With school holidays about to start in NSW, local health authorities are sending out a message for us to avoid travelling parts of Victoria that have seen recent increases in Covid-19 activity. Instead, consider travelling to national parks, ovals, or local pubs and restaurants. Read more news: Businesses urged to get Covid-19 ready for the holidaysNorthern NSW Local Health District Chief Executive, Wayne Jones, said it was imperative that North Coast residents keep up the good work in avoiding the spread of coronavirus.“The local community has done an amazing job maintaining physical distancing and hand hygiene over the last few months,” Mr Jones said. “But we certainly don’t want to have what’s happening in parts of Victoria being repeated here. “With the extra freedom of travel and the likelihood of seeing more friends and family, it is more important than ever to remain vigilant. “I encourage anyone, local or visiting tourists, if you have even mild symptoms, please go get a free test at your local testing clinic and stay in until you get the result.Mr Jones said these Covid-19 increase areas in Victoria are being closely monitored, and interventions to prevent further transmissions from these areas are being implemented by the Victorian Government. Non-essential travel between Melbourne and New South Wales is strongly discouraged. In addition, restrictions on workers and visitors who have been in Melbourne in the previous 14 days to high risk settings have been implemented. Further restrictions may be implemented as the situation evolves. “If you are visiting family or friends in Victoria, I would urge you to reconsider the need to travel,” Mr Jones said. “If travel is essential, for compassionate or other reasons, please do the right thing and self-isolate for two weeks when you return and get a test if you’re feeling even a little bit unwell.”More information is available at: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/response-outbreaks-covid-19. A full list of COVID-19 testing clinics is available here: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/covid-19/Pages/clinics.aspx 

Tomorrow is July 1st and that means more easing of COVID-19 restrictions for entertainment businesses, great news for the school holidays which begin at 3pm on Friday.The main change to the restrictions is the 'one person per 4 square metre' rule. Basically, this means that there is no maximum number of people providing that the business can provide that rule so it depends on the size of the floor plan. Each business will have up to date operating instructions for you to follow when you enter the premises to keep you and your family and friends safe from coronavirus.A lot of these businesses have been closed since March so will need our support to get them profitable once again. Even if you go once to each venue over the two weeks it will go along way to supporting local businesses just like we did for cafes and restaurants when they needed some help.As with cafes and restaurants you will need to ring and book in advance.Craig and his family at Rollerworld have been madly cleaning, measuring and getting things ready at their North Lismore roller skating rink. They will be hosting limited birthday parties again as well as general admission skating. To check the session times push this link Lismore Rollerworld.Movie lovers are in for a treat as the big screen opens up this Thursday July 2 at BCC Cinemas (Cnr Keen and Zadoc).What's on, I can hear you ask?Unhinged (July), The Personal History of David Copperfield (July), Babyteeth (July), Broken Hearts Gallery (August), High Note (August), Slim & I (August), Antebellum (August), Bill and Ted 3: Face the Music (August) as well as Wonder Woman 1984, Black Widow, No Time to Die, Death on the Nile, Westside Story and Peter Rabbit 2. In addition, cinemas will be showing popular recently released movies like Bad Boys for Life, Joker, Knives Out, Invisible Man and Sonic the Hedgehog and retro content on Superhero Sundays and Friday Fright Nights.BCC Cinemas are offering a special for the re-opening with half priced adult tickets for Cinebuzz members.Lismore Ten Pin Bowl have been operating for a couple of weeks but is another option for the school holidays. Tell them the Lismore App sent you.Rous County Council have opened Rocky Creek Dam again from tomorrow. If you are going to take advantage of some nice weather next week the water bubblers will be switched off but you can fill your water bottles up from the tap, BBQ's and amenities will be cleaned daily but other hard surfaces will not be cleaned.For the golfers who like a hit at the Lismore Golf Club, you can now have two people to a buggy once again. This announcement has been long awaited for many of the members who have the use of a buggy.If you didn't know, you can now have up to 20 people inside your home to go with the 20 outside.While the Easter school holidays were restricted due to lockdown these winter holidays look so much brighter.

