Mt Pleasant Estate in Goonellabah doubled its housing numbers yesterday when the second relocated flood home was moved early Wednesday morning.The NSW Reconstruction Authority (NSWRA) has said the goal is to move four homes onto the prepared sites before Christmas. The homes will be renovated to a high standard in early 2025, with the first homeowners moving in towards the end of 2025.Mt Pleasant Estate is part of the NSW Government's $100 Resilient Lands Program (RLP). Thirty-nine (39) homes will be built in the estate and offered to flood-affected people and families first before hitting the open market.The four houses have been purchased under the $790 million Resilient Homes Program (RHP), with more to be offered for sale in 2025 as the program progresses. It is funded by the NSW and Commonwealth Governments with the goal of moving people off the floodplain.One of the key objectives of the project is to demonstrate the relocation process and potential for these character homes and how they can fit within a new neighbourhood. A local architect has been commissioned to provide the RA with design options for alterations to make sure the homes contribute to the character of the Goonellabah community and surrounding environment.  Mount Pleasant was the second RLP site announced in 2024. The site will demonstrate a mix of small and standard lot sizes as well as detached and attached housing types with a range of price points for buyback participants.Mount Pleasant is one of seven sites that have so far been identified under the Resilient Lands Program, the others are at East Lismore, North Lismore, Brunswick Heads, Ballina-Lennox Head, Summerland Estate near Casino and Junction Hill near Grafton.It will also demonstrate housing types that could be rolled out at other RLP sites and builds on the community master planning work led by the RA in partnership with the Living Lab and Government Architect NSW. The RA has held two community information sessions and BBQs at Mount Pleasant in May and September this year to keep the community updated on the proposed development. Changes have been made throughout the process, such as reducing the number of properties from 50 to 39.Not everyone is happy with the end result, especially moving traditional Lismore timber homes into an area with a mostly modern brick/brick veneer build. Both houses have been raised to allow parking underneath, which has also upset some local homeowners on Dudley Drive who used to look over bushland towards Tucki Tucki Creek.(The four-site block of relocatable homes at Mt Pleasant Estate in Goonellabah. Two down, two to go)The masterplan is moving towards finalisation to accelerate the delivery of new homes on the site. The site will be developed progressively over three stages from the end of 2024 to 2026.RHP participants who have accepted a buyback offer will have the first opportunity to purchase property delivered under the RLP. Following the offer to RHP participants, any remaining properties will be made available to the broader public.To stay up to date and receive more information about this or any other RLP development, people can register their interest by emailing RLP@reconstruction.nsw.gov.au or phone 1800 844 085.Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said, “Australia’s largest resilience adaptation program is underway in the Northern Rivers, and the relocation of these buyback homes to Mount Pleasant is an important milestone.“This really strengthens the link between the Resilient Homes Program and the Resilient Lands Program and gives people impacted by 2022 floods a way to get off the floodplain.“The Mount Pleasant site will be an architecturally designed development that demonstrates the best use of mixed-housing types with the surrounding neighbourhood and natural features.”Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said, “We are providing homeowners hit by Australia’s worst-ever flood disaster with a range of options to get them off the floodplain and out of harm’s way.”“We have reached a major milestone as the first homes are relocated off the floodplain, retaining their unique character and working with the local community to provide a more resilient future.” Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery Janelle Saffin said, "There is a high level of interest in the community for relocating homes or purchasing relocated homes and Mount Pleasant will be a good demonstration of how that can be done.“Preserving these historic homes and providing that link to the past is important for the community, but Mount Pleasant will also provide a diverse range of other housing options and different price points.”

Richmond Police District Police are appealing for assistance from the public to identify the male depicted in the images below. Police believe the male may be able to assist with enquiries in respect of an alleged stealing offence that occurred at Alstonville on 25 November 2024.Anyone with information is urged to contact Evans Head Police Station on (02) 6629 7551, Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au and quote E82830821.All information is treated in strict confidence.

The economic cost of child poverty in the Richmond-Tweed region is more than $1.8 billion a year, according to landmark research commissioned by peak social services body NCOSS. The report titled Lasting Impacts: The Economic Costs of Child Poverty in NSW calculated for the first time the impact of failing to invest in our children. About 16 per cent of children in the Richmond-Tweed region live in poverty, and the economic impact equates to more than $6,800 per person. NCOSS chief executive Cara Varian said the total cost of childhood poverty in NSW is $60 billion, eclipsing the annual contributions to the state’s economy from major sectors such as construction ($52.9 billion), manufacturing ($42.3 billion) and mining ($32.5 billion).“There are more than 8,600 children in poverty in the Richmond-Tweed region,” she said. “Child poverty hurts us all - it robs children of their future and steals more than $1.8 billion from the Richmond-Tweed region economy every year.” “Children from households living in poverty are three times more likely to also experience poverty in adulthood. We are setting up a cycle of disadvantage.  “Poverty during childhood has a lifelong impact. These children go on to have poor physical and mental health and earn less at work. They are more likely to be unemployed, homeless or land in the legal system as an adult. “We live in one of the world’s wealthiest nations - poverty is preventable, and this research shows the immense economic opportunity available to the NSW Government if it takes the steps necessary to avoid the long-term consequences of child poverty.” The economic costs from childhood poverty include $26 billion in direct costs (delivering Government services, reduced labour market participation and productivity) and $34 billion from diminished health and life expectancy. Ms Varian said the NSW and Australian Governments must do the following to lift families out of poverty:Substantially increase base rates of income support payments, particularly JobSeeker and Parenting Payments (e.g. match rates of the Age Pension), and index them to community living standards.Ensure that a minimum of 10 per cent of all housing is social and affordable housing; further increase Commonwealth Rent Assistance to keep up with private rental rates; and ensure homelessness services are resourced to support everyone who needs help.Commit to joint decision-making to empower First Nations communities in the design and delivery of services, including boosting funding for the Aboriginal Community Controlled sector.Guarantee all children have access to at least three days a week of quality and affordable childcare, with removal of the Activity Test on the childcare subsidy.Invest in high-quality integrated support services for children and families, that help them early in life. For this report, child poverty is defined as a child (0 -17 years) living in a household with income less than 50 per cent of the median household’s income (including government benefits, and after tax and housing costs), adjusted for household size.To read the report, go to ncoss.org.au.

