Connect with us
Byron Bay News and Weather copy
Mt Warning News and Weather copy
Kyogle News
Grafton News and Events copy
Byron Bay News and Weather copy
Mt Warning News and Weather copy
Kyogle News
Grafton News and Events copy
previous arrow
next arrow

Local News

Changed traffic conditions for the Woolgoolga to Ballina upgrade

Published

on

By

Ballina News-Lismore news-Grafton News-Byron Bay News-Tweed Shire News-Casino News-Richmond Valley News-Byron Shire News-Clarence Valley News

Changed traffic conditions for the Woolgoolga to Ballina upgrade

Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions on the Pacific Highway and local roads from Monday 9 to Sunday 15 August for the Woolgoolga to Ballina upgrade, weather permitting.

From Monday, there will be five days of work next to the Pacific Highway between Coolgardie and Wardell to carry out landscape maintenance. Motorists can expect shoulder closers and mobile traffic control at times between 7am and 3pm.

Also from Monday, there will be up to three days of work on the Pacific Highway between Woodburn and Devils Pulpit to remove line marking. Motorists can expect lane closures and mobile traffic control at times between 6am and 6pm. U-Turn bays will be temporarily closed one at a time as this work is carried out.

Further south from Monday, there will be up to five days of work next to the Pacific Highway between Mororo and Glenugie to carry out landscape maintenance. Motorists can expect mobile traffic control at times between 7am and 5pm.

From Thursday, there will be up to two days of work on the bridge over the Clarence River at Harwood and the bridge over Serpentine Channel at Chatsworth Island to carry out maintenance. Motorists can expect lane closures and mobile traffic control at times between 6am and 6pm.

Also from Thursday, there will be one day of work on the Pacific Highway at Gulmarrad to carry out survey monitoring. Motorists can expect lane closures and mobile traffic control at times between 6am and 6pm.

Additional changes to local roads

From Monday, there will be five days of work on Blackwall Drive between Coolgardie and Wardell to carry out landscape maintenance. Motorists can expect shoulder closures and mobile traffic control at times between 7am and 3pm.

Also from Monday, there will be five days of work on the roundabouts at the Broadwater interchange to carry out landscape maintenance. Motorists can expect traffic control at times between 7am and 3pm.

There will be up to five days of work on Nardi and Swan Bay New Italy roads at New Italy from Monday to remove line marking and install guardrails. Motorists can expect lane closures and traffic control at times between 6am and 6pm.

From Tuesday, there will be up to four days of work on Tuckombil Road, north of the Woodburn interchange, to transport materials and carry out private access work. Motorists can expect lane closures and traffic control at times between 6am and 6pm.

For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.

Advertisements
Tenterfield-The Bowlo

Breaking News

Official Opening Of Clarence Preschool Celebrates A Bright Future For Local Families

Published

on

By

Official Opening of Clarence Community Preschool

Official Opening Of Clarence Preschool Celebrates A Bright Future For Local Families

 

Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson, has welcomed the official opening of the new Clarence Community Preschool in Grafton, marking a significant milestone for early childhood education in the region.

Officially opened on 5 February, the preschool, located at 166 Turf Street, will provide daily care for up to 20 children and create permanent and part-time employment for at least six staff members. The brand-new community preschool is located in a purposely renovated premise and is the first time in many years that a newly renovated community preschool has opened in the Clarence Valley.

“This is a fantastic day for Grafton families,” Mr Williamson said.

“The new Clarence Community Preschool will not only provide high-quality early learning opportunities for local children but also support local families and create jobs for our community.”

The development of the preschool was made possible through a $431,000 investment from the former NSW Nationals in Government’s Start Strong Capital Works Grants Program, with additional contributions from Clarence Family Day Care, which purchased the property in 2018.

Manager of Clarence Childhood Services Association, Cristie Harris, expressed her excitement about the preschool’s opening and its benefits for the local community.

“This preschool is going to be such a positive addition for Grafton families,” Ms Harris said.

“It provides more opportunities for children to learn and grow in a safe, nurturing environment, while also enabling parents to return to work or study.”

