The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for LARGE HAILSTONES, DAMAGING WINDS and HEAVY RAINFALL for Casino, Kyogle and other western parts of the Northern Rivers.The BoM says that a warm and humid airmass is combining with a southerly wind change and a low-pressure trough to trigger severe thunderstorms across northeast of the state this afternoon.The severe thunderstorms are expected to develop rapidly over the next 60 to 90 minutes.Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce large hailstones, damaging winds and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Lismore, Nimbin, Casino, Kyogle, Grafton and Tabulam.Safety adviceThe State Emergency Service advises that people should:* Move your car under cover or away from trees.* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.* Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.* Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill.* Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall.* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.* Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.* Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.* After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.* Unplug computers and appliances.* Avoid using the phone during the storm.* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.The next warning is due to be issued by 3:45 pm.

A woman has died following a single-vehicle crash in Woombah, 25km north of Yamba, this morning.About 5.15am (Monday, 24 November 2025), emergency services were called to Iluka Road, Woombah, following reports that a black Hyundai had left the road and crashed into bushland.The driver – a woman believed to be in her 20s – was assessed by NSW Ambulance paramedics; however, she died at the scene.Officers attached to Coffs-Clarence Police District established a crime scene and commenced an investigation into the crash.A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.Anyone with information or dashcam footage is urged to contact Coffs-Clarence Police District 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 managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

The NSW Government is calling on the state's startups and entrepreneurs to apply for round two of the 2025-26 Minimum Viable Product (MVP) Ventures Program, with applications now open.The MVP Ventures Program offers targeted grant funding to support founders in taking their ideas from concept to market.Former Tech Council CEO Kate Pounder’s independent review of the state’s innovation ecosystem identified significant gaps in support for women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and regional tech founders. In response, the guidelines for the MVP Ventures Program ensure founders from diverse backgrounds receive a more equitable level of support.NSW has the top innovation ecosystem in the Southern Hemisphere, and the state government is committed to fostering diverse startups, which we know drive creative growth and foster new perspectives across the innovation economy.A total of $3 million in grant funding is available this financial year through two streams:Stream One is available for all eligible businesses with a maximum grant of $50,000 and a minimum co-contribution of 50 per centStream Two is available for eligible women-owned businesses, regional businesses, and Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander businesses with a maximum grant of $75,000 and a minimum co-contribution of 25 per cent. Applications are assessed through a new competitive process, with funding awarded to projects demonstrating the strongest innovation potential, commercial viability, and alignment with the NSW Industry Policy missions. Offering a financial support stream dedicated to women-owned businesses, regional businesses and First Nations businesses also aims to foster diversity and equity in the innovation, a key action in the NSWInnovation Blueprint. The first of three rounds of the 2025-26 MVP Ventures Program opened earlier this year. 309 applications were received with 88 progressing to the competitive assessment stage. Successful round one applicants are expected to be announced in the first quarter of next year.Round two is open from today (Monday, 24 November) and will close at on Sunday, 21 December 2025.Round three will open for applications next year.For more details on eligibility, assessment criteria, and how to apply, please visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/business-and-economy/innovation/grants-and-programs/mvp-ventures-program.Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong said, “NSW is home to world-class talent and a vibrant startup community, and the MVP Ventures Program is about giving our founders the support they need to turn great ideas into commercial success.“I encourage all eligible founders to seize this opportunity and apply for round two.“By backing our innovators, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive economy for the future.”

