When Tracey Parish opened L’Amour Emporium on Woodlark Street three weeks ago, she wanted a shop filled with eclectic things that people would love. And that’s what she got.Searching for a shop name, she decided it could only be called the French word for love - l’amour.Tracey said she greets every customer who walks into the shop, because “there’s nothing worse than being ignored in a shop” and often hears them say ‘I love that dress, I love that smell.’Tracey has worked in optics, then hairdressing, and has now opened a shop with giftware, clothes, and jewellery. So, why?“I always wanted to shop local, but struggled to find anything in Lismore that was good for gifts for weddings, birthdays and Christmas here,” She said. “So I decided to bring it here.Read more news: Alleged 3D-printed firearms manufacturer faces Lismore court“Everything I stock here is Australian manufactured or Australian imported. It was all about supporting Australian jobs - in these times, jobs are hard to come by and I would rather pay the Australian importer and give someone a job.“So I did a lot of research to make sure I was buying things supporting Australian businesses.Have a crack“My motto is have a crack. I can’t physically keep running a salon and I was getting older and thought work is getting hard to get.“So I thought I would start a business with a girlfriend who lost her job in Covid and I’ve given two people a job. I also have an 18 year old junior working her first job here too.”Eclectic giftwareFrom candles to pots that look like faces and hand made Turkish bowls, there are beautiful objects everywhere you look and every item had a story and a background.“The Turkish bowls are imported by an Australian company, so that’s’ supporting jobs here too,” she said.“I have hand made, ethically sourced leather belts and bags imported from India by a lady in Brisbane who works with a family in India. She makes sure she pays them the correct wages and looks after them and improves the family’s living conditions – so I’m supporting this too.”Affordable“When I buy giftware, I get what I like and look at the quality of it - and keep the pricing affordable – there’s no point having beautiful stuff if people can’t afford it.ClothingTracey has lots of loose boho type dresses, mostly made of good quality Italian linen and some of the designs are made by designers in Sydney.“I would walk around Byron Bay and see these type of dresses and wanted the same in Lismore – but at a price tag less than $100,” she said.The dresses come in sizes 8 to 22 and Tracey said they are popular with all age groups, from people in their 20s up to 80s.“I had one lady say she was 80 and on a pension and she wanted something nice, but would wait and save up and come in and get what she wanted later,” she said.QuirkyIn the shop, there are signs that say Genius at Work and Man Cave and gemstone jewellery made by Freya in Federal.There are unusual rusty sculptures for the garden and rain gauges, picnic tables for a sandy visits that don’t fall over and pack down easily made by an Australian business.“I have Mojo candles, made in recycled wine and beer bottles that are made with love in small batches,” Tracey said.“I also have organic face products and body balm and the people make their own pots to put the balm in, so the pots can be refilled or put in the compost.”Pet plaquesThere are even plaques for pets that have passed away – and Tracey has one on her dog’s grave.“You would be hard pressed to come in and not find something for someone,” Tracey said,.L’Amour Emporium can be found at 2/13 Woodlark Street, next to Hortons. It’s actually in the old Hortons Fashion shop – and Horton’s has moved next door.It’s open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to 12pm. Come in and say hi to Tracey. Read more business news: Lismore fashion shop opens with a new profile Lismore's Indian restaurant to close this week

A motorcyclist has died in a crash near Nimbin today.Read more news: Covid restrictions ease for gyms and religious gatherings This morning, emergency services were called to Kyogle Road at Lillian Rock, north-west of Nimbin, after a motorcycle and a van collided about 9.45am.The motorcyclist, a 64-year-old man, died at the scene.The van driver, a 24-year-old woman, was uninjured and taken to Nimbin Hospital for mandatory testing.Officers from Richmond Police District are investigating the crash and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Little Delhi on Carrington Street has been serving home cooked southern Indian food since it opened its doors in 2013 but Thursday will see those same doors closed for the final time.Owner and cook Chris Warid told the Lismore App that the long hours and the slow decline in customers is the main reason for the closure.After coming to Lismore to study Business and Accounting at Southern Cross University in 1993 Chris always had a secret desire to open his own restaurant. His passion for cooking comes from being a round the family restaurant in Fiji, "it is in my blood," Chris said, "I am not a trained chef but I have a passion for home style southern Indian cooking."His first night was as a pop-up restaurant on the night of the Lismore Lantern Parade in 2013. From that moment, Chris kept the doors open for the next 7 and bit years."Buttered Chicken and Spinach were my two most popular dishes," Chris declared, " every time I would change the menu people would always ask to bring back their favourites."Chris Warid in his Little Delhi restaurant on Carrington Street. Photo: Simon MumfordWhy are you shutting the doors on Little Delhi?Chris explained the last twelve months have been slower, even before COVID."Business picked up after the flood but not long after that I noticed the evening trade was slowing down. The Thursday night was a big success because of the markets but outside of that there was little traffic after five when the other shops closed."As the cook for Little Delhi, Chris was around the restaurant for 13-14 hours a day and with the evening trade dipping he decided to open just for lunch from 11am to 4pm."This was my initial goal when I started," Chris said, "to provide a lunchtime service for the people of the CBD."Are there too many Indian Restaurants in Lismore?"I think there is, seven to eight is a lot, I think the market is saturated for Indian cuisine."Chris is moving back to his study roots of business and accounting, he starts a full time position at Biztax on Monday."When I finished my degree I worked in finance at SCU until I opened Little Delhi.""I have achieved what I wanted to do," Chris stated, "Seven years is a long time and owning your own business does have an impact on your family life, the business consumes you.""I am looking forward to the next chapter in my life."Chris is selling Little Delhi so if you are interested in a well set-up food business, you can call Chris on 0422 938 248 or email him info@littledelhi.com.au.For the lovers of Chris' dishes, the door is ajar. He may return with a delivery service of the same food. Stay tuned.Little Delhi is the second restaurant business to close its doors in the last three weeks with Italian and pizza restaurant Fire In The Belly announcing its closure on October 1, 2020.

