Should Lismore Council be involved with crime prevention? This question was debated for 33 minutes during yesterday's Lismore City Council meeting. The two opposing points were council showing leadership versus crime prevention is a police issue.The events that led to a Goonellabah man's body being found near Clifford Park last Friday, and another man in a serious but stable condition at a Gold Coast hospital, plus recent complaints from business owners in the CBD, makes crime prevention a hot topic in the Lismore LGA. It led Councillor Dalton-Earls to put forward a motion, where Council:1. reinstate the Social Justice and Crime Prevention Committee to continue the work of this committee before it was disbanded 2. appoints a chair and alternate chairCr Rob seconded the motion because he wanted to make an amendment to the original motion. One that was very different to the first, but was accepted by Cr Dalton-Earls.'That council prepare a report looking at the pros and cons of establishing a Crime Prevention Advisory Group to be reported back to council for further consideration.""The reason I brought this is because we have significant issues in our community. They're undeniable. We've just had an indigenous man killed in a park that's now under investigation. We've got another one that's on life support in the Gold Coast hospital. One was left dead and wasn't found for hours after. We've got all these issues that are happening every day in the CBD that we've passed resolutions about ourselves."What I'm trying to clarify is it's not looking at the old report and the old recommendations and picking up where that was left off. This, in my view, should be seen as a new something that we can show leadership in. The community is crying out for the council and everybody to take leadership for the issues that are happening in our community right now. And this is one way that we can get people involved and start that process, and whether it leads to the crime prevention plan in the future or not, that should be up to the advisory group committee through that process."Interestingly, the last Social Justice and Crime Prevention Committee was discontinued by council in February 2022, following three years of inaction by the committee. They had not met since August 2019.The original committee was set up because of the passion of one councillor, and when that councillor did not seek reelection, the committee stopped operating. You have to ask the question whether this will have the same result?Cr Dalton-Earls said, "We need to liaise with our community leaders, indigenous leaders, our youth leaders, our health, our police officers, everyone at the same table. And I think that if Council passes this, it's showing leadership in that space, and it's getting the ball rolling. So that's why I believe this motion is worthy of being supported."Cr Knight-Smith spoke against the motion. She said she supported the original group and the passion it displayed, but didn't want it to be "symbolic rather impactful"."Today, we are still in the midst of significant organisational and community recovery. Our staff are stretched. Our resources are limited, and our strategic priorities are now under review, reinstating a committee of this scope and complexity, without a clear plan for its governance, resourcing integration into our broader strategic framework and community risks repeating the challenges that led to it led to its discontinuation.""I do not want this to be the end of the conversation. Quite the opposite. I believe we should commit to revisiting this proposal in the future, perhaps as part of a community strategic plan review or in conjunction with the development of a broader community safety and wellbeing strategy. Let's take the time to get this right. Let's be guided by staff who understand the capacity in this space. Let's consult with our community partners, assess our internal capability and check the appetite of stakeholders.""We do not need to duplicate work that they're already doing. We need to ensure that if we do bring this committee back, it is with structure, leadership and the support that it will need to succeed, because it will need a lot of support. I don't want to introduce something to just fail. So while I support the motion in principle, I cannot support its implementation at this time, so I respectfully suggest that we defer this matter until we are better placed to deliver on what it aims to achieve."It was here that Cr Rob introduced the amendment that changed the motion for council staff to create a report that may lead to establishing an advisory group."That's because it should be an advisory group, and we've got that policy now. I think there's only two committees at the moment, everything else is an advisory group. So if we do it as a committee, it's going to be complicated and difficult. If it's an Advisor Group, it's be more flexible and easier to maintain and manage."If the staff can find a way, I would hope that it comes back with a lot of pros and not many cons. And I hope there's a way that we can do this. And hopefully, by early in the next year, I don't think we'll get it done this year, but maybe by February or March next year, we might be able to look at getting this going with some community input, and get some business owners and community members, some social groups, everything involved in an advisory group."Cr Hall said she absolutely supported a motion like this."Obviously, our community is struggling, and we need to do something, but we need the right people to drive it, and we need to make sure that it's followed up and followed through completely, you know, bringing a resolution to council that we create this group or that group and then some and then being all excited about it doesn't actually have any follow through."I hope we can get it off the ground. I hope it can go well, but I hope it's not just something that comes up at a committee meeting. We all clap and say, yeah, we've done this, and then nothing fruitful actually comes from it. You know what I mean? And that's the risk. You know, we have advisory groups that the community aren't even attending. We have advisory groups that people don't have any interest in, and I know this is very on the money right now, but we need to make sure we've got buy-in from the right people to make it successful."Cr Battista took the non-populist side, thinking the advisory group would be a staff waste of time, as he cannot see anyone strongly passionate about driving the agenda."All I see is another cost for council in staff time, having to prepare a report that's going to come to us in a briefing, all right, where no one wants to get involved, or there's no real groundwork and the willingness to do anything about it. You'll end up seeing another report sitting on the shelf."And that's the reason why I'm going to vote against. Not because I don't want something to happen, but I want something meaningful to happen."On the other hand, Cr Waters was looking at receiving options from the staff report."Our community is crying out. Our community is hurting, and we need to start looking at ways how we can support that. It can be through advocacy, it can be through going for grants, but we need to start working on it, and we need to be working on it with all of our other stakeholders in the community. So I actually will appreciate a report coming back, and I understand that it will cost us money, and that's not ideal, but I think that we just need to look at, we need changes happening in our community, and we need to support our community through lots of different ways."Cr Gordon was another that felt the supporters had well-meaning intentions, but ultimately it is the responsibility of NSW police."I totally get the idea of a Crime Prevention Advisory Group. I do. I do, and I applaud anybody that thinks that they can make a significant contribution into helping what's going on in Lismore right now. But I tell you what, next time, if someone's bashing my door in, am I going to be ringing the coppers, or referring to our Prevention Advisory report? I'll be ringing the coppers."I think the population is generally sick and tired of council thinking they can be something to everybody and getting involved, and perhaps, in a token way, lead the community down the path of crime prevention. I've worked at the coalface. I know exactly how it works. Every single one of you, when something goes wrong, you will ring the police, and we don't have enough staff. Lismore is known, it's well known to be what they call a disadvantaged station, and we simply are not resourced."The police force in Lismore should be twice the size it is. It should easily be twice the size it is. The area these guys and girls have to service is just enormous. And I think a bunch of well-intentioned people, and I get they are well intentioned, sitting around formulating a plan and then relying on the police to enact that plan is probably just a reach too far."When it came to the vote, the motion was carried 7/4, with Crs Guise, Dalton-Earls, Jensen, Waters, Rob, Knight-Smith and Hall voting for and Crs Gordon, Bing, Krieg and Battista voting against.We now await the staff report in the December or February 2026 meeting before the councillors vote on whether they form a Social Justice and Crime Prevention Advisory Group.