Become a part of a Living Memory this week in a regional project to capture North Lismore in imagery and story. This Thursday and Saturday, you have the opportunity to visit a pop-up photo booth where professional photographers will capture moments. “At the heart of this work is the desire to creatively support a community experiencing a massive transformation — to tell their stories in their own words.”Photographic artist Cherine Fahd believes photography can bring people and communities together, and creatively address moments of significant social change. "Photography has the power to make us visible to each other, to make us feel seen in ways that say, 'I belong, I am here.' “The simple act of making portraits creates a thread between people, a reminder of our presence in this moment, of resilience, of being held in each other's sight so that we know we were here in North Lismore together." In October many current and former North Lismore residents ('Northies') came together for a Living Memory community co-design workshop, sharing stories and ideas of how they would like North Lismore to be remembered. Local historian Adele Wessell and photographic artist Cherine Fahd are advocates of the Living Memory project and are capturing imagery and stories for a showcase in March 2025 and then to live on in a digital archive.Lismore App's Lara Leahy happened across the photography team taking the promo images for this event. Lara and her dog, Tilly, had a lovely time sharing some laughs and capturing a few moments to give expression to the project.Lara has been involved in telling many people's stories in North Lismore and beyond, and Tilly is often not far away. In her first photo shoot, Tilly was not accustomed to so much attention directed at her, but her beautiful character shone through.(An impromptu opportunity to contribute to the legacy of North Lismore. Image credit: Elise Derwin)You can take part in the North Lismore pop-up Photo Booths:Thursday, 28 November 4pm—6pmSaturday, 30 November 8.30am—11am Galaxy Underground, 51 Bridge Street, North Lismore AND 43 Bridge Street, North Lismore (old general store building)This event is free, and you are asked to come along with whoever you would like - by yourself or with your family, neighbours, mates or local club! Bring memorabilia and personal stories, and help the Living Lab to create some lasting memories of the neighbourhood you are part of. The oral histories of the Northies will be documented in interviews with Adele Wessell, local historian. Adele looks to explore “themes of home, community and locality in the words of locals from the areas where homes are being bought back.”If you have a story you would like to share, get in touch with the Living Lab Northern Rivers at livinglabnr@scu.edu.au. Living Memory is a community project with Living Lab Northern Rivers and the NSW Reconstruction Authority exploring the stories, history and memories of North Lismore.Executive Director of the Reconstruction Authority's Northern Rivers Adaptation Division, Kristie Clarke, described the Living Memory project as a 'people first' approach to recording the cultural and historical significance of North Lismore. "North Lismore, like many areas of the Northern Rivers, is undergoing significant change following the 2022 floods and this project takes a very personal approach to telling that story," she said.After the showcase in March, the Living Memory archive will be accessible for long-term future reference, along with a collection of historical materials and artefacts. Together they will form a record of a North Lismore, it's place and people, at a particular time. For more information, visit llnr.com.au/living-memory.

Lismore South Public School has received the Resilient Australian National School Award for its implementation of the Mackillop Season's Stormbirds program.The 2024 Resilient Australia Awards is a nationwide program that celebrates, shares and promotes initiatives that build and foster community resilience to disasters and emergencies.Since 2000, the awards have showcased innovation and exemplary practice across Australia, celebrating achievements that might otherwise go unseen and inspiring others to build greater disaster resilience in their own communities.Three-quarters of students at Lismore South Public School (PS) lost their homes and belongings in the February 2022 flood. Not only that, their school and the Ngulliboo Jarjums Preschool were severely damaged, so much so that the old school is being demolished and rebuilt.Lismore South PS Assistant Principal Gaye Titcume oversaw the implementation of the program, with six staff members trained to deliver Stormbirds. More than 100 students went through the program, which is believed to be one of the largest implementations of this well-being and recovery program for young people.Gaye Titcume, Lismore South Public School Assistant Principal, said, “It became very obvious that we needed to sit with the children after the flood and just be with them. Learning went on the back burner, and wellbeing was at the forefront.”“Stormbirds was a program that we jumped on and thank goodness we did because what’s come out of that program has been beautiful.”“It created that space where the children felt valued and safe and cared for and respected. All those things have led to more connections with teachers that they, perhaps, wouldn’t have otherwise had.”“There’s no question our children have increased their resilience, and they are really the ones who should be receiving awards, each and every one of them.”Stormbirds supports young people to understand and manage the changes and impacts they experience as a result of a natural disaster.The awards are run by the Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience and were announced at the 2024 National Resilience Australia Awards in Canberra. They build whole of community resilience to disasters and emergencies around Australia.Larissa Polak, Lismore South Public School Principal, said, ""We are honoured to receive the award, which recognises the unwavering commitment and dedication of our school team in delivering the Stormbirds program.“This recognition prompts us to pause and reflect on the progress we've made since the 2022 floods. The award highlights the collective efforts that have gone into creating a safe school environment for healing. The compassionate connections established at school ensure that our children receive the care and support needed as we move forward in the disaster recovery journey.”“We are grateful for the partnership with Mackillop, Season to deliver this program at a whole school level, putting our school forward for both state and national recognition.“Thank you to the Australian Institute of Disaster Resilience for recognising our school’s efforts.” Fiona McCallum, General Manager of MacKillop Seasons, says it is an honour to have partnered with Lismore South Public School and is delighted at the win.“The beauty of a program like Stormbirds—as well as our other program, Seasons for Growth—is that they are designed to build lifelong resilience skills within the community. We take a community-driven approach and work with school communities and agencies to train local professionals, building local capacity to deliver the programs with a sustainable approach.“With positive benefit to community connectedness, knowledge sharing and inclusive support, we know many other communities are keen to learn from the success of this model so they too can support their own unique context.”

