In the cold, hard light of day, last night's Richmond River High Campus fire will leave former students and staff more dejected as photos show the full extent of the damage. Fire and Rescue NSW reported their crews worked through the night to contain the fire that was due for demolition, in North Lismore.At approximately 6.30pm on Friday, more than 50 firefighters and ten fire trucks responded to numerous Triple Zero (000) calls to a fire in a building in Lake Street, with reports of flames and thick smoke.On arrival, crews were faced with a large expanding fire in a large building located at the front of the school that was impacting adjoining buildings. Firefighters successfully established cut off points and contained the fire.NSW Police assisted with establishing a 150-metre exclusion zone, with road closures in place on Lake Street, Winterton Parade, Pitt Lane and Bridge Street, and the public was advised to avoid the area.The intensity of the fire led to a building collapse at the front of the school, which added to the complexity of the operation.(Photo: RRHC)The fire was contained after approximately 2.5 hours, however firefighters then turned their efforts to protecting adjoining buildings and extinguishing hotspots.Crews rotated through the night and into the morning. A FRNSW Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) drone was used to assist in identifying and extinguishing remaining hotspots.Several firefighters were treated at the scene for suspected dehydration and heat exhaustion by NSW Ambulance Paramedics, and one firefighter was transported to Hospital as a precaution, and has since been cleared and released.The cause of the fire is unknown and is being treated as suspicious. The site will be handed over to NSW Police today, who will investigate the origin and cause of the fire, with assistance of FRNSW investigators.As police investigate the incident, Richmond River High Campus Principal Luke Woodward took to its Facebook page to express his and the community disappointment."As we grapple with the devastation caused by the tragic fire at our beloved Richmond River High School on Lake Street, we are reminded of just how much this place means to all of us."For generations, it has been more than just a school. It has been a home, a gathering place, and a foundation where so many of us took our first steps toward our futures. It is a symbol of who we are, of the stories we carry, and of the incredible bonds that have been formed within its walls."The loss we feel is immense, but the spirit of Richmond River High School lives on in each of us. It lives in the stories we carry, the friendships we cherish, and the lessons we’ve learned along the way. The memories we share are indestructible, and no fire can take away what has been built within our hearts. The stories you’ve shared so far have been a beacon of strength and love for everyone. Each memory, every photo, and every word is a testament to the enduring power of our community."We are so grateful for your willingness to share and for the love that continues to pour in. These moments are what connect us, what remind us that the heart of Richmond River High is forever alive. Please continue to share your stories, your memories, and your support. Together, we will ensure that the spirit of this school is never lost. In times like this, it’s vital that we continue to take care of ourselves and each other."We are a community built on resilience and love, and together, we will rise above this challenge."We are RRHC Resilient!"

The Lismore Rugby Club has been part of the fabric of Lismore since 1968, and in its existing location on Rugby Road, just down the road from St Carthage's Primary School, since 1970.Club stalwart Bevan Gay said, at that time, supporters paid $20 for a brick, which allowed the club to purchase the available two hectares and build a clubhouse.Fifty-five years later, the Lismore Rugby Club has over 500 members and players, including a growing female base of juniors and seniors. That growth means they need a second changing room. Presently, there is only one changing room that caters to everyone.Federal Member for Page announced today an elected Coalition Government would commit $1,080,000 towards a $1.2 million upgrade.“This is about making sure our female athletes have access to the same quality facilities as male teammates,” Mr Hogan said.“The club has seen a big increase in female participation over recent years, but the current facilities are outdated and don’t meet the needs of players.”“This funding will deliver brand new female changerooms and upgraded women’s toilets, as well as an accessible toilet and shower, an officials room and refurbished bar and canteen areas.”“It will make sure girls and women feel encouraged, supported, and proud to be part of this great local club.”(Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan with members of the Lismore Rugby Club earlier today)Emily Cox, Lismore Club President, said, "It's really essential that we get those up and running so that we can continue to be the largest women's and girl's club in the zone."Not only that, but the Lismore Women's Rugby team has enjoyed more success than its male counterparts, winning two out of the last three grand finals after making it to the season finale for the last three years. The men last won a Premiership in 2013.Club Secretary Peter Everingham said there were also some flood-resilient measures the Lismore Rugby Club wanted to accomplish."After the change rooms, we'll put a committee of people together and try and work out how far we can go with the money and what's the most important thing to everyone."If we could get a trailer for our canteen and a trailer for our bar so that when these events happen, we can just hook on and tow away, but it also allows us, and like St Carthage's, who do Year 6 Formals here and often other events around the town, that we can actually then take our food trailers and our bars to other locations for fundraising and lend it out to like St Carthage's or Trinity or NORPA, who want to do things down here with filming."All those people who want to use our facilities. It just makes it more interactive, but more resilient as well."The start of the Far North Coast Zone Rugby Union season is next weekend, Saturday, April 5, with Lismore having a bye. The first matches of the 2025 season will be against Casuarina Beach Rugby Club the following week.Unfortunately, the club's season launch was to have been today; however, the wet weather has put a stop to the annual Mozzies (ex-first graders and players) versus this year's men's team. The launch has been moved to the Northern Rivers Hotel instead.(The sodden Lismore Rugby field on Rugby Road, off Brunswick Street and its clubhouse)

