The $2.7m upgrade of South Beach Road in Brunswick Heads is in its final week of works and is looking spectacular!The upgrade, which began in early February this year, delivers a brand-new road for the popular foreshore area in Brunswick Heads, as well as Torakina beach car park.Council also took up the opportunity to complete much-needed road resealing works on South Beach Lane. The first coat seal was completed last week, and with the final coat deferred to warmer weather (due to the type of seal).“The reconstruction of South Beach Road has been a huge job and we’re proud to be delivering this beautiful, smooth road on time and budget, thanks to the expertise of our Council teams and funding from the NSW Government ($1m as part of the $25m Election Commitment Grant program), $500k from the Roads to Recovery program (Australian Government), and the remaining $1.2m from Byron Shire Council,” Council’s Director Infrastructure Services Phil Holloway said.“We’ve been clear from the start about the scope of works for this road upgrade and what we could deliver within the budget. The funding for this road project could only go so far.”“Future works could include a range of staged improvements for the area, such as footpaths, bollards, additional parking, pedestrian crossings, street and public space lighting and toilet upgrades,” Mr Holloway said.“Further upgrades in the area will need to be developed in consultation with Crown Lands, Native Title owners and Community, and will need grant funding,” he said.For more information about this project, go to www.byron.nsw.gov.au/south-beach-road

New bridges are being built, some timber bridges are being replaced with culverts, and multiple causeways are receiving treatments as part of a multi-million-dollar program in the Tweed to improve resilience against flooding.Up to 35 causeways and culverts across the Tweed Shire will be upgraded as part of the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package, a jointly funded Australian and NSW Government program under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).The two governments have approved more than $22 million for these projects to limit the impacts of future extreme flood events across the shire.Work started in April and will largely be carried out by local contractors, as well as Tweed Shire Council work crews.Work is expected to be completed by late next year, weather permitting.Causeways to receive funding include:  Midginbil Road - causeway replacement Booka Road - causeway replacement Numinbah Road - concrete pavement Byrrill Creek Road - causeway replacement Rowlands Creek Road - new culvert Commissioners Creek Road - concrete approaches Crooks Valley Road - new culvert Commissioners Creek Road - new culvert Rowlands Creek Road - new culvert Rowlands Creek Road - new culvert Kerrs Lane Pumpenbil - new culvert and concrete causeway Urliup Road Bilambil - culvert repairs and approach slabs Tunnel Road Stokers Siding - concrete approach slabs and flexible pavement Tweed Valley Way (Blacks Drain) - concrete pavement and embankment protectionOphir Glen - bridge deck replacement Mount Warning Road - concrete approaches Cedar Creek Road - upgrade timber bridgeGeles Road - replace timber bridge with concrete bridge Burringbar Road - replace timber bridge with concrete bridge Crabbes Creek Road - replace culvert Crabbes Creek Road - replace culvert Crabbes Creek Road - replace culvert Crabbes Creek Road - new causeway Everinghams Road - additional cross drainage pipe Glengarrie Road - additional cross drainage pipe Reserve Creek Road - additional cross drainage pipe Commissioners Creek Road - concrete approaches Byrrill Creek Road - pavement stabilisation Cobaki Road - pavement stabilisation Dungay Creek Road - concrete approach Byrrill Creek Road - barrier modification Reserve Creek Road - replace timber bridge with concrete culvert Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said, “All of Australia saw the damage done to Tweed Shire and other parts of the Northern Rivers during the devastating flooding of early 2022, so it’s pleasing to see all the work that’s now underway to make the region more resilient against future events.“When completed, this work will keep the community safer, allow it to get back on its feet sooner after a natural disaster and avoid much of the social and economic cost that goes with extreme events.“We can’t prevent those from happening, but we can be better prepared, and that’s what this work does.”Minister for Recovery and North Coast Janelle Saffin, “We often take the road and transport network for granted, but that attitude changes when those networks are disrupted by flooding or other natural disasters.“These critical pieces of infrastructure keep communities connected, they provide access to crucial medical facilities, food and other everyday needs and help our agricultural and businesses running.“I’m pleased Tweed Shire Council has recognised these important routes and is using betterment funding to help keep them open in future events.”Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said, “The cumulative impact of these projects on the community and the environment is substantial.“The improved drainage infrastructure will help reduce soil erosion, protect water quality, reduce build-up of sediment and preserve ecosystems.“After flood events, it will reduce demands on resources, emissions and material waste, as well as the need for frequent repair or replacement.”Tweed Shire Council Manager Infrastructure Delivery, Tim Mackney said, “Tweed has been fortunate to be part of the betterment funding arrangements, and the benefits will be with us for a long time.“This is another example where Council has made the most of external funding to assist the Tweed to be more resilient to the challenges of climate change.  “One of our major projects will be the reconstruction of Blacks Drains on Tweed Valley Way at South Murwillumbah. The major design and construction work will increase resilience against natural disasters and improve the site’s functionality in future floods.”

