The Northern Rivers Times News

OUT NOW: Your Voice, Your News – The Northern Rivers Times!

From flood-resilient schools to federal political shakeups, from cane festival comebacks to speedway takeovers – we’ve got your region covered.

Grab the April 3 edition of The Northern Rivers Times and dive into powerful stories shaping your backyard: real people, real impact, no spin. Whether it’s a cyclone prep masterclass, a domestic violence survival story, or the latest community battles – we dig deep so you stay informed.

Don’t miss the voices that matter. Your region. Your stories. Your paper.

1. UNICEF Australia Urges Disaster Plan for Children
   UNICEF calls for a national disaster plan focused on children’s needs, highlighting overlooked support during crises and long-term impacts on young Australians.
2. Cyclone Alfred: Region Applauded for Preparedness
   Communities, emergency services, and governments praised for coordinated, proactive response to Cyclone Alfred, setting a new benchmark for disaster readiness.
3. South Grafton Pool Closure Sparks Outrage
   Closure of Grafton’s only hydrotherapy pool angers residents. Council cites high maintenance costs, sparking concern for elderly and disabled locals losing vital service.
4. Domestic Violence Story: Nora’s Escape
   A survivor recounts escalating coercive control and financial abuse post-separation. Her experience underlines the complexities and dangers of non-physical domestic violence.
5. Vale Denis Benfield: A Legacy of Service
   The Clarence Valley farewells Denis Benfield, a devoted veteran and RSL advocate remembered for his naval service and tireless support of ex-servicemen.
6. Cane Harvest Festival Returns to Maclean
   Maclean revives its historic Cane Harvest Festival with modern flair and community spirit to mark 100 years of the Clarence Canegrowers Association.
7. Popular Councillor Eyes Federal Seat of Page
   Clarence Valley Councillor Karen Yager considers running as an independent for Page, driven by a desire for urgent political change and community advocacy.
8. New Era at Lismore Speedway
   Mick and Cindy Corbett announced as new promoters of Castrol Lismore Speedway, continuing the track’s revival after recent floods and leadership transitions.
9. Broadwater School Reopens in Style
   After three years in temporary classrooms, Broadwater students celebrate returning to a brand-new flood-resilient school, marking a proud moment for the whole community.

New Key Health Worker Housing to Boost Paramedic Recruitment in Kyogle

Jeff Gibbs

The Northern Rivers town of Kyogle is set to benefit from a major investment in health infrastructure, with the announcement of new Key Health Worker Accommodation to help attract and retain paramedics in the region.

The accommodation project is part of the Minns Labor Government’s $10 million commitment to improving housing options for NSW Ambulance personnel in regional areas. Kyogle has been selected as one of the initial locations based on high community need, with more regional sites to be announced soon.

This $10 million funding forms part of the broader $200.1 million Key Health Worker Accommodation program, announced in the 2024/25 State Budget. The initiative aims to ease one of the major barriers to rural health workforce recruitment – access to affordable, nearby accommodation – and will secure approximately 120 new or refurbished dwellings across rural, regional and remote NSW.

The goal is to support the recruitment and retention of over 500 health workers and their families, helping to fill critical healthcare roles in regional communities.

Accommodation options will include a mix of newly built homes, refurbished living quarters, and the purchase of suitable residential properties such as units and houses. Planning is already underway for the Kyogle project, with an emphasis on delivering quality housing close to work.

The program builds on the success of the previous $73.2 million investment in accommodation for key health workers across five regional Local Health Districts, and complements other government measures to support the rural health workforce, including:

• A record pay increase for paramedics delivered in December 2023, making NSW paramedics among the highest paid in Australia.
• A commitment to roll out 500 additional paramedics across regional, rural and remote communities.

Voices of Support

Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park, said improving access to housing is a major drawcard in attracting key workers to the bush.

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to investing in modern, sustainable accommodation options for key health workers who are the backbone of our regional, rural and remote communities,” he said.

“Providing simple, accessible housing close to work is essential to ensuring we have a strong and stable ambulance workforce in the regions.”

Minister for the North Coast, Janelle Saffin, welcomed the funding for Kyogle, noting the importance of tailored support for remote areas.

“Local people in Kyogle and surrounding towns and villages have a great need for paramedic care due to the simple fact that they live in rural and sometimes isolated locations,” she said.
“I welcome this targeted funding aimed at attracting and retaining more paramedics in Kyogle – and planning for the type of housing needed is already underway.”

