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

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

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

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

A multi-agency search is underway off the NSW coast, near Yamba, for a boat believed to be carrying two men.Police have been told about 8am yesterday (Saturday 27 September 2025), Mangrove Jack - an 8.4m white catamaran - left Yamba Harbour, near Yamba Road, Yamba, and was scheduled to arrive at Southport, Queensland, at around 5pm.When the vessel did not arrive at its destination as scheduled, emergency services were contacted about 8.20pm and a search commenced.Officers attached to Marine Area Command, with the assistance from Tweed-Byron Police District, Police Rescue, PolAir, Marine Rescue NSW, Queensland Police Service, Marine Rescue QLD, Surf Lifesavings NSW, Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, and Australian Maritime Safety Authority, are involved in the search.Marine Rescue NSW Inspector John Murray said the search commenced late last night, Saturday 27 September, after an 8.4 metre catamaran failed to arrive at its destination as planned.  “The skipper of the catamaran Logged On with Marine Rescue NSW at the commencement of their journey, sharing their planned route and expected time of arrival.  “When the catamaran failed to arrive, Marine Rescue NSW radio operators made numerous attempts to contact the vessel without success.  “Volunteers on board Point Danger 31 commenced searching under the direction of Marine Area Command, before returning to the base shortly before 1am. “Two additional Marine Rescue NSW vessels, Brunswick 30 and Ballina 30 joined Point Danger 31 in the search early this morning, Sunday 28 September. “The three vessels are searching a large area off the NSW North Coast from Evans Head to Tweed Heads,” Inspector Murray said. The search continues.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au, Information is managed on a confidential basis.The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

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

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

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

The $2.7 million upgrade of South Beach Road in Brunswick Heads was officially opened today (26 September) by Byron Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Ndiaye, alongside Justine Elliot MP at a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the completion of this significant infrastructure project.The upgrade, which included redesign and reconstruction of the entirety of South Beach Road and Torakina carpark, was made possible through a combined funding effort, with more than $1 million contributed by the NSW Government (through the NSW Election Commitment Funding), $500,000 from the Australian Government’s Roads to Recovery program, and $1.2 million from Byron Shire Council.Mayor Ndiaye praised the collaborative effort and the resilience of the community and Council staff throughout the six-month project.“It’s important to pause and acknowledge the incredible work of our Council crews and teams who delivered this project on time and on budget, even with a cyclone thrown into the mix!” Mayor Ndiaye said.“Today we are celebrating reconstruction of this road, the design and line-marking, the landscaping features and water-sensitive urban design gardens and new drainage made possible thanks to the vital support of State and Federal partners.“This upgrade provides a rock-solid foundation for a swag of future improvements for the Brunswick Heads foreshore area including footpaths, pedestrian connections and crossings, additional parking, toilet upgrades and a range of safety features including upgrades to street lighting.“Council has also resolved to gain approvals for some traffic calming features, including a new 30km/hr shared zone at the Surf Club end of South Beach Road.“Any future works will require consultation with Crown Lands, Native Title owners, and the local community and rely on grants or other sources of funding, including revenue from pay parking.“We are sincerely grateful to the NSW Government and the Australian Government for their investment in the major upgrade of South Beach Road - that will benefit locals and visitors for years to come,” she added.Justine Elliot MP said, “As your local MP, I’m proud to be delivering $500,000 in Roads to Recovery funding from the Albanese Labor Government towards the upgrade of South Beach Road in Brunswick Heads.“The completion of this project will ensure locals and tourists alike have better access to this beautiful part of Brunswick Heads now and into the future.“Without Roads to Recovery funding increases from the Albanese Labor Government, many local projects across the North Coast like this would not be possible, which is why I am very proud to have delivered this important funding for our community,” Justine said.Minister for Recovery and North Coast, Janelle Saffin, said, “This project shows that great things are possible when all levels of government work together.“With this upgrade, we are investing in the future tourism opportunities for this great region and connecting our local communities too,” Janelle said.Future worksWith the South Beach Road upgrade now complete, Council is exploring future improvements to the Brunswick Heads foreshore area. “I am pleased to announce that we have now secured funding for a new pedestrian path and bollards.“The new pedestrian path will provide the missing link for pedestrians from the Bridge to the Torakina Park toilets and onto the river beach and South Beach Wall,” the Mayor said.Council is also investigating and seeking funding for the following future improvements:Additional parkingPedestrian crossingsRoad safety design – new 30km/h zoneStreet and public space lightingToilet upgrades.Funding will need to be secured through grants or other sources before any additional works can proceed.

