The Resilient Homes Program has received a $90 million boost from the federal Labor Government today, bringing the total program value to $880 million.More than 1000 days after the February 2022 14.4 metre flood ripped through the heart of Lismore, Coraki, Woodburn and other parts of the Northern Rivers, the Resilient Homes Program is still assessing applications from residents for a house buyback. The Lismore App knows of one in South Lismore and another on Cathcart Street that are waiting for a valuation and a decision through appeal.Member for Lismore and NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery, Janelle Saffin, said, “We thank the residents of the Northern Rivers for their continued patience as the Resilient Homes Program Northern Rivers continues to grow and be enhanced. “When the program was first announced at the end of 2022, we knew we would need more funding, and here it is. “The continuous improvement in the RHP is a testament to government listening to community needs. By revising requirements for those eligible for resilient measures funding, more people will have a pathway for assistance.”The Resilient Homes Program (RHP) was first established in October 2022 to relocate homeowners (owner occupiers and investors renting their property) from high-risk flood areas by buying back properties that represent the greatest risk to life, as well as improving the resilience of eligible homes against future floods by raising, relocating, rebuilding, or retrofitting. This funding will see more homes prioritised for buybacks and resilient measures. As of 29 November, 836 offers had been approved under the RHP, and 708 buyback offers had been accepted, with 564 settlements completed. To help more homeowners access the funding in the resilient measures stream (house raises and retrofits), eligibility requirements have been revised to include a hardship provision that waives the co-contribution for eligible homeowners. It will also provide additional up-front funding for design and planning work in the initial stages.Initial funding of $700 million was jointly funded between the Australian and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). The NSW Government confirmed a further $90 million in its June Budget, which has now been matched by the Australian Government, bringing the total to $880 million. This is still shy of the first muted $1.4 billion tabled to parliament in 2022; however, it will be welcomed by homeowners looking to move forward with their life.(Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot, Emergency Management Minister Senator Jenny McAllister, NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery Janelle Saffin and Tweed Shire Mayor Cr Chris Cherry at today's announcement in Murwillumbah. Photo: supplied)The RHP is being delivered by the NSW RA. More information is available from the RA’s website: www.nsw.gov.au/resilienthomesprogram Federal Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAlister, said, “The Northern Rivers is one of the most flood-prone regions in Australia, and the community have proven their resilience time and time again to repeated flooding. “But we also know that risk of future flooding is growing. That’s why this program is so important -moving people in areas of greatest risk out of harm’s way and, where they can remain in their homes, ensuring that they are better able to withstand floods.“Today's investment builds on more than $1.2 billion jointly committed for the Northern Rivers through recovery support packages through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and more than $193 million in direct Commonwealth investment for medium-long term recovery and resilience projects.” NSW Minister for Planning Paul Scully, “The Resilient Homes Program Northern Rivers is the largest program of its kind in Australia and is groundbreaking in terms of climate change adaptation. “Home buybacks and improving the resilience of homes in the Northern Rivers increases the capacity of the community to withstand the impacts of future floods. “I’d like to thank the Australian Government for matching the NSW Government’s contributions dollar for dollar, which is a significant investment in the future of this community.” NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib, “The 2022 flood in the Northern Rivers has been described as Australia’s worst ever flood disaster, requiring a massive response from the whole community and governments at all levels. “The RHP is continuing to assess properties for eligibility under the program. “The size and scale of the program means that delivery takes time, but we’re confident the program will help give people options to move off the floodplain and make their homes more resilient against the future impacts of floods.” 

NSW’s popular drink container recycling scheme, Return and Earn, celebrated seven years of success yesterday. And to mark its birthday, the scheme has released its latest Local Government Volumes Report listing the number of containers returned by the community by council.  Since its launch in December 2017, Return and Earn has seen over 12.5 billion drink containers returned for recycling through its return point network across the state thanks to the 84 per cent of NSW adults who have participated.The Lismore City Council recorded the following figures since 1 December 2017:Aluminium - 41,200,243Glass - 34,012,806PET (PolyEthylene Terephthalate) - 16,369,245HDPE (plastics) - 1,616,143Liquid Paper Board - 1,137,218Steel - 83,714 Return and Earn is a NSW Government initiative delivered in partnership with scheme coordinator Exchange for Change and network operator TOMRA Cleanaway.  “It’s been amazing to see so many people make Return and Earn part of their regular routine and the incredible positive impact their participation is having with two out of three drink containers sold in NSW being returned and 1,077,338 tonnes of materials recycled to a 73 per cent reduction in drink container litter since pre-scheme levels,” said Danielle Smalley, CEO of Exchange for Change. “Funded by the beverage industry, Return and Earn is a leading example of effective product stewardship."In addition to the environmental benefits, we have also seen $1.25 billion in container refunds put back in people’s pockets, and over $62 million raised for charities and community groups through donations and fees from hosting return points,” said Ms. Smalley. The latest consumer research shows support and trust in Return and Earn is at an all-time high, respectively 93 per cent and 78 per cent of NSW adults, with 3 out of 5 ‘returning and earning’ monthly or more. The return point network continues to grow, with network operator TOMRA Cleanaway continually reviewing and optimising to ensure NSW residents have easy and convenient access to redeem their bottles, cans and cartons. “We’re proud to invest in technological upgrades to make recycling even easier for the community. Over the last 12 months, we’ve added 103 new return points to the network including new return point formats as well as upgrades to some machines to ‘takes-all’. All with the aim of making it quicker and easier to return your drink containers and pocket the refund,” said James Dorney, CEO of TOMRA Cleanaway. There are over 650 return points across NSW, including Return and Earn machines, automated depots and over-the-counter return points, all designed to be as accessible as possible. “Over the upcoming busy summer holidays, we expect more than 9 million drink containers will be returned every day by the NSW community. It’s a busy time of year so we encourage everyone to check the live status of their nearest return point through the Return and Earn app or website before visiting,” added Mr. Dorney.  “Return and Earn is the triple threat of recycling – providing significant social, economic and environmental benefits to the NSW community while contributing to a more sustainable, waste-free future. “Congratulations to everyone who has contributed to Return and Earn’s seven years of success, including the beverage industry, who fund the scheme, the NSW community for their support and participation, and the strong partnership between scheme partners,” said Ms Smalley.  For more information, visit www.returnandearn.com.au.

