Australian households are gearing up for the country’s biggest night of dairy consumption, with an estimated 11 million families leaving a glass of milk out for Santa Claus this Christmas Eve. This festive tradition is expected to drive demand for a record 5.5 million litres of milk to be consumed in just one night – enough to fill more than two Olympic swimming pools. As the countdown to Christmas begins, the team at Norco - Australia’s oldest and last operating 100 per cent farmer-owned dairy co-operative - is ready to meet the surge in milk consumption as families stock up for Santa’s visit. Norco Chief Executive Officer Michael Hampson said the dairy co-operative saw an almost 20 per cent increase in milk sales in the week before Christmas last year and expects a similar spike in demand this season. “From the farm to the factory floor, our team is working hard to ensure Santa gets the very best this Christmas – because we all know his favourite milk is Norco,” Mr Hampson said. “This time of year brings families together, and we’re proud to play a part in preserving such a cherished holiday tradition. “Knowing that our farmer’s milk is bringing Christmas cheer to Australian children is the best gift we could ask for – and we hope Santa thinks so too!” As he gears up to climb down chimneys across the country, Santa himself shared his excitement ahead of his journey Down Under. "I always look forward to my trip to Australia, because nothing beats fresh Aussie dairy,” Santa said. “Norco milk is my absolute favourite, and it keeps me fuelled all night long. A huge thanks to Norco's hardworking farmers for helping spread the Christmas cheer one glass at a time." For Norco’s 281 farmer members across 190 dairy farms, the seasonal boost is a welcome way to finish the year, with every cent from every Norco milk sold going directly back to support local farmers and their regional communities.

In early December, the Australian Retailers Association and Roy Morgan released research results that said 68% of adult Australians were planning to buy Christmas gifts this year, which is 9% down on 2024.Continued cost-of-living pressures have been blamed for the reduction. However, total spending on gifts is expected to increase to $12 billion, up $200 million, or 1.7%.With that knowledge in hand, the Lismore App hit the CBD block to gather feedback from different kinds of retail businesses, including electrical, homewares, bedding and confectionery.Elton Cummings at Bi-Rite Lismore on Glasgow Lane (the back of Molesworth Street) was rushed off his feet, but not exactly for Christmas gifts. Heatwave conditions has been a major contributing factor to an increase in sales at this time of year."All our heat, all our cooling and fans are going out the door as fast as I can buy them in. So that's been a real success," Elton said."General trade on smalls is up slightly. Fridges, again, because of the heat, are way up compared to last year. It's hard to tell because we've still got the Boxing Day sales to come, but probably 15 to 20% so far. So I expect it's going to be a bit hard to tell how it pans out depending on the heat, but I reckon we could be up anywhere by 30% or 35% on last year."While Bi-Rite's sales are driven by the weather, around on Keen Street, Matt Healy from Daleys Homewares has been cursing the hot weather."People have stayed away from the CBD while the weather has been so hot," Matt explained."We haven't really had much Christmas trade. I was hopeful leading into Christmas, but it hasn't happened. I think a lot of people don't have money. I think some of it is fear, and some of it is actual cost-of-living restrictions. I think there's so much bad news out in the world that people are just frightened by what's coming.""It's hard to tell the reasons. I'm sure online is having an impact as well, but I actually think for the most part, it's people just holding back, which is a shame, because it impacts us, and as a result, we can't do the things in the community that we normally do, especially this time of year, which is Christmas fundraisers, people having Christmas fetes and things. I can't afford to do things. I've got to pay my staff."For Matt, it has not been just Christmas, 2025 has been the toughest year he has seen in 10 years."It's been a tough year. In my time, in the 10 years I've been here, so I've got sort of 14 years worth of records, we're having trade similar to 2013. And in 2013, this was a smaller business, smaller building, less staff, less stock, all of those sorts of things, still having lower prices. The cost of things wasn't as high, so we're still getting revenues similar, or lower than '13."While homewares in the CBD has had a poor Christmas and a poor 2025, just down the road on Keen Street, confectionery and ice creams appear to be selling well. Felicity Hyde from Scoops and Candy is another fan of the hot weather for ice cream sales."It seems very positive. I've had a lot of people come down and actually partake in the CBD elf hunt this year, and there are a lot of customers who have purchased items. I've had great feedback from people coming into town and actually walking the CBD block, and seeing how much positivity is going on around town at the moment."We're having a pretty good Christmas this year. I'd say we're probably up about 10% on last year, which may not seem like a lot, but it's better than what I've kind of anticipated.Like Matt, Felicity feels as if cost-of-living pressures are still present."I think everyone is obviously feeling the cost of living a bit, but in saying that, I still feel like the people in town do want to support the locals, and do you want to shop locally where they can. It's very much reflected in the amount of people coming into town, not just to do Christmas shopping but to have their lunches, and spend some time in CBD, which I feel pretty positive about. "It's good to see the cafes are very full. I have to wait a little bit longer for my coffee nowadays, but that's a positive in my eyes." Dave and Sharon Martin from Instyle Sleepcentre on Woodlark Street also wanted to thank people for their continued support."It's been an improved trading period. I would say it's marginally improved, and I thank all the people that have continuously supported Lismore, as we slowly grow back from 2022 and start to rebuild our city."The improvement has been in the second half this year and generally heading in the right direction.""We're seeing a more positive outlook, but it's still a way to go."LAST-MINUTE CHRISTMAS GIFTSDaleys Homewares on Keen Street have 25% off Christmas decorations today and tomorrow, Christmas Eve."And we've got a few other specials. So, there's some towels we've got on special with some pillows. I know we say it jokingly, but yes, it is everyday, low prices, that's my business model," Matt Healy said.After Christmas, Daleys will move to their summer hours of 10am to 4pm. It will be open everyday, except the public holidays and Friday, January 2 2026.For Dave and Sharon Martin at Instyle Sleepcentre on Woodlark Street, the special is by a king, queen or double mattress for the price of a single until the end of the year.And for Elton Cummings, his focus will shift to the Boxing Day sale at Bi-Rite."We will start our Boxing Day sales, the day after, and we expect them to be spectacular. We've already geared up to have the right price, especially on TV and audio, it's going to be really good."

