As reported earlier today, several communities across the Northern Rivers and North Coast have been heavily affected by a severe storm cell that moved across the region this morning (23 January), with around 27,600 customers losing power at its peak.The hardest hit communities are Nimbin and Murwillumbah with additional damage in the rural areas around the Northern Rivers and coastal region of the North Coast.Essential Energy crews are currently assessing the high volume of calls and the extent of damage in order to prioritise the restoration efforts.An Essential Energy spokesperson said, "Crews will need to spent time cleaning up the areas around the powerlines to make the locations safe before the power can be turned back on. As a result of the storm, access to some locations is difficult or not possible at this stage. "Additional crews are being brought into the region to support."It is expected that full restoration may take several days to complete due to the number of faults across the network."Since the storm hit around 8.30am, crews have completed over 11,000 restorations"As at 1.30pm, there are over 21,000 customers without power."Our website outages page is being updated with estimated restoration times as they become known."  

The storm cell the Bureau of Meteorology warned of this morning has swept through the Northern Rivers and the Far North Coast, causing widespread damage and causing power outages impacting over 25,600 households and businesses.Superintendent (Supt) Scott McLennan from the NSW SES Eastern Zone said the storm began in Grafton and gradually made its way up along the ranges striking Casino, Kyogle, Lismore, Nimbin, Uki before hitting the Tweed Valley. Gusts of wind were being recorded between 70 and 80 kmh, but there were wind gusts of up to 102 kmh at Cape Byron."We're currently sitting at 196 incidents across the region. The vast majority of those are in and around the Mullumbimby, Tweed Heads, and Murwillumbah areas. But Ballina, Lismore and Casino are also dealing with their fair share. (Trees down on Kyogle Road earlier today. Photo: Annemarie Spicer)"We are working with and coordinating a lot of those jobs with our friends from the New South Wales RFS as well as Fire and Rescue New South Wales. A lot of the incidents that are coming in are related to trees across roads. So, that's where our friends from RFS Fire and Rescue, as well as Transport New South Wales and the councils are dealing with those road issues, and we're getting to the people with houses issues."We're expecting more jobs will be called in this afternoon when people get home from work. So, we're just asking you to bear with us. We'll get to you as soon as possible. We are triaging and getting to them as soon as we can. We have crews out on the ground now. We have more crews on their way into those impacted areas."As a result of the trees down, a large portion of the Northern Rivers has been left without power.A spokesperson for Essential Energy said, "At around 8.30am, around 4,000 customers were left without power in the Northern Rivers region, mainly around Lismore, Kyogle and Casino."By 9.30am, the following towns and surrounding areas were impacted including rural communities:Byron Bay - 8,000Tweed Heads - 7,700Murwillumbah - 3,900Ballina - 1,900 "Essential Energy crews will be working to restore power as soon as it is safe to do so. "Our website outages page is being updated with impacted locations, estimated restoration times when known, outage cause and where challenges are being faced in restoring supply.  "Essential Energy is on call 24/7 and, in an emergency, crews will work as quickly as safety and conditions allow to restore power to the homes, hospitals, schools, businesses and services that form part of each community that we service. "In the event of a storm, it’s important that everyone keeps safety front of mind and stays aware and safe." To prepare for a storm: Keep an eye on StormTracker so you can be aware of storms near you Secure loose items around your house or property, which could become airborne in strong winds Trim trees around the house. Do not attempt to prune trees in or near powerlines - call us on 13 23 91 or visit essentialenergy.com.au/trees to report trees near powerlines Have a plan in case you lose power supply. Before a storm arrives: Recharge your phones and laptops to help you stay connected with radio alerts, family and friends Back-up computers and phones to keep data safe Consider alternative power sources for water pumps and cooking Make sure you know how to open your garage doors and gates manually Unplug your television, computer, modem and other sensitive electrical equipment during a storm and minimise the use of telephones and electrical appliances Keep a torch and battery powered radio in an easily accessible place in the event of a power outage Prepare an emergency plan and an emergency kit. Visit the SES website, sesemergencyplan.com.au for more information and tools for creating your emergency plan STAY. CALL. WAIT. Stay at least 8 metres away from fallen powerlines or power poles and call Essential Energy immediately on 13 20 80 if you do see damaged powerlines or power poles and wait for Essential Energy to give you the all-clear. Throughout the storm, customers should look out for indicators of potential damage to the electricity network, such as: Fallen powerlines or power poles flickering or no power supply burnt areas in paddocks or roadsides injured or downed livestock smoke or fallen trees If you see any of these things, stay at least 8 metres away and call Essential Energy on 13 20 80 to report the damage. In an emergency, always call 000. 

