A new community map, which provides a host of information ranging from identified heritage sites to planning information about individual properties, is now available on Kyogle Council’s website.The Kyogle Council Community Map is free to use and is an incredibly rich resource.Kyogle Council Mayor Danielle Mulholland encouraged everyone to hop onto the website and have a play around with the map.“Council is moving into the 21st century and making better use of current and emerging technologies to assist residents, visitors and investors in a range of ways,” Cr Mulholland said.“The new mapping system will provide immediate information on a variety of issues, particularly outside of business hours or when staff are otherwise not available.“It's convenient, informative, accurate and fast – everything that people want in our modern fast information-driven world.”The community map operates using layers -- you simply tick which layers you want to look at and you are provided with details ranging from lot and DP numbers and zoning for individual properties to bush fire prone land ratings to more general information such as the location of public toilets and State and Federal election boundaries.Using the map tools, you can even take measurements in distance and area and print and save the map information.You could find the map here https://www.kyogle.nsw.gov.au/recreation-community/local-maps/community-map/The page also provides instructions on how to navigate the Community Map including how to search for a specific property and where to go for additional help when using the map.

Ballina Shire Council and GeoLINK are inviting the community to roll up their sleeves and help restore the iconic Lennox Headland at the 20th annual Lennox Head Community Tree Planting Day on Friday 6 June 2025.This year marks a major milestone, two decades since the partnership between Council and GeoLINK began, with a shared vision to return native littoral rainforest to the iconic headland.Since the inaugural planting in 2003, when just 20 volunteers came together to plant 140 seedlings, the event has flourished into a well-loved community tradition. To date, more than 1,650 volunteers have planted over 13,000 native seedlings.Ballina Shire Council’s Natural Resource Officer, James Brideson, said the event is a testament to what long-term community action can achieve.“Each year, the local community come together to regenerate this precious coastal environment, helping to restore what was once present pre-1800s. What started as a small-scale project has grown. We’ve now planted over 13,000 trees and covered over seven hectares,” said Mr Brideson.“We could not have done this without the schools, businesses and local volunteers who show up year after year to contribute their time and energy to restoring this special place,” added Mr Brideson.This event reflects Ballina Shire Council’s long-term commitment to boosting native biodiversity and strengthening the resilience of our natural landscapes. Restoring this coastal headland plays a vital role in supporting threatened ecosystems and creating essential habitat for native wildlife.GeoLINK’s Senior Ecologist, Planner and Bushfire Specialist Veronica Silver has seen first-hand how this project is improving the iconic headland. “I’m proud to have been part of this valuable restoration project as a GeoLINK staff member for over 20 years. I love walking past the plantings from previous years on the way up to the headland, it’s been a joy to watch the plants grow in the restored littoral rainforest, which now provides a habitat for birds and reptiles,” said Ms Silver.The community tree planting day also provides a valuable learning experience for local school students who attend each year.“Along with planting trees, we also provide educational talks to help educate and inspire the kids who come along,” Ms Silver said.The annual event also marks World Environment Day, making it a fitting opportunity for locals to take direct action for the planet, close to home.The event will be held at the top of Lennox Headland from 9am to 12noon. Park at Pat Morton lookout and walk up the headland and follow the signs. Participants need to wear sun protection and closed-in shoes, and are encouraged to bring digging tools if they have them.Council will provide native seedlings, mulch, water, and some planting tools. A free barbecue and refreshments will also be available, thanks to the generous support of the Lennox Head business community and local volunteer groups.For more information, contact GeoLINK on (02) 6687 7666.

