The Albanese Government today activated its latest support for communities affected by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred and its aftermath, the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP).This event has impacted on people in different ways.The Albanese Government is working closely with the Minns government to ensure that supports are available in response to the different challenges that people have experienced.Joint Commonwealth-State supportIf a person has been impacted by power outages in effect for 48 hours or more, or were subject to Evacuation Orders (category red emergency warning) caused by the disaster event, they may be eligible for Personal Hardship Assistance: a payment of between $180 - $900 depending on household size. This payment is administered by the NSW Government and people can check their eligibility on the ServiceNSW website at www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/northern-nsw-storm-relief-grant-individuals-march-2025Commonwealth supportsIf a person has suffered a loss of income as a direct result, they may also be eligible for the Australian Government’s Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA), which offers up to 13 weeks of income support for workers and sole traders depending on their personal circumstances. This payment is administered by the Australian Government and people can check their eligibility on the Services Australia website at servicesaustralia.gov.au/disastersupport.If a person has suffered the most extreme impacts, including major damage to their home, serious injury, or loss of a loved one as a result of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, they may be eligible for the AGDRP, which offers residents $1,000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child. This payment is administered by the Australian Government, and people can check their eligibility on the Services Australia website at servicesaustralia.gov.au/disastersupport.The payment will be made available in the local government areas of Bellingen, Clarence Valley, Kyogle and Richmond Valley.The AGDRP has already been activated for Ballina, Byron, Lismore and Tweed, as well as the two locations of Yamba in the Clarence Valley LGA and Lillian Rock in the Kyogle LGA.As additional information about impacts becomes available, the Government will consider other locations.Claims opened for DRA and AGDRP at 2pm yesterday (Monday, 17 March 2025). The easiest way to claim Australian Government support is online through myGov or through the myGov app. If people need help to claim, they can call the Australian Government Emergency Information Line on 180 22 66.To change or pause Centrelink debt repayments, affected people can do so online or in the mobile app (through the Money you owe service), or they can call 1800 076 072.Minister for Government Services Katy Gallagher said, “The Government remains focussed on those who have been impacted by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. We know recovery will take time, and this is one of the many Commonwealth and jointly funded payments available to support impacted communities.”“If you live in one of the areas listed, I’d encourage you to get on the Services Australia website to learn more and begin the claim process.”“Supporting people during emergencies and natural disasters is Services Australia’s core work. Staff will be working hard to process these claims as soon as possible.”Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister said, “The recent tropical cyclone and its aftermath has caused destruction in NSW, and the Albanese Government is ready to support local communities.“Support through the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment is just part of the support that we are providing to help those affected rebuild their lives.“As we assess the full impact of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, we are mobilising swiftly to ensure that affected areas receive the necessary support.“Recovery is a long process, and we are committed to standing by the people of NSW throughout their journey to rebuild.”

The last Return with Caution flood advice from the NSW SES for the Lismore and Northern Rivers area has been issued today.As we know, the water takes a few days to reach the Coraki/Bungawlbin areas and takes longer to drain from the area.The NSW SES has advised there is a reduced threat for Bungawalbin and surrounds, including properties along Bungawalbin Whiporie Road, and Haughwood Road, so they can Return With caution. You should take care when returning to the area as flood damage can be widespread. The Lismore App has been told there is still a lot of water around the Bungawalbin area, and there is still water over the roads.What you need to do:Drive slowly, plan your route carefully to avoid any flooded roads and allow extra travel time. Damage to roads and buildings caused by flooding may still exist in your area.Be aware of road hazards including mud and debris.Remain vigilant as there could still be water in low lying areas.Take care as local roads could still have water over them.Check in on your neighbours if safe to do so.Check on animals and livestock.If you are isolated and require resupply, contact NSW SES on 132 500If your property has been affected by floodwater:Make sure your property is safe before entering. Check for damage to windows, walls and the roof and be careful of potential dangers including asbestos.Make sure the electricity and gas are turned off before going inside. Use a torch to carry out inspections inside buildings.If power points, electrical equipment, appliances or electrical hot water systems have been exposed to floodwater or are water damaged in any way, they must be inspected by a qualified electrician before use.Gas appliances and gas bottles that have been exposed to floodwater should be inspected for safety before use.Wear suitable protective clothing, including boots and gloves when cleaning up.Sandbags that have been in contact with floodwater need to be thrown away. Sturdy gloves should be worn when handling wet sandbags as they can contain chemicals, waste, and diseases.Be aware of any slip, trip or fall hazards.Never eat food which has been in contact with floodwater.Only use clean utensils and personal items.

