South Lismore Post Office has a Christmas initiative that is bringing a deeper meaning to kids and community this year. The new postmaster, Tracy Ward, is reaching out to kids and signing them up on a contract with Santa to be on his Nice List by engaging with creative projects for the older generations in Lismore.Tracy is the mastermind behind this endeavour, and her aim is to actively engage kids in pastimes that capture their imaginations, and get them thinking about kindness and others less fortunate.There is a big leatherbound book in the Post Office - Santas Good Deeds Book or Nice List where kids enter a contract with Santa to do certain creative projects for the elderly. Each time they complete a project, the book gets stamped and they select a heart sticker to go on the rain gauge. Tracy is amazing with children, and artfully relates the nature of the contract, complete with the exciting benefits and ramifications if the contract isn't met (the naughty list).“When children come into the store, they're in a position where they can make a contract with Santa. Santa has sent us his Good Deeds Book.“As soon as you put your name, your age and you stamp the page, that is a binding contract to engage in activities between now and Christmas. “If there are enough children that enact enough acts of kindness that can over fill our rain gauge - which is the height that the flood was in 2022, it beats the height of the flood. “This proves to the children that hearts will soar higher than a river ever could.(Frankie and Isla signed up, and helped put the first letters and picture into Poppy the post box, and then placed the first hearts on the rain gauge this week)“Then Santa will know that the children of South Lismore care, and he is going to turn Ettie, (the name of the post office - after its first postmistress) into a Gingerbread house at Christmas time. And it will become part of a Christmas walk down the main street here.“There is a different challenge each month, and this month is to draw a picture that would make an elderly person smile.”Tracy has received her first pictures, and even a letter to Santa. They all go into Poppy, Santa's post box, for processing. Seeing the kids engage has made Tracy so happy.(Tracy receiving her first artworks from children)“The store was so full of laughter today. Kath and Dave (who work at the post office) are getting in on it. Dave has become the Grinch, and plays his part well.”Tracy is determined to bring the magic back to the area. "Magic is very much a part of the South Lismore Post office - positive things have been occurring to make this space special and unique."(The Sydney Postmaster desk)After a chance event, the original Sydney Postmasters desk now resides in the South Lismore Post office, as does a postcard over 100 years old that was sent from the South Lismore Post Office originally. Ask Tracy for the story.The other piece of whimsy that is bringing kids joy is the sunflower in the window. Tracy was originally looking for something with a rainbow for the rainbow region.  The Sunflower, which was made from flood glass, is a unique find and took pride of place. After hanging, it was discovered that the white petals throw a rainbow of light every afternoon at around 4pm.“People have been popping in just to tell us how much they enjoy the vibe.“It’s a privilege to be a postmaster in South Lismore.”For a lovely holiday treat, take your kids down to visit the post office to see if they want to be in Santa's Good Deeds Book!

State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin says $400,000 in NSW Government funding for her key election commitment of a new amenities block for Nimbin’s Peace Park is all locked in. Ms Saffin said there had been some unhelpful conjecture around this funding, but she confirmed that the funding deed was executed between recipient Lismore City Council and the Department of Regional NSW on 16 May 2024. “Nimbin residents, including members of the Nimbin Advisory Group (NAG) which pushed so hard for the amenities block for so many years, can be assured I follow through on my commitments to ensure they are delivered,” Ms Saffin said. “Council’s General Manager Jon Gibbons tells me that the next step will be community consultation on the concept and design, which will be undertaken in the second half of this year. The funding agreement has completion of the project by 30 June 2025.”Nimbin resident, member of NAG and Friends of the Pool, Sue Edmonds reflected relief in knowing this had finally come through for the community.“We've been lobbying for this for about 15 years. At the moment, what exists is one toilet in the swimming pool, and that's for the children's playground, the barbecue area, the skateboard park - the whole recreation area and the swimming pool.“But it's only open six months of the year. Nimbin Peace Park is one of the few public parks in New South Wales with no toilet facilities. The effort Janelle Saffin has made is really good news for the town.” Lismore City Council Mayor Cr Steve Krieg said: “This is great news for the Nimbin community which has been actively lobbying for the new amenities block near the pool for a long time now. “I would like to thank our local member Janelle Saffin for all the work she did behind the scenes to get this funding approved,” Cr Krieg said.

Police are looking for information regarding a DV incident that occurred in Casino at 1.45pm yesterday afternoon.A spokesperson for The Richmond Police Department reports;“A woman will face court today over a domestic violence offence in state’s north.“Just after 1.45pm on Wednesday (10 July 2024), police were called to an address in Casino following reports of an alleged domestic violence.“Officers attached to Richmond Police District were told a 34-year-old man and a four-year-old girl were allegedly assaulted by a woman about 4am on the same day at an address in Goonellabah.“The man and the girl left the premises following the alleged assault and the girl was taken to Casino Hospital for treatment to facial injuries.“The man was also taken to the same hospital for treatment to injuries to his hand.“Following inquiries, police arrested a 27-year-old woman at an address on McDermott Avenue, Goonellabah, about 6.30pm.“She was taken to Lismore Police Station where she was charged with two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm (DV) and stalk/intimidate intend fear physical etc harm.“She was refused bail to appear at Lismore Local Court today (Thursday 11 July 2024).“Inquiries have led police to believe the man and woman are known to each other.”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.