A man has been charged over an alleged assault in Byron Bay last month.On Thursday, 4 September 2025, officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District commenced an investigation following reports an 18-year-old man was allegedly assaulted on Johnson Street, Byron Bay, about 3.30am on Saturday, 23 August 2025.Police were told the 18-year-old man was approached by another man before he was allegedly assaulted.The second man then left the area.Following extensive inquiries, about 9am today (Thursday, 25 September 2025), police executed a search warrant at a residence in Opaki Place, Wollongbar, where a 24-year-old man was arrested.He was taken to Lismore Police Station, where he was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm.He was granted conditional bail to appear before Byron Bay Local Court on Monday (13 October 2025).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.

Police are warning members of the public to be on alert after counterfeit cash has been reported being handed to businesses in the Ballina area.Officers attached to Richmond Police District were alerted after counterfeit $50 and $100 notes were handed to businesses in Ballina in September 2025.Officers have seized the notes, and inquiries are now underway.Tips from NSW Police to spot a counterfeit note include:Feel the note – a genuine note is printed on special plastic polymer and is difficult to tearHold the note to the light and look for the Australian Coat of Arms. This is generally located to the left of the clear window, or denomination numeral when looking at the front of the note.Feel for slightly raised printing on the main design of the noteLook for the seven-pointed star inside a circleCompare the background printing - look for any distortions or less clearly defined patterns.Check that the note has a clear window and that it has a clear printed image: $50 has the Southern Cross and the $100 has the lyrebird.If possible, look under a UV light to locate the serial numbersAnyone 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.

Grafton Base Hospital staff have been named finalists in the 2025 NSW Health Awards for their extraordinary contribution to the NSW public health system.Now in its 27th year, the awards showcase the excellence delivered by so many people and teams across NSW Health every day.The Grafton Base Hospital Day Stay Joint Replacement Program is among 41 finalists from across the state, and among three finalists competing in the Transforming Patient Experience category. The Grafton team has been recognised for their work in supporting eligible knee and hip replacement patients to return home on the same day of their operation, with support.NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce AM said she was incredibly proud of the staff, volunteers, and health programs that make up another remarkable group of finalists."The NSW Health Awards recognise the great work our staff do every day to improve the lives of our patients and the communities they serve," Ms Pearce said."I congratulate all the finalists, but I also want to acknowledge the exceptional work being done across the system every day by their colleagues – our teams of doctors, nurses, midwives, allied health and support staff."Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) Chief Executive Tracey Maisey said she was immensely proud of the achievements of the Grafton Day Stay Joint Replacement team, who under the guidance of Orthopaedic Care Coordinator Andrew Wong and Head of Department, Clarence Physiotherapy Brenton Sahlqvist have been recognised for their passion and commitment.“Patient experience is at the heart of everything we do at NNSWLHD, so for our Day Stay Joint Replacement team at Grafton Base Hospital to be recognised as a finalist in this category is particularly rewarding,” Ms Maisey said.“Well done to everyone involved in this innovative model of care, which allows eligible hip and knee replacement patients to return home on the same day as their surgery, where they can recover in the comfort of their own surroundings, with no adverse outcomes compared to non-day stay patients.”The finalists and winners will be celebrated at the NSW Health Awards ceremony, which will be held on Thursday, 30 October 2025 at the International Convention Centre in Sydney and via livestream on the NSW Health website.The full list of finalists is available on the NSW Health website.

