Nobody knows natural disasters quite like Member for Lismore and Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin.It is now folklore that Ms Saffin swam to safety from her flooded home in North Lismore on 28 February 2022. She has been integrally involved in Lismore's rescue, recovery and rebuild for the last three years.As the cleanup continues and the damage bill is still being assessed, the Lismore App had a chat with Ms Saffin to compare the recent Mid North Coast floods to 2022, and to learn about what lessons have changed the rescue and recovery efforts since 2022.The rain on the Mid North Coast around Taree, built on the Manning River, broke records with 750mm in May, the Manning River recorded its highest ever level of 6m, half a metre higher than the previous record, the Pacific Highway was cut off, and five people lost their lives."The similarities lie in that they had rain bombs, so some of the farms I met were in a pocket, went totally under, and some businesses went under. It wasn't like the whole CBD, but there were pockets of it and bits of it where they got a lot of water, and the same with some houses."When you read the report of uninhabitable houses. I say you have to drill down, and I get the drill down figures, it just means on that day when it was assessed, because it needs to be cleaned out. There is some that they say can't be lived in. It's clear what's happened to them.""For people who go through it, we can't compare because of the shock and the disbelief and the mud. This one, everybody talked about the mud, there was so much mud, and they said the one before was big in 2021, but not the mud. "We can remember the mud and can smell the mud still."Ms Saffin explained that Taree's topography is different from Lismore's. Taree is not a basin like Lismore, but it does have pockets of low-lying areas."The farms I went to are all low-lying, near the river. Good land, when it's all good, particularly for the dairy. So again, pockets of it. But it's up-and-down the mid north coast and to the Hunter area, so I've been right across it, although there are still some places I've got to go to. "Nearly everything's been assessed now. Some of the members of Parliament came to me and the Reconstruction Authority, and others, because there was a list of localities or suburbs that could qualify for the personal hardship.BUYBACKSAre buybacks being considered at this time for those homes inundated with water?"No. The premier said that's not under consideration at this stage, and I've said that one of the things we did here, we did do buybacks, and I mentioned it yesterday in a media interview, and I noticed on Facebook or Meta that some people say oh she said that. Well, I said that from the beginning, I said it should be a managed retreat. So, if you're having buybacks, it has to be a managed retreat and not just, okay, we're going to buy back all these houses because it has to be done with community, has to be done looking at the economic impact on the town on the CBD, you know all of that. And we didn't start like that, I mean that's no secret, but everything I'm saying now, I said at the time, so it's not new, but for some, they are lessons learned."TAREE STATISTICSCurrently there are 128 households in emergency careDamage assessments concluded on Sunday, 1 June 2025, with more than 12,000 properties assessed. Of these, more than 1,200 have been deemed uninhabitable, including 736 residential and 142 commercial premises; however, this means there was water over the floor, so as more extensive examinations are undertaken, that number will decrease. More than 18,000 cubic metres of waste has been removed from the Mid North Coast region and transported to 11 temporary emergency waste sites. The sites support faster debris removal by local councils and Public Works, while ensuring waste is properly sorted — with recyclables separated and remaining materials compacted before going to landfill. More than 12,000 tonnes of waste has been sent to landfill. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has also engaged specialist marine contractors to remove large and hazardous flood debris from rivers. Clean-up efforts are underway in the Manning, Hastings, Nambucca Rivers, with the first pass of the Macleay River now complete. Items collected include livestock carcasses, silage bales and chemical drums. As of Tuesday, 10 June, there will be 5 Recovery Centres open in Taree, Kempsey, Wauchope, Macksville and Wingham and 5 Recovery Assistance Points at Raymond Terrace, Manning Point, The Entrance, Kempsey (Kinchela Boys Mob Hub) and Taree (Biripi Aboriginal Community).Ms Saffin said that those who have been displaced want to go home. This is being worked through with mayors, MPs and the local communities."That's being considered now. There has been money in Category A and B, and there's money, of course, for roads. Roads is the biggest expenditure in floods. It's massive. And then there's some money, and I know farmers are asking for more, understandably, there's some money for farmers, some for small businesses and not for profit, rural land holders, that's all been announced."Then we're working through housing now. What they're looking at is caravans on people's properties. Remember, how we banged on about it here from day one, to get people on their property, and oh no no no we couldn't do that. I even remember someone saying to me in authority, Oh, Janelle, they might take the caravan away. I said a whoopee do. "So, I said caravans because people could be back home sorting out their home, cleaning up, and doing all the things they need to do. And if they're rented, talk to the landlord and see if that can happen. That's the conversation that's underway now."As there are no buybacks on offer, and thousands of displaced people will be moving back to their homes, Ms Saffin confirmed that house raisings and retrofits will be the mitigation solution for some, if they want it.If the state government is not looking at buybacks, will they look at a land swap through a Resilients Lands-type program?"Again, I don't know because we're not at that stage yet. One of the things I've learnt from here, and I did say at the time, hasten slowly. There's some things that have to be absolutely immediate, but hasten slowly in what you do in your local communities that impacts on your whole life; your social cohesion, your economy, all of that. So, don't sort of rush into it. And I found here that sometimes people would say to me Oh, Janelle, we've got to do this, we've got to do it straight away. 12 months later, they said the opposite to me. Just with time and consideration. So, I do say hasten slowly." 2022 LEARNINGS FOR THE REST OF NSW"Early warnings, as much as you can, and because we always get told that the SES wait for the BOM before they do it, and I said, well, you're on the ground, you've got intel from locals, you're watching it, you're watching rain bombs, you might go ahead of the BOM. I've seen that happen."When I say go ahead, they still have the BOM integrated with them, someone from the BOM, but just make sure people get enough time. And, if it looks like it's going to cut you off, then you have to have time to get out. So, I've seen that lesson learned, but we still really need to get the early warning down pat. One thing I do know, and it hasn't been in the public realm so to speak, is there were tinnies out rescuing people and helping neighbours and rescuing people. I said thank you to them because, as we know, often it's the locals who are the first responders." Another lesson learned from 2022 is the coordination of the rescue plan after a disaster."This was coordinated, and I've had people comment to me, even locals. When you're hit yourself, and in the eye of the disaster, it can feel like nothing is happening, it's not fast enough, what's going on? But you look at it, and you can see it was a coordinated effort. The SES had everyone there; Fire and Rescue, RFS, VRA, Marine Rescue, I mean, absolutely everybody was there, and recovery was being set up at the same time they were doing rescue.""When the rescue and the response are over, at the formal handover, which was last Monday, Mal Lanyon had the team out and about, and they were there like with Alfred, in that preparation. There were five recovery centres set up, a number of recovery assistance points, smaller ones, or you go out mobile to villages and places. And a lot of things were in place already, like the waste, it was being moved pretty quickly. There were LLS Department of Primary Industries people stepping up, EPA, all of that, plus moving livestock that were deceased." Another lesson learned from 2022 is the management of incoming emergency phone calls."We had nothing. We had silence, didn't we? SES can patch through calls that come to them, so they diverted calls to other combat agencies. That didn't happen in 2022. On the Mid North Coast, a volunteer group, similar to Resilient Lismore in 2017, was set up quickly."They were ready to help everybody, and the SES worked with them. It was fantastic. There's a fellow in SES who's done his Churchill Scholarship on spontaneous volunteers with community groups, and they worked together really well. The SES were out on the ground first, a lot of them, and they would allocate tasks, they would help, they would feed people and go out to people, so it was fantastic to see that in operation." "When I walked into the EOC, the emergency operation centre in Taree, they said Hi Janelle, someone from Lismore is on the team's meeting. I went in and Holly Langer was there with her team and Ellie Bird was on screen. She had her program up, the way you take calls, log them, work allocation, what I call soft infrastructure stuff, so that was really helpful."The Lismore and Northern Rivers community understands only too well the situation the Mid North Coast are experiencing right now. How can we help?"I always say money. If we can give money, that's really helpful. Givit, is the formal site that the Reconstruction Authority uses, but you all know your local trusted people; there is Vinnie's, the Salvo's, Anglicare and Red Cross. There may be other local ones, and I always say just make sure it's a trusted body when you donate." It is good to know that lessons have been learned from February 28 2022, and that knowledge is being used to quicken the rescue and recovery process following a natural disaster.

