Police are appealing for information as an investigation continues into a home invasion and assault on the state’s north coast last month.About 6am on Wednesday 8 January 2025, police were called to a home on Roderick Street, Maclean, about 45km north of Grafton, following reports of a break and enter.Police have been told that up to five people forced entry to the home and confronted the occupant, a 48-year-old man, demanding the keys to a Mercedes parked in the driveway.The man was then assaulted by the group - who were armed with a machete and a knife - resulting in facial and hand injuries.The house was ransacked with a 73-year-old woman also threatened by the group, demanding keys.The group then left the home, taking two wallets and cash.Police from Coffs/Clarence Police District were notified and attended. A crime scene was established and forensically examined.As inquiries into the incident continue, police are appealing for anyone with information to contact Coffs Harbour police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Two new pieces of equipment will significantly enhance care and support for patients at Grafton Base Hospital's Children's Ward and Women's Care Unit, thanks to the generous contribution of Westlawn Finance.The donation was recently presented by the Grafton-based financial services company to Our Kids, allowing the children’s health fund to purchase the new equipment for the hospital.The equipment includes a portable Nitrous Oxygen Unit for the Children's Ward, which helps to sedate children and babies when undergoing procedures, and a Radical-7 Pulse CO-Oximeter, a high-tech monitoring system that assists medical teams in monitoring the respiration and oxygen levels of pre-term babies admitted to the hospital’s Special Care Nursery.(Westlawn Finance Business Development Manager Damien Rouse and Executive Director Geoff Scofield examine the new equipment purchased by Our Kids with funds raised at their recent Golf Day. Photo: supplied)Westlawn Finance's donation to Our Kids was made possible through funds raised during the annual Westlawn Charity Golf Day, an event that brings community and business partners together to support this worthy cause.Westlawn Finance Executive Director Geoff Scofield said he was thrilled to continue the company’s partnership with Our Kids."The amazing work Our Kids does to raise funds for much-needed equipment in the maternity and children's wards at Grafton Hospital is truly inspiring,” he said.“Our commitment to supporting local initiatives aligns perfectly with Our Kids’ mission to keep kids and families in our region, reducing the need for them to travel too far away from home."Our Kids Fundraising Coordinator Rebekka Battista thanked Westlawn Finance for their continuing support for community care in the region."A massive thanks to the Westlawn Finance team, their customers and supporters of the Westlawn Charity Golf Day – it is always a great day and the results impact so many families in the Clarence region. Thank you to all involved," she said.Our Kids hosts signature events like the Westlawn Charity Golf Day, the up-and-coming Lismore Samson Fitness Challenge, and Our Kids Day Out, along with contributions from donors and local businesses to help raise funds to purchase paediatric equipment for our local hospitals.To date, Our Kids has purchased more than $2.7 million in paediatric equipment for the Grafton, Lismore and Tweed hospitals. To find out more about Our Kids, or to become a financial or in-kind partner with Our Kids, please contact the Our Kids team on 0438 417 085 or email info@ourkids.org.au.

Lions Road between Standfields Bridge and the Queensland border crossing will be closed to through traffic from Monday, 17 February to mid-June, while Council replaces six culverts damaged in the February 2022 floods.However, it’s likely the road closure will be extended to the end of the year so five major landslips can also be repaired. A decision on if, and when, the road closure will be extended will be made within the next month.Meanwhile, Council will attempt to re-open Lions Road for holidaymakers and travellers for two weeks over the NSW Easter school holidays from Friday, 11 April to Sunday, 27 April. The temporary re-opening will be dependent on weather conditions and the progress of the work.Kyogle Council Mayor Danielle Mulholland said the closure, while inconvenient, would result in a safer, more flood-resilient road for all motorists.“Unfortunately, the section of Lions Road between Standfields Bridge and the border crossing where both lots of work is to be done is narrow and winding and it simply would not be safe to keep it open while the works are carried out,” Cr Mulholland said.“There will be large earth moving equipment in place and lots of heavy vehicles travelling the road, and there are very few places on the road you can construct by-passes.“I understand this is not ideal, and it will be inconvenient for both locals and travellers alike. However, it will allow Council to safely deliver a better, safer road that is more secure during intense rain periods.”The Lions Road closure between Standfields Bridge and the border crossing will not affect Gradys Creek Road which will remain open. However, motorists are urged to use caution as there will be increased heavy vehicle traffic using the road during the hours of 6.30am and 5pm while the work is undertaken.

