Richmond Police District Police are appealing for assistance from the public to identify the male depicted in the images below. Police believe the male may be able to assist with enquiries in respect of an alleged stealing offence that occurred at Alstonville on 25 November 2024.Anyone with information is urged to contact Evans Head Police Station on (02) 6629 7551, Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au and quote E82830821.All information is treated in strict confidence.

The economic cost of child poverty in the Richmond-Tweed region is more than $1.8 billion a year, according to landmark research commissioned by peak social services body NCOSS. The report titled Lasting Impacts: The Economic Costs of Child Poverty in NSW calculated for the first time the impact of failing to invest in our children. About 16 per cent of children in the Richmond-Tweed region live in poverty, and the economic impact equates to more than $6,800 per person. NCOSS chief executive Cara Varian said the total cost of childhood poverty in NSW is $60 billion, eclipsing the annual contributions to the state’s economy from major sectors such as construction ($52.9 billion), manufacturing ($42.3 billion) and mining ($32.5 billion).“There are more than 8,600 children in poverty in the Richmond-Tweed region,” she said. “Child poverty hurts us all - it robs children of their future and steals more than $1.8 billion from the Richmond-Tweed region economy every year.” “Children from households living in poverty are three times more likely to also experience poverty in adulthood. We are setting up a cycle of disadvantage.  “Poverty during childhood has a lifelong impact. These children go on to have poor physical and mental health and earn less at work. They are more likely to be unemployed, homeless or land in the legal system as an adult. “We live in one of the world’s wealthiest nations - poverty is preventable, and this research shows the immense economic opportunity available to the NSW Government if it takes the steps necessary to avoid the long-term consequences of child poverty.” The economic costs from childhood poverty include $26 billion in direct costs (delivering Government services, reduced labour market participation and productivity) and $34 billion from diminished health and life expectancy. Ms Varian said the NSW and Australian Governments must do the following to lift families out of poverty:Substantially increase base rates of income support payments, particularly JobSeeker and Parenting Payments (e.g. match rates of the Age Pension), and index them to community living standards.Ensure that a minimum of 10 per cent of all housing is social and affordable housing; further increase Commonwealth Rent Assistance to keep up with private rental rates; and ensure homelessness services are resourced to support everyone who needs help.Commit to joint decision-making to empower First Nations communities in the design and delivery of services, including boosting funding for the Aboriginal Community Controlled sector.Guarantee all children have access to at least three days a week of quality and affordable childcare, with removal of the Activity Test on the childcare subsidy.Invest in high-quality integrated support services for children and families, that help them early in life. For this report, child poverty is defined as a child (0 -17 years) living in a household with income less than 50 per cent of the median household’s income (including government benefits, and after tax and housing costs), adjusted for household size.To read the report, go to ncoss.org.au.