Businesses need to have a COVID-19 safety plan in place before the winter school holidays at the end of this week.That’s the message from the North Coast Public Health Unit (NCPHU) as it works toward making sure we don’t have a second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic. With NSW Health and other government agencies currently visiting local business premises, NCPHU Assistant Director Greg Bell said it was important that business operators seek assistance with developing and implementing their plans in compliance with Public Health Orders issued in response to the pandemic. “Some businesses will need to complete a COVID-19 Safety Plan under the public health orders, like if a pub, club or small bar, but you can also voluntarily complete one for your business,” Mr Bell said.To find out if your business needs to complete a COVID-19 Safety Plan, visit the website whttp://ww.nsw.gov.au/covid- 19/covid-safe-businesses. Mr Bell said the NSW Government recommends all businesses use their own COVID-19 Safety Plan to protect staff, customers and visitors on their premises. “We applaud those operators who have developed their plans already, and our public health staff are keen to assist other business operators to develop their plans, to ensure their premises comply with the requirements of the Public Health Order and are safe for staff and customers,” Mr Bell said. “To prevent a second wave of COVID-19 across the north coast we need everyone to play their part in preventing further transmission of the virus in our region.” While the current Public Health Order requires development and compliance with a COVID-19 Safety Plan for some types of premises, any business can voluntarily complete one. “When you’re completing your plan, consult with your staff, and share the plan with them when it’s done,” Mr Bell said. “By implementing your COVID-19 Safety Plan you can show your staff, customers and community that you are a COVID-safe business and you’re committed to keeping them safe.” Different industries have specific requirements for COVID-19 Safety Plans, but each one needs to outline how a business will manage: • hygiene and safety • physical distancing • the recording of contact details of staff, customers and visitors such as trade suppliers, and staff wellbeing. Resources, including guidance and templates for developing a COVID-19 Safety Plan are available at the COVID Safe Businesses website http://www.nsw.gov.au/covid- 19/covid-safe-businessesFor on the ground support, guidance and assistance, please contact your local Public Health Unit on 1300 066 055 or your local council. 

Lismore resident Chris was on his way to work when he hit a laughing kookaburra. He was on Pinchin Road between The Channon and Goolmangar and he stopped to see if the kookaburra was okay.He couldn’t find it.When Chris arrived at work in Goonellabah, he noticed the bird was caught in the grille of his car.So, Chris called Wildlife Information and Rescue Emergency Service (WIRES) and WIRES volunteer Julie attended.Julie saw that the unfortunate bird was caught by its right wing at an odd angle. The only way to get the bird free of the grille was by opening the bonnet of the car. Julie was then able to gently push the wing down and the bird was free of the grille. It was no joy ride for this kookaburra.Julie found the kookaburra to be in surprisingly good condition. The bird was obviously in shock but there did not seem to be any broken bones or major feather damage. Julie brought the bird into care and allowed it to rest before a thorough check up.No injuries were found, a flight test proved positive.Chris was called later in the afternoon and he collected the kookaburra on his way home from work and released it back to the spot where it had unfortunately crossed the road in the morning.Julie hopes next time the bird is in need to cross the road it will take a different and higher flight path.“Thank you Chris for saving this lovely bird, for calling WIRES and taking the time to release it back into its home territory,” Julie said.If you find an injured native animal, or one in trouble, call the WIRES Emergency Hotline on 66281898. You can also visit the website http://www.wiresnr.orgWIRES is a non-profit, Non Party Political organisation, where animal welfare always comes first. All carers are voluntary, and give their time and emotions free of charge.Wires NR encompasses an 8800sq km area taking in the local government areas of Byron, Ballina, Richmond Valley, 

With roads being an important issue for the majority living in our local community, this is a good news story to end your day.The Federal and State Governments will join forces to deliver a program which will improve local roads and create jobs.The Federal Government has committed $191 million to build on the NSW Government’s $500 million Fixing Local Roads program, ensuring even more communities benefit.Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan said this is about generating jobs, encouraging spending and stimulating local economies.“This will see $14.5 million invested across 16 projects in our electorate,” Mr Hogan said. “It means smoother, safer trips along the roads our community use every day.”State Member for Clarence and Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Roads and Infrastructure Chris Gulaptis said this will drive real results for the region.“This is about delivering small projects that can make a big difference for local communities – projects that will drive valuable jobs in our region over the next 12 months as councils get cracking on delivery,” Mr Gulaptis said.In Lismore the roads that will receive funding include: Wilson Street (Casino Street to Robert White Bridge)Diadem Street (Laurel Avenue to Leycester Street)Caniaba Road (Ch. 527 to Muldoon Road)Tregeagle Road, TregeagleUralba Street (Brewster Street to Diadem Street)Cowlong Road (Soward Close to McKenzie Road)New Ballina Road (Ch.250 to O'Flynn Street)Woodlawn Road (Woodlawn College to 330m south of Savins Road)