As the crowds descend on the Northern Rivers of NSW for this year’s Casino Beef Week, the Albanese Government has announced an investment of $1 million over 3 years to support the event in 2026, 2027 and 2028.The funding is part of the Showcasing Australian Agriculture – Regional Trade Events Program announced in the 2025-26 Budget.Casino Beef Week is one of the largest and longest running beef events in the country, bringing farmers, producers, and businesses associated with the beef industry together to showcase their products and expertise.Since the inaugural event in 1982, Casino Beef Week has grown into a major community event, celebrating producers in the Richmond Valley through food and entertainment.Cattle competitions, rodeo events, parades, live music performances, and a variety of family-friendly activities will take over the town of Casino between the 24th of May and the 1st June.Minister Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins said, “As a government we are committed to supporting regional Australia, and that means doing our part supporting events like Casino Beef Week that will showcase the Australian beef industry. “Australia’s beef export industry is worth more than $12 billion and is Australia’s most valuable agricultural export.“Our Government will continue to back our proud beef industry and this new investment is another example of this commitment.“I know these last few weeks have been tough for NSW farming communities and I’m wishing the organisers of Casino Beef Week all the best for a successful event.”Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Anthony Chisholm said, “A strong Ag sector means a strong economy - that’s why we’re proud to support Casino Beef Week through this latest round of funding to help Aussie producers connect, innovate and profit, so our country can be the richer for it. “There is a lot to celebrate at this year’s event, Australia’s beef industry has gone from strength to strength in recent times – producing 2.4 million tonnes of beef and veal in 2023-24, the third highest amount on record, and the highest in 10 years. “Although Casino Beef Week isn’t just about profit, it’s also a great opportunity to bring people together, and as the flood damage to NSW farming communities unfolds, it’s a stark reminder of how important mateship is to our regional and rural communities.

You can be part in a Guinness Book of World Records event at the Kyogle Showgrounds on Saturday, June 14: the World's Biggest Happy Dance.At present, there is no official record for the World’s Biggest Happy Dance. However, in 2015, 448 people danced to Pharrell Williams ‘" Happy " song in Singapore, setting an informal record. The Guinness Book of Records does not officially recognise this “happy dance.”So, Kyogle Mayor Danielle Mulholland helped form a small committee and started investigating whether the Guinness Book of Records had a record for the largest group “happy dance.”  "We discovered that no official record had yet been set. So we registered and will present our evidence after the day of dancing is done," Mayor Mulholland said."So, on the 14th June 2025, we will be hosting “The World’s Biggest Happy Dance” at the Kyogle Showgrounds between 2pm-4pm.  There will be a barbecue run by local service clubs, who will also have cold drinks for sale. Please note that the entry fee is $5, with all proceeds going towards the fundraiser. The colour theme for the day is purple (for domestic violence), and the motif is a butterfly."  "The event will not only set a new world record, it will also be a fundraiser for a domestic violence program delivered in schools about healthy relationships and to provide crisis assistance to DV victims. Please note this is an alcohol free event, and this was a deliberate decision by the committee, knowing that alcohol can be a contributing factor to domestic violence.""The school program, Growing Strong Kind Kids, is aimed at primary school children. This 6-week program will focus on reducing domestic violence by providing education to children, with a focus to empower children with knowledge and skills about healthy relationships, to increase safety and reduce violence in the Kyogle and village communities. Depending on how much we raise, we hope to be able to roll this program out across the region, then the state and hopefully nationwide. The feedback on this program after it was rolled out following the last fundraiser, was incredibly positive." "The program is being delivered by trained facilitators and has been developed by Sarah Daley, who is an accredited Social Worker with the Australian Association of Social Workers and a Registered Play Therapist with Australasia Pacific Play Therapy Association (APPTA). The program covers various themes, including safety, emotions, gender, healthy relationships, power dynamics, consent, and non-violent communication."The Program Goals:* To increase children’s awareness of who and what makes them feel safe, identifying safety in the body and safe people.* To increase children’s awareness of gender and promote gender equality* To learn how to have a respectful relationship with friends and family* To learn about boundaries, consent and non-violent communication* To learn about power dynamics in relationships and learn how to have power with."It's not just about raising money and awareness regarding DV - it's also about bringing a little happiness into everyone's lives. After coming out of years of disasters - drought, major bushfires, Covid, the catastrophic floods of 2022 and subsequent flood events, and obviously, there are political tensions across the world at present, the escalation of domestic violence has reached crisis point. "Victims can be men or women, although in reported statistics, the largest proportion is women. Men tend not to speak out because of Australian “macho” stereotypes, but there is no shame in asking for help. In Australia, 1 in 5 adults (20%) have experienced family and domestic violence (FDV) since the age of 15, with women (27%) more likely to experience it than men (12%).  "In Australia, on average, one woman is killed every nine days by a current or former partner, and one man every month. Irrespective of background, domestic violence is a scourge on our society we need to eliminate and it is only together, we can start to address the underlying behaviours."It is hoped that everybody is going to jump on board with the Happy Dance Project. People can do it individually, with friends and family, workmates, clubs etc. It doesn't have to be a organised routine.. just get your happy on. It is about teaching the next generation that healthy relationships are about honesty, trust, respect and open communication between partners. "Relationships take effort and compromise from both people. There is no imbalance of power. Partners respect each other's independence, can make their own decisions without fear of retribution or retaliation, and share decisions. Help our young generations make the right choices and break the cycle of domestic violence."For Facebook Event and Information please join or follow this page; https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574179198286PRE-ORDER NOW OPEN FOR COMMEMORATIVE SHIRTBiggest Happy Dance Shirt Pre-order (Option 1): https://a9a4ec-0e.myshopify.com/products/mass-happy-dance-shirt-pre-order?utm_campaign=share_orders&utm_content=android&utm_medium=product-linksBiggest Happy Dance Shirt Pre-order (Option 2 DV): https://a9a4ec-0e.myshopify.com/products/pre-order-mass-happy-dance-shirt-option-2?utm_campaign=share_orders&utm_content=android&utm_medium=product-linksTo make a donation, please visit the mycause Link: https://www.mycause.com.au/p/330607/the-worlds-biggest-happy-dance-project?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR17HadWDs8YoZ1X7NyHB_EcWWHj_cv9p2a_RSlvfj8ACsusF_3Iaxjy_rY_aem_5foHp7UQxO7OUq1g0jZ8kAIf you want to purchase a 3D Butterfly brooch for $5 to raise money for the cause. Contact Luna and Wombat Creative: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/169kLsgYk7/?mibextid=qi2Omg.