NSW Ambulance Chief Executive, Dr Dominic Morgan, reiterated the value of regional investment.

“Our paramedics are the foundation of emergency health care in regional NSW, delivering lifesaving support wherever it’s needed,” Dr Morgan said.
“NSW Ambulance remains unwavering in its commitment to towns like Kyogle to ensure they receive expert healthcare when it matters most.”

This new initiative represents a practical and much-needed step towards addressing the long-standing challenges of rural healthcare and ensuring regional communities like Kyogle get the support they deserve.

Lismore Man’s $100,000 Keno Win Leaves Him Sleepless with Excitement

A Lismore retiree is still coming to terms with his incredible $100,000 Keno win, revealing that excitement kept him awake all night after checking his numbers and realising his life-changing fortune.

The Northern Rivers resident secured a Keno Classic 15 Spot prize in draw 838, drawn on Wednesday, 19 March 2025. While many winners dream of lavish holidays, new cars, or mortgage-free living, the Lismore man has decided to bank the full amount for the future, ensuring financial security in his retirement.

A Night to Remember at Lismore Workers Club

The lucky winner, who wishes to remain anonymous, purchased his ticket at the Lismore Workers Club, 231 Keen Street, Lismore. He was enjoying a meal with a close friend when he realised something extraordinary had happened.

“I’m still in shock! It caught me off guard,” he admitted. “I didn’t sleep a wink last night! I was absolutely flabbergasted.”

The win unfolded in a moment of disbelief, with the retiree struggling to process the reality of his numbers appearing on the screen.

“It happened so quickly—I could barely comprehend what was going on. I looked at the results and immediately recognised a lot of my numbers, which are based on my grandchildren’s birthdates.”

Sitting across from his friend at the Lismore Workers Club, he turned and said:

“I think I just won $100,000!”

His friend, equally stunned, responded: “What?! Wait, what? Take a picture!”

The winner spoke highly of the Lismore Workers Club, which had reopened last September after the devastating floods.

“We love this club. They’ve been great to us, and we’re proud to be members.”

A Responsible Approach to a Life-Changing Win

Despite the temptation to splurge, the Lismore retiree has chosen to save his winnings for the future.

“I’m going to put the prize into the bank and let it sit there. Being retired and on the pension, I want to make sure I make the most of this windfall.”

He expressed deep gratitude to Keno and Lismore Workers Club, saying:

“Thank you, Keno! Thank you, Lismore Workers Club!”

Club Celebrates Major Win

Lismore Workers Club duty manager Jye Livingstone said the atmosphere was electric when the major win was announced.

“Knowing that we sold a major Keno-winning entry brings a lot of joy to our team. It’s always exciting to see our patrons win big—it’s a moment we won’t forget.”

The buzz quickly spread among the club’s patrons, with the lucky winner showered in congratulations.

“Our customers love hearing about big wins like this. It creates excitement and hope that they might be next.”

It had been some time since the venue witnessed such a significant win, making this $100,000 victory even more special.

“Congratulations to the lucky winner! We wish him all the best with his winnings.”

Keno’s Winning Streak in NSW

The Lismore man’s win is just one of many life-changing Keno prizes won in New South Wales and the ACT.

In 2024, Keno players across the eastern states of Australia secured more than 76 million wins, totalling over $1.19 billion in prize money.

Last year alone, Keno crowned 23 millionaires and multi-millionaires, who collectively took home more than $54.9 million.

• 11 of those major winners were from NSW and the ACT, including an East Maitland dad who won a staggering $6.6 million.
• Players in NSW and the ACT won a combined $599.2 million across 38.9 million winning Keno tickets.

With so many big wins happening across the country, the Lismore Workers Club winner is living proof that anyone can hit the jackpot!

Could You Be the Next Big Winner?

With Keno wins happening daily, could you be next? Visit your local club or venue and try your luck—you never know when you might strike it rich!

Seas The Day Returns: The World’s Biggest Female Surfing Event Hits Kingscliff Beach in 2025

The world’s largest female participation surfing event, Seas The Day, is set to return to Kingscliff Beach, NSW, on June 21-22, 2025. Officially launched at NSW Parliament by Premier Chris Minns, this year’s festival promises to be the biggest and best yet, celebrating women’s surfing, empowerment, and community engagement.

With the 2024 edition drawing a record 12,000 spectators and nearly 300 female surfers, the 2025 event aims to expand further, offering more competitions, interactive experiences, and inspiring discussions led by some of the world’s top female athletes and industry leaders.

