Year 12 students in Lismore and the Northern Rivers have officially graduated from High School and now have two weeks of study before they sit their first HSC exam in early October.For those looking for a career path, the NSW Government is delivering subsidised training programs for the visitor economy workforce, a sector that is expected to need up to 150,000 more workers over the next decade.  TAFE NSW is partnering with Destination NSW to develop and deliver training programs jointly funded by the Federal Government’s NSW Choose Tourism Program.The subsidised courses are designed to address industry workforce shortages by encouraging Australians to pursue careers in the visitor economy. This will help operators attract, retain, and upskill staff. A key recommendation of the Visitor Economy Strategy 2030 Review, to be released in the coming weeks, is to encourage school leavers and other jobseekers into the tourism workforce, with the aim of growing the sector in NSW to 450,000 workers. The Review finds that school leavers are spurning visitor economy careers, with workers leaking into mining, agriculture, and trades due to “perceived better career paths, industry confidence, and better pay.” Having reached a record $52.9 billion of annual visitor expenditure in the year to June, the NSW visitor economy is Australia’s biggest. The growth in the NSW visitor economy over the coming decade will have a new emphasis on visitor experiences that show off the best of our food and wine, coastal and aquatic environments, nature-based, cultural, heritage, arts, First Nations, adventure and wellness experiences. The new training programs include: An ‘Introduction to the Visitor Economy’ microskill: a short self-directed online course designed to provide foundational knowledge and explore careers in the visitor economy industry. The microskill will be offered free to the public for the first six weeks of release, with fully subsidised access available for NSW high school students. Five one-hour video masterclasses: fully subsidised pre-recorded masterclasses will be available on the TAFE NSW website, featuring industry experts such as Scenic World, Cupitt’s Estate, Merlin Entertainments, Sydney Opera House, and W Hotels. Modernised Certificate III in Tourism: set for delivery in 2025, this updated qualification will include new visitor economy skills. Updates will also incorporate contemporary case studies and assessments based on industry feedback to ensure the qualification meets the current needs of the sector. The ‘Introduction to Visitor Economy’ micro skill is launching today and masterclasses will be available from late October 2024. To find out more, visit tafensw.edu.au/visitoreconomy. Minister for Jobs and Tourism, John Graham said, “Through the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy 2030 review, we discovered that we need more school leavers to pursue careers in the visitor economy.“A career in the visitor economy offers not just an incredible professional pathway but also the opportunity for some of the best life experiences available anywhere in the world. “These new training programs will be invaluable to attracting more people to the visitor economy workforce and will alleviate pressure from the countless small businesses who are feeling the pinch as they look for skilled workers to fill jobs.”Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said, “TAFE NSW is working closely with industry to deliver relevant, modern training to build a pipeline of workers needed to support a thriving visitor economy. “High schools across NSW, as well as the public, will have access to fee-free places in the Introduction to Visitor Economy micro skill, opening doors for people to discover opportunities in this dynamic sector. “These exciting new training opportunities will be available online, so people across the state can access the skills and expertise needed to excel in the visitor economy, helping regional businesses attract and retain talent.”Federal Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell said, “A strong, sustainable, skilled workforce is critically important to Australia’s tourism industry.“It is a great industry to work in with a diverse range of exciting career opportunities.“That is why the Albanese Government is supporting New South Wales, and all states and territories, to build their tourism workforce through our Choose Tourism grants program.“My first job was in tourism, and I know firsthand what an amazing opportunity this industry provides, I commend NSW on these initiatives.”

The rain continues to fall in Lismore and the Northern Rivers and will for the rest of Saturday. To 9am today, the Lismore Airport has recorded 78mm, on top of the 53.4mm to 9am on Thursday.Angus Hines, one of the senior meteorologists at the Bureau of Meteorology, says Coffs Harbour and Lismore have had the highest rainfalls in the last 24 hours."The heaviest falls through the past 24 hours have been in the far northeast, around the Northern Rivers district and the far north of the mid-north coast of New South Wales. In particular, we've seen a lot of rain pile up around Coffs Harbour, with about 110 millimetres falling since 9am on Friday; a little further north, Lismore has had about 90 millimetres in the same time period.""More broadly speaking, many areas in the northeast of New South Wales have seen between 30 and 60 millimetres of rain across about the last 24 hours, strong winds have also been blowing up the northern New South Wales coast, particularly strong around Cape Byron, with top gusts through the night of about 100 kilometres an hour."It will be another very wet day around the northeast of the state on Saturday; that rain is expected to continue through much of the day today, once again, the heaviest rainfall is likely to be in the far northeast of the state, around the Northern Rivers and perhaps the far north of the mid-north coast forecast district. These places could see another 60 to 80 millimetres of rain through the day on Saturday and into the early hours of Sunday morning. A couple of places might see a little bit more than that as well."The rain has been caused by a big influx of moisture earlier in the week, which brought the rain to the region as a North West cloud band bought tropical conditions across Queensland and into northern New South Wales. This was then added to by a cold front that raced up the New South Wales coast, bringing cool and wintry conditions."These initial weather systems have started to ease away. But we're seeing prolonged wet weather due to the development of a low pressure system, which is just off the east coast of Australia at the moment, which is going to continue to feed the wet conditions onto the country through the day. On Saturday, during Sunday, this low-pressure area will weaken and move away from the coast, and that's when we do expect to see the conditions ease across the eastern part of the country."As for warnings, there is still a Flood Watch for the Wilsons River for minor to moderate flooding. The Wilsons River is 1.31m at Lismore at 8:39am. The minor flood level is 4.2m. The Richmond River has a warning for minor flooding.Angus said flooding is likely to occur over the next couple of days."We're still waiting to see how these rivers respond to the current and upcoming rainfall, and these flood watches could turn to flood warnings at any stage of the day today. So people in and around those river networks in North East New South Wales do need to take care and stay up to date with the latest flood information on the Bureau's website."The severe weather warning is still in place for damaging winds along the northern coast from Coffs to the Queensland border. There could be wind gusts up to 90 or 100 kilometres an hour. They are expected to ease this evening.There is also a coastal hazard warning running along the coast of northern New South Wales for damaging swell, as expected along this coastline, very heavy surf could lead to localised damage and possible coastal erosion for exposed parts of that coastline.There is also a sheep grazier warning for the Northern Rivers, which is something we don't see very often.As for when conditions will ease?"We're expecting wet and windy weather around the eastern part of the country to continue through most of the day on Saturday, but there will be a significant easing trend to that weather system overnight tonight and into Monday morning. The driving low-pressure area will weaken and move away from Australia."We'll see both the rainfall and the strong winds significantly wind down overnight tonight, making for a bit of a calmer and more settled day on Sunday, although it won't be completely dry. We still anticipate showers around these areas, but the rainfall will be significantly lighter on Sunday. The wind will die down as well."You can keep up to date with the BOMs warnings, forecast and radar through the Lismore App Weather & Travel button Weather and Weather Radar.

