Lismore City Council announced that hundreds of cycling enthusiasts will converge on Lismore next month for the first-ever Lismore Cycling Festival.The bumper two-day event, held in partnership with the Byron Bay Cycle Club on the weekend of 5 and 6 October, promises a mix of competitive racing, participation rides and ‘Come-and-try’ sessions for children and adults.This mix of options makes the event perfect for seasoned cyclists and newcomers.Lismore City Council’s Manager of Active and Liveable Communities, Tony Duffy, said the event will showcase the Council's ability to host cycling events that require short and long-distance cycling.“On Saturday, we will have criterium racing around the Oakes Oval complex, which is a fast-paced, bunch-style racing on a closed-street circuit,” he said.“Then, on Sunday, the focus shifts to the Fondo events, which are rides designed to accommodate different skill levels and fitness around our stunning Lismore countryside, from the ridgelines of the Nimbin valley to the lush Woodlawn and Numulgi valleys.”“Officials in vehicles with orange flashing lights will patrol the rider group's front, middle and rear. Some CBD roads will be closed for short-distance racing, but most roads are still open to traffic for long-distance. Existing speed limits apply, and maps will be available soon on the official website.”Saturday starts with registration at 10am, followed by thrilling Cyclocross and Junior’s Crit-Cross events in the Lismore Regional Sports Hub. This is an excellent opportunity for people of all ages to try cycling in a fun, off-road environment. Cyclocross, popular in Europe, offers a safe and exciting way to develop cycling skills.From 2pm, things speed up with criterium racing around the Oakes Oval complex, featuring fast-paced, bunch-style racing on a closed street circuit. Spectators are encouraged to enjoy the action from Lismore’s Sporting Hub, where stalls will provide coffee, food and plenty of atmosphere.Free parking is available in the Harold Federicks car park between the Lismore Regional Sports Hub and the Lismore Library/Art Gallery buildings.On Sunday, the focus shifts to the Fondo events – participation rides designed to accommodate different skill levels and fitness. Riders can choose between the Gran Fondo (110km), Medio Fondo (70km), or Piccolo Fondo (28km).A Byron Bay Cycle Club spokesperson said riders will be safe no matter what event they choose to participate in.“Cycling isn’t just about racing, these Fondo events are a chance for people to enjoy the beauty of our region at their own pace,” the spokesperson said.“The festival is for everyone, whether you're a seasoned rider or just looking for a fun way to get active.“Safety is paramount, with marshals patrolling the courses in vehicles. Participants are reminded that all bikes must be road-legal (including pedal-assist bikes) and that helmets are mandatory.”The event is expected to generate an economic boost of $79,250 for local businesses, with proceeds from the festival supporting the Lismore Rescue Helicopter Service.Lismore City Council estimate:Day 1 Criterium – Estimated total visitor spend of $27,000Day 2 Fondo/Midlands/Flatlands – Estimated total visitor spend of $52,250 For more information and to register, visit the official Lismore Cycling Festival website at www.byronbaycycleclub.org.au/lismore-cycling-festival-2024 The festival once again demonstrates that Lismore is a regional sporting hub after successfully hosting a number of major events this year, including the Australian Women’s Baseball Showcase and Masters Hockey.

You may not know this, but Lismore is a hotbed of futsal talent. Four VIFPs on the Australian team are close to arriving in Colombia right about now for the VIII FIFUSA World Cup.Clay Skinner from Just Futsal NSW and Gold Coast United, and Hunter Hotko from Just Futsal NSW, GC United and Galaxy FC, will be playing under the guidance of Vinnie Leite (coach) and Alex Argolo (physiologist).Vinnie Leite, began three futsal leagues in the Northern Rivers. He is dedicated to developing the next generation of players.  “I started futsal in 2010. We had about 40 to 60 people playing futsal. This year, we're going to have over 1000 people playing in our region. “I saw the quality in these two players. To see these two take this journey and go to this tournament, which is a one off opportunity, might change the course of their lives. “FIFUSA is very big in South America. In Colombia, we will have 5000 to 6000 people watching our games. And for a kid that comes from Lismore, playing in front of that many spectators, for the world to see them, that's incredible. “You can always make more money, but you can never make more time. So the time is now for them to shine.”(Clay, Vinnie and Hunter leaving for Columbia. Image credit: Vinnie Leite)Both of the boys are thrilled to be representing Australia on the world stage. Playing together for Gold Coast United, gives them a familiarity with each other's skill set that many national players thrown together never have the opportunity to develop.Vinnie has revelled in seeing Hunter develop as a player. “Hunter has been with me since he was seven years old. So I've been coaching Hunter for 9 to 10 years, and I’m very, very proud of the time spent with him, not just as a player, but watching him turn into a man. “As a young man, Hunter was very insecure, didn't have confidence at all, didn't want to take penalties. He was always shy.“Then to see him come out of his shell and become a very, very good player, very nice and charismatic. Everybody loves being around him. He communicates a lot on and off the court. “He's liked everywhere he goes. He has become a leader, even though he's young. He steps up to take leadership in everything that he's part of. He's very, very skilful. (Hunter Hotko with the ball. Photo: Snapshots by Dawn Photography)“His decision-making is incredibly good. He is so creative in tight spaces. He can get out of tough situations and even score. “He could be the next generation of Futsalroos if he doesn't make it to the Socceroos. He can easily play for the Australian National Team if he's given the opportunity. Opportunities like this World Cup.”Hunter says, “I'm very grateful for such a big opportunity. It has always been a dream to represent my nation but I never thought it would come true. I hope I can go over there and play my best and make all my supporters proud.'Vinnie describes Clay as a shy player, “He still doesn't talk much, but he talks through his legs - he shows his skills. He's a very strong player. “He had a terrible injury, a broken back. He was almost out for one season, didn't play football, and thought that he could never play again at a high level.“He did physio for about six or seven months. He really focused. He knows what he wants, and to see him now going back to play for Gold Coast United, one of the best football clubs in the NPL League, and now trying for the Australian National team is a testament to his efforts.”(Clay Skinner, photo provided by Mrs Skinner)Clay says, “I am excited to be travelling to Colombia to play futsal. I started playing futsal when I was 13 at Just Futsal with Vinnie, and I fell in love with the game. Vinnie and futsal helped me develop my skills and made me a better football player.“I hope futsal is in the 2032 Olympics when it comes to Australia. It will be my ambition to be in that team.”Our support and luck go with these men.Twenty (20) teams will be battling it out, starting in 4 groups of 5 starting on September 13th.Australia has a hard draw, up against Brazil, Ecuador, Pakistan and Mexico.The matches for the first round are:15th September - Australia Vs Brazil16th September - Australia Vs Ecuador17th September - Australia Vs Mexico18th September - Australia Vs PakistanFutsal World Cups explainedThere are two internationally renowned Futsal organisations. FIFA and FIFUSA. Vinnie explains, “FIFA has a bigger reputation - all the big football players play for FIFA. “FIFUSA is older and specialised on development of the sport. It gives opportunities to under 13’s, 15’s and 17s, and men's and women's, so there are opportunities for them.”FIFUSA doesn’t have the big player draw cards and funding, so players have to pay their way to get there, but Vinnie says the experience, especially playing high level in front of big crowds, is well worth it.In Australia Futsal has not been promoted as much as in other countries. But in the leading teams around the world, showing prowess on the Futsal court is a necessary part of honing skills.“In South America, Futsal is played more than football. Good players are considered superstars. People migrate to football later because of the money, chasing that dream career. “In places like Brazil and Spain, all the juniors start playing classical futsal. Most of them play futsal two nights a week and one night of football. "So the kids train three nights a week until the age of 13 or 14, then they fully move to football once they acquire all their skills. That's why they produce the best players in the world.“Australia is crawling compared to those nations that are running in front of them, but in the last four or five years, the landscape has changed a lot with a lot of futsal tournaments.”Follow the World Cup at the Futbol de Salon Australia - FSAOr with the local club, Just Futsal NSWAnd if you are keen to give futsal a go, teams are forming now for next season!If you have the futsal bug, here is another article written about the physiologist for Australia’s team, Alex Argolo.

