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St Florian’s Day accolades for our fire fighting heroes

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NSW-Northern-Rivers-Breaking-News

St Florian’s Day accolades for our fire fighting heroes

The accolades continue to come in recognition of the heroic and selfless efforts of the region’s fire fighters in the dark days of 2019/20.
Earlier this month, on St Florian’s Day, named after the Patron Saint of Firefighters, the NSW
Rural Fire Service Commissioner, Rob Rogers, handed out a variety of awards, recognising the efforts of groups and individuals who had gone well beyond the level of duty normally expected of them.
This year’s recipients demonstrated extreme acts of bravery in the face of horrific conditions experienced during the 2019/2020 Black Summer bush fires.
COVID-19 restrictions meant the Rural Fire Service was unable to mark this St Florian’s Day with one event to present all recipients with their awards.
On May 4 those who received he highest of honours were presented with their awards while there have been a number of regional events planned in the coming weeks for those receiving other commendations.
Earlier this year Lawrence firefighter, Deputy Captain Scott Campbell was named the Clarence Valley’s Local Hero for 2020 for his efforts during the battle against the bushfire that swept through Nymboida on November 8 and 9, 2019.
For his efforts Mr Campbell received the Commissioner’s Commendation for Bravery.
Here is the full citation.
Deputy Group Captain Scott Campbell
Lawrence Brigade, Clarence Valley, Area North Eastern
On November 8 2019, the Liberation Trail fire impacted numerous properties near the village of Nymboida. As Divisional Commander of the Nymboida Sector, Deputy Group Captain Campbell received advice of a person trapped and responded immediately.
On arrival, Deputy Group Captain Campbell went to the aid of a distressed woman who was in a fire-damaged car in a paddock. After getting her car onto the road, he gave her directions to drive to safety and told her he would get to her husband. He then continued on to a neighbouring property, where he found the woman’s injured husband battling a shed fire.
The resident was surrounded by fire, with spot fires from the main fire front approaching from the southwest under strong winds.
Deputy Group Captain Campbell assisted the resident to fight the fire and prepare the property until he was down to approximately 100 litres of water. With the fire fast approaching and flames more than nine metres high, he made the decision to retreat to a safer area even though the resident refused to leave. After some pleading, and with the fire less than 100 metres from the house, Deputy Group Captain Campbell managed to convince the resident to get in the tanker.
As they were leaving, they drove over a small fallen tree and the vehicle was overrun with fire. With flames at least 12 metres high and fire behind them even higher, Deputy Group Captain Campbell knew their only chance was to keep going. The vehicle sustained significant damage and soon stalled. Eventually, Deputy Group Captain Campbell was able to start the tanker and continue the escape through poor visibility and extreme heat. He successfully manoeuvred the vehicle, the resident and himself to a safe area where an ambulance attended to the injured resident.
Deputy Group Captain Campbell demonstrated exceptional fortitude, bravery and acts of courage during this perilous life-threatening situation.
Deputy Group Captain Scott Campbell is a worthy recipient of the Commissioner’s Commendation for Bravery.
In addition the Commissioner recognised the service of many other firefighters during the 2019/20 summer. Here is a list of the people and units in the North East of NSW the Commissioner recognised.
Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation Individual Senior Deputy captain Harold Gibson
Trenayr Brigade, Clarence Valley
During the 2018 and 2019/20 bushfires Senior Deputy Captain Harold Gibson proved to be an outstanding asset to the district.
He demonstrated stamina, commitment and dedication in taking on a wide range of duties day after day as a fire fighter, divisional commander and in communications support.
Deputy Captain Evan Delaforce, Tucabia Brigade
Deputy captain Evan Delaforce joined the Tucabia Brigade in 2005 and has served in a number of roles in that time. He is recognised as one of the most active members in the Clarence Valley. He continually displays selfless acts where his juggles his home and work life to make himself available to attend incident call-outs, campaign fires and out-of-area deployments.
Senior Deputy Captain Walter Murray, Mount Ramornie Brigade
Senior Deputy Captain Walter Murray joined the Mount Ramornie Brigade in 1986 and has served in his current role since 2012. During the 2019/20 fire season he was one of the most prominent volunteers who dedicated a significant amount of his time assisting with the fire fighting effort.
He was instrumental in identifying and implementing containment strategies at a number of fires.
