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Latest designs unveiled for Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment
Latest designs unveiled for Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment

06 May 2025, 2:20 AM

Grafton and surrounding communities are being given a look at the latest designs for the Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment, with new artist impressions showcasing the new hospital building and improved access to the facility. The NSW Government is investing $263.8 million in the Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment to provide new and enhanced health services for the region.The design for the redevelopment will integrate new and existing facilities on the campus to preserve the identity and history of the hospital. It will deliver a new three-storey building, including a new Emergency Department, Emergency Short Stay, Medical Imaging and MRI, and inpatient unit.The Day Surgery and Operating Suite will also be expanded, which will provide additional operating theatres, increasing overall capacity.The new building will provide a space for maternity services to be relocated in the future, as well as identifying zones for potential further development.A new inpatient building, located on the north-east side of the campus, will be seamlessly integrated into the existing hospital via a new hospital street at the current public main entrance. This will connect to a lobby in the new building to enhance access. The redevelopment will improve access to the hospital for patients, visitors, and staff, including public access to the hospital from Arthur Street, a turning circle drop-off zone for visitors, and access to existing on-street parking spaces. Staff and service-related access remains on Crown Street, with the new services yard positioned at the northern end of the campus to support operational needs.The landscaping design will create a welcoming space for patients, visitors and staff, incorporating culturally inclusive elements that reflect the local region. This includes a ceremonial area outside the existing Aboriginal Health Unit, native plantings, winding pathways to symbolise the Clarence River, and a welcoming forecourt. Valuable feedback and input from staff, stakeholders, and the community will continue to help shape the redevelopment.The Grafton community is invited to learn more about the redevelopment at pop-up sessions at Grafton Shoppingworld on:Tuesday, 13 May, 3:00pm-5:00pmWednesday, 14 May, 9:00am-11:00amConstruction timeframes will be confirmed once planning has been finalised and a main works builder is appointed. As part of early works for the project, construction is progressing to refurbish two administration blocks within the minimum-security section of the old Grafton Gaol to provide contemporary administration, office and training support facilities for hospital staff. Clinical services will remain on the existing Grafton Base Hospital site.For more information, visit the project website: hinfra.health.nsw.gov.au/projects/project-search/grafton-base-hospital-redevelopment.Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said, “The Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment will deliver modern treatment spaces to support contemporary models of care and improve capacity. “We are excited to share more about this important project with the Grafton community at a series of upcoming information sessions.“Planning for the redevelopment has been carried out in close consultation with clinical staff, ensuring a strong focus on delivering on identified clinical priorities.”Government Spokesperson for Clarence, Emily Suvaal MLC said, “I’m really proud to be part of a government which is investing in regional healthcare.“The redevelopment project at Grafton will ensure the facility remains fit for purpose to treat patients for many years to come, and it also ensures it will be a welcome place for our hardworking staff to come to work.”

Works begin on flood rebuild of Tumbulgum and Condong Public Schools
Works begin on flood rebuild of Tumbulgum and Condong Public Schools