North Coast road users will soon benefit from safer and smoother journeys with traffic changes on the northbound off-ramp and roundabout at the Ballina interchange on the Pacific Highway.From 2 December, Transport for NSW will implement changes to the traffic turning movements.The left lane will continue to allow a left turn towards Lismore and will now be used by those continuing north on the Pacific Highway towards Tweed Heads.The right lane will change to only allow a right turn towards Ballina or a U-turn back onto the Pacific Highway towards Coffs Harbour. All other turning arrangements remain unchanged.Transport for NSW Regional Director North Anna Zycki said that during busy travel times, traffic on the northbound off-ramp could queue back onto the Pacific Highway, increasing the risk of crashes and causing both delays and frustration to road users.“Changing the traffic turning movements will improve efficiency and reduce congestion,” Ms Zycki said.New signage and line marking will be installed to guide motorists.  Transport for NSW will continue to monitor safety and queuing at the interchange.

Farmers have beaten the odds to lift NSW’s agricultural production to its third-highest level in history, according to a new report released by the state government this week. Despite challenging seasonal conditions during the first half of the year, NSW’s agricultural sector recorded a gross value of production of just over $20 billion in 2023-24, with the state’s agricultural exports reaching $11 billion in value over the twelve-month period.NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said it was pleasing to see the sector was well on its way to achieving its goal of being a $30 billion dollar industry by 2030, in spite of the challenges it continues to face. “Dry seasonal conditions inland and livestock prices presented a real challenge over summer for many farmers, but despite all odds, our sector remained a force to be reckoned with on the global stage,” Mr Martin said. “In 2023-24, livestock and cotton exports reached new record highs, and the gross value of production for farmed oysters grew six per cent to $52 million – its highest level in history. “Every single day, our farmers have stepped up to the plate to keep clothes on our backs and food on our forks, no matter what, and these numbers tell that story.” While the sector still faced many challenges, Mr Martin said the opportunities and potential of the NSW agriculture sector were plentiful. “Many farmers in the south have faced dry conditions and frost this year, while those in the north of the state, some experiencing flooding, are on the front line of major biosecurity threats like cattle ticks and fire ants,” Mr Martin said. “High input costs are also challenging farmers across NSW, yet they continue to take great leaps and strides in securing our food security for generations to come.“With their knowledge, resilience and stewardship for our landscape, Australians can rest assured our farmers will continue to grow the healthy plants and animals that feed not just our nation, but also the world.”

A man has died in a single-vehicle crash in the state's far north.About 12pm today (Tuesday 26 November 2024), emergency services were called to Dulguigan Road, Dulguigan - about 5km north of Murwillumbah - following reports a hatchback had crashed.Officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District attended and found a hatchback had crashed into a tree.NSW Ambulance paramedics attended and treated the driver; however, he died at the scene.He is yet to be formally identified but is believed to be aged in his 60s.A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.A crime scene has been established and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident commenced.Anyone with information about the incident, CCTV or dashcam footage is urged to contact Tweed/Byron Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

A Lennox Heads resident or visitor is a newly minted millionaire, though they may not yet know it, after pocketing $1 million in last night’s Weekday Windfall draw. The mystery millionaire held one of the four division one winning entries nationally in Weekday Windfall draw 4473, drawn Monday 25 November 2024. Each division one entry took home $1 million. As a non-registered Lott Member, officials are eagerly waiting for the mystery ticketholder to check their ticket and come forward. The winning entry was purchased at TSG Lennox Head, Shop 3, 5 Snapper Drive, Lennox Head. The Lott spokesperson, Eliza Wregg, said she hoped to unite the Northern River’s latest division one winner with their million-dollar windfall soon. “Our mystery ticketholder is likely oblivious to the fact that they’ve woken up as a millionaire this morning following last night’s Weekday Windfall draw,” she said. “We’re urging anybody who purchased a Weekday Windfall ticket from TSG Lennox Head to check their tickets today! “Just imagine the thrill of discovering you are an overnight millionaire! Your plans for the rest of the year would surely change in a heartbeat! “Make sure you check your tickets, and if you discover you are holding the winning ticket contact The Lott on 131 868 to begin the exciting prize claim process. “This is also an important reminder for players to register their lottery tickets to a player card or online account with The Lott Members Club, so if they are to score a major prize, we can reach out to them with the winning news.” The winning numbers in Weekday Windfall draw 4473 on Monday 25 November 2024 were 12, 17, 42, 14, 39 and 8, while the supplementary numbers were 23 and 25. 

Funding has been extended to continue delivering specialist support to children and young people who accompany their mothers to women’s refuges in Lismore. The Minns Labor Government has invested $48.1 million to expand and extend the Specialist Workers for Children and Young People (SWCYP) program, ensuring 21 existing contracts have funding certainty to June 2026, and a further 10 contracts receive new SWCYP funding. One of these extended services is the Northern NSW Homelessness Support Service for Women Experiencing Domestic and Family Violence. Since it launched in 2022, the service has provided significant support to vulnerable women and children across LGAs, including Lismore, Ballina, Byron, Clarence Valley, Kyogle, Richmond Valley and Tweed, with support through the SWCYP program.Under the expansion, SWCYP will now also cover the Northern NSW Homelessness Support Service for Aboriginal Women Experiencing Domestic and Family Violence across the same LGAs. Both services are led by Momentum Collective.  The SWCYP program provides a path to recovery for children and young people from 0 to 18 years of age, staying in refuges with their mothers after escaping domestic and family violence. Under this program, children and young people are recognised as victim-survivors in their own right and offered holistic, trauma-informed and preventative support. Specialist workers develop an individualised support plan for each child or young person to help break the pattern of violence and prevent intergenerational trauma. The $48.1 million boost to the SWCYP program forms part of the NSW Government’s $245.6 million emergency package to reduce the rate of violence against women and children in NSW. Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said, “Domestic and family violence can have a devastating impact on children and young people, whether they have witnessed or directly suffered abuse.  “This early intervention program run by Momentum Collective works to disrupt the cycle of violence and empowers children and young people to build a future free from violence.” Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said, “Extending and expanding this program means 1,800 children and young people will now have access to support from more than 55 specialist workers in 32 refuges across regional and metropolitan NSW every year. “This investment is crucial and will provide life-changing assistance for children and young people as they recover from past trauma.” 

