It is not the long-term solution that the residents of Lismore would like, which is the removal of the Terania Street Bridge, but people will begin to see different measures put in place that will allow Terania Street to reopen by the end of June.Terania Street has been closed between Tweed and Peate streets since 7 February this year, when an overheight vehicle struck the rail-over-road bridge above the road.Transport for NSW North Region Director, Anna Zycki, said Transport for NSW engineers have been working to design temporary measures to prevent oversize vehicles from using the street and striking the disused rail-over-road bridge.“We’d like to thank residents and businesses affected by this road closure,” Ms Zycki said.“Specialist engineers have been working to design traffic management measures to prevent future strikes, including traffic calming treatments to slow down light vehicles and restrict heavy vehicle access to Terania Street.”Transport for NSW will implement these measures in the coming weeks, including speed humps, a reduced 25km/h speed limit, restricting the lane width, installing traffic islands and surveillance camera to monitor vehicle compliance on the east and west approaches to the bridge.Ms Zycki said the temporary traffic islands will restrict all vehicles weighing more than 4.5 tonnes from entering the restricted road approaching the rail bridge.“There will also be new ‘No right turn’ restrictions entering and exiting Peate Street,” she said.“A detour for heavy vehicles is available via Wilson Street, Elliott Road and Ballina Road. Residents wishing to enter or exit Peate Street would need to detour via Pine, Crane and Tweed streets.“Transport for NSW has received approval from the NSW Heritage Council to remove the Terania Street rail bridge and is working through the heritage approval consent conditions to enable works to proceed.”For more information, visit https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/current-projects/terania-street-lismore-rail-over-road-bridge.

Retail crime is not new to Lismore's LGA, and it will never cease to happen. The societal change is that sometimes, our young shoplifters are more brazen than previous generations, as they feel untouchable if they get caught in the act.Shoppers and retail workers are being urged to speak up and report retail crime, in the next phase of a partnership between Crime Stoppers NSW and the Australian Retailers Association (ARA).Crime Stoppers NSW CEO, Mr Peter Price AM, said retail crime takes many forms from shoplifting to coordinated robbery by crime gangs, abuse, and assaults against retail workers.“These crimes don’t only affect Australian retailers but the frontline workers and ultimately the community, that means families. We all have them or are part of one so be respectful,” he said.“Australian retailers lose billions of dollars each year in stock loss, absenteeism, and workers compensation claims as a result of these crimes. Retail workers face threats and abuse, both verbal and physical, when confronting shoplifters, putting their own safety and that of nearby shoppers at risk.In many cases, retail crime is well planned and coordinated, undertaken by people who are working together using smart phones and apps to identify, select and execute these crimes. “This has a flow-on effect to the wider community where customers are adversely impacted, whether it's missing items due to shoplifting or coordinated crime gangs when essential products like baby formula are stolen creating supply shortages for customers.The message of the campaign is if you see something, say something. Crime Stoppers is a trusted brand, and our community is aware they can report any crime, any time in complete confidence. Our message to shoppers and bystanders is, if something doesn’t look right, contact Crime Stoppers or if it’s an emergency or someone is in danger, contact Police on Triple Zero (000).“There seems to be a view amongst some that it’s okay to yell at a worker or it’s fine to assault staff to get your own way and this is completely unacceptable,” said CEO, Australian Retailers Association, Mr Paul Zahra.“We all know someone who works or has worked in retail – be it our children, parents, grandparents, or friends. Let's remember this before lashing out at workers in frustration. “Worse data shows that 60 percent of in-store thefts are perpetrated by the same 10 percent of individuals - the 10 percent club, who are four times more likely to resort to aggression.“This issue is not just about major retail chain stores, small family businesses are also on the receiving end of abuse other crimes. These small businesses rely on every sale to keep their lights on and to continue employing staff, especially in regional areas.“Whether its shoplifting, crime gang theft, threats or abuse, our frontline workers and the community are all affected and all at risk. All retail workers have a right to feel safe at work. It’s not the norm to be yelled at - or spat at - for doing your job. It’s certainly not the norm to be punched or groped or assaulted or intimidated with a weapon while at work,” Mr Zahra said.Here are some tips for everyone to have a safer experience:• Don’t put yourself at risk. If you are a bystander and see someone being threatened or abused, call Triple Zero immediately. Find a security guard and advise them of the danger. • If you suspect someone is shoplifting, find a security guard or staff member and alert them. Take note of what they look like, are wearing, time, date, and location. This can help with reporting to catch the offender.• If you have information about retail crime, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit nsw.crimestoppers.com.auStatistics• Since October 2021, retail theft has been steadily increasing, up 47.5% year on year to June 2023.• The most frequently reported stolen items being alcohol (37% of incidents) followed by clothing (22% of incidents)• Licenced premises and general wholesalers have recorded the biggest increase in stealing in retail over the past five years. Department or clothing stores and chemists have reported the largest decreases.• $440 is the average value of items stolen.