The 2020 Lismore & Villages Relay For Life had their biggest raffle yet, which included a Toyota Yaris Ascent as the first prize (valued at $19,965). The lucky winner Emma claimed her prize from Lismore Toyota with the Lismore & Villages Relay For Life committee there to hand over the keys. “I can’t believe it, I’ve never owned a new car,” said Emma when hearing she had won the first prize. The 2020 Lismore & Villages Relay For Life has already raised $69,958 and has almost 500 individuals registered. The funds raised help Cancer Council NSW support residents in Lismore affected by cancer through vital research, prevention, information and support services, so no one faces a cancer diagnosis alone. “Thank you to the community for your ongoing support,” said Leanne Thompson, Lismore & Villages Relay For Life Chairperson. The organising committee has announced that the 7th and 8th November 2020 is the proposed rescheduled dates for Lismore & Villages Relay For Life. The committee and Cancer Council will be monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic then making decisions that is in the best interest of the health and safety of the community. "What we will be doing is monitoring the situation then in September we will be making the decision to potentially alter the event to fit within the current guidelines at that time""We will make whatever changes to the event that need to happen so it can still run and people can participate and doing so in a safe manner. We are completely open to any ideas that we will potentially have to make to the event like having two walking tracks given social distancing regulations" Relay For Life is a wonderful opportunity for individuals, families and businesses to reach out to those in our community living with cancer. The Lismore & Villages Relay For Life was scheduled for March 2020 but was postponed due to Covid-19. Every effort contributed, every cent raised or donated helps the cause in so many different ways. Let’s get together to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost and fight back against cancer. 

Three local business owners have banded together to take on Evans Head by opening a new store this Wednesday July 1.The Evans Emporium is the brainchild of Tracey Ryan from Fashion Profile in Woodlark Street and Petria Powell from Trea's Shoes in the Starcourt Arcade. They approached Matthew Healy from Daley's Homewares and Monograms soon after the initial discussions and now the three have taken the idea and turned it into a reality."A number of Evans Head shops have closed in recent months, which leaves a gap in the market leaving the people of Evans not being serviced", Matthew said."It's all based on what we currently do."Trea will stock a range of beautiful shoes but will include some beachy type products like sandals and thongs that she doesn't stock in Lismore.Tracey has taken all her dresses whilst putting in swimwear to cater for the Evans market."You can't buy a pair of thongs, you can't buy swimmer in Evans at the moment."Matthew is doing a cut down version of his range of Sheridan sheets and Dunlop pillows as well as tablecloths and napkins while including Bonds under pants. Apparently, something else you can't buy in Evans Head at the moment.Matthew added "the people of Evans have to travel to buy those items at the moment".The three business will share the 93 square metre space as well as staffing costs. All staff have been trained to sell the three different lines.Evans Emporium will also sell local products like Evans honey and Alstonville cosmetics so they can support the local community as well, just like they do in Lismore."In peak times during holidays we'll be open 7 days, normal hours closed Monday and Tuesday but open on the weekend."For Petria it is going back to Evan's head. Her daughter has the original Muzza's Milk Bar which opened in Evans in 2013 and is directly across the road from the Emporium. Petria brought Muzza's to Lismore then couldn't juggle both Trea's Shoes and Muzza's so closed Muzza's last year.It is nice to hear about three local business people seeing an opportunity then making it happen. It is not in the 2480 postcode but the profits will be brought back to Lismore.

