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Lismore News

MAZDA BT-50 XTR 4X4 DUAL-CAB UTE

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MAZDA BT-50 XTR 4X4 DUAL-CAB UTE
Mazda BT-50 . . . it’s a good thing but the real question is: Has Mazda done enough?

MAZDA BT-50 XTR 4X4 DUAL-CAB UTE

Mazda BT-50 . . . it’s a good thing but the real question is: Has Mazda done enough?

By CHRIS RILEY

For ute watchers, Mazda’s BT-50 has more in common with the Isuzu D-Max than it does the Ford Ranger these days.
After they parted ways, Mazda did a deal with Isuzu while Volkswagen went looking for something to turn into the next Amarok.
For its part Mazda reportedly had little input into the design process and as a result BT-50 is simply a re-skinned version of D-Max, although that’s probably a little harsh.
To put this in perspective, Isuzu has enjoyed meteoric success with the latest D-Max, which has stormed the top sellers list, providing a solid launching pad for Mazda — the real question is whether it has done enough?

STYLING
The new BT-50 looks more refined and car-like — a bit like the last Falcon in fact.
From the rear however the look is generic ute, with vertical tail lights replacing the stylised triangular of the previous model.
The ‘ruggedly stylish’ XTR 4×2 with an auto is $49,470, XTR 4×4 with a manual is $54,710 and the 4×4 auto is $57,210 — all prices before on-road costs.
Standard kit includes 17-inch alloys, cloth trim and manual air, carpeted floors, power windows, power adjust mirrors, LED headlights, auto lights and wipers, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beam and traffic sign recognition and walk away automatic locking.
The XTR adds 18-inch alloys, side steps, power fold mirrors, advanced keyless entry and push-button start, LED fog lights, LED headlights with auto levelling, LED daytime running lights, dual-zone climate air with rear vents, leather wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, auto-dimming rear view mirror and centre armrest for the rear seat.

INTERIOR

MAZDA BT-50 XTR 4X4 DUAL-CAB UTE

MAZDA BT-50 XTR 4X4 DUAL-CAB UTE

The cabin is trimmed in cloth with dual zone climate air conditioning, rear air vents for back seat passengers and a splash of leather for the wheel and transmission lever.
Style-wise the main difference between BT-50 and the D-Max is the centre console which has higher sides in the Mazda to prevent items from falling out.
The wheel is reach and height adjustable, while the seats have manual adjustment for rake, slide, height and lumbar support.
The screen, unlike other Mazdas, is touch sensitive, with no central control knob (but no volume control knob either).
Analogue instrument gauges flank a central info screen where speed can be displayed digitally, and traffic sign recognition keeps the driver informed of the current speed limit.

INFOTAINMENT
The infotainment system comprises a 7.0-inch touchscreen and two-speaker audio with Bluetooth streaming, AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, Android Auto and Wireless Apple CarPlay — plus single USB and 12V outlets.
In the XTR this is upped to a 9.0-inch touchscreen with eight speakers and satellite navigation.
A new speaker is mounted in the headlining, while a 6×9-inch woofer delivers powerful bass response and two-way dome tweeters emit clear mid- to high-range sounds.
Dash-mounted and rear door ‘balanced dome’ tweeters use a voice coil and dome-shaped diaphragm to create impressive depth.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS
The BT-50 is powered by a turbo-diesel 3.0-litre, four-cylinder engine that generates 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque, the latter between 1600 and 2600 rpm.
The new power plant features an aluminium-alloy head and cast-iron engine block, chain-driven double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, drive-by-wire throttle control and a Variable Geometry System turbocharger.
Two-wheel drive models all get a six-speed auto, while the 4×4 version is offered with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic.
You can change gears manually using the shifter with the auto, but steering wheel mounted change paddles are not provided.

SAFETY
An extensive, five-star safety package includes eight airbags, reverse camera and Autonomous Emergency Braking.
There’s also Attention Assist, Blind Spot Monitor, Emergency Lane Keeping Assist – Overtaking, Emergency Stop Signal, Automatic High Beam, Hill Descent Control, Hill Launch Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, Lane-keep Assist System (automatic models), Locking Rear Differential (4×4 models), Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Roll Over Protection, Secondary Collision Reduction, Speed Assist System, Traction Control System and Turn Assist.