Captain Michael Rogan, Grafton City
Captain Michael ‘Mick’ Rogan joined Grafton City Brigade in 2008 and has been its Captain since 2019. He demonstrated an exceptional amount of reliability, commitment and dedication by consistently offering to help when asked to assist. He has also been very active as a mentor and leader to brigade members, setting a great example attending out of area events and motor vehicle accidents.
Group Captain David Tucker Bonalbo Brigade
On Friday, December 6, 2019 Group Captain David Tucker was defending his property at Baryulgil from the Washpool fire. He learned the Bangala Creek fire had crossed the Clarence River, threatening the village of Bonalbo. He left the fire at his property and travelled 70km to Bonalbo. As group captain for the area, he knew he was needed and took control of the fire fighting operations to defend the village.
Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation
Unit
Ewingar Brigade, Clarence Valley
The efforts of the Ewingar Brigade fighting the Long Gully Fire from September 22, 2019, demonstrated the members’ hard-working and resourceful nature. Several brigade members were among those who experienced significant losses, but they continued to fight fires in the region after the Long Gully Fire threat eased.
Far North Coast Brigades
The 55 members of the Far North Coast brigades deployed to Cobargo in southern NSW in January 2020, were so affected by what they saw, when they returned home, they raised more than $40,000 to assist those affected communities and committee members returned to Cobargo to help in the recovery.
Lower North Coast Brigades
The 2019/20 fire season began in early August for Lower North Coast brigade. It culminated on November 8, 2019, in some of the most severe fires seen in the region with 64 houses destroyed in Nambucca and 67 in Kempsey. The severe conditions that summer ensured these brigades were active into the next year.
Northern Rivers Brigades Busby’s Flat/Rappville Fires
The actions of the NSW RFS and other emergency services personnel during the fires of October 7 and 8 at Busby’s Flat and Rappville went well above and beyond what is expected of them. The intense pressure these firefighters worked under was above the experience ever witnessed before by the most seasoned firefighters involved.
Northern Rivers Brigades Kyogle
The Tabulam, Mallanganee, Bonalbo and Old Bonalbo brigades on the afternoon of February 12, 2019 fought a fire which started near Yellow Creek. They successfully defended the Jubullum Village. The fire in subsequent days destroyed many properties further to the north and west, but no properties were lost on that first day.
Clarence Valley Fire Control Centre Group Captain – Group 1, Trenayr, Coaldale and Copmanhurst brigades
Group Captain John Page and his crew’s bravery, skill and commitment were credited with saving lives and property during the October 8 Busby’s Flat fire. Using local knowledge the firefighters recognised two local people, Gwen Hyde and Robert Lindsay, were not accounted for. For more than two days Captain Page assisted police in the search for them.
Commissioner’s Unit Citation for Service
Far North Coast Strike Team
The Far North Coast Strike Team crew’s deployment to the October 8 Busby Flat/Rappville fires resulted in an extraordinary day of heroic action. Overall the crews demonstrated initiative and leadership qualities of the highest order.
Gulmarrad Brigade
As one of the most active brigade in the Clarence Valley, the Gulmarrad Brigade supplied an exceptional number of crews and showed remarkable stamina and commitment during the 2019/20 fire season, both within the Clarence Valley and to out-of-area deployments.
Tyringham Brigade
The Clarence Valley, New England and Northern Tablelands Local Government areas were adversely impacted by fire from July 2019 to January 2020.
During this bush fire emergency, members of the Tyringham Brigade demonstrated exceptional stamina and commitment in the effort to protect lives and property.
To read the full transcripts of the citations, an e-book is available at: https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/news-and-media/st-florians-day-2021 .

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

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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.

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

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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.

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NSW Expands Successful Short-Term Regional Health Deployment Program

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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.

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

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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.

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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.

 

For more local news, click here.

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