Labelled as a healthy superfood, black rice is being trialled as a crop for the Australian subtropics - and it’s the focus of a new research project at Southern Cross University.Black rice shares the same naturally occurring ‘superfood’ compounds as blackberry and acai - and Southern Cross Plant Science Associate Professor Tobias Kretzschmar and his team are studying the nutritional quality of it closely.This new critical knowledge will enable future breeding of quality black rice cultivars that can exploit the growing environments of subtropical and northern Australian to enable domestic production of high-value, healthy black rice.“The demand for functional foods with health benefits, including black rice, is increasing both domestically and internationally,” Professor Kretzschmar said.“While high UV levels in Australia are often viewed as a negative climactic factor, this radiation may actually have an advantage in boosting the accumulation of healthy compounds in optimised black rice, making Australia – and specifically the NSW Northern Rivers – well placed to produce the highest quality black rice.”Black rice gets its dark colour from a range of naturally occurring compounds called ‘anthocyanins’ which are known to be beneficial agents in reducing inflammation, and has major antioxidant properties. Reduces GIImportantly they have the potential to reduce the GI (glycaemic index) of rice.Ass Prof Kretzschmar has worked with rice for more than 10 years, including at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines, where the International Rice Genebank (IRG) houses more than 100,000 types of rice, before joining Southern Cross University two years ago.This black rice project involved identifying 300 black rice lines from that collection, which originate from 19 countries across Asia and Africa.“We had screened the vast IRRI genebank for purple and black rice accessions and these were imported into Australia in January last year. “They then had to pass strict biosecurity measures, where they were grown for one full generation, from seed to seed, and tested for possible contamination under quarantine. So far 256 lines have been released,” Ass Prof Kretzschmar said.For the first time these black rice lines will be grown in Australia, with the backing of the Australian Research Council Linkage program.“When combined with local germplasm we will have more than 300 lines to be trialled.Crop alternatives“This project will pave the way for the development of a profitable crop alternative for farmers in the subtropics and northern Australia. “In the long term this has the potential to improve farm income and increase the financial sustainability of farming businesses, while also creating supply chains in processing and packaging in regional and remote areas.”Australia’s southern Riverina region already produces high quality rice. However, the pigmented rice is a niche crop with growth potential in domestic and international markets.“The project will also provide critical genetic and nutritional information for future breeding of high value ‘healthy’ rice to help meet the national targets of improving the health of Australians,” Ass Prof Kretzschmar said.Southern Cross Plant Science is based at the University’s Lismore campus in the NSW Northern Rivers region.Professor Bronwyn Barkla, Director of Southern Cross Plant Science, said this project will benefit from the centre’s strong expertise in the area of plant chemistry and will be supported by the University’s recent investment in high-end analytical equipment.

What to do with ourselves on weekends during these restricted COVID-19 times can be a problem.By now the house, lawns and gardens are looking brilliant with the odd jobs that needed doing fixed. If you like a little light exercise on a Sunday once a month then the Lismore Rainforest Botanic Garden walks offer a solution for you and if you have some spare time and love gardening then there is another opportunity for you as well as helping the community.Tracey Whitby is the Publicity Officer for the Friends of the Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens and says this is a fantastic sample of the local subtropical rainforest that is only three kilometres from the CBD."We only have plants that are from a 200km radius of Lismore and that are indigenous to the rainforest area", Tracey said. "you can experience rainforests without having to travel 30 to 60 minutes on dirt roads".With COVID restrictions the walks are limited to 10 people per walk. Tomorrow there will be two guided walks available both leave at 9:30am so you are asked to be there at 9:15am.Bookings are essential to keep the groups to ten and you can do that through by emailing publicity@friendslrbg.com.au."Tomorrow we will have a couple of walks including the Useful Garden walk which looks at how indigenous Australians use various plants for medicine, tools and shelter while the second walk takes you through the history of the regeneration of the gardens from a basic whole in the ground post land fill", Tracey explained.The Friends of the Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens is also looking for volunteers to help with the gardens. There is a weekly Wednesday workday as well as the once a month (last Sunday of each month). You only need a hat, some gloves, long sleeves and pants.Work includes propagation of seeds from rare trees that you help collect, germinate and pot to sell in the nursery.If you can volunteer please call 0405 596 705. Hours are between 8am and 11am.To get to the Botanic Gardens, head to the Wyrallah Road Waste Facility and take the first right when you go through the gates. You will see a visitor centre which is the meeting point.

Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions this weekend on Dawson Street at Lismore to carry out road maintenance and repair work between Leycester and Brunswick streets. Traffic will be restricted to one lane, alternate flow, between 8am and 4pm on Sunday 28 June while road resurfacing work is carried out to provide a stronger, longer lasting and safer road for motorists. Traffic control and a reduced speed limit will be in place for the safety of workers and motorists. Motorists are advised to allow an additional 10 minutes travel time, drive to the conditions, and follow the directions of signs and traffic control. Transport for NSW thanks motorists for their patience during this time. For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.