Healthcare students and graduates living or seeking employment in rural, regional and remote NSW can now apply for nine types of scholarships designed to support their studies and boost the state’s regional health workforce.Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park today opened the first round of the NSW Government’s $5 million Rural and Regional Health Career Scholarships Program for 2025, which supports Students of Nursing, Midwifery, Medicine, Dentistry and Allied Health. Applications are now open for the Diploma of Nursing Rural Travel Support Incentive, which provides financial travel assistance for Diploma of Nursing students from a rural area (Modified Monash Model locations 3 or above) and live more than 100km (one way) from the Registered Training Organisation. Eligible students can apply for a travel incentive of $5,000 to go towards the cost of travel and accommodation related to their Diploma of Nursing studies.Applications are also open for the New Graduate Nursing and Midwifery Rural Support Incentive, which provides a one-off payment of $1,000 to support relocation costs for non-local graduate registered nurses and midwives seeking employment in identified rural or remote LHD locations.These scholarships are expected to support more than 1,100 healthcare workers.The full list of scholarships include:·                Diploma of Nursing Rural Travel Support Incentive·                New Graduate Nursing and Midwifery Rural Support Incentive·                Allied Health Rural Generalist Program (Level 1) Scholarship·                Allied Health Rural Generalist Diploma Rural Practice (Level 2) Scholarship·                Rural Allied Health Assistant Scholarship·                Aboriginal Rural Allied Health University Student Scholarship·                Supporting Entry into University Medicine or Dentistry Scholarship (GAMSAT)·                Supporting Entry into University Medicine or Dentistry Scholarship (UCAT)·                Getting Started in Medicine Scholarship for First Year StudentsFor more information on the $5 million Rural and Regional Health Career Scholarships Program, including eligibility criteria and opening dates, visit the NSW Health website.These scholarships build on a series of measures The Minns Labor Government has introduced to strengthen the state’s health workforce including:·                Implementing the Safe Staffing Levels initiative in our emergency departments·                Providing permanent funding for 1,112 FTE nurses and midwives on an ongoing basis·                Abolishing the wages cap and delivering the highest pay increase in more than a decade for nurses and other health workers·                Investing an additional $200.1 million in key worker accommodation·                Beginning to roll out 500 additional paramedics in regional, rural and remote communities·                Boosting subsidies for regional health workers.Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said, “Staffing our regional, rural and remote healthcare facilities is a major challenge.“This year the program is expected to support 150 nursing and midwifery students, 100 medical and dentistry and 35 allied health students from regional, rural and remote locations while they undertake their healthcare studies. “This Program is helping to strengthen our regional, rural and remote health workforce in NSW, which will result in improved experiences for patients living in these locations.”Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said, “Ensuring rural and regional communities have access to the best healthcare is a key priority for the Minns Government and also a significant challenge.“These scholarships are not just a great opportunity for regional and rural students looking for a career in healthcare, but they will also play a part in helping recruit and retain healthcare workers in our regional communities

