The NSW Government has released an interactive digital map showing the safety star ratings of more than 20,000 km of state and 15,000 km of regional roads. There has long been a discourse between state and local governments over the transfer of state roads to local councils, for which each council is responsible.The government says NSW is performing well compared with other Australian states and territories, with more than 71 per cent of all road travel taken on state roads rated 3 or more stars according to the Australian Road Assessment Program (AusRAP) national standard. The data was collected over the past 10 years.This means NSW is closing on the national target of 80 per cent of all road travel in the state being taken on state roads rated 3 or more stars by 2030 – roads that have the most modern safety features, such as barriers, divided dual carriageways and wide shoulders.The NSW Government continues to invest more than half a billion dollars into road safety in NSW to upgrade and improve our roads with the rollout of safety measures.While this map confirms NSW has some of the safest road corridors, including the Hume and Pacific Highways, it also highlights opportunities to increase road safety measures further:By far most state roads in NSW are rated 3 stars, which represents a high-quality road, which meets national and regulatory standards.Less than 1 per cent of roads are rated 5 stars (such as new and high-speed roads) and represent the newest and busiest roads, such as new or upgraded freeways and arterial routes.Some 90% of all road travel in NSW takes place on state roads rating 2 stars or more, with room to lift more roads to 3 stars through installing extra safety features.A further 23.5 per cent of travel is on state roads are rated 2 stars and 3.8 per cent rated 1 star. A 1-star rating does not mean unsafe. These roads have far less traffic and less installed safety features.AusRAP targets do not require all roads in NSW to become five-star; rather, they focus on lifting more of the network to three stars or above, focusing on those roads with higher traffic volumes, which research shows significantly reduces the risk of serious injury or death.For example, going from 1 to 3 stars requires roadside barriers to protect road users from impacting power poles or trees, and increased shoulder width to allow more recovery time for drivers. Over two years, the Commonwealth-NSW Road Safety Program is improving an estimated 450 km of 1 and 2-star roads to at least 3 stars or greater.Not all roads need to be 5-stars, and not all 1-star roads need to be upgraded to be fit for purpose.In most cases, the biggest impact on road trauma comes from upgrading high-risk roads where people travel the most, resulting in reduced crash risk and trauma.The release of this data is part of the government’s effort to improve fairness and transparency across the road network, pinpointing locations for further investment.This map will enable evidence-based decision-making about road safety improvement funding, ensuring fairness in distributing safety infrastructure like barriers and wider shoulders.Other states are expected to release their mapping data in the coming months. However, NSW has gone beyond the national requirements by measuring not only State roads but also Regional roads for the first time. All states have committed to work together collaboratively and to share road safety information alongsideAustroads as the peak association of transport agencies.Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said, “We are being fair dinkum with the people of NSW.“While in NSW more than 71 per cent of all road travel taken on roads rated highly under the national standard, we know there is room to roll out more safety features on our roads.“We’re using this information to take a serious look at our road network and then leverage the data to deliver evidence-based upgrades and safety improvements.“You can’t fix what you don’t measure. This map shows us what’s working and where we can go further. It’s a vital step forward in making sure every region gets the safe, high-quality roads it deserves. “In the recent Budget, we announced we’re investing $2.8 billion in road safety projects across the state.“These are much-needed projects that will greatly reduce the risk of death and serious injury across our road network. For example, over two years, we will improve an estimated 450 km of the 1- and 2-star roads to at least 3 stars or greater. “We have been hard at work for two years, but cannot turn around 12 years of Liberal-National neglect overnight.“We know some parts of our network have been underfunded and insufficiently maintained. Labor has made historic investments in maintenance, road safety and upgrades, quintupling recovery funding.“Independent budget costings showed the Liberals and Nationals had budgeted $0 for new regional and rural road commitments for 2022-23 and 2023-2024, and only $85 million set to be delivered in the 2025/25 year. They only committed $230 million over four years, less than the $390 million we put out in our first year on regional road repair.“The Minns Labor Government is about delivering safer, smarter and fairer roads for everyone across NSW. We want to base investment decisions on data, not guesswork. We’re pulling every lever to save lives.”Geoff Allan, Chief Executive, Austroads said, “Austroads commends Transport for NSW for publishing their AusRAP results. Road safety star ratings are a powerful tool to help road managers prioritise improvements that save the most lives as quickly as possible, while providing transparency for the community.“As the national manager and coordinator of AusRAP, Austroads is looking forward to sharing results from other jurisdictions in the near future.“The NSW results show strong progress towards the 2030 target of 80% of travel on 3-star or better roads. But that milestone is just one step on our journey. Achieving our long-term vision of zero deaths and serious injuries on Australian and New Zealand roads by 2050 will require continued commitment and action.”You can view the interactive AusRAP map by clicking here.