A pioneering approach to resource-efficient building design could give people quicker access to high-quality temporary homes after disasters like the 2022 floods in Lismore.A prototype will be on display at Southern Cross University from December 3 to 5.Researchers have teamed up with government and industry partners to develop a bio-based, low-carbon housing system using waste cardboard and under-utilised timber materials sourced from the local area.Southern Cross University’s Professor Andrew Rose said he was proud to be collaborating on this project, saying it was incredibly important for regions like the Northern Rivers.“We’re still trying to recover from the 2022 floods as a community. One of the biggest issues at that time was a lack of potential housing and shelter,” Professor Rose said.“Not only is this bio-based housing product ideal as something that relates to the circular economy, but it also provides low-cost, high-quality shelter for people who have been adversely affected by disasters.”Project partners include the University of Queensland and the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, as well as eight industry partners – Hurford’s, Big River, Forestry Corporation, Weathertex, Australian Panels, Visy, Jowat and Ausco Modular.University of Queensland’s Associate Professor Joe Gattas said the project presented a new class of structural composite product: timber-cardboard sandwich panels.“In the current design system, the structural components consist of cardboard, which is fully recycled or sourced as a waste product, bonded to plywood skins,” Associate Professor Gattas said.“That forms the main structural composite, and the current configuration outperforms standard foam core structurally insulated panels by about 30 per cent for the same panel density.”With seed funding from the NSW Decarbonisation Hub’s Land and Primary Industries Network, the research team has added a complete range of detailing features to make a full-scale prototype that is weatherproof, safe and comfortable.Prototype drop-in sessionsInterested community members are welcome to see the bio-based house prototype at drop-in sessions at Southern Cross University’s Northern Rivers campus:WHERE: Near the former UniBar (overlooking Maurie Ryan Oval), Southern Cross University, Military Road, East Lismore.WHEN:Tuesday, December 3, 2pm-5pmWednesday, December 4, 3pm-6pmThursday, December 5, 9am-12pm

After a wet weekend that included potential flooding near Murwillumbah, it is apt that the SES has just released the new names of areas that they will refer to when making announcements concerning flood management in Lismore.It was determined that “Outside the Levee” was too general, so in consultation with the community, areas were identified and names attributed to them.  The names were identified and selected at an SES meeting at the South Lismore Bowling Club in late October, and they will be the names used in future warnings.Scott McLennan, the SES Incident Controller for this region, said, “These are going to be the names that will be given on the Hazard Near Me application, on socials, including Facebook and X, and they will be used in other formats that could be printed and distributed.”If you live/work or spend time in any of the areas outlined below, it is in your best interests to know what it will be called. If you are on a border or aren’t sure exactly which region you are included in, be aware of the two or more that you share a boundary with.Trinity Sports Ground and Surrounds:South Lismore Airport and Surrounds:Duck Pond, South LismoreSouth West Lismore and Surrounds:North of Hollingsworth Creek, South Lismore:South Lismore Industrial Area:All the regions together:Mr McLennan relays the importance of applying zones, “The premise of the Australian Warning System is to ensure that localised warnings are relevant to individuals.  “We take it down to the most common denominator to ensure that people in local areas understand the warnings for them, they understand the meaning to them, and they can identify with their locations. “So, we use a warning system, which is all based around the location of hazards and what we're asking people to do for those particular areas."Luckily, we won't have to put that into use this week as the weather forecast is for a partly cloudy/mostly sunny week.

Coffee lovers, take note! There is a new place to grab a coffee and breakfast in Lismore.The Little Love Bros Coffee Nook opened two weeks ago on Cathcart Street, serving Cloud Nine Blend coffee and brekky burritos.The name may be recognisable to some, as it is connected to the popular Taco Love Bros on Conway Street.Owner Dylan Morris had a single garage that he was using for storage "and filling with shit", but he wanted to utilise the space for his popular Mexican-inspired restaurant. "I wanted something a little more funky," Dylan said.So Dylan got on the tools with a friend, "This was as a collaboration effort between my mate, who knows what he's doing, and having rebuilt a few shops, I have a few skills to chip in as well."The result is a rustic look using a lot of recycled timbers."We've got a bunch of recycled timbers that we salvaged from all different places, such as the closing down of the casino shop, some big scrub timber like this hoop pine here, some salvaged rainforest hoop pine, silky oak. Those shelves at the back there, salvaged silky oak, and these are just some recycled fence palings. But our style is definitely that of reclaimed timber, upcycled and then add some funky steel in there as well."Now that Little Love Bros Coffee Nook, Dylan wants to take advantage of his ideal location."We've got such a prominent location here on the corner (Conway and Cathcart streets), sort of in between the CBD and East Lismore. It's a good little hub to stop off if you don't want to go fully into town," he explained."We're super passionate about teaming up with these guys, Old Quarter Coffee Merchants. They're a company based down in Ballina, and the ethos around their business is something that we wanted to align with."They go over to Southeast Asia, make the connection with the farmer, and they'll pay above-board prices to support that farmer. They bring the beans back, roast them in Ballina, and then distribute it from there. So there's no middleman.The Old Quarter coffee is a Cloud Nine Blend. That is coffee from Southern Vietnam, Central Myanmar and the eastern Ghats of India.The coffee is grown in high-altitude mountains that, when combined, 'add unique aspects to create a flavour profile that will elevate your day'. Little Love Bros Coffee Nook does a cold brew too."We're pairing it with our breakfast burritos," Dylan added, "Which we're also super passionate about. We're getting famous for our brekky burrito. It's all that you really need in a meal in the morning to keep you going. The fuel for your day, really. "Little Love Bros Coffee Nook is open from 6am, so it is looking at the early morning shift workers and tradies in the area."We want to build it up to cater for people who finish at the gym too, the early morning workout people and people who want substantial food in the morning, not so much like toasties and things like that, but protein-based food, as in beef, beans, eggs. Something that's really going to pack some punch, as opposed to spending money on white bread and that sort of stuff."We've got nice little goodies too. We bake muffins, all the little sweets, the cookies, all that sort of stuff."We've got a lovely couple of baristas. Haley is a Lismore local who has been here for a long time. And we've got an Italian lady named Sylvia. The girls will be rotating around.The Little Love Bros Coffee Nook is open from 6am to 1pm Monday to Friday on the corner of Cathcart and Conway Street, Lismore.It's been a long way back for Dylan Morris from the 2022 Floods. However, through grants and some hard work, Dylan has created a new coffee place that's worth checking out.

