Byron Shire Council has confirmed an accelerated schedule for Stage 2 of the upgrade of Mullumbimby Road, between Gulgan Road and The Saddle Road, with two-way traffic expected to be restored before Christmas (weather permitting).Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said she understands the disruption these works have caused, but reassured the community that Council is doing everything possible to minimise the impact and fast-track delivery.“We know this work has been frustrating for many people, and I’ve been working with staff, community and local business to see what can be done to improve the situation.“That’s why we’re extending construction hours and increasing crews on-site to get the road fully open again as soon as possible,” Mayor Ndiaye said.“I’ve spoken directly with staff, and I’m confident that moving to six-day weeks and longer working hours will significantly reduce the overall length of the project.“Our goal is to have two-way traffic flowing again before Christmas, weather permitting,” Mayor Ndiaye said.Dry weather in recent weeks has allowed Council teams to recover time lost to heavy rain in July and August, and the momentum will continue with work now running from 7:00am to 6:00pm, Monday to Saturday.Key traffic changes during Stage 2Mullumbimby Road will remain open to inbound (one-way) traffic at all times.Myocum Road is the designated southbound detour for all vehicles, including heavy vehicles.Coolamon Scenic Drive is the primary northbound detour for general traffic.Saddle Road will remain open and operate temporarily as one-way (eastbound) for drivers of light vehicles who may find Coolamon Scenic Drive challenging.To ensure safety on The Saddle Road during this temporary arrangement, Council will:Reduce the speed limit to 40 km/h.Install temporary traffic calming measures.Conduct regular road maintenance, including dust suppression.Maintain ongoing inspections to ensure usability and safety.Heavy vehicles will not be permitted on The Saddle Road or Coolamon Scenic Drive.Council has also committed to:Urgent maintenance on Coolamon Scenic Drive (north), including pothole repairs, shoulder work, signage improvements, and cyclist/pedestrian safety enhancements.Consulting with Mullumbimby High School on pedestrian safety at Jubilee Avenue.Regular updates to NSW Police, Emergency Services, Transport for NSW, and local bus operators.Ongoing public communication to keep the community informed.“This is one of the most important roads in our Shire,” Mayor Ndiaye said.“We’ve heard the community’s concerns, and staff are working flat-out to reduce the disruption and get this upgrade completed. “Thank you to everyone for your patience and understanding — the end is in sight.“The $5.3 million upgrade of Mullumbimby Road is a critical investment in improving access, safety, and long-term resilience for one of the Shire’s most heavily used roads,” Mayor Ndiaye said.Information about the Mullumbimby Road upgrade is on Council’s website.

For those planning a trip to Lennox Head this weekend, you should be aware that Ballina Shire Council will temporarily close vehicle access to Camp Drewe Road in Lennox Head for The Ox Charity Fundraiser 24-hour running event this weekend.Camp Drewe Road, Lennox Head, will be temporarily closed from 8.00am Saturday, 11 October 2025 and will reopen at 11.00am on Sunday, 12 October 2025.Pedestrian access will be maintained; however, the 4WD beach access will be restricted during the road closure period.With an increase in visitors and event participants, parking near Lake Ainsworth and the Lennox Head Surf Club will also be limited on the day.For updates on road closures, visit livetraffic.com.