The Alliance Francaise Cote du Nord (AFCDN) invites you to celebrate Bastille Day with them at Lismore’s Star Court Theatre for a mini french film fest.The AFCDN are, “Absolutely excited and very happy to be working with the Star Court Theatre. French cinema always brings surprises, laughs, tears and important messages we need to hear.“We are a group of Francophiles who often meet over a good French meal. This year for Bastille, we have decided to watch some French cinema.”Bastille day is “the Fete Nationale is a time to celebrate the Republic and the democratic process: Liberte, Egalite et Fraternite”The French Film Festival runs from the 12th to the 14th July, showing four late release French movies over three days. All have English subtitles.(More information on the films is available at the AFCDN website)You can also join the AFCDN on Sunday 14th, July at 4.30pm between the two screenings for French aperitifs (from the Gatsby’s Bar) and there will be hors d'oeuvres of wine, cheese and pate ($5 per person- please RSVP at [email protected]).You are encouraged to wear your bleu, blanc et rouge or your most chic French outfit.“We'd love to hear your thoughts on the four movies and to raise a glass to La Belle France for la Fete Nationale.” If you can’t make the Bastille Day celebrations, there are other days to introduce something French into your life. “Since the 2022 flood in Lismore we have been working very well with the team at the Star Court Theatre Lismore, to show a recent French movie most months. “We hold a discussion in French over a quiet drink and nibbles after this movie in their Gatsby's Bar, a great little place to sit and chat, before or after any of their movies or shows. The movies are the latest available, with great actors, a variety of genres and all have English subtitles.”Here are some other suggestions if you would like more French in your life;“We have French Lessons starting term 3 on July 29th for all levels. “There are four French Book Clubs in the North Coast region.“French Radio is every Saturday on River FM at 12pm till 2pm.  “Our Cafe du Coin each month is held at the Star Court Theatre on a Wednesday. Our next one will be 14th August . ‘In September, we hope to have a wine and cheese tasting event. “We are run by a board of volunteers as a not for profit organisation, part of a world wide Alliance Francaise, which last year celebrated its 140th anniversary. There are 30 AFs in Australia.”If you are interested, find them on the AFCDN website, Facebook and / or Instagram.

The bird flu may not be present in the Northern Rivers, but its impacts are being felt by the region.Local producers in the industry are very aware of what is happening, and precautions are being taken to protect the area. The ability to buy eggs in Lismore shops varies, and the hospitality industry is making adjustments to their offerings to accommodate a lack in supply.Allegedly Lismore McDonalds have even limited their breakfast menu to 10.30am due to this shortage.In retail shops, eggs are quickly moving off the shelves in the larger shopping centres, but you can still find good local supply at smaller produce stores.(Eggs in Lismore shops, Farmer Charlies vs Woolworths)Simon Clark from Organigrow produces 6000 organic eggs a day, in Monaltrie just south of Lismore and used to supply to a far reaching market. However that has recently changed, and now their focus is on the local market. In fact, they don't sell anywhere else, anymore.“We have stopped selling to markets in Sydney and Melbourne. Selling locally has become an increasing trend that has been going on for several months, and It's good for egg growers.“It’s a much better method of keeping Greenhouse gases in check - rather than sending stuff off Melbourne and then local supply coming up from Victoria, it's crazy the way eggs get shipped around the country.”Although the temptation is there for egg producers to expand to meet the demand, this can take months. And birds are harder to come by at the moment. Simon spoke of the measures he needs to take on the property to prevent the spread of disease, “It’s about controlling who comes onto the farm and trying to avoid contact with wild birds. “We don't have any contacts with other farms. That's the way it's been transmitted is through the farms sharing things like egg trays. Most large producers have multiple farms.“I’ve had increased biosecurity at my operation now for a number of years, I'm not terribly worried about the consequences of this outbreak. I have maremmas that look after my bird population, and keep wild birds away from the chickens.”(A young maremma meets his new charges)Simon explains that larger producers are much more susceptible as there can be around 33,000 birds to a shed, several sheds to a farm, and several farms using the same equipment.  If you get a fairly benign strain of bird flu, it can easily mutate into a pathogenic strain because it can circulate easily in very large flocks. "So it's always the larger flocks that get it. Most farms have between half a million and a million birds."Jeff Thompson, one of Lismore’s legendary poultry breeders and is known for his judging prowess. He speaks of his knowledge and experience with bird flu in his matter of fact style. “There's no threat of the bird flu to this area. I can tell you that now”Jeff has a lot of contacts in the industry and he keeps well informed. He is not a fan when "scare mongering tactics" are used to put fear into people regarding bird flu. Jeff works extensively in NSW and Qld and is a big advocate of the work the DPI has done to keep disease under control.“Everyone's got to follow the protocols from the DPI. The DPI’s got more control than anyone else, and they know more than anyone else.”The threat of bird flu has not stopped him showing and travelling to shows. “When the chickens go to a show they come home, they're sprayed and they get isolated for two weeks.”Jeff takes the health of his flock very seriously and recommends that others do the same.If poultry is your passion, consider looking up the Lismore Poultry Club (one of the oldest clubs in Australia, Jeff says) of which Jeff is an active member.You can also learn more about Simon's farm Organigrow, here.  

