A new piece of play equipment at Heritage Park in Mullumbimby is being put to the test by local children.The ‘spider web’, designed to test the climbing skills of older children, was installed as part of the $850,000 upgrade of Heritage Park, along with other smaller features designed to encourage imaginative and nature-based play.The project also included additional seating and a new pathway and boardwalk through the park and along the river, linking the entrance at Brunswick Terrace to the playground at Mill Street.“We closed off a section of the park on Mill Street and turned this into an off-lead dog area,” Jim Roberts, Coordinator Open Space, said.“The work was identified in the Heritage Park Landscape Masterplan and was based on feedback from residents about the improvements they told us they wanted.“We took the fences around the new play equipment down on Friday and before we had finished kids were climbing all over it so it looks like it will be well used,” Mr Roberts said.

Tweed residents are about to enjoy better access to the road network with flood restoration repairs complete on Kyogle Road and Mount Warning Road.The Australian and NSW Governments jointly funded almost $47 million through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) to repair three slip sites on Kyogle Road and one at Mount Warning.(Mt Warning Road has been fully restored after the devastating floods of 2022. Photo: supplied)Work included slip remediation and road reconstruction works on three major landslips along Kyogle Road between Byangum and Uki, and another major landslip on Mount Warning Road.The community is thanked for its patience while work to restore these roads was carried out for Tweed Shire Council by Civil Mining and Construction from October 2023.The completion of these restoration projects follows the recent reopening of Tweed Valley Way between Burringbar and Stokers Siding, a $1.2 million project that was also DRFA funded.NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery Janelle Saffin said, “These are vital local roads that also bring many tourists to our region, so it is great to have them fully restored.“The landslips were of a kind we have never had before and the preparatory work, let alone the works themselves, presented those charged with fixing them very difficult challenges, and I thank them as well as locals for their forbearance and many suggestions.”Richmond MP Justine Elliot said, “The Tweed region was badly affected by the flood event in 2022, so it’s great to see this work to restore roads to their pre-flood condition continues to be completed.“It’s vital we restore transport links when they have been damaged in natural disasters, with three levels of government working together to ensure residents, businesses and visitors are all able to drive safely on these roads once more.”NSW Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib said, “Northern NSW continues to build back its essential infrastructure following the devasting flood events that caused billions of dollars in damage across the region.“This is a great example of state, federal, and local governments working together to assist the Northern Rivers communities as they continue to rebuild.”

Byron Shire Council has said a much-needed upgrade of a section of Booyong Road is set to start in the last week of January.The work will be along 2.9km of the road, starting near the intersection of Bangalow Road at Clunes.With a project cost of around $1 million, Council will be reconstructing the road and doing some drainage improvements.“I know that people who use Booyong Road every day will be very pleased to hear that we are able to do this work because the section we will be improving is in very poor shape,” Sam Frumpui, Manager Works, said.The project is expected to take approximately seven weeks, and while the road will remain open to local traffic, there could be significant delays at different times.Information about the Booyong Road reconstruction is on Council’s website.This project is funded by the NSW Government’s Regional Emergency Road Repair Fund.

It has carried millions of tonnes of freight and vehicles, provided a vital link for communities on the Clarence River and an essential service for the sugar industry, and now the old Harwood Bridge is in for a bit of TLC.From Tuesday 28 January, workers will replace thousands of bolts, repair gusset plates that connect different elements of the bridge and carry out repainting of tired sections to make the bridge fit for service for generations to come.The original Harwood Bridge opened to traffic on 20 August 1966 by the then Governor of NSW, Sir Roden Cutler, and replaced vehicular ferries that once took all Pacific Highway traffic from one side of the Clarence River to the other.They were the last vehicular ferries on the Pacific Highway.(The Harwood Bridge under construction in 1966, with the ferries operating in the background)That highway traffic has now moved onto the towering dual-lane structure beside it, but the old bridge still provides valuable service to Harwood residents and the Clarence sugar industry.Transport for NSW Regional Director North Anna Zycki said that to keep the 58-year-old structure in top condition, some essential maintenance needed to be carried out.“We’re aware how important this bridge is during the cane harvest season, so we’re aiming to have work complete by the time that gets under way later this year,” Ms Zycki said.“The work will take about five months, weather permitting, and we’ll get this work completed as quickly as possible to minimise disruptions to the industry, road and maritime users.“For the safety of workers and motorists, traffic will be reduced to one lane for the duration of the work.“There will also be some disruptions while we work on the lift span and vessel owners need to ensure they can pass under the bridge safely with the span in its closed position.“If they are in doubt they should plan around the lift span closure.“Transport for NSW thanks motorists for their patience while this work is carried out.”

