2025 Newsletter_Autumn-Winter (Issue 64)

NRH News Tenant Newsletter Issue 64 | Autumn/Winter2025

From our CEO—Craig Brennan

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: From our CEO .................................... 1

Dear Tenant,

Updates and Info ............................ 2-6 Community Noticeboard .............. 7-18

As winter sets in, I want to thank you for being part of our community and remind you that we’re here to support you through the colder months. Whether staying connected or accessing the services you need, our team is just a phone call away.

SPECIAL ITEMS OF INTEREST Message from our Finance Team........ 1 Housing Services update .................... 2

- Lithium-ion Battery Safety ................ 2 Maintenance update ...................... 3-4

In this edition of the newsletter, you’ll find a range of useful information including practical advice to help you stay safe and well during the season. We’ve also included highlights from recent community events and upcoming opportunities to get involved.

We're also pleased to share updates on the work we’re doing to deliver more homes across the region. One of the most exciting projects currently underway is our 24-unit modular housing development in Grafton. This project is part of our New Generation Housing initiative and is being delivered using innovative off-site construction. The homes are modern, energy-efficient, and designed to provide long-term, secure housing for people in our community.

- How to get rid of mould................... 4 Updating your details ......................... 5 Community Villages update ............... 6 Let’s Get Cooking ............................... 7 Community Noticeboard ............... 7-18 - Local Food Pantries.................... 15-17 - My HealthCare Rights flyer ............. 18

This is just one of several developments we’re progressing as we continue to grow and improve our housing options. We're committed to building high-quality homes that support better outcomes for our tenants and the wider community.

Thank you again for being part of our community. Stay warm and well this winter, and please don’t hesitate to contact us if there’s anything we can do to support you.

Craig Brennan

NRH acknowledges the Bundjalung, Arakwal, Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl peoples who are the traditional custodians of the land that comprises the Northern Rivers.

Just a friendly reminder that if NRH tenants receive a water notice from NRH, you need to pay NRH please do not pay Council.

Thank you!

Northern Rivers Housing

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NRH News Updates & Info

Tenant Newsletter Issue 64 | Autumn/Winter2025

Housing Services Update Financial Assistance during these tough economic times Our Team has found some helpful information to help you get through these tough times—see pages 13 and 14.

Lithium-ion Battery Safety 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.

For more information, visit the SafeWork NSW website (https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/ hazards-a-z/lithium-ion-batteries) or the NSW Fair Trading website (https://www.nsw.gov.au/housing -and-construction/safety-home/electrical-safety/ lithium-ion-battery-safety).

This article was sourced from the SafeWork NSW website and the NSW Fair Trading website

Northern Rivers Housing

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Tenant Newsletter Issue 64 | Autumn/Winter2025

Maintenance Update What’s the best way to get rid of mould??

Many people in our region are grappling with how to get rid of mould in their homes since the recent weather where we’ve seen constant and seemingly never-ending rain and showers. We’ve tracked down some information on how to deal with mould — see page 4.

Fire and electrical safety around the home Did you know that electrical faults are a major cause of homes fires. You can help to make sure your home is safe by: 

Not overloading powerpoints or powerboards in your home and using powerboards with an overload protection.



Not using faulty electrical equipment.



Not placing extension leads under carpets or furniture.



Cleaning dryer filters before every use and making sure they are well-ventilated.



Making sure dryers complete a cool-down cycle.



Not exposing extension leads to the outdoor elements (rain etc)

Do you need to report a maintenance issue? Call our Property Repairs Hotline!

NRH tenants can call our Property Repairs Hotline anytime, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on (02) 6627 5333 to report maintenance issues.

Call Centre will 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.

Northern Rivers Housing

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Tenant Newsletter Issue 64 | Autumn/Winter2025

Mould and how to get rid of it!

The relentless moisture from the recent wet weather has meant that many people are now battling a serious mould and mildew problems.

Mould can affect clothing, shoes, furniture, walls, and many other parts of the home.

So, what is mould?

Mould is a type of fungus that lives in warm, moist conditions. It thrives in warm, damp, dark and poorly ventilated areas at home like bathrooms and kitchens, or cluttered storage or basement areas.