Construction has officially commenced on an iconic suspension bridge across the Richmond River in the NSW Northern Rivers, marking a major step towards better connecting the Casino community into the future.The landmark suspension bridge, jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments, will form the centrepiece of a proposed new riverside precinct, connecting the Casino CBD with Queen Elizabeth Park’s sporting facilities, river walks and open spaces.(Richie Williamson MP, Forge’s Robert Antonios, MLC Emily Suvaal and Mayor Robert Mustow turning the first sod)The precinct forms part of the Casino CBD Activation Project, which will provide a more vibrant central business district, with increased retail, residential and community space. The existing Casino Footbridge sustained repeated damage during recent flood events, prompting the need for a more resilient structure in a new location.The new suspension bridge will provide a safe, reliable and accessible shared path for both pedestrians and cyclists, improving connectivity between key recreational spaces and the town centre. The structure will be built above flood levels and designed to withstand strong river flows, ensuring improved reliability and safety during major weather events.The project received $3,505,767 from the Community Local Infrastructure Recovery Package under the 2022 Community Assets Program. This package is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.Council has accepted the tender from Forge Outdoors Pty Ltd (formerly Fleetwood Urban) to deliver the project.Completion of the bridge is anticipated by the end of June 2026, weather permitting.Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said, “This exciting initiative is a strong demonstration of the Albanese Government’s commitment to supporting communities to not just recover after disasters but to build better communities for the future.“The new suspension bridge in Casino will provide a safe, accessible connection between key recreational spaces and the town centre, helping locals stay connected and active.”NSW Minister for Recovery and North Coast Janelle Saffin said, “This new suspension bridge is more than just infrastructure it’s an investment in the future of our community.“By improving access between the Casino CBD and our beautiful parks, we’re creating safer, more inclusive spaces for people to walk, cycle and connect.“We are building back better to withstand future floods, ensuring our community stays connected even during challenging times.”Richmond Valley Council Mayor Robert Mustow said, “The new bridge was identified in the Casino Place Plan as an important way of connecting the community to the CBD, sports fields and the river.“I have fond memories of using the old footbridge throughout my life, and I’m sure this new, more flood-resistant and safer crossing will do the same for future generations.“I believe it will be an iconic part of Casino, its landscape, and a tourist attraction.“We would like to thank the Australian and NSW Governments for this vital piece of work that allows this connection to remain following flooding and weather events”

Byron Council has commenced important weed clearing and vegetation management at the Girang Roost (flying-fox roost) at Middleton Street. Over the last three weeks Council staff have managed to restore the site significantly. More works, including vine and ground cover control, are planned for the future as funding becomes available.“The vegetation in and around the Girang Roost at Middleton Street was in poor condition with a lot of it overgrown, and lots of weeds growing in the area,” said Council’s Biodiversity Team Leader, Liz Caddick.“Council sought expertise from Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council, as future custodians of the area to guide management and restoration of this important area,” Ms Caddick added.Flying-foxes play an essential role as pollinators of some of Australia’s most iconic forests. As nomadic animals, they move between roosts following the flowering seasons of native forests. Of the 21 known roosts in the Byron Shire, this is the only permanent one, providing critical habitat that flying-foxes rely on year-round.“It was important to restore the vegetation that these animals depend on,” Ms Caddick said.“In Bundjalung language, a flying-fox is called girang or kirang, these names can also vary across the Bundjalung Nation. The animals are culturally important and respected for their role in the ecosystem,” said Council’s Aboriginal Project Officer, Robert Appo. Initial vegetation restoration works have been funded by Council.

The 2026 Richmond Valley Australia Day Award nominations are now open, and there is even more opportunity to recognise those who make the Richmond Valley the best place to live.Nominating others for an Australia Day award gives recognition to the unsung heroes of our community and rewards their selfless, valuable efforts.This year, awards are offered in the following categories: Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year; Volunteer and Young Volunteer of the Year; and Sportsperson and Young Sportsperson of the Year. In addition, awards will also be made for Community Organisation of the Year and Sporting Team of the Year.Mayor Robert Mustow said that it was wonderful to have so many people in the Richmond Valley community willing to put their hand up to make the area a better place.“The community spirit of our area is one of the many things that makes our Richmond Valley such a great place,” Cr Mustow said.“I encourage everyone to give recognition to those people by nominating them for an Australia Day award.”Next year’s ceremony will be held at the Rappville Community Hall on Australia Day, Monday, January 26.Nominations can be made on the Richmond Valley Council website at https://richmondvalley.nsw.gov.au/community-services/australia-day/For more information, visit the official Facebook page or contact the Richmond Valley Council Events team.