A motorcycle rider has died after a two-vehicle crash in Uki yesterday.About 2.20pm yesterday (Saturday, 15 March 2025), emergency services were called Kyogle Road, Uki, approximately an hour north of Lismore, following reports of a two-vehicle crash.Officers attached to Tweed-Byron Police District were told a Ute and a motorcycle have collided before the rider was ejected from the motorcycle.The rider – a 35-year-old man – was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being airlifted to Princess Alexandra Hospital in a critical condition.The driver – a 52-year-old man – was subject to a roadside breath test, returned with a negative result.He was taken to Murwillumbah District Hospital for mandatory testing.A crime scene has been established and an investigation into the incident has commenced.Both vehicles were seized to be forensically examined.Just after 7.15pm on the same day, police were informed that the rider had died at the hospital.A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.Anyone with information about this incident or a dashcam footage is urged to contact Tweed-Byron Police District or 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.

A man will face court after a pursuit in the Tweed yesterday.About 12.20pm yesterday (Saturday, 15 March 2025), officers attached to Tweed-Byron Police District were patrolling Minjungbal Drive, Tweed Heads, when they attempted to stop a white sedan without a number plate on its rear.When it failed to stop, a pursuit was initiated.The pursuit went through The Quarterdeck, Tweed Heads, where it was terminated after the driver abandoned the vehicle and left the scene.Following inquiries, police found the man – armed with an alleged knife - at a home on the same street.When the man allegedly resisted and failed to comply with police directions, a taser was deployed before he was arrested.The 37-year-old man was treated by NSW Ambulance Paramedics before being taken to Tweed Valley Hospital under police guard.Further checks revealed his driver’s licence was cancelled and the vehicle was unregistered.He was later taken to Tweed Heads Police Station where he was charged with drive while licence cancelled, not obey direction of police/authorised person, use unregistered registrable Class A motor vehicle on road, use uninsured motor vehicle on road, and hinder or resist police office in the execution of duty.He was refused bail to appear at Parramatta Local Court today (Sunday, 16 March 2025).

Alstonville Cultural Centre is a vital hub for our community – it is home to sports like basketball, volleyball, and pickleball, as well as the library, and an evacuation centre during emergencies. It is about to undergo a major upgrade.Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan today announced an $80,000 investment to install solar panels on the redeveloped centre, if a Coalition Government is elected at the upcoming election.“This is a very unique space in our community, and the current facilities are well past their use-by date,” Mr Hogan said.  “This combined project is a major investment in our community, ensuring that residents have access to modern facilities that serve a variety of purposes.”“The addition of solar panels aims to reduce ongoing running costs, making sure this space remains affordable for all users.”Ballina Shire Council Mayor Sharon Cadwallader welcomed the commitment, highlighting the importance of the broader project.“The Alstonville Cultural Centre upgrade includes a two-storey library annex, improved sporting facilities, an expanded foyer, new office spaces, and air conditioning in the multipurpose hall,” Cr Cadwallader said.“It will allow local families, athletes, community groups, and library users to enjoy a modern, well-equipped, and accessible space.”"Council has designed this upgrade to support the community’s needs for decades to come, and this funding helps us achieve that vision."The project is currently in the tender process, with construction to begin by the end of the year. For more details on the upgrade, visit: https://www.ballina.nsw.gov.au/Council/Major-Projects/Alstonville-Cultural-Centre-Upgrade

