Byron Shire businesses have once again demonstrated their strength and innovation in tourism, taking home multiple accolades at the prestigious 2025 NSW Tourism Awards late last month.Five local operators were recognised among the state’s best, showcasing the creativity and resilience of our tourism industry.Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, said the awards highlight how innovative, values-driven and sustainable approaches are shaping Byron’s visitor economy and truly reflect the spirit of the Shire. Through our ongoing engagement with action groups, we’re creating experiences that welcome people into the unique and diverse landscapes, culture and stories of Byron.“A special mention goes to Vision Walks – Eco Tours, which took out both the Ecotourism and Tour & Transport Operators categories for NSW Tourism – an incredible achievement. They will now represent NSW in the Australian Tourism Awards in March 2026, and we wish them every success,” Mayor Ndiaye said.“Council’s recent adoption of the Byron Shire Economic Strategy 2025-2035 strengthens this commitment by providing a clear framework to support our action groups, nurture local innovation and help our visitor economy grow in a way that respects our environment, our villages and the people who call this place home.”Congratulations to our local Byron Shire winners:EcotourismGold: Vision Walks – Eco ToursTour & Transport OperatorsGold: Vision Walks – Eco ToursAdventure TourismBronze: Soul Surf SchoolHosted AccommodationBronze: The Health LodgeMajor Festivals & EventsBronze: Bluesfest Byron BayTourist AttractionsSilver: Crystal Castle & Shambhala GardensFor a full list of NSW Tourism Awards go to NSW Tourism Association.For more information about Council’s Byron Shire Economic Strategy see Council’s website.

Byron Shire Council has announced three innovative projects selected through its annual Creative Public Spaces Grants, set to reimagine and activate public spaces with surprising and joyful experiences in early 2026.Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, said the projects offer a program of free site-specific activations for the community to explore and interact with.“Expect low-tide river dances on a sandbar in the Brunswick River, a magical rainforest trail through the Mullumbimby Arboretum and a one-off drive-in cinema screening and light installation in the car park of the Cavanbah Centre in Byron Bay,” the Mayor said.The three Creative Projects selected include:Hoppers (3-4 January) – Set on a sandbar within the Brunswick Heads River, Hoppers is a vibrant intervention of synchronised swimmers by local choreographer Kelly O’Meara, featuring bright orange space hoppers, beach games, and choreography celebrating the female body and connection to place.Understory Wonder Trail (February to March) – A creative exploration of the Mullumbimby Arboretum at Heritage Park led by children’s theatre practitioner Valley Lipcer and Visual Ecologist Aviva Reed, including workshops, a QR-activated soundscape and illustrated booklet that brings to life the park’s diverse plant and animal life and experiments with creative responses, including drawing, sound, sculpture, and movement.Drive-In Cinema at the Cavanbah Centre (April) – A one-night-only event in April curated by Andreas Stamatakakos, transforming the southern car park into a pop-up cinema showcasing indie films and light installations by local artists.Council’s annual Creative Public Spaces Grants aim to seed-fund projects that activate public sites through temporary interventions and experiences.“We had a wonderful response this year across all art forms and thank our talented community for their applications – and congratulate the three winners of this year’s grants,” the Mayor said.“Applications for next year’s funding open in April, and I can’t wait to see what our amazing creative community has in store for us,” the Mayor said.For more information about Creative Spaces Grants and the program of events, visit www.byron.nsw.gov.au/CPS.