The NSW Government is warning retailers to be on alert and urging the community to heed fire safety advice to avoid a visit from firefighters this festive season. NSW Fair Trading has been monitoring Christmas pop-up stores across the state to ensure they are only selling approved and appropriately marked electrical items. Since commencing on 27 November, NSW Fair Trading inspectors have made unannounced visits to chain stores and bargain outlets, inspecting 798 different product lines, including decorative Christmas lighting and electrical displays, electrical items designed for children, and other promotional Christmas items on sale.   If non-compliant items are found, Fair Trading can seize the goods and issue fines.  As residents start putting up their Christmas decorations, Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is reminding residents to check that all decorative lights and electrical displays are in good working order. FRNSW recommends people only use decorative lights that have an Australian Standards label and follow the manufacturer's instructions on setting up and operating. Overloading or failing to check power boards and power points also poses real fire safety risks. Synthetic Christmas trees can be highly flammable so lights and decorations designed for these trees should be used. Additionally, decorative lights may become very hot so keep away from children and flammable materials such as wrapping paper, decorations or curtains and don’t leave burning candles unattended. Ensure you switch off all electrical displays and decorative lights before going to bed. FRNSW has also warned about the potential dangers of buying poor quality lithium-ion battery-powered products as gifts this holiday season and are being reminded to undertake safe charging, storage and disposal practices. The latest FRNSW figures confirm smaller lithium-ion powered devices such as electric toothbrushes, shavers, vacuum cleaners, portable chargers and power tools have overtaken micromobility products as the leading cause of lithium-ion fires in NSW. The Minns Labor Government is introducing mandatory safety standards for lithium-ion battery-powered e-micromobility products, with new testing, certification, and marking requirements. Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said, “Buying and hanging Christmas decorations and Christmas lights are a special part of the Christmas season, but we need to ensure all of the decorations for sale at this time of year are safe enough to be used in any home. “That is why Fair Trading inspectors will be out and about, doing surprise inspections, to make sure that the Christmas products shoppers are buying are safe. “Fair Trading inspectors have the powers to enter any store selling Christmas decorations and ensure they are only selling approved and appropriately marked electrical items. “These surprise inspections will be looking at Christmas lights and electrical Christmas decorations, as well as any other Christmas promotional items on sale.  “NSW Fair Trading has gathered intelligence in order to target Christmas pop-up stores, as well as other bargain outlets and even large chain stores selling Christmas decorations.  “If unsafe goods are identified, Fair Trading inspectors can immediately seize the goods and issue fines.” Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said, “We all want to enjoy the festive season, but we need to ensure that safety remains the top priority for every family over the holiday period. “We want every family to have a safe and relaxing festive season and to ring in the new year with joy, not tragedy. “As individuals, we can support our tireless emergency services personnel by doing everything in our power to prevent fire-related incidents in the home.” FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell said, “Checking lights and other decorations is a simple but effective way to prevent a household fire this festive season. “With the Christmas shopping upon us, make sure you are buying safe lithium-ion battery-powered products as well as charging and storing them safely. “Additionally, please dispose of old lithium-ion batteries and embedded devices responsibly. Don’t throw them out with the household rubbish, as they can cause intense, dangerous fires when they’re crushed in garbage trucks and refuse tips. “Don’t spoil your Christmas with a trip to the hospital because of accidents in the home that are easily preventable.” FRNSW Lithium-ion safety messaging: Never sleep or leave home with your lithium-ion powered devices charging.Don’t leave them constantly on charge.If lithium-ion batteries are damaged or compromised, dispose of them properly.Don’t throw them out in the rubbish, they can start garbage truck or rubbish tip fires when compacted.Contact your local, approved recycling centre for disposal advice.B-Cycle drop off points accept handheld batteries and are located at many major retail outlets, including all major supermarkets.Batteries can also be returned to all Community Recycling Centres and Household Chemical Clean-Out events across NSW.Don’t leave devices charging on beds, sofas or around highly flammable materials.Try to charge devices outside if possible.Always buy reputable lithium-ion brands and never ‘mix and match’ components.Beware of cheap, substandard lithium-ion powered devices.Avoid dropping, crushing or piercing battery cells.Store batteries and devices in a cool, dry area, away from combustible materials.Install active smoke alarms in your home/garage.Ensure you have a home evacuation plan in the event of fire.Don’t store or charge lithium-ion-powered devices near exit points in your home. For further information, visit the FRNSW website: https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/page.php?id=9392

CASPA celebrated its first Christmas Carnival at the Lismore Turf Club on Saturday with raffles, rides, market stalls, food, a big entertainment stage and craft stalls.  Despite the cloudy weather and occasional drizzle, the Christmas Carnival was well received and attended by a good crowd.The feel of the place was one of wonder and delight. A small child showed the snow globe that he made. There were crafts made by the CASPA kids, and you could do beading and make cards. There was some young, up-and-coming talent on the big stage, thrashing out some great tunes and getting a taste of what performing is all about.Helen and her young charge Sophia were at the jelly bean counting competition. Sophia said she was really enjoying the carnival, “It’s bigger and better than I expected.”Naarah Rodwell, the Chief Executive of CASPA, was so pleased about the Christmas Carnival, “We want to give back to the community. We are a charity, and Lismore has been so supportive. The face painting was popular and very well done! “The response from the community has been amazing. We have been really impressed with how much people have been happy to engage and connect with us.”Danni Waker from CASPA talks further about the success of the project, “The donations we got for our raffle are incredible. And then the amount of interest we had in the markets as well is really fantastic.  “Knowing our community has been through such a tumultuous time, particularly economically, and a lot of people are still really struggling, spaces like this that bring us together to help support local businesses. The markets are being well received. Danni and Naarah by the Wishing Tree“It also gives us somewhere to have joy, somewhere to actually be able to connect and engage and celebrate.”The performers entertaining on stage varied from music students to local First Nations performers and rock bands. CASPA had so many people wanting to perform that they had more than enough to fill the billing. They have been so pleased with the enthusiasm from the community.At the markets, they were encouraging anyone getting gifts for Christmas to grab something extra and get it wrapped at the gold coin wrapping station. Placed under the wishing tree, they will be given to any kids in care that might not get gifts, otherwise.The CASPA kids were at the carnival, “It is just as much a celebration for any kids in care. It's like their end-of-year party," Danni said.The CASPA team were having a great day of it, and the board of CASPA were keen to be involved in it also. They arranged a stall of their own - a photo booth. With a big Christmassy backdrop and a pile of glittery props and frames, it was a popular place to attend. CASPA Director Nick Harrison, said, “The board was happy to get involved and help to do something to give back to the community for what they've given to us for over so many years.Mr Harrison getting into the spirit of the photo booth!“This is a beautiful way of connecting with the community. I’ve been so impressed with how it's all gone - the organisation, the implementation - it’s all the work that everybody's put into it over weeks and weeks. It just shows in all the smiling faces and happy children.”Angela Bontea, the Executive Director of Child, Youth, Family and Disability, gave a talk on myths surrounding foster care - there is a determination to break them.“There's still lots of myths around that people don't disbelieve. You have to own your own home - not true. You can't be single, you can't be gay, you can't have your own children, or you have to have your own children.”CASPA has taken large steps to make the process of fostering much easier and quicker, and you don’t even need to have the space or take someone on full-time, “A good thing about CASPA is that we have other ways that people can be foster carers.“We have models where we have children stay in their own home, and the carer can go to them.”If you are interested, there is training and checks to be done, but it should not take more than 6 to 8 weeks before you can take on the caring role.Christmas elves spreading cheer and candy canes!Peter Freer, Chief Operating Officer of CASPA, also gave a talk on how he has been helping the CASPA Kids. Peter is overseeing a program to give CASPA Kids exposure to experience in trades called Hammers for Hope.“We've got a large property portfolio where kids and clients live, and to get external trades to do maintenance was difficult. So I suggested we make an internal team. “This is an opportunity for our kids to enter a program to get some skills, whether it be work experience, traineeships or the big hope - apprenticeships.”Mr Harrison had the Hammers for Hope team removed and replace his bathroom. He was very impressed with the workmanship.Danni and the CASPA team were very excited about the outcome of the day, even if the weather did not reflect the fun and the happy mood of the carnival goers who braved the weather. There are even talks of making this a regular event and maybe even more than once a year!

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Heavy Rainfall for Lismore & the Northern Rivers.A moist and unstable airmass, supported by an upper trough, is producing severe thunderstorms across eastern parts of NSW, including the northeast corner.Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the Northern Rivers and Northern Tablelands districts. Locations that may be affected include Lismore, Tweed Heads, Murwillumbah, Casino, Kyogle and Brunswick Heads.There has been significant rainfall towards the Queensland border, with a minor flood warning issued for the Tweed River at Tumbulgum and Chinderah. 120-190mm has fallen in the area to 9am today (Sunday).The Brunswick River at Mullumbimby is falling as minor flooding is no longer expected. The State Emergency Service advises that people should:* Move your car under cover or away from trees.* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.* Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.* Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill.* Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall.* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.* Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.* Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.* After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.* Unplug computers and appliances.* Avoid using the phone during the storm.* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.The next warning is due to be issued by 6:20 pm.

