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.

Flooding and bad weather last November and December caused significant damage to around 40 roads across the Byron Shire. Council and contractors will be out in force fixing them over the next several months after the NSW Government retrospectively declared the event a natural disaster (AGRN1172). Council is expected to receive almost $3.8 million for repairs. Samuel Frumpui, Council’s Manager of Works, said that Council staff and contractors are already busy repairing roads.“Council staff and contractors have already begun repairing roads that were damaged by flash flooding late last year. This will be the key focus for us until early March,” Mr Frumpui said.“Due to guidelines, we need to get work completed as soon as possible, this may mean our other maintenance work is delayed for a short period of time, but we will be working our way through everything as quickly as we can.“We have completed Burnetts Road, Beacoms Road (east) and Dry Creek Road, and are currently working on Huonbrook Road and Main Arm Road,” he said.Other roads to be repaired include: Beech LaneBlackbean RoadBlindmouth RoadBuckleys RoadCampbell StreetCedar RoadCharltons RoadChinamans Hills RoadClays RoadCoopers Lane (west and south)Coopers Creek Road Coral Avenue Dudgeons RoadDurrumbul RoadEnglishes RoadHarkness LaneHollingsworth LaneMarri AvenueMcphails RoadMill RoadMontecollum RoadMotts RoadMyocum RoadRichards LaneRiley LaneSettlement RoadSt Helena RoadStudal LaneSynotts RoadThe Saddle RoadWaltons RoadWanganui RoadWard LaneYankee Creek Road.“It is expected that repairs to additional roads will be approved shortly. It’s a massive amount of work, and I want to thank all staff and contractors involved in the repairs. I also want to thank residents for their patience while we fix the roads,” Mr Frumpui said.

The Tweed Heads community will soon enjoy an enhanced customer experience while completing NSW Government transactions when the new Tweed Heads Service NSW Centre opens. The Centre is relocating to a larger site, still within the Tweed Mall shopping centre, providing a larger space and an improved layout for customers.  Due to open mid-2025, the new centre will be located opposite the current site, ensuring a modern, purpose-built facility for people to complete the 1300 NSW Government services and transactions available at Service NSW.  The new centre will include a dedicated space for one-on-one appointments where customers can receive cost of living support in-person or over the phone with a Service NSW team member.  The team will also be able to connect business owners with the Service NSW Business Bureau for free, ongoing and personalised support for every stage of their business.  There were more than 77,000 customer visits to Tweed Heads Service Centre last year with people appreciating the efforts of the team, giving them a 97 per cent satisfaction rating.  Tweed Heads Service NSW Centre is open Monday to Friday 8:30am – 5pm and Saturdays 8:30am – 12:30pm. For more information, visit the Service NSW website.  Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Jihad Dib said, “Service NSW is a vital part of our lives whether transacting individually or as a business, so we want the people of Tweed Heads to have an enhanced experience when requiring NSW Government services. “This move ensures Service NSW can support the customer demand in Tweed Heads and provide people with a welcoming space to complete government transactions. “Whether applying for a Seniors Card, renewing a driver licence or looking for cost of living support, Service NSW is a one-stop-shop for NSW Government services and transactions.” Duty MLC for Tweed, Emily Suvaal said, “The Minns Labor Government is focused on delivering essential services like the Tweed Heads Service NSW Centre. “This new site will better serve the community, the location within Tweed Mall is bigger and better and only steps away from the current location. “The new centre makes life easier for locals now and will cater to their needs into the future.” 

Those who use Hinterland Way at St Helena will experience changed traffic conditions next week when Transport for NSW carry out slope stabilisation work just east of the intersection with St Helena Road. Work starting Monday, 17 March will be carried out weekdays from 6am to 6pm with some work possible between 6am and 6pm Saturdays.Work is expected to be complete by July, weather permitting.Single lane, alternating traffic flow arrangements and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h will be in place during work hours for the safety of workers and road users. A speed limit of 60km/h will be in place outside work hours.Motorists are advised to allow up to five minutes extra travel time, drive to traffic conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.For the latest traffic updates, download the Live Traffic NSW app, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.

Byron Shire Council has announced that the first Council meeting of 2025 will be held tomorrow (Thursday, 13 February).Byron council watchers take note…the starting times of Council’s Planning and Ordinary meetings have changed to 3pm.The change comes after a decision made by Council in November last year.Council decided to trial afternoon/evening meetings until July in recognition of the work commitments of some councillors.Previously, Council’s Planning meetings started at 11am with the Ordinary meetings starting at 9am.All meetings will now begin at 3pm, starting with public access and finish by 9pm.Esmeralda Davis, Director Corporate and Community Services, said members of the public are most welcome.“We are very fortunate that we have a community who is interested in and engaged in not only Council activities but our meetings as well and we look forward to seeing lots of people in our Mullumbimby Chambers at 3pm this Thursday,” Ms Davis said.The agenda for this week’s Planning meeting is on Council’s website.

