Northern Rivers locals and flood-impacted residents will gather in Lismore this Saturday to demand the NSW Reconstruction Authority stop demolishing heritage homes and deliver on broken promises, as community anger at the failed flood recovery reaches a new peak.

The load limit for Byron Creek Bridge has been increased to 24 tonnes, say Byron Shire Council, following structural analysis of the bridge.

More candidates are putting up their hands to run for the seat of Ballina at next year’s state election.

Community organisations are encouraged to apply for NSW government grants to bring cultural festivals and events to life across the state over the coming year.