The NSW Government will introduce tough new laws to crack down on the sale of illicit tobacco and illegal vaping goods across the state.The legislation will see NSW introduce some of the toughest penalties in the country for the sale and commercial possession of illicit tobacco and will grant substantial powers to inspectors to close premises found to be in breach of the new rules.The amendments form part of the NSW Government’s commitment to protecting the community from the harms of tobacco and vapes, and will include, among other things:A new offence for the commercial possession of illicit tobacco with a maximum penalty of over $1.5 million and 7 years’ imprisonment. New penalties for the sale of illicit tobacco with a maximum penalty of over $1.5 million and 7 years’ imprisonment.The introduction of short-term (up to 90 days) and long-term (up to 12 months) closure orders for premises selling illicit tobacco, illegal vaping goods, or selling tobacco without a licence.New offences and penalties for anyone who breaches these closure orders, including for entering closed premises or selling products from closed premises.Lease termination powers for landlords where a closure order is in place.New nation-leading offences for falsely claiming to be licensed; resisting seizure; and attempting to retake seized products.In addition to the tough new measures in this new legislation, the NSW Government will also commence a targeted consultation on a new offence for landlords who knowingly lease their premises to illicit tobacco and vape suppliers.These new penalties and offences will complement the tobacco licensing scheme, which came into effect from 1 July 2025. The scheme ensures accurate information is collected on tobacco retailing and wholesaling activities in NSW to support enforcement efforts, deter tobacco retailing businesses from operating outside of the law and provide greater oversight of the tobacco retail industry.If an applicant has been found guilty of an offence relating to the sale or supply of tobacco or vaping goods, they could be refused a licence to sell these products.From 1 January 2025 to 30 June 2025, NSW Health:conducted over 700 retailer inspections and seized:more than 90,000 nicotine vapes, e-liquids and pouches with an estimated street value around $2.9 million;more than 6 million cigarettes and 1,100 kg of other illicit tobacco products with an estimated street value of around $6.8 million; andissued around 150 penalty notices, totalling around $316,000.The NSW Government has established a cross-agency NSW Illicit Tobacco Taskforce, with senior representatives from NSW Health, NSW Police, the Department of Customer Service, the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport, and the Department of Communities and Justice.The Taskforce has developed options and recommendations for the NSW Government to strengthen compliance and enforcement activities in NSW to reduce the availability of illegal tobacco in the community. Minister for Health, Ryan Park, said, “We understand the community’s frustration at the growth of the illicit tobacco market.“These will be among the toughest penalties in the country and will send a clear message to bad actors that selling illegal tobacco and vaping goods will not be tolerated in NSW.“We are disrupting the business model of the large-scale criminals who profit from addiction, tax evasion, and putting young people at risk.“This isn’t just a serious health issue; it’s about fairness, because these illegal operators are undercutting small businesses that are doing the right thing. “I know many landlords have also expressed their concerns about illegal tobacco operations occurring on their premises. These new powers will give them certainty and the opportunity to terminate leases where there is a closure order in place.“These changes are on top of the tobacco licensing scheme, which came into effect on 1 July and will help to clean out bad actors in the NSW tobacco market and level the playing field for small businesses who do the right thing.”

Professor Henry Brodaty, a renowned clinician, researcher, policy advisor and Co-Director of UNSW’s Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), delivered a powerful address to the National Press Club this week entitled ‘Hope Beckons’, urging the Federal Government to back prevention-focused dementia research as a national productivity strategy.“We are at a turning point in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. The science is clear: dementia is not inevitable, and we now have the tools to delay onset and slow progression,” Prof. Brodaty said.Over 400,000 Australians live with dementia, and this is expected to double by mid-century, carrying an estimated $3.7 billion economic burden in direct costs annually. “We don’t have a magic doorway out of this crisis, but we do have prevention, through smart investment in proven programs,” Prof. Brodaty said.Evidence of impact without additional costIn his address, Prof. Brodaty highlighted the delivery of the world’s largest digital dementia prevention trial led by CHeBA: Maintain Your Brain. The findings were compelling, highlighting that personalised, lifestyle-based intervention could significantly reduce dementia risk and improve cognitive and other health outcomes, all without adding extra burden to the healthcare system. New results announced today and published in the Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease, quantified the differences in costs – direct healthcare and program costs – and effectiveness outcomes between the intervention and control groups from a healthcare sector perspective.  The findings confirm that the intervention is cost-neutral over three years, delivering measurable cognitive and health benefits at no additional cost compared to standard care. The trial was the largest online randomised controlled trial of its kind, involving more than 6,100 Australians aged 55-77 with at least two modifiable risk factors for dementia. After three years, participants who received personalised online coaching in physical activity, nutrition, cognitive training, and mental health showed significant improvements in cognitive performance and greater reductions in dementia risk compared to those who received general health information alone.Crucially, there was no significant difference in cost per person over the trial period. The costs of the program were almost completely matched by the savings in health costs over three years, indicating that the program delivers results without straining health budgets.“With Australia’s ageing population and growing dementia burden, investing in preventive programs could offer substantial health system savings while improving quality of life for older Australians,” said Prof. Brodaty. Brain health is a productivity issueDementia is not only a health crisis - it’s an economic one.Australia’s workforce is ageing. The proportion of workers aged 55 and over has doubled over the past three decades, now sitting at 19%. Maintaining their cognitive health is vital to national productivity.“With retirement ages rising and older adults participating more in the workforce, supporting cognitive health is a smart economic strategy,” Prof. Brodaty said.Family carers, often women, also face career sacrifices to care for loved ones with dementia, compounding productivity losses. Prevention is not just about adding years to life, but keeping Australians engaged, independent, and contributing longer.“People engaged in Maintain Your Brain use fewer healthcare resources, which offsets the cost of delivering the program. In the long run, the program will deliver additional benefits on cognitive, physical, mental and social health that will more than pay back its costs,” Prof. Brodaty said.A field transformed: The rise of dementia researchThe Maintain Your Brain trial builds on decades of scientific momentum – and Australia has played a major role in that progress. “Research is our friend here,” Prof. Brodaty said. “And the evidence base is growing stronger every year.”Next week, over 8,000 researchers and clinicians – many of them early-career – will gather at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Toronto to explore the latest global developments in dementia prevention, diagnosis and care. “This is a dramatic shift from just 50 years ago,” Prof. Brodaty said. In 1972, not a single journal was devoted to dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Today, there are more than 100 specialised journals publishing cutting-edge research across these fields. “Over four decades, we’ve moved from hopelessness to hope, from stigma to science. I’m proud to have been part of this transformation.” A call to actionIn 2024, the Australian Government released its National Dementia Action Plan. Prof. Brodaty says there needs to be immediate investment in a National Dementia Risk Reduction Program, built on the proven Maintain Your Brain model.“It’s time for a national movement for brain health, backed by research, scaled with urgency, and funded to save lives and money.”Australia cannot afford to delay. Investing in dementia prevention now will secure a healthier, more productive, equitable and resilient future for all Australians.

