As the weather rolls in from the west, the Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the western parts of the Northern Rivers, including Casino, Kyogle and Murwillumbah.The warm and unstable airmass over large areas of the north coast could produce damaging, locally destructive winds, large hailstones and heavy rainfall.There was 5-6 CM hail AT Croppa Creek, just north of Moree, at 2:40pm, and 109 km/h wind gust was recorded at Walgett, in the state's west, at 2:24 pmSafety adviceThe State Emergency Service advises that people should:* Move your car under cover or away from trees.* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.* Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.* Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill.* Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall.* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.* Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.* 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.* Unplug computers and appliances.* Avoid using the phone during the storm.* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.The next warning is due to be issued by 7:05 pm.

Motorists are advised of changed overnight traffic conditions from next week on the Pacific Motorway at Brunswick Heads for guardrail installation work. Starting this Monday, 17 November, near the northbound off ramp and then moving to the southbound on ramp and adjacent shoulder, work will be carried out from 6pm to 4am for two weeks, weather permitting. No work will be carried out on Friday or Saturday nights.Slow lane closures and a reduced speed limit of 60km/h will be in place during working hours, with a reduced speed limit of 80km/h in place during the day.Motorists should allow extra travel time during this work, drive to the conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.For more information on this work visit https://www.livetraffic.com/incident-details/255562, download the Live Traffic NSW app or call 132 701.   To receive updates direct to your phone, search for ‘Brunswick Heads’ in your Live Traffic app, select the incident and click ‘Follow’.  

Motorists are advised that the Tugun Bypass Tunnel on the Pacific Motorway at Tweed Heads West will be closed on multiple nights next week for essential maintenance.To reduce the impact on motorists, work will be carried out at night. The tunnel will be closed to all traffic from 7pm to 5am each night from Monday, 17, to Thursday, 20 November, reopening at 5am Friday, 21 November, weather permitting.On Monday, 17 and Thursday, 20 November, northbound traffic will be diverted at the Gold Coast Highway (Tugun exit) onto Tugun Currumbin Road, rejoining the Pacific Motorway at Currumbin. Southbound traffic will be diverted at Tugun Currumbin Road (exit 95) onto Gold Coast Highway, rejoining the Pacific Motorway at Tweed Heads West (Gold Coast Highway on-ramp).On Tuesday, 18 and Wednesday, 19 November, northbound traffic will be diverted to the M1 Pacific Motorway via the Kennedy Drive exit, then Sugarwood Drive to Gold Coast Highway, then Tugun Currumbin Road and rejoin the M1 Pacific Motorway at the Stewart Road on-ramp. Southbound traffic will exit the M1 Pacific Motorway at Tugun Currumbin Road (Exit 95) and follow to the Gold Coast Highway, then Cordyline Drive to rejoin the M1 Pacific Motorway at Kennedy Drive on-ramp.The diversions are suitable for all vehicles, and motorists are advised to allow up to five minutes of additional travel time. Motorists are also advised to drive to the conditions and follow the direction of signs and traffic control.Routine maintenance of the Tugun Bypass Tunnel is carried out every three months and involves a range of measures such as inspecting the various operating and safety systems.Transport for NSW thanks motorists for their patience while essential maintenance work is carried out.For more information on this work, visit https://www.livetraffic.com/incident-details/233663, download the Live Traffic NSW App or call 132 701. To receive updates direct to your phone, search for ‘Tugun Bypass Tunnel’ in your Live Traffic app, select the incident and click ‘Follow’.

The Kyogle Gardens Caravan Park will re-open on Friday (14 November) following a significant $1.8 million upgrade. The renovated caravan park now features: 27 powered sites and 10 unpowered sitesA modern amenities building with hot showers, toilets (including an accessible toilet), and laundry facilitiesSealed internal roads for improved accessUpgraded lighting and drainageA dump point for waste disposalLandscaping, including a corridor of native floraVisitors will also benefit from a new online booking system, available via the Visit Kyogle website (https://www.visitkyogle.com.au/accommodation/kyogle-gardens-caravan-park/)Kyogle Mayor Cr Danielle Mulholland welcomed the re-opening of the caravan park, saying it was an important facility which supported both tourism and the local economy. "The Kyogle Local Government Area (LGA) is known for its natural beauty and country hospitality, and the new-look caravan park will make it even easier for travellers to enjoy everything our area has to offer," Cr Mulholland said. “Tourism is a vital part of our local economy, and the improved facilities and convenience of the upgraded caravan park will help attract more visitors who will be inclined to stay longer in our area. This in turn will support local businesses and jobs." The $1.8 million project was jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments through the Department of Regional NSW.