This week is National Palliative Care Week and people across NSW are being reminded of the essential role our dedicated palliative care health staff and volunteers play in ensuring high-quality and compassionate palliative care is made available to the community when and where it is needed.Health Minister Ryan Park today extended his gratitude to the many dedicated and highly regarded health staff and volunteers who support patients and their families throughout what is often the most challenging time in their lives. The NSW Government is committed to ensuring all people across NSW have access to the highest quality palliative care, and we have introduced a range of measures to better support patients and their families living with a life-limiting illness.  This includes a $93 million investment in capital works as part of our World Class End of Life Care program, which will deliver new or redeveloped palliative care facilities at five health facilities across the state including Wyong, Westmead, Tamworth, Nepean and Orange hospitals. The government is also committed to growing our specialist palliative care workforce, and are employing extra nurses, doctors and support staff, estimated at more than 570 additional full-time equivalent positions by 2026-27. National Palliative Care Week is an opportunity to increase awareness about the importance and benefits of accessing end of life and palliative care services, and to begin conversations with family and friends about how one might to plan for their future requirements, including their own end-of-life care. Minister for Health Ryan Park said, “High-quality end-of-life and palliative care is available to all those who require it in NSW, whether it is provided at home, in residential aged care facilities, in the community, or in an inpatient environment such as a hospital. “Whilst all Health staff might have a role to play in palliative care, people with more complex needs may well require specialist palliative care services, staffed by multidisciplinary teams who have advanced skills and knowledge in palliative care. “I want to extend my sincere thanks to our specialist palliative care workforce, which is comprised of doctors, allied health professionals and nurses, Aboriginal Health Workers and volunteers for the compassionate care they provide to their communities every day.” For more information on palliative care services available in NSW, visit:https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/palliativecare/Pages/palliative-care-in-NSW.aspx

More than 30 school-aged students will ‘takeover’ Lismore this week to share their stories as part of the ABC’s Takeover Youth Summit. The summit, which is running now until Friday, 24 May, is a partnership between the ABC, the Office for Youth; Department of Employment and Workplace Relations and the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR). ABC producers have worked with around 1,000 young people from Lismore and the Northern Rivers region since late last year. Thirty-four students have been selected to have their stories and ideas featured on the ABC during the summit and beyond. The winning stories showcase the diversity and bravery of young people in the region. They include stories featuring: dreams of becoming a Paralympian, connection to country and culture, experiencing homelessness and growing up in a Viking village. ABC Managing Director David Anderson said the ABC was proud to showcase the lived experience of a new generation of leaders. “This group of young storytellers demonstrate the tremendous sense of community on the Northern Rivers. We’re thrilled to be able to share these stories with the nation and support these young people as their share their stories.” Fareeha is one of this year’s winners. She says that at times, as a young person, she’s felt “helpless” in the face of challenges that the area has faced but is passionate about her local community.“In such a small community, we’ve all got something we can relate on, we’ve all seen each other at the shops, at sports clubs,” she says. “When we all know each other and we’ve got that sense of strong community, I feel like that’s what pushed us through the floods.” Next week the Takeover Lismore winners will have the opportunity to take part in leadership and networking events, and the chance to contribute to projects helping the young people of Lismore to thrive. Takeover aims to help young people feel empowered to create the change they want to see in their local area. The Takeover program would not be possible without the ABC’s partnership with the Office for Youth; Department of Employment and Workplace Relations and Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR), whose support brings the program to life. “We're ensuring young people have opportunities to share their experiences and ideas on issues that are important to them, through our national youth engagement model and by supporting programs like Takeover,” says The Hon Dr Anne Aly MP, Minister for Youth. “We can all learn by listening to the lived experiences of young people.” To create change on these issues, FRRR will be offering support to community organisations who will work with the Summit participants on their ideas and develop grant projects together. “These are our leaders of tomorrow,” says FRRR CEO Natalie Egleton. “FRRR is inspired to be part of their journey and to invest in the local community so young people can have a powerful say in the future of their region.” Takeover Lismore winners will be featured across the ABC this week. You can find out more information about the program at: abc.net.au/takeover/programs/takeover-lismore. If you are interested in attending summit events, please email [email protected] inspired by their stories and ideas at this ABC Takeover Lismore event as the ABC roll out the red carpet for the world premiere of the ABC Takeover Lismore winners' stories – on the big screen! RED CARPET CINEMA SCREENING 5:30 – 8:00pm, tonight (Tuesday May 21, 2024) at the Star Court Theatre, 126 Molesworth St, Lismore NSW. Please RSVP for the Cinema Screening at this link. Filling up fast! YOUTH IDEAS LAUNCH 1.00-2:45pm, Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at Oakes Oval (New Grandstand), 144 Magellan St, Lismore NSW. ABC Takeover winners present their big ideas to improve life for young people in Lismore. Please RSVP ASAP: https://events.humanitix.com/takeover-lismore-youth-ideas-launch  .