As Lismore and surrounds continues to dry out and the Wilsons River height decreases, 2.46m at 12:49pm today (Friday), the town of Coraki has been told by the NSW SES that residents who have been evacuated may now RETURN WITH CAUTION to the following area(s): Low-lying properties along Richmond Terrace near the Club Hotel and the bowls clubCoraki Caravan Park and foreshoreLow lying properties in East CorakiThe Richmond River at Coraki has fallen below the minor flood level of 3.4m and currently reads 3.16m.You should take care when returning to the area as flood damage can be widespread. What you need to do:Drive slowly, plan your route carefully to avoid any flooded roads and allow extra travel time. Damage to roads and buildings caused by flooding may still exist in your area.Be aware of road hazards including mud and debris.Remain vigilant as there could still be water in low lying areas.Take care as local roads could still have water over them.Check in on your neighbours if safe to do so.Check on animals and livestock.If you are isolated and require resupply, contact NSW SES on 132 500If your property has been affected by floodwater:Make sure your property is safe before entering. Check for damage to windows, walls and the roof and be careful of potential dangers including asbestos.Make sure the electricity and gas are turned off before going inside. Use a torch to carry out inspections inside buildings.If power points, electrical equipment, appliances or electrical hot water systems have been exposed to floodwater or are water damaged in any way, they must be inspected by a qualified electrician before use.Gas appliances and gas bottles that have been exposed to floodwater should be inspected for safety before use.Wear suitable protective clothing, including boots and gloves when cleaning up.Sandbags that have been in contact with floodwater need to be thrown away. Sturdy gloves should be worn when handling wet sandbags as they can contain chemicals, waste, and diseases.Be aware of any slip, trip or fall hazards.Never eat food which has been in contact with floodwater.Only use clean utensils and personal items.

Essential Energy crews continued to work tirelessly throughout yesterday afternoon and into the evening, and were back on the tools this morning removing vegetation from lines, gaining access into hard-to-reach areas and making repairs across the network. As of 12pm, 1,380 homes and businesses remain without power, primarily in the Tweed Heads, Murwillumbah and Ewingsdale areas. Helicopters continue to support our response along with excavators, specialised climbing crews and all-terrain vehicles. Members of the community can speak with Essential Energy at the community hubs set up across the Northern Rivers, including: Tweed Heads: Tweed Heads South Community Hall – Corner Heffron Street and Minjungbal Drive, South Tweed Heads from 9am to 5pm Murwillumbah: Murwillumbah Civic Centre Auditorium, 10-14 Tumbulgum Rd, Murwillumbah, from 11.00am to 1.00pm Byron Bay: Marvell Hall, 37 Marvell St, Byron Bay, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm Many organisations from across Northern NSW have also been there for our teams on the ground, providing food, last minute accommodation and logistical support – all of which has helped our teams on the ground concentrate on making repairs and restoring power for customers. The community is reminded to please stay at least 8 metres away from fallen powerlines and 150 metres from lines submerged in water and should report the location to Essential Energy on 13 20 80.  Estimated times of restoration are being updated (when known) on the website outages page. 

Casino Beef Week is thrilled to announce Australian Food Super as a major festival sponsor for the next three years, further strengthening the festival’s commitment to celebrating agriculture, local produce, and the vibrant community of the Richmond Valley.As part of this exciting partnership, Australian Food Super has secured the naming rights to one of the festival’s biggest attractions, the Super Saturday Street Festival. From 2025 onwards, this much-loved event will be known as the 'Australian Food Super Saturday Street Festival', bringing festivalgoers a fresh and dynamic experience.Casino Beef Week President Brody Lisha expressed enthusiasm about the new partnership.“We are delighted to welcome Australian Food Super on board as a major sponsor. Their commitment to supporting regional communities and Australian agriculture aligns perfectly with the values of Casino Beef Week. The newly named Australian Food Super Saturday Street Festival will continue to be a highlight of the festival, showcasing the best of our region’s cattle, entertainment, and culture.”The Australian Food Super Saturday Street Festival will feature an action-packed program of activities, including live entertainment, street performances, food markets, and family-friendly attractions, making it a must-attend event for visitors and locals alike.The partnership between Casino Beef Week and Australian Food Super will run from 2025 to 2027, ensuring continued growth and innovation for the festival.The Casino Food Co-Op Beef Week 2025 festival will take place from the 24th of May to the 1st of June, with the 'Australian Food Super Saturday Street Festival' set to be a major highlight of the program.