The Lismore Workers Club is arguably the most anticipated reopening of any building, council-owned or privately owned since the February 2022 big flood closed it down due to unprecedented damage.The countdown is well and truly on, as Monday, September 23, is the day when the doors will officially open to the public, which is less than two weeks away.General Manager Stephen Bortolin gave the Lismore App a sneak peek at the work done and what needs to be completed before the 23rd.As you would expect, the decor on the ground floor entrance is stylish but simple, given the constant threat of major flooding. The layout upstairs is the same as it was pre-flood, with a refurbished look and feel.The carpet on the first floor is themed around the river system in the Northern Rivers."We thought we would theme it around the Northern Rivers because we got flooded. All the carpet is designed for us, so this is actually custom-made for us. No, no one else has got it," Stephen explained.He points to a decal on a short window and says, "The decal on the windows is all river system. Again, that's designed just for us."The river system carpet moves into the bistro area, with what Stephen describes as rain cloud lighting continuing the theme.(The NRs river system carpet and rain cloud lighting in the Bistro area. The new pizza and pasta bar will be to the left)The kitchen at the back of the room has not changed, but there is now booth seating, tables and chairs, and a new dining option. This is one of Stephen's favourite parts of the rebuild."We introduced another eatery, a pizza and pasta bar," Stephen added. "This is all brand new. It's not quite finished yet; there's still a bit more to do. It's going to look like a shopfront with all the windows. So, woodfired pizza and a pasta and noodle bar."Our cooked-to-order meals, like a roast of the days and specials, will be the same as we had last time."The main bar that services the Bistro has a fresh, modern look, as does the large auditorium bar. That room can hold 800 people and is the venue for the Lismore Workers Club live entertainment, such as the Boney M Experience and Marina Prior & Michael Cormick."We've got a little cafe here (near the main bar) with a little kitchenette at the back. So this will be meals right through from the time that we open until an hour before we close. It's an all-day breakfast offering, too."The open hours have not been locked in yet, but Stephen hinted at starting with Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday - 9am to 9:30pm and getting progressively later as the weekend draws near.For sports fans, the sports arena will be something to behold, with the largest screens in the Northern Rivers."This is all brand new as well," Stephen said, "This is probably one of the biggest in the Northern Rivers. I think Byron Bay's got one about five metres, but this is seven metres."We can change the configuration. We can change each screen to whatever sport people want to watch. If a patron wants to see the football, we can do it. Or the NRL or AFL. We can have one big screen or split it into two or three different screens quickly and easily."The gaming area is pretty much unchanged apart from new carpet and new machines, but the automatic louvre system that allows for natural light and ventilation is impressive. The louvres are open until it rains when they close automatically the exhaust system kicks in.Sometimes, it is the small things in life that impress you; think of the upgraded bathrooms at Lismore Square. The upgraded bathrooms and the parent's room at the Workers Club also have a clean, modern feel.(The parent changeroom in the rebuilt Lismore Workers Club)The investment for the Lismore Workers Club is going to be close to $15 million, but there was never a real moment when the club was not going to reopen."It's about the community, we're back for the community, not for us. I think, if we didn't do it, it would have been a shame because it's an icon of Lismore."Look, there was a lot of problems with council and builders and architects, and we've still got problems, but we're going to get it over the line. It's been hard. It's two and a half years of planning, and now it's come to the point that we're reopening. In some ways, it's scary, and in some ways it's exciting."There will be no grand opening on Monday, September 23. Come 9am the doors will open, and the first patrons will walk through the door, swipe their card and make their way to the first floor.Lismore will have its largest indoor venue back in operation. Year 12 Formals are coming up in November, and Trinity and Woodlawn have already booked the auditorium. Last year Trinity went to the Ballina RSL, this year the money stays in our LGA.Until then, two truckloads of furniture will arrive this week to complete the flood rebuild. Staff will have a week of training next week to iron out the bugs and fully understand what they need to do. Keep in mind most of the staff will be new, never having worked in the Workers Club before."Virtually everything is ready to go. We have to wait to the last week to order our stock. That's the last week, and then we're ready to go."