The illegal cigarettes and vapes versus the high federal government tobacco excise debate entered another round yesterday when the NSW Government introduced the Public Health (Tobacco) Amendment (Landlord Offences) Bill 2025 into parliament.The new legislation will create an offence for commercial landlords who knowingly permit premises to be used by tenants to sell illicit tobacco and illegal vapes.The new offence will carry a maximum penalty of 1 year imprisonment, a fine of $165,000 or both.Australia's former Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr Nick Coastsworth, said on X, "Surely the Albanese government can’t ignore this any more. Australian smokers are being forced by tax policy into funding organised crime. And all the while, cheap cigarettes are available to a now growing group of smokers. Disastrous public health policy."Sydney 2GB radio host Ben Fordham said he obtained documents that normally only tobacco companies see. He painted a picture over four years and forecasts more growth of illegal tobacco sales in 2026:2022: Legal Tobacco Sales = 11 billion and Illegal Tobacco Sales = 3.1 billion2023: Legal Tobacco Sales = 8.9 billion and Illegal Tobacco Sales = 3.5 billion2024: Legal Tobacco Sales = 6.5 billion and Illegal Tobacco Sales = 4.3 billion2025: Legal Tobacco Sales = 3.5 billion and Illegal Tobacco Sales = 6.6 billion2026: Legal Tobacco Sales = 1.9 billion and Illegal Tobacco Sales = 8 billion (predicted)Rather than look at the tobacco excise, both the federal and state governments are still trying to win the battle against organised crime by increasing the fines and prison sentences through legislation changes.The new offence in NSW, will target landlords who are aware of tenants conducting illicit tobacco and vaping goods businesses from the premises and, instead of notifying the appropriate authorities or taking steps to evict the tenant, knowingly permitting this illicit activity to continue.This proposed legislation was informed by engagement with key stakeholders, including three roundtables with landlord representatives, retailers, and health advocates, consultation with partner government agencies, and a public ‘Have Your Say’ survey. It comes as NSW Health and NSW Police have begun closing down illicit tobacco and vaping stores this month under the NSW Government’s tough new laws.From 1 Jan 2025 to 27 October 2025, NSW Health Inspectors conducted around 1,260 retailer inspections and seized more than 11.8 million cigarettes, over 2,000kg of other illicit tobacco products and around 170,000 illegal vaping goods with a combined estimated street value of around $18.9 million.In the period 1 January to 27 October 2025, the NSW Ministry of Health has finalised 17 prosecutions with the courts imposing a total of $597,200 in fines related to e-cigarette and tobacco offences. There are currently 27 prosecutions, inclusive of the District Court appeal, before the Courts.The legislation builds on recent reforms that target the illicit tobacco and illegal vaping market, including:a new offence for the possession of a commercial quantity of illicit tobacco with a maximum penalty of over $1.5 million and 7 years' imprisonment, or bothnew penalties for the sale of illicit tobacco with a maximum penalty of over $1.5 million and 7 years' imprisonment, or boththe introduction of short-term (up to 90 days) and long-term (up to 12 months) closure orders for premises selling illicit tobacco, illegal vaping goods, or selling tobacco or non-tobacco smoking products without a licence new offences and penalties for anyone who breaches these closure orders, including for entering closed premises or selling products from closed premisesnew lease termination powers for landlords where a closure order is in placenew nation-leading offences for falsely claiming to be licensed, resisting seizure, and attempting to retake seized products.Minister for Health Ryan Park said, "This bill recognises and reinforces the important role that landlords need to play against the sale of illegal tobacco and vapes.“This measure will further minimise the opportunities for illegal tobacco and vape sales to flourish.“We know that the vast majority of landlords do the right thing – but those bad actors out there not only undermine legitimate business, they also expose communities to criminal activity.“These penalties are the result of extensive consultation and will strike a fair and reasonable balance that ensures we target landlords who are knowingly permitting illegal activity.”The big question is who will win this battle: the government or organised crime?