Northern NSW Local Health District is encouraging community organisations in the Clarence Valley to participate and help deliver healthy living activities for residents as part of the Healthy Living Program.The Healthy Living Program provides guidance and support to help individuals adopt and maintain healthier lifestyle habits and promotes wellness and healthy ageing.Acting Director Aboriginal Health, Oral Health and Health Promotion, Cameron Johnson is excited to hear from community organisations based in the Clarence Valley, who are focused on helping people lead healthier lifestyles.“We would like to find out about existing local projects that support people in the Clarence Valley with healthy eating and physical activity,” Mr Johnson said.“By working in partnership with locals and locally based community organisations, we can help keep people healthy and well and out of hospitals.“We are looking forward to learning about the great initiatives based in the Clarence Valley and to consider how NNSWLHD can collaborate with organisations and support existing activities.”The team is interested in discussing opportunities with community groups across a range of areas, such as physical activity, dance, sport, healthy eating and social interaction activities for young and old.The initiative is part of NNSWLHD’s Health Promotion strategy, which aims to support healthy lifestyles in the community. Recent initiatives have included healthy eating programs for families, creating fitness activities for older residents such as dance classes and community education about the dangers of vaping. Clarence Valley-based organisations are invited to complete an online form to express interest and share what is happening locally for families, adults and older adults.Organisations are encouraged to complete this form by Sunday, 5 October: http://bit.ly/41tVMX1.For more information, email NNSWLHD-HealthPromotion@health.nsw.gov.au.

Kyogle Council is making steady progress in restoring Lions Road, with repair work on three of the five major landslips expected to be completed in 2026.Four of the landslips occurred during the catastrophic 2022 flood event, which also damaged the road and a number of culverts.The damage was further compounded in 2025 when Cyclone Alfred created a new landslip, further destabilised the existing landslips and caused additional culvert damage. For safety reasons, the road has had to remain closed.Progress to date includes:All damaged culverts have been replaced or repaired.Remediation of three of the five major landslips is advancing, with completion expected in 2026.Funding applications for the two remaining landslips are yet to be approved.Once Council has repaired all the landslips, full road reconstruction works will follow. These are scheduled for 2026, though an exact completion date is not yet available.Kyogle Council Mayor Cr Danielle Mulholland said the scale of the damage to Lions Road meant the restoration was a complex and lengthy process, but Council was making headway."Council has a responsibility to make the road as safe as possible and staff and contractors have worked tirelessly to ensure every step of this recovery is done properly – that takes time," Cr Mulholland said.“We know how important Lions Road is for locals and visitors, and we are committed to restoring it as soon as possible.“In the meantime, we thank residents and motorists for their patience and understanding."Council will continue to keep the community updated as funding approvals and works proceed. For now, Lions Road will remain closed until all repairs are complete.

