Dust blanketing Lismore this morning is set to continue due to a strong southerly cold front lifting dirt from the South Australian border, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.A spokesperson for the BOM said that the dust will be most poignant in the early morning then should clear by mid to late afternoon.However the event is set to repeat itself depending on the strength of another cold front making its way across from South Australia, associated with a complex low pressure system near Tasmania. These fronts will maintain vigorous westerly winds over most of New South Wales through to the weekend, and bring increasingly cool weather.Local residents can expect some haze and dust over the weekend with the potential for more dust to be picked up on the South Australian border. Lismore has had its share of dust storms, most notably during and after the black summer bushfires caused many with respiratory conditions much grief.The National Asthma Council advises those with respiratory conditions to be prepared when dust events are forecast in their area.High levels of dust can irritate the lungs causing asthma to flare up. Associated stress from a severe weather event can rouse anxiety which in turn can affect asthma.Those immediately affected are advised to remain indoors and enact their asthma plan.

The Northern Rivers NSW Brand is taking off with over 100 businesses and community groups signing up for the new initiative from Northern Rivers Together.CEO of the Northern Cooperative Meat Company (NCMC) and interim Chair of Northern Rivers Together, Simon Stahl said it's a 'terrific uptake' in these trying times for those who have signed up to promote and use the new brand in its first few months.“This has included some of the region’s largest entities such as NCMC, Southern Cross University (SCU) and Stone & Wood," He added that the project was two years in the making with the view to create an over arching brand for the region that celebrates what the region is about and that the NCMC intended to “use the brand to anchor our products to the region, famous for natural beauty and loving, caring, innovative people”.Chief Marketing Officer at Southern Cross University, Dean Gould explained that the brand will add real value to the regions university and is ideal to solidify location and geography when competing with other businesses outside the area that may share similar initials or acronyms. “The Northern Rivers NSW brand will assist Southern Cross University to promote its Lismore campus nationally and internationally," he said."Harnessing the diverse and wonderful assets and benefits the region offers as part of our messaging to prospective students and academic staff will make the university’s proposition even more powerful.” Northern Rivers Together encourages all businesses, not-for-profit and sporting organisations, community groups and individuals in the Northern Rivers to sign up and be part of this new venture. "The Northern Rivers has it all - it is a powerful message," Mr Gould said. For more information visit www.northernriversnsw.com.au

Following the closure of the NSW and Queensland border, Lismore City Council is conducting a survey to determine the impact the closure is having on our community.There have been health stories through specialist appointments on the Gold Coast or in Brisbane needing to be cancelled or specialist doctors that were coming into our region each week as well as visiting family members and trying to get stock for local businesses from Brisbane. LCC want to hear your story.Lismore City Deputy Mayor Darlene Cook urged residents and local businesses to participate in the survey, which can be found at http://yoursay.lismore.nsw.gov.au“Anecdotally, the closure is having a severe impact on many members of our community,” she said.“We have all seen media reports about people with medical conditions being turned away from the border and others not being able to get to their place of work or visit family,” she said.“It is important that our state and federal leaders understand the impact this border closure is having on our community.“The results of the survey will be forwarded to our State and Federal Government Members of Parliament so that they can make representations on the community’s behalf.“It only takes a few minutes to fill in the survey at http://yoursay.lismore.nsw.gov.au”The survey is now open and closes on Friday, 4 September 2020

Following the hugely successful inaugural Dark Science festival in 2019, Lismore Quad and The Northern Rivers Science Hub celebrate National Science Week presenting Dark Science (Fri 28 Aug -Sun 30 Aug) in our time of Covid. Dark Science explores the vastness surrounding us, our ancient Indigenous astronomy, peeking in at creatures under cover of night, planting emerging forests and discovering the art in science.This year Dark Science delivers free, bite-size happenings and experiences including Explore the Australian rainforest at night using night vision technology to Introduction to Indigenous Astronomy with celebrated astronomer Kirsten Banks.There will also be a community tree planting session with Wilsons River Landcare and a chance to Discover the night sky from The Quad with North Coast Astronomy’s powerful telescopes.Events will take place in person and online, beneath the starry skies and in the forest under cover of night.Lismore Quad Placemaking Officer Jane Fuller said the Quad's 2019 Dark Science festival was such a hit they're running it again this year."The 2019 Dark Science Festival was so embraced by our Northern Rivers audiences that we decided to keep the spirit of Dark Science alive in 2020,”“We’ve designed a range of online events and limited capacity in-person experiences that celebrate the wonder of science. Dark Science 2020 lifts our spirits and sees the local community connect once again through bite-sized happenings that are COVID-safe experiences,” Ms Fuller said. All Dark Science events follow a Covid Safety Plan - pre-registration is essential for all events via www.lismorequad.org.au . Audience numbers are strictly limited. Physical distancing will be implemented at all events. The Quad strongly encourages participants to bring their own masks, gloves and hand sanitiser. 