A highly successful regional, rural and remote deployment program for key healthcare roles is set to be expanded over the next three years, with NSW Health recruiting nurses, midwives, and allied health professionals to be posted to short-term placements across NSW.The NSW Health Deployment Program was first established in May 2023 to create a pipeline of skilled health professionals for short-term roles.The short-term positions of between two and 13 weeks offer healthcare professionals the opportunity to travel and work in regional, rural and remote parts of NSW they may never have visited, with accommodation and travel costs covered.  The NSW Government is currently seeking healthcare workers from more than 20 professions, including nurses, midwives and allied health professionals for a range of short-term positions in hospitals and health facilities across NSW. The initial success of the program so far has seen 90 staff undertake hundreds of deployments across the state in priority roles such as nursing, midwifery, occupational therapy, podiatry, speech pathology and physiotherapy. NSW Health will now increase the team to around 400 to further strengthen its support to regional, rural and remote areasHealthcare workers seeking a role with NSW Health, or current staff, are encouraged to register their interest via the NSW Health website. The Minns Labor Government has introduced a series of measures to strengthen the state’s health workforce including:Implementing the Safe Staffing Levels initiative in our emergency departmentsProviding permanent funding for 1,112 FTE nurses and midwives on an ongoing basisAbolishing the wages cap and delivering the highest pay increase in more than a decade for nurses and other health workersInvesting an additional $200.1 million in key worker accommodationBeginning to roll out 500 additional paramedics in regional, rural and remote communitiesBoosting subsidies for regional health workers.Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park said, “Recruitment and retention of healthcare staff in rural, regional and remote hospitals is one of our biggest, if not the biggest issue we face.“This is a fantastic and unique opportunity for staff to expand their skills and also immerse themselves into a new community.“This innovative program is not only attracting health workers to regional, rural and remote communities but also strengthening these areas by maintaining essential health services.“These deployments give health workers the chance to explore and immerse themselves in new communities, and pleasingly, I’ve heard stories of many health professionals who have found the experience so rewarding they’ve chosen to stay, providing lasting benefits for patients, the community, and the health system.”NSW Health Deputy Secretary for Rural and Regional Health Luke Sloane said, “The deployment program offers a fantastic career opportunity for a range of healthcare staff who are seeking new experiences and a career reset as well as a great lifestyle change.“It’s also an incredibly rewarding personal experience, with many who take part forming new friendships in close-knit communities who welcome them with open arms.”NSW Health Deployment Program participant, Speech Pathologist Saffron Foy said, “I joined the NSW Health Deployment program because I wanted a bit of a change, and I loved the experience of working in unique and supportive rural communities.“At first, it was a little nerve-wracking, but the teams I was deployed to were so welcoming and inclusive that the nerves were shaken pretty quickly.“I really recommend giving it a go and experiencing something new because it lets you experience a different lifestyle and allows you to improve and expand your skills.”

Police have charged a driver over a fatal crash in the state’s far north last year.About 3.30pm on Monday, 4 November 2024, emergency services were called to Teven Road, near Shawns Lane, Teven, about 10km northwest of Ballina, following reports of a two-vehicle crash.Officers attached to Richmond Police District attended to find a Hyundai SUV and a Nissan SUV had collided head-on.The driver of the Hyundai – a 60-year-old woman – and front passenger – an 87-year-old woman- both suffered minor injuries.The back passenger – an 87-year-old man – suffered a cardiac arrest and died in Lismore Base Hospital on Monday, 11 November 2024.The driver of the Nissan – a 62-year-old woman – suffered minor injuries.On Monday, 3 November 2025, police attached to the Far North Coast Crash Investigation Unit, charged the 60-year-old driver of the Hyundai with dangerous driving occasioning death, negligent driving occasioning death, and not keep left of dividing line.The woman’s licence has also been suspended.The matter is listed for Ballina Local Court Thursday, 1 May 2025.

The $2.7m upgrade of South Beach Road in Brunswick Heads gets into full swing today (Monday, 3 February) and Byron Shire Council is asking the community to avoid the work site as much as possible and seek alternative parking in town.“We are excited to get this upgrade underway for the Bruns community, and we’ll be delivering a complete reconstruction of the road, including some critical drainage improvements, new kerbs and gutters, and line marking,” Byron Shire Council Director Infrastructure Services, Phil Holloway said.The first stage of construction includes drainage works across Torakina car park and South Beach Lane, and both of these areas will be fenced off to the public under traffic control arrangements. A traffic bypass will be in place so that South Beach Lane residents can access their properties.“While a limited number of parking spaces may be available on South Beach Road at various stages of these works, the whole of South Beach Road will be under traffic control on weekdays and we’re asking beachgoers and anyone wanting to access the river, foreshore parks and beaches to seek an alternative car park in Brunswick Heads and walk over one of the bridges.“Pedestrian access to the parks, foreshore areas, beaches and dog beach will remain open to the community, and the tennis club and community centre will be open as usual.“Of course, all residents of South Beach Road, businesses, service providers and other key stakeholders who we’ve been in contact with will be able to gain access to their properties via the traffic controllers.“Traffic controllers can also help anyone with disability access requirements.“Fortunately, we’ve been able to start this project after the school holidays in what is a quieter time, and with the community’s support, we’re aiming to get this major reconstruction done as safely and as quickly as possible.“We’re working closely with the surf club and have arrangements in place to ensure the quality of the road will not be compromised by the club’s renovation,” Mr Holloway said.Regular updates about this project and traffic impacts will be available on Council’s website  Upgrades to South Beach Road Brunswick Heads