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, both the Wilsons and Richmond Rivers are expected to reach minor flood levels this morning.While every other gauge has been updated this morning, the last reading for the Wilsons River at Lismore was at 5:18am, which was 3.93m. The minor flood level is 4.2m.The Richmond River at Coraki was 3.28m at 8:30am, just under the minor level of 3.4m.Moderate rainfall has been recorded in the Wilsons catchment since Thursday. This has caused river and creek level rises along the Wilsons River, with minor flooding likely at Lismore Saturday morning.Lismore recorded a further 31mm to 9am today, following 42.8mm to 9am Friday and 42.6mm to 9am on Thursday. Other falls in the upper catchments include Mullumbimby, 119mm; Upper Burringbar, 127mm; Terania Creek, 62mm; the Channon, 84mm; and Dunoon, 95mm.The Bureau sau further rainfall is forecast across the Wilsons catchment during Saturday. This is likely to result in further river and creek level rises along the Wilsons River.The Wilsons River may reach 4.5m on Saturday, with further rises possible.The Richmond River at Coraki may reach around 4.1m on Saturday afternoon, with further rises possible. Bungawalbyn is also expected to exceed the minor flood level of 3m this morning and may rise to 3.3m this afternoon with further rises possible depending on rainfall.Flood Safety Advice:In life threatening emergencies, call 000 (triple zero) immediately. If you require rescue, assistance to evacuate or other emergency help, ring NSW SES on 132 500.* Avoid drowning. Stay out of rising water, seek refuge in the highest available place.* Prevent damage to your vehicle. Move it under cover, away from areas likely to flood.* Avoid being swept away. Stay out of fast-flowing creeks and storm drains.* Never drive, ride or walk through flood water. Flood water can be deceptive and dangerous.

Thanks to the rain that's fallen over the last three days, Lismore's golfers have a free Saturday as the Lismore Golf Course was deemed too wet to play yesterday afternoon.Whilst that is not good news for local avid golfers, Lismore Workers Golf Club Captain Ross Pollack has announced that Lismore is to host a 2025 NSW Regional Qualifying Round for the Ford NSW Open.That news is certain to put smiles on the faces of talented young golfers, not only in Lismore but the Northern Rivers, as they test their skills against some of the best professional and amateur golfers in NSW and around Australia. With the Ford NSW Open Championship planned for mid-November, the six $50,000 lead-in events will attract competitors from across Australasia. In addition to the lucrative purses at each event, three spots in the Championship are also up for grabs for the highest placegetters not already exempt into the November field. With free entry to each venue and the chance to walk the fairways with the players, spectators can witness the sport's future stars in action up close. The venues and dates for the six Regional Open Qualifying Tournaments are: Teven Valley Golf Course, 24 - 26 July, 2025 Lismore Golf Club, 27 - 29 July, 2025 South West Rocks Country Club, 30 July - 1 August, 2025 Coffs Harbour Golf Club, 4 - 6 August, 2025 Catalina Club, Batemans Bay, 17 - 19 September 2025 Queanbeyan Golf Club, 21 - 23 September 2025 Olivia Wilson, General Manager – Golf at Golf NSW, said the Regional Open Qualifying Series events were perfect for an aspiring professional or elite amateur to kick-start their 2025/26 Australian Summer of Golf. "The series, as it has done in recent years, can really help a future star of our sport get to the next level," Ms Wilson said. "With a guaranteed place in the $800,000 Ford NSW Open, players will be aiming to lock up their spot in the NSW Open quickly." Several players have put the qualifying spot to good use in past years by vaulting themselves into the sporting spotlight over the Australian summer. None more so than Corey Lamb, who parlayed his qualification last year at Queanbeyan into a runner-up finish at the 2024 NSW Open behind eventual winner, Ripper GC star Lucas Herbert. "Corey Lamb is a great example of what you can achieve via the Qualifying series," Ms Wilson added. Graeme Phillipson, Chief Operating Officer at Golf NSW, said the tournaments were a welcome financial injection into the communities surrounding the host venues. "The Regional Open Qualifying Series boosts the host clubs and surrounding towns. The players need somewhere to stay and places to eat & drink, so the visitor economy at each location does benefit, Mr Phillipson said. The 2025 Ford NSW Open and the NSW Open Regional Qualifying Series are proudly supported by the NSW Government's tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW.

Since ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred tore through the Northern Rivers, there have been reports of thousands of fish dying in our waterways. The NSW Government responded to the fish death events this week the fish deaths are the result of a series of Hypoxic water events, which occur when floodplain vegetation dies, and organic material is washed into waterways during flooding.As this organic material breaks down in the water, it depletes the levels of dissolved oxygen. Without sufficient levels of dissolved oxygen, fish and other aquatic organisms struggle to breathe, and in some cases, this causes them to die.Water can appear dark brown or black as the organic matter decays due to the release of dissolved carbon compounds, including tannins.The EPA and DPIRD are working with local councils to manage clean-up actions in key locations where fish deaths have been reported.As part of flood debris clean-up in waterways, the EPA has engaged specialist clean-up contractors to assist with the collection of dead fish from accessible riverbanks in urban areas during their search for large and hazardous flood debris.This week, clean up contractors have been deployed in the Tweed, Clarence and Manning Rivers. Next week, clean up contractors will commence work in the Richmond River.Community members are encouraged to report any fish deaths or water quality concerns to the Fishers Watch phoneline on 1800 043 536.  

Police Statement at 8:36pmAbout 6.30pm on Friday, 28 March 2025, emergency services responded to reports of a fire at a school on Lake Street, North Lismore.The school, which had been abandoned since the 2022 floods, was extensively damaged.There are no reports of injuries, and a number of nearby residents were evacuated as a precaution.The cause of the fire is unknown at this time.Local traffic diversions are in place while emergency services remain at the scene.ORIGINAL STORYThe old Richmond River High School is on fire in North Lismore.The school has been abandoned since the February 28 flood, so foul play is the most likely cause.Police, ambulance, and fire trucks are in attendance, with a large crowd watching, trying to contain the fire.(Video thanks to Matt Mauger from NRs Aerial Photography)Police have closed Lake Street and Winterton Parade in North Lismore.The historic school was initially Lismore High School when it opened in 1920. When Lismore High moved in 1942 to Keen Street.Sixteen years later, in 1958, Richmond River High School opened its doors to students.Following the February 28 2022 big flood, the Department of Education determined that all buildings except Block A, were beyond repair and deemed unsalvageable.More to come.(Firies attempting to dowse the fire at RRHS. Photo: NRs Aerial Photography)