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin has welcomed the NSW Government’s $110-million investment in the 2025-26 NSW Budget to revitalise and rebuild our public spaces.Ms Saffin said projects included $12.4 million to upgrade fire trails on Crown land and adjoining land to provide safe access for firefighters to battle bushfires and protect local communities.“These fire trails were neglected for a decade under the previous government, and now we can start some repair and restoration work to support our firies and give better protection from future bushfires,” Ms Saffin said.“Crown Lands undertakes statewide helicopter inspections to keep the network in good shape.“The Minns Government has identified a number of critical works required across Crown Lands and public spaces, which will be funded by a Budget allocation totalling $110 million.”Two other projects which could potentially benefit parts of the Lismore Electorate include:$7.1 million to maintain community buildings and other public infrastructure on Crown Land, from public halls and sports facilities to walking trails and bridges.$6 million to remediate Crown Land that has been contaminated, such as former cattle dip sites, mines and industrial sites, to protect the environment, and restore land for use. Funding will also help control invasive species such as feral foxes and rabbits and noxious and invasive weeds to keep land health and functional.

This week is National Blood Donor Week. The goal is to raise awareness of the need to find 100,000 new blood donors per year, as the community's need for blood and blood plasma products is at the highest level in 12 years.The statistics are a stark reminder for the eligible 57% of the population to make the effort and donate blood or blood plasma. Only 3% of the population donate, while 1-in-3 people will need a donated blood product in their life. The demand is for 1.7 million donations each year and growing.Corndale resident and father of two, Kieran Middleton, knows only too well the benefits of receiving blood and blood plasma products.In 2021, Kieran was diagnosed with Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy (CDIP), the same condition that affects former Australian swimmer Michael Klim.(Kieran Middleton giving a talk to Lifeblood donors today)CDIP is an autoimmune disorder that causes gradual damage to the myelin sheath, the protective covering around nerves. This damage can lead to weakness, numbness, and other sensory changes in the arms and legs.Basically, over a period of time, Kieran couldn't walk, lost part of his sight, couldn't hold a knife and fork or unlock a door. Life as Kieran and his family knew it changed drastically over a period of time."I was a builder, and had my own business," Kieran explained, "And then all gone. I had to give it up.""We had to get around on a wheelie walker because of my severe foot drop," Kieran told the Lismore App today. "It was like, there's no control of my feet at all. Everything was dead. They would poke me with a blunt needle, and there's no feeling, all the nerves, everything was gone"That was twelve months ago, but thanks to fortnightly infusions of immunoglobulin and plasma, Kieran is slowly on the mend as his independence returns."I've got all my downward movement in my feet with no up movement. That's the nerves repairing the calves, because they repair themselves an inch a month. So, to repair from the waist down, it's got to go all the way down and come all the way back."It's been three years from completely nothing to this, and now I'm driving again. I work from home, and do estimating for jobs thanks to a fabulous Sydney company, Buildcorp. I'd like to be able to do my own things again, because we live on 25 acres, and I've got to pay people to do all this stuff, where I used to do everything myself, even something as simple as mowing the lawn or cleaning the pool."Kieran is moving from fortnightly infusions to every three weeks and then every four weeks. His recovery time is unknown, but could be as long as ten years.During our discussion, Kieran expressed his concern as to why more people do not take the 60 minutes to donate whole blood or the 90 minutes to donate plasma. Everyone he speaks to thinks it is a great idea, but very few are motivated enough to take the next step and actually book into a donor centre to donate blood or plasma.Instead, most of the heavy lifting is done by a few incredible human beings like Michael, Beryl, Ian and David (100+ donations), Sue and Steve (150+), Trish and Narelle (200+), Dan, Sharon and Kim (250+), Llewenna (400+) and Richard (500+). In fact, Richard was about to make his 512th donation today.As Lifeblood's Helen Sager said, "You are the most amazing people that society has on offer, the cream of the crop, the crème de la crème, the elite."(The amazing staff at the Lifeblood Lismore Donor Centre in Bounty Street, along with the incredible 100+ club donors)The high donors club was also thanked by Kieran Middleton, "Your donations ensure that my condition won't get any worse. It gives me a greater quality of life. I can't thank you donors enough and express how much it means to me and my family. My treatment would not have been possible without you guys. Please give yourselves a pat on the back, because without you, heroes, I call it, to give me the donors, I wouldn't be where I am now. Thanks so much, and keep up the good work."You can enquire about being a blood or plasma donor or book an appointment by clicking https://www.lifeblood.com.au/, by calling 13 14 95 or by popping into Level 1/26 Bounty Street, Lismore CBD.