The work of local Landcare groups has been applauded for a number of years. The removal of noxious weeds along our waterways, such as broad-leaf privet and camphor laurel trees, has led to the planting of native rainforest seedlings to improve the environment and water quality.Shaen Springal and Stephen Nelson have been involved in the Tucki Tucki Creek and Just Street Landcare Groups, which include parts of the Birdwing Butterly Walk. The hard work of Shaen, Stephen and their team is paying off.In mid-2023, Lismore-based environmental consultancy Ecoteam generously agreed to monitor the health of the Tucki Tucki Creek bi-annually over a period of three years on a pro bono basis to the two groups engaged in riparian rehabilitation.The first monitoring occurred in December 2023. The Lismore App covered Ecoteam’s second monitoring took place on June 28 of this year. The Lismore App news article can be viewed here.The objectives and methodology of the tests carried out by Ecoteam included sampling and analysing water and other indicators from two monitoring points within Tucki Tucki Creek in accordance with Australian Standards and using both in-situ and laboratory analysis methods to establish a record of the creek's water quality for future monitoring and comparison.The company set out to identify any toxicants that may be present in the water and also conducted a general stream health assessment in relation to aquatic macroinvertebrates and the presence of native or introduced fish species. Macroinvertebrates are aquatic creatures including insects, worms and crayfish. It is heartening to learn that traces of pesticides in the water are almost non-existent at present, and no oil slicks or grease were observed on the surface of the water during the two tests.For consistency, Ecoteam is carrying out its tests on Tucki Tucki Creek at the same two sites. The first (upstream) test site is not far from the Birdwing Butterfly Gully, and the second (downstream) is adjacent to the major stormwater retention basin bordering intensive residential building development on Just Street.A Stream Invertebrate Grade Number Average Level or ‘SIGNAL’ Score provides information on the health of a waterway by assessing the abundance and types of macroinvertebrates present. The first assessments found overall species abundance (fish and macroinvertebrates) were very low, indicating urban pressures have impacted the types of fish species present.Ecoteam environmental scientist Ana Assis explained that the macroinvertebrates SIGNAL scores for both upstream and downstream test sites in the first round were identical: 3.3. However, in the most recent testing round, the upstream site’s SIGNAL score improved to 4.2 and the downstream site’s to 6.0 – almost double the original reading.(Ecoteam environmental scientist Ana Assis collecting samples at the downstream site. Photo: supplied)“This improvement is a positive indicator of healthy waterways,” Ana explained. “In the downstream site below Just Street, we found more macroinvertebrate species that are deemed ‘sensitive’, which means the water quality must be healthy in order for them to survive and reproduce.” Ana cautioned that more rainfall in the summer months can lead to lower SIGNAL scores when floods and high rainfall events can wash away macroinvertebrates and their habitats.“It is important that we continue to test bi-annually because then we will find out next summer that if the macroinvertebrate scores remain high it will be a sustained improvement from the same conditions. This is why Ecoteam has offered to carry out the tests over three consecutive years,” Ana said.In the most recent wintertime testing, laboratory results showed that Aluminium, Nitrogen and Phosphorus were slightly elevated. Nitrogen and Phosphorus in water are normally a result of stormwater flowing into the creek. Especially in urban areas, all the water flowing through the streets and other concrete surfaces and then into the creek could cause higher levels of Phosphorus and Nitrogen. These may also be higher during summer when there is more rainfall. However, there is ongoing awareness within Lismore City Council to improve our waterways and reduce polluted water from entering them.Both Landcare groups have expended a great deal of time and energy improving the condition of major stormwater retention basins administered by Council along the length of the Tucki Tucki. Just Street Landcare has focussed on two stormwater outfalls flowing down steep banks into the creek below, which are subject to massive surges and occasional pollution after major rain events.($6,000 state-of-the-art Aquatroll monitoring device is equipped with sensors that measure nine separate aspects of water quality simultaneously. Photo: supplied)In the last week of August, Just Street Landcare member Chris Ashton filmed a healthy platypus swimming vigorously across the very pool that Ecoteam used for its second downstream testing three months earlier. This sighting caused great excitement among Landcare members and Just Street residents, validating community-based efforts to improve the Tucki Tucki Creek’s ecosystem health.Ana advised that platypuses like eating the smaller macroinvertebrates that live in the leaf litter and creek bed: it makes sense that there would be more platypus once there is more macroinvertebrate life available.“The near 100% improvement in the SIGNAL score for macroinvertebrates in this stretch of water is very likely the reason for the most recent addition to a wide-ranging group of fauna that call the Tucki Tucki Creek home,” she concluded.Mark Dunphy is the managing director of Firewheel Rainforest Nursery, president of the Big Scrub Rainforest Conservancy, and is known for his leadership and advocacy for bush regeneration in the Northern Rivers and elsewhere. Mark works closely with Goonellabah Tucki Landcare principals Doug Blythe and Shaen Springall and has observed their approach to riparian rainforest rehabilitation firsthand.Commenting on the results of Ecoteam’s most recent tests, Mark highlighted the role that revegetation can play in improving water quality.“Normally, the process of improving the quality of water on a creek like Tucki Tucki would take a very long time. However, Doug and Shaen’s work of planting high diversity and advanced tree stock in close spacings has led to the fast-tracking of the establishment of riparian vegetation. Within a few years, the creek banks are stabilised, there is shade over the water, and the “pool and riffle” system is quickly re-establishing,” Mark said, adding that it was critical to control and improve the quantity and quality of storm surges coming from urban sources such as Goonellabah into Tucki Tucki Creek so that improvements to the waterway’s health can’t be undone.

The Nurses and Midwives Association is planning more industrial action tomorrow, this time in the form of an all-day strike, as their case for a 15% pay rise continues to be met with silence from the NSW Government.Last Friday, the Industrial Relations Commission issued a recommendation that the NSW Nurses & Midwives Association should cease tomorrow's planned industrial action.Hearings at the Commission are ongoing today to seek to avoid impacts to patient and community safety.The NSW Health Minister said in a press release:There is no doubt this strike action will impact on our public health system, from longer waits in emergency rooms to cancelled non-emergency surgeries.While all local health districts have plans in place to minimise disruption, the strikes will very likely affect people seeking care.We assure the community they should not hesitate to go to their local hospital for emergency care.All patients will be seen and triaged on arrival at the ED and, as always, the most seriously unwell patients are treated first.Tomorrow, we expect to see people with less urgent conditions experience longer wait times, with seriously unwell patients being prioritised for emergency care.  NSW Health has also already started to contact people across the state whose planned surgeries will need to be postponed because of the strikes.  We remind the community of alternative options already available to them for less urgent minor conditions and keep emergency departments and ambulances for saving lives.Free health advice is available to people across NSW 24/7 by calling Healthdirect on 1800 022 222. A registered nurse will assess their condition and then connect them to the right care for them, close to home or virtually. This may include booking an appointment at an Urgent Care Service on the patient’s behalf, making a telehealth appointment with the virtualKIDS or virtualGP services, or escalating their care to other services like NSW Ambulance if required.Nothing is more important to me as Minister for Health than investing in our essential health workers.This statement is contradiction to the statement released by NSWNMA General Secretary, Shaye Candish. She said members were sick and tired of being undervalued, overworked, and not listened to.“The state government is not bargaining in good faith. Not once in our 10 negotiation meetings has the government sat at the table and discussed nurses and midwives’ pay. That’s despite us finding significant cost savings through our Rapid Business Case,” said Ms Candish.“It’s clear the state government is choosing to pay nurses and midwives the lowest wages in the country, and it will continue to see our public health system fall apart if it doesn’t pay nurses and midwives enough to stay in NSW.”The NSW Government then talked about its achievements since coming to power.Working in partnership with the Association and NSW Health, we have achieved much together since taking Government, including:·         Nurse retention levels reaching pre-COVID levels - as of 30 June 2024 retention has improved a further one per cent to 93.6 per cent over the past 12 months;·         Investing heavily in the nursing workforce - including $572 million to save the jobs of 1,112 whose positions were unfunded from 1 July 2024;·         Rolling out Safe Staffing Levels - implementation is now commencing across 16 of our Emergency Departments across metropolitan and regional NSW;·         Achieving nurse numbers at record levels - the nursing workforce has increased by over 2,000 FTE to over 56,000 FTE since taking office; and·         Removing the wages cap and delivering much needed wage increases - the majority of NSWNMA members voted to accept a 4.5 per cent wage increase last year, the highest increase in over a decade.The Government remains at the negotiating table and ready to continue to work in good faith.There will be a rally between 10am and 12 noon at Spinks Park, 133 Molesworth Street, Lismore CBD tomorrow (Tuesday).

