Communities across the Northern Rivers are being urged to jump online to nominate their local volunteers for the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, one of the largest celebrations of volunteering across the country.The awards are an annual program run by The Centre for Volunteering to recognise the outstanding work of volunteers in every region across NSW.Northern Rivers volunteers can be nominated for an award across seven separate categories, with recipients recognised at one of 25 regional ceremonies throughout the year.The Northern Rivers award finalists are then invited to represent their region at the State Gala ceremony, where the NSW Volunteer of the Year is announced by the Hon. Jodie Harrison, the NSW Minister with Responsibility for Volunteering.The latest report on volunteering in NSW shows that around 4.3 million people volunteer across the state each year, contributing $178 billion in social and economic benefits. It also reveals that volunteer awards and recognition are one of the most important ways to help retain volunteers and recruit new volunteers.The Centre for Volunteering CEO, Gemma Rygate, urged people from across the Northern Rivers to nominate their neighbours, colleagues or family members for an award in 2025.“Every day, volunteers are out there in their communities helping to run vital services and events,” Ms Rygate said.“Local communities across the Northern Rivers would not be the same without volunteers.“Nominating your local volunteer for these awards sends a clear message that their work is valued and does not go unnoticed.”More than 139,000 volunteers from more than 500 community-based organisations were recognised as part of the 2024 awards, making the Awards one of the largest volunteer recognition programs across the country.This year, a new Emergency Volunteer of the Year Award has been introduced, for volunteers or community groups who support their communities to prepare for, respond to, or recover from emergencies or disasters.The 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are supported by our Principal Partner the NSW Department of Communities and Justice, regional awards sponsor Beyond Bank, and supporters Mint Awards and SIXT.Minister with Responsibility for Volunteering, the Hon. Jodie Harrison MP, said volunteers are the lifeblood of our communities. “They are incredibly passionate about what they do and selflessly devote their time, skills and knowledge to help others.“I encourage people to nominate a volunteer in your community for the awards – the unsung heroes whose contributions make our state a great place to live in.“Our volunteers deserve recognition and these Awards are a fantastic way to show that they are appreciated.”Nominations are open until Friday 23 May 2025 here.

Rous is pleased to announce that new initiatives aimed at reducing incidental water loss and improving the efficiency of its water distribution network are complete.Led by Rous, the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water partly funded the $456,100 project through their Regional Leakage Reduction Program.The project started in June 2023 and comprises of four initiatives - the first three are complete and in effect on the network:New water meters have been installed to detect leaks and pipe breaks faster.Eighty sensors have been installed to alert Rous staff of water pressure reductions and spikes, signifying leaks or pipe breaks.An assessment using CCTV and acoustic equipment was conducted on critical areas ofthe water mains to check the condition of the infrastructure and for areas that may potentially leak.A control valve (anticipated to be complete in April 2025) will be installed on a large pipeline to better manage the flow and pressure of water across the network and reduce the severity of water loss if a major pipe bursts.This project contributes to Rous’ Water Loss Management Program. Through this program, Rous conducts regular maintenance and implements new initiatives to reduce water loss from its432 km long pipeline network with the overall goal of conserving water, according to Adam Nesbitt, Group Manager Operations, at Rous.“Since 2022, we have reduced water loss on our network by 13.5% or 37 million litres per year (before it reaches customers),” said Adam Nesbitt.“On occasion, we experience water leaks and pipe damage on our network that is out of our control, which is mostly due to environmental impacts and accidents.“We have a dedicated team who work around the clock to attend incidents; however, we are always looking into new ways to be alerted sooner.“We are also making improvements to better control the flow of huge volumes of water on our network, so – if we have an incident on a major pipe – we can reduce the amount lost.”The Water Loss Management Program is part of Rous’ Future Water Project 2060.“On behalf of Rous, I’d like to sincerely thank the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water for their contribution which is helping us to strengthen our water network now and into the future,” said Phillip Rudd, General Manager, Rous.“At Rous, we believe it is important to adopt new innovations and smart technologies to providethe highest quality water, weed biosecurity and rural flood mitigation services for our Northern Rivers community.“These four new initiatives – which are part of our Water Loss Management Program - are an example of how Rous is continually working towards conserving our precious drinking water and ensuring a sustainable future for our region.”Rous sources, stores, treats and supplies water to the Ballina, Byron, Lismore and Richmond Valley councils. These councils then on-sell this water to their communities. Rous is proud to provide high-quality drinking water to approximately 110,000 people in the region.