TAFE NSW has been named Large Training Provider of the Year at the 2025 NSW Training Awards. There was also a local flavour with the Casino Food Company winning Industry Collaboration. They now progress to the Australian Training Awards.The event marked the 70th anniversary of the NSW Training Awards, with finalists representing the best of the best across several industries, including energy, construction, community services, hairdressing, engineering, and early childhood education.Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan, said the awards are a reflection of the high-quality vocational education and training TAFE NSW provides, and highlights the life-changing impact of skills training. “Vocational education is a smart choice for people looking to start a career, make a change, and learn all sorts of practical skills – the NSW Training Awards winners and finalists are testament to the opportunities skills training can unlock.“I’ve met many students and graduates across the state who tell me TAFE NSW gives them the confidence to apply their new skills, both in the classroom and in the workplace.”   TAFE NSW Managing Director, Chloe Read, accepted the Large Training Provider of the Year award on behalf of TAFE NSW. She said the winning results demonstrate how TAFE NSW offers students the knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to succeed in their learning, work, and competition. "I was thrilled when TAFE NSW won the Large Training Provider of the Year award, which reflects the dedication of our teachers and people working across 154 campuses and local communities – they all play a part and deserve to feel proud of this recognition," Ms Read said. "These awards showcase the breadth of vocational skills and careers that are available to people – from hairdressing to bricklaying – and how TAFE NSW training can help kickstart all sorts of careers."TAFE NSW students also took away the Vocational Student of the Year and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year. "We are incredibly proud of our students' achievements – they've put in the time and energy to perfect their skills, often while juggling work and other commitments, and have had their efforts rewarded.""TAFE NSW teachers are incredibly dedicated – these awards are also a reflection of their experience and commitment to supporting students to be the very best they can be. It's easy to see why TAFE NSW-trained apprentices, trainees, and vocational students are so highly regarded by employers." Ms Read also highlighted the quality of TAFE NSW connections to industry, recognised by the Industry Collaboration Award win for its partnership with Casino Food Company Ltd.“We work closely with industry to deliver skills that work from day one, ensuring students receive the practical, hands-on skills and knowledge we know employers and industry need now and in the future.”Simon Stahl, CEO of Casino Food Company, said of the win, “Through our collaboration with TAFE NSW, we’ve been able to deliver nationally recognised training on site, giving our people the skills and confidence to succeed while strengthening the future of our industry.” “The Certificate II in Meat Processing has given our workers practical knowledge they can apply every day, which in turn drives efficiency, safety, and career opportunities across our business.” “Partnering with TAFE NSW ensures our workforce continues to grow in capability and resilience, supporting both our employees and the red meat industry.” The Australian Training Awards will be held in Darwin on 5 December.A full list of TAFE NSW’s success at the NSW Training Awards is below:

From Monday, 13 October, there will be no outbound traffic on Mullumbimby Road, including on weekends. Mullumbimby Road will be open to inbound traffic. Emergency services and school buses will, however, have full access to Mullumbimby Road. Traffic signals will be in place to stop traffic for emergency services, 24 hours a day.Drivers leaving Mullumbimby should take alternative routes such as Myocum Road and Coolamon Scenic Drive.Coolman Scenic Drive will be maintained to cope with extra traffic.Heavy vehicles should take Myocum Road.The changes come as Council moves onto the next stage (Stage 2) of the Mullumbimby Road upgrade between The Saddle Road and Gulgan Road. This involves:Drainage work on the verges near the Uncle Tom’s intersection, including the removal of trees and other vegetation in the road reserve.  Installation of a new culvert with the aim of improving stormwater flow to Everitts Creek.New road surfaces, signage, guardrail installation and line marking.Minor road widening in the current road corridor.Council has looked at every option to keep the road open to two lanes of traffic during this project but it is not possible because sections of the road corridor are narrow, or there is a steep drop or incline on one or both sides.It is also not possible to have one lane of alternating traffic operating during Stage 2 because of the location of the work near the intersection of Gulgan Road.Traffic would be queuing on Gulgan Road, creating hazards for drivers approaching blind corners and congestion at Tandys Lane.  The approach from Mullumbimby from the crest of the hill would also be hazardous to drivers and workers.It is not possible to do nightwork during Stage 2 for several reasons, including:Supply of materials – most material suppliers are restricted to day shift supply.Worker safety - it is not safe for staff or equipment to be operated at night on this section of Mullumbimby Road, which includes wet, boggy and steep sections.Budget constraints – additional equipment hire, lighting, staff and contractor night shifts, loading and fatigue management. This has been assessed to cost the project an additional 33%The upgrade of Mullumbimby Road is a major project that is funded by the NSW and Federal Governments, and Council, to improve road safety and drainage and rebuild flood-damaged sections of the road.Information about the Mullumbimby Road upgrade is on Council’s website.

