UPDATE 12:42pm1 of 2 southbound lanes closed.Advice: reduce speed and prepare to merge.Live Traffic is reporting an accident between a truck and a car on the Bruxner Highway, just past the M1 Pacific Motorway.Emergency Services, Transport for NSW, Heavy vehicle tow truck and tow truck are in attendance.The Bruxner Highway is closed in the westbound direction (towards Lismore).You are advised to avoid the area.Light vehicles are asked to detour using Teven Road.More to come.

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan released this statement on the third anniversary of the February 28 2022 flood.Three years ago, our community faced Australia's biggest natural disaster since Cyclone Tracy. The devastating floods tore through Lismore and the Mid-Richmond, destroying thousands of homes and businesses - leaving an entire community with serious questions about its future.In the aftermath, there were only two approaches that could have been taken: remove everyone from the floodplain, or keep them there and implement serious flood mitigation measures to lower the height of the next flood.The NSW State Government chose the strategy of removing those in danger from the floodplain. This has failed. Over 2,000 homes were identified to be unsafe. We are now in a position that less than half of the homes identified will be bought back. Some families who accepted a buyback, have purchased new properties back on the floodplain, highlighting the failure of this plan.Individuals and families had nowhere to live and had to make decisions about their immediate future. Some people started putting money back into their homes and commenced renovations immediately. Others decided to sell their properties on the private market. The new property owners did not qualify for the buyback.After the completion of the buyback program, maybe 900 of the 2000 homes identified by the NRRC will have been bought back. This means over 1000 homes will remain on the flood plain. Those individuals and families will be no safer and are still at risk. The CBD, industrial estates, businesses, villages, farmers and the road network are no safer.The strategy of withdrawing from the floodplain has failed. Flood mitigation is the only strategy that will give the region a sustainable future and safety.Over $800m has been spent on the original strategy of withdrawing from the floodplain. None of this money has lowered the level of the next flooding event. This means no home, business or industrial estate occupant, is in any safer.Our path ahead must include a public commitment to flood mitigation. CSIRO will release a report this year, looking at practical scenarios that include engineering solutions to mitigate future flooding. This work is crucial.If the community knows a metre or more will be taken off future events, they will invest and live in confidence in the Northern Rivers. The McKell Institute’s Cost of Extreme Weather Report found that between 2005 and 2022, the Federal Government spent $23.99 billion on disaster recovery and relief, while only $1.51 billion was allocated for disaster prevention. This imbalance must change. Flood mitigation is the best prevention option for the Northern Rivers to grow and prosper. It will also save future governments—and therefore taxpayers—billions of dollars by reducing the impact of future disasters. The 2022 disaster alone is measured as a $15 billion event.The Government at all levels must act. Decision-makers now will determine whether the next major flooding event in this region kills people, destroys lives financially, or if the region has been made safer. Mistakes have been made, and significant public funds have been spent with marginal return. This can be rectified with a real commitment to flood mitigation and a clear vision for the region’s future.

Hundreds of competitors are set to descend on Lismore this weekend to take part in this year’s Samson Fitness Challenge, tackling everything from swimming and running to gruelling challenges like the sled pull, jerry can walk and tyre flip.The morning competitors will compete in cooler but still warm conditions, while the afternoon group will be working their way through the course in temperatures around 29 degrees.Now in its fifteenth year, the Lismore Samson aims to raise funds for Our Kids, which helps sick children receive medical care locally. Funds raised will go towards the purchase of medical equipment to help with the treatment of retinal issues in premature babies.Powered by NBN News, the event kicks off at 5.30pm on Friday, 28 February at Hepburn Park in Goonellabah with the Samson Solo, where competitors tackle the course individually in heats. The fastest competitor will take home the title.The main event begins on Saturday, 1 March at 7am, with teams of four taking on gruelling challenges, including strength activities, running, swimming, and an outdoor obstacle course. With more than 500 competitors, the atmosphere will be electric.Competition in the Elite Men’s division is fierce, with the title race heating up from 11am. Meanwhile, this year’s women’s teams outnumber both the men’s and mixed teams, making for an exciting competition.Saturday’s schedule also features Teen Sprint (3 km) – a high-energy race for young athletes and the Conlon Bros Samson Kids, a dedicated obstacle course for children under 12 years, run by Mr Brad from Fitness Kidz.Sponsored by Conlon Bros Earth Moving and Sea & Sky Sensory Co, the Teen Sprint includes an inflatable jumping castle and unlimited obstacle course fun for just $10, while the climbing wall is an extra $5. Volunteers from Summerland Christian College will be on hand to ensure everything runs smoothly.Lismore’s local Army Reserve unit, the 41st Battalion Royal New South Wales Regiment (41 RNSWR) will assist on the day, alongside more than 120 volunteers, ensuring a seamless event.Athletes can recover at the Southern Cross University Recovery Zone, while spectators and competitors can enjoy Samson Eat Street, featuring delicious offerings from Amici Food Van, Boost Juice, and the Norths Baseball Club BBQ.For more information, visit the website lismoresamson.com, or Facebook Lismore Samson on Facebook or call 0438 417 085 or simply join us on the day to support the competitors!