The Wilsons River continues to rise as rain continues to fall, not only in Lismore but also in the upper catchments.At 6pm, the Wilsons River level was 3.41m and is expected to reach the minor flood level of 4.2m later tonight. The Bureau of Meteorology said it may reach 4.5m Friday night into early Saturday morning.Moderate to heavy rainfall is forecast across the Flood Watch area for the remainder of Friday through to Saturday, with locally heavy rainfall possible. There is some degree of uncertainty over the exact location and timing of the heaviest falls. Localised river level rises, and flash flooding are likely within the areas of heaviest rainfall.(The BOMs weather radar at 6pm)The Bureau has also issued minor flood warnings for the following:Richmond River minor floodingTweed and Rous Rivers minor floodingBrunswick River and Marshalls Creek minor floodingClarence River minor floodingOrara River minor floodingThe most rainfall in the last 24 hours has fallen in the Wilsons River catchment to the east of Lismore, with Mullumbimby 119mm and Upper Crabbes Creek 120mm.Further to the west, Nimbin has recorded 74mm, Terania Creek 62mm and Dunoon 95mm in the last 24 hours. Lismore Airport has recorded 13.8mm since 9am.The NSW SES has a number of 'Stay Informed' notices across Lismore and the Northern Rivers as we approach Saturday, when the rain is expected to be at its most intense. For Lismore, 25-50mm is forecast.These include:Lismore and surroundsNimbin, The Channon and surroundsCoraki and surroundsBungawalbin, Rappville and surroundsCasino and surroundsKyogle and surroundsWiangaree and surroundsTabulam, Drake and surroundsMullumbimby and surroundsBillinudgel and surroundsMurwillumbah and surroundsChinderah and surroundsTumbulgum and surroundsGrafton and surroundsWith forecast rainfall, the Wilsons River level may reach around 4.50 metres in Lismore overnight Friday into Saturday, with minor flooding. Further rises are possible.Based on predictions from the Bureau of Meteorology, the following areas may be impacted by dangerous floodwaters:Low-lying roads, causeways and bridgesLow-lying farming and rural areasLow-lying areas along the riverbanksCamping grounds along riverbanks and creeksLismore City Council has activated its Levee Action Plan.As part of its standard flood response procedures, Lismore City Council crews have closed the lower levee gates ahead of the Wilsons River, reaching 4 metres.Council says, "This endorsed action plan is well-rehearsed and forms the first stage of our flood protection system for the CBD. The initial six gates closed are at the Upper and Lower Hollingworth Creek and Gasworks Creek locations."Our Bridge Crew, is highly experienced in these operations. By day, they maintain our city’s bridges, but during flood events, they stand up as our levee responders. Each gate weighs around 130kg and requires a coordinated team effort to close. Every gate closure is carried out according to a detailed action plan that ensures safety and consistency."If the river rises, additional gates will be closed at key trigger points."This is the first step in a coordinated plan of activity. Please avoid parking in river-side carparks and stay informed through Council’s and other agencies official channels for the most up to date information."The NSW SES advise what you need to do:If you have a Home or Business Emergency Plan, follow it. Otherwise, have a conversation and plan for what you will do and take with you if you need to evacuate.Consider the consequences of road and bridge closures and water over roads and make alternate arrangements for work, children, and travel.Obey all signs about road closures and instructions from emergency services.Never drive, walk, ride through, play or swim in floodwater - it is dangerous, toxic, and may void your car insurance. If it's flooded, forget it. Fines may apply.Avoid storm drains and pipes, ditches, ravines, creeks, and rivers.People in areas likely to be impacted by flooding should raise their assets, including waste and chemical containers above expected flood heights.Share this information with family, friends, and neighbours and help others prepare where possible.If you are likely to be isolated due to flooding, stock up on essential items now.People working or camping along the river should monitor river heights and be prepared to relocate to higher ground.Farmers should consider moving pumps and farm equipment to higher ground.Companion animals and livestock should be relocated to higher ground that will not become an island.