The upgrade to Byron Bay’s town centre drainage system is due to start in September, which will reduce the impacts of flooding to residents and businesses throughout central Byron Bay once complete. Christopher Soulsby, Manager Assets & Major Projects, said Council was pleased to be starting work in the town centre.“We are excited to be making upgrades to the Byron Bay town centre drainage, as we know this will make a big difference to a lot of people. Not only will we see a reduction in the impacts of flooding, we’ll also see improvements to footpaths on large sections of Byron Street,” said Mr Soulsby.“While the most significant works are happening in Byron Street, during construction, there will be disruptions to the way people move in and around the town centre.“We have spent over 12 months talking to the businesses who will be directly impacted by these works and will have measures in place to reduce dust and noise impacts, such as construction hoarding.“Traffic and pedestrians should follow detour and traffic control in the work areas. We are also encouraging people to sign up for email updates on the project web page so that they can receive direct notification of upcoming works and impacts.“We are nearing completion of the Sandhills Wetland and are already seeing benefits of the recent Lawson Street (East) works. Completion of the town centre drainage upgrade works are essential to further reducing flooding in the town centre,” added Mr Soulsby.The Preferred Byron Bay Drainage Strategy project, which includes parts of the Byron Bay Drainage Upgrade, has been awarded almost $26 million from across all levels of government. This includes almost $13 million from the Australian Government through the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program and Preparing Australian Communities Program, with a further $7 million provided through the jointly funded Australian and NSW Governments Infrastructure Betterment Fund under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.Council will need additional funding to complete construction of the remaining stages of the Byron Bay Drainage Upgrade including Fletcher Street.People can get more information and sign up for email updates on the project web page: www.byron.nsw.gov.au/Byron-Drainage 

A man has been charged following a crash south of Ballina earlier this year.Emergency services were called to Broadwater-Evans Heads Road, Broadwater, 30km south of Ballina, about 8.50am on Thursday, 24 January 2025, following reports of a crash.Police arriving on scene found two SUVs – a Mazda CX5 and a Toyota RAV4 – had collided head-on before coming to rest in the southbound lanes.The driver of the Mazda, a 26-year-old man, was taken to Lismore Base Hospital for the treatment of serious injuries, while his passenger – a woman aged 26 – suffered minor injuries.The front passenger of the Toyota – a woman aged 43 – and both rear passengers – two teenage girls – were taken to Lismore Base Hospital for the treatment of serious injuries.The driver of the Toyota, a 48-year-old man, suffered minor injuries.Following inquiries by Far North Coast Crash Investigation Unit, on Wednesday, 6 August 2025, the 26-year-old man was charged with dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm, negligent driving (occasions grievous bodily harm), and not keep left of dividing line.The man will appear in Ballina Local Court on Thursday, 25 September 2025.

