A woman has been charged following an investigation into an alleged fraud incident at Murwillumbah.On Sunday 29 December 2024, police attached to Tweed/Byron Police District were notified of fraudulent activity in the accounts of a volunteer fire brigade.Police will allege in court that more than $38,000 had allegedly been transferred from the brigade's account to a personal bank account.Following extensive inquiries, police spoke with a 27-year-old woman at a home in Murwillumbah yesterday (Monday 25 February 2025).She was issued a court attendance notice for embezzle as clerk or servant.She will appear before Tweed Heads Local Court on Wednesday 23 April 2025.

A Federal Government commitment to expand basic mobile coverage across the nation may help close the connectivity gap if delivered.On Tuesday the Federal Government announced plans to introduce legislation that would establish a Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation (UOMO) – meaning telcos will be obliged to eventually provide access to basic mobile voice and SMS services Australia-wide via low earth orbit satellite technology.NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said the state’s peak farm body had been calling for the expansion of the Universal Service Obligation to include mobile coverage for some time, as rural communities continued to experience deteriorating connectivity.“People in the bush shouldn’t have to be without mobile coverage when they’re working on their farms, or travelling on the roads, and so it’s our hope that these plans become reality,” Mr Martin said.“No one should be left without coverage, especially when working alone or in an emergency, and we need to close the connectivity divide that is hurting the people here in the bush.”If established, a Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation would provide up to five million square kilometres of new mobile coverage by 2027, extending mobile service to almost 37,000 kilometres of rural roads.While news of the commitment had been welcome, Mr Martin warned there was still a long road ahead to ensuring rural Australia had the connectivity it needs.“We know the 3G shutdown has left many people disconnected or suffering with deteriorating coverage, and it will take both new technology, as well as expansion of existing networks, to fix our mobile coverage in rural areas,” Mr Martin said.“We look forward to seeing how the Federal Government responds to the recommendations of the latest Regional Telecommunications Review – as well as the results of Senate Inquiry into the 3G shutdown, when it’s released – so we can close this connectivity gap.“Announcing reforms and recommendations is one thing, but real action to deliver a change in connectivity for rural and remote Australians will be another.”

