of drain cleaning projects that prioritise outcomes for the community.Those projects have included:The recently completed East Town Drains extension project (see images and drone footage attached) saw the repair of a 1,400-metre open drain system adjacent to Wyrallah Road Public School, Lismore Thistles Soccer FC and Wade Park. Works saw the removal of invasive coral trees and debris, restoring optimal flow to the section of stormwater drainage connecting to Gundurimba Canal. Works were funded by the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program (NRRRP). Read more.  The recently completed Urban Drain Cleaning project successfully cleared 8 kilometres of open drains, expediting the removal of excess stormwater from homes and community facilities during future weather events.“Council has invested multiple funding sources over the past 12 months to deliver a series drain clearing works, by a newly formed dedicated team under the leadership of our Head of Water and Waste, Matt Potter, and Director for the Resilience Program, Garon Clough," Mr Logan said."We have also partnered with the NSWRA and Rous Council Council to deliver other projects, including the East and South town drains projects, which enable the clearing of major flood mitigation drains. "Importantly, these works only mark the first step in the delivery of the Resilience program. More project commencement and completion announcements will be coming soon”.

The NSW visitor economy triumphed at the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards, with eight NSW businesses recognised across nine categories—including Balloon Aloft Australia, which took home double Gold.It was a particularly strong result for the NSW North Coast in the wake of Cyclone Alfred, with the region securing five awards. The Tweed Tourism Company claimed Gold, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, and Love Lord Howe received Silver, while the Port Macquarie Museum and Potager earned Bronze. Mayor Steve Krieg said the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is "An outstanding asset and should be applauded for that by not only all the residents of Lismore but the many thousands of tourists that will come to our region each year to use it."The Lismore to Casino section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail was funded by the Commonwealth Government.Federal member for Page Kevin Hogan said, “This is a wonderful acknowledgement of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail."It was great to secure almost $18 million to construct the Lismore to Casino section. "This is now a fantastic attraction for locals, tourists and businesses near and along the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, who are all benefiting from this major tourist landmark."The Rail Trail is already one of the top 10 tourist attractions in the world, ranked by Trip a Deal.” Other NSW businesses celebrated on the night included Sierra Escape, which won Gold, and Mt Hay Retreat, which received Silver. Hosted by the Australian Tourism Industry Council, the awards showcase the outstanding achievements of businesses and individuals across the visitor economy, with 24 operators from Bathurst to Broken Hill, Wagga Wagga to Sydney, and Batemans Bay to Byron Bay among the nominees. The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards are a benchmark of excellence, recognising those who demonstrate innovation, commitment, and leadership in delivering exceptional visitor experiences. The NSW Government’s Visitor Economy Strategy review has set an ambitious target of $91 billion in annual visitor expenditure by 2035.To help drive this growth, Destination NSW continues to support visitor economy operators through initiatives such as the NSW First and Choose Tourism programs, which provide workshops, webinars and online resources to strengthen industry capability. Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said, “I want to congratulate all the NSW winners and nominees at the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards who are helping make NSW the destination of choice for travellers. “Thanks to their hard work and innovation, more people from all over the country and all over the world are visiting NSW to enjoy exceptional natural and cultural experiences. “Destination NSW is committed to working hand in hand with industry, celebrating our world-class experiences, supporting and upskilling providers and championing new ideas.”  Acting Destination NSW CEO Karen Jones said, “The success of NSW businesses at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards reflects the outstanding passion, professionalism and commitment of our tourism operators. Their dedication to world-class customer service is what makes NSW a leading destination for visitors from around the world. “Creating fresh and immersive visitor experiences is central to positioning NSW as a premier global destination. By leveraging our state’s diverse natural and cultural assets, we can build a stronger, more resilient visitor economy that delivers benefits for businesses, communities and visitors alike.” 

