Byron Shire Council has voted to progress a new water treatment plant at Lavertys Gap for Mullumbimby, while rejecting a proposal for a comprehensive investigation into long-term water supply options.Mullumbimby's water has been sourced from the Lavertys Gap weir on Wilsons Creek since the 1940s, but the system's viability has been under review. During drought, flows in Wilsons Creek are far less than the town's drinking water demand. During flood, the water in Wilsons Creek is dirty and not possible to treat at the existing plant.At last week's council meeting, a motion for an evidence-based investigation comparing multiple supply options, with robust community engagement, was voted down 5-4. The proposed investigation would have examined options including an off-stream storage reservoir, which could capture water from the river when there’s enough, to store for drier periods and also to act as a settling pond to address turbidity issues.Instead, independent councillor Michael Lyon put forward a motion to progress a new water treatment plant for Lavertys Gap – despite his long-term position that Mullumbimby should connect to the Rous County Council regional water supply rather than maintain an independent local source. Debate in the chamber was limited, and it seemed a deal had been struck with independent councillor David Warth, who had previously supported the Greens' push for an options investigation. After the motion for a robust investigation was voted down, the Greens supported Lyon's motion as a better, though not ideal, alternative to having no local supply at all.The decision to progress planning for a new treatment plant leaves several technical questions unresolved:The existing water treatment site at Lavertys Gap faces significant space constraints. Modern water treatment plants must meet stringent health and engineering requirements, and the extremely turbid water from Lavertys Gap during wet weather typically requires substantial settling tanks and pre-treatment facilities.Economic viability is also uncertain. While water from Lavertys Gap has historically been cheaper per kilolitre than Rous water, a new expensive treatment plant with potentially limited capacity could fundamentally alter this cost equation, particularly as an emergency supply from Rous will need to supplement water from Lavertys in dry periods.Environmental considerations were partially addressed through an amendment by Greens Councillor Elia Hauge requiring Council to plan for environmental flows in the Wilsons River during drought conditions. However, questions remain about balancing environmental needs with community water supply, and whether fish passage improvements will be incorporated.In a statement, the Greens councillors said they will work closely with the Water and Sewer Advisory Committee and the community to ensure the next steps of investigation into a new treatment plant at Lavertys Gap are rigorous and transparent, with answers required before committing millions of dollars to infrastructure that may not be fit for purpose.Cr. Elia Hauge, Chair of Water & Sewer Committee, Byron Shire Council said, "As an engineer, I'm frustrated that this decision was made hastily, with no guidance from either the Water and Sewer Advisory Committee or Council staff, and through a deal struck behind closed doors rather than open debate.""While keeping a local supply option on the table is better than losing it entirely, the path we've taken is far from ideal.""The three questions about site constraints, economic viability, and environmental flows are just the starting point – this community deserves answers before we commit millions of dollars to infrastructure that may not be fit for purpose.""Mullumbimby's water future is too important to be decided by backroom deals. It requires rigorous investigation and genuine community consultation."

Students across the Northern Rivers are invited to participate in a unique learning experience that nurtures critical thinking, collective action and creative expression, as part of a region-wide flood preparedness campaign.The Future Feast in Schools, from Northern Rivers Performing Arts (NORPA), embeds disaster awareness through storytelling, fostering curiosity, connection and creativity.The learning experience is underpinned by four key regional preparedness steps:know your river and your riskknow the warningshave a planlook after each other.NORPA is leading the Future Feasts in Schools workshops at Broadwater Public School, Empire Vale Public School, Stoker’s Siding Public School, Main Arm Public School and Palmers Island Public School from October 15 to November 12.Guided by professional artists in Drama, Dance, and Visual & Video Arts, students engage in hands-on workshops that explore themes of disaster, resilience, and renewal. Through movement, storytelling, and collaborative performance-making, they draw on their lived experiences and hopes for the future.The students’ artistic responses will also contribute to a broader regional project, a NORPA major creative work, Dinner Party at the End of the World, a multi-artform work inspired by local responses to natural hazards.  Teachers are also supported throughout with curriculum-aligned resources and opportunities for professional learning alongside experienced artists.Future Feasts received funding from the Australian and NSW Governments through the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program, administered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority. It is also presented in partnership with the Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools Office.Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said, “We recognise, more than ever, the need to harness the skills and voices of young people to be better prepared for disasters.  “This creative learning experience does just that, by empowering students to know the risks, to have a plan and look out for each other as we prepare for future disasters.“This program shows our young people they have the power to create a more resilient Northern Rivers and build the kind of community they want to live in.     “I thank NORPA for their creative approach to ensuring young people’s voices are heard and for supporting them to be ready for disasters today and in the future.” NORPA Artistic Director Julian Louis said, “Future Feasts is a chance for students to unleash their imagination on a difficult subject for many people in their community. “The idea of climate change is often abstract and hard to understand, but this gives young people the chance to express themselves among friends and peers in a creative endeavour and learning environment about very real events and issues that directly affected them and their school.”Reconstruction Authority Executive Director Reconstruction Graham Kennett said, “Dealing with natural hazards is a fact of everyday life in the Northern Rivers, where knowledge of the region and clear and calm thinking are essentials for navigating these turbulent events.“Future Feasts helps young people to absorb these tools of local life and puts into practice how community can come together to wield them.” 

Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions next week on Blackwall Drive at Wardell to carry out routine maintenance on Wardell Bridge.Work starting on Monday, 3 November will be carried out from 6am to 5pm and is expected to take five days to complete, weather permitting.Single lane closures and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h will be in place during working hours. Motorists should allow extra travel time during this work.There will also be repair work on the advanced warning lights on the southern side of the bridge for one day with a shoulder closure in place during the works hours for safety of workers and motorists. Motorists are advised to 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/253634, download the Live Traffic NSW app or call 132 701.   To receive updates direct to your phone, search for ‘Wardell’ in your Live Traffic app, select the incident and click ‘Follow’.  

A man has been charged after the alleged serious assault of a man at Byron Bay earlier this year.About 3:30am on Saturday, 21 June 2025, emergency services were called to a car park near the intersection of Johnson Street and Lawson Street, Byron Bay, following reports that a man had allegedly been assaulted by a group of up to six males.Officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District arrived at the location and found a 25-year-old man suffering head injuries.The man was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics at the scene before being taken to hospital with significant facial and head injuries. He has since been released from hospital; however, he lives with ongoing injuries sustained during the assault.Detectives attached to Tweed/Byron Police District commenced an investigation into the incident.Following inquiries and a public appeal, an 18-year-old man was arrested after attending Byron Bay Police Station about 7am today (Thursday, 30 October 2025).He was charged with reckless grievous bodily harm - in company.The Possum Creek man is due to appear at Byron Bay Local Court on Monday, 8 December 2025.

A man has died following a crash in Byron Bay yesterday afternoon. About 2.30pm today (Wednesday, 29 October 2025), emergency services were called to the intersection of Ewingsdale Road and Banksia Drive, Byron Bay, following reports of a crash.Officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District attended and were told a pedestrian had been struck by a white van. A man believed to be aged in his 70s was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics for head injuries. He was airlifted to Gold Coast University Hospital in a critical condition; however, he died in hospital as a result of his injuries. The man is yet to be formally identified. The driver of the van – a 38-year-old woman – was uninjured and was taken to Byron Central Hospital for mandatory testing. Police declared a crime scene and commenced an investigation into the circumstances of the crash. A report will be prepared for the coroner. 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 restoration of the Sandhills Wetlands is nearly finished, and Council is now considering making the area a wildlife protection area, which means it’s a dog-free zone.The Sandhills Restoration project is one of the most significant environmental initiatives ever undertaken by Council, which, when finished, will see the reinstatement of wetlands that were destroyed during sandmining in the 1960s and 1970s.During the construction of the wetlands, ecological surveys identified several threatened species, including:Sooty owlWallum frogletGrey-headed flying foxLittle bent-winged batLarge bent-winged batIt is expected that the biodiversity on the site will increase as it develops into a thriving wetland system.During construction, Council received community requests to make the wetlands a dog-free zone, and they will be banned as part of a wildlife protection area.We are now seeking community feedback on this proposal.People can get more information or make a submission on Council’s website.Feedback closes 2 December 2025.