Become a part of a Living Memory this week in a regional project to capture North Lismore in imagery and story. This Thursday and Saturday, you have the opportunity to visit a pop-up photo booth where professional photographers will capture moments. “At the heart of this work is the desire to creatively support a community experiencing a massive transformation — to tell their stories in their own words.”Photographic artist Cherine Fahd believes photography can bring people and communities together, and creatively address moments of significant social change. "Photography has the power to make us visible to each other, to make us feel seen in ways that say, 'I belong, I am here.' “The simple act of making portraits creates a thread between people, a reminder of our presence in this moment, of resilience, of being held in each other's sight so that we know we were here in North Lismore together." In October many current and former North Lismore residents ('Northies') came together for a Living Memory community co-design workshop, sharing stories and ideas of how they would like North Lismore to be remembered. Local historian Adele Wessell and photographic artist Cherine Fahd are advocates of the Living Memory project and are capturing imagery and stories for a showcase in March 2025 and then to live on in a digital archive.Lismore App's Lara Leahy happened across the photography team taking the promo images for this event. Lara and her dog, Tilly, had a lovely time sharing some laughs and capturing a few moments to give expression to the project.Lara has been involved in telling many people's stories in North Lismore and beyond, and Tilly is often not far away. In her first photo shoot, Tilly was not accustomed to so much attention directed at her, but her beautiful character shone through.(An impromptu opportunity to contribute to the legacy of North Lismore. Image credit: Elise Derwin)You can take part in the North Lismore pop-up Photo Booths:Thursday, 28 November 4pm—6pmSaturday, 30 November 8.30am—11am Galaxy Underground, 51 Bridge Street, North Lismore AND 43 Bridge Street, North Lismore (old general store building)This event is free, and you are asked to come along with whoever you would like - by yourself or with your family, neighbours, mates or local club! Bring memorabilia and personal stories, and help the Living Lab to create some lasting memories of the neighbourhood you are part of. The oral histories of the Northies will be documented in interviews with Adele Wessell, local historian. Adele looks to explore “themes of home, community and locality in the words of locals from the areas where homes are being bought back.”If you have a story you would like to share, get in touch with the Living Lab Northern Rivers at livinglabnr@scu.edu.au. Living Memory is a community project with Living Lab Northern Rivers and the NSW Reconstruction Authority exploring the stories, history and memories of North Lismore.Executive Director of the Reconstruction Authority's Northern Rivers Adaptation Division, Kristie Clarke, described the Living Memory project as a 'people first' approach to recording the cultural and historical significance of North Lismore. "North Lismore, like many areas of the Northern Rivers, is undergoing significant change following the 2022 floods and this project takes a very personal approach to telling that story," she said.After the showcase in March, the Living Memory archive will be accessible for long-term future reference, along with a collection of historical materials and artefacts. Together they will form a record of a North Lismore, it's place and people, at a particular time. For more information, visit llnr.com.au/living-memory.

Lismore South Public School has received the Resilient Australian National School Award for its implementation of the Mackillop Season's Stormbirds program.The 2024 Resilient Australia Awards is a nationwide program that celebrates, shares and promotes initiatives that build and foster community resilience to disasters and emergencies.Since 2000, the awards have showcased innovation and exemplary practice across Australia, celebrating achievements that might otherwise go unseen and inspiring others to build greater disaster resilience in their own communities.Three-quarters of students at Lismore South Public School (PS) lost their homes and belongings in the February 2022 flood. Not only that, their school and the Ngulliboo Jarjums Preschool were severely damaged, so much so that the old school is being demolished and rebuilt.Lismore South PS Assistant Principal Gaye Titcume oversaw the implementation of the program, with six staff members trained to deliver Stormbirds. More than 100 students went through the program, which is believed to be one of the largest implementations of this well-being and recovery program for young people.Gaye Titcume, Lismore South Public School Assistant Principal, said, “It became very obvious that we needed to sit with the children after the flood and just be with them. Learning went on the back burner, and wellbeing was at the forefront.”“Stormbirds was a program that we jumped on and thank goodness we did because what’s come out of that program has been beautiful.”“It created that space where the children felt valued and safe and cared for and respected. All those things have led to more connections with teachers that they, perhaps, wouldn’t have otherwise had.”“There’s no question our children have increased their resilience, and they are really the ones who should be receiving awards, each and every one of them.”Stormbirds supports young people to understand and manage the changes and impacts they experience as a result of a natural disaster.The awards are run by the Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience and were announced at the 2024 National Resilience Australia Awards in Canberra. They build whole of community resilience to disasters and emergencies around Australia.Larissa Polak, Lismore South Public School Principal, said, ""We are honoured to receive the award, which recognises the unwavering commitment and dedication of our school team in delivering the Stormbirds program.“This recognition prompts us to pause and reflect on the progress we've made since the 2022 floods. The award highlights the collective efforts that have gone into creating a safe school environment for healing. The compassionate connections established at school ensure that our children receive the care and support needed as we move forward in the disaster recovery journey.”“We are grateful for the partnership with Mackillop, Season to deliver this program at a whole school level, putting our school forward for both state and national recognition.“Thank you to the Australian Institute of Disaster Resilience for recognising our school’s efforts.” Fiona McCallum, General Manager of MacKillop Seasons, says it is an honour to have partnered with Lismore South Public School and is delighted at the win.“The beauty of a program like Stormbirds—as well as our other program, Seasons for Growth—is that they are designed to build lifelong resilience skills within the community. We take a community-driven approach and work with school communities and agencies to train local professionals, building local capacity to deliver the programs with a sustainable approach.“With positive benefit to community connectedness, knowledge sharing and inclusive support, we know many other communities are keen to learn from the success of this model so they too can support their own unique context.”