Year one students at three public schools in the Lismore electorate have been taking part in a new Number Screening Check this month, as part of a statewide trial.Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin, said the trial is to check students’ grasp of numbers and provide teachers with the opportunity for early intervention.“The screening check is part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to lift numeracy levels and is a key part of the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement signed with the Commonwealth in March, which delivered full funding for NSW public schools.“NSW is leading the country in developing its own number screening check and will share the resources with other states once the trial is completed.“So Year One students at Goonellabah Public School, Kyogle Public School and Sir Henry Parkes Memorial Public School in Tenterfield are taking part in an important program that will go on to benefit many children.“This new check gives teachers a clearer picture of where each student is up to with their numeracy skills, like counting, number order and simple addition. It means they can step in early and give targeted help to kids who might otherwise fall behind.“An earlier pilot was tested across 19 NSW schools, and the schools that participated are already using insights from the screening to plan for targeted teaching.“We know that early strong numeracy skills can better equip children for success through their school years and beyond. “

Lismore City Council is harnessing cutting-edge aerial imaging technology to fast-track critical flood restoration works across the region. The 2022 natural disaster caused surface damage at 84 sites across 25 roads in Lismore. Lismore City Council recently received Disaster Recovery Funding to design the restoration of these assets using aerial assessments (surveys), which capture extensive data while reducing safety risks for pedestrians near traffic.In collaboration with Dykman Consulting, a leading civil engineering firm, Council is adopting advanced survey methods. Rather than relying on traditional, time-intensive ground surveys, a helicopter equipped with state-of-the-art LiDAR technology will be deployed to efficiently survey each damage site. This high-precision data will feed directly into the design process, enabling tailored solutions that consider both site-specific needs and the broader infrastructure context.Helicopters were chosen over drones for their ability to carry sophisticated imaging equipment, including state-of-the-art LiDAR technology, crucial for precise flood restoration designs. They offer greater flight stability and longer operational durations, enabling uninterrupted surveys across multiple sites and speeding up recovery efforts.Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg emphasised the significance of this initiative, stating:"This work marks an important step in rebuilding Lismore’s road network efficiently and effectively. By leveraging innovation, we can deliver more resilient infrastructure, ensuring our community recovers stronger than ever."The result will be superior road designs, delivered rapidly and optimised for efficient construction.Helicopter flights are scheduled throughout June, flying at an altitude of 850 feet with five passes over each affected road. Residents may notice aerial survey activity during this period.A full list of roads included in the survey is available at https://www.lismore.nsw.gov.au/Building-and-planning/Flood-Restoration-Portfolio/Roads-and-bridges/FR-Pavement-Restoration-Package.This project is proudly funded by the NSW Government.

In a surprise outcome yesterday, Lismore City Councillors voted not to give themselves a pay rise, as suggested by the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal.A 3% rate increase was factored into next year's budget by council staff; however, councillors voted unanimously after 30 minutes of debate to keep their fees the same as the 2024/25 financial year.This equates to $64,000 for the Mayor and $26,070 for each councillor, plus 11.5% superannuation, which will increase to 12% from 1 July 2025.Councillor Gianpiero Battista put forward a foreshadowed motion that councillors receive the increase, and then take $11,000 off their combined fee to accommodate an earlier resolution to refinance a Commonwealth Bank loan for $1.78 million over five years to give council more liquidity options going into an uncertain period. To cover the loan cost, Cr Battista proposed that each councillor would lose about $80 per month.Cr Harper Dalton-Earls then put another foreshadowed motion forward to keep the Mayor and councillor fees the same.The debate surrounded the time councillors put into their elected positions. Cr Virginia Waters saying, "As councillors, we certainly do a lot more than what this payment would suggest. Basically, we're on call, attending meetings, briefings and workshops, reading reports, meeting with the community members and events, and contributing to decisions that shape the future of the LGA villages and land."The Queensland mayor/councillor renumeration system was mentioned on a few occasions. In Queensland, they have full-time councillors who receive around $80,000 per year for a similar population to Lismore. The mayor is paid about $150,000, while they also pay the Deputy Mayor's position is paid about $95,000 per year.A few councillors mentioned the fact that Queensland has a more diverse range of councillors because of the full-time positions.Back to NSW and reality, Cr Battista spoke against the rate increase by saying this was an opportunity to show leadership."It's only $80 per month, roughly, or $90 or whatever, out of our fees, which increase anyway, but at least we show a bit of leadership, and we're sure that we're actually serious about what we're doing here," Cr Battista said.Cr Dalton-Earls also spoke against the increase. "Under the current economic conditions, where people are struggling to afford basic groceries, where we've got a budget, and we're talking about the need to have liquidity, I don't feel comfortable taking a pay increase."Mayor Steve Krieg, who moved the original motion, joked that he looks forward to the social media commentary about him being a money-hungry mayor supporting the 3% rate increase."If you look at the term that I've served at council, we have kept the fee structure the same. We've taken the moral high ground and kept the fee structure the same for the mayor and the councillors for a long period of time. In my opinion, and it is a very humble opinion, I think council is heading in the right direction. I think our staffing and the people that we've got in senior management are doing an exceptional job. I believe that as much as there is still a lot of work to do in and around our financial position, it is certainly on the right track."With Crs Gordon and Bing not in attendance, the motion was defeated 4/5.Cr Battista's foreshadowed motion was defeated 2/7.That left Cr Dalon-Earls' foreshadowed motion that no rate increase be adopted.The Queensland example rose again, but the reference was Toowoomba, where they have a population of nearly 180,000. The Mayor is paid $198,000, the Deputy Mayor $135,000 and Councillors $117,000.Deputy Mayor Jeri Hall said that Lismore has had negative growth when referring to the Toowoomba comments. "We have a smaller rate base. You're comparing apples and oranges really. We are currently still recovering from the biggest natural disaster in Australia's history. Our community needs this money. Our roads are crap, our garbage is garbage."The motion for fees to stay the same was a unanimous vote.While on garbage, in a confidential session, councillors agreed to accept a proposal for eight (8) new garbage trucks at a cost of just under $5.5 million. The new garbage trucks were a lifeline from the NSW Government, announced in December last year, when Lismore City Council could not afford to renew the current ailing, ageing fleet and was considering outsourcing the waste collection.A motion moved by Cr Waters that Council liaise with the NSW Reconstruction Authority to identify hazard-free sites within the LGA to store the dwelling stock bought back due to the 2022 flood was discussed, reworded and ultimately supported by councillors.The final wording stated that Council:liaise with the NSW Reconstruction Authority to seek a subdivision approval on Resilient Land sites within the LGA with a view to relocating the houses bought back to be sited on the location of proposed subdivision lots.holds a workshop with NSW Reconstruction Authority.The RA Resilient Lands sites mentioned were North Lismore and the East Lismore SCU site.The Resilient Land sites were specified due to the double-moving of buyback houses if the site were in another flood-free location. To move a house costs over $100,000, so the cost would be over $200,000 to store and then move to a permanent site.Cr Electra Jensen said that every time you move a house you damage it, as another deterrent to double-handling, and also mentioned the Pine Street squatters."A lot of this came about as a result of the Pine Street issue, which has cost over $400,000 to the ratepayers and taxpayers of Australia, which was disappointing. But it has raised the fact that those houses are still sitting there."The vote was unanimously in support of the motion.The Reconciliation Action Plan was adopted, and an urgency motion to support Kyogle Council to save the Bell's Bay Campground at Toonumbar Dam from closing after NSW Water's decision to close it, was also supported.Lismore City Council is going for a three-peat of meetings with an extraordinary meeting next Tuesday, June 17 at 10am when the 2024/25 Budget will be discussed.