Works on a new pedestrian path in Torakina Park linking the Brunswick Heads bridge walkway to the South Wall are set to get underway in February 2026.This important upgrade has been made possible thanks to a $400,000 joint investment from Crown Lands through the CRIF program and Byron Shire Council.“We’re very grateful to be moving forward with this project, which builds on the improvements already made along South Beach Road,” Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye said.“This new accessible path will provide a safer, clearer connection for people walking, rolling or riding from the Brunswick Heads Bridge through Torakina Park, and on to the beach, toilets and the South Wall,” she said.The new path will run parallel to South Beach Road and connect to the existing footpath network, improving accessibility and safety for locals and visitors alike.To further enhance pedestrian safety, hardwood bollards will be installed along South Beach Road to manage vehicle access.In addition, Council is planning a reseal of South Beach Lane, which will be completed by the end of November.What’s Next?Council is currently exploring options for a pedestrian crossing or shared zone east of the Brunswick Heads Bridge to complete the pedestrian link and provide a safer crossing point to the new footpath.Future Improvements Under InvestigationPending funding and approvals, Council is also investigating:A pedestrian crossing or other shared zone or safety treatments across South Beach Road.Additional parking.Improved lighting and toilet facilities.“These upgrades are part of a shared vision to make the foreshore area more welcoming and accessible for everyone,” Mayor Ndiaye said.“We know how much this space means to the community, and we’re committed to seeking the support and funding needed to continue this work,” she said.For more information, visit Council’s website.

A fire at the Ballina Resource Recovery Centre over the weekend has prompted a timely reminder about safe battery disposal. Ballina Fire and Rescue NSW crews were called to the facility on Sunday afternoon to respond to a fire at the builders’ waste drop-off area. The facility was temporarily closed while firefighters brought the fire under control and assessed the scene. The facility has since been deemed safe and reopened to the public.While the cause of the fire is still under investigation, multiple hazardous items, including batteries, gas bottles, chemicals, fuel, and aerosols, were found in the pile. All of these items have a designated safe drop-off location, which should be used to prevent such incidents.Unfortunately, incidents like this are not uncommon, with nearly 30 fires in waste and recycling facilities and collection trucks every day across Australia. At the Ballina Resource Recovery Centre, damaged batteries, chemicals and other hazardous materials cause regular flare-ups.New NSW Government trial aims to prevent dangerous battery firesTo help reduce the risk of dangerous and costly fires, Ballina Shire Council is participating in a new NSW Government trial to help households and small businesses safely dispose of products containing embedded batteries, such as electric toothbrushes, vapes and handheld vacuum cleaners. This will reduce both the number of products going to landfill, and the risk of batteries sparking fires in bins, trucks and waste facilities.As part of the trial, the Ballina Resource Recovery Centre at 167 Southern Cross Drive is now accepting household embedded battery products free of charge.Embedded batteries are small batteries that are built into products and cannot be removed. They are often found in household items such as vapes, electric toothbrushes, e-bikes, smart watches, portable speakers, vacuums, light up toys, and more.These batteries are uniquely challenging for the waste management sector because they are made of materials, including lithium-ion, that are difficult to recycle and a significant fire hazard risk.“This trial is a welcome initiative to make it easier for people to do the right thing with embedded batteries, protecting our local community and environment by reducing the number of embedded-battery products that are mistakenly disposed of in kerbside bins,” said Justine Rowe, Resource Recovery Education Officer.“Through the trial, we hope Ballina residents will learn more about embedded-battery products – including how to identify them, the types of risks they pose, why correct disposal is so important, and how they can dispose of them safely.”The Ballina Community Recycling Centre, with dedicated bins now on site to collect embedded battery products, is one of 34 centres across the state participating in the EPA-led trial, including Lismore and Kyogle in the Northern Rivers.E-waste that may contain embedded batteries, including laptops, gaming controllers and tablets, should still be directed to Council’s free e-waste collection service also at the Resource Recovery Centre.More information about the NSW Government’s embedded batteries trial, which is active now and will run until September 2026, can be found on the NSW EPA website here: https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/embedded-batteries.Ballina specific information can be found here: Embedded Battery Trial | Ballina Shire Council.

