Northern Rivers TAFE NSW students showcased their skills on the national stage, returning from the WorldSkills Australia 2025 National Championships in Brisbane with an impressive medal haul.The prestigious three-day event brought together Australia’s top emerging talent across more than 50 skill categories, with participants tested under real‑world, high‑pressure conditions.The medal ceremony took place last Sunday in front of hundreds of vocational students from across the country. Six Northern Rivers students received national honours, claiming one gold medal, two bronze, and three Medallions for Excellence.Winners from the Northern Rivers included:Paige Barcham (Ballina) – Gold – Health and Personal Care Andreya Koutsoubos (Federal) – Bronze – Cookery Matthew Stevenson (Gold Coast) – Bronze – Autobody Repair Holly Oates (Alstonville) – Medallion for Excellence – Floristry Benjamin Friday (Ewingsdale) – Medallion for Excellence – Automotive Refinish Ryan Fahey (North Casino) – Medallion for Excellence – Plumbing & Heating “Winning gold was such a proud moment,” said Paige Barcham. “The competition challenged me to think beyond basic skills and really focus on person‑centred healthcare. It confirmed I’m on the right path in this career, and I’m so grateful for the support of my TAFE teachers.”(Paige Barcham with her gold medal. Photo: supplied)“I put in so much training and was a little surprised but thrilled to come home with a bronze,” said Andreya Koutsoubos. “The competition was intense but rewarding, and I’m so grateful to my employer and TAFE NSW for backing me every step of the way.”“I felt great throughout the competition — it was such a fun, challenging, and rewarding experience,” said Holly Oates. “Being recognised with a Medallion for Excellence was a real honour and has given me so much confidence and inspiration to do more.”Winning a medal puts these students in the running for selection to the Australian Skillaroos team, which will compete against more than 80 countries at the WorldSkills International Competition in Shanghai in September 2026.TAFE NSW Managing Director, Chloe Read, said this is an incredible result for the region.“WorldSkills is more than a competition – it’s a celebration of vocational excellence, and an invaluable opportunity for students, like these six Northern Rivers competitors, to build their skills, confidence, and careers,” Ms Read said.“This achievement demonstrates the life‑changing impact of hands‑on training and mentorship, and the vital role TAFE NSW plays in preparing the future workforce.”Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan also congratulated all the medal‑winning TAFE NSW students.“These students are a credit to their communities and a testament to the quality of vocational education we’re delivering right across NSW,” he said.“TAFE NSW equips students with the practical skills and experience they need to thrive in the workforce – and their success on the national stage speaks volumes.”

On the day of arguably Lismore's most iconic event, the Lismore Lantern Parade, comes the announcement that Lismore City Council's Eat The Street food festival has received a grant of $292,280 from the NSW Government.Lismore Council, along with Tweed and Kyogle Councils, were successful in the $14.65 million Open Streets 2025-28 Program. This secures the popular event for the next three years.Lismore Council last held Eat The Street in 2020 to a scaled-back, cautious crowd as we started to learn more about COVID-19. The 2022 floods put a stop to any future Eat The Street events for a few years, as Council put on concerts and street festivals, such as One From The Heart and Music From The Heart.Lismore MP Janelle Saffin congratulated the three councils, saying the Open Streets Program supports councils to temporarily close streets to deliver free events for locals and visitors over the next three years.“The program is part of our Government’s agenda of supporting events, boosting local economies, creating safe and vibrant spaces, and stimulating nightlife activity,” Ms Saffin said.Mayor of Lismore Steve Krieg said, "I want to thank the NSW Government for supporting Eat the Street. It’s an event the community is genuinely excited about as it brings everyone together in a celebration of food, culture and connection, which is more important now than ever."Following a competitive grants process, successful local projects include:$350,000 to Tweed Shire Council for Local Streets Alive, providing an innovative and exciting event series for regional residents and visitors, located in Murwillumbah. It is comprised of three major events (annual Street Party 2025-27) delivered by Tweed Regional Museum in partnership with community, Business Murwillumbah and local vendors.$292,280 to Lismore City Council for Eat the Street, delivering economic growth, increased visitation and overnight stays, to help build and strengthen Lismore’s identity, through showcasing it as an alternative lifestyle hub.$79,500 to Kyogle Council for Kyogle Civic Heart Precinct Activation, expanding and improving a monthly farmers market through a temporary closure of Stratheden Street to expand the number of stallholders, encourage outdoor dining at two cafes, and presenting a program of regular live music, to increase visitation and dwell time.For more information on the Open Streets Program and to see the full list of projects, visit: Open Streets Program | Transport for NSW.