A new work experience initiative, the Rivers to Ranges program, is launching to address youth unemployment and boost environmental stewardship in the Tweed, Ballina and Byron Shires. The program is an eight-week pilot designed to give young people aged 13 to 18 a direct path to purpose-driven work in the growing environmental sector.Developed and proposed by RiverTracks Incorporated, the program is a collaborative community effort with initial partners including Tweed Landcare.The Rivers to Ranges program offers a hands-on, immersive experience with local environmental organisations. Over eight weeks, young people engaged with the Rivertracks program will spend one day per week receiving a half-day training session from a different environmental organisation, focusing on low-risk practical skills involved in their daily work.The program aims to achieve several key objectives:Provide practical work experience and develop essential employability skills like teamwork, punctuality, communication, and field safety.Enhance environmental literacy and a sense of stewardship among young people.Connect youth with potential employers and pathways for further training and traineeships, including providing a locally recognised certificate of completion.Foster social inclusion through participation in meaningful community work.Christopher Rowland, RiverTracks Youth Program Manager and Program Lead for Rivers to Ranges, notes that the program is designed for youth who are "disengaged from mainstream education or seeking meaningful, purpose-driven work".Responding to Local NeedThe Northern Rivers region currently faces a high youth unemployment rate, even as the environmental sector expands and seeks skilled, passionate workers. This program directly responds to this gap, aiming to help young people overcome barriers to employment such as geographic isolation and lack of practical experience by engaging them in on-Country, outdoor, and hands-on environmental work.By engaging youth in on-Country, outdoor, and hands-on environmental work, the program improves confidence, skill development, and connection to community.River Tracks will be providing crucial support for the program, including coordination, transport, youth worker supervision, insurance, and risk management. Partner organisations will contribute staff expertise, site access, and field session delivery.Get InvolvedThe proposed start date for the pilot program is Term 1, 2026. RiverTracks aims for Rivers to Ranges to become a recurring seasonal program with the long-term goal of establishing paid traineeships and environmental micro-credentials recognised across the region.River Tracks is actively seeking involvement and support from the broader community, including:Additional Environmental Organisations: To expand the collaborative network and provide more diverse work experience.Local Employers and Businesses: To connect young people with employment opportunities, traineeships, or further training pathways.Schools and TAFE: To explore future partnership and expansion opportunities.Interested community members, organisations, and potential partners are encouraged to get in touch via the details below:Program Lead: Christopher Rowland Organisation: RiverTracks Incorporated Phone: 0481084499 Email: christopher@rivertracks.org

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man wanted on an outstanding warrant in Ballina.Christopher Gordon, aged 35, is wanted on an outstanding warrant for an alleged break-and-enter offence at a business in East Ballina.Officers attached to Richmond Police District have released an image of Christopher as inquiries continue to locate him.Christopher is described as being of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance, about 165cm – 170cm tall, of solid build, with black hair and brown eyes.He is known to frequent the East Ballina and Waterloo areas.Anyone who sees Christopher is urged not to approach him, but to call Triple Zero (000) immediately.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Northern NSW Local Health District is encouraging community organisations in Ballina to participate and help deliver healthy living activities for residents as part of the Healthy Living Program. The Healthy Living Program provides guidance and support to help individuals adopt and maintain healthier lifestyle habits and promotes wellness and healthy ageing. Acting Director Aboriginal Health, Oral Health and Health Promotion, Cameron Johnson, is excited to hear from community organisations based in Ballina, who are focused on helping people lead healthier lifestyles. “We would like to find out about existing local projects that support people in Ballina with healthy eating and physical activity,” Mr Johnson said. “By working in partnership with locals and locally based community organisations, we can help keep people healthy and well and out of hospitals. “We are looking forward to learning about the great initiatives based in Ballina, including those working in partnership with Aboriginal people. “The community survey will inform how NNSWLHD collaborates with organisations and supports existing activities.” The team is interested in discussing opportunities with community groups across a range of areas, such as physical activity, dance, sport, healthy eating and social interaction activities for young and old. The initiative is part of NNSWLHD’s Health Promotion strategy, which aims to support healthy lifestyles in the community. Recent initiatives have included healthy eating programs for families, creating fitness activities for older residents such as dance classes and community education about the dangers of vaping. Ballina-based organisations are invited to complete an online form to express interest and share what is happening locally for families, adults and older adults. Organisations are encouraged to complete this form by Friday, 19 December: https://healthupnorth.info/BallinaCommunityPartnershipsSurvey.

COVID, the 2022 floods and uncertain economic times have all impacted business and the community, and with lessons learnt from the last five years, Council now has a new Byron Shire Economic Strategy providing a roadmap for the next 10 years.“This strategy is about shaping the kind of economy we want for the future. One that is creative, sustainable and grounded in the wellbeing of our community and environment,” Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye said. “We need to keep the environment, our residents and our Indigenous custodians at the heart of the Economic Plan. Real progress depends on collaboration; Council cannot do this alone. “Those who care for Country and contribute to our tourism, creative and agricultural sectors are best placed to guide the way forward.”“Reaching this milestone has been a long journey, and we sincerely thank the community and industry for their patience, commitment, and active engagement over the past five years,” Mayor Ndiaye said.Developed through extensive engagement with stakeholders and informed by previous strategies, the updated Economic Strategy sets a clear vision for the next decade, outlining priority areas and flexible Action Plans to drive investment and collaboration across Council, industry, and the community.The Strategy is supported by Action Plans targeting key economic focus areas for Byron Shire:Business and industryDestination management and the visitor economyEventsThese ‘living’ plans will be further developed in collaboration with the Economic Activation Group (EAG), with membership including chambers of commerce and other local businesses, arts, tourism, and relevant government agencies.“This group brings Council, business and industry together to shape a future that cares for Country and strengthens our communities,” Mayor Ndiaye said.“Two of the key features of this new strategy are the creation of an economic baseline to be the foundation of tracking progress, as well as plans to develop relationships with academic institutions to develop a framework for best practice and research,” she said.The Economic Strategy and Action Plans are on Council’s website. Expressions of interest for the Economic Activation Group will be open in early December.