The Tweed community is set to benefit from additional car parking at Tweed Valley Hospital, following the appointment of local company Alder to undertake works to expand car parking capacity.The project will deliver 130 new street-level free car parking spaces, boosting the site capacity to more than 1,300 parking spaces, and includes upgrades to existing parking areas, such as new signage, line marking, and enhanced parking management systems. This project follows an extensive operational review into transport and traffic arrangements at the Tweed Valley Hospital, including consultation with emergency services.Most of the new parking spaces will be created on the grassed area to the south of the existing multi-level car park and along Ring Road on the northern boundary of the hospital campus.Work will be carried out in stages to help minimise disruption to patients, staff and visitors.The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.The $723.3 million Tweed Valley Hospital opened to patients in May 2024 and has transformed the delivery of healthcare in the region.The hospital has expanded its health services, including interventional cardiology and radiotherapy, allowing residents to access these services locally without needing to travel outside the region. The additional parking is being delivered by Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD), in partnership with Health Infrastructure.Staff and the community will continue to be updated as work progresses.  Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said, “The new Tweed Valley Hospital has been embraced by the local community, with activity rising significantly since opening in May 2024.“These works will boost capacity on site to more than 1,300 free parking spaces, improving access to the hospital and vital health services for the local community.“I’d like to thank all our staff and volunteers at Tweed Valley Hospital, as well as the local community, for their feedback.”Minister for the North Coast, Janelle Saffin, said, “Tweed Valley Hospital is a very busy health facility, with hundreds of staff delivering high-quality healthcare every day to the growing communities of the Tweed-Byron region.“We trust this additional free parking will ensure a better experience for patients, their families and carers and of course our wonderful staff, when they go to the hospital.NNSWLHD Chief Executive Tracey Maisey said, “We’re delighted work will soon get underway on the construction of additional parking at Tweed Valley Hospital. This will make a real difference to the many patients, carers and staff who visit the hospital campus every day.“Thank you to the team who have worked to deliver this project. We’re confident these practical steps will improve access to the hospital campus and ensure we continue to deliver first class healthcare to our community.”

A motorcycle rider has died in a single-vehicle crash at Tyalgum, about 54km north of Lismore.About 7pm yesterday (Sunday, 26 October 2025), emergency services responded to reports of a motorcycle rider being ejected after crashing into a tree stump along Tyalgum Creek Road, Tyalgum.Witnesses performed CPR but the rider could not be revived and died at the scene.Officers from Tweed/Byron Police District established a crime scene and have commenced an investigation.Whilst yet to be formally identified, the male rider is believed to be aged in his mid-50s.A report will be prepared for the information of the coroner.Anyone with information about the incident, or who was in the area at the time with any available dashcam/mobile phone footage, is urged to contact Tweed Heads Police Station 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.

Service relocation work on Jonson Street has started in Byron Bay’s town centre, as part of stage 1 drainage upgrades in the Town Centre Catchment.In addition, two site compounds have been established. One is in the rail corridor between Jonson and Butler Street, and one in Suffolk Park at the old sewerage treatment plant (South Byron STP) for the storage and treatment of acid sulphate soils (ASS). The contractor will remediate both compounds at the conclusion of the project.Christopher Soulsby, Manager Assets and Major Projects, said that works are progressing well.“Service relocation works are the first step in the town centre works before main construction activities can begin. Ground conditions are being confirmed, and existing utilities such as water, sewer and electricity are being moved, where these services conflict with the new drainage works,” said Mr Soulsby.“People will notice the road is being dug up to relocate these utilities. Traffic control and temporary parking restrictions are in place near the work area.“We know these areas, particularly the old STP site at Suffolk Park, are highly valued by the community, and I assure people that these changes are only short-term. “These site compounds are temporary, and they will be rehabilitated and returned to public open space,” he said.Stage 1 of construction of the Town Centre Catchment is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments, through the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program and the Infrastructure Betterment Fund. As well as Byron Shire Council’s Byron Bay Town Centre Master Plan Reserve.More information about the project is available on Council’s website.