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan today officially opened the $6 million expansion of Summerland Farm.“Summerland Farm approached me a few years back with a need to upgrade their Alstonville facility,” Mr Hogan said.He added that the upgrade will create more local jobs for people with a disability through increased agri-tourism.“I was able to secure more than $4.5 million Federal Government funding for this project, this is a fantastic outcome for our community.”The funding has provided for an upgrade to dehusking and sorting facilities that will better serve the regions' macadamia industry and will contribute to developing a nationally significant tourism experience.“This included integrating existing horticulture activities into the tourism experience, showcasing the regions’ produce through an edible arboretum, a farmyard animal barn, farm-themed play and educational attractions and equipment. There will also be upgrades to parking, the road network and amenities,” Mr Hogan said.Executive Director Businesses of Aruma, Brett Lacey said this is a transformational project for the site and the region.“The team is incredibly excited by this new development,” Mr Lacey said.“We have the privilege of employing 100 employees with a disability at the farm, and with this funding we’re thrilled to be able to create an additional 35 employment opportunities."

The chances of a La Niña weather event occurring this year has increased to 70% according to the Bureau of Meteorology, this is roughly three times the normal outlook.La Niña means higher than average rainfall in the central, eastern and northern parts of Australia.Dr Andrew Watkins the Bureau of Meteorology Manager of Climate Operations said "It typically also brings cooler and cloudier days, more tropical cyclones, and an earlier onset of the first wet season across the north".The last significant La Niña event occurred in 2010/11, which was Australia's wettest two year period on record beating the previous record of 1973/74.During both of those periods severe flooding occurred.2010/11 saw Brisbane suffer major flood damage as homes were ripped off their foundations and swept down river while some people in Lismore will remember the floods of 1974. The memories of the more recent 2017 floods very much in the forefront of all our minds.The long term forecast from the BOM is not to say that major flooding will occur but to say there is an increased chance of higher than average rainfall.The impacts of La Niña often continue into the warm months. In eastern Australia, the average December-March rainfall during La Niña years is 20% higher than the long-term average, with eight of the ten wettest such periods occurring during La Niña years. This is particularly notable for the east coast, which tends to be less affected by La Niña during the winter months but can experience severe flooding during La Niña summers.The reason is the cooling of surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific Ocean and an increase in the strength of the Pacific Trade Winds. When these two changes occur at the same time, at this time of year, we see a greatly increased chance of a La Niña forming and persisting through spring and into summer."Climate models suggest that further cooling and intensification of Trade Winds may occur over the coming months, which has triggered the Bureau to shift from a La Niña watch, issued on 26 June, to a La Niña Alert", Dr Watkins said.In the short term, our clear blue winter skies will continue for the next seven days with some fairly strong westerly winds turning north westerly this afternoon. This will be the pattern into the weekend with some cloud about.

The NSW Government is working with Foodbank NSW and ACT to provide thousands of emergency food hampers to international students across the State including regional locations like Armidale, Lismore and Wagga Wagga.Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said the $100,000 program is providing a helping hand to vulnerable students and their host communities.“Some international students stranded by the global pandemic are facing hardship through no fault of their own and we’re providing a range of assistance measures, including these hampers delivered to international students across the state," he said.State Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin MP, is encouraging international students in Lismore to access these emergency food hampers.“Our international students are valued members of the Lismore community. This program is one way to show them that we care,” “We know that our international students contribute immensely to the local economy and community. It is only appropriate that we support them in return,” “I have advocated strongly for SCU, and I welcome the decision by the NSW Government to provide a helping hand for our International students in Lismore,” Ms Saffin said. International students can access the program through the Northern Rivers Community Gateway (NRCG).NRCG Social and Financial Inclusion Manager Warren Anderson said the program is an invaluable outreach to international students that cannot get home due to the pandemic and have little or no immediate support to help them through these unprecedented times."We have a multicultural network integrated into NRCG. It can make things easier for international students to engage with their own culture so they can feel safe to come in and pick up their hamper," he said.Located at 76 Carrington Street, Lismore, Northern Rivers Gateway are open 9am - 4pm Monday to Friday. "Students can drop in during those times, bring their student ID and pick up a box. A box will last around a week and is filled with staples like pasta, soup and toiletries," Mr Anderson said.For further information call NRCG on (02) 6621 7397 or visit the Study NSW website and subscribe to the Study NSW mailing list for updates.