Lismore City Council is reminding residents in the LGA that the FREE drop-off period for waste generated due to Tropical Cyclone Alfred's impacts ends tomorrow (Sunday) at the Lismore Recycle and Recovery Centre.The items included are:General waste from flood-affected properties.Green waste from storm damage.This service will cease at the close of business at 4pm on Sunday, 23 March 2025.Council asks residents to:Please ensure green waste is free from general waste.If any load is found to contain asbestos not properly double-wrapped and sealed in plastic, it will be rejected.You can expect longer wait times, so be patient as the operation comes to a close.As for other council assets, GSAC and the Lismore Memorial Baths have reopened, are fully operational and back to their regular operating hours.The Lismore Regional Gallery has been closed all week but is now reopened for visitors after carefully returning artworks to their exhibition spots.

The long-awaited $2.5 million Nimbin Rainbow Walk was officially opened yesterday near the newly constructed gazebo and sculptures by Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan, Mayor of Lismore Steve Krieg, Councillor Virginia Waters and Diana Roberts from the Nimbin Chamber of Commerce, who cut the ribbon.Diana said the Nimbin Rainbow Walk project came from the community in 2010."There have been two funding rounds to do the whole sort of conceptual planning. The community centre itself applied for grants unsuccessfully, and then, as Kevin said, after the bushfires, we got an incredible opportunity, and out of a disaster came this."Diana was referring to the 2019 bushfires that swept through Nimbin and into the Nightcap National Park."What went from a $900,000 community-managed project became a $2.54 million project that was actually funded in full. And I'd really like to acknowledge Business New South Wales, Destination North Coast, and also the funding body and the bureaucrats in that organisation who encouraged us to apply. I probably wouldn't have done it otherwise."It took almost three months of my life, and I'd like to acknowledge the contribution that people like Wil Polson and Kitty van Vuuren made to updating a business plan and I wrote the grant."And here we are. I think to me personally, it's probably the biggest legacy that I will leave Nimbin and I'm really proud of it."Local resident and Lismore City Councillor Virginia Waters also thanked those involved and praised the outcome."It's just so fantastic. This is now going to be Nimbin's green park space in town, and it's just so wonderful to see. I'm actually part of the Aquarius Landcare group, and it's great to start seeing what's happening and all the support that we've had from the community to get this going, but also from, of course, all levels of government who have come along and got on board and really supported it."We really have a beautiful asset here for not only the community but for all visitors that are coming to Nimbin."Mayor Steve Krieg thanked both the state and federal governments"On behalf of Lismore City Council, the residents of Nimbin and also, the multitude of visitors to Nimbin that are bound to use this walk, we are very grateful to the state and federal government for supplying the funds to what really is just an absolutely walkway through one of the most beautiful towns in Australia."Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin couldn't physically be at yesterday's opening; however, she did make a speech in parliament that was read by her representative, Lee Duncan. This is part of it."This weekend, Nimbin is about to become even more colourful with the grand opening of the Nimbin Rainbow Walk. That's the community opening. I can say the Nimbin Rainbow Walk is a 750-metre track with a boardwalk and concrete sections that link the CBD to the new Aquarius Park."The track incorporates artworks and interpretive signage and was constructed by Lismore City Council with $2.5 million of New South Wales and federal government funding as a bushfire local economic recovery package grant. I congratulate the Nimbin Community Centre Committee, which, through its reserves and 30 generous donations, purchased private land, key to enhancing the precinct."Ms Saffin said she walked the muddy track in 2021 when the project funding was announced; however, the floods of 2022 stalled the project.Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan said this was always an exciting project on paper."It looked great. The visuals look great. And I think it's one of those things that looks better in the flesh. It looks better as the physical asset that it is."Mr Hogan talked about the project being good for locals but also for tourists who visit one of Lismore's key tourist destinations.(The gazebo with a tiled wall painted by students)"It was always said this will help the tourist experience in Nimbin, and I think that's really important. Look, I'm Shadow Tourism Minister and one of the brands, and we have to keep reminding ourselves of this, and I think we take it for granted because it's in our neighbourhood, Nimbin is one of the most tourism-identified brands in Australia."If you ask people what they know, or what place they've heard of in Australia, Nimbin is on the list. That's pretty high. Obviously, you get the capital cities and stuff, but Nimbin is on most people's list. So I think, and I don't mean this as a dirty word either, I think Nimbin is a brand, a place that we should leverage more for Nimbin, for more tourism, for more visitors, and for them to experience the beautiful place this is, the sacred place this is and the special place that his has in our hearts.As you walk along the 750 metres surrounded by bushland, you can read the many signs outlining Nimbin's history; you will follow painted footpath artwork, including one with hopscotch surrounded by native animals, sandstone blocks, a magnificent gazebo with a tiled wall painted by students and two sculptures.Artist Greg Bowering was putting the final touches to the sculptures yesterday. Greg said the dark (stained) sculpture was carved out of conversations with Indigenous elders about a spirit called Nymbinji, while the other represented animals and flora and fauna that are endangered in the Nightcap Park region."There's different things like the spotted quoll, the Nightcap oak, the flowers of the peach myrtle, but they're oversized so you can see them as they are tiny flowers normally, the minion quandong, Stephen's banded snake, there's a red-legged pademelon at the bottom," Greg explained.(Greg Bowering putting the finishing touches to his two sculptures on the Nimbin Rainbow Walk)"The carpet python is not itself endangered, but its habitat is. I like them, so I put one of them in."When it came to the second totem pole, Greg discussed what would be appropriate with Oral Roberts and Oral Laurie."They came up with the idea of doing a Nymbinji sitting cross-legged on the top of the pole. The Nymbinji is like a clever man spirit of the area, and it's what Nimbin is named after. You could say he is a little bit like a leprechaun for the Irish."The Nymbinji is a bit of a trickster. Apparently, there's lots of them, little guys. Some of them have yellow eyes, some have red eyes. The red eye ones are a bit dodgy, a bit naughty. You've got to watch those guys; they'll play tricks on you. They'll also lead the kids astray if you're not careful, they might play tricks on them or teach them bad things.(The Nymbinji sitting on the top of the totem pole with water creatures underneath) But you also call on the Nymbinji when you need help. That's how it was explained to me. And so the Nymbinji is here to help, but he's not all good."For the Nimbin community, there is a grand opening this Sunday (March 23) at 10am.Apparently, there is a Stage 2 and Stage 3 to complete a looped pathway to Cullen Street, but difficulties have arisen.Diana Roberts said, "There is a stage two, and there's a stage three, but quite frankly, I doubt we'll ever do stage two. So it came from Cullen Street, down the bank, across the creek, and there were a few obstacles, but we won't go into those. I think we're more likely to see what would be a stage two going out through the property I own, up to High Street, out to the rocks, but I don't think it'll be in my lifetime."For now, locals and visitors can enjoy the new Nimbin Rainbow Walk.

Tropical Cyclone Alfred did not just cause havoc for people in the Lismore and Northern Rivers; it also affected people's fur babies.The SCU evacuation centre had a section set up for pet owners who were ordered to evacuate with cages, leashes, collars and pet supplies.Now that life is returning to normal and people have been back in their homes for a week, the NSW RSPCA want to help those in need.The NSW RSPCA Emergency Response team will set up a pop-up relief point at Nesbitt Park, South Lismore, today (Saturday, March 22) to provide veterinary advice and distribute essential supplies.Residents and their four-legged friends are encouraged to visit RSPCA staff and volunteers between 10:30am – 3:30pm to collect pet food and supplies proudly donated by the Petbarn Foundation.All dogs should be on leads, and cats in carriers.Details: Date: Saturday 22 March Location: Nesbitt Park, Casino Street, South Lismore Time: 10.30am – 3.30pm