With a lot of roadwork activity happening in the Byron Shire, council explains what’s going on in more detail. “We’re delivering a record number of significant and complex projects this year – projects that will vastly improve our road and drainage network, and benefit our community for decades to come,” Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said. “And that’s in addition to more than 40 infrastructure repairs rolling out from the December 2024 flood event, and all of the 2022 flood repair projects, which are now fully funded and which we’ll be delivering for our hinterland areas over the next three years,” she said. “With all of these works going on, there’s going to be traffic delays and inconveniences, and I want to ask everyone to please be patient and cooperate with traffic control,” the Mayor said. Council’s Director Infrastructure Services, Phil Holloway, said that while some of the roadworks can be done quickly and with little impact on traffic movements, others are more complex, major projects that will take months to complete. “When we’re constructing or resealing roads, it makes sense to get repairs and improvements to drainage done at the same time - but this work does mean more traffic control and delays, sometimes for extended periods,” Mr Holloway said. “As more of these projects roll out, residents will notice and need to be prepared for some unavoidable disruptions, delays and detours if they’re driving across the Shire. “That said, we are working hard to find solutions to avoid total road closures, minimise delays and work in off-peak times and will provide as much notice as we can to residents about when projects are starting and what the impacts will be,” Mr Holloway said. Works underway (that you may be noticing already) include - Mullumbimby:Emergency water main extension installation on Argyle St and surrounding streets.Station St and Fern St stormwater drainage upgrade (completion by July).Brunswick Heads:South Beach Road and Torakina Carpark upgrade, new drainage, kerbs, gutters and line-marking (completion by August).Booyung:Booyong Road upgrade (completion by late March)Byron Bay:Rec Grounds sewer upgrade.Tennyson St connection to Gilmore Cres.New roundabout on Bayshore Drive near Byron TAFE/Byron Bay Fair intersection (completion by early September). Works coming up include - Byron Bay: Drainage upgrade (major project in town centre). Mullumbimby:Mullumbimby Road upgrade (starting May 2025). 2022 Flood repair works:Left Bank Road – replace causeway two with a new low-level bridge.Left Bank Road landslip – traffic control on road.Main Arm – Coopers Lane major culvert repair.Main Arm Road – causeway and culvert repairs and replacements.Upper Wilsons Creek Road – road pavement, culvert and causeway works.Wilsons Creek Road – road pavement and drainage works.Wilsons Creek landslip – traffic control on road. Shire-wide:Emergency roadworks from December 2024 flood event – around 40 roads requiring repair works including: Road resealing works:Some sections of the following roads will be resealed:Tweed Valley Way, Yelgun.Coolamon Scenic Drive, South of Mullumbimby.Tweed Street South, Brunswick Heads.Shara Boulevard, South Golden Beach. Upcoming road grading works (get the most up-to-date information from Council’s website):Cedar Road, Wilsons Creek (starting this week).Coral Avenue (some sections) – Mullumbimby (starting this week with road stabilisation).Dingo Lane, Myocum (starting this week).Dry Creek Road, Upper Main Arm (starting this week, subject to weather).Frasers Road, Mullumbimby Creek (starting this week).Kennedys Lane, Ewingsdale (starting this week).Left Bank Road, Mullumbimby (emergency road repairs, starting this week).Marri Avenue, Wilsons Creek (starting this week).Seven Mile Beach Road, Broken Head (starting this week).The Saddle Road, Mullumbimby (sections being repaired, starting this week).Whian Road, Eureka – emergency drainage works. Completed road grading works (under funding for the December 2024 flood event):Beacoms Road (East), Eureka.Beech Lane, Wilsons Creek.Blackbean Road, Wilsons Creek.Blindmouth Road, Main Arm.Buckleys Road, Tyagarah.Burnetts Road, Nashua.Charltons Road, Federal.Chinamans Hills Road, Middle Pocket.Clays Road, Mullumbimby.Coopers Lane (South), Main Arm.Coopers Lane (West), Main Arm.Coopers Creek Road, Upper Coopers Creek.Dudgeons Road, Mullumbimby.Durrumbul Road, Main Arm.Englishes Road, Upper Coopers Creek.Goonengerry Road, Goonengerry.Harkness Lane, Mullumbimby.Hollingworth Lane, Mullumbimby.Huonbrook Road, Wilsons Creek.James Lane, Myocum.Main Arm Road, Main Arm.McPhails Road, Wanganui.Mill Road, Huonbrook.Montecollum Road, Wilsons Creek.Motts Road, Upper Main Arm.Mudges Road, Ocean Shores.Old Brunswick Road, Tyagarah.Richards Lane, Mullumbimby.Riley Lane, Mullumbimby.Riverside Drive, Mullumbimby.Settlement Road, Main Arm.St Helena Road, St Helena.Studal Lane, Mullumbimby.Synotts Road, Mullumbimby.Upper Wilsons Creek Road, Upper Wilsons Creek.Waltons Road, Federal.Wanganui Road, Wanganui.Ward Lane, Mullumbimby.Yankee Creek Road, Wilsons Creek. To get the latest information on Council’s works and projects, visit Council’s website: www.byron.nsw.gov.au/Council/Projects/Current-works-and-projects

A celebration of country music and opera is on the cards for music enthusiasts thanks to a collaboration between Richmond Valley Council and Opera Queensland.Are You Lonesome Tonight will be performed at the Casino Civic Hall on Tuesday, 6 May, as part of Opera Queensland’s national tour.The show explores some of the great music of both genres, as three singers and a musician take you on a trip from Puccini and Verdi to Hank Williams and Dolly Parton.The Richmond Valley has a great affinity with opera, successfully hosting nine touring performances over the past two decades, including:2003 - Carmen2004 - Pagliacci (The Clowns)2005 - Die Fledermaus (the Revenge of the Bat)2006 - Don Giovanni2009 - The Magic Flute2013 - Die Fledermaus (the Revenge of the Bat)2014 - Madama Butterfly2016 - The Mikado2017 - The Barber of SevilleThe 88-year-old iconic Casino Civic Hall has undergone an extensive upgrade over the past several years. This included replacement of the main hall floor and installation of under-stage flooring, the fixing of wall-mounted fans, restoration of the Art Deco lighting and other electrical upgrades. This was made possible thanks to a $152,000 grant from the Stronger Country Communities Fund.(Inside the Casino Civic Hall. Photo: supplied)Council also received $208,000 from the NSW Government’s Regional Cultural Fund for internal painting, further stage flooring work, and the purchase of new chairs.Mayor Robert Mustow said tickets for this unique show were selling quickly and were an opportunity to see top-class performers in one of the area’s great performance spaces.Cr Mustow said there was banquet-style seating in the Casino Civic Hall, and he was looking forward to the performance.“With a show of this calibre, I expect there will be great interest not only from our area but from across the region,” he said.“Council has always encouraged events which feature the arts and culture and is proud to sponsor this show.”Patrons are encouraged to BYO refreshments and beverages.Tickets are $12 and are available at Tickets available for Opera Queensland show - Richmond Valley Council or through Council’s administration centres in Casino and Evans Head.For more information on the show, visit https://www.oq.com.au/whats-on/are-you-lonesome-tonight-national-tour/.