A fortunate buyer spent $1 to secure a flood buyback home at the Murwillumbah Services Club on Tuesday night (11 November), setting a record low price.Previously, the lowest price for the 106 Northern Rivers properties offered for sale in the Northern Rivers was $347, capturing nationwide attention. A young couple provided another highlight on Tuesday night after buying their old rental home for $200. They fled the house after floodwaters entered the second storey of the property in 2022. For sentimental reasons, they attended the auction with no intention of making a bid. By the end of the night, they were first-time homeowners.The First National Real Estate Murwillumbah auction of flood buyback homes from South Murwillumbah, Burringbar and Mooball shows that every flood buyback house can find a new home. Several young families bought houses, builders and investors from outside the region participated in the auction on Tuesday night, with the 11 properties selling for a total value of $14,871. The highlights included: 7 Wardrop St, South Murwillumbah: $900.      21 Wardrop St, South Murwillumbah: $8500.39 Wardrop St, South Murwillumbah: $650.41 Wardrop St, South Murwillumbah: $5.321 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah: $200.325 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah: $5327 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah: $2100.381 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah: $1.387 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah: $2500.6070 Tweed Valley Way, Burringbar: $5.9 Pottsville Rd, Mooball: $5. All homes earmarked for relocation have been purchased by the NSW Reconstruction Authority through the buyback stream of the $880 million Resilient Homes Program, jointly funded by the NSW and Australian governments.  Seven auctions have been held this year, since starting in June. Another 10 buyback houses will be auctioned next week (Monday, November 17) at the Lismore Workers Sports Club in Goonellabah. Three more auctions will be held in December before Christmas.The Resilient Homes Program is the largest adaptation program of its kind in the country. There is no reserve price on these houses, meaning bidding can start and end at $1, making it one of the most accessible housing opportunities in Australia. All house owners will now have until 30 November 2026 to relocate their property to flood-free land. All NSW proceeds from the home sales (after costs) are reinvested into the Resilient Homes Program to support more flood-affected residents. Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said, “We always promised that if you turned up to the flood buyback auction, you might walk away with a house for $1. Well, that’s finally happened.“It really is the most accessible housing program in the country.“This is fantastic. I love that we are giving an opportunity for families and young people to own a home for the first time and giving these homes a new lease of life off the flood plain.” NSW Reconstruction Authority Northern Rivers Adaptation Executive Director Kristie Clarke said, “The Reconstruction Authority buyback auctions have no reserve; we want to see as many homes as possible repurposed for a safe future.“We're seeing a lot of young families buying these homes, and it's proving to be a very affordable option.” 

There will be major work done on the small lake at Waterlily Park at Ocean Shores in mid-November with Council to remove the weed that is covering the lake and clearing nearby drains.An aquatic harvester will be operating in the lake for around one week, removing the invasive Salvina weed which will be stored on the bank to dry out before it is taken to the Byron Resource Recovery Centre and turned into compost.In the past Council has successfully used the Salvinia Weevil to control the weed, but additional measures need to be taken this year because of the presence of two other invasive weeds, Parrot’s Feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum) and Creeping Water-Primrose (Ludwigia peploides).The aquatic harvester will remove the bulk of the weeds, but herbicide spraying will be necessary around the edges where the machine can’t access.“Without this treatment the weeds could quickly re-establish,” Malcolm Robertson, Manager Open Spaces and Facilities, said.“The specialised aquatic herbicide, Clipper, will be applied where needed, by licenced contractors and signage will be placed in affected areas to warn the public of the herbicide in use.“All three weeds multiply quickly and have the potential to create thick mats on the surface of waterways, smothering native plants and disrupting the environment for aquatic species,” Mr Robertson said.These weeds have been widely marketed in the past as aquarium plants, and people living in the catchment of the lake are asked to check what may be growing in backyard fishponds.“We have had these weeds under control in the past, and they seem to reoccur following heavy rains, suggesting they could be transported via stormwater drains.“The Parrots Feather can also be introduced on the feathers or wings of visiting aquatic birds,” Mr Robertson said.Once the weed removal and treatment processes are finished, work will start on removing silt from drainage pipe outlets in the lake.“Over the years, there has been a significant build-up of sediment from the surrounding catchment, which has reduced the depth of the lake and altered flow patterns,” Ryan van Doorn, Acting Infrastructure Services Planning Coordinator, said.“We will have a long-arm excavator working in the lake, and the silt and other material will be put on the bank before being removed,” Mr van Doorn said.When treatments are complete Council is hoping to work with the Waterlily Park Landcare group to assist in monitoring and manually removing fresh weed outbreaks before they gain momentum.More information about the Waterlily Park lake improvement project is on Council’s website.