Ballina Shire Council is encouraging motorists to drive safely over the coming days with king tides leading to minor flooding of some local roads.Where possible, motorists, motorcyclists, pedestrians, and cyclists should avoid affected roadways. Salt water may affect maintenance of vehicle and bodywork.The king tides will be occurring at night from Sunday, 25 May to Friday, 30 May 2025 and will reach up to 1.99m.Roads likely to be affected by king tides and salt water flooding include:Tamar Street, Ballina Riverside Drive, West BallinaRiver Street, West Ballina Burns Point Ferry Road, West BallinaNorth Creek Road, North BallinaSouthern Cross Drive, North BallinaUralba Road, Uralba Old Bangalow Road, TintenbarTamarind Drive, Cumbalum For road information, visit livetraffic.com or phone Ballina Shire Council on 1300 864 444.

Ballina Shire Council has announced that work has officially commenced on a new pump track in the heart of Ballina. The pump track will transform the southern area of Kingsford Smith Reserve into a vibrant recreational precinct, offering a competition-quality track for riders and spectators.This project has been funded through Ballina Shire Council and $733,345 from the NSW Government.Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said it's fantastic to see construction underway on the new pump track at Ballina."The new pump track will provide a fun, active space for people of all ages to enjoy where riders can test out their new skills and get outside in nature," Minister Moriarty said."The NSW Government is committed to upgrading local infrastructure that improves community health and wellbeing."Ballina Shire Mayor Sharon Cadwallader expressed her excitement about the project and emphasised its positive impact on the community.“I’m thrilled to announce this fantastic project, and I know our community will be just as excited to see it come to life. The new pump track will be an incredible addition, offering a safe and vibrant space for young people and families to come together, stay active, and have fun,” said Cr Cadwallader. “This project reflects our commitment to enhancing community wellbeing and encouraging healthy, active lifestyles throughout Ballina Shire. It’s not just a space for local riders; it’s a community hub where people of all ages can gather, ride, watch, and enjoy,” Cr Cadwallader added.(The new Ballina Pump Track concept design)The new pump track will be built to national qualifier event standards, making it eligible to host events as part of the pump track world championship series. In addition to the main competition level pump track, there will be a junior pump track, alternate advanced line and a surrounding precinct featuring trackside hardstand for spectators and participants, with shelters, seating, bike stands, drinking fountains, a workstation, and landscaped areas and shade trees.This project aligns with Council’s objective to provide young people with a range of leisure activities and was a key element in the Kingsford Smith Reserve Master Plan, which was adopted in 2021 following extensive community consultation.A pump track is a specially designed circuit for bikes, scooters, and skateboards, where riders maintain momentum by using a pumping motion rather than pedalling or pushing. The facility is expected to open by October 2025, subject to weather and site conditions.Project Highlights:•             Pump track (built to national qualifier standards, making it eligible to host events as part of the pump track world championship series)•             Trackside hardstand for spectators and participants, including shelters, seating, bike stands, drinking fountains, and a workstation•             Landscaping and shade trees for a welcoming environment•             Stormwater management to enhance sustainabilityFor more information or to view the concept plans, visit Council’s project page ballina.nsw.gov.au/Ballina-pump-track.