This Thursday (31 July), the Bundjalung and broader Northern Rivers community will gather to celebrate a milestone of deep cultural and community importance: the commencement of early works on its proposed Bundjalung Aboriginal Cultural and Education Centre at Namabunda Farm at Alsonville.Hosted by Bundjalung Tribal Society (BTS), this event marks the beginning of a transformative new chapter in community-led cultural revitalisation, self-determined development, and intergenerational learning. The ceremony will commence at 2:00pm and will be joined by the Hon. Janelle Saffin MP. The new Centre will be a living hub for cultural practice, community connection, and Aboriginal-led education and training in the Northern Rivers.Namabunda Farm, a 32-hectare property in Alstonville, is already a vibrant place of cultural strength, training and healing. In the past year alone, BTS has delivered more than 45 community workshops and events, reaching over 1,000 participants through:Traditional Bundjalung food and cultural programsLanguage revitalisation and art workshopsAgaricology concepts and land care initiativesMachinery and farm tools trainingWellbeing programs and local school collaborationsCultural land managementBTS endeavours to ensure that all activities are delivered by people of expertise in various fields alongside Aboriginal Knowledge Holders and Elders, ensuring cultural integrity and community ownership.The proposed Aboriginal Cultural & Education Centre will build on this strong foundation, delivering two interconnected, purpose-built spaces:The Cultural Space – A large, open-plan area for group gatherings, with audiovisual capabilities and a dedicated presentation zone. It will also be available as a culturally appropriate gathering space during times of natural disaster.The Education & Training Space – A more intimate setting for small workshops, complete with a kitchenette and accessible amenities to support BTS’s education programs and community enterprise.Both buildings will include generous verandas and outdoor learning areas tailored to the Northern Rivers climate, with shared infrastructure designed for sustainable operation.“This Centre is more than just bricks and mortar, it is a space where culture is strengthened, community is empowered, and the future is shaped on our terms,” said BTS Chairperson, Tracey King. “a place where our knowledge systems will grow, where young people will learn from Elders, and where the broader community can come together with respect and connection.”

The Living Lab is issuing a final call to all North Lismore residents, or Northies as they are affectionately known, who haven't been part of the Living Memory project, which is on exhibition until Thursday, August 7.In October 2024, many current and former 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. The result was to create a Living Memory of residents and workers who have been part of North Lismore's long history. North Lismore was chosen as it is the Lismore suburb that has changed significantly following the 2022 big flood.The first set of photographs and audio recordings took place at the end of November 2024, and the exhibition of community history, stories and memories opened to the public in June.Now, the Living Lab are hosting two further opportunities for locals to be part of the Living Memory and celebrate what it is to be a proud Northie.Photographer Elise Derwin and local historian Adele Wessell will be at the Living Lab, 11 Woodlark Street (near the Molesworth Street roundabout) on:Thursday, 31 July, between 1pm and 3pm andSaturday, 2 August, between 10.30am and 12:30pm 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, or have been, part of. Also, bring a USB stick to keep your digital copies.If you have any questions, email livinglabnr@scu.edu.au or call 02 6626 9188.

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said new firefighting tankers, operational technology and equipment have been delivered to the Lismore Electorate in preparation for the next bushfire season.“New trucks have been delivered to Bonalbo, Jiggi Valley and Tuncester over the past 12 months.“I had the chance to inspect the new Tuncester appliance soon after it arrived, and it is an enormous improvement on the old fire truck, with the latest equipment and an air-conditioned cabin which the local fire crew was most excited about.“These new trucks are part of the Minns Government’s rollout of 290 new and refurbished vehicles across the state this financial year. The vehicles feature the latest in crew protection systems and are designed to operate in tough conditions.“Following the recommendations of the NSW Bushfire Inquiry and other inquiries, the trucks are equipped with Mobile Data Terminals to improve communication, connectivity and safety in remote and disaster-impacted areas.“The rollout of these modern vehicles is a boost to firefighting efforts in our region and supports our RFS volunteers,” Ms Saffin said.The Bush Fire Danger Period for parts of northern NSW begins on 1 August, with the danger period for the entire state starting on 1 October.

From poached to panfried, when it comes to eggs, it’s all sunny side up, as new research from the University of South Australia confirms that this breakfast favourite won’t crack your cholesterol.Long blamed for high cholesterol, eggs have been beaten up for their assumed role in cardiovascular disease (CVD). Now, UniSA researchers have definitively shown that it’s not dietary cholesterol in eggs, but the saturated fat in our diets, that’s the real concern for heart health. In a world-first study, researchers examined the independent effects of dietary cholesterol and saturated fat on LDL cholesterol (the ‘bad’ kind), finding that eating two eggs a day – as part of a high cholesterol but low saturated fat diet – can actually reduce LDL levels and lower the risk of heart disease. CVD is the leading cause of death worldwide, responsible for nearly 18 million deaths each year. In Australia, one person dies from CVD every 12 minutes, accounting for one in four deaths nationwide. Lead researcher, UniSA’s Professor Jon Buckley, says it’s time to rethink the reputation of eggs. “Eggs have long been unfairly cracked by outdated dietary advice,” Prof Buckley says. “They’re unique – high in cholesterol, yes, but low in saturated fat. Yet it’s their cholesterol level that has often caused people to question their place in a healthy diet. “In this study, we separated the effects of cholesterol and saturated fat, finding that high dietary cholesterol from eggs, when eaten as part of a low saturated fat diet, does not raise bad cholesterol levels. “Instead, it was the saturated fat that was the real driver of cholesterol elevation. “You could say we’ve delivered hard-boiled evidence in defence of the humble egg. “So, when it comes to a cooked breakfast, it’s not the eggs you need to worry about – it’s the extra serve of bacon or the side of sausage that’s more likely to impact your heart health.”