One thing there was plenty of at Casino Beef Week on Sunday was mullets – mullets on children, women and mostly men.Mulletfest founder Laura Johnson was the Casino RSM Club on Sunday (May 19) for the first-ever Casino heat of mullets.The winners go into the final at Kurri Kurri in the Hunter Valley.(Laura Johnson, far right, is the founder of Mulletfest here with the mullet competitors at Casino RSM Club and talking to Kai Slade.)Kai Slade, 21, had only had his mullet for an hour.“They cut it on stage,” he said.“Now my ears are cold.”His live cut raised $520 for the Mark Hughes Foundation for brain cancer.His brother Brycen Slade, 19, from Casino said he got a mullet more than four years ago because his mother didn’t want him to have one.His act of rebellion changed though.(Brycen Slade from Casino)“She likes it now and doesn’t want me to get rid of it,” Brycen said.Brothers Jack, 24, and Billy Carnaby, 22 came to the Mulletfest from Grafton.“The old boy used to have a mullet,” Jack said.“I thought it’s coming back, so I’ll do it.”(Mullet Brothers: Jack and Billy Carnaby)Billy has had his mullet for four years.“It’s like a clan,” he said.“Everyone in Grafton is a bit of a bogan and they appreciate it.”Lester Gibson, 21, from Grafton has been growing his mullet for five years and he “mostly loves it.”(Lester Gibson has had his mullet for five years.)Logan Stevenson from Rappville was at the comp showing off his long, winning locks. Read his story here.The Mulletfest Grand Final will be at Hebburn Motorsport Park, Hunter Valley on Saturday, December 7.Winners of the Casino heat were:0-3 years: Logan Clark4-7 years: Banjo Goldthorpe8-12 years: Austin Bird11-13 years: Lennox BallEveryday: Logan Stevenson and Billy CarnabyRookie: Aidan GearyGrubby: Kai SladeVintage: Dan OlafsenExtreme: Lester Gibson and Brycen SladeFamily: Cameron and Nickolas WilliamsBeef Week continues today with the Window Dress up, the Busking Competition and the Fashion Parade. Check out the details of the program.Check out more stories from Casino and Kyogle in the IndyNR.

Some local businesses in Lismore are finally getting back to where they once were before the record-breaking floods that hit two years ago, thanks to the unwavering support of the community. More than 3,000 local businesses were impacted by the February 2022 floods which were labelled the ‘biggest flood in modern Australian history’ and affected more than 18,000 workers in the Northern NSW township. According to Battery World Lismore Franchise Partner, Greg Woolley, nothing is more heart-warming than seeing the local business community thriving again. “It’s been a long journey to get to where we are today,” Mr Woolley admitted. “We lost just about everything in the floods. It destroyed our business, our income, our community, the lot of it – it was hell. “Lismore became a ghost town afterwards, resulting in many businesses having to close and set up shop somewhere else, leaving many blocks of land vacant.” Finally, Mr Woolley said things were looking up for the town, with many new and old businesses back in the ‘heart of the Northern Rivers’. “Lismore is continuing to rebuild, and we couldn’t have done it without the local community's incredible support who keeps our businesses going,” he said. “Lismore is such a supportive, tight-knit community. I feel so privileged to call this place my home. Despite everything we’ve gone through, Battery World Lismore is here to stay, and we are committed to servicing the community wherever we can.” Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said that now more than ever, it was important that residents and visitors showed their support for the region’s businesses. “There is hardly a week that goes by that I don’t represent council at a CBD business re-opening or the opening of a new business,” Mr Krieg said. “It’s clear that these businesses like Battery World, have confidence in the future of Lismore, and I encourage the community to come into the CBD and support them.” For more information on Battery World, visit https://www.batteryworld.com.au/ or head into the Battery World Lismore store today.

The NSW Government will host a social media summit to address the increasing harm online platforms are having on children and young people. Scheduled for October 2024, the summit will bring together senior officials, policy makers, academics, as well as representatives from other jurisdictions, leading social media platforms and digital technologies. The summit will aim to examine the latest evidence and develop a response to growing community concern about the mental health impacts of social media, especially for young kids. The NSW Government recognises that social media platforms provide benefits through increased access to social connection, however there is also a significant body of evidence detailing negative impacts on young people.  A study found that adolescents who spent more than three hours per day on social media faced double the risk of experiencing poor mental health outcomes, including symptoms of depression and anxiety.    Young people also have significant safety concerns in the online environment relating to contact from unknown people, privacy issues, cyberbullying, and security: 31 per cent of 16–19-year-old Australians report being victims of image-based sexual abuse.  Around 66 per cent of young Australians expect to encounter privacy or security issues and 85 per cent think it’s likely they will have negative interactions with strangers.  The summit will provide an opportunity for the NSW Government to hear from a wide range of experts and importantly, from young people to understand what can be done to support safety and wellbeing. NSW community members will be invited to add their voice to the conversation on social media through the Have Your Say platform in the lead up to the summit.  The NSW Government will collectively use the findings to inform any regulatory and legislative changes. The summit is one of many measures the NSW Government is putting in place to minimise the negative impacts of social media and devices on young people including: A mobile phone ban in all NSW public schools implemented in October 2023.A $2.5 million research fund to investigate the impacts of excessive screen time, video games and mobile phone use on young people and their learning.Recruiting 250 additional school counsellors as part of the NSW Labor Government's election commitment to student wellbeing.A review into evidenced-based practice and school policy which can address school student’s online behaviour led by NSW Chief Behaviour Advisor Professor Donna Cross. NSW Premier Chris Minns said, “I know the biggest issue facing parents is kids access and exposure to devices and social media – its certainly a conversation happening in my own household. “I hear from parents all the time – they are worried about their kids seeing something they can’t unsee, online bullying, online predators, and the general increase in anxiety about what other friends say, do and show on their on social media.  “I’m convinced we need more conversations and solutions for parents, schools and communities about how to manage this. This summit will bring together experts and parents alike to talk about what more we can do to protect the wellbeing of our children.” NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said, "Young people are accessing social media earlier and earlier, which is why it is vital we facilitate a discussion about what is the best path forward. “Many families are concerned about the impact social media has on their children – whether that be on their schooling, or their mental health. “Banning mobile phones in public schools has been a positive start for NSW and it’s important we also look at the broader impact of social media.” Minister for Youth Rose Jackson said, “It's critical that young people are part of shaping the social media conversation in NSW - from what they love about it, to what isn’t working. “We know young people are prolific on social media – these channels are important to platform ideas and build communities. In turn, issues such as body image, increased anxiety and bullying are common themes young people are exposed to. “There is substantial evidence that social media harms young people's mental health and safety. It our job to step up to help protect young people. We will collaborate with the next generation to help strike a better balance and to ensure the views of young people are included in these important reforms.”