High school students in Northern NSW will get to learn and ask questions about drugs, alcohol, partying, peer influence and safe driving as part of the returning Reduce Risk and Improve Student Knowledge (RRISK) webinars.Registrations are now open to high schools wishing to join the webinars, which will be held for year 11 students from 9am-10.30am on 13, 14 and 15 November 2024.Northern NSW Local Health District’s (NNSWLHD) Acting Director, Integrated Care and Allied Health, Kathryn Watson said RRISK provides students with important information to keep them safe.“The purpose of these webinars is to help young people stay safe on our roads and at parties. They learn how to support and look after their friends and make safer decisions,” Ms Watson said.Across NSW in 2021, young drivers aged under 26 years made up 14% of all licence holders but accounted for almost 25 per cent of accidental road deaths.RRISK was developed locally in NorthernNSW and has been delivered for over 20 years, with research showing it has a long-term effect on reducing motor vehicle crashes and severity.A 13-year independent study found that RRISK participants were 24% less likely to have had any crashes and 42% less likely to crash in darkness than non-participants.To support the learning, schools are provided with lesson plan ideas to use before and after the RRISK webinars.“Lesson plans include how to put someone in a recovery position to save their life, how to respond to challenging situations involving drugs and alcohol and the risks of vaping,” Ms Watson said.The webinars also feature engaging and popular safety advocate Paul Dillon from Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia, NRMA and Southern Cross University.In 2023, more than 2100 students from 28 schools participated in RRISK.Of the students who completed the evaluation, around 80% agreed or strongly agreed that RRISK made them more capable of being safe when celebrating and when driving.Students were surveyed before and after the webinars and reported engaging in significantly more protective behaviours around five months after the webinars than before them.Protective behaviours include agreeing with a friend to look out for each other at parties, identifying and looking after someone who is intoxicated and calling an ambulance for someone who is unconscious or severely drunk.High schools can register now for the program by visiting https://healthupnorth.info/RRISK24

The long-awaited demolition of Lismore’s disused rail-over-road bridge in Terania Street is to start next Monday, 16 September, clearing the way for the street to reopen to all traffic by mid-October.That means local businesses will have to endure one more complete road closure before Terania Street will be clear for all traffic flow, heavy vehicles included, for the four-week period.Terania Street has had to be closed to all vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists at various times since late last year following vehicle strikes that caused damage to the bridge, making it unsafe. Terania Street remains closed to heavy vehicles.Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said the impending demolition would be welcome news for the many motorists who use this route and for the nearby businesses who rely on passing traffic.“We know it’s taken a while to get to this stage, but the heritage listing of the bridge meant there was a detailed approval process before demolition could start.“I’m glad we are now there, and thank the Heritage Council of NSW for processing the application without delay.“I know the local community will be relieved to have these dates reaffirmed, as am I. It’s good to see the timetable is on track.” The safety of workers and the public is the number one priority and during demolition Terania Street will need to be closed to all traffic between Tweed and Peat streets from Monday until work is complete, which is expected to be by 18 October at the latest.A detour for all heavy and light vehicles is available via Wilson Street, Elliott Road and Ballina Road.Light vehicles can access Bridge and Terania streets via Dawson and Woodlark streets, which are not suitable for heavy vehicles. Motorists should allow up to 10 minutes extra travel time.  A detour for pedestrians and cyclists is available from Terania Street via Pine, Crane and Tweed streets. Heavy and light vehicle drivers should plan their journey and allow extra travel time, drive to the conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control. Transport for NSW thanks motorists for their patience during this time.

This week is Foster and Kinship Care Week, and the NSW Government is celebrating the remarkable difference foster carers make in the lives of vulnerable children.Foster carers provide safe and loving homes for some of the state’s 14,000 children currently in the out-of-home care (OOHC) system across the state.The NSW Government recognises and supports the important work that these outstanding members of the community do through their dedication to children who cannot live safely with their parents. We acknowledge that the only way we can continue to support children in the system is to better support their foster carers as well.Anyone can be a foster carer. It doesn’t matter if you rent or own your home or are single, a couple or a family. Emergency foster care can be for one night, a few days, or up to 12 weeks. This is a great way to get started and see if being a foster carer is right for you.The NSW Government has worked to recruit 200 emergency foster carers since July 2022, with 239 others currently on the path to authorisation. This recruitment is a key part of the government’s $224 million investment in the OOHC system, which involves:Re-entering the market as a foster care providerIntroducing government-run intensive and professional foster care modelsThis week, the NSW Government announced it will ban the use of unaccredited Alternative Care Arrangements (ACAs), where vulnerable children are often placed in hotels and motels and looked after by rotating shift workers instead of foster carers. These placements can cost upwards of $2 million per child per year. This announcement would not have been possible without the dedication of emergency foster carers.From August, we have also made paid parental leave available to NSW Government employees who are providing ongoing foster placements for children in OOHC."We thank foster and kinship carers for their dedication, compassion and care, and the huge difference they have made in the lives of the children," the state government wrote.To inquire about becoming a foster carer, go to nsw.gov.au/community-services/foster-relative-and-kinship-care/become-a-foster-carerFoster and Kinship Care Week runs until September 14.Minister for Families and Communities Kate Washington said, “Foster and kinship carers have one of the most important roles in our community – providing a safe place for kids who have nowhere else to go.“These carers make a real difference, every day, in the lives of children and young people. I sincerely thank all our wonderful carers for everything they do. “Foster and Kinship Care Week also provides an important opportunity to highlight the desperate need for more foster carers across the state. If you have ever thought about being a foster carer, we want to hear from you.“We are committed to building a better child protection system where foster carers feel more supported in the critical role they play in caring for vulnerable children.”

In what is becoming a series of motel events in Lismore, the Wilson Motel has had some significant changes - the owner of the motel, Bruce Whiteford, has taken control of the management and is making upgrades.Julie and Gordon Steele, professional motel business consultants, are coordinating those changes. They have been with the motel for a couple of months and are on the tail end of alterations to make the motel safer and installing improvements to the facilities.“We have implemented a complete change of how the motel is run,” says Julie, who was immediately taken with the spacious size of the rooms - the largest they have seen.“We’ve taken security measures at the motel up five notches, and cameras monitor all the access and public areas.”Julie and Gordon have implemented extra touches to make people’s stay a little more special. Things like a variety of pillow types, fresh milk, lock boxes and simplifying processes for guests.Bruce Whiteford has owned the motel for 12 years, and had leased it out until late last year. He ended the lease and looked for someone like Julie and Gordon to bring the motel up to a high standard.Mr Whiteford is now much more involved in running the motel. Julies says, “When we took a few weeks off recently, he came in, and I trained him up so he's hands-on.(Cool, shady verandas)“He's very keen to establish the business as a solid local business.”Now the most pressing changes have been done, attention turns to targeting Lismore’s newest attraction, the Rail Trail. Special bicycle storage and maintenance facilities will be made available to guests.As consultants, Julie and Gordon have moved from place to place a lot and, over the years, have spent time in Birdsville, the Barossa, northern Queensland and many places in between.“We've owned our own hotel motels over the years, and now, at this stage in life, we are consultants more than anything.”After fixing up the Wilson, they will move on to another project. Julie says, “I actually like Lismore. It's a nice little town, well it's really a big town to me!”(Gordon and Julie Steele)When asked about the complexity of work needed at the Wilson Motel, Julie says, “We've done a lot. Streamlining things, just making it so the motel runs as smooth as possible, for management and the guests.”Most of the flood work was done prior to Julie and Gordon's arrival, however they have taken all the rooms up to the refurbished standard and just completed recarpeting the remaining suites.Julie explains that they target people looking for short-term accommodation, “We get a lot of business people and tradespeople and people visiting relatives in the hospital because we're the closest to both the hospitals.”(Photo: Julie Steele)A new website was part of the brief for their contract, and that is expected to be live at any time. As part of that, visuals, information and rates through third party bookings were revised. Julie gives up the tip that it is best to book directly on the website.Keep an eye out for the new website, that may be complete by the time you read this!