Unfortunately, the mostly dry conditions we experienced this week will end over the weekend as the Bureau of Meteorology forecasts more showers.There is a chance of no rain; however, with a 60% probability, that is unlikely. The range is 0-5mm on Saturday, followed by 0-7mm on Sunday.The likelihood of rain increases as the week progresses from Tuesday.For those interested in trivia, today is the Autumn Equinox, where there is an equal amount of day and night (12/12).It is a busy weekend in Lismore, with quite a few different events to attend.The Lismore Farmers Market swings into action tomorrow morning at 7:30. It will have the usual fun atmosphere, fresh homegrown fruit and veg, coffee/tea, breakfast, flowers, and seedlings.The Nimbin Markets are on Sunday on Cullen Street from 9am to about 3pm. Check out plenty of stalls with multicultural food, unique artisan products, and recycled inventions that only Nimin can provide.While you are in Nimbin, check out the newly opened Nimbin Rainbow Walk. The 760 m walk has four entry points and features beautiful artwork, sculptures, and a gazebo along the route.There are two art exhibitions over the weekend.The first is Her-Art Works at the Serpentine Gallery (104 Conway Street) between 10am and 2pm. Here you can explore the vast and multifaceted nature of woman.The second is ARTEXPRESS 2025 at the Lismore Regional Gallery. This outstanding body of work was submitted for the 2024 NSW HSC examination for Visual Arts.If you like a bit of country dancing, then the Lismore City Bowling Club is the place to be on Saturday when Boot Scootin at the Bowlo takes place.The Lismore Rotary Club of Lismore Networking is hosting the event to raise money for children in emergency foster care. The cost is $50, which includes food, a raffle, a DJ, Line Dancing demonstrations, and prizes.Speaking of the Bowlo, the final 'All In The Same Boat' Barefoot Bowls Challenge will take place this Wednesday evening from 5:30pm. Barefoot Bowls No. 3 was due to occur on March 5, but Tropical Cyclone Alfred took care of that.Get a group of four together, whether it's business or friends, and head to the Lismore City Bowling Club on Wednesday, March 26. The cost is only $20 per team for a fun night. Call Sharon on 0416 282 247 to book.Live music has returned to the Northern Rivers Hotel after Alfred cancelled the last two weeks.Tonight, Western Sound Sessions is playing until 9:30pm, Saturday night from 7pm it's Hot Dog, and the Sunday Session is Ghostown between 3pm and 6pm.The next concert at the Lismore Workers Club is Tommy Memphis on Saturday, May 17. This is a FREE event; however, bookings are required; click here.You can also book for 'Who's Bad', the ultimate Michael Jackson tribute for Friday, May 30.Fuel prices have fallen slightly in the past week, about 2 cents a litre, with diesel falling 7 cents at the Astron on Ballina Road in Lismore.Here are the cheapest fuel options in each town:E10 is 178.9 across the board in Lismore, 173.5 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino, with The Metro and the Mobil on River Street in Ballina cheapest at 170.5.Unleaded 91 is 177.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road and the Caltex on Leicester Street, near the old Trinity school in Lismore, 175.5 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino, and 172.5 at the Metro and the new Mobil in Ballina.U95 is 188.5 at Bakers Corner, Terania Street, North Lismore, 194.9 at the Ampol on Dyraaba Street and the EG Ampol on Canterbury Street in Casino and 183.9 at the Shell on River Street (273), Ballina.U98 is 195.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road, 195.9 at the two Liberty's on Hare Street and Centre Street, and The United in Casino, and 191.9 at the Shell on River Street (273).Diesel is 181.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road and the Independent at Bakers Corner at 111 Terania Street, North Lismore, 187.9 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino and 192.5 at The Mobil and The Metro in Ballina.Have a great weekend!Have a laugh with the Friday Funnies.....