June 30 is only twenty days away, and that means tax time as millions of Australians begin their search for a tax return, not a tax payment. It is also the time of year for a 300% increase in tax scams.Australia’s largest accounting body, CPA Australia, is urging the public to be wary of tax scam emails, SMS and other communications this tax time, including those that arrive in your inbox overnight, designed to catch you off-guard in the morning.CPA Australia Tax Lead, Jenny Wong, says Australians should prepare for a deluge of scam activity in the lead-up to June 30 – and make sure they have their morning coffee before opening emails and text messages.“Scammers take advantage of any situation, and at tax time that means targeting unsuspecting individuals through unsolicited messages claiming to be the ATO or another reputable organisation,” she said.“These ‘phishing’ scams not only look legitimate, but they’re designed to catch you off-guard. That’s why you’ll often see them arrive first thing in the morning because you may be more likely to have a momentary lapse in judgement.“The scammers know Australians will have tax on their mind and are vulnerable to prompts to act, which is why these messages usually create a sense of urgency or claim of significant refund. While they could come at any time, be especially careful opening up and reading messages while you’re still waking up in the morning.“It’s crucial to see through the lies and review these communications with a clear mind once you’ve started your day and had a coffee or two.”Data from the National Anti-Scam Centre shows a significant increase in scam losses in the first four months of 2025. The biggest increase in reported losses comes from phishing scams – where scammers impersonate government agencies and financial institutions – accounting for $13.7 million in losses, compared to $4.6 million in early 2024.Meanwhile, the ATO says impersonation email scams have increased by more than 300% from this time last year.Scam emails seen by CPA Australia include titles like: ‘Urgent new notification in your account inbox’. The messages direct individuals to log into their myGov account and claim to provide a secure link.These messages try to trick individuals to click the link to see ‘official government correspondence’, an ‘update regarding your benefits’, ‘a new refund notification’ or they need to click to ‘avoid being penalised’.They even encourage individuals to ‘keep checking your inbox to stay informed about important updates related to your tax, pension and other government services’.How to spot tax time scamsDistinguishing between legitimate and scam messages from the ATO is becoming increasingly difficult. However, there are signs. Look for any grammatical errors and unusual language. This could include American English spellings, such as using ‘z’ instead of ‘s’ for certain words.The ATO does not use hyperlinks in unsolicited SMS messages. If you see any links in an unsolicited SMS or any QR codes in a message claiming to be from the ATO, treat it as a scam.When it comes to emails, check the sender’s address. Anything unusual is a red flag. If the address includes the acronym ATO or Australian Taxation Office in full, look for subtle anomalies like using a number, adding extra letters, or even removing a letter.Be wary of anyone making unexpected requests for personal or financial information, especially if they claim it’s urgent. The ATO will never ask for passwords, account numbers or other sensitive data by email or SMS. If you see a social media account claiming to be the ATO or myGov, look for the official logo and profile verification, such as the blue tick on Facebook and Instagram or grey tick on X. The ATO will never discuss your personal ATO account on any social media platform, including private messages.If you're still unsure, you should always verify if the contact is legitimate by contacting the ATO on 1-800-008-540 or by visiting the verify or report scam page on the official ATO website.

Australia Post will equip every Postie with citronella spray from June, as dangerous dogs continue to present safety risks to team members nationwide.The decision follows an alarming number of dog-related incidents in the past six months, with more than 44 Posties a week falling victim to a threatening dog – an average of nine per day.  There were x 2 dog-related incidents reported for Lismore in the past six months.Despite repeated appeals for dog owners to secure dogs during deliveries, new Australia Post data reveals over 1,150 dog-related incidents have occurred in the past six months – highlighting the growing concern for the physical and psychological wellbeing of Posties.  The non-harmful, water-based citronella spray has been introduced as a last-line-of-defence measure to protect team members from imminent attack.  Building on successful international use-cases, Australia Post conducted an extensive two-phase trial in some of the worst-affected areas, finding the spray was 80% effective in causing dogs to retreat, leaving Posties unharmed. When deployed, the deterrent temporarily distracts the dog, giving the Postie crucial moments to move to safety and call the owner for help.  The growing frequency of parcel deliveries has led to almost 40% of dog incidents taking place on a customer’s property, half of those when a front door is opened for a parcel delivery. Dog incidents occurring on the street account for 57% of all cases.Roaming dogs are a particular concern, accounting for 39% of all street incidents. Half of all other cases on the street were unrestrained dogs escaping a property to attack a Postie.  Australia Post General Manager Safety, Russell Munro, said the organisation is constantly looking for ways to better protect frontline team members. “The safety of our team members is a core value at Australia Post. Despite public awareness efforts and rigorous safety protocols, we continue to see alarming rates of dog-related incidents. The best way to avoid dog attacks is to ensure your dog is safely secured behind a locked door or gate when your Postie arrives with your parcel.  “Moree in NSW is one of many hotspots where the number of roaming and unrestrained dogs has created dangerous conditions for our Posties. We’ve identified a safe citronella spray deterrent that has proven largely effective in de-escalating incidents. When our people continue to end up in hospital, we have a responsibility to act and this is a last resort measure,” Mr Munro said.  In addition to incidents ranging from physical and attempted attacks to chasing and harassing, there are currently 35,000 active dog-related hazards flagged in handheld devices carried by team members – a 20% increase since November last year4. These hazards are reported as a warning for potential escalation.  The citronella spray program will prioritise high-risk regions first, with all Posties to be equipped with the spray by the end of July. The program will then be extended to Parcel Delivery Drivers, and all team members will be trained on how to use the spray safely and only as a last resort. Western Australian Postie and ex-Veterinarian Nurse, Bronwyn Adamson, is looking forward to receiving the citronella spray.  “I was a Veterinarian Nurse for 17 years and have adopted rescue dogs with traumatised pasts. I’ve dealt with many animals who lash out due to stress and fear. As a Postie, I am more nervous around dogs than ever before, particularly since I was attacked.  “The incident occurred when I was delivering a parcel requiring a signature. A dog escaped from behind a gate and bit me on my breast, leaving a puncture wound and severe bruising which developed into a golf ball-sized haematoma. The citronella spray will give me peace of mind - I’ll feel safer knowing I have something that could protect me from another attack,” Ms Adamson said.  Following the rollout, Australia Post will continue to analyse incident data and conduct regular reviews of risk management practices. Posties will undergo briefings on how to use the deterrent safely, following strict protocols for use. Prevention in the first instance is key. Australia Post advises dog owners to follow the three PAWS for Delivery steps: Sit, Stay, Secure.Sit your dog safely in a contained place, separate room, or behind a locked gate at the back of the home when expecting a delivery.  Make sure it’s somewhere the dog can stay while your Postie delivers your parcel.   Keep your dog secure behind your door or gate, allowing the Postie safe access to make the delivery and leave the property.  If you are unable to properly secure your dog, consider using your nearest free 24:7 Parcel Locker. 