Byron Shire Council Infrastructure Recovery Team will continue delivering essential flood recovery projects throughout 2025, following the extensive damage caused by the 2022 floods.“Our Infrastructure Recovery Team has been busy behind the scenes with investigation and planning, and we’re now gearing up for significant construction activity,” said Phil Warner, Council’s Manager Infrastructure Recovery.“In June, we began embankment stabilisation works on Wilsons Creek Road. It’s now full steam ahead with construction around the shire for the next few years,” he added.Upcoming Construction Projects (August – December 2025)Coopers Lane – Damaged culvert and road repairs. Construction is expected to start late 2025.Huonbrook - Gravel road repairs are nearly complete. Council is seeking additional funding to upgrade a causeway to allow truck access and complete remaining works.Left Bank Road (near 599) - Works include embankment stabilisation, road works, and guardrail installation. Some intermittent road closures are expected. Construction will run from mid-August through to November 2025.Main Arm Road (near 1650)- The project includes slope stabilisation, new unsealed road, and guardrail installation. Works begin in September and are scheduled to finish by the end of 2025.Minor Landslip Repairs - Multiple minor slips on Goonengerry Road, Left Bank Road, Main Arm Road, and The Pocket Road will be repaired. Work is scheduled from September until late 2025.Mullumbimby Road - Works commenced in July and will continue through to December. This project includes safety upgrades from The Saddle Road to McAuleys Lane intersection. Additional works include new road surface, signage, guardrails, and line marking. Changed traffic conditions are in place.Wilsons Creek Road - Embankment stabilisation near 803 Wilsons Creek Road is underway and expected to be completed in September. Another embankment stabilisation project just west of the current site is expected to commence in mid-August. Replacement and repair of 55 culvert crossings will commence in August as night works. Additional pavement and sealing works from Lavertys Gap to Malcolm’s Corner will begin late 2025.“Many of the flood recovery projects will continue into 2026, 2027 and even 2028,” said Mr Warner. “There will be disruptions in these areas, and traffic control will be in place. We thank the community for their patience and encourage people to stay up to date via Council’s website and communication channels, and Live Traffic. More detailed information will be shared closer to each project’s start date,” he added.For updates and information about flood repair work, please visit Council’s website.Council also reminds all road users to drive with care through construction zones, follow signage and directions from traffic controllers, and allow extra travel time for their safety and the safety of workers on site.These projects are jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. Some projects also received additional funding from other programs.

An investigation is underway after a fatal crash on the M1 in the Tweed Shire this morning.About 9.30am (Monday, 11 August 2025), emergency services were called to the M1 at Mooball – about 13km north of Mullumbimby – following reports of a crash.At the scene, police were told several vehicles had collided with a man in the southbound lanes of the motorway. The man died at the scene and is yet to be formally identified.Officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District have established a crime scene and are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.The southbound lanes of the M1 have been closed, and diversions are in place. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and delay non-essential travel.Live Traffic has diversions in place:Light vehicles: Can use Cudgera Creek Rd, Pottsville Rd, Tweed Coast Rd and Wooyung Rd to rejoin M1 Pacific Mtwy.Heavy vehicles (up to 26m B-Doubles) Have been approved to use Tweed Valley way via Murwillumbah to join the M1 Pacific Mtwy at Yelgun **Vehicles larger than 26m B-Doubles and OSOM movements will be parked.For up-to-date traffic information visit: https://www.livetraffic.com/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.

An investigation is underway after the body of a man was found on the road near Billinudgel.About 7.15pm today (Sunday, 10 August 2025), emergency services were called to the M1 Pacific Motorway, near Billinudgel, following reports of multiple cars crashing into an unoccupied motorcycle. On arrival, officers attached to Tweed-Byron Police District were told three cars had crashed into the motorcycle before a member of the public had located a body of the alleged male rider nearby.The body is yet to be formally identified. Two drivers were taken to Byron Bay hospital for a mandatory testing.Another driver was taken to Tweed Valley Hospital for a mandatory testing.A crime scene has been established, and officers attached to the Crash Investigation Unit were called to commence an investigation into the incident.All vehicles were seized to be forensically examined.A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.Anyone with information about this incident or a dash cam footage 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.