What encourages mould?

Moisture encourages mould. Help prevent it using these tips:

• •

keep the inside of your home dry.

•

Dry your clothes and shoes before you

•

larly.

•

•

Use moisture absorbers in basements, wardrobes and closed-off rooms.

Removing mould from your home Other helpful information is available at: ABC News online: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-05-27/ removing-mould-best-solution-brisbanequeensland/101100886

Fish tanks add moisture to the air, espe-

Portable heaters (kerosene or unfluted

Once mould is present, here are some tips for NSW Health: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/ removing it from your home: environment/factsheets/Pages/mould.aspx.

• Never dry brush a mouldy area or item

Leaking taps and pipes encourage mould, especially in closed areas like cabinets.

of clothing. This can release spores into the air that spread the mould further and can cause an allergic reaction in some people.

Things that help to stop mould growth There are several things you can do to help stop mould growth:

•

Open windows and doors to let fresh air

•

in and reduce humidity.

•

Open blinds and curtains during the day

to let sunlight in.

•

Turn on the exhaust fan or open a window in the bathroom, laundry and kitchen to get rid of steam.

•

Wipe down tiles to clean off soap scum that mould feeds on.

•

If cleaning with detergent doesn’t work, it’s possible to remove mould using diluted vinegar and a microfibre cloth.

Air out wardrobes and cupboards regu-

Indoor plants like ferns need moist air, so choose low-water plants like succulents for around the house.

gas heater) give off moisture and gas.

Always ventilate the area.

•

put them away.

cially tropical fish tanks.

•

er to remove mould once it takes hold.

Wipe away any moisture on your windows and walls to

•

High-priced specialty mould removers can contain chlorines and bleaches, which are hazardous if not used the right way. They may also only bleach the mould instead of killing it, which means the problem will keep coming back.

Queensland Health: https://www.health.qld.gov.au/publichealth/disaster/public-health-advice/mould CHOICE: https://www.choice.com.au/home-andliving/laundry-and-cleaning/surface-cleaners/ articles/getting-rid-of-mould

NSW Government: Use a mild detergent like sugar soap and https://www.nsw.gov.au/housing-andconstruction/social-affordable/publica microfibre cloth to clean mould off walls, floors and tiles. Make sure to dry housing-tenants/health-and-safety-at-home/ the area thoroughly after wiping mould preventing-mould off surfaces. Regular vacuuming, dusting and cleaning in kitchens and bathrooms helps prevent mould. The earlier you find and remove mould, the easier it is to keep it under control. It’s much hard-

This article was sourced through the various websites, as listed.

Northern Rivers Housing

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Tenant Newsletter Issue 64 | Autumn/Winter2025

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.

Do you need to get in touch with NRH? Lismore:

(02) 6627 5300

Tweed:

(07) 5523 5800

Grafton:

(02) 6642 9100 You can easily update your details by:

Property Repairs Hotline: (02) 6627 5333

 calling one of our offices

 see numbers on the left  emailing us at info@nrh.org.au

General email: Website:

info@nrh.org.au

 visiting our website (nrh.org.au) and

https://www.nrh.org.au/

clicking on the “Contact Us” page and completing the online form.

Northern Rivers Housing

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NRH News Tenant Newsletter Issue 64 | Autumn/Winter2025

Community Villages Update If there’s one thing that reflects 2025 so far it is the saying ‘the only constant in life is change’. The NRH Temporary Community Village program has seen a number of changes so far this year, starting with the closure of the Wollongbar Village, which wrapped up earlier in the year, and by the end of June, three more temporary villages will be closing. The villages closing are Kingscliff, Pottsville and Evans Head.

These transitions have opened new doors—literally—for many residents. Some folks have moved into private rentals across NSW and southern Queensland, others have found a new home through Social Housing, and a few residents have used their Buy Back Grants to step back into home ownership. Meanwhile, other residents have shifted to nearby flood recovery villages, keeping the community spirit alive and well.

Through it all, the Community Engagement team has been a steady thread. We have kept up our fortnightly newsletter, filled with health and wellbeing tips, local activities, and gentle reminders that community connection and creativity go hand in hand.