The long reach of the 2022 floods has claimed another local business, with North Lismore's Clean and Green Laundry to close its doors on Sunday, September 15.Ian and Jennifer Juleff told the Lismore App they have just had enough."The building was pretty much severely damaged during the last few floods, particularly out the back. The last big flood just knocked it for six. It really did do some serious damage to where the residences are," Ian explained, "I haven't got the money to fix it. I just can't keep throwing money at this building.""We're at an age now where we've had enough. We're just tired. We don't want to operate it anymore."Ian and Julie's options were to fix the building, which is also residential, or accept a buyback from the NSWRA and close the business. The NSWRA does not deal with business, only residential housing. As you read above, they chose the latter, and who can blame them? The flood history in North Lismore would wear anyone down."We've had family living in there for the last ten years, so it's part of the shop top. We are in severe flood (zone), it is a really bad spot. You can't operate there. You can't live there. Some people are going to stay in North, that's up to them, but most people I know are going because we're just sick of it."I've had nine floods through that place since 2001. Some of them have hardly lapped at the door, and some of them have just skipped over the floor. But, you know, we've had four inside the shop. Three devastating inside the shop. You can't operate like that.Two of those floods were in 2022, February and March. Ian explained that the bedrooms and one small living space are upstairs, and the kitchen and bathrooms are on the ground floor at the back of the building, along with the main living room."They're not out of flood. Over half the residential area there is not out of flood, so you're rebuilding kitchens and bathrooms all the time. It's a very old building, and it's just not sustainable."You can't get insurance anymore. You know, insurance is over the top, and it's not flood insurance, it's just insurance as a whole, you know. Even without flood insurance, the last bill was $23,000, and it's going up by an average of 10% a year. Trying to get it is another thing altogether. You're running out of people who are willing to insure you."It is a sad end for Ian and Jennifer after putting in so many hours and hundreds of thousand of dollars for the last 23 years to keep the Clean and Green Laundry going. The sad thing is, it is a good business, even with fewer residents in North Lismore."It always has been a good business and still is; it's just different there now. I get a lot of people coming from out of town. We used to get a lot of local trade, but they're all gone. So, we're still picking up trade, mainly because we're one of the cheaper laundromats around, a little bit cheaper. People are very price-sensitive, and we've got the bulk loading machines, so they save money that way."North Lismore just doesn't feel the same, to be honest with you, it's very sad. All you see are fences, and now, you just see buildings getting demolished or buildings getting moved, you know? And, you've got a lot of squatters there now down Pine Street. I counted 22 vans and cars one day. So, you're looking at them in your friends' houses. Those people have gone, they've moved to different places, and they've just taken them over. I know there's a housing problem and stuff like that, but all these people are international."As a business owner in North Lismore and someone who had family living in the shoptop housing, Ian believes in what the NSWRA is doing."I agree with what they're doing. I really do. I agree with the buyback where they're getting rid of the houses in North Lismore where houses have been really badly flood affected. The people that are there at the moment are saying, Oh, you know, this is great. All these houses are going to waste."They didn't hear the screams from that night. They didn't see all those people, including ourselves, trapped there, wondering if we're going to drown. So, that's the difference between myself and a lot of other people who've just come in and going, well, it's not going to happen again and everything's fine."They've been brought back for a reason. Because it's too dangerous, they're too dangerous to live in. They are way too dangerous. That feeling of helplessness was just awful. We were well and truly trapped, like the whole street all around us. My issue is that I don't want to go through that ever again. I don't want anybody who's living in that place to go through that ever again."In what is a sad situation in North Lismore, it is better news in South Lismore as the laundromat there is increasing its business by expanding to the neighbouring shop. They will be operating the Juleff's old washing machines and dryers.(The South Lismore Laundromat preparing for expansion on Union Street)As for Ian? He is going to take a year off to recharge the batteries."I'm just burnt out, burnt out with floods. I just want to sort of recalibrate; then I might start up another business in 12 months' time. I don't know. But it won't be a laundry. I'll try my hand at doing something different."I'm a volunteer at the Dunoon RFS (Rural Fire Service). We're a pretty busy brigade, so that'll keep me going."I am sure everyone in the Lismore community wishes Ian and Jennifer all the best for their next chapter in life.

I have great optimism for our future working together. I am really proud of this sensible and community orientated Greens team of good local people putting their hands up to be your next Lismore City Councillors. The role of Councillor is hard work, poorly paid but a deeply fulfilling role all about people, connection and problem solving. I have been a Councillor for 20 years, including time serving as Mayor, and I am honoured to stand as the Green’s mayoral candidate in this election.Lismore is amazing in its diversity, and it has been a privilege to see the ‘big picture’ of our Local Government Area including, but not limited to; the economic value small business brings, the innovative horticultural practices people are undertaking and the attractions for visitors in our natural settings and cultural events. Representing the interests, concerns and ideas of the community and providing strategic direction to the Council provides great opportunity for positive work. Not just getting out and about visiting people and places, reading reports, taking expert advice, but also working together in the Council Chamber for practical outcomes. Community consultation is a critical part of Council’s responsibility, particularly on a future vision for our flood and landslip affected people. We need to implement flood mitigation plans ready now for action and emergency management procedures, widely understood to keep people safe in the face of a changing climatic conditions. Changes to services need to be discussed in open with opportunity to observe debate and considerations. Public requests to bring issues to Council Chambers are to be encouraged and should be a welcoming and safe experience. Local government has the biggest impact on our day-to-day lives. From the roads we use and the footpaths we walk on, to the household waste we produce and the open spaces we visit, Lismore Council provides an enormous range of services. In consultation with the community, I hear regularly that people want our natural environment protected, that we have paths suitable for wheelchairs and prams, shade and walkability around our urban spaces. Affordability and availability of housing is a critical issue for us, so too is the liveability and amenity. I have a genuine interest in town planning and how, when we focus on sound design principles based on affordability and liveability, we get good planning outcomes. Just some of the core services provided by Council are: planning and building approvals, roads; parking, footpaths and transport, waste and the circular economy, community events, arts and culture, emergency management, sport and recreation facilities and open spaces such as parks, gardens and playgrounds and many more. I am committed to keeping services local to support our economy. With 200 million dollars in service provision and just 30 million coming from rates, setting priorities is an essential task, as well as managing millions of dollars’ worth of infrastructure and public assets in our community. I have done the work and have confidently led on all matters in the role of Mayor.It is time for a change and these folk have the necessary fire in their bellies. Adam Guise is a Councillor of 8 years and a voice of reason and integrity. ‘I want a Council that involves the community in decision-making to create happy, healthy and liveable communities that people are proud to be a part of. I have not felt real leadership from the current council majority. What we need is conversations about the future and how we get housing that is ecologically sustainable, fit for purpose and genuinely affordable.’Virginia Waters is a Nimbin resident of nearly 30 years and wants our largest village represented at Council. ‘After going through the fires, flood and landslips, it felt like Nimbin didn't have the representation we need for important issues such as water security, village amenities and some councillors' lack of understanding about Nimbin’s community-owned assets. As an active member of Nimbin and the Nimbin Disaster Resilience Group, I believe I have a clear understanding of our community's needs. With future events likely to intensify, we urgently need strong leadership, preparedness, and collaboration at Council.’Luke Robinson is a senior emergency physician at Ballina, Casino and Lismore Base Hospitals. This is often the front line and Luke sees the impact of the housing and mental health crises on our region. ‘I've been inspired by Vanessa and Adam and their work for the good of this community. I have also watched Council meetings descend into childishness, so we need a more respectful and transparent Council that listens to community.’ Shae Salmon is an academic in Law at Southern Cross University, an enthusiastic radio presenter at RiverFM and a member of the Lismore Theatre Company. Shae lives in core koala habitat and is passionate about saving wildlife and preserving wildlife corridors. Lindall Watson is a new generation farmer, recently arrived in the region. She has a background in education and rich experience teaching in remote and regional communities.Binnie ODwyer is a local lawyer working for the Aboriginal Legal Service. She is a strong advocate for young people and lobbies other agencies for the provision of adequate support services and opportunities. As well as these good folk running for Council, I have been asked to run for Mayor of Lismore. After 20 years in Council, I am a reasonable and experienced voice. My achievements as former Mayor, include bringing a conflicted Council into harmony, ensuring a surplus budget with no rate rise, adopting an affordable housing strategy that is being implemented today, and initiating the handback of sacred sites to the Widjabul Wiabal people. My commitment to you is that I will do the work, show up, and focus on what you say is important.Vote 1 Greens above the line for the best opportunity to put these wonderful candidates on Council.Vote 1 Vanessa Grindon-Ekins for MayorTo find out more about Lismore Greens, or support our campaign, visit https://greensoncouncil.org.au/lismore/