Forget Black Friday sales, get a bargain and give your unwanted clothes a second life at Ballina Shire Council’s upcoming community clothes swap on Saturday, 6 December, from 11am to 1pm.“Our first community clothes swap in 2024 was a huge success, thanks to the incredible community support. We’re excited to bring it back this December, even bigger and better,” said Justine Rowe, Council’s Resource Recovery Education Officer.“The average Aussie buys 55 new items of clothing each year, but around 6,000 kilos of clothing are sent to landfill every 10 minutes across the country. In Ballina alone, textiles make up 8% of the average kerbside landfill bin,” explained Ms Rowe.“Our upcoming community clothes swap and mending workshop is designed to tackle these challenges by encouraging a circular and sharing economy. It’s a great opportunity for the community to refresh their wardrobe for summer, learn valuable repair skills, and connect with others in a fun and sustainable way,” added Ms. Rowe.The Clothes Swap and Creative Mending Workshop at Ignite Studios in Ballina is a free social event. Leave with unique pre-loved garments, new friends and the satisfaction of knowing your clothes have been saved from landfill and given to someone who will cherish them. Event: Clothes swap and creative mending workshopWhen: 11am – 1pm, Saturday 6 December 2025*Where: Ignite Studios at 60 Crane St, BallinaAge: Open to all ages. Children will need to be accompanied by an adult.Cost: FreeWhat to bring? Clean, quality clothing designed for all body types and genders. Availability of items on the day will depend on what other swappers bring. Maximum five items of clothing or accessories.Pre-event clothing drop off *Participants need to drop off their clothing in exchange for tokens before the event. Clothing must be dropped off prior to event start at 11am on 6 December.Drop off times to Ignite Studios: 12pm to 5pm, Friday 5 December10am to 11am, Saturday 6 DecemberClothing mending workshopMending is a cost-effective, creative way to cut textile waste and extend the life of your clothes.To help locals build these skills, Council has added a mending workshop to this year’s Clothes Swap. Local maker Corinne Wilson will run a drop-in visible mending and repair space on the day.Bring one or two items to repair, mend something you’ve found at the swap, or simply stop by to watch and join the conversation. No sewing experience is needed, and all tools and materials are supplied.Whether it’s a favourite pair of pants with a hole or a small fix you’ve been putting off, you’ll learn simple hand-sewing techniques using scrap or recycled materials.Event Schedule for Saturday 6 December10am to 10:45am: Arrive at the venue, register and check in clothes and accessories to add to the swap collection pool (5 items maximum).The event team will sort your items onto racks and tables. Head to the gallery next door and enjoy the exhibit, socialise or grab a coffee (don't forget your reusable cup) until the welcome and event briefing begins.10:45am to 11am: Welcome briefing and sustainable fashion talk by Justine, Council’s Resource Recovery Education Officer.11am to 1pm: The swap officially begins for two hours of sustainable clothes browsing and swapping alongside the clothing repair and mending space.Accessibility: Ignite Studios is an accessible venue, but please contact the Resource Recovery team for specific needs or requestsFor more details on the event and swap guidelines, visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/textiles or contact the Resource Recovery team on 02 6686 1287.The NSW EPA provided Ballina Council with a $32,400 grant under the third round of the Local Government Waste Solutions Fund, as part of the NSW Government’s Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy. The project is funded through the waste levy.

Volunteers from Marine Rescue Iluka Yamba rescued a man from the Clarence River this morning after his boat overturned off Goodwood Island.Marine Rescue NSW Inspector John Murray said a radio operator at Marine Rescue Iluka Yamba received a call from a member of the public at 9:19 am (Friday 21 November), reporting that the person was in the water and their vessel was sinking.“The crew on board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Iluka Yamba 30 were out training and responded rapidly.“Thankfully, a boater also responded and monitored the man in the water until IY 30 arrived.“The crew on board IY 30 retrieved the man from the water while our radio operator organised an ambulance.“The man was conscious but very cold. His 3–4 metre runabout had overturned and become inundated.“He was transported by Iluka Yamba 30 to the Iluka boat ramp, where he was met by NSW Ambulance paramedics.“The man was extremely fortunate; he was wearing a lifejacket, which helped save his life. If it had not been for the member of the public calling through the emergency and the quick response by our volunteers, this incident could have had a much different outcome,” Inspector Murray said.Because the man’s boat was a navigational hazard, and at the request of NSW Police Marine Area Command, volunteers on board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Iluka Yamba 20 righted the vessel and towed it to shore.Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer-based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.