We have been seeing and hearing about the two weather systems that have combined and are moving across the continent for most of this week.For once, Lismore and the Northern Rivers will miss the brunt of its force; instead, that will be felt by southern Australia and the central parts of Queensland.The Bureau of Meteorology's Miriam Bradley said wind gusts between 60 km/h and 90 km/h have been felt in southern areas, with all states and territories, except the ACT, likely to be issued severe weather warnings in the next 24 hours, but not in Lismore and the Northern Rivers. Our winds should be in the 15 km/h to 25 km/h range.The rain should be arriving around 2pm, and be with us for most of Saturday night and the early hours of Sunday morning. This should allow most Saturday sports to be played, depending on the field's condition.5mm to 15mm is being forecast by the BoM on Saturday, and only 1mm for Sunday as the front moves off the coast.For the rest of next week, partly cloudy is the consensus forecast, with 1mm to 2mm at most to be dropped on any given day.

The merging of two weather events, a cold front in the southwest and a low-pressure area in northern Australia, will dominate the weekend weather as it moves into the Northern Rivers tomorrow afternoon.The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has been adjusting the potential rainfall for Saturday as the weather systems approach the east coast, and, as we write, the forecast is for 6mm to 15mm with northerly winds.The rain will clear on Sunday morning as strong westerly winds (15 to 25 km/h) leave a mostly sunny day.The sunshine will return on Monday, which is good news for the NSW Golf Qualifying Series being played over two days at the Lismore Golf Course in East Lismore. The ground will be wet, but at least the two rounds can be played to determine which 3 eligible players (excluding those who hold a current PGA Tour of Australasia Exemption Category of 11 or higher) who finish in the top 15 qualify for the NSW Open. There is also a $50,000 purse for the event.This is the first time the event has been held in Lismore. Anyone from the public can watch the NSW Qualifying Series on Monday and Tuesday.If the arts are more to your liking, there is plenty to view over the weekend.The Through the Heart photographic exhibition runs until August 10 at the Lismore Regional Gallery.Over 100 of Jacklyn Wagner's photographs capture the emotion and heartache of the 2022 floods. The gallery is open 10am to 4pm both days.The 2024 Archibald Prize is also on exhibition at the Lismore Regional Gallery.This is only the second time the Archibald has made its way to Lismore. You have until August 31 to view the works of the 57 finalists.It is the final day for you to view the Converge exhibition at 123 Woodlark Street (next to Lismore Second Hand Furniture).Lismore's 11-based artists at Converge have their Bright Light Habits exhibition on display until 3pm tomorrow (Saturday, July 26).The works cover film, ceramics, sculpture, paintings, costume design and participatory projects.The Lismore Farmers Markets swing into action from 7:30 during the coldest part of the morning. 7 degrees is the forecast minimum, but it looks to be the last of the sun for Saturday.Popular Luke Vassella will provide the live music as you walk around the stalls with your coffee or tea. A hot breakfast is available as well as locally grown fresh fruit and veg.The Nimbin Markets make their July appearance from 9am to 3pm on Sunday. With the weather clearing, it will be a nice day in the hills perusing the many uniquely Nimbin stalls.A guided walk through the Hoop Pine Forest can be enjoyed on Sunday morning as part of National Tree Day 2025 at the Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens.Trudi will take you to the summit of the Hoop Pine Forest, where you will learn about its ancient history.The walk is $5 for adults, with children free. It is cash only.Meet at the visitors centre by 9:45am for a 10am start. You can join the Friends' volunteers for morning tea after the walk, where a gold coin is appreciated.It is a big family weekend at the Lismore Workers Club. Dorothy the Dinosaur Spectacular Show has two performances, 10am and 12 midday on Sunday. The 10am show is sold out; however, the 12pm show does have some tickets still available at a cost of $25.August is a busy month at the Lismore Workers Club. Coming up:Herman's Hermits: the English group are on a 60th Anniversary World Tour, appearing at the Workers Club on Friday, August 8. Tickets are $59 each.Fleetwood Max: Thursday, August 14 is when you can sing-along to the many hits of Fleetwood Mac. Tickets are $49.The Everly Brothers - Morning Melodies: on Wednesday, August 20. This is a lunchtime show where you will learn about the beautiful harmonies of Phil and Don Everly and hear their hits, like Bird Dog and Cathy's Clown.Another '60s iconic band is The Delltones.The Delltones Story is at the Lismore Heights Sports Club on this Tuesday, 29 July. $35 gets you a 2-course meal and the wonderful songs of The Delltones, like Come A Little Bit Closer. Call 02 6624 3040 for bookings or more information.Another live music option this weekend includes Chris Fisher at the Northern Rivers Hotel tonight (Friday) between 6pm and 9pm.Ballina is still the cheapest town to fill the tank over the weekend, especially if you are there after 8pm, when prices tend to drop another 10 cents a litre.Here is the list of the cheapest service stations, saving you the most money in each town:E10 is 174.9 at the 7-Eleven in South Lismore, the Coles Express on Dawson Street and the Ampol Foodary on Woodlark Street in Lismore, 174.9 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino, and 165.5 at the Mobil and The Metro on River Street, Ballina.Unleaded 91 is 173.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road, 176.9 at The United and the Casino Roadhouse on Johnston Street in Casino, and 167.5 at the Metro and the Mobil on River Street, Ballina.U95 is 184.5 at Brad's Independent on Terania Street, North Lismore, 198.9 at the Independent on Canterbury Street, and 178.5 at The Metro on River Street, Ballina.U98 is 192.9 at the Liberty on Ballina Road in Lismore, and the Liberty on Union Street, South Lismore, 197.9 at the two Independents on Hare and Centre Street in Casino, and 187.5 at The Metro on River Street in Ballina.Diesel is 181.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road in Lismore, 181.9 across Casino, and 189.5 at the Mobil and The Metro in Ballina.Have a great weekend!Now, have a laugh with the Friday Funnies.....

