The new once-a-month Sunday Bowlo Markets were in full sunlight and full swing yesterday at the Lismore Bowling Club.After a week of opening anything that moved last week, Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin and Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg reunited to cut the ribbon to formally declare the markets open. Also in attendance were the club's five life members, ranging in age from mid-eighties to 94. There have been two previous markets in June and July. The Bowlo Markets are held on the bowling green near the Lismore Baths, and have already grown from 25 to over 40 stallholders selling everything from baby clothes, metal artwork, woodwork, hats, fur wear for your pet, opal jewellery and different food offerings.Mayor Krieg said the development application that the Bowling Club needed to lodge to operate was successful, so Sharon and Mark Pepper, along with the Board, can legally operate the markets on the third Sunday of every month."One of the most asked questions that Janelle and I get constantly is when are the Car Boot Markets coming back?, or when are we getting a market in town? The cinema is number one, and we have solved that problem with them opening before Christmas, hopefully. The markets were number two," Mayor Krieg said."I just want to say it is exciting to be here, and I want to thank everybody associated with the Lismore Bowling Club, not only for today, but for the way they stepped up in providing live entertainment and services here."“The Lismore City Bowlo already has its Jazz afternoons on the first Sunday of the month, and now the markets on the Third Sunday, and they can go ahead even if it rains.”"This is actually one of those days where you can truly celebrate," Ms Saffin told the crowd. "And I know this will grow bigger and better."The next Lismore Bowlo Market will be held on Sunday, 21 September, 171A Molesworth Street, between 9am and 1pm.

Resilient Lismore is holding its first formal dinner, Hearts and Stars, at the Lismore Regional Gallery on 19th September.“We welcome locals to dress up, dine and celebrate our strengths, while raising our spirits!” said Elly Bird, Executive Director.The evening promises glamour, fun, and community connection – all while raising funds to support Resilient Lismore’s ongoing recovery and resilience work across the Northern Rivers. There will be games to play and prizes to win – including best dressed award!.“The theme is ‘Hearts and Stars’, so we’re encouraging guests to wear their hearts on their sleeves and shine like stars,” said Emma Newman, Events Coordinator. “It’s a chance to feel fabulous while supporting something really meaningful.”The MC for the evening will be funny lady Gabrielle Griffin (GG), who you may know from band duo Mutton, or previously from The Two Frocks, or maybe even from the face of the Sun at the recent Lantern Parade. Local musicians will provide dulcet tunes, and games will be played for prizes. Sumptuous catering will be provided by Take Care Cafe, the new cafe at the gallery.Funds raised will support Resilient Lismore to continue to offer a free tool library, community events, workshops in tool and repair skills and support locals to be better prepared for future disasters.Hearts & Stars DetailsA night with Resilient Lismore Lismore Regional Gallery Friday 19th September 2025 from 5.30 – 9.30pmBookings essentialTickets:Early bird until 5th September $60Second round 6th to 14th September $70For ages 18 +Enquiries: 0411 967 690 or events@resilientlismore.org.auBookings & info: resilientlismore.org.au/workshops-events/ or come into the Resilient Lismore Hub at 215 Keen Street, Wednesday to Friday, 10am to 2pm.

A new study has found that improving pre-hospital stroke identification accuracy in women to match that of men will lead to significant health benefits and cost savings for all Australians.Published in the Medical Journal of Australia, the study sought to estimate the long-term gains in life years and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and the cost savings that could be achieved if ischaemic stroke was identified in women with the same level of accuracy received by men, versus the status quo.Western Sydney University lead researcher, Associate Professor Lei Si from the School of Health Sciences and the Translational Health Research Institute, said that women are 11 per cent less likely than men to be correctly identified as having a stroke by emergency medical staff.The study used a health economic modelling approach to quantify the health and economic cost of the missed opportunity to diagnose women as accurately as men are currently diagnosed, revealing that it costs the Australian public millions.“Our study shows that if we could match the accuracy with which men’s strokes are identified, women would gain an average of 51 extra days of life and nearly a month of life in perfect health — all while saving nearly $3,000 in healthcare costs per patient,” said Associate Professor Si, corresponding author of the study.“At the national level, this could translate to over 250 additional life years, 144 extra quality-adjusted life years, and $5.4 million in healthcare savings each year.”“This is an important finding because accurate and timely pre-hospital stroke identification increases the chance of receiving intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) within the critical 60-minute treatment window, which significantly improves patient health outcomes and saves medical costs.”Jordan Springs resident, Kelly Ryan, was only 32 years old when she suffered a stroke in September 2020 in the cerebellum posterior part of her brain after a chiropractic session left her with a bilateral vertebral artery dissection.At the time, her symptoms were loss of balance, blurred double vision, vomiting, and an ice-pick style headache, and she was incorrectly diagnosed with vertigo and a migraine.F.A.S.T is the current acronym commonly used in identifying a stroke, which includes noticing changes in a patient’s Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and acting in a Timely manner to receive treatment for the best outcomes.However, the F.A.S.T protocol does not capture all types of strokes and overlooks other stroke symptoms, including changes in balance, eyes and nausea that Kelly was experiencing.While both men and women can experience the classic F.A.S.T positive stroke symptoms, women are more likely to present with additional, sometimes subtle, symptoms that can easily be overlooked.“Initially, I was shrugged off as just having a migraine and vertigo, as I was not FAST positive, it took six hours to get a CT scan, and I was sent home with an outpatient appointment for an MRI a week later. It took a total of 2 weeks to be diagnosed as having a stoke,” said Kelly.“Had my stroke been recognised early on, I may have been a candidate for the clot-busting drug, which could have stopped or at least reduced the damage of the stroke.”“People all around the world have been through the same thing, sometimes even waiting months for someone to take them seriously, as medical staff are so focused on someone being FAST positive to diagnose stroke, people like me are falling through the cracks.”The study, ‘Health and economic benefits of improving pre-hospital identification of stroke in Australian women: a modelling study’ was led by a team of researchers from Western Sydney University, UNSW Sydney, and The George Institute for Global Health Australia and UK.