CASINO’s Nammoona Waste and Resource Recovery Centre and the Evans Head Transfer Station will reopen tomorrow, Wednesday 12 March, with free waste drop-off available for Richmond Valley residents impacted by ex-tropical cyclone Alfred.Eligible waste for free drop-off includes:·         Green waste from storm damage·         Building waste from storm damage, or flood-affected properties (excludes asbestos and hazardous materials).This service is strictly for cyclone-related waste. General household waste and non-storm-related waste are not eligible. Photographic evidence of cyclone-related waste will be collected on entry to ensure Council can recoup its costs under the NSW Government’s natural disaster arrangements.Residents must provide their address to staff at the weighbridge to access the free drop-off.Richmond Valley Council’s General Manager Vaughan Macdonald expressed gratitude for the patience of the community during the recovery process.Mr Macdonald said after a thorough safety assessment and necessary repairs, residents could now resume normal waste disposal services.He said safety remained a priority, and visitors to waste facilities should follow staff instructions to ensure a smooth and efficient disposal process.“Our teams have worked tirelessly to ensure our waste facilities are safe and fully operational again,” Mr Macdonald said.“We understand the impact the temporary closures had on residents, and we appreciate everyone’s cooperation.”The Rappville Transfer Station will remain closed until further notice.Mr Macdonald said Council was working with contractors across the Richmond Valley to remove fallen trees and branches from roads and parklands where it was safe to do so.He said the cleanup of public areas was already underway and would continue throughout the coming weeks.Kerbside collection services are back to normal for Casino and Evans Head, with services resuming this Thursday for Woodburn, Broadwater and Rileys Hill. Coraki’s service will return when safe to do so. Residents are reminded to place their bins out the night before their usual collection day. For any questions or concerns regarding the resumption of services, please call our Customer Experience team on 6660 0300, or visit Council’s website for a downloadable service calendar.

A man has died in hospital following a two-car crash at Ulmarra, near Grafton, last month.About 9.20am on Wednesday, 19 February 2025, emergency services were called to Big River Way, Ulmarra, about 20kms northeast of Grafton, following reports of a car crash.Upon arrival, officers attached to Coffs Clarence Police District found an Isuzu utility and a GWM SUV had collided.The driver of the SUV, a 74-year-old man, and the front passenger, a 71-year-old woman, were trapped before being freed.NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the woman for a fractured wrist, foot, back and broken ribs, before she was flown to Gold Coast University Hospital.The man was treated for a fractured leg, ribs and pelvis, before he was taken to Coffs Harbour Hospital.The driver of the utility was taken to Grafton Base Hospital for minor injuries and mandatory testing.Officers attached to Far North Coast Crash Investigations Unit began an investigation into the incident.Yesterday (Monday 10 March 2025), police were notified the 74-year-old man died at John Hunter Hospital.Police inquiries into the circumstances surrounding continue.