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Lismore and most of the Northern Rivers for heavy rainfall.A cold front combined with humid and unstable atmospheric conditions is generating isolated severe thunderstorms across northern parts of NSW this 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 which may be affected include Lismore, Byron Bay, Kyogle, Evans Head, Urbenville and Ballina.Severe thunderstorms are no longer occurring in the North West Slopes and Plains and Upper Western districts and the warning for these districts is CANCELLED.48 mm was recorded at Bellingen in the 30 minutes to 4:48 pm.Safety adviceThe 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.Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.For emergency help in flood and storms, ring the SES on 132 500.Stay updated on the Hazards Near Me NSW app or the ACT ESA website (https://esa.gov.au).Check https://www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts. Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.The next warning is due to be issued by 1:40 am Tuesday.

New honey bee compliance officers, a major R&D program and tailored education and resources are part of the NSW Government’s $9.5 million NSW Varroa Mite Management program commencing in January 2026. The NSW Varroa Mite Management program, which will be delivered to June 2027, will include:$1.6m for an enhanced honey bee compliance program, including four new dedicated Honey Bee Compliance Surveillance Officers to ensure beekeepers comply with their obligations under the Australian Honey Bee Industry Biosecurity Code of Practice$2.4m for a honey bee biosecurity extension program including the continuation of three Bee Biosecurity Officers – adding to the existing team to help beekeepers in NSW implement effective Varroa management and meet their obligations under the Australian Honey Bee Industry Biosecurity Code of Practice. The bee biosecurity program will continue a surveillance network to monitor the impacts of Varroa mite across NSW.$1.1m for a comprehensive program of education and training resources for commercial and recreational beekeepers through DPIRD’s Tocal College. These new initiatives will include a traineeship program to attract new workers to the beekeeping industry, chemical user training that is tailored for beekeepers and a short course on honeybee nutrition and seasonal management to support both honey production and pollination services.$4.4m for a program of research and development to address key threats and risks to beekeepers and pollination reliant industries in NSW, developed in consultation with industry.This funding is on top of the $58.4 million already spent by the NSW Government to tackle Varroa mite.The NSW Government provides a comprehensive program of ongoing support for the honey bee industry, including NSW DPIRD Tocal College, being the nation’s leading provider of specialist education and training for the industry and home of the $2.8 million Bee Research and Training Centre.European Honey Bees are vital to crop pollination across New South Wales, underpinning the productivity of many agricultural industries, including apple, berry and almond industries. Varroa mite poses a significant threat, with international experience suggesting that pollination-dependent industries are likely to become increasingly reliant on paid pollination services. This NSW-focused funding will play a vital role in supporting these industries through a comprehensive and multi-pronged strategy.The new research and development program will focus on developing tools to help queen breeders breed varroa-resistant bees, monitoring chemical resistance, assessing the diversity and activity of wild and managed pollinators in key crops and identifying best practice hive placement in orchards to maximise pollination success.This information will be incorporated into a new education and training program. One-on-one extension support will also be available through Bee Biosecurity Officers, who can demonstrate hands-on tips for managing Varroa and promote industry best practice, while new compliance officers will ensure those beekeepers doing the right thing are not unfairly hindered by those who are not.The National Varroa Mite Management Program (NVMMP), which was established in 2023 and has been led by NSW DPIRD, has delivered 121 beekeeper education workshops across the country, including 45 in NSW, and continues to be backed up by a suite of online tools and resources.This includes a series of national industry webinars keeping impacted stakeholders aware of the impacts of Varroa and activities of the NVMMP. There have been 9 public webinars to date, reaching over 7,000 people across the country, including 2,729 in NSW. For more information on the National Varroa Mite Management Program, including online tools, resources and contacts, visit www.varroa.org.au.Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said, “The NSW Government is determined to ensure the great work and support that’s been achieved nationally can continue at a state level.“In particular, it will help continue to build industry resilience while supporting NSW honey bee industries to be future ready.“Proactive control measures are essential to safeguard crop production and maintain the stability of agricultural supply chains across the state.“With new training and support available, NSW beekeepers will be among the best equipped in the country to manage the mite.”

