As we prepare to celebrate the festive season, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for being part of the Northern Rivers Housing community. This time of year reminds us of the importance of connection and the shared journey we’ve all been on throughout 2024.
This year, we’ve worked together to achieve significant milestones. From opening our new office in Lismore to embarking on the exciting New Generation Housing project, which will deliver 9 modular, energy-efficient homes in Casino, our focus has remained on creating opportunities for safe, secure, and affordable housing across our region.
The holiday season is a time for joy, connection, and reflection. It’s also an opportunity to support one another and spread kindness within our community. Whether you’re celebrating with family and friends, enjoying a quiet moment, or taking time to recharge, I hope this season brings you peace and happiness.
Looking ahead to 2025, we remain committed to serving you with dedication and care. Together, we’ll continue to make strides towards improving housing options and fostering a stronger, more vibrant community.
On behalf of the entire team at Northern Rivers Housing, I wish you and your loved ones a safe, happy, and memorable Christmas.
Craig Brennan | Chief Executive Officer
NRH acknowledges the Bundjalung, Arakwal, Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl peoples who are the traditional custodians of the land that comprises the Northern Rivers.
Christmas/New Year NRH Office Closure Details
All offices will be closed from Christmas Day 25 December 2024 and we will re-open for business at 9am on Thursday, 2 January 2025.
Housing Services Update
Tweed Office Changes
Please be advised that the Tweed Office will be by appointment only until further notice. If you would like to organise a meeting time, please contact the office on (07) 5523 5800.
Keeping your Contact Details Updated with NRH
It is important for NRH to keep you up to date with any changes that may be happening in your area and, to do this, it’s important that we have the correct contact details. Please contact your Tenancy Manager if you have need to make any changes to your contact details.
Preparing for Potential Summer Weather Events
The NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) reminds residents to get ready for the upcoming storm season by following these five steps:
1. Know your risk Think about the area you live in and the types of disasters that could affect you
2. Plan now for what you will do Talk with your friends or family and plan for what you will do if a disaster affects your area
3. Prepare your home for storm or a flood Prepare your home by doing general maintenance and checking your insurance
4. Be aware Find out how to prepare and what to do if there is a disaster in your area
5. Look out for each other Share information with your family, friends, neighbours and those who may need assistance.
NSW SES also reminds residents not to drive, ride or walk through floodwaters. The SES receives many requests from people who have risked their lives by driving through floodwaters. Please help the NSW SES volunteers by never driving, walking or riding through floodwater – it is very dangerous. You put yourself, and the people who come and save you, at risk.
Energy-Saving Tips for Summer: Stay Cool and Save Money
Keeping your home cool while managing energy costs can be difficult during summer. Here are some energy-efficient cooling tips that could save you money on your electricity bill:
▪ Use fans before air conditioners - they cost less to run.
▪ Keep curtains closed during the hottest part of the day.
▪ Open windows during cooler times to allow airflow.
▪ Turn off lights and smaller appliances when not in use.
▪ Run washing machines with full loads to save energy.
Need Help with Energy Bills? The NSW Government offers rebates to support lower-income households. To see if you qualify for assistance, visit https://www.energy.nsw.gov.au/households/rebates-grants-and -schemes. You can also find more information on the Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW (EWON) website at https://www.ewon.com.au/page/customer-resources/help-paying-bills/eapa-vouchers.
Talk to your Energy Provider It’s also a good idea to regularly check with your energy provider to make sure you’re on the plan that best suits you and your family.
Maintenance Update
Smoke Alarms
Updates & Info
It’s that time again – smoke alarm checks are underway! Don’t worry, we’ve got it covered, but we need your help to make sure everything’s working perfectly.
▪ Please schedule your smoke alarm check with the electrician listed in the smoke alarm letter sent earlier this year.
▪ If you hear any unwanted beeps (or if your smoke alarm is acting up), give our maintenance hotline a call on (02) 6627 5333 – we’ll take care of it ASAP!
▪ Take precautions to prevent fire such as switching off appliances when not in use, don’t leave cooking unattended and clean the lint filter in your dryer after each use.