A man and woman have died following a two-vehicle crash at Maclean last night.About 10.30pm yesterday (Sunday,19 May 2024), emergency services were called to Yamba Road, Maclean, following reports two vehicles had collided head-on.The driver of a red SUV – a 68-year-old woman – and the driver of a white ute – a 25-year-old man – died at the scene.Two passengers of the ute – a man believed to be aged in his 30s, and a 41-year-old man – were freed from the vehicle by members of the NSW State Emergency Service before they were treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics and taken to hospital in serious but stable condition.Officers attached to Coffs/Clarence Police District established a crime scene and commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.As inquiries continue, anyone with information or dashcam footage is urged to call police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

More than 670 vulnerable children were supported in safe homes following the NSW Government’s drive to increase the number of emergency foster carers across the state.  Emergency foster carers provide a safe environment for a child or sibling group at short notice, which means fewer children end up in costly hotels and motels which can be as much as $38,000 a week. This occurs when emergency foster carers cannot be found. The NSW Labor Government is determined to reduce the number of children going into these arrangements.Many emergency foster carers go on to become long-term carers for children who cannot live safely with their own families. Over the past twelve months, the government has been taking urgent action to address the issue through targeted foster care recruitment campaigns. This has resulted in the recruitment of 189 emergency foster care households, with another 145 carer households going through the eligibility process. Already, this has seen 674 children placed in stable, loving homes instead of HCEAs, like hotels, motels and caravan parks. Additionally, the NSW Labor government established an urgent review of the foster care system following a damning report that details the first-hand experiences of the state’s most vulnerable young people in HCEAs. It is expected to report back by the end of the year. To learn more about becoming an emergency foster carer with DCJ email [email protected] Minister for Families and Communities and Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said, “I'm grateful to everyone who's responded to our campaign by becoming emergency foster carers and changing children's lives. “I encourage people who want to help vulnerable children to become a foster carer - the lifelong impact is immeasurable. “Foster carers can come in all shapes and sizes, and from all walks of life. They can be single or partnered, young or old, in or out of the workforce. “As an emergency foster carer, you can look after a child in need for a couple of days, a couple of weeks or a couple of months. “It’s so important that the community knows that there are options when it comes to foster caring and that they can be part of the solution by providing stable, loving homes to vulnerable kids.”