Yesterday's Lismore City Council extraordinary meeting descended into chaos when Councillors (Cr) Rob and Gordon engaged in a personal verbal barrage. This followed a confrontation between Cr Guise and Mayor Krieg as the Chair of the extraordinary meeting.For context, councillors and the public (during public access) should only speak to the motion at hand. In this instance, the discussion should be centred around why the Property Strategy motion, which passed at the last council ordinary meeting, should be rescinded, and not rehash the same information that was tabled during the last debate.Cr Guise was asking questions to the Richmond River Historical Society's Robyn Braithwaite during public access about how the group has prepared for probable maximum flood heights. A point of order was raised by Cr Rob, which was agreed upon by Mayor Krieg."I appreciate the question Cr Guise, but we are speaking as to why it should be rescinded, not the work that the Historical Society has done. So, unless you can offer any alternatives around why the decision should be rescinded and why we shouldn't have a Property Strategy, then you need to rephrase your question."After a question from Cr Rob, Cr Guise then said, "Unless you make a ruling, an official ruling, and can quote the section and the relevant code of meeting practice as to why I can't ask the question I asked and frame it the way I frame it, then I will ask that question again, and I'll also ask another follow-up question to Robyn."Do you think it's fair with a lawful resolution of council to issue a lease to the Richmond River Historical Society to occupy the Municipal Building, that the idea to undertake a property strategy is being used as a cover to kick out the museum from occupying that building. Is that a fair way to conduct council business?"Mayor Krieg then called a point of order."Again, you're impugning improper actions by councillors and council staff, so I'm not going to allow that question."As the questions from Cr Guise continued, Mayor Krieg once again mentioned it had nothing to do with the rescission motion before Cr Guise challenged the mayor to make an official ruling. Under the code of meeting practice, when the mayor stands, all councillors must sit and remain quiet."Cr Guise, the questions should be in and around, why the decision should be rescinded, not hearsay and accusations of wrongdoing. So, either it directs directly to a rescission motion or not at all. And that is my ruling."Cr Rob and Gordon's joust came during the rescission motion about adopting changes to the Code of Meeting Practice.While Cr Rob was stating his case, Cr Gordon said something that was audible to Cr Rob. A point of order was called, and Mayor Krieg asked Cr Gordon to refrain from speaking.Cr Rob then pointed his next comment to Cr Gordon as he continued."Anyway, clearly, Cr Gordon doesn't want to have longer meetings or public attending to speak longer or longer periods of public access by restricting them to less than an hour. I think that's clearly the position by the frustration expressed in this chamber when another councillor is talking. I think it's very rude. Sorry Cr Gordon, would you like another point of order? Yeah, but you're not the chair, are you Cr Gordon."To which Mayor Krieg said, "I am. Thanks Cr Rob.""Cr Rob turned his attention to the mayor."You are Mr Mayor so you should be intervening on your member of your team. Do your job."Cr Rob thought he heard another comment from Cr Gordon, and with his microphone on, said, "Sorry, what was that? Are you calling me a smart arse? What are you saying? Say it on the record."Mayor Krieg then said Cr Rob's time was up and to take his seat, when Cr Rob called another point of order."Point of order, Mr Mayor, about interruptions every time I speak, constantly. I am sick of it. Do your job with your team member."Mayor Krieg then reiterated to all councillors to refrain from speaking while other councillors were talking. To which Cr Rob continued to talk, so the mayor said, "Thank you Cr Rob, your'e doing the exact same thing as what you asked me to pull him up."Cr Rob continued to speak inaudibly with his microphone off after which Cr Gordon joined in.Finally, Mayor Krieg adjourned the meeting for 15 minutes to allow rising tempers to calm.When the extraordinary meeting resumed, it was without Crs Guise, Knight-Smith and Waters. A vote was called with the rescission motion defeated 5/1 with Cr Rob in support and Crs Gordon, Bing, Hall, Battista and Krieg against. Cr Dalton-Earls was absent from the meeting.As a side, and as expected, all rescission motions were defeated.With the new code of meeting practice that will be adopted in a few months by the Office of Local Government, meetings could be more volatile.Councillors will be asked to stand when the Mayor enters the room. Cr Rob said during yesterday's meeting that he will not be standing when Mayor Krieg enters the room.A chairperson can expel members of the public or a councillor from a meeting. A councillor can be expelled if they fail to comply with a requirement under clause 15.1 with regard to an act of disorder. Councillors can only be expelled by a resolution of the council or the committee of the council. You can't help but think an expulsion is likely at some point over the next three years.What went missing during yesterday's council meeting was part of 2.1 Meeting Principles of the Code of Meeting Practice:Respectful: Councillors, staff and meeting attendees treat each other with respect.Maybe next time.