A Lismore dad has found it impossible to sleep soundly after his $100,000 win in a recent Keno draw left him tossing and turning all night with excitement.  The Lismore man resident scored a Keno Classic 15 Spot prize in draw 838, drawn on Wednesday, 19 March 2025 and looks forward to his $100,000. He was at the Lismore Workers Club enjoying a meal with one of his mates when he was floored by the newfound fortune. “I’m still in shock! It caught me off guard,” he laughed. “I didn’t have any sleep last night! I’m flabbergasted. “It happened all so quickly. I struggled to comprehend what was going on at the time. “I looked at the results and immediately saw a lot of my numbers, which consist of my grandchildren’s birthdates.“I was at the Lismore Workers Club with one of my good friends, and I turned to him and said, ‘I think I just won $100,000!’. He immediately said, ‘What?! Wait what? Take a picture!’.  “We really love visiting the club. We became a member with them since they re-opened their club last September after being affected by the floods. They’re really nice and treat us well.” While $100,000 could fund a luxurious holiday, a brand-new car, or even pay off a mortgage, the retiree revealed he plans to tuck the prize away for the future. “I’m going to put the prize into the bank account and let it sit there. I’m retired and on the pension, so will just try to maximise the prize as much as I can,” he revealed. “Thank you, Keno! Thank you, Lismore Workers Club!” Lismore Workers Club duty manager Jye Livingstone said it's always exciting when a major Keno win happens at the venue. “Knowing that we sold a major Keno-winning entry brings a lot of joy to our team and shows the exciting possibilities for our patrons; it’s definitely a moment we will remember,” he said. “The atmosphere was electric when the jackpot prize went off. Our winner was buzzing with excitement, and those who knew him were congratulating him. “Our customers will be talking about it and looking forward to their own chance to win big. It creates a sense of excitement and hope for everyone!“It’s been a little while since we’ve had a big win like this, which makes it even more special. Congratulations to the lucky winner, and we wish you all the best with your winnings!” 

If you get time today, get down to your local Bunnings as they throw their support behind communities impacted by our recent extreme weather events in northern New South Wales and Queensland with a nationwide sausage sizzle at Bunnings stores, in partnership with not-for-profit donation platform, GIVIT.Today (Friday, 21 March) from 9:00am to 4:00pm, Bunnings team members will get behind BBQs across Australia and raise funds, with all proceeds going to GIVIT, a platform managing donations for people and communities impacted by extreme weather events, including Cyclone Alfred and the North Queensland floods.Bunnings Director of Stores Rod Caust said, “Our team always embrace the opportunity to help out where they can and getting on the BBQ tongs to support communities impacted by recent weather events is no different.“Some of our teammates live in the impacted areas and have been on the ground providing hands-on help to their communities with recovery efforts. Our national fundraising BBQ in partnership with GIVIT is another way we can get behind them and show our support with hundreds of Bunnings sausage sizzles taking place all over Australia this Friday, March 21,” he said.In addition to the country-wide sausage sizzle, Bunnings customers will also have the option to make a donation to GIVIT online and in-store through a register.GIVIT CEO Chris Staines said, “GIVIT is so grateful to Bunnings and their customers for supporting our work ensuring flood and cyclone-impacted communities have access to the essential goods and services they need to recover from these disasters.”“We are working with these communities to provide immediate relief through grocery and fuel vouchers as well as furniture, whitegoods and household essentials when people are able to move home. Thanks to the Bunnings team for providing this simple way for people to help their fellow Australians who are doing it tough,” he said.More than 290 Bunnings stores are expected to participate in the fundraiser, however, stores impacted by weather or food shortages may not be able to participate. For more than 25 years, Bunnings has been supporting local community groups and organisations through fundraising sausage sizzles.