The NSW Government will trial average speed cameras for light vehicles to assess the road safety benefits. Currently, they are used for heavy vehicles only.All other mainland Australian states and the ACT already use average speed cameras for light vehicles as part of their speed enforcement programs.The state government will now explore their merits in protecting lives and addressing speeding as part of a multi-pronged approach to tackling the rising road toll which today stands at 227 – two more than at the same date in 2023.Speeding is the biggest killer on NSW roads, contributing to 41 per cent of all fatalities over the past decade.That is 136 families and friend networks every year whose lives are never the same again after losing someone in a road crash where speeding was a contributing factor. Regional NSW is home to a third of the population but is where two-thirds of all road deaths happen.Two trials will be conducted on limited stretches of highway in regional NSW to assess whether these measures reduce speeding at these locations, improving safety and preventing injuries and fatalities. The trial areas are:Pacific Highway between Kew and Lake Innes (Port Macquarie) – 15kms between camerasHume Highway between Coolac and Gundagai – 16kms between camerasThese two stretches have been chosen based on a number of factors, including known crash history. There were a combined total of six fatalities and 33 serious injuries between 2018 and 2022 at these locations.Road safety experts called for the use of average speed cameras at the NSW Road Safety Forum held earlier this year and the Government undertook to investigate their use.Trials are proposed to begin with a 60-day period in which speeding drivers will receive a warning letter rather than a fine before normal enforcement, including fines and demerit points, begin.Legislation is needed to facilitate a trial phase, or any future decision to use them permanently.The NRMA will be part of the assessment process to ensure drivers have a voice in the review of the trial led by Transport for NSW and other road safety experts.A comprehensive communications campaign will be implemented to inform motorists about the trial.Road signs will alert all drivers that their speed is being monitored by average speed cameras on the trial stretches, giving them the opportunity to adjust their speed as needed.The average speed camera trial will build on other road safety initiatives introduced by the Minns Labor Government, including:Seatbelt enforcement by the existing mobile phone camera detection networkRemoving a loophole to force all motorists driving on a foreign licence to convert to a NSW licence within six monthsThe demerit return trial that rewarded more than 1.2 million drivers for maintaining a demerit-offence-free driving record during the initial 12-month period up to 16 January 2024Doubling roadside enforcement sites used for mobile speed cameras, with the addition of 2,700 new locations where a camera can be deployed. Enforcement hours will remain the sameHosting the state’s first Road Safety Forum of international and local expertsSigned National Road Safety Data Agreement with the CommonwealthMinister for Roads John Graham said, “NSW is the only jurisdiction in the world to use average speed cameras but restrict their use to heavy vehicles only.“In the context of a rising road toll, now is the time to trial these cameras for light vehicles and understand if we can keep more people safe on the road more of the time.“All other mainland Australian states and countries like the UK, Norway, Italy and the Netherlands have found average speed cameras to be effective and we aim to be as rigorous as possible to be sure they will also reduce road trauma in NSW.“Before any trial begins, the NSW Government will conduct a comprehensive awareness campaign to inform the public about average speed cameras and a 60-day warning letter period will give motorists time to adjust to their use in these limited locations.Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said, “The trial of the average speed cameras for light vehicles is about encouraging all drivers – regardless of the size of their vehicle – to rethink their attitudes to speeding on our roads and change their behaviour. “In 2023, speeding contributed to 44 per cent of road deaths in NSW, three-quarters of which were in regional NSW. What's more upsetting is that this behaviour is within drivers’ control. “Our goal is to assess how effective the cameras can be in changing speeding habits and potential trauma benefits.“Road safety is a shared responsibility – let’s all help each other get to our destinations safely.”

Defence has opened new facilities for Australian Army’s A Company, 41st Battalion, Royal New South Wales Regiment and 225 Army Cadet Unit at Tweed Heads, New South Wales.​The $12 million development provides the Australian Army fit-for-purpose facilities, including a multi-user depot, storage, ablutions, vehicle parking and associated infrastructure.DDR Pty Ltd, a majority-owned Indigenous business, was awarded the contract which has been supported by Project Manager Jabin Project Management, a 100% Indigenous-owned company.​The Defence estate plays a critical role in supporting ADF operational readiness, force posture and structure, and ensuring a safe and maintained estate – especially for those personnel who live, work and train on its bases.​Based in northern New South Wales, 41st Battalion, Royal New South Wales Regiment, is a reserve unit of the Australian Army. The battalion has provided significant natural disaster relief support, including supporting the 2019-2020 bushfires and the 2021 and 2022 Eastern Australia floods.Will this affect the future of the Lismore base on Military Road, East Lismore?The Lismore App understands that the new multi-user depot is intended to complement the Lismore Headquarters. There is no forecast change to the operational status of the Lismore Headquarters resulting from the new depot. The multi-user depot was purpose-built and is designed to better assist in the support and growth of the Army Reserves and Defence Cadet program in the region. Director General Capital Facilities and Infrastructure, Air Commodore Ron Tilley said, “Defence is committed to providing Indigenous-owned companies opportunities; it’s great to see another project completed, ensuring the Defence Estate is providing fit-for-purpose facilities for our people who live, work and train across the estate” Commanding Officer, 41st Battalion, Royal New South Wales Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Danial Healy said, “The newly constructed Gordon VC Multi-User Depot at Chinderah provides the 41st Battalion with state-of-the art facilities for infantry, transport and supply chain training and unit administration.” “The official opening of the Depot celebrates the completion of the project and the opportunities that it brings to the battalion, Army cadets and the wider community from training activities to its use as a support base for domestic operations in times of need”.