Australians are heading into the festive season with a more cautious approach to spending, with almost half of them (46.3%) saying their discretionary spending has decreased compared to last year.Despite this more cautious approach, Aussies are heading into the holiday season with generosity top of mind, with 46.3% naming gifts for family and friends as their biggest festive expense, according to a Money magazine holiday spending survey conducted between November 16 and December 7, 2025.  Food and groceries follow closely at 41%, reflecting the importance of shared meals, celebrations and family traditions during this time of year. Even with spending carefully managed, financial pressure remains a reality for many Aussies, with 80.2% of respondents saying Christmas-related costs are stressful, and only 19.8% reporting no financial stress at all.  “Despite cost pressures, Australians continue to prioritise connection, generosity and time with loved ones,” said Vanessa Walker, Managing Editor at Money.  “It’s clear that even in a tighter year, people are making thoughtful choices to ensure the festive season feels special.”Overspending remains common. More than half (51%) of respondents say they typically spend more than expected at Christmas. Black Friday and Cyber Monday continue to influence shopping behaviour, with nearly 60% of respondents purchasing at least some Christmas items during these major sales events. However, two in five (40%) say these sales do not impact their spending at all.  When it comes to payment methods, credit cards remain the most popular choice at 44.1% of respondents, followed by debit cards at 39.6% of respondents.  Travel is also a key financial priority beyond Christmas, with 55.5% of respondents saying they are currently saving for a holiday, far outweighing other savings goals.  “This data shows the balancing act Australians are trying to manage, stretching their budgets for the festive season while still focusing on meaningful financial goals like travel,” said Walker.  Walker noted that this time of year is a timely reminder of the value of informed financial choices.  “With so many Australians feeling the strain of festive spending on top of the rising cost of living, it’s more important than ever to know where your money is going and where you can find better value.”  To support readers in making smarter financial choices, Money has just released its Best of the Best Awards 2026, showcasing the top-performing financial products across banking, insurance, investments, credit cards, internet, mobile plans and more.   These independent rankings highlight the best value options in the market, helping Australians reduce costs, improve returns and stretch their festive-season budgets further.  The full list of winners is published in Money magazine's December issue.  Money Festive Spending survey received 511 responses and was conducted between November 16 until December 7, 2025. The survey examined Australian’s Christmas and holiday-related spending behaviours, including gifting priorities, discretionary spending, budgeting habits and payment methods. 

After more than three decades running Summerland Tool Supplies, owner Butch Verardo has announced he will close the business next June, marking the end of a long chapter for a family-built operation with deep ties to Lismore.Butch opened Summerland Tool Supplies in 1989, growing it steadily into a specialist store known for hard-to-find stock and straight-up advice. Now 67, he says the decision to close hasn’t come easily, but it’s one he feels ready to make.“I started the business from scratch and built it up to what it is now,” he said. “You don’t build that overnight. But I’ve turned 67 and I want to smell the roses. I want to go travelling around Australia while I can, while my wife Mary is still good.”The business relocated to Casino following the devastating 2022 floods, a move driven by necessity rather than choice. Butch said there was no way he could risk rebuilding again in a flood-prone area.“There was no way I was going back into a flood area,” he said. “At least in Casino we’ve got no flood. And our customers came with us. We still deliver to Lismore, Ballina and Byron Bay, we’ve still got a really solid clientele.”While the Casino move proved successful, Butch said ongoing changes in the business landscape have made it increasingly difficult to find someone willing to take the business on.“I’ve had it on the market for a while,” he said. “People don’t want to buy businesses anymore. They want to work for somebody else. The banks aren’t lending, people haven’t got the money, and it seems no one wants to stick their neck out.”Despite holding close to $900,000 worth of stock and an established customer base, he said interest from potential buyers has been minimal, a reality he believes many independent retailers are facing.“We’ve got the knowledge,” he said. “I’ve been in this industry for 38 years. People come to us because the big stores don’t know what they’re talking about. We’re a proper tool store.”The decision to wind things down has also been shaped by the emotional toll of the floods, which Butch says changed everything for his family.“We lost so much,” he said. “Everything we worked for was just ruined. Mary hasn’t been the same since. That flood really stayed with us.”Born and bred in Lismore, Butch comes from a long line of local business owners, with his family history in the town stretching back generations.“My father was in business in Lismore,” he said. “It’s hard to think my business won’t be there anymore, but sometimes you don’t have a choice.”Summerland Tool Supplies will continue trading until June, with stock to be cleared and the door still open should a buyer come forward.“If someone wants to have a go, I’m open to it,” Butch said. “But if not, it’s time to take Mary around Australia in the motorhome and do something different.”For many in Lismore, his story reflects a familiar mix of resilience, loss and tough decisions -the quiet closing of a long-standing local business shaped by the floods and the changing realities of regional life.

People with breast cancer that has spread to the brain will save more than $4500 a month when Tucatinib is listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme in the coming weeks.  Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) welcomes today’s decision by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) to recommend tucatinib (Tukysa) for listing on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), in combination with trastuzumab and capecitabine. This recommendation marks a major breakthrough for Australians living with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer, particularly those with brain metastases, who have been waiting years for affordable access to this treatment. Tucatinib provides an effective option after progression on multiple HER2-directed therapies. Until now, Australians have faced impossible financial barriers, with an expected private cost of more than $4,500 per cycle. “This drug is literally extending my life. Having it funded brings enormous financial relief to me and my family. I'm incredibly grateful this treatment for metastatic breast cancer has been recommended for PBS funding. If the results from tucatinib continue to be favourable for me, it will allow me to go back to work and continue to be with my family.” Larissa King BCNA Consumer BCNA Director Policy, Advocacy and Support Services, Vicki Durston, said today’s outcome brings hope and relief to patients and their families. “We consistently hear from people about the significant financial and emotional burden of accessing unfunded treatments. This decision means they will finally have equitable access to a therapy that can extend life, help manage brain metastases, and give families more time together.”  BCNA will continue to work with industry and government to ensure tucatinib is listed on the PBS as soon as possible. 