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin is encouraging multicultural and multifaith community groups in her electorate to apply for a share of $500,000 to deliver grassroots Festivals and Events that foster community harmony and celebrate cultural diversity in 2024-2025.Ms Saffin says eligible organisations can apply for grants of between $5,000 and $20,000 to help organise festivities that celebrate and embrace our state’s vibrant cultural diversity.“This is an opportunity for grassroots not-for-profit organisations across our Electorate of Lismore to secure a Festival and Event grant to enhance an existing festival or launch a new community celebration,” Ms Saffin says.“Exploring different cultures, sharing international cuisine, world music and entertainment is the ideal way to bring people together. It makes for more vibrant and harmonious communities.”Multicultural NSW administers the grants on behalf of the NSW Government.The festivals and events are scheduled to run between 1 March and 31 July 2025.The grants remain open until Friday 11 October, 5pm and an information session is planned for 3 October, 11am.For more information or to apply, visit https://multicultural.nsw.gov.au/stronger-together-events-festivals/. NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said, “These celebrations not only serve to showcase the vibrancy and richness of NSW communities for all to share and appreciate, but they are also integral to the success of our state.”“Cultural diversity is a precious part of our identity and way of life in NSW and something we should not take for granted.”

The “Australian Made” logo that many of us trust means we are supporting local Aussie businesses. However, it does not necessarily mean it is so. Australian Made doesn't mean Australian-owned, or made from Australian products.A group of iconic Australian brands, led by Norco, are making big changes to raise awareness of where people are distributing their money - making the choice to keep it in Australia much clearer.Research by Norco, our local award-winning 100% farmer-owned dairy co-operative, has found that the cost of living crisis has made people more selective in their brand choice. Consumers are willing to pay more to keep their hard-earned dollars on our shores.That equates to an extra $1.64 billion in spending on their monthly grocery shops, and close to a third (30%) of those shoppers have chosen to increase support for Australian products - to keep the business local. But many dollars are not staying here.Michael Hampson, Norco Chief Executive Officer, comments that while he was pleased by how much Aussie shoppers wanted to support Australian-owned, it was disappointing to see the scale of confusion among shoppers.“What’s clear from the research is that if we want to protect what’s left of our iconic and authentically Australian brands, there needs to be a greater conversation and further education around the difference between Australian-made and Australian-owned,” he says.Iconic brands leaving Australia's shores, lead to increased confusion about what really is true blue. The loss of Australian Brands has led to increased support by consumers wanting to buy Australian brands - to keep them here.Hampson adds: “While anything that drives job creation and economic activity in Australia is a good thing, it’s still important to know that many foreign-owned companies can still use this labelling.“The big difference with ‘authentically Australian’ brands and products - those that are both Australian made and 100% Australian owned - is that the money remains here in Australia and is not siphoned offshore. “This means it can then be reinvested back into Australia and regional communities, which in turn creates more jobs, can better support our hardworking farmers, while helping to sustain the industries in which they operate,” he says. Clearer labelling has been one solution discussed and consumers agree - 73% believe the country of ownership should be clearly labelled on products.This idea prompted the bosses of major Australian food brands – including Norco, SPC, Sanitarium, Mayvers Foods and Sunshine Sugar, to join forces to explore the concept.Another local iconic Australian brand, Sunshine Sugar says they are the only Australian-owned, refined sugar manufacturer. Their business model is uniquely Australian.Chris Connors, Sunshine Sugar's Chief Executive Officer, said, “As somewhat the underdog in Australian sugar manufacturing, Sunshine Sugar is grown, made and owned in New South Wales. “We aren’t as big as some of our overseas-owned competitors, but we have a strong customer base that highly regards our Australian roots and the consistent, reliable product quality and service we provide. “Having our operations based in the regional communities of the Northern Rivers, we see the struggle consumers face when trying to support Australian farmers, and the research confirms that this struggle is occurring nation-wide.“The concept of making clear the country of ownership, along with tools to help inform consumers, seems like a step in the right direction – for Australian-owned businesses and our patriotic and supportive Australian consumer base.”There is something you can do. Until clearer labelling becomes available, people are encouraged to use the Bring Back Australia App to help make more informed decisions.I gave it a test on a Thursday Plantation product, and the information was not complete, but it has made me eager to learn about other products I buy regularly. The feature that makes other Australian brands known is really helpful.