Each year in June, councillors around NSW vote on whether they should receive a pay rise as set down by the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal.It is always controversial, with the public divided on whether our councillors are doing a good enough job to warrant a pay rise. Keep in mind the reading material to stay informed, the monthly meetings, plus weekly briefings and/or workshops to gather more information when it comes to debating and voting on a particular issue.For 2025/26, it has been determined that a 3% fee increase on the low and maximum range is appropriate.The relative fees for the last three years are below:MayorCouncillorsWe will focus on the maximum fee because it is highly unlikely that Lismore City Councillors will revert to a minimum fee rate.The maximum fee for 2025/26 is $68,800 for the Mayor and $27,860 for each councillor. As per a vote in April 2022, a superannuation payment will be made on top of that fee. As it is with any other employee/salary earner.The extra money has already been included in the Draft Operational Plan Budget for the next financial year. A document that will come back for approval in another LCC extraordinary meeting on Tuesday, June 17.Other items on the agenda this morning include the adoption of the updated Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) for the next four years (2025 to 2029). Drafting the latest RAP included consulting with the community, local Aboriginal Land Council and native title groups.There are three key focus areas for the new RAP, they are: People, Culture, Country, Heritage and Language and Partnerships and Cultural Celebrations Council also state there are seventeen new actions, all with measurable outcomes, to further progress reconciliation and embed culturally safe practices to attract and retain Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers to ensure Lismore City Council’s workforce composition reflects community demographics.Presently, 4.7% of council workers are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, which equates to 24 employees. The council has a target of 6% representation.Potholes and the $150 million Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program are also on the agenda.The ordinary June Lismore City Council meeting gets underway at 10am, with public Access at 9am.

A police investigation is underway after a man died and a commercial quantity of prohibited drugs were located at a home in Dunoon last week.About 9am on Friday (6 June 2025), emergency services were called to a house at James Street, Dunoon, after a man was found unresponsive.The 37-year-old man died at the scene.Officers attached to Richmond Police District established a crime scene and an investigation into the man's death has commenced. A report will be prepared for the Coroner.A search warrant was executed at the house, after police located a large amount of hydroponic cannabis and psilocybin (also known as magic mushrooms).During the search of the house, officers also located and seized equipment associated with the cultivation and manufacturing of prohibited drugs, ammunition, and cash.Due to the hazardous nature and scale of the grow operations, specialist police and equipment were required to process the crime scene.Investigations continue into the matter. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Two Lismore LGA locals have been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in today's King's Birthday Honours List, while another five Northern Rivers locals were also recognised for services to their community.Geoffrey Wotherspoon from Girards Hill and Joanne Cooper from Goonellabah, The Honourable Donald Page from Byron Bay, Mary O'Brien from Ballina, John Pritchard from Yamba, John Bennett from Possum Creek and John Gorrie from Grafton were all awarded OAMs today.Below is he list and the reasons why they were awarded their OAMs:GEOFFREY WOTHERSPOON - Girards HillGeoffrey Wotherspoon was awarded his OAM for service to postal history and philately.Philately President, Richmond River Philatelic Society, over 30 years.Adjudicator, referee, and certifier at a national level, over 30 years.Australian Commonwealth Collectors Club Member, 30 years, since 1983.Fellow.Member of the National ACCC Workshop team.Postal History Organiser, Centenary of Australia’s first official airmail flight re-enactment, 2020.Recorder, Richmond River Historical Society, 2019.Author, Per Aerial Mail, 2019.On June 26 2020, Geoffrey reenacted Lismore's first-ever air mail flight in 1920. The Lismore App published a Sunday Profile about Geoffrey, which you can read by clicking here.JOANNE COOPER - GoonellabahJoanne Cooper was awarded her OAM for service to the community through service organisations. Inner Wheel, Rotary International: District Secretary, 2020-2023National Conference Co-ordinator, 2017. President, Lismore Club, 2017-2018 Secretary, Lismore Club, 2013-2014 Council Member, Inner Wheel Australia Board, 2012-2013. District Junior Vice President, 2009-2013. President, Inner Wheel Lismore, 2004-2005. Lords Taverners Northern New South Wales Chairman, 2019-2023. Vice-Chair, current. Public Officer, since 2018. Rotary International President, Lismore Rotary Club, 1999-2000. President, Nambucca Heads Rotary Club, 1995-1996. Paul Harris Fellow. Other Administrative Support, Faculty of Business, Law and Arts, Southern Cross University, since 2007. Career Industry Expert, Careers New South Wales, 2022-2024. Member, Lismore City Council Sister City Advisory Group, 2022-2024. Various executive positions, Kadina High School P&C, 2014-2018. Various executive positions, Goonellabah Public School P&C, 2004-2011. Various positions, Care-Ring Children's Centre Management Committee, 2001-2005. Girl Guide, Brownie Leader 1982-1986, and 1994-1996. Girl Guide, Venturer Leader, 1993-1994.MARY O'BRIEN - BallinaMary O'Brien was awarded her OAM for service to the community of the Ballina region. She was Ballina Shire Council's Citizen of the Year in 2015 and was awarded the Centenary Medal in 2003.Ballina Sub-branch, Returned and Services League of Australia. Founding Member/Co-ordinator, Lighthouse Day Club, 2000-2023. Member, since 1990s. Community Host/Fundraiser, The Big Aussie BBQ, Ballina East Lions Club, 1995-2018. Volunteer, Ballina Conference, St Vincent de Paul Society (NSW), since 2014. Host/Fundraiser, Curry Night (fundraiser for Ballina Region for Refugees/Farm Aid/Sheraton House), since 2019. Host, Homestay Program, Ballina Region for Refugees, current. Supporter/Host, Northern Rivers Refugee Group, current. Nursing Former Community Nurse, Ballina District Hospital. Former Midwife, Royal Hospital, Brisbane. Former Nurse, Lismore Base Hospital. THE HONOURABLE DONALD PAGE - Byron BayThe Honourable Donald Page was awarded his OAM for service to the Parliament of New South Wales, and to the community. Parliament of New South Wales Minister for Local Government, 2011-2014. Minister for the North Coast, 2011-2014. Member for Ballina, 1988-2015. Parliamentary Secretary, Planning and Housing, 1993-1995. Parliamentary Secretary, Transport and Tourism, 1992-1993. Parliamentary Secretary, Public Works and Roads, 1992-1993. Parliamentary Secretary to the Deputy Premier, 1989-1991. Assistant Minister for Roads and Transport, 1991-1992. Deputy Leader, National Party of Australia, 2003-2007. Board Appointments Chair, Regional Development Australia Northern Rivers, since 2016. Board Member, Sir Earle Page Memorial Trust, since c2015. Community Honorary Member, Mullumbimby Rotary Club, current. Life Member, Australian Seabird Rescue, current. Patron, Bangalow Sub-Branch, Returned and Services League of Australia, current. Former Charter Member, NSW Parliamentary Lions Club. Former Honorary Member, Ballina-on-Richmond Rotary Club. Former Patron, Ballina, Far North Coast Legacy. Former Patron, Ballina Sub-Branch, Returned and Services League of Australia. Former Patron, Bangalow Music Festival. Former Patron, Byron Hospital Auxiliary. Former Patron, Ballina Hospital Auxiliary. Former Patron, Alstonville Red Cross. Former Patron, Ballina Rugby Club.JOHN PRITCHARD - YambaJohn Pritchard was awarded his OAM for service to veterans. 1st Field Squadron Group, Royal Australian Engineers Association Vice-President, since 2021. Administrator, Facebook page. Volunteer/Fundraiser, current. The Mines Victims and Clearance Trust (MiVAC) Trustee/Director, 2003-2013. International Volunteer Co-ordinator, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam, 2010s. Founding Member. Windsor and District Sub-branch, New South Wales Branch, Returned and Services League of Australia. Vice-President, 2020-2023. Delegate, Far Western Metropolitan District Council, 2020-2022. Committee Member, since 2005. Returned and Services League of Australia Vice President, Engineer Sub-branch, 1997-2007. Member, various Sub-branches, Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales. Member, New South Wales Branch, since 1967. Royal Australian Engineers Heritage Society Volunteer, RAE Museum, late 1990s-early 2000s. Honorary Director (Finance), 1994-2007. Ex-Service organisations - Other Convenor/Administrator, NSW Sappers Association Facebook page, current. Former, Welfare/Pensions Officer, Blue Mountains and Allied Forces Inc. Australian Defence Force Former Officer, Army Reserves. Former Officer, Royal Australian Engineers, Australian Army. Former Member, Citizens Military Force. Awards and recognition include: 50-year Certificate, Returned and Services League of Australia (NSW Branch), 2017.JOHN BENNETT - Possum CreekJohn Bennet was awarded his OAM for service to the community of the Northern Rivers. Northern Rivers Community Foundation Co-Founder, 2003. Founding Director, 2003-2011. Bequest Program Initiator and Ambassador, since 2017. Former Chair, Marketing Committee. Former Coordinator, Salary Sacrifice Donation Plan. Subfund Donor, Bennett Regan Youth Fund, 2020. Subfund Donor, SCU-Bowen Education Scholarship, 2020. Northern Rivers Community Foundation Community Achievement Award, 2013. Benefactor, current. Volunteer, since 2003. Uncle Project Former President. Former Member, Management Committee. Former Mentor. Fundraiser, 2000-2019. Volunteer, 2000-2019. Flush Media Founding Benefactor, 2002. Co-Founder, 2002. Sourdough Business Pathways Mentor/Coach, since 2010. Founding Member and Volunteer, since 2010. The Northern Rivers Writers Centre Volunteer, 1998-2018. Former Volunteer, Byron Bay Writers Festival. New Enterprise Incentive Scheme Advisory Committee Member, late 1990s. Member, Selection Panel, late 1990s. Former Guest Lecturer, Mentor and Volunteer. The Byron Community Centre Patron, Buy-A-Brick Campaign, current. Fundraiser, current. Volunteer, since late 1990s. Volunteer, Byron Theatre, current. Supporter, Fletcher Street Cottage, current. Northern Rivers Rail Trail Committee Member, since 2013. Advisor and Volunteer, current.Screenworks Benefactor, 2018. Former Fundraiser, Promoter and Mentor. Liberation Larder Benefactor, current. Volunteer, 2018-2020. Enova Energy Investor, 2015-2022. Former Advisor. Community Support - Other Volunteer, Mentor and Benefactor, Byron Youth Service, since 2010. Benefactor, The Buttery, since 2010. Advisor, Fundraiser and Benefactor, Feros Aged Care Village, current. Volunteer, The Byron Visitors Information Centre, 2020-2021. Participant, Variety Club Bash, 1989, 1990, 1991.JOHN GORRIE - GraftonJohn Gorrie was awarded his OAM for service to community football. Majos Football Club Former President. Former Vice President, ~3 years. Former Secretary. Former Game Secretary. Referee, current. Life Member, since 1981. Clarence River Soccer Referees Association Former Vice President. Former Treasurer. Life Member, current. Football - Other Volunteer Referee, U8 - U11 teams, Grafton City Soccer Club, c2015-2022. Life Member, Grafton Supa Oldie Soccer, since 2023. Life Member, Clarence River Soccer Association, current. The Legacy Club of Grafton Inc Public Officer and Trustee, current. Legatee, since 2005. Grafton Friendlies Investments Limited Director, since 2010.