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Damaging Winds for Evans Heads and southern parts of the Northern Rivers.An upper trough is combining with a moist and unstable airmass to produce severe thunderstorms through parts of northeast NSW this morning.Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations that may be affected include Grafton, Evans Head, Yamba, Maclean, Woolgoolga and Dorrigo.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 12:10 pm.

Youth crime has been a regular talking point for the residents of Goonellabah since early 2024. Over 250 concerned residents turned up for a youth crime meeting in March that year organised by local resident Andre Els.Nearly twelve months later, youth crime is still an issue in Goonellabah and another community meeting is being held at the Lismore Workers Sports Club in Goonellabah tonight (Thursday, January 23) from at 5.30pm. Another large and enthusiastic group is expected to attend a Magpie Centre Community Meeting to discuss ways of addressing the youth crime rate in Goonellabah from a preventive and rehabilitative perspective.When asked how he got the idea for a Magpie Centre, Bradley Walker, Community Leader and CEO of the Magpie Centre Indigenous Corporation, said I thought of a magpie which is black and white and represents indigenous as well as non-indigenous kids.“Growing up in the area, I recalled the original Magpie Centre in Goonellabah from my somewhat “misspent youth” in the late 1990s and early 2000s, and I have longed to recreate what my memory of that was - a place where Aunties and Uncles made us toasted sandwiches, oversaw our homework, took us skateboarding, camping and playing games, gave us a hug or mentored us in values for good clean living.“I have been looking at other successful programs in the area, since I don’t believe in reinventing the wheel. That’s why we have amongst our guest speakers Mark Robertson - One Vision Productions’ Founding Director, who has worked with disengaged and at-risk youth for more than 16 years. Working alongside a host of high-profile Program Ambassadors such as Chris Hemsworth and Baker Boy, Mark created “MPOWER”, which is a comprehensive online toolkit for addressing mental health issues, including the well-known 'MPOWER Interactive App'.“We also have Blake Little, Program facilitator with Community Corrections - servicing Lismore, Casino and Ballina, also has links to Namabunda Farm at Alstonville, which is a place for Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth to learn life skills through volunteering, research, community planting days, and engagement workshops as well obtaining their chain saw or forklift licence.”“Acting Inspector Brendan Shailes, who is Officer in Charge of Lismore Police, will give us an update on crime in the Goonellabah area.”“After recent discussions with local community members who are at the forefront of addressing local youth crime, I am thinking the Magpie Centre might be well placed to become a hub for identifying all the local resources, services and organisations already addressing youth needs in the Northern Rivers. We could then help troubled kids and those who have had time in juvi (juvenile detention centre), who attend our regular barbecues, to connect with appropriate supporting services. But I am keen to hear what people think at the meeting.”When asked why she got involved, Event Coordinator Deb Gerada said: “Bradley’s enthusiasm was contagious, and the volunteers who have stepped up to help me for Thursday’s meeting are absolutely amazing! Since I am a Goonellabah resident, the idea of addressing youth crime from a preventive perspective really appealed to me, and I couldn’t help but get involved! “"I believe if the Magpie Centre does something small and achievable, we will gain community trust and credibility and can go on to achieve bigger things!"Brad Alfred, Director and Treasurer of the Magpie Centre said, “We have really appreciated some seed funding from Josh Seague from CDAT (Community Drug Action Teams), which has made the meeting possible, as well funding some barbecues that are already gaining interest from local youth. "We have also received small but helpful contributions from local member Janelle Saffin and Shar Goodwin from Aboriginal Affairs for some of the meeting expenses. Of course, we will need to access more funding in the future, and I feel this is entirely doable when we have some runs on the board.”Anyone who would like more information about the Magpie Centre is welcome to contact Bradley Walker on 0477 831 694 or walkerhealing83@gmail.com.The meeting is open to every Goonellabah resident.The meeting starts at 5:30pm at the Lismore Workers Sports Club, 202 Oliver Avenue, Goonellabah tonight (Thursday, January 23).Check out the Facebook event page https://www.facebook.com/share/1ECnMgwokU/. The meeting will also be live streamed via this link: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563153908303.