More than 10 Olympic sized swimming pools of flood debris has been diverted from landfill and reused, saving $2.4 million following a collaborative effort between the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and Richmond Valley Council.The debris, made up of soil and vegetation from landslips during the 2021-2022 floods, was collected from the damaged Naughtons Gap Road and repurposed for the Northern Rivers Rail trail.More than 12,000 tonnes of the material has now been placed along both sides of the trail to provide added stability and improve safety for cyclists.NSW EPA Executive Director Operations, Jason Gordon, said this is a great example of what can be achieved when we all work together."Severe weather events often generate significant waste volumes, and it can be challenging and costly to clean up. Rather than this material being dumped into a landfill, we've come up with a joint solution by reusing it to improve an important community and tourism asset."We know the impact the floods left on Northern Rivers communities is still being felt today but we are committed to continuing to work with Council and other agencies to ensure projects like this one come to life and help the region thrive once again."Richmond Valley Council Mayor, Robert Mustow said right from the word go the EPA engaged with us to come up with positive solutions."If this material ended up in landfill it would have cost $2.4 million. This huge saving is fantastic for our community seeing important repair work done while enabling us to upgrade infrastructure."The EPA is continuing to work with Council on multiple flood recovery projects to minimise material being sent to landfill.Naughtons Gap Road has been closed since 2021 and is set to reopen in December as part of the $15.8 million Betterment of Naughtons Gap Road project. (Naughton's Gap Road. Photo: Richmond Valley Council)The project to repair the road and make it more resilient to future natural disasters was funded jointly by the Australian and NSW Governments and was the first Regional Roads and Transport RecoveryPackage project to start work. For more information visit Council's website.The Environment Protection Authority has also been working with Lismore City Council on its flood cleanup.A spokesperson from EPA said, "The NSW EPA has an operational team dedicated to supporting the infrastructure rebuild following the 2022 Northern Rivers floods."This team works closely with all seven councils in the region, including Lismore City Council."We’ve collaborated with Lismore on various flood recovery projects by conducting regular inspections, advising on repairs to roads damaged by landslips, and ensuring waste materials are transported and disposed of safely."

The Lismore CWA is celebrating a milestone this Saturday, November 30, a centenary of service to the Lismore community. They will also re-open their historic CWA rooms at Spinks Park.The Country Women’s Association (CWA) has proudly supported local communities across NSW for over 100 years. Founded in 1924, the Lismore CWA was the 81st branch to open after the movement began in 1922. As part of the Far North Coast Group, Lismore CWA is one of 17 branches in the Northern Rivers region. The association raises funds for local community groups and provides opportunities for learning, socialising, and enjoying outings together.The celebration of 100 Years of Service will take place at Spinks Park (133 Molesworth Street) between 10am and 1pm this Saturday and take the form of a fete. Lismore CWA President Helen Dargin says, “This isn’t just a celebration of our 100th birthday; it’s a tribute to the incredible women who’ve come before us and helped Lismore thrive. Reopening these historic rooms is a proud moment for us, and we’re thrilled they’ll once again be a place for the whole community to gather."Since 1924, the Lismore CWA has been a pillar of support and friendship, making a positive impact on countless lives. This centenary event is our way of honouring the past, celebrating the present, and looking forward to a bright future."We can’t wait to celebrate this special day with you all. Bring your friends and family and join us for a wonderful morning filled with laughter, memories, and plenty of surprises. We would love to see you there!"The Lismore CWA is proud to be made up of two vibrant branches – Lismore and Lismore Evening – and together they will be celebrating this amazing milestone. "We’ve got a full morning of fun planned, packed with entertainment, nostalgia, and plenty of activities for all ages."Kick off the festivities with live music from the talented Living School Choir and the Lismore Concert Band. Feeling like dancing? The Ragged Blossoms will get you moving! Browse the CWA market stalls for some unique finds, play traditional games, or join in on hands-on craft lessons. Plus, the Lismore Croquet Club and the Bowling Club will be open for some classic sporting fun."Fancy a little treat? Step inside the beautifully restored CWA rooms and enjoy a delightful Devonshire tea. The Richmond River Historical Society has also teamed up with us for a special month-long exhibition at the pop-up shop on Molesworth Street."Our CWA Rooms have been lovingly renovated by Lismore City Council and the Bennett Group after the devastating 2022 floods, and we can’t wait to show them off to the community."To really get into the spirit of things, we’re inviting everyone to dress up in styles from 100 years ago. It’s a chance to walk in the shoes of the incredible women who built the CWA and shaped our community. There will be prizes for the best costumes, judged at 11 AM – so start planning your outfit!