For those who were in Lismore and the Northern Rivers on 28 February 2022, the events will remain etched in our minds for the rest of our lives. Not replayed on televisions or social media at various times, but replayed in our minds when a conversation moves to flood recovery.As soon as the extent of this flood was known, the community came together in a way that the government (all levels) never could. The rescue was nothing short of heroic, and the support to those who were flood-affected was generous and heartwarming.Since those dark days, Lismore has been blindly reaching and searching for a way forward in our flood recovery efforts. That has involved all levels of government, but especially the state government, with a particular focus on the NSW Reconstruction Authority (NSWRA).There were strong calls for a 'community-led recovery' or 'community-focused recovery' following the 'community-led rescue. The faith in government was certainly low at the time and remains very sceptical three years later.When it comes to housing, we can see that about 750 buybacks have been accepted. We can also see that not one house has been built in three years.We all know the bureaucratic process has slowed the recovery process down through its checks and balances and multiple agency handling and approval process.What about us, the community? How much has a community-led or community-driven recovery slowed the recovery process? We posed two questions to four key players for their response: Mayor of Lismore, Steve Krieg, State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin, Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan and the NSWRA's CEO Mal Lanyon.Has a community-led recovery slowed the recovery process as much as the bureaucratic process?"What decisions could have been made for the community in the recovery process?Mayor of Lismore Steve Krieg:"The so-called “community-led” recovery has certainly slowed our rebuild. That is because you have lots of community groups, all with different and often conflicting agendas, fighting over limited grant funding."This has led to a disjointed and distracted recovery, which has become highly politicised with resources being diverted away from essential services to funding various organisations."Compare this to Queensland, where within weeks of its recent flood, a Disaster Commissioner was appointed to lead every aspect of the recovery and rebuild."Janelle Saffin MPTHE Lismore App has asked me to respond to two compelling questions regarding community-led (I prefer community-driven to led) recovery and bureaucracy.  People frequently ask me, “How is Lismore?” and I answer, “Forever changed.”I accept their inquiry graciously as I know they ask with care and concern, knowing that very few people have an acute understanding of the long tail of recovery and very few have experienced what we have. We know that recovery takes many, many years. That is not easy for us to hear but the Australian Red Cross evidence demonstrates just how long it takes. Look at how long it took us to recover here in Lismore from the 2017 floods that were two metres less than in 2022.Our community cried out for the reuse, recycle, relocation and resale of buyback houses, longer settlement periods, and that takes time, unlike Queensland, where homes are gone soon after people accept a buyback. The NSW Reconstruction Authority responded positively to these community wishes, but it comes with a certain degree of bureaucracy. My catchword is not business-as-usual bureaucracy but responsive bureaucracy. I know it is hard for any agency, but they are trying hard and with some success.To the rearview mirror question of what decisions could have been made. The Northern Rivers Reconstruction Corporation (NRRC) could have adopted the Queensland Reconstruction Authority model, could have informed themselves of the Victorian Bushfire Recovery model and that of places in New Zealand, could have not said to me, “Janelle we are only service deliverers, to which I retorted, “We expect only service deliverers to be competent and compassionate”, could have let their advisory group work and walk with community, could have accepted the people (Federal Member for Page) Kevin Hogan and I put forward, could have done a better job with the maps for the Resilient Homes Program (RHP), could have hastened slowly on the buybacks, and waited for the Resilient Lands Program (RLP) to roll out, could have included local government more and especially on their projects regarding land, could have engaged well with the community, establishing a two-way communication approach, could have developed programs based on evidence and within a solid public policy framework.The governments at the outset could have provided us with a long-term independent recovery coordinator, with clear communications, clear information, informed us well on what to expect in recovery, could have worked with the community leaders more closely, could have made it a whole-of-government response, could have provided us the Commission we called for, saying it was our (Cyclone) Tracy moment.But none of this leads us anywhere.We did get a reset under the NSW RA and it is yet to be recognised for its revolutionary role in preparedness. It inherited the right mess of the NRRC and has had to unscramble a lot of broken things, set in train. It has the power to help us adapt where we cannot mitigate, and that will be powerful, as there will be more events, and they need not be disasters, but extreme weather events for which we can be better prepared and then bounce back better and sooner. All governments are wired to Canberra and Sydney comms, but disaster-impacted communities need a different, almost bespoke comms approach. (See Communicating in Recovery https://www.redcross.org.au). This is finally starting to take shape now that Mal Lanyon has taken on the permanent role of CEO of the NSW RA. You will see him and hear him more at local levels communicating on what is important to our community. There is a Latin word desiderium that describes best what happens to us post such a catastrophic humanitarian disaster. We long for our life as it was and yet must learn to live the new life and walk with what happened, and shape the new way. We have done this and can do this.NSWRA CEO Mal Lanyon:“We’ve always said the community would be at the centre of what we do, and we remain fully committed to supporting residents as they rebuild and move forward.“As one of the nation's largest recovery initiatives, we’ve listened to the public’s desire to preserve their unique communities while focusing on building resilience.“Our focus is not only on replacing damaged infrastructure but also on implementing strategies to make the region more resilient to future flooding, relocating homes, and recycling materials from demolished properties.“While this process may take longer, our commitment to listening to the community and supporting their needs will remain at the centre of everything we do.”Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan:I don't know that we've done that much that has slowed it down as a community. I mean, I think there were bad decisions made initially about what the strategy is, such as to remove ourselves from the flood plain. That was a bureaucratic decision that didn't come to the community, and I think that was made on an ideological error that that person didn't believe in engineering solutions for flood mitigation. They thought it was too controversial."I think sometimes the community wants leadership too. This is what we're doing, and, you know, making decisions around it. I love this community, and obviously, there's differences of opinion, but I don't think it's been a community-led slowness about it."The RA were given powers through state legislation to speed things up, and they need to use them more. Whenever you want to do anything, and let's take housing, I'll have people who come to me and say, Kevin, you should be building more social housing. You should be doing this too, and doing that. And I say, what do you think of the North Lismore Plateau development? I don't like that, or they don't want the development up here, or they don't want the development at Monaltrie, or they don't like this, don't like that."We have a lot of NIMBYism, not next to me. Happy to do it, but don't do it anywhere near me. Well, now we're short of houses. We got to build houses somewhere, and we've got to understand that."Has the community-driven recovery slowed our flood recovery process? A question for all of us on a day of commemoration and reflection.

On the eve of the third anniversary of the February 28 2022 big flood, NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery and Lismore MP Janelle Saffin has been briefed on good progress being made under the Emergency Response Fund (ERF) Richmond and Wilsons rivers flood warning improvement project.“I recently sought and received a briefing from NSW Minister for Climate Change and the Environment Penny Sharpe’s office, and I’m heartened by actions and recommendations aimed at prioritising our network of gauges for installation, upgrades or integration into the flood warning network,” Ms Saffin said.“In New South Wales, we are working to improve flood warning services in the 62 local government areas impacted by the floods in early 2022 using $15 million in funding from the Australian Government’s Emergency Response Fund.”“Locally, the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water, in collaboration with the Bureau of Meteorology, have installed 12 new flood gauges, seven of which have been fully commissioned and incorporated into the BoM’s flood modelling system.“These seven stations include water level gauges at Keerong (Terania Creek), Gungas Road (Mulgum Creek), Whiporie (Myall Creek), Tatham (Sandy Creek) and Broadwater (Richmond River); and two rainfall gauges – Findon Creek and Woolners Arm.“The remaining five stations being commissioned include water level gauges at Leycester Creek, Robert White Bridge and Casino Road Bridge; and rainfall gauges at Mid-Richmond, Bungawalbin (Clearfield) and Mummulgum.”For more information about the ERF Richmond and Wilsons rivers flood warning improvement project, go to https://mhl.nsw.gov.au/floodstudies/DCCEEWBCD-RichmondHome.   

Tropical Cyclone Alfred has many people in Lismore and the Northern Rivers worried as it heads south in the Coral Sea parallel to the Queensland coast but out to sea.Alfred's path was uncertain, and there was certainly speculation over its effect on the Northern Rivers, given February and March are our most prolific rainfall months.As of today, Lismore has received only 128.6mm at the Lismore Airport, which is more than last year's 115.8mm but lower than the mean of 142.5mm.March's mean is 181.4mm, so we can expect a wetter month.Angus Hines from the Bureau of Meteorology said they are starting to get more confidence and more certainty about Alfred's likely path.As of 12 midday NSW time, Angus said the signs show a strengthening system, so Cyclone Alfred is likely to increase from a Category 3 to a Category 4 over the weekend."There are a couple of changes to this track compared to the tracks from yesterday, and that's the first one there, the Category 4 symbol that we see on Friday afternoon, as we expect Alfred to intensify during Friday even further."However, as Alfred continues to move southwards, it's likely to move into an area of slightly cooler ocean temperatures down here, which means the intensification will probably stop, and potentially it will even go back to a Category 3 tropical cyclone by Saturday morning.It is at this point that Alfred is expected to move towards the Queensland coast, but not reaching the coast, as a Category 3."This is going to mean an increase in wind and swell across eastern parts of Queensland. We've got a number of marine wind warnings already in place from Townsville down to K'gari, and these warnings could well be extended down to the southeast in the next day or two as well. And really, one of the most significant impacts of this turn towards the coast is going to be an increase in the swell."Importantly for the NSW Far North Coast, the second movement on Sunday should see Alfred moving away from the coast, which is likely to see it classified down to a Category 2 on Sunday or Monday and start a southeastward trajectory. This would mean less influence on our weather; however, it may linger over the Tasman Sea."This doesn't mean we're quite out of the woods yet. there is a chance that tropical cyclone Alfred could just hang out over the Tasman Sea for a few days in a row, and then may get blown back towards the country if an easterly wind picks up. However, if that occurs, it's likely that tropical cyclone Alfred would be a category one, or potentially a tropical low, no longer being tropical cyclone status."So, there's still a lot to go with the system. It's got a long life ahead of it, hopefully staying away from the country."The Bureau is forecasting a potentially wet Monday to Thursday at this early stage, but nothing significant.