Ms Harris also highlighted the efforts that went into creating a welcoming and sustainable environment at the preschool.

“We’ve worked with local architects and tradespeople to transform the space. New ramps have improved accessibility, and we’ve included playing equipment, solar panels, and a veggie garden to foster a sustainable and enriching experience for the children,” Ms Harris said.

“Obtaining this grant through the Start Strong Capital Works Grants Program was a privilege, allowing us to bring a much-needed new preschool to the Grafton community. This program, previously available to support community organisations in establishing new preschools, made it possible for us to turn this vision into reality.”

Mr Williamson commended Ms Harris and the team at Clarence Childhood Services Association for their vision and hard work.

“This preschool will give children the best start to their educational journey, equipping them with the skills they need to thrive in their learning and social development,” Mr Williamson said.

“It’s a credit to Cristie and her team, who have worked tirelessly to bring this project to life.”

The preschool’s design aims to maintain a home-like environment to ensure children feel comfortable and welcomed.

“The opening of Clarence Community Preschool is not just about providing places for children but investing in the future of our region,” Mr Williamson concluded.

“I congratulate everyone involved in making this vision a reality.”

 

For more local news, click here.

Advertisements
Tenterfield-The Bowlo
Continue Reading

Breaking News

NSW Government Unveils Bold New TAFE NSW Charter to Address Critical Skills Needs

Published

on

By

TAFE NSW Charter

NSW Government Unveils Bold New TAFE NSW Charter to Address Critical Skills Needs

 

By Robert Heyward

The NSW Government has officially launched the new TAFE NSW Charter, reaffirming its commitment to equipping the state with the skilled workforce essential for future growth. This Charter is a cornerstone recommendation from the independent review of the NSW vocational education and training (VET) sector.

A Commitment to Excellence in Vocational Education

The TAFE NSW Charter clearly outlines what the people of NSW can expect from TAFE as the state’s premier vocational training provider. Launched alongside the start of Semester 1, 2025, this pivotal moment coincides with the rollout of TAFE NSW’s new operating model, designed to strengthen ties with local industries and communities.

Key Highlights of the New Operating Model

  • Industry-Driven Education: Introduction of specialised teaching faculties that foster stronger connections with local industries.
  • Community-Centric Approach: Enhanced collaboration with communities to meet local skills demands effectively.
  • Innovative Training: Emphasis on flexibility and responsiveness in delivering training aligned with industry needs.

TAFE NSW: A Public Asset and Industry Leader

The Charter positions TAFE NSW as a vital public institution, community hub, and leader in educational quality and innovation within the broader VET sector. Combined with the new operating model, it reinforces TAFE NSW’s role in supporting industries and communities across the state.

Announcement Highlights

The Charter was launched at TAFE NSW Kingscliff, where the NSW Government is investing $33 million to upgrade facilities, including new learning spaces for health services students.

Statements from Key Leaders

Steve Whan, Minister for Skills, TAFE, and Tertiary Education:

“A skilled workforce is the backbone of our economy, and TAFE NSW is central to delivering the critical skills training needed for strong industries and thriving NSW communities.

The TAFE NSW Charter is a commitment that TAFE NSW will deliver world-class education and training focused on critical skills needs for NSW, now and into the future.”

Chloe Read, Acting Managing Director of TAFE NSW:

“The TAFE NSW Charter is more than a statement of purpose—it’s a commitment to the diverse range of students, industries, and communities we support. It secures TAFE NSW’s place at the heart of the VET sector, providing high-quality training that prepares individuals for career success and strengthens our local economies.

Student Perspective

Sophie D’Arcy, a Diploma of Nursing student at TAFE NSW Kingscliff, shared:

“Having a strong and sustainable organisation like TAFE NSW underpinning the VET sector means we can access the vital training needed to pursue our dream professions. My journey as a nurse through the Diploma of Nursing at TAFE NSW Kingscliff has been empowering, and I’m confident my training will equip me with the skills needed to succeed in my future career.”