Residents in Lismore and Northern NSW have been using the Hazards Near Me app in their thousands over the past week, keeping up with the latest emergency information as ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred passed through the region. As the cyclone approached last Friday, the number of people using the Hazards Near Me app was almost four times higher than average, with more than 166,000 active users up from an average of 47,000. The app allows users to set up a Watch Zone to personalise the information received with location-specific alerts and up-to-date warnings during a natural disaster like ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.  With input from the NSW State Emergency Services (NSW SES) and NSW Rural Fire Service, the app is constantly evolving to provide the most current information available including weather warnings and advice on how to stay safe during times of natural disaster for impacted communities.  During a natural disaster, people are also encouraged to prepare an emergency kit with essential items including identification documents, medications, torch, mobile phone charger and a battery-operated radio.  As evacuation orders for communities in Northern NSW are progressively lifted, information about returning home with caution can be found via the Hazards Near Me app as well as the NSW SES website (www.ses.nsw.gov.au).  For assistance during floods and storms call the NSW SES on 132 500 or Triple Zero (000) for life threatening emergencies.  All emergency service agencies are ready to support affected communities.  For the latest information on Essential Energy power outages visit Power Outages (https://www.essentialenergy.com.au/outages-and-faults/power-outages). For information on what to do before, during and after a power outage visit What is a power outage and what to do(www.energy.nsw.gov.au/households/guides-and-helpful-advice-households/what-power-outage-and-what-do). Keep radios tuned to your local ABC radio station for broadcast emergency warnings and alerts.  People who require mental health support can call the Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511. It is a free service operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and is staffed by specialist mental health professionals who offer mental health advice, and referrals to local mental health services.  The Hazards Near Me app is available for both iOS and Android systems. For more information, go to Hazards Near Me app | NSW Government (https://www.nsw.gov.au/emergency/hazards-near-me-app).  For more information about Recovery efforts in Northern NSW visit www.nsw.gov.au/cyclonealfredrecovery. Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said, “The NSW Government through our emergency services agencies is working to ensure people can access the most up-to-date information whenever and wherever they need it. “We want to thank communities across Northern NSW who prepared for ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred and encourage them to continue to follow the advice of emergency services as the response continues. “In times of emergency or disaster, I encourage people to go to trusted government sources for information and the latest warnings and advice to understand what is happening in their area and what they need to do to stay safe. “As we start the work of recovery, the NSW Government stands ready to support the community to get back to normal.”  Minister for Mental Health and Minister for the North Coast Rose Jackson said, “The Hazards Near Me app provided North Coast communities with real-time updates to help keep families and homes safe as ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred threatened the region. “We know this is an incredibly tough time, with many in the community still recovering from previous floods. If you're feeling overwhelmed, reach out – the Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511 is available 24/7.”

A man has been charged following an assault in the state’s north overnight.About 8pm yesterday, Sunday, 9 March 2025, police were called to an evacuation centre in Dalley Street, Mullumbimby following reports of an assault.On arrival, officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District were told two men had allegedly been involved in an altercation.A 26-year-old man was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics for facial injuries before being taken to Byron Bay Hospital in a stable condition.A 44-year-old man was arrested and taken to Byron Bay Police station where he was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm.He was refused bail to appear before Byron Bay Local Court today, Monday 10 March 2025.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.

A man has been rescued from flood waters on the state’s mid north coast on the weekend.About 8pm on Saturday, 8 March 2025, emergency services were called to Missabotti Road, Missabotti – about 30km northwest of Nambucca Heads – following reports a man had been washed away by flood waters.On arrival, officers attached to Mid North Coast Police District were told a 71-year-old man had attempted to cross flood waters in a Toyota Landcruiser; however, the vehicle failed to cross and was swept downstream.The man was located in the water nearby, holding onto the rear of the vehicle which was pinned near some large trees.Local police, together with SES personnel, Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW Ambulance officers attended and commenced an operation to retrieve the man from the water.A lifejacket was successfully floated to the man prior to the arrival of the SES Swift Water Rescue Team, who completed the rescue with an inflatable raft.The man was assessed by NSW Ambulance paramedics and did not require any medical treatment.The incident has prompted police to remind all residents who have been affected by the weather event and flooding to stay safe by never driving through floodwaters, and to always follow signs or directions from emergency services.