North Coast road users will soon benefit from safer and smoother journeys with traffic changes on the northbound off-ramp and roundabout at the Ballina interchange on the Pacific Highway.From 2 December, Transport for NSW will implement changes to the traffic turning movements.The left lane will continue to allow a left turn towards Lismore and will now be used by those continuing north on the Pacific Highway towards Tweed Heads.The right lane will change to only allow a right turn towards Ballina or a U-turn back onto the Pacific Highway towards Coffs Harbour. All other turning arrangements remain unchanged.Transport for NSW Regional Director North Anna Zycki said that during busy travel times, traffic on the northbound off-ramp could queue back onto the Pacific Highway, increasing the risk of crashes and causing both delays and frustration to road users.“Changing the traffic turning movements will improve efficiency and reduce congestion,” Ms Zycki said.New signage and line marking will be installed to guide motorists.  Transport for NSW will continue to monitor safety and queuing at the interchange.

Farmers have beaten the odds to lift NSW’s agricultural production to its third-highest level in history, according to a new report released by the state government this week. Despite challenging seasonal conditions during the first half of the year, NSW’s agricultural sector recorded a gross value of production of just over $20 billion in 2023-24, with the state’s agricultural exports reaching $11 billion in value over the twelve-month period.NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said it was pleasing to see the sector was well on its way to achieving its goal of being a $30 billion dollar industry by 2030, in spite of the challenges it continues to face. “Dry seasonal conditions inland and livestock prices presented a real challenge over summer for many farmers, but despite all odds, our sector remained a force to be reckoned with on the global stage,” Mr Martin said. “In 2023-24, livestock and cotton exports reached new record highs, and the gross value of production for farmed oysters grew six per cent to $52 million – its highest level in history. “Every single day, our farmers have stepped up to the plate to keep clothes on our backs and food on our forks, no matter what, and these numbers tell that story.” While the sector still faced many challenges, Mr Martin said the opportunities and potential of the NSW agriculture sector were plentiful. “Many farmers in the south have faced dry conditions and frost this year, while those in the north of the state, some experiencing flooding, are on the front line of major biosecurity threats like cattle ticks and fire ants,” Mr Martin said. “High input costs are also challenging farmers across NSW, yet they continue to take great leaps and strides in securing our food security for generations to come.“With their knowledge, resilience and stewardship for our landscape, Australians can rest assured our farmers will continue to grow the healthy plants and animals that feed not just our nation, but also the world.”

A man has died in a single-vehicle crash in the state's far north.About 12pm today (Tuesday 26 November 2024), emergency services were called to Dulguigan Road, Dulguigan - about 5km north of Murwillumbah - following reports a hatchback had crashed.Officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District attended and found a hatchback had crashed into a tree.NSW Ambulance paramedics attended and treated the driver; however, he died at the scene.He is yet to be formally identified but is believed to be aged in his 60s.A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.A crime scene has been established and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident commenced.Anyone with information about the incident, CCTV or dashcam footage is urged to contact Tweed/Byron Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

