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Northern Rivers Local News

Why you may be feeling anxious exiting lockdown

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Why you may be feeling anxious exiting lockdown

Why you may be feeling anxious exiting lockdown

After months of being in lockdown, it’s very normal to feel overwhelmed when reconnecting with society.

As we begin to gradually reopen in New South Wales after more than 100 days in lockdown, friends and family joke about bringing notes with talking points when reconnecting – as we’re all potentially feeling a little rusty in the socialising department. But jokes aside, there are also those who have expressed feelings of anxiety and mixed emotions as we start to return to some form of normality.

Is it normal to feel this way? And how can we best manage our feelings of anxiety?
“It’s very normal to feel anxious about socialising after being in lockdown for so many months,” said Dr Suraj Samtani, clinical psychologist at UNSW Medicine & Health and Postdoctoral Fellow at the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA). “Studies from other countries have found that a lot of people felt this way during the first few months of reopening after lockdown. Remember that you are not alone in feeling this way.”

Dr Samtani said there are a number of factors that may cause individuals to feel anxious as they re-enter society. “First, it’s important to remember that COVID infections are a health condition, so it’s human to feel anxious about getting sick. It may be that friends or family have had COVID and we saw what it did to them.

“It may be that we’re worried about our loved ones getting COVID if we start to socialise again. We may also feel this way because we have not been socialising for a long time so it’s easy to lose confidence.”

Allow yourself time to readjust
If you are feeling anxious, Dr Samtani said it’s important to go at your own pace and allow yourself time to readjust.

“We know from other countries that people felt anxious about reopening for a few months and then their anxiety decreased naturally over time. If you are feeling anxious, start with small steps – like meeting one or two people outdoors – and repeat the steps until you feel more confident before moving on to medium steps.”

Simply strategies such as setting time boundaries may also help you get back into the social groove. Rather than accepting open-ended social interactions, you may feel more comfortable meeting up over a coffee for an hour or so. It’s important to articulate what you’re comfortable and not comfortable doing when it comes to socialising.

Dr Samtani also suggests trusting and following the government’s health advice instead of looking at other unofficial sources of information. “Don’t binge watch COVID news and don’t avoid situations if you know they are safe, but take things step by step.

“Avoidance leads to anxiety, but experience leads to confidence.” Those who are most likely to feel anxious

Those who are most likely to feel anxious
Individuals in particular pockets of society are more likely to feel anxious about reopening, such as those suffering from financial stress. Dr Samtani said research showed people living alone, who lost income or had economic worries felt more anxious during lockdown.

“Often these are young adults working in gig economies who don’t have savings, migrants or people living with health conditions. People with pre-existing mental health conditions are more at risk of feeling anxious due to changes in restrictions. As children go back to school, parents and teachers may also feel anxious about re-opening.”

The effects of reduced social connection on individuals as a result of the pandemic may depend on an individual’s personality. Interestingly, research from Kingston University in the UK revealed extroverts experienced less anxiety during lockdown.

However, despite individual characteristics, socialising is potentially going to feel more exhausting for some of us compared to pre-pandemic times as more thought needs to go into socialising safely. As we navigate public health orders that are constantly being updated, as well as ongoing public health measures such as mask-wearing, social distancing, and entry into venues based on vaccination status, there are additional factors we now need to consider before stepping out the door. And that’s okay. Just remember, it’s perfectly normal to feel stressed as we begin to reconnect with society. Sharing your feelings with a close friend or relative will help overcome these feelings.

“It’s important to have someone – like a friend, family member or health professional – you can confide in about your feelings and the changes that are happening. Set up a routine with getting outdoors, exercising and doing activities you enjoy. Helping others can also help us to reduce our anxiety. Reach out to a friend or family member who has been isolated,” said Dr Samtani.

While there may be ongoing anxiety-related conditions as we gradually reopen, the good news is a study on resilience suggested that we can build resilience during the pandemic by actively seeking social support, finding meaning in our experiences, and helping others.

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Tweed Heads Man Revs Up Excitement with $50,000 Keno Win

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Tweed Heads Man Revs Up Excitement with $50,000 Keno Win

Jeff Gibbs

A Tweed Heads man is ready for high-speed adventures after winning $50,000 in a Keno Classic draw. The lucky winner hit the jackpot in draw 968 on Thursday, 13 February 2025, with his winning ticket purchased at Ivory Waterside, 156 Wharf Street, Tweed Heads.

The New South Wales resident said he discovered the exciting news during a night out with a friend.
“It was quite the surprise,” the winner shared. “We put on a few games and completely forgot about them. We weren’t watching the screen, so it was only when I checked my ticket that I found out about the win.”

Overjoyed with the unexpected windfall, the pair stayed out to celebrate. The winner already has plans for his prize:
“I’ll probably buy a new motorbike and put some towards the house. I’ve only played Keno about five times, so it was pretty amazing to win like this.”

The man revealed he used a selection of special numbers and couldn’t be more grateful for his good fortune.
“Thanks so much!”

Keno Players Enjoy Big Wins Across Australia

In FY24, Keno players across Queensland, New South Wales, the ACT, and Victoria celebrated more than 78.5 million wins, collectively worth over $1.16 billion.

Among the major winners were 18 millionaires and multi-millionaires, including a Shelly Beach dad who took home a $5.92 million windfall. Eight major winners were from New South Wales and the ACT, with total winnings of $588.5 million across the region.

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Adam Gilchrist Pavilion Lismore Honours an Aussie Cricketing Legend

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Adam Gilchrist Pavilion Lismore

Adam Gilchrist Pavilion Honours an Aussie Cricketing Legend

Jeff Gibbs

Lismore’s reputation as a premier regional sporting hub has reached new heights with the unveiling of the Adam Gilchrist Pavilion at the Lismore Regional Sporting Hub. Named in honour of Adam (Gilly) Gilchrist, one of Australia’s greatest cricketers, the pavilion is part of a $12.4 million upgrade to Oakes Oval and Crozier Field.