The Lismore CWA celebrated a huge milestone yesterday: 100 years of service to our community, over which time they have contributed largely to what Lismore is today.Mandy Nolan MC’d, and there were bands, stalls, and speeches by noted individuals, along with freshly baked scones laden with jam and cream to celebrate!Aliison Kelly and Vicky Boyle were instrumental in coordinating the 100-year anniversary event. They were so pleased to have their hall back in use following the 2022 flood so it can be shared with the public.“It is just wonderful to be celebrating like this; we have so much support. The Lions Club and the Living School are here, as are many stallholders, and the Lismore Concert band sounds lovely!” said Vicky.“To be able to use the hall again is fantastic; thanks to Lismore City Council and Bennett Constructions, it is so nicely decked out and can even be hired now, too,” said Aliison.CWA has two branches - the day branch, or the original group, and in 2017, a second group started as the evening branch for those who couldn’t make the earlier meeting times so everyone could participate in CWA ventures.The evening branch members were there to support their day branch sisters and celebrate 100 years and the reopening of the hall.The turnout was not what was expected with the rain and Christmas approaching, but the atmosphere was still festive, and there were plenty of people there to show support for the CWA.Jyllie Jackson and Robyn Kelly enjoying some scones. Jyllie said, “I think the CWA are fantastic. I think they're an important backbone of our community across all of Australia.’Joan and Janet were enjoying some light refreshments inside and said, “It's lovely to see them turning 100, especially for the Lismore branch,” said Janet, “It's an amazing milestone. They have done so much for the community.” Joan added, “It’s so lovely to see this beautiful building refurbished and that the CWA will still have a presence here in Lismore.”Kevin has worked in media for the Northern Star and The Land and is a real advocate for the CWA's abilities, “They're a real force to be reckoned with. They have conferences and put decisions before the government to have things changed as they see they are needed. “It's a really great thing for the women in the bush to have that contact, to get together and have a say in how things in rural and regional areas should be running.”During the speeches, the tribute to the women throughout the CWA’s time came to the fore. The list of ways the CWA has contributed to shaping our lifestyle now and how Lismore has been built around the actions of the CWA women is a testament to their capabilities.Lee Duncan did well representing MP Janelle Saffin, Helen Dargin, the president of the CWA day branch, Alison Larcher president of the North Coast CWA branches and Mandy Nolan, MC extraordinaire!Alison Larcher, the President of the Far North Coast group, spoke of how the CWA operates in every state and territory in Australia, “The far North Coast group of NSW has 16 branches and covers an area from a Murwillumbah in the north to Evans Head in the south, and Ballina and Tabulam to the east and west. “The CWA is the largest women's organisation in Australia with approximately 8000 members in New South Wales and the ACT and aims to improve conditions for country women and their families. It was formed in 1922 at a time when country women were experiencing isolation and a lack of health facilities.“It was formed in 1922 at a time when country women were experiencing isolation and a lack of health facilities. We are also a member of the associated country women of the world and support country women worldwide.”The Lismore CWA raised over $120,000 dollars to be distributed to help locals affected by flooding in 2022. It was raised from donated funds and transferred to Lismore through sister CWA branches.  Helen Dargin spoke of the importance of their ability to hand that directly to those in need, “Lately; we've been helping with the flood victims, raising money and giving things directly to those people - not giving it to a third party.”Many, many achievements were mentioned on the day. Here is a list of early CWA projects and contributions to causes:setting up baby health centres, building and staffing maternity wards, hospitals, schools, rest homes and holiday cottages where women and their children could get some much-needed respite from their usual lives of isolation and hard work,the original library in Lismore was formed by the CWA ladies who helped ladies from the country have somewhere to sit down when they finished their shopping,conducted activities to bring people together to stop the drift to the cities,raised money for the ambulance building when it came to Lismore,Introduced stop signs at railway crossings, reduced rail fares,increased funding for Aboriginal welfare and housing, compulsory fitting of seat belts and child restraints, DUI breath testing, research into alternative fuel sources, compulsory wearing of bike helmets,discouraging the use of plastic shopping bags.helping various charities.More recent initiatives include:taking a stand about the increasing rates of domestic violence, increased access to mental health services in rural areas, increasing funding for women's refuges and affordable housing for women, specifically older women, protection of koala habitat, bank closures in rural areas, the establishment of 24 hour policing in all larger regional areas,student grants going from primary to high school and high school to university. 8 students in the Far North Coast received a scholarship this year,strong action on the anti coal seam gas movement and the waste incinerator project.MP Janelle Saffin could not be in attendance but listed some of the points above. Through Lee Duncan, she passed on, “Congratulations on your 100 years. You deserve to be celebrating. You deserve to be proud of yourselves.”To see how much the CWA have contributed to the community - the truth of “It’s not just tea & scones” rang loud and clear.  Vicky helping Janet and Joan.But on the topic of scones, Aliison let out the CWA secret, “The scone part is just here to hold the jam and cream!” Both were generously daubed over the delightful scones!Here's to another successful 100 years!

Inspector Gerry Burnage had his last day at the Ballina SES on Saturday after 40 years of service to the region, 36 of which he served as the Unit Commander.Insp Burnage said he started at the SES in 1983 to help the Commander at the time out, but he has been there ever since.In regards to his time, he says the biggest events were the Lennox Tornado in 2010, and the 2022 floods, during which he served Coraki, Woodburn and Broadwater.“In the Lennox Tornado, 153 houses were damaged, but luckily, nobody was seriously hurt, which was very lucky and due to the time of day. If it had been another hour or two later, there would have been people on the streets making a different story.”He was also involved in many SES lead developments, “I was involved in the design of all the SES vehicles. Many years, I worked on the general land Rescue Committee, looking at all the equipment, developing new things. “Tsunami planning and developing plans and education for the public.”I asked what happens in the event of a Tsunami. Without missing a beat Insp Burnage said, “Run up a hill!”“In all seriousness, it's a very rare thing. But if it did happen, it could be a major issue. There's quite a few people living in that footprint along the east coast.”SES Incident Controller, Scott McLennan provided a more comprehensive list of the inspectors incredible list of achievements in an address to his farewell.“It is with a mix of gratitude and admiration that we announce the retirement of Inspector Gerry Burnage, Unit Commander of the Ballina NSW SES Unit, after an extraordinary 40 years of dedicated service.“Throughout his remarkable career, Gerry has been a pillar of strength and resilience, consistently demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of our community. His expertise in General Land Rescue, Road Crash Rescue, Flood Rescue, and Incident Management Team (IMT) operations has been invaluable to the greater Ballina, The Northern Rivers and NSW.“Gerry's exemplary service has been recognised with numerous prestigious awards, including:The Emergency Services MedalThe National MedalThe National Emergency Medal for Tropical Cyclone DebbieNSW SES Life MembershipThe Commissioner's Appreciation CertificateThe Commissioner's Certificate for Consistently High Level of ResponseThe Premier's Bush Fire Emergency Citation“These accolades are a testament to Gerry's exceptional skills, dedication, and the high regard in which he is held by his peers and the community.“As we bid farewell to Gerry, we extend our deepest appreciation for his tireless service and leadership. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of volunteers. We wish Gerry all the best in his well-deserved retirement and future endeavours.“Thank you, Gerry, for your outstanding contribution and unwavering commitment to the NSW SES and the community.”Insp. Burnage did point out one fond memory that will endure.“I'm very proud of what I started and achieved in the youth cadet program quite a few years ago.  “Then I developed another program, an in-house program for the local schools, where we got the school to nominate two students in Years 9 and 10 to participate in the 10-week program. It was very, very successful.”Many of those who went through the program took on roles in service to the community, “We've had three of them become paramedics, a police officer and quite a few went into the services, here and interstate. They have all done very well for themselves.”Life after the SES will include “Family time, something I need to do more of. Catch up with family and grandchildren. Do things for me for change. We've got plenty of places we want to go to.”Insp. Burnage is looking forward to “going to bed for uninterrupted sleep, ‘Because I've been doing road crash rescue for the last 41 years as well. It will be nice not to have to worry about going out in the pouring rain in the middle of the night!“After 40 years, it will take a lot of adjustment. It'll be strange for a while, I'll have to get used to sleeping without one eye open and one ear open.”Always vigilant, Insp Burnage leaves people with these final words, “Stay safe. Listen to any advice you get or no storms or floods. Please don't enter floodwater. And clean the gutters out because that's caused a lot of water going into houses!”

