Tropical Cyclone Alfred is taking the path forecast by the Bureau of Meteorology as it moves south parallel to the Queensland coast and away from the coastline.At 11am this morning, Alfred was a Category 2 system 515 kilometres east of Rockhampton and 370 kilometres northeast of Bundaberg moving at 10 kilometres per hour.Alfred has been weakening as it heads south and tonight it is forecast to turn southeast and move further away from the Queensland coast while weakening a little further. Unfortunately, Alfred is then expected to slow down and is likely to turn westward from Tuesday, moving back towards the southern Queensland coast. The forecast path shown above is the Bureau's best estimate of the cyclone's future movement and intensity. There is always some uncertainty associated with tropical cyclone forecasting and the grey zone indicates the range of likely tracks of the cyclone centre.There is hope that the system may take a different path on Tuesday.As you would expect at this early stage of Alfred's path, the rainfall range from The Bureau is wide.The best case scenario at the moment is for 22mm over the four days (Tuesday to Friday), while the worst case scenario is 195mm over the four days.You can keep up to date with Cyclone Alfred through the Lismore App Weather or through this Lismore App website link https://reg.bom.gov.au/nsw/forecasts/lismore.shtml.(Issued at 11:53 am AEDT Sunday 2 March 2025 by the Bureau of Meteorology. No Tropical Cyclone Advice is current for this system.)

Southern Cross University researcher Dr Alana Gall has been awarded an Investigator Grant of more than $640,000 to lead a research program focused on First Peoples' Cultural Medicines (also called bush medicine) in Australian healthcare.The latest round of the prestigious National Health and Medical Research Council’s (NHMRC) Investigator Grants scheme, funded by the Federal government, is worth $422 million.Dr Gall’s project spans two key areas. The first is embedding Cultural Medicines into Australian health policies to improve cultural safety, health and wellbeing. The second is to protect Cultural Medicine knowledge through research that informs research and development in drug discovery, regulation and intellectual property, to realise the self-determination of First Peoples and their communities.“Despite initiatives, including Closing the Gap, disparities persist in health outcomes for First Nations peoples. We need to focus on community-driven solutions that align with First Peoples’ ways of knowing, being and doing,” said Dr Gall.“This encompasses plant medicines, native foods, healing ceremonies, spiritual medicine, Traditional Healers, and both the tangible and intangible healing aspects of Country.”With the boom in recent years of products based on native Australian plants and traditional knowledge, Cultural Medicines face the double dilemma of misleadingly being regulated as a food or appropriated for commercial profit with minimal or no benefits returned to the community.“We need to make sure Cultural Medicines are appropriately regulated for the health and safety of all Australians and that First Nations Intellectual Property is protected from biopiracy,” said Dr Gall.Dr Gall’s project has the backing of three major partners: the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO), the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO).About the Investigator Grant SchemeThe Investigator Grant is NHMRC’s largest funding scheme and plays a critical role in supporting the Australian health and medical research sector by providing a salary (if required) and a significant research support package.It’s the third time in the history of the scheme that women researchers will receive more funding overall.NHMRC CEO Professor Steve Wesselingh congratulated all researchers who were successful in the 2025 funding round.“NHMRC funds investigator-led research where Australia’s highest performing health and medical researchers set out to achieve ambitious goals of improving the health and wellbeing of the Australian community,” he said.

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin is encouraging Lismore seniors to make the most of free events on offer during the NSW Seniors Festival starting next week.“The NSW Government is delivering $10,000 in funding to support Lismore City Council with hosting exciting activities as part of this year’s NSW Seniors Festival. “The NSW Seniors Festival Grant Program backs initiatives which encourage people aged 60 or over to stay healthy, active, and connected to their community.“The Lismore Council program for the two-week festival includes author talks, intergenerational story time, educational seminars, entertainment, dance, movement, social events and fitness and nature based activities.“Lismore Council was one of 35 organisations to receive a share of $200,000 under the NSW Seniors Festival Grant Program to host activities this year.“The NSW Seniors Festival opens the door to a range of fun activities which help older people in our community feel more connected to friends and our local community.”The full program of events for Lismore is available here: seniors-festival-brochure-2025-v3.pdf.

Lismore Regional Gallery is pleased to present OCCURRENT AFFAIR - a major exhibition featuring new and recent works by influential Aboriginal artist collective proppaNOW.Established in 2003, proppaNOW is one of Australia’s leading cultural collectives – members Vernon Ah Kee, Tony Albert, Richard Bell, Megan Cope, Jennifer Herd, Gordon Hookey and Laurie Nilsen explore the politics of Aboriginal art and culture, re-thinking what it means to be a ‘contemporary Aboriginal artist’.Conceived as a collaborative activist gesture, OCCURRENT AFFAIR addresses current socio-political, economic and environmental issues, while celebrating the strength, resilience and continuity of Aboriginal culture. Engaging wordplay through its title, OCCURRENT AFFAIRreferences the sensational journalistic style of some television current affair programs. OCCURRENT AFFAIR embraces the slippage between language and its associated readings to probe and present new narratives. The exhibition will reflect on the ongoing state of affairs affecting Aboriginal communities – issues that are relevant to all Australians.One of Australia’s leading Indigenous arts collectives, proppaNOW was set up in Brisbane in 2003 to give urban-based Aboriginal artists a voice. They present a unique and controversial perspective of black Australia, which is sometimes confronting and always thought provoking. proppaNOW create art that raises awareness of Aboriginal urban expression that depicts a contemporary story. They reinforce that Aboriginal Australia is a living culture that has evolved over time and dispel the notion that Indigenous art needs to be from a remote area to be ‘authentic’.This will be proppaNOW’s last exhibition as a collective – seeing this historically significant movement at Lismore Regional Gallery is an unmissable opportunity. Ashleigh Ralph, Director at Lismore Regional Gallery, says of the exhibition, "It is with great pleasure that we can showcase some of Australia’s preeminent contemporary artists at Lismore Regional Gallery. OCCURRENT AFFAIR is engaging and thought-provoking, providing a platform for important conversations around socio-political and cultural issues. "Our public programs offer the community meaningful engagement with these themes. Bringing this exhibition to Lismore reinforces the legacy of Lismore Regional Gallery as the cornerstone of cultural life in the Northern Rivers and a gallery that attracts national and international audiences."As part of OCCURRENT AFFAIR, there are a range of public programs. Visit the website for the latest information.OCCURRENT AFFAIR soft openingSunday 2 March, 12 - 1pmFollowed by Gathering Space with Kylie Caldwell for Aboriginal artists and community membersEmbassy programming in the Quad1 March – 27 AprilA platform for First Nations people to have a voice and share stories, poetry, and ideas.Words as activism: placard making workshop with artist Penny EvansSaturday 5 April, 10am – 12pmUsing Richard Bell’s Embassy as inspiration, artist Penny Evans facilitates a placard painting workshop for all ages, exploring the power of words.OCCURRENT AFFAIR closing celebrationSunday 26 April, 1 – 3pmJoin Rhoda Roberts OA in conversation with proppaNOW artists.

