As the spring weather heats up, the days grow longer and people want to spend more time outdoors or having barbecues with a group of friends, amendments have been made to the Public Health Order that puts everyone at risk for a fine if they breach regulations.Most significantly are the changes relating to private gatherings with all attendees now risking $1000 Penalty Infringement Notices (PINs) if the gathering exceeds the allowed 20-person limit.Where previously, only the organiser of a gathering was liable to receive a fine if the number of people at the premises breached the Public Health Order, every person in attendance will now be held individually responsible for the breach.The changes, which came into effect at midnight yesterday (Monday 14 September 2020), aim to ensure the safety of the community ahead of an expected increase in gatherings associated with Christmas and end-of-year festivities.Operation Corona Virus Commander, Assistant Commissioner Tony Crandell, said that as with the previous restrictions, these amendments have been made with community safety in mind.“Coming into the warmer months, and with end-of-year festivities around the corner, it’s only natural that people will have additional reasons to want to gather and get together,” Assistant Commissioner Crandell said.“These amendments aim to ensure that an increase in expected gatherings doesn’t mean an increase in COVID-19 cases.“The new changes come in addition to other restrictions which remain in place, including a limit on numbers at outdoor gatherings and licensed premises.“NSW Police will continue to work with the community to ensure compliance to all restrictions under the Public Health Order.“While the vast majority of people within NSW are doing their part, we will continue to target those who don’t,” Assistant Commissioner Crandell said.The new changes are outlined below;

Lismore City Council is encouraging families, friends and neighbours to use the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) 'Get Ready Weekend' this Saturday and Sunday to prepare for the bushfire season and start a broader conversation about being aware of, and prepared for, all hazards.It was only ten short months ago that the Nightcap National Park fires at Mt Nardi were out of control causing many people to flee their homes and properties to evacuations centres at the Nimbin and Lismore Showgrounds.“The 2019/20 bushfire season was devastating across the North Coast and much of Australia. It was a stark reminder of the danger of fire. It was also a reminder of the importance of being prepared and having a plan,” Lismore City Mayor Isaac Smith said."This is for everyone in our community to think about the coming fire season and managing your property amongst disasters. We're asking people in our community to know the risks, to plan how you are going to deal with those risks and, should an emergency happen, to look out for each other.""The evidence shows over the last couple of years that preparation saves lives, it is all about preparedness. Have all your plans in place, be ready to go and have the solution before the problem occurs.""After last fire season everyone is a bit scared, a lot like we were after the flood 2017. Then we were flood ready, after this fire season we will be fire ready."Following the devastation of bushfires in late 2019 and early 2020 there is less of a risk this year and early 2021 with higher than expected rainfall in late spring and summer due to the La Niña influence but we are already seeing some fires across NSW.Last years experience has allowed Lismore City Council to also prepare for this years bush fire season in a more complete way."We got some funding from State and Federal Government to make improvements on parts of our infrastructure such as turn-around areas for trucks in vulnerable areas, Mr Smith said, "We are working closely with the RFS to prepare those roads, to have more water tanks available and to have more access to emergency services should a disaster occur."Scott Turner is the Local Emergency Management Officer for LCC, he said the biggest lesson learnt out of last seasons bushfires is that people need to be ready."There is a general feeling that the RFS do a great job and if there is a fire near me they will turn up and help", Scott said, "While this is true, if you get an event on the scale of last year there are not enough fire trucks to go to every house, not even enough fire trucks to go to every street and so the messages for this year are for people to be ready."Get your own plans in place and know what you are going to do because as much as the RFS want to turn up they may not be able to."To support early planning and preparation, NSW RFS will once again host their annual Get Ready Weekend on 19/20 September, in person and online.Please follow your local RFS brigade’s Facebook page for information as it becomes available. You can also visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au for more information including how to prepare your home against a bush fire.Please use the RFS Get Ready Weekend as the start of a broader conversation with family, friends and neighbours around being prepared for the multiple hazards.Get Ready in five simple stepsKnow your risk - think about the area you’re in and the types of disasters that could affect you;Plan now for what you will do - sit down and talk with your family and plan for what you will do if a disaster affects your area;Get your home ready - prepare your home by doing general home maintenance and checking your insurance coverage;Be aware - find out how to prepare, what to do if there is a disaster in your area and connect with NSW emergency services to stay informed; Look out for each other - share information with your family, friends, neighbours and those who may need assistance.A Bushfire Danger Period has been declared across the Lismore Local Government Area and Northern Rivers. This means anyone wishing to light a fire must first obtain a fire permit. Permits, which are free, ensure that fire is used safely and minimises the danger to landholders, their property and the community.While hazard reductions burns are an important part of preparations, landholders need to be extremely careful. Never leave a fire unattended. If a fire does escape, make sure you call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