Scammers are having a field day during the COVID-19 pandemic.With millions of people in lockdown spending more time on the internet it is no wonder that Scamwatch has received a staggering 24,000 reports of stolen personal information this year alone, an increase of 55 per cent compared with the same time last year.In the Northern Rivers, NBN themed scams are one of most common scams reported to Scamwatch, with more than 2,300 reported between January and June this year, amounting to losses of $320,624.NBN Co has partnered with Scamwatch to raise awareness on the evolving nature of scams and provide tips for how the community can stay safe, with free information sessions to be held nationally.These sessions will be held online using Microsoft Teams and are available to anyone in the community that would like to learn more.The dates and times are listed below along with the links to join the event that suits your availability. Webinar Option 1 - Aug 18, 2pmNBN Scam Awareness Webinar one 2pm Tuesday Aug 18Webinar Option 2 – Aug 19, 2pmNBN Scam Awareness Webinar two 2pm Wednesday Aug 19Webinar Option 3 – Aug 20, 11amNBN Scam Awareness Webinar three 11am Thursday Aug 20Webinar Option 4 – Aug 21, 10AMNBN Scam Awareness Webinar four 10am Friday Aug 21To coincide with National Scam Awareness week (17–21 August), the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission have released a five-episode podcast series entitled 'This is not your life'.Produced by Julian Morrow, the creator of ABC TV’s consumer series The Checkout, the podcast contains advice on how to avoid a scammer stealing your identity and features cameos from ACCC Chair Rod Sims, eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant and IDCARE’s founder David Lacey.Australians reported losing more than $22 million to scammers who also stole their personal information with people aged 25–34 reporting losing personal information more than any other age group.ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard said personal information, such as bank and superannuation details or passwords, are extremely valuable and scammers will try to steal them for their own financial gain. "Our increased use of technology has created more opportunities for them to do so," she said.Ms Rickard added that scammers are attempting to steal a range of other documents, or the numbers associated with them, including passports, driver licences, credit cards, tax statements, utility bills or Medicare cards, so that they can impersonate their victim.Once a scammer has that information they can then use it to access individuals' bank accounts or superannuation, take out loans under their names and impersonate them on social media to try to get money from family and friends.“Never give your personal or financial information to anyone you don’t know or trust via email, text, social media or over the phone,” Ms Rickard said.If you suspect you are a victim of identity theft, contact IDCARE on 1300 432 273. IDCARE is a free government-funded service which will work with you to develop a specific response plan to your situation and support you throughout the process.