A program tailored for businesses and not-for-profits in the Northern Rivers to prepare for future disasters, continue to trade during tough times and develop strategies to recover following a disaster has been announced by the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA).The Business Beyond Disasters program provides participants with access to weekly learning modules and check-ins to develop business plans for disasters, build essential business continuity capabilities, and work together to overcome future challenges.The RA has engaged experts from Resilient Ready, an organisation specialising in business and community risk reduction and resilience, to develop and roll out the program, which is free for all Northern Rivers businesses.The programs will run for 10 weeks, starting from March 17 to May 2025 and businesses can also access the online learning modules until December 2025.Information sessions are scheduled in February 2025 in each Northern Rivers Local Government Area for local businesses to learn about the program, sign up and connect with key support agencies such as NSW SES and the Australian Red Cross.Participants can choose one of five specific business programs that best align to their specific area of business, including:Retail, professional services and educationAgribusiness and aqua businessTourismHealth and social servicesConstruction, trade and manufacturing.   Participants will be able to access eLearning modules that cover topics such as operating through disasters, financial viability, understanding insurance, evacuation triggers, and how disasters can bring opportunities.Course participants will have the chance to exchange experiences and discover the resilience initiatives implemented by other businesspeople in the region.Business Beyond Disasters is part of a broader project funded under Round One of the Disaster Ready Fund called the Northern Rivers Disaster Readiness Program (previously known as the Northern Rivers Disaster Adaptation Project - Northern Rivers Reconstruction Corporation). The project is jointly funded by the Australian Government and NSW Government.  Northern Rivers businesses are encouraged to attend a local information session in February 2025 to find out more – book your spot here: https://collections.humanitix.com/business-beyond-disasters-information-sessions.The Business Beyond Disaster schedule this week is:Wednesday, 26 February (8:30am - 10am) - GraftonWednesday, 26 February (3:30pm - 5pm) - CasinoThursday, 27 February (1pm - 1:30pm) - On LineFederal Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister said, “Supporting small businesses and not-for-profit organisations is crucial for the resilience of our regional communities, especially during and after disasters.“These online courses and information sessions will equip participants with actionable strategies to face future challenges head-on and emerge even stronger after disasters.“The Australian Government remains committed to the recovery and resilience of all regions affected by disasters.”NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said, “One of the Reconstruction Authority’s clear mandates is to reduce exposure to risk and better prepare businesses for the next disaster.“The Minns Government’s State Disaster Mitigation Plan sets out clear action items to foster risk reduction and improve resilience from future disasters, including the “Get Ready” campaign. This program will assist businesses and communities to be better prepared for the types of hazards that affect their local area.NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said, “We have been working with the community to support recovery in the Northern Rivers, and this initiative is a great example of how we are working with businesses to improve their resilience.”“This program has been designed to provide tools and information across a range of industries to help businesses prepare themselves for the next time disaster strikes.”Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery Janelle Saffin said, “This is a useful free offer to local businesses and not-for-profit organisations to build a better understanding of how to best prepare for and respond to natural disasters.“It’s another good way of supporting our business sector and something that has been raised with me in the community as the recovery from the 2022 floods continues.”Resilient Ready CEO Renae Hanvin said, “Back in 2021, we co-designed and piloted our business community resilience micro-learning program with a number of NSW businesses recovering from the bushfires. Pilot participants from the Northern Rivers region told us the learnings helped them recover better and prepare for the impacts from COVID and floods.

Fire ants and cattle ticks will be top of the agenda for the NSW Farmers Biosecurity Forum to be hosted in Murwillumbah on March 4 this year.With North Coast farmers on the frontline of some of the nation’s worst biosecurity threats, NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said the forum was a chance to hear the latest on farm biosecurity and NSW Farmers’ advocacy efforts to protect agriculture from exotic pests.“Farmers in the north are battling cattle ticks one day and deadly fire ants the next, so they’re truly at ground zero of NSW’s biosecurity threats,” Mr Martin said. “We want to bring the latest information on these pests right to the grassroots, so farmers know what they’re dealing with, as well as what’s being done about it.Two separate panel sessions on fire ants and cattle ticks will be hosted as part of the forum, with farmers encouraged to register now to attend the event. “For anyone who would like to hear about the current pest control plans that are in place, as well as the latest on-farm management options, this forum is designed to provide the information you need in the face of these escalating biosecurity threats,” NSW Farmers Far North Coast Branch Chair Craig Huf said.“Bring your questions and come ready to hear the latest on biosecurity – this forum will be well worth the trip into town for any farmers interested in coming along.”Farmers can register for an event by visiting: https://form.jotform.com/holleyt/biosecurity-forum-rsvp-form.