Transport for NSW has advised motorists of changed overnight traffic conditions from this weekend on Summerland Way at Kyogle to carry out road surface repairs between the two intersections of Boorabee Street.To reduce the impact on motorists, work starting on Sunday, 2 February, will be carried out from 6pm to 6am, Sundays to Thursdays, and is expected to be completed in eight shifts, weather permitting.Single lane, alternating traffic flow arrangements and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h will be in place during work hours, for the safety of motorists and workers.Motorists are advised to allow up to ten minutes’ extra travel time, drive to traffic conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.Transport for NSW thanks motorists for their patience during this time.For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.

As we move through another hot summer, Local Land Services is reminding livestock producers of the important steps they should take to ensure stock are well hydrated.“As the weather warms up, livestock will have a harder time maintaining daily functions, just like us,” said Principal Program Manager of Agriculture and Plant Biosecurity Andrew Lieschke. “Livestock drink considerably more water in hotter weather, with beef cattle, depending on their class, consuming up to 100 litres per head per day and sheep and goats up to 10 litres a head per day. However, actual intake will vary based off water quality, environmental and animal factors. “Livestock will also avoid warm water so it’s important to provide shade and shelter for water resources, as well as stock. “It’s vital that producers are aware of the steps they can take and factor these into their livestock and property management to ensure stock are well hydrated and remain in good condition over summer.” If you’re mustering, handling and transporting livestock during the warmer months, it is essential to meet basic animal welfare standards, such as:  • move livestock during early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler • provide sufficient shade and shelter for animals to rest and cool down • ensure you have sufficient feed available during the summer period to maintain animals in a healthy condition  • consider drafting off all animals suitable for sale via saleyards or directly to a processor if required. If you have any questions about your stock and water intake, and managing your local conditions, contact Local Land Services on 1300 795 299 or via www.lls.nsw.gov.au. 

Construction is forging ahead on flood-resilient school facilities at Broadwater Public School, as the school community looks forward to returning to its permanent home in the coming months. Broadwater Public School was destroyed in the destructive 2022 Northern Rivers floods, with the inundation destroying most of the school’s buildings. Flood repair works are well underway at the school site after kicking off in July, after the Minns Labor Government used enhanced powers under the NSW Reconstruction Authority Act to accelerate the school’s planning approval. The new school, due for completion by Day 1, Term 2, was created with a flood-resilient design and includes an elevated building, raised approximately four metres above the ground, supported by a steel structure. The first floor includes three new classrooms, a library, a canteen and administration areas connected by undercover walkways, and a ground floor area with new bathrooms, an under-croft play space and new landscaping. Works are progressing well, with flood-damaged buildings now demolished, the under croft slab and ceilings installed, and the school's modular buildings delivered and in place. Work has now commenced on the interior fit-out and landscaping. Other works to be completed during Term 1, include the installation of a new playground and the return of cherished items, such as Broadwater Public School’s beloved school bell. Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car and Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery Janelle Saffin visited the Broadwater Public School work site on Wednesday and met with members of the school community to view progress on the rebuild. The Minns Labor Government is continuing to invest in and rebuild public education in NSW and ensuring flood-impacted schools in the Northern Rivers are being repaired and rebuilt, so communities can get back on their feet. Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said, “It is fantastic to see construction progressing at pace at Broadwater Public School, and the community can look forward to having their school returned to them this year. “After the destruction of the 2022 floods, this community has shown great resilience and patience, and I want to acknowledge the hard work of the local community, who worked hard to ensure this school was returned to the community. “Once completed, teachers, families and young children will have certainty of a high-quality school back in their local area, and I am so pleased a Minns Labor Government will deliver that for this community.” Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery Janelle Saffin said, “I am so pleased that works are well underway at Broadwater Public School, and students and families can look forward to returning to permanent facilities later this year. “Since the floods, many local families have had to contend with much ongoing disruption, and I am proud to be part of the Minns Labor Government, as we continue to deliver important infrastructure back to our community. Broadwater Public School Relieving Principal Bronwyn Cole said, "I am overjoyed to see the incredible progress on our school’s rebuild. This milestone represents a new chapter for our community. “We look forward to moving into a permanent home that is not only flood-resilient but also thoughtfully designed to support the needs of our students, staff, and families. “Our school has always been the heart of this community, and this project is a testament to the strength and resilience of our school community.”

