Byron Shire Council Utilities staff are working to repair a leak in the water reservoir at Paterson St, Byron Bay.The leak was found in the base of the reservoir by council staff doing routine maintenance on Tuesday morning (17 June). Staff tried to repair the leak from the outside using a specialised cement compound, but the repair was not successful. A plan to repair the leak internally is now being carried out.Byron Shire Council Manager Utilities, Cameron Clark, said that to allow staff to make the repair, the Paterson St reservoir is being drained. Properties usually supplied from the Paterson Street reservoir will be supplied from the Coopers Shoot reservoirs while work is carried out.“Most residents will not notice any change to their water supply, however, some properties at higher elevations may notice lower water pressure,” Mr Clark said.“Council staff will monitor the situation to ensure a safe supply is maintained.”Council is aware that water from the leak has affected a property near the reservoir, and staff are working urgently to reduce the impact of the water flow ahead of repairs taking effect.

Byron Shire Council is stepping into a bold new chapter — one that celebrates creativity, connection, and community spirit, from sunrise to after sunset.With support from a $162,800 grant from the NSW Government, early planning is underway to reimagine a section of the Byron Bay town centre as a Special Entertainment Precinct — not as a party zone, but as a curated cultural hub where locals and visitors can safely enjoy music, art, outdoor dining, and meaningful connection.“This is about creating a night-time economy that reflects who we are — one that showcases our local people, performance, produce and products. A place where locals and visitors alike want to spend time,” Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, said.“We’re not trying to be the next late-night hotspot,” she said.“We’re future-proofing Byron Bay in a way that aligns with our values — inclusive, creative, connected — and driven from the ground up.“We know there is a lot of change coming along Jonson Street, with significant new buildings and venues. “We also need to be on the front foot and so it’s important that we, as a community, set the tone, the look, and the feel of the place.”“The vision is clear - a safe, walkable town centre that supports local businesses and invites people of all ages to gather, perform, share, listen, and explore. “Picture local food trails, laneway performances, Indigenous storytelling, live music under the stars, wellness events, themed fiestas, and immersive lighting installations that breathe new life into our shared spaces,” Mayor Ndiaye said.Council will soon begin consultation with the community — from residents and business owners to young people, artists, and traditional custodians — to co-create a blueprint for the precinct.This will include open surveys, local drop-in sessions, and a positioning paper to guide decision-making.“What we’ve heard already is powerful,” Mayor Ndiaye said.“We don’t want boozy, noisy, unsafe streetscapes. We want variety, safety, and creative flair. “We want spaces where people can dance or dine — but also places where they can talk with friends, bring their kids, and enjoy a diversity of experiences that don’t revolve solely around alcohol.“We want better lighting, easier wayfinding, more affordable options, and offerings that reflect the full spectrum of our community.“Importantly, this initiative also addresses long-standing concerns around transport, safety, and antisocial behaviour with smart planning, improved infrastructure, and better integration with public and on-demand transport.“It’s also an opportunity to centre and celebrate the stories of the Bundjalung people,” she said.“Who doesn’t want to learn from the oldest living culture on earth, and deepen their connection to this country? “We have a chance to respectfully weave First Nations culture and storytelling into the heart of this precinct — something we’re absolutely committed to.“This funding comes at a critical time for our local creatives, performers, and small businesses, many of whom have faced significant challenges in recent years,” she said.“It’s a chance to trial bold new ideas that support economic resilience, community wellbeing, and a safer, more inclusive Byron — while holding onto the soul of what makes this place so special.“This project has multiple stages, and we are at the very start. It’s important for the community to know that if the special entertainment precinct does not align with Councillors, or the community’s vision for Byron Bay, it will not go ahead,” Mayor Ndiaye said.More details will be shared over the coming months as consultation begins. People who want to be kept informed of this project should email byronsep@byron.nsw.gov.au.“Byron Shire Council encourages everyone to get involved and help shape a night-time economy that feels like us — vibrant, welcoming, and truly alive,” Mayor Ndiaye said.Information about the Special Entertainment Precinct is on Council’s website.