Steve Kreig has announced the latest figures for CBD occupancy and economic facts released yesterday. Earlier in the week, the Lismore App spoke to a handful of retailers to see how business is going.  Today, we take a dive into business around Lismore’s CBD to get a wider understanding of what is happening.Lismore City Council conducted their regular audit of shopfronts and upstairs premises in the CBD. This took place in the week beginning June 17th. (the last one being December 2023)The Lismore CBD Audit assesses the occupancy rates of central portions of Keen, Molesworth, Woodlark, Conway, Magellan and Carrington streets. Below are the street-by-street occupation rates at June 2024 compared with December 2023: Keen Street occupancy rate – 82.4% (up from 81.1%)Magellan Street occupancy rate – 81.7% (up from 76.3)Conway Street occupancy rate – 77.3% (up from 72.1%)Carrington Street occupancy rate – 77.3% (up from 73.1)Molesworth Street occupancy rate – 77.0% (up from 74%)Woodlark Street occupancy rate – 65.1% (up from 60.7%)Lismore City Council comparative fact: Lismore CBD occupation rate was 90.2% in late February 2022, just prior to the natural disaster.The positive jump in occupancy rates is reflected by Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg's sentiments.“It was always going to be slow increases once we hit 70% occupancy, but to reach an impressive 76.8% by June 2024 is great news – and that doesn’t include shops like Trident Fish & Grill and others that have opened since,” he said.“And with the Workers’ Club soon to reopen, it really is the time to invest in Lismore before it becomes more competitive.”Recent SpendMapp data is signalling growth in both visitation numbers and spend in our business centres and across the local government area.Total spending was up 10% in the CBD in May, compared to the same time last year. This consisted of a 20.9% increase in dining and entertainment, a 9.6% jump to professional services, a 1.8% increase in general retail and a 2.3% increase in food retail.Across the LGA, total spend jumped 6.3% and there was a 7.9% increase in the visitor local spend when compared to the same period last year.Some say Lismore’s vibrancy is becoming increasingly tangible. More and more people are sensing change. Has the tipping point indeed been reached?  Speaking with retailers earlier in the week about how they were faring, it was interesting to hear what they had to say, as this was before these figures came out. Kaye from The Kitchen Shelf spoke of their connection to local supporters of both their retail and trade services, “We are pretty lucky the locals are so supportive. The new restaurant “Trident” bought much of their service ware from us. “We offer diversity in how we do business, which has evolved with the economic climate. You have to be competitive. It's a good town, and it’s lovely to see it coming back.”Planet Music’ s Matt Bone says, “I get the vibe that people want to support local business.” At Planet Music, this support is reciprocal and Matt holds a gig every fortnight at their shop to support his customers' passion to play.(It is so lovely, visiting a florist...)Jo at The Enchanted Florist is feeling the competition in floristry in Lismore. “It is hard to have enough customers to go around to all of us.” Jo has implemented some strategies of her own, and has the sweetest bouquets ready to go out the front for only $5!Jerry at the Forest Cafe has only been in business for just over a year. “I’ve been pretty busy. And this year is busier! People are friendly - I am very happy to do business on Keen Street.”Ben at George Gooleys Menswear says “Business isn’t too bad, but we aren’t breaking records. Let's face it, you will always want to do better!” He says they are close to pre-flood sales.  (Shopping at Gooleys for a 7 1/2 month old for an outfit to Careers Day at daycare)“Retailers need to get their hands dirty and have a go. If you have reasonable prices and a good product, people get a fuzzy feeling when they shop local. It’s about having products that people want.”The opening of Trident this week says a lot - the excitement of something new, with local celebrities and people who are serious about making an impact on the area. People were very keen to see what was on offer and queues trailed out the door.Chris Photiou said, "It was an enormous turnout, actually. So you're pretty, pretty happy with how it's going. I would like to thank the people of Lismore for supporting us so well."(Ashleigh (in pink) is the 100th customer at Trident Fish and Grill about an hour after opening its doors)The innovative solutions business are coming up with to create an attractive space to shop are a big contributor to the Lismore vibe that is starting to flow once more.With the backing of Lismore City Council and other big contributors to the wellbeing of the city, things are happening. Mayor Krieg said this Council was committed to creating the right conditions to attract more business investment in the city. Recent supported events like the Lismore Lantern Parade attracted an estimated 32,000 people throughout the day and evening, creating an economic impact of almost $2 million.If you haven't stepped out in town for a while, or you are interested in opening a business, the best place to be on the street seeing what is happening for yourself.Experience the impetus created with good business practices and events like the Lantern Parade, LisAmore, sporting events as well as creative and cultural festivities evolving Lismore in a dynamic way.