The Clarence Valley community is invited to provide feedback on the Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment planning documents, with the planning application now on public exhibition.The release of the Review of Environmental Factors planning documentation follows community consultation held in Grafton in September and October of this year, with valuable feedback and input from staff, stakeholders and the community continuing to help shape the redevelopment.The NSW Government is investing $263.8 million in the Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment to provide new and enhanced health services for the region. It will deliver a new three-storey Acute Services Building, including a new Emergency Department, Emergency Short Stay Unit, Medical Imaging and MRI, and inpatient unit.The Day Surgery and Operating Suite will be expanded to provide two extra operating theatres, increasing overall theatre capacity. The new building will also provide space for maternity services to be relocated in the future, as well as identifying zones for potential further development.When complete, the new Acute Services Building will seamlessly integrate with the existing hospital via a new hospital street at the current public main entrance. There will also be a new road off Queen Street that will provide ambulances with direct access to the Emergency Department, as well as more than 30 additional car spaces.Early works are set to start on site in the coming weeks to prepare the site for main works construction. The works will include minor refurbishments to building 25 near the existing main entry to enable the relocation of existing ambulatory care services out of the main works construction zone.This work will ensure access to health services are maintained while the redevelopment work is carried out. Wayfinding will be provided to ensure staff and patients can continue to access services during this time. Construction timeframes for main works will be confirmed once planning has been finalised and a builder is engaged.Work is also underway to transform 36 units at the former Grafton Gaol site, to accommodate health workers. The NSW Government allocated $34.2 million to NNSWLHD as part of the wider $200.1 million Key Health Worker Accommodation program.The Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment Review of Environmental Factors and other supporting technical documents can be viewed here: www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/grafton-base-hospital-redevelopment.Feedback on the planning application can be provided online until 11:59pm on Friday, 19 December 2025. For more information about the project visit: http://nsw.gov.au/grafton-base-hospital-redevelopment.Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said, “It’s an exciting time for the project with early works soon getting underway on the Grafton Base Hospital campus.“The public exhibition of the planning application for the project marks a significant milestone for the hospital redevelopment and we’re grateful for the valuable input provided by staff and stakeholders in the planning process, which has helped shaped this project.“When completed, the new hospital building will transform the Grafton Hospital campus, enhancing access and creating a modern facility for the community and staff.”Minister for North Coast Janelle Saffin said, “This redevelopment is being shaped by the community every step of the way, and this public exhibition provides another opportunity to continue this critical involvement.“By working together, we are enabling our fabulous health staff to deliver excellent patient care for the growing Grafton community.“I am excited about how this redevelopment is progressing and looking forward to the works getting underway.”

Byron Council is aiming to have the section of Mullumbimby Road, between Gulgan Road and The Saddle Road, open to two-way traffic in early December.The seal of the section is programmed for the week starting 24 November.Council was hoping the seal would be completed this week, but rain delayed the contractor engaged to do the work.“We had expected the seal to start going down this week, but the contractor has been delayed on another job because of wet weather,” Phil Holloway, Director Infrastructure Services, said.“All going well, the seal will start to go down starting on 1 December and that section of road will open to two-way traffic in early December,” Mr Holloway said.The focus will then turn to heavy patching on the stretch of road from Kings Creek to James Street.Some of this work will be done at night, and there may be minor delays for drivers during the day, with traffic control in place to manage the flow of vehicles.“There will also be minor work that will be done along Mullumbimby Road in December to finish the project, but after the seal goes down, traffic movements will return to normal flow and waiting times for drivers should be minimal,” My Holloway said.Council teams and contractors are working on Saturdays.Information about the Mullumbimby Road upgrade is on Council’s website.