Thanks to our friends at the Resilient Kids Program, weekly Kids Club at Ballina Village became a real hit—not just for the kids, but for parents grateful for the break. Meanwhile, Qigong classes brought some calm, helping residents stretch, breathe, and a few laughs along the way working out the movements.

Our shared cooking sessions continued to serve up more than just food—they delivered garden-fresh ingredients, (often from our community garden) practical tips, laughter, and plenty of second helpings.

You’d be surprised how bonding over a BBQ can turn strangers into neighbours.

And behind the scenes? Our connections with external support services stayed strong. We worked closely with Recovery Support Services, village staff, and a rotating cast of helpful folks from Aged Care Supports, NSW Health’s mental health team, and Financial Counselling Services.

These partnerships are a vital part of our community’s recovery.

As we look ahead, we’re staying committed to supporting every resident's journey—whether it's toward a new home, a calmer mind, or just an opportunity to connect with new residents.

Community Villages Team

Northern Rivers Housing

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NRH News Community Noticeboard

Tenant Newsletter Issue 64 | Autumn/Winter2025

Northern Rivers Housing

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Tenant Newsletter Issue 64 | Autumn/Winter2025

Helpful Mindfulness Techniques Mindfulness is a powerful tool for managing anxiety, giving us techniques that help us stay present, and reduce overwhelming feelings of stress. These mindfulness techniques can be easily integrated into daily life, offering immediate relief from anxiety and long-term benefits for emotional well-being. By practicing mindfulness, you can strengthen your ability to remain calm and present, even in moments of stress. Here are 13 mindfulness strategies each with a brief explanation of how it works and why it can be effective: Deep Breathing—Focusing on deep, slow breaths can calm the nervous system and reduce the physiological symptoms of anxiety, such as a racing heart.

Deep breathing triggers the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

Body Scan Meditation—This technique involves focusing on different parts of the body, from head to toe, and noticing any areas of tension or discomfort. It helps to release physical tension and brings awareness to the present moment, breaking the cycle of anxious thoughts.

Grounding Techniques—Grounding exercises, such as the "5-4-3-2-1" method, encourage individuals to focus on their surroundings by identifying five things they can see, four they can touch, three they can hear, two they can smell, and one they can taste. This brings the mind away from anxious thoughts and into the present moment.

Mindful Walking—Walking slowly and mindfully, paying attention to each step, can help reduce anxiety by engaging the body and mind in the present. It also encourages awareness of the environment, which can be grounding and soothing.

Focus on the Breath—Simply bringing attention to your breath, observing it without trying to change it, can create a sense of calm and help centre your thoughts. It encourages mindfulness and provides a distraction from anxious feelings by focusing on a steady, natural rhythm.

Visualisation—Visualising a peaceful place or scene can calm the mind and body, helping reduce anxiety. This technique uses mental imagery to shift focus away from stressors, creating a mental escape that fosters relaxation.

Mindful Eating—Eating slowly and with full attention to taste, texture, and smell can be a grounding practice. It encourages you to focus on the present moment, preventing anxiety-provoking distractions and promoting a sense of peace.

Loving-Kindness Meditation—This meditation involves silently repeating phrases like "May I be happy, may I be healthy," then extending these wishes to others. It cultivates compassion and positive emotions, helping to reduce the negative thoughts associated with anxiety.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation—Systematically tensing and relaxing muscle groups throughout the body, this technique releases physical tension that often accompanies anxiety. It helps to increase body awareness and promote relaxation.

Gratitude Practice—Focusing on things you are grateful for, no matter how small, can shift the focus away from anxietyinducing thoughts. Regular gratitude practice increases positive thinking and fosters a more optimistic outlook.

Mindful Journaling—Writing down your thoughts and feelings can provide a release for anxious thoughts. Mindful journaling encourages reflection, helping you process emotions and gain perspective on what is contributing to anxiety.

Savouring—Taking time to fully enjoy small, pleasurable experiences—like a cup of tea or a walk in nature—helps reduce anxiety by anchoring you in the present moment. Savouring encourages mindfulness and the appreciation of simple joys.