A report will be prepared for the information of the NSW Coroner following the death of a man and a child at East Lismore overnight.Officers attached to Richmond Police District attended a unit in College Street, East Lismore, about 9.45pm (Sunday May 2024), due to concerns for the welfare of a man and his son.Police forced entry into the unit and found the bodies of a 38-year-old man and a two-year-old boy.A crime scene has been established overnight and inquiries into the deaths are now underway under Strike Force McGuren.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Bushfires, COVID-19, and the 2022 Floods were all major events in our lives that had an impact in varying degrees on all residents of Lismore and the Northern Rivers.Child developmental delay is one impact that is not widely known, but it has affected newborns to toddlers over the last five years.Picture a newborn baby in 2019. The bushfires put the community on high alert for a good seven-month period before we rolled into COVID. That baby is now crawling or walking but has very limited social interaction, and even then with people wearing masks, for close to two years before the largest flood in our history devastated the heart of our community which included closing preschools, primary schools and high schools across the region.That baby in 2019 is five years old today and has not been exposed to a 'typical' everyday life that generations before had experienced.Sonya McPherson, Director of the East Lismore Community Preschool, has seen first-hand the impact this has had on our children, including her own child, who was born in January 2020. Sonya listed the developmental delays children are experiencing."Their capacity to read faces, their capacity to work and how to speak so that we've seen speech delays. How to generally communicate, how to play, how to take turns, even two children walking in a line, getting them to do anything other than with that same person, so trying to constantly get them to mix it up. How to share, emotionally regulate, how to build bonds with more than one person," Sonya explained"What we've noticed, last year and this year, is we're putting in much larger requests for children to be allowed to start primary school a year later because they've not had the exposure. The 2019 children are now in grade five. They've gone through COVID lockdowns, homeschooling, lack of contact with the community and community-acquired diseases that normally children under three would get, didn't get. The health impacts are really quite significant. It's not just about their immunity; it's even right down to if you don't have enough access to colds for ear, nose and throat to properly flow through them to experience what that's like and how to maintain it. To build up the microbiome all the way through the body. All of that starts to bounce.""And then we had a flood. We had the loss of community, we have the initial trauma. Now we've got the buybacks where we are getting three to five referrals a day of people wanting to hit the waitlist or to be placed. What we're noticing is there is, literally, a complete migration happening. So people are either getting the buybacks or getting their houses moved, people are constantly searching. The two large daycares have moved out of town, and so you've got a couple of nonprofit preschools and development applications in for Goonellabah. You have two to three-year wait lists on all daycare settings at the moment. That's like Sydney, their Sydney numbers.""The families are now isolated. We've got some families who were stuck here, some families have moved or moved away, so you've got a greater burden on needing to have care, but again, high-quality care and education is struggling, and they're struggling because children simply don't know how to play. If you think about a board game and the capacity to wait your turn, this all links into stuff that they're going to do at school later. They don't have the same capacity, so the fine motor, pencil grip, gross motor, we're noticing lots of children whose physical core is really floppy. It looks like they've actually got processing disorders and so we brought on a Speech and OT here."(Sonya McPherson out the front of the temporary East Lismore Community Preschool on the Wyrallah Primary School grounds)"Some children have missed basic steps because they've been on the floor or they've been in front of screen time for too long and so by age two and a half to three, a child should be able to put a spoon in a bowl, the bowl moves and they put their hand there to stop it. They haven't got the core strength for the crossover collaboration. So, the OT is now trying to get us to literally go back and do things that they should have done when they were 18 months old because it looks like the body doesn't work, but actually, it hasn't been supported to do so because they've not been running around and playing and climbing and risk-taking and knowing how to take risks safely, being taught how to take risks safely."The result is children are taking the developmental delays into primary school. Sonya says there are transition plans from daycares to schools but the larger conversation is not being had at state or federal level.As for parents, what can they do to help their children?"People don't know where to go. They don't even know that they've got the right to ring Community Health and say, I think my child's got a speech delay or I don't know if they're talking properly. Talking with the GP, particularly if it's someone's first child, you don't know what you don't know. They have access to OTs (Occupational Therapists) and speechies (speech therapists). The waitlists are getting huge, and post-flood we've lost a lot, and it's why we've employed a Speech and OT here because no one can get access to them, and if they do, it's a two-year waitlist, or they're closed books. So, by the time they get the support they need, they're already in primary school."Sonya has given some suggestions so parents can create ways to help children build skills that often people don’t realise the value of, as they may be seen as just normal everyday activities, which they are, but they have great value. "Read to or with your child every night, even 10 minutes a day, with a physical book. This teaches reading, speech, imagination, builds attachment, and the stories themselves create learning."On the weekend, turn the TV off and have a games night. Board games or card games teach children how to concentrate, read faces and express, how to wait your turn, how to learn and follow rules, how to sit for long periods and build core strength and fine motor skills."Bring back the good old-fashioned BBQ. A sausage sizzle, a cricket bat and some bubble wands bring back connection, play, relationship building, community support and role modelling social skills."Meet with your Doctor once a year. Book a long appointment and ask for a health check to assess all areas of development for your children. All children and adults can get an annual healthcare plan, these are free and covered by Medicare. They then help provide referrals to optometrists for hearing checks, OTs and physios for building core strength and skills, and hearing screens. Every health plan has five paid sessions to Allied Health such as OT, Speech and exercise physiologist etc."Ring Goonellabah Community Health and put your child’s name down for a hearing screen when they’re three (3). It might take 6 months but this gives time if there are any issues, such as glue ear."Staying in touch with family and friends, and catching up at the park builds the social connection children missed out on during COVID and post the flood. Help show them how to talk to others at the park and play together, as this is something that they often do not know how to initiate or understand what the social rules are when playing as this was interrupted for those born in or after 2019. "Remember that the more screen time they have, the less they’re learning everyday skills. Some screen time is great and relaxing, perhaps one night a week cooking with your children, often they will eat more veggies if they make it with you. They build fine motor skills, they will often share problems when doing something together and they build their connection with you while learning. "Remember, you are not alone. Lots of children and families are going through the same thing, you just don’t realise it because we all say we are okay. We have a large number of preschoolers who are going to do three years at preschool, at least 25% of children who could go to school will come back next year. They missed out on lots of the social and emotional opportunities in the last five years.""We can help you with that. It is actually a really easy process."The unknown for the developmental delay is what effect it will have on our children, who do not get help, when they are teenagers.......