The NSW Government will introduce tough new laws banning hateful symbols and giving police greater powers to remove face coverings during public assemblies.At the same time, the Government will urgently examine additional measures to further crack down on hateful slogans.On Monday, legislation will be introduced making it an offence under NSW law to publicly display terrorist symbols such as ISIS flags without a reasonable excuse.The offence will carry a maximum penalty of two years’ imprisonment or a $22,000 fine, and up to $110,000 for organisations. A reasonable excuse includes an academic purpose or another purpose in the public interest.The legislation will also give police more powers to require someone suspected of committing an offence during a public assembly to remove their face covering. Currently, removal can only be required to confirm someone’s identity if they are arrested and detained or suspected of committing an indictable offence.This change will lower the threshold during public assemblies so anyone suspected of committing any offence, including lower-level offences, can be required to remove their face covering.Horrific recent events also show that the chant “globalise the intifada” is hate speech and encouraging violence in our community. This chant will be banned alongside other hateful statements used to vilify and intimidate our community.  The Attorney General will ask the Legislative Assembly Committee on Law and Safety to conduct a quick investigation into other hateful statements and recommend which statements can be specifically included in the state’s tough hate speech laws to be introduced when parliament returns in the new year.These reforms are designed to protect the community, prevent intimidation and allow NSW Police to focus on keeping people safe.It follows changes announced this week to significantly tighten gun laws and temporarily restrict public assemblies following a terrorist attack.Chris Minns, Premier of New South Wales, said, “Hate speech or incitement of hatred has no place in our society.“There is no place in New South Wales for slogans or symbols that incite hatred, glorify violence or intimidate communities. These laws send a clear message that hateful conduct will not be tolerated.“These changes, alongside tougher gun laws and temporary restrictions on public assemblies following a terrorist incident, are about protecting the community, and allowing NSW Police to focus on preventing harm.”Michael Daley, Attorney General, said, “There is no place for any kind of hateful symbols or speech in NSW.“We must tackle this scourge in all its forms, including inflammatory and divisive symbols and slogans which cause real fear to vulnerable communities.“This Government is determined to do whatever is necessary to ensure community safety and cohesion after the horrific events at Bondi.”

The state’s peak farming body is asking shoppers to check the label and choose Australian-grown food where they can this Christmas.NSW Farmers' Vice President Rebecca Reardon said supporting Aussie farming families this festive season was a simple way to help spread the Christmas cheer.“Aussie-grown products will typically have a green and gold kangaroo, or country-of-origin label on them, so we encourage you to buy Australian where you can,” Mrs Reardon said. “Shopping for what’s in season here in Australia is also a great idea, as this produce is super fresh and budget-friendly to boot.”As Aussie farmers continued to grapple with climate extremes and land use conflicts, Mrs Reardon said choosing homegrown produce for your Christmas shop was a great way to support the farmers who feed the nation. “Farmers are facing threats to their land and water on multiple fronts, from inappropriate renewable energy developments to the huge expansion of national parks and threats from the Narrabri Gas Project,” Mrs Reardon said. “Severe floods along our coast earlier this year and the continuing drought in the south and west of the state has also placed real pressure on our farming families. “Whether it’s a pork roast, a few cherries on the table or even the cream on top of your pavlova, choosing Aussie produce when you can is choosing to support the families that work so hard to keep fresh food on our tables – and our farmers will thank you for it.” 

The next four days will see very hot conditions in Lismore and the Northern Rivers, prompting the Bureau of Meteorology to post Severe Heatwave Warnings for Sunday, Monday and Tuesday before cooler conditions arrive on Christmas Eve (Wednesday).At this stage, the Christmas weather will be a shower or two with a top of 31 degrees.There is the chance of thunderstorms on Sunday for most of the Northern Rivers, the southern parts on Monday, and further chances on Tuesday and Wednesday.Of more concern are the heatwave conditions. The run of maximum temperatures is 34 (Saturday), 36, 37 and 33 degrees.The first Severe Heatwave Warning is on Sunday for the southern parts of the Northern Rivers, which include Casino, Kyogle, Coraki and Wardell.On Monday, the longest day of the year, the Severe Heatwave Warning covers most of the Northern Rivers, except for the coastal areas.Monday is also when we will see an Extreme Heatwave Warning for Casino, Coraki and Wardell.Tuesday will see the Extreme Heatwave Warning shrink to Casino and surrounds, while the rest of the Northern Rivers is under a Severe Heatwave Warning.On Wednesday, the Severe Heatwave Warning is focused around Wardell, with Alstonville at the northern tip just outside the zone, plus some areas north of Casino and south of Kyogle.NSW Ambulance Chief Superintendent Steve Vaughan, Associate Director Emergency Management, said people limit their time outdoors.“Limit your time outdoors and stay hydrated, because the cumulative effect of ongoing heat can quickly lead to serious health issues,” Chief Superintendent Steve Vaughan said.“It’s not just about one hot day – the real danger comes from several days of extreme heat in a row, which means your body doesn’t get the chance to recover.”NSW Ambulance has issued a Watch & Act warning for this extreme heatwave. Conditions are changing and you need to start taking action now to protect you and your family.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.Be prepared for power outages – make sure your emergency kit is prepared.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.Store food and medications at a safe temperature - most medications should be stored below 25 degrees Celsius. 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). Safety Advice:Extreme heatwaves can be dangerous for everyone.Severe heatwaves can be dangerous for many people, especially older people, babies, children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, people with medical conditions and people who are unwell.Seek a place to keep cool, such as your home, a library, community centre or shopping centre.Close your windows and draw blinds, curtains or awnings early in the day to keep the heat out of your home.If available, use fans or air-conditioners to keep cool.For further safety information before, during and after heatwaves, visit https://www.ambulance.nsw.gov.au/in-the-community/warnings.