Self-Compassion—Being kind to yourself during moments of anxiety can help ease the intensity of negative emotions. Self-compassion techniques involve treating yourself with the same care and understanding you would offer a friend, reducing the self-criticism that often makes anxiety so much worse.

Article is courtesy of EAP Assist

Northern Rivers Housing

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Tenant Newsletter Issue 64 | Autumn/Winter2025

NSW Government’s Healthy Eating Active Living initiative Do you know how many serves of veges per day various age groups should aim for?

Getting healthy starts with small steps.

From healthy eating tips, to free programs to get you active – Healthy Eating Active Living, a NSW Government initiative – can help you find one small change in your day that will help you (and your family) feel better and healthier for longer.

Visit https://www.healthyliving.nsw.gov.au/ for some terrific free programs and tools, such as healthy recipes, weekly meal plans, how to shop smart and healthily, food and drink for healthy teeth, and how much screen time is good for you. It also covers food and drink for healthy teeth, living well to prevent Type 2 Diabetes and heart disease.

Northern Rivers Housing

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Tenant Newsletter Issue 64 | Autumn/Winter2025

ACE Community Colleges To see what courses are offered

by ACE Community Colleges in the Northern Rivers, visit: https://www.acecolleges.edu.au/ wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ ace_coursebook_northernrivers_2 025_PAGES_Final.pdf

Fun Activities for Banora Seniors (FABS) … supported by Tweed Shire Council Tweed Shire Council supports The Fun Activities for Banora Seniors (FABS) Program which offers a range of recreational activities such as social, hobby and gentle exercise groups for seniors. These activities operate throughout the week at Banora Point Community Centre (BPCC).

FABS also runs special events during the year such as exhibitions, get-togethers and milestone celebrations.

The types of classes and groups on offer are: 

Art and Craft—including Cards and Chat, Needlework, Wrap with Love, Scrapbooking, Mosaics, Sketch and draw ‘sketching satchel’ and Crochet; Art Group



Exercise and Fitness—Classes include Gentle Exercise, Qi Gong, Walking, Yoga and Chair Yoga



Singing and Music—Ukelele and Singing for Fun



Books, Brains and Games—Book Club, Playing Cards, Stretch Your Mind, Mah Jong



Special Interest—including Family History and Tech generations

The History of FABS FABS was born 2007 when the local community asked for more social opportunities for Tweed seniors in and around Banora Point. Since then, the program has thrived, now offering a range of hobby, interest groups for seniors to get involved in. FABS is now supported by Council and managed by a volunteer committee.

For more information about these programs, please contact the Banora Point Community Centre (BPCC) on (07) 5569 3162 or visit their website https://www.tweed.nsw.gov.au/community/community-support/ people-communities/older-people/fabs.

Northern Rivers Housing

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Tenant Newsletter Issue 64 | Autumn/Winter2025

The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care has released the Second Edition of the Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights.

The Charter sets out the rights that apply to all people in all places where health care is provided in Australia, and describes what you, or someone you care for, can expect when receiving health care.

This includes public and private hospitals, day procedure services, general practice and other community health services.

Please see the full page flyer that is attached to the back of this newsletter.

For more information, visit: safetyandquality.gov.au/your-rights.

Northern Rivers Housing

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Tenant Newsletter Issue 64 | Autumn/Winter2025

Medicare Mental Health Centres (previously known as Head to Health) are an essential part of the mental health services in the community.

Medicare Mental Health Centres provide a welcoming place where everyone can access free and confidential mental health information, services, and supports.

They offer immediate support for people in distress, including their family and carers. Medicare Mental Health Centres are open extended hours, and no appointment or referral is needed.

Centres are staffed by a team of highly qualified mental health professionals and people with lived experience of mental health. When you arrive, they will take the time to talk to you to understand your immediate needs. They will work with you to provide you with the care you need.

To access support, you can walk into your nearest Centre, or call 1800 595 212 to book an appointment, if you’d prefer.