▪ Do not remove or interferer with the smoke alarms – Working smoke alarms save lives!
For more information, visit the NSW Smoke Alarms - It's the law - Fire and Rescue NSW website.
During the festive season, our Maintenance Hotline is available 24/7 for all urgent and emergency repairs. See details below.
Do you need to report a maintenance issue?
Give the Property Repairs Hotline a call!
Tenants can call our Property Repairs Hotline anytime, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week even over the Christmas/New Year break to report maintenance issues.
The staff in the Call Centre will then decide if a contractor has to attend as an emergency response or not, and then organise for the work to be attended to within the correct timeframe.
Please don’t flush wet wipes down the toilet!
Baby wipes and sanitising wipes should be thrown away in the trash, not in the toilet. They can cause unwanted backups in your toilet system because they don’t breakdown like toilet paper. Permanent and expensive damage can even be caused. Please note that if wipes are found to be the cause of the problem at your property, it will be a Tenant Responsible charge which means that you will need to pay for the repair. Save the pipes – don’t flush the wet wipes!
Updates & Info continued
Tenant Newsletter Issue 63 | Summer 2024
Round 2 of our Scholarships Program for this year closed in October and we are pleased to announce that we had four successful applications submitted for this Round. Applicants were successful in the following categories:
Education/Creative Arts Secondary x 2
Adult/School leaver Sport
Education Secondary
CEO Craig Brennan will be presenting the successful recipients with their commemorative certificates in the new year.
NRH Art Competition results
You might recall that in our last newsletter, we ran a children’s art competition for NRH Tenants or Community Village residents aged 5 to 12 to get creative and design the front cover of our 2023/2024 Annual Report with the theme ... "What My Home Means to Me".
We were thrilled with all of the entries so much so that we couldn’t decide on one winner and we thank all the young artists for the entries they submitted. All the contestants have been rewarded with a gift card.
You can easily update your details by:
calling one of our offices see details on the right →
emailing us at info@nrh.org.au
visiting our website (nrh.org.au) and clicking on the “Contact Us” page and completing the online form.
Do you need to get in touch with NRH?
Lismore: (02) 6627 5300
Tweed: (07) 5523 5800
Grafton: (02) 6642 9100
Property Repairs Hotline: (02) 6627 5333
General email: info@nrh.org.au
Website: https://www.nrh.org.au/
Tenant Newsletter Issue 63 | Summer 2024
A Reminder about Respectful Behaviour
We would like to remind our tenants that we are here to provide a service to you in a courteous manner.
Staff have the right to be treated with dignity and respect at all times without the risk of threatening behaviour or violence.
This behaviour will not be tolerated towards our staff.
The Board of Directors, Management and Staff at Northern Rivers Housing wish you and your family a very safe and happy festive season.
We appreciate your support this year and we look forward to working with you again next year.
All NRH offices will close for the holidays from Christmas Day (25 December) and we will re-open for business at 9am on Thursday, 2 January 2025.
Community
Villages Update
As the year draws to a close, we reflect on the last 12 months of connection, growth, and resilience within the NRH flood recovery villages. This year the Community Engagement Team continued our fortnightly newsletter with different themes, including a focus on navigating various housing pathways. The newsletter also includes a Health and Wellbeing tip and information on weekly activities and programs held both within the villages and the broader community to support well-being, creativity, and community involvement.
Throughout the year, residents across the seven villages participated in a range of new and enriching activities. We introduced financial counselling sessions to provide valuable advice on managing personal finances. Residents also participated in an Indigenous movement sessions, learning traditional practices that promote connection to culture and well-being. Workshops on calming the nervous system and QiGong offered techniques to manage stress, while the lunch cook ups have proven popular, with residents helping to cook delicious meals, often utilising produce from our community gardens.
In addition to these practical programs, we continued to host fun and creative activities. Kids enjoyed engaging school holiday programs, including a fishing workshop run by DPI and ACYP, and Circus Skills. Our wreathmaking workshops also added a festive touch to the villages and are always a favourite for residents.