Goonellabah’s Tucki Tucki Creek is showing signs of ecological recovery thanks to the sustained efforts of two dedicated Landcare groups, according to ongoing water quality monitoring conducted by local environmental consultancy Ecoteam. Ecoteam was founded in 2003 with a handful of founding staff members and is a Lismore business success story despite challenges such as COVID and recent major floods, with 22 employees at present.Ecoteam very generously agreed to undertake detailed bi-annual stream and ecosystem health assessments on the Tucki Tucki Creek on a pro bono basis over a period of three years, commencing in December 2023. Since that start date, twice-yearly assessments by Ecoteam staff members have tracked the health of the creek at two key sites. Fresh water testing at Site 1 takes place upstream on the Tucki Tucki Creek near Birdwing Butterfly Gully in the area managed by Goonellabah Tucki Landcare, with Site 2 downstream at a pool and reach under Just Street Landcare’s stewardship. The monitoring program combines water quality testing, macroinvertebrate sampling, and fish surveys to evaluate stream health. Field teams measure in-situ parameters like pH and temperature using handheld devices, collect water samples for laboratory analysis, and assess turbidity levels. Aquatic macroinvertebrates are sampled with nets to gauge biodiversity and ecosystem health, while fish are surveyed using traps and nets to record species presence and abundance. These methods collectively offer a comprehensive picture of the creek’s ecological condition.Initial findings and ongoing challengesResults from the last two years indicate that water quality in the Tucki Tucki Creek has generally remained within Australian guidelines, with key indicators such as dissolved oxygen, phosphorus and turbidity staying stable. However, nutrient levels, specifically nitrogen and phosphorus, have exceeded recommended thresholds in recent sampling rounds. Total nitrogen peaked at 0.52 mg/L at Site 1 in June 2025, and phosphorus levels also rose above guideline levels, likely due to increased stormwater runoff from heavy rainfall events, which occurred prior and during the past two sampling assessments. Despite these nutrient spikes, heavy metals such as lead, zinc, and arsenic have remained low, suggesting minimal contamination from industrial sources.Encouragingly, biological indicators point to a healthier ecosystem. Macroinvertebrate diversity has increased; documented through improved macroinvertebrate assessment or ‘SIGNAL’ scores, which reflect better water quality. Fish diversity remains limited, with the Crimson Spotted Rainbow Fish consistently present, although their numbers fluctuate seasonally. Rarer species like Firetail Gudgeon and Catfish were only observed in December 2023, indicating that some aquatic fauna are still recovering.(Ecoteam scientists examining macroinvertebrates)Protecting our platypus populationPlatypus face threats nationwide and locally due to habitat loss and water pollution. While the creek’s current water quality remains within acceptable limits for platypus survival, levels of nutrients like phosphorus are approaching thresholds that could impact their populations. Elevated nitrogen and phosphorus levels can reduce aquatic invertebrate prey and degrade habitat quality, increasing the risk of decline. Maintaining and improving water quality through continued restoration and monitoring is vital to ensure the future of this unique species, which is sighted regularly at Tucki Tucki Creek.Looking ahead: continued monitoring and restorationGoonellabah Tucki and Just Street Landcare’s riparian planting and habitat restoration efforts appear to be making a positive difference, enhancing the creek’s resilience to storm events and improving overall ecosystem health. The next phase of Ecoteam’s monitoring program will include new sampling sites plus data collection over a further three years in partnership with Goonellabah Tucki Landcare on its significant new project site bordering on the Tucki Tucki Creek below Kookaburra Terrace and further East. Approximately 10 hectares is being planted as part of a project funded by the Australian Government’s Natural Heritage Trust under the Urban Rivers and Catchments Program, supported by Lismore City Council’s Environmental Strategies Team. This extensive new site will add to the approximately 18 hectares of regenerating riparian rainforest already planted along Tucki Tucki Creek which is enjoyed and appreciated by so many residents and visitors. Ecoteam’s onging testing across the new site aims to provide a baseline to measure potential long-term improvements in water quality and creek health at the largest single riparian planting project ever undertaken by Goonellabah Tucki Landcare.Takeout from the water quality testingEcoteam senior environmental engineer and company director Lise Bolton oversees the water quality testing program, which provides the opportunity for a sizeable number of her scientific and other staff to undertake sampling and monitoring. (Ecoteam's Jacob and Anna using a fish trap in the Birdwing Butterfly walk)“We’re really happy to partner with Landcare groups and provide our knowledge and expertise on a sponsorship basis,” commented Lise. “We’d like to see the scientific assessment of the state of all our region’s waterways form the basis of an annual ‘Healthy Waterways Report Card’ which can inform everyone just how their favourite creeks, streams and rivers are doing.”“The encouraging signs from Tucki Tucki Creek’s waterway health and water quality monitoring underscore the importance of sustained ecological restoration and vigilant water quality monitoring and management,” said Lise, adding that “Support from local government to establish a more widespread and comprehensive Healthy Waterways program would bolster these efforts, ensuring that Goonellabah’s creeks remain vibrant habitats for native species and a vital part of the community’s natural landscape.”

A diet rich in vegetables and fruit is associated with reduced psychological distress, a detailed analysis of health survey data from more than 45,000 Australians has found.The study by QUT researchers based at Brisbane’s Translational Research Institute (TRI) found that people who consumed less than one serve of vegetables per day had 1.6 times the odds of suffering psychological distress compared with those who consumed five or more serves per day. Psychological distress is an umbrella term covering depression, anxiety and stress.Study first author Dr Kerri Gillespie from QUT’s School of Clinical Sciences, found the benefit of vegetable consumption appeared to be greatest in women.“Women appear to go on benefiting from vegetables in their diet up to five or more serves per day, while for men the benefit appears to peak at around three or four serves per day,” Dr Gillespie said.The study also found a correlation between fruit consumption and reduced prevalence of psychological distress, but mostly for women and only up to two daily servings.Study last author Professor Selena Bartlett, from QUT’s School of Clinical Sciences, said the findings were unexpected.“The findings are extremely significant because it’s an Australian study with a very large sample of more than 45,000 people. It’s very exciting,” Professor Bartlett said.“Correlation is never causation, and we have to be careful about that, but rarely do we think deeply about how diet affects our psychological health, and I think that's the beauty of the study.”Dr Gillespie conducted a second study of the association of diet with mental health based on an online survey of healthy adults.“We found an interesting pattern between the consumption of sugary soft drink and the risk of depression,” Dr Gillespie said.  “Having seven or more cups of soft drinks a week increased the odds of depression by almost five times. “Conversely, there appears to be a relationship between a high fibre diet and slightly lower anxiety.”Dr Gillespie cautioned that the study was based on a sample of only 129 people, but it showed patterns that could be looked for in a larger sample. Professor Bartlett said Dr Gillespie’s work added to the evidence of a link between diet and mental health.“Having the curiosity to ask these questions, that’s how these papers happened,” Professor Bartlett said.“We are not in any way saying eating more vegetables is a cure for mental health, but this research supports the existing health messaging recommending diets high in vegetables and low in sugar.“We hope this work will help the public and improve health and well-being, which is our role here at the Translational Research Institute,” Professor Bartlett said.The first study, Vegetable and Fruit Consumption and Psychological Distress: Findings from Australian National Health Survey Data, 2011–2018, was published in The International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.The second study, The association of dietary components with depression and anxiety symptoms: findings from a cross-sectional survey, was published in Frontiers in Nutrition.