Lismore City Council has released its road upgrades for this week, which include East Lismore, North Lismore and Goonellabah.Council road crews will be out and about carrying out important asphalt heavy patching to improve the safety and condition of our roads.This week's scheduled road works include: Tuesday, 10 June – Elizabeth Street, East Lismore Wednesday, 11 and Thursday, 12 June – Bridge Street and Terania Street, North Lismore Friday, 13 June – Holland Street, GoonellabahCrews will be trying to minimise disruption to drivers. Make sure you follow traffic control signage and drive carefully through the work zones. The schedule may change in the event of wet weather, although the forecast is for dry conditions at this stage.Council has plans to close Harold Fredericks Carpark on Thursday, June 19 from 6am to 6pm for essential upgrade works.The works include heavy patching to repair damaged pavement and improve the road surface.

Many questions have been asked since the February 2022 big flood decimated Lismore and the Northern Rivers. Often, the questions involved improved rescue coordination between emergency departments and the public, better and earlier warning systems and housing during and after a disaster.Two new research studies show a path forward for resilient and climate-adapted communities.The reports were commissioned by the NSW Reconstruction Authority soon after the 2022 flooding in the Northern Rivers, to capture lessons learned from other disaster-affected areas around the world and inform recovery post-disasters in the future. These two research projects from Living Lab Northern Rivers offer a transformative vision for how Australia can build disaster-resilient communities.Together, the new research addresses both immediate disaster response needs and long-term climate adaptation through housing design, offering an integrated approach to building disaster-resilient communities across Australia.Crisis to resilience: reforming disaster responseThe first study, Housing in Disaster-Affected Areas: From Crisis to Long-Term Resilience, presents a new best-practice framework for housing in disaster response and recovery."The Northern Rivers experience shows us that housing must be central to disaster planning," says Professor Nicole Gurran, Professor of Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Sydney. "Our research provides a clear pathway to transform how we prepare for and recover from disasters, with secure housing as the foundation."The research engaged with 13 local and state government agencies and community organisations, identifying critical gaps in emergency accommodation, data collection and coordination between housing and disaster response agencies."This excellent report provides a very clear roadmap on how government and housing collaborators can better serve the community's housing needs before and after future disasters," says Elizabeth Mossop, Academic Director at Living Lab Northern Rivers.Working with Country: a new housing paradigmThe second study, Resilient Housing for the Northern Rivers, breaks new ground by proposing 'house-and-landscape' design principles that work with natural systems rather than against them.Working on sites in the NSW Reconstruction Authority’s Resilient Lands Program, the design research, developed through collaboration with First Nations communities and architecture students from UTS, challenges conventional European-style housing that separates people from the landscape."The Northern Rivers research challenges the fundamental assumption that houses should dominate landscapes," says Professor Martin Bryant, architect and landscape architect at UTS."By leading with landscape design and fitting housing within ecological systems, we can create places that are not only more flood-resilient but also more affordable and connected to Country."The research examined flood-prone sites around Lismore and new elevated sites in the Resilient Lands Program, developing three integrated approaches: retrofitting existing homes for flood resilience, designing new climate-adapted housing typologies, and creating flexible temporary-to-permanent housing solutions.National implicationsTogether, the research addresses some of Australia's housing challenges: immediate disaster response failures and the longer-term need for climate-adapted communities."We see a global pattern from Brisbane to New Orleans: communities that embed housing in their disaster planning recover more effectively," says Richard Benedict, housing researcher and consultant."The research clearly shows that housing recovery is a long-term process, typically taking 5-10 years. This framework helps align our disaster responses and recovery plans with that reality, making sure communities have the support they need for the long term, not just the first couple of years.”Both reports share evidence-based recommendations. These research findings extend far beyond theNorthern Rivers, offering lessons for flood-prone communities across Australia and internationally. Living Lab Northern Rivers launched both reports this week at an event hosted by Committee for Sydney at UTS, and marks a significant milestone in Australian disaster resilience and housing research.

