Crash Investigations Unit officers have charged a man with allegedly being an accessory to a fatal crash at Fairy Hill, just north of Casino, earlier this year.About 10pm on Wednesday, 26 March 2025, emergency services were called to Droneys Bridge Road, Fairy Hill, following reports of a single vehicle crash.Officers attached to Richmond Police District attended and found a vehicle submerged in the Richmond River.Police inquiries led them to believe the vehicle was travelling along Droneys Bridge Road, before it left the roadway.The alleged driver – a 23-year-old woman – was able to self-extricate. She was uninjured.With assistance from Police Rescue and NSW SES crews, the vehicle was retrieved from the water.The bodies of two men - aged 26 and 27 - were located inside the vehicle.Police established a crime scene, and officers attached to Crash Investigation Unit commenced strike force Gibbons to inquire into the circumstances surrounding the crash.As part of extensive inquiries, strike force investigators charged the 23-year-old for her alleged role in the fatal crash. She remains before the courts.Following further investigation, strike force officers arrested a 44-year-old man at a home on Summerland Way, Casino, about 7.20pm yesterday (Tuesday 25 November 2025).He was taken to Casino Police Station, where he was charged with being an accessory after the fact to dangerous driving occasioning death and breach of bail.Police will allege in court that the man attempted to help the driver avoid arrest and disrupted the investigation.The man was refused bail to appear before Bail Division Local Court today (Wednesday, 26 November 2025).

Healthy North Coast is celebrating 18 months of successful nurse-led clinics across the region, with 13 local practices participating in the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association’s (APNA) Building Nurse Capacity (BNC) program.As part of APNA’s 2023-2026 cohort for the BNC program, 13 out of the total 38 practices are in the North Coast region, including the Lismore GP Super Clinic and the Alstonville Clinic, showing the strongest uptake in the country and reflecting the region’s commitment to strengthening primary care and improving health access for the community.Through the BNC program, participating practices are supported to design, implement and deliver nurse-led models of care tailored to local health needs. They receive 18 months of expert support from APNA and are focused on one of five priority health areas: cardiovascular health, diabetes mellitus, cancer control (screening and prevention focus), injury prevention (healthy ageing), and mental health.Practices were given $12,000 each via a co-sponsorship from APNA and Healthy North Coast through Australian Government funding to establish the clinics.Healthy North Coast CEO Monika Wheeler said the success of the program highlighted the critical role nurses play in delivering high-quality care across the region:“Over the past 18 months, we’ve seen some truly wonderful and innovative nurse-led clinics come to life across the North Coast.“From chronic disease support to preventative health and healthy ageing, our nurses have designed services that respond directly to community needs. Their leadership is strengthening our primary care system at a time when GP shortages remain a challenge, and it’s inspiring to see the difference these clinics are already making for patients.”APNA CEO Stephen Duns, who was on the North Coast this week, was thrilled to see the BNC clinics delivering great outcomes for patients:“APNA’s Building Nurse Capacity program, funded by the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing under the Nursing in Primary Health Care Program, supports nurses in developing nurse-delivered, team-based models of care.“Over the last decade, we’ve helped nurses set up almost a hundred clinics around Australia that have had a real impact on local access to health care and improved the health and well-being of their communities.“It’s time that we embrace innovation and expand the adoption of nurse-delivered team-based models of care – if we break down barriers, we know that nurses can do more for the health of their communities.”Altogether, thousands of patients on the North Coast have benefited from BNC-funded nurse-led clinics.Two of the North Coast’s participating practices - Kingscliff Health and Coffs Medical Centre - were also selected amongst the top performic clinics and received a six-month funding extension.Kayley Meredith, Chronic Disease Coordinator at Coffs Medical Centre, established their Healthy Ageing Clinic as part of the BNC program. Since its inception in August 2024, the clinic has seen over 900 patients and provided essential care to the local ageing population.“Our proactive, person-centred approach, which includes home visits and expert guidance through the My Aged Care system, is not only improving patient outcomes but also fostering greater health equity,” said Kayley.“Nurses are at the forefront, delivering holistic care that extends beyond traditional general practice, and the clinic's success demonstrates that innovative, nurse-led models can both meet urgent community health needs and ensure long-term financial sustainability.“We are committed to expanding and refining this model and look forward to enhancing the wellbeing of even more people in our community.”Healthy North Coast looks forward to continuing its partnership with APNA and local practices to strengthen the local primary health nursing workforce and ensure quality and access of care for patients.The full list of BNC-funded nurse-led clinics on the North Coast, and their priority areas, is:• Alstonville Clinic | Diabetes• Bangalow Medical Centre | Diabetes• Cabarita Beach Medica | Diabetes• Coffs Medical Centre | Injury prevention and control (healthy ageing)• Kingscliff Health | Injury prevention and control (healthy ageing)• Lismore GP Super Clinic | Mental health• Long Flat Outreach Medical Service | Cardiovascular health• Maclean Medical | Diabetes• Mullumbimby Medical Centre | Cancer control• O Plus Health Grafton | Cardiovascular health• Ocean Shores Medical Centre| Cardiovascular health• Port Macquarie Wound Care Clinic | Injury prevention and control (healthy ageing)• Queen Street Medical Centre | Cardiovascular health