The state of the Lismore Lake and Lismore Lake Pool in South Lismore have been a topic of conversation for the last two decades.The Lismore Lake was discussed at yesterday's Lismore City Council Meeting when Councillor (Cr) Big Rob put forward a motion that Council include a Lismore Lake Precinct Water Licence in the budget at zero cost, look to identify funding opportunities to acquire an 'appropriate amount of water to fill and maintain the lake', and advise State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin and Federal Member for page Kevin Hogan that funding is being sought to purchase water licence capacity for the lake precinct.In his opening remarks, Cr Rob said he has been "getting a lot of flack" about the Lismore Lake."There's been a bit of work done there. It's been slow because I'm busy with a new business, and I'm under supervision until that ends, and I've got to follow the rules and the guidelines. But, there's been work done by Rous, there's been work done by Lismore Lake Incorporated with a National Tree Day event. There's been work done by a paid bush regenerator that we need to seek out this year's funding for to pay for this year's work.""The biggest problem out there, and why it looks so ugly, is because there's no water in the lake."Cr Rob pointed out that as you drive past the site, the lack of water is what makes it look ugly. The lawns are being mowed, the koala trees managed, and now there is a new toilet block that will be reopened to the public."This is one way to get that thing going, and to make sure it will keep going, is to get that water in that lake. Once that water's in that lake, not only does it look nice, it looks amazing. All the birds come back in, thousands of them, they're everywhere. Every time there's a major flood, and that lake fills up within two days after the mud clears a bit, it's just prolific with bird life; it's amazing.Cr Rob's vision is to get the Lismore Lake like Centennial Park in Sydney. Getting a council resolution was the best way to apply for funding, hence the motion. Council staff had said the indicative costs were in the region of $150,000 for the water licence, which would need to be confirmed. Cr Rob added that a smaller annual maintenance fee would be needed, which would be included in the funding. He also mentioned that he was still chasing funding for the Lismore Lake Pool, after a $2 million grant was turned down in 2019 by the then Council.There was some opposition to Cr Rob's proposal. It wasn't that other councillors were against it; they were seeking more information.Cr Waters made the point that this is a wetland restoration area that lives and breathes with its natural environment. "Which is like when we have big wets, and it dries out sometimes, but it always has birds there, despite what we're talking about.""This is a functioning wetland ecosystem with deep importance for Biodiversity and Climate Resilience. Wetlands are then recognised internationally, especially this one, because it's a critical habitat for the East Asian Australasian Flyway. This is a great migratory pathway of birds travelling from Siberia and Japan right down to Australia."They stop in on our wetlands to rest and recover."Due to the site's importance for an abundance of bird wildlife, Cr Waters wanted to confirm the expert's advice and update the Plan of Management before a council resolution was passed."I think it's a shared goal of all of us for genuine ecological restoration of the lake as a sanctuary. I know that it has problems in terms of like how it looks at the moment, and that there needs to be more work done on that, and there is work being done on that, probably not as quick as most of us would like, but it is a beautiful place, and we actually already have so many birds in that area, so I think that we needed but to be guided by the correct ecologist for this before we make this type of decision."The amount of water needed to fill the lake has been adjusted, with Cr Rob saying the early 5 megalitre advice received was wrong. It now appears to be greater than 100 megalitres, in fact, by Cr Rob's calculations, it would be 225 megalitres to fill the lake, but to start to build his vision, around 100 megalitres would suffice for an initial fill, before a much lower amount is needed for maintenance each year. After all, it is a man-made lake.The exact amount of water needed initially, and for subsequent years, will be determined by an expert in the field and included in the updated Plan of Management document.Cr Knight-Smith said that since 2013, there have been 163 different species of birds sighted at the Lismore Lake, and in 2025 alone, there have been 86 different species of birds sighted."I think that this is a way of supporting a community organisation, and maybe with Council's input, of creating a beautiful space for our community to enjoy and a natural habitat to thrive."Cr Dalton-Earls was another councillor questioning the timing. "We're talking about applying for grants for potentially 100 million gigalitres of water to fill the lake, which, as councillor Waters has pointed out, goes up and down with the seasons. We live in the highest rainfall area in Australia. It doesn't seem like a priority for us to pursue at this time."However, I do think there is a priority to clean and work with the land there, and I know that there are groups involved, such as Landcare, that do that. But I also understand there are time frames that sometimes push out or things happen, that's what I would be more inclined to look at, rather than making a resolution that then forces Council's focus in this area, which at this time, I don't think that should be our priority."Cr Gordon pointed out that the hole was originally dug up to bring the industrial estate across the Bruxner Highway up to the 1974 level."In principle, I do support this because I think it's a great first step in maintaining either what we have or to create a new environment, should that work be recognised as being beneficial."Cr Jensen put forward a foreshadowed motion that councillors go to a workshop with the relevant Council environmental staff to get a clear picture of what the consequences would be from filling the lake."I'm not a great supporter of this in its current form, maybe a workshop, including the environment section, to discuss this management plan a little bit more," Cr Jensen said.In his right of reply, Cr Rob reiterated that the water licence will be at no cost to the council, as it will be achieved through grant funding."It's not something that we need to be worried about. If it doesn't happen, it doesn't happen, but if it does, imagine what we could have out there, a beautiful lake, free recreation space for everyone. There's also cultural heritage plans in place for gathering, or healing or yarning circle on the eastern side, over near the boat ramp. There's also dog park discussions there with staff."There's amazing plans for there, but we just need to try and get it moving. The best way to do that? Fill the lake."The motion passed 7/4, with Crs Gordon, Rob, Battista, Knight-Smith, Hall and Krieg for and Crs Guise, Dalton-Earls, Jensen and Waters against.Cr Rob's vision for the Lismore Lake is a long way off being completed, but it just may have taken its next step. Is there a chance that it could once again be a hugely popular recreation area for the residents of Lismore?