St Vincent de Paul is ready to harness the power of the sun thanks to a $12,500 grant from Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan.The grant will go towards the existing rooftop solar system on their office building in Magellan Street, Lismore.“Electricity is one of the largest expenses for Vinnies,” Mr Hogan said. “By investing in solar, they have the ability to reduce operating costs considerably. These savings can instead go towards helping people experiencing severe disadvantage in our community.”The St Vincent de Paul Society are an important organisation in all regions across the country. They help and advocate for our most vulnerable people. Vinnies NSW CEO Jack de Groot said Vinnies embraces rooftop solar as a way of reducing electricity costs and enabling them to provide more support to local families and individuals doing it tough. “We are also committed to the environment through Vinnies shops and our participation in the container deposit scheme, which reduce the amount of material going to landfill,” Mr de Groot said. “Our community support work has continued throughout this challenging period because people’s needs have only increased. North Coast families are struggling to pay high rents, often going without food and other essentials to make ends meet. The threat of homelessness always looms.” “Our volunteer members are doing less face-to-face work but are still providing vital assistance to the community. This includes food vouchers, accommodation support and advice, and emergency help for people facing domestic violence.”

Your help is needed as the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood has declared this week 'Plasma Power Week'.The Lismore Donor Centre will be open at midday today (Monday) and every day until Saturday to collect blood from you.The reason for the push is due to the current lockdown in Victoria, this has caused a national shortage of plasma supply.Scott Morrison Group Account Manager Northern Rivers said "we need the rest of the eastern seaboard to pick up the slack and the Lismore community does an amazing effort when we do these sort of call outs"."We are expecting 60 plus appointments."Due to social distancing we are required to make an appointment by calling 131495, heading to the website or by downloading the Donate Blood app.The hours and days of operation are;Monday 14 September: 12 midday to 7:30pmTuesday 15 September: 8am to 2pmWednesday 16 September: 7am to 7pmThursday 17 September: 7am to 7pmFriday 18 September: 7am to 5pmSaturday 19 September: 8am to 3pmLifeblood Chief Executive Shelley Park said 31,000 donations are needed every week across Australia to help patient in times of trauma, major surgery, cancer treatment, pregnancy and host of other situations.“Despite dramatic changes to the everyday lives of Australians since March, we’ve seen people continue to generously donate blood and plasma.“But over the past three months, we have seen the number of people cancelling or not turning up for their appointments increase nationally by around 5000.“And looking ahead, we can see a drop in appointment numbers over the coming weeks – that’s why we’re asking new and existing donors to step up and fill those appointments to ensure there is a sufficient supply of blood and plasma.”Lifeblood donor centres are safe to visit, with strict social distancing, cleaning and donor eligibility measures in place. Only healthy people are eligible to give blood and we have introduced even more stringent wellness checks prior to appointments, including temperature checking.“We want to thank everyone who’s continued to step up and donate during this pandemic. However, the reality is the need for blood and blood products never stops so we urge all eligible Australians to make blood or plasma donation part of their ‘new normal’,” Ms Park said.

A body has been located during a search for a missing Lismore man just north of Grafton.The 37-year-old was last seen in Kyogle about 11am on Thursday 13 August 2020. His family notified officers from Coffs/Clarence Police District when he couldn’t be located or contacted. Following inquiries, the man’s vehicle was located by police on Wednesday (2 September 2020) near Whiteman Creek Road on the mid north coast.Earlier yesterday (Saturday 12 September 2020), police were notified that family members searching for the man located a body in the Whiteman Creek area.While the body has not been identified, it’s believed to be the missing man.Initial inquiries suggest the death is not suspicious and a report will be prepared for the Coroner. 

When we think COVID-19 or coronavirus we tend to think of all the negatives that the global pandemic has brought to our lives. The lockdowns, the home schooling, the loss of jobs, the lack of sport, the loss of events, the list goes on.Our doom and gloom has been a positive for our pets, it appears they have come in for some TLC while we are spending more time at home. They are loving the extra attention with many turning up at the local veterinary clinic for ailments that would have been missed during a normal busy lifestyle.Daryl Deeley one of the vets at Keen Street Vets in Lismore, saying he can't put a single factor to why they have been busier across the Northern Rivers. "We feel there are quite a few more people at home during this COVID period," Daryl said, " They are noticing things about their pets they didn't before like skin allergies, ulcers or teeth problems.""Issues that have been going on long term that they have become aware of now."Pet ownership has also increased during COVID-19 so there a lot more de-sexing operations. Simon Arnesen from VetLove Goonellabah said "the RSPCA have re-homed more pets during COVID. People who were talking about getting a pet were making the decision to actually get it done now".Unfortunately, the trend of domestic violence has increased not only for people but also with pets with a slight increase in numbers.Another reason for the increase in vet activity is thought to be the extra money flowing into people's pockets with JobKeeper and JobSeeker or through access to Super Funds."A pets skin condition that was a minor problem and deemed not necessary to treat before COVID is now at the vets getting treatment", Simon said.At it's peak Keen Street Vet had 5-6 people waiting outside in their cars. The procedure was exactly the same as your local doctor, you were to ring the surgery when you arrived and a nurse would come and pick up your pet from your car, take it inside for treatment then return your pet once complete.Daryl said "appointments were taking 30 minutes because we had to to thoroughly clean all the surfaces and equipment after every pet. This increased our workload hugely as well as increased the wait time by 15 minutes.""We are so grateful for good staff and patient clients."The rule today for Keen Street Vet and VetLove is for one person with their pet allowed in the premises at a time. This eases the workload somewhat.Both practices have social distancing measures and hygiene measures in place.