This year, we also held another 'Have Your Say' event and launched a survey, inviting residents to share feedback on areas where they felt they might need more support or wanted to see new activities introduced. The responses have provided valuable insights and will help shape the programs and services we deliver in the future.
Our shared meals and informal catchups have remained a cornerstone of fostering community spirit, alongside partnerships with external support services, RSS (NSW Recovery Support Service), and village staff. Visiting services included Gamble Aware, The Buttery, Aged Care Supports, Centrelink and Mental Health Supports offered by NSW Health. These connections are vital as we continue our journey toward recovery and rebuilding. As we look ahead to 2025, we remain committed to supporting our residents with resources, workshops, and opportunities that support their housing journey.
Lithium-ion Battery Safety
Community Noticeboard
Many gifts handed out this Christmas may contain lithium-ion batteries which can be extremely dangerous. Follow this information to keep you and your family safe from the risks of lithium-ion batteries.
What are lithium-ion batteries? Lithium-ion batteries are common in e-bikes, e-scooters, smartphones, laptops, power banks, and many other everyday devices. They are popular because they are lightweight, rechargeable, and have a high energy capacity. However, they can catch fire or explode if not used properly.
Why are they dangerous? In 2023, nearly 300 fires in NSW were caused by lithium-ion batteries. These fires can be intense, producing toxic smoke and flames. If a device starts smoking or catches fire, call 000 immediately. Understanding the risks can help prevent dangerous incidents.
Using lithium-ion batteries safely
✓ Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and use.
✓ Charge batteries and devices away from combustible and highly flammable items, such as beds (mattresses), couches, carpet or other electronic devices.
✓ Charge devices on hard surfaces that don’t catch on fire (for example, concrete or tiles).
✓ Only use chargers that came with the device or are approved for use. Just because the plug fits, doesn’t mean it’s safe.
✓ Unplug devices once they are fully charged.
✓ Charge large devices like e-bikes in garages or sheds, not in living spaces.
✓ Don’t charge batteries when sleeping or not at home
Do not keep batteries near heat or in direct sunlight.
Do not charge devices unattended, especially overnight.
Do not use batteries or devices if they are overheating or showing signs of failure such as swelling, leaking of venting gas.
Safe disposal of lithium-ion batteries
Do not throw in a rubbish or recycling bin: NEVER dispose of any lithium-ion batteries in household bins.
Proper disposal sites:
• Large batteries: Take them to B-Cycle drop-off points, Community Recycling Centres, or Household Chemical CleanOut events.
• Small batteries: Use battery recycling bins and cover the terminals with clear adhesive tape.
What to do in an emergency
In the event of a fire or explosion:
Do not attempt to put out the fire
Evacuate the area
Call emergency Triple Zero (OOO) immediately.
Community Noticeboard
3
Ingredient
Shortbread (Makes 35 biscuits)
Ingredients:
• 340g butter
• 130g icing sugar, sifted
• 375g plain flour, sifted
Method:
1. Preheat oven to 160°C (fan-forced). Line two large flat baking trays with baking paper and set aside.
2. Beat the butter in a large bowl using an electric mixer on medium until smooth (approximately 30 seconds).
3. Slowly add the icing sugar and continue mixing until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
4. Add the flour and mix on low speed until combined (please note that the mixture will be crumbly at this stage).
5. Gently knead the dough into a ball (but don't overwork it) and place into the fridge for at least 30 minutes to chill. Roll out to ½-1 cm thick. Use cookie cutters to cut the dough shapes out.
6. Place the shapes onto the prepared trays and bake for 12-15 minutes or until just very lightly golden (do not overcook).
7. Allow to cool on the trays for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Ingredients:
• 400g tin condensed milk
• 350g milk chocolate
• 1 tsp vanilla essence
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Christmas sprinkles, to decorate
1. Line a 1.25L loaf tin with baking paper, leaving some overhanging the sides.
2. Place condensed milk and chopped chocolate in a large heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. Stir until it is melted and smooth. Stir through vanilla and salt.