An emergency exercise will be held at Ballina Byron Gateway Airport on Tuesday, 28 October 2025, from 8am to 12pm. Emergency service agencies will participate in the exercise in collaboration with airport staff, including members of NSW Fire and Rescue, NSW Police, State Emergency Services, NSW Ambulance, Airservices Australia, and the Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting Service.Every two years, the airport conducts a full field exercise to test the effectiveness of the aerodrome emergency plan. This exercise is essential to meet Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) requirements.“We run simulated emergencies on the airfield to make sure our procedures stay up to date and effective,” said Julie Stewart, Airport Manager.“These exercises take significant planning and coordination with our emergency service partners. They provide an invaluable opportunity for agencies to work together and ensure that, in the unlikely event of a real emergency, everyone is well-prepared and ready to respond efficiently.”This exercise will not impact scheduled flights, and terminal operations will remain unaffected for passengers and visitors.For enquiries about this exercise, please contact Ballina Byron Gateway Airport Manager, Ms Julie Stewart, on 1300 864 444.

Applications are now open for local artists to join the line-up in Byron Bay this New Year’s Eve (NYE).“Organisers of Soul Street are looking for a wide range of family-friendly performers, musicians and roving artists to perform across multiple sites and stages,” Marisa Snow, Acting Arts and Culture Officer, said.“There are so many fantastic artists in the Northern Rivers, and it would be great to see a higher representation of local talent this NYE.“This is a paid opportunity and all artists, irrespective of experience, are welcome to apply,” Ms Snow said.NYE celebrations in Byron Bay are spread across two areas – Jonson Street and Dening Park.The activities in Jonson Street start at 4pm with roving performers and kids’ activations in a family-filled program aimed at younger families. The main music stage at Dening Park kicks off at 6pm with a series of rolling acts throughout the evening, including the popular silent disco which takes over the foreshore. Applications for the delivery of workshops, arts and crafts, and kids’ activations are welcome.Apply now at www.soulstreetbyronbay.com.au. Applications close 14 November.

Volunteers from Marine Rescue Point Danger completed an 81 km round-trip rescue after responding to a Pan Pan call off the Tweed this morning.A Pan Pan call indicates an urgent situation that is serious but where there is no immediate threat to life or the vessel.Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Courtney Greenslade said radio operators at Marine Rescue Point Danger heard the distress call at 5:45am.“Two people on board the 11-metre catamaran were stranded 22 nautical miles (40.5 km) east of Point Danger after the vessel’s steering cables broke and the back-up system failed while transiting to Ballina.“A volunteer crew was rapidly assembled and deployed just after 6am on board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Point Danger 31 to rescue the sailors,” she said.Marine Rescue Point Danger Deputy Unit Commander Guy Youngblutt skippered the rescue vessel and said conditions were not favourable offshore.“The trip out was very uncomfortable, with two-metre seas and 20-knot winds,” he said.The volunteer crew on board PD 31 reached the distressed vessel at around 7:20am, checked on the welfare of the two people on board, and secured a towline for the long, slow trip back to the Tweed River.“Thankfully, conditions improved on the return leg,” Youngblutt said.Point Danger 31 and the catamaran safely crossed the Tweed Bar on the incoming tide at around 11:05am before securing the vessel on a courtesy mooring at 11:30am.“Both people on board the catamaran were exhausted but extremely grateful to be taken to enclosed waters.“Our crew and radio operators did a wonderful job this morning in fatiguing circumstances,” Youngblutt 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.

Work has started on the construction of a new kayak storage shed at Clarkes Beach between the two existing kayak container locations.The new shed is long overdue, replacing shipping containers and trailers which belong to the two licensed kayak tour operators in the Byron Shire.“The current set-up for the kayaks visually takes away from the Byron Bay foreshore area, so this project will deliver some major improvements,” Malcolm Robertson, Manager Open Spaces and Facilities, said.“The new facilities will be a big improvement on the current set-up, designed to blend in with the surrounding natural environment as well as being a publicly owned asset that helps service the thousands of locals and visitors who take kayak tours every year.“We expect to finish construction work by the end of November, and when all the kayak equipment has been moved, the operators will dismantle their infrastructure on the foreshore and remove it,"“The area will be rehabilitated and returned to public open space.