The Lismore community celebrated John McMahon's remarkable legacy yesterday by naming a grandstand in his honour at the newly refurbished Oakes Oval. Over 40 people attended a ceremony yesterday under hot sunny skies, including John's sons Paul, Terry, Michael and Brian.(From left: Paul, Terry, Michael and Brian McMahon. Photo: Steve Mackney)Locally, John McMahon dominated first-grade cricket in Lismore, playing 32 seasons, 18 for Marist Brothers and 14 for Western Districts in Sydney. He achieved more than 120 five-wicket hauls across his career. His commitment to local cricket was further exemplified by his roles as a coach and administrator, earning him life membership in several cricket organisations, including the Lismore District Cricket Association. Recognised for his contributions, he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2008.Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg reflected on John McMahon’s profound sporting impact.“John McMahon was more than a cricketing legend; he was a community pillar, and it is fitting that we are naming this grandstand in his honour, twelve months after he passed away,” he said.“His passion for the sport and dedication to mentoring others has left an indelible mark on Lismore. Naming a grandstand after him is a fitting tribute to a man who gave so much to our city and its people.“The naming of this grandstand in his honour means his contributions will continue to be celebrated by cricket enthusiasts and the broader Lismore community for years to come.”McMahon’s influence extended to his family, with three of his eight children—Terry, Brian and Michael—playing first-grade cricket in Sydney. Terry McMahon said naming a grandstand is a fantastic honour for his father and the family.“The naming of the Oakes Oval grandstand in Dad’s honour is a wonderful, lasting tribute that our family is incredibly proud of,” he said.“The recognition bestowed upon Dad for his contribution to cricket from numerous sporting bodies, the Lismore City Council, various dignitaries, and the local community is most humbling.”Brian McMahon told yesterday's gathering about John McMahon, the father."He taught us many things. I suppose the things that stick in my mind are at an early age, he taught us that when you're walking down the street, you say hello. You say g'day to someone. If they don't say g'day back, do it the next day, and then the next day after that. And Dad said, after the third time, they'll probably say g'day. So always do that."Shake hands firmly when you meet a person, look them in the eye and remember they're just as apprehensive about meeting you as you are about them. So look them in the eye, shake hands and say, pleased to meet you."And last but not least, I suppose, he said, when you're anywhere around a town, a small town, or anywhere in the city, and you see an old person, go up and chat to them for five or 10 minutes. It doesn't have to be about anything in particular. Have a chat to them, and just listen to them. That's five or 10 minutes out of your life, and it's made their day."The other thing he said to us ongoing, and he used to put it on Facebook, he was an advocate of Facebook, which most of us aren't. But he basically said Norco supported Lismore through the floods and historically over decades. And he said, always buy Norco milk all the time."Dad's cricketing career was vast. He loved Lismore. He migrated from Five Dock to basically Lismore, seasoned in Brisbane. We were fortunate enough to play at Oakes Oval a lot, which is great. We learned a lot from him. We could have learned a lot more, but we weren't as gifted as him. So that's the way it is."I know Dad would be very, very humbled and very proud about this tribute."Moving to Lismore in the mid-1950s to pursue a career in journalism, McMahon’s influence extended far beyond the newsroom. His left-arm wrist spin made him a formidable opponent on the field, earning him accolades in Sydney Grade Cricket with Balmain, two Sheffield Shield caps for Queensland and numerous representative honours. The tribute and the turnout reflected John's profound impact on cricket as a player, mentor and administrator in Lismore, the Northern Rivers and beyond.Former Australian Women's Cricket Captain and fellow icon Lyn Larsen remembered how John influenced her sporting life."I had some sessions with John. Early on, when I was about 14 or 15, we used to go over to the Italo club on a Sunday morning. John didn't try to really change anything. He just gave me some finer tips and encouraged me to continue with what I did, which was my own version of cricket."Anyone else would have said, oh, that's not right, or that's not right, or jeepers, you need some work. John just looked to hone the natural ability that I had. I was really grateful to him for that."That was the beginning of a lifelong friendship. He was such a gentle, caring man. Every time I saw John, it was always a warm, warm, exchange. And, to be in here (at Oakes Oval) with his name and Adam (Gilchrist), you can imagine that's pretty special."Brian McMahon told a similar story about another 14-year-old kid whose father brought him down to the nets so John could watch him bat."The kid batted in the nets for about half an hour. And the father said, What do you think, John? What do we need to change? What do we need to do? And Dad said, don't change a thing. This kid's got something. That kid was Adam Gilchrist."John McMahon's playing career began in Sydney in 1943 and spanned nearly seven decades. His last appearance on the field was in 2011, at the age of 79.Yesterday’s ceremony follows on from the opening of the Lyn Larsen stand in December last year. Adding to the excitement, it was announced that the newly developed complex between Oakes and Crozier Ovals will be named after Adam Gilchrist when he visits Lismore in February for the Legends of Cricket Twenty20 match.