Local Bundjalung woman and CEO of Australia’s only independent print national Indigenous newspaper, the Koori Mail, Naomi Moran, has been appointed as one of the three commissioners to lead a process with Aboriginal people and communities across NSW about their desire for a treaty process by the NSW Government.Ms Moran will be joined by former senator Aden Ridgeway, a former St John's College, Woodlawn student and academic Todd Fernando.The commissioners will lead a 12-month consultation to hear from Aboriginal people. This will include asking whether Aboriginal communities want an agreement-making process with government, and if so, what form that process could take.NSW is home to the largest Aboriginal population in Australia. The commissioners will engage with Aboriginal communities across metropolitan, rural, regional and remote parts of NSW, before delivering a report on their findings to the Government.The appointees bring with them experience, expertise and connections to Aboriginal people and communities.The commissioners have been appointed for a fixed term of two years following an open, competitive process led by an independent Aboriginal advisory panel.Consultation about agreement-making aligns directly with NSW’s bipartisan commitment to the 2020 Closing the Gap National Agreement, which was signed by then-prime minister Scott Morrison and then-premier Gladys Berejiklian.The Closing the Gap Agreement includes a commitment to formal partnerships and shared decision-making with Aboriginal people to help close the gap faster in areas such as life expectancy, health and education.Over the coming months, the commissioners will develop a detailed consultation plan, with consultations to commence in 2025.Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin has welcomed the appointments.“I congratulate Koori Mail CEO Naomi Moran on being appointed as one of the three commissioners, along with former senator Aden Ridgeway and academic Todd Fernando.“This is a strong panel of leaders, and in particular, I welcome the appointment of Ms Moran, who has shown her strong community leadership as CEO of the Koori Mail newspaper and its remarkable flood recovery effort.“Naomi is known for her strong advocacy for Aboriginal communities and her support for indigenous youth programs. Our community is indebted to her for her service and passion. ”Naomi will bring her leadership, passion, communication skills and strong advocacy for the Aboriginal community to the role of commissioner.“Former Senator Aden Ridgeway also has local connections, as a former student of St John’s College, Woodlawn.The NSW Government allocated $5 million for this work in the September 2023 budget.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning for Damaging Winds for coastal parts of the Northern Rivers.As forecast, a low-pressure system is developing offshore of the northeast coast, and will track close to the coast overnight, generating a vigorous south to southeasterly flow along the coast and into the Border Ranges. Winds will increase overnight Friday into Saturday morning before easing into Saturday evening as the low is forecast to move further offshore.DAMAGING SOUTH TO SOUTHEASTERLY WINDS averaging 60 to 70 km/h are expected to develop along the northeast coast overnight tonight into Saturday morning, with peak gusts of around 90 km/h expected in these coastal parts as well as along the Border Ranges.Winds are expected to ease below warning thresholds by the late afternoon and early evening of Saturday.Moderate to heavy rainfall is expected to accompany this system, and a Flood Watch is current for the Wilsons and Richmond Rivers. The latest watches and warnings for NSW can be found here: http://www.bom.gov.au/nsw/warnings/.Locations that may be affected include Byron Bay, Ballina, Yamba, Woolgoolga, Sawtell and Coffs Harbour.The State Emergency Service advises that people should:* Move vehicles 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.* Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall.* 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.* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring your local SES Unit on 132 500.In Lismore, tomorrow's rainfall is expected to be in the 35 to 90mm range.You can stay up to date with the latest BOM warnings through the Lismore App Weather & Travel button, Weather and Weather Radar.