The BreastScreen NSW mobile screening van is now open for breast screening at Fawcett Park, Moon Street (river end), Ballina, until the end of January 2026. BreastScreen NSW provides free breast screening to women to support the early detection of breast cancer. Patrick Magee, Director of BreastScreen NSW (North Coast) says a regular breast screen is one of the most important things women can do for their health. “Detecting breast cancer early increases your chance of survival while reducing the likelihood of invasive treatment, such as mastectomy or chemotherapy. “Around 90 per cent of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history. This is why breast cancer screening is so important for all eligible women.” Patrick said having a BreastScreen NSW van in Ballina makes it easier for women to attend their recommended two-yearly screening. “Bringing these vital services to Ballina means more local women can be screened. Life gets busy, and we want women to make their health a priority.” • An appointment with BreastScreen NSW is free, takes less than 20 minutes, and no doctor’s referral is needed.• All women are invited by BreastScreen NSW to screen every two years from the age of 50.• Any woman with a family history of breast cancer should discuss their specific needs with their GP.• Anyone with breast symptoms should contact their GP or health worker without delay.The mobile clinic visiting Ballina is equipped with a lift system to support women with health conditions or disability to have their mammogram. Women with additional needs are encouraged to let us know when booking their appointment. To book a free mammogram with BreastScreen NSW, visit book.breastscreen.nsw.gov.au or call 13 20 50.

Lennox Head is set for its summer tourist boom following the completion of upgrades to the town’s iconic beachfront parkland.Declared a National Surfing Reserve in 2007, Lennox Head is well known for its surf breaks, golden beaches, lakes and cafes – and the locals are passionate about their patch of paradise.Landscape Architect Sheryn Da-Re said public feedback played a key part in designing the new-look park in the heart of town.“The Lennox Head village centre upgrade was designed as a collaboration between Council and the community, slowing cars and improving accessibility for people were key aspirations of the community design group,” Ms Da-Re said. “These aspirations have been delivered in many ways, including through the incorporation of a central ‘shared zone’ which is a pedestrian priority area, level pedestrian crossing points, accessible public toilets and outdoor shower areas, a variety of seating types suitable for various capabilities, and the incorporation of community art.”Lennox Head already attracts around 109,000 visitors each year, and it’s hoped the upgrades will help the town tap into the accessible tourism market and boost that figure further.The upgraded park is directly opposite Lennox’s bustling shop, café and restaurant strip, and provides the perfect spot to enjoy some takeaway by the beach.Team Leader Destination and Visitor Experience for Ballina Shire, Alanah Ward, said Council hopes to welcome new and returning visitors to the region. “The enhancement of Lennox Park is set to bolster the appeal of Ballina Shire as a destination that welcomes the inclusive tourism market,” Ms Ward said. “This upgrade is integral to a series of developments designed to provide enjoyable experiences for visitors of all abilities.”The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s People with Disability in Australia Report (2024) found that 18 per cent of Australians, or 4.4 million people, have a disability.Twenty-two per cent, or 5.5 million Australians, have a long-term health condition, and 55 per cent of Australians with a disability have mobility challenges.In the June quarter 2023, Tourism Research Australia estimates the total value of domestic travel by people with accessibility needs and people who travelled with them was $6.8 billion – representing 21 per cent of total domestic tourism spend in that quarter.With 101 businesses located in the Lennox Head Village Precinct, increased accessibility is expected to deliver dividends for the local economy.Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Executive Director Harriet Whyte said the NSW Government is proud to support accessibility improvements that open regional NSW up for more visitors to enjoy. “Whether it’s people with disability, our aging population, or parents with strollers, projects like the Lennox Park Accessibility upgrade make a real difference to the lives of people living in or visiting regional NSW,” Ms Whyte said.“Increased visitation and longer stays also have a flow-on effect for local shops, cafes and accommodation providers and help boost regional economies.”Ballina Shire Council received $700,297 from the NSW Government to create an all-access raised threshold crossing on the main street linking Lennox Park to other attractions and experiences as well as building accessible toilets and change facilities, picnic facilities, accessible paths, shelters and viewing locations, electricity, transit stop improvements and creation of a pop-up event space.The Lennox Park upgrades are part of a broader town centre revitalisation called the Village Vision, which aims to attract inclusive tourism and improve the visitor experience.