Expressions of Interest (EOI) are now open for people wanting to operate surf schools and kayak tours in the Byron Shire.The closing date for EOIs is 1 July 2025.In a change from previous years, the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is now managing the EOI process rather than the Byron Shire Council.Council will, however, be on the assessment panel reviewing the licence applications.NPWS and Council are offering six licences for surf schools of varying sizes, and two licences for kayak tours.The number of licences is strictly controlled, so the beaches and ocean remain shared spaces for everyone.Malcolm Robertson, Council’s Manager Open Spaces and Facilities, said the licence system also ensures that all operators have appropriate first-aid skills and safety procedures in place.Information about how to submit an EOI for surf schools and kakak tours is on Council’s website. 

Ballina Shire Council will close the Ballina War Memorial Pool for the month of June and the Alstonville Aquatic Centre for the month of July for essential annual maintenance.Ballina War Memorial Swimming Pool will be closed from Sunday, 1 June to Monday, 30 June 2025. Alstonville Aquatic Centre will remain open during this period.The Alstonville Aquatic Centre will be closed from Tuesday, 1 July to Thursday, 31 July 2025. The Ballina War Memorial Swimming Pool will remain open during this period.Pass holders are reminded that they can access both the Alstonville and Ballina pool facilities.For the latest information visit: ballina.nsw.gov.au/community-swimming-pools

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning for heavy, locally intense rainfall from Evans Head/Yamba down the east coast. A coastal trough situated to the north of Coffs Harbour will remain stationary for the rest of today (Wednesday). A persistent and very moist onshore flow to the south of the trough continues to cause widespread areas of rain across the region, with embedded heavy showers and isolated thunderstorms. Areas of heavy rainfall are expected to persist into Thursday as a low-pressure system develops within the trough as it slowly moves southwards.Prolonged moderate rainfall with isolated areas of HEAVY RAINFALL, which may lead to FLASH FLOODING is forecast to continue over northeastern parts of the state for the remainder of today and during Thursday. Six-hourly rainfall totals between 60 and 100 mm are likely. 24-hourly rainfall totals between 100 and 150 mm are likely.Locally INTENSE RAINFALL, which may lead to DANGEROUS AND LIFE-THREATENING FLASH FLOODING is also possible for parts of the Mid North Coast district and adjacent Northern Tablelands later this evening and during Thursday. This includes Kempsey, and coastal areas around Coffs Harbour and Nambucca Heads. Six-hourly rainfall totals between 100 and 150 mm are possible. 24-hourly rainfall totals between 200 and 300 mm are possible.HEAVY RAINFALL is likely to slowly contract south, clearing the Northern Rivers during Thursday morning, and the Mid North Coast and Hunter districts later Thursday and during Friday.A Flood Watch and various Flood Warnings are current for multiple catchments. Please refer to http://www.bom.gov.au/nsw/warnings/.Locations which may be affected include Grafton, Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie, Taree, Kempsey, Yamba, Maclean, Woolgoolga, Sawtell, Dorrigo, Wingham and Yarrowitch.Significant rainfall observations between 9am and 4pm on Wednesday include:140.0 mm recorded at Moparrabah (Parrabel Creek)109.0 mm recorded at Bellingen97.5 mm recorded a Kookaburra School Hut90.0 mm recorded at Mt SeaviewThe State Emergency Service advises that people should:* Don't drive, ride or walk through flood water.* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.* Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.* After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring your local SES Unit on 132 500.The next Severe Weather Warning will be issued by 11:00 pm AEST on Wednesday.