Byron Bay local landholders are halfway through a two-year project designed to help them improve the quality of their soil and protect the Shire’s waterways.This project was funded under the Northern Rivers Watershed Initiative (NRWI), which received $5 million from the NSW government for works in the Richmond, Evans, Brunswick and Tweed catchments to improve river health and deliver environmental, social and economic benefits.As part of the project, local landholders have been monitoring their soil for the last eight months through an app called SoilMentor. They recently attended a workshop to discuss the monitoring data and to hear from soil specialists about techniques to improve soil quality. Mark Duncan, Council’s Agriculture Extension Officer, said that there were some valuable insights shared at the workshop.“One of the things landholders have been doing is counting earthworms to track soil health,” said Mr Duncan.“With regular testing and good record keeping, changes in soil function can be identified and actions taken to improve soil health and plant productivity. Earthworm numbers are a simple way to measure if the actions being taken to improve soil health are effective. “Landholders also learnt about some valuable techniques that can help improve soil quality. One example that we discussed for graziers was planting and encouraging a diverse mix of plant species that increase below and above ground biodiversity, improve soil structure, increase soil carbon and water holding capacity. Deep-rooted perennial species such as Plantain and Chicory are particularly useful for improving water infiltration.“There was also discussion of how trees can be integrated into our farms to help restore the soils’ ability to store carbon, nutrients and water,” he said.Ryan Severn, Manager of Farm Development and Sustainability at The Farm Byron Bay, is one of the program participants and said that he was enjoying being part of the program and part of the soil health movement.“Our thanks to Byron Shire Council for leading the Slow the Flow program, which incorporates Soil Mentor. It’s an excellent initiative that strengthens our collective capacity to enhance soil health and water management across the region. We’re proud to be part of this movement and to continue driving the pursuit of healthier soils alongside such a committed and capable network of local farmers,” said Mr Severn.Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said the project is an important step towards improving agricultural outcomes for the region.“The Northern Rivers is a prime farming region and good soil health underpins the success of many of our local industries and communities,” Minister Moriarty said.“This project will help landholders build more productivity and resilience into their land, and I’m excited to see the outcomes of the project.”Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said projects like this contribute to the long-term prosperity of the Northern Rivers.“This project is about giving landholders practical tips and tools to improve soil health, protect waterways, and build capacity in the agricultural industry for the future,” Minister Saffin said."Investing in soil health is investing in our environment, our economy, and our way of life. This initiative will help farmers adapt to changing conditions while safeguarding the natural assets that make the Northern Rivers such a special place."The project will continue for another year. The next part of the project will include landholders creating a soil improvement action plan. Outcomes of the project will be shared with other landholders and farmers in the region to demonstrate the importance of soil health and show how regenerative soil management can help ‘Slow the Flow’.If local landholders or farmers are interested in this project or want to be part of other programs like this, they are encouraged to join the Byron Farmers Network or contact Council staff. More information about the project and contact information can be found on Council’s website.

A man is due to face court today, charged after another man died and two were injured following a shooting at a property in Eungella yesterday.About 1.25pm (Wednesday, 3 December 2025), emergency services were called to Tyalgum Road at Eungella, about 10km west of Murwillumbah, following reports of a shooting.Police have been told two men – aged 38 and 41 – were allegedly shot by another man, who ran from the scene with a fourth man.NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the older man at the property for a gunshot wound; however, he died at the scene. He is yet to be formally identified.Police were then alerted to a second incident, also on Tyalgum Road, after a 45-year-old man was allegedly hit by a ute. He is being treated in hospital and remains under police guard.The 38-year-old man subsequently sought treatment at hospital for a gunshot wound.Multiple crime scenes have been established, and officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District, with the assistance from State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad, established Strike Force Bray and commenced an investigation into the incidents.Following inquiries about 6.40pm on the same day, detectives, with the assistance from Dog Squad, arrested the fourth man, aged 36, in bushland near Tumbulgum Road.He was taken to Tweed Heads Police Station, where he was charged with murder.He was refused bail to appear at Bail Division Court 1 today (Thursday, 4 December 2025).Inquiries under Strike Force Bray continue.