In a Southern Cross University initiative, The Good Soils, Good Food event this week is commemorating World Soil Day on Wednesday, December 4th*.Local farmers, chefs and scientists are coming together to celebrate achievements, discuss strategy and taste the results of sustainable farming practices.One of the organisers, Gavin Tinning, SCU Innovation Hub Adoption and Extension Officer in Lismore; the chef, Shane Runciman, the culinary mind behind Twisted Tucker and radio announcer; and Kerry Wilson, former commercial dairy farmer, turned his farming into a “Value Add” proposition, discussed the event.Gavin has been working towards a successful and interesting event. He describes it as “The connection between looking after our soils and producing healthy, nutritious, tasty food.“It's really about caring for the physical and chemical nature of the soil. So you've got fertility, but also the biological nature of the soil. That might be compost, might be cover crops. It might be keeping your ground covered so it doesn't wash away when we get our regular downpours. At the same time, you've got to make a living. So sometimes it can be a little bit of a trade-off.”Kerry describes the intensity of tactics in commercial farming, “We were the product of banging out as much urea as possible every chance you get. Every time it rains a bit to get that rye grass growing through winter - every chemical, every spray is done because all your focus is on production per litre to sell as a volume of the farm.”Kerry and Paul decided to move Nimbin Dairy towards sustainable tactics, “We took the next step and value added all our own milk. So all the milk that is produced on our farm is processed into cheese or milk or kefir or yogurt, and we sell directly through farmers' markets. We also have a distribution network from Cairns down to Melbourne as well. “Our focus is on producing a quality range of dairy products from a sustainable farm that has integrity, and we use minimum chemical sprays to put on our pastures and into our soil.”Kerry explains that it hasn't been an easy process, and the more you put into value-adding, the customers expect it, but the results are rewarding.  “We want to do something for Nimbin and the North Coast region, and build a brand based on sustainable farming methods, which tastes good. “There is a lot more interest in herd health, soil health and pasture health. It has come a long way in the last 20 to 25 years, and I'm sure that will continue.  “The consumers are holding us to task, and they're questioning us. Who are our farming vendors? And their consumer habits - their buying habits are based on our essence and whether we have a good story.”The change at the bottom line is where there is a big difference, “When you're commercial, you’re a price taker. But now, by default, we are completely price-making. To a large extent, we are in charge of our investment, and our sales are very dependent upon our story and how we farm.”This event recognises the difficulties that can be experienced in farming in the region, in particular our varied soil types and weather patterns that have a tendency to be extreme and ever more sub tropical. The concept is to bring people and ideas together.“It's really challenging to change from a more conventional style of farming into something that's a bit more biological or regenerative or organic,” says Gavin.“I think farmers learn best from other farmers, from example and from conversations, rather than from experts. “But on the flip side, we have really good research that comes out of Southern Cross Uni around things like cover crops, for example, that helps guide people making decisions and perhaps making better decisions and spending less money in that change.”Good Soils, Good Food will have both scientific research and farmer findings in discussion while Shane is turning their nutritious foods into delicious tucker.Shane is very much looking forward to this event and has been working on some special recipes, “We're going to be cooking and showcasing all the local ingredients that are involved in sustainable farming. There's going to be a panel of farmers talking about how they've applied the Good Soil, Good Food philosophy, and their learnings.“And the food miles will be next to zero. It’s really important to me to make sure we minimise our food mileage.“The ethics behind food is important. I think what we're seeing more and more is that people are making that choice. Ethical food doesn't necessarily mean more expense - if it's a highly dense, nutritional food, you need less of it.”The suppliers of the sustainable foods that will be on the panel include:Julia Bolam - Roseberry Growers, supplying flowers and vegetablesFrank and Andrea Boyle @ Marlivale Farm - rice and pecansMark Bayley @ Singing Farmer Organics - VegetablesPaean Fassos - Five Sixty Farms - Sprouts and vegetablesNimbin Valley Dairy supplying cheeses for dessertsPyewacketts - supplying drinksGood Soils Good Food will be held at Norma’s Kitchen at the Lismore Showground.Keep an eye out for these producers to put something special on your Christmas table this year.Tickets are available at Eventbrite*World Soil Day is on December 5th, but the 4th was the date the function could be held on.