The Lismore Centre is located at:

Opening hours are:

Lismore Health Precinct Southern Cross University P Block North, Rifle Range Road East Lismore 2480

Monday to Friday 10am – 8pm | Saturday 12pm – 8pm | Sunday 10am – 2pm

For more details about the Lismore centre, visit their website: https://www.medicarementalhealth.gov.au/service/lismore-medicare-mental-health-centre-16974 For further information and downloadable resources about the Centres, visit the Department of Health and Aged Care website: https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/medicare-mental-health-centres.

The Family Centre's New Course Program is Here!

The Family Centre’s (TFC) new parenting course program is now available.

Throughout the year, TFC is offering a range of free online parenting courses — making it easier for families across the region to participate from the comfort of home!

All courses are free and open to residents in the Ballina, Byron, and Tweed Shires.

TFC will also continue to run 6 free supported playgroups in the Ballina and Tweed Shires, offering safe and fun spaces for parents and children to connect and learn together.

What’s included:

•

A full course program schedule

•

Individual fact sheets for each course

Easy online registration Ready to join a course? Register directly via The Family Centre’s website at https://thefamilycentre.org.au/.

Prefer to chat? Phone TFC on 1800 211 154 and one of the friendly staff will assist you.

Northern Rivers Housing

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Tenant Newsletter Issue 64 | Autumn/Winter2025

What to do when times are tough What can you do if you’re struggling to make ends meet and don't know how you'll pay your next bill or unexpected expense. It’s hard in these difficult economic times but you’re not alone! If you've got an unexpected bill to pay or large expense and you don't have the money to cover it, here's what you can do.

How do I pay my bills?

services to help with things such as:

The first step is accepting you need help and support – there’s no shame in asking for help.

• meals, food parcels or food vouchers

The Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) recommends contacting utility providers directly to explain your circumstances – this could mean contacting your bank, electricity and/pr telco provider.

• chemist vouchers

• transport vouchers

• clothing or furniture • part-payment of utility bills

• help with back-to-school costs You can also shop around on bills you already have to see if For a list of emergency relief services in your state or terriyou can find some savings in your cashflow that you can tory, see the Department of Social Service Grant Services put towards covering other bills.

Directory at https://serviceproviders.dss.gov.au/.

When do I call a financial counsellor?

Accessing Centrelink and No Interest Loans If you are not confident having those conversations with providers, a financial counsellor can do it on your behalf. A If you receive Centrelink payments, you may be eligible for an advance that you pay back from your repayments over financial counsellor is a skilled professional who provides free, confidential, and independent support and advice to time without interest. individuals struggling with financial difficulties. See below for a list of Financial Resources that are available.

What if I need food and basics?

ASIC's Moneysmart website https://moneysmart.gov.au/ has a list of organisations that can provide emergency relief

Financial Hardship Resources Here are some organisations who can assist you if you’re having a hard time financially: National Debt Helpline: 1800 007 007

Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636

Mob Strong Debt Help: 1800 808 488

Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800

ASIC's Moneysmart website

Headspace on 1800 650 890

Lifeline: 13 11 14

QLife on 1800 184 527

Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467

Information sourced from ABC online news article: If you don't have enough money for bills or necessities, what are your options? - ABC News Northern Rivers Housing

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Do you need help to pay your energy bill due to short-term financial hardship, crisis or emergency?

The Energy Accounts Payment Assistance (EAPA) Scheme may be able to help you.

WHAT: The Energy Accounts Payment Assistance (EAPA) scheme helps people experiencing difficulty paying their energy bill because of a short-term financial hardship, crisis or emergency.

WHO CAN APPLY: Households that get their electricity and/or gas from a retailer may be eligible for EAPA. HOW: Apply online through Services NSW or via a Non-Government EAPA provider (i.e. Northern Rivers Community Gateway).

Please see link below for more information: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/energy-accounts-paymentassistance-eapa-scheme

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.

Have you checked out the Service NSW Savings Finder online tool?

The NSW Government is helping reduce the cost of living with more than 70 rebates and vouchers.

By answering the tailored questions in the Service NSW Savings Finder tool, they can help you to find rebates and vouchers relevant to you.