02 May 2025, 9:40 AM

Students and families from the Northern Rivers have welcomed the beginning of flood rebuild works at Tumbulgum Public School and Condong Public School, with children from both schools set to return to permanent classrooms later this year. Condong Public School and Tumbulgum Public School were damaged beyond repair in the 2022 floods, with students attending school in temporary facilities over the past three years. The new schools have been planned with flood-resilient designs, with buildings elevated above the previous flood height.The projects will deliver new classrooms, a new library, canteen, administration spaces and external landscaping.Both school rebuilds are expected to be completed and ready for students and teachers to move in later this year, weather permitting.Condong Public School are preserving items significant to the local community, including the Great War Honour Roll, painted murals, and plaques.At Tumbulgum Public School, the old school bell will undergo restoration, and historical building materials will be re-used as part of the project.Minister for Disaster Recovery Janelle Saffin marked the beginning of works today, turning the first sods at both sites.As part of this work, the NSW Government has made a record $8.9 billion investment to build and upgrade schools across NSW, including investing a historic $1.4 billion for schools in regional NSW.A portion of the funding for flood rebuild projects is also allocated through the Infrastructure Betterment Fund, which is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said, “The Minns Labor Government is committed to delivering flood-resilient schools in the Northern Rivers, and we are pleased to be rebuilding Tumbulgum Public School and Condong Public School, after years of patience by the community. “The students and their families have demonstrated strength and patience throughout this process, and I want to thank them for their continued dedication to their local public school.“The new Condong Public School and Tumbulgum Public School will be world-class schools, setting local children up for future success.”Minister for Recovery and Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said, “This is a moment of renewal and optimism for these school communities on the Tweed, as we celebrate the start of construction for the rebuilds of Tumbulgum and Condong public schools.“The new schools will ensure that students have access to a safe, modern, and inspiring place in which to learn.“Students, teachers and support staff, parents and caregivers, can look forward to their new schools coming to life and to the many academic, artistic and sporting achievements that will unfold.”Condong Public School Relieving Principal Debbie Francis said, “Over the coming months, we are excited to see the groundwork and structure of our new school coming together and bringing us closer to a fresh start.“After enduring the challenges of the past few years, we are looking forward to a renewed sense of stability and progress.“We look forward to watching our new school rise from the ground, and even more so to the day we can welcome our students back to a place they can truly call their own.”Tumbulgum Public School Principal Genevieve Esgate said, “We are excited to welcome the start of construction on our new school, marking a significant milestone in our journey to rebuild and restore a vital part of our community.“The resilience shown by our students, staff, and families throughout this process has been remarkable, and I am so proud of how we have supported each other.“With each step forward, we move closer to returning to a school that reflects the strength, spirit, and future of Tumbulgum.”

Toad busters help control more than 200,000 cane toads
Toad busters help control more than 200,000 cane toads

30 April 2025, 6:13 AM

Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, is applauding Council’s 2025 Cane Toad Busting program, which removed 6385 toads and tadpoles from our local environment, contributing to control of more than 200,000 cane toads this season (24/25) across Australia.“A huge thanks to the 133 community members who stepped up and got involved in this year’s online Toad Bust program for the Byron Shire,” the Mayor said.Council’s Cane Toad Busting program offered an information session followed by a community toad bust event and a demonstration of the cane toad tadpole trap at Ocean Shores, plus the four-day Toad Bust Challenge in January.“Special thanks also go to our community freezer hosts, Jude Alcorn and John Purssey, and to all environmental champions who rolled up their sleeves to get the job done on Cane Toad Bust night in January and throughout the challenge.”“This is such important environmental work, and the best thing about Council’s Cane Toad Busting program is that it educates and empowers participants of all ages to continue their cane toad busting efforts,” the Mayor said.“At the end of January, one community member had collected more than 13,000 tadpoles, while another reported control of more than 1,400 adult cane toads over the 24/25 season. “Imagine the difference we could make if we doubled or tripled participation in next year’s Program!” the Mayor said.Consistent toad busting is key to reducing local populations and has the potential to reduce 28-47% of local populations, greatly reducing harm to local native animals. Cane toads (Rhinella marina) are an invasive species in Australia that impact our wildlife, domestic pets and eat beneficial insects, which can impact local agriculture and ecosystems.For more information and to get involved, go to Council’s website.

Draft Streetscape Master Plan for Newrybar now on public exhibition
Draft Streetscape Master Plan for Newrybar now on public exhibition