Byron Shire Council has given long-term security to the Fletcher Street Cottage, a homelessness hub run by the Byron Community Centre.Council owns the Fletcher Street Cottage in the heart of Byron Bay, and since 2021, it has provided a licence to the Byron Community Centre at minimum rent so it can provide valuable support services to people experiencing homelessness.The Byron Community Centre currently has a five-year licence for the cottage, but from 2026 it will be replaced with a 15-year licence.“Council is really proud to support Fletcher Street Cottage through a long-term licence as it provides such compassionate, practical and respectful support for some of our most vulnerable community members,” Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, said.“The cottage has 14 staff and 18 volunteers who provide breakfast for up to 80 people, four days a week, along with laundry services, showers, and connection to other important services.“The hub is co-located with other services including a GP, a vet, housing, Centrelink and hairdressing,” Mayor Ndiaye said.“General Manager of the Byron Community Centre, Louise O’Connell, addressed our June Council meeting and told us there had been a 260 per cent increase in women accessing services at the cottage in the last six months of 2024 so any support Council can give is directly benefiting our community.“I also would like to acknowledge the work of Louise O’Connell, who recently announced she will be leaving the Byron Community Centre.“In her six years at the helm of the Community Centre, she has made a wonderful contribution to the community, and on behalf of Council I wish her much success and happiness,” Mayor Ndiaye said.

Providing more accommodation for key workers in the Byron Shire was the motivation for a unanimous Council decision to look at the possibility of repurposing a vacant part of the old Byron Bay Hospital.The refurbished hospital, which is now known as the Byron Co Lab on Arakwal Country, is managed by Social Futures and provides a hub for community-based services.Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, said there is the potential for the development of accommodation for up to 19 key workers after plans to lease the area for a tertiary education campus did not eventuate.“Our nurses, health support staff, firefighters and other emergency services personnel are really struggling to find affordable accommodation in the area where they work,” Mayor Ndiaye said.“The housing crisis really became apparent during COVID and was made worse by the floods in 2022, and since then, the cost of living has escalated to make the problems even worse.“Key workers who I have spoken to cannot find affordable accommodation, and that is not ok because these people look after us in some of our most difficult and challenging times.“Staff will now work with Social Futures to do a feasibility study on the repurposing of a section of the old hospital, and if it is possible, we will seek the support of the NSW and Australian Governments to deliver the project.“I am hoping the State and Federal governments will see the merit in this project when the time comes because I think it will significantly help with the recruitment and retention of key workers in the health and emergency services sectors,” Mayor Ndiaye.“It’s an outcome that aligns perfectly with the genesis of the original sale of the old hospital to the Council for $1, with the NSW Government at the time saying it had to be repurposed for the benefit of the community.“I don’t think anyone could argue that providing accommodation for our key workers is not a benefit to the community,” Mayor Ndiaye said.

A man has been charged following an investigation into alleged firearm offences at Drake, about 65km west of Casino.About 10.30am yesterday (Tuesday, 17 June 2025), police attended a property on Mudflat Road, Drake, as part of an ongoing investigation.A search warrant was executed at the property by police attached to Richmond Police District, assisted by the Tactical Operations Group, PolAir, Region Enforcement Squad and Rural Crime Investigators.During the search, police allegedly located and seized several items of interest, including two firearms, ammunition, cannabis, police overalls, and electronics.Following inquiries, a 56-year-old man was arrested in Casino a short time later.He was taken to the Casino Police Station, where he was charged with 13 offences:Possess or use a prohibited weapon without permit (four counts)Possess unauthorised firearm (two counts)Not keep firearm safely-not pistol/prohibited firearm (two counts)Possess ammunition without holding licence/permit/authority (two counts)Supply prohibited drug (greater than small and less than or equal to indictable quantity)Possess prohibited drug, andGoods suspected stolen in/on premises.He was refused bail to appear before Casino Local Court today (Wednesday, 18 June 2025), where he was formally refused bail to appear before the same court on Thursday, 10 July 2025.