Northern NSW Local Health District is advising people to be alert for signs and symptoms of measles after being notified of a confirmed case who was infectious while visiting several locations in Lismore, Casino and Kyogle.The new case is linked to a previously notified case in the area.While the locations no longer pose a risk, people who attended the following locations, during the specific times listed, should watch for the development of symptoms:Monday 17 February 2025 – Ritchies IGA Kyogle, 17-31 Summerland Way, Kyogle, from 1 to 2pm, Kyogle Ampol Fuel, 26 Summerland Way, Kyogle, from 5:10 to 5:50pm. If you attended either of these venues, monitor for symptoms until 7 March 2025.   Tuesday 18 February 2025 – Lismore Base Hospital, from 7am to 4pm. If you attended this venue, monitor for symptoms until 8 March 2025.      Wednesday 19 February 2025 – Lismore Base Hospital, from 7am to 4pm, EG Group service station, cnr Brewster and Uralba Streets, Lismore, from 3:40pm to 4:20pm, Casino Woolworths, 169 Canterbury St, Casino, from 4 to 5pm. If you attended any of these venues, monitor for symptoms until 9 March 2025.    Thursday 20 February 2025 – Lismore Base Hospital, from 6am to 3pm. If you attended this venue, monitor for symptoms until 10 March 2025.   Friday 21 February 2025 – Ritchies IGA Kyogle, 17-31 Summerland Way, Kyogle, from 1 to 2pm. If you attended this venue, monitor for symptoms until 11 March 2025.     Saturday 22 February 2025 – Beansprout Café located within Mitre 10, 142 Summerland Way, Kyogle, from 10:30 am to 12:30pm. If you attended this venue, monitor for symptoms until 12 March 2025.Director of North Coast Population and Public Health, Dr Valerie Delpech, said it can take up to 18 days for symptoms to appear after an exposure.“Symptoms to watch out for include fever, sore eyes, runny nose and a cough, usually followed three or four days later by a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the head and face to the rest of the body,” Dr Delpech said.“It's important for people to stay vigilant if they've been exposed, and if they develop symptoms, to please call ahead to their GP or Emergency Department to ensure they do not spend time in the waiting room with other patients.“We want to remind the community to make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations. The measles vaccine can prevent the disease even after exposure, if given early enough.“This should be a reminder for everyone to check that they are protected against measles, which is highly infectious.“Anyone born after 1965 needs to ensure they have had two doses of measles vaccine. This is especially important before overseas travel, as measles outbreaks are occurring in several regions of the world at the moment."The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective, and is given free for children at 12 and 18 months of age. It is also free in NSW for anyone born after 1965 who hasn't already had two doses.Children under the age of 12 months can have their first dose of MMR up to six months earlier if they are travelling to areas with a high risk for measles. Parents should consult their GP.People who are unsure of whether they have had two doses should get a vaccine, as additional doses are safe. This is particularly important prior to travel. MMR vaccine is available from GPs (all ages) and pharmacies (people over 5 years of age).For more information on measles, view the measles factsheet​.