Another weekend of cancellations as the monsoonal low makes its way from Queensland into northern NSW.The Bureau says rain today, which is likely to occur this afternoon and this evening, and into tomorrow when 10-50mm is forecast, with the chance of a thunderstorm. We have had 12.2mm since 9am.There is a minor flood warning for the Wilsons River. The Bureau has said that the minor flood level (4.2m) may be reached this evening (Friday).Some more positive news is the Sunday forecast, which is now a shower or two with a rainfall range of 0-4mm. We may yet see some sunshine over the weekend.It is that time of year when the Daylight Saving reminder pops up. We have one week before the clocks get turned back one hour at 3am Sunday, April 6.Let's start the Weekend Wrap with the cancellations.The World Autism Understanding Day that was to be held on Wednesday, April 2 has been cancelled.This evening's Tregeagle Twighlight Markets have been cancelled.The Lismore Rainforest Guided Walk on Sunday has been cancelled. The next Guided Walk will be on Sunday, April 27.The Lismore Farmers Markets will be on rain or hail, so make your way to the Lismore Showgrounds from 7:30am, just take your umbrella and gumboots! Luke Vassella will be performing from 8am.Indoor events that you can experience include ARTEXPRESS 2025 at the Lismore Regional Gallery (2024 HSC student select works) and Her-Art-Works at the Serpentine Community Gallery.The Lismore Symphony Orchestra presents Ethereal this Sunday, March 30 at St Carthange's Cathedral (8 Leycester Street) between 3 and 5pm.The program is:Monteverdi - Toccata from L'Orfeo (Brass and Percussion)Bach - Christmas Oratorio Excerpts ft. Amatori ChoirAlbinoni - Adagio in G Major with soloist Warren Whitney (Organ)Mozart - The Magic Flute OvertureHolst - Neptune from The PlanetsMassenet - Méditation from Thaïs with soloists Jim Stewart (Violin) and Margaret Curtis (Harp)Mendelsohn- Elijah Oratorio excerpts ft. Amatori ChoirSibelius - Symphony No. 2 FinaleTickets are $35 (adult), $30 (concession) and Kids under 12 free.The 'All in the Same Boat' Barefoot Bowls Challenge is going ahead this Wednesday (after yet another rain postponement) from 5:30pm at the Lismore City Bowling Club. $20 per team for a bit of fun. No experience necessary, just the right fun attitude.Live music around town, sees Brooklyn Handford at the Northern Rivers Hotel, Bridge Street, North Lismore tonight from 6:30, a DJ lineup on Saturday night from 7 (Frosty, Mr Manar, Stump and Harlz), and the Sunday session is Sabotage from 3pm.The Lismore Workers Club next live music is a FREE gig with Tommy Memphis on Saturday, May 17 from 6:30pm. Bookings are essential, click here.Fuel prices have fallen again by about 2 cents a litre this week. Here are the cheapest fuel options in each town:E10 is 175.9 at the 7-Eleven in South Lismore, 173.5 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino, and the EG Ampol at 44 Pacific Highway Ballina 167.9.Unleaded 91 is 177.9 across most service stations in Lismore, 171.9 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino, and 169.9 at the EG Ampol and the BP North Ballina (1 Southern Cross Drive).U95 is 186.5 at Bakers Corner, Terania Street, North Lismore, 194.9 at the Ampol on Dyraaba Street and the EG Ampol on Canterbury Street in Casino and 181.5 at The Metro (323 River Street) in Ballina.U98 is 194.9 at the two Liberty's on Ballina Road and Union Street, South Lismore, 194.9 at The United in Casino, and 190.5 at The Metro.Diesel is 181.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road in Lismore, 186.9 at The United on Johnston Street in Casino and 187.5 at The Mobil and The Metro on River Street in Ballina.Have a great weekend!Now, have a laugh with the Friday Funnies.....

The NSW Government has today announced the establishment of the Premier’s Flood Emergency Citation to recognise the extraordinary response efforts during the major NSW flood events between 2021 and 2023. The citation will be awarded to organisations such as the members of the NSW State Emergency Service (SES), other emergency agencies, defence force personnel and other community-based organisations. It also includes individuals who were part of local ‘Tinny Army’ groups, who played a role in responding during flood emergencies across many parts of the state in an informal or spontaneous way. The citation honours those who were part of the operational response during those challenging times, including those who assisted with evacuations, or helped people or animals trapped by floodwater. This recognition is particularly significant given the unprecedented scale and duration of the operational response, with some regions experiencing over 100 consecutive days of emergency activities. The Premier’s Flood Emergency Citation will be administered by the NSW SES and includes the following specific events: Southern and Western NSW floods: 9 November 2021 – 21 February 2022Northern NSW and Hawkesbury Nepean Valley floods: 22 February 2022 – 8 April 2022Greater Sydney and Hunter Valley floods: 27 June 2022 – 17 July 2022Southern and Western NSW floods: 2 August 2022 – 8 March 2023 Recipients of the citation will receive a letter and certificate co-signed by the NSW Premier, NSW Minister for Emergency Services and the NSW SES Commissioner, along with a citation pin. The NSW SES will contact eligible organisations directly to submit nominations on behalf of members. Informal or spontaneous volunteers whose efforts were not as part of an eligible organisation can self-nominate. This initiative follows the Bushfire Emergency Citation, ensuring that the unique and vital contributions of emergency responders and volunteers during emergencies are recognised. While the NSW Government remains focused on helping the communities recover and rebuild, the Premier’s Flood Emergency Citation underscores the Government’s commitment to also acknowledging the dedication and resilience of those who served the community in times of crisis. To nominate as an individual, visit: www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/premiers-department/citation.

An already wet catchment, 84mm of rain in the last two days, and a forecast of increasing rain have caused the Bureau of Meteorology to issue a minor flood warning for the Wilsons River.The Bureau says that moderate rainfall has been recorded in the Wilsons catchment since Thursday morning. This has caused river and creek level rises along the Wilsons River, with minor flooding possible at Lismore Friday evening.Further rainfall is forecast across the Wilsons catchment for the remainder of Friday and Saturday. This is likely to result in further river and creek level rises along the Wilsons River.Wilsons River:Minor flooding may occur along the Wilsons River.The Wilsons River at Lismore (AHD) is currently at 1.84 metres and rising, below the minor flood level. The Wilsons River at Lismore (AHD) may reach the minor flood level (4.20 m) Friday evening. Further rises are possible, with forecast rainfall.Flood Safety Advice:In life threatening emergencies, call 000 (triple zero) immediately. If you require rescue, assistance to evacuate or other emergency help, ring NSW SES on 132 500.* Avoid drowning. Stay out of rising water, seek refuge in the highest available place.* Prevent damage to your vehicle. Move it under cover, away from areas likely to flood.* Avoid being swept away. Stay out of fast-flowing creeks and storm drains.* Never drive, ride or walk through flood water. Flood water can be deceptive and dangerous.For more emergency information, advice, and access to the latest river heights and rainfall observations and forecasts:* NSW SES: www.ses.nsw.gov.au* RMS Live Traffic: www.livetraffic.com* Latest River Heights and Rainfall Observations: www.bom.gov.au/nsw/flood/northcoast.shtml* Latest NSW Warnings: www.bom.gov.au/nsw/warnings/* Rainfall Forecasts: www.bom.gov.au/australia/meteye/* BOM NSW Twitter: www.twitter.com/BOM_NSWNext Issue:The next warning will be issued by 01:00 pm EDT on Friday 28 March 2025.