Kyogle Council is asking the community for feedback on three draft strategies that will guide the development and growth of the local government area over the next 10 to 20 years.The three draft strategies – the Community Strategic Plan, the Local Growth Management Strategy, and the Climate Change Adaption Strategy – were adopted at the 10 June Council meeting for public comment.Kyogle Mayor Cr Danielle Mulholland described the three draft strategies as hugely important to the future of the LGA and encouraged everyone to take the time to read them and provide feedback.“The Community Strategic Plan is Council’s highest level plan and identifies the main priorities and aspirations for the future of the LGA for the next 10 years,” Cr Mulholland said.“It guides and influences all other plans, including our annual budget allocations and four-year delivery plan.”The Local Growth Management Strategy provides a roadmap for directing and managing sustainable growth, with tailored policy directions to guide long-term use of residential, commercial, industrial, rural and environmental land.Meanwhile, the Climate Change Adaptation Strategy explores the impacts of a changing climate on the Kyogle LGA and identifies priorities to support the community, environment and businesses to be more prepared and resilient to these changes.“I can’t stress enough how important these strategies are to the future of our local government area, which is why we involved the community initially in their development,” Cr Mulholland said.“And now we want the community to read the draft strategies and provide their input on the direction, priorities and actions outlined.“If you are interested in the future of the Kyogle LGA, Council wants to hear what you think of these plans. Please take the time to read the strategies and provide feedback.”The draft Community Strategic Plan, Local Growth Management Strategy and Climate Change Adaption Strategy are available to view on the Public Exhibition page of the Council website at https://www.kyogle.nsw.gov.au/council-engagement/council-business/on-public-exhibition/Public submissions on all three draft documents will be accepted until close of business 9 July 2025 and can provided by emailing council@kyogle.nsw.gov.au or writing to the General Manager, PO Box 11, Kyogle, NSW, 2474.

UPDATE 16 JuneTaylah Glass has been found safe.ORIGINAL STORYPolice are appealing for public assistance to locate a girl reported missing from the state’s north.Taylah Glass, aged 14, was last seen at a shopping centre on Eyles Drive, East Ballina on Thursday, 5 June 2025, and may have been there yesterday (Friday, 13 June 2025).When she could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Richmond Police District were notified on Thursday, 12 June 2025 and commenced inquiries into her whereabouts.Police and family hold concerns for her welfare due to her age.Taylah is described as being of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance, 165cm tall, of slim build, with long, light brown hair and brown eyes.She was last seen wearing a furry-type zip-up jacket, blue denim skirt and sandals.She is known to frequent the Lismore area.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.

Growth, improved services and prosperity are at the heart of the $61.3 million budget adopted by Kyogle Council on Tuesday (10 June 2025).Kyogle Council Mayor Danielle Mulholland said Council’s 2025-2026 budget was an investment in the future of the local government area, providing tens of millions of dollars for critical infrastructure projects.The budget provides $2.68 million for regional road projects, $4.1 million for rural local roads, $5.4 million for bridges, and $17 million (over two years) to build a new sewerage treatment plant for Kyogle.A further $6 million has also been provided in the forward estimates to sewer the villages of Wiangaree, Tabulam and Mallanganee and $2.5 million for a Tabulam water supply.“Council is investing in the future of our communities,” Cr Mulholland said.“We are providing the essential infrastructure and connectivity needed to ensure the Kyogle LGA continues to be a great place to live and work while also having the capacity to grow sustainably.“We know we are going to grow because all the indicators are there, but we can either plan for growth or let it happen to us. Planning for it ensures that we are working in partnership with our communities to deliver the outcomes they want and we are managing developments to complement this process.”The draft budget also sets aside: $783,674 for urban streets,$141,500 for the Roxy Gallery$614,490 for the library and mobile library$725,213 on Council’s three public swimming pools$1.48 million on parks, gardens and village maintenance$166,620 in financial assistance and community donationsThe budget provides for a general rate increase of the rate pegged limit of 4.1 per cent. Meanwhile, a 10 per cent increase in sewerage rates will help raise $4.25 million needed to secure a $12.75 million State Government grant to build a new sewerage treatment plant (STP) for Kyogle.The existing Kyogle STP is classified as high risk and no longer meets environmental standards.“Building the new STP will ensure critical environmental standards are met and sets Kyogle up for the future, with the town having increased capacity to grow and thrive,” Cr Mulholland said.“Unfortunately, it is unavoidable, but looking towards the future, the community will reap the benefits for many years to come.”