The first weekend of autumn is looking partly cloudy with maximum temperatures of 29 degrees. A great start to March.The Bureau is forecasting rain from Monday as Lismore and the Northern Rivers feel the effects of Tropical Cyclone Alfred.The exact picture will become clearer over the weekend, and the Lismore App will let you know if Alfred is expected to turn toward the coast. It is too early to tell at this stage.The warm temperatures mean contestants will be feeling the pinch during the Samson Fitness Challenge, which begins this evening and ends tomorrow afternoon at Hepburn Park.Individuals and teams of four will be tackling everything from swimming and running to gruelling challenges like the sled pull, jerry can walk and tyre flip.Motorists driving along Oliver Avenue will need to be aware as contestants run/walk between Hepburn Park and GSAC.Resilient Lismore's 'Stronger Together' community event is on tomorrow in The Quad (110 Magellan Street) starting at 3:30pm and ending at 7pm.There will be live music by Tapestry Road, Lismore Supper Club Soul Band and the All in a Chord Choir.You are welcome to take a picnic or there will be food options available, plus you have local restaurants nearby to support local businesses.ARTEXPRESS 2025 is being displayed at the Lismore Regional Gallery in The Quad between 10am and 4pm Saturday and Sunday.ARTEXPRESS is a selection of outstanding bodies of work from last year's HSC Visual Arts students.Play Little, Win Big is a new photographic exhibition at Lismore Flying Fine Art in the old Timezone building at 161 Keen Street, Lismore. Opening reception is on tomorrow (March 1) between 3pm and 6pm.Organisers describe the exhibition as "A captivating exhibition of never-before-seen photographs by 90-year-old Australian photographer G. G. Rochfort. Showcasing vivid slices of mid-century Americana. These images were taken during Rochfort’s 1959 visit to the United States — a journey prompted by his work as a newly graduated civil engineer on Australia’s ambitious Snowy Mountains Scheme."At 25 years of age, G. G. Rochfort embarked on his first-ever trip overseas. Tasked by the Snowy Mountains Hydro Electric Authority with studying American dam and tunnel construction methods, he found himself enthralled by the bustle and allure of late-1950s America. Driven by the excitement of traveling abroad—a rarity in those days — he captured everyday moments and architectural wonders on film, creating an intimate record of his transpacific adventure. Upon returning home these evocative photographs were carefully stored away for decades, only to be rediscovered 60 years later."The Lismore Evening CWA branch is hosting an important community event on Sunday (2 March) at 1pm. Hannah's Story is an interactive educational workshop to help identify the red flags and early warning signs of coercive control behaviours and helping to drive positive behaviour change.Organisers would love to see as many people as possible to hear this incredible story and to create more awareness and empower members of the community about the early warning signs of coercive control behaviours.The venue will be emailed to those who register for the event. Entrance is free with afternoon tea available for a donation. Registration can be done via - https://forms.gle/7qhkNMZkz8BUB5Ps7.The Lismore Farmers Markets get underway at 7:30am tomorrow at the Lismore Showgrounds.Fresh fruit and vegetables, honey and handmade goods can be purchased as well as coffee/tea and breakfast. Live music is by Broadfoot this week.While on live music, the Lismore Jazz Club has ESTAMPA performing on Sunday from 2pm at the Lismore City Bowling Club.It's $15 for members and $20 non-members. Cash at the door.At the Northern Rivers Hotel tonight Hannah Pearl takes to the stage at 6:30pm and Saturday it's The Hillbilly Skank also from 6:30pm.The Lismore Workers Club has The Fab Four - The Ultimate Beatles Tribute next Friday night (March 7). Tickets are available via their website.While there, check out the live music coming up, including Tommy Memphis and Who's Bad - the Michael Jackson Tribute Show in May.Fuel prices have been stable once again in the last seven days. Here are the cheapest fuel options in each town:E10 is 178.9 across the board in Lismore, 175.9 at the Ampol Foodary on Centre Street (96) in Casino, with The Metro and the Mobil on River Street in Ballina cheapest at 170.5.Unleaded 91 is 179.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road, Lismore, 177.9 at the Liberty's on Hare and Centre streets, the Coles Express and the Ampol Foodary on Centre Street in Casino, and 172.5 at the Metro and the new Mobil in Ballina.U95 is 188.5 at Bakers Corner, Terania Street, North Lismore, 194.9 at the Ampol on Dyraaba Street in Casino and 183.9 at the Shell on River Street (273), Ballina.U98 is 196.9 at the Liberty Foodmart on Ballina Road and the Liberty at 113 Union Street, South Lismore, 197.9 at the two Liberty's on Hare Street and Centre Street in Casino, and 191.9 at the Shell on River Street (273).Diesel is 188.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road and the Independent at Bakers Corner at 111 Terania Street, North Lismore, 189.9 at the Liberty's on Hare Street, Centre Street and the Roadhouse on Johnston Street in Casino and 192.5 at The Mobil and The Metro in Ballina.Have a great weekend!Have a laugh with the Friday Funnies.....

A man has died at a hospital after a crash last month at South Lismore.Emergency services were called to Casino Street, South Lismore, about 10.40am on Saturday (25 January 2025), following reports of a crash.Officers attached to Richmond Police District were told a motorcycle and a sedan had collided with the rider ejected from his motorcycle.The rider – a 19-year-old man – was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being airlifted to Gold Coast University Hospital in a critical condition.The driver of sedan – a 80-year-old woman – and her passenger – a 82-year-old man – were taken to Lismore Base Hospital for further treatment with minor injuries.A crime scene was established and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, with the assistance of crash investigators, commenced.Last Monday (25 February 2025), police were informed that the rider had died in the Gold Coast University Hospital.A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

Two North Lismore teenagers have been arrested following an investigation into property offences.On Sunday, 23 February 2025, two youths allegedly entered a home on Sandra Close, Coffs Harbour, before stealing a bag, purse, keys, and an SUV.Officers attached to Strike Force Imperium were notified and commenced inquiries into the incident.About 1pm on Tuesday, 25 February 2025, officers located the stolen SUV in North Lismore.Following further inquiries, a search warrant was executed at a North Lismore home on Wednesday (26 February 2025).During the search, police allegedly located and seized the stolen purse and keys, along with items including balaclavas, gloves, knives, and 15g of cannabis.Two boys – both aged 14 – were arrested and taken to Lismore Police Station.One of the boys was charged with nine offences:Aggravated break and enter dwelling in company intent to steal (two counts)Enter inclosed land not prescribed premises without lawful excuseFace blackened/disguised with intent commit indictable offenceDrive recklessly/furiously or speed/manner dangerousDrive conveyance taken without consent of ownerCommit s 154A offence and disseminatePossess prohibited drug (two counts)He was refused bail to appear before a children's court yesterday (Thursday, 27 February 2025), where he was formally refused bail to appear before the same court on Monday, 10 March 2025.The other boy was dealt with under the Young Offender's Act.

UPDATE 12:42pm1 of 2 southbound lanes closed.Advice: reduce speed and prepare to merge.Live Traffic is reporting an accident between a truck and a car on the Bruxner Highway, just past the M1 Pacific Motorway.Emergency Services, Transport for NSW, Heavy vehicle tow truck and tow truck are in attendance.The Bruxner Highway is closed in the westbound direction (towards Lismore).You are advised to avoid the area.Light vehicles are asked to detour using Teven Road.More to come.