The NSW SES has advised that residents from The Flat - McDougall Street, Anzac Park, Parts of Anzac Drive, Walters, Willis, Norton, Larkin and Chauvel streets may now RETURN WITH CAUTION. The SES says you should take care when returning to the area as flood damage can be widespread. What you need to do:Drive slowly, plan your route carefully to avoid any flooded roads and allow extra travel time. Damage to roads and buildings caused by flooding may still exist in your area.Be aware of road hazards including mud and debris.Remain vigilant as there could still be water in low lying areas.Take care as local roads could still have water over them.Check in on your neighbours if safe to do so.Check on animals and livestock.If your property has been affected by floodwater:Make sure your property is safe before entering. Check for damage to windows, walls and the roof and be careful of potential dangers including asbestos.Make sure the electricity and gas are turned off before going inside. Use a torch to carry out inspections inside buildings.If power points, electrical equipment, appliances or electrical hot water systems have been exposed to floodwater or are water damaged in any way, they must be inspected by a qualified electrician before use.Gas appliances and gas bottles that have been exposed to floodwater should be inspected for safety before use.Wear suitable protective clothing, including boots and gloves when cleaning up.Sandbags that have been in contact with floodwater need to be thrown away. Sturdy gloves should be worn when handling wet sandbags as they can contain chemicals, waste, and diseases.Be aware of any slip, trip or fall hazards.Never eat food which has been in contact with floodwater.Only use clean utensils and personal items.

Sandbags – what to do with them in the Byron Shire.People are advised to hold onto their sandbags, if they are not damaged, for a couple of more weeks in case there is another weather event, as the catchment is now very wet, and the dunes are eroded.Chloe Dowsett, Council’s Coastal and Biodiversity Coordinator said that people should not empty their sand or place sandbags onto the beach. “We are getting a lot of enquiries from people asking whether they should put the sand on the beach given the erosion over the last week and the answer to that is no,” Ms Dowsett said.“Sand can be dirty and contaminated from flood or stormwater with weeds, pests and even chemicals posing an environmental risk for marine life and the birds and insects that live in the dunes and on our beaches,” Ms Dowsett said.“While it’s likely most sand for bags has come from quarries and is clean, we don’t know for sure so the best thing to do is to not inadvertently contaminate our already depleted beaches.“Even Council needs to make sure we have proper assessments in place when we put any material on the beach that could pose a risk to the environment and marine park,” she said.We are aware that people are concerned about the dune erosion and want to help, but the best way is to let the beaches stabilise first and we will consider any management or interventions after the event.In the meantime, Council is suggesting people hang on to their sandbags for a little while and as information becomes available about how to dispose of them properly Council will promote this to the community.

Following the impact of ex-tropical cyclone Alfred, Richmond Valley Council is pleased to announce almost all facilities will reopen to the public from tomorrow (Monday 10 March).These include the Casino and Evans Head administration centres, libraries, visitor information centres, sporting facilities, swimming pools and other public venues.General Manager Vaughan Macdonald said Council’s primary focus would remain on supporting residents’ safety and well-being as things started to return to normal, while noting some of our communities remained isolated. Mr Macdonald said while Richmond Valley businesses were resilient, it was important to remember they too were suffering from the effects of ex-tropical cyclone Alfred.He said simply choosing to shop locally as much as you could made a huge difference.“Shopping local is a great way to keep dollars within our local area,” Mr Macdonald said.“When we shop local, we are supporting local businesses who employ other locals, who pay for local services, and circulate the money around the Richmond Valley.“In this way local spending has a significant impact on the entire regional economy.”Mr Macdonald said it was also important for local schools to reopen as soon as possible as they allowed parents and caregivers to return to work with peace of mind, knowing their children were in a safe and supportive environment. He thanked the community and local SES members, local police and emergency service personnel, volunteers and community organisations, as well as Council staff, for their hard work and assistance in protecting and supporting our local communities.“We appreciate the patience and understanding of our community during these temporary closures,” Mr Macdonald said.“Our teams have worked diligently to ensure the safety of all facilities and to restore services as quickly as possible.“Residents are reminded there are still several road closures in place and, if possible, delay non-essential travel, and never drive through floodwater.“Minimising travel on our rural roads while they are saturated will assist a quicker recovery for our region.“We are working closely with State and Federal government representatives to advocate for the support our community needs to recover from the ex-tropical cyclone’s effects.”Residents are encouraged to check Council’s website or phone 6660 0300 for further information, or to confirm specific hours of operation.