Yesterday was a first, the Lismore App went to the opening of a toilet block.While there is humour in that fact, there is also some seriousness surrounding the recently upgraded toilet block at the Lismore Showgrounds as it provides better access for those with disabilities and mobility problems.Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan opened the toilet block with Director of North Coast National Brad Lancaster. Mr Hogan saying he was first approached by Secretary of North Coast National Mark Bailey in 2018 to ask for funding to upgrade the facilities. "Mark told me that over 200,000 people use the showground each year and among those were groups like Red Inc, Pony Rides and other groups catering to groups with disabilities and the toilet facilities were simply not up to requirements"."I had no hesitation in accessing funding through the Helping Communities program and today we can see the result with a state of the art facility making the showground more accessible for people with a disability.Local building company Joel Jensen completed the upgrade.More improvements are to come with $4 million to improve walkways at the eastern end of the grounds so people with disabilities and mobility problems can easily access all the great events that will be held at the Lismore Showgrounds once large events can be held following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.Bard Lancaster said "the showgrounds is the hub of every community so it is pleasing to see the upgrades and improvements being made to the facilities here".Some more good news for the Lismore Showground when the Federal Government announced $36 million in funding to support agricultural show societies. “Agricultural shows are part of the fabric of our community, showcasing everything positive about our communities and local industries,” Mr Hogan said. “The Supporting Agricultural Shows program will provide a one-off reimbursement to agricultural show societies to deal with cash flow pressures.” “There is a real risk that if we had not helped our small shows, all of which are run by volunteers, could fold.”Indeed the precarious financial position of the showground was reported by the Lismore App in May. With eligible local shows possibly receiving $70,000 this will help cover the day to day operations of running the showground while there is no revenue coming in from major events.President John Gibson saying "It is good to see the Federal Government make an announcement for show societies because all the show societies around Australia are hurting. We appreciate all the help that State and Federal government have given us".

A quiet weekend ahead with more restrictions easing from next Wednesday July 1 like libraries then sport returning from mid-July following the school holidays. If you are not aware, the last day of school for Term 2 is next Friday July 3.Another 'last' occurs tomorrow, it will be the final printed edition of the Northern Star. In case you were not aware, the Northern Star will not be printing a physical newspaper after tomorrow's edition.The Northern Star has a long and distinguished history in the Northern Rivers with the first two page edition printed on May 13, 1876. While it ceased being a locally owned newspaper a long time it has been a lifelong ritual for many to buy the newspaper from your local newsagent or get it delivered to your house each morning to uncover the recent news from around the Northern Rivers. It will be a great loss to many elderly residents who are forced to embrace new technology to consume local news, sport and community information.If you know of people looking at ways to consume local news, tell them the Lismore App is free to download and it can be found in the App Store or the Play Store for android phones.It should be a wet weekend with a 70% chance of showers which translates to 2 to 5mm's on Saturday mainly at night then with 1 to 5mm's on Sunday. So, Saturday looks to be the best day to get odd jobs done around the house.This is also perfect timing for the Saturday morning markets with fresh fruit and vegetables, hot coffee and tea plus breakfast and live music starting at 8am with Blue Knob Community markets on from 8:30am.The cheapest petrol prices for the weekend fill up are at United on Ballina Road, cnr Keen Street, for E10 unleaded - while for diesel you shouldn't be paying more than 117.9 at the United and at Liberty on Ballina Road.This weekend, you can always check out what houses are for sale or rent on the Real Estate button Real Estate or if you are in search of a car, there is always plenty of used cars on the Cars/Bikes For Sale Cars/Bikes For Sale button.Geoff Wotherspoon is the Sunday Profile this week. Geoff will be familiar to many Lismorites as he is a third generation businessman, philatelist and historian.Neil Marks' regular Blog will be live in the morning for you looking at the affect that COVID-19 has had on our daily lives. Plus there is Veranda Talk column and a Letter To The Editor from Steve Mackney about the physical newspaper ceasing to exist after the last edition hits the shelves tomorrow.On a rainy Sunday try out the free puzzles and games you can play on the Lismore App if you have a spare moment. The Games/Puzzles button can be found at the bottom of the main page Games & Puzzles.As usual, here are some jokes to end the week.....