This weekend, Kyogle enters the history books for the World’s Biggest Happy Dance, and everyone is invited!This event formally qualifies as a potential Guinness World Record, so join in to tick that one off your bucket list.  Organisers are saying people are coming from all over the Northern Rivers and as far as  Queensland to celebrate, and the excitement is building in Kyogle.Members of the Kyogle community are organising this event - giving you a good excuse to go Dancing in the Streets - the song that will be playing while the potential record is happening. “There is no way we won't break it,” says Danielle Mullholland, one of the organisers, “The closest was an informal attempt in Singapore that saw 448 people dancing to Pharrell Williams' Happy Song.  It wasn’t officially recognised, but this one will be.”“Danielle Mulholland, Kyogle’s Mayor, is locally famous for her Happy Dance when things go just right - Danielle will be there so you can get a rare glimpse of seeing her Happy Dance in person,” says Larissa McCollin, another organiser on the committee.Sandii Dee is dedicated to raising awareness surrounding our cause, domestic violence, in an optimistic way. “My involvement is for the cause.  Be the change. A positive spin on a social issue that touches all of us in some way - celebrating individuality and expression in a happy group of people.”All money raised is going towards stemming domestic violence before it starts - with education.  This event is a way of celebrating individuality through dance.  Movement is so good for us mentally and physically, and dancing is a great way to honour your future happiness.  There won't be specialists in DV at the event, but information will be available about where to get help if you need it.The attempt will be recorded by local documentary director Jordan Edmeades. Jordan will use drones for some awesome aerial shots, which will be released on social media after the event, so you can find yourself for bragging rights.It’s an all-ages, all-abilities event.  You can freestyle dance, hand dance, show off your moves, get into the groove.  Or if you feel inclined, speak with the dance instructors and maybe even get a free dance class. There is a range of dance styles performed on the day:Line Dancing by Lorraine at KCL Line Dancing (KCL stands for Kyogle, Casino, Lismore)Zumba by Julie in BallinaIndigenous dancing with Natasha Shearer all the way from the Tweed!Ascent Dance by Caitlin in KyogleLacro Acrobatics by Lara in KyogleRock ‘n’ Roll by Karen at Summerland Rockers in LismoreWomen's Freedom Dance with Shelly in KyogleAnne at JazzXercise from AlstonvilleMcAuliffe School of Dance with Sophie in CasinoThe dress code is deep purple. There are some fun outfit ideas being thrown around - fairy wings, and masks, and tutu’s… Let your imagination run, well, deep purple.The big day is this Saturday, June 14th, 2pm at the Kyogle Showgrounds, 43 Summerland Way, Newpark. Don’t be late, organisers need everyone together for the record. If there are tickets left, they will be available at the gate.Tickets are on sale at Humantix, or you can buy them at Minori Pantry in Kyogle.  There is a maximum limit of people who can attend the showgrounds where it is being held, so make sure you get your tickets early.Don’t forget to get some raffle tickets to win a stunning emerald and white sapphire necklace and earrings set valued at over $3000!  Other prizes are being added to the raffle as donations come in. All proceeds from this raffle and event are going to charity.