A Tribute to a Cricket Icon
Adam Gilchrist, renowned for his aggressive batting and wicketkeeping prowess, is deeply connected to Lismore, where he spent his formative years and attended school in Goonellabah. As a key member of three World Cup-winning teams (1999, 2003, 2007) and a Wisden Cricketer of the Year (2002), his contributions to Australian cricket are legendary. His induction into the International Cricket Council’s Hall of Fame cements his place in cricket history.

Reflecting on the honour, Gilchrist said:
“It’s an incredible honour to have a pavilion named after you. Growing up in Lismore, I never imagined this day would come. I hope it serves as a reminder of the community that supported me and how much this place means to me.”

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg described the pavilion as a fitting tribute:
“Gilly brought joy and amazement to cricket fans across the world. It’s an absolute honour to have this high-quality facility named after one of Lismore’s most iconic sporting figures.”

A Multi-Purpose Sporting Venue

The Adam Gilchrist Pavilion is a modern, multi-purpose venue designed to host sporting and community events. Key features include:

  • Function room with internal seating for 100
  • Commercial kitchen and bar
  • Office space and meeting rooms
  • Viewing deck overlooking Oakes Oval and Crozier Field
  • Modern amenities including air conditioning, Wi-Fi, accessible toilets, and a lift

The flexible space can be divided into three separate areas, making it suitable for meetings, private functions, conferences, weddings, and corporate events.

A Major Investment in Regional Sport

The $12.4 million upgrade to the Lismore Regional Sporting Hub has transformed the facility, delivering:

  • New change rooms
  • Upgraded grandstands
  • Enhanced spectator areas
  • Cricket training nets built to national standards
  • Additional amenities blocks

Funded through contributions from the Australian Government ($6 million), NSW Government’s Regional Sport Infrastructure Fund ($4.5 million), Stronger Country Communities Fund ($400,000), and Lismore City Council ($1.5 million), the upgrades ensure that Lismore remains a top-tier destination for high-profile sporting events.

The Adam Gilchrist Pavilion is now available for hire, offering an ideal setting for community gatherings, corporate events, and social celebrations.

For bookings and more information, visit the Lismore City Council website at www.lismore.nsw.gov.au.

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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.

 

For more local news, click here.

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Mandy Nolan Pledges to Revive Nature Protection Laws with Labor Support

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Mandy Nolan

Mandy Nolan Pledges to Revive Nature Protection Laws with Labor Support

 

Jeff Gibbs

Federal Greens candidate Mandy Nolan has vowed to work alongside Labor and independents to reinstate critical environmental protections following the Prime Minister’s controversial decision to abandon proposed nature protection laws.

Nolan, who requires just a 1.8% swing to secure the seat of Richmond, expressed her deep concern over the federal government’s retreat from its environmental commitments. “The voters of Richmond deserve better,” she declared, emphasising her commitment to championing strong environmental legislation if elected.

The Prime Minister’s announcement, made under mounting pressure from Western Australian mining interests, confirmed that the long-anticipated environmental protection bills would not be introduced before the next federal election—a direct breach of a key promise from the 2022 campaign. The decision reportedly blindsided members of his own party, including the current Labor MP for Richmond, who had publicly assured constituents as recently as last week that the legislation would soon return to the Senate.

The shelved legislation had aimed to establish a new Environment Protection Agency (EPA), crafted in response to overwhelming scientific evidence highlighting Australia’s deteriorating ecosystems and the escalating risk of extinction for native species such as the koala, greater glider, and eastern quoll.

In stark contrast to this scientific consensus, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton downplayed the urgency during a mining conference last year, stating, “Nobody… could argue that we have inadequate environmental protections.”

Mandy Nolan’s Stand for the Environment

Addressing the issue, Mandy Nolan stressed the Greens’ commitment to environmental advocacy. “Nearly 2 million Australians voted for the Greens in the last election because they demanded stronger environmental outcomes from Parliament,” she said. “We were working constructively with Labor’s Environment Minister to achieve meaningful reforms, but unfortunately, those efforts were undermined by her own leader.”

Nolan highlighted the disconnect between political actions and community values, particularly in Richmond. “If Labor can neglect environmental protection and still hold seats like Richmond, it sends a dangerous message that real action isn’t necessary,” she warned. “More than 70% of voters in Northern Rivers want to end native forest logging. A vote for the Greens will not only help keep Peter Dutton out of power but will also push Labor to prioritize the issues that matter most to our community.”

She also pointed to recently released emails, obtained through Freedom of Information requests, in which Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek praised the Greens for their “constructive approach” in negotiations over the EPA legislation. “I look forward to continuing that constructive relationship in Parliament,” Nolan added.

Greens Reinforce Commitment to Nature Protection

Senator Sarah Hanson-Young, the Greens’ Environment spokesperson, echoed Nolan’s sentiments, condemning the Prime Minister’s decision to abandon the environmental reforms. “It is extremely disappointing that instead of protecting our great forests and wildlife, the Prime Minister has once again capitulated to the vested interests of the WA mining industry and figures like Gina Rinehart,” she stated.

Hanson-Young urged voters to break the cycle of environmental neglect. “We can’t keep voting for the same two parties and expect different results. If Australians want to save our beautiful forests and end native forest logging, they need to vote Green for nature this election.”

With the federal election looming, Mandy Nolan’s campaign in Richmond stands as a critical battleground for the future of Australia’s environmental policies. Her message is clear: a vote for the Greens is a vote for stronger environmental protections, thriving native wildlife, and a sustainable future.

 

For more local news, click 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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