A man has died, and two men have been injured following a shooting at a property 10km west of Murwillumbah this afternoon.Emergency services were called to Tyalgum Road at Eungella about 1.25pm (Wednesday, 3 December 2025), following reports of a shooting.Officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District have been told two men, aged 41 and 38, were allegedly shot by another man, who ran from the scene with a fourth man.NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the older man at the property for a gunshot wound; however, he died at the scene. He is yet to be formally identified.Police were then alerted to a second incident, also on Tyalgum Road, after a 45-year-old man was allegedly hit by a car. He is being treated in hospital and remains under police guard.The 38-year-old man subsequently sought treatment at hospital for a gunshot wound.Police are now waiting to speak with those men to establish the circumstances of how both were injured.Police are working to locate a fourth person, believed to be aged 37, who they believe can assist with their inquiries.Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Tweed Heads Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

A man was charged following an alleged stabbing in Ballina yesterday afternoon. He faced court today.About 12.45pm yesterday (Tuesday, 2 December 2205), police were called to The Ridgeway, Cumbalum, north of Ballina and east of Teven, following a concern for welfare.At the scene, police were told two men who are known to each other had allegedly been involved in an argument, before one of the men, aged 34, was allegedly stabbed.He was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being airlifted to the Gold Coast University Hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.During the arrest of a 33-year-old man, one officer sustained a hand injury, and another officer sustained a bite wound. Both officers attended hospital for further assessment and treatment.The man was taken to Ballina Police Station, and officers commenced an investigation into the incident.The man has since been charged with six offences:Wound person with intent to cause grievous bodily harm,Stalk/intimidate intend fear physical etc harm (domestic),Two counts of hinder or resist police officer in the execution of duty, andTwo counts of assault police officer in execution of duty cause actual bodily harm.He was refused bail to appear before Bail Division Court 1 today (Wednesday, 3 December 2025).

Marine Rescue Ballina has celebrated the extraordinary service of three long-standing volunteers, with a combined 73 years’ service, awarding Life Membership to Lorraine Leuckel, Norm Lannoy, and John Donoghue during a ceremony at the Ballina RSL on Saturday.Life Membership is one of the highest honours within Marine Rescue NSW, awarded only in exceptional circumstances to volunteers who have dedicated decades to protecting the boating community.Marine Rescue Ballina Unit Commander Peter Hill said the three recipients had left an enduring legacy within the unit.“Lorraine, Norm and John have devoted countless hours, immense skill and unwavering commitment to Marine Rescue NSW. Their service embodies the very best of our organisation and reflects a deep dedication to the safety and wellbeing of the Ballina community,” Unit Commander Hill said.“Each of them has contributed in remarkable and meaningful ways over many years. Their leadership, professionalism and community spirit set a powerful example for every volunteer.”“Ballina is privileged to have three volunteers of such calibre. Their work has strengthened our unit, supported local boaters for decades and helped save countless lives on the water.”Unit Commander Hill said the Life Membership awards were a proud moment for the unit and its 85 volunteers.“Every one of our volunteers plays a crucial role in serving the community. Today we honour Lorraine, Norm and John, but their achievements also reflect the wider spirit of teamwork that defines Marine Rescue Ballina.”Marine Rescue Ballina Life Membership recipientsLORRAINE LEUCKELWith 21 years of service, Lorraine Leuckel has made a lasting contribution since joining as a Radio Operator in 2004. Over two decades she has taken on significant training and leadership roles, serving as First Aid Trainer for 15 years, Trainer and Assessor (Cert IV) for 12 years and Invigilator for radio qualifications for seven years. Lorraine also spent five years on Boat Crew, including serving on Ballina’s first all-female crew, and contributed as Membership Officer for six years. She later served as Deputy Unit Commander during the transition to the new tower between 2016 and 2018. Lorraine remains a respected mentor and a valued leader within the unit.NORM LANNOYNorm Lannoy’s service began in 1998 when he joined the Coast Guard after completing rescue boat theory training at TAFE. Starting as a Radio Operator, he progressed through operational roles, becoming Competent Crew in 2003, Advanced Crew - Quartermaster in 2004 and a Coxswain in 2005. Norm went on to serve as the final Coast Guard Unit Commander in Ballina and the first Marine Rescue NSW Unit Commander. He completed the theory for his Master Class 5 in 2017 and served as Training Officer and Assessor from 2017 to August 2025. Norm continues to contribute as a Radio Operator and is widely regarded for his leadership, skill and long-standing dedication.JOHN DONOGHUEJohn Donoghue joined the Coast Guard, North Coast Squadron in 1999 and quickly became involved in planning for the new Ballina Control Tower, which was completed in 2016. Throughout his service he has played a crucial role in regional safety, acting as Squadron Safety Officer for Yamba, Evans Head, Ballina, Byron Bay and Kingscliff, delivering Fire and Water Safety training across the region and writing refuelling Standard Operating Procedures. At Ballina he has served as a Radio Operator, Unit Commander for three years, Safety Officer for evacuation procedures and, for the past five years, Maintenance Officer.With the summer holidays approaching, Unit Commander Hill is urging boaters to make Logging On with Marine Rescue NSW part of their routine.“Boaters can Log On using the free Marine Rescue NSW app or via VHF Channel 16. Logging on ensures our volunteers can monitor your safe return and, if you don’t return as planned, we can begin searching immediately. It only takes a minute to Log On and protect a lifetime.“We want everyone enjoying the water this summer to have a safe, enjoyable day out and return home to their loved ones,” he said.Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer-based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.