It is official, the Lismore Lantern Parade will not be lining the streets in 2020 after CEO and Artistic Director Jyllie Jackson announced the cancellation this afternoon.The coronavirus pandemic has claimed a lot of scalps since March including live music, music festivals, theatre, speedway, ANZAC Day, Relay For Life, Gemfest and now the Lismore Lantern Parade.Initially, the Lantern Parade was postponed from its usual June winters solstice calendar date to Saturday November 14. With that date rapidly approaching and the crowd restrictions still in place in NSW plus financial problems caused by the lack of events thanks to COVID-19, Jyllie has made the call to write off 2020 like many businesses.“It is with much sadness and disappointment that we must announce that the Lantern Parade we had hoped to hold on 14 November is not able to go ahead," said Festival Director Jyllie Jackson.“After much discussion with the powers that be, researching the new Covid rules and meeting the requirements to hold a popular event open to everyone, it is just not viable”.“It became apparent that a street parade would not be permitted. We would require so many COVID Marshalls and Security we simply do not have the human or financial resources to manage such an event.(The crowds at the 2019 Lismore Lantern Parade)“Right now, we are working hard fundraising. It is our priority to keep LightnUp Inc alive so that we are able to do something really special for the Lismore Lantern Parade next year.” Jyllie explained.“We have had a few wonderful donations – especially from Dirty Wilson who donated $1000, and the Northern Rivers Conservatorium who recently donated $500. The Lismore Vet’s donation of $1000 a few weeks ago was terrific” said Jyllie.“We are so grateful that in these difficult times those who are doing OK are showing their appreciation for what the Lanterns do for our community.” “Generally, the donations have slowed down a lot, so we will be putting some more energy into fundraising soon, any help with that would be wonderful!” laughed Jyllie.In the meantime, the Lanterns will have two small outings to Queensland before Christmas – one to the University of Queensland for their Bloom Festival. Then early in December LightnUp will take some lanterns up to Mount Tamborine for the delightful Scarecrow Festival.The Lantern Parade is at the Saturday Lismore Farmers’ Markets and the Carboot Market running lantern decorating workshops, with take home lantern kits, t-shirts and lamps for sale. You can support the Lantern Parade by participating in the lantern decorating, buy a kit, a T-shirt or one of their very beautiful table lamps.‘And watch this space, I don’t think we can stop ourselves doing something very special for Christmas!!” hinted Jyllie.You can donate towards the Lantern ParadeOnline - https://www.givenow.com.au/lightnup-lanterns-sosOr if you prefer by direct debitSummerland Credit UnionBSB: 728728LightnUp Inc  a/c #22291137Ref: SOS your name

Nominations for Lismore City Council’s 2021 Australia Day Awards are now open.The awards are held annually to recognise people who give back to the community through volunteering or community work, or those who are excelling in sport or other endeavours.Last year David Henderson was named Lismore City Council Citizen of the Year with Macy Butler named Young Citizen of the Year. David is a highly respected member of the Richmond Police District and a long term member of the RFS, playing a huge role in last years bushfires. Macy represented Lismore in netball, volunteers as a surf life saver and has been involved in numerous fundraising activities including selling legacy badges.Lismore City Mayor Isaac Smith said this is a chance to recognise our unsung heroes who put in many hours as volunteers to make our community a great place to live and raise a family.“Australia Day Awards give us a chance every year to honour those passionate people in our community who dedicate a large part of their lives to building a stronger and healthier community with no thought of personal gain," he said.“If you have a friend who works hard for a volunteer group, know a student who is kicking goals in life or admire a person for the work they do for our community, please nominate them.“It only takes 5-10 minutes to complete an online nomination, so please get online before the deadline and nominate today.”Categories in 2021 are:Citizen of the YearYoung Citizen of the YearAboriginal Citizen of the YearServices in Community (Individual)Services in Community (Group)Sportsperson (Senior)Sportsperson (Junior)Sports (Team/Group/Organisation)Sustainable EnvironmentArt/CulturalNominations close on Friday, 27 November 2020.Council now only accepts online nominations. Nomination forms are available at www.lismore.nsw.gov.au