Byron Shire Council has added four new Electric Vehicle chargers to its carparks in Mullumbimby and Byron Bay thanks to over $18k funding from the NSW Government EV Destination Charging Grants program. The carpark adjoining Council’s Mullumbimby offices and library, currently home to one EV charging station split over two car parking spaces, now has two new 22kW AC chargers. This brings the total number of charging stations available to the public in the Council carpark to four. The Mullumbimby EV charging stations are connected to a 99kW solar array. In Byron Bay, there is one EV charging station split over two parking spaces in the Byron Library carpark, and now two new 7kW charging units have been installed in the Lawson Street North carpark, behind the Byron Bay Pool. “We see the shift to electric vehicles playing an important role in reducing transport emissions in the Byron Shire, into the future, and we were thrilled to receive funding for these additional charging stations,” Council’s Sustainability Officer, Rachel Thatcher said. “We know that the Byron Shire has the highest EV ownership in the Northern Rivers and the second highest EV ownership in regional NSW next to Queanbeyan-Palerang. “We have around 517 EV registrations in Byron Shire alone, and this number is expected to continue to grow,” Ms Thatcher said. “As a tourist destination, we also need to be ready for the needs of our visitors – to help decrease the ‘range anxiety’ that is a common barrier to people buying EVs in the first place,” she said. “Increasing EV infrastructure in the Shire is key to supporting continued uptake and aligns with our Net Zero Emissions Action Plan and Power Up Northern Rivers Electric Vehicle Strategy,” Ms Thatcher said. For more information see Council’s website.

Three people have been charged as a high-visibility police operation focused on preventing and disrupting crime in the state’s north continues.Strike Force Imperium formed on Monday, 3 February 2025, and is a proactive policing strategy involving police resources from Tweed/Byron PD, Richmond PD, Coffs/Clarence PD and Specialist Commands, targeting serious property-related crime.As a result of the operation, strike force detectives have so far made three arrests, with investigations ongoing into several other offences and inquiries continuing to locate outstanding offenders.Incidents of note include:About 12.30pm on Tuesday, 4 February 2025, police were patrolling Tweed Heads South when they attempted to stop a vehicle reported stolen from Queensland. When the driver allegedly failed to stop as directed, a pursuit was initiated; however, was terminated a short time later when it entered Queensland. Following extensive inquiries police attended a home on William Street, Tweed Heads South, about 8am on Wednesday, 5 February 2025. A 25-year-old man was located and arrested in the garage of the property. A search of the man allegedly revealed stolen credit cards, a woman's bag and sunglasses. He was taken to Tweed Heads Police Station where he was charged with two counts of goods in personal custody suspected being stolen, receive etc property stolen outside NSW, larceny, police pursuit - not stop - drive dangerously, and drive while licence cancelled. He was refused bail to appear before Tweed Heads Local Court on Wednesday, 5 February 2025, where he was formally refused bail to appear before the same court on Monday 24 March 2025.About 1.30am on Wednesday, 5 February 2025, police were called to a home on Wollongbar Drive, Wollongbar, following reports of an aggravated break and enter. At the scene, police were told that four persons entered the property before stealing a bag and keys. Following inquiries, officers executed a search warrant at a home in Casino about 9am on Friday, 7 February 2025. A 15-year-old boy was arrested and taken to Lismore Police Station where he was charged with aggravated break and enter and commit serious indictable offence-armed, and break and enter house etc steal. In relation to other matters, he was also charged with drive conveyance taken without consent of owner, be carried in conveyance taken without consent of owner, never licensed person drive vehicle on road, possess prohibited drug, and shoplifting. He was refused bail to appear before a children's court on Saturday 8 February 2025, where he was granted conditional bail to appear before a children's court on Friday 28 February 2025.Between 1am and 3.30am on Saturday, 25 January 2025, a unit on Barker Street, Casino, was allegedly broken into and a Honda hatchback was taken from the home. About 4.10am on Saturday, 25 January 2025, police attempted to stop the hatchback in Casino. When the driver allegedly failed to stop as directed, a pursuit was initiated and continued to West Street where the hatchback crashed into a motorhome. The driver – a 16-year-old boy – was taken to Lismore Base Hospital, while the passenger – a 13-year-old boy – was airlifted to Gold Coast University Hospital where he remains in a serious condition. The driver was charged with five offences and remains before the courts. About 10am on Friday 7 February 2025, following further inquiries into the alleged break and enter, police arrested the 16-year-old boy at a home in Casino. He was taken to Lismore Police Station where he was charged with aggravated break and enter and commit serious indictable offence-people there, aggravated break and enter with intent, take and drive conveyance without consent of owner, be carried in conveyance taken without consent of owner, and never licensed person drive vehicle on road. He was refused bail to appear before a children's court on Friday, 7 February 2025, where he was formally refused bail to appear before a children’s court on Tuesday, 25 February 2025.Three search warrants were also executed in relation to ongoing police investigations.Investigations under Strike Force Imperium continue.