European Bees are facing their toughest challenges over the next few years, and as Lismore is a good latitude for superb bee keeping conditions, there are challenges facing the many apiarists in the area, too.The varroa mite has slowly made its way north, and the management tactic has changed. Over the next few years, any hive that is not managed is subject to a death sentence.Speaking with Brian Windows of the Northern Rivers Amateur Beekeeping Association, he explains the changes. “Varroa mites spread up as far as Woolgoolga, and at that stage, the DPI and the beekeeping industry decided to go from trying to eradicate the mites to a mode where they manage the mites.”Eradication has become too difficult . With the need for bees in various locations for the fertilisation and development of crops like almond and blueberries, they get moved around.“There's so much money involved that the guys doing the pollination get permission to move them. And that's what spreads the mites, basically.”The DPI have a tactic to treat hives to slow the spread of the mites.“In the management mode, they're trying to teach all the beekeepers how to treat mites, and try to minimise the spread.”There are two scenarios being discussed for Lismore.“Now, basically, there are no mites in our area around Lismore.(Credit - Queen Bee Beekeeping)“The mites hitchhike a ride on a bee, and the bee goes into a different hive, because bees quite often do that. If they spread like that, they'd probably take three or four years to get up here. “But most of us in the beekeeping industry think that somebody will move a load of bees up from down south to pollinate either macadamias or blueberries in particular, and we think we expect to get mites here this summer.”That seems fast.  “The DPI is doing a fantastic job in educating people how to manage the mites with workshops. If you don't treat the mites, your hive will die out. So you have to learn how to treat the mites. “We fully expect when the mites establish up here, that all the feral hives will disappear. “Anyone who is not managing their hives, their hives will collapse. It'll take a year or so, but their hives will collapse. This is what's been found overseas.”“It's very hard to predict what's going to happen in the initial stages, but they expect over a couple of years, it'll settle down, and people who are managing their hives, carefully, will survive.”Varroa mites live off bee larvae. In cold climates that have distinct seasons, the queen stops producing young at certain times of the year, which stops exponential growth.  Australian Eucalypts flower all the year around, so there is no broodless time period to control numbers.“Hives will need to be treated four times in a season. You won't be able to get away with one treatment. Four times to avoid resistance,, and you've got to use different chemicals on the different treatments.“One of the difficulties in the community, a lot of people are not registered with the DPI, so they don't get any information on treatments.”These changes will potentially bring about vast alterations in the industry.“Many people are preparing, to cease beekeeping, because it's difficult to keep up with. It's going to be expensive. Everyone thinks that the price of honey is going to go up.”(Credit - Queen Bee Beekeeping)Brian gives an example of how this will affect macadamia’s in the region. “With macadamias, it’s generally accepted that around 30% of the crop requires pollination. So in principle, the macadamia people will lose that percentage of their crop if there are no European bee pollinators.”The mites mainly affect European Bees because of the length of the pupa stage. Mites need 20 to 21 days to feed from the pupa - a symbiotic relationship. However Australian Native Bees and Asian Bees have shorter pupa stages so the varroa avoid them.  The reason why European Bees will be sorely missed is because of their willingness to travel over distance. 2 or 3 km over a Native Bees half a kilometre. A lot less European Bee hives are needed to pollinate a larger area.Beekeeping looks to be dying out, “If you go to a beekeeping meeting, you'll find there’s a lot of older people, and a lot of them are getting out. Basically, the price to get into beekeeping has gone down.”If you are or are considering becoming a beekeeper, make sure you register with the DPI to keep up with the latest information to combat the mites. And for everyone else, if you want to bee friendly, plant some flowers or mow around a clover patch in your garden this spring. And enjoy their presence, we may bee seeing a lot less of our fuzzy little pollen laden, garden helpers in the near future.(Credit - Queen Bee Beekeeping)Apiarists can bee registered here.Technically today is Don't step on a bee day. So try not to, at least.

People in Northern Rivers NSW are being reminded of the care options that are available to them, as winter illnesses continue to impact the local community and the region’s busy emergency departments (EDs).Northern NSW Local Health District Chief Executive, Tracey Maisey said those with non life threatening conditions are encouraged to call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 for fast and free health advice from a registered nurse. You can also check your symptoms and find a service online at Healthdirect.gov.au or on the Healthdirect app.“When you call Healthdirect, a registered nurse will assess your condition and guide you to the care you need, which could be a local health service, such as urgent care service, or connect you with a virtual care service,” Ms Maisey said.“Hospitals in northern NSW are extremely busy this winter, with high numbers of ED presentations month on month. Across the District, we are seeing an average of 622 people present to our EDs each day, which is higher than the same time last year.“By utilising services like Healthdirect, we can ensure our busy EDs are reserved for the most urgent and high-level care that can’t be accessed anywhere else.”Ms Maisey also reminded the community there are a few simple steps people can take to help protect themselves and their loved ones from respiratory illnesses.“The most important thing to do is booking in for your flu vaccine if you haven’t already – it is not too late. Please stay home if you are sick. If you are unwell and need to leave home, please wear a mask and avoid high-risk settings including aged care and hospitals,” Ms Maisey said.Chief Executive of Healthy North Coast, Monika Wheeler, said in recent years there has also been significant investment to enhance primary care access in northern NSW.“If you can’t get a quick appointment with your regular general practice or care provider, there are several free, local options available for urgent care needs,” Ms Wheeler said.“Healthy North Coast is also supporting the Australian Government’s establishment of a GP-led Medicare Urgent Care Clinic in Lismore. The clinic is open seven days a week from 7.30am to 7.30pm, and accepts walk-ins, with no appointment needed.“If you have a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000) or go to an ED. Examples of life threatening emergencies include chest pressure or pain lasting more than 10 minutes, difficulty breathing, uncontrollable bleeding, or sudden collapse.”Lismore Medicare Urgent Care ClinicNo appointment needed, walk-ins welcome. Open 7 days a week. The clinic provides free, immediate treatment to Medicare Card holders for non-life-threatening injuries or illnesses. Services include treatment for respiratory illnesses, gastroenteritis, minor infections, burns or cuts, sprains and sports injuries, STIs, bites and rashes, eye and ear infections.Members of the community may also be directed to Lismore Medicare Urgent Care Clinic by calling Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 or via the North Coast Health Connect website.Location: 33-35 Rous Rd, GoonellabahOpening hours: 7.30am - 7.30pm, 7 days.