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail, Invercauld House and Contained in Nimbin have struck gold in the recent North Coast Tourism Awards.The Northern Rivers Rail Trail won Gold in the Adventure Tourism category, as well as Silver in the Tourist Attraction category.This year's win makes it back-to-back for the Rail Trail, as it won gold in 2024 in the Outstanding Tourism Start-up category.Late 2024 saw the completion and opening of the Lismore to Casino stage of the eventual 132km trail between Murwillumbah and Casino.There are two more sections to be built in the coming years (Lismore to Byron Bay and Crabbes Creek to Mullumbimby) before the final Mullumbimby to Byron Bay section completes the 132km rail trail.Dean Cooper, Regional Lead for the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, said the award is a powerful acknowledgment of the team’s vision, collaboration and community impact.“Winning Gold this year in the Adventure Tourism category is an incredible honour. It reflects not just a great visitor experience, but the combined efforts of multiple councils, community champions, trail operators and volunteers,” Dean said.“This win represents the success of multiple open sections from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek and from Casino to Lismore, all of which have rapidly established themselves as iconic drawcards for the region.“We are grateful to Tweed Shire Council, Richmond Valley Council and Lismore City Council for their leadership in construction and ongoing operation. A huge thank you also to our trail users, local villages, supporters, and commercial operators. Without your energy and passion, this trail wouldn’t be what it is today,” he said“To be recognised with a win again this year—and as Silver award winners in the Tourist Attraction category— is testament to the continued momentum of the Rail Trail and its powerful connection to nature, local culture and sustainable tourism,” Dean said.Lismore was well represented at this year's awards in Byron Bay, with Invercauld House winning gold in the Business Event Venues category and Contained in Nimbin won gold in the Self-Contained Accommodation category.(Eli Fuller with his Gold medal award in the Business Event Venue category. Photo: Invercauld House)Karen Hirst from the Destination Lismore team said this year's gold winners will travel to Sydney for the NSW Australian Tourism Awards on October 14.The hugely popular Lismore Lantern Parade won a Bronze medal in the Festivals and Events category to wrap up a fantastic night for Lismore at the award ceremony."Congratulations to all our winners," Karen said, "They all raise the profile of Lismore and generate publicity for the region."

We are just over two weeks away from runners in the 2025 Darrell Chapman Fun Run taking off from Woodlark Street in Lismore's CBD.For those who have spent months training to be at peak fitness for the annual event, there is another opportunity to keep the fitness motivation going as we move into spring.The Alstonville Wollongbar Fun Run is back and is being held on Sunday, September 14, from 7am to 12pm at Alstonville High School for friendly competition and community fun.Lace up your sneakers and choose from a variety of distances to suit all fitness levels: 10km Run5km Run 3km Run 5km Walk1km Junior DashCommunity RelayWhether you're a seasoned runner, a casual walker, or a budding artist, there's something for everyone at this year's event, including prizes, plenty of activities, food and live music.Between races, you can also check out the Young Entrepreneurs Market.Running alongside the Fun Run, the Young Entrepreneurs Market, presented in partnership with D-Vine Creatives, is a vibrant showcase of young talent and creativity. This market provides a platform for young people to display their small businesses and handmade products. Explore a diverse range of offerings, including original art (paintings, drawings, and mixed media creations), handcrafted jewellery, crochet, sewing, badges and much more! It's a fantastic opportunity to support young entrepreneurs, discover unique treasures, and enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere. Organisers would like to thank their sponsors, as their generous support makes the Alstonville Wollongbar Fun Run possible: Allambi Care, Ballina Buslines, Daley Street Dental, Fitness Kidz, McGrath, Somerville Laundry and Lomax Solicitors, and Trident Fish & Grill.Register today at alstonvillewollongbarfunrun.com.au. For the market, stalls are $20 and can be booked here: https://www.trybooking.com/DDWCS.Don't miss out on an exciting day of fitness, creativity, and community spirit.

The NSW Government has announced Dr Katherine Clift as the state’s new Independent Biosecurity Commissioner, to provide expert advice and strengthen the state’s safeguards against biosecurity threats.Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin has welcomed the announcement that one of Dr Clift’s first priorities will be to provide advice on the state’s Cattle Tick Program.“The tick program has been running for more than 100 years in our region, to protect livestock in north-east NSW up to the Queensland border, where the tick is a well-known pest.“I have been working with farmers, veterinarians and farmers' organisations to get attention for this program and am very pleased to see it has been flagged as such an important issue for the Commissioner.“The NSW Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty, has asked Dr Clift to determine the most effective approach for the future management of cattle tick in NSW, and I thank the Minister for highlighting this as a priority.“Dr Clift will work with stakeholders in the beef industry in our region, review the present program and make recommendations for improvements to get more effective biosecurity outcomes.“Dr Clift is an internationally respected leader in biosecurity animal welfare, and regulatory reform, and recently held the role of Commonwealth Inspector-General of Animal Welfare and Live Animal Exports.“It was a Minns Government election commitment to set up the role of Biosecurity Commissioner to provide independent expert advice on biosecurity protection, detection and response. This year, the government has invested a historic $1.05 billion to protect the state’s primary industries and boost growth in the sector.”