The Federal and NSW Governments have declared this Sunday, 21 December, a Day of Reflection to honour the victims of the horrific terrorist attack at Bondi Beach and to stand in solidarity with the Jewish community.The Commonwealth and State governments will also work closely with the Jewish community on arrangements for a National Day of Mourning to be held in the New Year. This will allow families the time and space to lay their loved ones to rest and to support those still recovering.The Day of Reflection will be observed on the final full day of Chanukah, a time traditionally associated with light, faith and resilience, making the loss felt by the Jewish community even more profound. All Australians share in their grief.On Sunday, flags on Australian and NSW Government buildings will be flown at half-mast as a mark of respect for the lives lost and the grief shared across the country.The governments invite people across the country to light a candle at 6:47pm, one week since the attack unfolded, as a quiet act of remembrance with family, friends or loved ones. We are also asking Australians to observe a minute of silence.This day is about standing with the Jewish community, wrapping our arms around them, and sharing their grief as one state.It is a moment to pause, reflect, and affirm that hatred and violence will never define who we are.The Day will include a number of ways to help the state reflect: Buildings will light up yellow for the evening.Light will beam into the sky from Bondi PavilionNSW Government will support Jewish leaders to deliver a community memorial eventTelevision and radio networks will be asked to pause for a minute’s silence at 6.47pm.A shareable candle image, will be used on social media to pledge support for Jewish Australians. This will be available on nsw.gov.au.The NSW Government has also partnered with Rotary to establish a dedicated fundraising appeal for the Bondi Beach attack.The Unite for Bondi - Bondi Terror Attack Appeal will provide support to the survivors and families of those who lost their lives. People who wish to donate can do so via rawcs.org.au.Supports are available for everyone impacted by this attack. Information is at www.nsw.gov.au/bondibeachattack.

We are in for a scorching weekend, with temperatures in the mid-30s. The positive part of that scenario is that no severe thunderstorms are on the horizon at this stage.The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Heatwave Warning for Sunday and Monday, with an Extreme Warning for Casino and surrounds on Monday.Stay cool and stay hydrated this weekend.CHRISTMAS CAROLSSt Paul's Presbyterian Church on Keen Street are holding 9 Lessons and Carols on Sunday in the cooler part of the day, 9am to 10am.You are welcome to join them to celebrate the Christmas story through scripture and song.The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols will be held at St Carthage's Cathedral, Leycester Street, on Sunday from 7:30pm to 9:30pm.Organist Warren Whitney will lead the annual service with readings and carols marking the festive period.There are Outdoor Family Carols at Lismore High School, Dalley Street, East Lismore, also on Sunday between 6pm and 8pm.The Best Present Ever is the theme. You are invited to go along for free food, fun, carols and joy to celebrate Christmas 2025.Don't forget, a list of Christmas Lights and Christmas Music is on the front page of the Lismore App Christmas 2025, along with Christmas Church Service times.MARKETSThe final market day for 2025 kicks off at 7:30 tomorrow morning at the Lismore Showgrounds. The Lismore Farmers Markets have gift ideas, fresh fruit and vegetables for the big day and live music from Lismore Floodwater Revival.The City Bowlo Markets will have their last run for the year on Sunday at the Lismore City Bowling Club on Molesworth Street, Lismore CBD from 9am to 1pm. You can shop for trash and treasure, vintage clothing, bric-a-brac, plants, honey, and a whole bunch of other Christmas gift ideas. The Lismore Free Market is on Sunday for two hours from 9am at the Lismore Community Garden, 50 Brewster Street.These are genuinely free, with no goods purchased, traded or swapped. All items are given away free of charge.LIVE MUSICThe Northern Rivers Hotel has Katie Brooke playing live tonight (Friday) from 7pm.Head along to Bridge Street on Sunday too, when the Northern hosts the Kids Christmas Carnival between 2pm and 9pm. There will be a jumping castle, Christmas music, Christmas movies on the big screen after the sun goes down and, of course, Santa will make an appearance with free photos available.Ghostown will also be playing at the Northern on Sunday afternoon between 3pm and 6pm.At Bexhill tonight, 6:30 to 8:30pm, there is an OrkLiz Global Music Party at the Bexhill Hall. Get along and enjoy an evening of music that transcends borders, uniting people through shared rhythms and harmonies.Orkeztar Lizmoré is a community band, celebrating 11 years together. It was started by jazz musician Pietro Fine and is now co-conducted/directed by multi-instrumentalist Mark Bromley.Coming Up at the Lismore Workers Club:The Noughty Nineties Party featuring all your favourites like Blink 182, Shania Twain, Britney Spears, Robbie Williams and Beyonce. Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 7:30pmThe Ultimate Superstars of Country Friday, 6 February 2026Faulty Towers The Dining Experience Friday, 6 March 2026Inxsive & Gold Chisel Tribute Show Saturday, 21 March 2026The Italian Tenors Sunday, 19 April 2026To book tickets to any of the above concerts, click here.CHEAPEST FUEL PRICESLismore was the only town to see a fuel price drop this week. Here is the list of the cheapest service stations as we head into Christmas 2025:E10 is 171.9 across most of Lismore, 175.9 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino, and 172.5 at the Mobil and The Metro on River Street, Ballina.Unleaded 91 is 172.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road, 177.9 at The United on Johnston Street, and the Liberty's on Hare Street and Centre Street in Casino, and 174.5 at the Mobil and the Metro on River Street, Ballina.U95 is 182.9 at the two Independents on Terania Street, North Lismore, the Liberty on Ballina and the Independent on Wyrallah Road, East Lismore, 198.9 at the Independent at 169 Canterbury Street in Casino, and 185.5 at The Metro on River Street, Ballina.U98 is 190.9 at the Liberty on Ballina Road, Lismore, Union Street, South Lismore and the Independent on Wyrallah Road, East Lismore, 197.9 at the Liberty on Hare Street and Centre Street in Casino, and 194.5 at The Metro on River Street in Ballina.Diesel is 189.5 at the Astron on Ballina Road, 187.9 across most of Casino, and 189.5 at the Mobil at 485 River Street in Ballina.Have a great weekend!Now, have a laugh with the Friday Funnies.....