The NSW Government has returned four public schools to the Murwillumbah community, after the previous Liberal/National Government's public school mega-merger was reversed at the 2023 State election.The upcoming re-opening of Murwillumbah High School, Wollumbin High School, alongside Murwillumbah East Public School and Murwillumbah Public School, on Day 1, Term 1, 2025, will mark the delivery of an election commitment by the Minns Labor Government.The return of these schools in time for the 2025 school year is in line with a commitment made following extensive community consultation, which included participation from more than 260 families, parents, students and staff.Murwillumbah High School and Wollumbin High School, which the former Government announced they would close in 2020, have both undergone significant refurbishments under the Minns Labor Government.At Murwillumbah High School, upgrade works have delivered more than 40 refurbished classrooms and specialist spaces, including three science labs, two wood workshops, two metal workshops, and a food tech kitchen, a new darkroom, as well as a new Student Support Unit, refurbished school library and hall, upgraded front office, staff, and administration spaces, and outdoor areas with new landscaping and play areas.Further work will see the delivery of a new canteen and final landscaping works to the grounds throughout Terms 1 and 2.Students at Wollumbin High School will also return on Day 1, Term 1 to a refurbished canteen, a re-fenced and repainted sports court, new football goal posts, refurbished student toilets, a new pottery kiln, and refreshed classrooms with new paint and carpet.Planned upgrade works at Wollumbin High School in the coming months will include the relocation of existing music rooms to make way for a new specialist support unit with modern facilities.At Murwillumbah East Public School, works are underway to upgrade the school’s ventilation and lighting. Further upgrades are planned for the school including for new classrooms, a new library, canteen, and facilities for specialist support classes.At Murwillumbah Public School the Minns Labor Government has invested in school maintenance works, with the installation of a new roof on the heritage-listed building in Block D, covered walkway extensions, and refurbishment of student toilets all now complete. Work is also underway to deliver new air conditioning in all classrooms.Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car and Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin will today visit Murwillumbah High School to view the new facilities and meet with members of the school community ahead of the start of the 2025 school year.NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said, “It is a privilege to be back here in Murwillumbah, just days ahead of these important schools being returned, in line with our commitment to this community.“We listened to Murwillumbah locals, who told us loud and clear that they did not support four schools being merged, and I am pleased our government has delivered on our commitment.“I look forward to the local community being able to flourish as they turn a new leaf with world-class public education in their upgraded local schools.”Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said, “It is fantastic to see our four public schools returned to the Murwillumbah community.“Returning our four public schools back to the community marks the completion of a key election commitment that I am proud the Minns Labor Government has delivered for our community.“We have worked with the community to ensure our local schools were delivered the upgrades they needed, so all our students can thrive right here in the Northern Rivers.Murwillumbah High School Principal Zoe Tiernan said, “We are thrilled to begin this new chapter as a distinct school community.“The upgrades to our facilities have created a vibrant and modern environment where students and staff can thrive.“As we look forward to welcoming everyone back for the new school year, we are excited to foster a strong sense of identity, pride, and connection within our new school community.”Wollumbin High School Principal Kelly Spilstead said, “This will be a fresh era for Wollumbin High School, enabling it to build on its own reputation in the community and on its ties to the other schools in Murwillumbah.“We have a feeling of renewal and are looking forward to re-engaging with our students for a productive and fulfilling year.”Murwillumbah East Public School Relieving Principal Kate Buston said, “A new school year is always an exciting time, and particularly this year because as well as welcoming new kindergarten students we will be adding to the collaboration we have worked on in recent years.“Sharing our expertise across the primary sector and in support of transition to high school is a very rewarding part of running a school in a community like Murwillumbah.”Murwillumbah Public School Principal Les Daley said, “We are looking forward to a new school year, confident that we can build on the outstanding programs we have run in the last two years, receiving state and national recognition for their excellence.“This will ensure that achieving the best possible outcomes for our students remains our highest priority.“We have very supportive school communities who have pride in their local school but also appreciate the benefits that come with close cooperation between the schools.”