This may be difficult to believe, but Lismore and the Northern Rivers have a sunny weekend ahead.The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting a typical cool winter start, with temperatures of 5 and 6 degrees, followed by a spring-like 22 degrees for Saturday and 18 degrees for Sunday.Make the most of the clear skies because rain will return from late Monday into Tuesday.Those who cannot get domestic chores done during the week will be mowing lawns, weeding and hedging while the sun is shining this weekend.For those with some time on their hands and are looking for something to do that doesn't involve sodden, boggy ovals or ground, it is another arts and market weekend.ARTThere are two more weekends to visit the Lismore Regional Gallery in The Quad to see the 2024 Archibald Prize.Sunday, August 31, is closing day. The gallery is open 10am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday. You are advised to book tickets for one of three sessions, that is 10am to 12pm, 12pm to 2pm and 2pm to 4pm, by clicking here.There will be a free entry day on Thursday, August 28.The Lismore Art Club's 60th Annual Exhibition will be on display at Flourish Art Gallery on Casino Street, South Lismore (next door to Chempro) tomorrow (Saturday) between 10am and 2pm.MARKETSThe Lismore Farmers Markets will be looking forward to a sunny start at 7:30 tomorrow morning at the Lismore Showgrounds, even if the ground may be wet.The CWA Lismore Evening Branch returns in August, selling their beloved scones and other baked goods, dog coats, and handmade wares. Hot coffee, tea and breakfast are on offer as well as fresh fruit and veg and live music from Phil Bromley until 11:30am.The Sunday market this weekend is the Bowlo Market at the Lismore City Bowling Club (Molesworth Street) between 9am and 1pm.It is the official opening with State Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin, and Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg, who have opened everything this week, making the declaration at about 11am.The Bowlo Market has been steadily growing since it started in June. There will be over 45 stalls selling a range of arts and crafts, both inside the clubhouse and outside on one of the bowling greens.The new Lismore Skatepark has its Grand Opening tomorrow (Saturday) from 12 noon. I know, it is opening again (insert wry smile). But this one is a fun community event celebrating the success of the design and build of an amazing facility.Get down to the Lismore Skatepark (corner of Uralba and Dawson Street) and celebrate with demos, clinics, skate jam, giveaways, food and live bands including Soy Division and PEP.COMING UPDarrell Chapman Fun Run - Sunday, August 31, from 7amAlstonville Wollongbar Fun Run - Sunday, September 14, from 7:30amNimbin Show - Saturday and Sunday, September 20 & 212025 Lismore Workers Club Lismore Cup - Friday, September 26, from 12 noonLIVE MUSICThe Northern Rivers Hotel has a full weekend of live music.The Hillbilly Skank are on stage tonight (Friday) from 6pm, Hello Ray Duo perform on Saturday night from 7, and Dan Hannaford will get on stage for the Sunday Session from 12:30pm.The soulful sound of the Everly Brothers - Morning Melodies can be heard at the Lismore Workers Club next Wednesday, August 20.This is a lunchtime show where you will learn about the beautiful harmonies of Phil and Don Everly and hear their hits, like Bird Dog and Cathy's Clown. Click here to book your tickets for $29.90, which includes lunch.Coming up at the Workers Club:Oh What A Night! - A musical tribute to Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons: September 20 at 8pmThe Flying Forties - Penny Pavlakis, Greg Gould and friends celebrate the music of Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, Judy Garland, Nat King Cole and more with their 9-piece big band: October 4 at 8pm.CHEAPEST PETROL PRICESBallina is still the cheapest town to fill the tank over the weekend, especially if you are there after 8pm, when prices tend to drop another 10 cents a litre.Here is the list of the cheapest service stations, saving you the most money in each town:E10 is 174.9 across Lismore, 172.3 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino, and 165.5 at the Mobil and The Metro on River Street, Ballina.Unleaded 91 is 175.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road, 174.3 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino, and 167.5 at the Metro and the Mobil on River Street, Ballina.U95 is 184.5 at Brad's Independent on Terania Street, North Lismore, 198.9 at the Independent on Canterbury Street, and 179.5 at The Metro on River Street, Ballina.U98 is 192.9 at the Astron and Liberty on Ballina Road in Lismore, and the Liberty on Union Street, South Lismore, 194.9 at the two Independents on Hare and Centre Street in Casino, and 187.5 at The Metro on River Street in Ballina.Diesel is 180.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road in Lismore, 181.9 at The United and the Casino Roadhouse on Johnston Street, and the two Liberty's on Hare and Centre Street in Casino, and 187.5 at the Mobil and The Metro in Ballina.Have a great weekend!Now, have a laugh with the Friday Funnies.....

For most women, cervical screening can be an awkward but necessary test. Yet for First Nations women, additional barriers, such as a lack of access to culturally safe care and stigma, are leading to lower screening rates, putting them at a higher risk of developing cervical cancer.Southern Cross University (SCU) has been awarded $2,498,994 over three years from the federal government through Cancer Australia’s Partnerships for Cancer Research grant program for the innovative project, SISTASCREEN (2024/PCR/2044742).SISTASCREEN will codesign and implement strategies to increase uptake of opportunistic cervical screening during pregnancy and postpartum for First Nations women.The project’s chief investigator is Worimi woman Dr Marilyn Clarke from the Faculty of Health at the University’s Coffs Harbour campus. Dr Clarke is an obstetrician and gynaecologist who has been working on Gumbaynggirr country for the past 20 years.“SISTASCREEN aims to increase cervical screening rates by offering the test during routine antenatal checkups,” said Dr Clarke.“Antenatal visits at their local Aboriginal community-controlled health service is an opportunistic time to engage First Nations women in cervical screening in a way which ensures culturally safety and empowerment.”Among First Nations women, there is a persistent disparity in the incidence and mortality of cervical cancer as well as in cervical screening rates.“Engaging women early in positive cervical screening experiences and treatment pathways will set them up to engage in regular screening during their life course beyond the pregnancy. SISTASCREEN aims to ensure First Nations women are not left behind as Australia works towards the elimination of cervical cancer,” said Dr Clarke.SCU will be partnering with the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) to create and deliver the project.NACCHO CEO, Pat Turner AM, welcomed the partnership, saying: “For too long, our women have faced barriers to lifesaving screening and care, barriers rooted in systems that weren’t designed for us, by us. The truth is, we cannot eliminate cervical cancer in Australia while Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women continue to be left behind.“SISTASCREEN is about more than closing a gap in statistics. It’s about putting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women at the centre of solutions, embedding screening and care within our own health services, led by our own workforce, in a way that is culturally safe and empowering,” said Ms Turner.“This project gives us the chance to reach women at a critical moment in their lives, while they are pregnant and engaging with antenatal care, so that we can support their health and wellbeing, now and into the future.NACCHO is proud to partner with Southern Cross University and our network of ACCHOs to drive this work forward.Together, we are building the evidence, the workforce, and the trust needed to ensure every woman has the care she deserves. Our women’s health cannot wait, and neither can we.”Six ‘early adopter’ sites will be selected as SISTASCREEN partners. The first to come on board is Bullinah Aboriginal Health Service at Ballina on the NSW North Coast. The project’s goal is 50 sites nationally in three years’ time.“We'll work primarily with six early adopter sites. Once we've co-created and co-designed the resources, we then hope to roll it out to 50 sites across the NACCHO network,” said Dr Clarke.“At the same time, we want to increase the capacity and skill level of the First Nations workforce.“SISTASCREEN will build the capacity of health providers to have the confidence and knowledge to offer pregnant First Nations women a self-collected or clinician-collected cervical screening test.”SISTASCREEN complements two other projects led by SCU, aiming to improve the health outcomes of Indigenous women: SISTABIRTH (culturally appropriate perinatal model of care for mothers and their babies) and iSISTAQUIT (cessation of smoking/vaping).FactsAustralia’s First Nations women have more than twice the cervical cancer incidence (2.3 times) and an early four times (3.6 times) mortality rate than non- Indigenous women.Increased risks are related to under-screening and late detection of pre-cancerous lesions, representing a system failure for Aboriginal women.Cervical screening rates are lower for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women due to a combination of factors, including cultural barriers, lack of awareness, logistical challenges, and historical and systemic issues. Additional barriers include remoteness, socioeconomic disadvantage, and the need for culturally safe healthcare services.In 2023, only 42.5% of eligible First Nations women had a cervical screening test within the previous five years.