UPDATE: the person involved was taken to hospital for treatment.NSW Police are asking the community to avoid Manly Street, East Ballina.A police operation is underway.Localised traffic diversions are in place, and the community is urged to avoid the area.No further information is available at this time. 

A man has been charged with 26 offences following an extensive investigation into property crime in the Northern Rivers.Between Tuesday, 26 November 2024, and Monday, 2 December 2024, the Northern Rivers Region Enforcement Squad (RES) investigated several property and traffic offences they believe were linked.The incidents are alleged to have occurred along the north coast from Woolgoolga to Kingscliff.Following extensive inquiries by Northern Rivers RES – assisted by Richmond Police District, Coffs Harbour RES, North Coast DVHROT, Dog Unit and Police Rescue – officers attended a home on Oak Avenue, Casino, about 9.40am yesterday (Tuesday, 14 January 2024).A 20-year-old man was arrested at the home and was served a Firearms Prohibition Order and a Digital Evidence Access Order.A search warrant was also executed at the property, with police allegedly locating and seizing items, including a machete, hammer, mobile phone, cannabis, and keys to a stolen vehicle.The man was taken to Casino Police Station where he was charged with 26 offences;Aggravated break and enter and commit serious indictable offence-armed (four counts)Drive conveyance taken without consent (three counts)Unlicensed for Class, Class C, R, LR or MR (three counts)Be carried in conveyance taken without consent of owner (two counts)Attempt aggravated break and enter with intent - armed (two counts)Armed with intent to commit indictable offence (two counts)Aggravated break and enter and commit serious indictable offence - people thereAggravated break and enter dwelling etc in company stealBreak and enter house etc stealAssault occasioning actual bodily harm in company of other(s)Stalk/intimidate intend fear physical etc harmPolice pursuit - not stop - drive at speedPolice pursuit - not stop - drive dangerouslyPossess prohibited drugGoods in personal custody suspected being stolen, andRecruit child to carry out/assist criminal activity.He was refused bail to appear before Lismore Local Court today (Wednesday, 15 January 2025), where he was formally refused bail to appear before Coffs Harbour Local Court on Tuesday, 11 March 2025.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a minor flood watch for the Orara River (in the south of the Clarence Valley) as a strong cold front makes its way across the state today.The cold front and its associated trough are forecast to move offshore early on Thursday morning. Following the passage of the trough, a low-pressure system is expected to develop offshore along the central coast, resulting in increased rainfall about parts of the Hunter, Mid-North Coast and Northern rivers.Catchments in the flood watch are moderately wet.The Flood Watch area affected by rainfall, as well as rainfall totals, will be highly sensitive to the position and strength of any developing low-pressure system.This weather system is expected to cause flooding in the Flood Watch areas starting from Thursday evening into the weekend. The Bureau is continuing to monitor the situation and will provide updated advice as required. Catchment-specific warnings will be issued if and when required.Catchments likely to be affected include:Orara River - minor floodingThe Orara River is the only western flowing river in the region as it makes its way from the Coffs Harbour region through the villages of Glenreagh, Coutts Crossing until it meets the Clarence River near Eatonsville.Coffs CoastBellinger and Kalang Rivers - minor floodingManning and Gloucester Rivers - minor floodingMyall River - minor floodingKaruah RiverWollombi Brook and Lower Hunter River - minor floodingPaterson and Williams Rivers - minor floodingFor the latest flood and weather warnings, see www.bom.gov.au/nsw/warnings/For the latest rainfall and weather forecasts, see www.bom.gov.au/australia/meteye/For the latest rainfall and river level information, see www.bom.gov.au/nsw/floodFlood Safety Advice:This Flood Watch means that people living or working along rivers and streams must monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings and be ready to move to higher ground should flooding develop.Flood Warnings will be issued if Minor Flood Level is expected to be exceeded at key sites along the main rivers for which the Bureau of Meteorology provides a flood warning service.Severe Weather Warnings will be issued or updated if very heavy rain is forecast or observed.For more information on the Flood Watch Service: http://www.bom.gov.au/water/floods/floodWarningServices.shtmlFloodSafe advice is available at www.ses.nsw.gov.auFor emergency assistance call the SES on telephone number 132 500For life threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately