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin finished parliament for 2024 last week, which meant she has more time to spend in the Lismore electorate attending community events and award ceremonies. As an example, she visited Lismore South Public School to recognise their national Disaster Resilience Award.Ms Saffin sat down with the Lismore App for another Talking Lismore podcast to discuss some important local issues, such as the region's achievements in the first 1000 Days of the 2022 Floods, the local NSW Hospital contracts that hurt small businesses like Hutley Bros Butchery, the Nurses and Midwives wages battle, the MT Pleasant house relocations and the Alphadale traffic light/roundabout debate.1000 DAYSMs Saffin reflected on the 1000 days since the February 2022 flood that occurred last Sunday. She acknowledged the community's desire for faster progress while highlighting the complexities of the recovery, shared that the community, including herself, wished they had done more and that the recovery process has taken longer than anticipated, citing both the challenges of completing the work and the slow pace of bureaucracy."Look. I see it like the community sees it. We wished we'd done more. We wished things would be faster. I also know that it takes longer than we imagine it takes longer than we want, and some of that is just getting the work done, and sometimes it is the slowness of the bureaucracy."Looking ahead, Ms Saffin emphasised the importance of developing a master plan for economic and environmental recovery, aiming for the region to thrive, not just survive. She cited the example of Darwin's recovery from Cyclone Tracy as a source of inspiration, noting that the city is now thriving decades after the disaster."I was reading an article this morning, and it grabbed me. It was in Open Road, the NRMA booklet I always get, and it was about someone who was a child in Darwin when cyclone Tracy happened, and she talked about revisiting decades later, I think it was 50 years later, and she talked about it and saying it's absolutely thriving. And I thought, yes, that's where I want us to be, absolutely thriving," Ms Saffin said.HOSPITAL CONTRACTSMs Saffin was not happy with the recent loss of local hospital contracts by Norco, Richmond Waste and Hutley Bros Butchery. She claims the lack of transparency and communication from Health Share NSW, the agency responsible for the contracts, has disadvantaged local businesses.“Poor communication from HealthShare, who control all that. There should have been some process by which we knew we could have argued better. We're sort of really arguing after the horse has come down the straight and won. But, it doesn't stop us arguing, and we will,” Ms Saffin said.She revealed that Norco was squeezed out due to the contract being transitioned to a statewide model, a change she argues should have been communicated earlier.Ms Saffin has called for a review of the procurement process, citing the cases of Richmond Waste and Hutley Bros as examples of their unfair treatment. She has urged the Minister to consider these cases as studies of the issue, particularly highlighting Hutley Bros' 30-year history of servicing hospitals and their lack of opportunity to tender under the new system.NURSES AND MIDWIVES PAY RISEMs Saffin met with representatives of nurses and midwives during the last sitting week of Parliament to discuss the ongoing wage negotiations. The Labor government has removed the previous wage cap, which had been in place for over 12 years, and introduced a 4% wage increase for 2023 and a 3% increase for 2024, backdated to July 1. However, nurses and midwives are seeking an immediate 15% pay rise.Ms Saffin described the meeting with the nurses and midwives as "very open" and said that the attendees felt "really listened to and supported." She believes that everyone acknowledges that nurses and midwives deserve a pay rise for their essential work.Ms Saffin emphasised the critical importance of the issue for her electorate, which borders Queensland and includes areas like Tweed Valley and Murwillumbah.MT PLEASANT ESTATE GOONELLABAHTwo relocated houses have been moved to Mt Pleasant Estate in the last two weeks. Ms Saffin acknowledged the concerns of local residents, stating, "I know with any development, there's always feelings, uncomfortable things, and that people are worried."She emphasised that the development was already DA-approved before the houses were moved and that something would have been built on the site regardless.Ms Saffin expressed satisfaction with the progress of the relocations; she did admit that the houses are not in the best condition right now and assured residents that the Resilient Lands Program team and the Reconstruction Authority (RA) are committed to repairing the houses as soon as possible, with a target date of June 2025.Another positive was the DA approval of the 50 Built To Rent apartments in East Lismore.The East Lismore 50 Build To Rent Apartments project was described as a "great thing" and emphasised the importance of making rental housing as affordable as possible.When asked about a construction timeline for the East Lismore apartments, Saffin stated that she would inquire with Landcom and provide an update as soon as possible.ALPHADALE ROUNDABOUT/TRAFFIC LIGHTSA plan to install a roundabout at the intersection of Alphadale and Cowlong roads on the Ballina Highway was the initial thought before the last state election. Traffic lights is now the preferred option. The decision, made by Transport for NSW, comes after concerns were raised about the safety of trucks using the roundabout.Ms Saffin said, “Transport (for NSW) have done a proper survey and study. What they said to me was the gradient of the intersection is a contributing factor, suggesting it could make trucks more unstable and prone to tipping over. Space is also limited there."At some point, I have to trust some of the transport experts. We’ve got a lot of bush lawyers, and we’ve got a lot of bush engineers and, you know, all of that. So, at some point, I have to trust it. It is not cut and dried, but it’s out there, and that’s what they’re exploring. People can have a say.” This was a summary of what was discussed on the Talking Lismore podcast. Click to listen to the complete conversation on the Lismore App, or click https://talkinglismore.buzzsprout.com/ to listen via the Lismore App website.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for HEAVY RAINFALL for Casino, Kyogle and other parts of Northern Rivers.A very moist and unstable airmass supported by an approaching upper trough is producing scattered showers and isolated severe thunderstorms over the northeast of the state. In the west, severe thunderstorms have developed and will continue to move to the east throughout the afternoon and into the early evening.Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations that may be affected include Casino, Kyogle, Tabulam, Baryulgil, Rappville and Whiporie.At this stage, the Thunderstorm Warning misses Lismore and coastal towns.89.0 mm was recorded at Tidbinbilla in the 6 hours to 3:00 pm.63.8 mm was recorded at Gudgenby in the 6 hours to 2:30 pm.94.2 mm was recorded at Mount Darragh in the 6 hours to 12:27 pm.The State Emergency Service advises that people should:* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.* Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.* Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.* After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.* Unplug computers and appliances.* Avoid using the phone during the storm.* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.The next warning is due to be issued by 10:50 pm.

UPDATE 3 December 2024Hayley has been located.Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a teenage girl missing from Sydney.Hayley Bradshaw, aged 17, was last seen in Casino on Tuesday, 26 November 2024.When she could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Richmond Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into her whereabouts.Police and family hold concerns for Hayley’s welfare.She is described as being of Caucasian appearance, between 130cm to 145cm tall, of a thin build, with black hair.Hayley was last seen wearing a black jumper and track pants.Police believe she was in Sydney on Thursday, 28 November 2024.Anyone with information about her whereabouts is urged to contact Richmond Police or 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.

It is National Asbestos Awareness Week (NAAW), and with flood renovations and refurbishments still occurring in Lismore and the Northern Rivers, warnings are still current.Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin says this week is a reminder to employers, employees and home renovators to be vigilant about the dangers of asbestos.“Asbestos can kill, and with so many demolitions, renovations and rebuilds happening all around the region, it is vital that people are informed and properly trained in how to deal with it.Asbestos is present in one in three Australian homes as well as in public and commercial buildings.If asbestos is disturbed, it can release dangerous particles of dust containing asbestos fibres, which can cause serious and fatal illness when inhaled.Asbestos-related disease claims more than 4000 lives a year in Australia.National Asbestos Awareness Week is a reminder to get information and register for safety courses before working with asbestos or materials that may contain asbestos.Some practical steps to follow when it comes to dealing with the toxic material include:If the home or building you are working on was built before 1990, then it is likely to contain asbestos.If you’re not sure whether asbestos might be present at a site, don’t do anything until you’ve had it checked by a licensed asbestos professional.  If you’re working on a commercial building that was built before December 2003, ask to see a copy of the asbestos register before doing any work.For renovators and tradies working with asbestos or removing small amounts of asbestos (less than 10sq m), SafeWork NSW has launched an online asbestos awareness and safety course which will help meet your training obligations and provide workers the skills they need to stay safe when working with asbestos.To find out more about the SafeWork NSW asbestos safety course, Register Here.For more information about asbestos safety, visit the SafeWork NSW asbestos page.