In a first for flood recovery, a Black Hawk helicopter has been hauling 40 tonnes of boulders through the steep valleys of Lavertys Gap to repair a 100-year-old weir damaged by the 2022 floods and the aftermath of former Tropical Cyclone Alfred.The long-line helicopter operation was used to airlift 24 basalt boulders to the historic Lavertys Gap Weir on Wilsons Creek, stabilising the eroded creek bank and preserving a key piece of Mullumbimby’s heritage.The $2.7 million weir repair, part of the million Northern Rivers Water and Wastewater Repair and Recovery Program, is led by the NSW Reconstruction Authority in collaboration with Byron Shire Council and delivered by NSW Public Works. The program is restoring critical water and wastewater infrastructure across flood-impacted communities.A specialist marine contractor using tracked vehicles, floating barges and helicopters is carrying out the repairs. The works pose a complex logistical challenge requiring deep expertise.The creek bank at the southern end of the 100-year-old weir wall suffered serious erosion during the floods. The damaged area has been carefully stabilised and reinforced with specialised geofabric, concrete and rock placement.The two-tonne boulders, quarried outside Kyogle, were trucked to a staging site 400m from the weir. One rock at a time, the helicopter on Thursday and Friday last week airlifted its sling load to the weir over a total of four hours flying time.The Black Hawk precision operation reduced the need to create new access tracks to the weir site and minimised environmental disturbance around the Wilsons Creek catchment. An extension of Mullumbimby’s emergency water main connection to the Rous County Council regional water network was completed earlier this year under the same NSW Government program, which enabled the repair works to be completed without impacting the local water supply. Thanks to careful planning, residents have experienced no disruption to water services, even as the weir has been drained. The repair works, which began in September, is expected to be completed by early January, depending on weather conditions.Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said, “You wouldn’t normally call in a Black Hawk for reconstruction efforts, but we had to think outside the box to ensure we could repair and protect a key piece of local history while ensuring Mullumbimby has a secure and reliable water supply for the future.“The sight of a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter placing giant boulders at the weir site was a joy to behold and shows what is possible when different levels of government work together in the best interests of a community in need of recovery support.“The recovery of the Northern Rivers is long and complex, but we are here with the community every step of the way.”NSW Reconstruction Authority Executive Director Reconstruction Graham Kennett said, “This project highlights the practical on-the-ground recovery work the RA is delivering across the Northern Rivers.”NSW Public Works Project Manager Richard Greenhill said, “This is a precision operation to stabilise Lavertys Gap Weir. By placing rock and engineered clay with precision, we’re building a durable barrier that will protect the weir from erosion and withstand future flood events.”“We’re addressing erosion that’s undermining the weir wall itself, which, if left unchecked, could compromise the structure.”“This is a collaborative effort involving Council, state agencies, Traditional Owners, and the landholder; everyone has played a role in making this possible.”Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said, “This is a complex project in a challenging location, and it is achieving results that will preserve the heritage fabric of Lavertys Gap Weir and secure its long-term integrity, which are important to our community.”