One of Lismore's longest-established businesses has been sold.Brands Pharmacy was established in 1915 in the same Molesworth Street building by Les Brand and his brother Bert.Greg Brand then took over the family business and has worked with his daughter, Helen, for the last"I think it was just basically time for me to move on," Greg told the Lismore App, "From the point of view of retirement. And, I think Helen just needs a good break to recoup and settle her kids into school.""Basically, it's just difficult trying to run one a pharmacy these days with just one pharmacist, and with me wanting to do other things, basically retire, that was the option, I think.""Having Helen working with me for the period of time that she has, the 10 or 15 years, it has been an absolute joy to be able to work with your daughter. So, I consider myself very lucky to have had that opportunity."As you can imagine, selling Brands Pharmacy was not an easy decision, given its history."Enormous. Yes, it was a very difficult decision.For Greg and his wife, Sue, retirement is going to mean a bit of travelling."Look, we haven't got anything planned at this point in time. We just want to move on from where we are, you know, tidy the business up, and then we can have a look at possibly doing a bit of travelling.Greg and Helen have some loyal, long-term clients that will be missed. You have until next Saturday, February 1, to get in and say goodbye officially, or you may see them around town."I've enjoyed my work here. We've got a marvellous customer base who we've become good friendships with. We've been dealing with some people for the 3rd generation, really. It's going to be sad not having our conversations that we have over the counter on a regular basis. I'll miss that. I'll miss them."We're not leaving Lismore. We've decided that we're going to stay in town so we can catch up with friends and be able to spend a little bit more free time."That means that Greg and Sue will still see their customers around town."Yes, and we can continue with our bantering that we do. It's been a lot of good fun. It really has."The Lismore App can reveal that local pharmacist Kyle Wood is the new owner of Brands Pharmacy. Kyle is the pharmacist and managing partner of Southside Chempro.While on holiday overseas, Kyle made a brief statement."The Brands have created a great business over multiple generations. We are very excited to carry on their legacy and continue the great service to their customers and the community."

There has been quite a bit of news around the 'Planetary Parade' in the last week. This is where six planets appear to be in alignment in the night sky.They are, in fact, millions of miles apart, but the optics are that they are travelling in a line across the sky.NASA says four of the planets are visible to the naked eye just after sunset throughout January, that is, Venus, Saturn, Jupiter and Mars. Uranus and Neptune will be in the sky, too. However, NASA says they will be visible using a telescope.The best time to view the planetary alignment is between 60 and 90 minutes after sunset. Look towards the western horizon to spot Venus, which is the “evening star.” Jupiter will be located towards the north, sitting high in the sky, while Mars, with its orange hue, will be lower in the northeast.Saturn will also be visible in the west. However, to catch a glimpse of Saturn’s rings, you’ll need a small telescope. Venus and Saturn will be visible only briefly after sunset before they slip below the horizon, so it’s best to head out early.Planets always appear along a line in the sky, so the “alignment” isn’t special. What’s less common is seeing four or five bright planets at once, which doesn’t happen every year. Now, these events are sometimes called “alignments” of the planets, and while it’s true that they will appear more or less along a line across the sky, that’s what planets always do. That line is called the ecliptic, and it represents the plane of the solar system in which the planets orbit around the Sun. Is it a “planet parade”? NASA says this isn’t a technical term in astronomy, so we can call it what we wish!

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan says Labor has cut the number of Medicare-subsidised psychology sessions in half - from 20 to just 10, and that a Coalition Government will bring back the full 20 Medicare-subsidised psychology sessions permanently, so Australians can get the help they need.Mr Hogan said having affordable mental health support is more important than ever.“With the cost of living going up, many families and individuals are struggling, and the Government’s cuts have left people without the care they need."“By making these cuts, the Government has ignored the needs of Australians who live with long-term mental health issues. This shows they don’t take mental health seriously or see it as a priority.”“We understand how important it is for people with mental health challenges to get the full support their doctors recommend. We will make sure they have access to that care.”Mental health should be a national priority. The Coalition will ensure Australians get the affordable and compassionate care they deserve.

Lismore City Council has advised of the temporary closure of Robert White Bridge on Wilson Street, South Lismore today (Wednesday, 22 January).Essential Energy plans to carry out urgent vegetation management on the southern side of Robert White Bridge today, subject to fine weather conditions.This will require the temporary closure of the bridge and a power outage between 9am and 4pm.As a result, there will be detours.Drivers are asked to use the detour that will be signposted and in place for both light and heavy vehicles during this closure period.