As reported by the Lismore App on November 16, Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg has been elected as the Chair of Regional Cities, a network of 15 regional centres across New South Wales.Mayor Krieg said the role will allow him to further develop Lismore's connections with other regional cities and advocate for their needs at a state level.“For Lismore, no one’s going to see a dramatic improvement in services or anything,” he said.“But for me, being in the role of mayor now for three years, and post the flood of 2022, I definitely had my hands full dealing with a lot of different issues. This time around, I wanted to commit to one external body in a little bit more of a meaningful way. And by that, I mean as far as my professional development and improvement as a mayor goes."I wanted to step up and take on a role externally to just being the Mayor of Lismore. The Regional Cities is a forum that I have grown to love very much, in that there's 15 regional centres across our state that are all member cities, and you've got some of the best general managers in the state, some of the best and well-respected mayors in the room, so for me, it's about pushing myself to be a better official and a better mayor for Lismore."Hopefully, the residents will see a more improved mayor for their city through learning and getting help from some of the other mayors from around the state.”The NSW Government has said in its Regional Cities Action Plans document that in the next twenty (20) years, three-quarters of the state's growth in regional NSW will occur in four areas: Lismore, The Tweed, Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie.As part of that growth, Mayor Krieg has revealed his ambitious plans to grow Lismore to 60,000 people by 2040.The Mayor pointed to Tamworth's growth as a model for Lismore, noting the city's transformation from a 27,000-person town to a thriving 65,000-person city through industry and development."For me, we can hold a city like Tamworth as a guide as to what we can be like," the mayor said.He emphasised the importance of creating jobs and attracting new residents to achieve this goal. He outlined a multi-pronged strategy to facilitate this growth, including attracting government departments, fostering business development, and addressing the housing shortage."We need a collaborative approach, working with developers and exploring diverse housing options, including multi-level dwellings and townhouses."The Mayor acknowledged past challenges in attracting development to Lismore but expressed confidence that the new council is committed to streamlining processes and creating a more business-friendly environment. He pointed to positive feedback from builders and shed manufacturers regarding the council's recent performance.While acknowledging that Lismore is not in danger of losing its Regional City status, Mayor Krieg stressed the importance of embracing the opportunities presented by the region's growth projections. He expressed optimism about Lismore's future, stating, "I think in the next five to 10 years, if we, as a council can fulfil our ambitions... Lismore is just going to go from strength to strength."To reinforce that point, Mayor Krieg said the council has the state government’s “100% faith” and is on the “right path” to recovery, despite admitting there is still a “mile of work to do”.The Office of Local Government praised the council’s progress over the past two years to Mayor Krieg after last week's Local Government conference.“They actually said, compared to where you were two years ago, to where you are now, is mind-blowing.”“And I said, well, you see where we are in another two years, and you see where we are in another six years, you won’t believe it.”“We’ve probably got a 10-year roadmap to actually get to where we want to be,” he said. “It sounds like a long time, but we are rebuilding an organisation from the ground up.”The Mayor said he was confident the council had the right personnel in place to execute the long-term plan, noting that the council has been “left behind due to lethargy in local government.”He also highlighted the importance of attracting investment to Lismore, noting that several entities had recently expressed interest in the city as a potential site for future investment.When you think about the first 1000 days since February 2022 and then read the broad plans for Lismore's growth in the next 16 years, there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic about Lismore's future. We have to go through the post-flood pain to reap the rewards that are ahead.

Residents of Richmond Hill will be celebrating this morning. It is the first day in a year they won't be greeted by lollipop holders and suffer delays as 2.85km of Richmond Hill Road was reconstructed.The $4.95 million project was certainly needed. At one stage, there were more potholes that could damage tyres and rims than Lismore had buyback houses. As Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said, Richmond Hill Road is also a cut-through road with increasing traffic as Goonellabah residents use the road to get to Bangalow Road if they want to head to Bexhill, Clunes or Bangalow.There are 2,500 vehicle movements a day on Richmond Hill Road, Ms Saffin is one of those. She has watched its reconstruction take shape.“This is another example of the NSW Government partnering with local government to improve an important connector road. It is built back better,” Ms Saffin said.“I was impressed by the staged approach taken by Lismore City Council infrastructure team’ to what was a challenging, sloping section of the road, with efforts to minimise disruption to motorists and local residents.”Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg thanked the community for its patience as Council undertook this work on the major regional road.“Richmond Hill Road is heavily used by the community; however, the state of the road was such that it had to be reconstructed rather than simply repaired,” he said.“This is an important win for the community and ensures this connection supports good commute times and much safer and comfortable travel.”The Richmond Hill Road project was completed over seven stages, incorporating more than 21,000m2 of in-situ stabilisation, placement of over 12,000 tonnes of new pavement material and adjustments to more than 90 driveways.Mayor Krieg also said these works had been in the pipeline for a number of years, and they have restored the structural integrity of the road pavement while improving motorists' ride and safety characteristics.“Roads are very important for Council and for our community – we maintain 804km of sealed and 411km of unsealed roads across the LGA – and we are working hard to build, upgrade and maintain a safe and connected local road network,” Mayor Krieg said. "I have to mention Brendan Logan, our Chief Operating Officer, who came to us last year and asked how we prioritise the works to be done, and Richmond Hill Road, obviously, with the state of it, was right up the top of the list. And full credit to the staff of Lismore city council, who have done all of the work. We contributed a bit more than a third of the funding. But Lismore City Council road crews completed all of the work, and they've done an absolutely stellar job on completing this project."Mayor Krieg pointed to the ridge to his right, where council announced a new sewage pump station that will house over 600 potential blocks of land."This is a growing area. It's a dynamic area, and roads like this and infrastructure like this go a long way to making our residents really enjoy where they live.""We want to see this place develop and grow and thrive, and it's going to be silly little things like a really great road that could be the selling point for people to come and move up to the Richmond Hill area. And let's hope that down the track, we'll see growth and stability and Lismore return to where it rightfully should be as the best Regional Center in Australia. The Richmond Hill Road roadworks were jointly funded by the State Government’s Fixing Local Roads program ($2.8 million), Regional Emergency Road Repair Fund ($220,500) and Lismore City Council ($1,929,500).