Opening an amenity block isn't as exciting as opening a brand new world-standard skatepark, but it is a necessity, especially after many were damaged in the 2022 big flood.Member for Lismore and Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin joked that she knew all of the amenity blocks in the Lismore electorate as she drives it regularly, and she was happy they were being replaced.Sam Trimble Oval at Bexhill was the venue for yesterday's opening. It was the sixth new public amenities block opened in the past month, marking great progress in its goal of enhancing the comfort and accessibility of parks and rest stops in the community.Council received $7.5 million through the Community Assets Program, jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, to upgrade 20 public amenities across the Lismore Local Government Area.The six newly completed facilities in Lismore are located at:Nielson Park and Wade Park in East LismoreMcKenzie Park in North LismoreNesbitt Park Cricket and Lismore Lake in South LismoreSam Trimble Oval in BexhillCombined, these represent an almost $2.5 million investment in Lismore.Their debut follows the recent completion of new amenities blocks at Heritage Park and Riverview Park. Other facilities under construction include Lismore Railway Station and Nesbitt Park Playground.External designs and fixtures have been replicated across several sites, with floor plans adjusted to suit each location. This allows for improved maintenance and accessibility, with all now meeting current disability and ambulant access standards.“We listened to our residents, and we delivered,” says Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg.“It might not be the flashiest ribbon-cutting we’ve ever done, but it’s a big step forward for the community, and will make a real difference for families, seniors, and visitors alike.”(Left to Right: New Bexhill Amenities with canteen. Lismore City Council's Project Manager of Buildings, Hamish Bell, Bexhill Quarry Parklands Association, Des Harris, Bennett Constructions Steve Taylor, Kate Haber and Mick Furchtman, and Lismore City Council's Building Surveillance Officer, Steve Dillon and Mayor Steve Krieg.)Mayor Krieg said council received feedback from one person concerned about the new septic system potentially going underwater again."You've got to weigh up the pros against the cons. And if you drive past this oval anytime over the weekend, there's the cricket club that uses it and the school that uses it. You can see it's marked out at the moment for the athletics for the school. So, it's a well-used sporting facility."With Bexhill selling 45 new housing sites to the east of Bangalow Road near the shops and post office. It is likely the new facility will get a lot more use over the next five years.State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said the NSW Government will continue to deliver essential and practical services and amenities, like the toilets that we all need to use. “It is important that they are built back better with state and federal disaster funding.” For more information on public amenities upgrades, visit https://www.lismore.nsw.gov.au/Council/Projects/Current-projects-1/Lismore-Public-Toilet-upgrades

There has been some speculation about the future of the Lismore Pod Village since the use of the Byron Bay Pod Village was changed from housing flood-affected people to key workers at the end of July.This move concerned Lismore City Councillor Dalton-Earls, who put forward a motion at Tuesday's council meeting asking for an update on the Lismore Pod Village and asking for it to remain as temporary accommodation for individuals and families experiencing homelessness and crisis accommodation for survivors of domestic and family violence, and ultimately key worker accommodation.During the meeting, Cr Dalton-Earls said, "This essentially just seeks to say to the state government from Lismore City Council, we want to keep our pods, so we can increase housing options, whether it's for crisis accommodation, temporary accommodations, as is currently happening."However, they're not taking applications, and they haven't for months. So, nobody can currently go into the pods. It's got very few people living there now compared to what there were previously."Speaking against the motion, Mayor Krieg said, "It is my understanding that the Lismore Pod Village will be the last to be dismantled for that essential housing for those victims (flood)."There was a lot of speculation and councillor questions about the now state government-owned SCU site on Crawford Road, such as whether the pod village would delay building the 400 homes promised on the site. Until the state government reveals the detailed site plans and timing for starting the infrastructure, it is likely to remain speculation.The Lismore App researched what we do know about the East Lismore Pod Village.Lismore is 1 of 6 temporary housing villages within the Northern Rivers region to be extended until December 2026. From 1 July 2025, Homes NSW took over the operation of this village for flood-affected people.The village will continue to be managed by an on-site Community Housing Provider, currently Northern Rivers Housing.Northern Rivers Housing said there are currently 62 people occupying the 52 pods in the Lismore Pod Village.There is an eligibility criterion for people to be accepted into the pod villages. This includes but is not limited to:Person was residing in the North Coast Region at the time of the 2022 floodsPerson has an incomePerson must have a long-term housing goalPerson has not received a Buy Back payment from the NSW Reconstruction AuthorityVacancies across all the villages in the NSW north coast, including villages managed by other organisations, are being filled with the assistance of Uniting, which is coordinating an expression of interest process for persons wanting to reside in a community village. When asked about the turnover of people coming and going from the pod village, Northern Rivers Housing said that the Lismore Community Village is stable, with the overwhelming majority of exits from the village being positive exits, with many residents finding long-term housing solutions in line with the program's aim.Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin, has said that the 50 build-to-rent apartments will be the first housing built on the Crawford Road site. This includes 20% affordable housing.Councillor Dalton-Earls' motion was defeated 5/5, with the mayor using his casting vote, as Adam Guise was an apology for the August meeting.

Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate a boy reported missing from Queensland.James Daly, aged nine, was last seen in Queensland on Thursday, 31 July 2025.When he could not be located or contacted, officers from Queensland Police were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.Following further inquiries, the matter was referred to NSW Police Force detectives attached to Richmond Police District.James is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 125cm tall, with brown eyes and light brown hair.Inquiries have established that he is likely in the company of a 44-year-old woman known to him. She is known to frequent the Lismore, Tweed Heads, Murwillumbah, and SE Queensland areas.Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to contact Lismore Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Lismore’s long-term recovery from the devastating floods of early 2022 has taken an important step forward, with a contract awarded to a joint venture between CMC Group and JF Hull Holdings for the region’s largest road restoration package.The major construction contract will enable critical repairs to restore roads from more than 60 landslips, improving reliability and reconnecting towns.This marks a key milestone in restoring essential transport links across the Lismore region, with more than 50 road and transport infrastructure projects already completed, and almost 140 other projects currently in progress or under development.Some projects have experienced delays or faced further damage due to the severe weather brought by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March 2025.Work will be staggered over three years to reduce impacts on local communities and make full use of a locally based workforce from the Lismore local government area.Jointly funded by the Commonwealth and NSW Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), the permanent repairs are now underway, with the reconstruction projects giving communities confidence in the safety, reliability, and resilience of their roads for decades to come.Additionally, close to $17 million in new funding is being provided to Lismore City Council to help restore its road infrastructure and make it more resilient against future flooding.Through the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package (RRTRP) and Essential Public Asset Reconstruction funding under the DRFA, several causeways across the region will be replaced to withstand future floods and improve road resilience.Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said, “This contract is an important step in Lismore’s recovery journey, delivering critical repairs that the community has been waiting for since the 2022 floods.“By investing in resilience, we are not just fixing what is broken – but we’re building back better to protect local residents from future flood events.“The focus on local workforce and staged construction outlines the commitment from the Australian and New South Wales Governments to support the Lismore region’s economic and overall recovery whilst minimising disruption to residents.“I would like to commend everyone that has been affected by the devastating natural disasters that have impacted the Lismore community for their strength, resilience and commitment to supporting each other in getting through difficult times.”Minister for Recovery and North Coast and State Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin, said, “The Lismore region is getting its old mojo back, as we step up our rebuild with some great new developments.“Our mission as we build back and emerge from recovery is to be improving the resilience of our infrastructure as we go. "This announcement means we can invest in our roads so that they are better able to withstand the weather events of the future.”Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison, said, “The Minns Labor Government has quadrupled disaster recovery funding, from $190 million a year under the previous government, to an average of more than $800 million a year.“We know landslips across the Lismore local government area had a massive impact on residents immediately after the flood and this contract to repair a further 60 landslips will keep up the momentum for action.“Our objective has been to speed up support to councils dealing with disaster-damaged roads.“Together with the Albanese Labor Government, the vital $2.2 million investment under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements is rebuilding and reconnecting the Lismore community.”Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said, "We’ve come a long way already, and there’s still more work to do. These projects will reconnect villages and support our local economy. “Lismore is not just rebuilding – we are rising."

As Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin, and Mayor Steve Krieg joked, the new Lismore Skatepark has already been opened more times than a Rolling Stones final tour and an envelope.You can classify today as the 'official' opening because it involved the cutting of the red ribbon by Ms Saffin, Mayor Krieg, and two important members of the skateboarding community, Sam James and Corey Mylls, who were heavily involved in the design.Lismore’s new $3.9 million skatepark, on the corner of Dawson and Uralba Streets, has already been hailed a huge success as thousands of people of all ages have used the facility.Ms Saffin said she stopped her car to watch the skateboarders in action last night after dinner when she saw the lights on."There were people skating, and I just sat for a while across the road and watched. I thought, how good is this, it is just fantastic."The lights come on at 5pm each evening. Half are turned off at 9:30pm and they are switched off at 10pm. It is being utilised by enthusiasts who work or who want to practice advanced tricks without the interruption of beginners or small children on bikes.There has been some social media chat about some abuse at the skatepark and the lack of understanding as to how to use the new facility."I've seen the same sort of commentary," Mayor Krieg acknowledged. "It's designed in a certain way to allow advanced skaters to go length ways along the path."We'll work on the signage, and again, we'll be guided by the users of the park as to what's best. What I do hope is that it doesn't become a graffiti hit or somewhere for people to think that they can trash the place. This is a facility for everyone in Lismore to enjoy."John from CONVIC, the leading Australian company that creates skateparks across the country, told the Lismore that the Lismore facility was one of the much larger skateparks it has built. The average council built skatepark is half the size.Legendary Lismore skateboarder and pioneer Travis Watson was honoured with a rail and praised for his advocacy over the last 19 years after his death in June 2023."If it wasn't for Travis, we wouldn't be here today," Corey Mylls said. "But also, a big thanks to council for letting us get on board and be able to design something so unique in this town, especially being right in the middle of the CBD. 500 metres and you're in the CBD, and 500 metres you're at the shopping mall."A vital design element of the new Lismore Skatepark was the drainage. Being in a low-lying area that does have water over it because of stormwater or flooding, it was important to build adequate drainage."There are massive pipes in the ground, where the water is dispersed out into the main drain system," Corey said. "I'm hoping that we don't get another flood or anything, but we're hoping it works well. The minor ones that we had a few months ago (Cyclone Alfred), when the park was getting underway with metal dust and the shaping of the dirt, I came and had a look, and within the day the water disappeared. Everything was still the same. We know that it's going to work."Of course, the surrounding grass area is wet underfoot, as is most of Lismore. That was made worse as today's storm swept through the region.While joking about the opening, again, of the Lismore Skatepark, Lismore City Council is advertising the Grand Opening this Saturday.From 12 noon, there will be demonstrations, clinics, a skate jam, giveaways, food, and live music, including Soy Division and PEP.Everyone is welcome; all skill levels and all ages. Importantly, Saturday's weather is sunny and 22 degrees, so perfect for a grand opening.Once all the openings are complete, it is clear that the new Lismore Skatepark will be well used consistently by the public. It was built to international competition standard, so there is the belief that the facility will attract serious competitors and serious skateboarders from all over the Northern Rivers and beyond.“With skating now an Olympic event, and many world-class skaters coming from our region, a new skate park will be another string in our bow and attract even more visitors," Mayor Krieg said.It is like the movie, Field of Dreams. Build it and they will come.The project was funded under Round 2 of the NSW Government's Multi-Sport Community Facility Fund. It is a welcome addition to the Lismore Sporting Precinct, as it is next to Oakes Oval and Crozier Field.

Resilient Lismore has welcomed the release of the NSW Reconstruction Authority’s  Disaster Adaptation Plan (DAP) Guidelines as an important step along the path to the development of the DAP for the Northern Rivers, one of two being developed in high-risk regions in NSW, alongside the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley DAP.With climate change intensifying extreme weather events, and the Northern Rivers recognised as one of Australia’s most disaster-prone regions, Resilient Lismore says the development and implementation of the DAP is both timely and essential.”The principles set out in the guidelines reflect the way Resilient Lismore has always worked – grounded in community networks, collaborative decision-making, respect for diverse voices and inclusion of those who are most affected by disasters,” said Resilient Lismore Executive Director, Elly Bird. “We’re pleased to see the DAP engagement principles highlighting trust, inclusion, transparency and respect for local knowledge,” Elly said. “These are values we live every day – from listening deeply to our community, to championing the role of local leaders, and fostering equity and inclusion.” The DAP engagement principles include:Community at the centreMeaningful community participation is fostered through adequate time framesIncorporating Traditional Knowledge, storytelling and narrativesBe inclusive and respectfulSupport clear, transparent, and two-way communicationMulti-model engagementRecognise and build capacity and capability“These principles perfectly align with Resilient Lismore’s core values and work,” Elly said. “We’ve always believed successful disaster and disaster adaptation must be coordinated, place-based and community-led– and it must give communities a genuine seat at the table.”“This planning process is where the hard conversations will happen – about land use, infrastructure, managed relocation, and how we keep people safe,” she said. “It’s also where we can lock in early wins, like strengthening social infrastructure and running community preparedness programs that build resilience right now. This is exactly the heart of our work at Resilient Lismore – from skills-building workshops to events and volunteer programs, everything we do is about empowering our community to be stronger and more connected, because that is what will help us to get through future disasters when they happen,” she said. The Disaster Adaptation Plan will be developed through extensive community consultation, working with councils, infrastructure providers, essential services, and local organisations.“Resilient Lismore will continue to be a strong voice in this process, and we encourage residents and community organisations to keep an eye out for opportunities to participate,” she said.“We know that when communities are actively involved, we get better, fairer decisions – and we build the social connections that will carry us through whatever comes next.”