WANTED ON WARRANTS: Jai KNIGHTPolice are seeking community assistance in locating 22 year old Jai KNIGHT, wanted by virtue of 5 arrests warrants.Jai is known to frequent the Lismore and Goonellabah areas.Anyone with information in regards to Jai's current whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

The best of the rain has passed with only the slight chance of small shower tomorrow morning then a good looking weekend on the way.It is perfect weather to check out our local bush walks like Rocky Creek Dam, Protester Falls, Mount Matheson or if you are feeling very energetic the Minyon Falls walk. Check out your options here Walks.For your local, direct from the farmer fresh fruit and veg head down to the Lismore Showground for the Farmers Markets, open from 8 while the Blue Knob Community Markets throw open their gates at 8:30am. The Farmers Market will see live music by Joe O'Keefe & Friends.Sunday sees the second Channon Craft Markets since the pandemic began in March. This month will celebrate the life of Peter Jackson (aka RoaDart) with 'Pete's Picnic' between 11am and 1pm. Bring your own picnic, rug or buy your lunch and join Pete's family on the oval. The markets run between 9am and 3pm.The Lismore Regional Gallery has the Language of the Wounded and Body Language exhibitions on display between 10am and 4pm.In Sport, the local derby is back at Crozier Field on Sunday when the in form Northern United take on the Marist Brothers Rams at 3pm. Two weeks ago Northern United won the first encounter 34-22 in a dominant display.Far North Coast Football has the final home and away games before the final kick into gear with the Lismore Thistles travelling to Bangalow tonight with an 8pm kick-off.Sunday's matches see Richmond Rovers on the road to Byron Bay for a 12:30 start while the ladder leading South Lismore Celtics take on the 4th placed Goonellabah Hornets at 2pm in a game the Hornets need to win to ensure their place in the finals next weekend.The women's ANZAC Cup final is Lismore Thistles v Alstonville on Sunday played at Alstonville with a 12:30 kick-off while the mens ANZAC Cup Final is next Wednesday night also at Alstonville at 7pm between the Goonellabah Hornets and Alstonville.The Lismore Rugby Union Colts play in their Preliminary Final tomorrow, good luck to the boys.Full sport wrap throughout the weekend from Matt Barlow and Ian Horswill on the Lismore App.Neil Marks' Saturday Blog talks about his new Deputy Mayor title. It is your last few days to win a Trackside Table for 10 including entry fee, reserved table with umbrella and two bottles of wine for this years Lismore Cup. Go to the WIN! button on the front page.117.9 is the cheapest diesel around town in a variety of places while E10 unleaded is 112.9 at United on Ballina Road and unleaded 91 is cheapest at United again and Caltex near the Square at 114.9.Daley's Homewares and Monogramming will open their new store at 83 Keen Street on Monday morning after a weekend of moving.Have a great weekend, here are a few funnies to kick off the weekend. If you see any you would like to share simon@lismoreapp.com.au is the email address.

Voluntary redundancies at Southern Cross University (SCU) could just be the beginning of more job losses for the local university, with 71 staff having their redundancies accepted after they were called for earlier this year.SCU Vice President of Engagement Ben Roche said the ongoing COVID-19 situation will continue to have a bearing on the need to implement further cost cutting measures "which are likely to include further job losses in the future".While 92 academic and professional staff applied for SCU’s Voluntary Redundancy (VR) program, Mr Roche said only 71 were accepted - with 24 of the staff in academic roles and 47 in professional roles. "Each application was carefully and confidentially considered within each work unit and all staff have been notified of the outcome.Mr Roche thanked all those who applied, acknowledging the personal nature of each individual’s decision-making process. “We appreciate how significant this is in helping the University overcome the unprecedented financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said.“This is a significant moment for the University, as each and every one of the departing staff represent long term colleagues, peers and in many cases close personal friends developed over many years of service.“As part of the University’s consultation in developing the VR program, a detailed assessment process was followed that not only determined whether the staff member’s role could be discontinued, but there was also an additional layer of local consideration to ensure the approved redundancies will not materially impact the workload of other staff."Future blueprintMr Roche said a Planning Ahead Committee will be created to oversee reforms in key areas and ensure the University remains viable into the future. He also reconfirmed that teaching across the University will continue in the default mode of online learning and staff will continue to work from home.Face-to-face graduations are still cancelled until further notice and campus buildings will continue to have limited access to minimise running costs and to ensure a COVID safe environment.Mr Roche reinforced that the singular focus on health and safety underpins its emphasis on precaution and risk-mitigation. “In safeguarding our staff and students, those decisions have been made on the advice from Chief Medical Officers of both New South Wales and Queensland as well as key local issues such as continued border closures,” he said