Police have arrested a man over an alleged armed robbery in Yamba.On Thursday (27 February 2025), officers attached to Coffs/Clarence Police District commenced an investigation into an alleged armed robbery in Yamba area.Police were told about 1.20am on Wednesday (26 February 2025), two men – both aged 22 – were approached by an unknown man before the man threated them with an axe, stole a mobile phone from them and left the scene on his bike.About 2pm on Friday (28 February 2025), police were patrolling on Angourie Road, Yamba, when they located a male cyclist, who police believed could assist them with their inquiries.When police approached to speak to the man, he left the scene.Following inquiries, police arrested the 33-year-old man in bushland near a school on Angourie Road, Yamba.He was taken to Yamba Police Station for further inquiries.There were no threats or concern for the welfare of students or members of public.Inquiries continue.

With clear skies and favourable weather conditions forecast, the RFS, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Forestry Corporation and Fire and Rescue NSW will be undertaking critical hazard reduction burns across the state this weekend.Planned burns will take place in key areas, including the Kyogle, Tweed, Bega Valley, Eurobodalla, Hunter Valley and Greater Sydney regions.Specific locations in the Hawkesbury, Northern Beaches, Hornsby, Sutherland and Southern Highlands areas will also see prescribed burns aimed at reducing fuel loads and enhancing bush fire protection for thousands of homes.Commissioner of the RFS, Rob Rogers, emphasised the importance of taking every opportunity to conduct these burns, particularly after previous years of wet weather and fire activity that have delayed crucial hazard reduction efforts.“As we approach the end of this fire season, we must take advantage of these conditions to address the backlog of hazard reduction burns and ensure our communities are as prepared as possible for the next fire season,” Commissioner Rogers said.This may see smoke visible and settle in some areas. Residents in affected areas are advised to minimise outdoor activities, secure doors and windows, shelter pets, and exercise caution when driving.Individuals with respiratory or heart conditions, particularly asthmatics, should follow their treatment plans and keep medications readily available. More information on managing bushfire smoke exposure is available at www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/bushfire/Pages/default.aspx.Commissioner Rogers also reminded the public to remain vigilant.“If you see or smell smoke, be assured that these burns are planned and closely monitored. Only call Triple Zero (000) if you see an unattended fire or one without fire trucks present,” he said.The RFS encourages residents to stay informed and prepared as hazard reduction efforts continue over coming months.A comprehensive list and interactive map of scheduled hazard reduction burns can be found at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/hr.

A Casino man is diving straight into browsing boat catalogues after landing $100,000 in today’s Lucky Lotteries draw, eager to anchor his long-time dream of owning a boat. The Northern Rivers resident held the 1st Prize winning entry in Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot draw 10936, drawn Friday 28 February 2025. He looks forward to a glorious $100,000 boost. When an official from The Lott contacted the winning man, he shared that receiving the winning phone call was the best thing that had ever happened to him. “Really?! That’s so sick!” the winning man exclaimed when an official revealed his prize. “I’ve been playing for a while, so it’s nice to win something substantial. “I haven’t had much luck winning anything in life. This is by far the best thing that’s happened to me! “I’m absolutely buying a boat. It’s been a dream of mine since forever. “Maybe I’ll be able to do some kitchen renovations with the left-over money. “Not a bad start to my weekend! Thank you!” 