The Country Mayors Association of NSW (CMA) Executive Board has welcomed the recent announcement by the NSW Government that they intend to remove some of the red tape that has prevented farmers from using their water to fight fires on their property and adjacent land.It’s understood the legislative improvements include the provision that a landholder can now use surface water and groundwater sources without a water licence or water use approval to fight fires. This includes streams, creeks and rivers joining the relevant boundary.Water can also be used for training, controlled burning, and testing equipment, but only when it is carried out under the authority of a firefighting agency such as the NSW Rural Fire Service. Landholders can also prepare for the threat of bushfires by taking water to store in a tank or dam for future firefighting purposes. The maximum volume for each property is 100,000 litres per annum.CMA Chairman, Mayor Rick Firman OAM, hailed the changes as a victory for common sense. “The CMA Board and our 92 Members warmly welcome this decision made by NSW Emergency Services Minister, the Hon. Jihad Dib MP and our NSW Government – common sense has prevailed!”.Mayor Firman said the cutting of red tape that impedes rural and regional fire fighting is all the more important at this time, when the devastating extended USA fire season overlaps Australia’s, limiting large-scale aerial resources.‘It is especially pleasing to see the Minister ensuring the amendments have been made ready for the summer fire period, via the amendments to the Water Management (General) Regulation 2018. These amendments are overdue; however, credit when it is earned. CMA warmly thanks Minister Dib and our State Government for implementing this common-sense approach”, Mayor Firman added.

Kyogle Council released a statement today, saying it continued to improve and maintain its bridge and road networks throughout 2024, replacing 33 timber bridges, grading/re-sheeting almost 410km of rural roads and upgrading 16.5km of sealed roads.On top of that, Council continued to deliver flood recovery works in the wake of the 2022 catastrophic flood event and completed an annual capital works program of $80.5 million, the second largest in Council’s history.“2024 was a year of major achievements for Council,” Mayor Cr Danielle Mulholland said.“We replaced more bridges than any other local government agency in Australia and started the $47 million Clarence Way renewal project.“But we know there is much more to do, and councillors and staff will be working collectively to ensure we embrace every opportunity we get in the coming year to deliver improved services and infrastructure for our communities.”Other achievements during the 2023-2024 year, as outlined in Council’s annual report included:40,921 potholes patched1285.41 tonnes of materials recycledCompletion of the Ettrick Road upgradeRepairs to 29 landslips completedCompleted upgrades of the Kyogle Memorial Institute Hall including supper room and main stage improvementsMet all renewable energy targets, seven years ahead of schedule by improving energy efficiency at Council-operated facilities, installation of 355kW of on-site photovoltaic systems, LED streetlighting and the purchase of 100% green grid energy for electricity suppliers. Started development of a Climate Change Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan with the aim of identifying how climate change will impact the local economy, lifestyle and environment and what needs to be done to adapt Secured funding to restore 15 hectares of koala habitat on six properties within the local government area. Provided $100,398 in one-off community assistance grants and annual donations to local sporting, cultural and community organisations and events.“Kyogle Council has a long-held reputation of punching well above its weight and we will be working with our State and Federal Government funding partners throughout 2025 so we can continue to invest in our towns, villages, and rural communities,” Cr Mulholland said.“We will seize every occasion presented to us to benefit the Kyogle LGA and we will be actively working to create opportunities for the betterment of all.”