Students at the Rivers Secondary College’s campuses of Kadina, Lismore and Richmond Rivers are about to embark on a new film-making journey with a national film education program, Nextwave Online.The program aims to equip young people 10-25 years old with filmmaking skills, and create short films they can enter into the Nextwave Youth Film Awards, before being screened across Australia for Youth Week each year.  Kadina teachers and students.Just shootMirco Guidon was the Nextwave Youth Film Awards winner in 2015 and 2016. He is also a Southern Cross University (SCU) media graduate whose advice is “just shoot something with your friends and then show it to people”.“As a young person who’s interested in filmmaking the best thing you can do is just get out there and shoot,” Mirco said. “Going through the process of creating over and over again you’ll find that you see the world a certain way and maybe you’ll enjoy doing it enough to pursue it as a career.” Mirco said there was no singular path to follow in developing a career as a filmmaker.  “I made short films, submitting them to local festivals including Nextwave (called RecYaShorts at the time), watched countless hours of YouTube tutorials and at the same time studied Media at SCU which gave me a strong theoretical foundation. It’s a constant process of learning, but it started with just getting started. With getting out there and shooting.” David Horsley with Kadina students.Film for the futureThe free online education service is part of the Film For The Future program, offered by Screenwave International Film Festival (SWIFF), in partnership with SCU. It’s about providing free filmmaking education access to Nextwave Online’s paid subscription service for a select group of regional Australian schools.  Remote deliveryDelivered remotely online, students and teachers can do lessons in classrooms or from home. Teachers receive companion guides to teach the modular video episodes, which include 10 x 20-minute episodes. The episodes comprehensively teach introductory filmmaking, with additional free resources and activities available.  Rivers’ Executive Principal Ian Davies said it is exciting that college students in the creative and performing arts will have an opportunity to participate.Grayson Cooke and David Horsley.SCU Vice President (Engagement) Ben Roche said the University’s three-year partnership with SWIFF would foster and support the creativity of young Australians.“I hope some may take that experience further to study film and digital media at university as they pursue a career in the creative industries,” he said.Nextwave Director and cinematographer Co-Director Kate Howat said “take one look at your social media feed and it’s easy to see that young people are already accessing film making technology through their smart phone or DSLR – we just show them how to use it to help tell their story."For more information visit http://www.nextwavefilmfest.com.auNextwaveNextwave is the largest youth film development program in regional Australia, consisting of an in person workshop tour, the Nextwave short film competition, the Nextwave Youth Film Awards held every January, and the Nextwave Youth Week Film Festival which travels to over 20 regional communities each April.Due to COVID-19, the Coffs Harbour-based film festival team have elected to launch a new national online film education portal, called Nextwave Online, in partnership with Southern Cross University. 

Innovative events to keep veterans socially connected could attract some of the $200,000 in funding now available for Veteran's Health Week activities.Veterans and their families are being encouraged to keep socially connected as part of Veterans’ Health Week, with a share in funding available to community groups and ex-service organisations to assist with activities.Veterans Health Week will be held from Saturday, 24 October to Sunday, 1 November 2020 and communities are being encouraged to get creative to ensure events can still take place, with organisations able to apply for $720 in funding to support their activities.Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said the global coronavirus pandemic had made it difficult for many people to physically see each other and finding ways to socially connect with one another was now more important than ever, particularly for the ex-service community.“Social connection is one of the most important aspects for your mental health and wellbeing, and as part of Veterans’ Health Week this year we are encouraging those in the ex-service community to remain socially connected, with family, friends and local community,” Mr Chester said.“This year we’re asking organisations to come up with more innovative ideas for hosting events, to get creative and create new opportunities to connect, either in person where possible or virtually over the phone or internet.“This could include a fitness challenge or session, community meditation or yoga, community catch-ups or arts and crafts workshops to name a few — all either in person, or virtually. Ex-service organisations can also look to partner with other local community organisations to deliver their chosen activity.“Veterans’ Health Week is a chance to remind veterans and their families to stay in touch with their local communities and participate in community events and remain socially connected.”Each year the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) provides $200,000 in funding to assist community groups and ex-service organisations to host events for Veterans Health Week. Applications are now open and organisations can apply to receive $720 to support their Veterans’ Health Week activity. To apply for funding visit http://www.dva.gov.au/vhw“Supporting the mental health of veterans and their families is a key priority for this Government and Veterans’ Health Week is one way we can spread more awareness about the importance of social connection within local communities across Australia,” Mr Chester said.“I encourage veterans and their families to look out for a Veteran Health Week event hosted in their community, and to stay safe, but connected.”For more information on Veterans’ Health Week and the funding available, visit the Veterans’ Health Week page on the DVA website. You can also call 1800 555 254 or email vhw@dva.gov.au.Applications for funding close 2 October 2020. Applicants must be aware of local state or territory Coronavirus restrictions that are in place and ensure their event is following all Coronavirus guidelines.  