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan released this statement on the third anniversary of the February 28 2022 flood.Three years ago, our community faced Australia's biggest natural disaster since Cyclone Tracy. The devastating floods tore through Lismore and the Mid-Richmond, destroying thousands of homes and businesses - leaving an entire community with serious questions about its future.In the aftermath, there were only two approaches that could have been taken: remove everyone from the floodplain, or keep them there and implement serious flood mitigation measures to lower the height of the next flood.The NSW State Government chose the strategy of removing those in danger from the floodplain. This has failed. Over 2,000 homes were identified to be unsafe. We are now in a position that less than half of the homes identified will be bought back. Some families who accepted a buyback, have purchased new properties back on the floodplain, highlighting the failure of this plan.Individuals and families had nowhere to live and had to make decisions about their immediate future. Some people started putting money back into their homes and commenced renovations immediately. Others decided to sell their properties on the private market. The new property owners did not qualify for the buyback.After the completion of the buyback program, maybe 900 of the 2000 homes identified by the NRRC will have been bought back. This means over 1000 homes will remain on the flood plain. Those individuals and families will be no safer and are still at risk. The CBD, industrial estates, businesses, villages, farmers and the road network are no safer.The strategy of withdrawing from the floodplain has failed. Flood mitigation is the only strategy that will give the region a sustainable future and safety.Over $800m has been spent on the original strategy of withdrawing from the floodplain. None of this money has lowered the level of the next flooding event. This means no home, business or industrial estate occupant, is in any safer.Our path ahead must include a public commitment to flood mitigation. CSIRO will release a report this year, looking at practical scenarios that include engineering solutions to mitigate future flooding. This work is crucial.If the community knows a metre or more will be taken off future events, they will invest and live in confidence in the Northern Rivers. The McKell Institute’s Cost of Extreme Weather Report found that between 2005 and 2022, the Federal Government spent $23.99 billion on disaster recovery and relief, while only $1.51 billion was allocated for disaster prevention. This imbalance must change. Flood mitigation is the best prevention option for the Northern Rivers to grow and prosper. It will also save future governments—and therefore taxpayers—billions of dollars by reducing the impact of future disasters. The 2022 disaster alone is measured as a $15 billion event.The Government at all levels must act. Decision-makers now will determine whether the next major flooding event in this region kills people, destroys lives financially, or if the region has been made safer. Mistakes have been made, and significant public funds have been spent with marginal return. This can be rectified with a real commitment to flood mitigation and a clear vision for the region’s future.

Hundreds of competitors are set to descend on Lismore this weekend to take part in this year’s Samson Fitness Challenge, tackling everything from swimming and running to gruelling challenges like the sled pull, jerry can walk and tyre flip.The morning competitors will compete in cooler but still warm conditions, while the afternoon group will be working their way through the course in temperatures around 29 degrees.Now in its fifteenth year, the Lismore Samson aims to raise funds for Our Kids, which helps sick children receive medical care locally. Funds raised will go towards the purchase of medical equipment to help with the treatment of retinal issues in premature babies.Powered by NBN News, the event kicks off at 5.30pm on Friday, 28 February at Hepburn Park in Goonellabah with the Samson Solo, where competitors tackle the course individually in heats. The fastest competitor will take home the title.The main event begins on Saturday, 1 March at 7am, with teams of four taking on gruelling challenges, including strength activities, running, swimming, and an outdoor obstacle course. With more than 500 competitors, the atmosphere will be electric.Competition in the Elite Men’s division is fierce, with the title race heating up from 11am. Meanwhile, this year’s women’s teams outnumber both the men’s and mixed teams, making for an exciting competition.Saturday’s schedule also features Teen Sprint (3 km) – a high-energy race for young athletes and the Conlon Bros Samson Kids, a dedicated obstacle course for children under 12 years, run by Mr Brad from Fitness Kidz.Sponsored by Conlon Bros Earth Moving and Sea & Sky Sensory Co, the Teen Sprint includes an inflatable jumping castle and unlimited obstacle course fun for just $10, while the climbing wall is an extra $5. Volunteers from Summerland Christian College will be on hand to ensure everything runs smoothly.Lismore’s local Army Reserve unit, the 41st Battalion Royal New South Wales Regiment (41 RNSWR) will assist on the day, alongside more than 120 volunteers, ensuring a seamless event.Athletes can recover at the Southern Cross University Recovery Zone, while spectators and competitors can enjoy Samson Eat Street, featuring delicious offerings from Amici Food Van, Boost Juice, and the Norths Baseball Club BBQ.For more information, visit the website lismoresamson.com, or Facebook Lismore Samson on Facebook or call 0438 417 085 or simply join us on the day to support the competitors!