The NSW Government has allocated $2.1 million across 17 new projects to tackle pests and weeds across the state, including tropical soda apple, wild dogs, harrisia cactus and feral deer.The funding is part of the government’s biosecurity plan to protect the state’s primary industries and regional landscapes by focusing on addressing pest and weed matters impacting both public and neighbouring private lands, which is funded through the $10 million Good Neighbours Program.The 17 new projects focus on coordinated pest animal and weed control programs, as well as capacity-building workshops and training for landholders and land managers and will be delivered in partnership with public land managers such as Forestry Corporation, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Crown Land and local councils.The new projects cover initiatives such as the following:Improving wild dog management across the Central TablelandsReducing feral pig impacts along the Mid North CoastImproving statewide biosecurity strategic management on Crown LandsMinimising threats to endangered coastal emu populations within the Clarence region from invasive vertebrate pestsThis builds on the progress of the first round of projects, which were allocated $4.25 million and announced earlier this year, that are actively underway across the state, such as the following:Boxing Glove Control Program in Western NSW - has helped protect 55,903 hectares of private and public land in Sturt National Park and Tibooburra from boxing glove cactus through targeted weed control and the use of cochineal insects.Tropical soda apple control North Coast - Public land managers and local control authorities have carried out 1,535 hectares of tropical soda apple control activities.Feral Pig Management Program Bathurst – Forestry Corporation has brought together 47 landholders next to state forests in the area to work collaboratively to target feral pigs across 5,949 hectares.The Good Neighbours Program will deliver a total of 36 projects across NSW. Visit nsw.gov.au/good-neighbours to learn more and see the full list of projects.Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, said, “We know pest animals and weeds do not respect property boundaries, which is why the Minns Government is investing in a range of new and expanded on-ground biosecurity projects to protect farms lands and our environment through the Good Neighbours Program.“These projects support public and private land managers to work together to prevent the spread of pests and weeds because we can only make headway by collaborating.“We are already seeing positive results from these collaborative efforts, including stronger relationships between landholders and land managers, which we will continue to build on as the latest projects get underway.“The latest projects continue the important work already underway which is showing success. There is action addressing target problem pests and weeds, such as feral pigs, deer, tropical soda apple and Hudson pear.”GOOD NEIGHBOURS PROGRAM – 17 NEW PROJECTS LISTControlling kudzu vine weed bordering the Comboyne township on the NSW North CoastLocal Land Services (LLS) is supporting public agencies and private landholders to deliver a weed management project to control the invasive vine weed kudzu on private and public land bordering the township of Comboyne on the NSW North Coast. This effort aims to reduce the spread and impact of kudzu to a level where land managers can continue to manage its impacts.Controlling glory lily in conservation and cultural areas within the Macleay region in South West Rocks areaLLS is supporting public agencies, community groups and private landholders to deliver a targeted priority weed management project focusing on the localised containment of glory lily along coastal dunes within national parks, public land, and Local Aboriginal Land Council land.Feral deer management in the Euabalong area in Western NSWLLS in collaboration with public agencies and private landholders will deliver a comprehensive pest management program. This program will target feral deer on public and private land in the Hillston-Euabalong area.Gwydir Valley pest management project near InverellLLS is supporting public agencies and local landholders to deliver a collaborative pest management project to reduce the impact of feral deer and other priority pests in the Gwydir State Conservation Area. The project will undertake control measures and build skills, capacity and collaboration for ongoing management.Increasing tropical soda apple management across the North Coast and Northern TablelandsLLS is working with public agencies on a coordinated effort to control tropical soda apple on different types of public land and neighbouring properties in areas across the North Coast and Northern Tablelands regions including Tenterfield along the Richmond River and the Upper Macleay at Georges JunctionImpact reduction of red cestrum in the Killabakh Nature Reserve on the mid-North CoastLLS is supporting public agencies and private landholders to deliver a targeted weed management project. This project will aim to control red cestrum along roadsides and other public and private land in Killabakh Nature Reserve.Improving statewide biosecurity strategic management on Crown LandsLLS is supporting Crown Lands and adjoining landholders to develop, implement an improved statewide biosecurity strategy to guide best practice biosecurity management.Improving wild dog management across the Central TablelandsLLS in conjunction with public and private land managers will develop a strategic plan to assess and implement best practice wild dog control across the Central Tablelands.Managing pests across Central Tablelands state forestsLLS is supporting Forestry Corporation of NSW and private landholders to conduct on-ground control in the Bathurst region. The project aims to reduce the impacts of a broad range of invasive species, primarily feral deer.Minimising threats to coastal emu populations within the Clarence regionLLS is supporting public agencies and private landholders to reduce the impacts of invasive vertebrate pests on the endangered coastal emu population in and around the forests of the Clarence region.North Bathurst pest management projectLLS is supporting public agencies and private landholders participating in the North Bathurst pest management project. The project aims to reduce the impacts of feral deer and pigs across both public and private land.Osage orange control in the Macintyre River riparian area near InverellLLS is supporting public agencies and private landholders to deliver a targeted weed management program to manage Osage orange along 20 kilometres of the Macintyre River, protecting valuable riparian zones and agricultural land.Protecting the Ramsar values of Caryapundy Swamp near TibooburraLLS in collaboration with public agencies and private landholders will support the delivery of a multifaceted pest and weed management program aimed at preserving the biological diversity of the Ramsar listed Caryapundy Swamp.Reducing feral pig impacts along the Mid North CoastLLS is supporting public agencies and private landholders to deliver a feral pig management project across forestry plantations and neighbouring private land across multiple state forests in the Wingham and wider Mid North Coast area.Reducing impacts on the Robertson Rainforest in the Southern HighlandsLLS is supporting public agencies and private landholders to deliver a comprehensive pest and weed management project. This project aims to reduce the impact of feral deer and invasive weeds in the South East Region. This project provides practical support and training to landholders to meet their biosecurity obligations.Reducing the impact of harrisia cactus on agricultural land in Warren ShireLLS, Castlereagh Macquarie County Council and private landholders, will coordinate efforts to control the spread and impacts of harrisia cactus in Central Western NSW.Reducing the impact of pests and weeds in the Hunter Estuary Wetlands Ramsar area near NewcastleLLS is supporting public agencies and private landholders to deliver a cross-tenure pest and weed management project. This program aims to create a buffer to protect sensitive ecological areas within the Hunter Wetlands National Park.