An important milestone in constructing Lismore’s new $3.9 million Lismore Skatepark will be reached this week, with the pouring of 2400m2 of concrete.Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg and State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin were on hand to inspect the works.“This is starting to get very real,” Mayor Krieg said.   “This will be a game-changer for our young people who will no longer have to travel to Goonellabah to have a skate. It will also be built to such a high standard that we can host national and international competitions, adding to Lismore’s already strong reputation for having the best sporting facilities in regional NSW.”The facility includes both ‘street’ and ‘park’ (bowl) sections and a covered mini ramp, which is eagerly anticipated by the local skater community. The design also includes a rail paying tribute to the late Travis Watson, an avid skater, mentor and advocate for skating in Lismore and the wider community.(Deputy Mayor Jeri Hall, her daughter Willow, Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin and Mayor Steve Krieg)State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said Travis, a dear friend, successful businessman and gifted skater, would be stoked to see his vision of a modern and user-friendly skatepark becoming a reality as part of a Youth Precinct.“This landmark project for Lismore is fully funded by the NSW Government with $3.9 million delivered under Round 2 of the Multi-Sport Community Facility Fund,” Ms Saffin said.“I have backed in our new, centrally located skatepark from the very beginning, working with Travis and others to ensure our skating community had a big say in the design so that it works for them.“I have faith that expert contractors CONVIC will produce a skatepark which will attract elite skaters in future competitions and also be accessible for local youth keen to take up the sport.”The design was developed by CONVIC, Australia’s leading skatepark and youth space design and construction company, in consultation with the Council and the Lismore community.CONVIC ran several community workshops in September 2023 as part of the design development process. Throughout the design stage, it also extensively consulted with key local stakeholders in the skate and riding community. Additionally, CONVIC consulted with professional skaters, coaches, and event organisers, including Olympic skateboarding judge Renton Millar, to ensure the skatepark could attract and host competitions and training events while meeting the local community's needs.Mayor Krieg said Council is close to finalising negotiations to bring several national skating events to Lismore.“This new skatepark will benefit our local businesses as those playing or coming to watch these events spend money in our city, whether it’s at our motels, restaurants, clothing stores or other retailers.”“With skating now an Olympic event, and many world-class skaters coming from our region, a new skate park will be another string in our bow to attract even more visitors.”The new Lismore Skatepark has so many benefits to the community apart from bringing major events and tourists to Lismore, it will bring people into the CBD on a regular basis. Skaters, bladers and bike riders from 3 to 18 will be using new facility with plenty or nearby and on-street parking available.One of the main community concerns was building the skatepark in an area that will receive a lot of rain, and is one of the first areas in Lismore to flood.Shannon McNamara from CONVIC explained to the Lismore App that there is about 400 millimetres of ballast rock throughout the whole park below the concrete about to be poured.(An example of a metre of rock that is below the concrete at the Lismore Skatepark)"So any water that is coming into this park is going through that rock layer and into your drains and away and out. In most parks, we don't have this rock layer. So that's the problem we get with the water. All water will go into that rock layer before it can possibly come up through the ground. So as for mediation, water mediation, this is on a good site.Shannon also confirmed that concrete is a water-resistant product that will survive if it is underwater."You'll get 10-15 years out of this without defects. Obviously, if we're having floods up and down, up and down and over time, it's going to squish up a bit, but this ground is the hardest ground I've ever hit in my life. I'll give you a hammer, and you try to bang one of those pegs in, it's impossible."As for water and resilience, this is the best one I've seen in my 10 years was CONVIC. I've never seen a mediated park like this ever. And we always have problems with water coming through. So, after many years of telling them we need to rock the whole park. Don't fight water at the drain. Fight it before it comes in.CONVIC have built many skateparks around Australia, in fact, they have just finished one at Byron Bay. Jarjumirr Park is where keen local skateboarders go from all over the Northern Rivers. However, that will change at the end of June 2025, when the Lismore Skatepark is expected to be open for business.(The recently opened Jarjumirr Park at Byron Bay. Photo: CONVIC)