3. Pour into prepared tin and smooth the top. Working quickly before it sets, add Christmas sprinkles to the top.
4. Refrigerate for 2 hours, then use overhanging paper to lift the fudge from the tin. Slice into squares.
Easy Christmas Fudge (Prep: 20 minutes | Makes 24)
Recipe and photo is courtesy of Australia
Best Recipes
Recipe and photo is courtesy of Play Bake Smile
Do you need help this Christmas?
Tenant Newsletter Issue 63 | Summer 2024
Christmas should be a time of joy and hope, but unexpected circumstances or a crisis on top of current cost-of-living pressures can make it even more stressful and challenging. If you need support with providing the essentials for you and/or your family or gifts for the kids, or are looking for some connection over Christmas, the Salvos are here for you. Use the below links to find out more about The Salvation Army’s Christmas support. If you’re seeking support for another concern, please visit this need help page, which includes links to their homelessness services.
Assistance for Christmas
The rising cost of living is placing increasing financial stress upon individuals and families every day around Australia. The added pressures of the Christmas season to buy gifts or wanting to provide a nice meal for the family can seem completely out of reach. Instead of taking out a buy now pay later loan or maxing out another credit card and adding to your financial stress, talk to one of The Salvation Army’s Moneycare financial counsellors, and find out how we can support you this Christmas and into the new year.
Learn more about The Salvation Army’s free financial counselling service, Moneycare, that operates yearround. They can help you reduce your debts and suggest strategies so you can have a less stressful lead up to Christmas next year. For more information on all the services provided by The Salvos, please visit their website https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/Christmas/need-help-this-Christmas/
Local emergency info at your fingertips
This summer, be ready to deal with the unexpected by downloading the Hazards Near Me NSW app your official source of emergency information on bushfires, floods and other severe weather events. Use the app to set a local Watch Zone so you receive notifications about emergency situations happening near you.
Community
Noticeboard continued
Prepare your emergency kit
An Emergency Kit can help save precious time in an emergency situation. It provides items you might need if you lose power or need to leave your home in a hurry.
Don't leave it until it's to late Prepare now!
Your emergency kit contents:
• Portable radio with spare batteries
• Torch with spare batteries
• First aid kit (with supplies necessary for your household)
• Candles and waterproof matches
• Important papers including emergency contact numbers
• Copy of any Home Emergency Plans
• Waterproof bag for valuables
When leaving or evacuating your property, place in your emergency kit:
• A good supply of required medications
• Any special requirements and supplies for babies, the disabled, infirm and/or elderly
• Appropriate clothing and footwear
• Fresh food and drinking water
This article was sourced from the Lismore City Council’s Local Matters publication (Issue 272, 09.12.2024)
Community Noticeboard
12 scams you need to watch out for this Christmas
There are a number of scams that you will need to be mindful of when shopping for Christmas or during the Boxing Day sales period, and we’ve listed the 12 main scams below:
1. Online shopping scams Online shopping is popular during the holidays, and scammers set up fake websites offering deals on sought-after items. These fake sites often mimic real retailers, tricking customers into entering their payment details, only to receive counterfeit goods or nothing at all. Always double-check website URLs and stick to trusted retailers.
2. Parcel delivery scams With more people shopping online, parcel delivery scams are widespread. Scammers send fake emails or texts claiming there's an issue with delivery and requesting payment or personal details to "release" the package. Clicking on links in these messages can lead to phishing websites that capture your data or install malware on your device.
3. Charity scams The holidays inspire people to give, and scammers take advantage by setting up fake charities. They often use the names of well-known charities or concoct emotional stories to solicit donations. To avoid this, donate directly through established charity websites and be cautious about donating via cold calls or social media.
4. Fake gift card scams Fake gift card scams come in a few forms, but one of the most common involves scammers selling "discounted" gift cards that turn out to be invalid. Another tactic is emailing or messaging people claiming they've won a gift card, but to redeem it, they must provide personal information or pay a small "fee."