More than 50 bidders packed out the auction of nine flood-affected homes at the Murwillumbah Services Club, with the properties selling for a combined total of $712,000 on Tuesday night.That brings the total to 54 flood-affected properties in the Northern Rivers that have now been sold. The Lismore App understands the next lot of properties will be in Lismore,The First National Real Estate conducted auction of flood buyback homes from Burringbar and South Murwillumbah was a night of highlights:The highest sale property (37 Wardrop Street) had seven bidders and went for $200,000 (bidding started at $10,000, our highest opening bid so far).6077 Tweed Valley Way, Burringbar: $155,000.319 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah: $80,000.6066 Tweed Valley Way, Burringbar: $130,000.6060 Tweed Valley Way, Burringbar: $20,000.6068 Tweed Valley Way, Burringbar: $92,000.6069 Tweed Valley Way, Burringbar: $21,000.6058 Tweed Valley Way, Burringbar: $10,000.3 Hunter Street, Burringbar: $4000.Previously, the highest-priced house sold was $101,000, and three properties topped this figure on Tuesday night.All homes earmarked for relocation have been purchased by the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) through the buyback stream of the $880 million Resilient Homes Program, jointly funded by the NSW and Commonwealth Governments. The Resilient Homes Program is the largest adaptation program of its kind in the country.So far, more than 1300 flood-impacted homeowners have engaged with the buyback program, and more than 926 offers have been made.The RA has settled on 699 flood buyback properties across the Northern Rivers, and, as a result, hundreds of the houses are being gifted or offered up for auction and relocation.Homes that are filled with hazardous materials or are unsuitable for relocation will be demolished.There is no reserve price on these houses, meaning bidding can start and end at $1, making it one of the most accessible housing opportunities in Australia.Jackie and Luke Edwards have been among the successful bidders. The honey processers bought a hillside farm, east of Lismore, nearly three years ago. They wanted to build a house on their farm, but increasing building costs stopped them.  As a solution, they decided that one of the flood buyback homes could provide a cost-effective option. At the most recent Lismore auctions, they successfully bid $35,000 for a 105-year-old cottage, near the Lismore CBD, opposite Crozier Oval. “I am so in love with this house already,” Jackie says. “I’ve got in touch with previous owners to do a book on the history of the house. “We were looking at around $400,000 to be able to build a house. This is an awesome option for us.(Jackie and Luke Edwards with Janelle Saffin after being interviewed by Sunrise. Photo: supplied)“We are giving this house a second lease on life, and I hope more people consider it as an option.”  The RA remains committed to reusing as many flood-affected homes as possible and is planning further houses will be auctioned by Wal Murray and Co in September with another auction run by PRD Northern Rivers in October. Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said, “We are giving people from all walks of life a chance at a new start inside safe and dry weatherboard houses with corrugated iron roofs keeping the rain out overhead. “These homes speak to the history of the Northern Rivers, with old hardwood timbers, stained glass windows and verandahs.“The demand from the public is there, and we want to make as many homes as possible are available, so people can relocate them to a safer area.“For some people, this is the ultimate renovation project. For others, it’s the ultimate reset: a fresh start for the house and a fresh start for the person who takes it on.”  

The issue of safely shopping in the Lismore CBD has lifted its profile again, as a Lismore councillor and a shop owner shared their experience on social media, which was met by a plethora of comments.Lismore City Councillor Harper Dalton-Earls posted:This morning I walked my dog around the CBD for the first time in a while. For many years, it was part of my daily routine - back then, the streets were alive with walking groups, runners, people with their dogs and shop doors open early. Now it feels more unsafe and unclean than ever, with dog poo lining the streets and yelling echoing the walls.This morning, within five minutes, I was shouted at by someone in obvious mental distress. I saw unattended dogs and an atmosphere that felt unsafe and unhygienic.Yesterday, I read Mel's Melting Moments Soy Candles share that she has suffered abuse in her shop and is now considering closing. I want to say I stand with Mel and with every business owner, worker and visitor who has experienced thisPeople experiencing homelessness or mental health challenges should never be demonised. But we must be honest that the safety of those who keep the CBD alive our business owners, employees, shoppers and residents has to be a priority.I have raised this before in Council, and I will keep doing so. We need foot patrol rangers back. They may not arrest, but they offer passive surveillance, can call police early and often prevent situations from escalating. We need the PACER model here, with police and mental health professionals responding together. And we need an assertive homelessness outreach program like Byron Bay’s, meeting people where they are and connecting them to support.Lismore’s CBD should be a place where everyone feels safe to work, shop and spend time. I back Mel and will do what I can to support her in her campaign to make the CBD safer for all. Something has to change, and now, before it’s too late and we lose what makes our CBD special - the people there.Councillor Dalton-Earls reference to Mel Connell's Mel's Melting Moments shop on Keen Street, was taken from a recent post on her Facebook page:Dear Ms. Saffin, Mr. Hogan, Mayor of Lismore, Lismore City Council, Councilors, and Lismore Representatives,On 12 August 2025, I was threatened with my life while operating my small business and asking a mentally disturbed person to move from my entry. This is not isolated—it’s part of ongoing abuse and dangerous interactions with drug-affected or mentally unwell individuals in the CBD. I will be pressing charges and an AVO will be instated.I urge you to view my latest Facebook post, which contains video of the abuse and comments from locals explaining why they avoid the CBD. Or better yet, walk the four streets yourself. The reality is confronting and unacceptable for any city representative.Ms. Saffin, as Minister for Small Business, I ask for urgent help. Visitors are told to “Visit Lismore,” yet they are met with dog feces, verbal abuse, urine-soaked paths, litter, cigarette smoke blown in children’s faces, unmonitored parking, growing smoke shops, and public altercations. I want my shop to remain a safe, happy space—but the streets are unsafe and this danger is creeping inside.We need visible, regular police foot patrols or security beats now—before more businesses and residents leave. I wrote to you on 24 March 2025 about this escalating crisis. Nothing has improved; it has worsened. This is not just about my store’s survival—it’s about Lismore’s future.We understand funding is being sought for security patrols, but we cannot wait months for red tape. The threat is immediate. I was threatened today. Every day without action increases the risk to staff, patrons, and visitors.We request immediate interim measures until long-term funding is secured—whether through temporary police deployment, redeployment of existing security, or a short-term emergency safety initiative. We need action on the ground now.Please act decisively before more serious harm occurs. I welcome urgent discussion on solutions.There were 79 comments from the public about safety in the Lismore CBD. Typical was this comment by Jane Wood:"I was downtown about 6 weeks ago in the middle of the day, and there was so much aggression and loud yelling and public drunkenness that I rethink going down there again."I live out of town and used to love visiting once or twice a week. Now I am considering getting groceries delivered and doing most of my shopping online…like covid days."I love Lismore, but am feeling very uncomfortable visiting. I am sure that somebody will preach that I have to support the businesses and I have. But, for somebody who is just, finally coming out of, the mental and physical hell of rebuilding my life and property, I don’t want to be abused and scared when I should be relaxed and happy shopping."The Lismore App reached out to Commander of the Richmond Police District Dave Roptell, who said, "Three months ago, we conducted a high visibility operation in the Lismore CBD over a two-day period, focusing on knife crime, shoplifting and antisocial behaviour."We then continue our focus in the CBD for weeks following. We are also endeavouring in the next couple of weeks to focus on the same type of operation in the Lismore CBD." Commander Roptell's advice to shop staff is to report any crime immediately."Call us immediately because we do take addressing anti-social behaviour and people's safety in the community seriously. The more information that we get from the community, the better we can police. We obviously cannot do it alone, but we always ask the community for assistance if they have vital information they can pass on to us."(Police on the Lismore CBD during Operation Rapina at the end of May this year. Photo: LCC)A spokesperson for Lismore City Council told the Lismore App, "Council is aware of the concern regarding crime and has been proactive in addressing safety in the CBD. While policing and law enforcement are State Government responsibilities, Council has taken productive steps to support and work alongside NSW Police and other agencies to improve community safety."On 25 March this year, Council resolved to write to NSW Police requesting a targeted enforcement blitz, to seek grant funding and budget allocations for initiatives that improve safety, and to ask NSW Police to consider developing a community policing strategy for the CBD and surrounding areas."Since May, NSW Police have been working with Council, conducting High Visibility and Compliance operations aimed at addressing anti-social behaviour and crime in the CBD and surrounding transport interchanges."Council also resolved to hold an open public consultation session to identify solutions to local crime concerns. This will involve State and Federal MPs, police, ambulance and hospital representatives, local security firms and other stakeholders. Council is currently working to schedule this session soon."Council will continue to work with the relevant stakeholders, such as police and state representatives, to help reduce crime and anti-social behaviour."