In a recent Lismore City Council survey on the impact of the closure of the Queensland border it was noted that residents were suffering for medical and personal reasons and through the loss of jobs.One of the recommendations from the Northern Rivers Joint Organisation of Councils was to establish a $45 million grant program to assist small businesses to cope with losses caused by the border closure. This matches what has already been given to councils on the southern border with Victoria.Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin has stepped into the battle calling for the Berejiklian Government to match its southern NSW $45 million COVID-19 grant program with a similar package for struggling communities here in the north. Ms Saffin urged Deputy Premier John Barilaro more than a week ago to extend the program, which he announced on a flying visit to Albury, to northern businesses doing it tough. Now she says the delay in implementing a package shows an “unresponsive” Berejiklian Government has little regard for northern border communities. “These are NSW residents and the NSW Government is responsible for them and to them,” Ms Saffin said. “Regardless of which government made the decision to close the Queensland-NSW border, the negative impacts on struggling local businesses on the Northern Rivers and Northern Tablelands are no different to those experienced by businesses near the NSW-Victorian border.” Ms Saffin called for the program to cover all businesses located in the Local Government Areas within the bubble zone, including Tweed Shire, Kyogle and Tenterfield Shire. She said it should also be extended to other businesses in the Lismore City, Richmond Valley, Byron Shire, Ballina Shire and Clarence Valley Local Government Areas. “The NSW Business Chamber, representing businesses across the Northern Rivers and New England North West, the Master Builders Association of NSW Northern Rivers and the Northern Rivers Joint Organisation all support what I am calling for,” Ms Saffin said. Ms Saffin stressed that she was asking for extra targeted support for businesses over and above pre-existing support measures. “This program would help with local businesses’ day-to-day costs, keep their doors open and keep people in their jobs,” she said. 