The Ending Rough Sleeping Collaboration Byron Shire (ERSCBS) was one of 50 finalists selected from more than 200 applicants nationwide to take part in a National Community Roadshow and Listening Tour by PLACE (Partnerships for Local Action and Community Empowerment), last month. The Collaboration, established in 2020, is proudly supported by Byron Shire Council, where a small team of staff convene local work to end homelessness. “We were thrilled to be selected for the PLACE Listening Tour, and it was an invaluable experience that helped the local work we do here in the Byron Shire become recognised and supported at a national level - along with other place-based initiatives happening around Australia,” Council’s Backbone Lead for the Ending Rough Sleeping Collaboration, Anna Lockwood said.As part of the Listening Tour, members of the Ending Rough Sleeping Collaboration Byron Shire, including people with lived experience of homelessness, local homelessness services, and community and philanthropic organisations, shared the wins they've seen the Collaboration achieve over time.“Collective action has seen the establishment of a local Assertive Outreach team and a Homeless Health Outreach Team, the re-establishment of Fletcher Street Cottage and ongoing resourcing for Council’s Public Space Liaison Officers.“Local services have also worked hard to overcome system barriers together, like information and eligibility challenges, to make sure that support for local people is better coordinated.“The work of the Collaboration is often invisible work, such as continuing to advocate for systems improvements that better support local people, and for much needed local social housing, because everyone deserves the right to a home,” Ms Lockwood said.“What we’ve learned through working together is that, with support from a backbone organisation like Council, community-led, place-based initiatives can help to solve homelessness – and our community needs to be trusted and resourced to make it happen,” Ms Lockwood said.As part of the tour, PLACE also made a site visit to members of the collaboration at Fletcher Street Cottage and Liberation Larder in Byron Bay, who provide crucial services to local people sleeping rough. PLACE is a national organisation that supports the adoption and impact of place-based approaches in local communities across Australia.Find out more about the Ending Rough Sleeping Collaboration Byron Shire (ERSCBS) see Council’s website or contact the team at roughsleeping@byron.nsw.gov.au.

The walk from Byron Bay’s town centre to the Cape Byron lighthouse is done by thousands of people every month, but if you ask a local, the stretch from The Pass turnoff on Lighthouse Road is in desperate need of an upgrade.The State Government agrees, this week announcing $1.25 million for a new footpath from Brooke Drive towards the lighthouse as part of its Get NSW Active program, which aims to improve active transport infrastructure in cities and country areas.“This news that we are getting a new, safe, formalised path will be well received by everyone who does this walk to the lighthouse,” Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said.“The existing gravel walking track is narrow and there’s a constant stream of traffic going past which makes if feel quite unsafe at times.“Over the years, Council and the National Parks and Wildlife Service have invested a lot of money improving infrastructure in the area for pedestrians, and this stretch of the walk is the missing link, so we’re very grateful to receive funding,” Mayor Ndiaye said.“As well as the safety improvements, this funding is intended to improve pathway designs with educational signage, additional seating and other placemaking features that enhance walkers’ appreciation of our beautiful environment.”“We will also be adding traffic calming measures to slow everyone down and this will make it safer for wildlife as well as people.“While locals often do the walk every day or weekly as part of their exercise regime, it’s also on the ‘must-do’ list of many visitors.“Council is all about getting people to leave their cars at home and walk, roll or ride, so this project aligns perfectly with this,” she said.Staff are in the process of finalising the design for the path, with construction expected to start in the second half of 2026.