Two men have been extradited to Lismore following an extensive cross-border joint investigation into the supply of drugs and firearms.In January 2020, detectives attached to Richmond Police District Drug Unit and the State Crime Command’s Criminal Groups Squad established Strike Force Ranson to investigate the importation, manufacture and supply of prohibited drugs and the supply of prohibited weapons in Northern NSW and south-east Queensland.Following extensive inquiries, strike force investigators executed two search warrants at properties in Lismore and Ballina on Tuesday.During the searches, police allegedly located and seized methylamphetamine and MDMA, firearms parts and cash.A 28-year-old Ballina man was arrested and charged. He remains before the courts.As part of joint inquiries, Queensland Police Service State Crime Command’s Drug and Serious Crime Group executed three search warrants at homes in Highland Park, Mudgeeraba and Ashmore, where they arrested two men, aged 27 and 36. Detectives also located and seized firearms and a pill press used in the manufacture of MDMA pills.Victoria Police also executed two search warrants at homes in Abbotsford and Balaclava. A 27-year-old man was arrested at the Abbotsford property and a second 27-year-old man at a property in Surrey Hills. During these searches, police located and seized an amount of Australian cash.The 27-year-old Highland Park man appeared at Southport Magistrates Court on a NSW arrest warrant on Wednesday, where strike force investigators applied for and were granted his extradition.He was taken to Lismore Police Station and charged with manufacture prohibited drug (large commercial quantity) and supply prohibited drug (large commercial quantity).He was refused bail to appear at Lismore Local Court yesterday, where he was granted conditional bail to appear at the same court on Wednesday August 26.The 27-year-old Victorian man appeared at Melbourne Magistrates Court on a NSW arrest warrant on Wednesday, where investigators applied for and were granted his extradition.He was taken to Lismore Police Station and charged with knowingly deal with the proceeds of crime.He was refused bail to appear at Lismore Local Court today.Strike force detectives are yet to apply for an extradition for a second Queensland man and a second Victorian man.Investigations under Strike Force Ranson are ongoing.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.auInformation is treated in strict confidence.

It was 100 years ago today that the first air mail flight left Lismore loaded with precious bags of letters. The journey took one and a half hours and involved a pilot and a Royal Mail contractor.The Tiger Moth plane was bound for Casino and Tenterfield and today, a re-enactment of that flight will take place from Lismore at 12.30pm in a very similar plane to the one that made the trip 100 years ago.The reenactment of the flight is the brain child of Geoff Wotherspoon – a local historian with an avid interest in stamps.While the world has moved on to split second communication technology, Geoff’s dream was to see this reenactment happen.Geoff spent three years researching the history of the aerial mail service in Northern New South Wales and recently, published a book ‘Per Aerial Mail’.Geoff and Betty Wotherspoon in front of Lismore’s oldest remaining post box.He gathered support from politicians and local community members to make it happen and even created a commemorative set of envelopes with stamps created that people can post.Today, June 26, 2020, Geoff and his mother Betty Wotherspoon will be watching the plane take off on it’s historic journey again.Geoff said the plane will depart at 12.30pm from Northern Rivers Aero Club in Lismore, arriving in Tenterfield at 2.30pm with a stopover in Casino on the way.  He has even co-ordinated the children from Mummulgum School to wave to the Tiger Moth as it flies overhead. Geoff said the children have been given stationery to write letters which will be carried on the plane, along with letters written by local politicians and community members.People are welcome to come along and watch the historic flight take off from Northern Rivers Aero Club at Airport Drive, South Lismore at 12.30pm.His book an commemorative stationary is available for sale in Lismore at the Penny Man shop in the Star Court Arcade.For more information, read about Geoff Wotherspoon, his family and the historic mail flight in this Sunday’s Sunday Profile on The Lismore App.