A teenager has been charged and another remains in hospital following an alleged pursuit in yesterday.Between 1am and 3.30am yesterday (Saturday, 25 January 2025) a unit on Barker Street, Casino, was allegedly broken into, and a Honda hatchback was taken from the home.About 4.10am yesterday police attempted to stop the hatchback in Casino.When it failed to stop a pursuit was initiated and continued to West Street where the hatchback crashed into a motorhome.The driver – a 16-year-old boy, was taken to Lismore Base Hospital and the passenger – a 13-year-old boy – was airlifted to Gold Coast University Hospital where he remains in a serious condition.A crime scene was established and an investigation into the incident commenced.The older boy was charged with police pursuit - not stop - drive dangerously, dangerous driving occasioning GBH- drive manner dangerous, negligent driving (occasioning grievous bodily harm), never licensed person drive vehicle on road - first offence, and drive conveyance taken w/o consent of owner.He was refused bail and appeared at a children’s court via AVL today (Sunday, 26 January 2025).

Police are appealing for information after a crash 30km south of Ballina yesterday.Emergency services were called to Broadwater-Evans Heads Road, Broadwater, about 8.50am yesterday (Thursday, 24 January 2025), following reports of a crash.Police arriving on scene found two SUVs – a Mazda CX5 and Toyota RAV4 – had collided head-on before coming to rest in the southbound lanes.The driver of the Mazda, a 26-year-old man, was taken to Lismore Base Hospital for the treatment of serious injuries, while his passenger – a woman aged 26 – suffered minor injuries.The front passenger of the Toyota – a woman aged 43 – and both rear passengers – two teenage girls – were taken to Lismore Base Hospital for the treatment of serious injuries.The driver of the Toyota, a 48-year-old man, suffered minor injuries.Police attached to Richmond Police District established a crime scene, and inquiries into the crash are underway by the Crash Investigation Unit.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 Mid-Richmond Three Villages Cycleway project has received a boost, securing $5,392,000 from the Australian Government’s Road Safety Program and the NSW government.The Road Safety Program aims to improve road safety by minimising the occurrence of severe injuries and fatalities, with a focus on vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists.At a cost of around $20 million, the Three Villages Cycleway project is designed to connect Evans Head, Woodburn and Broadwater, and will be a great boon for tourists and locals alike. Some sections have already been constructed, and designs for the remaining sections are being finalised.This funding will allow the installation of a shared path on Woodburn-Evans Head Road, joining the Ray Jeffrey Memorial Cycleway already in place from the Riverside Retirement Village, Doonbah.Richmond Valley Council’s General Manager, Vaughan Macdonald, said the funding will go towards the construction of 5.8 kilometres of shared pathway, designed for pedestrians and cyclists.“This investment is vital for enhancing community connectivity, encouraging active lifestyles, and is crucial in fostering closer ties between neighbouring communities.“By linking our villages with shared pathways, we are creating stronger connections - not just physically, but socially and environmentally.“We’re excited to see residents of all ages and abilities enjoying these spaces for walking, cycling and connecting with each other,” Mr Macdonald said.The Three Villages Cycleway project aligns with the Mid Richmond place plans and the Community Strategic Plan. Once completed, the pathways will provide vital links to schools, parks, businesses and other community hubs to enhance accessibility for all residents and visitors.The pathway will create a 2.5-metre-wide shared user path and includes pedestrian refuges, kerb, gutters and ramps, property access reconstruction, drainage, culverts, new bridge treatments, safety barriers and landscaping.The project is set to begin soon and should take around 12 months to complete.NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said, “I’m thrilled to see the Three Villages Cycleway moving forward—this is a fantastic project that will connect communities, enhance safety, and promote healthier, more active lifestyles.“This investment in regional NSW infrastructure will help improve road safety, reduce road trauma, and make journeys safer for all who live in and travel through regional NSW."“Our goal is simple: everyone on our roads should return home safely to their loved ones. This investment is a crucial step toward making that a reality.”Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Senator Anthony Chisholm said, “This almost half a billion dollars’ worth of new funding is all part of our collective commitment to significantly reduce the number of road deaths and serious injuries on our roads, and I thank the NSW Government for their collaboration on this.“It’s critical that we continue to support safety projects in regional and metropolitan areas across the country as Australia’s road toll is far too high.“The wider Road Safety Program forms part of the Albanese Government’s ongoing commitment to work with state and territory governments to fund the priority road safety works they identify.“These projects won’t just improve safety they will also support thousands of construction jobs across the state.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Damaging Winds for Evans Heads and southern parts of the Northern Rivers.An upper trough is combining with a moist and unstable airmass to produce severe thunderstorms through parts of northeast NSW this morning.Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations that may be affected include Evans Head, Ballina, Casino, Kyogle and Murwillumbah.The 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.The next warning is due to be issued by 7:55 pm.