29 April 2025, 4:46 AM

Ballina Shire Council has developed a Draft Streetscape Master Plan for Newrybar to improve its public spaces, balancing community aspirations identified during a collaborative design process in late 2024.The community identified their vision for Newrybar as a welcoming, vibrant village that celebrates character, community, and creativity.The Draft Master Plan outlines five key place values that reflect what the community loves about Newrybar:Authentic village charmMemorable artisanal experiencesHome-grown produce and flavoursHonouring the Big Scrub and connection to CountryFostering a connected community.“A key proposal is to make traffic on the Old Pacific Highway between Brooklet Road and Hinterland Way one way, which would create space for safer pedestrian movement, improved parking, more shade trees, and better public seating,” said Council’s Landscape Architect, Ms Sheryn Da-Re.“Council invites the community to view the Draft Master Plan, including diagrams and a list of the proposed improvements, so they can share their feedback.”Feedback can be provided in multiple ways:Complete an online feedback form on the Your Say page.Attend Council’s community workshop from 6pm – 7.30pm, Monday 19 May 2025 at Newrybar Community Hall.Visit yoursayballina.com.au/newrybar-streetscape-master-plan for more information.Submissions close Wednesday, 21 May 2025.No funding or grants have been secured at this stage for the implementation of any works. However, once completed, the master plan will enable Council to seek the funding required to make the community’s aspirations a reality.

Byron Shire receive special Entertainment Precinct kickstart grant
Byron Shire receive special Entertainment Precinct kickstart grant

28 April 2025, 12:31 AM

What makes a great night-time economy? Is it the warm glow of lights casting long shadows on laneways? The sound of music drifting from a nearby venue? A place where people gather — safely, joyfully — to share a meal, a story, a night out? What sets the scene for unforgettable evenings with friends and family?The Byron Shire has been reflecting on these questions and wants to explore the answers with the community. The NSW Government has awarded Byron Shire a Special Entertainment Precinct kickstart grant, supporting council's plans to trial a dedicated entertainment precinct in Byron Bay over the next 18 months.With over 2.4 million visitors in 2019 and 1.9 million in 2024, and a local population of around 37,000, Byron Shire’s night-time economy plays a vital role in both community life and regional tourism.“This grant gives us an opportunity to reimagine and reinvigorate that experience — not just for visitors, but for the people who live and work here every day,” Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said.“This funding comes at an important time for our local businesses and creatives, many of whom have weathered significant challenges in recent years.” “It’s a chance to trial new ideas that could support economic growth, jobs, safety and wellbeing — while keeping the unique character of Byron at heart.“We look forward to working closely with our community, local venues, artists and residents to shape a night-time economy that reflects who we are — vibrant, inclusive, creative and connected,” she said.The 18-month trial will explore ways to balance entertainment, culture and liveability in the heart of Byron Bay. Council says it’s one more step in an ongoing journey to make Byron Shire an even better place to live, work and visit – day or night.

'Otherworldly' art on show this May at Northern  Rivers Community Gallery in Ballina
'Otherworldly' art on show this May at Northern Rivers Community Gallery in Ballina

26 April 2025, 4:24 PM

Established in 2007, the Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) is a leading arts and cultural organisation in the Northern Rivers, fostering creativity and engagement through quality exhibitions and programs, and supporting opportunities where arts and culture can thrive. NRCG presents four exciting new exhibitions this May, including an otherworldly botanical installation, a series of textile-based meditations, award-winning still life photography, and a series of relief printed portraits of distant friends made during social distancing. Distant Friends | Peter McLean Distant Friends was initiated soon after the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, when online platforms became the main means of maintaining friendships and social interactions. The exhibition encompasses relief-printed portraits based on social media photos of the artist’s friends as a basis to create a series of highly pixelated and innovative abstract portraits. Leaf and Flower | Robyn Barron Robyn’s practice as a still life photographer is informed by her horticultural and design background with the objects in her work often cultivated in her garden or collected from the Northern NSW coastline. Leaf and Flower showcases a selection of the artist’s recent photographs alongside some of her award-winning work. I hope this helps | Liv Enqvist I hope this helps is a series of textile meditations where you can stop, pause and take a deep breath. The exhibition offers a soft, embroidered space inspired by mindfulness and the art of being present. Den Inception | Immortal Soil ‘To undergo the transformation, we must surrender everything. ’ The inception den is a resting place, a place of recharge amongst nature’s physical embrace. This exhibition, Den Inception, creates a home within the gallery using botanical elements and soundscape to bring the outside in and give the viewer a sense of wild nature, recharge, reverence, and retreat. All exhibitions open on Thursday, 1 May and continue until Sunday, 22 June. The official exhibition launch will be held 5.30 – 7.30pm, Thursday, 1 May. The Northern Rivers Community Gallery is located at 44 Cherry Street, Ballina and is open Wednesday to Friday from 9am until 3pm and weekends from 9.30am until 1.00pm. For further information, contact the Gallery on 02 6681 0530 or visit the website www.nrcgballina.com.au.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning for NRs
Severe Thunderstorm Warning for NRs