NSW Ambulance is urging people to prepare now with the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) forecasting severe heatwave conditions for Lismore and the Northern Rivers from today.The BOM has forecast a top of 35 degrees, with the chance of a thunderstorm this afternoon.Temperatures cool down to 29 degrees for Thursday as a southerly cools conditions somewhat before another rise to 32 degrees on Friday, with more thunderstorm possible.NSW Ambulance Chief Superintendent Steve Vaughan, Associate Director of Emergency Management said people need to plan ahead and prepare now.“With the severe heatwave predicted, it's important that everyone stays hydrated, avoids the heat during peak hours, and checks in on vulnerable people”, Chief Superintendent Steve Vaughan said.NSW Ambulance has issued an Advice warning for this severe heatwave. Stay up to date in case the situation changes.Stay hydrated - make sure you drink plenty of water and carry a water bottle with you.Keep cool - seek air-conditioned buildings, draw your blinds, use a fan, take cool showers and dress in light and loose clothing made of natural fabrics. Avoid the heat - schedule activities in the coolest part of the day and avoid exercising in the heat.Check in on vulnerable people - hot weather can affect everyone, but some people are at greater risk of heat-related health problems. This includes people aged 65 years and older, babies and young children, and people with some medical conditions. Never leave children or pets in a vehicle - leaving children or pets unattended in a car can be fatal. The temperature inside a parked car can double in minutes.Signs of heat-related illness can include headache, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, fatigue and cramps. People with these symptoms should move out of the sun and seek shade or use a fan or air conditioning, take a cool shower or bath if possible and take sips of water.  People who do not respond to these steps or who show symptoms suggesting a more severe illness, including a sudden rise in body temperature, who are no longer sweating, showing aggressive or strange behaviour or who are fitting, should seek urgent medical attention or call Triple Zero (000). For further information, updates and advice, go to the NSW Ambulance website or follow NSW Ambulance on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.For the latest weather forecasts and heatwave warnings, go to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) website or through the Lismore App: Weather and Weather Radar.

Lismore has a few key social calendar events each year: The Our Kids Winter Ball, the Met Gala and Beyond Venice.The Lismore Friendship Festival is thrilled to announce the return of Beyond Venice for 2025 on Saturday, February 15 at the Lismore Workers Sports Club in Goonellabah. This stunning event will transport you to the romance and mystique of Venice’s famous Masquerade Ball.After the success of past events, this year promises an unforgettable night of glamour, music, and Italian charm."The doors open at 6pm, with nibbles and a Prosecco upon arrival, and then enjoy a delectable three-course dinner, live music, and plenty of dancing. Plus, dress to impress for your chance to win prizes for the best-dressed guests," said Festival Manager Aliison Kelly."Join us for a Venetian-inspired evening featuring live music and traditional Italian dance with Domenico and the Latin Mafia Band," "Tickets are $90 per person, with the option to book tables of 8." Beyond Venice is more than a celebration—it’s a vital fundraiser for LisAmore!, our local annual Italian cultural festival, which will be held on the new date of July 6, 2025. Both events aim to bring the community together to celebrate the positive impact Italians have brought to our region.For bookings and inquiries, contact Julie De Nardi at 0403 688 036 or you can book online (a $2.75 booking fee per ticket applies).Mark the date in your calendars, and don’t miss this spectacular celebration of Italian culture and community spirit.

Toilets: They are not the most glamorous of topics, but they are a vital piece of infrastructure that our community needs.Last Friday, Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin, Mayor Steve Krieg and Sue Edmonds from Friends of the Nimbin Pool for the official first sod turning of the $400,000 toilet block to be built at Peace Park, Nimbin.This project is part of Lismore City Council’s broader effort to maintain and improve public amenities. 23 public toilet upgrades are planned across the LGA and are currently underway.The Peace Park toilet block has been on discussed for a number of years, so is a much-anticipated facility that has been designed to meet the needs of a diverse range of users. The new toilet block will feature:An accessible toilet/change room with shower and single toilet cubicle to service the skate park, playground, Nimbin Rainbow Walking Track and surrounding areas.An accessible toilet/changeroom with shower to service Nimbin Pool users.The facility will be built with resilience and practicality in mind, ensuring it can be easily cleaned and maintained, even after potential flooding or damage.Site fencing is set up to ensure the public can still access and safely use Nimbin Pool during construction, which is expected to be finalised in March.The existing shade sail in the construction area will be relocated to the other end of the pool, to provide further shade for users.Adjoining footpaths, access to drinking water and mural artworks are being considered and will be determined as construction is finalised.The project is funded by the Department of Regional NSW. Council say it will ensure access to clean and comfortable public amenities at local parks and rest stops for our residents and visitors alike.