Restaurants and cafe owners can celebrate today with the announcement that gatherings in outdoor public spaces and group bookings at restaurants will be increased to 30 people under a relaxation of COVID-19 rules.From this Friday, 23 October:·         30 people can gather outdoors in public spaces (previously this was 20);·         30 customers per booking, and 30 customers per table at hospitality venues (previously the rule was a maximum of 10);·         In addition, as of last Friday 16 October, corporate functions of up to 300 people can now be held at any appropriate premises, including at restaurants, subject to a COVID-Safe plan (previously just function centres).Additionally, from 1 December, the number of people who can attend weddings will be lifted to 300 people subject to the four square metre rule indoors and two square metre rule outdoors. This will allow people to make plans and book venues knowing the capacity ahead of time. With Christmas parties being planned in the coming weeks, this is particularly good news for local business owners.Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the NSW Government remains focused on managing COVID-19 and opening up the economy in a COVID-Safe way.“These changes will provide a big boost to our hospitality venues,” Ms Berejiklian said.“As we ease restrictions and find new ways to get businesses moving it is vital that customers and venues continue to be COVID-Safe.”Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said this was another important step in driving our economic recovery while returning to life in a COVID-Safe way. “We continue to remain focused on stimulating the economy, keeping businesses in business and people in jobs,” Mr Perrottet said.“The easing of restrictions and safely increasing capacities will lead directly to more jobs and more opportunities for businesses across NSW, which is integral for the State’s recovery.”Minister for Health Brad Hazzard said lower case numbers are a good sign but we are by no means out of the woods.“It is vital as we ease restrictions people continue to do the right thing, stay home if unwell and get tested, even with the most minimal of symptoms,” Mr Hazzard said.Minister for Jobs, Investment and Tourism Stuart Ayres said the NSW Government remains focused on creating jobs and stimulating the economy, key goals of the NSW Government’s COVID-19 Recovery Plan.“We want to see NSW get back on track in a COVID-safe way and this is another important step,” Mr Ayres said.NSW Health Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said people still need to continue to follow the personal hygiene recommendations, maintain physical distancing and wear masks in indoor settings where you cannot physically distance.“As we ease restrictions, we all need to maintain COVID-safe behaviours and practices,” Dr Chant said.Businesses wishing to take advantage of the relaxed restrictions must use electronic methods, like QR codes, to record and keep contact details.

Today is the start of National Water week. A week where everyone is made more aware of how to use and save water in and around your home.Rous County Council has launched an interactive online home water calculator for residents seeking to know more about their town drinking water consumption.Rous County Council’s General Manager, Phillip Rudd says, “there is a need within our community for greater awareness of individual water use, something particularly evident during and after the recent drought.” “In response, Rous County Council has launched the home water calculator, a purpose-built tool to empower individuals with data about their own water use in various areas in and around their homes,” he says.The home water calculator is a free and easy to use online tool that allows people to better understand their water use without having to measure every device in the home. It is useful for residents who may not see a water bill or who are unaware of their own water use including renters or residents of medium and high-density dwellings.For residents who receive a quarterly water bill, they may be able to identify problem leaks by using the calculator and comparing their usage to their bill and water meter reads. “Better understanding of your daily consumption is the first step in saving water and reducing demand on our town drinking water supply,” Mr Rudd explains.Rous County Council has released the home water calculator as part of a catalogue of water saving resources, factsheets, and short videos covering various easy-to-action ways to save water in each area of the home.The resources have been launched by Rous County Council in partnership with Smart Approved WaterMark’s Smart Water Advice, a leading industry initiative. They can be accessed by visiting www.rous.nsw.gov.au/yourhome. When accessing these resources, Rous County Council encourages the community to take the 160 Litre Challenge - a water saving challenge to reduce your use to less than 160 litres per person per day.The launch of these resources coincides with National Water Week (19 – 25 October). The theme this year is Reimagining our Water Future. “This theme is particularly relevant for our Northern Rivers community,” Mr Rudd highlights. “The Future Water Project 2060 is investigating options for the future water supply of our region. Councillors are meeting later this year to review community comments received about the project during the public exhibition period. This work emphasises the need for continued focus and commitment to demand management.” To understand your water consumption and access the free home water calculator visit www.rous.nsw.gov.au/watercalculator. 