A Lennox Heads resident or visitor is a newly minted millionaire, though they may not yet know it, after pocketing $1 million in last night’s Weekday Windfall draw. The mystery millionaire held one of the four division one winning entries nationally in Weekday Windfall draw 4473, drawn Monday 25 November 2024. Each division one entry took home $1 million. As a non-registered Lott Member, officials are eagerly waiting for the mystery ticketholder to check their ticket and come forward. The winning entry was purchased at TSG Lennox Head, Shop 3, 5 Snapper Drive, Lennox Head. The Lott spokesperson, Eliza Wregg, said she hoped to unite the Northern River’s latest division one winner with their million-dollar windfall soon. “Our mystery ticketholder is likely oblivious to the fact that they’ve woken up as a millionaire this morning following last night’s Weekday Windfall draw,” she said. “We’re urging anybody who purchased a Weekday Windfall ticket from TSG Lennox Head to check their tickets today! “Just imagine the thrill of discovering you are an overnight millionaire! Your plans for the rest of the year would surely change in a heartbeat! “Make sure you check your tickets, and if you discover you are holding the winning ticket contact The Lott on 131 868 to begin the exciting prize claim process. “This is also an important reminder for players to register their lottery tickets to a player card or online account with The Lott Members Club, so if they are to score a major prize, we can reach out to them with the winning news.” The winning numbers in Weekday Windfall draw 4473 on Monday 25 November 2024 were 12, 17, 42, 14, 39 and 8, while the supplementary numbers were 23 and 25. 

Funding has been extended to continue delivering specialist support to children and young people who accompany their mothers to women’s refuges in Lismore. The Minns Labor Government has invested $48.1 million to expand and extend the Specialist Workers for Children and Young People (SWCYP) program, ensuring 21 existing contracts have funding certainty to June 2026, and a further 10 contracts receive new SWCYP funding. One of these extended services is the Northern NSW Homelessness Support Service for Women Experiencing Domestic and Family Violence. Since it launched in 2022, the service has provided significant support to vulnerable women and children across LGAs, including Lismore, Ballina, Byron, Clarence Valley, Kyogle, Richmond Valley and Tweed, with support through the SWCYP program.Under the expansion, SWCYP will now also cover the Northern NSW Homelessness Support Service for Aboriginal Women Experiencing Domestic and Family Violence across the same LGAs. Both services are led by Momentum Collective.  The SWCYP program provides a path to recovery for children and young people from 0 to 18 years of age, staying in refuges with their mothers after escaping domestic and family violence. Under this program, children and young people are recognised as victim-survivors in their own right and offered holistic, trauma-informed and preventative support. Specialist workers develop an individualised support plan for each child or young person to help break the pattern of violence and prevent intergenerational trauma. The $48.1 million boost to the SWCYP program forms part of the NSW Government’s $245.6 million emergency package to reduce the rate of violence against women and children in NSW. Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said, “Domestic and family violence can have a devastating impact on children and young people, whether they have witnessed or directly suffered abuse.  “This early intervention program run by Momentum Collective works to disrupt the cycle of violence and empowers children and young people to build a future free from violence.” Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said, “Extending and expanding this program means 1,800 children and young people will now have access to support from more than 55 specialist workers in 32 refuges across regional and metropolitan NSW every year. “This investment is crucial and will provide life-changing assistance for children and young people as they recover from past trauma.” 