DRIVING

MAZDA BT-50 XTR 4X4 DUAL-CAB UTE

MAZDA BT-50 XTR 4X4 DUAL-CAB UTE

The drive experience is slow, heavy and truck-like overall. Depending on what you’re looking for, this may not be as bad as it sounds.
On a more positive note, it’s a relaxed, easy vehicle to drive that cruises effortlessly and uses hardly any fuel for a vehicle this size. You’ve gotta like that.
New BT-50 weighs up to 50kg less than the previous Ford-based models.
With a 76-litre tank, we were getting 7.8 litres per hundred kilometres over more than 500 kilometres of testing in various conditions.
Front suspension is independent via upper and lower wishbones with coil springs, gas-filled telescopic dampers and a stabiliser bar.
For the rear a semi-elliptic leaf with alloy-steel spring leaves and gas-filled telescopic dampers ensure maximum reliability and car-like ride and handling qualities.
Speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack and pinion steering is standard across the range, with 3.84 turns to lock
The switch to 4×4 is via a rotary knob located in the lower part of the console, with high and low range available — as well as a locking rear differential with the auto.
This model has excellent t ground clearance of 240mm and can handle an impressive 800mm of water, but we worry about the side steps which are almost guaranteed to be dented off road.
All grades and body types are fitted with under-body protection to guard against damage off-road or in rural areas.
The XTR can carry a 1090kg payload and pull a 3500kg braked trailer.
The cargo box is 1571mm long, 1530mm wide and 490mm deep, with 1120mm between the wheel arches and four tie-down points.
Our test vehicle had a tray liner, but the liner is optional.
There are two IsoFix and two top tether child seat anchor points.
Servicing intervals are 12 months or 15,000km and it comes with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty.

SUMMING UP
BT-50 ticks all the right boxes. It’s a fine ute and certainly fit for purpose.
But still looks too refined and car-like. Too much like a Falcon in fact and look what happened to it.
Ranger on the other has delivered incredible sales results largely on the back of its blunt, chiseled macho styling and carefully crafted ‘tough as nails’ image.
Plenty of black trim helps too. That’s, demonstrably, is what buyers want and that’s what Mazda needs to provide — it’s not rocket science guys.

AT A GLANCE

XTR Dual Cab Pickup (auto) $57,210
Note: This price does not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Mazda dealer for drive-away prices.

SPECIFICATIONS (Mazda BT-50 XTR 3.0L Turbo 4-cylinder diesel 6sp automatic 4×4 Dual Cab Pickup)

ENGINE:
Capacity: 3.0 litres
Configuration: Four cylinders in line
Maximum Power: 140 kW @ 3600 rpm
Maximum Torque: 450 Nm @ 1600-2600 rpm
Fuel Type: Diesel
Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 8.0 L/100km
CO2 Emissions: Euro 5

DRIVELINE: Six-speed automatic, 4×4

DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES:
Length: 5280 mm
Wheelbase: 3125 mm
Width: 1870 mm
Height: 1785 mm
Turning Circle: 12.5 metres
Kerb Mass: 2030 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity: 76 litres

BRAKES:
Front: Ventilated disc
Rear: Drum

STANDARD WARRANTY:
Five years / unlimited kilometres

RATINGS:
Looks: 7.5/10
Performance: 7.5/10
Safety: 8/10
Thirst: 8/10
Practicality: 7.5/10
Comfort: 7.5/10
Tech: 8/10
Value: 8/10
Overall: 7.75/10

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Two $30,000 Grants Awarded to Combat Senior Isolation in Lismore and Tweed

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Senior Isolation

Two $30,000 Grants Awarded to Combat Senior Isolation in Lismore and Tweed

 

By Jeff Gibbs

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin has announced that Beating Hearts of Lismore (auspiced by Northern Rivers Community Gateway) and Tweed Shire Council have each secured $30,000 under the NSW Government’s $840,000 Connecting Seniors Grant Program 2025. These grants aim to support innovative projects designed to reduce social isolation among seniors in the Lismore district and Murwillumbah area.

Supporting Seniors Through Innovative Projects

Ms. Saffin congratulated both recipients, highlighting the critical role these initiatives play in fostering community connections for older adults.

“They are among 28 organisations funded in this year’s Connecting Seniors Grant Program across categories including Aboriginal, Multicultural, Creation, Enhancement or Expansion, and Local,” said Ms. Saffin.

“I’m particularly pleased that the wonderful Beating Hearts of Lismore, coordinated by Lismore-based Geriatrician Dr. Rachel Jones and her dedicated volunteers, will be able to enrich the lives of more local seniors.”