Have you seen Quelena?Quelena, aged 26, was reported missing to Yamba Police by family on the 2nd of June 2025 after she had not been spoken to in some time.Following inquiries, Coffs Clarence Police District believe Quelena may be in the Tweed Heads area.Anyone with information about Quelena’s whereabouts is urged to contact Grafton Police or Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.Quote reference number: E333095897… Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man wanted by virtue of an outstanding warrant in Woodburn.Thomas Jack Cochran-Byrnes, aged 19, is wanted by virtue of outstanding arrest warrants relating to alleged domestic violence offences.Officers attached to Richmond Police District have released images of Thomas as inquiries continue to locate him.Thomas is described as being of Caucasian appearance, of medium build, with short brown hair and brown eyes.He is known to frequent the Lismore, Goonellabah, and Woodburn areas.Anyone who sees him is urged not to approach him but to call Triple Zero (000) immediately.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

A man will face court charged after another man suffered acid burn injuries at a unit near Tweed Heads earlier today.About 9.15am (Thursday, 5 June 2025), emergency services were called to a unit on Darlington Drive, Banora Point, following reports of a domestic violence-related incident.At the scene, police located a 59-year-old man suffering serious injuries believed to be caused by an acid.He was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being airlifted to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in a serious condition.A crime scene was established, and officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District commenced inquiries into the incident.Following inquiries, a 35-year-old man was arrested on Minjungbal Drive, Tweed Heads, about 10am.He was taken to Tweed Heads Police Station where he was charged with do grievous bodily harm by the use of corrosive fluid etc (DV).Police will allege that the younger man poured acid onto the other man. The men are known to each other.He was refused bail to appear before Tweed Heads Local Court tomorrow (Friday, 6 June 2025).

The Richmond Valley Business Awards are now officially open for 2025, inviting businesses across the area to showcase their achievements and contributions to the region's vibrant economy.This year's awards are a joint initiative of the Casino Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Evans Head Business and Community Chamber, Woodburn Chamber of Commerce and Richmond Valley Council. The program aims to highlight the innovation, resilience and success of local businesses across all industry sectors.Nominations opened Monday, 2 June and will close on Thursday, 3 July. The awards will culminate in a gala presentation night at the Casino RSM Club on Saturday, 16 August, where finalists will be celebrated and winners announced.The 2025 awards introduce a renewed vision for business recognition in the Richmond Valley, aiming to celebrate the accomplishments of businesses and industries in our area, which are major contributors to the economic success of the Northern Rivers.Award categories span a broad range of industries and business sizes, providing opportunities for emerging startups, established companies and hardworking sole traders to gain well-deserved recognition. Winners in select categories will progress to the regional business awards, with some moving on to compete at the State level, providing even greater exposure to the depth of talent and diversity that defines our local business community.This year, leading business IT specialist Cicom has partnered with the awards as the platinum sponsor. Cicom services businesses across the Northern Rivers and supports a wide range of sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, not-for-profits, retail, legal and financial services and more.Cicom Director Clint Carey said they were proud to partner with the local chambers on this initiative."The awards highlight the capability, innovation, and competitiveness of our region, not just to our local community, but to the wider Northern Rivers business landscape," Mr Carey said.Businesses interested in entering the 2025 Richmond Valley Business Awards can find entry guidelines and submit nominations via this link on Richmond Valley Council's website: https://richmondvalley.nsw.gov.au/business/richmond-valley-business-awards or the Cicom Richmond Valley Business Awards Facebook page.

Works have begun on the reconstruction of the entire length of South Beach Road in Brunswick Heads, and there will be very limited access to parking during work hours, Monday to Friday.  “We’ve completed extensive drainage works over the last few months along South Beach Road, and we’re moving into the next stage of this $2.7 million upgrade, which involves reconstruction of the length of this popular foreshore road,” Byron Shire Council Director Phil Holloway said. “To get this work done, we will need to close sections of the road to vehicles for increasing periods of time during working hours, Monday to Friday,” he said.  “We will have traffic management set up at the entry to the Brunswick Heads Bridge near The Terrace, and if no parking spaces are available, vehicles will be detoured and asked to find alternative parking,” Council’s Director of Infrastructure Services, Phil Holloway, said. “Residents of South Beach Road, emergency services and key stakeholders are excepted but may experience unavoidable delays as reconstruction preparation and works move along the road,” he said. “Outside of construction hours and on weekends, our crews will create access to as many parking spaces as possible, but these may be limited to very few or even none at times.” “Torakina Carpark will remain blocked to traffic and parking for the remainder of the project, which is on track for completion by the end of August, weather allowing,” Mr Holloway said. “While we’re preparing South Beach Road for full reconstruction in this next stage of works, please seek alternative parking in town and use the pedestrian access to the beach,” Mr Holloway. Pedestrian access will remain in place throughout the works, and Council asks the community to follow signage and traffic control through the construction zone. For more information about the South Beach Road upgrade visit Council’s website.