Yesterday's Lismore City Council extraordinary meeting descended into chaos when Councillors (Cr) Rob and Gordon engaged in a personal verbal barrage. This followed a confrontation between Cr Guise and Mayor Krieg as the Chair of the extraordinary meeting.For context, councillors and the public (during public access) should only speak to the motion at hand. In this instance, the discussion should be centred around why the Property Strategy motion, which passed at the last council ordinary meeting, should be rescinded, and not rehash the same information that was tabled during the last debate.Cr Guise was asking questions to the Richmond River Historical Society's Robyn Braithwaite during public access about how the group has prepared for probable maximum flood heights. A point of order was raised by Cr Rob, which was agreed upon by Mayor Krieg."I appreciate the question Cr Guise, but we are speaking as to why it should be rescinded, not the work that the Historical Society has done. So, unless you can offer any alternatives around why the decision should be rescinded and why we shouldn't have a Property Strategy, then you need to rephrase your question."After a question from Cr Rob, Cr Guise then said, "Unless you make a ruling, an official ruling, and can quote the section and the relevant code of meeting practice as to why I can't ask the question I asked and frame it the way I frame it, then I will ask that question again, and I'll also ask another follow-up question to Robyn."Do you think it's fair with a lawful resolution of council to issue a lease to the Richmond River Historical Society to occupy the Municipal Building, that the idea to undertake a property strategy is being used as a cover to kick out the museum from occupying that building. Is that a fair way to conduct council business?"Mayor Krieg then called a point of order."Again, you're impugning improper actions by councillors and council staff, so I'm not going to allow that question."As the questions from Cr Guise continued, Mayor Krieg once again mentioned it had nothing to do with the rescission motion before Cr Guise challenged the mayor to make an official ruling. Under the code of meeting practice, when the mayor stands, all councillors must sit and remain quiet."Cr Guise, the questions should be in and around, why the decision should be rescinded, not hearsay and accusations of wrongdoing. So, either it directs directly to a rescission motion or not at all. And that is my ruling."Cr Rob and Gordon's joust came during the rescission motion about adopting changes to the Code of Meeting Practice.While Cr Rob was stating his case, Cr Gordon said something that was audible to Cr Rob. A point of order was called, and Mayor Krieg asked Cr Gordon to refrain from speaking.Cr Rob then pointed his next comment to Cr Gordon as he continued."Anyway, clearly, Cr Gordon doesn't want to have longer meetings or public attending to speak longer or longer periods of public access by restricting them to less than an hour. I think that's clearly the position by the frustration expressed in this chamber when another councillor is talking. I think it's very rude. Sorry Cr Gordon, would you like another point of order? Yeah, but you're not the chair, are you Cr Gordon."To which Mayor Krieg said, "I am. Thanks Cr Rob.""Cr Rob turned his attention to the mayor."You are Mr Mayor so you should be intervening on your member of your team. Do your job."Cr Rob thought he heard another comment from Cr Gordon, and with his microphone on, said, "Sorry, what was that? Are you calling me a smart arse? What are you saying? Say it on the record."Mayor Krieg then said Cr Rob's time was up and to take his seat, when Cr Rob called another point of order."Point of order, Mr Mayor, about interruptions every time I speak, constantly. I am sick of it. Do your job with your team member."Mayor Krieg then reiterated to all councillors to refrain from speaking while other councillors were talking. To which Cr Rob continued to talk, so the mayor said, "Thank you Cr Rob, your'e doing the exact same thing as what you asked me to pull him up."Cr Rob continued to speak inaudibly with his microphone off after which Cr Gordon joined in.Finally, Mayor Krieg adjourned the meeting for 15 minutes to allow rising tempers to calm.When the extraordinary meeting resumed, it was without Crs Guise, Knight-Smith and Waters. A vote was called with the rescission motion defeated 5/1 with Cr Rob in support and Crs Gordon, Bing, Hall, Battista and Krieg against. Cr Dalton-Earls was absent from the meeting.As a side, and as expected, all rescission motions were defeated.With the new code of meeting practice that will be adopted in a few months by the Office of Local Government, meetings could be more volatile.Councillors will be asked to stand when the Mayor enters the room. Cr Rob said during yesterday's meeting that he will not be standing when Mayor Krieg enters the room.A chairperson can expel members of the public or a councillor from a meeting. A councillor can be expelled if they fail to comply with a requirement under clause 15.1 with regard to an act of disorder. Councillors can only be expelled by a resolution of the council or the committee of the council. You can't help but think an expulsion is likely at some point over the next three years.What went missing during yesterday's council meeting was part of 2.1 Meeting Principles of the Code of Meeting Practice:Respectful: Councillors, staff and meeting attendees treat each other with respect.Maybe next time.

For those who were in Lismore and the Northern Rivers on 28 February 2022, the events will remain etched in our minds for the rest of our lives. Not replayed on televisions or social media at various times, but replayed in our minds when a conversation moves to flood recovery.As soon as the extent of this flood was known, the community came together in a way that the government (all levels) never could. The rescue was nothing short of heroic, and the support to those who were flood-affected was generous and heartwarming.Since those dark days, Lismore has been blindly reaching and searching for a way forward in our flood recovery efforts. That has involved all levels of government, but especially the state government, with a particular focus on the NSW Reconstruction Authority (NSWRA).There were strong calls for a 'community-led recovery' or 'community-focused recovery' following the 'community-led rescue. The faith in government was certainly low at the time and remains very sceptical three years later.When it comes to housing, we can see that about 750 buybacks have been accepted. We can also see that not one house has been built in three years.We all know the bureaucratic process has slowed the recovery process down through its checks and balances and multiple agency handling and approval process.What about us, the community? How much has a community-led or community-driven recovery slowed the recovery process? We posed two questions to four key players for their response: Mayor of Lismore, Steve Krieg, State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin, Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan and the NSWRA's CEO Mal Lanyon.Has a community-led recovery slowed the recovery process as much as the bureaucratic process?"What decisions could have been made for the community in the recovery process?Mayor of Lismore Steve Krieg:"The so-called “community-led” recovery has certainly slowed our rebuild. That is because you have lots of community groups, all with different and often conflicting agendas, fighting over limited grant funding."This has led to a disjointed and distracted recovery, which has become highly politicised with resources being diverted away from essential services to funding various organisations."Compare this to Queensland, where within weeks of its recent flood, a Disaster Commissioner was appointed to lead every aspect of the recovery and rebuild."Janelle Saffin MPTHE Lismore App has asked me to respond to two compelling questions regarding community-led (I prefer community-driven to led) recovery and bureaucracy.  People frequently ask me, “How is Lismore?” and I answer, “Forever changed.”I accept their inquiry graciously as I know they ask with care and concern, knowing that very few people have an acute understanding of the long tail of recovery and very few have experienced what we have. We know that recovery takes many, many years. That is not easy for us to hear but the Australian Red Cross evidence demonstrates just how long it takes. Look at how long it took us to recover here in Lismore from the 2017 floods that were two metres less than in 2022.Our community cried out for the reuse, recycle, relocation and resale of buyback houses, longer settlement periods, and that takes time, unlike Queensland, where homes are gone soon after people accept a buyback. The NSW Reconstruction Authority responded positively to these community wishes, but it comes with a certain degree of bureaucracy. My catchword is not business-as-usual bureaucracy but responsive bureaucracy. I know it is hard for any agency, but they are trying hard and with some success.To the rearview mirror question of what decisions could have been made. The Northern Rivers Reconstruction Corporation (NRRC) could have adopted the Queensland Reconstruction Authority model, could have informed themselves of the Victorian Bushfire Recovery model and that of places in New Zealand, could have not said to me, “Janelle we are only service deliverers, to which I retorted, “We expect only service deliverers to be competent and compassionate”, could have let their advisory group work and walk with community, could have accepted the people (Federal Member for Page) Kevin Hogan and I put forward, could have done a better job with the maps for the Resilient Homes Program (RHP), could have hastened slowly on the buybacks, and waited for the Resilient Lands Program (RLP) to roll out, could have included local government more and especially on their projects regarding land, could have engaged well with the community, establishing a two-way communication approach, could have developed programs based on evidence and within a solid public policy framework.The governments at the outset could have provided us with a long-term independent recovery coordinator, with clear communications, clear information, informed us well on what to expect in recovery, could have worked with the community leaders more closely, could have made it a whole-of-government response, could have provided us the Commission we called for, saying it was our (Cyclone) Tracy moment.But none of this leads us anywhere.We did get a reset under the NSW RA and it is yet to be recognised for its revolutionary role in preparedness. It inherited the right mess of the NRRC and has had to unscramble a lot of broken things, set in train. It has the power to help us adapt where we cannot mitigate, and that will be powerful, as there will be more events, and they need not be disasters, but extreme weather events for which we can be better prepared and then bounce back better and sooner. All governments are wired to Canberra and Sydney comms, but disaster-impacted communities need a different, almost bespoke comms approach. (See Communicating in Recovery https://www.redcross.org.au). This is finally starting to take shape now that Mal Lanyon has taken on the permanent role of CEO of the NSW RA. You will see him and hear him more at local levels communicating on what is important to our community. There is a Latin word desiderium that describes best what happens to us post such a catastrophic humanitarian disaster. We long for our life as it was and yet must learn to live the new life and walk with what happened, and shape the new way. We have done this and can do this.NSWRA CEO Mal Lanyon:“We’ve always said the community would be at the centre of what we do, and we remain fully committed to supporting residents as they rebuild and move forward.“As one of the nation's largest recovery initiatives, we’ve listened to the public’s desire to preserve their unique communities while focusing on building resilience.“Our focus is not only on replacing damaged infrastructure but also on implementing strategies to make the region more resilient to future flooding, relocating homes, and recycling materials from demolished properties.“While this process may take longer, our commitment to listening to the community and supporting their needs will remain at the centre of everything we do.”Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan:I don't know that we've done that much that has slowed it down as a community. I mean, I think there were bad decisions made initially about what the strategy is, such as to remove ourselves from the flood plain. That was a bureaucratic decision that didn't come to the community, and I think that was made on an ideological error that that person didn't believe in engineering solutions for flood mitigation. They thought it was too controversial."I think sometimes the community wants leadership too. This is what we're doing, and, you know, making decisions around it. I love this community, and obviously, there's differences of opinion, but I don't think it's been a community-led slowness about it."The RA were given powers through state legislation to speed things up, and they need to use them more. Whenever you want to do anything, and let's take housing, I'll have people who come to me and say, Kevin, you should be building more social housing. You should be doing this too, and doing that. And I say, what do you think of the North Lismore Plateau development? I don't like that, or they don't want the development up here, or they don't want the development at Monaltrie, or they don't like this, don't like that."We have a lot of NIMBYism, not next to me. Happy to do it, but don't do it anywhere near me. Well, now we're short of houses. We got to build houses somewhere, and we've got to understand that."Has the community-driven recovery slowed our flood recovery process? A question for all of us on a day of commemoration and reflection.