The launch of the TAFE NSW Charter marks a transformative step toward building a skilled, resilient workforce ready to meet the evolving demands of NSW’s industries and communities.

 

For more local news, click here.

Advertisements
Tenterfield-The Bowlo
Continue Reading

Breaking News

NSW Expands Successful Short-Term Regional Health Deployment Program

Published

on

By

Regional Health Deployment Program

NSW Expands Successful Short-Term Regional Health Deployment Program

 

By Jeff Gibbs

A highly successful regional, rural, and remote health deployment program is set for expansion over the next three years, with NSW Health recruiting nurses, midwives, and allied health professionals for short-term placements across the state.

Launched in May 2023, the NSW Health Deployment Program was designed to address critical workforce needs by creating a pipeline of skilled health professionals for short-term roles ranging from two to 13 weeks. These placements offer a unique opportunity for healthcare workers to travel and work in regional, rural, and remote parts of NSW—with travel and accommodation costs fully covered.

The program’s success has seen 90 staff complete hundreds of deployments in priority areas such as nursing, midwifery, occupational therapy, podiatry, speech pathology, and physiotherapy. NSW Health will now expand the program, increasing the team to around 400 health professionals to provide even greater support to regional communities.

Career and Lifestyle Opportunities

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park praised the program as a critical solution to one of the state’s biggest challenges—recruiting and retaining healthcare staff in rural and remote areas.

“Recruitment and retention of healthcare staff in rural, regional, and remote hospitals is one of the biggest issues we face,” Minister Park said.

“This innovative program is not only attracting health workers to regional communities but also strengthening these areas by maintaining essential health services. I’ve heard stories of many professionals who found the experience so rewarding that they chose to stay, providing lasting benefits for patients and the community.”

Luke Sloane, NSW Health Deputy Secretary for Rural and Regional Health, called the program a fantastic career and lifestyle opportunity for health professionals seeking new experiences.

“It’s an incredibly rewarding experience, both professionally and personally,” Mr. Sloane said. “Many participants form lifelong friendships in the close-knit communities that welcome them with open arms.”

A First-Hand Perspective

Speech Pathologist Saffron Foy, who took part in the program, said it was a valuable experience that allowed her to expand her skills and embrace a new lifestyle.

“I joined the NSW Health Deployment Program because I wanted a change, and I loved the experience of working in unique and supportive rural communities,” Ms. Foy said.

“At first it was a little nerve-wracking, but the teams I was deployed to were so welcoming and inclusive that my nerves quickly disappeared. I highly recommend giving it a go—it’s a chance to experience something new, improve your skills, and enjoy a different lifestyle.”

Ongoing Recruitment and Expansion

NSW Health is currently recruiting healthcare workers from more than 20 professions for short-term positions in hospitals and health facilities across the state.

The Minns Labor Government has introduced a series of measures to bolster the state’s health workforce, including:

  • Safe Staffing Levels initiative in emergency departments
  • Permanent funding for 1,112 full-time nurses and midwives
  • Abolishing the wages cap and delivering the highest pay increase in over a decade for nurses and health workers
  • $200.1 million investment in key worker accommodation
  • Deployment of 500 additional paramedics to regional, rural, and remote communities
  • Increased subsidies for regional health workers

Healthcare workers interested in short-term placements can register their interest via the NSW Health website.

 

For more local news, click here.

Advertisements
Tenterfield-The Bowlo
Continue Reading

Breaking News

National Lunchbox Week 2025: Celebrating Nutritious, Stress-Free Lunches for Kids

Published

on

By

National Lunchbox Week 2025

National Lunchbox Week 2025: Celebrating Nutritious, Stress-Free Lunches for Kids

 

By Jeff Gibbs

National Lunchbox Week 2025 (9–15 February) is encouraging families, schools, early childhood settings, and communities across Australia to embrace a practical and pressure-free approach to packing lunchboxes. The week-long campaign highlights the importance of nourishing, convenient, and budget-friendly lunches that fuel children’s learning and development.

From simple sandwiches to creative meals, every lunchbox reflects the unique preferences, culture, time, and resources of each family.