The funeral of much loved local Peter Jackson will take place this Saturday August 22 with a private service for the family. Peter also known as Roa Dart was tragically killed clearing trees on a property in Koonorigan on August 7.Peter touched so many lives in the 2480 community. He has left an indelible mark with his generous gift of hearts that were either painted, drawn or made as well as painting white outlines around the many potholes that formed on our country roads to keep us safe.The family have been inundated with condolences and memories of how Peter touched their lives so together with Binney Family Funerals, they would like to give the community a chance to show their love of Peter this Saturday by lining the streets as the cortege takes Peter to his final resting place by showing a Heart (Guard) of Honour.The route will start from the Crowther Carpark on Woodlark Street at 9:30am this Saturday proceeding down Woodlark to Bridge Street and left along Terania Street before concluding at the Wilson Street intersection.For those that want to pay their respects to Peter, you are asked to socially distance yourself along the route because, as the family has said "the safety of the community was a priority to him".The family has asked that you wear bright colours and bring your beautiful loving hearts in memory of Peter.Peter's daughter Jenna told Lismore App that Peter was born in Lismore, and that the family was one of the first pastoral settlers to the Lismore area in the 1880's."I am so happy that people are spreading their stories of Pete on social media", Jenna said, "he touched so many lives and was such a character, it feels good to read what people are saying about him".Close friend Robyn Kelly said Peter was a 'great mate' and a thorn in my side. "We worked together for the community and our country through fundraising, education and the environment", Robyn said, "you would always see Pete at charity events manning the barbecue or the gate. He was our fix-it man for The Channon Markets".Social media pages have been inundated with comments with people saying Peter was quirky, eccentric, humorous, irrational and generous.Robyn agreed and gave the example when Peter turned up at The Channon Markets with a gander dressed with a bow tie and when questioned he would say it was a proper-gander. Or another time Peter walked around the markets with a doll nailed to a piece of wood and the words "baby on board".Even if you don't know Peter Jackson well you start to get a feeling for who he was.Robyn Kelly said "There is a little bit of Peter Jackson in all our hearts. It was a joy and a pleasure to know him".You can honour Peter and say farewell this Saturday from 9:30am when the cortege will make its way along Woodlark Street, Bridge Street then Terania Street until the Wilson Street intersection.A larger service for the community will be organised once allowed.As a community we could with more people like Peter Jackson.

The NSW Government has introduced new school restrictions to minimise the chance of student to student transmission of coronavirus.This is a further crack down on what was in already place following a number of Sydney students testing positive after acquiring coronavirus in known hot spots forcing the closure of a number of schools.If all schools police these changes effectively and to the government guidelines then your daughter or son will need a negative COVID-19 test result before they are allowed back into the school grounds. Not only that if they attend school with flu like symptoms they will be required to leave the school grounds as soon as is practicable.From this Wednesday August 19, schools will be required to:exclude students and staff with even mild symptoms of COVID-19encourage immediate testing for any symptomatic child(ren) or staffprohibit return to school for anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 until a negative test result has been reported.ensure that adults maintain physical distancing at all timesensure good hand hygiene at all times (e.g. upon entry to the school, entry to the classroom and upon exit of the classroomStaff gatherings should be minimised and social distancing applied with names being recorded if a gathering does occur.Inter school sports are to be banned altogether with a big question mark hanging over the graduation process of those doing their HSC this year.The NSW Government ceasing the following activities:activities that result in the mixing of students from schools in different regions, such as sporting-related activities, drama and debating.school-related group singing or chanting activities and use of wind instruments in groupsschool-related social activities (e.g. school formals, dinners or dances; graduation ceremonies; or parent engagement functions)school-related overnight events (e.g. retreats, camps, excursions) as there is increased risk of transmission of the virus in a residential type setting with shared facilities.While the amount of active cases in NSW is below double digits for the last two days (seven and five respectively) the NSW Government is not taking any chances with school transmissions. Now it is up to the parents to keep their sick children at home and the schools to be vigilant in policing the new policy.

Sony Singh claims he has the only Indian grocery store in the Northern Rivers following the opening of Marsala Indian & Continental Grocery at 171 Keen Street, Lismore.It was only in June 2019 that Sonny opened his Indian restaurant, Marsala Fusion next door in Keen Street."People used to ask me where do you get your nice spices", Sony said, "So, I came up with the idea to open an Indian grocery store".The old Iguana Restaurant that was next door to Mr Singh was vacant when he moved next door and remained vacant over the next twelve months so he rented the space from the owners before coronavirus put the idea on hold for short while as business declined in April and May.As well as the delay in opening the store, COVID has also caused some stock issues."It was a bit of a struggle to bring some of the products into the new shop because of the border closures but I managed to get them slowly", Mr Singh said.What can you buy at Marsala Indian & Continental Grocery?Everything to make an authentic Indian meal to any palate whether you like no heat, a little heat or a lot of heat in your meals.There is 60 different spices like buttered chicken powder, curry powder to all the usual herbs and spices you find in a supermarket including mild or hot combinations. Then there is all sorts of seasoning and premixed spices from Pakistan and India.Some ingredients like Lentils come from Australian farmers while there is lots of different varieties of rice, pickles, chutney's, flour like chickpea, semolina and rice flour, pastes and papadam's, the list goes on.So, if you are thinking of cooking your own Indian food for dinner you don't have to rely on the Coles and Woolworths of the world to buy your ingredients anymore. Support your local business and check out Marsala Indian & Continental Grocery at 171 Keen Street.Sony Singh has been living in Lismore for 13 years with his two daughters going to Blue Hills College in Goonellabah.