A 45-year-old man has been transferred to Lismore Base Hospital after being assaulted with a machete in Casino.Around 6.50pm yesterday (13 January 2025), the male victim, aged 45, was at his home in Casino with several other occupants when a male known to him attended the residence.A verbal altercation has occurred between the victim and this male. The verbal altercation became physical in the front yard of the residence, during which time the male produced a machete and assaulted the victim.As a result of the assault, the victim sustained a deep laceration to his left upper leg as well as a smaller laceration to his left arm. The male suspect ran from the location following the assault.Police and Paramedics were called and attended a short time later. A crime scene was established. The victim was transported to Lismore Base Hospital for further treatment for injuries sustained.Detectives attended and an investigation has commenced into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Currently, the victim's injuries are considered serious but not life-threatening,Investigations and enquiries to locate the male suspect are ongoing.

Local Land Services has launched a new and improved training course for landholders using restricted pesticides to manage pest animals.The refreshed Vertebrate Pesticide Induction Training (VPIT) course features more interactive elements, better visuals and improved accessibility.These upgrades offer participants a more engaging and user-friendly experience and aim to increase learning outcomes.Available online and face-to-face, the free VPIT course takes landholders through the legal responsibilities, safety requirements and practical considerations for the safe and effective use of baits and pesticides to control pest animals.All NSW landholders must hold an AQF3 Chemical Accreditation or VPIT certification to acquire and use pesticides and bait products for feral pigs, rabbits, wild dogs and foxes.Local Land Services’ Principal Program Manager Biosecurity, Jake Tanner, said the upgraded VPIT course made it easier than ever for landholders to gain this certification.“Education is a key part of Local Land Services’ role in supporting and providing best practice advice to farmers and landholders across NSW.“As with all our pest control programs, we want as many landholders as possible to participate to ensure the best results.“We’re encouraging landholders to attend one of our face-to-face training sessions or save time and complete the course online.”The online course is a streamlined version of the face-to-face workshop and takes only a few hours to complete. Certification is valid for five years.The course upgrades were funded by the 2023-24 Feral Pig Program.Visit the Local Land Services website for more information or to register for Vertebrate Pesticide Induction Training.Those interested in participating in coordinated pest control programs should contact their nearest Local Land Services office on 1300 795 299.

Byron Bay Council is reminding residents and visitors to the Byron Shire with pets in tow this summer to make sure they understand the rules to avoid hefty on-the-spot fines.“The rules for taking dogs into public spaces differ so if you’re moving around or visiting from other areas, it’s important you understand where you can and can’t take your dog, and what your responsibilities are as a dog owner,” Council’s Manager Public and Environmental Services, Sarah Nagel said.“Dogs need to be on a lead AT ALL TIMES, unless you’re in one of Byron Shire’s off-lead dog exercise areas,” Ms Nagel said.Dogs are prohibited in some areas of the Shire including national parks, sporting grounds, popular beaches such as Main Beach Byron Bay, and signed wildlife protections areas.Off-lead beach areas include sections of Tallow Beach, Belongil Beach, Brunswick Heads Main Beach, New Brighton and South Golden Beach. Off-lead park areas can be found in Suffolk Park, Mullumbimby and Bangalow. Information about dog off-lead locations is on Council’s website.  “We want our resident and visiting four-legged friends to get the run around they need, while we protect our unique and precious wildlife and respect the needs of everyone using our open spaces.Rules that apply in the off-lead dog exercise area include:Dog owners must ensure their dog is under effective voice control at all times and does not become a nuisance or impede on the enjoyment of other users of the area.Dog owners must clean up and properly dispose their dog's faeces.Remove your dog if it becomes anxious, aggressive or annoys other dogs or people and seek professional dog behavioural advice.Do not socialise your dog with other dogs if they are showing signs of illness.Ensure your dog’s vaccinations and worming treatments are up-to-date.“Unlike some other shires along the east coast, we don’t have time-share arrangements for our beach ‘off-lead’ areas, which makes them special but often very busy spaces.“For everyone’s enjoyment and safety it is critical to stick to the ‘off-lead’ etiquette while you’re in a dog-exercise area, or risk a fine,” Ms Nagel said