More than 10 Olympic sized swimming pools of flood debris has been diverted from landfill and reused, saving $2.4 million following a collaborative effort between the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and Richmond Valley Council.The debris, made up of soil and vegetation from landslips during the 2021-2022 floods, was collected from the damaged Naughtons Gap Road and repurposed for the Northern Rivers Rail trail.More than 12,000 tonnes of the material has now been placed along both sides of the trail to provide added stability and improve safety for cyclists.NSW EPA Executive Director Operations, Jason Gordon, said this is a great example of what can be achieved when we all work together."Severe weather events often generate significant waste volumes, and it can be challenging and costly to clean up. Rather than this material being dumped into a landfill, we've come up with a joint solution by reusing it to improve an important community and tourism asset."We know the impact the floods left on Northern Rivers communities is still being felt today but we are committed to continuing to work with Council and other agencies to ensure projects like this one come to life and help the region thrive once again."Richmond Valley Council Mayor, Robert Mustow said right from the word go the EPA engaged with us to come up with positive solutions."If this material ended up in landfill it would have cost $2.4 million. This huge saving is fantastic for our community seeing important repair work done while enabling us to upgrade infrastructure."The EPA is continuing to work with Council on multiple flood recovery projects to minimise material being sent to landfill.Naughtons Gap Road has been closed since 2021 and is set to reopen in December as part of the $15.8 million Betterment of Naughtons Gap Road project. (Naughton's Gap Road. Photo: Richmond Valley Council)The project to repair the road and make it more resilient to future natural disasters was funded jointly by the Australian and NSW Governments and was the first Regional Roads and Transport RecoveryPackage project to start work. For more information visit Council's website.The Environment Protection Authority has also been working with Lismore City Council on its flood cleanup.A spokesperson from EPA said, "The NSW EPA has an operational team dedicated to supporting the infrastructure rebuild following the 2022 Northern Rivers floods."This team works closely with all seven councils in the region, including Lismore City Council."We’ve collaborated with Lismore on various flood recovery projects by conducting regular inspections, advising on repairs to roads damaged by landslips, and ensuring waste materials are transported and disposed of safely."

The Lismore CWA is celebrating a milestone this Saturday, November 30, a centenary of service to the Lismore community. They will also re-open their historic CWA rooms at Spinks Park.The Country Women’s Association (CWA) has proudly supported local communities across NSW for over 100 years. Founded in 1924, the Lismore CWA was the 81st branch to open after the movement began in 1922. As part of the Far North Coast Group, Lismore CWA is one of 17 branches in the Northern Rivers region. The association raises funds for local community groups and provides opportunities for learning, socialising, and enjoying outings together.The celebration of 100 Years of Service will take place at Spinks Park (133 Molesworth Street) between 10am and 1pm this Saturday and take the form of a fete. Lismore CWA President Helen Dargin says, “This isn’t just a celebration of our 100th birthday; it’s a tribute to the incredible women who’ve come before us and helped Lismore thrive. Reopening these historic rooms is a proud moment for us, and we’re thrilled they’ll once again be a place for the whole community to gather."Since 1924, the Lismore CWA has been a pillar of support and friendship, making a positive impact on countless lives. This centenary event is our way of honouring the past, celebrating the present, and looking forward to a bright future."We can’t wait to celebrate this special day with you all. Bring your friends and family and join us for a wonderful morning filled with laughter, memories, and plenty of surprises. We would love to see you there!"The Lismore CWA is proud to be made up of two vibrant branches – Lismore and Lismore Evening – and together they will be celebrating this amazing milestone. "We’ve got a full morning of fun planned, packed with entertainment, nostalgia, and plenty of activities for all ages."Kick off the festivities with live music from the talented Living School Choir and the Lismore Concert Band. Feeling like dancing? The Ragged Blossoms will get you moving! Browse the CWA market stalls for some unique finds, play traditional games, or join in on hands-on craft lessons. Plus, the Lismore Croquet Club and the Bowling Club will be open for some classic sporting fun."Fancy a little treat? Step inside the beautifully restored CWA rooms and enjoy a delightful Devonshire tea. The Richmond River Historical Society has also teamed up with us for a special month-long exhibition at the pop-up shop on Molesworth Street."Our CWA Rooms have been lovingly renovated by Lismore City Council and the Bennett Group after the devastating 2022 floods, and we can’t wait to show them off to the community."To really get into the spirit of things, we’re inviting everyone to dress up in styles from 100 years ago. It’s a chance to walk in the shoes of the incredible women who built the CWA and shaped our community. There will be prizes for the best costumes, judged at 11 AM – so start planning your outfit!