The Byron Bay International Film Festival (BBFF) today announced the five finalists for the David Stratton Best Documentary Award, a category dedicated to celebrating bold and original storytelling in documentary filmmaking.Comparsa – In a Guatemalan barrio silenced by fear, two teenage sisters lead a luminous rebellion through giant puppets, fire and art to protest gender violence, rallying local youth and healing wounds.Champions of the Golden Valley – In remote Afghan snowbound valleys, rival village youths build a homegrown ski culture under the mentorship of a former Olympic hopeful, birthing dreams of unity and resilience.Common Wealth – Kane Guglielmi’s personal journey of trauma and transformation expands into a global quest for compassion, justice, and new visions of how we share our world.Nansie – A heartfelt portrait of a Sydney family coping with dementia, as sisters Adelaide and Lucinda tenderly care for their grandmother Ann — “Nansie” — in the face of memory’s gradual fade.Beyond the Break – After a career-ending bodyboarding accident, Joel Taylor reclaims identity and finds redemption through adaptive surfing, ultimately becoming a world champion.To ensure the award directly benefits filmmakers seeking industry exposure, documentaries that already have Australian distribution in place are not eligible for the prize.The judging panel brings together some of Australia’s most respected screen voices:Margaret Pomeranz, long-time co-presenter with David Stratton on SBS’s The Movie Show and ABC TV’s At the MoviesJack Thompson, acclaimed actor and BBFF AmbassadorJ’aimee Skippon-Volke, Festival Director, Byron Bay International Film FestivalFestival Director J’aimee Skippon-Volke said, “This award honours David Stratton’s incredible contribution to film culture in Australia and internationally. It is our way of nurturing the next generation of documentary filmmakers, shining a spotlight on work that deserves to be discovered and seen.”The award takes on special significance this year following the passing of David Stratton in August 2025, whose legacy as a critic, programmer, and champion of cinema continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike.The winner of the David Stratton Best Documentary Award will be announced during the festival, running 17–26 October 2025 at venues across the Northern Rivers.

UPDATEKarla Llewellyn has been located.The police thank the public for their assistance.Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a woman missing from East Wardell.Karla Llewellyn, aged 42, was last seen in East Wardell, about 20km south of Ballina, on Sunday, 17 August 2025.When she could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Richmond Police District were notified on Saturday, 4 October 2025, and inquiries commenced to locate her.Police and family hold concerns for Karla’s welfare.Karla is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 150-160cm tall, of medium build, brown hair and brown eyes.She is known to frequent the Wardell, Broadwater and Wyrallah areas.Anyone with information on her whereabouts is urged to contact Richmond Police or Crime Stoppers on 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.

Tweed Shire Council is taking full advantage of the NSW Government’s Fresh Start Program, offering apprenticeships, traineeships and cadetships for long-term careers in the local government sector.Lismore MP Janelle Saffin, who helped broker the $252.2-million statewide initiative with Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig and the United Services Union, said the recent milestone of 500 approved positions ‘on the tools’ was proof of early success.The six-year program was launched last year, and more than 60 per cent of these new roles are boosting the workforces of regional or rural councils. Tweed Shire General Manager Troy Green PSM said a highlight of the year was the launch of the Council’s own in-house Academy, made possible through the Government’s Fresh Start Program.“Following the most recent funding announcement, the Academy will welcome four additional apprentices and one cadet by February 2026, bringing the total number of Fresh Start-funded employees to 18,” Mr Green said.“Across Council, this contributes to a strong pipeline of talent, with 30 apprentices, eight trainees and four cadets now building their careers with us.“By keeping training, wages and experience within Northern New South Wales, the Academy is not only supporting local residents to launch their careers but also strengthening the capability of local businesses and community services.”The Academy’s Coordinator Officers Christina Vuckovic said: “It’s been incredibly rewarding to see growth in the Academy and witness the enthusiasm and commitment of our recruits as they take these exciting steps forward.“I’ve also enjoyed seeing the dedication of supervisors and mentors, whose ongoing support is creating positive, impactful experiences for our new recruits,” Ms Vuckovic said.Mr Green said Tweed Shire Council would continue to leverage the Fresh Start Program to create local jobs and career pathways, fostering the next generation of talent and building long-term capability within the region.“Moving forward, we will build on the Academy program by strengthening partnerships with local schools and employment service providers to create additional career pathways,” Mr Green said.“Together, these initiatives demonstrate that Council is not only investing in the skills and wellbeing of today’s workforce but also preparing our organisation and our people for the future.” Tweed Shire Council comes under the Fresh Start Program’s Northern Rivers region, which as of last month was funding 43 recruits across participating councils.