Today is the winter solstice, the day with the least amount of sunlight, which means the Lismore Lantern Parade. In 2025, it just happens to fall on the same day as the winter solstice, Saturday, June 21.The weather will be cloudy, and we may get a light shower in the late morning, but it won't last, according to the BoM. The stage will be set, and the crowds will start to arrive in the CBD from midday."It's just going to be gorgeous today," said Jyllie Jackson, CEO and Creative Director of LightnUp Inc., the company that puts on the Lismore Lantern Parade. "We've got some good music, and great food served by plenty of food trucks, and local food businesses that will be open, like the Pie Cart and Leo's. They're all getting involved. "The Two Ravens has got live music outside their shop, and Scoops and Candy are doing extra food. It's very lovely that the businesses in town are getting involved, and I just hope that everybody has a fabulous night."Here is what you will enjoy today:Market deLight - 12pm – 9.00pmThe day's activities begin at 12 noon when the Market deLight opens with a fabulous array of delicious regional food, arts & crafts and some pop-up shops from local CBD businesses.​​Kids Fest - 12pm - 4.30pmEnjoy fun and games with Northern Rivers community groups & organisations, there will be activities, street performers, jumping castle and lots more fun.. Summerland Bank will be bringing along their giant street games!They will also be facilitating the Lantern Decorating stall, so kids can join in the parade.​The Heartbeats Festival Stage - 12pm – 9.00pmHeartBeats Festival Stage is on Carrington Street, near Dragonfly Cafe.Magenta Community Services has joined the festival team this year as lead sponsor of the popular stage throughout the day and into the evening.​Southern Cross University is supporting the HeartBeats Stage, providing light & sound, back line.​​The delightful Little Jarjums from Friends Children's Centre and friends will do a special Acknowledgement of Country. Music and performance are drawn from the wealth of talent here on the Northern Rivers. Thank you to the Northern Rivers Conservatorium for their support over many years.​HEARTBEATS STAGE LINEUP12:00 Evans Head K-12 School1:30 Rivers Secondary College - Kadina Campus (10-Pack Screwdriver)2:00 Northern Rivers Conservatorium Youth Jazz Orchestra3:00 Jarjum and Welcome3:30 Timbuktu4:30 Isabella a Cappella6:00 Dahlia7:20 Teddy Lewis8:30 The HoochersThe Lantern Parade - 5.30pm - 6.30pmThe fabulous Lanterneers assemble in Victoria St, departing at 5.30, travelling up Molesworth St through the Heart of the City to Magellan Street, then past the Library, and up DAWSON St into Oakes Oval.  Tickets are on sale for the grandstands, or FREE entry through the MAGELLAN Street gate to sit on the oval.BUCKETEERS will be along the parade route collecting donations, or they can give you DIGITAL BUCKET cards.​ The Fiery Finale - 6.30pm -7.30pmThe Return of the SunThe Fiery Finale will be in the magnificent Oakes Oval (a bit of a change from the footy or cricket). It is FREE to sit on the grass in the oval via the MAGELLAN STREET entrance. Bring along blankets and cushions to sit on the grass.Sorry, but NO chairs in the oval area.Tickets on sale for grandstand seating. ​PLEASE NOTE: There will be some gentle pyrotechnics and lots of fire.​There will be plenty of CBD venues open for dinner or partying when the 2025 Lismore Lantern Parade concludes.​Don't forget, the Lismore Lantern Parade is in your hands via the Lismore App front page for any information you need Lismore Lantern Parade.

The driver of a truck has died in a single-vehicle crash that closed Bangalow Road just before Clunes this afternoon.About 3.10pm today (Friday, 20 June 2025), emergency services responded to reports that a truck had veered off Bangalow Road, Clunes – approximately 15km north-east of Lismore – into a tree.NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the 46-year-old male driver, but he died at the scene.Officers from the Richmond Police District established a crime scene that was examined by specialist police.A report will be prepared for the information of the coroner.Bangalow Road was closed in both directions for most of the night, reopening at 10:36pm.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin has commended Lismore City Council for funding and installing a gauge on Rocky Creek Dam’s spillway, a major improvement in flood warning infrastructure.Ms Saffin said the Bureau of Meteorology eventually would take ownership and ongoing maintenance of the new gauge under its Flood Warning Infrastructure Network (FWIN) Program.“I recognise and thank Annie Kia, the coordinator of the Terania-Keerong Flood Safety Project, for her tenacity in pushing for functional and accurate river and rain gauges with Rous County Council and Lismore City Council,” Ms Saffin said.“During the 2022 flood, the lack of reliable information was dangerous and distressing for many rural residents.“I supported Annie and The Channon Resilience in their community campaign to get these critical gauges upgraded or installed, and I’ve strongly advocated for our local authorities to work together with the BoM to get this done.”Lismore City Council’s Acting Chief Operating & Financial Officer Joshua Smith confirmed that installation of the new Rocky Creek Dam gauge was completed yesterday (Thursday, 19 June).Mr Smith thanked Rous County Council for giving Council permission to install the gauge on its asset (the dam) and BoM technicians for providing technical advice on suitable equipment.The gauge will be commissioned next week.