The long-awaited new designs for the rebuild of the Richmond River High Campus have been shared by the NSW Government as it progresses the project to replace flood-damaged facilities with a world-class campus at a new flood-resilient location in North Lismore. Students, families and the community are invited to view the plans for the new campus, part of The Rivers Secondary College alongside Kadina High and Lismore High, which can be accessed via the NSW Planning Portal until 21 August.The campus will feature 36 modern classrooms, three support classrooms, 14 specialist learning spaces (including science labs and wood and metal workshops), a library, a multipurpose hall, performance spaces, facilities for sports, agriculture, construction, and food technologies.The buildings will be placed on high ground overlooking the sports fields and green spaces. Connecting with Country consultation is continuing to ensure the design reflects Bundjalung culture.The project has undergone extensive redesign following the 2024 community information session and technical investigations of the new site to ensure the rebuild is more resilient and future-ready for the school community. Key updates include:Repositioning school buildings to the south, ensuring the school buildings are located above the Probable Maximum Flood level;Modular construction, which includes offsite manufacturing of the school buildings while civil infrastructure works are carried out onsite, to expedite the delivery of the rebuild;Relocating the campus entrance to Dunoon Road, which will provide better parking and access, and reduce future congestion off Secondary Road;Updating the building layout to accommodate the new school entry.In collaboration with the NSW Reconstruction Authority, planning approval will be fast-tracked by an additional two months, and the project is on track for completion by early 2027.The NSW Government has now repaired or rebuilt 16 of 21 flood-damaged schools in the Northern Rivers.Additional funding to help rebuild nine extensively flood-damaged schools has been provided by the Infrastructure Betterment Fund, which is jointly administered by the Australian and NSW Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos said, “The new Richmond River High Campus has been designed in partnership with the community, ensuring it meets their needs and remains a vital cornerstone for decades to come.“This project is a major investment in the future of the Lismore community, providing a modern and resilient school environment to ensure local students receive a world-class public education.“I want to acknowledge the incredible resilience and strength of this community, which has faced significant challenges with unwavering determination. Together, we’re building a brighter, stronger future for local students, staff, and families.” Minister for Disaster Recovery and Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said, “It is so good to see Richmond River High being built back in North Lismore. The new plans are based on extensive feedback from students, staff, parents, and members of our community.“This will be a flood-resilient campus for Lismore and surrounds, serving the local primary schools in the area. It will maintain a green and rural feel, preserving the character that the community told us during consultation has made Richmond River High important to young people in Lismore for so many years.“The rebuild not only meets the current needs of our community but also prepares us for any challenges the future may bring.”The Rivers Secondary College, Richmond River High Campus Principal Luke Woodward said, “The release of the plans for the new Richmond River High Campus is an exciting milestone for our school and community.“The new build allows us to create an environment where our students can thrive and feel safe and secure, with facilities reflective of our identity. We can’t wait for construction to start and for the return of Richmond River High Campus to a rural setting.“This location will provide us with the potential to offer more holistic learning opportunities across all areas of education. We envision spaces that foster creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking, ensuring our students are well-prepared for the future.”

About 1.20pm yesterday (Thursday, 24 July 2025), emergency services responded to reports of a stabbing in the Lismore CBD. NSW Ambulance paramedics treated a 37-year-old man on Molesworth Street before he was taken to Lismore Base Hospital in a stable condition, suffering a single stab wound to the right shoulder. A short time later, officers from Richmond Police District arrested a 28-year-old man on the same street without incident. He was taken to Lismore Police Station. Officers also recovered a knife at the time of the arrest. Police will allege that the stabbing occurred in Woodlark Street near the intersection of Keen Street. It will be further alleged that the men are not known to one another, and the incident appears to be unprovoked. The younger man was charged with reckless wounding and was refused bail to appear at a court today (Friday, 25 July 2025) via Audio Visual Link.

Researchers at Southern Cross University are inviting mothers across Australia to participate in a new study examining the impact of key relationships on perinatal well-being during the first year after birth.Led by Bachelor of Psychological Science with Honours student Natalie Joy, under the supervision of Adjunct Fellow in the Faculty of Health, Dr Julia Marsden, the online study is open to Australian mothers with babies aged 0-12 months.“Perinatal well-being is a dynamic and deeply personal experience — it encompasses the physical, emotional, social, and relational changes women navigate as they transition into motherhood,” said Dr Marsden.“Through this study, we hope to better understand how close relationships influence that journey, so we can help ensure support is more holistic, personalised, and truly responsive to women’s needs.”Many women experience emotional, social and psychological challenges in the first year after birth; however, support systems are often inconsistent or poorly tailored to their needs. According to the Centre of Perinatal Excellence (COPE) and the Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA), around one in five mothers experience anxiety during the perinatal period and 10 per cent experience depression.“This study shines a spotlight on a critical but often overlooked aspect of maternal mental health,” said Dr Marsden.“While anxiety and depression are rightly recognised as serious concerns, we also need to better understand what supports mothers to thrive, not just avoid distress. By exploring how close relationships and attachment styles shape perinatal well-being, this project could help identify protective factors and early warning signs, ultimately guiding more personalised and preventative approaches to care during the first year postpartum.”How to participateRecruitment for the study is open now. The anonymous online survey takes around 15-20 minutes and is open to Australian mothers aged 18 and above, who are within the first 12 months postpartum, have lived in Australia for two or more years, and are English-speaking. Participants go into the draw to win one of four $50 gift vouchers.To participate in the survey, click here.This study has been approved by the Southern Cross University Human Research Ethics Committee (Approval number: 2025/114).