Businesses and communities in bushfire impacted regions will have access to a new fund for local infrastructure and initiatives that will drive economic recovery. The $250 million Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund, co-funded by the NSW and Federal governments, will open to applications on 27 October 2020. Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan today encouraged councils, business chambers, joint groups, businesses, charities and local Aboriginal Land Councils to bring forward their recovery ideas. “The funding will be available for a variety of projects, such as community and cultural infrastructure upgrades, regional events, work ready training programs, and tourism infrastructure,” Mr Hogan said. “It is focused on creating jobs, increasing preparedness for future natural disasters and enhancing the natural environment.” “I look forward to seeing what people come up with and the benefits that will flow long-term.”  Nationals MP for Clarence Chris Gulaptis said grants of between $200,000 and $20 million will be available for projects across the region. “Bushfire recovery looks different in each community, and no one is better placed to identify local priorities than local people,” Mr Gulaptis said. “This funding is about assisting communities to lead their own recovery, with governments and local partners funding projects that will make a real difference locally. “I encourage our community to get together and consider what their community needs to boost their economy, their wellbeing and their recovery.” Grants of between $200,000 and $20 million will be available for projects such as: •          Local community and cultural infrastructure •          Tourism campaigns (including digital product development) and regional events•          Workforce adaptation and work ready training programs•          Community wellbeing and mental health programs•          Tourism infrastructure including walking and mountain bike trails•          Neighbourhood safer places. Alongside this open call for project ideas, shovel-ready projects are being identified in bushfire affected areas, so they can be considered and fast tracked to provide community and economic benefit as quickly as possible. Information about these projects will be released in coming weeks. Overall, more than $500 million joint funding from the Australian and NSW Governments will be provided to support local economic, community and industry recovery projects in bushfire affected communities.   Applications open on 27 October 2020. For more information, including guidelines, visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/blerfund

After the threat of rain with thunder and storm activity last night, we did finally see some shower activity. We can expect more of the same to start the working week, just a bit lighter.We are talking 6 to 15mm for all of Monday which is good for paddocks and gardens that were starting to look a bit brown.The rain will mostly be in the morning easing to showers by the afternoon as the winds turn south east at a blustery 15-20 km/h turning southerly 15-25 in the late afternoon.That southerly will also keep the temperatures down for the early part of the week with maximums of 26 today and 24 Tuesday then warming to late twenties by Friday.

It has been two months since Richmond District Police new Superintendent (Supt) Scott Tanner took over the role. The Lismore App thought it a good time to spend a morning riding along with the man who is in charge of all policing in the Northern Rivers.In his Sunday Profile on August 9 (SUNDAY PROFILE: New Police Superintendent Scott Tanner) Supt Tanner said "I want police to be approachable and for the community to have faith and trust in them". A tall order for a police department that we haven't seen walking the beat in the CBD much especially in the late afternoon when that sense of feeling safe disappears for some members of our community.A short ride out to Nimbin and a walk up and down Cullen Street chatting to the locals soon gives you some perspective as to how Supt Tanner's old school philosophy can achieve his goals.Of course, you had some begrudging hello's and some complaining about the price of tobacco but for the most part the people of Nimbin were warm and welcoming to the big boss.On our drive in we saw the paddy wagon on its way into Lismore, when asked what was going on, the reply was "probably drugs."Nimbin, the home of protests for the legalisation of marijuana in NSW and where you have more variety when buying a smoking implement than you do toilet paper. But it's not about destroying the towns persona and character by stopping a few people drinking out of brown paper bags at 11am on a Monday morning or looking out for casual smokers, it's about finding and arresting the big guys, the large suppliers to the region."Commonsense policing" is the term used by Supt Tanner. This is a term that has gone missing from our society including the police. I heard a story this week where a male was in a coffee shop complaining the police pulled him over for going too fast through a round-a-bout. Did they give him a ticket? No, he got a warning. Commonsense policing in action.The morning started, as you may have read in an earlier story (Meet the new local police recruits ) meeting and talking to the six new Probationary Constables that have joined the Richmond District Police for General Duties (GD) for the next three years. When discussion moved to what policing jobs they would like to have in 5 years, quite a few answered that they want to get the GD done then decide but at this time they want to help people and the community.Hopefully, you will see their new smiling faces walking around the CBD block talking to people and businesses. Say g'day when you do.A trip to the PCYC, next door to Trinity College gives credence to the 'support the people and the community' statement.Acting Sergeant Clare Beek is part of the Youth and Crime Prevention Command, an arm of the police that works closely with the PCYC team, which is a separate non-police organisation. Clare works with young offenders and youth at risk as well as young people in general. In some cases these are the kids that you and I look at and wonder why they are on the street bothering people.The Police Commissioner wanted to create creating pathways for young people to get an education, employment and good health. To achieve these pathways NSW Police have established a number of 'Fit For' programs, there is Fit For Work, Fit For Change, Fit For Stride, Fit Together, Fit For Home (domestic violence) and Fit For Service. A group of boys from Lismore High has just finished the Fit For Service program, where they were introduced to the Emergency Services. Each program is tailor made for different issues.When asked what success looks like for these programs, I received an honest and straight forward answer."It depends what you class as success", Supt Tanner said, "is success getting a youth to school one day a week? To me, it is. Is it cutting his offending rate from 20 cases per month down to ten? Again, to me, it is.""People like the Hollywood story where the bad kid comes good and becomes President of the United States but that's not reality.""We start with keeping kids alive and out of jail, whatever flows from that is all positive."Clare added "we want to see these young people contributing to society and being a good human being."There are so many elements to policing that we, as the public, just don't see.Police officers picking up a child and taking them to school or to work, paying for a new pair of shoes or paying for a program because they can't afford to do it through their family.It sounds like all police in the Northern Rivers are angels, no that's not the case, but this story is about highlighting the good that police do to help people and the community not to highlight the few bad eggs that exist in all walks of life.What is the largest impact on a police officer in today's world?PTSD, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.You can imagine being the first officer to respond to a tragic car accident, we have had two 17 year olds killed in the last four weeks. Imagine attending a domestic violence situation that has gone wrong? Imagine someone pulling a weapon on you and threatening your life?The NSW Police Department has professional counsellors as part of the team to work with an increasing demand of PTSD sufferers. The worst part is not knowing how long it will take for someone to be fit again for active duty. In one example, a female officer was assaulted. It was six months before that particular officer went back into active duty.You might be interested to learn that are over 300 different jobs within the police force now. What we see on a daily basis only scratches the surface in what is a very complex and deep structure.When you ride with the top dog for only a few hours, you get a glimpse of the size and scale of the role that Supt Scott Tanner plays in running the Richmond Police District.Is he successful in executing his desired outcomes yet? No, it is too early to tell, but he is not only 'talking the talk' he is 'walking the walk'. So, it appears Supt Scott Tanner has started his new role strongly and is already making a difference in our community.Read more: SUNDAY PROFILE: New Police Superintendent Scott Tanner