The NSW Government is providing $5 million in funding to support downstream businesses that have been impacted by the moratorium on timber harvesting within the proposed boundary of the Great Koala National Park.The new Forestry Industry Supply Chain Program will offer help of up to $100,000 to a downstream business that relied on impacted timber mills so they can meet increased operating costs.The eligible businesses usually source their hardwood or wood by-products from one of the impacted sawmills. They will now be able to apply for assistance to cover the cost differences of sourcing similar products from a new supplier, including for an increase in freight costs.Downstream businesses could include specialised operations that process timber into finished or semi-finished goods, such as furniture manufacturers. Eligible businesses could also include businesses that use sawdust for biomass energy generation, or use eligible wood by-products such as wood chip, wood shavings, and sawdust.The NSW Government is working closely with the impacted mills businesses, workers and the broader industry on immediate costs and impacts, while progressing their long-term options and ensuring appropriate support for workers.Immediate support already being offered to affected workers and their families includes:Business Continuity payments flowing to impacted mills to ensure workers are being paid while further support is being finalisedThe Rural Financial Counselling Service providing free and independent financial counselling to businessesTraining Services NSW providing advice on training to bridge skills gaps and helping to identify suitable job opportunitiesTELUS Health services providing 24/7 confidential mental health and financial counselling services to affected workers and their immediate family.The NSW Government has also committed $6 million to a Community Grants package, which will provide support to small businesses and the community on the Mid North Coast, creating new jobs and investment. Further details will be announced soon.The NSW Rural Assistance Authority is administering the Forestry Industry Supply Chain Program. Applications will open on Tuesday, 7 October 2025 and close on 8 December 2025, or when available funding is allocated.For further information about the Forestry Industry Supply Chain Support Program, including eligibility and guidelines, go to www.nsw.gov.au/greatkoalanationalparkMinister for Agriculture and Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said, “Our Government’s priority has been supporting the impacted mills and their workers, and now we have more details on those businesses operating downstream of the mills we have been able to develop this program of support for them.“When we announced the proposed boundaries and moratorium for the new park, we stated we would provide financial assistance to impacted businesses, and this supply chain support program is a demonstration of that occurring.Minister for Small Business and Minister for North Coast, Janelle Saffin, said, “We are delivering on our election promise to create the Great Koala National Park and ensure future generations can see these most precious of species in the wild.“We are also delivering on our promise to work together to ensure no one is left behind. This decision will ensure downstream small businesses are supported as they search for new opportunities.“There will also be new opportunities created for tourism and small business under a $6 million package that we will develop in consultation with local communities to grow jobs and investment as the Great Koala National Park is established.

A man has died following a two-vehicle crash Tyalgum this morning.About 10.40am today (Saturday, 4 October 2025), emergency services were called to Tyalgum Road, Tyalgum – about 26kms west of Murwillumbah – following reports of a crash.Officers attached to Tweed / Byron Police District attended and found that a car and a motorcycle had collided.The rider of the motorcycle – a man believed to be aged in his 60s – was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics but died at the scene.He is yet to be formally identified.The driver of the car – a man believed to be aged in his 80s – was not injured and taken to hospital for mandatory testing.A crime scene was established as specialist police attached to the Crash Investigation Unit commenced an investigation.A report will be prepared for the corner.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.