Get ready to go on a wild ride of storytelling and physical theatre in Wildskin, opening next Thursday, 12th of September. NORPA is once again taking audiences on an adventure outside the theatre, this time to a rural warehouse at the Lismore Showgrounds. Eva believes the only way to mend her broken life is to go on the road, solo. Lost, alone and under-prepared, she is soon breaking rules, and embracing danger. After encountering wild animals and even wilder humans, does Eva have the primal instincts to handle any challenge life throws at her? “I’m so excited to share this show with audiences – it is complex and layered while also being highly entertaining. It’s a work that explores narrative in a multi-dimensional way – there are different ways to interpret this story. Wildskin has been built through a very collaborative process with amazing local creatives and cast" said Julian Louis, Wildskindirector and Artistic Director of NORPA. "There's a huge amount of excitement and anticipation in the team. Now, we've spent a long time working on the project and preparing ourselves to create an epic experience for audiences."(The cast and crew making sure the lighting is perfect in during Friday's rehearsal)Julian explained what is unique about Wildskin."I think the thing that will make it quite distinct is that the audience will experience moments of emotion and a kind of solitude through the character: self-reflection. There's quite a moment amidst very exciting physical and dynamic scenes as well, so it swings between this sort of entertaining physical style with something quite poignant at times or intimate. And I think that combination is what's really exciting about this work.""This is about, I guess, a point in someone's life when they're at a crossroads, an intersection of time where they choose a different path and they set off to find something new about themselves and, in tackling hard things or brave situations, you find something new in yourself internally. So the whole show really is a fun and dynamic exploration of discovery of self and of other sides of ourselves."The Lismore Showground warehouse is another different venue for NORPA to use, it offers different opportunities of depth and ambience due to its size.(The dancing cowgirls rehearse their scene in Wildskin. Photo: supplied)"The warehouse itself just evokes its own atmosphere, which really adds to the show. I mean, this show is about a road journey, and with the depth and length of this venue, we can really create beautiful imagery and play with the sort of horror genre that features in the work in a fun way. It's not gratuitous violence or anything like that, but it's it's playing with story tropes and subverting them or playing with them to explore deeper themes.""It's got a cinematic quality to it when you have that depth of field, plus the sound design and music composition and the visuals and lighting, it's really coming together with quite a cinematic experience as well as live theatre. So it's quite beautiful in that way," Julian concluded.Wildskin is a whole evening of captivating fun from the moment you arrive at the iconic Lismore Showgrounds.Get pre-show dinner and drinks from 5:30pm at ‘The Roadhouse’ pop-up bar and restaurant by Secret Chef. If you live outside of the Lismore LGA and don’t want to drive, catch the Wildskin Bus from Byron and Ballina and return after the show. If you really want to make a night of it, you can stay overnight at the Showgrounds campsite. Visit the NORPA website for further details. Wildskin runs from Thursday, September 12 to 28 at the Lismore Showgrounds, 116 Alexandra Parade, North Lismore, from 7:30pm.Tickets Prices:Tue – Thu performances:Adult $59Concession $4530 and under $30Group discount 6+ $53Fri & Sat performances:Adult $69Concession $5530 and under $30Group discount 6+ $62Please note there is $5.50 booking fee per transactionPrices are correct at the time of publication and subject to change without notice.Wildskin contains adult themes, violence, strong language, the use of theatrical haze and flashing lights. It is recommended for ages 14+. Some of this event takes place standing (up to 10 minutes).

The State Emergency Service (NSW SES) is encouraging residents to prepare for the increased risk of storms as the 2024-25 storm season officially begins.Storm season traditionally occurs from September to April each year, during which the frequency of storms, strong winds and heavy rain increases.Over the past two weeks NSW has been battered by windy conditions, with 1,200 volunteers responding to more than 3,000 incidents, mostly in the south of the state.The Bureau of Meteorology has indicated the risk of severe storms is increased for at least the start of the season.Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said preparedness and planning is crucial for managing the risks as we head into the warmer months.“As we enter storm season, I urge all communities to be aware of their risks and plan early,” Minister Dib said.“We have seen this week the effects of strong winds which brought down trees, damaged powerlines, lifted the roofs of buildings and fanned fires across the state.”“It is incredibly important to have your plan in place, get your home ready and be prepared for what you will do if impacted by storms.”“I would also like to thank our hardworking SES volunteers who have been out in force in recent weeks. We know we can count on them to support communities across NSW over the course of this storm season.”Minister Dib also encouraged residents to download the Hazards Near Me app which was upgraded earlier this year to feature storm warnings, along side existing flood, fire and tsunami alerts.“Our emergency services are constantly looking at opportunities to improve the way they inform communities about hazards and that is why it's so important to have severe weather warnings available on the Hazards Near Me NSW app, Hazard Watch and the NSW SES website,” Minister Dib said.NSW SES Acting Commissioner, Debbie Platz APM, said severe weather can happen at any time and urged residents to remain vigilant.“While we are heading into a period where the risk of storms is increased, this year has demonstrated they can happen all year round,” Acting Commissioner Platz said.“I am urging communities to complete simple tasks to prepare heir homes and protect their families.“Have a home emergency plan and kit, clean your gutters, downpipes and drains, secure loose items around your backyard and balcony, and trim trees and branches that could fall onto your home.”Bureau of Meteorology Manager Hazard Preparedness and Response, Steve Bernasconi said the spring long-range forecast shows that above-median rainfall across NSW this storm season is likely."While the overall flood risk has been assessed as near average, severe storms can bring significant rainfall in short periods, so flood risks remain for some catchments,” Mr Bernasconi said."We are also very likely to see above median maximum and minimum temperatures during spring.”For more information on how to get ready ahead of this year’s storm season, visit www.ses.nsw.gov.auTips to help people prepare for storms:Prepare for storms by securing loose items outside, trimming trees and branches away from properties, cleaning your gutters and moving your cars from underneath trees.If you are caught out in a storm, seek shelter indoors. Do not shelter under trees and stay away from powerlines.Prepare an emergency plan for storms and floods.Download the HazardsNear Me app and set your watch zones.If you need assistance from the NSW SES, call 132 500. If it’s an emergency, call Triple 0.