The Lismore CBD block is still recovering from the 2022 big flood. Different streets are in different states of the flood rebuild.Keen Street and Magellan Street, you could say, are near normal. However, Molesworth and Woodlark Street still have a long way to go, and are definitely quieter parts of the block.In some positive news, walking around the CBD block you can see a lot more SOLD stickers on empty shopfront windows, rather than all being FOR SALE.There are two major players when it comes to Commercial Real Estate: North Coast Commercial and Pidcock's.Chris Harley from North Coast Commercial told the Lismore App that the Lismore CBD has seen some sale action."We're definitely seeing sales transact. The volume picked up in 2024, and 2025 has started fine, too. We've got a few more under contract. "Times moved on. Time seems to take care of everything. We've seen previous floods where the same thing has happened. People get a grasp of reality, but not only that, there's obviously the price that these things are transacting for represents pretty good value for the business owner."If you've got a strong business, you can go out and buy yourself a property now, in some instances, pre-1991 value." As for who makes up the buyers of commercial real estate in the Lismore CBD?"I'd sum it up as a combination of all of the above. We've got investors coming out of capital cities, obviously local owner-operators. It's definitely a combination of all of them."Are there more buyers on Molesworth and Woodlark streets?"I wouldn't say no. I think it's more product-specific, though. If you have a look, it's not just the CBD; we're also seeing transactions in the industrial area in the office sector. You probably don't see them as much because they're above the retail. I know retail is obviously more visual, but we've done another deal recently around in Carrington Street for office use. So, you'll see that sold sign go up in the coming days."It's good to see that it's healthy. It's across the board in all sectors." South Lismore is in a similar position as the CBD, with prices that would have been accepted twenty or thirty years ago."It's probably the same thing. Prices that a guy like me wouldn't think you would hear those numbers. They definitely represent value for the volume and size of the building and structure. When you think of replacement values for these things and what some of them are transacting at, even the investment ones are yields are sort of 8, 9, 10, 11% return on your money, which, if anyone knows anything about investment numbers, that's a pretty good return. Double or triple what you're getting in the bank.It's not all roses, though, as the vacancy rate in Lismore is still extremely high."It is, and, hopefully, we're in a better place now than we were this time last year, and it continues to build."More SOLD stickers lead to new businesses and a more vibrant CBD, so even the most pessimistic person, will have some positive thoughts about the Lismore CBD.

Yesterday was the day that the NSW Reconstruction Authority (NSWRA) served 'Statements of Claim' that have been filed with the Supreme Court to illegal squatters in RA-owned buyback houses.On the 'House You' Facebook page from an illegal squatter in Murwillumbah, "We've been served by the Supreme Court for living in a vacant public house. Bring it on."Acceptance of the Statement of Claim, and the willingness to fight for their right to housing peacefully was not what was witnessed on Pine Street in North Lismore.The NSWRA had hired a security company to serve the Statement of Claim on their behalf. The first house received no answer, so the notice was taped to the door.The second house received no answer. As the two security men were leaving the property, they were aggressively approached by a squatter yelling, "You have not been to the Supreme Court yet. Please leave."The squatter continued to yell at the two men as they started to walk further down Pine Street to issue more Statement of Claims. They were threatened with claims of intimidation and harassment and a threat to call the police. The man used expletives, such as "Get the f*&k out of here, you f*&^%ing as&^%es."Three Statement of Claims were put on the ground, to which the squatter yelled, "You can throw 'em on the ground, mate, right? No one's gonna touch 'em. I know how it works. We're not accepting nothing. Do you hear me."At this point, a group of five people had gathered around the two men with a further group of four walking up Pine Street towards the group. The two security guards left.As they left, the squatter continued his abuse, "You don't give a f&*k about people. You give a f&^k about the money in your pocket. Now, get the f&^k out of here."(A group of illegal Pine Street squatters after yesterday's altercation)For a peaceful, inclusive community, this illegal squatter does not represent what Lismore and its residents are about. Having visited Pine Street on a number of occasions, this man was not known to me, he appeared to be a new squatter. Every other interaction has been peaceful and respectful until yesterday.As Greens Councillor Adam Guise said during Tuesday's Lismore City Council meeting, "Yes, The Greens are running a political campaign, and we're saying the government's to blame."The Greens political campaign does appear to be heating up, but not in the direction that the majority of Lismore residents wish. Yesterday was an aggressive, intimidatory approach to shut down the legal system and stop people from doing their job.It would appear that a police presence willing to protect people while doing their job is needed. This aspect has been missing when dealing with the illegal squatters on Pine Street, such as the water disconnection exercise on February 11.The NSW Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley and the NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb can no longer stand back and watch the legal process be obstructed.The Lismore App asked the NSWRA for comments on the Statement of Claim process yesterday. A spokesperson for the NSW Reconstruction Authority said, "Today, the Statement of Claim filed by the NSW Reconstruction Authority with the NSW Supreme Court was served on illegal occupants in Pine St and other Government owned properties in North Lismore.  "Illegal occupants now have 28 days to respond. A directions hearing is listed for April 11.   "These homes were bought back by the Government because they pose a serious and ongoing risk to human life. "The most recent operational planning for ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred showed the vulnerability of the bought-back homes and also placed a significant burden on the NSW SES, who had to undertake doorknocking as part of evacuation orders.    "Pine Street, where illegal occupants have been staying, was impacted by the cyclone, with the street flooded and occupants subject to an evacuation order by the SES.   "The NSW Reconstruction Authority will continue working through the Courts and with the Police to resolve this issue."Minister for Recovery and Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin MP said, “These homes are not safe for people to live in. That is why they were bought back by the Reconstruction Authority. They are not just on flood-prone land, many of them are also contaminated with asbestos and lead paint.”“We can’t afford to have something that has become a political campaign derail the reconstruction effort in Lismore. That’s why the Government is taking action in the Supreme Court.”“Abusing and threatening people, including members of the media, for just doing their jobs is not on. This won’t stop us from serving those writs because this situation needs to end.”