On the eve of the third anniversary of the February 28 2022 big flood, NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery and Lismore MP Janelle Saffin has been briefed on good progress being made under the Emergency Response Fund (ERF) Richmond and Wilsons rivers flood warning improvement project.“I recently sought and received a briefing from NSW Minister for Climate Change and the Environment Penny Sharpe’s office, and I’m heartened by actions and recommendations aimed at prioritising our network of gauges for installation, upgrades or integration into the flood warning network,” Ms Saffin said.“In New South Wales, we are working to improve flood warning services in the 62 local government areas impacted by the floods in early 2022 using $15 million in funding from the Australian Government’s Emergency Response Fund.”“Locally, the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water, in collaboration with the Bureau of Meteorology, have installed 12 new flood gauges, seven of which have been fully commissioned and incorporated into the BoM’s flood modelling system.“These seven stations include water level gauges at Keerong (Terania Creek), Gungas Road (Mulgum Creek), Whiporie (Myall Creek), Tatham (Sandy Creek) and Broadwater (Richmond River); and two rainfall gauges – Findon Creek and Woolners Arm.“The remaining five stations being commissioned include water level gauges at Leycester Creek, Robert White Bridge and Casino Road Bridge; and rainfall gauges at Mid-Richmond, Bungawalbin (Clearfield) and Mummulgum.”For more information about the ERF Richmond and Wilsons rivers flood warning improvement project, go to https://mhl.nsw.gov.au/floodstudies/DCCEEWBCD-RichmondHome.   

Tropical Cyclone Alfred has many people in Lismore and the Northern Rivers worried as it heads south in the Coral Sea parallel to the Queensland coast but out to sea.Alfred's path was uncertain, and there was certainly speculation over its effect on the Northern Rivers, given February and March are our most prolific rainfall months.As of today, Lismore has received only 128.6mm at the Lismore Airport, which is more than last year's 115.8mm but lower than the mean of 142.5mm.March's mean is 181.4mm, so we can expect a wetter month.Angus Hines from the Bureau of Meteorology said they are starting to get more confidence and more certainty about Alfred's likely path.As of 12 midday NSW time, Angus said the signs show a strengthening system, so Cyclone Alfred is likely to increase from a Category 3 to a Category 4 over the weekend."There are a couple of changes to this track compared to the tracks from yesterday, and that's the first one there, the Category 4 symbol that we see on Friday afternoon, as we expect Alfred to intensify during Friday even further."However, as Alfred continues to move southwards, it's likely to move into an area of slightly cooler ocean temperatures down here, which means the intensification will probably stop, and potentially it will even go back to a Category 3 tropical cyclone by Saturday morning.It is at this point that Alfred is expected to move towards the Queensland coast, but not reaching the coast, as a Category 3."This is going to mean an increase in wind and swell across eastern parts of Queensland. We've got a number of marine wind warnings already in place from Townsville down to K'gari, and these warnings could well be extended down to the southeast in the next day or two as well. And really, one of the most significant impacts of this turn towards the coast is going to be an increase in the swell."Importantly for the NSW Far North Coast, the second movement on Sunday should see Alfred moving away from the coast, which is likely to see it classified down to a Category 2 on Sunday or Monday and start a southeastward trajectory. This would mean less influence on our weather; however, it may linger over the Tasman Sea."This doesn't mean we're quite out of the woods yet. there is a chance that tropical cyclone Alfred could just hang out over the Tasman Sea for a few days in a row, and then may get blown back towards the country if an easterly wind picks up. However, if that occurs, it's likely that tropical cyclone Alfred would be a category one, or potentially a tropical low, no longer being tropical cyclone status."So, there's still a lot to go with the system. It's got a long life ahead of it, hopefully staying away from the country."The Bureau is forecasting a potentially wet Monday to Thursday at this early stage, but nothing significant.