The restoration of a major wetland in the heart of Byron Bay is part of a $26 million project to reduce the impact of flooding in the tourist destination, as well as keeping pollution away from its celebrated beaches.In a dramatic transformation, three large retention ponds are the new centrepiece of the 5.5ha Sandhills wetlands, attracting native birds, animals, residents and tourists alike.The reopening of the wetlands today (Monday, 1 December) celebrates the return of a habitat which had been destroyed by sand mining in the 1960s.A network of paths connects the site to the town centre, Jarjumirr skatepark and up to Walgun Cape Byron Lighthouse, encouraging nature-based recreation for people of all ages and abilities.The project is stage one of the overall $26 million Byron Bay Drainage Strategy, which is receiving $11.8m through the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program (NRRRP).The NRRRP is a $150 million program delivering 36 flood mitigation and resilience projects across seven local government areas (LGAs) impacted by the 2022 floods, funded by the Albanese Government and administered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA).Byron Shire Council, which is delivering the wetlands and drainage improvement works, also received $6 million from the NSW Government Infrastructure Betterment Fund Grant and $3 million from the NSW Government Open Spaces Legacy Grant towards the Sandhills Wetlands project.The Arakwal Corporation, Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council and NSW Crown Lands also provided guidance in co-designing the project.The Sandhills Wetlands is one part of the overall drainage project, aimed at reducing the impacts and frequency of flooding in Byron Bay. The new wetlands will collect and hold stormwater runoff from surrounding hills, before it’s slowly released towards Belongil Creek.Work also has started on increasing the capacity of connecting stormwater pipes underneath the CBD, with stormwater concrete culverts, almost double the size of the existing pipes, being installed. Underneath the railway corridor, the largest culverts will be almost seven metres wide to help reduce the current flash-flooding risk to CBD businesses.Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain, “The reopening of the Sandhills Wetlands is a great example of the Albanese and Minns Governments working together to deliver long-term practical flood mitigation infrastructure for communities across Byron Bay.“By restoring this vital wetland and upgrading the town’s drainage system, we are helping safeguard local homes, businesses and iconic natural assets from the increasing impacts of severe weather.“This project demonstrates what genuine partnership with local government and Traditional Owners can achieve, creating a more resilient Byron Bay while enhancing public spaces that locals and visitors can enjoy for generations.”Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot, “As your local MP, I'm proud to have delivered $11.8 million in federal funding towards the Byron Bay Drainage Strategy, which includes restoring these beautiful wetlands in the heart of Byron Bay. “The restoration of the Sandhills Wetlands will have a positive impact on the local environment and wildlife, reduce the impact of flooding on the Byron Bay town centre and improve water quality at Clarkes Beach.“The improvements also mean locals will also be able to enjoy this space for years to come.”NSW Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin, “This wetland stands as a powerful example of what we can achieve when we listen, respect and work together.“Guided by Aboriginal co-design and supported by all three levels of government, we’ve restored a vital ecosystem, created a place for visitors and locals to enjoy, and strengthened our protection against future flooding.“This is a project that brings our community closer to Country and prepares us for a more resilient future.”Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye, “This is an exciting project for Council because it is one of the most significant environmental restoration projects to happen in Byron Bay in recent years.“Already, people are telling me there are more wallabies on and around the site, and I am really excited to see the birdlife flourish in this amazing community place, which, in the last 18 months, has been completely transformed.“One of the main objectives of this project was to improve water quality, especially around Clarkes Beach, and this will have long-lasting benefits for the nearby Cape Byron Marine Park and all the fish, turtles and other marine life.”

Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions this week at Broadwater and Woodburn for resealing works.At Broadwater, work will be carried out on Blackwall Drive between the Pacific Motorway overpass bridge and Boundary Creek Road on Monday, 1 December from 7am to 6pm, weather permitting. At Woodburn, work will be carried out on Uralba Street between Watson Street and Woodburn-Coraki Road on Tuesday, 2 December from 9:30am to 2:30pm, weather permitting.Single lane alternating flow and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h will be in place in the work areas during work hours only.Motorists may experience stoppages of up to 10 minutes and are advised to allow up to 10 minutes’ extra travel time, drive to traffic conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.For more information on the work at Broadwater, visit www.livetraffic.com/incident-details/256739.For more information on the work at Woodburn, visit www.livetraffic.com/incident-details/256742.You can also download the Live Traffic NSW app or call 132 701. To receive updates direct to your phone, search for ‘Broadwater’ or ‘Woodburn’ in your Live Traffic app, select the incident and click ‘Follow’. 

Investigations are underway after firearms and parts were seized during a compliance search as part of Operation Philvor, which was established by officers attached to Richmond Police District to investigate rural crime in the Lower Rivers sector of Richmond.In recent months, police have investigated several alleged incidents and conducted ongoing proactive operations in the Wardell, Pimlico and Empire Vale areas.About 8.30am yesterday (Friday, 28 November 2025), Richmond Police, with the assistance of officers attached to Strike Force Raptor North and AFP Firearms Dectection Dog, conducted a Firearms Prohibition Order compliance search at a home on Gubay Road, Wardell.During the search of the premises, police located and seized a rifle, two pistols, firearms parts and ammunition.A crime scene was established, and a further search of the premises located mobile phones and cannabis plants.The items were seized and will undergo forensic examination.About 10.40am, police, with assistance from officers attached to Tweed / Byron Police District, the Rural Crime Prevention Team, Marine Area Command, Highway Patrol, and Police Rescue, attended five addresses across the Richmond Police District as part of continuing investigations.The operation utilised drones, Highway Patrol officers, and trail bikes.No arrests have been made and investigations under operation Philvor are ongoing.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Thousands of recently graduated students will descend on Byron Bay from today as Schoolies Week 2025 gets underway.The message from Byron Council is to 'Relax, chill out and have a great time'.Schoolies Week 2025 officially runs from 29 November to 6 December, as large numbers of teenagers celebrating the end of their formal education are, once again, expected to celebrate in the Byron Shire.“Finishing Year 12 is such an achievement and cause for great celebration,” Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, said.“I welcome everyone to our beautiful Shire to cap off the high school years and create some amazing new memories with old friends,” Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye said.“This is such an exciting time, and there really is so much on offer in our Shire, whether it’s snorkelling at Nguthungulli (Julian Rocks), relaxing on our beaches, visiting our towns and villages or walking in the hinterland rainforests,” she said. For the duration of Schoolies Week, the Red Frogs will be at Apex Park at Byron Bay, manning a safe space for teenagers to hang out, and police will be keeping an eye out, making sure everyone has a great time in the safest way possible.Much of Byron Bay’s CBD is an alcohol-free zone, and this will be enforced by police and Council staff.“I hope everyone who comes to Byron goes home with fond memories of a wonderful time and inspired about their future,” Mayor Ndiaye said.“To all the schoolies, please look after each other and respect our community and natural environment while you celebrate,” she said.