AC/DC said Let There Be Rock in 1977, and about thirty years later, Snoop Dog said, "Well, Hip-hop is what makes the world go round".By the same analogy, Rock to the Rescue began as a fundraising event for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (WHRS) in 2015, and next Saturday, August 2, the second Rap 2 the Rescue concert will take place at the South Lismore Bowling Club, as both music genres help the much-loved local charity.Only three weeks ago, Rock to the Rescue (RTTR) featured seven local bands on stage at the Northern Rivers Hotel in North Lismore.RTTR co-ordinator John Bancroft told the Lismore App that the event was another huge success, raising $3,500 for WHRS"Sincere thanks to members of New Vintage, Plan 9, Hop Ups, Slug, Ghostown, Claymores, and This Kiss Kills for offering their services on the night, and new sponsor MGL Freight for sponsoring the T-shirt sales. An enthusiastic crowd of 200 + enjoyed the talent on offer and witnessed history as local legends SLUG performed their last gig.(SLUG on stage)"Many thanks must go to the small group who put the event together, being Darrell Crockford, Jasin Hughes, Dave Slade, Matt Lee (MGL ), Andy Lee, Neville Cain and Ben Wordsworth. We look forward to a bigger event in 2026."Plans are now underway for the 10th Rock To The Rescue, which will be held in mid-2026 at a date and venue to be announced.A different style of music will attract a younger, different crowd next Saturday, when Rap 2 the Rescue takes place at the South Lismore Bowling Club.Organiser and rapper Jordan McMahon said he was inspired by Rock to the Rescue."We saw what was happening, and it has been pretty successful, so me and few mates who make some rap music thought we'll give it crack."Jordan's father, Jeff McMahon, has been heavily involved in supporting the WRHS, so that was additional encouragement to create an alternative event.Rap 2 the Rescue will showcase seven fantastic rap artists playing for the cause. Jordan will be performing on the night as Thirsty Mac.The bands in order of appearance on the night are:D.A.S.H.Thirsty MaczFTTOMDJ MudcrabEric FluSaxBardiIn its first year, Rap 2 the Rescue raised just over a thousand dollars for WHRS. Jordan's hope is for more in 2025."We're hoping for about $1,500 next Saturday night. I'd like to obviously go further than the last one.""I'd love people to show up and help support the charity and the local music scene. There's a lot of talented acts that are going to perform."Entry is only a $10 donation at the door, and merchandise will be on sale along with a raffle.For enquiries, contact Jordan McMahon on 0412 760 013.RAP 2 THE RESCUEDate: Saturday, August 2Venue: The South Lismore Bowling Club, 25 Wilson Street, South LismoreTime: 7:30pm until late.

NSW Farmers have backed calls for an independent scientific panel to review federal authorities’ decision to lift biosecurity restrictions on US beef imports into Australia. NSW Farmers’ President Xavier Martin said there was no room for error when it came to biosecurity and said a review was vital to ensure confidence that US beef imports would comply with Australia’s biosecurity and food safety standards. “You can’t trade away our biosecurity, Minister – farmers cannot and will not support that,” Mr Martin said.“Any changes to our market access must be subject to rigorous, evidence-based science and independent scrutiny, and our industry will simply not accept anything less than that.” A review of the decision must take place before US beef found its way into Australia, Mr Martin warned.“The Albanese Government needs to be prepared to be held accountable if this all goes wrong,” Mr Martin said. “Put our farmers and our clean, green nation first – we’ve warned you what might happen to our industry if you don’t.” 

Mental Health has been spoken about regularly in Lismore and the Northern Rivers since the 2022 floods, as those directly involved sought help for the trauma they endured during the catastrophic event.The latest snapshot of Australia’s mental health system highlights growing challenges in the mental health system, particularly around affordability and access to care. The National Mental Health Commission (the Commission) has released its 2024 National Report Card for the 2024 calendar year, which examines the prevalence of mental health challenges, the drivers behind it and the performance of the mental health system. CEO of the Commission, David McGrath, says by collating the data and analysing trends, the Commission can take the pulse of Australia’s mental health system, measuring its successes and shortfalls. Mr McGrath explains that “the Commission has an important monitoring and reporting role. The Report Card calls out issues for governments to pay attention to, and that’s the value of this report.”Key elements of the Report Card 2024 shows:Increasing financial pressure:The proportion of people finding it difficult or very difficult to cope on their present income has doubled from November 2020 to January 2024, with women consistently reporting higher levels than men.Cost preventing access:More than a fifth of people delayed or did not see a health professional for their own mental health when needed due to cost.Treatment still falling short:Despite more people with a mental disorder accessing treatment compared to earlier years, treatment rates are still well below current targets proposed through the National Mental Health Service Planning Framework.Sense of control decliningThere has been a decline in the percentage of people reporting a high sense of control over events in their life since 2019, dropping from 75.8% to 71.3%.Encouraging progress of seclusion and restraintProgress continues in reducing the national rate of seclusion and physical restraint in public hospital mental health care.Mr McGrath says it’s important that funding of mental health supports and treatment meet the needs of our communities. "We need to see planned service commissioning matched to people’s needs, with greater integration amongst health services and with other services, like housing and financial supports. Ultimately, everyone deserves fair access to the right mental health care, no matter where they live or how complex the system may be.” The Commission will continue to build on the Report Card with key stakeholders and the sector.For more information, read the full National Report Card 2024, which is available on the Commission’s website. 