A volunteer-led organisation bringing hope and healing to Lismore after the 2022 floods has received a boost in funding in the latest round of Greater Bank’s Northern Rivers Community Funding Program. Filled with fresh fruits and vegetables along with local flora and fauna, Lismore’s Community Garden is tended to by a group of enthusiastic volunteers on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, but is open for the public to enjoy always. One of the Community Garden’s volunteers, Rhonda, said the volunteers have been working hard to rejuvenate the gardens over the past two years. “Much of our infrastructure, including our water tanks and solar panels, were lost or destroyed in the flood,” she said. “Our progress is slow, but our aim remains to nourish the community with food, socialising and support. The gardens are also used as a venue for community activities and gatherings.” Along with offering a space for the community to gather, the volunteers regularly stock up their ‘sharing table’ with fresh fruits and vegetables for eating, as well as seedlings for Lismore to grow in their own backyards. With plenty to tend to, Rhonda said the group welcomes new members. “We currently have a group of about 20 volunteers who take care of our garden, but we are always looking for more.” Greater Bank’s Regional Manager, Steph Smith, highlighted the customer-owned bank’s investment in the Northern Rivers region.  “Over the last three years, we have given more than $100,000 to a range of groups in the Northern Rivers, each committed to improving our region, just like Lismore Community Garden,” she said. “The volunteers are incredibly generous with their time, their produce and their positivity – I am thrilled to see them win this month’s round of the program.” Rhonda echoed her support of the program, which seeks to make the community stronger by supporting the initiatives that are important to the region. “It’s a wonderful program! I love that our community can see what is happening in our area and have their say over where the funds go,” she said. “We rely on donations to support our ongoing efforts to keep the gardens sustainable, so we are so grateful to receive these funds from Greater Bank.” The entrants for the November round of the #GreaterNorthernRivers Community Funding Program, where there’s another $3,000 up for grabs, are Lismore Preschool Incorporated, CFD Foundation Henry James Fund and Ballina Little Athletics Inc.

While a lot of parents and their children hit the sporting fields of Lismore and the Northern Rivers today, you may read this story and feel a little inadequate.Ashleigh Peterson has just returned from an epic sports event in Fiji as an obstacle course racer in the Spartan Race Australia Pacific Championships (APAC).Spartan Obstacle Course Racing is based on the extreme dedication to fitness that the original ancient Greek Spartans espoused. Nomenclature in the sport often reflects aspects of Spartan history.“I've been doing Spartan for about eight years now, but this was one of my biggest challenges because it was the Asia Pacific championships," Ashleigh told the Lismore App.As a personal challenge, Ashleigh chose to enter every event she could.“The challenge was to do the 10km trail on Thursday night, a four-hour endurance event called the Hurricane Heat on Friday morning, the 50km Ultramarathon on Saturday morning, the 21km Beast on Saturday afternoon, straight after the Ultra, then the 10km super and the five-kilometre sprint on Sunday.”Managing to do those in a lifetime would be enough of a goal for the average person. For Ashleigh, this was a 4-day competitive bout. However, things don’t always go to plan.“Unfortunately, I didn't make the time cut off to make the Beast. To get into the 21k event, we had to finish the 50k in eight and a half hours. It started at 6am, and we had to finish it by 2.30pm. I came in two hours after that. But it's a challenge for next year to drop my times and try and take it all on.”To give you an idea of how tough it is to make this qualifier, only two competitors in the Fiji APAC championships managed to compete in both the Ultra Marathon and the Beast.“It was the most successful event I've had so far. Over the last few years, I've started to get the occasional podium in my age group. But for this one, in the 50 km ultra marathon, I was actually the second overall female finisher. That's brilliant. Out of everybody, I came in 13th out of 40 people that finished the event. “I'm incredibly proud of myself for that.“I also managed to get second female finisher in the trail run on the Thursday night as well. I’m really happy with how I went.”To understand where Ashleigh is at in her fitness goals, “I'm honestly at a stage in my life where I'm looking for new challenges, ways to push myself as hard as I can.”“Everything's changed now, and I'm starting to learn that if I set limits, then I'm just going to hold myself back. So I've just got to keep pushing as hard as I can, and who knows what will happen.”Ashleigh started training under the direction of a coach around six months ago. “Since I've started training with Mick, it's been game-changing. I've just completely stepped up to the next level of competition.”Within weeks of training, the extra support was visibly starting to pay off with podium placements in her races. “The transformations over the last six months since I’ve started training with my coach, Mick, have just been mind-blowing.”The mental training is as important as the physical, “We do a lot of our training focused on pushing me past my breaking point as much as we can. So we're developing mental strength, and it’s not often I break anymore, thankfully. “I had one training session last year that left me in tears by the end of it, but most often now, I'm learning how to talk to myself when I'm getting to those walls and how to push through it.”Ashleigh says her mental health has never been so strong.“A few years ago, I went through a really nasty divorce, and mental health-wise, I was at rock bottom. I was struggling to get out of bed. I use Spartan to rededicate myself to make myself stronger. “Both of my children are on the spectrum, and having two neurodivergent children can be incredibly challenging. When I'm having days where I'm just really struggling, I just reflect back on what I've achieved in the Spartan world, and I'm able to sort of channel that strength and use it to get through the daily challenges. “And vice versa. When I'm on a Spartan course and having trouble, I'm sitting there thinking, I'm a single mom, I've got this. This is nowhere near as hard as being a single parent!”Asheigh was diagnosed with depression a few years ago, “I was diagnosed back when I was 20. So, in a way, it's always going to be a lifelong struggle, and I'm always on alert to watch for my warning signs. “But at the moment, I'm stronger than I've ever been, both physically and mentally. I'm in a really good place in my life. Things are calming down with my kids with their diagnosis, and we're learning a lot better as a family how to adapt to our challenges. “Anyone can have a depressive episode at any time, but I'm feeling more confident in myself to recognise those signs and avoid going back to those dark places.”Ashleigh trains 5 days a week - a 2/3 day split between spending time in the gym or running. How much of each depends on the next event she is competing in - things like the 24-hour endurance events require more gym time.“There's something freeing about doing a 50km race. They’re so much harder than you can possibly imagine when you start. But the feeling when you cross the finish line of an Ultra is just its next level. And I've just found that that's where I live and breathe.“I get to a point around the 35-kilometre mark, and I just feel this utter freedom in what I'm doing, and somehow I find the strength to push harder and keep going throughout the rest of the event.”Spartan is one of the largest brands that organises obstacle course racing in the world and started in Australia in 2014. Incredibly popular, a version of obstacle racing is making it into the Pentathlon in the LA Olympics in 2028, called the American Ninja Warrior.Lismore’s Samson Fitness Challenge is a locally organised obstacle-style event.Ashleigh was almost forced into her first Spartan event by her mum. In 2016, Ashleigh enjoyed plain running, and her mother had a Spartan team member pull out. Ashleigh filled in, and it didn’t take long until she was focusing on obstacle running.What OCR (Obstacle Course Racing) entails is running distances with challenges set in your way.“We have things like climbing a rope and ringing a bell at the top. You've got your standard monkey bars and what we call the multi-rig, with rings hanging off, making your swing. There's eight-foot walls that you've got to climb over. “There's sandbag and water jug carries and in Fiji, they were mean to us with that. It was 100 meters uphill, and it was not a nice hill. It was, it was brutal.”Spartan races can be done for fun in a team called the Open Division, where team members help each other through the race. Ashleigh describes her involvement, “When you're competitive, you have to do everything yourself.”“You can't have any help at all, and you'll get penalised if you do, if you fail obstacles, you have to do penalty laps that usually involve carrying some sort of heavy weight up and down hills.”The addiction to entering these competitions gets expensive as each event is held at a different venue. Sponsorship is difficult to get in this fledgling sport; not many people get financial help, but that is changing.  With the recognition and inclusion in the Olympics, changes have been made to events to come into line with the Olympic standard.“If you want to get into it, what you wear is so important. Bunyips have helped me get the right gear to compete in, and it makes so much difference - they really know what you need.”It hasn’t been a week since the last competition, and Ashleigh is already prepping for next year's events.“My next running-focused event is in February, and I'm taking on what we're calling a double trifecta. I'd go out on the Saturday, and do two 21-kilometre courses, and then on the Sunday, I would do two 10-kilometre courses, then two 5-kilometre courses. It's the first time we've held this particular event in Australia.“My big focus at the moment is our endurance weekend in the Victorian Alps in April, which is a four-hour endurance event, and then we get a short break, and then we do a 12-hour endurance event, and then we get another short break, and then we start a 24-hour event.“Last year, I managed to successfully complete the 12 and the 24, but I didn't do the four hour. So this year, I'm taking on all three.”There is one other event that Ashleigh cannot choose to do, but is waiting with bated breath with many others around the world to see if she can get to participate - the Agoge in Greece.“This event has been named after the school that the Spartan boys went to to learn how to become men and warriors. It is quite deeply embedded into the mythology surrounding the Spartan culture.’’It starts (in Greece) at the tomb of King Leonidas, the leader of the 300 Spartans who died in battle at Thermopylae, and winds its way 115 km across the Taygetos Mountains and various sites of historical significance to the statue of King Leonidas in Sparta (or Laconia as it is now called).Only 300 people from around the world can compete. Ashleigh’s hand is right up.“Only 50 people, like me, that have applied for an invitation will get a chance. We don't know how they are selecting people, and I can not wait until they release the invitations.”Talk about the best of the best!If you would like to follow Ashleigh's climb, find her on her instagram, run.bake.mumIf you want to know more about the most elite Spartan event ever, check it out here.