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin has secured a $30,000 grant for Lismore-based North-Tracks Works to expand its life-changing program to engage with more young people in Goonellabah, Coraki and Casino. Ms Saffin thanked NSW Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley for approving the grant following her representations on behalf of the organisation. Ms Saffin praised North-Tracks Works, which operates out of a shed in South Lismore, for how it empowers vulnerable young people aged 11 to 18 by providing one-on-one support, mentoring and practical learning opportunities. “I was able to lock in a $44,000 Local Small Commitments Allocation program grant so North-Tracks could purchase equipment and materials for the young people to learn and gain skills to be work ready,” Ms Saffin said. “This additional grant will allow North-Tracks to employ youth workers to put more young people through its already proven youth program, one which I know has the support of Richmond Police District Commander Superintendent Scott Tanner.” North-Tracks Works Chair and local real estate agent Patrick Higgins thanked Ms Saffin for all her efforts in securing the extra funding from Minister Catley which would help sustain and expand the program. Mr Higgins said: "We don't fit in the box for normal funding. Our approach is one of creating a sense of belonging and purpose through our skills program and training working dogs. It’s the work with the dogs that bridges the gap. “At North-Tracks we spend 10 per cent looking back, 10 per cent at where you are now and 80 percent out front. We help them chase their dreams and goals. “The team at North-Tracks have three basic goals; keep them safe and alive, keep them out of jail and help them move forward to live a full and productive life."

Monday's power outage was complicated. At least, there is a very complex version of what happened, and it is below for the bright sparkies amongst us, but lets start with a simple explanation.The outage was a culmination of high voltage faults that resulted in a forced blackout. The reason for the blackout was to protect the integrity of our electrical network.Essentially, at around 5.20pm last night, the electricity towers or transmission lines coming to Lismore from Coff Harbour had a fault and tripped out of service. So no electricity from the south.Then at around 6pm, the power supply from Qld in the north started acting up and couldn’t be relied on.This meant that Lismore and surrounds, in the middle of what is considered the evening peak supply, had a markedly reduced ability to get enough power to facilitate all our electrical needs. What happens when the demand surpasses the ability to supply in the electrical network, there is a danger of stressing critical infrastructure which can put this infrastructure at risk of damage. The damage caused to that infrastructure by this scenario means long term outages and disruption to electricity supply in that area. Hence the reason why the decision was made to disconnect the electricity to large areas of the Northern Rivers. By around 7.45pm, our electricity demand was sufficiently lowered, so supply was able to be restored in stages. By 8pm, most areas were back to normal, and by 10pm, supply was restored throughout the region.Now we jump to understanding our electrical supply - how it gets to us and by whom.We get our power from the power supply companies of which there are a few. The power comes to us on the low voltage network of powerlines that Essential Energy is in charge of.  The high voltage power in NSW is taken care of by a company, Transgrid. The high voltage power that comes to us from Qld, is controlled by another company, Directlink.Over the top of all of this, the Australian Energy Market Operator or AEMO undertakes overarching research and decisions that connect the web of power across all of Australia.So the current status of our electricity supply is: Transgrid’s transmission line to the south is currently having the fault repaired, and will be back on line around Thursday.  Directlink’s unreliable transmission line (called the interconnector) was repaired on Tuesday by around 2pm, so we are now running on a steady supply from the north.The AEMO considers this a serious breach of electricity supply, and are doing an investigation into the occurence, with a report available in a week or so.So for those that now have done NSW Electricity 101, here is the actual statement that was originally provided as explanation for the outage on Monday night: “From 18:17 yesterday, AEMO instructed NSW’s transmission operator Transgrid to shed a total of 40 megawatts (MW) of electricity supply near Lismore in response to issues threatening power system security.“Earlier that day (05:11), Transgrid’s 330 kilovolt Lismore - Coffs Harbour transmission line tripped and remained out of service. At the same time, the nearby QLD-NSW HVDC interconnector, Directlink, tripped as per design and subsequently returned to service.“During the evening, Directlink was unable to follow dispatch targets, further limiting the available options to supply power to the Lismore area to meet the evening demand, putting the secure operation of the power system at risk.“After load shedding had commenced at approximately 18:34, Transgrid’s 132 kilovolt Armidale - Koolkhan transmission line tripped and reclosed, and at the same time Directlink tripped and remained out of service.“At 19:45, electricity demand reduced, allowing the majority of power supply to be restored by 20:00, with full restoration by 22:00.”