Lismore pet owners and members of the public are being invited to help shape cat and dog laws in NSW, with the NSW Government delivering on its election commitment to conduct a wide-ranging review of the Companion Animals Act 1998 (CA Act).For the first time in two decades, the government will review these laws to greater support responsible pet ownership and ensure the wellbeing of pets and the safety of communities. The review will examine all aspects of the care and management of companion animals in NSW, including addressing the urgent need to prevent dogs and cats from entering the pound and rehoming system. It will also explore actions taken in other jurisdictions and the role and enforcement responsibilities of councils. Key issues under consideration include:cat managementpreventing dog attackspounds and rehoming servicesregistration and desexingstakeholder roles and responsibilities and the regulatory tools available under the legislationresponsible pet ownership education and trainingThe review of the CA Act will be informed by several NSW parliamentary inquiries, including the inquiry into the veterinary workforce shortage, the inquiry into pounds and the inquiry into the management of cat populations. The findings and recommendations from recent coronial inquests into fatal dog attacks in NSW will also be considered.To support the review, the Office of Local Government has released a discussion paper canvassing three key focus areas:the framework for encouraging responsible ownership of companion animalsthe compliance and enforcement role of councilsanimal welfare and rehomingPet owners, councils, rehoming organisations, veterinarians and other stakeholders can provide feedback on the discussion paper before 4 May 2025 by responding to consultation questions. To view the discussion paper and provide feedback, visit: https://www.olg.nsw.gov.au/companion-animals-act-review/Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said, “There are more than 4.7 million dogs and cats kept as pets in NSW, providing love and companionship to so many people across the state.   “However, the laws around pet ownership haven’t been reviewed in 20 years.“With pet ownership on the rise and increased pressure on council pounds and rehoming organisations, it is important to assess if the current laws are still fit for purpose. “We need strong laws that hold pet owners to account and make sure owners take responsibility for their pets at home and in public spaces.“The government wants to hear from all interested stakeholders to shape this review and ensure a wide range of perspectives are considered as the government progresses this important work.”

Students and health practitioners training at the University Centre for Rural Health Northern Rivers (UCRH) based in Uralba Street, Lismore, will have access to a new, world-class maternal and birthing simulator called MamaAnne.UCRH is the first location in Australia to take delivery of the MamaAnne simulator, and one of the first sites internationally to use the newly released training tool.MamaAnne is a simulator made by Laerdal Medical and developed in partnership with Limbs & Things which was unveiled last year in San Diego, USA. It provides high-fidelity simulation training in critical obstetric emergencies.UCRH’s Director, Professor Vicki Flood, said MamaAnne was an important addition to UCRH’s Simulation Centre capacity.“MamaAnne’s arrival allows those coming through our Simulation Centre to have immersive and technology-enhanced training,” she said.“From medical students to doctors to midwifes, this means we can help students and health professionals, develop and fine-tune their skills, thanks to incredibly realistic simulation-based learning.”MamaAnne has been designed to cover the mother’s labour and delivery journey, from maternal initial assessment to postnatal care. Birthing teams can train on the simulator for obstetric emergencies, including the top causes of maternal mortality: postpartum haemorrhage, hypertensive disorders, sepsis, obstructed labour.UCRH will use MamaAnne to teach medical students on rural placement with us and as a part of the various continuing professional development courses UCRH offers to the region’s health workforce.MamaAnne’s first use at UCRH was led by Clinical Skills and Simulation Educator, Rebecca Austin at a session with University of Sydney medical students on a year-long rural placement. The students are doing a term focused on perinatal and women's health.“We covered many scenarios around what’s called maternal collapse, including maternal advanced life support, eclampsia and postpartum haemorrhage,” Ms Austin said.“It’s incredible how lifelike MamaAnne is. She is so accurate in terms of the physiological aspects of pregnancy and labour, and that means the education we provide sets up the students ideally for their future careers.”Importantly, MamaAnne supports the development of student and practitioner confidence as well as skills, narrowing the gap between theory and hands-on practice. This is because of how accurate and lifelike the simulator is.MamaAnne has an automatic delivery system that precisely and accurately mirrors birth movements through the birthing canal. Silicone skin provides a realistic look and feel while articulating joints allow for simulation of any number of birthing positions. Other features of MamaAnne include the capacity for realistic bleeding which means training for postpartum haemorrhage can be provided.UCRH purchased MamaAnne at a cost of $116,000 with Australian Government funding through the Rural Health Multidisciplinary Training program. This program aims to improve the recruitment and retention of medical, nursing, dental and allied health professionals in rural and remote Australia.The World Health Organisation has reported that globally in 2020, almost 800 women died every day from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. Ensuring that women have access to high-quality care in pregnancy and during and after childbirth is critical to address this. MamaAnne will be vital to allow UCRH to play and important role in ensuring the region’s current and future health professionals are equipped to handle these situations.