Lismore small businesses have not heard from either the state or the federal government in regard to financial help from the effects of Tropical Cyclone Alfred.It has been two weeks since Alfred tore through the Northern Rivers, with most of the damage in the Tweed and Coffs Harbour LGAs.Of course, there were some affected residents in the Lismore, Kyogle, Richmond Valley, Ballina and Byron Bay LGAs, too, from storm damage more than floodwaters.For Lismore businesses, the impact of Alfred is not a one-off event; it is a cumulative effect that began with the February 28 2022 big flood.Three years later, businesses in the CBD, South and North Lismore are still struggling with debt, both a bank loan to reopen their business and, in some cases, an ATO debt that is accumulating interest due to no disaster clauses in the ATO legislation.So, when small businesses say they are hurting from the loss of income suffered from being evacuated as a result of TC Alfred and still paying their staff, it is adding another layer to what has been and will continue to be a slow recovery.NSWRA (Reconstruction Authority) Flood Recovery Coordinator Scott Tanner yesterday said the Northern Rivers is 'Open for Business' and asked for visitors to come and spend money over the Easter holidays.Scott also acknowledged the pain that small businesses are feeling."I was speaking to a small business owner the other day in the CBD of Lismore, and for a five-day shutdown, it cost him $40,000, and he can't afford that."That's potentially a cumulative effect of the 2022 flood, and now they've been hit with another one. Whilst you won't see the physical damage as much as 2022, the financial damage is just as bad. These people still had to pay their staff but weren't getting an income."We're very conscious that we don't want to make this a welfare society either. There's a lot of money going into some resilient building and resilient business education. What we did see again, especially in Lismore, was that all the businesses that evacuated, did so because their business was built back better from last time."They made sure that all the important stuff was up high, that the fit-out in their shop and stuff was not going to be as damaged as last time. So, in that sense, they're going really, really good."The trick now is to make sure that they are supported financially to keep getting back on their feet. It's not to get back on their feet; it's to keep getting back on their feet because they're still crawling from 2022. Part of my role is to get all that data in and then advocate to government and say, Hey, here's a gap. Let's see how we can fix that."(Some key business owners had a private meeting with Prime Minster Anthony Albanese last week. Photo: supplied)Business Lismore President Michael Ackrell works for Cleanaway in South Lismore. He told the Lismore App that the industrial businesses had plenty of warning to plan the pack-up this time, unlike in 2022, so trucks, hoists, cars and computer equipment had time to be moved to higher ground."Everyone else was back in business very, very quickly. We obviously closed on the Thursday and didn't come back again till Monday. We spent that first week getting back to all our clients and making sure everything that we programmed to do Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday was actually done, so we're back to normal." Unlike retail businesses, light commercial or industrial businesses could reschedule their clients to the following week, so income was not lost. Conversely, a retail business lost five days of trade that could not be recaptured. Both business sectors had to pay staff for those days."We didn't really lose any revenue other than the fact we obviously pay for full-time, part-time drivers and some of our casual employees that we paid them a wage obviously for those few days that we were closed. We actually made that money back up because that revenue we lost we actually got back."And I think, for the majority of people in South Lismore, it would've been the same because if you are an electrician and you had clients booked for Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and you couldn't go, you would just reschedule that. So, while you had three or four days off, and that might be good for your mental health anyway, you know you didn't go back and get that business back, and you're not going to lose anything."People were very conscious of the fact that this was happening, and we were all aware of what happens in Lismore, so it was actually a no-brainer for us, so that was a good thing.""The problem in the CBD was that they closed up, and they weren't allowed back in, and while they were closed, especially for those mum and dad and sole traders and the other small businesses with only two or three people, they're paying their employees for a job. The government is paying some of that cost, but that revenue they won't get back."What's good, though, is we've seen a bounce back like after 2022 with people coming back in and spending more money in the CBD to try and make up for it, which is good."Some people used the time when they went back to do a refresh inside the store to make it different, and quite a few people, I think quite a few chemists, actually reinvigorated their shelving and everything else as well. For some, it was a bit of a positive, but the biggest positive is the fact that we actually had time to do this; in 2022, we all got caught out." (Scoops and Candy took the time for a refurb. Check out the new pink floor!)Felicity Hyde, Business Lismore Secretary and owner of Scoops and Candy on Keen Street in the CBD, talked about the stress of business owners around the CBD block."I think a lot of people have been stressed from packing up for the cyclone and the unknowns of the cyclone. So it's good to see so many people coming back, and it's good to see some people taking the time that they need to actually rebuild and do a little maintenance that they need to do