The Federal Government will establish a National Gun Buyback Scheme to purchase surplus, newly banned and illegal firearms – the largest since the Howard Government in 1996. This is another part of the Government’s response to Sunday’s deadly antisemitic terrorist attack at Bondi Beach. Australia’s gun laws were last substantially reformed in the wake of the Port Arthur tragedy. Sunday’s deadly ISIS-inspired antisemitic terrorist attack at Bondi Beach highlights the need to finish the job the Howard Government started on gun reform. We know that one of the terrorists from the weekend’s attack held a firearm licence and had six guns. There is no reason someone living in the suburbs of Sydney needed this many guns. There are now more than 4 million firearms in Australia – more than at the time of the Port Arthur massacre, nearly 30 years ago. The Government will introduce legislation to support Scheme funding and meet the costs on a 50:50 basis with the states and territories.  Consistent with the approach taken in 1996, the Government propose that states and territories be responsible for the collection, processing and payment to individuals for surrendered firearms. The Australian Federal Police will be responsible for the destruction of surrendered firearms. The Government proposes that states and territories agree to ambitious new gun law reforms no later than March 2026, and that reforms are legislated no later than 1 July 2026. Gun laws are only as strong as the weakest state. Having laws that are national and consistent is vital to their effectiveness. This national gun buyback will support the delivery of the National Cabinet commitment to:Limit the number of firearms to be held by any one individualLimit open-ended firearms licencing and the types of guns that are legalMake Australian citizenship a condition of holding a firearm licenseAccelerate work on standing up the National Firearms RegisterAllow additional use of criminal intelligence to underpin firearms licencingPrime Minister Anthony Albanese, “The deadly terrorist attack at Bondi Beach is a national tragedy which can never be allowed to happen again. “This national buyback scheme will help get guns off our streets, and help keep all Australians safe.” Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, “Australia led the world in gun control after Port Arthur. A generation later it’s time to update our laws to keep our country safe. “We have to address the motivation and the method of these crimes. No one can justify why this household had so many firearms.”

A man has died following a crash at Blue Knob, about 8km north of Nimbin.About 7pm yesterday (Thursday, 18 December 2025), emergency services were called to Blue Knob Road following reports of a crash.At the scene, officers located a vehicle that had collided with a tree before catching fire.Firefighters extinguished the blaze, and the body of a man was located within the vehicle.While yet to be formally identified, the body is believed to be that of a 27-year-old man.A crime scene was established, and inquiries into the incident are ongoing.Anyone with dashcam footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.A report will be prepared for the Coroner.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages

HSC and ATAR results were released to Lismore students yesterday, marking a major milestone for Year 12 graduates after years of study shaped by COVID disruptions and devastating floods.The Lismore App spoke to students from The Rivers Secondary College, who opened their results with a mix of relief, pride and excitement about the paths ahead.Lismore High Campus student Retrouvailles Banza said she was proud of what she achieved.“Yeah, I’m pretty happy,” she said. “I definitely would have liked something a little bit higher, but for the place that I am, I think I worked very hard, and I’m happy with the achievement I did.”(Retrouvailles with her mother, who is also a teacher at the school.)Retrouvailles has secured early entry into university and will study law through Southern Cross University next year. She plans to begin her degree online before eventually relocating to continue her studies. She was quick to acknowledge the people who supported her along the way.“I’d like to thank my teachers and the support that I’ve gotten from the school, just the whole college has been great,” she said. “They really look out for you and try their absolute best to help you do your absolute best.”Her advice for current Year 12 students was simple. “Listen to your teachers. Do the work, as much as you don’t want to, and just keep studying - a little chip off the block often.”At Kadina High Campus, school captain Kieran Kelly said he felt content with his results and confident about what comes next.“You get out what you put in, and I’m fine with it,” he said.Kieran has early entry into university and hopes to become a teacher, driven by a desire to support others, particularly within the local Indigenous community.“I’ve always strived to be a mentor or someone that others can look to for answers or support,” he said, adding that being captain helped him grow in confidence. “Being a captain really helped me come out of my shell.”Executive Principal of The Rivers Secondary College, Christopher Randle, said the achievements of this cohort go far beyond their academic results.“This group of students were in Year 7 during COVID, and then two years later, all of our campuses were impacted by the floods,” he said. “It’s a real indication of the resilience of our community, particularly our young people, to carry on and keep focusing on the future.”Mr Randle emphasised that while HSC results can open doors, they do not define success.“HSC is simply a point-in-time assessment,” he said. “There are multiple pathways now, and success is not measured by an HSC result. We’re very proud of the talents demonstrated by all of our young people across the college.”Another Kadina captain, Kye Elliot, said receiving direct entry into university helped put his ATAR into perspective. Kye achieved a Band 6 in music and is now enrolled in a Bachelor of Psychology, with hopes of becoming a high school counsellor.“Your ATAR is just a number,” he said. “Obviously, try your best, but if you get a bad one, don’t stress. There are so many pathways to whatever you want to do.”Kye said having direct entry into university eased some of the pressure during the exams.“Knowing that as long as I passed Year 12, I was into what I wanted to do definitely allowed me to sit back a little and take some time for myself,” he said. “If I didn’t have direct entry, I would have been studying non-stop.”As the students step into the next stage of their lives, the message echoed was proof that success looks different for everyone, and that there are many ways forward.