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man missing from Mullumbimby.Gage Wilson, aged 31, was last seen on Hakea Court, Mullumbimby, about 5am yesterday (Saturday 18 May 2024).When he could no longer be contacted or located, officers attached to the Tweed Byron Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.Police and family hold serious concerns for his welfare.Gage is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 170-180cm tall with short brown hair and tattoos on both legs. He was last seen wearing a purple jumper and black shorts. Gage is known to frequent the Mullumbimby, Uki and Wilson’s Creek areas.Anyone with information into his whereabouts is urged to call police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Talking Lismore, the Lismore Apps new podcast, continues today with a new episode about solar energy.We sat down with our resident solar expert Mike Haydon from Off The Grid to talk about all things solar and renewable energy.Already we have discussed how many panels you should put on your roof, what kind of panels you should fit and what sort of inverter.In part three we talk about solar batteries.Do you need a solar battery to go 'off-grid' or is the expense simply too much to justify the price? Mike also talks about your electricity bill and the charges involved.Each podcast is about 15-17 minutes and very easy to listen to. Simply, click on this link Podcasts or go to the front page of the Lismore App and look for 'podcast' down the bottom of the page along with funerals, notifications and games & puzzles.The audio will play through your speakers on your phone, in your car (if it can connect) or on your PC or tablet.