Finker Bubble owner Wen Chua was relieved to finally open her bubble tea shop on Keen Street a week ago. Wen arrived in Lismore about a year ago – and this It was her second attempt at trying to open the shop.In February, she was only three days away from opening - when Lismore’s biggest flood arrived and destroyed the new business.But, Wen knew she was not going to give up. Now, after months of renovations, she is now finally serving bubble tea to the Lismore community.“I always knew I would try and open again, I put a lot of money into the shop – and I had friends who helped me,” Wen said.“I love bubble tea – I know many people here haven’t had it before, and I want everyone to try it.”So, what is bubble tea?Bubble tea is a sweet drink, based on mixing milk with tea and adding toppings like coconut jelly, and popping balls – as well as fruit flavours such as strawberry, lychee and mango.Bubble tea is often referred to as a ‘chunky’ drink – because of the chewy pearls of tapioca that sit in the bottom of the cup – and you suck them into your mouth through a thick straw.It’s a drink that’s been popular with kids and adults all over Asia – and it’s a drink that Wen has grown up with.“As a child in Malaysia, nearly every day after school I would gather with my friends to drink bubble tea,” Wen said.“We would stand around in school uniform at the bubble tea stall on the street and drink bubble tea.”Wen said her favourite bubble tea is the one made with matcha tea, but the most popular one that’s sold in the shop is the brown sugar with fresh milk, cheese foam and boba (bubbles, or pearls of tapioca).“When you drink the cheese foam, you taste it first, then sip the tea, then combine it and the balance should be perfect,” Wen said.Finker Bubble will be open six days a week, Monday to Saturday from 11am to 8.30pm.This photo of the shop was taken by Wen just days before the flood arrived to destroy the shop.

For aromatherapist and holistic bodywork practitioner Anne Walker, finding a new space to open in since the floods has been tricky. But now, Anne’s business, Le Petit Aromatique Apothecary, has found a new home in Lismore’s Club Lane.In her new second floor premises, Anne has set up her massage clinic. But unlike her pre-flood shop location in the Star Court Arcade, she doesn’t yet have a shop front to sell her essential oils from. It’s something she hopes will change over time. For now, she’s just glad to be open again. ‘The little aromatic pharmacy’Anne first opened ‘the little aromatic pharmacy’ in 2019 after she visited the South of France and loved it.“Aromatherapy is very affiliated with French culture and I’d always dreamed of having an apothecary,” Anne said.“Usually an apothecary (pharmacy) is associated with herbal medicine but I wanted to open one dedicated to aromatherapy.“So, when I came back, I moved my massage clinic from Nimbin to Lismore and opened a shop front dedicated to selling over-the-counter aromatic medicine.“People would drop in and I would mix oils, creams or lotions on the spot. I would also do massages using essential oils.”The shop lasted three years, until the February flood destroyed her business.Like many other business owners, she had moved her stock up high, but it wasn’t enough.“I saved a few things that I’d put in the Star Court Theatre, but not much,” Anne said.“It was the second time I’d lost a business to flood – it happened to my previous business in 2017 as well.“Reopening this time took a while because I wasn’t emotionally ready for a long time. I needed to be in a good space to look after other people.“Then I found the Club Lane place when I was visiting the naturopath next door.“It’s a nice room with lots of light and a good affordable starting point for me.“I’m taking massage bookings and will have some apothecary items for sale and some flood stock is also available.“People can book in for consultations – I’ve been practicing remedial massage and reflexology for 20 years and bio-dynamic craniosacral therapy for ten years .“I also do aromatherapy massage and facials or feet treats.”Anne said she loves the essential oil single vetiver for grounding - but also likes to use rose, for grief and loss.The new Le Petit Aromatique Apothecary is located at Level 1, Suite 4 Club Lane, 71 Molesworth Street. If you would like to book in for an appointment, you can phone 0408 490 385, or visit Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lepetitaromatiqueapothecary   

When Serpentine Community Gallery volunteers were cleaning up after the February flood, they lamented the lost artworks of Lismore. Not just for the art that was lost from the gallery’s walls – but for all the artworks lost in local houses and businesses.That’s when the idea to put on a free art exhibition was borne - to gift ‘free’ art to Lismore’s empty walls and damaged homes.Now, in a show of good will from Lismore’s art community, an exhibition of free art will be held at Two Mates Brewery on October 8, and the community is invited to get some free artworks – or swap over ones they already have.Exhibition coordinator Cassie Can is now calling local artists to donate some artworks to go into the exhibition. Art is not a luxury“As we rebuild in Lismore, art can be seen as a bit of a luxury, but it’s important to bring beauty back to our homes and businesses too,” Cassie said.“So, we want to make art free to everybody in Lismore – because as a town, we all lost something.“So if you have any artworks you don’t want anymore, you can donate them to this free art exhibition - and give them new life on someone’s walls.“Kids can donate art too – and people can also swap any works they already have for new ones.“You can just show up on the day with art, or donate artworks prior to the event. Then, people can take home the art they like on the day.Uplift spirits“It will be a beautiful gesture of generosity and a part of the vision to uplift the spirits of the people in Lismore.”Cassie said some of the Lismore Art Club members were keen to donate artworks.“They are passionate about holding this event in a region where we have so many artists and art appreciators,” she said.Cassie said the local brewery was donating the exhibition space out of goodwill to help rebuild the local community.Local face painter Rachel Creamer will be at the free day, painting faces.Family friendly day“We can all mingle and it will be a family friendly event with activities too,” Cassie said ““There’s a lovely grassy space out the back with a kids playground and gazebo.“Rachel, a local face painter will be there and we’ll have a needle felting workshop run by Nimbin Textiles – but there are limited spaces in this workshop and you need to prebook for it.“Kyogle gelato cart and Sam’s burgers will be there providing food – and we are also looking for donations of cake for morning tea.”There will also be live music performances from 11am to 4pm, followed by more music until 8pm.On the day, people can also donate money toward helping Serpentine Gallery rebuild the local community gallery space.Serpentine Gallery president, Susan, said the rebuild of the gallery is slowly happening - and it is expected to be open for 'Ink and Mud' - an exhibition by local printmakers in December.Cassie said it’s hoped this networking event can be the beginning of local artists connecting again after the flood.“We can put this community back together and start working and inspiring each other again,” Cassie said.If you would like to get involved, donate art or cakes, contact Susan on 0409 056 976.The exhibition will be held from 11am to 4pm on Saturday, October 8 at Two Mates Brewery at 8 Engine Street, South Lismore.  