Funded Local Projects

  1. Northern Rivers Community Gateway (Beating Hearts of Lismore):
    • Expansion of the weekly volunteer-led singing group, connecting older adults facing social isolation, dementia, or Parkinson’s disease, along with their carers.
    • Introduction of evidence-based dance classes aimed at improving strength, balance, and social connections.
  2. Tweed Shire Council – Age Well-Connect Program:
    • A diverse range of activities to combat senior isolation, including:
      • Technology classes to improve digital literacy.
      • Cooking workshops to encourage social interaction and healthy living.
      • Falls prevention and cognitive health initiatives to support physical and mental well-being.
      • A vibrant jazz festival to foster community spirit and cultural engagement.

A Broader Commitment to Senior Well-being

Since its launch in 2020, the Connecting Seniors Grant Program has funded more than 120 projects, engaging over 30,000 seniors across 82 Local Government Areas in NSW. This program aligns with the objectives of the Ageing Well in NSW: Seniors Strategy 2021-2031, showcasing the NSW Government’s dedication to building inclusive communities and addressing the growing challenges of isolation and loneliness among seniors.

For more details on the grants program and the full list of 2025 recipients, visit here.

 

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Lismore’s Oakes Oval Wins

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Lismore’s Oakes Oval Wins Prestigious State Footy Stadium Award, Eyes National Recognition

Lismore’s Oakes Oval Wins Prestigious State Footy Stadium Award, Eyes National Recognition 

Jeff Gibbs

Lismore’s Oakes Oval has taken out the NSW Ken Gannon Community Football Facility Award, putting the premier sporting venue in contention for the national title. This accolade celebrates the best community football facilities across Australia and is a testament to Lismore City Council’s commitment to delivering top-tier sporting infrastructure.

Following a $12.4 million upgrade, Oakes Oval is now a leading contender for the national prize, having firmly established itself as the premier AFL venue in regional NSW.

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg expressed pride in the community asset, emphasizing its role in Lismore’s identity.
“Local sports fans can now enjoy the best of the best playing right here in our hometown stadium,” Mayor Krieg said. “The award-winning upgrades position Oakes Oval as a prime destination for high-profile games and events, further cementing Lismore’s reputation as a regional sporting hub.”

World-Class Upgrades

The stadium’s transformation included a complete overhaul of the grandstand, featuring new seating, modern media and coaches’ boxes, and an extensive refurbishment of the Gordon Pavilion, which now boasts a function room, bar, and kitchen. The change rooms, amenities, and storage areas were also modernized, ensuring a first-rate experience for players and spectators.

Since its redevelopment, Oakes Oval has hosted AFL pre-season matches, local Australian Rules Football, Rugby League, and cricket games, as well as community events such as Carols in the Heart.

AFL Venue and Government Partnerships Manager for NSW, Samuel Thomson, noted that the award paves the way for exciting new opportunities.
“Now one of the premier AFL venues in all of NSW, we look forward to Oakes Oval becoming the centrepiece for the continued growth of our game across Northern NSW,” Mr Thomson said.

Tony Duffy, Lismore City Council’s Manager for Liveable & Active Communities, highlighted the design and planning excellence behind the redevelopment.
“This is not just a regional facility; it’s a multipurpose stadium for Lismore and Northern NSW,” Mr Duffy said. “We’re eager to see more local and elite-level content in the coming years.”

A Collaborative Effort

The refurbishment, delayed by the 2022 floods, was a joint effort across all levels of government. The project was funded by contributions from the Australian Government ($6 million), the NSW Government ($4.9 million), and Lismore City Council ($1.5 million).

With national recognition now in sight, Oakes Oval stands as a shining example of what’s possible when community, sport, and smart investment come together. Lismore’s future as a premier sporting destination has never looked brighter.

 

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Measles Alert Issued for Lismore

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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.

 

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HISTORIC AGP FEBRUARY 15 AT CASTROL LISMORE SPEEDWAY

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KAIDON BROWN, 2024 AGP winner, February 3, 2024, Lismore Speedway

HISTORIC AGP FEBRUARY 15 AT CASTROL LISMORE SPEEDWAY

 

By Dennis Newlyn

The seventy-second running of the prestigious Australian Speedcar Grand Prix will be the centre stage highlight of the Saturday night February 15 fixture at Castrol Lismore Speedway.