A man has died following a single-vehicle crash in Ballina this afternoon.About 2.30pm today (Saturday, 9 August 2025), emergency services were called to River Street, West Ballina, following reports of a crash.Officers attached to Richmond Police District attended and found that a vehicle had crashed into a building.The driver – a 55-year-old man – was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics; however, he died at the scene.State Emergency Services attended and worked to secure the structure of the building, which suffered significant damage.Officers established a crime scene and commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the crash.A large area of electricity has been turned off as emergency services work to secure the site and motorist are urged to avoid the area.A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Byron Shire businesses have taken home top honours at the 2025 North Coast Regional Tourism Awards, shining a light on the region's unique contribution to the visitor economy.Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said events like this are a great reminder of the close connection between our region and the visitor economy.“We must always keep locals and the environment at the heart of this conversation because a successful tourism industry depends on a healthy, vibrant community and the protection of the natural places people come here to experience,” Mayor Ndiaye said.The awards—jointly hosted by Byron Shire Council and Destination North Coast—celebrate excellence, innovation, and the positive impact of tourism across the region.Local winners included:First Sun Holiday Park – GOLD in Caravan and Holiday ParksCrystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens – GOLD in Tourist AttractionsLet’s Go Surfing – SILVER in Adventure TourismCape Byron Kayaks – BRONZE in Adventure TourismMayor Sarah Ndiaye said it was encouraging to see local businesses recognised, including the Council-owned First Sun Holiday Park.“Not everyone realises that Council owns two beachfront caravan parks, First Sun in Byron Bay and Suffolk Park Holiday Park, both of which play an important role in welcoming visitors and supporting local jobs.“Congratulations to the team from Belgravia, who manage First Sun, for their dedication to quality and visitor experience. This award is a reflection of their hard work.”Mayor Ndiaye also congratulated Peter Noble and the Bluesfest team on their induction into the Hall of Fame, acknowledging the festival’s decades-long role in shaping Byron’s cultural and economic identity.The awards follow another standout event in Byron Shire, the 2025 Regional and Remote Music Summit, which brought together national artists, promoters, and policymakers to discuss the vital role music plays in regional communities.“This week the focus turns to reading and writing at the Byron Writers Festival in Bangalow, which is always a highlight of the calendar,” Mayor Ndiaye said. “It’s another example of how the Shire continues to inspire, inform, and bring people together,” she said.

Ballina Shire’s A Ward Councillors are inviting local community groups, clubs and not-for-profits to be part of the upcoming Community Connections Expo, taking place on Saturday, 30 August 2025 from 9am to 12pm at the Ballina Surf Club.Following the success of the Lennox Head event earlier this year, this free expo will be a great opportunity for local organisations to connect with residents, new families, and businesses in the area – and to attract new members or volunteers.“The Community Connections Expo is all about showcasing the incredible groups that make our community so strong,” said A Ward Ballina Shire Councillor, Erin Karsten. “It’s a chance for the public to discover how they can get involved, give back, or just learn more about the support and services available locally,” Cr Karsten added. Community organisations are encouraged to register for a free table to promote their group and activities. Each group will be provided with a 1.8m table, chairs, and signage. Groups are welcome to bring their own table coverings and promotional material.Register before 15 August via https://forms.gle/Qp4tJ7gTmT84QgUHA. Come along and discover opportunities to connect with communityThe Ballina Community Connections Expo will be a fantastic opportunity for local residents to learn more about these community groups, meet their passionate volunteers, and explore ways to get involved and give back to our community.There’s already over 20 community groups registered to attend, from sporting clubs and environmental groups to creative collectives and support services. Come along and discover what’s happening in your community – and how you can be part of it!Event details:Time and date: 9am – 12pm, Saturday, 30 August 2025Location: Ballina Surf Club (65 Lighthouse Beach Parade)