As part of its charity auction initiative aimed at supporting local communities, the North Coast Petroleum Casino Truck Show will be donating $24,000 to various organisations across the region to help support those in need by providing essential supplies and resources.The 2024 charity partners were Movember, Steering the Future, Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, Casino Show Society, Rappville Community Hall Committee and the Platypus RSL Day Club. As the principal charity, Movember received $10,000 to help it lead the charge on men’s health issues. Steering the Future and Westpac Rescue Helicopter collected $5000 each, with Casino Show Society receiving $2000 and both the Rappville Hall Committee and the Platypus Day Club granted $1000 each.(Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service’s John Bancroft (second from left) was delighted to again receive $5000 from the Casino Truck Show. This vital service was the 2023 Truck Show charity partner. RVC’s Events Officer Tiarn Stenner, Mayor Robert Mustow and Manager Community Connection Sharon Davidson were on hand to present the cheque. Photo: supplied.)For the first time, last year’s Casino Truck Show held a live auction in the CBD, with bidders vying for a 2.4 metre x 2.4 metre steel bar resembling the rear end of a trailer, courtesy Moore Trailers of Pittsworth, a 95-litre upright Engel Australia fridge, and a 24-volt, kids’ four wheeler, donated by Big Wheels Truck Alignment.Congratulations to the successful bidder, Jon Kelly, of Heavy Haulage Assets. Interestingly, Jon was the inaugural Rig of the Show winner, and has now claimed the title of winning bidder of the first-ever charity auction.The Casino Truck Show would like to thank Moore Trailers’ Scott Gollan, Engel Australia’s Jason Dwyer and Big Wheels Truck Alignment’s Paul Whiting for their support of the auction.The Casino Truck Show will continue its philanthropic efforts with more donations and partnerships in the future.The 2024 Casino Truck Show saw a significant increase in attendance, with more than 30,000 attendees, surpassing previous records and establishing the event as a must-visit for truck enthusiasts and families alike. It generated an estimated $3.9 million, giving a much-needed boost to local businesses.The Casino Truck Show has strengthened its place as a cornerstone event in the local community calendar, with planning underway to making this year’s event even bigger and better.

Shadow Minister for Trade and Tourism Kevin Hogan and Nationals Candidate for Richmond Kimberly Hone have today called for the reopening of the Mount Warning summit track in Wollumbin National Park.Mr Hogan emphasised the huge impact the closure is having on local businesses and the wider tourism industry, stripping millions of dollars from the local economy.“This mountain has long been a major drawcard for visitors, supporting our small businesses, accommodation providers, and tourism operators. They have all felt the full force of the track closure,” Mr Hogan said.“It used to attract over 100,000 climbers per year, and has become a no-man’s land since being shut off from the public. Reopening the climb would not only restart the tourism trade but also allow access for Aboriginal Elders.”Ms Hone has been speaking to local businesses and local Elders, who all say the current closure is not working. “The decision to extend the closure until at least the end of 2025 is a further blow to local businesses. The community deserves a say in shaping a balanced approach that ensures its future as a place of both cultural significance and sustainable tourism.”“There are significant economic benefits for the whole region and the opportunity to develop a respectful and sustainable tourism model.”

The NSW Government is introducing ambitious academic, HSC attainment and school attendance targets to public schools to lift outcomes for students from Kindergarten to Year 12.New system-wide measures will provide clear guidance for school leaders, and are designed to lift outcomes for all students, including at comprehensive primary and high schools, selective schools, regional and rural schools, and Schools for Specific Purposes. Schools will be required to strive for ambitious new goals, including:Increasing the average NAPLAN reading and numeracy scores in 2027 by:10.2 points for Year 5 Reading5.8 points for Year 9 Reading11.5 points for Year 5 Numeracy5.7 points for Year 9 NumeracyIncreasing the proportion of NSW students attaining Year 12 from 70.5 per cent in 2022 to 74 per cent in 2027.Growing the number of students taking up university, training or work for school leavers from 88.1 per cent to 92 per cent in 2027Increasing the average student attendance rate from 87.8 per cent in 2023 to 88.8 per cent in 2027These new system-wide targets reflect specific improvement targets required of schools in the areas of reading, numeracy and completions. With NAPLAN tests scheduled two academic years apart, data is now available to measure year-group improvement after the Commonwealth introduced new NAPLAN baselines in 2023.The NSW Government says it is committed to setting high expectations for academic results and educational outcomes like attendance and school completion for every child and every public school. This ongoing work includes:Bringing teacher vacancies to a four-year-low, or a 40 per cent reduction since when we came to Government in 2023, ensuring all students have a teacher in front of themMaking Small Group Tuition permanent in all NSW public schools to support all students with critical foundational literacy and numeracy skillsTrialling a Number Screening Check for Year 1 school children Valuing the workforce by delivering the largest pay rise in a generation to NSW’s 95,000 teachersGiving teachers job security by making 16,000 teachers and school support staff on temporary contacts permanentImplementing the new knowledge-rich NSW Curriculum, underpinned by evidenced-based explicit teachingAlongside new academic targets, the Department has introduced a suite of system-focused measures to support teachers, schools and school-support staff wellbeing and retention, as well as prioritising key school infrastructure projects.These measures include reducing teacher administrative time, cutting teacher vacancy rates, and attracting and retaining teachers, as part of our recognition that a strong teaching workforce is critical to improving student learning. The complete set of 16 measures is available on the Department’s website.Progress made to date during 2024 can be found here. Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said, “We were elected with a commitment to rebuild public education in NSW by fixing a broken system and lifting outcomes. That is exactly what we are doing.“We cannot undo 12 years of neglect overnight, but we are working hard to ensure that no matter your postcode, parents know their children are receiving a world-class education.“This is about setting high expectations of our public education system and every one of our students."No longer will targets be focused simply on the top-achieving students – these ambitious measures will help lift outcomes for all students across the state.”Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar said, "We have high expectations for achievement for our public education system, with ambitious reading and numeracy improvement measures being put in place by every school during term 1 this year."All public schools aim to ensure all students show growth in their literacy and numeracy skills. We recognise that this is the cornerstone for a successful schooling experience for every student.”"Our new measures will account for the achievements of all students, not just those in the highest bands.“The pathways improvement measure will capture the transitions of all students into meaningful post-school pathways, whether that is tertiary education, technical and further education or paid employment."