Around 9.15pm last Friday night, Police responded to a triple zero call in Richmond Street, Woodburn. The Richmond Police describe what happened;“On arrival Police were in discussion with a female at the location when a male aged 23 who was also present became irate with Police and the female and began to yell at them.  The males’ actions continued to escalate and eventually it became necessary for Police to detain him.“As Police attempted to detain the male, he clenched his fists and it is alleged he swung at the Officers as they approached him. A physical confrontation has occurred between Police and the male and it is alleged that during the confrontation one of the Officers present was struck to the left side of the face by the male resulting in an immediate laceration and swelling to his face.  “The Officers disengaged and Capsicum spray was deployed. Although the Capsicum spray was effective it still required a further physical confrontation before the male was restrained.“Following the detention of the male it is alleged that he has then spat in the face of one of the Officers present as well as stomped on the foot of another.“The male was subsequently conveyed to Lismore Base Hospital where he was left in the care of Hospital Staff for assessment.“Following the release of the male from hospital he was later arrested by Police and was subsequently charged with the offence, Assault Police Officer in execution of duty causing Actual Bodily Harm and 2 x counts of Assault Police Officer in execution of duty without Actual Bodily Harm.“The male has been granted conditional bail to appear before Ballina Local Court on 25 July 2024.”The offender was released from hospital yesterday, and charges were subsequently delayed until his release. Bail restrictions protect the female at the scene, who has also been offered support.

The CWA met with Lismore's Prostate Cancer Support Group (LPCSG) last week at a social gathering to exchange information.  Helen Dargin, the CWA president spoke of the value of the works they undertake.  The LPCSG spoke about the statistics revolving around prostate cancer.Concern for the prevalence of Prostate Cancer in all ages of men has brought about increased awareness at the CWA.Helen explains, “The CWA studies a medical topic each year, and the 8000 members of the 370 branches across New South Wales learn about each condition and raise funds for research.” The Lismore CWA think Prostate Cancer may get another study soon - it was studied in 2010, but the shock at the statistics of sufferers was impressionable.“It affects men of all ages, our husbands, partners, family members, friends and neighbours. According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, one in five Australian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer by the time they turn 85.”Helen presented the LPCSG with 10 teal blue aprons, teal being the signature colour of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. Helen thought it would be a fun gift, so the next time they share a bunnings BBQ fundraiser, they wont be mismatched!(Helen Dargin with Bob Johnston - presidents of their associations, while Bob models the gifted teal apron)Helen said that even though the aprons are a small gesture, “They acknowledge the work of the LPCSG in supporting men with prostate cancer and recognize members' tireless work in community education about this common cancer.“The good news is that the recovery rate for early diagnosis of stage one cancer is 100% the survival rate for Stage Four prostate cancer is just 36.4% so men, the message is clear. A simple medical check could save your life, regardless of your age.”If anyone is suffering from a prostate cancer diagnosis, you are urged to contact the LPCSG for information and support inquiries. Phone the LPCSG’s Bob Johnston (president) on 02 6622 5792For more information on the condition, contact the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. For more information about the Lismore CWA please contact them at [email protected] CWA - much more than tea and scones.

The Lismore Regional Gallery pop-up space is now closed as Lismore City Council prepares to reopen the fully repaired gallery again at 11 Rural Street in the coming months. The pop-up space was open between January 2023 and May 2024 and featured 16 exhibitions by artists from the region with support from the Australian Government through Creative Australia and the NSW Government through Create NSW. Since the 2022 disaster without a building, the Gallery engaged over 290 artists, creatives, and arts workers with finite resources and a commitment to working out of temporary and unconventional spaces outdoors and offsite at other galleries. The Gallery reached over 24,751 visitors and participants through over 215 programs, including engaging exhibitions, up-late events, recovery programs, talk series, outdoor installations, and activities for all generations in a city recovering from a natural disaster. After an extensive restoration period post-2022 natural disaster, the Lismore Regional Gallery is preparing to open again this spring with the invaluable support of $1.675 million through recovery funding programs from the NSW State and Australian Governments.Lismore Regional Gallery Director Ashleigh Ralph said the rich history of the Gallery has been preserved in the Lismore Quadrangle (the Quad) with the enhancement of the existing infrastructure, thanks to funding support by the NSW and Australian governments.“The Gallery has long been a cherished community space and its reopening will not only improve the functionality and appeal of the reception and artist studio, but it will also provide exciting opportunities for artists and designers to showcase their work in the gallery shop,” she said.“Visitors will also have a new cafe to connect in and enjoy, which will soon be available for lease. The community will have endless possibilities to create, make, and learn across the multi-functional spaces within and throughout the Gallery.”(Credit: Lismore Regional Gallery)The restoration projects include a facelift to the Quad, which connects the Gallery to the Lismore Library and Northern Rivers Conservatorium. Upgrades to the landscaping, soil drainage, pathways and seating will make the Quad a safer and more enjoyable place to gather and participate in arts and culture in the heart of Lismore.The Gallery will re-open with a full exhibition program in the five newly restored gallery spaces, plus events and activities inside and outside the Quad. These dates will be announced soon.It’s estimated that every dollar spent on the arts in NSW is worth $1.88 to the economy.The best way to ensure you don’t miss out on the exciting, grand re-opening plans is to subscribe to the Gallery’s email list via the website: lismoregallery.org.