The NSW Government is helping specialist food and drink businesses from across NSW take centre stage at Fine Food Australia to be held in Sydney next month - showcasing their products at the largest industry event of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.  Following an expression of interest process, the NSW Government has provided subsidies of $4,500 each to 18 unique food and beverage manufacturers from Greater Sydney and Regional NSW, including producers of sauces, spirits, chocolates and spices, who will exhibit within the ‘Flavours of NSW’ zone at the tradeshow. Two of the 18 manufacturers are from the Northern Rivers: Aurum Mead, Gather By and Mindful Foods. Around 25,000 trade visitors from over 50 countries will converge on the International Convention Centre (ICC) from 8-11 September, providing a prime opportunity for NSW businesses to connect with interstate and international buyers, secure distribution partnerships and explore export markets.  In 2023-24 NSW produced 45.6 billion revenue in the manufactured food and beverage industry, making it the largest manufacturing sector in NSW, comprising of 4,600 businesses.   Business support and trade experts from the NSW Government will be on hand to help the exhibitors showcase their products and facilitate connections with prospective buyers.    The NSW Government’s support for Fine Food Australia aligns with the local manufacturing mission of the NSW Industry Policy, while agrifood is a focus sector in the NSW Trade and Investment Strategy, providing significant export growth opportunities particularly in Southeast Asia. For more information on Fine Food Australia visit: https://www.investment.nsw.gov.au/why-nsw/focus-sectors/manufacturing/food-and-beverage-manufacturing/flavours-of-nsw-2025/fine-food-australia-2025 The NSW businesses receiving subsidies to exhibit at Fine Food Australia 2025 are:  Alka Power Water: Producer of alkaline water sourced and bottled in NSW’s Southern Highlands Aurum Mead: A Byron Bay producer of wines made from varietal honey and native ingredients.   Chef Luca Ciano: Producer of sauces, pasta and salad dressings, based in Bondi.  Chief Nutrition: Sydney-based producer of beef jerky, collagen bars and snacks.  Choices Gluten-Free: Sydney-based producer of gluten-free baked goods, including breads and cakes.  Dharawal Distilling Co: First Nations producer of native vodka and gins, based in the Illawarra.    Duro Pasta: Based on the South Coast, Duro Pasta is made from 100% Australian durum wheat and produced using sustainable farming practices.  Gather By: Northern Rivers based producer of Australian Manuka Honey and Manuka gummies.  Healthyroo: Producer of protein powder blends, protein bars and shakes from Sydney’s Northern Beaches.  Karu Distillery: Produces a diverse range of gins, rums and vodkas from its distillery in the Blue Mountains.  Kreenuts: Family-owned business in Sydney, producing chocolate and cookie covered peanuts.  Mindful Foods: Producer of organic and activated granolas, nuts and snacks, based in the Northern Rivers  Nimbus: Sydney-based producer of powdered oat and soy milk.  Nunka. Hampers & Gifts: First Nations business in Penrith, producing native sauces, jams, compote and blends.  Pacdon Park: Based in the Murray region and uses local ingredients to produce British foods including black pudding, scotch eggs and haggis.  Rub-A-Dub: Sydney-based producer of seasonings, rubs and sauces.  Spicevine: Sydney-based producer of gluten free vegan marinades, stir-fry pastes and sauces.  The Honey Library & Meadery: Producer of alcoholic mead, creamed honey, chilli honey and raw liquid honey, based on the Central Coast.   Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said, “Fine Food Australia is an incredible platform for our up-and-coming food and beverage manufacturers to showcase their unique products, connect with buyers, and pursue growth opportunities both domestically and internationally.   “The NSW Government has been involved in this annual tradeshow for over 20 years, helping to grow our world-class food and beverage industry. “From spirits to sauces, from jams to jerky, we’re delighted to support our exhibiting businesses and their exceptional products that are made right here in NSW.” Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said, “Regional NSW is the engine room of the state’s agrifood industry, home to thousands of food and beverage businesses, and many more jobs.  “Our producers lead the way in terms of innovation and ingenuity, with many utilising native ingredients and sustainable ingredients to bring their products to life.   “Protecting our food’s excellent reputation is critical to domestic consumption and international trade and that is a key driver for the Minns Government’s recent historic investment in biosecurity plus primary industries research and development.  “Fine Food Australia is one of the biggest trade events in the industry and is unrivalled when it comes to connecting with key players in the industry and I wish our producers all the best in promoting their goods.”  Chef Luca Ciano said, "Cooking has always been about family, tradition, and quality for me. Growing up in Italy, I learned the art of creating fresh pastas and sauces from my family, who instilled in me the values of using the freshest ingredients and time-honoured techniques. "With the support of the NSW Government, I am excited to showcase our products at Fine Food Australia and connect with international distributors, retailers, and investors who value quality as much as I do.  "It presents a fantastic opportunity to introduce our products to new markets, grow our brand, and help us to share our passion for fresh, quality ingredients with the world." Mindful Foods Director Jordan Epstein said, “Mindful Foods is thrilled to be exhibiting at Fine Food Australia to feature our wide range of Organic & Activated Granolas, Nuts, Snacks & herbal teas with an audience of B2B buyers across the health food, independent grocery and food service channels.  “Mindful Foods is actively exploring export opportunities into new markets, so Fine Food Australia will be a great platform to meet international buyers and share the special story behind each of our delicious products!”