We have missed out on a great deal of life's moments in 2020 due to COVID-19 striking in March. Events like the Lismore Lantern Parade and Lismore Show, iconic annual events on the calendar.Live music is another example of a normal life that has been erased from our lives since March.Until now, that is.NORPA and Kate Stroud have partnered to re-introduce live music in The Studio at Lismore City Hall in September through a project called 'Studio Sessions'.The Studio Sessions will be limited in numbers due to current restrictions but at least lovers of live music will have some entertainment options.The 'supper and show' performances will be held in September featuring Ben Wilson, Sara Tindley, Lucie Thorne, Harry Angus, Emily Lubitz and friends. Food by Secret Chef. The Studio Sessions bring outstanding musical talent to Lismore City Hall, with all shows combining live performance with supper provided by favourite Lismore foodies, Secret Chef. “The past five months have been tough for NORPA and City Hall, so we’re excited to open up again to small audiences for the Studio Sessions. Lismore City Hall is a registered COVID Safe Venue and measures are in place to make sure we gather safely,” said NORPA Artistic Director and CEO Julian Louis. The partnership between Kate Stroud and NORPA started last year after Kate received a Create NSW Music Now grant to bring live music to Lismore. Following the closure of live music venue Dusty Attic, NORPA offered Kate Stroud a larger space and the first Studio Session took place with Sofiella and the Handsome Husbands at the NORPA 2020 Season Launch.  “The energy, creativity and enthusiasm Kate brings to Lismore is so needed. Our partnership is built on helping Kate with her live music grant through providing a bigger venue, our equipment and team, all with the aim of increasing access to live music in Lismore. The Studio is a fantastic, intimate live performance venue for music, cabaret and comedy,” said Mr Louis.  Kate is excited to bring people together once again, “Appreciation grows in absence - we’ve experienced a short while without the magic of live music, more than ever the value and power of human connection is apparent. The Studio Sessions celebrate the importance of community and the inspiration and wellbeing art brings to our lives.” Studio Sessions in September at NORPA Friday 4 September - Ben Wilson (on sale now)Saturday 5 September - Lucie Thorne & Sara Tindley (on sale now)Friday 11 September - Harry Angus (Cat Empire) (on sale 19 Aug)Saturday 12 September  - Emily Lubitz (Tinpan Orange) and friends (on sale 19 Aug) Performance: 7:30pm (doors 6pm)Bookings: Tickets on sale at www.norpa.org.auCapacity is strictly limited. All ages.Price: $60 per person + Booking Fee (tables of 2, 4 or 6 includes performance, supper and a drink on arrival)Venue: The Studio, NORPA at Lismore City Hall, 1 Bounty St, Lismore.Menu: For menu details please visit www.norpa.org.au (vegetarian options available)Be CovidSafe: Lismore City Hall has a COVID Safety Plan in place. For conditions of entry please visit www.norpa.org.au. 