If you're completing this for someone else or do not have a Service NSW Account, you can continue as a guest. https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/campaign/savings-finder

Northern Rivers Housing

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Tenant Newsletter Issue 64 | Autumn/Winter2025

Local Food Pantries Please note that details may be different due to public holidays. All efforts have been made to provide up-to-date information.

Provider & Location

Days & Times

Service Provided / Other Information

Ballina Food Basket

Monday to Friday: 10am-2pm

Ph: 1300 180 870

Location: 77 Tamar Street, Ballina

Saturdays: 10am—1pm

10 items for $10. Offering high quality, low cost food & personal items for individuals & families in need of assistance.

Five Loaves (Ballina)

Thursdays: 5—6pm

Meals

Mondays & Thursdays: 7am - 2 pm

Food pantry and cooked meals Ph: 0435 879 778 Website: www.liberationlarder.org

Wednesdays: 10am–12pm

Sausage sizzle and coffee available.

Ph: (02) 6625 0900

BALLINA AND BYRON

Location: Cnr Kerr & Tamar Streets, Ballina (outside the ADRA store) Liberation Larder Inc (Byron) Location: Fletcher Street, behind the Byron Community Centre Kitchen, 69 Jonson Street, Byron Bay Salvos—Community BBQ Ballina Location: Northern Rivers Salvos—73 Tamar Street, Ballina

Website: https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/ northernrivers/

CASINO Casino Food Basket—Community Pantry

Thursdays: 9am—1pm

Ph: 1300 180 870

Location: 85 North Street, Casino (Old Salvation Army building)

Casino Community Kitchen (Casino)

10 items for $10. Offering high quality, low cost food and personal items for individuals and families in need of assistance.

Fridays: 5pm

Ph: 0400 155 392. Please message to reserve meals, if possible, for catering numbers.

Location: Uniting Church Hall Kitchen, 176 Canterbury Street, Casino

Soup kitchen service providing free takeaway meals for anyone in need. Remember to bring bags to carry your meals & free grocery items .

EVANS HEAD AND SURROUNDS The Community Pantry [Mid-Richmond Neighbourhood Centre]

Ph: (02) 6682 4334

Locations: Shop 5, 6 Oaks Street, Evans Head AND 8 Richmond St, Woodburn (also operates in Coraki)

Evans Head Mon: 11am—2pm Wed: 11am—4pm Fri: 11am—2pm Woodburn Mon & Tues: 9am– 4pm Wed: 11am-5:30pm Thurs: 9am– 4pm

Wardell CORE (Wardell) Location: The “Old Bank”, 3 Sinclair Street, Wardell

Tues, Wed, Thurs: 9am—4pm Sat: 9am—2pm

Ph: 0431 716 457

Northern Rivers Housing

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The Community Pantry is a low cost grocery market run by volunteers and open to all community members.

Annual membership of $3.00 is required.

Website: https://www.wardellcore.community/

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Local Food Pantries continued …

Please note that details may be different due to public holidays. All efforts have been made to provide up-to-date information.

Provider & Location

Days & Times

Service Provided / Other Information

Anglicare North Coast—The Grafton Pantry

Mon to Thurs: 10am—2pm

Location: 72 Pound Street, Grafton

Closed on public holidays

Ph: (02) 6643 4844 Website: https://anglicarenorthcoast.org.au/ services/#food-pantry

Maclean Food Pantry

Fridays: 9am—12pm

GRAFTON AND SURROUNDS

Ph: 0414 909 630

Location: Maclean Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 39 Church Street, Maclean Anglicare North Coast Mobile Pantry Wooli Location: St Margaret’s Anglican Church, Wooli

Available for emergency by appointment only.

4th Wednesday of the month: 11am-12pm (except December)

Ph: (02) 6643 4844 Website: https://anglicarenorthcoast.org.au/ services/#food-pantry

Days/times vary.

Phone and email enquiries before visiting the Hub so that eligibility can be verified.