A man has been charged after allegedly robbing the Liberty service station on Ballina Road, Lismore early this morning.About 2.50am today (Saturday 17 October 2020), police were called to a service station on Ballina Road, Lismore, following reports of an armed robbery.A man allegedly entered the store, produced a firearm and threatened staff, before ordering a 19-year-old employee to hand over money.The man fled the scene on foot with an amount of cash.Officers from Richmond Police District attended and commenced inquiries.A short time later, police were patrolling Brewster Street, Lismore, when they recognised a man fitting the description entering a taxi. Officers searched the man finding cash and a replica GEL pistol nearby before arresting the 27-year-old.He was taken to Lismore Police Station, where he was charged with robbery whilst armed with a dangerous weapon and robbery whilst armed with an offensive weapon. The man has also been charged breach of bail from an offence that occurred in Goonellabah on October 4.The man was refused bail and is due to appear in Lismore Local Court tomorrow (Sunday 18 October 2020).

The Lismore Regional Gallery recently announced the finalists of the 2020 Hurford Hardwood Portrait Prize. Drawn from over 220 entries, the 68 finalists illustrate the diverse ways in which the human form can be captured. The award is open to all media, meaning that painting, drawing, video, photography and ceramic works will all be on display when the show opens to the public on November 7th. The winner of the $10,000 award will be announced, online, on Friday 6th November by judge Abdul Abdullah. Abdullah is currently a finalist in the 2020 Archibald Prize. Artists included in the finalist list come from all states of Australia, and the Northern Rivers, with its healthy creative spirit representing 40% of the artists on display.( Denise Alison, A delicate moment in transformation. Photograph on paper)Subjects include a range of known people such as Uncle Jack Charles; artist Guy Maestri, political scientist and biographer Professor Jenny Hocking; classical pianist Simon Tedeschi; film maker Kriv Stenders and musician Warren Ellis. Locally, there are a large number of sitters known among the wider community featured including Bundjalung cultural worker Rhoda Roberts; drag performer Maude Boate (Michael Gates); NORPA Artistic Director Julian Louis; visual artist Karla Dickens and the late Aunty Dorrie Gordon. There are, of course, a lot of self-portraits this year. Lismore Regional Gallery Director, Brett Adlington, said: ‘It is unsurprising, that in this most challenging of years, many works offer intimate glimpses into the domestic space. Some of these are self-portraits, while others are of partners. The unifying factor is a sense of the artist looking inward into a safe space.’ The 2020 Hurford Hardwood Portrait Prize is supported by Northern Rivers-based company Hurford Hardwood and continues until Sunday 31 January.Audiences will have their chance to have their say in the Peoples Choice Award, with the winning artist receiving $1,000 from the Friends of Lismore Regional Gallery.