Kids are already skateboarding, scooting and skating around the newly refurbished Goonellabah Skatepark.MP Janelle Saffin and Lismore’s Mayor, Steve Kreig attended to officially open the park.Designed by skatepark specialists Trinity Skateparks with input from local enthusiasts, the upgrades include a wide range of new places to hone your skills as a beginner, and the finish has been ground back for better transitions and a new surface which is less grippy and a bit more slick - just how the kids like it. And it prolongs the life of the park.The new features include; new ramps, a ‘pier 7’ ledge and a manual pad, where you can “olly” and do tricks from, a loading dock and hydrant where you can do a “bonk”, flat rail and a slappy kerb that replicates a car park stop, and is to roll up on and grind.Speaking with one of the first kids out on the park this morning, Eden, 8, she says, “It's better. I like how they have the mini ramps so you can work your way up. It’s good for practice.”Mayor Krieg came out with gusto at the opening, “We are here with our state member, the dynamic and fantastic Janelle Saffin and Gabriel to officially announce the opening of what is a great upgrade of the Goonellabah skatepark. A $305,000 investment thanks to the state government.“We are offering free skating lessons over the school holidays as part of the official opening.(Eden (8) and Jasper (6) hi fiving good tricks)“This is really exciting for me, because it is a precursor for something that is going to be just amazing for our whole community. And that is the $3 million skate park, which is going to get built down in the CBD.”This will take about a year to come about, and Mayor Krieg is appreciative “with the help and commitment from the state government. So to Janelle, and to the Labour Party, thank you so much for all your work. These pieces of infrastructure are so critical for our kids.“It's great to see the work that Trinity Skateparks have done here in upgrading the Goonellabah facility, and really excited, hopefully in the next 12 months or so to be able to cut the ribbon on a brand new skate park.”The 4 days of workshops, facilitated by Truckstop Sk8 School, are designed for kids aged 5-14 years and cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced skaters. You will need to book in, so contact Lismore City Council for details.Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said, “I'm really excited to be here today at the official launch of the upgraded skatepark in Goonellabah. There's kids behind us already out there using it.”“I said to Gabriel, we might have a bit of a go. Well, he might I won't.” Said Ms Saffin with a smile.(Mayor Steve Kreig MP Janelle Saffin and Gabriel)“Steve Kreig and I are always looking for opportunities to improve services, improve amenities, improve our culture here and this is just one great example. When State and Local Governments work together, we get good outcomes.”The $306,193 upgrades were finished a week ahead of time and was funded by the NSW Government's Stronger Country Communities program.

Tony Zammit is swapping his brew for the bar - to pursue his plan to practise law.Tony owns the popular cafe, The Sassy Bean, in the Homeco shopping complex where Spotlight and BCF can be found. He guarantees, “good food, good coffee and bad jokes.”Tony has been managing The Sassy Bean for six years through drought, pandemic and flood, and he is ready to follow a plan that has been put off due to those same issues. Tony's safety net has always been cafes, which he has owned for over 30 years. “The Sassy Bean has been the best café because of the great income, great staff and amazing clientele", he said. (Sassy Beans counter, and Cheryl, Sassy Bean's greatest asset)All of Tony’s staff go through his special training that allows them to understand the people that they are helping. Some of Tony’s most loyal customers are older people who frequent Spotlight. He loves their anecdotes and knows his returning customers by name.  “One lady that has worked for me for three and a half years is 72 and her main job is liaising with the older clientele. They love it. Cheryl is my greatest asset," Tony enthused.Tony has a passion for what he offers to people. His food is prepared and displayed so they are identical. His coffee is a special blend he gets made up for his business.Perfecting the art of pies has been a passion of Tony’s. From ensuring his freshly cooked on-site pies don’t have soggy bottoms, to using vine-ripened tomatoes in his special recipe for Tomato Onion Pies, which he ensures are “the best in Lismore.”“The story behind that pie is when I was ten years old and we went up to the Dandenong mountains in Victoria, and we stopped at a little bakery and got me a tomato and onion pie. “I have never been able to find a tomato onion pie that was as good my whole life growing up, right? And about 20 years ago, I decided I wanted to start making pies,” needless to say, he has spent quite a bit of time perfecting the recipe…“We run at 100% zero wastage. Unless it's burnt or lands on the floor,” Tony says with a smile, “That's part of my business model that I've built over the years. “Zero waste means more profit. More profit means better products. Better products mean more customers and more customers need better staff, and better staff use zero waste. That's the circle that I go by.”Zero waste means making all the food count. So when the food that comes in has an excess, it finds its way into another product - hence extra spinach went into Spinoooch (with three o’s), or the Sassy version of Spinach quiche.Tony survived the 2022 floods by just “hanging in there”. He knew how successful the café was, he just had to get it “back on track”.“19 months ago, when we first opened over the Christmas period, it just exploded, and then afterwards it died, and we struggled from week to week. We had 19 people here before the floods.  “We have built back up slowly, but we have 8 or 9 girls here even though the café has grown, and we are five times the size of what we were.”Tony intends to sell The Sassy Bean café to pursue law. He has a couple of interested people making enquiries, so call in soon as he may not be around for too long. Or if you have ever hankered for a café lifestyle on the other side of the table, ask Tony about the details.