Details have been released of a two car accident on the Bruxner Highway at Irvington, about 24 km from Lismore, that closed parts of the highway for over 12 hours.Police said that at about 11pm yesterday (Tuesday, 11 November 2025), emergency services were called to the Bruxner Highway at Irvington following reports of a crash.At the scene, police were told two vehicles collided head-on before crashing into a paddock.The drivers – men aged 22 and 35 – were treated at the scene before being taken to Lismore Base Hospital each in a stable condition.A crime scene was established and inquiries into the circumstances surround the crash commenced by officers attached to the Crash Investigation Unit, assisted by Richmond Police District.As inquiries continue, anyone with information or dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.The Bruxner Highway at Irvington has now been reopened.

Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions from next week on Summerland Way between Dingo Gully and Imbreys roads at Grevillia, north of Kyogle, to repair three downslopes damaged by landslips.Starting this Monday, 17 November, work will be carried out from 7am to 6pm on weekdays and is expected to be completed by mid-May 2026, weather permitting.Single lane, alternating traffic flow arrangements and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h will be in place during work hours for the safety of workers and road users.Oversize and overmass (OSOM) vehicles more than 3.5 metres wide intending to travel through the site must call the project team on 0411 021 138 at least 24 hours prior to travel.Motorists 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 this work visit https://www.livetraffic.com/incident-details/253959, download the Live Traffic NSW App or call 132 701.To receive updates direct to your phone, search for ‘Grevillia’ in your Live Traffic app, select the incident and click ‘Follow’.

Byron Council has started work on the installation of heating at the Petria Thomas pool in Mullumbimby.Contractors installing the heating equipment moved on-site last week.“This really is great news for our swimming community in the Byron Shire with the pool to remain open during the cooler months of the year,” Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, said.“I, along with many others, have been lobbying for this for years, and to see it finally underway is a significant investment in the health and well-being of our residents,” Mayor Ndiaye said.The installation of heating is expected to take up to six months, and there will be very minimal disruption to pool users during this time.People will see the new equipment going in near the existing plant shed, with the water heaters being built one metre above the ground to provide a level of resilience to flooding.“It’s not often I look forward to the end of summer, but 2026 will be different because I can’t wait to dive into the Mullum pool next winter,” Mayor Ndiaye said.

The NSW Government is encouraging landholders across NSW to take advantage of $850,000 worth of free grain and bait on offer as part of a statewide crackdown on feral pigs.The support is part of the government’s plans to strengthen and build the state’s primary industries sector and is available through the Government’s Local Land Services.Funding is part of the Government’s Feral Pig and Pest Program with funding from the State’s more than $1 billion biosecurity budget. It is the third year the Government has provided free grain and bait to landholders as part of the program. Since July 2023, the NSW Government has committed more than $40 million to initiatives aimed at supporting landholders to control feral pig and pest animal populations.This funding has led to the removal of some 223,000 feral pigs and the supply of more than 475,000 kilograms of bait to landholders.The cost to farmers of grain for feral pig trapping and baiting can be significant, but landholders in NSW can now receive these supplies for free while supplies last.Feral pigs pose a major threat to agriculture, native ecosystems and biosecurity. They damage crops and pastures, prey on livestock and degrade natural habitats.On-farm baiting and trapping programs are critical to reducing the impacts of feral pigs and should be used in conjunction with other control methods, such as aerial and ground shooting.Landholders interested in accessing free grain and bait and seeking tailored advice on pest control options can contact their closest Local Land Services office on 1300 795 299.Local Land Services' 11 regions are Central Tablelands, Central West, Greater Sydney, Hunter, Murray, North Coast, North-West, Northern Tablelands, Riverina, South-East and Western.To find your Local Land Services region, visit www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/local-land-services/lls-regionsMinister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, said, “Feral pigs are wreaking havoc on our landscapes, threatening biodiversity, damaging crops and undermining biosecurity.“With free grain and bait being offered across the state, we’re backing our farmers and regional communities with real, practical support.“Increasing access to baiting and trapping resources gives landholders the tools they need, meaning greater impact on the ground and fewer pigs out there causing damage.”Local Land Services Feral Pig Coordinator Bec Gray said, “When it comes to feral pigs and pest animal control, unfortunately, there’s no silver bullet, which is why we need to support the use of multiple control methods, such as baiting, trapping and shooting.“Feral pigs don’t respect fences or boundaries. They move across landscapes and cause widespread damage. That’s why we’re encouraging landholders to team up, plan strategically and use the free bait and grain available across all 11 Local Land Services regions.”“This isn’t just about individual properties, it’s about community-wide action. The more unified the response, the greater the success.”Sheep and cattle farmer Colin McCrabb said, “We found pigs causing problems with predation of ewes and lambs, so we were in touch with Local Land Services to see what we could do. We’ve used their knowledge and support to not only set up traps, but permanent baiting stations with real-time monitoring.”“Baiting is a great option for us because it’s passive, and to be honest, I’ve been really surprised by the number of pigs we’ve had. You don’t think you have any on your property until you set it up and see what is actually going on. We’ve removed hundreds since we started our control program.”“The support from Local Land Services is fantastic. My message to others who don’t think they have a pig problem is you will be surprised what you discover once you start looking for them. The predation and damage of pigs is horrendous, plus the biosecurity risks are very real, so we are doing anything we can to put a stop to that.”