Ballina Shire Council has extended nominations for the 2026 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards to Friday, 7 November, giving the community more time to recognise local heroes who make a real difference.Behind every thriving community are people who give their time, dedication and compassion to help others. From volunteers and organisers to young leaders, artists and environmental champions, these awards are a chance to say thank you and celebrate their impact.Mayor Sharon Cadwallader said the awards recognise the spirit and generosity that strengthen our community.“What stands out about our nominees is not only what they achieve, but the way they lift others up and inspire positive change,” Cr Cadwallader said.“These awards celebrate both remarkable individuals and groups whose ongoing commitment helps shape a stronger, more connected community” she said.Nominate now in one of the following categories to help recognise the local heroes who inspire and support our community:Young Citizen of the Year (30 years or under) - Recognise young achievers making a difference.Senior Citizen of the Year (60 years or over) - Celebrate the wisdom and dedication of our seniors.Volunteer Award (individual or group) - Applaud those who selflessly support our community.Sports Award (individual, team, coach, sports administrator) - Honour sports excellence and contributions.Arts and Culture Award (individual or group) - Celebrate creative visionaries enriching our culture.Environmental Award (individual or group) - Acknowledge eco-warriors protecting our environment.Community Event of the Year (event held during 2025) - Spotlight outstanding events held in 2025 that unite us.The 2026 Ballina Shire Citizen of the Year will be chosen from all nominees across all categories.To nominate an individual or group visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/2026Awards.  Nominations close Friday 7 November 2025.The 2026 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards ceremony will be held on Monday 26 January 2026 at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre, where we will recognise contributions of our exceptional community members.