The House You advocacy group, which has been campaigning for the NSW Reconstruction Authority (NSWRA) to let the homeless live in buyback homes, has taken to camping outside of Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin's office.The NSW Sheriff's Office executed the Supreme Court's ruling to remove squatters from NSWRA-owned buyback homes last Wednesday (Squatters moved out of NSWRA buyback houses today) before some attempted to move into other buyback homes in Lismore (Illegal squatters move into more NSWRA-owned homes).“When house prices have increased more than 1000% in our lifetime while wages stagnated**, young people like me, workers, families and children have been denied the basic security of a place to call home.” says Chels Hood Withey, housing advocate from House You, who was recently removed from her squat on Stuart Street, Mullumbimby."In a country as wealthy as ours, no one should be sleeping rough. We have the solutions - it's time for action, compassion and understanding to ensure everyone has housing." "Making people homeless during a housing crisis is state violence," says Bat, who was recently removed from the squat at Lake Street, North Lismore. "This government has provided no solutions to the housing crisis, only enforced homelessness through evictions from functional homes."The use of buyback homes for homeless accommodation has been at the centre of community debate for the last two and a half years following the 2022 big flood and the introduction of the Resilient Homes Program.Social media groups invited the homeless to come to Lismore and the Northern Rivers for free housing in buyback properties, exacerbating the situation for political gain in a region that is trying to recover from Australia's most costly natural disaster.The NSWRA have always stated that the properties were bought back because they are unsafe to occupy, with structural issues or potential hazardous material exposed due to flood damage, and the fact they are the most at-risk houses for current and future floods. Those claims have been disregarded by squatters."There should be no empty homes while people are homeless. As an immediate solution, all buybacks could be relocated and reused for public housing; 800+ liveable homes are already available to provide immediate housing if our government works with community, not against us," said today's statement from House You.A NSWRA spokesperson said, "The NSW Sheriff’s Office [with the assistance of NSW Police] lawfully removed a number of illegal occupants from flood buyback properties in Lismore and Mullumbimby last week. (NSW Sheriff's Officers talking to squatters in Pine Street last week)"RA has resecured these properties by fencing properties, boarding up windows and doors and has regular security patrols. Water disconnections on all the properties are being undertaken. "The NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) has worked respectfully with the illegal occupants for almost a year to find a peaceful resolution. This includes working with Homes NSW and other organisations to find alternate housing options."We are currently assessing these properties, and once these assessments have been completed, the houses will either be relocated or demolished. "Illegal occupation not only puts illegal occupants at risk but also presents a broader community safety risk, such as the recent house fires on Union Street."It also delays the RA’s critical recovery work, like relocation and demolition, and diverts funding and resources away from the Resilient Homes Program's core purpose to help flood-affected communities recover."We are asking the public to alert the police about any suspicious activity in or around buyback properties and others across the Northern Rivers." House You has said it has these community demands:Rent caps to address the affordability crisisEnough public housing so no one sleeps rough (end the waitlist)No empty homes while people are homelessNo demolition of liveable homesCollaboration with community-led housing solutionsThe House You statement said:The camp highlights the cruelty of public servants making $350,000 a year (who are also landlords, and property owners themselves) criminalising homelessness and the absurdity of their policy that now leaves hundreds of buyback properties vacant and vulnerable to arson and anti-social behaviour.The camp will remain until government provides permanent housing solutions rather than temporary accommodation that displaces people from their communities and support networks."We need a system for people and planet, not for profit and privilege," concludes Chels Hood Withey. "Housing is a human right, and we won't accept anything less than housing for all."It should be noted that Homes NSW has been in contact with squatters to find alternative accommodation for the last eighteen months.House You is demanding permanent housing solutions rather than what they call "unstable Link2Home (7 days in a motel)". This is, in fact, not the whole story.There is no timeline on how long an individual can stay in temporary accommodation. Typically, the duration of temporary accommodation (TA) assistance was 28 nights. On 12 July 2023, NSW Minister for Homeless Rose Jackson waived the 28-night cap on TA for all people and households facing homelessness.  This policy change applies across all Homes NSW services across the state, including Link2home. As a result, there is no set end date for TA, where ongoing support may be required to meet the housing needs of affected individuals and families.  It is determined based on an assessment of each client’s immediate housing needs.  The NSWRA said that any illegal occupants who requested housing support after these evictions have been referred to Homes NSW.A Homes NSW Spokesperson told the Lismore App, "Homes NSW has made numerous attempts to engage and provide housing support to the people outside The Hon Janelle Saffin MP’s Lismore office.  "We will continue to try to provide housing support."Anyone experiencing or at risk of homelessness can contact the statewide homelessness information and referral telephone service, Link2Home, on 1800 152 152. It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week." State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said her Electorate Office continues to assist constituents who are genuinely homeless.** The Australian Bureau of Statistics said today that wages rose 3.4% in the year to June 2025.