Ballina Shire Council is inviting residents and businesses to have their say on a proposed Special Rate Variation (SRV), with consultation open until Friday, 14 November 2025.If approved, the SRV would allow Council to increase general rates above the annual ‘rate peg’ set by the NSW Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART).Council is proposing a 6% increase to general rates each financial year from 2026/27 to 2029/30. This figure includes an estimated annual ‘rate peg’ of 3.25%, plus an additional 2.75% through the SRV. The increase would begin on 1 July 2026 and continue for four years.The increase would apply only to the general rates component and would not affect water, wastewater, waste collection or stormwater charges.By the end of the four-year Special Rate Variation period (2029/30), the increase for the average Ballina Shire residential ratepayer would be an additional $346 per year. This is $166 more than if no Special Rate Variation were applied.This would be a permanent increase to general rates. At the end of the SRV period (2030), revised rates would then continue to increase by the usual annual rate peg percentage.Mayor Sharon Cadwallader said the proposal aims to secure stable funding so Council can maintain services and infrastructure while building financial resilience.“Council has consistently managed its finances responsibly, keeping rates around 11% lower than similarly sized councils, while continuing to deliver quality services and facilities,” Cr Cadwallader said.“However, like many councils across NSW, the rising cost of maintaining and renewing infrastructure such as roads, footpaths, parks and community buildings now exceeds the income we receive.”“In addition, state and federal governments continue to shift responsibilities to local councils without providing matching funding. These pressures widen the funding gap and place a strain on our budget.”“Council works hard to stretch every dollar and find savings through efficiencies and external grants. Unfortunately, this is no longer enough to keep pace with costs.”“We understand many households are doing it tough, and this proposal has not been put forward lightly. However, our Council is not immune to the impact of rising costs, which is now putting pressure on our ability to maintain services and renew infrastructure.”If approved, the additional funds would be invested in renewing and maintaining essential infrastructure such as roads, footpaths, stormwater systems, parks, sporting fields and community buildings. They would also support initiatives to improve community safety, biodiversity, and waterway health. “We know how important libraries, pools, playgrounds, sporting fields, community facilities, and safe roads and footpaths are to our residents. Council is committed to continue delivering these services and infrastructure,” said Cr Cadwallader.“This proposal will help us secure funding to maintain and renew these essential community assets, so Ballina Shire remains a great place to live, work and visit.”Ballina Shire Council understands this is a significant decision and wants the community to be fully informed and involved.How to Get InvolvedResidents and businesses are encouraged to find out more and share their views at yoursayballina.com.au. Here you will find a range of information, including:An online survey and question boxA rates calculator to see the potential financial impact on your household or businessCouncil financial and strategic planning documentsInformation resources and Frequently Asked Questions.If you don’t have access to a computer, please collect a printed information pack and survey from Council’s Customer Service Centre.Listening postsYou can provide feedback during three listening posts to chat with Council's finance team and ask questions about what the proposal means to you.Customer Service Centre, 40 Cherry Street, Ballina:Wednesday 8 October (10am to 11.30am).Thursday 30 October (2pm to 3.30pm).Tuesday 4 November (12pm to 1.30pm)Next stepsAfter the consultation period ends, Council will review community feedback before deciding whether to proceed with a formal application to IPART.As part of its assessment, IPART will consider Council’s financial position, community consultation outcomes, and the need for additional revenue to maintain essential services and infrastructure.As part of its process, IPART will accept and consider submissions from interested groups or individual ratepayers for a three-week period after receiving Council’s application in February 2026.