We are set for a wet weekend in Lismore and the Northern Rivers. It just depends on how much rain we receive.The Bureau of Meteorology has broad rainfall ranges on both Saturday and Sunday due to the storm activity from the northeast. Depending on your location, the rainfall may be as little as 2mm or as much as 20-25mm.It is impossible to predict exactly where thunderstorms will unleash their power, so stand by.The rain and potential thunderstorms won't dampen the enthusiasm for the Christmas activity around the Lismore LGA this weekend.The Lismore Farmers Markets, as usual, kick off the weekend at 7:30am tomorrow at the Lismore Showgrounds.Christmas gift ideas will be on display, as well as fresh fruit & veg and coffee/tea and breakfast. Georgia Cortes Raynor will be playing live music between 8 and 11am.The Lismore CWA celebrates 100 Years of helping the Lismore community tomorrow (Saturday) at Spinks Park on Molesworth Street.The CWA will be holding a fete between 10am and 1pm, which will include live music from the Living School Choir and the Lismore Concert Band. You can browse the stalls, play games or join in the craft lessons.If you are after some Christmas spirit, head to the Lismore Turf Club between 12pm and 7pm when the first CASPA Christmas Carnival will be spreading Christmas cheer.You can experience festive market stalls, live music, rides and activities for the kids, including an inflatable obstacle course, slide and jumping castle, face painting, food trucks, treats and carnival games.Santa is expected to make an appearance on the Lismore Rural Fire Service truck.On Sunday, the Goolmangar Market Day will happen between 9am and 2pm at the Goolmangar Hall (983 Nimbin Road).The Market Day is a Trash and Treasure to raise money for further hall repairs.The North Coast Road Riders will decorate the motorbikes and ride from Ballina to Lismore on Sunday morning for the Our Kids Toy Run.The Toy Run will start at the Ballina Maritime Museum at 9:15am and arrive at Browns car park in Lismore between 10am and 10:15am with a detour through Alstonville.There will be a sausage sizzle at Browns car park from 10:45am thanks to the Summerland Sunrise Rotary Club.For your live music, get into the Northern Rivers Hotel tonight from 7pm for DJ Mudcrab. Saturday night is Rokustix from 7, with the Hello Ray Duo at the Sunday Session from 1pm to 4pm.The live music at the Lismore Workers Club takes a break now until February, when Forever Olivia - a tribute to Olivia Newton-John, hits the stage on Saturday, February 16 and Reputation - the Ultimate Taylor Swift Tribute Show on Friday, February 21. You can book tickets here.A reminder that Sunday week (December 8) is the 2024 Carols in the Heart at Oakes Oval between 4pm and 9pm.Fuel prices are exactly the same as last week. Ballina is easily the cheapest place to fill your tank for everything apart from diesel where Lismore is the cheapest option.Here are the cheapest fuel prices in each town:E10 is 178.9 across those that serve E10 in Lismore, 166.5 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino, with The Metro and the Mobil on River Street in Ballina cheapest at 161.9.Unleaded 91 is 175.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road, Lismore, 168.5 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino and 163.9 at the Metro and the new Mobil in Ballina.U95 is 188.9 at the Independent on Wyrallah Road, East Lismore, Northside Liberty and Bakers Corner at North Lismore and the Liberty on Ballina Road, 184.9 at the EG Ampol on Canterbury Street in Casino and 174.9 at The Metro and the Mobil in Ballina.U98 is 195.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road, Lismore, 188.9 at the two Liberty's on Hare Street and Centre Street in Casino and 183.9 at The Metro and the Mobil on River Street, Ballina.Diesel is 172.9 at the Ampol Foodary at 237 Union Street, South Lismore, 179.5 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino and 182.5 at The Metro and the Mobil in Ballina.Have a great weekend!

The Albanese Government Online Safety Amendment Bill 2024 passed parliament today, meaning that Australia's children under 16 years of age will not have access to social media platforms.The Social Media Minimum Age Bill is a landmark measure that will deliver greater protections for young Australians during critical stages of their development.The laws place the onus on social media platforms – not young people or their parents – to take reasonable steps to prevent Australians under 16 years of age from having accounts, and ensures systemic breaches will see platforms face fines of up to $49.5 million.The minimum age will apply to ‘age-restricted social media platforms’ as defined in the Bill, which includes Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, X and others.Importantly, the bill ensures that the law is responsive to the ever-evolving nature of technology, while enabling continued access to messaging, online gaming, and services and apps that are primarily for the purposes of education and health support – like Headspace, Kids Helpline, Google Classroom and YouTube.It contains strong privacy provisions, with platforms required to ring-fence and destroy any data collected once it has been used for age assurance purposes. Failure to destroy data would be a breach of the Privacy Act, with penalties of up to $49.5 million.The bill also makes clear that no Australian will be compelled to use government identification (including Digital ID) for age assurance on social media. Platforms must offer reasonable alternatives to users.The bill has been designed following extensive consultation with young Australians, parents, experts, industry, community organisations and National Cabinet, and builds on broader efforts by the Government to hold platforms to account for ensuring the safety of their users.The new laws will come into effect no later than 12 months from passage of the bill, allowing the necessary time for social media platforms to develop and implement required systems.Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, “We’ve passed important legislation to keep our kids safe online.“Social media is doing social harm to our kids. We’ve called time on it.“We want our kids to have a childhood and parents to know we have their backs.”Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland said, “The Albanese Government is resolute in its commitment to keeping children safe online, and the passage of this vital legislation is just one way we’re delivering on this commitment.“We’ve listened to young people, parents and carers, experts and industry in developing these landmark laws to ensure they are centred on protecting young people – not isolating them.“Good government is about facing up to difficult reform - we know these laws are novel, but to do nothing is simply not an option.“Over the next 12 months, we’ll work closely with industry and experts to ensure the minimum age is effectively implemented, informed by the findings of the Age Assurance Technology Trial currently underway.”