The NSW Government is warning consumers about the potential dangers of buying poor-quality lithium-ion battery-powered products as gifts this holiday season, which may pose a fire risk.The warning comes amid fears that substandard lithium-ion battery-powered devices may flood the market during Black Friday, Cyber Monday and other pre-Christmas sales ahead of new regulations coming into effect next year.New data reveals there have already been a record 275 battery-related incidents so far this year, surpassing last year’s record number (272). Small portable devices have accounted for the most incidents in 2024 (94), while there have been 86 fires involving e-micromobility devices.If a lithium-ion battery overheats uncontrollably, it can release flammable and toxic gases in a process called ‘thermal runaway’, which can create fire and explosion hazards. The risk of thermal runaway is higher in batteries that are damaged, overcharged or exposed to high temperatures.In a campaign launched today, the NSW Government is calling on people to shop, charge and recycle lithium-ion batteries safely, unveiling a new consumer warning video and a central website for people to visit when seeking information on lithium-ion products.Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) has developed a video to demonstrate how ‘thermal runaway’ can occur, featuring power tool batteries catching fire in a living room.The NSW Government is urging shoppers to be vigilant and undertake safe charging and disposal practices with lithium-ion battery products.Today’s warning follows the Minns Labor Government’s mandatory safety standards for lithium-ion battery-powered e-micromobility products announced in August, which will require e-bikes, e-scooters, hoverboards and e-skateboards to meet new testing, certification, and marking requirements.These NSW Fair Trading product safety standards are intended to curb the fire risks associated with lithium-ion e-micromobility devices by ensuring low-quality and dangerous versions of these products cannot enter the market and be sold to unsuspecting consumers. Retailers, manufacturers and suppliers will face fines of up to $825,000 for not complying with the new safety standards, which will be introduced in a staged process from 1 February 2025.A nation-first Information Standard will also be introduced to provide consumer advice and warnings on fire and electrical safety, product storage, road rules and disposal of e-micromobility products. Communities are being reminded that batteries do not belong in household garbage bins, where they can spark fires in garbage trucks and waste facilities.Lithium-ion batteries can be disposed of at a range of dedicated recycling drop-off points, including many retail outlets and supermarkets. Products with embedded batteries, like an electric toothbrush or portable speaker, can be safely disposed of at 21 Community Recycling Centres across NSW.Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe said:“The increase in battery-related incidents is serious and concerning, so we’re working across government to address the risks posed at all stages – from purchase to use and disposal.“Don’t throw batteries out with your household rubbish. If not disposed of properly, they can cause intense, dangerous fires which put others in harm’s way, including our garbage truck drivers.”Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:“Lithium-ion batteries are an important part of the transition to alternative energy and technologies. But we must be aware of the safety risks and how to use these batteries safely so consumers can enjoy the festive season without an emergency visit from Fire and Rescue NSW.“It’s not just micromobility products like e-bikes and e-scooters that cause lithium-ion fires, it can be devices you don’t expect like electric toothbrushes, shavers, vacuum cleaners, portable chargers and power tools that are contributing to these fires in NSW.”Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said, “Our primary focus is making sure consumers are protected so please be careful when purchasing lithium-ion battery products and keep an eye out for Christmas sales that appear too good to be true. “With the Christmas shopping period upon us, we want to ensure that everyone is buying safe lithium-ion battery products.“Don’t skimp on quality and safety. Check the ACCC Product Safety website to see if there’s an active recall. Make sure the batteries don’t show signs of damage and check for standards labelling. If you’re uncertain about a lithium-ion battery product’s quality, don’t take the risk.”FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell said, “If these batteries are allowed to overheat, or become damaged or compromised, they can cause an explosive chain reaction.“These devices are powered by an array of batteries. If they enter that ‘thermal runaway’ process, they can spew a cloud of toxic gas inside your home and violently explode, resulting in an intense fire.“There’s an additional risk when an unrelated fire breaks out in a home and then consumes lithium-ion battery devices, which can intensify the blaze and make it extremely difficult to extinguish.”

The NSW Government’s unclaimed money system has been updated and streamlined, making it easier for people to claim their share of $638 million currently in the fund.The unclaimed money register holds overpayments, refunds, dividends, uncashed cheques, NSW Public Sector superannuation and other money owed to individuals who can’t be tracked down.Revenue NSW has launched a new system to help reduce the barriers required to make a claim.By allowing for streamlined ID checks through a Service NSW account, a new system to easily upload any required documentation, and a new feature that tracks application status, it’s hoped that even more money can be returned.In 2023-24, more than $22.3 million was returned to individuals, a 59% increase on 2022-23, and the highest on record. Since 1 July 2014, more than $161 million has been returned.Revenue NSW also undertakes extensive work to proactively identify individuals who may have unclaimed money. In 2023-24, it sent 12,407 letters alerting them to possible claims and assisting them with the process.Updates to the unclaimed money system also include a new portal to enable enterprises to provide better quality data to Revenue NSW. This will streamline the process for claimants to find any money owed to them.So far this financial year,$63.1 million has been sent to Revenue NSW, bringing the unclaimed money fund to a total of $638 million. This includes $268 million claimable by residents of NSW. The average amount available to claim is $370.In metropolitan Sydney, residents of the City and the Inner South have the most to claim, with $46.6 million (an average amount of $541), followed by North Sydney and Hornsby $29.5 million (an average amount of $389).In regional NSW, residents of Newcastle and Lake Macquarie have $8.2 million to claim (an average amount of $329), while residents of the Illawarra can claim $6.5 million (an average amount of $276).It’s free to search the unclaimed money register, and Revenue NSW does not charge any commission on successful claims. Once the necessary documentation has been provided and confirmed by Revenue NSW, funds are sent to the individual within 28 days.For more information on unclaimed money and to search the new register, people can visit the Revenue NSW website https://www.revenue.nsw.gov.au/unclaimed-money.Minister for Finance Courtney Houssos, “Last year we set a new record, giving more than $22 million back to families and households across NSW.“We want to get this money back to families and households as quickly and easily as we can. The changes we’ve made to the unclaimed money system will help make that process easier.“By making sure that businesses that send information to the unclaimed money fund include basic information, we can get started matching people with their unclaimed money even sooner.“I thank NSW-based enterprises for transferring money into the unclaimed money fund that they’ve been unable to return to their rightful owners, so that the NSW Government can try to do so.“We encourage you to jump on the updated website and see if any of the unclaimed money belongs to you.”Chief Commissioner of State RevenueScott Johnston said, “The new enterprise portal will require businesses and corporations to provide the information Revenue NSW needs to re-unite residents in NSW, Australia and overseas with their unclaimed money.“With Revenue NSW consistently seeing more money lodged than it’s able to return, the portal will help the agency continue to give more and more unclaimed money back to those it’s owed to.”Unclaimed money given back in the last ten years:Financial YearAmount paid:2014-15$18,664,9772015-16$14,441,5382016-17$15,437,9282017-18$12,477,6852018-19$13,456,7112019-20$17,442,8412020-21$16,313,8202021-22$10,686,7862022-23$13,288,4222023-24$22,324,9302024-25 to 19 Nov$6,877,993Total since 1 July 2014$161,413,631