As we now know, a super wet weekend and a wet start to the spring school holidays is the word from the Bureau of Meteorology.Lismore airport has recorded 93mm since 3pm yesterday, and The Bureau has now increased its Saturday forecast to 35 to 90mm.The positive news is the southerly should pass through the north coast quite quickly, so Sunday afternoon is when the showers will ease.The Bureau does have a Flood Watch for minor and possibly moderate flooding for the Wilsons River and minor flooding for the Richmond River. Currently, the Wilsons River is 0.51m at 5.43 pm, well below the minor flood level of 4.2m.Lismore City Council has closed Tuntable Creek Road between Rose Road and Beardow Road until further notice due to the significant rainfall. All sporting fields are also closed.The weather has meant the cancellation of most events this weekend. We had the Lismore Cup today postponed, and for those heading west for the Kyogle Show, it is also cancelled.The Lismore Farmers Markets claim that 'we operate rain, hail or shine' is being to the test. Their Facebook page says the market WILL BE ON! "We know you're totally capable of wearing your gumboots, bringing a brolly, wearing wet weather gear and showing your support ... After all, farmers do it all the time!"Some of the markets are undercover, so you can stay dry while buying fresh fruit and vegetables and enjoying a coffee or tea. The gates open at the Lismore Showgrounds at 7:30am.No word on the Nimbin Markets on Sunday at this time. Check out their Facebook page for details.The Lismore Rainforest Botanic Garden Guided Walk for September, this Sunday has been cancelled. Looking into October:The inaugural Lismore Cycling Festival is on October 5 & 6 through the streets of LismoreThe 2024 Elders Lismore Show starts on Thursday, October 17 for three days.Another significant event in October is the start of daylight saving. Sunday, October 6, at 2am, our clocks will spring forward one hour.Live music this weekend is led by Mossy Rocks at the Northern Rivers Hotel from 6:45pm tonight. The Sunday Session is Sabotage from 2:30pm.Check out the live music coming up in November at the newly reopened Lismore Workers Club here.Most of you would have read that the inflation rate dropped to 2.7% this week, with fuel leading the way in price reductions. There were further drops this week in the petrol bowsers, with most grades of fuel dropping by another 2 cents a litre.The battle for the most expensive fuel is between Lismore (the long-term leader) and Casino. Ballina is still consistently the cheapest option. The new Astron on Ballina Road is consistently the cheapest option in Lismore.Here are the latest prices in each town:E10 is 178.9 across those that serve E10 across Lismore, 172.3 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino, with The Metro and new Mobile in Ballina cheapest at 161.5.Unleaded 91 is 179.9 at the new Astron on Ballina Road, 174.3 throughout Casino and 163.5 at the Metro and the new Mobil in Ballina.U95 is 188.9 at the Independent on Wyrallah Road, East Lismore, Northside Liberty and Bakers Corner at North Lismore and the Liberty on Ballina Road, 189.9 at the EG Ampol on Canterbury Street, Casino and 174.5 at The Metro in Ballina.U98 is 194.9 at the new Astron on Ballina Road, 194.9 at the Liberty's on Hare Street and Centre Street in Casino and 183.5 at The Metro on River Street, Ballina.Diesel is 169.9 at the new Astron on Ballina Road in Lismore, 184.3 at the United on Johnston Street in Casino and 182.5 at the new Mobil in Ballina.Have a great weekend! Stay dry.

With nearly 84mm of rain falling in the last 24 hours and a potential of another 100 to 150mm being dumped on Lismore and the Northern Rivers in the next 24 hours, NSW SES Chief Superintendent Scott McLennan is asking school holiday travellers to delay their journey if possible."This is a very short, sharp event that will be over by Saturday afternoon, Saturday evening," Supt McLennan explained."The New South Wales SES is very well positioned, very well planned, to ensure that this community remains safe. But we obviously need the community to help us with that, by making sure that they understand what their risks are, mitigate those risks, take precautions now and really, really consider whether they do need to travel.""It is the beginning of school holidays for New South Wales, and it's the end of school holidays for Queensland. If you are driving, please take precautions on the road and drive to conditions. It's slippery, and it's windy. Anyone towing a caravan will start feeling that as well. Please just take your time; it's not a rush. If you don't have to travel today or tomorrow, please don't."(Hepburn Park in Goonellabah at 12:45 today)"We're just asking people in and around the Wilsons River, the Arara River and the Bellingen River to really consider what their actions are and to start taking those precautions. "The safety advice is just to be aware that there's still some dangerous surf conditions, so don't go to the beach. There are some gusty winds that could be around. Just take precautions, as always. If it's a life threatening emergency, call 000, but if anyone needs assistance from the New South Wales State Emergency Service, call us on 132 500.At this early stage, there have been no rescues from floodwaters."Everyone's actually really heeding the warning and not actually driving into flood waters, which is great to see."We are working with all of our stakeholders, whether that be the police, the Rural Fire Service as well as Fire and Rescue. We work with councils right up and down the coast as well to ensure that our communities remain safe and are prepared. Our units are all on standby. Our units have been making sure they've been doing all their operational readiness checks, and we're currently moving assets into known hotspots."Supt McLennan did ease some concerns over the possible moderate flooding of the Wilsons River."It's just to cover bases with modelling. So, the modelling is actually showing it may get to a minor at some point. The likelihood of it reaching moderate at this stage is very, very unlikely, but the Flood Watch is just to ask the community to take precautions now."This is storm season. This is normal for us here in the Northern Rivers; we go through this every year. We're just now asking the community to enact their emergency plan. Start taking precautions now; make sure that you have the Hazards Near Me app. Download it to your phone, set your watch zone so you and your neighbours are safe. Take the time now to run in to make sure you've got your medications, you've got your batteries, you've got your fuel and make sure you've got your nibblies to make sure everyone's actually safe and prepared for the weekend.If anyone does need us, they can always call us on 132, 500

Lismore motorists are getting some good news today with Terania Street about to reopen following the demolition of the derelict rail-over-road bridge. It will reopen to all traffic today (Friday, 27 September) after disruptions to both traffic and pedestrian movements since late 2023. Inspections by Transport for NSW engineers following heavy vehicle strikes determined the rail bridge that passes over the road was unsafe, leading to its demolition. Some traffic restrictions will remain in place temporarily while finishing off work is being completed, including road rehabilitation and restoration. This includes sorting and removing material from the old bridge, working with Lismore City Council to restore the road pavement, carrying out drainage work, and stabilising the rail line abutments. Transport for NSW will also restore the temporary work areas to their original condition and remove the temporary hard stands. Lismore MP Janelle Saffin said, “Locals will be pleased to see that the old bridge has been demolished more swiftly than expected, in plenty of time for the North Coast National (Lismore Show), and traffic will be able to flow once more to local businesses. “The end of the disruptions is now in sight with the removal of this bridge, which has not been in use since 2004. “Transport for NSW will sort as much material as possible for reuse, but many of the timber elements were found to be unsuitable for a multitude of reasons. “They will then consult with Lismore City Council and the community over the next few months to decide on how the rail bridge will be commemorated.”  