We are back to a shower or two, as the weather forecast for the next few days, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.The good news is we are talking a 50% chance and only 1 to 2mm at the most. Mostly sunny skies return next Wednesday.The BOM says Saturday's rain is most likely to occur in the late morning, which will make for perfect winter weather for the 2025 Lismore Lantern Parade.Festivities kick off from 12 noon in the Lismore CBD with the Market deLight offering delicious regional food, arts and crafts and pop-up shops from the CBD.Kids Fest runs from 12 noon to 4:30pm with street performers, a jumping castle, giant street games and more activities.The Heartbeats Festival Stage is on Carrington Street, the southern end of the Magellan Street intersection. Local talent drawn from the Northern Rivers will perform, including Evans Head K-12 school, Kadina High campus, the Northern Rivers Conservatorium Youth Jazz Orchestra, Timbuktu, Isabella a Cappella and more.The Lismore Lantern Parade begins at 5:30pm, departing Victoria Street, down Molesworth, right onto Magellan, left onto Dawson and into the northern gates of Oakes Oval where the Fiery Finale will take place. The best view will be from the grandstands. You can purchase your tickets here.For something completely different, the Viking Village is at the Lismore Showgrounds on Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 4pm and 10am to 3pm.You can observe what life was like at a medieval Viking village as more than 12 re-enactors from local and interstate clubs will come together to recreate combat, craft & cooking displays and an archery competition for the kids. Food trucks and coffee will be available on-site. Entry is via Dunoon Road, with a $5 entry fee for adults. Children 12 and under are free.The Lismore Farmers Market gets underway at 7:30 tomorrow morning at the Lismore Showgrounds in North Lismore.Fresh fruit and veg, hot coffee, tea and breakfast are on offer. The CWA Lismore Evening Branch will have the van there selling their famous pickles and preserves, as well as recycled hot water bottles and dog coats for your furry family members.Tomorrow (Saturday) is International Yoga Day, and to celebrate, there will be a free yoga event at The Quad from 10am to 12 noon.The event will include a group yoga session, a panel discussion on the science of yoga, followed by a children's yoga class. BYO yoga mat.The Lismore Heights Sports Club (118a High Street) is hosting a Winter Wonderland Extravaganza to raise money for the Lismore Base Auxiliary.You will enjoy a complimentary cocktail on arrival, a three-course Christmas-themed buffet, raffles, games, and entertainment by the Cath Simes band. Tickets cost $100 per ticket, with $10 going to the Lismore Base Auxiliary. Tickets can be purchased from the Lismore Heights Sports Club. Call 02 6624 3040 for more information.The club also has Christmas with Rubella on Sunday at $40 per ticket, with $5 going towards the Lismore Base Auxiliary.There is plenty of live music around Lismore over the weekend.The Northern Rivers Hotel has Dan Grace tonight from 6pm and Doc Rock on Saturday night from 7pm.The Lismore Workers Club has Harry Nichols in the main lounge from 5pm tonight and Alex McLeod Saturday night from 5pm.Kevin Bloody Wilson performs at the Lismore Workers Club next Wednesday night (June 25) from 7:30pm. Tickets available here.Coming up at the Workers Club:Dorothy the Dinosaur's Spectacular Show No. 2 has tickets available at 12 noon on Sunday, June 27 at 12 noon. The 10am show is sold out.Herman's Hermits, yes, the original English band from the '60s, is on stage on Friday, August 8. Tickets $59.Fleetwood Max (cover band) will be performing all the big songs from the legendary Fleetwood Mac on Thursday, August 14.There has been no movement in the price of fuel in the last seven days. Here is the list of the cheapest service stations, saving you the most money in each town:E10 is 167.9 at the 7-Eleven in South Lismore, 172.5 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino, and 157.5 at the Mobil and The Metro on River Street, Ballina.Unleaded 91 is 169.9 across Lismore, 174.5 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino, and 159.5 at the Metro and the Mobil on River Street, Ballina.U95 is 177.5 at the two Independents (Brad & Sharon) on Terania Street, North Lismore, 194.9 at the Ampol on Dyrabba Street in Casino, and 171.5 at The Metro on River Street, Ballina.U98 is 185.9 at the Liberty on Ballina Road in Lismore, and the Liberty on Union Street, South Lismore, 196.9 at Liberty's on Hare and Centre Street in Casino, and 180.5 at The Mobil and Metro on River Street in Ballina.Diesel is 174.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road in Lismore, 175.5 at The United in Casino, and 182.5 at The Mobil and The Metro on River Street in Ballina.Have a great weekend!Now, have a laugh with the Friday Funnies.....