With pay cuts on the cards for public sector workers such as nurses and firefighters, a new petition launched today could help turn the government’s decision around.Lismore MP Janelle Saffin, Shadow Minister for the North Coast Adam Searle and union representatives today launched the paper-based petition and are calling on the wider community to get behind it.“We need 10,000 signatures on the petition to trigger a debate in Parliament,” Ms Saffin said.  “To trigger a debate in the house, the petition needs to on paper, and anyone can come to my office and sign one, or we can email or drop them off to you."Our local nurses and midwives, teachers, police, paramedics, cleaners, drivers and many other public sector workers have risked their lives to look after others during the COVID-19 pandemic and have been rewarded with a pay cut.“Our heroes deserve a medal, not a callous and mean pay cut."Janelle Saffin MP and Adam Searle MLC launch a petition against a public sector pay cut.Mr Searle, who is also Shadow Minister for Industrial Relations, said there were 4363 public sector worker across the Lismore Electorate.“They are 992 teachers, 1650 health workers and 157 police officers who will have their pay cut, and many other public service employees who will miss out,” he said.Mr Searle said the decision to cut wage increases in public sector workers pay had already been debated in the upper house and had been defeated – but that the fight was not over. “Now the matter is with the Industrial Relations commission and need to act quick,” he said. “We need an ongoing campaign before they make their decision in the next few weeks.Mr Searle said reasonable wage increases are a vital stimulus measure for local economies. "Now is the time to put dollars in pockets, not take them away," he said."Struggling local small businesses will also suffer if people have less money in their pockets to spend."Mr Searle's petition brings to Parliament House's attention the NSW Government's plans to cut the pay of more than 400,000 public sector workers across New South Wales.Petitioners are asking the Legislative Assembly to urgently pass legislation blocking this proposed pay cut and to commit to protecting the pay and conditions of all workers across New South Wales.To contact Janelle Saffin, visit https://janellesaffin.com.au/

The long running debate about the Lismore Lake Pool continues with councillors, the General Manager and the Federal Member for Page all getting involved.During the June 16 council meeting when the Operational Plan for 2020/21 was being discussed and ultimately passed, there was passionate discussion about the Lismore Lake Pool.Councillor Nancy Casson put an amendment forward to include the Lake Pool in the 2020 Operational Plan with no funding attached but stated she was aware of funding through the Federal member for Page's office.This was disputed by Mayor and Chair of council meetings Isaac Smith who said there was no forthcoming funding. Cnr Casson replied that "It is funded Mr Mayor, it is funded and I'm clarifying that with the Federal member's Office.Cnr Casson went on to say there were text messages sent to Mayor Smith and General Manager Shelley Oldham about funding offered for the Lismore airport flight landing, the Hannah Cabinet and the Lake Pool.Ultimately, the amendment was then voted down by the majority of councillors so the Lismore Lake Pool was not included in the Operational Plan for this coming financial year funded or not.The fight doesn't end there.Yesterday, Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan released this statement."There was no request from Lismore City Council for the funding of Lismore Lake Pool. I informally approached Council that I could get $2 million for the project during the 2019 election campaign. Council said they were not interested as they were looking at selling the land."The Lismore App then received this statement from the General Manager of Lismore City Council Shelley Oldham;"Council is in regular communications with both State and Federal Governments regarding grant and funding opportunities. We follow a strict process of analysis, evaluation, and consultation prior to any submissions being made to Local Members to ensure any funding accepted does not impact on future budget maintenance and our resourcing strategy.Preliminary conversations are conducted regularly, and before proceeding with any submissions to State and Federal members the Corporate Planning processes are followed to ensure appropriate levels of probity, transparency and alignment with councils direction.Up to, and until, this process begins all communications are confidential, as to not impact a variety of matters, including procurement, cost benefit analysis, maintenance impacts, risk evaluations and more. Unfortunately, as has been made clear throughout recent public Council meetings, the issue of Councillor and Staff confidentiality has been a recurring hindrance.I am aware of a draft press release referencing potential grant funding from a Federal Member of Parliament that has found its way into Council. At no time had council sought funding, been consulted as to whether funding was required, any agreement been made, nor any formal process initiated, as per the appropriate processes. The Federal MP in question was notified some time ago of a security breach within his office and I am sure that will be handled by the affected MP in an appropriate manner.It is the responsibility of all members of Lismore City Council to adhere to confidentiality guidelines, but at times this has been ignored to the detriment of both Council’s public perception and broader community outcomes, and once again this seems to be the case.We want to make it clear that we are always looking at any opportunities that will better enable us to deliver on the outcomes detailed in our Delivery Program and the activities in the Operational Plan.Recently we have secured Federal funding of $4.2m to facilitate improvements to the Lismore Regional Airport, State and Federal funding of $4.7m to facilitate upgrades to Oakes Oval and Crozier Field and $1.5m in State funding for CBD revitalisation.Now more than ever it is important we work closely with all levels of government to secure funding and ensure our community is not impacted unnecessarily given recent circumstances."Regardless of funding being offered and rejected, the fact remains that the Lismore Lake Pool is not included in the Operational Plan for 2020/21 but have we heard the last of this controversial community facility that was closed in 2011, some nine years ago? More than likely....no.