“I’ve got a life sentence of complex trauma with a broken brain. He walked away.”This is *Cathy Jones' tale of her experience with Coercive Control and Narcissistic Abuse. (*Names in this story are changed to protect identities)Domestic Abuse has been in the news a great deal over the last few months, especially the definition and effects of Coercive Control. Legislative changes started in February with more to come in July.This is a sensitive topic, told by Cathy, as she aims to offer awareness and advice by sharing her experience. Narcissistic abuse involves idealising a person (love bombing) and then devaluing them in an alternating pattern. They eventually discard the victim when they are of no further use.Cathy describes Coercive Control as, “when you do something, not because you want to, but you’re scared of what will happen if you don’t.”Cathy met her partner through family and friends. With a legal background, the last thing she expected was to find herself on the receiving side of abuse.“The initial connection is constant love bombing - making you feel special, unique and desired. “When it went bad the first thing that happened, was he started yelling and screaming at me for absolutely no reason. He wouldn’t tell me what time he would be home. I would travel distances and he'd leave me locked out of the house. And then never answered the phone.“It got progressively worse. He was gaslighting me, put me down sexually, make me do all kinds of work for him and say I wasn’t good enough for anything. No matter how hard I tried, I could not please him. Until he went into another love bombing phase.  “Then he started twisting the truths to the people around us. He lied to his family, his friends. He was quite charismatic, and many people looked up to him. He turned all of them against me, so when they were around, they would treat me with disdain. And he would act the hero at times and look like he was defending me. Or antagonise me. Whatever suited the drama he was creating.“That was the devaluation stage - out of the whole thing it is the worst. It is the stage when you don't know what's happening to you. And your body freezes, because you’re waiting in anticipation for something negative to happen. I get freezing of my body even today, when I am triggered by something. Physical responses in my body I cannot prevent.“He moved me out of the house. He still made me help around the place, wanted me, needed me close, but treated me terribly. Sexually, things got increasingly sleazy. Perverse. It was horrible.“The final stage is the discard stage. With it comes the horrific insults. I travelled hours to see him (Cathy had a place a couple hours away, but spent most of her time living with him) because he wanted to see me, and then he told me he had met someone else. He did it on a significant day to ruin the experience of that day, which I learned is typical of a narcissist. And then I had no right of reply, nothing. There was no communication from him for months. Which in itself was so difficult.”The connection with her abuser lasted many years. After 1 year, she started to see signs. After 3 years, she was questioning her health and safety and sought help. But it took another couple of years before she could free herself from the coercive grip of her abuser altogether.Cathy found it very difficult to seek help. She questioned her own judgement and even her sanity. Cathy didn’t know if anyone would understand or believe her situation.  “I was more cranky and angry with myself when it first started. I couldn't talk to my friends about it. Just because I felt embarrassed. I found I couldn't talk to anyone because all they say to you in that situation is move on. Move on, you can't move on. They want you to forget about it. Well you can't forget about it. This treatment has actually damaged your brain. It's become a weakness in your brain.”Fear, pride and the thread of belief that the “Love Bombs” might have some truth to them, kept Cathy silent for a long time.Cathy was incredibly isolated. However, she knew she had to do something.Initially, Cathy sought professional help to validate her concerns. She spoke to Spousebusters, a private investigative firm that helps you seek information about your spouse. Through this action, Cathy received confirmation of ill intent - a message from one of her partner's coworkers that threatened Cathy’s life.In the grip of intense fear, Cathy took the next big step, she pursued help - to speak to a professional counsellor that could help her put things in perspective. Her first counsellor was “amazing”, but she passed away. Her second counsellor had no experience with coercive control or narcissistic abuse, putting the blame on Cathy and her decision to stay with such a person. This set Cathy’s recovery back considerably. She says if this ever happens, “If a counsellor starts blaming you, turn and run.”Cathy was now aware of the type of abuse she was living with, and found someone who could speak to that professionally. Nova Gibson is a specialist in narcissistic abuse. She has written a book on it, Fake Love, which was 2023 and is 2024’s best selling self help book. Cathy found so much relief in being able to speak to someone who understood her situation - even better than she did.Nova says, “The repercussions of narcissistic abuse/coercive control can last a lifetime.“There is no 'breakup' in these abusive relationships, but rather, a victim escaping, and trying to move on with their lives and heal.”In the case of children, this can be very destructive. “The coercive control strategies used to destroy the bond between the child and their other parent is one of their most sadistic and satisfying weapons to maim their victim with, and the damage inflicted, is often irreparable,” Nova says.Cathy said that the recovery process began when she found someone who believed her story. Someone she confided in, someone that wasn’t a DV professional. It made her feel validated. Seen. Like people could understand her situation.Cathy's situation became a little unique. Her saga was published in a story. She had a way of telling people what had happened without having to say it, without having to convince anyone, without having to relive it. Feeling validated Cathy approached Women Up North (WUNH), and consulted with a case worker. WUNH help people in Cathy’s situation, often. Jillian Nightsmith, the CEO confirms what Cathy went through, “ Her coercive situation was one of work slavery. People in these situations can’t just move on. It doesn’t work like that. The longer a person is in a Coercive Control or Domestic Violence or Sexual Assault relationship, the longer it takes to recover.“Long term, trauma informed counselling and support is needed. It turns into PTSD for many sufferers.”Recovery has been slow. Cathy’s confidence has been shattered, so she is doing what she needs to build herself up again. The security at her home is substantial. She moves through life trying to shield herself from triggers. Cathy finds solace in spending time with those who are underprivileged, as she cannot bear to see them in situations of harm.As a single, mature woman trying to manoeuvre through life as she is getting older, her future is not an easy prospect to consider. She does think about what she wants, but it is hard to imagine achieving it. Some friends understand her situation to varying degrees, and offer her gentle support and guidance. Some question her choices, which is a sensitive point triggering defence mechanisms in regard to perceived controlling techniques.With Cathy's legal history, she receives regular psychological assessments, and in this, has found another resource for her healing. Cathy’s range of symptoms of complex trauma, are surprisingly similar to ADHD, so she is on medication to help her cope. But they are having to increase dosage to provide the required level of relief.  Cathy’s advice to those who are not being treated with the respect they deserve, is to “Collect evidence. You don’t go into a relationship thinking you have to record their behaviour, but if you are unsure about something, it doesn’t hurt to write it down and so you can see negative patterns.”“Get advice if you are getting big unexplained shifts in mood. Speak to a professional that knows how to spot narcissistic abuse. One great resource to understand what narcissism is an actual narcissist, HG Tudor. He tells you all about what narcissism is better than anyone.”“Get help and get out - anyone living in hope that it’s going to change - it’s not going to happen. You are putting yourself in the path of danger.”Cathy also strongly advocates to find the person with narcissistic abuse experience to navigate the healing process.An App developed by the NSW Police Force allows you to track negative tendencies in a partner in a safe method - Empower You. Anyone in a vulnerable position at work or social situation that they feel is threatening could use it.Changes in legislation are happening. Definitions surrounding domestic abuse were put in place in February. Legislation is coming in July to help protect victims of mental and financial control and abuse by making it a criminal offence. (The above definition is part of what was written into the Crimes Act 2007.)The NSW Government says, “The Act makes coercive control in current and former intimate partner relationships a criminal offence. The offence occurs when an adult engages in a ‘course of conduct’ of abusive behaviour that is intended to coerce or control the other person (the coercive control offence).”There is never a neat ending to a case of narcissistic abuse. Cathy is still perplexed years later, “I still don’t know why he did all that to me.”

If you need to travel to the Gold Coast this week at night, take note of changed traffic conditions from later tonight when crews carry out essential maintenance work on the Pacific Motorway at the Tugun Bypass Tunnel.To minimise the impact to motorists, work will be carried out at night from 7pm to 5am from Sunday, 19 May to Thursday, 23 May, weather permitting. The tunnel will be closed to all traffic from 7pm to 5am, reopening at 5am Friday 24 May.On the nights of Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, northbound traffic will be diverted at the Gold Coast Highway (Tugun exit) onto Tugun Currumbin Road, re-joining the Pacific Motorway at Currumbin. Southbound traffic will be diverted at Tugun Currumbin Road (exit 95) onto Gold Coast Highway, re-joining the Pacific Motorway at Tweed Heads West (Gold Coast Highway on-ramp).On Wednesday 22 and Thursday 23 May, 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 10 minutes additional travel time, drive to the conditions and follow the direction of signs and traffic control.Essential asphalt maintenance work is also being carried out every night until the end of May on the Pacific Highway between Kennedy Drive and the NSW/QLD border on the southbound carriageway. Transport for NSW thanks motorists for their patience while essential maintenance work is carried out.For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW app, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.