State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin has shared a Transport for NSW (Transport) update on progress with removing rail bridges in Lismore.Ms Saffin said she sought briefings in response to ongoing inquiries from community members.Alexandra Parade, North LismoreTransport is continuing to monitor the current road arrangements at Alexandra Parade and is not aware of any recent incidents in this location.Transport has been working with Lismore City Council to develop proposals for a permanent detour route around Alexandra Parade, past the Lismore Showground and across the disused rail corridor. This would allow the road under Alexandra Parade to be closed in the short term prior to obtaining agreement from Heritage Council to remove the structure over the road.  Transport has recently received costings and detailed design for this detour work from Council with the cost estimate to construct the detour considerably more than Transport had originally estimated, so Transport is reconsidering this option to test value for money.Transport is now assessing the proposal to determine whether the detour should be implemented, given that the current arrangements are working reasonably well as a short-term solution, while it assesses the proposed longer-term future of the Alexandra Parade structure.Other Lismore rail bridges and Heritage permissionsOne of the conditions of the Terania Street bridge removal s60 approval was that Transport must submit a curtilage amendment request, which includes an updated heritage assessment for the remaining Lismore rail bridges to the Heritage Council of NSW.On 2 April 2025, an extension of time for the original approval was granted by the Heritage Council, giving Transport until 30 June 2025 to submit this request.Transport is now preparing a heritage significance assessment to submit to Heritage Council before the 30 June 2025 deadline to meet the requirements of the condition. A draft version of this document is in preparation. The current proposal is to amend the heritage curtilage to exclude both Alexandra Parade and Union Street bridges from the overall State Heritage Register listing.

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service’s End of Financial Year Appeal highlights how every donation, large or small, helps deliver vital care to regional and remote communities in their most critical moments. On average, NSW Ambulance tasks the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service around four times a day from aeromedical bases in Lismore, Tamworth and Belmont. The aircraft’s critical care medical teams, made up of a NSW Ambulance critical care paramedic and NSW Health doctor, attend to over 1,500 missions each year across Northern NSW. This year marks an incredibly special milestone for the Service - 50 years of saving and changing lives since its inception in Newcastle in December 1975. Across those 50 years, community support has been an ongoing contributor to the Service’s provision of critical care and support in a time of need. “The community’s belief in what we do and their generosity has built the very foundations of our Service that today, in conjunction with the funding we receive from NSW Health, provides a partnership that together can continue to give patients the best chance of a positive outcome,” Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service Chief Executive Officer Steven Underwood said.    “The support from the community for our End of Financial Year Appeal will mean we can continue to invest in the training, equipment, people and new technologies that will ensure we can deliver the highest standards of excellence in aviation and medical care for our patients,” Mr Underwood concluded. Looking to the future, new challenges will emerge, but so too will new opportunities to strengthen the care the Service provides. With continued community support, the Service can meet those moments with continued compassion and commitment, with a continued dedication to caring for others in the years ahead. To make a tax-deductible donation before June 30, visit www.rescuehelicopter.com.au/appeal.