Three teens have been charged following a pursuit in Casino yesterday.Operation Regional Mongoose is a high-visibility police operation aimed at curbing serious property-related crime, committed predominately by young offenders.About 2:45am yesterday (Saturday, 11 January 2025), police were told three teenagers forced entry to a property in Dean Street, Casino, where they assaulted a 67-year-old woman before stealing her vehicle, a Hyundai i30 sedan.A short time later, officers attached to Richmond Police District sighted the Hyundai, along with a Holden Captiva that had been allegedly stolen two days earlier. Police attempted to stop both vehicles,however, they failed to stop, and a pursuit was initiated.The Holden Captiva was dumped a short time later in Boronia Crescent, Casino with the occupants being picked up by the Hyundai i30. The pursuit continued but was terminated a short time later due to safety concerns.At 5:35am today, the Hyundai was seen again by police on the Bruxner Highway near Tabulam. Another pursuit was initiated with road spikes deployed on the Bruxner Highway at Black Gully Bridge. The vehicle stopped prior to the road spikes and then reversed into a police vehicle that was following.The vehicle continued over the road spikes before colliding with a parked police vehicle in Hare Street, Casino.Three teens allegedly tried to leave the scene but were arrested by officers, with one officer sustaining abrasions during the arrest. During a subsequent search, police allegedly located a satchel containing two knives and a pair of gloves.Two boys aged 16 and one aged 17 were taken to Casino Police Station, where they were charged with a range of offences including:Aggravated break, enter and steal whilst armed in company,Use weapon to avoid apprehension,Take conveyance without consent of ownerParticipate in criminal groupCarry cutting implement upon apprehensionBreach of bailPolice pursuit (second offence)All were refused bail to appear before a children’s court later today (Sunday, 12 January 2025).

RICHMOND Valley Council is inviting all residents and visitors to join the fun and celebrate what makes our country great on Australia Day at the Broadwater Community Hall on Sunday, 26 January, from 9am.This family-friendly event serves as the official celebration for the Richmond Valley Council area and is highlighted by the Richmond Valley Australia Day awards announcement, which gets underway at 10am. The 16 nominees of these awards across six categories - Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year, Volunteer and Young Volunteer of the Year, Sportsperson and Young Sportsperson of the Year - represent the very best of what makes the Richmond Valley a rich and diverse place to live, work and play, and encompass all aspects of our community.The nominees are: Ruby Beckenham; Neil Burnett; Indi Butcher; Calean Cooper; Philip Cornish; Paul Cowles; Travis Dhu; Shae Fuller; Joshua Fussell; Crystal Gill; Stephen Humphrys; Scott Lambeth; Melinda McLennan; Elyse McMaster; Christine Warren; and Abby Watson.As part of the awards, a multimedia exhibition of photos and videos will be on display on the day, with each of our nominees telling their stories about working for their community. Following Australia Day, this exhibition will be moved to the Casino Community and Cultural Centre for an additional month’s viewing.Mayor Robert Mustow will also have the honour of welcoming the newest Australian citizens to the Richmond Valley. Eleven people from all parts of the world will take the oath of allegiance to their new home, Australia, before the awards ceremony.There’s plenty on offer to make this Australia Day one to remember for the whole family, with the hall and Broadwater Memorial Park filled with the sound of live music and children’s entertainment, as well as food and market stalls.Come along and celebrate everything that is wonderful about our country and the Richmond Valley this Australia Day.For further information, visit the Richmond Valley Australia Day Facebook page

