Cate Faehrmann MLC says the NSW government has knocked any hope of gambling reform on the head in yesterday’s state budget, with tax concessions to clubs with poker machines totalling $1.252 billion, while revenue from taxes on poker machine losses have been revised upward by a whopping $638.2 million over the forward estimates.

An engaging and informative Science in the Pub event is planned on Thursday, 16 July, from 5pm at Two Mates Brewing, South Lismore.

H5 avian flu has officially arrived in Western Australia, first discovered days ago in a dead migratory seabird near Esperance (700 km south-east of Perth), and since found in numerous other birds.

Bobby Conn and Molly O’Neil, from Drover (either end) Paul Tansley from Stone & Wood (back) with Damian Farrell from Fletcher St Cottage pulling out his best Ray Charles moves. Join them and plenty of other performers at the 12th Festival of The Stone on Saturday, 20 June

The future of Lismore is now up for discussion, with Council's Strategic Planning Framework currently out for public exhibition. Now is your time to have your say – consultation closes 26 June.

Byron Shire Council has moved a step closer to seeking a special rate rise, unanimously endorsing a community engagement program that will form a key part of any future application to increase rates above the state-imposed cap.