The NSW Government has another health fight for wages on its hands as NSW public sector psychiatrists seek a 25% pay rise.The problem is that, unlike the strike action that nurses and midwives take, public psychiatrists have resigned from their positions. That takes effect as of today.Two thirds of the NSW public psychiatry sector workforce has resigned over pay and working conditions. Locally, the Nothern NSW Local Health District has seven (7) staff specialist psychiatrists; out of those, six (6) have tendered their resignation.Dr Matt James is the Acting Director of Training for the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD). He says that really does impact Lismore more than anywhere else."It actually affects our training. Our directors of training, our coordinators of training, me included, have tendered their resignation, so it will impact our trainees. But it is going to affect Lismore significantly in that our most senior inpatient psychiatrist and senior community psychiatrist have both tendered resignations.Dr James says at the moment, the remuneration rates for specialists in the public health system in New South Wales pales in comparison to the equivalent job in other states."Generally between New South Wales and Queensland, and this has been pretty freely documented and released by the AMO, somewhere between 30% in Queensland and upwards of 40 to 50% in places like Western Australia and the Northern Territory. It is significant."Similar to the nurses and midwives of northern NSW, our proximity to the border is causing a great deal of problems.Dr James said the exodus began after 14 months of failed negotiations with the state government over a 25% pay rise. Psychiatrists argue their salaries are significantly lower than those in other states, making it difficult to attract and retain specialists."The system is struggling and at a breaking point. It came to a point last year where a whole bunch basically just said, 'Look, enough is enough, we can't go on.'""All we're asking for is the equivalent of what the emergency department doctors were provided 10 years ago. Which effectively equates to about a 25% increase. And I appreciate for a lot of people, that is a lot of money. For most psychiatrists, it's different because it depends on your level of expertise and your years of experience. That's probably somewhere between $60,000 to $90,000 per annum. And I appreciate that is a lot of money for a lot of people. But when our roles are otherwise being advertised at $3000 a day, my role, my current substantive role, is being advertised at $3000 a day."Dr James highlighted the irony of the situation, noting that the government's reliance on locum psychiatrists, a more expensive alternative, further exacerbates the financial strain on the system. He emphasised that psychiatrists are seeking a pay increase not just for financial gain but to ensure the long-term viability of public mental health services in the region.The situation is particularly acute in Lismore, which heavily relies on locum and visiting psychiatrists. This shortage directly impacts patient care, including reduced access to inpatient and community services."Already for someone on a middle to low income, accessing private services is limited. There are a limited number of private psychiatrists in the Northern Rivers. Those private psychiatrists do offer a valuable service that is needed, but for those that are on middle to low incomes, they generally reliant on the public service, and this is a service that we should be able to provide as a society," James said.While discussions with the state government are ongoing, Dr James warned that the crisis could lead to the closure or at least a reduction of mental health beds and reduced access to vital psychiatric services for the Northern Rivers community."We're already struggling to fill our standard roles, let alone the ones that have tendered resignation. I would be very surprised if those roles are filled. I would say, and if a resolution is found, I would say that Lismore mental health, and this is treating for severe mental illness like schizophrenia, bipolar, severe suicidal alterations, those sorts of things, I'd say those beds are going to be closed, or at the very least, some of those beds are going to be closed."Those in the community are not going to have access to the see a psychiatrist that's full time in Lismore and Ballina, and this is incredibly sad for the community, especially when there's, as far as I see it, a cost mutual answer."It's sad for our patients. That is why I reached out to Janelle (Janelle Saffin, Member for Lismore). She's not my MP, but I reached out to her in this context because those suffering ongoing effects of trauma from floods, and those who aren't able to access other private services this is going to impact them significantly. And it's scary and incredibly sad," James said.Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson yesterday said that a 25% pay rise is too costly and the government plans to refer the matter to the state's Industrial Relations Commission.

Lismore City Council today announced that Geoffrey Coombes OAM is the 2025 Australia Day Ambassador. Geoffrey co-founded Tour de Cure, a pioneering Australian charity that has raised over $140 million to fund cancer research, support and prevention programs. The 2025 Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony will be held at the Whitebrook Theatre, Southern Cross University on Sunday, 26 January, starting at 9am. Mayor Steve Krieg expressed his enthusiasm for having a passionate changemaker as ambassador. "We are honoured to have Geoffrey Coombes as our Australia Day Ambassador, someone dedicated to fighting cancer through Tour de Cure,” he said. “He is truly inspiring, and we look forward to hearing his story and insights on Australia Day." The event will open with a Welcome to Country, followed by the presentation of the Australia Day Awards and a Citizenship Ceremony. Mayor Krieg also highlighted his excitement for the ceremony and awards. "It is a great privilege to honour the remarkable individuals in our community through the Australia Day Awards and to welcome our newest citizens to the Lismore family,” he said. “We will proudly welcome 16 new citizens from 12 countries in the Citizenship Ceremony.”This year, the Australia Day Awards will recognise achievements across seven categories: •   Citizen of the Year•   Volunteer of the Year•   Services in Community (Individual)•   Services in Community (Group)•   Sportsperson of the Year (Junior)•   Sports Team/Organisation•   Arts and CultureAustralia Day is a time to Reflect, Respect and Celebrate all Australians' diverse stories and contributions. The public is invited to join in showing appreciation for the outstanding volunteers and community members who make Lismore a better place and in welcoming our newest citizens. 