After three heartbreaking weeks of waiting, Lismore-based dad Brad Jones was finally given an exemption to cross the Queensland border to see his critically-ill four year daughter Charlotte in a Brisbane children’s hospital.Brad said it was for two hours only, and when the time was up, security guards escorted him back to his car to make sure he immediately began the drive back to Lismore – with no stops on the way.“I could barely even see the road as I was driving – I was crying that hard,” Brad said. “When I looked at her, I thought we would be burying her. It took my breath away to see my little girl like that.”Read more news: Border closure heartbreak for family separated by cancer treatmentLeukemiaOver the last few weeks, Charlotte, who is critically ill and being treated for leukemia, has taken a turn for the worse. “Last Friday afternoon, Charlotte had a seizure and was placed in ICU and sedated,” he said. “She’s in a bad way – she had a liver infection and was yellow and jaundiced. “She’ll be in ICU for a few weeks yet, but they have finally got her off the respirator, but it’s still a long road ahead. She was 15kg when she was admitted, then she got to 23kg because of the fluid build up in her body. “The oncologist said the next 48 hours will see her either take a turn for the worse, or go the right way.”QuarantineBrad is devastated that he can no longer travel over the border to visit Charlotte without the burden of an expensive stay in quarantine for two weeks each visit. He also has the job of looking after he and his partner’s other children in Lismore and is trying to get Queensland authorities to let the family cross the border and stay in the cancer care accommodation unit together.“I’ve applied for another exemption to visit again, but haven’t heard anything yet,” he said.“It’s not fair. There’s no heart coming from the Queensland Government in this situation – it’s a joke. It’s all politics and it’s not about Australians and our lives.Hotspot“I’ve asked MP Kevin Hogan to ask them what is a true hotspot? There are no new Covid cases here, but Brisbane has cases. Are they classified as a hotspot now?“Why can’t Lismore be a part of this border bubble so we can travel? I know they didn’t want to do it because of Byron Bay and the tourists that come there. Read more news: Where's the $45 million grant to help our communities with border closure losses?Inhumane“I saw the case on the news of the father who couldn’t get across to see his dying child and the case of the mother with twins who was turned away and one of babies died - that’s inhumane- we are not in a third world country.“They will let 400 football players go there though – it’s all about the money.”Brad said Charlotte is fighting for her life and he is hoping to see realistic changes to allow him and his family to stay together in Queensland.ChemotherapyBrad said he’s never going to give up trying to see his little girl, but he is worried about how she has been reacting to the chemotherapy treatment. “When Charlotte got too sick, she had to stop receiving chemotherapy and that has pushed us back a lot further,” he said. “We are only half way through her second cycle and at this rate she will be there with her mum until after Christmas.“She’s trying to sit up now. I haven’t heard her voice for nearly a week – she was so sick and sedated.”Brad said Charlotte’s leukemia was diagnosed in January, but not until after she had been admitted to Lismore Base Hospital twice with swollen adenoids, which were at first thought to be tonsillitis and treated with steroids. Finally, after not getting better, Charlotte was diagnosed with leukemia.Brad remembers the day pediatrician Dr Chris Ingalls told him had an advanced aggressive cancer and he had to break the horrible news to his partner. Prayers“We are just taking it week by week, but lately it’s been hour by hour. I haven’t been getting much sleep and I’ve never prayed before, but I pray now.”“I’ve had to watch her lose her hair,” he said. She was a wild child who would fall on the driveway and get up and laugh. We call her our warrior princess. I think that prepared her for all this.Oncology ward“I know about cancer now because I have to visit the oncology ward in the hospital and see the young kids in there who have no idea what they are going through.“I’m a stern person but it got to me. My daughter is fighting for her life and every day in her ward, there is a nurse in the room with Charlotte and Melissa. She is in God’s hands now. “I hope we can be together in the unit near the hospital soon.”MP Hogan respondsFederal Member for Page Kevin Hogan said he was continually working with the all levels of government on a solution to Brad’s situation.“This shows the complete absurdity of the border bubble lockdown, with no Covid cases in our region” he said. “We are taking three different avenues to get changes made – applying to the Prime Minister’s office, working with Queensland Premier Palaszczuk, Brad Hazzard the NSW Health Minister and the cross-border commission. Shame them“We are trying to shame them into giving him exemption.“Last week, the Prime Minister tried to get the States to agree to a national position and agree over what a hotspot is. Queensland’s stance is political in motivation ahead of a State election.“We all understand the Melbourne and Victorian restrictions with hundreds of new cases there every day, but in Queensland there’s no medical reason.” 

Lismore City Council has made a "damning" submission ahead of an Upper House inquiry examining the Government’s misuse of grants.The inquiry begins on Monday, September 21, and NSW Labor is demanding the Liberals and Nationals be held accountable for the “blatant attempt to buy marginal seats like Lismore through the distribution of grants before the 2019 State election”.Lismore City Council’s submission stated: “These pre-election funding opportunities are often opaque and do not respond to the documented needs of a community or are not costed in accordance with the actual work that needs to be done.“This results in a ‘gift’ of funds that results in implementation shortfalls.”The Government’s misuse of taxpayer funds was highlighted in the Stronger Country Communities Fund (SCCF).Shadow Minister for Local Government, Greg Warren said the SCCF saw $400 million handed out over three rounds – with $200 million distributed in round two, months prior to the 2019 NSW election.“Over the course of three rounds, the Lismore electorate received 74 grants, with 41 announced in round two,” he said.“More than 87% of grants went to Coalition-held seats in round 2, despite holding just over 60% of electorates eligible for the SCCF grants.Mr Warren said the Government was elected to represent every community, not its own self-interest.“The concerns of Lismore City Council are not only justified, they are echoed throughout the state,” he said.“This government goes missing from communities for four years then reappears months before an election to announce grants and buy votes.“It’s disgusting, disgraceful and deceitful.”Lismore MP Janelle Saffin said the results from the 2019 state election “clearly show the people of Lismore did not fall for this government’s lies and false promises”.“Lismore, like every community throughout NSW, needs a member who represents their best interests for all four years – not just months before an election,” she said.“They didn’t get that with the Nationals but they certainly get that with NSW Labor.”