Councillor (Cr) Jack Dods has been re-elected to the position of Deputy Mayor of the Byron Shire Council until September 2026. Cr Dods said he was deeply grateful to his fellow Councillors and the Byron Shire community for trusting him with a second term as Deputy Mayor.“It’s a real honour to continue serving this incredible community and to keep putting my skills to work to help make Byron Shire a better, fairer place for everyone,” Cr Dods said. “My first year as Deputy Mayor was both challenging and rewarding. I’ve learned a lot, grown a lot, and I’m heading into this second year with renewed energy and even greater focus on the things that matter most to our community – and that I was elected to prioritise.  “This includes delivering more affordable and diverse housing, achieving better planning outcomes, rebuilding critical infrastructure, expanding active transport, and progressing key projects like the rail trail to connect and strengthen our amazing towns and villages,” Cr Dods added. Cr Dods also acknowledged the leadership of Mayor Sarah Ndiaye. “I’m especially grateful for Mayor Ndiaye’s inclusive and encouraging leadership. Her collaborative style has created a strong, respectful culture on Council, and it’s been a privilege to serve alongside her and the whole team,” Cr Dods said.Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, congratulated Cr Dods on his re-election.“I want to thank Councillor Dods for the fantastic work that he’s been doing in the role, the collaborative approach he’s taken, and his great engagement with other Councillors,” Mayor Ndiaye said.“I’m looking forward to continuing to work closely with him over the next 12 months,” Mayor Ndiaye said.Byron Shire has a popularly elected Mayor, chosen by residents at the NSW Local Government Elections. The Deputy Mayor is elected by Councillors every 12 months.

Ballina Shire Council is inviting Expressions of Interest (EOI) from eligible organisations to license and operate the Tip Shop (known as the Salvage Shed) from 1 July 2026, when the current licence ends on 30 June 2026.The Tip Shop, located at Council’s Resource Recovery Centre, is an important part of our commitment to sustainable waste management. It promotes reuse, reduces landfill, and delivers real social and environmental benefits for the Ballina Shire community.To be eligible, applicants must be (or able to become) a:registered charitynot-for-profit organisationcommunity service association, orbenevolent profit-for-purpose entity.Council is seeking a partner that shares these values and can deliver a high-quality, community-focused reuse facility.Licence detailsTerm: Five years, with an optional five-year extension at Council’s discretion.Cost: The successful applicant will receive the licence at no cost but will be responsible for utilities and any approved alteration costs.EOI documents are available via Council’s VendorPanel Tender Portal. Submissions must be lodged through the portal by 2pm Friday, 31 October 2025.Following the closing date, Council will review submissions and may enter into direct negotiations or a selective procurement process.Find out more and register at ballina.nsw.gov.au/Tenders-and-Quotations.

A man has died after his motorcycle was involved in a single-vehicle crash near Murwillumbah over the weekend.Emergency services were called to Kyogle Road at Byangum, about 7km south-west of Murwillumbah, about 4.15pm (Saturday, 27 September 2025), following reports of a crash.Members of the public provided first aid at the scene before the arrival of NSW Ambulance paramedics, who treated the motorcycle rider.The rider – a 50-year-old man - was unable to be revived and died at the scene.Officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District established a crime scene and commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the crash.A report will be prepared for the coroner.

A multi-agency search for two men missing in a catamaran off the North Coast has had a successful resolution after the vessel was found overnight 22 nautical miles east of Sandon, south of Brooms Head..Police were told about 8am on Saturday 27 September 2025, Mangrove Jack - an 8.4m white catamaran - left Yamba Harbour, near Yamba Road, Yamba, and was scheduled to arrive at Southport, Queensland, around 5pm.When the vessel did not arrive at its destination as scheduled, emergency services were contacted about 8.20pm and a search commenced.Officers attached to Marine Area Command, with the assistance from Tweed-Byron Police District, Police Rescue, PolAir, Marine Rescue NSW, Queensland Police Service, Marine Rescue QLD, Surf Lifesaving NSW, Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, and Australian Maritime Safety Authority, are involved in the search.About 9.00pm last night (Sunday, 28 September 2025), Marine Rescue at Port Macquarie received a call from the men on the vessel, reporting their location as approximately 22 nautical miles east of Sandon Beach, Sandon.A challenger search aircraft was diverted and successfully located the vessel.Volunteers from Marine Rescue NSW have commenced towing the vessel back to Yamba. The boat is expected to make landfall about 7am.The two men on board the catamaran – aged 50 and 68 - are reported to be uninjured but suffering from extreme exhaustion.