A major Ballina housing development is sitting with Ballina Shire Council following the lodgement of a 300-home, 250-site lot at Kinvara, which sits between the Pacific Highway and the northern end of the Ballina Nature reserve and west of Lennox Head.The Kinvara area of the Ballina Shire has been earmarked for urban development since 2006, and the area is already zoned for residential and urban use, and for a range of environmental and community outcomes.Consistent with a previously released masterplan, Stage 1 will deliver:300 new homes across 250 lotsA retail and commercial precinctAn interconnected network of parks, pathways and cyclewaysImportant environmental and flood mitigation works.Covering approximately 69 hectares, Stage 1 represents a multi-million-dollar investment and a two-to-three-year construction program.“This is an important and exciting step forward for long-held ambitions for Kinvara,” said Brad Paddon, Managing Director at APD Projects, managers on behalf of the developers Mondous Property and Casey Capital. “Our vision is to create a vibrant, sustainable community that respects the local environment and provides long-term benefits for residents and the wider Ballina region.”The DA is supported by a comprehensive suite of technical studies and reports, including assessments of urban design, biodiversity, cultural heritage, flood impact, traffic engineering, geotechnical conditions, air quality, noise and vibration, and bushfire risk.Community members are encouraged to review the application and provide feedback during the public exhibition period.APD is also hosting drop-in sessions at Lennox Head and a public webinar.“Community input is vital in shaping a development that reflects local priorities and values, and we encourage everyone to take a closer look at the plans now on display at the Council website,” said Brad Paddon.For more information and updates, visit https://saltwoodkinvara.com.au.

Work has begun on restoring beach access ways and improving public safety at Suffolk Park Beach, with New Brighton Beach, South Golden Beach, Belongil Beach and Brunswick Heads Beach next on the schedule, ahead of the summer holidays.The beach access ways are being restored because they were damaged during ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred earlier this year.Jim Roberts, Council’s Coordinator Open Spaces, said that people need to be aware of heavy machinery, stay away from work sites and pay attention to closed beach access ways.“While it’s great news that we can get these beach access ways restored ahead of the summer holidays, we need people to stay well away from heavy machinery on the beach while this work takes place,” Mr Roberts said.“If you come to a closed beach access way, it is there for a reason, please do not ignore the signs, as we are actively working on the beach access ways. We will open the access ways as soon as possible, after work has been completed. You can use other open access ways in the meantime. Work will progress up the beaches, so there will still be other access points open at all times.“Most of these beaches are also dog off-lead areas, so it would be appreciated if dogs can be kept on lead if you see machinery on the beach, or taken to another off-lead area temporarily, while we get this important work done,” he said.Planned schedule of work (weather permitting)The planned work schedule is as follows:Completed - Suffolk Park Beach entrances. From today (Monday 17 November) until Friday 28 November – New Brighton Beach and South Golden Beach entrances, starting at the North Head Road beach access point and moving north to the last beach access point at South Golden Beach.From Monday 1 December until Friday 12 December - Brunswick Heads Beach beach access point near the Surf Club.From early December until Friday, 19 December – Belongil Beach starting at the Childe Street (old jetty) beach access point. Works will also include the Border Street, Don Street and North Beach access points.“This schedule may change depending on the weather, so we appreciate everyone’s cooperation in staying well away from machinery if they see it on the beach,” Mr Roberts added.Beach restoration work is funded by NSW Government.  Work involves:Rebuilding beach access ways including the replacement of wooden chain ladders.Removing debris and vegetation where required.Minor sand relocation and reprofiling to stabilise steep dunes and improve public safety. (New Brighton Beach only).Further works are due to happen at New Brighton Beach next year. This is waiting on further funding. More information can be found on Council’s website.

As the weather rolls in from the west, the Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the western parts of the Northern Rivers, including Casino, Kyogle and Murwillumbah.The warm and unstable airmass over large areas of the north coast could produce damaging, locally destructive winds, large hailstones and heavy rainfall.There was 5-6 CM hail AT Croppa Creek, just north of Moree, at 2:40pm, and 109 km/h wind gust was recorded at Walgett, in the state's west, at 2:24 pmSafety adviceThe State Emergency Service advises that people should:* Move your car under cover or away from trees.* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.* Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.* Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill.* Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall.* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.* Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.* Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.* After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.* Unplug computers and appliances.* Avoid using the phone during the storm.* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.The next warning is due to be issued by 7:05 pm.