A Celebration of Female Surfing and Empowerment

Seas The Day is not just a competition—it’s a festival designed to encourage women of all ages and skill levels to get involved in surfing in a supportive, fun, and pressure-free environment. It’s a space where elite athletes, casual surfers, and newcomers can come together, share experiences, and inspire each other.

Surfing Australia CEO, Chris Mater, emphasized the event’s significance:

“Seas The Day is a groundbreaking event for women in surfing. With nearly 300 competitors and 15,000 enthusiastic spectators, this festival not only showcases incredible talent but also unites the surfing community in an extraordinary way.
The workshops and inspirational talks led by some of the most influential figures in surfing are truly transformative, empowering all who attend. This festival is a testament to the strength, resilience, and passion of women surfers everywhere.
I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone involved in making this incredible weekend possible. Together, we continue to inspire and uplift one another, and I can’t wait to see it grow in 2025.”

The 2025 event will include:
✅ Fun Tag Team Surfing Competition – Open to women and girls of all skill levels
✅ Live Music & Entertainment – Featuring local artists, DJs, and performances
✅ Interactive Wellness Activities – Including yoga, ice baths, breathwork, and fitness sessions
✅ Guest Speaker Panels – Covering women in sport, career development, and health & wellness
✅ Celebrity Surf Challenge – Featuring world champions, Olympians, and media personalities
✅ Workshops & Training – Covering topics from sustainable surf practices to mental resilience in sports

This two-day event on the Tweed Coast will be bigger than ever, empowering women of all ages and backgrounds to connect, learn, and grow through the love of surfing.

Top Athletes, Olympians, and Rising Stars to Headline 2025 Festival

Seas The Day 2025 will feature an elite lineup of world-class athletes, rising stars, and industry pioneers, including:

🌊 Seven-time World Champion Layne Beachley – Returning to host her ‘Awake Academy’
🌊 Surviving Summer’s Lilliana Bowery – Netflix star and professional surfer
🌊 Leihani Zoric & Milla Brown – Rising stars and Australian Junior Surfer of the Year
🌊 Chelsea Hedges & Kate Wilcomes – Former world champions and industry leaders

Young talents are also taking center stage, including 13-year-old Gidget Kowalski, who competed in 2024 alongside legends Layne Beachley and Tru Starling.

“Surfing in a team takes the pressure off and makes it so much fun. Events like this encourage more girls to give it a go!” – Gidget Kowalski

The festival’s celebrity surf challenge will see Olympians, media personalities, and world champions come together for some friendly competition, supporting women’s sports and encouraging greater participation in surfing.

NSW Government’s Commitment to Women’s Sport

Seas The Day 2025 is proudly supported by a $100,000 grant from the NSW Government, reinforcing a strong commitment to female participation in sports.

Premier of New South Wales, Chris Minns, emphasized the importance of supporting women’s sports:

“Seas The Day is not just about competition—it’s about bringing people together, supporting local businesses, and creating opportunities for women in sport.
I can’t wait to see the next generation of champions ride the waves and experience the thrill of this incredible event.”

Minister for Women, Jodie Harrison, added:

“This festival aligns with the NSW Women’s Strategy 2023-2026, encouraging women and girls of all backgrounds to participate in sports.
I encourage everyone who can attend to show their support and cheer on these talented female surfers.”

Minister for Sport, Steve Kamper, highlighted the government’s commitment to hosting large-scale events across NSW:

“Over the last few years, we have seen a remarkable groundswell of support for fantastic women’s sporting events such as Seas The Day.
With legends like Layne Beachley leading the way, it is becoming ever easier for the next generation of women and girls to get involved in surfing.”

How to Get Involved

Women and girls of all skill levels are encouraged to join the competition in the following divisions:
🏄‍♀️ Open Women’s Shortboard (Sambazon)
🏄‍♀️ Open Women’s Longboard (Coffee Supreme)
🏄‍♀️ Ghanda Girls Under 18 Shortboard
🏄‍♀️ Salty Girls Surf School Under 12 Mini Shredders

The team-based format removes pressure and encourages fun, camaraderie, and skill-sharing.