An investigation is underway after a woman was airlifted to a hospital following two crashes at West Ballina this morning.About 9.45am today (Friday, 28 February 2025), emergency services were called to Bruxner Highway, Pacific Highway, West Ballina, following reports of a multi-vehicle crash.Officers attached to Richmond Police District and Traffic and Highway Patrol Command were told a van collided with a number of trucks, when the female driver of the van left the scene on foot prior to police arrival.A short time later, police were called to M1, Pacific Highway, near Bruxner Highway exit, following reports a woman had been hit by a truck.The 49-year-old woman was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being airlifted to Gold Coast University Hospital in a critical condition.The drivers of the trucks were all subjected to a roadside breath test, which returned negative results.Police have established a crime scene at both locations, and officers attached to Richmond Police District, with assistance from Crash Investigation Unit have commenced an investigation into the incident.Anyone with information about this incident or a dashcam footage is urged to contact Richmond Police District or 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 is tackling homelessness in the Northern Rivers, transforming a vacant retirement village into 70 supported temporary accommodation units.In partnership with Homes NSW, community housing provider Social Futures plans to deliver 70 temporary beds at Tweed Heads, with wraparound support to help vulnerable locals get back on their feet.The form­er residential village for over 55s was sitting vacant and unused since it was put on the market in 2023. Soon, it will provide a safe place to stay for community members including seniors and people with a disability, with the first stage of the project to deliver 20 new homes in coming weeks.The NSW Government is taking decisive action to transform underutilised properties into secure, supported accommodation, run by experienced community housing providers—reducing reliance on costly hotels and motels.Temporary accommodation is more than just immediate shelter, it’s a lifeline that helps prevent homelessness, connecting people with essential support services for long-term stability and better outcomes.This project was made possible by a $525,800 grant from the first round of the $100 million Homelessness Innovation Fund.The grants support new and improved approaches to tackling homelessness and are available to accredited homelessness services, registered Community Housing Providers, Aboriginal Community Housing Providers and those working toward accreditation or registration.The first funding round backed 24 projects, distributing nearly $10 million, including $768,862 to Social Futures to convert a disused aged care facility into crisis accommodation in Lismore.Round two recipients will be announced soon, with applications open until 30 April 2025.To find out more, visit the links below:Reforming Temporary Accommodation Grant HIFService Reform and Innovation Grant HIFThe Homelessness Innovation Fund is a key part of the NSW Government’s $6.6 billion Building Homes for NSW program, which will deliver:8,400 new public housing homes21,000 affordable and market homesUpgrades to 30,000 social housing propertiesMinister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said, “Homelessness and housing are impacting people right across the state, but this is being felt particularly hard here in the Northern Rivers region. “We know we need smarter solutions to deliver housing, faster – and last year, we created the Homelessness Innovation Fund to do just that. “The Fund is about giving trusted community housing and homelessness organisations such as Social Futures a solid foundation to trial new approaches as we work together to tackle the housing crisis.“We want to move away from relying on expensive hotels and motels for temporary accommodation. These are not appropriate places for the elderly, people with disabilities or families – particularly women and children fleeing domestic violence.“This project will give vulnerable people in the region access to the care and resources they need – not just a roof over their heads.”Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery and State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said, “I have been deeply engaged with Tweed Shire Council, community housing providers like Social Futures and others to address the long-standing issue of homelessness in the Tweed, made worse by the 2022 floods which impacted parts of Murwillumbah and surrounds particularly hard.“This repurposing model, whereby a vacant facility can be easily converted into managed temporary accommodation, will work well here in Tweed Heads, where the need is great.“I congratulate Homes NSW and Social Futures on partnering in the Soorley Street project, which importantly, has wraparound support services for people who will live in the units.”Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot MP said, “Our community on the North Coast has one of the highest rates of homelessness across NSW and that’s why this project is vitally important for our region.“The Federal and State Labor Governments are working together to address the issues of housing affordability, rental stress, and homelessness.“The NSW Labor Government funding of $525,800 towards these 70 new supported temporary accommodation units in Tweed Heads will provide urgent relief for some of the most vulnerable members of our community.“Social Futures is a trusted community housing and homelessness organisation that works across the region providing important support and services.”Social Futures CEO Tony Davies said, “Transforming this vacant property into supported temporary accommodation for people experiencing homelessness provides immediate relief for some of the most vulnerable members of our community.“By working collaboratively with government, council, and community partners, we’re not only increasing the availability of temporary accommodation – we’re creating a pathway to lasting, positive change.”“With onsite access to wrap-around support services, security and 24/7 onsite management we can deliver safe, supportive temporary accommodation that empowers people to regain stability and independence as they work toward securing long-term housing.”