The ongoing battle between Lismore City Council and members of the Richmond River Historical Society will continue today as council meets at 12:30pm for its extraordinary meeting.The Richmond River Historical Society and its supporters will meet outside of council chambers again at midday to publicise their case for a lease/license to be signed so the Lismore Museum can stay in the Municipal building on Molesworth Street.Lismore City Councillors will again vote on creating a Property Strategy so council can assess all of its building assets in terms of maintenance costs and potential commercial returns that will help it return to profitability quicker.Council has 47 what they call 'peppercorn' leases, $1 per year, to community groups as part of its building assets makeup.One of those buildings is the Municipal Building, which has housed the Richmond River Historical Society (RRHS) and the Lismore Museum for the last 33 years.Before the February 11 ordinary council meeting, RRHS claimed council refused to renew its lease, saying they had no idea why council terminated the lease.A spokesperson for Lismore City Council outlined the negotiation timeline between its staff and the appropriate RRHS member/s."At 9.32am on Thursday, 22 February 2024, Lismore City Council emailed representatives of the Richmond River Historical Society an offer to lease (or technically, licence) the Municipal Building on Molesworth Street for a peppercorn rent of $1 and informed them of the steps they need to take."This included payment of $109 lease/licence application fee, which was never paid."Over the next couple of months, Council and the RRHS negotiated the terms of the proposed lease/licence, such as who is responsible for the maintenance of the air-conditioning in the building."At 7.54am on Thursday, 2 May, Council received an email from a representative of the RRHS informing us that the last issue to be negotiated had been resolved and that the representative “will take it to the RRHS Management Committee for agreement and sign off”."As there was no response after more than eight months, the offer was formally withdrawn, and the RRHS informed at 12.48pm on Friday, 10 January 2025."Lismore City Council remains committed to working collaboratively with the Richmond River Historical Society to explore alternative options and secure a suitable location that meets their needs."Council has an obligation to ratepayers to ensure it delivers the best uses for its assets."Lismore City Councillors voted that 'Priority be given to find a suitable location for the RRHS as part of the Property Strategy motion.The Lismore App understands a number of alternative options have been shown to the RRHS, including their old home, the Trench Building on Molesworth Street, next to Stockpot, and the third floor of the Lismore Library at The Quad.All options have been rejected so far.It would appear the battle is becoming political rather than all parties finding a suitable home for the Lismore Museum and the RRHS. That, of course, may change following today's rescission motion vote.

A proud Steve Krieg, Mayor of Lismore, stood before the media today, announcing the CBD occupancy rate had remained steady at 77%. There was some fluctuation between streets in 'The Block, with Molesworth Street jumping 12% since the last Lismore City Council CBD Audit in June 2024.Standing on Club Lane looking at Molesworth Street, Mayor Krieg was proud, given it's literally 36 months since the February 28 2022, big flood."Almost to the day, where we stand now was totally underwater. To see the resilience in the recovery of our local businesses is really something to be proud of as a community, as an LGA and as a region."Molesworth Street has experienced the greatest growth. We have seen a small decline in some of our other streets, which is to be expected with cost of living pressures and interest rates being as high as they are; it is a really tough environment to be doing business, especially for small businesses. But people that have stuck it out, that have rebuilt, that have made the effort to not only come back, but come back stronger."We look at some of our premises now that are far more resilient to any of the disasters; it really is pleasing to see. So, I'm really happy to announce that Lismore is holding steady. There is room for improvement, obviously, and our CBD Activation Team and our Business Activation Team through Council are doing everything they can."There is some really exciting private investment that is earmarking Lismore into the future, and so I honestly can stand here and say that we do have a bright future in this city. There is obviously room for growth and room for opportunity here, and we'll work on that over the coming months and years, but I think Lismore is primed to experience its footprint again as the regional hub of the Northern Rivers."The Lismore CBD Audit covers central portions of Keen, Molesworth, Woodlark, Conway, Magellan and Carrington Streets. Below are the street-by-street occupation rates as at December 2024, compared with June 2024: Keen Street occupancy rate – 85% (up from 81.1%)Molesworth Street occupancy rate – 86% (up from 74%)Conway Street occupancy rate – 67% (down from 72.1%)Carrington Street occupancy rate – 78% (up from 73.1%)Magellan Street occupancy rate – 75% (down from 76.3%)Woodlark Street occupancy rate – 60% (down from 60.7%)Mayor Krieg said the local spend across the LGA in December 2024 totalled $111 million, an increase of 4.2 percent from December 2023. While this may have helped local CBD businesses, it doesn't stop the financial pain most local businesses have felt in the last two years, plus there is a federal election coming up.( Mayor Steve Krieg with Council's Manager Destination and Economy, Tina Irish. Photo: LCC)"Elections are never good for small business. It makes the consumer a little bit nervous about what is going to happen. But the interest rate cut is a step in the right direction; there's no question about that. As I said before, it is tough doing business at the moment. I think small business is probably the highest-taxed element across the country when you you take into account payroll tax and GST and all of those other taxes that small businesses are sort of having to pay out. It is a tough environment."With interest rates being what they are compared to where they were three or four years ago, it really is a tough economic environment. You throw into the fact that people have really, for want of a better word, maybe over-capitalised in making their buildings far more flood resilient in Lismore; it has heightened that economic pressure, there's no doubt about that.""You can walk the streets and talk to businesses, and each one of our businesses is facing individual challenges, but there are also great successes as well. I mean, just down the road from where we are, there's a beautiful little espresso shop that was founded after their original cafe was devastated by the 2022 flood. The owners decided not to rebuild, but the staff got together to reopen a cafe. So there are successes as well."It's really hard sometimes to keep being so positive and to keep being optimistic when it is such a tough environment. But I think you've got to remember that while other CBDs around the region, around the state, are suffering just as much as ours to see that we are holding steady, we're holding our own. It's really pleasing."As the CBD and other businesses take the long road to full recovery, the mayor mentioned the goal for the CBD was the January 2022 CBD Audit marker of about 92.5%. After other major floods, the recovery had a shorter timeframe, but 28 February 2022 was not like any other previous flood.This is the fifth Lismore CBD Audit following the 2022 natural disaster, with previous audits undertaken in June and January 2023 and August 2022, and February 2022 (immediately prior to the February disaster). The same area of the Lismore CBD has been audited by Council staff each year since 2017.

Local roads across New South Wales will receive important safety upgrades thanks to more than $28 million in new Federal Government funding.The Federal Government recognises that local governments are crucial to maintaining and upgrading transport infrastructure.That’s why we’ve been progressively doubling our Roads to Recovery funding for councils to fix their local roads, and why we’ve lifted and back-dated the freeze on road maintenance indexation instated by the former Coalition Government.Today’s significant investment will help fund 14 new projects under the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program (SLRIP) throughout the state.This includes more than $3.69 million to Lismore City Council for the Channon Road, Dunoon upgrade and the bridge renewal on Chelmsford Road.For more information and the list of projects, visit Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program.Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said, “The Albanese Government recognises that local governments are crucial to maintaining and upgrading transport infrastructure.“We have increased funding under the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program to make sure we continue to invest in better, safer local roads across New South Wales and Australia. “We are committed to delivering the funding local councils need to improve road safety and in a way that reduces the burden on them, allowing more money to be spent on projects and less on administration.”Funded projects:

With the third anniversary of the 2022 floods this week, Resilient Lismore is urging people across the Northern Rivers who still need help repairing their homes to apply for help before their funding runs out. “The Repair to Return program, which was previously known as the Two Rooms project, has helped nearly 700 homes across the Northern Rivers over the past three years, providing free or low-cost repairs with tradespeople and volunteers. The program is aimed at people who aren’t eligible for the Resilient Homes buyback program,” said Jonathan Smith, Repair to Return Project Manager. “We are very grateful for funding from the NSW Reconstruction Authority, which has allowed us to provide flexible property repair support to owner-occupiers across the Northern Rivers who are still struggling to rebuild, but that funding is running low, and the program will be coming to an end this year. So, if you or someone you know still has a damaged home, now is the time to get in touch.” “If you’re stuck or if you’re feeling tired and you don’t know what to do next, we can help. We know that it’s been a long journey, many people are low on money, and it can be stressful to keep going with your property repair. If you reach out, we might be able to help you move forward,” said Mr Smith. “We can help with a range of essential repairs, including fixing stairs for safe access, replacing windows, installing kitchens, and restoring essential plumbing. If these issues are holding you back, now is the time to ask for help.”“The first step is to reach out. Pick up the phone or register online, and we will make a time to meet you at your home, talk to you about what’s needed, and then do what we can. But time is running out - so please don’t wait. Many people have also found that a little help from the Repair to Return program has helped them to progress their own repairs.” he said. “We felt good that we could accept some help. I normally don’t ask for help. We never needed help before, really: we’ve always done it ourselves,” said one homeowner after receiving help through Repair to Return. (John, a Repair to Return Program recipient in his kitchen, which was repaired by the program. Photo: supplied) Video stories and testimonials from people who have been supported by Resilient Lismore are available at: https://resilientlismore.org.au/news-updates/videos/.In addition to home repairs, Resilient Lismore provides free furniture and appliances to people recovering from the 2022 disaster and runs a Tool Library that allows people to borrow tools for DIY repairs and rebuilding projects. The library has a wide range of equipment, from power tools like drills and saws to essential hand tools, ladders, and painting gear. They also have a trailer available to loan. How to contact Resilient Lismore:Visit the Resilient Lismore Hub Wednesday to Friday, 9 am to 3 pm at 215 Keen St, LismoreCall 0455 218 692Email hello@resilientlismore.org.auLodge a request online: https://resilientlismore.org.au/services/repair-to-return/

Mayor Steve Krieg has called an extraordinary Lismore City Council meeting tomorrow (Thursday) at 12:30 to deal with the four rescission motions from the last ordinary meeting on Tuesday, February 11.According to Local Government NSW, "If the Mayor receives a request in writing signed by at least 2 Councillors, the Mayor must call an extraordinary meeting of the council to be held as soon as practicable but in any event within 14 days after receipt of the request."Mayor Krieg told the Lismore App, "Some councillors chose to put in four rescission motions, and it is within their rights. It is also within other councillors' rights to call an extraordinary meeting to deal with those rescission motions.""Our meetings go long enough without adding four additional items to the agenda."Mayor Krieg is referring to the eight-hour-long council meeting on Tuesday, February 11. If the additional four rescission motions were added to an already full agenda, it may well be a repeated length when council next meets for an ordinary meeting on Tuesday, March 11.The four rescission motions took over three hours to reach a decision, including public access, at the last ordinary meeting.The rescission motions are:11.1 Property StrategyCouncillors Adam Guise, Jasmine Knight-Smith and Virginia Waters are asking councillors to rescind its decision on developing a Property Strategy, which included the Richmond River Historical Society.It was resolved that:the General Manager be requested to develop a Property Strategy, and an implementation model to implement the findings of the Property Strategy.the Strategy to include options for Council office presence in the CBDthe Property Strategy and implementation model be brought back to Councilpriority be given to find a suitable location for the Richmond River Historical Society.All councillors voted for the foreshadowed motion at the time, except for councillor Adam Guise.11.2 Clunes Subdivision Councillors Adam Guise, Jasmine Knight-Smith and Virginia Waters are asking councillors to rescind its decision to refuse a DA to create 2 lots at 7 Booyong Road, Clunes.It was resolved that pursuant to section 4.16 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A), development application No. 5.2023.312.1, for the subdivision of one lot to create 2 lots and associated driveway, carport, vegetation management works and on-site effluent disposal systems at 7 Booyong Road Clunes, be refused for the following reasons:1. the proposed development does not provide for the orderly development of the site or good design and amenity of the built environment due to undersized lots and unacceptable sewage management arrangements (Section 1.3 of the EP&A Act 1979).2. the proposed development is inconsistent with the following clauses of Lismore Local Environmental Plan 2012 (Section 4.15(1)(a)(i) of the EP&A Act 1979):a. Clause 2.3 – Zone objectivesb. Clause 4.1 – Minimum subdivision lot sizec. Clause 4.6 – Exceptions to development standardsd. Clause 6.4 – Drinking water catchmentse. Clause 6.9 – Essential services3. the proposed development is inconsistent with the following requirements of the Lismore Development Control Plan, Part A, Chapter 1 – Residential Development (Section 4.15(1)(a)(iii) EP&A Act 1979):a. Element 4.10 – On-Site Sewage and Waste Water Management.4. the proposed development is inconsistent with the following requirements of the Part A, Chapter 6 – Village Subdivision of the Lismore Development Control Plan (Section 4.15(1)(a)(iii) EP&A Act):a) Element 4.1 – Lot Sizeb) Element 4.9 – Sewer (non-reticulated areas)5. the site is not suitable for the proposed development (Section 4.15(c) of the EP&A Act 1979)6. the proposed development is not in the public interest (Section 4.15(e) of the EP&A Act 1979)The last vote was 7/4 to refuse the DA.11.3 Code of Meeting Practice ReviewIt was resolved that Council adopt the Code of Meeting Practice as attached to the report, with the inclusion that Public Access be livestreamed. This motion included: Moving Public Access from the start of council meetings at 10am to prior to council meetings at 9am. Public Access will be streamed live and recorded.Change the number of speakers to two for and two against (from four for and four against).There is a maximum of ten (10) speakers. This is necessary because of the one-hour time limit on public access. It allows for change over time of speakers, questions and responses to questions.Each speaker will be allowed three (3) minutes (reduced from four)Limit responses to councillor questions to one (1) minute (currently unlimited)A councillor may submit no more than three (3) notices of motions to be considered at each Ordinary council meeting.A councillor may submit no more than three (3) questions with notice for response at each Ordinary council meeting.The length of a council meeting will be no longer than 5 hours after it begins. It can be extended by 30 minutes by resolution.The last vote was 7/411.4 Definition of Nuclear-Free Peace Zone PolicyCouncillors Adam Guise, Jasmine Knight-Smith and Virginia Waters are asking councillors to rescind its decision to repeal policy number 3.1.1 the Nuclear-Free Peace Zone Policy The last vote was 6/4, with Councillor Jeri Hall out of the chamber.It remains to be seen if the same issues will be rehashed as they were two weeks ago or if a fresh approach with new information will be taken. Whatever the content, it is highly unlikely that any of the rescission motions will be successful.