Motorists are advised of changed overnight traffic conditions from next week on the Pacific Motorway at Brunswick Heads for guardrail installation work. Starting this Monday, 17 November, near the northbound off ramp and then moving to the southbound on ramp and adjacent shoulder, work will be carried out from 6pm to 4am for two weeks, weather permitting. No work will be carried out on Friday or Saturday nights.Slow lane closures and a reduced speed limit of 60km/h will be in place during working hours, with a reduced speed limit of 80km/h in place during the day.Motorists should allow extra travel time during this work, drive to the conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.For more information on this work visit https://www.livetraffic.com/incident-details/255562, download the Live Traffic NSW app or call 132 701.   To receive updates direct to your phone, search for ‘Brunswick Heads’ in your Live Traffic app, select the incident and click ‘Follow’.  

Motorists are advised that the Tugun Bypass Tunnel on the Pacific Motorway at Tweed Heads West will be closed on multiple nights next week for essential maintenance.To reduce the impact on motorists, work will be carried out at night. The tunnel will be closed to all traffic from 7pm to 5am each night from Monday, 17, to Thursday, 20 November, reopening at 5am Friday, 21 November, weather permitting.On Monday, 17 and Thursday, 20 November, northbound traffic will be diverted at the Gold Coast Highway (Tugun exit) onto Tugun Currumbin Road, rejoining the Pacific Motorway at Currumbin. Southbound traffic will be diverted at Tugun Currumbin Road (exit 95) onto Gold Coast Highway, rejoining the Pacific Motorway at Tweed Heads West (Gold Coast Highway on-ramp).On Tuesday, 18 and Wednesday, 19 November, northbound traffic will be diverted to the M1 Pacific Motorway via the Kennedy Drive exit, then Sugarwood Drive to Gold Coast Highway, then Tugun Currumbin Road and rejoin the M1 Pacific Motorway at the Stewart Road on-ramp. Southbound traffic will exit the M1 Pacific Motorway at Tugun Currumbin Road (Exit 95) and follow to the Gold Coast Highway, then Cordyline Drive to rejoin the M1 Pacific Motorway at Kennedy Drive on-ramp.The diversions are suitable for all vehicles, and motorists are advised to allow up to five minutes of additional travel time. Motorists are also advised to drive to the conditions and follow the direction of signs and traffic control.Routine maintenance of the Tugun Bypass Tunnel is carried out every three months and involves a range of measures such as inspecting the various operating and safety systems.Transport for NSW thanks motorists for their patience while essential maintenance work is carried out.For more information on this work, visit https://www.livetraffic.com/incident-details/233663, download the Live Traffic NSW App or call 132 701. To receive updates direct to your phone, search for ‘Tugun Bypass Tunnel’ in your Live Traffic app, select the incident and click ‘Follow’.

The Kyogle Gardens Caravan Park will re-open on Friday (14 November) following a significant $1.8 million upgrade. The renovated caravan park now features: 27 powered sites and 10 unpowered sitesA modern amenities building with hot showers, toilets (including an accessible toilet), and laundry facilitiesSealed internal roads for improved accessUpgraded lighting and drainageA dump point for waste disposalLandscaping, including a corridor of native floraVisitors will also benefit from a new online booking system, available via the Visit Kyogle website (https://www.visitkyogle.com.au/accommodation/kyogle-gardens-caravan-park/)Kyogle Mayor Cr Danielle Mulholland welcomed the re-opening of the caravan park, saying it was an important facility which supported both tourism and the local economy. "The Kyogle Local Government Area (LGA) is known for its natural beauty and country hospitality, and the new-look caravan park will make it even easier for travellers to enjoy everything our area has to offer," Cr Mulholland said. “Tourism is a vital part of our local economy, and the improved facilities and convenience of the upgraded caravan park will help attract more visitors who will be inclined to stay longer in our area. This in turn will support local businesses and jobs." The $1.8 million project was jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments through the Department of Regional NSW.