Each year there are many local petitions handed to members of parliament because of a passionate issue. Think 11 year old Oliver Bastion when the Liverpool Academy closed down.IN AN historic first, local residents living in Janelle Saffin MP’s State Electorate of Lismore are now able to petition the NSW Parliament online, following the introduction of ePetitions.Ms Saffin said the digital move would make it easier for people to create, share and submit a petition, and could not come at a better time given the COVID-19 pandemic has forced communities to avoid in-person meetings, and instead find safe, non-physical ways to be heard by their elected representatives.Ms Saffin said while local people will still be able to submit paper petitions to the NSW Legislative Assembly, the introduction of ePetitions provides a second, simple, online option to get their message to the NSW Parliament.“We are well and truly living in a digital age, so it makes sense that we have an easy, online way of connecting with the Parliament,” Ms Saffin said.“The petitions are created online, signed online and can be shared online, including on social media.“The ePetitions platform has been custom-built with safety and security in mind, which means neither the public nor members can see who’s signed the online petition, and email addresses required to sign the petition are only used to inform signatories of its progress, and then deleted after six months.”Once a petition closes, a copy is provided to the relevant Minister. If the petition has more than 500 signatures the Minister must provide a written response. If an ePetition has more than 20,000 signatures, it will attract time in the Chamber, and arrangements will be made for Members to debate it in the House. For paper petitions, the threshold to spark a debate is 10,000 signatures.“While petitions can’t force the Parliament or the Government to do something, they are an important tool in raising local issues, stimulating discussion and can often lead to action,” Ms Saffin said.The NSW Parliament's ePetitions platform is unique in Australia – it's fully online and almost entirely automated. It connects petitioners, through a presenting Member, to the Parliament itself.New South Wales is also the only jurisdiction in the country where citizens have the chance to have their petition debated by parliamentarians.The Speaker of the NSW Legislative Assembly, Jonathan O’Dea, said the introduction of ePetitions highlights the Parliament’s desire to modernise, and become better connected with citizens.“We want Parliament to be a place that’s accessible and easy to navigate, and I congratulate the staff of the Legislative Assembly and Department of Parliamentary Services for developing this new online platform to better serve the people of NSW,” Mr O’Dea said.“I look forward to seeing the new ePetitions roll in from across NSW.”For more information about ePetitions, go to www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/epetitionsHow ePetitions work:1.    To create an ePetition, Lismore Electorate residents should go to the NSW Parliament’s websitewww.parliament.nsw.gov.au/epetitions2.    The ePetitioner must first provide their contact details to allow Legislative Assembly staff to get in touch with them, to ensure the ePetition complies with the rules of the Assembly.3.    The ePetitioner must then find at least five people to support the ePetition.4.    Once the ePetition has five supporters, a Member of the Legislative Assembly, such as me, your local member, must agree to present it to the NSW Parliament.5.    The ePetition can then be signed by others, and shared online.6.    To sign an ePetition, people must identify themselves as a resident of NSW and provide a valid email address.7.    The ePetitioner selects the timeframe for the how long the ePetition will remain active, either one, three or 12 weeks.8.    Once the ePetition closes it is automatically tabled in the Assembly, and is also provided to the relevant Minister. If there are more than 500 signatories the Minister must provide a response, if there are more than 20,000 signatures there will be a debate in the Assembly.9.    Signatories to the ePetition will receive updates on the progress of the ePetition, unless they opt out of receiving emails.

We have had some good news on the coronavirus front from Wayne Jones Chief Executive, Northern NSW Local Health District.Mr Jones has said there have been no new cases since July 25 so the total of cases remains at 58.In further good news the two people recently hospitalised at Lismore Base Hospital have been discharged into home isolation, with the support of the Hospital in the Home team.This means there are no patients being treated in hospital, and 53 are known to have recovered from coronavirus. Testing continues Across the Northern NSW Local Health District more than 45,000 tests have now been done since the pandemic began. The rate of local residents coming forward for testing is currently higher than it has been in recent months, at more than 10 per every 1000 residents. Last week we recorded the highest single day of testing to date, with 682 residents being tested in a single day. "We are pleased to see so many people still presenting to the clinics in the region", Mr Jones said. "This is an excellent result, and it shows that our local community are taking this very seriously. By continuing to come forward for testing, we will be able to quickly identify any new cases among our community, and improve the chances of stopping any spread of the virus". Anyone directed to undertake a 14-day self-isolation period must stay in isolation for the full time, even if they test negative. Early testing may not detect an infection, and release from self-isolation based on a negative test could allow an infectious person to infect others in the community. Most people who are infected and develop symptoms will do so within 14 days of exposure. The Lismore testing clinics is located at the Lismore Base Hospital between 9am and 5:30pm.