Six people have been charged following a pursuit near Potsville yesterday afternoon.About 5.35pm (Monday, 20 January 2025), Far North Sector Highway Patrol allegedly detected a Toyota Corolla travelling at 167km/h on the M1 Pacific Motorway near Pottsville.Subsequent inquiries revealed the vehicle had been stolen from a Queensland address on Sunday, 12 January 2025.When the vehicle allegedly failed to stop as directed, a pursuit was initiated continuing to the Clothiers Creek Road interchange, where road spikes were deployed.The vehicle stopped a short time later and the six occupants ran from the vehicle into nearby cane fields.An 18-year-old man and the five passengers – boys aged 14, 15, 16 and 17 – and a 15-year-old girl, were arrested nearby and taken to Tweed Heads Police Station.The man was charged with two counts of drive conveyance taken without consent of owner, two counts of never licensed person drive vehicle on road - prior offence, receive etc property stolen outside NSW, class C motor vehicle exceed speed greater than 45km/h, and police pursuit - not stop - drive dangerously.He was refused bail to appear before Tweed Heads Local Court today (Tuesday, 21 January 2025).The five teens were each charged with be carried in conveyance taken without consent of owner.They were granted strict conditional bail to appear before a Children's Court on Wednesday, 19 March 2025.

Two men have been charged following an investigation of an alleged kidnapping and assault at South Grafton.About 5pm on Saturday, 7 December 2024, three males – aged 36, 21, and 11 – were allegedly kidnapped from a location on Bellevue Street, South Grafton, by persons known to them.The boy was released a short time later; however, the two older men were taken to an address in Tyndale where they were allegedly assaulted before being released.The 36-year-old man attended Grafton Base Hospital later that day for the treatment of bruising and a laceration.The man was discharged on Sunday, 8 December 2024, and police attached to Coffs/Clarence Police District were subsequently notified.On Friday, 17 January 2025, a 35-year-old man was arrested in South Grafton and taken to Grafton Police Station where he was charge with three counts of kidnap in company with intent serious indictable occasion actual bodily harm.He was refused bail to appear before Grafton Local Court on Saturday, 18 January 2025, where he was formally refused bail to appear before the same court on Monday, 17 March 2025.Following further inquiries, a 32-year-old man was arrested at South Grafton about 10am yesterday (Monday, 20 January 2025).He was taken to Grafton Police Station where he was charged with three counts of kidnap in company with intent serious indictable occasion actual bodily harm, two counts of assault police officer in execution of duty cause actual bodily harm, assault police officer in execution of duty without actual bodily harm, and hinder or resist police officer in the execution of duty.He was refused bail to appear before Grafton Local Court yesterday (Monday, 20 January 2025), where he was formally refused bail to appear before the same court on Monday, 17 March 2025.