Today is R U OK? day and if you are not sure what to say to someone after asking this question, the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP) has some suggestions.If they are not ok, telling the person what you have noticed, is one of the ways you can keep the conversation going as you reach out to someone who might be struggling.RAMHP Coordinator, Steve Carrigg, said adverse events - such as drought, floods, bushfires and a global pandemic - have taken a toll on many people, financially, physically and mentally. “Now, more than ever, our rural communities need to check in with each other and stay connected,” he said.“Stressful events can cause feelings of worry and unease, especially when there are high levels of uncertainty involved.“We need our communities to look out for each other. If you see someone you know who is showing signs they might be struggling, it is important to talk to them and to encourage them to take action.“If someone says they’re not okay, it’s important to know what to say and learn how to start a conversation.New guide to help the conversationTo help you know what to say after “R U OK?”, RAMHP has developed a new Guide – Having a Conversation, which includes tips on how to start a conversation. 1. Pick a time and a place – Pick a good time and find the right place to have the conversation.2. Be specific – Tell the person what you have noticed.3. Ask questions – Ask open-ended questions.  4. Really listen – Listen without judgement, don’t interrupt and acknowledge their feelings.5. Let them know it’s okay – Reassure them it’s okay to feel the way they do, and that help is available 6. Support and encourage – Support them in taking positive steps to improve their mental health.7. Follow-up – Stay in touch and check in again soon 8. Look after yourself – Make sure you’re going okay and ask for support if you need itYou can also access resources and information on the RAMHP website http://www.ramhp.com.au RAMHP has also developed a new dedicated website for rural men - You Got This Mate - which provides action-focussed tips and information to help men reach their best possible mental health. If you’re concerned about your own or someone else’s mental health, call the NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511 for advice, or call Lifeline on 13 11 14.  

After being absent for decades, an antique cream can, newly restored and painted has again appeared atop the premises of 83 Keen Street.The cream can spent decades atop the building when it was the home of Sidney & Hacking Plumbing - and was a symbol to the local community that they could get their cream cans repaired there.Now, the building is now the new home of Daleys Homewares and Monogramming, which is moving from its Woodlark Street location.In a tale that spans generations, John Daley and Matthew Healy, owner of Daleys Homewares & Monogramming, are keeping the old stories alive – along with a piece of history from the Sidney & Hacking family business, which was founded in 1903.Read more news: R U OK Day? is today. So, what do you say after 'R U OK?'The cream can can be seen on top of the Sidney & Hacking shop c.1930 - and today.“Repairing cream cans was one of Sidney & Hacking’s major operations,” John Daley said.“The cans were always silver - they have a lead/tin coating over them and every couple of years they had to be recovered, inside and out.“I think the first cream can was up on top of the shop in the 1930s. Then their business moved to south Lismore in about 1995 and they rented the Keen Street building to the Northern Star as offices - that’s when they took the cream can down.“Sidney and Hacking were a large plumbing shop with 50 men working here - and it was here for a long time. The business is still going but this cream can is a link with the past. They were a fine family.”Read more news: Lismore's crazy characters feature on TV breakfast show this morningMatthew Healy, owner of Daleys, getting the new shop ready.Sidney & Hacking historySidney & Hacking Plumbing was founded by Norman Sidney and Charles Hacking. Handed down the Sidney family from father to son, the business is currently owned by Andrew Sidney, great grandson of Norman. Today, Andrew's son Taylor, a trade certified plumber, makes the fifth generation of people to work in the family business.John said Max Sidney – one of the previous owners of the business - is about 85 now and he is a twin.“When Matthew bought this new shop building, I spoke to Max about it and Max asked if we would put the cream can back up,” John said.“Max had saved it all this time, so we cleaned it up and painted it in Sidney and Hacking colours- silver, red and green. As far as we know it’s the original can.”Matthew Healy said it was important to keep the historical connection to place, community and business alive.“It’s been a part of Keen Street history for almost 100 years,” Matthew said. “Old families and stories will be forgotten if we don’t maintain them.“We thought it was good to reinstate it, we are only 30 years old, but we are also a part of the landscape of Lismore. It’s a way we can keep the old stories alive in town.”MonogrammingMatthew said the move to the new shop was a complex logistical exercise, as the large embroidery machines were heavy and needed to be winched out of the roof of the old shop on Woodlark Street.“They are now in place in the new shop and working again,” he said.Matthew said the old shop location will cease trading on Friday this week and will open the doors of the new shop location next Monday.Read more: SUNDAY PROFILE: John Daley & Matthew Healy on 30 years in business

If you are heading outdoors over the next two days make sure you take the umbrella with you as we are expecting some decent rainfall.Alinka Duma from the Bureau of Meteorology said the rain will be developing in the early hours of tomorrow morning then increasing in the afternoon and evening. This us due to a southerly cold front moving north plus some cooler air coming across the ocean. We should see around 10-20mm in the rain gauge Thursday and a further 10-15mm on Friday which will help green up our hills and pasture land.If you do happen to live near the coast you are expecting stronger falls in the vicinity of 15-35mm tomorrow.Saturday morning will see some lingering showers in the morning but under 2mm to start the weekend then Sunday is looking the pick with a few clouds hanging around.