Under clear blue skies, locals gathered across Lismore this morning to mark Remembrance Day, honouring the Australians who have served and sacrificed in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping missions over more than a century.Large crowds attended both the city’s main service at the Lismore Memorial Baths and the community-led service at North Lismore. Representatives from schools, the SES, Fire Brigade, Red Cross and other local organisations joined veterans and their families to honour those who served and sacrificed for Australia.City of Lismore RSL Sub-Branch President Ken Arnett said it was heartening to see so many people taking time to remember.“Remembrance Day is about pausing and reflecting on the sacrifices those people made for us, so that we can stand here today in a free world,” he said. “The service only takes about 15 minutes - that’s not too much to ask. I’m delighted with the turnout today. Every family in Australia was affected back then, and it’s good that the nation still stops and thinks about what happened.”Ken also shared the story of one young soldier who died just days after the guns fell silent in 1918 - a reminder, he said, of how fragile the peace was.“You think about a 19-year-old boy who got that far through the war, and then died when the shooting had already stopped,” he said. “My parents remembered the dancing in the streets here in Lismore when the Armistice was announced. Sixty thousand Australians were killed out of a population of just four and a half million. Nearly one in ten served, and so many carried their physical and mental scars for life.”Across town, the North Lismore Remembrance Service once again showcased the next generation’s role in keeping the tradition alive.Ken Jolley with students from Kadina, Richmond River, and Lismore High SchoolLocal legend Ken Jolley, a former City of Lismore RSL Sub-Branch President, said it was now proudly run by students from all three Rivers Secondary College campuses.“It is so encouraging to see the younger generation carrying on the tradition. Thank you so much - I’ve just realised this service is in great hands,” he said. “Anything we ask these students, they do it. I won’t be here forever, but the kids know what they’re doing, and I really do appreciate it.” “This memorial is really special, it’s where they left from for the first war. They camped at the showground before boarding trains at the North Lismore Railway Station to take them to Army training camps. It’s now one of Lismore’s icons.”Both services were well attended, with many staying on afterward to chat and reflect. The sunshine, combined with the turnout of young and old alike, made for a touching reminder that Lismore continues to remember and honour its past.Lest we forget.

Yesterday afternoon's Resilient Homes Expo put on by the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) was a success, with a solid turnout of flood-affected people looking for information on house relocation, raising and retrofits.Tables were filled with representatives from the RA, Lismore City Council, engineers, and house removers to answer questions about planning approvals, relocating a home, flood resilient building options and what is involved in raising a house. There was a constant hum of chatter.The RA presented information about the process, allowing those new to the Resilient Homes Program or lacking prior knowledge to increase their understanding.There were people from all over the Richmond River Catchment who were affected by the 2022 big flood, such as Lismore, Ballina, Kyogle and Broadwater. Some people only received approval from the RA for either a retrofit or a house raising last week. Two groups said they were knocked back twice in the past, proving how the level of funding determines who receives grants and who doesn't.The Lismore App spoke to half a dozen people as they left the Expo. They ranged from a couple looking to relocate a house gifted to them, two house raisings and a retrofit.Everyone was satisfied with what was on offer, but some left feeling confused, while others were pleased with what they had learned.One couple were looking to relocate, not just their own gifted house, but three others for their family on a substantial piece of land. They turned up to dot the i's and cross the t's, and to discover if there was any further information they needed and what the next steps were.A lady living on her own in Kyogle wanted to find information about her house raising. She left the Expo confused about her options and the procedure, but did sign up with an engineering company to project manage the process.While her neighbours were seeking information about their retrofit, they left with the thought that the retrofit would cost more than the $50,000 grant, so they would do the retrofit themselves to save money.A Broadwater couple travelled to the Expo for house-raising information after they lived in a caravan for 19 months. The 2022 flood caused 1.8 metres of water to flow into their house.They found the session very informative. Their goal is to try to keep the cost of the house raising to below the $100,000 grant mark, as they had already spent money on renovating their house to make it livable.The Resilient Homes Program will cease in June 2027, so there is a great deal of work to be done to complete all relocations, raising and retrofits by that date.

Last Friday morning's incident, where a 31-year-old male was taken to Lismore hospital with serious head injuries, and the body of a 25-year-old man was discovered near Clifford Park, is still under critical police investigation under Strike Force Pineshaw.Northern Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner (AC) David Waddell APM, yesterday was asking for any witnesses to come forward."It appears there was an affray, some type of a brawl in the vicinity of Clifford Park, and those matters are still under investigation. Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward, anyone that may have any dash cam, CCTV footage or may have any information in relation to that homicide and report it to Crimestoppers or the Lismore Police Station."As a result of information over the weekend, on Sunday, I declared a critical incident investigation just to look at the police response, and to look into that investigation and initial incident."AC Waddell said they believe up to 20 people were involved in the brawl and that they were known to each other. "But the motives in relation to the investigation are still ongoing.""Look, we've interviewed plenty of witnesses and residents. We've done a lot of canvassing. We've obviously processed all the crime scene, so a fairly substantive investigation by regional detectives and the homicide squad, as well as other specialist units. And that investigation will be ongoing.As for the man airlifted to Gold Coast Hospital, he is still in a serious but stable condition. Police will be questioning him. "Once he's in a medical condition to speak with us, we will be speaking to him, trying to establish more facts as to what occurred."AC Waddell wouldn't be drawn into the cause of death, saying it was the subject of a post-mortem.Police have been concerned about retribution and keeping the peace around the Goonellabah area."Firstly, we are very engaged with the families of the deceased parties, so we've made contact with them. We are engaged with the community. We have Aboriginal Community Liaisons deployed as well as additional police resources, just to make sure there's not any community unrest or concerns around public order."We are worried about potential retribution. We won't ask people who are involved to just let us do our job. We will take action and arrest those that are responsible.If anyone has any concerns for their safety, report it to police, and they will take action.AC Wadell confirmed that the investigation includes the original response of police, "And the appropriateness and timeliness of that response. There have been no charges at this stage. The investigation is still in its early phase stages."At this early stage of the investigation, police are still trying to identify the people involved in the brawl, but they do expect to take action where they identify offences.