Farmers are urged to take part in a trial of Farm Fire Units in NSW as unprecedented bushfires continue to burn in the United States. Under a NSW Government trial in place until 31 March, private farm vehicles used for firefighting purposes known as Farm Fire Units – or Farm Fire Fighting Vehicles (FFFVs) – can be used unregistered under certain conditions. NSW Farmers Business Economics and Trade Committee Chair John Lowe said the catastrophic damage caused by bushfires overseas was a reminder of the importance of having key firefighting tools available in emergency situations. “These out-of-season bushfires are burning out of control in the United States, and they’re nothing if not a stark reminder of how fires here in NSW can get out of hand if we don’t have the right tools available locally,” Mr Lowe said. “Farm Fire Units play a key role in firefighting efforts in our rural communities, and a trial of these units will be key to ensuring we can find a permanent pathway to using these units legally and under the protection of third-party insurance. “Stopping fires as quickly as we can is critical, and Farm Fire Units have been a proven cornerstone to fast bushfire control, year in, year out on-farm.” As the state’s bushfire season continued, Mr Lowe urged farmers in NSW to nominate eligible vehicles to participate in the trial and support efforts to secure a more permanent solution for the use of the vehicles. “If you’ve got a vehicle that’s in a safe operating condition and has firefighting equipment permanently attached, then we strongly encourage you to nominate it for the trial as soon as possible,” Mr Lowe said. “Farmers deserve to have as many tools in the toolbox available to fight fires safely and effectively, and this trial will take us one step closer to ensuring that.“Preventing the devastation we’ve seen overseas and in our own country, in years not long past, is something we want to avoid at all costs.” To nominate a vehicle for the trial, submit this digital Farm Fire Fighting Vehicle Nomination Form and declare that your vehicle is in a safe operating condition. More information on the program and criteria for eligible vehicles is available via this factsheet. 

Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions from next week on Summerland Way to carry out slope remediation work at Kilgra, about five kilometres north of Kyogle.Work starting Monday, 20 January will be carried out from 7am to 6pm on weekdays and 8am to 1pm Saturdays, and is expected to be completed by July, weather permitting.Single lane, alternating traffic flow arrangements and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h will be in place for the duration of work for the safety of workers and road users.Motorists are advised to allow up to five minutes extra travel time, drive to the conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.Transport for NSW thanks motorists for their patience during this time.For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW app, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for LARGE HAILSTONES, HEAVY RAINFALL and DAMAGING WINDS for Kyogle and other northwest parts of the Northern Rivers.The thunderstorms are likely to produce large hailstones, heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding and damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations that may be affected include Numinbah, Tyalgum, Kyogle, Urbenville, Liston and Wiangaree.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 9:10 pm.

The Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment has taken an important step forward, with a portion of the former Grafton Gaol set to be acquired from Property and Development NSW to support the upgrade of the hospital.The NSW Government is investing $263.8 million in the Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment to improve health outcomes and meet the growing needs of Grafton and surrounding communities.In addition to the site acquisition, a Development Application has been approved by the Northern Regional Planning Panel to refurbish two administration blocks within the former minimum-security portion, on the north-eastern corner of the gaol, to provide contemporary administrative, office and training support facilities.  Clinical services will remain on the existing Grafton Hospital site.The former Grafton Gaol operated between 1893 and 2020, it was closed following the opening of the new Grafton Correctional Centre in Lavadia. The former Grafton Goal was added to the state’s Heritage Register in 1999.The adaptive reuse of a portion of the former gaol site aligns with the conservation management plan prepared for the site in 2021, to ensure areas of heritage significance within the site are preserved and activated. Work is underway on the planning and design for the main works of the $263.8 million Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment, which will deliver a new three-storey acute services building, including a new Emergency Department, Emergency Short Stay, Medical Imaging and MRI, and inpatient unit.  The current Day Surgery and Operating Suite will be expanded to provide two additional operating theatres, increasing overall capacity. Construction timeframes for the full redevelopment will be confirmed once planning has been finalised and a builder has been appointed, with the refurbishment works at the former gaol site expected to start this year.For more information visit: https://www.hinfra.health.nsw.gov.au/projects/project-search/grafton-base-hospital-redevelopmentMinister for Regional Health Ryan Park said, “The acquisition of this section of the old Grafton Gaol will provide critical new space to support the redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital.“This multi-million dollar redevelopment will improve healthcare capacity and ensure the hospital has the best, most up to date models of care for the residents of Grafton and the surrounding communities.”Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said, “The transfer of this part of the subdivided site to NSW Health ensures the Old Grafton Goal doesn’t remain an unused relic.“This great outcome enables new uses for this important community asset, while also providing a major economic benefit for the Grafton community.”Minister for Corrections Anoulack Chanthivong said, “We have delivered another important milestone to revitalise and reuse one of our state’s key former correctional centres. “Grafton Gaol is an iconic place with a somewhat dark history, so it is wonderful we are delivering a positive new chapter that will ensure this monument serves the local community for years to come.”