In July this year, Council installed electronic signage and temporary lights on the Hinterland Way at Bangalow as part of a project to reduce the number of koalas being killed or hit by cars.Have you noticed them? Do you slow down when you see the signs?The five trailer-mounted solar lighting towers and two electronic message boards are in place on the Hinterland Way until January 2026.They are in locations where koalas are known to cross the road, and these sections of The Hinterland Way are dark and near corners where lines of sight for drivers are poor.It’s hoped that improved lighting will help drivers see koalas, and the signage will prompt them to slow down.Jane Baldwin, Council’s Koala Project Officer, wants to get a feel for the impact of the lights and signage so far.“Thankfully, there have been no koalas hit by cars in the last several months, but I am very interested in finding out if drivers are taking notice of the signs and are finding the lights useful,” Ms Baldwin said.“In the last five years, there have been 18 koalas killed on the Hinterland Way. “Of the 30 hotspots for koala vehicle strikes in NSW, six are in the Byron Shire, so it’s really important that we do what we can to influence or change driver behaviour,” she said.“I am really hoping people can take five minutes to do a simple survey on Your Say Byron Shire.“All contributions and feedback are welcome, and we will use this information to improve future awareness programs,” Ms Baldwin said.“And of course, the message for all drivers is to slow down and keep watch for koalas because they can dart onto the road very quickly,” she said.The survey about the signs and lights on the Hinterland Way closes on 13 December 2025.

Police have commenced an investigation following the discovery of a woman’s body at South Grafton earlier today.Just before midday (Sunday, 9 November 2025), emergency services were called to a house on McNamara Avenue, South Grafton, regarding a concern for welfare report.Officers from Coffs/Clarence Police District located the body of a woman inside the house.Following the discovery, detectives from Coffs/Clarence Police District commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death.A crime scene has been established, which is being examined by specialist police.The woman, believed to be aged in her 30s, is yet to be formally identified and a postmortem examination will determine the exact cause of death.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Kids’ parties in Byron Shire can now be cheaper to host and more environmentally friendly with Council offering loans of reusable party kits.The party kits, which include brightly coloured plates, cups, bowls and cutlery, are sustainable and a perfect alternative to disposable dishes that go straight into the red waste bin when the party is over.Decorations are included in the kits, with local business, Possumbilities, providing bright bunting made from repurposed, second-hand fabrics.“These party kits look amazing, and I really hope that parents get behind this initiative as a way of reducing single-use waste,” Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said.“It also makes so much sense to borrow a party kit rather than having to store partyware away for 12 months until the next birthday rolls around.“These sets are beautiful, free to borrow and can be used over and over,” Mayor Ndiaye said.Anika Brown, Litter and Illegal Dumping Prevention Officer, said the aim of the kits is to raise awareness around where single-use waste is often created, with kids’ parties generating a lot of single-use plates, cups, serviettes, plastic wrapping and decorations. Single-use waste is a major issue, making up around 40% of litter found in our environment. Balloons, in particular, are one of the leading threats to Australian seabirds and pose a serious risk to marine life."We are providing people with a solution that aligns with the Balloon-Free Byron Shire initiative by offering free hire of reusable party items and decorations.” Ms Brown said.Bookings for the reuseable party kits can be made on Council’s website.This project is a joint initiative of Council and North East Waste.