Rebuilding Lismore after the February and March 2022 floods has taken longer than people expected in certain areas; the Resilient Lands Program and the $150 million Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program are two that come quickly to mind.Another that has been spoken about for the last three years is the East Lismore and South Lismore Sewage Treatment Plant.In May 2022, the Perrottet Government were in power, and the Minister for Lands and Water, Kevin Anderson, visited Lismore to announce $145 million in funding to repair and upgrade critical water and sewerage infrastructure damage for the Northern Rivers councils. The Lismore share was $108 million. That was to be split between the South Lismore Sewage Treatment Plant ($20-$25 million) and the East Lismore Sewage Treatment Plant ($70-$80 million).(Then Minister for Lands and Water Kevin Anderson announced $145 million in funding to repair and rebuild critical water and sewerage infrastructure in May 2022) Three years later, the plan is in doubt with Mayor Steve Krieg revealing in a Talking Lismore podcast that the Minns Government has allocated $38-39 million to get the job done."I wish I could be optimistic on this as well, but sadly, something that was promised now, I think it was May of 2022, is only just through the concept planning stage, and there's a pretty big shortfall of funding to achieve the ultimate goal, or the best case scenario. If we were going to go for the Rolls-Royce, and there's a certain dollar value on that, at the moment, we're looking at a secondhand VW Beetle option."The idea of the $108 million was to move the critical components, electrical and other, so that they are out of harm's way in future floods.The simple question put to the mayor is, "Will $39 million get the job done?""The simple answer is no. And what I will say is our council wastewater and water staff have done an exceptional job to keep what they've got complying with all of the very strict regulations, through the EPA requirements and the like, but it is literally putting a band-aid on an axe wound."It really does need a complete refurbishment and rebuild. That point was made last week to Premier Minns very strongly, that we want to see Lismore grow. We want to develop his 400 blocks of land, which he's now the proud owner of, at Crawford Road (East Lismore). We want to see the North Lismore Plateau go ahead. We want to see all of these lands open up, but without a sewage treatment plant, it's really going to hamstring our progress."And, like every level of government, the answer straight away is no, we've got no money at the end of the conversation. To his credit, and he's under a fair bit of pressure, Chris, the state budget's coming out on the 24th next week, he's committed to finding a solution. I've spoken with Janelle about it as well. It's one of those critical infrastructure projects that, because it's not overly glamorous, and no one really wants to cut a ribbon on a sewage treatment plant, I guess. I don't know, but it is critical to the growth and the revival of Lismore."We had a really good, robust discussion. The premier loves what we're doing in Lismore. He loves Lismore. He understands the need. But as we can all imagine, everyone from every different direction, and given what's happened down on the mid north coast as well, that has put a major budgetary impact and social impact on the state government at the moment. And I understand that, however, we were promised something, and I expect it to be delivered."This could well boil down to one government's promise of funds to the next government; however, Lismore's future is at stake. While the details remain to be released, it appears that another 2022 flood would cause the same damage to a repaired sewage treatment plant that is needed to service the current population, as well as Lismore's future population, which is coming from the 400 blocks at the SCU site, the 80 at North Lismore, and all future privately developed sites.It has been well understood that rebuilding the East Lismore Sewage Treatment Plant would take three years. With the current plant described as 'on life support', how can the state government build 400 homes on a newly purchased site before the sewage treatment plant is rebuilt and comply with EPA regulations?To be continued.....

Keen Street, East Lismore, the home of the Lismore Lantern Parade, was buzzing this week as the final preparations for this year's iconic event were busily being attended to.The Enchanted Windows are in full swing. It is worth a stroll around the CBD block tonight to have a look at what our local businesses have created to celebrate Lismore's premier event:Keen StreetPlanet MusicThe Artisans TableAudio RoomThe Book WarehouseShoppe OneTwo Ravens AntiquesThe Trident Fish and GrillWoodlark StreetHiggins Real EstateChempro ChemistMultitaskMagellan StreetLeo's Food BarMusic BizarreLittle PolliLa TrouvailleFolk ModernThe ProfessionalsMolesworth StreetBe Seen EyewearClub LaneMultitaskSouth LismoreFlourish Art - Casino StreetSouth Lismore Post Office - Union StreetJyllie Jackson, CEO and Creative Director of LightnUp Inc., the company that puts on the Lantern Parade, asked people to buy their tickets for the grandstand now."Remember, if you've bought a ticket, you need to exchange it for a wristband at one of the businesses on the website," Jyllie said.The Ticket Wristband Exchange Outlets are:Music Bizarre - 60 Magellan Street, LismoreSummerland Bank – 101 Molesworth Street, LismoreBohotopia, 103 Keen St, LismoreLismore Square Centre Management – Cnr Brewster Street & Uralba Street.Lismore Council Office, 43 Oliver Ave, GoonellabahGreen Bank, 1/39 Cullen Street, Nimbin  Oakes Oval - Cnr Magellan Street and Dawson Street, Ticket Kiosk 2.30pm - 7pm on 21st June only.Jyllie wanted to remind people of the road closures, which include Molesworth Street from Bounty to Magellan Street, along Magellan Street to Dawson Street, and down Dawson Street to Woodlark Street."I want to apologise for any difficulties with the no parking zones on the parade route," Jyllie said, "I'm really aware of the difficulties it causes, but this is for people's safety, when the Lantern Parade begins."Click here to view the road closures.The weather is looking good for the parade, with the BOM forecasting a 50% chance of a shower or two, most likely in the late morning.Jyllie is still being tight-lipped on this year's message, "You have to be there to see it."