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a flood watch for the Wilsons and Richmond Rivers from Saturday.The Wilsons River flood watch is for minor to moderate flooding, while the Richmond River is for minor flooding.Widespread rain and strong winds are forecast along the Northern Rivers throughout Friday and into the weekend. The Bureau is forecasting 15-70mm for Saturday. 80mm has fallen in the last 24 hours at the Lismore airport. Moderate flooding is possible along the Wilsons River at Lismore over the weekend.A low-pressure system is forecast to form off the north coast today (Friday, 27 September), bringing heavy rainfall totals that are forecast to exceed 100mm in a 24-hour period. Catchments in the Northern Rivers are relatively wet.There remains high levels of uncertainty in the timing and location of the heaviest falls. The Bureau is continuing to monitor the situation and will provide updated advice as required. Catchment specific flood warnings will be issued if and when required.While the NSW SES has prepositioned assets and personnel ahead of the weather, North Eastern Deputy Zone Commander, Superintendent Scott McLennan urged the community to know their risks and prepare for possible flash flooding and riverine rises.“Residents and visitors to the Northern Rivers, Clarence Valley and Coffs Coast this weekend should download the Hazards Near Me app and set up local watch zones to stay across the latest warnings and information,” Superintendent McLennan said. “Taking the time now to prepare homes, clear your gutters, check on neighbours, stock-up on essentials, and review emergency plans, will ensure you’re as prepared as possible.” Superintendent McLennan said flash flooding and riverine rises were the main risk associated with the forecast weather front, and urged people to never drive, walk or ride through flood waters. “Flash flooding can happen quickly and without warning and I urge the public to stop, turn around and find an alternate route should they come across a flooded road this weekend,” he said. “People across the region should monitor the weather and road conditions closely, to ensure they can make informed and safe decisions early, based on individual circumstances.” The NSW SES urges all residents and visitors to consider their travel plans, and not undertake any unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall period. For the latest flood and weather warnings see www.bom.gov.au/nsw/warnings/For the latest rainfall and weather forecasts see www.bom.gov.au/australia/meteye/For the latest rainfall and river level information see www.bom.gov.au/nsw/floodYou can view the BOMs weather and radar through the Lismore App Weather and Weather Radar, which includes all warnings.Flood Safety Advice:This Flood Watch means that people living or working along rivers and streams must monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings and be ready to move to higher ground should flooding develop.Flood Warnings will be issued if Minor Flood Level is expected to be exceeded at key sites along the main rivers for which the Bureau of Meteorology provides a flood warning service.Severe Weather Warnings will be issued or updated if very heavy rain is forecast or observed.For more information on the Flood Watch Service: http://www.bom.gov.au/water/floods/floodWarningServices.shtmlFloodSafe advice is available at www.ses.nsw.gov.auFor emergency assistance call the SES on telephone number 132 500For life threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately

A devastated Scott Jones, Lismore Turf Club Secretary Manager, has been informed by stewards that the 2024 Rodney Lees Cabinetmaking Lismore Cup has been postponed.32mm of rain fell on the race course since 9am yesterday, making it difficult to run the Lismore Cup race meeting. However, the weather forecast for the rest of today and the likely event that the course would close later forced stewards to make the call early."When we arrived at five o'clock this morning, the track was still raceable. So, the 30 mils overnight got us to a point where we're right on the edge of a Heavy 9 or Heavy 10. But, with the way the weather is and looking outside, there's more rain on the horizon, and rather than get trainers halfway here and wash out in an hour or two, the stewards and the club just decided that if we call it off today and see if we can postpone to later next week.The racing of the Lismore Cup is an important part of the NSW Spring Racing Carnival as the winner gets entry into the $3 million The Big Dance on November 5 at Royal Randwick in Sydney."At the moment, Racing New South Wales and myself are talking to try and get a race meet for the Lismore Cup to be run next Thursday. If that can happen, then away we go, we try and race it next week. Obviously, the crowd side of things would be a little bit different, but as the Lismore Cup is now a Big Dance qualifier, we need to get a winner for the Lismore Cup so they can progress down to The Big Dance final."Our Cup is a perfect lead into it as it's about five or six weeks away from it. We are 1500, and it's over 1600, so it's a pretty good lead-in race to attack that."For the thousands of expected racegoers and partygoers today, Scott has decided that all tickets will be refunded."Generally speaking, if it was nice and sunny, we'd have hospitality, and people could come out; although there'd be no races on the track, they could still enjoy a day with their friends. Because it is just a miserable cold day, we've decided we couldn't offer value for people when they're spending good money to come to, say, the VIP tent or the trackside tables. We couldn't give people a good day, to be honest, with the bad weather.""All tickets will be refunded. Through Local Tickets or Lismore tickets, I'll process to say yes, everything is a refund and that can take 2 to 3 days to come through because all the money sits with them. Being a Friday, it's probably more like Monday or Tuesday or Wednesday next week."Scott Jones and Operations Manager Daniel Kedraika deserve a change of luck. The Lismore Cup has not had a warm spring day in about five years now. This year has been particularly tough."I think we've washed out five or six race meets, as has been the case for a lot of the tracks on the eastern side. We just can't seem to take a trick on the bigger race days of the year. We've unfortunately just got the weather at the wrong time. Like the Country Championships in February. We got rain the day before. There's always the Christmas Cup," Scott said optimistically.This rain has been caused by a weather system from the northwest, which will turn southerly today, bringing even more rain, especially tomorrow. 15mm to 70mm is forecast tomorrow (Saturday), so there could be some possible flash flooding if the rainfall is on the higher side. More to come throughout the day.