More than 200 citizen scientists have gathered along the Clarence River catchment in the largest community-driven survey of its type ever undertaken on the NSW Mid North Coast. Small teams collected sediment samples from 100 key locations across the Clarence catchment on Saturday 18 October and Sunday 19 October, with volunteer coordinators working out of hubs in Grafton and Tabulam. The samples were sent to Southern Cross University laboratories for analysis. The survey was led by the Clarence River Guardians and Southern Cross University, motivated by the recent and substantial extension of mining exploration licences and community concern over water quality in the catchment.  It follows a similar, smaller project that concluded earlier this year in the Macleay River catchment. By analysing sediment for more than 50 different elements, researchers can detect the presence of heavy metals, metalloids and trace elements. This will provide a reference point to assess any future changes, particularly those associated with mining activities and how they might influence water quality.  “We’re establishing a baseline for future management,” said Southern Cross project lead Professor Scott Johnston. “Rivers are delicate ecosystems and once they become polluted, it’s often difficult and slow to reverse. “Working with citizen scientists is the only way we can collect such a large number of samples over a single weekend. This ensures a significant and robust dataset.” A unique aspect of the project is the co-design and walking together with First Nations custodians throughout the project development and in refining sample location selection.In what is perhaps a scientific first, all sediment samples will be returned to their points of collection in the river after the analysis is complete, out of respect for Country, the River and Traditional Owners. “It was great to see so many people out on the river and participating in this major survey,” said Tracy Pateman from Clarence River Guardians. “We hope this is the first of many to come.” The logistics of organising large numbers of volunteers to safely disperse to precise locations across a catchment half the size of Switzerland were formidable, but the process was aided by modern GPS-enabled smartphones, QR codes and digital map apps.  Water quality and citizen science in the Clarence RiverTechnology has played an important role in Clarence River citizen science. A parallel project investigating water quality in the Clarence River has been running throughout 2025, with feedback and reporting of water quality data to the community in real time.  The citizen scientists sample water using a sophisticated digital probe, taking photos of the readings which are uploaded to a WhatsApp group that includes community members and University scientists.   Professor Johnston enters and compiles the data, usually on the same day, and generates simple dot-colour scale maps and summary data which is shared on-line via the Clarence River Guardians website, often within hours of collection. View the data: https://www.clarenceriverguardians.net/estuary-water-quality-data.  “This aids transparency and also provides strong incentive to the group as they can see the results of their efforts,” said Professor Johnston, who calibrates the digital probe and undertakes maintenance at Southern Cross University every three weeks to ensure quality control of the sampling is robust.  “Citizen science backed by University training and analysis is a powerful tool for engaging the community and monitoring such pristine environments as the Clarence River catchment.” 

What makes Spoonbill Reserve special to you?Ballina Shire Council is developing a master plan for Spoonbill Reserve in Skennars Head and is inviting the community to share what’s important about this local green space, along with ideas for the future of the reserve.Located between Redford Drive and Seaside Avenue, opposite Xavier Catholic College, the two-hectare reserve is a large open green space that holds great potential for the local community.“The master plan for Spoonbill Reserve will provide a medium to long-term vision for the site that recognises the value of the reserve to the community,” explained Council’s Landscape Architect Sheryn Da-Re.“The site is quite a large open area with an old pine tree and fig tree the only real features. The community might like to keep the embellishments simple by just adding some picnic shelters and barbecue facilities, or they might like to see a variety of other active recreation additions such as sports courts or exercise equipment. We’re asking residents to upload photos as examples of what they like, or kids might even want to share a drawing. It’s easy to post ideas to the Your Say Ballina website.”There are multiple ways to get involved throughout the engagement period from mid-October to mid-November.Attend a Drop-In Session:1pm to 5pm Saturday 25 October, Epiq Marketplace (outside Woolworths) 8am to 4.30pm Tuesday 28 October, Spoonbill Reserve, Redford Drive Skennars Head (opposite Xavier Catholic College)Post your ideas onlineUpload a photo or drawing or simply write in the 'Ideas' board at Your Say Ballina.Visit yoursayballina.com.au/spoonbill-reserve for more information.Submissions close Monday 17 November 2025.There is a small amount of funding allocated for open space improvements at Spoonbill Reserve in the 2029-2030 financial year. No other funds are yet available. However once completed, the master plan will enable Council to seek funding for future construction of any works outlined in the master plan.