Brendan Logan, Lismore City Council's Chief Operating Officer and now Chief Financial Officer, gave an update on the East Lismore Sewage Treatment Plant, landslip road repairs, Lismore City Hall and explained his new role in the latest Talking Lismore podcast.The long-term plan for the Sewage Treatment Plan is due for completion by the end of 2027.Global design company GHD has been awarded the contract to not only rebuild the plant but to ensure it can handle an increase in population in the future. The project is awaiting a concept design, which is expected to be finalised by the end of this year before construction begins.The company has set up an office in Lismore to assist with the rebuild, so it will be contributing to the local economy as well.Mr Logan also said Lismore City Council had executed a funding agreement with state agencies should funding costs go over the allocated budget. Something he feels is likely to occur, given the total amount of grant money on offer and the increasing construction costs.The new sewage treatment plant will be out of flood reach, with the critical components 11 to 14 metres above the current level.Mr Logan also confirmed what most of Lismore expected: that the current state of the East Lismore Treatment Plant can not handle even 100 of the 400 homes promised by the state government in its Crawford Road (East Lismore) Resilient Lands project. The project looks likely to be delivered in conjunction with the sewage plant in 2027.The update on the City Hall reconstruction project was positive, as work has recommenced. Mr Logan said that delays were caused by funding constraints and the need to secure a comprehensive funding envelope. "We spent about $1.5 million last year, just on the early works, to make the site safe, dry it out, all those prep works that would have to be done no matter what the future of City Hall was. But after that, we did have to slow down until certain funding envelopes and certain parameters were identified and worked on by us and the state. But I'm pleased to say that's all behind us now. We are turning our eye to that reconstruction."The project is now moving into the reconstruction phase, with a focus on “building back better.”The new City Hall will be a multi-use facility with flood resilience built in. It will include a conference venue with three separate rooms that can accommodate up to 1,000 people, a performing arts space, and a commercial kitchen and bar.He expects the new City Hall to open at the end of this year or early next year.Lismore City Council is also moving forward with plans to repair roads damaged by landslips in the northern part of the catchment, with tenders for the major works expected to be awarded by the end of the fiscal year.Three construction companies have been shortlisted for the project after a competitive tender process. The companies, which are joint ventures of multiple entities, were selected from a pool of 11 companies that submitted bids. The companies will now progress to the second phase of the tender process, which involves site visits and developing detailed bids to win the contract.Mr Logan emphasised the importance of the project for the community, stating that it goes beyond a simple construction project. “This is a community project,” Logan said, highlighting the impact of road closures on residents, particularly school children. He stressed the need for the contractors to understand the community’s needs and to be collaborative during the construction process. He explained that road closures whenever we have 25 to 50mm rain events can cause significant disruptions, adding an extra 40 minutes to school bus routes.Logan said the council expects to have the tenders back by late March. The assessment process for such a large project is complex and will take a month or two. He said the council has probity advisors, and the process must be done in a “very, very succinct way and done the right way.”Rebuilding the two sections of Nimbin Road was geotechnically challenging. They reopened in late 2023 and early 2024. Mr Logan said the rest of the roads are more difficult. “Stony Chute Road, for example, has 11 separate landslips on the one road. It’s really challenging,” Logan said.He said the current package includes about 70 projects like Nimbin Road. “It’s the largest landslide remediation package, I understand, ever in Australia,” Logan said.Mr Logan offered more positive news on the timing front when he said council has improved on the original 2029 completion date by taking work out of the package and doing it now. “It’s been a progressive piece of work, but we’ve always tried to separate into what we call complex and non-complex,” Mr Logan said. “If it’s complex geo technically, it goes into this package. If we can get it down to non-complex, it comes out.”The current strategy is to finish all the straightforward projects. “And, it’s been done quietly, I guess, but we’ve delivered about 20 of those in the last six months, and we’ve got 20 on the go now, just smaller jobs here and there, but we want them out of the way before this big one starts, so the market can handle it,” Logan said. “Because you’ve got cement trucks, you’ve got all these constraints that exist. If you did it all at once, you’d never get it done.”Mr Logan said the council is forecasting a completion date of the fourth quarter of 2028 rather than the original fourth quarter of 2029.To listen to the full podcast with extended details, click on the Talking Lismore podcast button in the News section.

Lismore City Council is temporarily closing Harold Fredericks carpark for upgrades from today (Monday, 20 January 2025), to 11pm on Wednesday, 22 January 2025. The carpark will reopen as usual on Thursday, 23 January 2025.Council will be making asphalt repairs to fix surface damage to improve pedestrian, driving and parking conditions, then spraying new line marking to enhance visibility and safety for all users.The Harold Fredericks carpark was identified by the community as one of the key sites for improvement through the Transport for NSW Safer Cities: Her Way program, which funds initiatives to create safer, more welcoming community spaces for women and girls.Council says these upgrades go beyond basic infrastructure improvements; they address key factors that contribute to safer, more accessible spaces. Repairs like asphalt resurfacing reduce trip hazards and provide a smoother surface for pedestrians, while fresh line markings enhance visibility and safer movement within the carpark, making it easier and more secure for everyone to navigate the area.