A man has died following a single-vehicle crash at Mullumbimby last night.About 7.10pm yesterday (Sunday, 18 May 2025), emergency services were called to Left Bank Road, Mullumbimby, following reports of a crash.Police attached to Tweed/Byron Police District have been told a vehicle had left the roadway and crashed into a tree.The driver was assisted by community members who commenced CPR prior to the arrival of emergency services.NSW Ambulance paramedics arrived and treated the driver; however, he was unable to be revived.While yet to be formally identified, the driver is believed to be a 19-year-old man.A crime scene was established, and officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District commenced inquiries into the incident.A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Australia Post is expanding its footprint in regional Australia with a major infrastructure investment across New South Wales, announcing the development of six new greenfield sites in Byron Bay, Casino, Tumut, Leeton, Deniliquin and Forbes. The sites will bolster capacity to support parcel volume growth and improve service across rural and regional communities.These purpose-built facilities are designed to boost parcel processing capability – handling between 900 parcels to 2,200 parcels per day – and enhance service across rural and regional communities as well as improving operational safety and efficiency.Sustainability is a key focus of the expansion, with all sites featuring 50kW rooftop solar power generation, and a number also investing in rainwater harvesting and EV charging capability.Australia Post General Manager Network Development & Support Services, Shane Plant said the investment reflects Australia Post’s commitment to improving services for regional communities across Australia.“In New South Wales, we’ve seen online purchases increase by 2.8% year-on-year, with data indicating that 82% of NSW households are now shopping online1 . As regional areas increasingly depend on eCommerce due to fewer physical retail offerings, these purpose-built sites will enable Australia Post to meet the growing parcel demand in these regions.“Beyond speed and efficiency, we’re focused on providing safer workplaces for our team members and building environmentally responsible infrastructure that can serve communities well unto the future,” Mr. Plant said.The details and timelines for each of these new sites are as follows:Byron Bay: Construction on the 3,072m² site will begin in mid-2026, with the site expected to open by mid-2027.Tumut: Construction has commenced on the 600m² site, with plans to open in late 2025.Casino: Construction on the 1,350m² site will begin in early 2026, with an expected opening towards the end of that year.Leeton: Construction on the 1,105m² site will begin in early 2026, with an expected opening towards the end of that year.Deniliquin: Construction on the 1,335m² site will begin in early 2026, with an expected opening towards the end of that year.Forbes: Construction on the 1,796m² site will begin in early 2026, with an expected opening towards the end of that year.As part of this regional expansion, a brownfield site has also been secured in Narrandera. Further brownfield sites in Cooma and Ballina are in lease negotiations.This investment in regional NSW is part of a broader commitment to support growth in regional Australia, with additional sites to be rolled out across all regional Australian States & Territories.

If you know an individual, business or group who has made an exceptional contribution to community life, it’s time to nominate them for the prestigious Byron Shire Community Awards 2025.Nominations are now open until 16 June at www.byron.nsw.gov.au/communityawards.“Byron Shire is blessed with a rich and colourful community spirit, and we all know people who go above and beyond to make a difference to the lives of others,” Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye said.“It is these talents and efforts that we want to shine a light on at the 2025 Awards, and I urge everyone to have a think about who you think deserves an award – and nominate them today.“Let’s take this opportunity to recognise these people and groups and the important contribution they make – and give them a very big and public thank you!” the Mayor said.The eight categories open for nominations are:Community Member of the YearYoung Community Member of the YearCommunity Initiative of the YearIn Business for GoodCaring for Country AwardContributions to Health and Wellbeing AwardCreativity AwardAccess and Inclusion Award. The Byron Shire Community Awards are in their third year and the awards ceremony will be held on Tuesday 5 August - to align with Local Government Week.To make a nomination for the 2025 Byron Shire Community Awards, go to Council’s website and complete the online form: www.byron.nsw.gov.au/communityawards.

A man has been charged after police allegedly located and seized drugs inside a home in Kingscliff yesterday.About 11.40am (Thursday 15 May 2025) officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District attended a home on Cylinders Drive, Kingscliff, to serve a Firearms Prohibition Order and Weapons Prohibition Order. Following inquiries, police executed a search warrant at the same location about 2.30pm. During the search, police allegedly located an amount of drugs, including more than 1000 diazepamtablets, 92g of methylamphetamine, 300g of GBL, 2g of cannabis seeds and three vials of testosterone. The drugs were seized by police and will be forensically examined. A 29-year-old man was arrested and taken to Tweed Heads Police Station. He was charged with two counts of supply prohibited drug, two counts of possess prohibited drug, possess/attempt to, prescribed restricted substance, possess/attempt to, anabolic or androgenic steroidal agent goods suspected stolen in/on premises (not motor vehicle) and fail to comply digital evidence access order direction. He was refused bail to appear before Tweed Heads Local Court today (Friday, 16 May 2025).