The NSW Government is continuing its work to address the harms posed to young people by excessive screen time, with research grants awarded to academics investigating how this unprecedented exposure to technology and social media affects children’s development and learning.Committed to prior to the election, nine recipients have secured grants through the $2.5 million Screen Use and Addiction Research Fund. Their work will produce a new body of knowledge which will be used to inform stronger Government policies to better protect children from adverse impacts.The Fund has enabled new research, including for mental health data and NAPLAN results to be analysed alongside screen use data from the Black Dog Institute’s study of 5,500 NSW adolescents. The Fund will also contribute to an ongoing longitudinal study looking at the effects of recreational screen use on high school students.This research will help develop a New South Wales first database of knowledge on how screen use can affect young people and students.This is part of the State Government’s ongoing work to address harms posed to young people by screen use and social media, with work already undertaken including:Banning mobile phones in all NSW public schoolsCo-hosting a world-leading social media summit to discuss the harms of social media on young people.Introducing an updated syllabus that includes explicit lessons for students about online safety and responsibility.Recruiting 250 additional school counsellors in New South Wales public schoolsSuccessful recipients received grants of up to $500,000 for new or novel research projects and up to $200,000 for research projects already underway. Grants were also awarded to three PhD candidates, with all recipients are required to deliver findings by 2026.Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said, “Many parents are concerned about how smartphones and devices are affecting their children’smental health and development.“We still don’t know enough about how this new technology impacts our children. That is why we committed to establishing this fund – to build up a body of reliable facts and research for families.“This research can be used to inform evidence-based policies that benefit students for years to come.”

Rural, regional and remote Australians are dying at higher rates than their urban counterparts, with avoidable deaths in the regions nearly four times higher, according to new data released today by the National Rural Health Alliance (NRHA).The Rural Health in Australia Snapshot 2025 paints a grim picture of health inequities between rural and metropolitan areas. The life expectancy gap is stark, with men in Very Remote areas dying up to 13.6 years earlier and women up to 12.7 years earlier than those in Metropolitan areas.Indeed, nearly 18,500 people in Australia still have no access to essential primary healthcare services within an hour’s drive of their home, although this is a significant improvement from the last data collection. This is as many people as Double Bay and Bondi Junction in NSW, or St Kilda in Victoria, or Cottesloe, Dalkeith and Claremont in WA, having to drive one hour to access healthcare.The Snapshot compiles essential data on health risks, outcomes, disease burden, healthcare workforce, domestic violence, maternity health, and funding disparities - revealing how far rural areas lag behind their metropolitan counterparts.“This data highlights the shameful failure to adequately provide funding and services to rural Australians, who contribute so much to our economy. Why are they treated like second-class citizens, with a staggering $848 less spent per person per year on healthcare?” said NRHA Chief Executive Susi Tegen.Living in rural areas offers numerous benefits. People often enjoy a stronger sense of community and a healthier environment, surrounded by natural beauty. They have access to fresh, local produce and tend to report higher satisfaction with relationships, with a lower likelihood of experiencing loneliness. As interest in rural living grows due to these advantages, it is essential to ensure that people are supported by adequate infrastructure, including accessible healthcare, to maintain a fulfilling and holistic lifestyle. “The Snapshot reinforces the urgent need for immediate action, especially with the Federal election on the horizon. It is a wake-up call to say enough is enough. For decades, we have known about the healthcare challenges, the additional costs, and the tyranny of distance, but there has been too little action.“Rural Australia has its own identity and requires tailored, place-based solutions to meet its unique geographic and societal needs. We call for a National Rural Health Strategy under the National Health Reform Agreement. This will coordinate Commonwealth, State, and Territory policy, investment and service delivery to ensure tailored, sustainable solutions. We also call for ‘block’ and infrastructure funding, that is equitable.“The solutions exist on the ground,” Ms. Tegen concluded. “It is time to step up, allow for flexibility, prioritise equity and address these glaring disparities. The NRHA is willing to work with any government to rectify this as the health of rural Australia cannot wait any longer.”