Join the Movement

📅 Dates: June 21-22, 2025
📍 Location: Kingscliff Beach, NSW
🌐 More Info & Registration: SeasTheDaySurfFestival.com

Seas The Day is proudly funded by the NSW Government and supported by Tweed Shire Council and leading sponsors including:
🏆 Jim Beam
🏆 Sambazon
🏆 Ruffie Rustic Foods
🏆 Ghanda
🏆 Surfers for Climate

Be Part of the World’s Largest Female Surf Festival!

Whether you’re a competitor, spectator, or first-time surfer, Seas The Day 2025 offers something for everyone. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this empowering celebration of women’s surfing at Kingscliff Beach!

Record Emergency Department Attendances in Northern NSW Local Health District Hospitals

Jeff Gibbs

The Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) has recorded its busiest quarter ever, with nearly 60,000 emergency department (ED) attendances in the final quarter of 2024, marking a 2.9% increase from the same period in 2023.

According to the latest Bureau of Health Information Healthcare Quarterly report, Tweed Valley Hospital saw the highest number of ED visits on record, with 15,153 attendances, a 4.6% rise from the previous year.

Rising Demand and Ambulance Arrivals

NNSWLHD hospitals also experienced the highest number of ambulance arrivals ever, with 10,176 patients, a 5.3% increase compared to the same quarter in 2023. Despite the surge in demand, 78.7% of patients were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within 30 minutes, ensuring efficient care delivery.

Efforts to Improve Patient Flow

To enhance efficiency and reduce wait times, NNSWLHD continues to implement strategies such as:

• Patient flow discharge concierges to expedite hospital discharges.
• Improved emergency care protocols for faster assessment and treatment.
• Urgent Care Centres & Hospital in the Home initiatives to prevent unnecessary ED visits.

Surgical Procedures & On-Time Performance

During the quarter, NNSWLHD hospitals conducted 3,326 planned surgeries, with 82.6% completed on time—a 6.6 percentage point improvement from the previous year.

• Semi-urgent surgeries: 79.9% performed on time (+8.8% from 2023).
• Non-urgent surgeries: 79.4% performed on time (+9.5% from 2023).

Patients awaiting surgery who experience worsening symptoms are encouraged to contact their doctor for a reassessment of urgency.

Call for Community Support

With EDs under pressure, NNSWLHD is urging the public to save emergency departments for life-threatening situations. For non-urgent medical concerns, people can contact Healthdirect Australia (1800 022 222) for 24-hour medical advice.

Emergency Department Performance by Hospital

Ballina District Hospital

• ED Attendances: 4,872
• Patients leaving ED within 4 hours: 70.9%
• Ambulance transfers within 30 minutes: 84.8%

Byron Central Hospital

• ED Attendances: 6,191 (+2.6%)
• Patients treated on time: 77.9%
• Patients leaving ED within 4 hours: 81.9%
• Ambulance transfers within 30 minutes: 93.0%

Casino & District Memorial Hospital

• ED Attendances: 3,605
• Patients leaving ED within 4 hours: 83.5%
• Ambulance transfers within 30 minutes: 96.7%

Grafton Base Hospital

• ED Attendances: 7,536 (+4.9%)
• Patients leaving ED within 4 hours: 68.7%
• Ambulance transfers within 30 minutes: 83.5%

Lismore Base Hospital

• ED Attendances: 10,554 (+2%)
• Increase in triage category 2 patients: +18.6%
• Ambulance transfers within 30 minutes: 61.1%

Maclean District Hospital

• ED Attendances: 4,330 (+10%)
• Patients treated on time: 74.2%
• Patients leaving ED within 4 hours: 86.5%
• Ambulance transfers within 30 minutes: 92.7%

Murwillumbah District Hospital

• ED Attendances: 5,396 (+3.3%)
• Patients treated on time: 86.1%
• Patients leaving ED within 4 hours: 87.0%
• Ambulance transfers within 30 minutes: 96.7%

Tweed Valley Hospital

• ED Attendances: 15,153 (Highest on record, +4.6%)
• Patients treated on time: 76.5% (Above state average of 58.1%)
• Patients leaving ED within 4 hours: 66.6%
• Ambulance transfers within 30 minutes: 84.8%

Key Takeaways

• Record-breaking ED attendances and ambulance arrivals across Northern NSW.
• Tweed Valley Hospital reports its busiest quarter on record, exceeding state performance averages.
• Improved surgical efficiency, with more on-time procedures.
• New initiatives in place to improve patient flow and reduce ED demand.
• Public urged to seek alternative care for non-life-threatening conditions.

Stay informed and support your local healthcare system.