A fortunate buyer spent $1 to secure a flood buyback home at the Murwillumbah Services Club on Tuesday night (11 November), setting a record low price.Previously, the lowest price for the 106 Northern Rivers properties offered for sale in the Northern Rivers was $347, capturing nationwide attention. A young couple provided another highlight on Tuesday night after buying their old rental home for $200. They fled the house after floodwaters entered the second storey of the property in 2022. For sentimental reasons, they attended the auction with no intention of making a bid. By the end of the night, they were first-time homeowners.The First National Real Estate Murwillumbah auction of flood buyback homes from South Murwillumbah, Burringbar and Mooball shows that every flood buyback house can find a new home. Several young families bought houses, builders and investors from outside the region participated in the auction on Tuesday night, with the 11 properties selling for a total value of $14,871. The highlights included: 7 Wardrop St, South Murwillumbah: $900.      21 Wardrop St, South Murwillumbah: $8500.39 Wardrop St, South Murwillumbah: $650.41 Wardrop St, South Murwillumbah: $5.321 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah: $200.325 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah: $5327 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah: $2100.381 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah: $1.387 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah: $2500.6070 Tweed Valley Way, Burringbar: $5.9 Pottsville Rd, Mooball: $5. All homes earmarked for relocation have been purchased by the NSW Reconstruction Authority through the buyback stream of the $880 million Resilient Homes Program, jointly funded by the NSW and Australian governments.  Seven auctions have been held this year, since starting in June. Another 10 buyback houses will be auctioned next week (Monday, November 17) at the Lismore Workers Sports Club in Goonellabah. Three more auctions will be held in December before Christmas.The Resilient Homes Program is the largest adaptation program of its kind in the country. 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. All house owners will now have until 30 November 2026 to relocate their property to flood-free land. All NSW proceeds from the home sales (after costs) are reinvested into the Resilient Homes Program to support more flood-affected residents. Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said, “We always promised that if you turned up to the flood buyback auction, you might walk away with a house for $1. Well, that’s finally happened.“It really is the most accessible housing program in the country.“This is fantastic. I love that we are giving an opportunity for families and young people to own a home for the first time and giving these homes a new lease of life off the flood plain.” NSW Reconstruction Authority Northern Rivers Adaptation Executive Director Kristie Clarke said, “The Reconstruction Authority buyback auctions have no reserve; we want to see as many homes as possible repurposed for a safe future.“We're seeing a lot of young families buying these homes, and it's proving to be a very affordable option.” 

There will be major work done on the small lake at Waterlily Park at Ocean Shores in mid-November with Council to remove the weed that is covering the lake and clearing nearby drains.An aquatic harvester will be operating in the lake for around one week, removing the invasive Salvina weed which will be stored on the bank to dry out before it is taken to the Byron Resource Recovery Centre and turned into compost.In the past Council has successfully used the Salvinia Weevil to control the weed, but additional measures need to be taken this year because of the presence of two other invasive weeds, Parrot’s Feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum) and Creeping Water-Primrose (Ludwigia peploides).The aquatic harvester will remove the bulk of the weeds, but herbicide spraying will be necessary around the edges where the machine can’t access.“Without this treatment the weeds could quickly re-establish,” Malcolm Robertson, Manager Open Spaces and Facilities, said.“The specialised aquatic herbicide, Clipper, will be applied where needed, by licenced contractors and signage will be placed in affected areas to warn the public of the herbicide in use.“All three weeds multiply quickly and have the potential to create thick mats on the surface of waterways, smothering native plants and disrupting the environment for aquatic species,” Mr Robertson said.These weeds have been widely marketed in the past as aquarium plants, and people living in the catchment of the lake are asked to check what may be growing in backyard fishponds.“We have had these weeds under control in the past, and they seem to reoccur following heavy rains, suggesting they could be transported via stormwater drains.“The Parrots Feather can also be introduced on the feathers or wings of visiting aquatic birds,” Mr Robertson said.Once the weed removal and treatment processes are finished, work will start on removing silt from drainage pipe outlets in the lake.“Over the years, there has been a significant build-up of sediment from the surrounding catchment, which has reduced the depth of the lake and altered flow patterns,” Ryan van Doorn, Acting Infrastructure Services Planning Coordinator, said.“We will have a long-arm excavator working in the lake, and the silt and other material will be put on the bank before being removed,” Mr van Doorn said.When treatments are complete Council is hoping to work with the Waterlily Park Landcare group to assist in monitoring and manually removing fresh weed outbreaks before they gain momentum.More information about the Waterlily Park lake improvement project is on Council’s website.