Both Coles and Woolworths supermarkets in Lismore and the Northern Rivers have issued recall notices for their home-branded spinach and stirfry products. Coles is recalling Coles Spinach 60g and 280g, Coles Family Mix Stir Fry 400g, Coles Spinach and Kale 300g, Coles Spinach and Rocket 120g and Coles Beetslaw 320g, sold between Tuesday 18 March and Thursday 27 March at Coles supermarkets, Coles Local stores and Coles Online in Queensland and Northern New South Wales with various use by dates (see breakdown below) due to a potential microbial (STEC) contamination.The recalled products are:Coles Spinach 60g and 280g use by 27/03/2025 and 28/03/2025Coles Family Mix Stir Fry 400g use by 27/03/2025Coles Spinach and Kale 300g use by 27/03/2025Coles Spinach and Rocket 120g use by 28/03/2025Coles Beetslaw 320g use by 27/03/2025Date sold: Between Tuesday, 18 March and Thursday, 27 March 2025 Customers should not eat these products. Food products with microbial contamination may cause illness if consumed. Any customers concerned about their health should seek medical advice. Customers can return the product to any Coles supermarket or Coles Local store for a full refund. Coles Online customers can receive a full refund or credit by contacting Coles Online Customer Care on 1800 455 400. Customers seeking further information can contact Coles Customer Care on 1800 061 562.For Woolworths, the recall is for Mixed Spinach and Stir Fry Kits (Queensland and Northern NSW)As a precaution, Woolworths is recalling the following products from its Metro and Supermarket stores in Queensland and northern NSW stores: Woolworths Mixed Leaf 120g - batch number 827628 - Use by 26 MarchWoolworths Spinach & Rocket 60g - batch number 379518 - Use by 26 MarchWoolworths Spinach &Rocket 120g - batch number 705439 - Use by 26 MarchWoolworths Spinach 60g - batch number 379515 - Use by 26 March and 27 MarchWoolworths Cook Stir Fry Kit with Teriyaki Sauce 400g - batch number 409878 Use by 26 March and 27 MarchWoolworths Cook Stir Fry Mix with Rainbow Vegetables 400g - batch number 185251 - Use by 26 MarchWoolworths Kale & Spinach 300g - batch number 54901 - Use by 26 MarchWoolworths Spinach 280g - batch number 524336 - Use by date 30 March and 31 MarchWoolworths Honey Mustard Salad Kit 285g - batch number - 210686 - Use by date 26 March and 27 MarchThe stores in Northern NSW are Tweed City, Tweed Heads, Ballina Fair, Ballina River Street, Byron Bay, Cabarita, Casino, Goonellabah, Kingscliff, Lennox Head, Lismore Central, Lismore Square, Mullumbimby. Woolworths is recalling the products listed above as a precaution due to potential microbiological contamination. Woolworths encourages customers to check the specific variety of Woolworths spinach and stir fry mixes in their fridge and only respond to the recall if it is one of the specific packets listed above. Customers should avoid consuming the affected product and return it to their nearest Woolworths Supermarket or Metro store for a full refund. No other products or batches are affected by this recall. Other varieties of Woolworths mixed salad and stir fry bags are unaffected and remain safe to consume. Woolworths takes product safety seriously and apologises for any inconvenience caused by this recall. Customers can call the toll-free customer service number for more information on 1800 103 515.

Mayor of Lismore Steve Krieg has issued a statement on the resignation of Lismore City Council General Manager (GM) Jon Gibbons.It reads:I have accepted the resignation of Lismore City Council General Manager Jon Gibbons, who is stepping down due to family reasons. While I am saddened by his departure, I respect his decision and thank him for his dedicated service to our community.Mr Gibbons has been a valuable leader for Lismore City Council during a critical period in our city's recovery. His guidance and steady leadership have been instrumental in navigating the challenges we have faced, and I extend my sincere gratitude for his contributions during his tenure.Throughout his time with Council, Mr Gibbons has played a key role in strengthening the relationship between Councillors and the executive team. He has worked closely with staff to develop and implement new strategies and processes aimed at improving productivity and operational efficiency. Beyond his role within Council, Mr Gibbons has been a dedicated advocate for Lismore and its recovery. On behalf of Lismore City Council and our community, I thank him for his service and wish him all the best for the future.Cr Steve KriegMayor of LismoreThere was no mention of Mr Gibbons's notice period or who will be the interim GM while the process to find a replacement takes place. As we know from the hiring process of previous General Managers, we are talking a minimum six-month timeframe.Mr Gibbons was hired on a five-year agreement that began on February 9 2023, when he replaced acting GM John Walker.The Lismore GM role is somewhat of a poisoned chalice. Mr Gibbons was the sixth GM in six years for Lismore City Council, so when the new GM is appointed, they will be the seventh in eight years, if they are appointed in 2025.

A teenager has been charged over alleged armed robbery and break and enter offences in Keen Street on Tuesday evening.Officers attached to Richmond Police District commenced an investigation following an alleged aggravated break and enter at a house on Little Keen Street, Lismore, between the evening of Sunday, 23 March 2025 and the morning of Monday, 24 March 2025.During the break-and-enter, a Subaru station wagon was allegedly stolen from the property.About 5.30pm on Tuesday, 25 March 2025, police were called to a bottle shop on Keen Street, Lismore, following reports of an armed robbery.Police were told two males allegedly stole several bottles of alcohol from the shop, during which they also threatened an attendant with a knife.The attendant was uninjured.Following inquiries, about 10.30am yesterday (Wednesday, 26 March 2025), police executed a search warrant at a property in Lismore, where a 15-year-old boy was arrested.He was taken to Lismore Police Station and was charged with aggravated break and enter commit serious indictable offence – armed, take and drive conveyance without consent of owner, robbery armed with offensive weapon and face blackened/disguised with intent commit indictable offence.The 15-year-old boy was refused bail to appear before a children’s court today (Thursday, 27 March 2025).Investigations under Operation Soteria are ongoing.