As reported by the Lismore App on November 16, Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg has been elected as the Chair of Regional Cities, a network of 15 regional centres across New South Wales.Mayor Krieg said the role will allow him to further develop Lismore's connections with other regional cities and advocate for their needs at a state level.“For Lismore, no one’s going to see a dramatic improvement in services or anything,” he said.“But for me, being in the role of mayor now for three years, and post the flood of 2022, I definitely had my hands full dealing with a lot of different issues. This time around, I wanted to commit to one external body in a little bit more of a meaningful way. And by that, I mean as far as my professional development and improvement as a mayor goes."I wanted to step up and take on a role externally to just being the Mayor of Lismore. The Regional Cities is a forum that I have grown to love very much, in that there's 15 regional centres across our state that are all member cities, and you've got some of the best general managers in the state, some of the best and well-respected mayors in the room, so for me, it's about pushing myself to be a better official and a better mayor for Lismore."Hopefully, the residents will see a more improved mayor for their city through learning and getting help from some of the other mayors from around the state.”The NSW Government has said in its Regional Cities Action Plans document that in the next twenty (20) years, three-quarters of the state's growth in regional NSW will occur in four areas: Lismore, The Tweed, Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie.As part of that growth, Mayor Krieg has revealed his ambitious plans to grow Lismore to 60,000 people by 2040.The Mayor pointed to Tamworth's growth as a model for Lismore, noting the city's transformation from a 27,000-person town to a thriving 65,000-person city through industry and development."For me, we can hold a city like Tamworth as a guide as to what we can be like," the mayor said.He emphasised the importance of creating jobs and attracting new residents to achieve this goal. He outlined a multi-pronged strategy to facilitate this growth, including attracting government departments, fostering business development, and addressing the housing shortage."We need a collaborative approach, working with developers and exploring diverse housing options, including multi-level dwellings and townhouses."The Mayor acknowledged past challenges in attracting development to Lismore but expressed confidence that the new council is committed to streamlining processes and creating a more business-friendly environment. He pointed to positive feedback from builders and shed manufacturers regarding the council's recent performance.While acknowledging that Lismore is not in danger of losing its Regional City status, Mayor Krieg stressed the importance of embracing the opportunities presented by the region's growth projections. He expressed optimism about Lismore's future, stating, "I think in the next five to 10 years, if we, as a council can fulfil our ambitions... Lismore is just going to go from strength to strength."To reinforce that point, Mayor Krieg said the council has the state government’s “100% faith” and is on the “right path” to recovery, despite admitting there is still a “mile of work to do”.The Office of Local Government praised the council’s progress over the past two years to Mayor Krieg after last week's Local Government conference.“They actually said, compared to where you were two years ago, to where you are now, is mind-blowing.”“And I said, well, you see where we are in another two years, and you see where we are in another six years, you won’t believe it.”“We’ve probably got a 10-year roadmap to actually get to where we want to be,” he said. “It sounds like a long time, but we are rebuilding an organisation from the ground up.”The Mayor said he was confident the council had the right personnel in place to execute the long-term plan, noting that the council has been “left behind due to lethargy in local government.”He also highlighted the importance of attracting investment to Lismore, noting that several entities had recently expressed interest in the city as a potential site for future investment.When you think about the first 1000 days since February 2022 and then read the broad plans for Lismore's growth in the next 16 years, there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic about Lismore's future. We have to go through the post-flood pain to reap the rewards that are ahead.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for DAMAGING WINDS, LARGE HAILSTONES and HEAVY RAINFALL for Lismore, Ballina and the Northern Rivers.An upper trough and surface trough are generating severe thunderstorms across the eastern half of the state this afternoon.Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds, large hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations that may be affected include Lismore, Casino, Kyogle, Grafton, Tenterfield, Mudgee, Moree and Maclean.24.4 mm was recorded at Jerangle in the 30 minutes to 12:16 pm.The State Emergency Service advises that people should:* Move your car under cover or away from trees.* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.* Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.* Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill.* Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall.* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.* Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.* Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.* After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.* Unplug computers and appliances.* Avoid using the phone during the storm.* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.The next warning is due to be issued by 5:40 pm.

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.