Northern Region Police have conducted a three-day operation focused on locating and arresting alleged domestic violence offenders in the state’s north.Between Monday, 16 June 2025 and Wednesday, 18 June 2025, officers from the North Coast Domestic Violence High Risk Offender Team – assisted by Richmond Police District, Operation UTAH Police, the Northern Region Enforcement Squad, Dog Unit, and Rescue Bomb Disposal Unit – conducted Operation Surge to proactively target alleged offenders, including people wanted on outstanding warrants.As a result of the operation, seven men were charged with offences alleged to have occurred across the Richmond Police District.Incidents included:About 4pm on Monday, 16 June 2025, officers attended a property in Tabulam where they arrested a 19-year-old man following an investigation into alleged domestic violence offences. He was taken to the Casino Police Station, where three outstanding warrants were executed for alleged domestic violence, assault, and property offences. He appeared before Casino Local Court on Tuesday, 17 June 2025, where he was formally refused bail to appear before the same court on Thursday, 7 August 2025.About 9am on Tuesday, 17 June 2025, officers attended a property in Goonellabah as part of an investigation into an alleged domestic violence incident. A 28-year-old man was located allegedly hiding in a wardrobe and was arrested before being taken to Lismore Police Station. There, an outstanding warrant for alleged domestic violence offences was executed. He was refused bail to appear before Lismore Local Court that day (Thursday 17 June 2025), where he was formally refused bail to appear before Ballina Local Court on Wednesday 19 November 2025.About 9.30am on Tuesday, 17 June 2025, officers attended a home in Lismore as part of a domestic violence investigation. A 41-year-old man was arrested at the home and taken to Lismore Police Station, where he was charged with contravening the prohibition/restriction in the AVO. An outstanding warrant was also executed for alleged domestic violence offences. He was refused bail to appear before Lismore Local Court that day (Tuesday, 17 June 2025), where he was formally refused bail to appear before the same court on Thursday, 11 September 2025.About 9am yesterday (Wednesday, 18 June 2025), officers attended a property in Urbenville where they arrested a 23-year-old man following an investigation into alleged domestic violence offences. He was taken to Casino Police Station where he was charged with contravene prohibition/restriction in AVO, and hinder or resist police officer in the execution of duty. Five outstanding warrants were also executed for alleged domestic violence, property, bail breach, traffic, drug supply, and knife offences. He appeared before Kyogle Local Court yesterday (Wednesday, 18 June 2025), where he was formally refused bail to appear before the same court on Friday, 18 July 2025.Surge operations will continue across the Northern Region Police Districts.

The lack of diverse housing in Lismore and the Northern Rivers has been a consistent talking point for all levels of government and the community for the last decade, but especially since the 2022 big flood.The NSW Government today announced new Budget measures that make it easier to deliver more homes, alongside the infrastructure and services communities need, in a bid to address the crisis.As part of the 2025-26 Budget, the Government will:·         Extend tax concessions for build-to-rent (BTR) housing developments; and·         Release draft guidelines to speed up the delivery of homes and infrastructure through works-in-kind agreements with developers.Extending tax concessions for build-to-rent developmentsTo give investors long-term certainty and encourage more rental housing supply, the 2025-26 Budget will extend key tax concessions for build-to-rent developments.Under this change, owners of eligible new build-to-rent developments will now be able to access a land tax concession of a 50 per cent reduction in assessed land value indefinitely.Build-to-rent developments typically make their returns to investors through providing long-term and stable rental income.This means that build-to-rent housing may offer longer-term lease options, better security for tenants, and more housing choice for people at different life stages.It also means that the expiry of the tax concession in 2039 is a key factor impacting investment decisions today.This measure will improve the feasibility of build-to-rent developments, helping to unlock a steady pipeline of secure, high-quality rental homes across NSW.It’s part of a broader strategy to deliver housing that meets the needs of today’s renters—families, key workers, and young people alike.Ensuring new housing comes with the infrastructure people needA works-in-kind agreement allows a developer to dedicate land for public purposes or deliver an infrastructure project, instead of paying a Housing and Productivity Contribution.For example, rather than paying the state government a monetary contribution for the government to build a state road or school, the developer can instead provide the land for the school or build the road themselves and then hand the infrastructure over to the public authority.This will help speed up the delivery of homes, especially in cases where critical infrastructure is required to unlock more housing, providing works-in-kind means a project can get underway faster. The draft guideline outlines how works-in-kind proposals are evaluated, prioritised, and managed under the Housing and Productivity Contribution scheme.The Government is inviting feedback from industry before finalising the guidelines to ensure they achieve their intent of delivering more housing and infrastructure, more quickly.The Housing and Productivity Contribution was introduced in October 2023. It helps fund the delivery of state infrastructure in high-growth areas of NSW like Greater Sydney, Central Coast, Illawarra-Shoalhaven, and the Lower Hunter.The NSW Government is also preparing Infrastructure Opportunities Plans to identify and sequence the infrastructure required to support housing and industrial land targets.The draft Works-in-kind Guideline is on exhibition for public feedback until 17 July 2025 at:  https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-productivity-contribution-schemeThe draft Works-in-kind Guideline is on exhibition for public feedback until 17 July 2025 at:  https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-productivity-contribution-schemePremier of NSW Chris Minns said, “You can’t build new homes without roads, parks, and schools to match, and the community shouldn’t have to wait for them.