The NSW Government has approved a large-scale solar farm in the Richmond Valley that will power more than 36,000 homes and create 200 local jobs in construction. The $312 million Summerville Solar Farm is located at Rapville, 57 kilometres southwest of Lismore or 28 kilometres south of Casino, and will have a generating capacity of 90 megawatt (MW). It will also boast a 360-megawatt-hour (MWh) battery energy storage system, which will allow the farm to capture and release solar energy to the grid during peak times and outside daylight hours.  Clean energy produced from the solar farm will save more than 139,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions annually. The proponent will also provide approximately $3.1 million to Richmond Valley Council to deliver infrastructure and community benefits. The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) responded to key issues raised during the community consultation period, including biodiversity and fire safety.   The project has been approved, subject to strict conditions including a 10-metre perimeter for fire safety and others to manage or mitigate any impacts on traffic and the environment. The Summerville Solar Farm requires approval from the Commonwealth Government before construction can begin.   Since March 2023, the NSW Government has delivered 34 renewable energy State Significant Development assessments, including five wind farms, 12 solar farms and 15 large-scale energy storage systems.  The projects have the combined capacity to generate 6 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy, and store 7.8 GW / 21.5 GWh of energy.This could save an estimated 10.5 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions each year and power 2.78 million homes while boosting the state’s energy security. For more information visit https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects/projects/summerville-solar-farm.Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said, “The Minns Labor Government is committed to diversifying energy production and reducing carbon emissions while providing energy security and reliability. “Summerville Solar Farm will produce clean energy and bolster the Northern Rivers economy by creating jobs during construction and operational phases.  “The renewable project will also help renew the community with Richmond Valley Council to receive about $3.12 million to spend on community projects for locals to enjoy. “NSW is leading a once-in-a-generation upgrade of the electricity network, to deliver even more clean, affordable and reliable energy for everyone in NSW.” Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said, “This is a big win for our community. Renewable energy projects are the cheapest form of energy to build. They mean more jobs, cleaner energy, and reliable power as more projects like Summerville get built. “I’m also happy to see that the successful tenderer will be delivering some funds to Richmond Valley Council to build local infrastructure and support our local community groups. This project won’t just create jobs, it’ll help deliver some much-needed support for our community too.”  

Work on recovery efforts following ex tropical cyclone Alfred continues over the coming months with Council’s maintenance crews delivering resealing, grading, causeway repairs and more over May and June. Phil Holloway, Director Infrastructure Services, said although the weather event wasn’t as significant as previous natural disasters, there is still a lot of work to be done.  “Council staff are continuing to do a lot of work on our roads, drainage, vegetation and more throughout the Shire, following the weather event in early March,” said Mr Holloway. “People can expect minor to moderate traffic delays across this Shire as we get this important work done. We thank everyone for their patience,” added Mr Holloway. Staff have already begun repair work and will continue to be focusing on the following roads in the coming weeks: resealing on a small section of Coolamon Scenic Drive (south of Myocum Road). unsealed pavement repairs (grading) on sections of Watsons Road, Charltons Road, Kennedys Lane, Dingo Lane, Coopers Creek Road, Seven Mile Beach Road, and Settlement Road.causeway repair work and debris clean up at Palmwoods Road, Main Arm Road and Left Bank Road (causeways), and Wilsons Creek Road, Upper Wilsons Creek Road, Left Bank Road, Walkers Lane, Coorabell Road, Grays Lane, Beech Lane, Eureka Road and Goonengerry Road (debris).undertaking a make safe program involving extensive tree and limb removal throughout the Shire. All work is weather permitting and subject to change. “This work follows earlier work done by multiple Council teams. Over March and April, they supported community organisations to help people get back on their feet. Processed large amounts of waste and green waste received at our resource recovery centre. Collected extra bins. Did kerbside pick-ups of green waste in urban areas. Cleaned up our parks, beaches, beach access points, and roadsides. Ensured water supply was restored at Mullumbimby, and more,” said Mr Holloway.“A big thanks to all our teams, including our customer service teams on the end of phones and emails,” added Mr Holloway. Work is funded by emergency work/immediate reconstruction work budgets following ex-tropical cyclone Alfred (disaster funding). Additional work is expected from this weather event, essential public asset reconstruction work packages will be scoped in the coming month, with more information to be provided once it is available. All up, it is expected that the work following ex-tropical cyclone Alfred will cost close to $15 million.