The Lismore Community Recycling Centre is taking part in a new NSW Government trial to help households dispose of problematic embedded batteries found in wireless household products, light up toys and disposable vapes.The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is joining forces with Lismore City Council to make it easy for households and small businesses to safely dispose of embedded batteries. This will reduce both the number of products going to landfill, and the risk of batteries sparking fires in bins and waste facilities.As part of the trial, the Lismore Community Recycling Centre – operated by Lismore Council– is now accepting household embedded battery products free of charge.Embedded batteries are small batteries which are built into products and cannot be removed. They are often found in household items such as single-use vapes, electric toothbrushes, e-bikes, smart watches, portable speakers and vacuums,These batteries are uniquely challenging for the waste management sector because they are made of materials – including lithium-ion – that are difficult to recycle and a significant fire hazard risk. In 2023, the number of lithium-ion battery-related fires in NSW jumped to 285, more than double the previous year.The Lismore Community Recycling Centre on Wyrallah Road is one of 21 centres across the state participating in the EPA-led trial, with dedicated waste bins now on site to collect embedded battery products.E-waste that may contain embedded batteries, including laptops, gaming controllers and tablets, should still be directed to Lismore Council’s e-waste collection service. More information about the NSW Government’s embedded batteries trial, which is active now and will run until September 2026, can be found on the NSW EPA website here: https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/embedded-batteriesMember for Lismore Janelle Saffin MP said, “This trial is a much-needed initiative that will help protect our local community and environment by reducing the number of embedded-battery products that are mistakenly disposed of in yellow and red kerbside bins.“Through it, we hope Lismore residents will learn more about embedded-battery products – including how to identify them, the types of risks they pose and why correct disposal is so important.“The NSW Government is pleased to be working alongside Lismore Council to tackle this emerging issue and contribute to a safer, more sustainable future for all."Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe said, “We want to make it easier for people to do the right thing with embedded batteries, to help prevent fires in bins, rubbish trucks and waste facilities at the same time as reducing what goes to landfill.“The majority of embedded battery products, including single-use disposable vapes, end up in rubbish bins where they pose risks to workers and communities. But it’s important everyone knows batteries, whether loose or embedded in devices, don’t belong in yellow and red kerbside bins.“This trial of dedicated embedded battery bins will help NSW mitigate fire hazards and recycle more device components to benefit our health and environment in the short and long term.”

The Northern Rivers Conservatorium (NRC) is set to embark on the largest program of capital works in the organisation’s history. Incredibly, NRC returned to fully refurbished and flood-resilient teaching and admin spaces within 5 months of the February 2022 flood event. However, there is still much to do.The program of works will further the recovery from the 2022 floods and enhance the future resilience of both the infrastructure and the organisation, supporting NRCs ongoing significant contribution to the Northern Rivers region. The works are proudly funded by the NSW Government, with total funding of $4.8 million through Create NSW’s Community Local Infrastructure Recovery Package and Creative Capital funding programs.The major items in the program of works include:Installation of a goods liftNew roof and solar panelsRecovery and upgrade to car park and groundsReclamation of ground floor spacesUpgrade and refurbishment of the Concert RoomUpgrade to fire system (almost complete)Over the past year, the Board and Management of NRC have been working with a design team of local experts coordinated by Project Manager Richard Mason. Having recently received approval of their development application through Lismore City Council, NRC is now at the ready.The Conservatorium will remain operational throughout and will work with the team from Bennett Constructions to keep the music playing while the ‘reclamation and resilience’ works to their beautiful heritage building and grounds are completed.As Christopher Leach PSM, the Chair of the NRC said, “NRC is the proud custodian of one of the oldest community buildings in the centre of Lismore and the single largest provider of quality music education in the Northern Rivers. These works will ensure students have an environment that is both attractive and optimal for their journey in music”.

DO YOU KNOW THESE PEOPLE?Alstonville Police are seeking information from the community to help identify the male and female depicted in the images above.Police believe they may be able to assist with enquiries in respect of alleged stealing offence that occurred at Wollongbar on 18 July 2024.Anyone with information is urged to contact their local Police Station, Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au and quote E81577557.All information is treated in strict confidence.