Today we commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War and acknowledge the service and sacrifice of the almost one million Australians who served our nation, and the support and fortitude of millions of Australians on the home front.The event will be commemorated at St Andrews Anglican Church, Lismore at 12 noon when the bells will chime. They will join other bell towers throughout Australia in marking the occasion. Stephan Hall Parish Secretary Anglican Parish Lismore said "unfortunately not all the bells in the Lismore tower can ring due to COVID-19 restrictions".Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said Victory in the Pacific signified the end of the Second World War for Australia and was met with scenes of celebration and relief 75 years ago, and tomorrow, a special commemorative service would be held at the Australian War Memorial to remember all those who served.“The end of the Second World War is a moment our nation will forever remember, it is part of our history, and the stories told by Australians who were there on 15 August 1945 remind us of this,” Mr Chester said.  “Tomorrow a grateful nation will tune in to watch the national commemorative service broadcast live on the ABC from the Australian War Memorial – collectively we will say ‘thank you for your service’ to our Second World War veterans.“It is a time to remember and reflect on the service and sacrifice of the almost one million Australians who served, the 39,000 who died, and the some 30,000 who were prisoners of war.“Remarkably, around 12,000 are still with us today, with veterans planning to attend the commemorative service, along with Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley and the Prime Minister Scott Morrison.”“Given we cannot gather in large numbers to commemorate and pay our respects, I urge all Australians to think of ways they can still do so, safely,” Mr Chester said.The broadcast of the commemorative service will commence at 9.30am, with the service starting at 10am and can be viewed on the ABC, Commemorations and War Graves Australia Facebook page or on the ABC’s on-demand and catch-up TV service, ABC iview.The Sunday Profile is Phil Eckford, a navy veteran and Goonellabah resident who talks about the sinking of the Nimbin and remembers the day that World War II was over. You can read Phil's amazing account first thing Sunday morning on the Lismore App or on the website, www.lismoreapp.com.au.

Northern NSW residents needing specialist medical care in Queensland have today received clearer guidance from health authorities about what to do if they live outside the border zone. Read more news: Local doctor says Qld border closure puts lives at risk While eligible residents can apply for a medical exemption border declaration pass, quarantine rules still apply for patients – with different rules applying to a support person accompanying them to the appointment. Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) chief executive Wayne Jones said people coulsdstill travel to Queensland under under Paragraph 11 (i) of the current Public Health Direction.Mr Jones said eligible residents must apply for a Queensland Border Declaration Pass and choose the option “Entering Queensland to obtain specialist health care that cannot be obtained at your place of residence, or as a support person to a person obtaining such care and can provide evidence of the time and place of the specialist appointment.”To access the pass, visit: https://www.covid19.qld.gov.au/government-actions/border-closingWhen crossing the border by road into Queensland, residents will need to present their border declaration, as well as documentation confirming their medical appointment or treatment.Specialist health care includes the following:• Queensland Children's Hospital appointment confirmed in writing by the hospital• Specialist outpatient appointment at a Queensland Hospital and Health Service, confirmed in writing by the service• Specialist appointment at a licensed Queensland private health facility, confirmed in writing by the service• Specialist appointment, confirmed in writing by the service along with a written referral from a GP• Other appointments at a Queensland Hospital and Health Service accompanied by a form signed by the Chief Executive that the patient requires specialist health care in Queensland.“A patient who does not meet these requirements will not be able to enter Queensland unless granted an individual exemption by the Chief Health Officer,” Mr Jones said. “Exceptional circumstances must exist.” Exemption requests can be made at https://healthserviceportal.health.qld.gov.au/hdspQuarantinePatients will have to quarantine as follows:An inpatient must stay at the hospital if receiving treatment as an inpatient.An outpatient must stay in government arranged accommodation if treatment is as an outpatient for more than one day.For a day treatment or appointment, the person must leave Queensland immediately following the treatment/appointment.A support person accompanying someone receiving essential medical care will need to stay in government arranged accommodation, at their own expense. Alternatively, they can drop the person at the medical facility and drive straight back without stopping in Queensland and then come back to pick them up.Children receiving treatment at the Children's Hospital, and their family, can quarantine with the child at the hospital.For more information about border declarations, visit https://www.qld.gov.au/border-pass Tweed Hospital closureMr Jones also said the Tweed Hospital will not close if harsher border restrictions are enforced by the QLD Government.“The NNSWLHD, NSW Health, and the NSW Government are working tirelessly with the Queensland Government and Queensland Health to overcome these unprecedented challenges,” he said.“We are implementing workforce contingency plans to ensure we continue to provide high-quality care at The Tweed Hospital.“The current restrictions imposed by QLD requires NNSWLHD to review services, including non-urgent elective surgery, to ensure we have appropriate levels of clinical staff to manage urgent and emergency presentations. All efforts are being made to minimise any impacts on service delivery.“The NNSWLHD is also negotiating with clinical and non-clinical staff to understand which staff, who live in QLD but work in NSW, are able to continue to provide their services if alternate accommodation arrangements are made.“All efforts are being made to limit the impact of border closures on our NNSWLHD hospitals and it is important to note that more than 20% of patients attending the Tweed Hospital Emergency Department are QLD residents, and these patients will be required to attend QLD-based hospitals for care.”