State Member for Lismore, Minister for Recovery, Minister for Small Business and Minister for the North Coast, Janelle Saffin, sat down for a Talking Lismore podcast this week to discuss Lismore's flood recovery.While talking up business activity in the CBD and South Lismore, Ms Saffin moved to North Lismore, where the future lies with what is created on the vacant land once the Resilient Homes Program buyback houses are removed or demolished."The Living Lab will be doing some work, I think they've done some, and I've said that I'd like to see the community asked, What do you think? I remember there was one radio program on ABC where everybody was asked what they thought, lots of ideas, but in a serious way, what do you think can happen with this land?"Remember, I got that money for Lismore City Council. It's about $800,000 odd to do walkways from North Lismore. So we've got that, we've got the school, the Showgrounds, you know. And I know the Showgrounds want to do more there, and I still want the Richmond River High area to be a car boot market, but that's me.While the options for what will be a lot of vacant land, mainly in North Lismore and the CBD, will be pondered for the next couple of years, the flood mitigation modelling options are being discussed next week when the CSIRO and NEMA (National Emergency Management Agency) arrive in the Northern Rivers for community consultation."We've got hydrodynamic modelling that can be laid across a number of scenarios. We've got Kevin talking about the one to two metres; he and I have had those discussions. Of course, we've all had those discussions, and it would be fantastic if that could happen. It depends on the science and not us MPs."And this means we'll have that broad view. So we'll be looking at, can we do this here? What will that impact there? Can we protect them there? And that will be the conversation. But clearly, we're all hoping that we can have a situation, a scenario where we can do that reduction of the water, slow it down, divert it, hold it, all those sorts of things."Not being a hydrologist, but everything I know about what they've done, what I know about hydrology in general and floods, indicates that that could be possible. So we're hopeful."A question that the Lismore App asks every level of government is the level of confidence they have in the federal and state government handing over $2 billion to fund a CSIRO flood mitigation modelling scenario, where it can take 1 - 2 metres off a flood?"None of us know how much it would cost, so there's guesstimates about it, but we know things are expensive, so yeah, I'm hopeful. I'm hopeful because I've been in public life for quite a few years, and I've seen many good things happen, and I've seen the impossible happen. So I'm forever hopeful. I'm the optimist."Another flood project making some progress is the Disaster Adaptation Plan, or DAP, which is being created by the NSW Reconstruction Authority."What do we do to adapt to the weather events we experience? What would be best practice? What are the things we do? It may also include some mitigation, but it's basically a disaster adaptation plan. It doesn't mean it has to exclude mitigation; it can be there. One of the things that I've been discussing is the difference between forecasting and early warning."The BoM does forecasting. They have all the information. They have all the models. They look at a variety of models, and they forecast what might happen on this day, on that day, etc, etc. And then, at a more local level, or another level, we can say, okay, if that's the forecast, this might happen. But early warning is saying, Well, what will that mean here in this area? What will it mean in your locality? What will it mean in your street? What will it mean for a CBD? What will it mean for the farming area? And SES have increasingly done that more."And this involves locals. And I say to locals, like we often say, Oh, well, we relied on Farmer Joe up country. I used to listen to the Tabulam guys up above the Clarence. I know who they are. I'd always listen and go, Oh, okay, they're saying that we better go. And I think we have to reclaim some of that ourselves, not just say everyone's got to do it for us. It's that shared sense of responsibility. And yes, it's inconvenient packing up, but it's the price we pay to live in paradise."Since the 2022 floods, one of the statistics we often hear is that 97% of funding is spent on recovery, while only 3% is spent on prevention. The state government has said it wants to change that ratio, thereby spending more on prevention. The CSIRO flood mitigation modelling is expected to be the main driving force in the Northern Rivers, and the DAP will also play a part in lowering flood risk in the Richmond River catchment."Can I just say that Andrew Colvin, when he did the Colvin review on disaster funding relief arrangements, or recovery arrangements, he said, then it had changed to 87/13, so the 97/3 has flipped to 87/13. That's in his report, and is a step in the right direction."Adaptation is identifying the hazards you experience in your area, in your region and your locality. So what are they? What are the risks from those hazards, and what are our vulnerabilities? Are they physical? Are they socio-economic? Are they this? Are they that? And mapping that out, and looking at that, and then we get a clear sense of what we need to do across the region."Here, with seven local government areas, and then what each local government area needs to do in that. So, in essence, that's what the disaster adaptation planning is about, and we haven't done it before. It's quite, I can't think of the word, rather groundbreaking, but we don't kind of see it like that yet, but it is."And then for me, remember, there's adaptation plans being done for climate, for the climate challenges. And I said, Well, we're doing it for climate, for weather, natural hazards, natural disasters, natural events. I want to see us have a plan out to 2050 because there's a net-zero 2050. But I want to see us in sort of parallel, have up to 2050 risk reduction, because that's what it's all about; it's about reducing risk. That's the key thing."So a DAP is about reducing risk, building resilience, stronger, safer communities."Ms Saffin said a completed Northern Rivers DAP document should be released in 2026."The Disaster Adaptation Plan guidelines, they're for the state, they should be released quite soon. I've signed off on them."Another project that is close to release, and also one of Lismore's worst-kept secrets, is the change of ownership of the Southern Cross University development site on Military Road. The 400-site development, which includes 50 Build-To-Rent properties, is officially owned by the NSWRA. But when is the announcement?"Oh, I think we might do that Monday. Monday looks like a good day," Ms Saffin said with a grin."It means that we'll start to see the plan fleshed out to end up with 400 dwellings on that site, 50 Build to Rent with Landcom, and then the other 350. So, we'll start to see that there, and that's a good thing for Lismore.""Any housing is a good thing. So I'm quite excited about that. I also would like to make sure that we do some real affordable homes there as well, because we often talk about affordable, but I want to still see real affordable."Any new housing development will lead to an increased load on the East Lismore Sewage Treatment Plant. Recently, Lismore City Council has said its estimated $108 million funding to fix the South Lismore ($20-25 million) and East Lismore ($70-80 million) has been reduced to $38 million. This was Lismore's share of a $145 million announcement by Minister for Lands and Water Kevin Anderson in May 2022.The dispute with the state government on the decrease in funding leaves Lismore City Council unable to fix the East Lismore Sewage Treatment Plant to the level it was before the 2022 flood, let alone to build back better, as was the catchphrase used at the time.Ms Saffin says she is across the issue."I'm trawling through all the documents and figures of that at the moment, because I have a different memory of it. And I was at the announcement with Minister Kevin Anderson when that was announced. I can remember we were in our overcoats and stuff that day."Because it was recovery money, it wasn't intended to give it to anyone for future growth. Future growth comes through councils working at that themselves, putting forward, then for grants and things. So it wasn't about future growth. But if we've taken, say, 660 houses so far, out, and we're adding 400 in, I don't see the issue. Maybe there's something technical I don't understand."The East Lismore Sewage Treatment Plant is shaping up to be the first big dispute between Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin and Lismore City Council Mayor Steve Krieg. In the end, Lismore needs a fully functioning sewage treatment plant with its critical components out of flood, or we could well be having the same discussion when the next big flood hits the catchment.The complete conversation with Janelle Saffin, including a part on insurance, can be heard on the Talking Lismore podcast via the Lismore App or through the Lismore App website.

