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.
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.
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
Just
acknowledges the Bundjalung, Arakwal, Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl peoples who are the traditional custodians of the land that comprises the Northern Rivers.
Thank you!
Housing Services Update
Updates & Info
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
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.
Mould and how to get rid of it!
Updates & Info continued
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:
• Indoor plants like ferns need moist air, so choose low-water plants like succulents for around the house.
• Fish tanks add moisture to the air, especially tropical fish tanks.
• Portable heaters (kerosene or unfluted gas heater) give off moisture and gas. Always ventilate the area.
• Leaking taps and pipes encourage mould, especially in closed areas like cabinets.
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.
• Wipe away any moisture on your windows and walls to
keep the inside of your home dry.
• Dry your clothes and shoes before you put them away.
• Air out wardrobes and cupboards regularly.
• Use moisture absorbers in basements, wardrobes and closed-off rooms.
Removing mould from your home
Once mould is present, here are some tips for removing it from your home:
• Never dry brush a mouldy area or item of clothing. This can release spores into the air that spread the mould further and can cause an allergic reaction in some people.
• 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.
• Use a mild detergent like sugar soap and a microfibre cloth to clean mould off walls, floors and tiles. Make sure to dry the area thoroughly after wiping 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-
er to remove mould once it takes hold.
• If cleaning with detergent doesn’t work, it’s possible to remove mould using diluted vinegar and a microfibre cloth
This article was sourced through the various websites, as listed.
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
Property Repairs Hotline: (02) 6627 5333
General email: info@nrh.org.au
Website: https://www.nrh.org.au/
You can easily update your details by:
calling one of our offices
see numbers on the left
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.
Lismore Grafton Tweed Heads
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
Lismore Grafton Tweed Heads
Community Noticeboard continued
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
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.
Lismore Grafton
Community Noticeboard continued
Fun Activities for Banora Seniors (FABS) … supported by Tweed Shire Council
ACE Community Colleges
To see what courses are offered by ACE Community Colleges in the Northern Rivers, visit:
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.
Community Noticeboard continued
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.
Community Noticeboard continued
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: Lismore Health Precinct Southern Cross University P Block North, Rifle Range Road East Lismore 2480
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 Prefer to chat? Phone TFC on 1800 211 154 and one of the friendly staff will assist you.
How do I pay my bills?
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.
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.
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.
You can also shop around on bills you already have to see if you can find some savings in your cashflow that you can put towards covering other bills.
When do I call a financial counsellor?
If you are not confident having those conversations with providers, a financial counsellor can do it on your behalf. A financial counsellor is a skilled professional who provides free, confidential, and independent support and advice to 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
• meals, food parcels or food vouchers
• transport vouchers
• chemist vouchers
• clothing or furniture
• part-payment of utility bills
• help with back-to-school costs
For a list of emergency relief services in your state or territory, see the Department of Social Service Grant Services Directory at https://serviceproviders.dss.gov.au/
Accessing Centrelink and No Interest Loans
If you receive Centrelink payments, you may be eligible for an advance that you pay back from your repayments over time without interest.
Here are some organisations who can assist you if you’re having a hard time financially:
National Debt Helpline: 1800 007 007
Mob Strong Debt Help: 1800 808 488
ASIC's Moneysmart website
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
Headspace on 1800 650 890
QLife on 1800 184 527
Information sourced from ABC online news article: If you don't have enough money for bills or necessities, what are your options? - ABC News
Noticeboard continued
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).
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.
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/
Various items available depending on availability Email: ER@kyogletogether.org.au
Ph: 0422 981 363
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/
Ph: (02) 6622 4055
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.