A multi-agency search is underway off the NSW coast, near Yamba, for a boat believed to be carrying two men.Police have been told about 8am yesterday (Saturday 27 September 2025), Mangrove Jack - an 8.4m white catamaran - left Yamba Harbour, near Yamba Road, Yamba, and was scheduled to arrive at Southport, Queensland, at around 5pm.When the vessel did not arrive at its destination as scheduled, emergency services were contacted about 8.20pm and a search commenced.Officers attached to Marine Area Command, with the assistance from Tweed-Byron Police District, Police Rescue, PolAir, Marine Rescue NSW, Queensland Police Service, Marine Rescue QLD, Surf Lifesavings NSW, Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, and Australian Maritime Safety Authority, are involved in the search.Marine Rescue NSW Inspector John Murray said the search commenced late last night, Saturday 27 September, after an 8.4 metre catamaran failed to arrive at its destination as planned.  “The skipper of the catamaran Logged On with Marine Rescue NSW at the commencement of their journey, sharing their planned route and expected time of arrival.  “When the catamaran failed to arrive, Marine Rescue NSW radio operators made numerous attempts to contact the vessel without success.  “Volunteers on board Point Danger 31 commenced searching under the direction of Marine Area Command, before returning to the base shortly before 1am. “Two additional Marine Rescue NSW vessels, Brunswick 30 and Ballina 30 joined Point Danger 31 in the search early this morning, Sunday 28 September. “The three vessels are searching a large area off the NSW North Coast from Evans Head to Tweed Heads,” Inspector Murray said. The search continues.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.

The Murwillumbah Showground is now equipped to host major events following a major amenities upgrade supported by the NSW Government that has helped it secure the 2025 Girl Guides National Jamboree, attracting more than 1,200 participants.Crown Lands provided a $390,094 grant from the NSW Government’s Crown Reserves Improvement Fund, which has supported the showground to replace its failing 45-year-old amenities block with a brand-new modern facility.The upgrade has proved to be a game-changer for the showground, which has secured the ‘Bush 2 Beach’ Jamboree from 28 September to 5 October, bringing together Girl Guides aged 10–17 from across Australia and overseas.Hosting the Jamboree will boost the local economy through tourism, accommodation, catering and transport services while strengthening community ties with local volunteers, businesses and service providers.The new flood-resistant amenities block will also allow the showground to support more major and community events, servicing the needs of the community while generating more income to maintain and improve the grounds.The upgrades have made the venue more inclusive and welcoming, encouraging greater participation, including for the growing Tweed River Agricultural Society (Murwillumbah) Show that attracts over 15,000 attendees and cements Murwillumbah’s reputation as a vibrant regional hub.Minister for Recovery and the North Coast, Janelle Saffin, said, “Building back better facilities is essential for creating resilient and thriving communities.“The upgraded amenities not only improve the experience for locals and visitors but will help attract major events like the Girl Guides Jamboree, bringing a significant economic boost to the region.”Minister for Lands and Property, Small Business and Tourism Steve Kamper said, “The Minns Labor Government is focused on building better communities and investing in regional infrastructure like Murwillumbah Showground helps communities thrive. “This upgrade will ensure the showground remains a safe, accessible and vibrant hub for events, tourism and local activity for years to come.”Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT State Commissioner Jo Tonon said, “High-quality amenities are essential for an event of the Jamboree’s scale and the upgrades reassured us that our participants would be well catered for at Murwillumbah Showground.”Murwillumbah Showground, Belinda Grace said, “The showground looks amazing. All the grey nomads say it’s the most beautiful showground they’ve seen. The community is really starting to use us more and more, and we’re proud to be attracting major events like the jamboree. We’re also proud to host the 10th biggest show in NSW.”