Heritage Park has been sitting idle since the COVID pandemic saw Lismore City Council close all park equipment, playgrounds and skateparks on April 1 this year.Due to the forced closure for social distancing reasons at the time, Council determined it was perfect timing to begin the $500,000 upgrade of Heritage Park which includes a new water play area, with a range of squirters, misters and water cannons.(Artist's impression of the new water play area in Heritage Park)There will also be a new nature play area with boulders and timber features for children to climb on and new equipment in the tiny tots playground including a carousel, tree-tops tower, whirly dizzy, relocated tortoise seesaw and inground trampolines.The much anticipated opening of Heritage Park has hid some COVID-19 snags.Like many businesses in Lismore, Council simply couldn't get some necessary elements that were coming from overseas and interstate. Hence, why the fences are up and you sometimes see a lack of workmen on site.A spokesperson for LCC said all the parts and equipment has now arrived and there should be no more lengthy delays.What is the timing for the opening of the refurbished Heritage Park?In two weeks time, the end of October."All good things come to those who wait" is the expression, it appears the wait is nearly over.

It is not often sport leads the Weekend Wrap but with the Marist Brothers Rams first grade in the Grand Final for the first time since 2004, they deserve to lead the charge.Not only has the first grade side made the Grand Final in 2020, the Ramettes are looking to avenge last years heartbreaking loss and the Under 18's will be looking to win a Grand Final not only for themselves, but for two team mates who were tragically killed in separate car accidents three weeks apart. The funeral for 17 year old Jaylan Stewart was only this morning. Both boys have been named on the bench as a sign of love and respect.(Rams U18's celebrate. Photo: Christine Butcher)Marist Brothers Rams President Paul O'Neil said "Ballina will be favourites but we can do it, you have to be in the big dance to have a chance and the boys have put themselves in a position to win it.""We're proud of the teams, it's been a tough year for the club, especially recently."All the grand final games will be against Ballina and in Ballina at Kingsford Smith Park tomorrow with the following kick off times:Ramettes 11:30amUnder 18's 1pmFirst Grade 4:20pmIf you can head down the Bruxner highway to give your support, I am sure the Rams and Ramettes will appreciate it. Entry is $10.Another event that begins its season tomorrow is the Lismore Speedway. As with all things COVID, there is a cap of 500 for race fans to enjoy the entertainment with the first race at 5:30pm. Here is the line-up for opening: Night V 8 Dirt Modifieds, Street Stocks, Production Sedans, Junior Sedans, Wingless sprints, National 4’s, V 8 Dirt Modifieds.David Lander will be happy about the weather forecast for the weekend with no rain forecast until a possible shower and thunderstorm Sunday afternoon or evening when the winds change to Northerly's pick up intensity. It will feel like a typical summers weekend with maximums of 30 and 31 degrees.The markets begin with the fresh farmers produce at the Lismore Showgrounds from 8am tomorrow. The Farmers Markets has plenty of flowers in full bloom.The Blue Knob Community Markets kick off at 8:30 with both running until 11am.Sunday sees another Lismore Car Boot Market hit the Lismore Showgrounds with seedlings the go for the avid 'grow your own' gardeners. If you want to beat the heat get in when the gates open at 7:30 and close at 3pm.Neil Marks' Blog tomorrow morning talks about Tuesday's Council meeting where there was interesting and often passionate debates about the Santin Quarry and the Lismore Lake Pool.The cheapest petrol can be found in the usual spots with United on Ballina Road selling unleaded E10 for 112.9 while unleaded 91 is 114.9 there and at the Caltex at the Square. The cheapest U98 is 123.9 at the independent on the corner of Terania and Tweed Streets in South Lismore while diesel car owners should spend 117.5 or 117.9 in a number of locations down town either on Ballina Road or in South Lismore.As always with the Weekend Wrap, here is a fun way to end the week;

If you are heading out on a bushwalk for a hike, a new phone app could save your life.Police encourage all bushwalkers to be prepared by downloading the Emergency + app on their mobile phones.The Emergency+ app is a free app developed by Australia's emergency services and their Government and industry partners.The app uses GPS functionality built into smart phones to help a Triple Zero (000) caller provide critical location details required to mobilise emergency servicesThis app, along with a portable mobile phone battery charger could save your life! Having access to your phones GPS location saves emergency service workers valuable time and resources in locating lost or injured hikers. You can download the app at: https://emergencyapp.triplezero.gov.au/