A man has been charged after a woman was found deceased in Mullumbimby last night.About 11.55pm (Friday 19 September 2025), police were called to a unit on Poinciana Street, Mullumbimby, following reports of a domestic incident.Officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District attended and located a 23-year-old woman deceased inside the unit.A 29-year-old man was arrested at the scene and taken to Byron Bay Police Station.Police established a crime scene, and Tweed/Byron detectives commenced Strike Force Deston to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.Following inquiries, the 29-year-old was charged with murder (DV) today (Saturday, 20 September 2025).He was refused bail to appear before Parramatta Bail Court tomorrow (Sunday, 21 September 2025).

A man has been arrested and an investigation has commenced after a woman was found deceased in Mullumbimby.About 11.55pm (Friday, 19 September 2025), police were called to a unit on Poinciana Street, Mullumbimby, following reports of a domestic incident.Officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District attended and located a woman deceased inside the unit.While she is yet to be formally identified, she is believed to be aged in her 20s.A 29-year-old man was arrested at the scene and taken to Byron Bay Police Station.Police established a crime scene and commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident.Inquiries are ongoing.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Regional NSW disaster response and recovery operations will be strengthened as the NSW Government delivers new high-clearance vehicles and light flood rescues across the state, including Ballina, Yamba and Murwillumbah.   The vehicles are part of the NSW Government’s fleet replacement program, ensuring NSW State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers have the latest, purpose-built equipment to keep communities safe.  Included in this year’s flood rescue fleet upgrades are 10 new High Clearance Vehicles with cranes and specialised equipment worth $800,000 each and 11 light flood rescue Land Cruisers valued at $270,000 each. The addition of these vehicles to the NSW SES fleet across regional parts of the state will increase volunteers ability to access isolated communities and perform critical rescues during flooding.   Built at Alexander Perrie & Co at Port Kembla in the Illawarra, the new 4WD flood rescue vehicles are designed with enhanced off-road capability, and have a custom-built body for flood rescue equipment, as well as integrated stowage for inflatable flood rescue rafts. These vehicles are now being delivered to SES units in Wyong, Kiama, Tamworth, Ballina, Yamba, Orange, Forbes and Sydney.Further, the high clearance vehicles are designed to operate in extreme off-road conditions and through floodwaters up to 1.2 metres deep, enabling SES crews to deliver essential supplies, complete rescues, and support other emergency services in remote and hard-to-reach locations. The delivery of the new vehicles comes as SES crews responded to more than 59,000 incidents in the past 12 months, an 24,500 increase from the previous 12-month period, in what has been the busiest year since 2022. The NSW Government thanked communities for following emergency service advice to prepare, with the Bureau of Meteorology predicting wetter than average weather will continue until the end of the year.  September to April is typically the time when the frequency of storms, strong winds and heavy rain increases, but August has already been wet for much of the state.  High clearance vehicles will be delivered across the state, including to areas recently impacted by flooding, such as Murwillumbah, Coffs Harbour and Taree. Others will be operational throughout Ku-ring-gai, Broken Hill, Goulburn, Moruya, Forbes and Dubbo.  The fleet rollout follows extensive consultation with SES volunteers, trainers, and manufacturers to ensure each vehicle meets the operational challenges of the State’s diverse landscapes.  Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said, “I would like to thank our hardworking SES volunteers who have been out in force this year and who are a reassuring sight for communities in times of need.”  “These new vehicles ensure we are giving our frontline emergency services the equipment they need to respond faster, reach more people in isolated areas and carry out rescues in some of the most challenging conditions.” “Our investment in these vehicles is about making sure the people who run towards danger to help others have the tools they need to do it safely.”  “We know we can count on SES crews to help communities, and I would encourage anyone who wants to join to sign up.” NSW SES Deputy Commissioner Damien Johnson said, “These vehicles represent a significant step forward in our flood and disaster response capability.” “We’ve worked closely with our volunteers and technical experts to ensure these designs meet the realities of field operations — whether that’s wading through more than a metre of floodwater, navigating fire trails, or delivering supplies to communities cut off by floodwaters.” “This investment brings our total number of high clearance vehicles to 20 and means our dedicated members will be able to work more safely and effectively when the next emergency comes.”