Three boys have been charged following an investigation into alleged property offences in Goonellabah.Officers attached to Richmond Police District and Operation Soteria initiated inquiries after several homes in Goonellabah were broken into in the early hours of yesterday morning (Tuesday, 22 July 2025).Items were allegedly stolen, including cash and a Toyota Corolla.Following inquiries and an alleged pursuit in the Goonellabah area, police located the vehicle in Casino and arrested three boys, aged 14, 16, and 17, a short time later nearby.The boys were taken to the Casino Police Station, where they have been charged.The 14-year-old was charged with seven offences:Break and enter dwelling etc in company steal (three counts)Enter building/land with intent to commit indictable offenceFace blackened/disguised with intent to commit indictable offenceBe carried in conveyance taken without consent of owner, andBreach of bail.The 16-year-old was charged with 18 offences:Break and enter house etc steal value more than $60,000 (two counts)Aggravated break and enter dwelling etc in company intend steal less than $60,000 (two counts)Aggravated break and enter dwelling etc in company steal less than $60,000 (five counts)Enter building/land with intent to commit indictable offence (three counts)Take person in company with intent to commit serious indictableFace blackened/disguised with intent to commit indictable offencePossess housebreaking implementsPolice pursuit - not stop - drive recklesslyNever licensed person drive vehicle on road, andUse etc offensive weapon in company to prevent detention.Both boys were refused bail to appear before a children's court today (Wednesday, 23 July 2025).The 17-year-old was charged with three offences alleged to have occurred near Coffs Harbour in 2024:Aggravated break and enter and commit serious indictable offenceEnter building/land with intent to commit indictable offence, andTake and drive conveyance without consent of owner.He was granted conditional bail to appear before a children's court on Tuesday, 26 August 2025.

Lismore City Council’s long-term plan for new homes and jobs in Goonellabah has been cleared by the NSW Department of Planning, officially approving the rezoning of 60 hectares of land at 1055 and 1055A Bruxner Highway.The state approval means the site can now progress as a new mixed-use precinct, paving the way for more than 400 new homes and over 100 commercial and industrial lots to support Lismore’s future growth.Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg stated that the rezoning was a significant step forward for the community.“This is about creating diverse housing options and creating space for families, businesses and services in a safe, flood-free spot,” he said.“With varied lot sizes throughout the site, this is about giving people more choice for a range of homes such as detached houses, townhouses or medium density living, all with parks, paths and green corridors right on their doorstep.”Over 4,000 ongoing jobs are expected once the precinct is fully developed, alongside hundreds more during the construction phase. All lots are located well above mapped flood zones, ensuring new homes and businesses are protected from future disasters. Buffers will be included to protect neighbours and local farms, and environmental protections will be built into every stage.The new precinct will also focus on community connection and amenity.Parks, playgrounds and walking and cycling tracks are planned throughout the area, including the regeneration of Tucki Tucki Creek as a green corridor for people and wildlife. Dedicated areas are set aside for shops, childcare and recreation, making this a future-focused neighbourhood with jobs and services close to home. Council’s Acting Head of Planning and Environment, Jamie van Iersel, said the project will deliver a genuine mix of housing and new jobs, while also protecting local character and the environment.“This is a long-term project, but it sets up Lismore for decades to come,” she said.“We’re building a neighbourhood where you can walk to the park, cycle along Tucki Tucki Creek, and have local shops and childcare close by. Plus, every block sits above the flood zone, which is a must for our community’s future.”While the land has now been rezoned, major upgrades to water and sewer infrastructure, costed at around $15 million are needed before development can begin. Ms van Iersel also said Council is actively seeking grants and State or Federal support to deliver this critical infrastructure.“We’ll keep the community updated as the project progresses,” she said.

The Landcom affordable housing development at Bristol Circuit, Goonellabah, has progressed to the DA (development application) stage, so a step closer to becoming a reality if Lismore City Council planners approve it.As previously stated, 44 Bristol Circuit will provide 16 one-, two-, and three-bedroom townhouses that will house local workers.The DA shows dwellings consisting of:4 x 1-bedroom8 x 2-bedroom4 x 3-bedroomAccess will be via Blue Hills Avenue (off Taylors Road) for the 1 and 3-bedroom townhouses and Bristol Circuit for the 2-bedroom townhouses, with two separate parking areas. There will be 25 on-site car parking spaces: 20 for residents and 5 for visitors.The 2-bedroom townhouses feature one bedroom downstairs with an ensuite, and the second bedroom upstairs, with the main bathroom. In comparison, the 3-bedroom townhouses have one bedroom downstairs with an ensuite, and two bedrooms upstairs, with the main bathroom.The kitchen and living areas are on the second floor. Each dwelling has a courtyard and deck.The landscaping will include a permeable fence, screening trees to Taylors Road, with a resident's western lawn below between the two and three-bedroom townhouses.There will be a second resident's lawn in front of the two-bedroom townhouses leading to Bristol Circuit.Each dwelling will have screening shrubs or trees off the courtyard and decks.The Bristol Circuit development has undergone changes since it was first put forward by Landcom.Initially, the development was intended to include an allocation of social and affordable housing for any low- to middle-income residents; however, after community consultations, the majority of nearby residents expressed concerns that it would have a negative impact on the existing neighbourhood, lowering property values and potentially increasing crime through the influx of undesirable tenants.Lowering the value of neighbouring properties was disputed by BB Professional Services, which put together a Social Impact Study providing examples of similar developments in Brisbane and Sydney.The community feedback led Landcom to modify the Bristol Circuit plan to only accommodate local workers with low to middle incomes, such as nurses, ambulance paramedics, firefighters, childcare workers, aged care workers, teachers, sales assistants, receptionists, and cleaners.One aspect that neighbouring homes didn't change is the aesthetics of 16 medium-density housing options in close proximity to a more typical house on a 600- to 800-square-metre block of land. Of course, changing this aspect would make the rents more unaffordable and defeat the purpose of what Landcom is trying to achieve, which is to create more affordable rental stock in the Lismore LGA that is out of flood.In summary, BB Professional Services said the "overall impact of the proposed development will clearly be positive".The details of the development are now very clear, one important aspect is missing and won't be known until completion. What is an affordable rental worth per week?