Appointments are essential. Ph: (02) 6621 7397 or email hub@nrcg.org.au | https://nrcg.org.au/

LISMORE AND SURROUNDS NRCG—Goonellabah Community Hub Service Location: 604 Ballina Road, Goonellabah

Services also provided in Byron Bay and Murwillumbah Salvos—Hope Food Pantry Goonellabah

Ph: (02) 6625 0900

Location: Northern Rivers Salvos—Lismore Campus, 30 Cambridge Drive, Goonellabah

Thursdays: 9:30—11:30am

Website: https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/ northernrivers/

Kyogle Lions Community Food Pantry

Thursdays 8:30am—3pm

Ph: 0484 676 628 Email: ER@kyogletogether.org.au

Thurs: 10am—2pm

Ph: (02) 6632 2972 Various items available depending on availability Email: ER@kyogletogether.org.au

Location: 33-35 Bloore Street, Kyogle The Fair Share Kitchen/Emergency Relief program Location: Kyogle Together Inc—Laneway Community Space, 161 Summerland Way, Kyogle Five Loaves Mobile Soup Kitchen (Lismore) Location: Lismore Transit Centre, Molesworth St, Lismore The Good Pantry (Lismore)

Mon to Thurs 6—7pm

Mon to Fri: 10am—2pm

Ph: 0422 981 363

Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri: 9am-4pm Wed 9am-1:30pm

Phone and email enquiries before visiting the Hub so that eligibility can be verified.

Appointments are essential. Ph: (02) 6621 7397 or email hub@nrcg.org.au | https://nrcg.org.au/

Open daily 9am-1pm for tea & coffee | Lunch served at 11:30am

Ph: (02) 6622 4055

Location: 51 Wyrallah Road, East Lismore NRCG—Lismore Community Hub Service Location: 76 Carrington Street, Lismore Services also provided in Byron Bay and Murwillumbah The Winsome Café (Lismore) Location: Winsome Hotel, 11 Bridge St, North Lismore

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Local Food Pantries continued …

Please note that details may be different due to public holidays. All efforts have been made to provide up-to-date information.

Provider & Location

Days & Times

Service Provided / Other Information

Red Dove Café (Lismore)

Breakfast served Mon to Thurs from 7am

Ph: (02) 6621 8893

Open Tues & Fri: 9am—12pm

Ph: (07 5524 5081

Wednesdays 9:30—11:30am

Website: www.livingwellcommunicare.org.au Facebook: @livingwellcommunicare

Location: 80 Keen St, Lismore (behind Uniting Church)

Email: lismoreuc@gmail.com

TWEED AND SURROUNDS The Salvation Army Centre (Banora Point) Location: Cnr Woodlands and Leisure Drive, Banora Point Tweed Coast Community Food Pantry (Kingscliff) Location: Kingscliff Uniting Church, 24 Kingscliff Street, Kingscliff (down the lane) Murwillumbah Community Centre Food Hub

May be closed on public holidays Wed & Thurs: 10am—3pm

Cash and ATM available. Ph: (02) 6672 3003

Location: Knox Park, Murwillumbah

Must live in 2484 postcode

Agape Outreach (Murwillumbah)

Every Tuesday food outreach from: 1pm (South Tweed Heads New Horizon car park, 8 Rivendell Drive, South Tweed and 4:45pm (Murwillumbah) Heads AND Knox Park, Murwillumbah, Wollumbin Street entrance

Ph: 0414 693 670

Anglicare North Coast (Murwillumbah)

2nd Tuesday of the month

Ph: (02) 6643 4844 Please phone first to find out times and details

Wednesday: 10am—12pm

(02) 6676 2558 Concession card required Run by Livingwell Communicare Inc Limited food support.

Tues to Fri: 9—11am (NSW time)

Ph: (07) 5536 7575

Location: Murwillumbah Anglican Church Pottsville Beach Community Pantry Location: Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre, 12A Elizabeth St, Pottsville Vibe Care Pantry (Tweed Heads)

Location: Vibe Church, 3 Beryl Street, Tweed Heads Anglicare North Coast (Tyalgum)

Website: https://agapeoutreachinc.com/

Services also offered in Palm Beach 4th Tuesday of the month

Location: Tyalgum Anglican Church

Ph: (02) 6643 4844 Please phone first to find out times and details

to the volunteers and organisations who provide assistance to those in need in our communities.

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