There will also be racing for Wingless Sprintcars, AMCA Sedan Nationals, RSA Sedans Junior Sedans.

The world acclaimed Australian Speedcar GP, which this year pays $5,000 to win,  is a very special event steeped in magnificent history and tradition after it was first held in 1938 at the former Sydney Sports Ground venue.

For promoters Kim and Mick Sauer it’s a major coup to again host this annual race at the historic Lismore Showground Speedway venue which in more recent years has become the home of the AGP.

“It’s an absolute honour to have the Australian Speedcar Grand Prix here following on from 2023 and last year’s successful event,” Kim Sauer said.

“It’s what this race stands for in the history of Australian and world Speedcar racing. It really counts for something with its perpetual shield and the glory of winning one of oldest Speedcar races in the world.”

In addition to Australia’s all time greatest Speedcar drivers, competitors representing America, New Zealand and England have won.

The legendary four times Indianapolis 500 winner AJ Foyt is a two times AGP Champion (1975 and 1976), at Sydney’s Liverpool Speedway, while the ‘king’ of world Sprintcar racing 20 times World of Outlaws American Champion Steve Kinser has his name etched on the trophy after he won in 1986, also at the Liverpool circuit.  Englishman Bill  Reynolds was the 1956 winner at the Sydney Showground.

Ten times Australian Sprintcar Champion Garry Rush took out the event in 1977 (at Liverpool Speedway) and the Sydney Showground (1996) while Sydney’s late, great multi Australian Speedcar Champion and 1988 Australian Sprintcar titleholder George Tatnell won at the Sydney Showground in 1973.

In the decades of the fifties and ‘sixties the AGP was held in consecutive years at the world famous Sydney Showground venue.

Top drivers from New South Wales and Queensland dominate the 2025 Lismore entry list.

The defending AGP titleholder is Sydney’s Kaidon Brown who last weekend took out the Speedcar main event at the Perth Motorplex.

For more information on the February 15 fixture at Castrol Lismore Speedway log on to www.lismorespeedway.com.au

AUSTRALIAN SPEEDCAR GRAND PRIX WINNERS: 1938-2024

AUSTRALIAN SPEEDCAR GRAND PRIX WINNERS: 1938-2024

*The Australian Speedcar GP was held twice in 1978. The first was part of the 1977-78 season and the other in the early stages of the 1978-79 season.

** New Zealand’s Frank Brewer late became an American citizen.

 

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Lismore Community Invited to Shape Reconciliation Action Plan

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Lismore YourSay Reconciliation Action Plan

Lismore Community Invited to Shape Reconciliation Action Plan

 

By Jeff Gibbs

Lismore City Council is calling on community members to actively participate in the development of its new Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). This important initiative seeks to foster meaningful reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities while engaging the broader public in a shared journey of respect and understanding.

Community Consultation Session Details

The upcoming consultation session offers an invaluable opportunity for residents to contribute their insights and help shape the RAP. The session will be held at:

  • Location: Lismore Central Shopping Centre
  • Date: Wednesday, 19 February
  • Time: Drop-in anytime between 10 AM and 2 PM

This open-format session welcomes all community members, providing a platform to share experiences, ideas, and feedback that will influence the plan’s development.

A Shared Commitment to Reconciliation

Jon Gibbons, General Manager of Lismore City Council, highlighted the significance of community involvement in this process.

“Reconciliation is a shared journey, and we want to ensure that our Reconciliation Action Plan reflects the voices and aspirations of our community. Meaningful engagement with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents is crucial in building strong, respectful relationships and creating positive change,” Gibbons stated.

Expert Facilitation and Community Engagement

To support the consultation process, the Council has enlisted Tim Roberts from East Coast Heritage and Archaeology. Roberts will collaborate with the community to gather valuable input, ensuring diverse perspectives are considered in shaping the new RAP.

Currently in the community consultation phase, the RAP aims to outline practical actions that will:

  • Strengthen Relationships: Build strong, respectful connections between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the broader community.
  • Promote Respect: Foster a culture of mutual understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, and contributions.
  • Create Opportunities: Develop initiatives that support economic, social, and cultural opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Have Your Say

In addition to the in-person session, the Council has launched a Your Say survey to capture further community feedback. Residents are encouraged to share their thoughts and ideas by visiting here.

This consultation phase is a critical step in ensuring the RAP is comprehensive, inclusive, and reflective of the community’s collective aspirations for reconciliation.

 

For more local news, click here.

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