5. Holiday travel scams Many Australians book trips to visit family or take holidays over the summer season. Scammers set up fake travel websites or third-
party booking platforms offering fantastic holiday deals, only for victims to realise the booking doesn't exist. Always verify travel agencies and booking sites before making payments.
6. Romance scams While not strictly a holiday-only scam, romance scams see a spike in December as people seek companionship during the festive season. Scammers create fake profiles on dating sites or social media, forming relationships with victims and eventually asking for financial help, often with a fabricated emergency.
7. Cryptocurrency scams December can be an expensive time of year, with Australians having to spend money on buying presents and travelling to see friends and family. Scammers prey on this by luring in unsuspecting victims to make a quick buck by promising lucrative returns on cryptocurrency investments, by using fake testimonials or celebrity endorsements. Be wary of any unsolicited investment offers and avoid "too good to be true" schemes.
8. Phishing emails and smishing (SMS phishing) Phishing emails and smishing attacks tend to increase during the holidays. Scammers impersonate wellknown companies, banks, or delivery services, sending messages with links to fake websites where they capture personal details. Never click on links in unsolicited messages; instead, access sites
directly through a trusted browser.
9. Social media 'Secret Santa' or 'gift exchange' scams Social media posts encourage people to join "gift exchanges" or "secret Santa" gift-swapping events. They typically promise that if you send one gift, you'll receive several in return. However, these schemes rarely result in any gifts and are often a form of pyramid scheme designed to collect personal information.
10. Fake surveys and competitions
Scammers set up fake holiday-themed surveys or competitions on social media, luring participants with promises of prizes. Participants are asked to provide personal information or pay a small 'entry fee' to win. Be cautious of any survey or competition that seems too good to be true or asks for sensitive information.
11. Fake crowdfunding appeals
Crowdfunding platforms make it easy to raise money for legitimate causes, but they also attract scammers. Some set up fake campaigns, especially around the holidays, tugging at heartstrings to solicit donations. You should check if the campaign is backed by a reputable organisation or verified by the crowdfunding platform before donating.
12. Holiday job scams The holiday season offers temporary job opportunities, which scammers exploit by posting fake job ads online. These scams often require applicants to provide personal information or pay a 'fee' to apply. Some may even "hire" you for a role that involves fraudulent activity, like reshipping goods bought with stolen credit cards. Scammers are always working on new ways to separate you from your money or personal information. By staying vigilant, double-checking offers, and only trusting verified sources, you can outsmart scammers and keep their holidays joyful and scam-free. With a heightened awareness of these 12 scams of Christmas, you can enjoy a safer, more secure holiday season.
Tenant Newsletter Issue 63 | Summer 2024
So many of us are not okay this season. Some are grieving, financially stressed, burnt out, and doing the best they can.
The holidays are a tough time for so many and you never know what someone else is going through … Be Kind.
A reminder about Centrelink payments over the festive season
There are some changes to Service Australia (Centrelink) payments and services during the upcoming Christmas and New Year holiday period. All service centres and most phone lines will close from 25 to 27 December, and on1 January.
Some smaller service centres will close for the entire period from 24 December to 1 January. Your reporting and payment dates may change, but you can check using your Centrelink online account through myGov, or through the Express Plus Centrelink mobile app.
Digital and phone self-service options will be available 24/7.
Find out more at servicesaustralia.gov.au/holidays or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ServicesAustralia
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, please call 1800 737 732, or text 0458 737 732, or visit the 1800RESPECT website for online chat and video call services.
Local Food Pantries
Community Noticeboard continued
Please note that details may be different due to public holidays
Five Loaves (Ballina)
Location: Cnr Kerr & Tamar Streets, outside the ADRA store
Liberation Larder Inc (Byron)
Location: Fletcher Street, behind the Byron Community Centre Kitchen, 69 Jonson Street, Byron Bay
The Community Pantry [Mid-Richmond Neighbourhood Centre]
Location: Shop 5, Oaks Arcade, 6 Oaks Street, Evans Head