The NSW Government today announced 15 learn to swim providers had been appointed to deliver its new State-wide learn to swim program.Under the new program, those most at-risk of drowning will be able to access as many as 10 lessons completely free of charge to ensure they develop basic swimming and anti-drowning skills.The providers will deliver free learn to swim and water safety lessons to all major at-risk demographics including people from low socioeconomic groups, multicultural communities, First Nations people and people in regional areas.Recent drowning statistics have shown that the previous approach was not working, it showed that people born overseas and those living in the most disadvantaged areas of NSW are at the highest risk of drowning. The providers will commence delivery of the learn to swim programs in the coming months. NSW residents can find their local program by visiting: https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/learn-to-swim-program. This includes the Royal Life Saving Society – Australia in the Lismore, Ballina, Bellingen, Byron, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Kempsey, Kyogle, Port Macquarie Hastings and Richmond Valley LGAs.Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said, “Being able to swim at your local pool, beach or river is one of the best things about living in NSW.“The NSW Government is supporting communities at the highest risk of drowning by funding the delivery of free learn to swim and water safety lessons by learn to swim providers at swimming pools across NSW.“Critically, it will mean more NSW residents can swim safely next summer and provide cost-of-living relief at a time when those groups need it most.“This was reinforced by the results of the National Drowning Report 2024 that found multicultural communities, disadvantaged communities and people living in regional areas had higher rates of drowning than other parts of the community.“The learn to swim and water safety programs delivered by the providers announced today will provide our most at risk members of the community with vital swimming and water safety skills.”Chief Executive Officer Royal Life Saving Society - Australia (NSW, ACT, Tasmania) Michael Ilinsky said, “Royal Life Saving NSW welcomes this critical investment in water safety education. Taking high-quality programs directly to communities in need will have a lasting impact.“After a challenging summer, this initiative ensures that more individuals—especially those at risk—gain vital water safety skills for life.“Learning to swim is a life skill. This government funding will provide many with their first aquatic experience, preparing them for a lifetime of safe aquatic participation.“Royal Life Saving NSW applauds this activation, which prioritises access to quality water safety programs in the communities that need them most.“This initiative will break down barriers, ensuring participants, regardless of background, have the opportunity to learn vital swimming and water safety skills.”

The stage lights shine for the Lismore Theatre Company's first play for the 2025 season this Friday when 'Life Without Me' debuts in Goonellabah.'Life Without Me', written by Daniel Keene, is a funny, honest and heartwarming story that invites us to question life itself. It is set in a 2-star hotel lobby, which is like living in purgatory, suspended in a state of limbo and excludes characters from where the real action of life is. The characters are searching for happiness, searching for a way out of their ordinary lives.Amie Gray, who is playing Ellen in the production, says 'I think people should come and see the show because it is full of humour and heart. (The full cast of Life Without Me during rehearsal: Tameika Watts, Ruben Garcia, Issac Smith, Amie Gray, John Rado, Anna Ludvik, Junia Wulf. Photo: Daniel Cohen DC Sports Photography)"The author, Daniel Keene, tries to help us look at these disconnected moments within our lives, so that we might either understand them a bit better or at least be able to laugh at ourselves a little bit easier.'John Rado, a NIDA trained actor, plays Roy and says 'If you have ever felt that you are waiting for something to happen to help you discover what on earth is going on, and what all this stuff called life means? If you have ever felt disconnected from your own life? Come and join us for this show. Be careful though, you might discover something exciting in the navigation of your true self!'Ruben Garcia, who plays Tom, says 'The show challenges long-held archetypes that we can all relate to in a fun and surprisingly touching way. It even subverts the absurdist genre with moments of deep compassion amongst the rhythmic chaos.'The first performance is this Friday the 28th of February and the show will finish on Saturday 15th of March.There is also a special Charity performance this Saturday the 1st of March, where part of the ticket price will go to the Winsome Homeless Shelter and Soup Kitchen.Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased via LTC's website or https://www.trybooking.com/CSJAW.

To celebrate the role and contributions of older adults in our community aged 55 years and over, Lismore City Council is hosting the Lismore 2025 Seniors Festival from Monday, 3 March to Saturday, 15 March.This year’s theme, ‘Time to Shine, captures the festival's goal of motivating seniors to discover new possibilities and immerse themselves in their community.Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said the Lismore Seniors Festival offers several events that connect seniors with their community.“The festival celebrates aging through activities and practical tips to enhance well-being. Most importantly, it’s a chance to ‘Shine’ and get together with friends or go out and meet new people while exploring the range of free events and activities,” he said.“I highly recommend viewing the festival program which includes creative workshops, croquet, lawn bowls, softball, fitness classes, a trivia night and nature walk. Council has aimed to provide something for everyone aged 55 years and over.”Council’s Sport and Recreation Lead, Kristy Lenon, said, "The value of hosting such an event for the Lismore community is that it promotes social ties, education and physical activity which all play a vital role in enhancing the mental health and overall well-being of older residents in our community."“Not only are the events and activities all free, but the festival also offers a broad and welcoming lineup designed to motivate our seniors to extend their boundaries by trying something different and meeting new people,” she said.The NSW State Government Department of Communities and Justice funds Seniors Festival Events through a competitive grants program. The NSW Seniors Festival includes hundreds of events across NSW hosted by councils and community organisations.For more information, including viewing the complete program of events and activities, go to www.lismore.nsw.gov.au and search for Seniors Festival 2025.