Communities across the region will come together tomorrow, Tuesday 11 November, to honour those who have served Australia in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping missions - and to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.Remembrance Day marks the end of fighting on the Western Front in 1918 and has become a time for Australians to stop and reflect on the courage of those who have served our country. For many in Lismore, that reflection is deeply personal.City of Lismore RSL Sub-Branch Secretary Wilson McClelland said this year’s theme, Remember to Remember, sums up what the day is all about.“I think ‘Remember to Remember’ is basically what tomorrow is all about,” Mr McClelland said. “When you read the names on the World War One memorials down there, it really brings home what it’s all about. I’ve got two great uncles on it, so it has significance for me - and I think nearly every family in Lismore and the surrounds had someone in the First World War.”Mr McClelland said while Anzac Day often draws the biggest crowds, Remembrance Day still means a lot to many people.“It’s a quieter day than Anzac Day, but no less powerful,” he said. “You can feel the emotion when the names are read, it really drives home the meaning of remembrance.”He said it was encouraging to see local schools helping keep the tradition alive.“We invite the high schools and their captains and principals to attend our service each year,” he said. “And the service over at North Lismore, which Ken Jolly has run for many years, is now virtually being organised by students from The Rivers Secondary College - Kadina, Richmond River and Lismore High. They basically do the whole service now.”Younger students are also learning about remembrance through the Draw to Remember program, which sees children create artwork and learn about Australia’s wartime history.“The kids do drawings and research, and we visit their schools to see their work and hold a small service,” Mr McClelland said. “The schools really are the future of Remembrance Day and Anzac Day, they’ll carry it forward.”The RSL’s annual poppy appeal has also had strong support across the community in the lead-up to the day.“We started last Wednesday and we’re winding up today,” Mr McClelland said. “It’s been very successful, and on behalf of our branch members and the ex-service community, I’d like to thank the public for their support each year.”Services will be held across the region tomorrow at:North Lismore – 10:00 amLismore – 10:40 amNimbin – 10:45 amLocals are encouraged to attend or take a moment during the morning to reflect and remember all those who have served, and those who continue to serve, in Australia’s Defence Forces.

With the end of the year fast approaching, the Australian Dental Association NSW (ADA NSW) is urging patients with private health insurance (PHI) to book their dental appointments now, before most dental benefits expire on 31 December 2025. During the June 2025 quarter, private health insurers paid $1.695 billion in general treatment (ancillary) benefits, a 4.6% decrease from the previous quarter (source: APRA). Dental care made up the largest portion of this spend at $950.93 million. Despite this demand, the average benefit paid per dental service fell to $68, a 3.6% decline from March 2025. ADA NSW warns this shows many patients still aren’t maximising the preventive care they’re entitled to each year. “It’s a busy time of year but it’s also when dental check-ups matter most,” said ADA NSW President Dr Mark Morrin. “Patients who have private health insurance have already paid for their benefits. If they don't use them before December 31, they simply disappear.” Preventive dental care is not only more affordable than emergency treatment, but it can also help identify broader health conditions early, including gum disease and oral infections. Most PHI funds operate under a “use it or lose it” system, where dental extras do not roll over to the new year. “Many people forget they have unused benefits available, or delay treatment until issues worsen,” Dr Morrin said. “We strongly encourage patients to check their policy and book any necessary treatment now, while appointments are still available.” ADA NSW also reminds families that eligible children can use the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) before year-end. The CDBS provides up to $1132 in Medicare-funded dental treatment over two calendar years for children aged 0–17, yet only around one in three eligible children currently access it. Families can check CDBS eligibility and remaining balance via their Medicare online account at www.my.gov.au. “Tooth decay remains the most common chronic disease among Australian kids. Around one in four children aged five to 10 has untreated decay, which can lead to serious health problems later. If you have private health insurance, make sure you book your check up in the next few weeks,” Dr Morrin added.

Last week, the Lismore App wrote about the new Blah Bar in Eggins Lane, and the Living School renovations in the Brown & Jolly building and parts of Eggins Lane and Larkin Lane.It was then that we discovered 10 County Lane, which is operated by Gemma Hall.Gemma Hall was looking for a studio for her art business 'Art With Wings' when she was told about the building at 10 County Lane."I came and had a look, and I just fell in love because of the location, the possibilities of how I could support community. It's just right in the heart of town, so it's a fabulous venue.""Part of what I wanted to do here was contribute to the life of the CBD by bringing creatives in and sharing our skills and our knowledge and inviting the community to use this as a venue. So, the Living School's ideas and vision really support what I'm doing, and I'd really like to support what they're doing, just in terms of bringing people into the CBD, activating this space again and bringing life in.What started as a studio space has evolved into a thriving business. Gemma rents out the building to local businesses looking to host workshops or run presentations. "It's absolutely a wanted space. We have Casper doing a four and a half day training, we've had the Living School do a community Q&A, and then tonight, they're having their middle school dance here. (The Living School's founder John Stewart talks through his CBD plans to interested members of the community last week at 10 County Lane)"We also have three regular dance classes, a singing circle, over-65s group, we've got an art group for people with disabilities. I'm really opening up the space for anybody that wants to hire it. It's really a blank canvas for anyone to come in and gather."Gemma's original idea to create a space for Art With Wings has taken a back burner, as other opportunities presented themselves; however, she is rebooting her business again."I'm starting with a group of ladies with disabilities for art, but I'm also encouraging other artists to use the space for workshops. So, we've got a mural workshop coming up and a Paint & Sip coming up. I hope, in time, that I will be able to offer more art classes to the community through Art With Wings."The beauty of Gemma's business is that it aligns with her flood plan. Everything is lean and clean with minimal items to move when the next flood tops the levee wall. There is a sprung dance floor and a large TV projector and pull-down screen as the most expensive items move.If you are looking for a space to hold a workshop or presentation, email Gemma at 10countylane@gmail.com.