Lismore pet owners and members of the public are being invited to help shape cat and dog laws in NSW, with the NSW Government delivering on its election commitment to conduct a wide-ranging review of the Companion Animals Act 1998 (CA Act).For the first time in two decades, the government will review these laws to greater support responsible pet ownership and ensure the wellbeing of pets and the safety of communities. The review will examine all aspects of the care and management of companion animals in NSW, including addressing the urgent need to prevent dogs and cats from entering the pound and rehoming system. It will also explore actions taken in other jurisdictions and the role and enforcement responsibilities of councils. Key issues under consideration include:cat managementpreventing dog attackspounds and rehoming servicesregistration and desexingstakeholder roles and responsibilities and the regulatory tools available under the legislationresponsible pet ownership education and trainingThe review of the CA Act will be informed by several NSW parliamentary inquiries, including the inquiry into the veterinary workforce shortage, the inquiry into pounds and the inquiry into the management of cat populations. The findings and recommendations from recent coronial inquests into fatal dog attacks in NSW will also be considered.To support the review, the Office of Local Government has released a discussion paper canvassing three key focus areas:the framework for encouraging responsible ownership of companion animalsthe compliance and enforcement role of councilsanimal welfare and rehomingPet owners, councils, rehoming organisations, veterinarians and other stakeholders can provide feedback on the discussion paper before 4 May 2025 by responding to consultation questions. To view the discussion paper and provide feedback, visit: https://www.olg.nsw.gov.au/companion-animals-act-review/Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said, “There are more than 4.7 million dogs and cats kept as pets in NSW, providing love and companionship to so many people across the state.   “However, the laws around pet ownership haven’t been reviewed in 20 years.“With pet ownership on the rise and increased pressure on council pounds and rehoming organisations, it is important to assess if the current laws are still fit for purpose. “We need strong laws that hold pet owners to account and make sure owners take responsibility for their pets at home and in public spaces.“The government wants to hear from all interested stakeholders to shape this review and ensure a wide range of perspectives are considered as the government progresses this important work.”

Students and health practitioners training at the University Centre for Rural Health Northern Rivers (UCRH) based in Uralba Street, Lismore, will have access to a new, world-class maternal and birthing simulator called MamaAnne.UCRH is the first location in Australia to take delivery of the MamaAnne simulator, and one of the first sites internationally to use the newly released training tool.MamaAnne is a simulator made by Laerdal Medical and developed in partnership with Limbs & Things which was unveiled last year in San Diego, USA. It provides high-fidelity simulation training in critical obstetric emergencies.UCRH’s Director, Professor Vicki Flood, said MamaAnne was an important addition to UCRH’s Simulation Centre capacity.“MamaAnne’s arrival allows those coming through our Simulation Centre to have immersive and technology-enhanced training,” she said.“From medical students to doctors to midwifes, this means we can help students and health professionals, develop and fine-tune their skills, thanks to incredibly realistic simulation-based learning.”MamaAnne has been designed to cover the mother’s labour and delivery journey, from maternal initial assessment to postnatal care. Birthing teams can train on the simulator for obstetric emergencies, including the top causes of maternal mortality: postpartum haemorrhage, hypertensive disorders, sepsis, obstructed labour.UCRH will use MamaAnne to teach medical students on rural placement with us and as a part of the various continuing professional development courses UCRH offers to the region’s health workforce.MamaAnne’s first use at UCRH was led by Clinical Skills and Simulation Educator, Rebecca Austin at a session with University of Sydney medical students on a year-long rural placement. The students are doing a term focused on perinatal and women's health.“We covered many scenarios around what’s called maternal collapse, including maternal advanced life support, eclampsia and postpartum haemorrhage,” Ms Austin said.“It’s incredible how lifelike MamaAnne is. She is so accurate in terms of the physiological aspects of pregnancy and labour, and that means the education we provide sets up the students ideally for their future careers.”Importantly, MamaAnne supports the development of student and practitioner confidence as well as skills, narrowing the gap between theory and hands-on practice. This is because of how accurate and lifelike the simulator is.MamaAnne has an automatic delivery system that precisely and accurately mirrors birth movements through the birthing canal. Silicone skin provides a realistic look and feel while articulating joints allow for simulation of any number of birthing positions. Other features of MamaAnne include the capacity for realistic bleeding which means training for postpartum haemorrhage can be provided.UCRH purchased MamaAnne at a cost of $116,000 with Australian Government funding through the Rural Health Multidisciplinary Training program. This program aims to improve the recruitment and retention of medical, nursing, dental and allied health professionals in rural and remote Australia.The World Health Organisation has reported that globally in 2020, almost 800 women died every day from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. Ensuring that women have access to high-quality care in pregnancy and during and after childbirth is critical to address this. MamaAnne will be vital to allow UCRH to play and important role in ensuring the region’s current and future health professionals are equipped to handle these situations.