Construction of a new raised pedestrian crossing is planned to begin in mid-November near the corner of Byron Street and Ashton Street in Bangalow.Isabella Avelino Gianelli, Council’s Project Engineer, said that the new crossing will create a safer passage for pedestrians and bicycle riders as they walk or ride across Byron Street. “At the moment, people wanting to cross to the other side of Byron Street have to negotiate not only traffic on the main road but also be aware of traffic coming out of Ashton Street,” Ms Avenlino Gianellli said. “By building this crossing, it will make it much safer for pedestrians and provide a better connection for people going from town or Piccabeen Park and onto the Bangalow Sports Fields or beyond.“This project was identified in 2019 as part of the 10-Year Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan (PAMP).“After completing investigation work, we realised it could not be an underpass as originally hoped, but we are looking forward to delivering this important road safety project,” she said.During construction:Byron Street will be reduced to one lane and will operate under traffic control. Please expect delays.Ashton Street will be closed to outbound traffic.Working hours will be from 7am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.Traffic control and signage will be in place. Construction of the new pedestrian crossing will take a month to complete (weather permitting).The project is funded by NSW Government’s Safer Roads program.More information about the project can be found on Council’s website.

Australian Food Safety Week 2025 is held from 8 to 15 November, and this year, the Food Safety Information Council and Byron Shire Council are reminding people of some of the biggest food myths.One myth is that you can’t eat food past the ‘best before’ date.Sarah Nagel, Manager Public and Environmental Services, said that it was important to pay attention to things like ‘use by’ and ‘best before’ dates, to keep yourself safe and healthy, but also reduce food waste.“We know that grocery prices have increased in previous years, that’s why it’s important to pay attention to things like the ‘best before’ versus ‘use by’ dates on your food. “’Best before’ is only an indicator of quality and can still be eaten after that date, but you should use or freeze food by its ‘use by’ date,” Ms Nagel, said. “Simple things like freezing things like tomato paste into portions can prevent mould forming once you open the jar and save you money on your groceries,” she said. The theme for this year’s Food Safety Week is ‘Don’t swallow the myth – Food safety myth busting’ and some common myths are:  Hand sanitiser is better than handwashing.If you drop food on the floor, it is ok to eat up to five seconds. Hamburgers can be served rare.You can tell if food is contaminated because it smells or tastes ‘off’. It’s okay to cut mould off food.For more information about food safety visit the Food Safety Information Council website. “North East Waste also has some great tips for reducing food waste,” Ms Nagel said.

Byron Shire Council is inviting the community to complete a survey and provide feedback on its draft Playspace Action Plan—a long-term strategy to improve the quality, diversity, and accessibility of playgrounds across the Shire. The Plan is a review of all 37 playgrounds in Byron Shire and considers their location, condition, and how well they serve the needs of local families and children. It responds to years of community feedback calling for playspaces that are more fun, more inclusive, bigger and better equipped, designed for all ages and abilities. “This is a 15-year plan that looks at play spaces as a whole and suggests ways to improve some playgrounds by making them bigger, more inclusive and more fun for all ages, which is what the community has been asking us for over many years,” Council’s Open Spaces Coordinator, Mr Jim Roberts said. The Plan also proposes retiring some smaller or underused playgrounds—particularly those located within 400 to 800 metres of larger play areas—once they reach the end of their life. This would allow Council to redirect maintenance funding into creating larger, better-equipped playspaces that more people can access and enjoy. “We’ve set out a draft plan for the future and now we want to hear from the community—do you support the ideas we’re proposing? Does the Plan reflect what you want for your local play spaces?” Mr Roberts said. “If you’re interested in the future of local play spaces, please read the Action Plan, complete the online survey, or come along and chat with staff at local Farmers Markets during November. “Your feedback will help shape the future of play in Byron Shire—creating spaces where everyone can play, connect, and thrive,” he said. Take the survey today - have your say at www.yoursay.byron.nsw.gov.au.

Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSLWHD) is thrilled to congratulate staff member Jason Whitton, as one of the recipients of the Small Acts of Kindness Award at the 2025 NSW Health Awards.Acting Operational Services Manager at Casino and District Memorial Hospital (CDMH), Mr Whitton was recognised as a joint winner in the Small Acts of Kindness Award category at the annual NSW Health Awards in Sydney on 30 October.The NSW Health Awards recognise the people, teams and programs making a significant positive impact on the health and wellbeing of patients right across the state. Above all, it is a celebration of the entire NSW Health team enriching health in millions of ways every day.The Small Acts of Kindness Award celebrates individuals who contribute to our culture of kindness at NSW Health. NNSWLHD Chief Executive Tracey Maisey said Mr Whitton was acknowledged for the support and reassurance he gives to all around him and his readiness to always lend a helping hand.“I couldn’t be happier to congratulate Jason on his win at the 2025 NSW Health Awards,” Ms Maisey said.“Jason is renowned for always being available to lend a helping hand, no matter how big or small the task, no questions asked. His small acts of kindness leave a lasting impact, and it came as no surprise to hear he was nominated by his colleagues for this award. “We are so grateful to have people such as Jason working with us in Northern NSW, helping to deliver high-quality healthcare to our patients while contributing to the workplace.”Ms Maisey also congratulated members of Grafton Base Hospital’s Day Stay Joint Replacement team, who were finalists in the Transforming Patient Experience category at the Awards.Mr Whitton, whose trip to Sydney to attend the Awards was his first visit to the city, was blown away by his win.(Jason and Bec Whitton enjoying the sights of Sydney)“Shocked! I didn’t know how big the award was. I’m just a security officer in a rural hospital, trying to do my bit for the hospital and the community,” he said.“This award means the world – just getting nominated was an honour. I’m just an ordinary guy that comes to work and tries to do the best I can. To be nominated and then win, is unreal, I’m very proud.”CDMH Executive Officer-Director of Nursing Sandra Vidler said Jason’s teammates at Casino hospital were over the moon with his achievement.“Jason truly underestimates the impact he has on our team, patients and visitors by simply being kind, sharing his big smile and being so very humble,” Ms Vidler said.“All of us here at Casino are incredibly proud of Jason for winning this award.”Jason was one of 16 winners recognised across NSW at the awards ceremony. Find out more about the full list of winners at 2025 NSW Health Awards.Watch this video to find out why Jason’s colleagues nominated him for this award: https://vimeo.com/1084139257/303237f0f2.

Byron Shire Council has released its Annual Report for 2024 to 2025, showcasing a year of substantial achievements in infrastructure, environmental protection, and community programs.Over the past year, Council has made significant progress in environmental management and sustainability. The Climate Change Adaptation Plan is rolling out 100 targeted actions to cut emissions and build resilience and the Move to Reuse program has saved more than 120,000 single-use items from landfill at markets, events and community activities.Council’s bush regeneration team worked on regenerating 285 hectares of bushland and maintained 147 hectares, alongside ongoing flying fox management, agricultural support, and coastal management initiatives.Council also delivered critical infrastructure improvements, grading 57 roads, resealing and patching 16 roads, and completing major upgrades on Booyong Road and Rife Range Road.Work began on South Beach Road improvements, and the redevelopment of the old Byron Bay hospital was completed, with $5.7 million in grants secured for roads, paths, and renewable energy projects, to name a few."What a year it was for a newly elected Council, and this is just a snapshot of the work that was done with the community always front and centre of our work,” Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, said.“I am so proud of the achievements of the Council in 2024 to 2025.“I hope our community takes the time to look at the Annual Report to see how busy it has been and the breadth of Council’s work," she said.The report also highlights Council’s ongoing support for community-led initiatives, including $653,442 in donations to 130 groups and hosting events like the Furry Friends Festival and the community awards.Housing and social support remain a focus, with programs such as the Ending Rough Sleeping Collaboration and Public Space Liaison Officers helping people in need.Council’s Planning team processed 635 development applications valued at $415.6 million, faster than the NSW benchmark.The Annual Report is on Council’s website.