At the three-year anniversary of the 2022 flood events in the Northern Rivers, Tamara Smith MP, Member for Ballina, speaks to fostering community-driven disaster resilience as we adapt to global warming." On the three-year anniversary, we remember those that lost their lives in 2022, the thousands of families and people who lost their homes, and the hundreds of small businesses across the region that were impacted." "We also remember the thousands of volunteers from across the region, state, and country who assisted our communities in the worst flood disaster in Australia in living memory."  Ms Smith said, " Despite early missteps and bureaucratic bungles, what the NSW Reconstruction Authority has started to implement in terms of buying back homes, supporting house raises, and retrofitting homes is the vital adaptation work that we must continue rapidly if we are to survive and thrive on a heating planet." "Key to our success in fostering greater resilience to life on planet earth as it warms is a co-partnership between communities and government sharing in the planning and governance of disaster recovery, preparation, and adaptation. We now have a clear sense of the work that must continue, and of the vital role that people in each town and village must play in planning for future climate-fueled extreme weather events, including heat," said Ms Smith. Many people are still not whole after the floods, and many people have been displaced, and the work of recovery continues. But we must turn our attention to what is coming down the barrel for EVERY community in EVERY country in the world because we know that climate fuelled fires, floods, storms, and heat are now our collective legacy as a species."

Police have arrested an additional three people, including a man in Byron Bay, and seized over $5.5 million worth of MDMA as part of a multi-agency investigation into the manufacturing and mass supply of illicit drugs.In March 2024, officers attached to State Crime Command’s Raptor Squad and Lake Illawarra Police District – with the assistance of the NSW Crime Commission, Australian Border Force (ABF) and Queensland Police Service – commenced an investigation under Strike Force Culti into the manufacturing and supply of MDMA across eastern Australia.In June 2024, seven people were charged and remain before the courts.Further inquiries identified a 26-year-old drug manufacturer for the syndicate had relocated to Queensland, where police will allege he produced over 40 kilograms of MDMA bound for New South Wales and Western Australia.At about 8.45pm on Thursday, 20 February 2025, the 26-year-old man was arrested in Byron Bay.During a search of the man’s vehicle, police located $9,400 in cash and 28.2kg of MDMA, with an estimated street value of more than $4.5 million dollars.The 26-year-old was taken to Byron Bay Police Station, where he was charged with 17 offences relating to the manufacture and supply of large commercial quantities of drugs.He was refused bail and appeared in Murwillumbah Local Court on Friday (21 February 2025), where he was formally refused bail to next appear in Tweed Heads Local Court on Monday,14 April 2025.Queensland Police detectives, with assistance from NSW Police, then executed nine simultaneous search warrants where they located seven clandestine laboratories on the Gold Coast, and at addresses at North McLean and Laidley.Police seized an additional eight kilograms of MDMA and half a kilogram of cocaine, along with a large quantity of cash and gold and silver bullion.Detectives also seized mass amounts of chemicals and powders that would have been directly used for further production of dangerous drugs including MDMA, in what police will allege were industrial size laboratories.Queensland Police’s Drug and Serious Crime Group arrested and charged a 40-year-old man.He was remanded in custody and appeared before the Brisbane Magistrates Court yesterday (Tuesday, 25 February 2025).A 36-year-old woman was charged in relation to the labs and received a notice to appear at a later date.Commander of NSWPF State Crime Command’s Raptor Squad, Detective Acting Superintendent Virginia Gorman, said results of this scale are made possible by working with partner agencies.“This was a job that spanned the entire country – from NSW to QLD and WA. Working with our partner agencies, we were able to not only take down one of the alleged drug cooks, but two more of his associates, and seven of the syndicate’s labs.”“The dangers of MDMA cannot be overstated and its removal from our streets through operations like this one is vital to protecting our communities.”QPS Crime and Intelligence Command, Detective Acting Superintendent David Briese from the Drug and Serious Crime Group stated the joint operation will cause a significant dent in the drug operations within Queensland and across other states.“Dismantling clandestine laboratories and seizing commercial drug equipment, chemicals and powders - which are capable of producing significant amounts of MDMA - is a real win for the community and police.“Clandestine laboratories of any size pose a significant risk of serious harm to community members due to their volatility. We urge the community to report any suspicious activity to Crimestoppers or Policelink so that we can continue to keep Queensland safe and hold these offenders who are responsible for the unlawful supply of dangerous drugs to account”.Investigations under Strike Force Culti continue. Anyone with information that may assist investigators 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 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.”