The NSW Government has renewed its commitment to protect workers from dust diseases by unveiling its new $2.5 million state-of-the-art Lung Health Mobile Clinic, which will provide lung health checks to thousands of people across New South Wales.The lung bus program provides free lung screening checks to more than 5,000 workers annually in regional NSW, including Coffs Harbour and Tweed in April.These lung health checks can be lifesaving by ensuring early detection and treatment of dust diseases like asbestosis, silicosis and mesothelioma.Commencing this month, the icare Lung Bus will travel the length and breadth of the state, including visits to Newcastle, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Taree, Tuncurry, Spears Point, Tweed Heads, Gosford, Nowra, Shellharbour, Port Kembla, Bathurst, Dubbo, Broken Hill, Wagga Wagga, Griffith and Tamworth.The new mobile clinic features several innovations, including:Digital chest X-ray technology, providing precise and reliable first instance imaging.Enhanced spirometry (lung function) testing equipment to evaluate breathing capacity and respiratory performance.Digital monitoring systems to streamline diagnostics and care.A backup power supply to ensure uninterrupted operation in remote locations.Greater accessibility and comfort, with larger clinical space designed to support both staff and clients.The brand-new Lung Bus continues the legacy of the state’s original mobile service, which served the community for nearly 16 years.That Bus travelled more than 700,000km (more than 17 times around the world), screening more than 53,000 people and visiting over 300 destinations across NSW.This is the latest measure to protect workers from dust diseases, including those caused by silica and asbestos.The NSW Government is funding a team of dedicated silica safety inspectors to ensure businesses are complying with its strengthened laws.Since September, our Silica Compliance Team has conducted 140 inspections, with more than 125 improvement notices issued and seven prohibition notices in workplaces.The NSW Government has pledged $5 million in critical funding for silicosis research and a patient support program for individuals and their families navigating the health risks associated with exposure to silica dust. The grant funding, administered collaboratively by icare and the Dust Diseases Board, will be provided over three years to the Asbestos and Dust Diseases Research Institute (ADDRI). Workers can also arrange a free lung screening at icare’s Sydney CBD clinic, or with local providers regionally when the lung bus is not in that part of the state. To book a free lung health check, contact icare on 1800 550 027.More information on the full list of Lung Bus destinations can be found here: https://www.icare.nsw.gov.au/injured-or-ill-people/work-related-dust-disease/services-and-support/lung-screening-service/workers-mobile-clinic-lung-bus-bookings-for-workersFor more information on lung health checks or to arrange a screening, visit: https://www.icare.nsw.gov.au/employers/employer-obligations/lung-screening-serviceMinister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said, “The new Mobile Clinic underscores the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to removing barriers like cost and location, ensuring workers across NSW have access to the critical support and care they need to safeguard their health.“Along with enforcement of the recent ban on engineered stone, the new Lung Bus demonstrates our commitment to improve outcomes for workers exposed to hazardous dust across NSW.”Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said, “I welcome the $2.5 million investment into the new icare Lung Bus which will provide thousands of health checks for people living in regional NSW.“Our regional communities remain front and centre when it comes to ensuring early detection and treatment of dust diseases like asbestosis, silicosis, and mesothelioma.”Icare Group Executive of General Insurance and Care, Britt Coombe said, “A lung health check could save your life.“Early detection is critical to effective treatment, and we’re here to make sure every worker, no matter where they live, has access to world-class care.”