Two men have died after a single-vehicle crash at Fairy Hill, near Casino overnight. About 10pm yesterday (Wednesday, 26 March 2025), emergency services were called to Droneys Bridge Road, Fairy Hill, following reports of a single-vehicle crash.Officers attached to the Richmond Police District attended and found a vehicle submerged in the Richmond River.Following initial inquiries, police believe the vehicle was travelling along Droneys Bridge Road, before leaving the roadway.A 22-year-old female occupant of the vehicle was able to self-extricate. She was uninjured.With assistance from Police Rescue and NSW SES crews, the vehicle was retrieved from the water.The bodies of two men believed to be aged in their 20s, were located inside the vehicle.They are yet to be formally identified.Police have established a crime scene and commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the crash.A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.Road closures are in place and motorists are advised to avoid the area.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.

The latest Core Logic Regional Market Update for February 2025 shows the Lismore real estate market has risen 3.1% in the last quarter and 11.9% in the last 12 months. The Median value of house prices in Lismore is $541,716.In contrast, Ballina's quarterly result was -2.8%, with an annual increase of only 0.9% and a median value of $962,954.There is a theory among real estate agents that the Lismore numbers are still inflated because of the house buybacks in the NSWRAs (Reconstruction Authority) Resilient Homes Program.That is supported by Core Logic's bracket percentage. Lismore's largest bracket is in the $400-600,000 range, which is 32.6%, followed by 28.4% buying the $200-$400,000 range.In Ballina, 39.1% of houses are in the $1m to $2m bracket. The next highest is the $600-$800,000 bracket with 21.4%.Andrew Gordon from R Gordon Real Estate agreed that the house buybacks would cause some market distortion."Yes, there will be a level of distortion because that's an unnatural phenomenon, I guess, on the back of Australia's greatest disaster. But having said that, I still think that people recognise Lismore as affordable and perhaps a great place to live."I think there's the next generation that lives on the eastern seaboard that are probably looking at the block next to the home they grew up in saying I can't afford it and see Lismore as a great alternative."I reckon you'll see, in the next five years, those numbers might even go into double digits because we're seeing land releases like by 1055 Bruxner Highway and Eastwood Estate on Invercauld Road, all of those are starting to come around."Now, that's going to be a great supply, and I bet that when they both come on together, they will be competitive, and people will see that as an alternative to paying twice or three times the rates of our coastal cousins." Brett McDonald from Raine & Horne Lismore told the Lismore App there has certainly been an uplift in the real estate market since the start of 2025."Well, certainly since the beginning of the year, there's been an uplift in sentiment amongst buyers, which means people are actually coming to look at homes, making offers, negotiating deals, and actually going ahead with the purchase. So, it's been a lot more positive since the start of the year than it was late last year."The buyers are almost all locals. There are a few out-of-towners, coming from the cities, as there always is, but mostly we're seeing locals buying and moving locally."There is no pattern to the age of buyers or their reasons for buying."They are upsizing, downsizing or sidewaysing. There's a term I'd like to coin," Brett laughs. "There's every kind of reason for people buying. There's no specific group saying we're all upsizing over we're all downsizing. It's everybody. There are people coming to all the properties for all sorts of different reasons."What is noticeable now compared to last year is that we're seeing investors back in the market, which is really exciting because although that makes it more challenging for owner/occupiers when they are buying, we really do desperately need more rental stock back in this town."So it's good to see a few more investors coming back and looking for investment properties so that we can start to get more of a balance."Andrew Gordon agreed that there has been an uplift in the market."We are seeing results. When a house gets listed, it gets sold. Can I say there are more buyers, probably not because it only takes one to buy a home."I would say you'd have to be way outside of pricing, I guess, to not get a result right now. If you're on the money, you will get a result. So, in my mind, that's positive."It's when you have homes on the market that are incorrectly priced and not selling, then you've got a problem. That's not the case right now."

Lismore and the Northern Rivers is in store for a wet three days as the low-pressure system over northern Queensland moves eastward and further south.The Lismore airport recorded 42.4mm to 7:30 this morning, much more than was previously forecast.As the low continues its path across Queensland, causing major flooding to northern and central parts of the state, there is a 90% chance of rain today with a 3-20mm forecast.(The map at 10am Saturday morning shows the low into NSW)The chance of rain increases to 95% for Friday and Saturday, with a range of 10-35mm and 15-60mm, respectively, from northeasterly winds.The rain has been downgraded to a shower or two for Sunday, when we may see some sunshine amongst 0-10mm of rain.Unfortunately, each day next week we could well see more rain as the 'shower or two' forecast continues.At this stage, there are no warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology, so although we could see up to 100mm in the next three days, it will not lead to a flood warning.