In a first for flood recovery, a Black Hawk helicopter has been hauling 40 tonnes of boulders through the steep valleys of Lavertys Gap to repair a 100-year-old weir damaged by the 2022 floods and the aftermath of former Tropical Cyclone Alfred.The long-line helicopter operation was used to airlift 24 basalt boulders to the historic Lavertys Gap Weir on Wilsons Creek, stabilising the eroded creek bank and preserving a key piece of Mullumbimby’s heritage.The $2.7 million weir repair, part of the million Northern Rivers Water and Wastewater Repair and Recovery Program, is led by the NSW Reconstruction Authority in collaboration with Byron Shire Council and delivered by NSW Public Works. The program is restoring critical water and wastewater infrastructure across flood-impacted communities.A specialist marine contractor using tracked vehicles, floating barges and helicopters is carrying out the repairs. The works pose a complex logistical challenge requiring deep expertise.The creek bank at the southern end of the 100-year-old weir wall suffered serious erosion during the floods. The damaged area has been carefully stabilised and reinforced with specialised geofabric, concrete and rock placement.The two-tonne boulders, quarried outside Kyogle, were trucked to a staging site 400m from the weir. One rock at a time, the helicopter on Thursday and Friday last week airlifted its sling load to the weir over a total of four hours flying time.The Black Hawk precision operation reduced the need to create new access tracks to the weir site and minimised environmental disturbance around the Wilsons Creek catchment. An extension of Mullumbimby’s emergency water main connection to the Rous County Council regional water network was completed earlier this year under the same NSW Government program, which enabled the repair works to be completed without impacting the local water supply. Thanks to careful planning, residents have experienced no disruption to water services, even as the weir has been drained. The repair works, which began in September, is expected to be completed by early January, depending on weather conditions.Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said, “You wouldn’t normally call in a Black Hawk for reconstruction efforts, but we had to think outside the box to ensure we could repair and protect a key piece of local history while ensuring Mullumbimby has a secure and reliable water supply for the future.“The sight of a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter placing giant boulders at the weir site was a joy to behold and shows what is possible when different levels of government work together in the best interests of a community in need of recovery support.“The recovery of the Northern Rivers is long and complex, but we are here with the community every step of the way.”NSW Reconstruction Authority Executive Director Reconstruction Graham Kennett said, “This project highlights the practical on-the-ground recovery work the RA is delivering across the Northern Rivers.”NSW Public Works Project Manager Richard Greenhill said, “This is a precision operation to stabilise Lavertys Gap Weir. By placing rock and engineered clay with precision, we’re building a durable barrier that will protect the weir from erosion and withstand future flood events.”“We’re addressing erosion that’s undermining the weir wall itself, which, if left unchecked, could compromise the structure.”“This is a collaborative effort involving Council, state agencies, Traditional Owners, and the landholder; everyone has played a role in making this possible.”Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said, “This is a complex project in a challenging location, and it is achieving results that will preserve the heritage fabric of Lavertys Gap Weir and secure its long-term integrity, which are important to our community.”

Details have been released of a two car accident on the Bruxner Highway at Irvington, about 24 km from Lismore, that closed parts of the highway for over 12 hours.Police said that at about 11pm yesterday (Tuesday, 11 November 2025), emergency services were called to the Bruxner Highway at Irvington following reports of a crash.At the scene, police were told two vehicles collided head-on before crashing into a paddock.The drivers – men aged 22 and 35 – were treated at the scene before being taken to Lismore Base Hospital each in a stable condition.A crime scene was established and inquiries into the circumstances surround the crash commenced by officers attached to the Crash Investigation Unit, assisted by Richmond Police District.As inquiries continue, anyone with information or dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.The Bruxner Highway at Irvington has now been reopened.