Lismore's only surviving World War II serviceman, Jack Donohue, turned 100 on the 6th of January. A milestone worthy of a story in the Lismore App.Jack celebrated the day at the Lismore Workers Club."It was kept to a family reunion," Jack explained, "There were about 25 of us. It was lovely."When asked what advice Jack had for others if they wanted to live to be 100, Jack replied, "I have no idea. I never thought I'd live to be a hundred."Jack was born John Donohue in his South Lismore home on January 6 1925. Life was tough for the Donohues in Jack's younger years as the Great Depression gripped the nation from 1929.Lismore's population was just under 10,000."There was nothing in Lismore in those days. We didn't have enough money to go to the CBD. We bought all our groceries at Mewings."Jack joined the Royal Australian Air Force in Lismore on the 2nd of March 1943 as a Leading Aircraftman. That was two days after his 18th birthday.(131484 AC JOHN (JACK) DONOHUE ON ENLISTMENT IN THE ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE 2 MARCH 1943. Photo: supplied)In his Record of Service document, Jack’s movement around Australia was quite extensive.His documents show that at the time of enlistment, he was a member of The  RAAF Air Training Corps. Jack's training was in Sydney.After recruit training he was then posted to No. 3 Aircraft Depot at Amberley, Qld, on 4 April. After three months at Amberley, he was sent to No. 3 School of Technical Training at Altimo in Sydney, where he undertook a course as a Vulcaniser. He graduated from this course with a Distinguished (Distinction) pass.Following graduation, he was posted to No. 2 Aircraft Depot at Richmond, NSW, where he worked until the 3rd of August, when he was sent to No. 14 Repair and Salvage unit. He remained at 14 RSU at various locations until 4th of January 1945 when he went to No. 1 Reserve Personnel Pool before being posted overseas on the 4th of March.Jack went to Biak in West Papua for more training before being sent to Morotai in Indonesia and Labuan in Borneo.(All Jack’s postings outside Australia were with No. 5 Airfield Construction Squadron. Photo: supplied)Jack was trained as a vulcaniser, so he specialised in RAF aeroplane tyres during his time in the war.(Jack with his mate Gordon Davey from 2 ACS at Morotai Island 1945. Photo: supplied) (Jack Donohue's war medals. L to R: The 1939-45 Star; The Pacific Star; The War Medal 1939-45; The Australian Service Medal 1939-45; The Australian Service Medal 1945-75. Photo: supplied)When Jack returned to Lismore after the war he worked at the Pratten car dealership for nearly 30 years before running the South Lismore Post Office until he retired at 65.He was married to Irene for 45 years (Irene passed away in 1997), and has two children.Jack doesn't walk in the ANZAC Day march up Molesworth Street anymore, but he does participate with his good mate, Dr Graeme Nicholson, helping him attend the service. Jack also attends Remembrance Day.

Police are appealing for public assistance after a man was hit by a car in south of Lismore this morning.Just after 3.20am today (Saturday, 18 January 2025), emergency services were called to the Bruxner Highway at Loftville, about 5km south of Lismore CBD, after a man was found injured.The 33-year-old man was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to Lismore Base Hospital in a stable condition.The man has told officers attached to Richmond Police District he was hit by a white sedan that continued south along the Bruxner Highway without stopping.A crime scene has been established, and an investigation into the incident has commenced.The Bruxner Highway was closed to traffic in both directions with diversions in place and reopened at about 8:22am.Anyone with information about this incident or a dashcam footage is urged to contact Lismore 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.

State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin welcomes Minister for Social Services of Australia Amanda Rishworth’s release this week of the first National Autism Strategy, a landmark announcement she has been eagerly waiting for and for which she has always advocated.“This strategy, together with its first action plan, means I now will be able to better encourage a comprehensive response at a regional and state level,” Ms Saffin said.“There are some telling statistics here; people with autism die sooner, experience mental health problems, and are disadvantaged by massively high figures for unemployment.“I acknowledge the Founder and Chair of the Northern Rivers Autism Association Limited (NRAA) Micheal Lynch, who with Business NSW’s Regional Director Northern Rivers Jane Laverty, drove local consultations which helped to inform the national strategy.“Like me, Micheal is very keen to see the first NSW Autism Strategy become a reality.”You can listen to Micheal Lynch's Talking Lismore podcast discussing the new National Autism Strategy.