The Development Application (DA) for the Eastwood Estate in Goonellabah was given the clear thumbs up from Lismore City Councillors during yesterday's extraordinary council meeting.The McCloy Group first commenced the development of Eastwood 18 months ago, in mid-2019, seeking to create a new lifestyle offering in the Goonellabah and Lismore areas.The initial development, Precinct 1, was approved for 136 homesites on 21 hectares. McCloy then purchased Precinct 2, 37 hectares adjacent to the first development.Initially, the proposal consisted of 203 residential lots, which was refused by councillors in 2022, this was upheld in the Land and Environment Court in 2023.The McCloy Group came back to council with a revised DA addressing staff concerns. Council staff were satisfied the DA met guidelines and recommended councillors approve the DA. Yesterday, the DA was approved for 176 new lots, 9/2.Councillor (Cr) Andrew Gordon acknowledged the adjusted DA, saying, "I think they've done a really, really good job"."We keep on talking about providing relief for our residents through home ownership or other. Diluting the pool is always a good way to start if you want more ratepayers, it lessens the burden upon those in the pool, gives you more resources for community services and the other ideals and all the expectations the community have upon you to perform a role as council."176 lots off the bat. Wouldn't that be fantastic. As you walk through the existing subdivision they've done, it's fabulous. It really is. There's a lot of young families that are coming in, and it's my hope that Lismore will become the dormitory suburb for the Eastern Seaboard."You can't buy a block down there next to Mum and Dad; that doesn't exist anymore unless you've got a million or two, and I'm hoping people come to Lisbmore and live because if they do, then we will be resourced, things will improve for us."We have a population growth dilemma. We're going backwards. Have been for a number of years. You don't get more services when you're going backwards, you get less. You don't get more resources when you're going backwards, you get less. So if we start growing our population, we'll attract different services, more funding, we'll have better facilities, we'll have things for kids and others to do. That's what we want."And I think we have an obligation in this chamber to ensure that the growth of this city is maintained, so that we do have the resourcing for public facility and amenity."Cr Jasmine Knight-Smith said she thought the DA, "was an improtant part of the mix of flood-free housing moving forward, and with Landcom for social and affordable housing, it is really important for this area".Cr Virginia Waters felt there was still some aspects missing in the DA."I think, in this development, firstly, there's a lack of clear affordable housing component, and it does not align with our affordable and diverse housing strategy. The development misses a vital opportunity to deliver on this strategy, which is diverse, affordable housing that meets the long-term community needs."We've been wanting this for over 15 years; even with the reduction from 203 to 176 lots, this proposal is still over-developed, and some medium-density housing could have addressed this by using a smaller footprint while delivering more green space and also adding diversity to it."It does not include the necessary green space or village centre that would make this livable, which we did see in the Bruxner development, which I thought was really a great development.Cr Waters was also concerned about the C3 conservation area."I would have liked to have seen something put in there about a Landcare group being developed, which I think is something we can look towards in the future, and asking some of our developers to also do so that we can actually have ensurance that we're looking after that."And although they've retained the koala trees, they are also on private property. So I think that is a little bit dubious in terms of, like, how protected are they? So I had some concerns around that as well, and also because the habitat is fragmented and there's roads and it's 50 kilometres, it's not a great opportunity for the koalas."Cr Waters also mentioned there is no place for flood-affected homes to be relocated."We know there are homes on the flame plane that need to be moved to safer grounds, yet developments like this offer no relocation opportunities for our beautiful, big scrub hardwood homes. And in good conscience, I cannot vote for this."Unfortunately, this is a high-end car-dependent estate, while our flood-affected community members have nowhere to go. Our community deserves quality, diverse housing, but we must also preserve the balance between development and nature as nature is not an endless resource, and I think that this could do better in terms of the nature and the habitat for the koalas.Cr Waters' fellow Green's councillor, Cr Adam Guise, said he will be singing from the same hymn book. " I do still object to this development"."I still have grave concerns that it's just window dressing for a very unsustainable development, and the scale is still hugely impactful. You're talking about 176 residential lots, smack bang amongst koala feed tree habitat next to bushland, which is a koala corridor. It requires extensive internal roading and hundreds, if not thousands, over its lifetime, of car movements to and from the estate to places that people work and play.Cr Guise also questioned Cr Gordon's 'dormitory suburb' vision."That, to me, is the worst possible thing that Lismore could be. We do not want dormitory suburbs where people just commute to and from Lismore to sleep here. We want active, vibrant members of our community living and working in Lismore, and we need to create a town and a city that enables that, and so just to create a suburb for the Eastern workers or players or entertainers who drive to and from Lismore is not in our best interest, is not in the roads best interests, and is not in the wildlife best interests.The way they've done this to retain the, I think it was 50 or 60 or more core koala feed trees is simply to integrate them into private lots. And if I've seen in this chamber time and time again when there's a tree on a block, it somehow disappears over time. It might be six months, it might be a year, but we will incrementally, by the death of a thousand cuts, see those core koala feed trees disappear."Cr Harper Dalton-Earls spoke for the DA. He believes that Lismore desperately needs more housing."It's a simple economic measure in terms of supply and demand. You need more supply to bring down demand, which brings down the prices. That's like economics 101, whilst it might be slightly imperfect in the issues raised by both Cr Waters and Cr Guise that I thank you for raising at the same time, if we keep knocking back developments, people have no avenues, we get less ratepayers, the burden becomes greater on those that remain, and people continue to leave."I am fundamentally against campaigns that wish to support people to stay in high-risk buyback homes, and I think that this is a good solution in terms of helping to open up more development. Yes, I would like to see developments in the future allow for relocated homes, but that's an issue New South Wales wide. It's not just subject to Lismore, and I think that's something that we can continue to work on as a longer-term strategy, but we must encourage housing development."Cr Dalton-Earls also questioned Cr Guise's statement that koala feed trees would be knocked down."And just my own personal experience, I had a gum tree out the front of my house. It was one lone gum tree in South Lismore. I couldn't get anyone to maintain the thing. I tried for years because it's a risk; wherever it falls, it's going to fall on a house. Now, if I wanted to try and get rid of that gum tree, it was like pulling teeth. So, I don't actually think it's that easy to remove trees. It's an extremely arduous process that goes for a lot of checks and balances, and I think that that same due diligence would be in place if anyone was to try and remove these gum trees."Precinct 2 of the Eastwood Estate was easily passed 9/2, with Crs Guise and Waters opposed.