Thousands of women across NSW will have easier, more affordable access to the oral contraceptive pill as a 12-month trial is made permanent by the Minns Labor Government. Since the oral contraceptive pill trial began in September 2023, more than 500 pharmacies have delivered over 2,000 consultations to women in NSW.From this Saturday (28 September 2024), NSW pharmacists who have completed the required training and work in pharmacies with suitable facilities will be able to offer this service as part of their usual business. Women who have been using these contraceptive options continuously for the last two years, as prescribed by a doctor (GP) or nurse practitioner, and require a refill of their script will be able to access an extended supply for up to 12 months without having to visit their doctor for a prescription.The NSW Government will make the existing service more accessible by expanding patient age eligibility criteria from 18-35 years to 18-49 years. Women aged 40-49 will now be able to access extended supply for up to three months without having to visit their doctor for a prescription, subject to meeting eligibility criteria.The announcement follows the successful implementation of the first phase of the NSW Pharmacy Trial in May 2024, which saw more than 3,300 NSW pharmacists provide more than 18,000 consultations to women aged 18 to 65 with symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI). The UTI service transitioned to usual pharmacy care from 1 June 2024.The third and final phase of the trial allowing pharmacists to manage common minor skin conditions is underway and will be running until early 2025.NSW Health will receive a detailed evaluation of all three phases of the NSW Pharmacy Trial in 2025, which will inform future service expansions.The NSW Government is committed to expanding the role of community pharmacists outside the trial framework and is working with NSW universities to develop formal training courses for pharmacists to manage a range of common conditions where clinically appropriate. Premier Chris Minns said, “We know that people across NSW are doing it tough right now, even cutting back on essential healthcare because of affordability.“This trial has been a huge success, and now we'll make it permanent - women who are eligible will be able to go to their pharmacist to renew an existing script.“At a time when seeing a GP can be difficult, we hope that this service will make it a little bit easier for women to access affordable healthcare, where and when they need it.”Minister for Health Ryan Park said, “I am excited to announce that women in NSW will now have easier ongoing access to continue their chosen contraceptive option as a result of the oral contraceptive pill trial service becoming usual business for community pharmacies in NSW.“It has been amazing to see over a thousand pharmacists across the state sign up to take part in each of the trial’s three phases so far, and this has prompted us to look at more ways they can help our communities. “Earlier this month, the NSW Government announced thousands of people across NSW will in the near future be able to access treatment for ear infections, wound management, gastro, acne, muscle and joint pain at their local pharmacy, boosting access to fast, convenient healthcare across NSW.“By empowering pharmacists to undertake consultations for these common conditions and medications, we can help improve access to primary care services which will relieve the pressure on the state’s busy GPs and our hospital system.“We are working with the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and Pharmaceutical Society of Australia to ensure pharmacists have the support they need to continue delivering best practice and connected primary care.”Catherine Bronger, Senior Vice of President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, NSW Branch said, “With our GPs stretched, community pharmacists have provided thousands of women with repeat prescriptions of the oral contraceptive pill under the NSW Government’s trial.“Making the availability of the pill at community pharmacies is the right thing for women and our communities.”

A teenager has died following a single-vehicle crash at Bogangar, near Cabarita Beach. At about 11pm on Saturday, 21 September 2024, emergency services were called to Clothiers Creek Road following reports of a crash.Officers attended the scene and found a vehicle had left the roadway and crashed into trees.The sole occupant of the vehicle, a 17-year-old boy, was treated by QLD Ambulance paramedics before being taken to the Gold Coast University Hospital in a critical condition.A crime scene was established and inquiries into the incident commenced by police attached to Tweed/Byron Police District.Police have now been notified that the boy died in hospital earlier today (Thursday, 26 September 2024).A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

The 2024 Rodney Lees Cabinetmaking Lismore Cup Carnival kicked off today at the Lismore Golf Club with the inaugural Viva Racing Lismore Cup Golf Day and Calcutta.A sold-out field of 144 teed off this afternoon in a four-person ambrose event (hit from the best shot of the four each time) for some fun, prizes and the hope of a hole-in-one on the second hole that would net someone $200,000.Lismore Turf Club Secretary Manager Scott Jones told the Lismore App that golfers were a bit nervous when they stood at the tee box."We've had a couple about two metres away so far, so not real close at this stage. But it's been great, everyone loves it. They get a bit excited. It's not every day they would have a crack at $200,000.(The Lickiss Fabrication team warm up for the $200,000 hole-in-one attempt)As you would expect, there needs to be a bit of scrutiny at the hole to prove a hole-in-one claim."We have two independent guys here to keep an eye on every shot and a camera behind the hole to make sure everything's legit for us. Ideally, someone knocks it in, and they've got $200,000 to play with tomorrow at the Cup."(Mayor Steve Krieg's tee shot on the second, with the camera in the background)Back at the Lismore Turf Club, Operations Manager Daniel Kedraika was guiding preparations for tomorrow's 2024 Rodney Lees Cabinetmaking Lismore Cup.As is standard with the Cup, rain may have an impact on the day. After suffering so much bad luck when it comes to weather, they are dearly hoping for a change in fortune.At this stage, the weather is coming from the northwest, bringing showers and potentially heavy rain. Tomorrow morning, a southerly change will reach the north coast bringing more showers with it. Most of the heavy rain is expected to fall on Saturday.The good fortune comes from the forecast rainfall range of 3mm to 25mm. The lower side would be ideal for Daniel."It's not necessarily about how much rain we get," Daniel explained, "We haven't watered in a while to allow any rain to soak as much as expected. The track can definitely handle the amount of rain. It's just how quickly it comes down and how small a window it falls.""If it all dumps heavily in the morning with water sitting on the surface, and it's dangerous for horses, then it will be pulled. Essentially, those decisions will be made by the stewards on track from five or six o'clock in the morning. If the rain's still falling, they'll be making constant updates and adjustments. If the rain stops and we've had what we've had, they'll make a call to decide to go ahead with race one."Then, after each race, they watch the replays, they talk to the jockeys, and they get an idea of safety. Is there too much water on the track? Is it slipping? What's it like, especially just around the corners?"We've got a good cover. We've prepped it as best we possibly can. It's just all about the same question..... how much and when?For those making their wardrobe decisions based on the weather, it is best to decide tomorrow morning when we know what has happened overnight."At this stage, it's looking good. The grass is harder than concrete. But again, it depends on what and when. If we hold off through the night with not much rain, like I said, it'll soak up plenty, and it'll be good to go. But if you look out the sky and it's falling down you should change to comfort over style."The gates open at 12 noon tomorrow, with the first race at 12:34, the last at 4:49, with the 2024 Rodney Lee Cabinetmaking Lismore Cup run at 4:09.Fashion of the Field heats will begin straight after Race Two.(Fashions on the Field 2023)The Billy Gudgeon Band will rock the after-party following the end of the final race at 4:49.Tickets are $25 at the gate tomorrow, unless you arrive after 4pm when it will cost you $5 to watch the last two races and enjoy the live music from Billy Gudgeon.The Lismore App will have another weather and track update tomorrow morning.