before they come back. I think it's important to take that time for your mental health and things like that. So it's good to see that everyone's coming back. "I think probably about 30 to 40% of people took a couple of extra days. We have spoken to businesses that do take a lot longer to come back. So, it takes a day to pack up, but it takes three days to actually come back. So it's good to see that some people have taken the time and gone. You know what? I will tidy, I'll do some extra things I need to do, and then come back, and I think that it's a positive thing." Is there a call from small business owners for help?"It's great that the government does offer such grants. It is a shame that it isn't available for everyone, especially those who do really need it. I do know that there was a business in South Lismore that is ineligible for the funding because they are a company instead of a sole trader or partnership. So they've paid their staff out of pocket, and they've had to reset back up and pay their staff again, and there's no assistance for that company because they're under a company, not a partnership or sole trader," Felicity said."I know a lot of people who are in that boat."Michael Ackrell said, "There certainly is. They said to me that we need money to try and cover some of the revenue shortfall and the costs associated with actually losing revenue for the week or for however long it might have been."It's great, we've got sole traders looked after, we got not-for-profit, but for those people that are small businesses, we've really got nothing other than the employees can be covered for the wages lost for a period of time or if you lost your fridge for 48-hours of no power you got $900. "For a business that may trade as a cafe or whatever, you probably lost $10,000 or $15,000 or $20,000 of stock because you have nowhere else to take unless you got it out in time. And that's half the battle; we had plenty of time and plenty of warning to get out there, but we couldn't always get everything out."The government can certainly do more and we talk about 2022, the ATO being allowed to give us one year's grace. That should've been five. There are people out there still struggling mentally. PTSD is certainly a thing in Lismore that we could have a lot more help with the ATO was allowed to actually give five years rather than one. That's something that the federal government needs to legislate for because the ATO can't do it themselves.While lessons have been learnt since 2022, it does feel as if the government, state and federal, find it difficult to roll out financial aid to a portion of a disaster-affected area with a long history of devastation and trauma. The learning and improvement have been embraced by residents and business owners who live in the area, while the government rolls out a plan that is spread evenly across the board, which is still accepted practice. Bureaucracy at work.

This year marks an extraordinary milestone for North Coast Radiology Group (NCRG), celebrating 50 years of delivering high-quality medical imaging and patient care to communities across Northern New South Wales. Since its founding in 1974, NCRG has evolved from a single practice in Lismore to a trusted leader in diagnostic imaging. NCRG offers services including x-ray, ultrasound, CT, MRI, BMD, DEXA, Nuclear Medicine, dental imaging, women's imaging and pain injections.(Dr Ian Cappe, Elizabeth Wise and Tiara Azzato)Regional Manager Kelly Wyatt said, “We’re proud to be celebrating this key milestone, and delivering important healthcare services across the northern rivers and beyond”.North Coast Radiology Group began when Dr. Bill Turnbull returned to his hometown of Lismore with a vision to make advanced radiology services accessible to the local community. What started as a small practice with a single receptionist soon grew into a network of clinics, expanding to Casino in 1978 and pioneering diagnostic ultrasound in 1979.In 1980, a devastating fire destroyed the original premise.  But true to the NCRG spirit, they reopened within ten days, setting a foundation of resilience and dedication that continues to define them today. “Over the years, we have expanded our services and introduced MRI services in Grafton and women’s imaging and nuclear medicine in Lismore. We have a team of on-site doctors, offering greater appointment availability,  less wait times and services closer to home.” said Kelly Wyatt.NCRG's success can be attributed to the unwavering dedication of the team, from long-standing radiologists who ensure clinical excellence to their support staff who uphold a patient-first approach. NCRG’s staff are deeply invested in serving the local community.NCRG would like to thank their patients, healthcare partners, and dedicated team for their trust and support over the past 50 years. For more information about our services and locations, visit ncrg.com.au.

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg welcomed 20 new citizens at an Australian Citizenship Ceremony held today at the Council Chambers. The new citizens have come from Brazil, Cambodia, Malaysia, Mauritius, New Zealand, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sweden, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States of America and Thailand.Mayor Krieg said it’s an honour to welcome new citizens to our nation. “One of the best parts of my job is to warmly welcome new Australian citizens who are now part of the common bond that unites all Australians and respects diversity,” he said.“Congratulations and welcome to our new citizens. Australia is one of the most culturally diverse nations in the world, and since 1949, we have welcomed more than five million new citizens to our shores.”The Lismore City Council, representing the Department of Home Affairs, organises regular citizenship ceremonies to warmly welcome new Australian citizens into our community.For more information about Australian citizenship, visit www.citizenship.gov.au.