Police are appealing for assistance to locate a man wanted on two outstanding warrants in the state's north.Ochre Wood, aged 23, is wanted on outstanding warrants for assault and traffic offences.Officers attached to Richmond Police District have released an image of Ochre as inquiries continue to locate him.Ochre is described as being of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance, about 170-180cm tall, of thin build, with black hair and brown eyes. He has tattoos on his neck and chest.He is known to frequent the Ballina, Empire Vale and Wardell areas.Anyone who sees Ochre is urged not to approach him, but to call Triple Zero (000) immediately.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 NSW Government has today launched the $20 million Aquaculture Industry Development Program to strengthen and expand the NSW seafood industry’s economic contribution to NSW.The program is designed to boost productivity and increase sustainability across farming operations for oysters, mussels, kelp, and algae, as well as freshwater and marine fish hatcheries and bioproducts.The state government says that by investing in sustainability and productivity, it is helping future-proof the industry, attract investment, and ensure regional communities continue to benefit from a strong, resilient seafood sector.This grant program enables further action for implementing the NSW Government’s Aquaculture Vision Statement, released last year.The vision was developed by the NSW Government with close input from industry and experts to deliver a strategic pathway to achieve the goal of doubling the state’s aquacultural farmgate production to $300 million by 2030.Under the program, the aquaculture and commercial fishing industries will have access to two targeted funding streams, offering grants from $500,000 to $2 million, for the following: Stream One - Projects focused on infrastructure upgrades to support growth and productivity, such as equipment upgrades, supply chain improvements and new product development.Stream Two - Projects that reduce carbon emissions and promote reuse and regeneration of materials, such as converting equipment to lower emissions or creating bioproducts and utilising waste streams such as processing of oyster shells.The Aquaculture Industry Development Program is part of the NSW Government’s broader commitment to support local manufacturing, food security, net zero goals, and economic development in regional communities.This $20 million investment will help the sector address opportunities and challenges facing the industry, such as:incoming mandatory Country-of-Origin Labelling requirements for seafood served in hospitality venues from 2026managing environmental and biosecurity risks in fisheries and hatcheriessupply chain challenges of getting produce to state, national and international markets.Aboriginal businesses and organisations, including Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations, are strongly encouraged to apply.The NSW Government’s Aquaculture Vision Statement supports industry growth through enhancing productivity, streamlining legislation, and supporting innovative research.The Aquaculture Industry Development Program is part of the NSW Government’s Regional Development Trust that is delivering strategic investments to drive economic development and better outcomes for our regional communities.Business and organisations are encouraged to apply and submit projects by the end of Sunday, 18 January 2026. Program details can be found at: nsw.gov.au/aidp.Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, said, “This program will deliver real economic benefits and jobs to regional and coastal communities by helping seafood businesses grow and become more efficient.“This is a great opportunity for regional aquaculture and commercial fishing businesses to tap into the growing national and global appetite for high-quality protein.“It means the industry can innovate and look at growing the exciting new developments in seaweed, algae and freshwater and marine bioproducts.“Ultimately, it’s about boosting jobs, strengthening our seafood and emerging bioproducts sectors, and making sure we can keep enjoying the great seafood New South Wales is known for.”President NSW Farmers, Xavier Martin, said, “The NSW aquaculture industry has set a target to double its farmgate production value to $300 million by 2030, and this initiative will help achieve this through industry innovation, climate change adaptation and the diversification of products.“As the sector recovers, this program will help ensure industry can manage the risks and take advantage of opportunities in the coming years and decades, through the sustainable development of our natural resources and support for innovation.”OceanWatch CEO, Lowri Pryce, said, “The Aquaculture Industry Development Program will benefit development and innovation across the seafood sector, including supply chain innovation, carbon net zero and seafood traceability initiatives.“We know these grants will be well-received by commercial fishers in NSW who are looking for new opportunities to develop and innovate, to ensure a sustainable future for their industry.”

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

A woman has died following a single-vehicle crash in Woombah, 25km north of Yamba, this morning.About 5.15am (Monday, 24 November 2025), emergency services were called to Iluka Road, Woombah, following reports that a black Hyundai had left the road and crashed into bushland.The driver – a woman believed to be in her 20s – was assessed by NSW Ambulance paramedics; however, she died at the scene.Officers attached to Coffs-Clarence Police District established a crime scene and commenced an investigation into the crash.A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.Anyone with information or dashcam footage is urged to contact Coffs-Clarence Police District or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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