While Lismore's flooding situation improves, other parts of the Northern Rivers get worse.The NSW SES has advised people in the following area(s) to PREPARE TO ISOLATE due to predictions that the Clarence River may reach moderate flood level: Iluka and surroundsYambaEast YambaWooloweyahThe NSW SES are asking residents to monitor the situation and prepare to be isolated by floodwater. Consider the effects isolation will have on family, work, and educational commitments. You may be trapped without power, water, and other essential services, and it may be too dangerous for NSW SES to rescue you. What are we expecting?Based on the predictions from the Bureau of Meteorology, rainfall associated with ex. Tropical Cyclone Alfred may cause rapid river rises and extensive flooding.Heavy and locally intense rainfall is forecast into the weekend over Northern NSW. Flash flooding is possible. High tides and large waves are expected to increase the flood risk and impacts in low lying coastal areas.What you need to do:If you have a Home or Business Emergency Plan, follow it. Otherwise, have a conversation and plan for what you will do and take with you if you need to evacuate.Be prepared - you may be isolated for an extended period of time. Make sure you have essential supplies prepared to last for at least three to five days, including food, drinking water, medications, pet food, and animal feed.Be prepared - you may lose services including power, communications, water, sewerage, and gas. Relocate waste containers, chemicals, and poisons well above the flood level.Companion animals and livestock should be relocated to higher ground that will not become an island.Monitor the situation closely for updates on rain and river conditions.Share this information with family, friends, and neighbours, and help others prepare for isolation where possible.If you are isolated and require resupply, contact NSW SES on 132 500People working or camping along the river should monitor river heights and be prepared to relocate to higher ground.

In a move that will please residents, Richmond Valley Council has announced the resumption of kerbside waste collection services to Casino and Evans Head.In a statement released today, council said, "Following the temporary disruption due to ex-tropical cyclone Alfred, the Casino and Evans Head services will be returning to their regular schedule starting tomorrow, Monday 10 March."Coraki, Woodburn and Broadwater and outer rural area collections will resume when possible. Rappville Transfer Station to remain closed until further notice."Residents are reminded to place their bins out for collection on their usual collection day. For any questions or concerns regarding the resumption of services, please call our Customer Experience team on 6660 0300, or visit Council’s website for a downloadable service calendar."Residents who missed collections on Friday can place bins as well until they are collected."The Nammoona Resource Recovery and Waste Facility and Evans Head Transfer Station will remain closed until further notice due to current road closures, staff availability and site restoration. "We thank all residents for their patience and understanding during this brief disruption and encourage everyone to continue following best practices for waste disposal."

Mullumbimby residents are being asked to conserve water as the town’s water treatment plant remains offline. The Mullumbimby water treatment plant has not been able to produce clean drinking water since severe weather and heavy rain caused high levels of turbidity in the raw water supply at Lavertys Gap Weir.The town’s emergency connection to the Rous County Council regional water supply is in use and supplying water to the eastern part of Mullumbimby but is not able to support the entire town.Mullumbimby residents are urged to limit water use to essential drinking, cooking and hygiene to slow the drawdown of current supplies in the town’s reservoirs. People in Mullumbimby are asked not to use tap water for external cleaning purposes and hosing driveways at the moment. Tap water is safe to drink and storage levels in Mullumbimby's reservoirs are being monitored.Council staff are monitoring water conditions at Lavertys Gap Weir and will resume water production as soon as possible. Water supplies in other parts of Byron Shire are not affected, however residents are asked to use water with care as demand is expected to increase as post-storm cleanup work continues.