Young people aged 12 to 25 in Ballina are set to benefit from increased access to mental health support with the opening of a new headspace service.Northern Rivers-based not-for-profit organisation Social Futures was selected to operate the new headspace service, which provides a safe, welcoming space where young people can access free or low-cost, youth-friendly supports, including mental health, alcohol and other drug services and vocational and educational services.Located centrally in Ballina, the service is designed to help address the growing need for mental health support in the region.Staff at the new service include health workers and mental health professionals who can help with issues such as stress, anxiety, managing relationships with family and friends, alcohol and other drugs, questions about romantic relationships, sex and gender, bullying, anger, finding a job or getting into study, and more.The headspace Ballina service is part of a national network of 167 centres working to provide early intervention mental health services to young Australians. This new service was made possible through funding from Healthy North Coast through the Australian Government’s Primary Health Network program.The service is now open to the community. Young people and families are encouraged to visit and learn more about the range of services available. For more information, visit headspace.org.au.Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health, Emma McBride MP said, “The Albanese Labor Government is investing in the headspace network so young people can access free mental health care close to home.“There are now 91 headspaces in regional Australia showing our commitment to supporting young people outside the major centres.“Natural disasters can have long lasting effects on people’s mental health. The opening of headspace Ballina makes sure young people affected by the floods, or experiencing any mental health concerns, have access to the support they need.”Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, Assistant Minister for Social Services and Member for Richmond, Justine Elliot MP said, “Establishing a permanent headspace in Ballina will reduce the burden of mental ill-health in our community and help our young people to thrive.“This is the second headspace for Richmond after headspace Tweed Heads. Both headspaces are examples of the Australian Government supporting the health and wellbeing of regional Australians.“I would like to recognise headspace Lismore for the crucial outreach services they have provided over the past few years to support young people in Ballina following the floods.”Healthy North Coast CEO, Monika Wheeler said, “The North Coast region has a higher level of mental health, suicidality and substance use challenges in comparison with the rest of NSW. Locally, we have a third more mental health-related emergency department presentations than the rest of NSW. The new Ballina headspace will improve access to mental health and wellbeing services for young people across the Ballina Shire so that help is available before young people reach crisis point.“The new headspace Ballina service will provide a vital resource for young people, to build early and positive help-seeking behaviours that will support wellbeing management for later years. Healthy North Coast is proud to support this service in partnership with Social Futures and the Australian Government.”Acting CEO headspace, Julia Smith said, “We’re extremely pleased to see mental health services for young people on the North Coast strengthened with headspace Ballina now offering services to the local community, supported by strong headspace partners in Social Futures.From our perspective the most important thing in opening a service like this is that the community of Ballina know the service is now here for you – so if you, or a young person you care about needs support with their mental health, please know that’s what headspace is here for.”

Six local projects have been successful in securing Events and Festival Sponsorship funding from Byron Shire Council for 2025, giving the local community some great events and festivals to look forward to. Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said there was a significant rise in applications for the 2025 fund, signalling that community events were well and truly back on the calendar.“I think you’ll find there’s a community event for everyone this year and in many different and new locations around the Shire,” the Mayor said. “In addition to entertaining attendees, many of the scheduled activities will raise money that will be donated to local organisations and charities, which is wonderful to see,” she said. A total pool of $26,000 was distributed by Council to the following successful recipients: Old and Gold - $3,000 The much-loved annual community event has been running for the past 20 years. The event educates the community about the benefits of recycling and promotes sustainable habits, whilst encouraging community gathering and aligns with Council’s new Single-use policy. Byron Coastal Charity Walk - $4,500 The event unites the community to raise funds for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, a critical life-saving service for the region.Kaleido Mullumbimby - $5,500 This event will support youth and community engagement, and fosters involvement in the arts. It will provide mentorship programs to promote skill-sharing, inclusivity and community connection. Byron Bay International Film Festival - $5,500 This is an acclaimed festival supporting NSW Filmmakers. 2025 will see the return of the Youth Schools Program, which introduces young people to screen culture and supports career pathways in film and innovation. This event contributes to youth engagement and community education.Disco Ball - $5,000 This unique event celebrates disability pride and community connection and provides a positive and safe platform for expression. The event aligns with Council’s community strategic plan, promoting inclusivity and accessibility. Heaps Good Open Mic - $2,500 This is an emerging event that celebrates and supports Mullumbimby’s thriving artistic community. The event will be free and open to all ages, showcasing local talent and providing an accessible platform for diverse performers and audiences. Council’s Events and Festival Sponsorship Fund aims to support local events and festivals to have more positive environmental, social and economic outcomes.  Find out more about the fund and future applications from Council’s website.