26 April 2025, 1:11 AM

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for HEAVY RAINFALL for coastal areas of the Northern Rivers.Slow-moving showers and thunderstorms triggered by a trough moving from out over the ocean onto land will bring periods of heavy rain.Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall, which may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations that may be affected include Byron Bay, Ballina, Alstonville, Evans Head, Yamba, and Maclean.The State Emergency Service advises that people should:* 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 1:55 pm.

Man charged after allegedly ramming police car during pursuit at Wiangaree
Man charged after allegedly ramming police car during pursuit at Wiangaree

25 April 2025, 5:10 AM

A man has been charged with multiple break and enter offences after he allegedly rammed a police car during a pursuit at Wiangaree earlier this month.About 8.10am on Wednesday, 16 April 2025, police located an allegedly stolen Toyota Landcruiser driving on Summerland Way, Wiangaree, about 14km north of Kyogle.When police approached the Toyota, the driver allegedly drove at and hit a police vehicle before leaving the scene in the Toyota.Police directed the driver to stop; however, when they allegedly failed to do so, a pursuit was initiated.The pursuit continued through the Wiangaree, Geneva and Afterlee areas before the allegedly stolen Landcruiser crashed through a fence and into a tree on Murray Scrub Road, Toonumbar.The driver – a 32-year-old man – was arrested at the scene by officers attached to Richmond Police District, Coffs/Clarence Police District and the Dog Unit after he attempted to leave the scene.During the arrest, police located items believed to have been stolen and a small amount of ammunition.The 32-year-old was taken to the Casino Police Station, where he was charged with:Larceny (two counts)Destroy or damage property (two counts)Take and drive conveyance without consent of ownerEnter building/land with intent to commit indictable offencePolice pursuit – not stop – drive recklesslyDrive motor vehicle during disqualification periodUse offensive weapon to prevent lawful detentionHinder or resist police officer in the execution of dutyUse class A vehicle displaying misleading number plate, andPossess ammunition without holding licence/permit/authority.About 11am on Thursday, 17 April 2025, police executed a search warrant at a home on Old Tenterfield Road Kippenduff where they allegedly located and seized items including a revolver barrel, cannabis, vehicle keys, mobile phones, SIM cards, firearm parts, ammunition, and a Mazda BT50 believed to have been stolen.The man was refused bail and appeared before Lismore Local Court on Thursday, 17 April 2025, where he was formally refused bail to appear before the same court on Monday, 5 May 2025.

Future of Lake Ainsworth shored up by erosion and beach nourishment work
Future of Lake Ainsworth shored up by erosion and beach nourishment work