Two men have been charged after firearms and a knife were seized in the state’s north yesterday.About 2.30pm yesterday (Monday, 2 June 2025), police were called to Barker Street, Casino, following reports a man was suspected of being in possession of a firearm.Police will allege an 18-year-old man had left a bag and a guitar case on the street, and another man collected it before leaving in a black Mazda sedan.Officers attached to Richmond Police District attended the scene and arrested the 18-year-old on Canterbury Street, Casino, before he was taken to Lismore Police Station.A short time later, officers located the Mazda sedan on the Bruxner Highway, south of Lismore, where they stopped it and arrested the occupants – an 18-year-old man and a 16-year-old boy – before they were taken to Lismore Police Station.The vehicle was searched, and police seized a guitar case and a bag containing three unauthorised firearms, ammunition and a large knife.The two 18-year-olds have since been charged with possess unauthorised firearm (two counts) and possess ammunition without holding licence/permit/authority.They were refused bail to appear at Grafton Local Court today (Tuesday, 3 June 2025), where they were formally refused bail to appear at Casino Local Court on Thursday, 19 June 2025.The 16-year-old has been released without charge.Inquiries continue.

Police are appealing for information following a crash at Lawrence, about 25km north of Grafton, last week.About 9pm on Friday, 30 May 2025, emergency services were called to Richmond Street, Lawrence, following reports a man had been hit by a car.At the scene, police were told a man was walking along Richmond Street when he was hit by a car.The 37-year-old man was taken to Lismore Hospital in a stable condition.The driver of the vehicle – a 50-year-old man – was not injured and is assisting police with inquiries.Officers attached to Coffs/Clarence Police District have commenced inquiries into the incident.As inquiries continue, anyone with information or dashcam footage from Richmond Street about 9pm on Friday, 30 May 2025, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers, quoting reference E87259267.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Ballina Shire Council is progressing plans to duplicate two key bridges and their approaches, Fishery Creek Bridge on River Street, West Ballina, and Canal Bridge on Tamarind Drive, North Ballina, as part of a major infrastructure project to improve safety, traffic flow, flood resilience, and emergency access.Planning and pre-construction works are continuing, with bridge construction expected to begin in the second half of 2025 and be delivered over a two-year period. “Early works are well underway, with water main and underground communication services successfully relocated at Canal Bridge,” said Brett Dyki, Manager Project Management Office, Ballina Shire Council.“Relocation works at Fishery Creek Bridge commenced in May and are expected to be completed by July 2025.”Review of Environmental Factors (REF)As part of the planning phase, Council has prepared a Review of Environmental Factors (REFs) for each bridge project and is now seeking public feedback. These REFs:outline the proposed bridge designs and construction methodsassess potential environmental and community impactsexplain how impacts will be minimised or managed.“The REF process allows us to take a close look at how these projects could affect the environment and local community, and plan carefully to minimise any impacts,” said Brett.“We encourage the community to review the documents and share their feedback. It's a vital step in making sure all concerns are heard and considered before we move forward with final designs for this major project.”The bridge duplications have been funded with $40 million from the Australian Government through the Emergency Response Fund, administered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority’s Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program.To learn more, download and review the REF documents, and provide your feedback, visit www.yoursayballina.com.au/ballina-bridge-duplications-ref-consultation.Submissions close Friday, 13 June.For ongoing project updates or enquiries, visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/BallinaBridgeDuplications or contact Council on 1300 864 444.