Every 27 minutes, someone in Australia is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Best known for its tremors, movement and balance issues, it also brings another, often overlooked burden – persistent pain.Now, new research from the University of South Australia shows that many people with Parkinson’s are struggling to manage their pain, with researchers calling for more individualised, multidisciplinary and empathetic care. In two studies that assessed how people with Parkinson’s manage pain and their experiences of pain care services, researchers found notable gaps in support, with many people resorting to trial-and-error strategies due to a lack of tailored clinical care. In Australia, more than 65,000 people with Parkinson’s disease experience persistent pain. Lead researcher and UniSA PhD candidate Anthony Mezzini says we need to improve quality pain care for people with Parkinson’s. “Pain is a prevalent and debilitating non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s. It’s one of the most troublesome issues in early-stage Parkinson’s and a leading cause of reduced quality of life,” Mezzini says. “People with Parkinson’s told us that they often rely on trial-and-error approaches to manage their pain – not because they want to, but because they don’t always have access to specialist pain support or tailored advice. “When pain care worked well, it was because healthcare professionals – especially allied health practitioners and Parkinson’s nurses – took the time to listen, understand their experience, and tailor care to their specific needs.” Researchers found that people’s experiences of pain care were shaped by five key features: empathy and understanding, listening to needs and concerns, clear explanations, Parkinson’s-specific knowledge, and individualised treatment. However, these qualities were inconsistent across the health care system, with people reporting mixed feedback about the support they received from general practitioners and neurologists, and significant access barriers in rural and regional areas. UniSA’s researcher and Parkinson’s Nurse, Dr Sue Sharrad, says improving pain management for people with Parkinson’s requires both greater access to multidisciplinary care and enhanced training for healthcare providers. “Embedding empathetic, individualised care into routine practice – and expanding access to Parkinson’s nurses and allied health professionals – could make a real difference,” Dr Sharrad says. “Parkinson’s specialist nurses and allied health professionals are often praised for their high level of care. We need to ensure that every person with Parkinson’s receives pain care that’s tailored, evidence-based, and delivered by professionals who understand the complex nature of Parkinson’s pain. “Pain is not just a symptom – it’s a major factor that affects quality of life. By making care more personalised, coordinated, and compassionate, we can help people with Parkinson’s live better, less painful lives.” The research forms part of UniSA’s ongoing work to improve quality of life for people living with neurological conditions. The multidisciplinary research team includes Anthony Mezzini, Prof Saravana Kumar, Dr Sue Sharrad, Dr Joanne Harmon, and Prof Marion Eckert. The research papers can be accessed here:Perceptions of the Provision of Pain Care Services from the Perspective of People with Parkinson's Disease: A Qualitative Descriptive StudyFactors Influencing Pain Management Practices in People With Parkinson's Disease: A Qualitative Descriptive Study

The NSW Government is taking another step to reduce plastic waste, announcing the next phase of single-use and problematic plastic phase-outs on the eve of National Recycling Week.Plastic remains one of NSW’s biggest environmental challenges. It makes up around 74 per cent of litter in our waterways, and less than 16 per cent of plastic waste is recycled in NSW, with the remainder taking up valuable space in landfill.The next stage of the NSW Plastics Plan will target unnecessary and hard-to-recycle plastic products. It gives business and industry time to transition while helping to reduce waste and landfill demand.The phase-in will be managed responsibly and in stages to allow business to adjust and find practical alternatives.The changes will also encourage new investment in recycling infrastructure and reusable products, with the Government working closely with industry to support the transition and minimise disruption.In an Australian first, the plan will also develop a ‘green’ and ‘red’ list of chemicals that are and are not allowed to be used in plastic items. This list will identify chemicals to phase out that are known to cause problems for human health and the environment, and which have safer alternatives already in use.The NSW Plastics Plan 2.0 actions include:phase out plastic bread tags and pizza savers from late 2027;phase out non-compostable plastic fruit and vegetable stickers by 2030;introduce tethered lids (meaning the cap or lid on a plastic bottle must remain attached to the bottle itself, even after it’s opened) for plastic bottles by 2030;require takeaway food service businesses to accept reusable cups by 2028 and large food service businesses to provide reusable cup options by 2030;phase out small condiment containers such as soy sauce fish bottles by 2030 and similar single-use packaging that cannot be recycled, in favour of recyclable options;require the redesign of takeaway food containers, such as plastic bowls with lids, bento boxes and sushi trays, to ensure they can be recycled safely;regulate harmful chemical additives in plastic food and beverage packaging to prevent toxins entering soil, water and the food chain;ban lighter-than-air (helium) balloon releases, in line with other states.The NSW Government’s approach builds on previous bans of lightweight plastic bags, straws, stirrers and single-use cutlery, and has been shaped through extensive consultation with industry, environment groups and the community.The Government will continue consultation with industry, small businesses, manufacturers, retailers and councils to support a smooth transition to safer, recyclable alternatives. The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has already been consulting with industry in detail.Where possible, NSW will continue to align with other jurisdictions to give industry consistency and certainty.To read the NSW Plastics Plan 2.0, visit https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/Your-environment/Plastics/plastics-plan-20.Minister for the Environment, Penny Sharpe said, “Microplastics are entering our bodies and plastic is polluting our environment and oceans, killing our wildlife.“This plan moves NSW another step closer to phasing out these problematic items.“Our plan has carefully considered actions we need to take to protect the environment and human health, while also considering how we can support industry to transition to recyclable or reusable alternatives.“The great news is that industry is already moving this way – many businesses are leading the way in developing alternatives to single-use plastics.“We will continue to work with industry, small businesses, manufacturers, retailers and councils to support a smooth transition to safer, recyclable alternatives.”General Manager, Mars Food & Nutrition Australia, Bill Heague said, “At Mars, we’re working towards a world where no packaging becomes waste.“We welcome moves to phase out problematic plastic formats, which is why we’re trialling new innovations like our paper-based MasterFoods Squeeze-On Tomato Sauce packs, which are recyclable and could eliminate around 190 tonnes of plastic from our value chain if we fully transition our portfolio.“In order to adopt more sustainable packaging without impacting negatively on the consumer’s experience, businesses like ours need time to research, develop, test and scale up new packaging solutions.“We welcome the NSW’s Government’s recognition that an adjustment period for businesses will support a smooth transition, and we’re excited by the possibilities further innovations in this space may present.”