Ballina Shire Council has announced that its Festival and Event Support Program for the 2026/27 financial year is now open.The program – now in its 15th year – offers event organisers the opportunity to apply for funding from a pool of approximately $150,000 for their festival or event, to be held in the 2026/2027 financial year.“Local events and festivals are essential for connecting and uniting our community, bringing positive social and economic benefits that enrich our region,” said Ballina Shire Mayor Sharon Cadwallader.“Given the time and effort required to plan these events, it is important we confirm this funding for event organisers well ahead of the 2026/27 financial year.“If you’re planning an event in the Shire or know an organisation that could benefit from this funding to enhance their event or festival, please direct them to the Ballina Shire Council website to complete an online application.”Eligibility criteria includes: Applicant needs to hold adequate public liability insuranceTotal cost of the festival/event must be more than $20,000Festival/event must be held in Ballina Shire.Applications close Friday, 7 November 2025. Applications will be considered at the December 2025 Council meeting so that event organisers know the outcome of their application by early January 2026.For application forms and funding information, visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/FestivalEvents.

In a major step toward greater inclusivity and equity, last night Byron Shire Council unanimously supported a motion to explore the introduction of a Single-Parent Family Pass across all Council-run aquatic facilities.The motion, brought forward by Mayor Sarah Ndiaye, recognises the need to update pricing structures to better reflect the diversity of modern families and address longstanding inequities that impact single-parent households.“Many families in our community don’t fit the traditional two-adult household model - and it’s time our pricing policies caught up,” said Mayor Sarah Ndiaye.“This motion is about fairness. It’s about acknowledging that single parents shouldn’t be paying more to access healthy, community-based activities like swimming. I’m proud that Council has come together unanimously to take this important step.”“This is about fairness, dignity and catching up with the real makeup of our community,” said Mayor Sarah Ndiaye.“We’ve heard from local families, we’ve looked at the data, and we’re now acting to fix a gap that’s long overdue.”The initiative will see Council staff implement changes to include a Single-Parent Family Pass or equivalent concession structure, with the changes to be made to Council’s Fees and Charges Schedule.Council’s approach is being guided by principles of inclusion and best practice frameworks such as the Royal Life Saving Society Australia’s Equal Access to Public Aquatic Facilities, which emphasises the need to remove financial and structural barriers for all families, regardless of caregiving status.The motion was prompted by community advocate Kate Walsh, a local single parent who first raised the issue with Mayor Ndiaye after realising that her household was paying more than a traditional family of four for a season pass at the Mullumbimby Pool. Having experienced this herself as a single parent of two, Mayor Ndiaye took the opportunity to change it as soon as possible. “Right now, single-parent families are effectively penalised for their family structure - it’s inequitable and out of step with the values of a fair and welcoming community,” said Ms Walsh.“As a single parent, I was paying more to take my child to the pool than a two-parent family with double the income. It’s a small example of a much bigger equity issue,” said Ms Walsh.“This change sends a powerful message that all families are welcome and valued. I’m grateful to Mayor Ndiaye and to the whole Council for listening and acting.”Research shows that single-parent households experience the highest poverty rates in Australia - more than triple that of two-parent families. Yet under current pricing, a single parent with one child pays more for aquatic access than a family of four.Council’s decision comes at a pivotal time, as it invests in year-round access to aquatic facilities and renews its commitment to community health, inclusion, and wellbeing.Council staff will now assess the financial and operational implications of introducing a new pricing tier and report back with recommendations for implementation.