After a difficult year, Lismore Preschool is set for an upgrade and a brighter future thanks to funding from a Government grant.The preschool is one of the early childhood services in NSW affected by the challenges of 2020. Now, it’s set to will benefit from early payments from the NSW Government’s Quality Learning Environments program. Not-for-profit community and mobile preschools, and not-for-profit long day care services are recipients of funding. Lismore Preschool will receive $14,895 to upgrade infrastructure, purchase outdoor furniture and organise classes with the Lismore Music Conservatorium. Nationals Member of the Legislative Council Ben Franklin said the Quality Learning Environments program helps to support the delivery of quality early childhood education for children across NSW. “Early learning services play a critical role in supporting children and families, and this year, our community has faced huge challenges,” Mr Franklin said. “I’m thrilled that Lismore Preschool, as well as Ocean Shores Preschool are each receiving nearly $15,000 – this will make a massive difference to the services both preschools can provide. “Funding is being made available to support the wonderful work of these services and ensure they can continue. Ocean Shores Preschool will receive $14,950 to replace their external boundary fence.” “The NSW Government is committed to strengthening education for early learners, and we are showing this support by making these payments early to services who need them,” Mr Franklin said.The Quality Learning Environments program provides grants of up to $15,000 to eligible early childhood services to purchase resources and activities which improve physical or educational learning environments. Early payment is being made available to those services that have indicated an urgent need for funding. This may include quality improvement initiatives to meet the needs of services impacted by bushfire and recent severe weather events or other emergency situations such as COVID-19. Further grant applications not requiring early payment will be progressed in December 2020.  For more information on the 2020 Quality Learning Environments program, visit the Department of Education website. 

It’s been 12 years since Lismore’s ex-mayor Jenny Dowell was diagnosed with breast cancer. Now, she’s been given the all-clear from cancer and she says it’s as if she’s never even had it before. So, Jenny went back to BreastScreen recently for her yearly mammogram check on her one remaining breast – and encourages all women – particularly those over 50 – to do the same.“It was good be back in a caring environment at BreastScreen, knowing I have as little or much chance of getting it a second time as anyone who’s never had it before,” she said.“It’s really important to get checked regularly. Early detection is your best insurance.Covid effect“The worry at the moment is that the Covid lockdown closed BreastScreen for a while and a lot of women due to have their mammograms put them off. So, now BreastScreen has opened up more appointments to deal with the backlog.”With October being breast cancer awareness month, Jenny hopes that women seeing the pink notices around town will encourage them to get tested.“I’ve had mammograms since I was in my 30s,” Jenny said. “I often found lumps in my breast that turns out to be fatty cysts – not cancer.”Breast lumpsJenny said it was important to get to know your breasts and know its lumps – so you can detect if anything changes.She said when she was diagnoses with breast cancer, she wasn’t actually able to feel the lump in her breast that the mammogram showed up for her. “All I felt was just a pin prick pain when I reached over to turn off the bedside light,” she said. “Even the surgeon said nothing the pain had nothing to do with the lump. But when the surgery was done to remove the breast, the lump was found to be pressing on a nerve - so the pain was relevant but no one knew – and it was only weeks before my yearly mammogram was due.”Biggest risksJenny said the biggest risks to getting breast cancer were being a woman and being over 50. “About one in eight women get it, but it’s quite common to have it recover,” she said.“More than 80% of breast cancer can be treated successfully. I got all clear at ten years.”Jenny’s advice is to get checked and don’t put it off.“Thirty seconds of discomfort is worth it,” she said. “My last one didn’t hurt at all.”Covid-safe measuresBreastScreen NSW North Coast Director Jane Walsh said BreastScreen has implemented a range of hygiene and social distancing measures to ensure clinics and mobile screening vans are COVID-19 safe, to protect women, staff and the wider community.” The measures include: • Pre-screening questions around personal health and travel • Limiting the number of people in the clinic/van • Practising social distancing and providing hand sanitiser in waiting rooms • A minimal contact check-in process • Wearing masks • Additional cleaning of equipment and commonly used surfaces. FactsChief Cancer Officer and CEO of the Cancer Institute NSW, Professor David Currow said early detection is key to giving women the best chance of survival and reduces the likelihood of needing invasive treatment, such as mastectomy or chemotherapy.  “In 2020 alone, it’s expected that more than 6,240 women in NSW will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 973 will die from the disease,” Professor Currow said. “While these numbers are sobering, the good news is that if detected early, women have a 98 per cent chance of survival. “Breast screens can detect cancer as small as a grain of rice. Our research shows that women who receive a diagnosis as a result of regular breast screening are less likely to need a mastectomy. It proves that early detection is key to unlocking less invasive treatment options for patients, making it easier for them to recover, and giving them an overall better quality of life.”  Book one nowAn appointment with BreastScreen NSW is free, takes about 20 minutes in total and no doctor’s referral is needed. If you are aged 50 to 74 book your free mammogram today with BreastScreen NSW online at book.breastscreen.nsw.gov.au or by calling 13 20 50.  