“Whether it’s new tax incentives, planning reforms or fast-tracking infrastructure, we’re focused on making it faster and easier to build the homes and communities NSW needs.”Treasurer of NSW Daniel Mookhey said, “These measures will give industry the certainty they need to build more homes, faster. “We are making sure we build the homes we need, along with the essential infrastructure we need to go with them.“Extending the tax incentives for build-to-rent will make it easier for developers to build, and give renters more choice.”Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said, “Local infrastructure was an afterthought with the former Liberal-National Government. We’re doing things differently, making sure homes are delivered alongside parks, roads and schools.“The Minns Government is delivering more homes and better choices for home buyers and renters across the state.“Works-in-kind is an important part of the mix in our provision of infrastructure. The Works-in-kind Guideline provides a clear, consistent approach to when and how it can be used.” 

A groundbreaking new study published in the journal Women's Health is bringing long-overdue recognition to the women who played a pivotal role in the Northern Rivers’ recovery from the catastrophic 2022 floods.The research, led by the University Centre for Rural Health Northern Rivers (UCRH), documents how women across the region stepped into leadership roles, filling critical gaps left by formal disaster responses and sustaining the health and wellbeing of their communities through long-term recovery efforts.The study – Governance, collaboration and community organising in rural Australia: A case study of women’s experiences and contributions to community health and well-being in the Northern Rivers, Australia floods – was authored by UCRH researchers Dr Rebecca McNaught, Dr Jo Longman and Emma Pittaway, alongside Loriana Bethune from Gender and Disaster Australia and Dominica Meade from the University of Melbourne.Beyond the headlines: the invisible labour of recoveryWhile media coverage at the time focused on dramatic rescues, generally undertaken by male volunteers, this research uncovers a parallel and largely invisible story: women quietly leading complex, sustained recovery efforts from their homes, community halls, and online networks.“While the media spotlight was on the ‘tinny army’, women were coordinating food relief, managing donation hubs, organising volunteers, and providing emotional support to neighbours and strangers alike,” said lead author Dr Rebecca McNaught. “They were doing this while also caring for families, managing their own flood impacts, and often without any formal recognition or support.”The study draws on interviews with community members, government and non-profit representatives, and transcripts from the NSW Government’s flood response inquiry. It paints a compelling picture of gendered leadership in disaster recovery – one that is collaborative and community-driven.A gendered gap in disaster governanceThe research confirms a systemic issue in disaster governance: the persistent undervaluing of women’s contributions. Despite their central role in community recovery, women community organisers were often excluded from formal decision-making processes and left to navigate bureaucratic systems alone.“This is not just a Northern Rivers issue – it’s a national one,” said co-author Loriana Bethune from Gender and Disaster Australia. “Across Australia, we see the same pattern: women step up in times of crisis, but their leadership is unpaid, unsupported, and unacknowledged. This research is a call to action to change that.”“This research shows that if we want resilient communities, we need to start by recognising and resourcing the people already doing the work – and that means local women.”The study also found that many women paid a personal price for their leadership, experiencing burnout, stress, and negative impacts on their own health and well-being.Lessons for a climate-challenged futureAs climate-related disasters become more frequent and severe, the authors argue that Australia must rethink who it sees as leaders in disaster response and recovery. The Northern Rivers experience offers valuable lessons for other regions across NSW and the country.“We need to build disaster systems that recognise and support the leadership that already exists in communities – especially the leadership of women,” said Dr McNaught. “That means funding grassroots initiatives, including women in planning and governance, and valuing their work as essential to recovery.”The authors are calling on local, state and federal governments to embed gender-inclusive, community-led approaches into disaster planning and recovery frameworks. They also urge further research into supporting the health and well-being of women organisers, whose contributions are vital but often come at a personal cost.About the studyThe study was conducted by researchers from UCRH, based in Lismore, in collaboration with Gender and Disaster Australia and the University of Melbourne. It is one of the first peer-reviewed studies to focus specifically on women’s leadership in the 2022 Northern Rivers flood recovery.The full article is available online as part of the June 2025 issue of Women's Health.