When stage two of the Eastwood housing development was released in Goonellabah yesterday, four families arrived the night before and camped out to make sure they got their preferred homesite.Eastwood Project Director Sam Rowe said the Eastwood stage two development was called the ‘Hemlock Release’ and marked the growth of the McCloy Group’s first residential community development in the Northern Rivers,“Set on 21 hectares off Invercauld Road, Eastwood was first launched in November last year, with Stage 1 offering 23 homesites,” Mr Rowe said.“Stage 1 is now registered, and it is great to see homes have commenced. “Earthworks are well underway with Stage 2 and the new park and playground facilities also.”Mr Rowe said with the current low interest rates available, families are able to build an affordable brand-new home to suit their families.“With several grants on offer for First Home Buyers and Second Home Buyers, the financial rewards from the state government could save you tens of thousands of dollars,” he said.What grants are available?HOMEBUILDER: a time-limited grant program to help the residential construction market to bounce back from the Coronavirus crisis. HomeBuilder will provide eligible owner-occupiers (including first home buyers) with a grant of $25,000 to build a new home where the contract is signed between 4 June 2020 and 31 December 2020. Construction must commence within three months of the contract date.HomeBuilder will complement existing State and Territory First Home Owner Grant programs, stamp duty concessions and other grant schemes.FIRST HOME BUYER ASSISTANCE SCHEME: If you’re a first home buyer, you may be entitled to a concessional rate of transfer duty or even an exemption from paying it altogether under the First Home Buyers Assistance scheme (FHBAS).FIRST HOME BUYER GRANT (NEW HOME) SCHEME: If you’re a first home buyer and you’re buying or building a new home, you may qualify for a $10,000 grant under the First Home Owner Grant (New Homes) scheme.NSW STAMP DUTY SLASH: Under the changes the threshold above which stamp duty will be charged on new homes for first home buyers will increase from the current $650,000 to $800,000, with the concession reducing on higher values before phasing out at $1 million.Under the changes the stamp duty threshold on vacant land will rise from $350,000 to $400,000 and will phase out at $500,000.“The government forecasts more than 6000 first home buyers will benefit from the changes, saving eligible first homebuyers thousands of dollars,” Mr Rowe said.For more information on Eastwood, as well as land availability, the purchase process and the new community contact Clint McCarthy on 0423 727 648 or visit eastwoodliving.com.au

Lismore City Council has expanded the number of burial plots available at its popular Tucki Cemetery. Council’s Commercial Services Manager Kevin Trustum said a newly constructed concrete beam for the placement of plaques or memorials, similar to the Lismore Lawn Cemetery, allows for lawn burials and cremated remains. “Many people are now deciding that they want a rural location as their, or their family member’s, final resting place, which is why we have increased the space available at Council’s Tucki Cemetery,” he said. “Overlooking the hills and farms of Wyrallah area, the Tucki Cemetery provides memorial options for loved ones in a rural setting.  “There are 48 new burials plots and 144 new spaces for cremated remains now available.” The burial plots can be double depth to allow for the burial of two people in the same plot, similar to other Council cemeteries. The cremated remains plots can be single or double. The Memorial Beam will be planted with small natives over time. Both burial and cremated remains memorial plots can be reserved in advance. The cost of a burial plot at the Tucki Cemetery is $3,755.40 and $2,641.70 for a second interment, with a single cremation plot $1,252.70 and $1,802.70 for a double plot (2020/21 prices).

After two glorious winter days we can expect some rain and a possible thunderstorm to kick off the weekend on Saturday.Alex Majchrowski from the Bureau of Meteorology said we can expect a cooler change on Saturday morning that will contain about 10-15mm of rain. There will be some gusty north westerly winds with the change.The predicted amount of rainfall could well increase if the possible thunderstorm eventuates on Saturday afternoon/evening.We will have a cloudy morning on Sunday but conditions will move back to clear blue skies and warmer temperatures as we progress through next week.Temperatures will hit 25 today, 22 for Saturday and Sunday with mid-twenties expected for the middle of the week.You can check out the weather here Weather on the Lismore App including the weather radar Weather Radar.