“Providing children with a nutritious lunchbox is about finding what works best for each family,” said Leanne Elliston, Senior Dietitian and CEO of Nutrition Australia ACT. “Most importantly, lunchbox packing isn’t about perfection.”

Practical Tips for Families

National Lunchbox Week aims to empower families with easy, budget-friendly ideas that reduce the stress of lunchbox preparation while ensuring kids get the nutrients they need to stay focused throughout the day.

“Packing a lunchbox can feel daunting when you’re balancing time constraints, tight budgets, and children’s individual needs and preferences,” said Ms. Elliston. “Our goal is to help families feel confident that they’re doing their best with practical and achievable solutions.”

Nutrition Australia’s resources and tips offer guidance on how to create simple yet nutritious lunchboxes, making busy mornings easier for families.

A Shared Responsibility

Schools, early childhood education settings, and teachers play a crucial role in promoting positive lunchtime experiences and supporting children’s relationship with food.

“Supportive, judgment-free conversations around food help children develop a lasting appreciation for meals and promote their overall wellbeing,” Ms. Elliston said. “Together, we can create an environment where children feel encouraged and confident about their food choices.”

How to Get Involved

Celebrate National Lunchbox Week by sharing your practical, easy, and budget-friendly lunchbox ideas to inspire others. Visit the National Lunchbox Week website for recipes and tips to help make lunchboxes nourishing and satisfying for every child.

At the heart of the campaign is collaboration—families, schools, and health advocates working together toward the shared goal of ensuring children enjoy meals that support their growth and learning.

“Let’s honour the love and care that goes into every lunchbox and empower one another to make lunchtime a positive experience for all children,” Ms. Elliston said.

 

For more local news, click here.

Advertisements
Tenterfield-The Bowlo
Continue Reading

Breaking News

Measles Alert Issued for Lismore

Published

on

By

Measles Alert Issued for Lismore

Measles Alert Issued for Lismore

 

By Jeff Gibbs

Northern NSW Local Health District Urges Community to Stay Vigilant

Health authorities have issued a measles alert for Lismore after a confirmed case of the highly contagious disease. The person, who recently returned from overseas, was infectious while visiting several public locations in Lismore.

Potential Exposure Locations and Times:

  • Lismore Square Shopping Centre (Cnr Brewster and Uralba Streets)
    Date: Sunday, February 2 | Time: Between 11:00 am and 1:00 pm
  • Lismore Base Hospital Emergency Department
    Date: Thursday, February 6 (6:15 pm) to Friday, February 7 (2:20 am)

The Northern NSW Local Health District Director of Population Health, Dr. Valerie Delpech, advised residents who visited these locations during the specified times to monitor for symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms of Measles

“Symptoms to watch for include fever, sore eyes, runny nose, and a persistent cough, typically followed by a red, blotchy rash that begins on the face and head before spreading to the rest of the body,” Dr. Delpech said.

Symptoms can appear up to 18 days after exposure, so people who were at the above locations should remain alert until Tuesday, February 25.

“If symptoms develop, seek medical attention immediately. However, it’s important to phone ahead so that precautions can be taken to avoid further spread,” Dr. Delpech advised.

Protect Yourself and Others

The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles. It is administered free of charge to children at 12 and 18 months of age. It’s also available for anyone born after 1965 who hasn’t received two doses.

“Anyone planning to travel overseas should ensure their vaccination is up to date, as outbreaks are currently occurring in several regions globally,” Dr. Delpech warned.

For children under 12 months traveling to high-risk areas, the first dose of the MMR vaccine can be given up to three months earlier than scheduled. Parents are encouraged to consult their GP for guidance.

Where to Get Vaccinated

The MMR vaccine is available from GPs for all ages and from pharmacies for individuals over five years of age. Those unsure of their vaccination status should get another dose as an additional dose is safe.

For more information, visit the Measles Factsheet or contact your healthcare provider.

 

For more local news, click here.

Advertisements
Tenterfield-The Bowlo
Continue Reading

NRTimes Online

Advertisement

National News Australia

Facebook

Latest News

Verified by MonsterInsights