Following recent violent incidents against Lismore Base Hospital staff, the Health Services Union (HSU) has lashed the hospital saying the security crisis will worsen because management has taken "shortcuts" by hiring contract security officers who are "incapable of intervening in a violent situation".Read more news: Lismore Health Workers are Safe say expertsHSU Lismore organiser Peter Kelly said “our members at Lismore Hospital have been treated as punching bags for far too long”. “In the last few years they have been stabbed, punched and bitten," he said. “The hired labour hire security guards are not authorised to restrain a patient who becomes violent. Nor can they respond to a code black duress alarm in any meaningful way.“HSU members are ropable at management’s constant corner cutting. Lismore Hospital is legally required to provide employees with a safe work environment. It’s time they took that seriously.”Mr Kelly said the union has notified the local health district and is now formally in a dispute with intentions to escalate the issue to the Industrial Relations Commission if necessary.'Window dressing'“If Lismore Hospital management thinks window dressing will solve its security crisis they should think again,” he said.“These labour hire security officers are simply not trained nor authorised to intervene in a violent and dangerous incident. Yet they have been employed to provide security 24 hours a day for at least the next week.“This is what happens when you fail to plan and refuse to invest in your workforce. You wind up spending more on inadequate solutions that don’t maintain public security.Read more news: Border closure heartbreak for family separated by cancer treatmentWayne Jones.Read more news: NSW Telestroke service goes live at Lismore Base Hospital todayLocal health district chief respondsNorthern NSW Local Health District chief executive Wayne Jones said the use of external security providers to supplement the health security workforce was not a “short cut measure”.“It is used based on staff availability, workload and assessment of the duties required at the time.  “Where additional security presence is required, additional staff are called in.  “In the majority of cases, these opportunities are offered first to our existing workforce, but where a role cannot be filled by a health staff member, an external contractor supplies staff. “External security staff are fully licenced security officers and can and do respond to Code Blacks on the department they are assigned to, as part of the response team. Lismore Base Hospital is increasing its security workforce and recruitment is already underway for up to 10 new casual Health and Security Assistants and security staff. Mr Jones said at Lismore Base Hospital there are two Health and Security Assistants (HSAs) allocated to the Emergency Department on every shift, 24 hours a day. These staff hold a NSW security licence.  “There are always staff members on campus who are trained in violence prevention management, while external security contractors provide an additional support role,” he said.“Following the incident on August 23, Lismore Base Hospital increased the security in the emergency department using existing avenues, for the safety of our staff and patients. “Northern NSW Local Health District is in discussion with the Health Services Union on this matter.”Future discussionMr Kelly said union representatives would be meeting with the local health district in a few weeks.“We will discuss security and safety,” he said. “We’ve just started working through it and we will be continuing to meet to with them.”

Channel Seven’s morning TV show Sunrise visited Lismore in the early hours of this morning, with presenter Sam Mac broadcasting the weather report from the banks of the Wilsons River. As the mist rolled off the river near Lismore’s boat ramp, Sam invited a host of local Lismore characters to be on the TV show, including drag queen Maude Boate, Lismore Mayor Isaac Smith, the Lismore Swans, musician Michaela Jay and local farm producers. As the city of Lismore gained a bit of recognition across Australia, Mayor Smith showed off his mayoral robes designed by craftsperson Denise Rall while he had his portrait painted - and the Swans attempted (unsuccessfully) to kick a ball over the Wilsons River.Metre and a half maidsLismore’s social distancing comediennes, metre and a half maids Merlina and her daughter Melanie, had an early start in order to be on the show this morning.“I’ve been up since 4am and I had to be dressed in costume at the river by 5.30am,” she said. “They kept saving us for the end so we had to wait until 7.30am until we were on the show.“I’m tired now, but it was fun and beautiful to see the local talent on the show,” she laughed.“There was even a flamenco dancer and local mob saying ‘jingi walla’."Merlina has been in the comedy scene for 25 years and has played a host of funny characters in the area, while keeping her real identity anonymous. She said she was told about the the Sunrise breakfast show by Lismore Car Boot market organisers - after her first successful gig as a metre and a half maid at the recent market.“We are available for gigs anywhere and I have people in each State ready to hop into the role as metre and a half maids,” she said.“We want to make events safe and fun and bring a bit of light humour in all the craziness of the world at the moment.“We walk around and ensure social distancing behaviour in people without making them uncomfortable. I carry a stop and go stick that is exactly 1.5 metres and we make noise and tell people we are keeping this market open and thank you for being aware.“It’s like they let a gasp out because we are not being hard about it – it’s a new way to think about it.”So where did the idea for the maids come from?“I have a weird brain - I was a yoyo champ as a kid,” she laughed. “Some of my clever friends helped me with costumes, wigs and hats and it goes down a treat.“We are available for bookings for gigs – weddings, parties, anything - and we will be at the Channon market this weekend - and will be a regular feature at the car boot market.”If you want to contact the metre and a half maids, find them on Facebook or Instagram #metreandahalfmaids. You can watch this morning’s Sunrise episode online at https://7plus.com.au/sunriseRead more news: Hospital security crisis brings Union criticism over 'shortcuts'