The popular Silent Hands Cafe has reopened its doors in a new location in South Lismore.Owner Lilly Cook first opened Silent Hands in Woodlark Street in December 2022, but had to close the doors in 2023 due to illness."I still suffer regularly with complications from the injuries I sustained in a serious car accident in Armidale 4 years ago," Lilly told the Lismore App, "Which flared up badly during my trading period on Woodlark Street and led me to take a temporary break for two years. I still have complications."I chose the South Lismore location for its smaller premises for easier cleaning/serving management to reduce the impact of heavy physical work on myself. It's a much more relaxed ambience here." (Lilly Cook at the counter and ready to serve)Those who visited Silent Hands on Woodlark Street would know that Lilly is deaf, and her cafe became a gathering place for the large and active Deaf community in the Lismore and Northern Rivers region. While that is a benefit, Lilly says that everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the food and friendly atmosphere. There are Auslan interpreters at all times to make communication easy, in case you don't know sign language.The coffee/tea and handmade food have remained the same; however, there have been some changes."I enjoy making cakes and dealing with customers, so that's why I still want to continue my cafe business. But this time, I registered Silent Hands Bakery to own both trading names. "My business is mainly a small boutique-style bakery rather than a proper cafe. All my cakes are of a homemade style to give customers authentic food, just like the sweet treats made by grandma's in the old days. "I also have a little breakfast and lunch menu with its usual bacon and egg rolls, and lunch has hamburgers, chicken burgers, vegan/vegetarian burgers, hot chips, plus the usual fresh/toasted sandwiches. "I also serve good coffees, teas and milkshakes. Hearty soups are available on most days in the mornings."The popular items on the menu are fresh cheesecakes, gluten-free options are available, and hummingbird cakes. Lilly also has vegan and vegetarian options on the menu.Silent Hands is open 6 days a week. Monday to Friday from 7:30am until 3pm and Saturday from 8am to 1pm.You will find Silent Hands in the Norco Rural complex on Wilson Street, South Lismore.

Since it first opened in November 2022 on Woodlark Street, the Living Lab has hosted a number of informative exhibitions. In fact, the opening exhibition on that night provided examples of how other flood-affected cities around the world use various mitigation methods, early warning systems, voluntary buyouts, and more.Community meetings, business meetings, and experiments have been held to discuss how our community can move forward. It has been an incubator of ideas for rebuilding Lismore and the Northern Rivers.The Living Lab's latest exhibition will have a strong emotional impact on our community. It does not look ahead but in the rearview mirror.Living Memory: Stories and Portraits Celebrating North Lismore will showcase 72 local portraits and share 15 flood stories through recorded historic interviews. It will create a digital archive of the biggest flood to hit our community and preserve the stories for future generations. Living Memory was developed in collaboration with 45 community members. It documents personal experiences and local histories, reflecting the social, cultural and environmental changes that have shaped the area over time.The project emerged in response to community calls to preserve the heritage of North Lismore and its community as it gets set for a new and very different future.The Living Memory: Stories and Portraits Celebrating North Lismore exhibition opens tonight at 5pm at the Living Lab shopfront, 11 Woodlark Street and runs until Thursday, August 7.This gives the community seven weeks to visit the Living Lab to listen to fifteen 10 to 20-minute oral stories that can be listened to at booths at the exhibition, and view the portraits that will adorn the walls, each telling their own story.The Living Memory project collaborators include:Adele Wessell – Historian with 30 years of experience in the Northern RiversCherine Fahd – Leading photographic artist and Associate Professor at UTSElise Derwin – Award-winning photographer based on Bundjalung CountryJeanti St Clair – Audio documentarian and lecturer at Southern Cross UniversityLiving Memory: Stories and Celebrating North Lismore exhibition details:Opening: Thursday 19 June 2025, 5.00pm — 6.30pm,Living Lab Northern Rivers shopfront: 11 Woodlark Street, Lismore.Viewing Time: 19 June to 7 Aug 2025, Tuesday to Thursday from 1 to 4pm. 

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.