A $1 million reward has been offered to anyone with information about the murder of German backpacker Simone Strobel - 15 years ago in Lismore.Simone, aged 25, was last seen at the Lismore Tourist Caravan Park on Friday, February 11, 2005, after a night out in Lismore – including a visit to the Gollan Hotel - with her then-boyfriend and friends.See the video footage of Simone at the Gollan Hotel in 2005: https://youtu.be/J9aqcEuWahQAbove: Simone Strobel (right). Below: Simone's tent at Lismore caravan park. What happened to Simone?Her body was found six days later, hidden under palm fronds at the sportsground less than 100 metres from the caravan park.At a coronial inquest in 2007, then-State Coroner, Paul McMahon, ruled there was insufficient evidence to lay charges over Simone's death.Simon'es then-boyfriend was identified as a person of interest in the case, but no one has ever been charged over her death.Local investigations In 2005, local police investigations involved police standing by the side of Uralba Street near the caravan park – with a dummy dressed in clothing similar to that worn by Simone - in the hope someone would see it and come forward with information.Strike Force Howea was established in February 2005 to investigate Simone’s murder – with assistance from their counterparts at the State Crime Command, the Wuerzburg Criminal Police and the Prosecutor´s Office in Wuerzburg.Richmond Police District Commander, Superintendent Scott Tanner at Lismore police station.RewardToday, Richmond Police District Commander, Superintendent Scott Tanner said the NSW Government had offered the $1 million reward for information that would lead to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for Simone’s homicide. The reward is open to anyone with information, anywhere in the world.Supt Tanner said the ongoing investigations from Strike Force Howea over the past 15 years have identified persons of interest as they try to solve the cold case.“I hope the reward will bring fresh information,” Supt Tanner said.“What happened to Simone defies our values in this country and we owe it to her family to bring those responsible for her death to justice.“One million is a substantial amount of money and could change someone’s life, and more importantly it could change the life of Simone’s family in Germany.”German backpacker Simone Strobel.The truth is out there“We know the truth is out there, and we know there are people who are holding it back.“This is a crime which has stuck with many families who have young relatives travelling the world, the thought of losing them so far away from home is hard to comprehend. Help us to put Simone’s family at ease,” Supt Tanner said.In 2014, officers from and the Bavarian Office of Criminal Investigation announced a reward of 10,000 Euros for residents of both Germany and Australia who provide information that leads to an arrest and conviction – that reward remains current.Contact policeAs investigations into Strike Force Howea continue, anyone who may have information about Simone’s disappearance is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report crime via NSW Police social media pages.

Having a couple of glasses of wine at home every evening may sound harmless during these troubled times – but the nation’s pandemic drinking habits have potenially set us up for serious oral health issues down the track.Australian Dental Association's (ADA) Professor Michael McCullough said the trend is unmasking the possibility of a range of mouth-related health issues including oral cancers, tooth decay and gum disease from a regular supply of alcohol every day."Yet few people make the link and this is where the problem lies," Professor McCullough said."A number of potentially problematic alcohol use behaviours during COVID-19 were recorded in a recent FARE (Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education) survey, including nearly one in seven (13%) Australian drinkers being concerned about the amount of alcohol they or someone in their household is drinking, 11% reported drinking to cope with anxiety and stress and 14% reported that they’ve been drinking daily."In addition, consumer spending data on alcohol indicates there were significant increases in packaged liquor sales since the COVID-19 lockdowns in Australia, particularly for online sales and home delivery.Coupled with high rates of tooth decay and increased sugar consumption, it’s yet another assault on the nation’s mouths.“Strong evidence shows that long-term high levels of alcohol consumption alone increases the risk of oral cancer by about four-fold,” Prof McCullough said.“There’s a multiplication effect for those who also smoke, to around 15-fold.”Early diagnosis of oral cancer is key to diminish the morbidity and mortality of this horrific disease. Any changes in the mouth, any ulcers, lumps, bumps or areas that have changed in colour and persisted for more than two weeks should be examined by a dentist. “Over four people each day are diagnosed with oral cancer in Australia, and the five year survival is only about 60%,” he said.“Irrespective of what level of COVID lockdowns prevail across Australia, anyone should be examined by a dentist if they’re concerned about changes in their mouth that have been persisting.“An examination of troubling areas of the mouth could make an enormous difference to longevity and quality of life. However, prevention is much prefered with drinking in moderation and smoking cessation being key.”Australian Department of Health guidelines stipulate that to reduce the risk of harm from alcohol-related disease or injury for healthy men and women, 10 standard drinks per week and no more than four standard drinks on any one day is the maximum.A standard drink is a 285ml glass of full-strength beer, a 375ml mid strength can or bottle of beer, and a 100ml glass of red or white wine. For more on what a standard drink looks like, go to:https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/alcohol/about-alcohol/standard-drinks-guide