Uniting has welcomed the NSW Government’s approval of its Kingscliff redevelopment following a comprehensive and rigorous assessment process involving Tweed Shire Council, Government agencies, independent experts and the Independent Planning Commission. Recognising the decision as a clear step forward for older people and the region, Tracey Burton, CEO, Uniting NSW.ACT, said it gives older people in the Tweed region much-needed certainty. “This outcome is so encouraging for residents, for the community, and for everyone working to ensure older people in NSW have access to safe, modern and purpose-built homes. “Our plans for Uniting Kingscliff have been caught in an extended planning process for years. During that time, there are many other seniors out there who need accommodation, and we have been unable to meet that need.  “Today’s decision means we can finally move forward.” Tracey said the Government’s increased focus on housing supply and its acknowledgement of the importance of seniors housing and residential aged care are both welcome and urgently needed. “The over-75 population is the fastest-growing age group in NSW. Yet seniors housing remains significantly undersupplied across the state. “Purpose-built accommodation helps older people stay independent for longer, delays the need for higher-level care, and frees up family homes for others during a housing crisis. “We acknowledge the Government’s growing attention to seniors housing and aged care delivery. Today’s decision shows what’s possible — and we’re hopeful further reforms will help get more essential projects moving.” What approval means for Kingscliff:A new, contemporary seniors living and aged-care community designed to meet the needs of a rapidly ageing population.Purpose-built homes close to family and social networks, reducing displacement of seniors to distant locations.A stronger foundation for coordinated care, including future opportunities for integrated care hubs and aged-care services.Certainty for staff and residents after years of delay and escalating project costs. Tracey stressed Uniting’s long-standing commitment to the region: “The Tweed region is home to a rapidly ageing population, yet there is still a significant shortage of high-quality retirement living and aged care accommodation across the area. “We’ve cared for older people in Kingscliff for decades. We’re deeply committed to supporting this community into the future, and that is why this redevelopment matters and these latest planning reforms have positive, real-world outcomes. Local seniors deserve safe, contemporary, and purpose-built homes that help them age well, close to the people and places they love,” she said. Looking aheadUniting says the approval highlights a broader lesson: when planning systems enable timely decision-making, without compromising rigorous community consultation, vital community infrastructure can progress. “NSW needs more homes of all types, including seniors housing and residential aged care,” Tracey said. “We look forward to continuing to work closely with the Government on further improvements that support the faster delivery of high-quality, community-led developments across the state.” More information on the Kingscliff redevelopment by Uniting.

Police are appealing for assistance to locate a woman wanted on outstanding warrants in Ballina.Jarrah HUSTLER, aged 37, is wanted on outstanding warrants for domestic violence-related offences.Officers attached to Richmond Police District have released an image of Jarrah as inquiries to locate her continue.Jarrah is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 175cm call, of medium build, with possible shoulder-length black hair and brown eyes.She is known to frequent the Woodburn and Ballina areas.Anyone with information in relation to her whereabouts is urged to contact Richmond Police District or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Are you passionate about issues affecting young people in the Byron Shire? Want to take action? Council is looking for 15 young people aged 12 to 17 to help set up a brand-new Byron Youth Council from the ground up, over the next 12 months. “We’re not just inviting young people to the table—we’re building the table with them. This is putting young people at the centre of decisions affecting them and give them a platform for taking action,” Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye said. “The group’s mission will be to advocate and make sure young people’s voices and views are represented and heard across a huge range of issues,” she said. “This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to share their ideas, develop leadership skills, connect with Councillors and decision-makers and gain some real-world civic engagement experience - I encourage everyone interested to apply,” the Mayor said. Participants will receive a gift voucher up to the value of $30 for each meeting as a token of appreciation for their time and commitment. The program and meetings will start in early 2026. To apply, complete the Byron Youth Council Expression of Interest form on Council’s website by Monday, 8 December.For application assistance, contact Council’s Social and Cultural Planning Team on 02 6626 7073.

UPDATE: 8:58pmRonald has been located.ORIGINAL STORYPolice are appealing for public assistance after a man was reported missing in Ballina.Ronald Grieber, aged 80, was last seen on Cherry Street, Ballina, about 10am today (Thursday, 27 November 2025).When he did not return and could not be located, officers attached to Richmond Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.Police and family hold concerns for his welfare as he lives with dementia.Ronald is described as being of Caucasian appearance, 180cm tall, with a medium build and short white hair.He was last seen wearing a green and white striped polo shirt, black shorts, slippers, and reading glasses.Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to call the police or Triple Zero (000) immediately.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis.The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.