An Essential Energy spokesperson has contacted us and provided the following information; "Earlier this evening approximately 24,500 customers in Ballina, Lismore and surrounding areas were impacted by an unplanned power outage. "Essential Energy was directed by the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) and TransGrid to shed load to protect transmission system security. "Essential Energy expects to restore supply to all impacted customers by 11.30pm. "Further information about AEMO and wholesale market conditions can be found at aemo.com.au/"

There is a large unplanned power outage in a wide area surrounding Lismore. It is estimated that 11,440 households are affected.The area affected could still be growing. Their hotline currently has a recorded message, and it reports the outage extending from Dyraaba to Alstonville.Essential Energy are currently looking for the cause of the fault of the power outage, and will have it rectified as soon as possible.You can keep an eye on progress via Essential Energies outage page or their Facebook page for updates.Light some candles, have some torches handy, keep the fridge closed (to keep the cold in) and don't scroll too much to preserve battery power as much as possible.

Hon. MP Kevin Hogan, responds to Emergency Services Minister, Hon. MP Jihad Dib’s comment during his visit to Lismore last week on ABC North Coast Radio saying he is confident the Northern Rivers is “well prepared” for its next flood event. Federal Member for Page, MP Kevin Hogan is shocked by the Labor Minister’s comments.“Flood mitigation is the only strategy that will give our region a sustainable and safe future. Only, once a flood mitigation strategy is implemented, would I say our community is well prepared.”The level of flood mitigation Mr. Hogan refers to is tied up with the CSIRO findings to be released next year. Mr. Hogans belief is that we are years away from being “well prepared”.“The CSIRO investigation will have recommendations about how we can hold water back, divert it and let water go - we need to be able to make a differrence in flood levels. That will take a couple of years.”Mr Hogan says the community is still at risk. He wants to hear from people in the Ministers position, that until the flood mitigation is done, Lismore will still have issues. “We suffered Australia’s biggest ever natural disaster and are feeling the consequences in our every-day life.“Hypothetically, if the same flood was to happen in the middle of the night with little warning, what’s changed? “I say to the Minister while things have happened, we are far from being “well prepared” for the next flood event.”

Taking care of our skin's health without specialist consultation appears to be problematic. Southern Cross University (SCU) has identified this and done a study on it. The recommendation - get checked!“Our findings are alarming. It was only 21% of those with a melanoma that could identify it was a lesion of concern. So basically, 80% of our participants did not realise they had melanoma,” says Associate Professor Mike Climstein Director of Aquatic Based Research at SCU.Another discovery was the high percentage of people who would self-diagnose a false negative outcome. Prof. Climstein says, “A “false negative” is a big problem. A false negative is where the lesion of concern was thought to be a regular mole but was, in fact, a melanoma.”Men are better at spotting a melanoma - it is not known why. But even that incremental advantage does not allow them to make a sufficiently accurate reading.Melanomas are categorised into two diagnoses - In Situ or Invasive. Prof. Climstein explains the difference.“Melanomas are either in situ, meaning the cancer cells are only at the top level of the skin, or invasive, meaning the cancer cells have invaded the skin (deeply) and may have metastasised through the body.“When a melanoma has metastasised, we get a “Breslow thickness” on the histopathology report. The Breslow thickness is a measure (in mm) of how far the cancer has penetrated through the skin. The deeper the penetration, the poorer the outcome for the patient.“Unfortunately, there is no way for the specialist to know which melanomas are in situ and will metastasise or when they will metastasise.”(Misdiagnosing a melanoma means delayed treatment, more extensive/invasive treatment and poorer patient outcome. Photo: Prof Climstein’s research)This research came about after a discussion among peers. “We have six skin cancer (medical) specialists in the Aquatic Based Research Unit, and we hold regular Zoom meetings. “During one of the meetings, the discussion was on melanoma, and there was a consensus that most patients had no idea that the skin lesion they had was melanoma. Worse was when the patient had a lesion where they could see it and still did not recognise that it was a melanoma.”At the time, they were working on another paper regarding melanomas. For the release, they selected a volunteer to undergo screening, “For the TV cameras, lo and behold, the specialist found a melanoma on her leg.”All melanomas need to be identified and treated early for the best patient outcomes. It depends on your risk factor as to how often you are tested by a professional. “If any person does not have a history of melanoma, then a whole body screening at least once per year is recommended.  “If a person has had skin cancer of any type, a 6-monthly total body skin check is recommended. For example, squamous cell carcinomas (SCC skin cancer) can spread to other parts of the body. “High risk for melanoma includes individuals who had a previous melanoma. "Very High risk includes a previous history of melanoma and multiple atypical nevi (moles), family history of melanoma, and genetic risk (i.e. CDKN2A gene).“The general risk for skin cancer includes pale skin (or many freckles) that burns easily (does not tan), red or fair hair, and many moles.”However, no one is immune to melanoma. If you would like to have a closer look, you can find the study here.