The festive holiday season starts in earnest at 3pm today when public school students sign off on the 2025 school year.Our road network becomes busier as families load up for camping holidays, and some pack suitcases for overseas travel.A new local business is targeting those hopping on planes or boats and looking for some foreign cash to take with them.Money2Travel has its base in Dunoon, but is an online business. It has teamed up with Asia Pacific Currency Services to offer competitive rates and fast delivery.Marcus Hammond is the Head of Currency Services for Money2Travel. He says there is a huge opportunity in the travel money space."The sort of major players have dwindled quite dramatically, and people are looking for more of an online solution, so we don't have any sort of shop frontages. This is all an online 24/7 platform that we were looking at working with different verticals, whether it be banks, whether it be the travel industry, whether it be universities and anybody who travels, whether it be for personal or business use."Marcus explained that a mixed wallet is still the preferred option when Aussies travel overseas, taking cash and a prepaid travel card. This gives people the opportunity to set their exchange rate. However, the cash component has been increasing. Last year, Australians travelling overseas took over $6 billion with them."What we've seen, probably, over the last maybe 10 years or so, is a significant increase in the average transaction value of people taking cash overseas. Obviously, there's a number of cash-centric countries, especially Asia, the Middle East and obviously Africa, where cash really is the main source of your spend."Another reason why people are taking more money, especially the older generation, is it gives them a little bit more surety rather than using a prepaid card or a credit or a debit card, because of security as well. The older generation are very dubious around using cards over the internet, or in an overseas ATM machine or in an EFTPOS machine overseas because of the fear of being scammed. With physical cash, you don't have that. So, there's that to think about as well."It's probably horses for courses. I speak to people who say I only ever take cash when I'm travelling on holiday. Some people say to me, I'd never take cash, I just take the Travel Card. But it's always advisable that you do take a mix."I'm 55, and I've been travelling since I was 10 months old, when I went to Spain with my parents. Domestically, I very rarely have cash on me, but internationally, I feel naked if I don't actually have physical cash. If I'm in a country, I'd say, probably 30% to 40% of my holiday spend is in cash."How does Money2Travel work?"Basically, you place the order online, and you can select one of 4,163 Australia Post outlets as your pickup point. You put in the postcode for the area that you live in, and it will give you a drop-down box over a particular radius of the post offices that you can go and collect those monies from."So you complete your order, you pay for the order, and then that order will be dispatched. It will be picked and packed, and it will be dispatched to that nominated post office for you to collect in about two to three days."I did one myself about three weeks ago. Through Money2Travel, I placed the order on Tuesday lunchtime, and I actually picked it up on Thursday afternoon."I got a text message in the morning, because it's fully trackable as well through Australia Post, I got a text message on the Thursday morning to say that it was available at my local post office. So, from ordering to getting the notification that it was ready to pick up with that text message, it was actually less than 48 hours, which I think is pretty impressive."Exchange Rates"We offer very competitive exchange rates. The main sort of competition that we see in this spot is CBA, obviously, being the only big four bank that does provide cash to its customers. And then you've got the big players like Travelex and Travel Money Oz. We do a price comparison on a monthly basis, just to make sure that we're right up there as far as being competitive is concerned.How much cash should people take on holiday?"It depends on where you're travelling to, and it always depends on the type of holiday that you like to undertake yourself."If you're somebody that likes to travel overseas, and you like to eat out every single day for breakfast, lunch and dinner, then obviously you're going to need a hell of a lot more money than somebody who's happy to do their own breakfast or even stay in at night."Everybody's different in relation to what amount of money they need. Some people just want to go and lie on a beach, and probably don't spend an awful great deal if you're going all-inclusive. You don't need a great deal of money unless you're paying for trips or whatever."Marcus's advice is to still take a prepaid travel card along with some cash to make sure you have every situation covered."You've got to think about an ATM being down, or what if the EFTPOS machine is down when you go into a cafe, restaurant or a shop. So again, that is why cash is such an important commodity to have as part of that overall travel money. A mixed wallet because you don't want to be using your credit card or your debit card. That is an absolute last resort, because then you are converting Aussie dollars into that particular currency, and then that's where the bank's absolutely slug you with international transaction fees."If you are lucky enough to be travelling overseas in 2026, check out Money2Travel.