The ongoing battle between Lismore City Council and members of the Richmond River Historical Society will continue today as council meets at 12:30pm for its extraordinary meeting.The Richmond River Historical Society and its supporters will meet outside of council chambers again at midday to publicise their case for a lease/license to be signed so the Lismore Museum can stay in the Municipal building on Molesworth Street.Lismore City Councillors will again vote on creating a Property Strategy so council can assess all of its building assets in terms of maintenance costs and potential commercial returns that will help it return to profitability quicker.Council has 47 what they call 'peppercorn' leases, $1 per year, to community groups as part of its building assets makeup.One of those buildings is the Municipal Building, which has housed the Richmond River Historical Society (RRHS) and the Lismore Museum for the last 33 years.Before the February 11 ordinary council meeting, RRHS claimed council refused to renew its lease, saying they had no idea why council terminated the lease.A spokesperson for Lismore City Council outlined the negotiation timeline between its staff and the appropriate RRHS member/s."At 9.32am on Thursday, 22 February 2024, Lismore City Council emailed representatives of the Richmond River Historical Society an offer to lease (or technically, licence) the Municipal Building on Molesworth Street for a peppercorn rent of $1 and informed them of the steps they need to take."This included payment of $109 lease/licence application fee, which was never paid."Over the next couple of months, Council and the RRHS negotiated the terms of the proposed lease/licence, such as who is responsible for the maintenance of the air-conditioning in the building."At 7.54am on Thursday, 2 May, Council received an email from a representative of the RRHS informing us that the last issue to be negotiated had been resolved and that the representative “will take it to the RRHS Management Committee for agreement and sign off”."As there was no response after more than eight months, the offer was formally withdrawn, and the RRHS informed at 12.48pm on Friday, 10 January 2025."Lismore City Council remains committed to working collaboratively with the Richmond River Historical Society to explore alternative options and secure a suitable location that meets their needs."Council has an obligation to ratepayers to ensure it delivers the best uses for its assets."Lismore City Councillors voted that 'Priority be given to find a suitable location for the RRHS as part of the Property Strategy motion.The Lismore App understands a number of alternative options have been shown to the RRHS, including their old home, the Trench Building on Molesworth Street, next to Stockpot, and the third floor of the Lismore Library at The Quad.All options have been rejected so far.It would appear the battle is becoming political rather than all parties finding a suitable home for the Lismore Museum and the RRHS. That, of course, may change following today's rescission motion vote.

A proud Steve Krieg, Mayor of Lismore, stood before the media today, announcing the CBD occupancy rate had remained steady at 77%. There was some fluctuation between streets in 'The Block, with Molesworth Street jumping 12% since the last Lismore City Council CBD Audit in June 2024.Standing on Club Lane looking at Molesworth Street, Mayor Krieg was proud, given it's literally 36 months since the February 28 2022, big flood."Almost to the day, where we stand now was totally underwater. To see the resilience in the recovery of our local businesses is really something to be proud of as a community, as an LGA and as a region."Molesworth Street has experienced the greatest growth. We have seen a small decline in some of our other streets, which is to be expected with cost of living pressures and interest rates being as high as they are; it is a really tough environment to be doing business, especially for small businesses. But people that have stuck it out, that have rebuilt, that have made the effort to not only come back, but come back stronger."We look at some of our premises now that are far more resilient to any of the disasters; it really is pleasing to see. So, I'm really happy to announce that Lismore is holding steady. There is room for improvement, obviously, and our CBD Activation Team and our Business Activation Team through Council are doing everything they can."There is some really exciting private investment that is earmarking Lismore into the future, and so I honestly can stand here and say that we do have a bright future in this city. There is obviously room for growth and room for opportunity here, and we'll work on that over the coming months and years, but I think Lismore is primed to experience its footprint again as the regional hub of the Northern Rivers."The Lismore CBD Audit covers central portions of Keen, Molesworth, Woodlark, Conway, Magellan and Carrington Streets. Below are the street-by-street occupation rates as at December 2024, compared with June 2024: Keen Street occupancy rate – 85% (up from 81.1%)Molesworth Street occupancy rate – 86% (up from 74%)Conway Street occupancy rate – 67% (down from 72.1%)Carrington Street occupancy rate – 78% (up from 73.1%)Magellan Street occupancy rate – 75% (down from 76.3%)Woodlark Street occupancy rate – 60% (down from 60.7%)Mayor Krieg said the local spend across the LGA in December 2024 totalled $111 million, an increase of 4.2 percent from December 2023. While this may have helped local CBD businesses, it doesn't stop the financial pain most local businesses have felt in the last two years, plus there is a federal election coming up.( Mayor Steve Krieg with Council's Manager Destination and Economy, Tina Irish. Photo: LCC)"Elections are never good for small business. It makes the consumer a little bit nervous about what is going to happen. But the interest rate cut is a step in the right direction; there's no question about that. As I said before, it is tough doing business at the moment. I think small business is probably the highest-taxed element across the country when you you take into account payroll tax and GST and all of those other taxes that small businesses are sort of having to pay out. It is a tough environment."With interest rates being what they are compared to where they were three or four years ago, it really is a tough economic environment. You throw into the fact that people have really, for want of a better word, maybe over-capitalised in making their buildings far more flood resilient in Lismore; it has heightened that economic pressure, there's no doubt about that.""You can walk the streets and talk to businesses, and each one of our businesses is facing individual challenges, but there are also great successes as well. I mean, just down the road from where we are, there's a beautiful little espresso shop that was founded after their original cafe was devastated by the 2022 flood. The owners decided not to rebuild, but the staff got together to reopen a cafe. So there are successes as well."It's really hard sometimes to keep being so positive and to keep being optimistic when it is such a tough environment. But I think you've got to remember that while other CBDs around the region, around the state, are suffering just as much as ours to see that we are holding steady, we're holding our own. It's really pleasing."As the CBD and other businesses take the long road to full recovery, the mayor mentioned the goal for the CBD was the January 2022 CBD Audit marker of about 92.5%. After other major floods, the recovery had a shorter timeframe, but 28 February 2022 was not like any other previous flood.This is the fifth Lismore CBD Audit following the 2022 natural disaster, with previous audits undertaken in June and January 2023 and August 2022, and February 2022 (immediately prior to the February disaster). The same area of the Lismore CBD has been audited by Council staff each year since 2017.