Lismore’s Cinema sits on the corner of Keen and Zadoc Streets, looking sad and unloved. The owners, Event Cinemas, have shown little interest in restoring so Lismore movie lovers can once again have a short commute to see a movie. There hasn't been much movement in or out of the theatre since the cleanup after the 2022 floods.The cinema's official line at the beginning of this year has been that an update is coming in the next couple of months.  In September, their response to questions was, “We are continuing to explore our options for Event Cinemas Lismore, and we hope to provide the local community with an update in the coming months.”Those months go on and on.Interest by the community in seeing it re-established has been expressed on socials, and State MP Janelle Saffin put it to them in a discussion recently, “I spoke with them and was again assured that they would inform us of their intentions. I asked that it be before Christmas. I also detailed how people miss it very much.”With the summer season upon us, the loss of the big cinema is an opportunity to explore other entertainment options.The Nimbin Bush Theatre is located in the old Norco Buttery, built-in 1929 on the banks of Nimbin Creek; it is set in a beautiful garden.  David Hyett is the owner and runs it as a place for a variety of functions. “It's fairly sizable. It's licensed for 300 people for functions and dance parties and 135 seated to watch a screen or stage performance.“People can use utilise both inside and out. We have a cafe that can cater for private functions, a kitchen for people to use if they prefer that. The cafe opens in conjunction with an event.Recent viewings include documentary-style films, but David is excited to announce that they are putting together a Movie Club. “We're looking at forming a film or movie club. So that people can contribute to the ideas of what they want to see.”David is still working out the details, but information will be on their website in the next week or so.The art deco-styled Star Court Theatre was built over 100 years ago in 1921. They feature a range of films and on-stage shows you can see. Sarah-Jane Loxton, proprietor, shows current films from around the world. Sarah-Jane has been at the Star Court Theatre for over seven years and loves her role. “I get to travel all over the world through the screen. It's quite awesome, really.” The pick up since Event Cinema closed was not immediate, ”I think it's taken a little while for people to catch on that there is still an option here for movies, and because we don't do the great big mainstream films.“I think people are starting to realise that there still is a good range of films to see, so it's definitely growing.”Star Court is available for hire, and a group called Cult Classic Lismore show some older popular films that you can get tickets for. “We're having a great turnout for that because they're picking really good favourites”. In December, they have arranged Clockwork Orange, and in January, Goonies is showing.  “With some of the films, like the cult classics, we might run with a bit of a theme - maybe a couple of decorations. With Dirty Dancing (last month), I put a bunch of baby dolls in the corners.”The other difference to bear in mind is that there are three movie trailers before the movie starts - no ads. “For some people who are used to the other cinemas, they often would turn up late, thinking that they're not going to miss anything, but we start everything pretty close to on time.”(The magic show is coming in January)Over the summer period, there will be a range of shows, not just cinema. “We've got the Life of Brian with a small, 20-minute Monty Python style comedy performance before it on 6th December. The skit is being done by a Byron theatre group, Three Lords.“We've got a small open mic comedy night, in the bar on the 19th of December for Christmas, high school kids from Theatre doing a show next weekend, and an illusionist coming in January.”Kyogle Cinema is owned by Richard and Cheryl Harris. It runs most of the mainstream films offered by other large-name cinema brands and is the newest theatre, starting in 1999. Ironically, it has some of the oldest projectors in it… With good reason.A film buff started the theatre and left the place with a huge collection of cinema paraphernalia that provides an incredible snapshot into the history of filmmaking.“The original owner, Stuart Everett, was a collector, and he collected for many, many years.”When he passed away, his children kept it all stored away, and when they sold it to the Harris’, the collection was sold with it.Richard and Cheryl have done a lot of work to upgrade the cinemas and include Mr Everett's treasures, “We completely renovated cinema three, which was just a storage area, that now is a museum that houses the film collection.“It is a nice little 40-seat cinema that is part of the museum, in which we run a documentary on old films - like how 35-millimeter projectors came about. People view that and can then see the actual projectors and hand-painted slides and things.”Kyogle Cinema has started offering Devonshire tea as part of the Cinema 3 experience, with a documentary on the Queen's visit in the '50’s.  “The Queen's visit is proving to be very popular, and quite often we get someone attend that was actually there.”After the big renovation, the cinema ran into a hiccup. Or rather a cough?“We opened on the 29th of February, and COVID hit about two weeks later.”That was a tough business battle, but recently, things have improved.“The fact that Lismore closed was beneficial to us. And likewise, when Murwillimbah closed recently, that's increased our turnover again. So we've gone from strength to strength.”As well as the two theatres that show the mainstream films, you can book Cinema 3 and hold a private event or film showing.  Keep an eye out on these options with the links below;Kyogle Cinema has all their films and information on how to book Cinema 3 on their websiteThe Nimbin Bush Theatre keep people informed via their websiteAt the Star Court Theatre, show times and bookings are on their website.If you are interested in knowing what the next Cult Classic Lismore flick is, check out their Facebook page.

Rod’s Excavations has been operating for 5 years out of Coffs Harbour, and now he is offering his services to the 2480 postcode as Lismore gets another new business.With a base and friends here, Rod didn’t find it hard to make the decision to help out after seeing so many houses boarded up and still in recovery.“We don’t really hear how you things are going up here from Coffs, so when I saw that Lismore was still struggling, I thought about how I could help out.”Rod has a rig that can fit into tight spaces, and with over 25 years experience driving plant, large and small, I assured him that his services here in Lismore will be very welcome!“I have a couple of small excavators, and I do small tight access work. They are great where big machines can't get in. I've got all the attachments for the excavators to work in those tight access places, so drilling holes, trenches and so on.“I can get into people's backyards and tidy them up. I can clear shrubs, gardens and make garden beds as well. A little bit of landscaping, retaining walls, drainage stuff like that. Backyard jobs are my cup of tea. “I can do bigger stuff a little bit of road works and driveways. If someone, especially people on split-level blocks, needs a bit of work done with gardens, retaining walls and driveways, I can come in and coordinate the whole package.”Rod’s background is in a large piling company doing work all around Australia. But he loves this area of Australia, and wanted to spend more time here, so he started his business.Rod likes the flexibility in working on smaller projects, also. He is able to split his time between existing customers in Coffs and new work up here, relocating north or south when the work calls for it.You can see more of Rod’s handiwork on his Facebook page, or if you have heard enough, give him a call on 0407 647 847.