Ballina Shire Council has been awarded $34,200 by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) to help deliver innovative local waste and recycling solutions, supporting the state’s transition to a circular economy.  The Creating a Circular Clothing Community project will help divert textile waste from landfill by working with local and regional partners to shift community behaviours and promote reuse and repair. This is one of 13 successful projects, led by councils and regional waste groups, to share in $2.9 million as part of the EPA’s Local Government Waste Solutions (LGWS) Fund program.  The funding will help deliver circular waste solutions across a diverse range of projects like eliminating waste in construction works and council operations, trialling services to divert waste from landfill and researching new technology to help recover or reuse materials.  Round four of the LGWS fund is planned to open in September 2025.  Individual councils, a group of councils, or regional waste groups in the waste levy paying area are eligible to apply. Individual councils can apply for up to $200,000 in funding, and groups of two or more councils can apply for up to $400,000 in funding.   For more information on Round 3 grantees and to learn how to apply for Round 4 visit: https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/working-together/grants/councils/local-government-waste-solutions-fundTamara Smith MP, Member for Ballina, said, “It’s fantastic to see Ballina Shire Council awarded funding for their Creating a Circular Clothing Community, which will help minimise waste, keep valuable resources out of landfill and drive NSW towards a circular economy.” “We know clothing waste is a major pollutant. I will be excited to follow along as this program gets underway.” “I look forward to seeing the exciting opportunities this opens for Ballina communities. Moving to a circular economy not only protects our environment into the future but also strengthens communities and local economies.” NSW EPA Executive Director of Programs and Innovation, Alexandra Geddes, said, “NSW is on the cusp of a waste crisis with Greater Sydney’s landfill space predicted to run out by 2030. We need to work with councils and communities to plan for, design and pilot new ways of managing, recovering and reusing waste. “This funding aims to tackle local waste and resource recovery challenges by delivering innovative community-specific solutions. “Councils and waste groups are at the forefront of managing waste for their communities and they are pivotal to our transition to a circular economy.” 

The Furry Friends Festival is on again at the Bangalow Showgrounds on Saturday 7 June, 8am til 1pm – and it’s a dog ‘on lead’ event with lots of fun, talks, demos, food and entertainment for all.This is a free community event hosted by Byron Shire Council to celebrate our furry friends while providing some practical advice and assistance (to their humans) with pet ownership.“This year, we’re hosting a new Doggy Arena and centre stage with a great line-up of engaging dog talks, training demos and games,” Council’s Manager of Public and Environmental Services, Sarah Nagel, said.“We have the Paws and Claws Market featuring 40 pet-related stalls, live music and entertainment, delicious food stalls, free face painting for the kids and a photo booth to grab a snap of you and your pooch to enter a prize draw,” Ms Nagel said.“Having all our pets on leads will help everyone enjoy a safe space and the morning’s activities.”“We’ll also be promoting Council’s Dogs in Public Places Strategy, reminding people how to find information on dog areas and why it’s important to stick to the rules to avoid fines, but most importantly, to protect our beautiful environment and wildlife,” Ms Nagel said.Join the free Doggy Arena Shows at the Furry Friends Festival on 7 June:8.30am to 9.30am: Fun Dog Show – Watch and cheer as dogs show off their skills at the Dogly School for Dogs!9.30am to 10.00am: Obedience, Searching & Protection Sports Demo – See Summerland Dog Training in action!10.00am to 11.00am: Fun-gility by Kindred Paws - Ready to test your dog’s agility? Join the fun and learn new skills with our expert trainers!11.00am - 11.45am: Scent Games with Happy Dogs. Test your dog’s sniffing skills and participate in exciting scent challenges!Find out more about the Furry Friends Festival, Saturday 7 June, 8am-1pm from www.byron.nsw.gov.au/Furry-Friends