24 April 2025, 1:20 AM

A significant erosion control project at Lake Ainsworth, a vital freshwater lake in Lennox Head, has been completed by the NSW Government and Ballina Council.   Crown Lands, part of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, provided a $250,000 grant from its Crown Reserves Improvement Fund (CRIF) for beach repairs and protection work. Ballina Shire Council funded the balance of the project to a total cost of $380,583.The NSW Soil Conservation Service was contracted to shore up eight beaches around the lake to protect the banks from water damage and nourish the beaches with more than 1200 tonnes of imported sand.Timber retaining structures were installed to protect the foreshore from rising water levels during heavy rain, and hundreds of metres of turf were laid to beautify the surrounding reserve. Revegetation work and protective fencing will further support the long-term sustainability of the lake’s environs.(New turf was laid after the restoration work was complete. Photo: supplied)The beach restoration project will improve access, safety, and amenity at Lake Ainsworth, ensuring locals and visitors can enjoy this local treasure for years to come. The lake’s revitalised sandy banks will give families easy access to the water. Alternatively, they can admire the picturesque waterway from nearby grassy knolls installed as part of the project.The project will also protect the health of the lake by reducing the amount of soil and runoff that flows into the water, which can contribute to algae growth and impact native vegetation.Lake Ainsworth, known for its distinctive ‘tea’-coloured water, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The lake covers about 12 hectares and has calm waters, making it a hotspot for families. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, kayaking, sailing, fishing, bushwalking, picnics, BBQs, dog walking, and bird watching.Lake Ainsworth also hosts a unique sensitive ecosystem that is home to over 100 species of birds, endangered melaleuca forest and a diverse array of aquatic plants.Ballina Shire Council Mayor Sharon Cadwallader said, “Lake Ainsworth is one of our region’s most treasured natural assets, and this project ensures its beauty and ecological health are preserved for generations to come.Surrounded by tea-trees, the tannin-soaked waters are said to have healing properties that will leave your hair and skin feeling refreshed. Thanks to funding from the NSW Government and Ballina Shire Council’s investment, we’ve been able to restore and protect the lake’s foreshore, improving safety, accessibility, and environmental resilience.“The upgraded beaches, new retaining structures, and revegetation efforts will not only enhance the visitor experience but also safeguard this unique ecosystem. This vital project will help protect Lake Ainsworth and ensure it remains a favourite destination for locals and visitors alike.”Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said, “The NSW Government is focused on building better communities and investing in our regions, and this joint project will protect the natural environment of Lake Ainsworth for everyone’s enjoyment.“The erosion mitigation work and beach nourishment plan will not only protect the beautiful lake but make it safer and easier for locals and visitors to access the foreshore.”

Kyogle's 1957 Sewage Treatment Plant to be upgraded in future
Kyogle's 1957 Sewage Treatment Plant to be upgraded in future

22 April 2025, 5:19 AM

Kyogle is on the path to improved sewerage infrastructure and better protection for the environment, with the next stage of investigative works for a new high-tech wastewater treatment plant underway.This next stage of development will help lay the groundwork for future upgrades, delivering concept designs and detailed site investigations by the end of this year. This has been funded thanks to $379,500 from the NSW Government and $125,500 from Kyogle Council.The existing Kyogle Sewage Treatment Plant was constructed in 1957, with only minor upgrades in the 1990s and 2000s. The ageing infrastructure is struggling to treat wastewater efficiently in line with environmental standards for effluent discharge needed to protect this iconic region.This is why the NSW Government and Council have joined forces to progress the next stage of investigative works that will enable the new plant to be shovel ready when funding is secured at a later date.It builds on $225,000 funding from the NSW Government’s Safe and Secure Program and $75,000 from Kyogle Council for the early development phase of the project in 2022.Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said, “Kyogle is a gateway to the Border Ranges and Toonumbar National Parks, so it’s crucial we have the best possible environmental protections in place, including ensuring local sewerage infrastructure, which services over 2500 people, is up to scratch.“While this upgrade is still in the design phase, it’s important that we dot the ‘I’s and cross the ‘T’s to enable the most informed investment decision down the track and get the best outcome for the community.“The NSW Government will continue working closely with Council to get these concept designs and detailed specifications done, which will give us a clearer idea of what a new sewage treatment plant could look like and how much it would cost.”Mayor of Kyogle Council, Cr Danielle Mulholland, said, “Treated effluent is already recycled into our region through agricultural irrigation, and some of that also makes its way to the Richmond River, which is why it’s vital that our wastewater treatment process remains at a really high standard.“We know the sewage plant will eventually need to be replaced which is why we’re busy preparing and doing our homework now so we’re ready to hit go on construction when the time comes.”To learn more about the Safe and Secure Water Program, please visit: https://water.dpie.nsw.gov.au/our-work/water-infrastructure-nsw/grants-and-funding/safe-and-secure-water-program.

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