The people of Northern Rivers have a unique bond with the people of Woodfordia in Queensland, and the iconic Woodford Folk Festival is a time to celebrate that.Robyn Kelly from Lismore has been involved in markets and makers for 27 years and says she has seen that link develop in creative spheres over time. The opportunity to become a part of that connection is open, and those involved encourage others to join.“I'm an advocate for cottage industries and allowing them to have the opportunity to move out of their comfort zones into bigger regional spaces, like festivals,” says Robyn.“The Woodford Folk Festival stands as a vibrant celebration of our artisans and producers, offering them a unique platform to share the essence of the Northern Rivers with Queensland.”(Robyn Kelly enjoying Woodford Folk Festival. Photo: Woodfordia)Woodfordia is now in its 30th year, and Robyn sees the opportunity for many who have not considered it yet.“As you wander through the enchanting streets of Woodfordia, you'll encounter the finest examples of our local cottage industry. This cherished event not only fosters economic growth but also unites creativity in a single, dynamic showcase.”Laila Page is an artist who worked on the Lismore Lantern Festival tree earlier this year. Laila has joined the Woodford caravan, "I was given the opportunity to showcase my art at the Woodford Folk Festival, where they provided a marquee and tickets. Dubbed ‘the space of art,’ this initiative allowed me to present my work to a broader audience. I truly enjoyed being part of the festival's vibrant atmosphere."(Laila Page and her artworks. Photo: NRCG and Katie Holmes photography)Michelle Hewitt is a Lismore Artisan making Steam Punk Hats. "The creativity and vibrancy of the artists at the Woodford Folk Festival deeply inspired me,” Michelle says, “From the unique lampshades to the postie distributing love letters, every detail is exquisite. This festival fuels my own creativity, and I am thrilled to be a part of it."Ben is the small business manager at the Woodford Folk Festival, and he appreciates the talent from the Lismore region.“It's like there's a spiritual connection with the Northern Rivers in terms of thoughtful, conscious community. You're our closest neighbour beyond the border; it's like everything between us and the Northern Rivers is a trading route,” said Ben.That isn’t too far off the historical path. Robyn had told of the indigenous affiliation between the two nations, the Bundjalung and the Jinibara.“For centuries, the two nations would get together to celebrate the Bunya season,” says Robyn. Ben mentioned, “Woodford is a gathering of artists. Yes it’s a festival. But fundamentally, the intent is that it’s always been a gathering of artists.”There are a couple of ways to get involved in the Woodford Folk Festival.If you would like to have a stall to showcase your wares, expressions of interest are now open.You can also volunteer and experience it from that perspective if you would like to investigate first.  

Lismore and Northern Rivers landholders need to be on the lookout for Giant Devil’s Fig (Solanum chrysotrichum), which is an introduced and highly invasive woody weed. It is problematic in grazing lands, waterways, forests, roadsides, parks, and gardens and is found primarily in the coastal areas of northern and central New South Wales.Ashley Donges, North Coast Local Land Services Regional Weed Coordinator, emphasised the importance of community involvement to help prevent the spread of this weed. "Preventing the spread of Giant Devil's Fig is critical for protecting both our agricultural productivity and our native ecosystems, and we urge all residents and landowners to take proactive measures to identify and control this invasive weed." Giant Devil's Fig is directly impacting and degrading our farmland as it competes with desirable pasture species with a direct impact on productivity and costs. The plant also contains toxins that can harm livestock if consumed in large quantities. The sharp prickles can also injure people and animals and impede access to stock water. The impact to natural landscapes across the region is just as far-reaching. The weed forms dense thickets that outcompete native plants Ashley continued, "Our goal is to equip the community with the knowledge and tools they need to combat Giant Devil's Fig effectively and by working together, we can minimise its impact and safeguard our valuable natural resources." Under the NSW Biosecurity Act, everyone has a General Biosecurity Duty to prevent, eliminate, or minimise the biosecurity risk posed by Giant Devil's Fig. To identify Giant Devil's Fig, look for a shrub or small tree up to four meters tall. It has prickly stems and leaves that are very hairy when young, and it has small, white star-shaped flowers that grow in clusters from autumn to spring, producing round berries that turn yellow or orange-yellow. For a comprehensive identification guide, including photos and advice on options for control, visit the NSW WeedWise website https://weeds.dpi.nsw.gov.au/Weeds/GiantDevilsFig. There is a Giant Devil’s Fig Exclusion Zone in place covering the local government areas of Bellingen, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Kempsey, Lord Howe Island, Nambucca Valley and Port Macquarie-Hastings. Residents in those areas must notify their local council if it is found and eradicate it immediately. There is also Containment Zone that covers Ballina, Byron, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed local government areas. Residents in those areas must prevent the spread of the plant, reduce its impact and report sightings to Rous County Council. For technical advice, assistance with identification and control methods, residents are encouraged to contact their local council's weeds officer. Detailed resources are also available through the NSW WeedWise website. - NSW WeedWise:https://weeds.dpi.nsw.gov.au/Weeds/GiantDevilsFig

A man will face a Lismore court today after being charged following a public place shooting in Ballina last year.About 9.15pm on Monday, 10 April 2023, emergency services were called to a home in Brunswick Street, Ballina, following reports of shots fired.At the scene, police were told that shots had allegedly been fired into the front of the property. No one was injured.A crime scene was established, with officers from Richmond Police District investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident under Strike Force Talmoi.Following inquiries, a 35-year-old man was arrested in Fortitude Valley, Queensland, on Tuesday, 11 April 2023.On Friday, 6 (September 2024), he appeared before Brisbane Magistrates Court, where detectives from Richmond Police District applied for his extradition to NSW, which was granted.The 35-year-old was subsequently arrested by police and was charged with 10 offences, including: Supply unregistered firearm – not pistol/prohibited firearmFire firearm at dwelling – house with disregard for safetyFire firearm manner likely injure persons/ propertyPossess loaded firearm endanger life non-public placeNot keep firearm safely – not pistol/ prohibited firearmNot keep firearm safely – prohibited firearmUse unauthorised prohibited firearm possess unauthorised prohibited firearmReceive etc property stolen outside NSW more than $15000Participate criminal group contribute criminal activityHe was refused bail to appear before Lismore Local Court today (Saturday, 7 September 2024).Two other men also charged over the incident have had their matters finalised in court.

The annual Base to Base Challenge raising funds to support the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service is back this October, with the month-long fitness initiative inviting people from all walks of life to unite, stay active, and support their local community. The Base to Base Challenge is a unique event bringing communities together with one simple message - ‘get moving and make an impact.’ Participants can walk, ride, run, or roll their way through 50km, 100km, 150km or set their own challenge. They can go solo or team up with friends, family, colleagues or their sports club to raise funds to support the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.  This Challenge is a call to action for everyone, regardless of their fitness level or background, to lead a more active life while supporting an organisation that plays a vital role in saving lives across Northern NSW, from its three bases at Belmont, Tamworth and Lismore. The Service is honoured to have 10 passionate ‘event ambassadors’ joining the challenge this year, each with their own inspiring rescue story from locations throughout Northern NSW. Event ambassadors like Emily Glover, who six weeks after the birth of son Hudson, was diagnosed with peripartum cardiomyopathy, an uncommon form of heart failure occurring towards the end of pregnancy or in the months following delivery.  “I ended up in ICU and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked on an urgent inter-hospital transfer to St Vincents Hospital in Sydney. I was told I would need a heart transplant and was listed on the emergency organ transplant list and on day eight, I received news that I was to receive a heart,” Emily said.  “I definitely never thought that I would need the Rescue Helicopter but there’s not enough ‘thank yous’ to say to that crew on the aircraft and how grateful my family and I are to them,” Emily said. Registration is FREE, and as an added incentive, the first 400 participants will receive an exclusive, limited-edition Base to Base bandana.  Participants can register at rescuehelicopter.com.au/events Today, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service operates in partnership with NSW Ambulance and NSW Health, to deliver the highest standard of aeromedical and rescue services to those in need across a state-wide network. An NSW Ambulance critical care paramedic and NSW Health doctor are on board each AW139 aircraft to provide the highest quality critical care where it is needed most.