The Gilchrist Foundation is a new charity supporting educational and sporting scholarships for students of all backgrounds and disadvantage.The Foundation has been established by the Gilchrist Family, with the mission of identifying eligible students and young sportsmen and women and assist them to further their education or skills through financial assistance together with active engagement and mentoring.The inaugural Gilchrist Foundation Dinner is set to be an entertaining and educational experience and will be held at the Ballina RSL on Friday 7 October.The dinner will give guests an opportunity to learn about the Foundation, meet current students being supported and hear from former Australian Soldier Anthony “Harry” Moffitt and his story of Eleven Bats….combat, cricket and the SAS. More information can be found about Harry Moffitt at https://www.elevenbats.com.au/ The night will include a unique raffle where attendees can purchase a personally signed Adam Gilchrist cricket ball as a raffle ticket and be in the draw for some fantastic accommodation and experience prizes.There are also a large number of unique prizes on offer in the online Gala Auction. Bidders do not need to be present on the night for the auction as all prizes are online and can be bid on at anytime in the countdown to the night.Prizes include a range of interesting items including a vintage-style bespoke cricket bat replica as used by Adam Gilchrist during his stellar career, the opportunity to brew your own beer and holiday packages. Bidding is open at https://app.galabid.com/gilchrist/itemsGo to the Gilchrist Foundation web site https://gilchrist.foundation/ for all dinner and ticket details or phone Julie on 0431 764 776.

U-buds and Doobers (not Ubers) were on duty last weekend, driving hundreds of people to and from Nimbin’s annual MardiGrass drug reform rally and festival.Nimbin HEMP Embassy president Michael Balderstone said having the drug free drivers was great – allowing people to enjoy the pro-cannabis drug reform celebration without having to worry about the usual police roadside drug testing.“Thousands of people were in Nimbin over the weekend and they came from all over Australia,” Michael said.“There was lots of passion for the roadside drug testing laws to change. Cannabis users are frustrated about not being heard and the lack of reason that goes with police saliva testing.“It has nothing to do with being impaired, it’s just about the presence of weed.”“The police told me they got more people this year with saliva testing than last year,” he said. “But we will have to wait for the official figures to come out.“Were any of those drivers actually impaired? It’s a huge impact on country drivers if they lose their licences – they need to be able to drive around.”“The frustration is also about not being allowed to grow our own cannabis – and then have to pay high prices for the legally prescribed stuff – and then still not be allowed to drive while using it.”Despite the police drug testing van being present on the side of the road on the way into Nimbin, Michael said there were not many arrests this year.“But I’m still waiting for the official numbers from police – we’ll know by next week,” he said.The annual MardiGrass is normally held in May, but was postponed due to flooding earlier this year. Michael said crowd numbers were still good, despite the change of dates. “People seemed to have a good time,” he said. “They enjoyed the weather and it wasn’t too crowded.”“Next year, I’d like to hold it in May again. That coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Aquarius Festival – a week after MardiGrass, so we might do something together.”One of the highlights of the festival were live DJs in Mingle park from 5pm each day – and the spectacle that is the law reform rally parade (complete with the big joint) on Sunday afternoon.“This year, Ponyland made a fantastic float for the parade – it was best rally we’ve had in years,” Michael said.“At the HEMP symposium, speakers included West Australian HEMP party politician Dr Brian Walker who spoke about drug law reform.“The Kombie convoy on Saturday was great, so was the 420 and the HEMP Olympix.“This year was the first time we had the MardiGrass marijuana music awards – and the winner was a Gold Coast reggae group.“Gary the bullet proof monk won the pot art competition with his banner ‘The law is the crime’ that hangs outside the embassy.”

For the local Year 9 and 10 students who attended a problem solving workshop this week – it wasn’t just about finding solutions to real world problems.According to workshop organiser Karen Ramsay, from the Rivers Academy of STEM Excellence (RASE) – it’s all about creating a resilient generation of problem solvers, who are changing things little by little.Read more news: Air quality monitoring program opens to local schoolsThe RASE schools program has recently been recognised for its amazing results – and has won the NSW Government Secretary’s Award for an Outstanding School Initiative.Karen said the program has been running in 12 local schools since 2020 and works with students and teachers in Kindergarten to Year 12. Participating schools include Kadina, Richmond River, Albert Park, Bexhill, Dunoon, Goonellabah, Lismore Heights, Lismore South and Wilson Park.Dunoon Public School students at a STEM Design Thinking Process workshop.“The Rivers Academy of STEM excellence focusses on using STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) design thinking practices across the curriculum – in literacy and creative arts too,” Karen said.“It’s not a new way of thinking - businesses use it too.“We get our kids to think creatively and critically, rather than work out of textbooks.“We are getting them ready to face the world.“Today at a workshop, we have Lismore High School and three campuses of kids at a STEM process workshop.“We have Year 10 girls working on a problem about how to engage more year 10 girls in choosing STEM subjects.“This is their third day working on the problem and they brainstorm and identify why it’s a problem and what’s caused it. Then they work on their solution.“The idea is we keep things as authentic as possible, with real world problems - and they come up with amazing ideas.“The Year 9 boys chose any problem they wanted - and they chose to look at how there’s not much mental health help available here for young people Their solution is a mental health app.”Karen said the STEM thinking process they learn now are processes that will stay with the students as they move on from school.“The kids are also becoming more resilient - instead of thinking why the solution didn’t work, they ask why and what can I do about it,” she said.Karen and Zane - another RASE program staff member - attended an awards ceremony in Sydney last week, after successfully submitting the RASE program application into the Public Education Foundation, which manages the awards.They accepted a certificate on behalf of all the principlals in the academy. It was presented to them by Georgina Harrison, Secretary of the NSW Department of Education.