Communities across the Kyogle Local Government Area (LGA) are being asked to share what’s important to them and their hopes for the future, as part of Kyogle Council’s review of its Community Strategic Plan.The Community Strategic Plan, or CSP, is Kyogle Council’s highest level strategic plan. It sets out the community’s priorities and helps guide Council’s Delivery Program, Operational Plan and Long-Term Financial Plan.The current CSP was developed in 2022 based on community feedback gathered at the time, and with the new Council elected in September 2024, it’s time for a review.Kyogle Council Mayor, Cr Danielle Mullholland, said she was excited by the opportunity for meaningful consultation with the community.“One of the things I and my fellow councillors are extremely passionate about is opening up the lines of communication between Council and the community,” Cr Mulholland said.“Our local residents, businesses, young people, volunteers and community organisations are at the heart of what makes the Kyogle LGA so special.“Listening to their diverse voices is vital to getting the CSP right, but more than that, this consultation is about continuing to build the relationships and networks we need to collectively deliver the outcomes of the plan,” she said.In order to hear from as many people as possible, Council is offering a range of ways for the community to have a say.A community survey, which opened today, will be available online until Sunday, 16 March 2025. Paper copies are also available at Council’s administration centre.There will also be consultation with local schools and young people and a number of face-to-face community consultation sessions across the LGA in Kyogle and the villages, including Woodenbong, Bonalbo and Tabulam. A drop in information and feedback hub will be held at the Kyogle Memorial Institute Hall on Thursday, 6 March 2025.To find out more about how to have your say in shaping the future of local towns, villages and places, visit Kyogle Council’s project webpage: https://www.kyogle.nsw.gov.au/council-engagement/strategic-direction-guiding-documents/community-strategic-plan/ or contact Council by email (council@kyogle.nsw.gove.au), phone 6632 1611 or in person at the Council administration centre at 1 Stratheden Street, Kyogle.

Farmers have welcomed new interest rate cuts as the cost of feeding and clothing the world continues to soar. NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said city borrowers weren’t the only ones celebrating the first signs of relief from the cost-of-living crunch following the Reserve Bank’s decision on Tuesday.“The sky-high costs of key farm inputs like fuel and fertiliser are still increasing, and many farmers carry significant debts so they continue to grow the food and fibre for the planet,” Mr Martin said. “It’s our hope this decision will offer some small relief to the huge pressures many farm businesses are facing, so they can continue to get on with the critical job of ensuring food security for not just Australia, but the world.“We all need a farmer three times a day, every day, and we simply cannot let inflationary settings push any more farmers out of the game.”Further interest rate cuts would be necessary to relieve the pressure on the agricultural sector, Mr Martin said, with all banks urged to pass the benefits of any rate cuts on to farm businesses as soon as possible.“Aussie farmers must see relief from these rate cuts across their debts, so they can keep on farming for decades to come,” Mr Martin said. “Young farmers also need to be given a chance to get their foot in the door, so they can build the farms of the future.”

A man has been charged following the death of a man in a two-vehicle crash in Ballina last year.About 5.45pm on Wednesday, 18 September 2024, emergency services were called to Tamarind Drive, Ballina, following reports of a crash.Officers attached to Richmond Police District attended the scene and found two vehicles – a Honda Accord and a Hyundai i30 – had collided.Police removed the 62-year-old driver of the Hyundai from the vehicle before he was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics; but he was unable to be revived.The 18-year-old driver of the Honda was also treated at the scene before being transported to Lismore Base Hospital for treatment.A crime scene was established as specialist officers attached to the Crash Investigation Unit commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.Following inquiries, the now 19-year-old driver was charged with dangerous driving occasioning death – drive manner dangerous, negligent driving – occasioning death, negligent driving and drive on /over continuous line near painted island.He was given a Court Attendance Notice today (Tuesday, 18 February 2025), to appear before Ballina Local Court on Thursday, 1 May 2025. The man’s licence has been suspended.

