Smiley suitcases for vulnerable children

idea came from an article in the Women’s Weekly,” said Rotary Club of Lismore Networking’s media and publicity offcer, Kerry Leitch.

“They had hope in a suitcase and I got information on what they did and how we could do something similar here in Lismore.”

The project involves packing age and gender appropriate bags with clothes, toys, books and toiletries that are given to the children when they have to go into emergency foster care.

“The bags then belong to those children and they take everything with them,” said Kerry.

“The way it works is CASPA gives us a ring, lets us know the age of the child in need and our Smiley Suitcase coordinator, Maureen Williams, purchases the articles and buys the bag and continually liaises with CASPA.

“We support newborns to 16-year-olds and last year we assisted four new babies who had to go into emergency care.”

The club recently won the Best New Project Award for their work.

Due to the ongoing need to raise money to fund the project, the rotary club is holding a Bootscootin’ at the Bowlo night to be held at the Lismore City Bowling Club on September 14, starting at 6.30pm.

“Last year we had a Bollywood theme, so this year we are bootscooting,” laughed Kerry.

“We had about 100 people last year, so hope to get the same again.

“There will be a DJ, a line dancing demonstration and plenty of prizes to be won.”

Kerry said if they raise $2000 this would mean they would be able to support CASPA for another year.

“We receive feedback from CASPA that the kids are overwhelmed by their new cases,” said Kerry.

“This gives them their own possessions that belong to them. It empowers them.”

To support this wonderful cause, you can buy your tickets at https://www.trybooking. com/CTULM by 9th September at $50 each.

If you would like to donate to Lismore Rotary directly for the Smiley Suitcases, go to: Rotary club of Lismore Networking BSB 728-728 Ac 22331838 Please put Smiley Suitcases and your last name in the information.

Richmond Valley- John Walker

I am a candidate for Mayor and the leader of the “A Time for Change Group”. I frst moved to the Richmond Valley after being appointed as council’s General Manager in late 2011. I left temporarily to be closer to my family in WA for a few years but returned to Casino 3 years ago because my wife and I chose it as the place we wanted to live for the rest of our lives and because of the extensive friendships we had made here.

I am running for council because I am passionate about my community, believe there is so much more that can be done to improve the Richmond Valley and believe the current council has become increasingly disconnected from community with a lack of transparency and openness. I want to serve with a talented and independent group of people who are successful in their own right and will always speak up for what they believe. My group of candidates is just that. The urgent issues are:

• Increased transparency and openness at all meetings by allowing public access and questions at all meetings and making information sessions open. The council is too secretive.

• Fresh ideas and new energy. Independent voices that challenge

• An independent review and publication of all aspects of the Casino Saleyards fasco

• Acceleration of food recovery efforts

• Streamlining planning and development processes to improve the current shoddy outcomes

John is an experienced and successful senior executive across both local government and the private sector. He is known for his ability to deliver on his promises and get things done. He is currently CEO of Casino RSM Club

Goodbye to Terania Street Rail Bridge

ROBERT HEYWARD

The disused rail-overroad bridge on Terania Street in Lismore is set for demolition starting Monday, 16 September, with plans to reopen the street to all traffc by mid-October.

Terania Street has faced intermittent closures for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists since late last year due to vehicle strikes that damaged the bridge, leaving it unsafe.

The street remains closed to heavy vehicles.

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn expressed relief that the demolition is moving forward, particularly for local motorists and businesses impacted by the closures.

“It’s taken time due to the heritage listing of the bridge, but now that the Heritage Council of NSW has processed the application, work can begin,” she said.

Road Closures and Detours

During demolition, Terania Street will be closed to all traffc between Tweed and Peat streets from Monday until work is completed, expected by 18 October.

• Heavy and light vehicles will be detoured via Wilson Street, Elliott Road, and Ballina Road.

• Light vehicles can access Bridge and Terania streets via Dawson and Woodlark streets. These roads are unsuitable for heavy vehicles. Motorists should allow up to 10 extra minutes for their journey.

• Pedestrians and cyclists can detour via Pine, Crane, and Tweed streets.

Motorists are advised to plan ahead, drive to conditions, and follow signs and traffc control directions.

Transport for NSW thanked motorists for their patience during the demolition process.