Jan Olley is the 2025 Byron Shire Community Member of the Year.Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, presented Jan with her award on 5 August in front of friends and family at the Byron Shire Community Awards.The annual Community Awards recognise local champions, with nominations and selections made by members of the community. This year, Council received 95 nominations across eight categories.“Jan Olley’s contribution to the protection, awareness and preservation of birds in the Byron Shire is truly exceptional,” Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, said.“Jan, well known for her hat and the binoculars around her neck, was a founder of Byron Bird Buddies some 20 years ago, a conservation group committed to the preservation of habitat for resident and migratory birds including their roosting, breeding and feeding areas.“Jan is a fierce advocate for the birds and so very respected, in the community, at Council and by many other agencies such as the NPWS and BirdLife Australia.“Last year the Bird Buddies spent 270 hours doing surveys for conservation, with Jan leading the charge.“You’ll find Jan at workshops, stalls, developing educational materials, doing guided walks, bird counts and environmental clean-ups.“Her knowledge is immense, she shares it so willingly and she advocates passionately for the birds, with strong support from her fellow volunteers.   “Jan Olley is a powerhouse, and thanks to her, and the other Byron Bird Buddies who carry out bird surveys all year round, we have incredible, important, recorded data on bird life in the Byron Shire over many years.“Congratulations Jan – it’s an honour to be able to present you with this award as a very small, but heartfelt token of our sincere appreciation,” Mayor Ndiaye said.The award winners in other categories were:Young Community Member of the Year – Billie Rettenmaier21-year-old Billie Rettenmaier lives and breathes community spirit and is a keen volunteer with WIRES, protecting and rehabilitating injured wildlife.She’s also a volunteer with the Newrybar Rural Fire Brigade, offers young children free music lessons and is a regular face at community gardens.Access and Inclusion Award – Pauline MenczerLocal legend Pauline Menczer is well-known for her love of the beach and her work to make it accessible for people of all abilities.She’s often seen with a wheelbarrow and spade at Torakina, shovelling sand around the wheelchair beach mat and she has a large range of accessible equipment that she loans to the community.The former World Number One surfer gives back to the sport by voluntarily coaching surfers living with disability.Caring for Country – Lisa SandstromLisa Sandstrom is an organiser of Save Wallum, a campaign to protect a parcel of land at Brunswick Heads from development.Lisa is a regular face at the Mullumbimby Community Markets every week, raising awareness and money for the Save Wallum campaign.Creativity Award – Virginia Reid and Anouska Samantha GammonThere were two winners in this category.Virginia Reid has taught at the Byron Community College for more than a decade and mentored many people in their creative journeys well beyond the classroom through exhibitions, performances and showcases.Virginia’s own work is well known in the Byron Shire – exhibited in the Byron Hospital and at the Byron Writers Festival.Anouka Samantha Gammon is the person behind the highly regarded Bangalow Theatre Company, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to bringing innovative, breath-taking and professional theatre to the Northern Rivers.Her other passion is sharing her love of theatre with young people through her company BANG Academy of Performing Arts.Contribution to Health and Wellbeing Award – Dianne BrowneDi Browne is keeping the Byron Shire active and feeling great, one person at a time and the community loves her for it.Di is a motivator, passionate about promoting the social, mental and physical benefits of keeping active and being connected.She runs Pilates classes that are affordable for everyone, Chair Pilates for older people as well as hiking, arts and crafts, health retreats and social activities.In Business for Good Award – Perigee Farms Perigee Farms is a community-oriented organic farm committed to sustainable agriculture, providing local