Business NSW Northern Rivers will get a helping hand to develop a strategy that will support the economic recovery, wellbeing and revitalisation of the Northern Rivers, thanks to a $250,000 NSW Government election commitment.The funding will be used to develop the ProspER Northern Rivers Regional Economic and Environment Plan, which will help identify opportunities and reduce barriers for long-term sustainable economic development across eight Local Government areas in the region, including the Tenterfield Shire.The initiative dovetails nicely with the regional master plan, which will also guide flood mitigation scenarios later in the year.Announcing the initiative in the Lismore CBD yesterday, Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery and Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said, “I advocated strongly for this initiative because I could see early on that there can’t be community flood recovery without economic recovery and that demands a coordinated strategy.“I wanted the business chamber to drive this, and I have been working closely with Jane Laverty from Business NSW Northern Rivers."Business has done their part to say we're back in business, as tough as it is, and we need, as community leaders, to walk with them. And after a big event like the catastrophe 2022 we all have a pining for the past and to be put back where we were."I've never seen that quite possible after any major catastrophe or disaster, and we just have to keep building, recognising our strengths, our opportunities, and sort of driving forward our challenges. So this ProspER plan will focus a lot on our challenges, our strengths and opportunities, and that's the narrative that we have going forward. No one's forgotten, nobody's forgotten, but we go forward as the vibrant, wonderful, beautiful region that we are."The ProspER Northern Rivers Regional Economic and Environment Plan will provide strategic advice on economic and environmental risks facing the region to help future-proof economic development, create new opportunities for different types of jobs and industries, and support entrepreneurship.The initiative will be guided by a Regional Project Steering Group made up of local representatives, including First Nations and youth participants, who will work with community, business and local Councils to develop the plan.The plan will identify opportunities to help local businesses and industry thrive, with a focus on innovative projects that create opportunities for economic development in other industries and communities.It will also help develop a method to identify both risks to existing businesses and potential growth opportunities in industries such as eco-tourism, creative industries, value-add manufacturing, sustainable agriculture, health care innovation and renewable energy. Such projects could include the development of a health precinct to attract Allied Health businesses and Food Connect Precincts housing for-rent commercial kitchens and office spaces to support micro-enterprises.The plan also aims to build capacity, attract investment, act as an advocacy tool for future funding opportunities, and help grow regional branding and identity.(Janelle Saffin, Jane Laverty, Simon Stahl and Donna Kildea discuss the new ProspER plan yesterday)Business NSW Northern Rivers Regional Director Jane Laverty said, "It's a whole of-region approach to sustainable economic development and well-being for our community."This region's been through so much over the last few years, this is a really wonderful opportunity for us to engage across the whole of the Northern Rivers and the Tenterfield Shire as part of this program, and understanding the wants and needs of business and industry. Where there are constraints and where there are opportunities and catalyst projects so that we could be taking a 2040 view of what our region needs and how we can help our business community and our broader community to achieve success."We will be doing a huge amount of engagement. We're asking people to be quite aspirational, as well as really pinpointing the challenges that they're having in terms of skills development, workforce development, that will be a big part of this project, as well as enabling infrastructure, technology and anything that can enable us to create a business environment that helps businesses that are here already to thrive and grow."But also encourage new investment, new businesses to come into the Northern Rivers region and create that diversity of employment that will make a huge difference to the young people, maybe sitting in primary school in our region today, wondering what their future career may be if they choose to stay and live in the Northern Rivers, as we know many of them would like to do. We want to ensure that there's a job for them to do so here."Ms Laverty said the first step for the new ProspER plan will start with a 'business retention expansion survey' in early March."That will do a deep dive into where businesses are today and what their challenges or what their opportunities are today, but also have them looking ahead two, five and 10 years for what they might need to help their businesses to grow. This will enable us to understand the current business environment to ensure that the future business environment is one that will attract investment and will help those businesses to make the decisions they need to grow in the region."We would like to be showing our business and industry a first view of what some of that data is telling us at the ProspER Northern Rivers Forum, which we will be hosting in Lismore on the 10th of April."Traditionally, economic development strategies tend to be very LGA (local government area) focused, as it has been with local councils. It is rare that a group looks at opportunities for the entire Northern Rivers."It's about the sum of the parts; we will be stronger as a whole of region. This will enable us to see where certain LGAs can actually collaborate and partner together to strengthen the opportunities that we have here to attract investment. They're very excited about this chance to show a very consolidated and collaborative approach to sustainable economic development."And there is that environmental aspect that we take into consideration here as well. This project will work seamlessly with the Disaster Adaptation Planning and the broader masterplan project for the Northern Rivers, which we're really excited about. I think this is the first plan that I've seen that is business and industry-led and whole of region and is backed by all levels of government. That should shore us up for success.Ms Laverty wouldn't be drawn into which urban centre's emerging business headquarters will be located at this early stage.It may have taken Australia's most costly natural disaster for the Northern Rivers to come together on vital issues such as mitigation and housing, now, business will also benefit to drive growth for the entire region.

A Lismore resident or visitor has stepped into the work week as a newly-minted multi-millionaire after scoring $3.3 million in the weekend’s Saturday Lotto draw, but first, they need to check their ticket and discover the life-changing news. The mystery ticketholder held one of the three division one winning entries nationally in Saturday Lotto draw 4549, drawn Saturday 22 February 2025 and looks forward to a total prize of $3,333,333.34. This division one win follows a $2.1 million Saturday Lotto prize claimed by two Lismore mates in January, making it the second major lottery win for the Northern Rivers region in 2025. The winning entry was purchased at Lismore Square News, Shop 78, Lismore Shopping Square, 95 Diadem Street, Lismore. Lismore Square News owners David and Kristin said they were over the moon to have sold their second division one winning ticket in less than two months. “We can’t believe our store has done it again! This is our second division one winning ticket in two months, and we can imagine the winning streak will continue,” David said. “The store will be buzzing with excitement, and we can just imagine all our customers will be so happy for us and the mystery winner. “It’s a wonderful time for our mystery winner and the Northern Rivers region, which has seen quite a few big wins as of late!“Congratulations to the mystery winner! We couldn’t be happier for you and can’t wait for you to find out about your multi-million-dollar prize.” The Lott spokesperson Anna Hobdell said she hoped the region’s latest division one winner checked their ticket and came forward soon.  “Our elusive winner is likely oblivious to the fact they’ve won more than $3.3 million in the weekend’s Saturday Lotto draw,” she said. “We’re encouraging anyone who purchased a Saturday Lotto ticket from Lismore Square News to check their tickets today! “Just imagine how exhilarating it would be to discover you were $3.3 million richer! Your plans for the rest of the year and into the future would change in a heartbeat. “Make sure you check your tickets, Lismore, and if you discover you are holding the winning ticket, contact The Lott on 131 868 to begin the prize claim process.” The winning numbers in Saturday Lotto draw 4549 on 22 February 2025 were 5, 39, 26, 2, 28 and 31, while the supplementary numbers were 7 and 8. Across Australia, there were three division one winning entries in Saturday Lotto draw 4549 – two in New South Wales and one in Western Australia.