Open Minds in Lismore is launching an engaging art group that aims to foster relationships, enhance mental health, and promote social inclusion within the community.Developed under the leadership of Housing and Accommodation Support Initiative (HASI) Coordinator Francesca Rengel, the art group combines creativity with community-building to create a supportive environment for its participants.Francesca Rengel, leveraging her background in graphic design, initiated the group as a platform to merge her passion for the arts with her commitment to fostering connections among individuals. Her warm and inviting personality has been instrumental in creating a safe space where participants feel comfortable and valued."The art group offers a variety of activities such as painting, LEGO, clay work, jewellery making, and more," says Francesca. "In just six weeks, we have seen enthusiastic participation and positive feedback from our members."One of Francesca's aspirations is to extend the group's impact beyond its current setting by engaging with the broader community, potentially through creating a community mural.The activities in the art group are not only creative but also serve as sensory experiences using tactile tools. Francesca emphasises sustainability by incorporating recycled materials generously donated by the local community.The positive impact between arts and mental health has been well documented as outlined by Research Fellow at the School of Population Health, University of Western Australia Dr Christina Davies in her recent research paper, "The Art of Being Mentally Healthy.”She highlights the role of enjoyment, relaxation, and social inclusion in improving resilience, confidence, and self-esteem. According to Dr Davies, such initiatives can deliver significant public health benefits by promoting overall well-being.In addition to the primary focus on mental health, the art group also aims to strengthen social connections among its participants. Research, including findings from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) study, consistently demonstrates the positive impact of social relationships on mental and physical health.Open Minds in Lismore remains committed to supporting the community through its Community Living Supports (CLS) and HASI programs, catering to individuals affected by mental health challenges. The team welcomes donations of art supplies from the community to further enrich their programs.For more information on how to support or participate in the Open Minds art group, please visit Open Minds Lismore.

The 2024 spring school holidays start tomorrow (Friday). It is one of the busier holiday periods as families hit the road after winter.Transport for NSW is advising travellers of the two main highway pinch points depending if you are heading north or south for the holidays.If you are heading north on the Pacific Motorway through Tugun, plan your trip and allow extra travel time as they are expecting high traffic volumes. Keep in mind there is a Labour Day long weekend in NSW on Monday, October 6, and it is the King's Birthday holiday in Queensland.  "Near the NSW/Queensland border, Tugun is one of four known pinch points for people travelling northbound from Sydney to Queensland on the Pacific Motorway. The busiest days are predicted to be Friday, 27 September, Friday, 4 October and Monday, 7 October, with expected delays of up to 15 minutes.   "M1 Pacific Motorway upgrades in Queensland could cause significant traffic delays north of the NSW border. While this work will pause during the Labour Day long weekend, heavy congestion is expected on the Pacific Motorway north of the NSW border at most times. For those heading south to Sydney, the M1 Pacific Motorway at Beresfield and the Pacific Highway at Hexham are linked via John Renshaw Drive and the New England Highway, forming a key north-south travel route.  "As a known pinch point, the busiest days for northbound traffic are predicted to be Friday, 27 September and Friday, 4 October. Southbound traffic is predicted to be heavy on Monday, 30 September, 3-4 October (Thursday and Friday) and Friday, 11 October. Monday, 7 October is historically the busiest day at this location, with expected delays of up to 45 minutes.  "There are multiple projects underway at this location, including the Pacific Highway improvements at Hexham and the M1 Motorway Extension to Raymond Terrace, which can impact travel times. A reduced speed of 60 km/h will be implemented along the length of the project and will remain in place throughout the holiday period. For more details about predicted delays at Tugun and other known holiday traffic pinch points, see the NSW Holiday and Journey planning website. NSW Police will enforce double demerit points for speeding, motorcycle helmet, seatbelt and mobile phone offences from Friday, 4 to Monday, 7 October 2024.   For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW app, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.  For the latest information on Queensland traffic conditions refer to qldtraffic.qld.gov.au or call 13 19 40 to receive updates on road incidents, delays or roadwork in real time.