Excitement is building for Casino Beef Week 2025 following the highly anticipated 100-Day Launch event, where the official theme was revealed, sponsors were celebrated, and the entrants for the Beef Week Queen and Ambassador programs were introduced.Held at The Barn Steakhouse in Casino, the event marked the official countdown to Casino’s iconic festival, which takes place from May 24th to June 1st, 2025. In its 43rd year, The Casino Food Co-Op Casino Beef Week Festival remains an iconic celebration of the agricultural industry within the Northern NSW area. The night was full of anticipation and community support towards what promises to be another vibrant and memorable celebration of the region’s rich beef industry. Unwavering Support from our Festival SponsorsThe Launch Event provided a platform to acknowledge the valued sponsors—both new and returning—whose support ensures the success of Casino Beef Week year after year. The generous support from returning sponsors The Casino Food Co-Op, Richmond Valley Council, Casino RSM Club, The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Jack Link’s, NBN News, Westlawn, Achieve Australia, Bindaree Food Group and Tursa ensures that each year, Casino Beef Week is an event that is not to be missed. The night also allowed Casino Beef Week to happily announce their three-year partnership with Australian Food Super as a gold-level sponsor with naming rights of the Super Saturday Street Festival. Overall, each sponsor was celebrated for their invaluable contribution to Casino Beef Week and their part in one of Australia's most anticipated rural festivals.Casino Beef Week President Brody Lisha expressed excitement about the upcoming event, stating, “This year, we are proud to unveil the theme: Secrets Of The Museum. "This theme encourages curiosity, storytelling, and exploration. It will offer a unique combination of history, mystery, and discovery while drawing inspiration from ancient civilisations, iconic artifacts, and famous characters. It is a theme full of hidden treasures and forgotten history.”Introducing the 2025 Tursa Casino Beef Week Queen and Ambassador Entrants2025 will see nine young women participate and compete in the annual Casino Beef Week Queen Competition, supported by five Ambassador entrants. Proudly sponsored by Tursa, this program will run for the next 100 days leading up to the Official Opening Ball on Saturday, 24th May, where the Beef Week Queen will be crowned.The 2025 Beef Week Queen entrants:Mackenzie MurphyCaitlin WareLillian GreenKaitlin WalkerMishayla HayesIsabella MurphyCharlie MurrayGeorgia OwenIsabella GreenThe 2025 Beef Week Ambassadors:Sam McLennanStella-Grace DeanLacey ChaddertonElla BoagJasmine SherlockThese young women will represent the heart and soul of Casino, showcasing their knowledge, passion, and pride for the beef industry and local community.With under 100 days to go, preparations are in full swing to make The Casino Food Co-Op Casino Beef Week 2025 Festival the best yet. The community is encouraged to get involved by participating in events, supporting local businesses, or simply joining in the festivities.For more information on Casino Beef Week 2025, visit www.casinobeefweek.com.au or follow @CasinoBeefWeek on social media.

Farmers have warned the march of a destructive cactus through NSW could be only the beginning of the state’s weed woes unless ongoing funding for weed control is secured.NSW Farmers’ Croppa Creek and North Star Branch Chair Richard Doyle said farmers in the north of the state have reported a drastic surge in harrisia cactus infestations as the destructive cactus continues to spread south from the Queensland border.“This cactus has exploded due to recent good seasons,” Mr Doyle said.“Its huge spikes can also injure animals and while farmers are doing everything they can to fight its spread, they cannot win this battle alone.“Birds are spreading the cacti seeds in their thousands, while feral pigs and other animals are also scattering the seeds far and wide – it’s the perfect storm, and we are struggling to keep up with its spread.”Harrisia cacti are low-growing, spiny cacti with white flowers and red fruit. Herbicides and biocontrol from mealy bugs can help control the cacti, but Mr Doyle said containment would not be possible without serious and continued funding from the state and federal governments.“We need a cross-tenure, cross-landscape approach to managing weeds that’s more intensive and coordinated than anything we currently have in place,” Mr Doyle said. “This cactus is just one of thousands of invasive weeds that are costing farmers huge amounts of time and money to attempt to control, and we need real action – as well as real investment in research and control measures – if we want to get real results.“Farmers are only the front line of these aggressive threats, and the problem’s only going to get worse unless we say enough is enough on weeds.”

Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions on the Pacific Motorway at the Tugun Bypass Tunnel from Monday to carry out essential maintenance work.To minimise the impact to motorists, work will be carried out at night. The tunnel will be closed to all traffic from 8pm to 5am AEDT each night from Monday, 17 November to Thursday, 20 February 2025, reopening at 5am Friday, 21 February 2025, weather permitting.On the nights of Monday 17 and Thursday 20 February, 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 the nights of Tuesday 18 and Wednesday 19 February, northbound traffic will detour via Kennedy Drive (Tweed Heads exit), Sugarwood Drive/Gold Coast Highway and Tugun Currumbin Road, re-joining the Pacific Motorway at Currumbin. Southbound traffic will be diverted via Tugun Currumbin Road (exit 95), Gold Coast Highway and Cordyline Drive, re-joining the Pacific Motorway at Tweed Heads West (Kennedy Drive on-ramp).The traffic diversions are suitable for all vehicle types. Motorists are advised to allow up to five minutes’ additional travel time, drive to the conditions and follow the direction of signs and traffic control.Routine maintenance of the 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 this essential maintenance work is carried out.Download the Live Traffic NSW app for up-to-date information. To receive notifications, go to Live Traffic NSW | Incident Details in your app and click Follow.

The body of a man has been recovered from the surf at a beach at Iluka, an hour south of Lismore.Shortly before 6pm yesterday (Friday, 14 February 2025), emergency services were contacted when a 68-year-old man failed to return to shore after entering the surf at Bluff Beach, Iluka, about 70km north of Grafton.Officers from Coffs/Clarence Police District – with the assistance of the Marine Area Command, PolAir, Police Rescue and Surf Lifesaving – commenced a large-scale search for the man.About 7.30am today (Saturday, 15 February 2025), officers located the man’s body.A report will be prepared for the information of the coroner.