A critical investigation is underway regarding the response of police after a man’s body was located in Goonellabah early Friday morning.About 2.50am last Friday (7 November 2025), a 31-year-old man was taken to Lismore Base Hospital by unknown persons suffering serious head injuries.He was later airlifted to the Gold Coast University Hospital, where he remains in a serious condition.About 6.20am that same day, emergency services were called to Fischer Street, Goonellabah, following reports that a body had been located.Officers established a crime scene after finding the body of a 25-year-old man on a nearby walking track.Initial inquiries indicate the men may have been involved in a brawl in Clifford Park, Goonellabah, early that same morning. It is believed that up to 15-20 persons may have been involved in the brawl.The investigation is being led by officers attached to Richmond Police District, assisted by the State Crime Command's Homicide Squad under Strike Force Pineshaw.As investigations continue, police are urging anyone with information about the incident, or was in the area at the time with any available dashcam/mobile phone footage, to contact Lismore Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.The critical incident investigation has been established to review the actions of police in responding to this incident and is being conducted by officers attached to the Mid North Coast Police District.The internal investigation will be the subject of an independent review by the Professional Standards Command and oversight by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Lismore, you have three weeks to submit your nominations for the 2026 Australia Day Awards, which, this year, feature two new categories: Academic Excellence and Contribution to Economic Excellence.The Awards are held annually to recognise people who give back to the community through volunteering, community work or who excel in sports or other endeavours.Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said the Awards were a chance to recognise our unsung heroes who put in many hours as volunteers to make our community an even better place to live, work and raise a family.“One thing that has always stood out to me is that our community is full of quiet unsung heroes,” he said.“The Australia Day Awards give us a chance every year to honour those passionate people who dedicate a large part of their lives to building a stronger, healthier community with no thought of personal gain.“This year, we have also added to new categories, Academic Excellence and Contribution to Economic Excellence.“If you have a friend who works hard for a volunteer group, know a student who is kicking goals in life or admire a person for their work for our community, please nominate them.“It only takes 5-10 minutes to complete an online nomination, so please get online before the deadline and nominate today.”Categories are:Citizen of the YearYoung Citizen of the YearServices in the Community (Individual)Services in the Community (Group)Sportsperson/Team (Junior)Sportsperson/Team (Senior)EnvironmentArts/CultureAcademic ExcellenceContribution to Economic ExcellenceTo make a nomination, go to www.lismore.nsw.gov.au. Nominations close on Sunday, 30 November 2025.

A new campaign has launched to help residents of Lismore and the Northern Rivers prepare for floods during the 2025/26 storm season.The 'Prepare Together, Stronger Than Ever' campaign was developed in partnership with the NSW Reconstruction Authority and NSW State Emergency Service (SES) and in consultation with local councils and the community.'Prepare Together, Stronger Than Ever' encourages people across Lismore and the Northern Rivers to take practical steps to prepare for floods - whether that’s getting to know their flood risk, understanding the warning levels, making a plan, or looking out for others in the community. The campaign comes as new research shows 80 per cent of Northern Rivers residents expect future floods, yet one in three still feel unprepared, and, worryingly, almost half have taken no action to prepare for a flood. The campaign uses local faces, volunteers and imagery across a range of channels, including press, radio, outdoor, social media and digital. You will see advertising on the Lismore App from tomorrow, and a front page button so you can easily find relevant information for where you live.The new Northern Rivers SES website is designed to help communities better understand and prepare for flooding. It features a suite of practical tools, including a flood risk assessment tool, a household planning tool and a series of catchment-specific videos that explain how floods behave in local areas.The campaign is supported by a suite of community engagement activities, including flood-ready events, a targeted program for communities living behind a levee in Maclean and Grafton, a schools partnership with Northern Rivers Performing Arts, a digital literacy program run through local libraries and local emergency information signs. (Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin, NSW SES Deputy Commissioner Damien Johnston at the launch of the Prepare Together, Stronger Than Ever campaign at Eggins Lane, Lismore, including local residents featured on the posters, Leanne, Sergio, Jenny and Laura.)Damien Johnston, the Deputy Commissioner of the SES, said the focus of this campaign is about empowering people with practical tools, trusted information, and supporting long-term local resilience preparedness."We know it saves lives, and together, we can make a real difference before the next flood arrives. Know your risk, know your warnings, have a plan and look after each other through this collaboration. The New South Wales State Emergency Service, Reconstruction Authority and our interagency partners are committed to building and reinforcing community engagement, strengthening partnerships and embedding flood imperative preparedness into everyday lives. And my final message is, now's the time to get ready for future floods."Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin, said the catch cry 'Prepared Together, Stronger Than Ever' resonates with our community."We do look after each other. We look out for each other, and we have to do this in preparedness. Most of us have been through a flood. One in three of us said we didn't feel prepared. So it's not something that we do once and then walk away. We have to do it over and over, and we have to remind ourselves to do it all the time."To have a Flood Ready Plan, Deputy Commissioner Johnston said, "People should be aware of their risks, where they would actually relocate to, as well, and making sure that they're aware of where their information comes from. So, the Hazards Near Me app, the Bureau of Meteorology app, and just local risk and awareness, as well, where you actually live."You should have an emergency kit. But more importantly, as well, knowing your local risks, where your residence is, where your business is, if you've got a business as well, you need to be ready to move or shift goods to higher ground as well, making sure you have a plan in place, knowing that you do that well in advance of any floods or any storm events as well.As for what you should have in your Emergency Kit?"You should have emergency numbers, you should have, if you're quick to grab, as well, that personal information, such as licenses, passports and the like, as well as any essential goods, and medications, so your essential medications that you need to take with you, that you might not be able to replenish for some time if you were to lose it as well, and also those evacuation areas where you might need to relocate to to be out of harm's way."Minister Saffin added, "I'd add a power bank and a battery."The research has shown that almost half of those surveyed had taken no action to prepare for a flood. Does this concern the Deputy Commissioner?"It does, and this awareness campaign is trying to make sure that there's action taken, and that people do. Thirty per cent of people actually don't know what to do yet. So, this is us helping the community to make sure that they are aware of what to do and how to prepare."If you would like to double-check your Flood Plan or create your first Flood Plan, go to the NSW SES website, and you will find an Emergency Planning Toolkit. You can enter your suburb, which will help tailor your risks for your local area, including your evacuation areas.The Prepare Together, Stronger Than Ever campaign is part of the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program, funded by the Australian Government. It honours the lived experience of communities that have rebuilt and continues to invest in stronger, better-prepared neighbourhoods.The campaign will begin on Sunday, 9 November. For more information, visit ses.nsw.gov.au/northernrivers.