"It's been brilliant, better than we expected given the wet weather we've had," those were the words spoken by Vice President of the Lismore Lapidary Club Jenny Vyrenhoek yesterday afternoon with a huge smile on her face as large crowds made their way to the Lismore Showgrounds for the first day of Gemfest 2024.Day two promises more of the same with plenty of sunshine and a partly cloudy forecast with a top of 20 degrees as last night's thunderstorms have cleared.The Lapidary Club team had a hectic morning yesterday, throwing down mulch, straw, and some bluestone over the really wet patches of the showground. This made the exposed surfaces walkable, especially as the sun dried the grounds. The upgraded road and paths and improved drainage also helped make conditions a lot better than they would have been in previous years.Another aspect that pleased Jenny Vyrenhoek was the use of the free shuttle bus. Reports from the driver were 30 to 40 people each trip as the shuttle ran every 15 minutes from the Transit Centre in the CBD to the North Lismore War Memorial providing a short walk to the main gates. The free shuttle bus will be running again today between 10am and 1pm, then again between 2 and 3pm.For those that do take the shuttle bus, and purchase a large gemstone, you can make arrangements to pick it up at the main gate later. As single-use plastic bags are banned in NSW, it is suggested you take your own bag for purchases.The enthusiastic crowd streamed through the gates at a steady pace from all over the Northern Rivers including Lennox Head, Ballina, Casino and Kyogle with some making the trip south from Brisbane and the Gold Coast for Australia's largest gemstone event.Lismore's Nathan and Caelan were making their fifth appearance at Gemfest and were enjoying fossicking on the grass.Nathan had bought copper and a picture for his mum. The attraction for the family at Gemfest is the fossils.The gates reopen at 9am this morning (Sunday) with Gemfest closing the gates at 3pm. It is only $5 for adults and $1 for children under 12.

The NSW Government is launching state-wide consultation on the wildlife rehabilitation sector to gain a detailed understanding of how NSW can improve the way we care for our native animals. The consultation will examine the challenges facing the sector, identify best practices and recommend next steps. Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment Trish Doyle will lead the consultation and provide a report on the outcomes to Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe within 12 months. In NSW, 40 wildlife rehabilitation groups involving more than 8,600 people rescue an average of 110,000 animals a year including the Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital and Friends of the Koala. The sector is mostly made up of dedicated and passionate volunteers who respond to more than 180,000 calls for help from the community each year. This work is supported by specialised wildlife hospitals and many local veterinary services.The value of the sector’s work is estimated at $27 million a year. The consultation will consider a range of areas:Challenges for the sectorResourcingConnections within the sectorService gaps and duplicationInvolvement in emergency response and significant wildlife eventsAdministrative and legislative provisionsSupport for wildlife hospitals and veterinary practices. Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin has asked Ms Doyle to visit the Northern Rivers region as part of the consultation process, given that we have two wildlife hospitals, Friends of the Koala Incorporated and WIRES groups doing so much valuable work in this space.Our state is home to animals that live nowhere else on this planet, and the NSW Government recently invested $8 million into wildlife hospitals and care facilities across NSW to ensuring sick and injured native wildlife receive the best care and rehabilitation. This consultation will inform next steps for the NSW Volunteer Wildlife Rehabilitation Sector Strategy 2020-23. That strategy will be extended until 30 June 2025 while this review is underway. Minister for Climate Change and the Environment Penny Sharpe said, “Wildlife rescuers and rehabilitators are essential to the care and survival of native animals across NSW.“We need to build on the achievements of the previous strategy and ensure the sector is supported for the future.“I look forward to receiving this review, which will help inform and guide this important work.” Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment Trish Doyle said, “The NSW Government values the contribution of wildlife rehabilitators, who provide valuable work for the community by rescuing and caring for sick, injured and orphaned native animals across the state every day.“I look forward to listening to their experiences to understand the challenges and opportunities facing the sector.“We need an integrated, future-focused strategy to support the wonderful people who care for our native animals, while ensuring wildlife rehabilitation services are well-connected and sustainable.”

The severe weather warning for large hailstones has been extended to Lismore, Ballina and Evans Head.The Bureau of Meteorology says isolated thunderstorms have developed underneath an upper trough over northeastern parts of the state. Storms are slowly moving to the northeast and may persist into the early evening.Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce large hailstones in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations that may be affected include Lismore, Byron Bay, Ballina, Casino, Kyogle and Evans Head.3 cm hail was observed near Tabulam at 4:40 pm.The State Emergency Service advises that people should:* Move your car under cover.* Unplug computers and appliances.* Avoid using the phone during the storm.* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.The next warning is due to be issued by 8:25 pm.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Casino and Kyogle that may bring LARGE HAILSTONES.Isolated thunderstorms have developed underneath an upper trough over northeastern parts of the state.Storms are slowly moving to the northeast and may persist into the early evening.Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce large hailstones in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations that may be affected include Casino, Kyogle, Tabulam, Baryulgil, Rappville and Whiporie.The State Emergency Service advises that people should:* Move your car under cover.* Unplug computers and appliances.* Avoid using the phone during the storm.* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.The next warning is due to be issued by 6:45 pm.