Byron Shire is well known for its creative, generous and resilient community, and the Byron Council is hoping to reflect the essence of this in a new Vibrant Economy Strategy.“The last five years have had an incredible impact on our local economy in ways that no one could have imagined,” Sarah Ndiaye, Byron Shire Mayor, said.“We recognise that we need to not only reflect on the impacts of COVID, floods and economic factors on our businesses and our community, but we need to set the direction for what we want our economy to look like in the future.“Our business community have told us they want an aspirational strategy that reflects the creative and unique aspects of the Byron Shire, and this is what we intend to deliver,” Mayor Ndiaye said.The Vibrant Economy Strategy will be an overarching document designed to support the Shire’s 6,000 plus local businesses while acknowledging and balancing the community’s desire to ensure the lifestyle and values of residents are maintained and enhanced.Four action plans are being developed as part of the strategy, targeting the visitor economy, the night-time economy, the events sector and business and industry. “At the same time, we are working hard to support our businesses in the Byron Shire,” Mayor Ndiaye said.“There is a lot of exciting work being done. We’re co-hosting the North Coast Tourism Symposium and Awards in July, we’ve been awarded a grant to kickstart our work on a Special Entertainment Precinct in Byron Bay, and we are supporting a Regional and Remote Music Summit as well.“There are more than 21,000 local jobs in the Byron Shire, and we want to see people being able to live and work locally so this Vibrant Economy Strategy is a really important document,” she said.

Byron Shire’s Community Strategic Plan 2035 has been adopted by Council following months of community consultation, and it is now on Council’s website: www.byron.nsw.gov.au/communityplan “The Community Strategic Plan is Council’s most important document because it sets out the community’s aspirations and objectives for the next ten years.  “The Plan includes key partners, council plans and strategies, and how community members can be more involved in achieving the desired outcomes,” Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye said. Adoption of the new Community Strategic Plan also marks the start of Council’s community consultation of its draft Delivery Plan 2025 – 2029, and annual Operational Plan, Budget, and Fees and Charges for 2025/26.  The community is invited to have a say on these draft documents until Sunday, 8 June at www.byron.nsw.gov.au/dpop Setting Priorities and Projects “Now that the Community Strategic Plan has been adopted, the next critical step is for the community to get involved in helping us set priorities for the delivery of projects over the next four years. “Don’t miss this opportunity to have your say on these documents and help us clarify where our efforts, resources and time would be best focussed over the next four years,” the Mayor said. The draft Delivery Plan is a four-year plan that covers the term of our elected Council. It is structured around the same five community objectives in the CSP and includes the priorities and projects that Council is committed to achieving over the next four years.  The draft Operational Plan, Budget, and Statement of Revenue Policy, detail the specific activities, works, and projects that will be delivered in the first year. In 2025/26, Council is forecast to spend more than $61 million on capital works across the Shire, including:Sandhills Drainage - $6.3million.Mullumbimby Road upgrade - $2.277million.Infrastructure restoration - associated with February/March 2022 flood events - $26.135million.Open Space and Recreation - $693,000.Waste Management - $6.750million.Holiday Parks - $3.344million.Brunswick Heads Recreation Grounds Public Amenities - $540,300. Among the changes to the Draft 2025/26 fees and charges is the re-introduction of Shire Resident Parking Permit fees and the establishment of a new fee to enable non-resident ratepayers and border community members to access permits for parking in the Byron Shire to enable further investment in infrastructure and projects to benefit the community. Community invited to provide input on draft DP/OP and Budget, Fees and Charges until 8 June 2025. You can view Council’s draft documents and have your say at www.byron.nsw.gov.au/dpop  Council will also be running two community information nights where you can learn more and ask questions: Session 1 (in person): Tuesday, 20 May, 5-7pm at the Mullumbimby Council Chambers. Session 2 (virtual): Tuesday, 27 May, 4 – 6pm held online Register your attendance at www.byron.nsw.gov.au/dpop. To view the adopted Community Strategic Plan go to www.byron.nsw.gov.au/communityplan.