Just before 3pm this afternoon the Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked by Ambulance New South Wales to reports of an injured bush walker on the Mount Nardi trail at Mount Nardi, north of Nimbin. It was reported that a 56 year old male bush walker has slipped 5km into the forest trail and acquired an injured ankle.  Local Ambulance Paramedic and Police Rescue Personnel located the male and commenced treatment for a fractured ankle. Due to the remoteness and steep terrain of the location the Westpac Rescue Helicopter winched inserted the Helicopter Critical Care Paramedic who assisted in treatment of the male prior to being winch out from the scene and flown direct to the Lismore Base Hospital in a stable condition. 

Another Black Lives Matter protest rally is planned for tomorrow, Friday, June 26 from 12-5pm in Spinks Park, Lismore.Widjabul Wybal woman Cindy Roberts said after the last protest in Lismore brought hundreds of people to the city streets on June 6, following social distancing protocols remains a priority at the rally.Read more news: Thursday Night Live explores 'Always Was – Always Will be?'Read about previous protests: Hundreds defy public gathering regulations in support of Black Lives Matter rally“We have a right to hold a non-violent, peaceful protest on Widjabul Wybal soil, but the police are worried about people not following the safety guidelines for Covid-19,” Cindy said. “So, the protest is going to go ahead and we are going to make sure we don’t give the police a reason to stop it.“We will be there earlier in the morning putting markers on the ground where groups of 20 people can stand, with each group standing 1.5 metres apart.“We will also have masks and hand sanitiser for people to use.“Nurses and medical staff will be coming along and we have been speaking with the health to make sure we follow all the right guidelines.”Cindy said the protest was important to call attention and speak out against injustice and racism across Australia – and the world – and called the people of Lismore to stand in solidarity with Aboriginal people.The Black Lives Matter movement is growing across the world. The peaceful protest movement was triggered by the viral sharing of video showing the brutal death of George Floyd, 46 - an African-American man killed by police in Minneapolis recently.While the police officers involved in the incident in America were charged with murder, Cindy said that was just to “silence the masses” and that Australia has an even bigger problem.  “We’ve seen the same thing too many times in this country – and the perpetrators have walked free. That’s not justice,” she said.“Aboriginal people make up 3% of the population, but 30% are incarcerated – they are in the highest rates highest of incarceration in the world.“It’s not about black or white, it’s about stopping racism in the justice system - black lives matter.“Black fellas are still suffering in an unfair justice system - we are still living under a white, oppressive government and being targeted is not new to us.“Until we stand together and speak out, nothing will change.For more information, visit the event Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1399720673554941/Read more news: Auditions open for new TV series to be filmed locally

Tonight, Lismore's monthly Thursday Night Live panel explores the topic 'Always Was – Always Will be?’ - and you are invited to participate online via zoom..In what would normally be NAIDOC week, Southern Cross University (SCU) academics from Gnibi College of Indigenous Australian Peoples will join facilitator Dhinawan Baker to discuss the strong response to the Black Lives Matter movement across Australia.SCU lecturers Rachel Lynwood, and Rod Williams will also discuss the Sorry Day destruction by Rio Tinto of the Juukan Gorge ancient sacred site in Western Australia,The zoom webinar begins at 5.45pm and the panel conversation begins at 6pm and finishes at 7pm, tonight, Thursday, July 9.Participants will be able to interact via the live moderated chatThursday Night Live! is an evening of provocation, discussion and dialogue and is a partnership event of Southern Cross University and the Lismore Regional Gallery.To join the event, visit, https://www.facebook.com/events/2771464216415466/?notif_t=plan_user_invited&notif_id=1593045438942679Read more news: All is nearly normal as libraries reopen