Urged

From October 1 to November 12, Grafton recorded 164.2mm of rainfall, which resulted in an overly wet site, affecting critical work including concrete pours, blockwork construction and electrical works.

The report noted how council staff and construction site workers combined to keep the project on track.

“While council has assisted by allocating resources to additional labour, concreting and removal of waste, the project critical path remains in danger of being met,” it read.

“Delays in construction will affect the timing of the offcial opening of the Aquatic Centre in its entirety.

“Council’s contractor, Hines Construction is currently working towards a partial opening in December of the

Grafton Olympic Pool and surrounds.

“The Grafton Cub Scout Memorial Indoor Pool and splashpad is expected to be open in early 2025.

“It is anticipated that the construction team will fnalise works before Christmas and resume in January, so the revised expected completion for the aquatic centre in its entirety is February, 2025.

With warmer conditions allowing mosquitoes to thrive, NSW Health is urging residents to take precautions against mosquito bites, as these insects can transmit serious illnesses such as Murray Valley encephalitis, Japanese encephalitis (JE), Ross River virus, and Barmah Forest virus.

Mosquito-Borne Disease Surveillance

Dr. Jeremy McAnulty, NSW Health’s Executive Director of Health Protection, highlighted the importance of mosquito surveillance, conducted from November to April each year. Recently, the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) was detected in a mosquito sample collected at Lake Wyangan on 3 December 2024.

This detection serves as a reminder for residents, especially in GriOith and those spending time outdoors, to take protective measures.

Free JE Vaccination

A free JE vaccine is available for eligible individuals. Residents should:

• Check their eligibility on the NSW Health website.

• Book an appointment with GPs, Aboriginal health services, or pharmacists.

• Notify the provider in advance, as they may require time to order the vaccine.

No human cases of JEV have been reported in NSW since October 2022.

Preventive Actions Against Mosquito Bites To reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses:

• Apply repellent: Use products with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

• Wear protective clothing: Light, looseftting, long-sleeved shirts and pants.

“This will delay the offcial opening of the centre to February 2025, which also allows time for the event to be planned and arrangements made for the attendance of dignitaries, in accordance with grant agreements.”

Cr Smith said a workshop involving councillors would share ideas for an opening ceremony with the Community Focus Group to come up with a suitable ceremony.

to Protect Themselves During Mosquito Season

• Avoid peak mosquito times: Stay indoors at dawn and dusk.

• Use insect repellents indoors and outdoors: Employ sprays, vaporizers, and mosquito coils in wellventilated areas.

• Install insect screens: Cover windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.

• Eliminate stagnant water: Remove items like old tires and pots that collect water.

• Protect children and infants: Use repellents safe for children over three months and mosquito nets for infants.

• Camp safely: Sleep in screened tents or under mosquito nets. Learn More For more details on mosquito-borne diseases and ways to protect yourself, visit the NSW Health website.

Justine Elliot Secures Over $3.5 Million for Byron Bay’s St Andrew’s Village

ROBERT HEYWARD

Local Labor MP Justine Elliot (pictured) has announced a signifcant boost for St Andrew’s Village (George’s Cottages) in Byron Bay, with the Albanese Labor Government providing $3,595,733 in funding. The investment will support essential upgrades, including redesigning 40 ensuites, addressing drainage and external repairs, and enhancing care for homeless residents.

The funding is part of Round 2 of the Albanese Government’s Aged Care Capital Assistance Program (ACCAP), aimed at modernizing aged care facilities operated by not-for-proft and small communitybased providers. The initiative also focuses on generating employment opportunities within regional communities.

“This $3.5 million funding is fantastic news for our North Coast community,” said Ms. Elliot. “It highlights our government’s commitment to ensuring Australian seniors have access to high-quality aged care services.”

The upgrades at St Andrew’s Village will create a more home-like environment, with modern amenities and comfortable living spaces, beneftting both residents and staff. The project is a step forward in delivering specialist care services in regional areas, a priority of the Albanese Government’s aged care reforms.

A Lifeline for Byron Bay’s Aged Care Sector

The announcement comes after a challenging period for Byron Bay’s aged care community.

Following the closure of Feros Care’s Byron Bay Village in 2023, federal and state Labor governments worked closely with the community to secure St Andrew’s as the new provider for the site.

“A year on, I’m proud to deliver this signifcant funding to ensure St Andrew’s Village can continue providing the very best care and support for our local seniors,” Ms. Elliot said.

Historic Aged Care Reforms

The Albanese Government has made aged care a key priority, recently committing an additional $300 million to the ACCAP over three years. The investment forms part of broader reforms designed to improve facilities, support workers, and ensure dignity and quality care for older Australians.

For more information about the ACCAP grants and projects, visit health. gov.au/accap.