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin is encouraging local farmers and others with an interest in the state’s Cattle Tick Program to give their feedback on the program to the new Independent Biosecurity Commissioner. “The tick program has been running for more than 100 years in our region, to protect livestock in north-east NSW up to the Queensland border, where the tick is a well-known pest. “I have been working with farmers, veterinarians and farmers organisations to get attention for this program and am very pleased to see it is a priority for the new Biosecurity Commissioner, Dr Katherine Clift. “I have had a good meeting with Dr Clift on the issue. “I thank the NSW Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty, for making this the first key job Dr Clift has been tasked with, to determine the most effective approach for the future management of cattle tick in NSW. “People can give their feedback at local cattle tick workshops next week, or through an online survey or written submission on the Commissioner’s website. The workshops are being held at Murwillumbah on November 11, Kyogle on November 12 and Lismore on November 13.  Information on registering for workshops, the consultation paper, survey and how to make a submission is available on the DPI website: dpi.nsw.gov.au/dpi/biosecurity/independent-biosecurity-commissioner/advice-on-the-nsw-cattle-tick-program.The survey and submissions are open until 5pm on 27 November 2025.  

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin says applications are now open for the 2025–26 Crown Reserves Improvement Fund, and she is encouraging eligible locals to apply.“The Crown Reserves Improvement Fund provides valuable grants to maintain and upgrade our local reserves and community facilities on Crown Land.“This year, the Minns Government has increased the funding to $13.5 million, more than $2 million higher than last year.“And the Government has halved the minimum general grant amount to $50,000, making it easier for Crown land managers to apply for smaller, high-impact projects that make a big difference to their communities.“The Crown Reserves Improvement Fund supports repairs, maintenance, and upgrades that enhance the cultural, sporting and recreational life of our communities,” Ms Saffin saidApplications for projects up to $1 million are open to Crown Land reserve managers, including local councils, community groups, and showgrounds. Applications close at 5:00 pm AEDT on 5 December 2025.Projects that best meet the relevant criteria will be recommended for funding and presented to the Minister for Lands and Property for approval before final allocation of funds is determined by a Crown Lands assessment committee in early to mid-2026.For more information, potential applicants can visit the Reserve Manager Website. Or contact the Department's funding team on 1300 886 235 (option 5) or via email at reservefunding@crownland.nsw.gov.au.

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin has announced the Goonellabah Football Club will benefit from $94,776 for new field lighting, under the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Grants program.Ms Saffin said the club will use the grant to install modern, environmentally sustainable LED lights to upgrade the lighting on the playing fields at Weston Park.”This is wonderful news for the club, which has hundreds of players in its Goonellabah Hornets teams ranging from the 6-year-olds up to the senior teams.Jeff Wingfield from Goonellabah FC said the club will be able to complete its lighting upgrade with four new lighting towers, which will give it six overall.“The improved lighting will ensure it easily meets the lux rating for night games, and is important for training too.“This is the third time the club has applied for this grant funding, and I’m hoping the club can get the lighting installed before the next season,” Mr Wingman said.The grants are made possible by the ClubGrants Category 3, which re-invests profits from registered clubs’ gaming machines into community projects.The Minister for Racing and Gaming said the grants support local communities to create or improve facilities that boost community spirit and increase health and wellbeing through participation in sport and recreation, the arts, volunteering or preparing for natural disasters.“We received a large number of worthy projects for consideration, and I congratulate those who have been successful and look forward to seeing the work they can undertake to benefit communities.”Applications for the next round of ClubGrants category 3 open on 24 November.

The Federal Government is looking at lowering the default speed limit on regional roads from 100 to 70 kilometres per hour, with one of the reasons being to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Government’s Regulatory Impact Statement argues that slower speeds will reduce fuel consumption and therefore reduce carbon emissions from vehicles.Federal Member for Page, Kevin Hogan, said Labor are trying to meet their reckless net zero 2050 targets, and it’s having real impacts on regional Australians.“Instead of actually fixing the roads that we rely on, Labor’s answer is to slow people down,” Mr Hogan said.“Families, farmers, freight operators and tradies in the bush are being punished to make Labor look good at a climate conference. They’re treating regional Australians as the easy target for their net zero experiments.”He said the plan would devastate productivity across regional industries.“This would be a 30 per cent cut in productivity for every farmer, truckie, tradie and small business that depends on these roads. It means longer trips, higher fuel bills and higher costs for every household,” Mr Hogan said.“It’s a bureaucratic quick fix that ignores the realities of regional life. Mums and dads driving kids to school, families heading to sport, freight operators moving our food and fibre. They’ll all pay the price.”

An investigation is underway after the body of a man was located, and a man was found seriously injured near Lismore this morning.About 2.50am (Friday, 7 November 2025), a 31-year-old man was taken to Lismore Base Hospital suffering serious head injuries.He was later airlifted to the Gold Coast University Hospital in a critical condition.About 6.20am, emergency services were called to Fischer Street, Goonellabah, following reports a body had been located.Officers established a crime scene after finding the body of a 25-year-old man on a nearby walking track.Initial inquiries indicate the men might have been involved in a brawl in Clifford Park near Cassia Crescent early this morning.The investigation is being led by officers attached to Richmond Police District, assisted by the State Crime Command's Homicide Squad.As inquiries continue, anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.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.