Have you seen Mitchell McDUFF?Richmond Police District has issued a warrant for the 22-year-old’s arrest. He is known to frequent the Casino, Lismore and Ballina areas.Anyone with information about his whereabouts is urged not to approach him, but to call your local police station, CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000 or Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Healthy North Coast has announced the third round of successful recipients of its Primary Care Impact Grants – innovative, locally designed projects that will support high-quality care for people living with chronic and complex diseases across the region. This included $75,000 to Lismore Musical Therapy.Following the successful first grant round announced in June 2025, and the second round announced in September 2025, 17 grants with a total value of $770,098 have been awarded in this third round, with funding going directly to general practices, Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, allied health businesses and other local providers across the Mid North Coast and Northern NSW, to test and scale creative solutions to current health care challenges.Healthy North Coast CEO Monika Wheeler said the calibre of applications coming through the grant program continues to demonstrate the passion and innovation of local health providers:“We are consistently impressed by the quality of models of care emerging from our region. Every round of the Primary Care Impact Grants has shown how committed our providers are to tackling chronic disease and strengthening multidisciplinary care.“Chronic diseases remain the leading cause of death and disability in Australia, yet we know that almost 40% of this burden is preventable with earlier support and targeted action. The outstanding applications we are receiving show what’s possible when local expertise is backed with the resources to test, refine and scale practical solutions that help people stay healthier for longer.”The Primary Care Impact Grants are part of Healthy North Coast’s commitment to strengthening the region’s primary health care system through the Australian Government’s Primary Health Network program.$3.4m in total funding has been made available until 30 June 2027. This includes $1.8m through the MyMedicare Multidisciplinary Teams initiative and $1.6m through Primary Health Network program funding to support the management of complex and chronic diseases in high-risk populations.Over $2.3 million has been awarded through 48 successful grants to date, with future grant rounds still to come.Chiron Weber, Director of Mullumbimby Comprehensive Health Centre, was thrilled to be among the successful recipients in the third grant round:“We view Multi-Disciplinary Case Conferences as a continuous collaborative process. We aim to share knowledge and expertise to enhance communication, decision-making, and quality of care and outcomes for patients and providers. We strongly believe that case conferencing with this multi-disciplinary approach will result in a higher level of care for our patients and for the broader community, as all professionals involved learn and upskill as part of the process.“We are open to extending this service to outside GPs, and aim eventually to offer this to rural or remote GPs who are not as fortunate as we are here in the Byron Shire with access to experienced allied health practitioners.”The Primary Care Impact Grants are designed to support continuous quality improvement in primary care. The grant applications were reviewed using an evaluation rubric that assessed community need, health equity, efficiency and feasibility of each proposal, by a panel of health experts.Successful proposals had a data-informed and evidence-based approach to meeting the needs of their communities, with a focus on reporting outcomes to drive continuous quality improvement.“If you’re a local health provider with an innovative idea for chronic disease prevention and management in your community, I’d encourage you to register your interest for our future grant rounds,” added Ms Wheeler.Each grant recipient will provide valuable data back to Healthy North Coast to assist with evaluation of the program.More information on the Primary Care Impact Grants, including for local health professionals interested in applying for future rounds, is available on Healthy North Coast’s website. List of Round Three Primary Care Impact Grant recipientsMultidisciplinary Team Care Grants:All Together Therapy, Port Macquarie – Improving the early identification and intervention of developmental, behavioural, and health concerns in children aged 0–5 years across the Hastings region – $75,000Lismore Music Therapy, Lismore – Multidisciplinary therapy and support within early childhood education settings for children with developmental delays, disabilities, and neurodiversity – $75,000The Grange Family Medical Centre, Port Macquarie – Structured cardiovascular risk screening, care planning, and ongoing allied health support, with exercise physiology, nutrition, and nurse-led monitoring working alongside GPs – $45,800WorkforceIQ Holdings – Improving management of chronic pain in general practice by delivering a structured, accessible, and evidence-based education and coaching program – $75,000Total Multidisciplinary Team Care Grants awarded: $270,800 Chronic Disease Prevention Grants:Ballina Health Centre, Ballina – Comprehensive cardiovascular disease prevention and management model for adults aged 45–75 in Ballina – $30,000Coffs Coast GP Super Clinic, Coffs Harbour – Integrated, multidisciplinary model of care for patients with Type 2 Diabetes in the Coffs Harbour region by embedding specialist and allied health expertise into general practice – $49,850First Light Active, Ballina – Preventative and early intervention wellbeing model that uses a multi-disciplinary, team-based approach involving GPs, exercise physiologists, dietitians, and physiotherapists, integrating diagnostics and VALD technology to track progress – $35,000Fletcher Street Cottage, Byron Bay – Trauma-informed, nurse-led drop-in clinic embedded in Fletcher Street Cottage to increase healthcare access for women experiencing or at risk of homelessness – $50,000Help Prevent Falls, Coffs Harbour – Reducing the risk of falls among people aged 65+ in the Coffs Harbour region by addressing physical, educational, nutritional, and social factors – $43,148Lifestyle Medicine Learning, Tweed Heads – The Sarcopenia Early Detection program seeks to identify, engage, and support adults aged 60–80 at risk of sarcopenia through early screening, targeted interventions, and ongoing evaluation – $40,000Lisa Strauss Health, Ocean Shores – Group-based, dietitian-led education sessions with a focus on the prevention and management of coronary heart disease and type 2 diabetes – $24,300Medical on William, Port Macquarie – Increasing the number of patients receiving comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessments by 25% within 12 months and improve long-term heart health outcomes for at-risk individuals – $25,000Mullumbimby Comprehensive Health Centre, Mullumbimby – Development of a Multidisciplinary Case Conferencing service utilising staff from the Centre – $50,000Northern NSW LHD Health Promotion in collaboration with Bugalwena, Bullinah, and Rekindling the Spirit Aboriginal Medical Services – Supporting the delivery of smoking and vaping cessation activities in Aboriginal Medical Services – $32,000Pain Revolution – Delivering contemporary pain education and treatment by training health professionals to be Local Pain Educators – $50,000Parkinson’s NSW, Coffs Harbour – Improving the quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s disease in four Residential Aged Care Facilities on the Mid North Coast – $50,000Tweed Banora Medical Centre, Tweed Heads – Expanding nursing capacity to improve early detection, prevention, and management of chronic conditions – $20,000.Total Chronic Disease Prevention Grants awarded: $499,298More information about each of the round three grant recipients can be found on Healthy North Coast’s website.

Australia Post is reminding customers to get their parcels in the post by this Friday to ensure gifts arrive in time for Christmas Day.For Parcel Post, the cut-off dates are Friday 19 December for interstate deliveries and Monday 22 December for same-state deliveries. Last-minute shoppers can send via Express Post by Tuesday, 23 December. People sending to or from Western Australia, Northern Territory, Tasmania or regional locations should allow additional time to avoid delays.Christmas letters and cards should be sent by Thursday, 18 December, for same-state deliveries and Tuesday, 16 December, for interstate deliveries.Gary Starr, Australia Post Executive General Manager Parcel, Post and eCommerce Services said Australia Post is ready to deliver another record-breaking Christmas season, following the successful delivery of almost 103 million parcels across November and December last year.“Our team members are working tirelessly around the clock to make sure your parcels arrive on time for Christmas. To avoid disappointment, we strongly encourage customers to send their gifts as early as possible.“With extended trading hours across key facilities and Post Offices, thousands of additional seasonal team members, weekend delivery services and freighters operating at full capacity, we’re pulling out all the stops to keep gifts moving across the country,” Mr. Starr said.The Australia Post app offers customers a convenient way to manage deliveries during this busy time of year. It provides secure and accurate delivery updates and allows customers to choose their preferred collection point — including free and convenient Parcel Lockers available at more than 1,000 locations nationwide.For more information on last sending dates please visit auspost.com.au/Christmas.