employment opportunities and environmental stewardship.They use regenerative farming techniques and hire locals, some with limited to no farming experience, preferring to teach them about sustainability with a focus on personal growth.Community Initiative of the Year – Sound Shell Piano and Community Care by Laura Upsall It was the appearance of an old piano at the Sound Shell at Brunswick Heads that piqued the interest of Laura Upsall.To keep the ivories tinkling she brought in local piano tuner, Norman Appel, to maintain the piano which was a much-loved part of the town, but it needed replacing.Laura entered the ABC’s Play It Again competition and this year won a new piano for the community, much to the delight of locals and visitors.

Tamara Smith MP, Member for Ballina, is thrilled with the $899,000 Ballina Shire Council will receive to remediate contaminated land earmarked for future housing, and the $13.9 million investment to convert 58 pods in Brunswick Heads into key worker housing.The NSW Government announced the funding yesterday. The land’s former industrial use for cattle tick dipping left the soil contaminated by chemicals such as arsenic. Remediation of the sites will involve the safe removal of contaminated soil to a licensed waste facility and its replacement with imported clean soil.Remediation Action Plans have been developed to clean up 3.9 hectares for future use.Crown Lands in the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure will fund the remediation of a former cattle dip site and yards at 31 and 33 Canal Road, with Council contributing $100,000. Remediation of this land is critical as it will enable a planned adjoining residential development to proceed.Member for Ballina, Tamara Smith MP, said, “The housing crisis is glaringly evident here in the Ballina electorate. The 2020 pandemic saw an influx of people moving to the area. The 2022 floods saw an increase in homelessness. It seems a drop in the bucket but affordable, social and worker housing is so desperately needed.”“I am thrilled that 58 pods will be converted to key worker housing. This is needed, and frankly, it is a relief to see infrastructure that has already cost taxpayers so much continue to be utilised for the good of our communities.“The clean-up of 3.9 hectares of land that is currently contaminated is not only an environmental imperative, but also unlocks potential housing in a shire hard-pressed to accommodate our current population. It’s a big win for our region.”“I hope that this land in Ballina will lead to appropriately flood resilient housing that contains a mix of affordable, social and worker housing to support the needs of our community.”“The next two years will see the delivery 48 public and community homes in Ballina. This is another step to meeting the housing demands we have here. Key to a successful delivery will be to ensure that our infrastructure is able to support this new housing, especially in an area so prone to climate-related disasters.”Minister for Land and Property Steve Kamper said, “This is a great outcome for the North Coast and the local environment. Restoring this idle land not only protects our natural surroundings but helps unlock land for new homes.Housing affordability and availability are one of the biggest pressures facing families, particularly in the Northern Rivers, where repeated natural disasters have made the situation even harder.Reactivating land like this allows us to ease some of that pressure by creating opportunities for more homes and stronger, more resilient communities.”Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said, “There is a shortage of housing on the North Coast, so it is vital that we take measures like this to activate unused land that can support more new homes for our growing community in Ballina.“This land is also ideally located near the popular Fripp Oval, and will encourage community connectedness, recreational activity and support for our local sporting clubs like the Ballina Bears Cricket Club and Ballina Bombers AFL Club.”

It’s Homelessness Week and Byron Shire Council is joining local services and community groups to advocate for more resources as well as to drive solutions to end homelessness in Byron Shire, starting with rough sleeping. The NSW Government’s 2025 Street Count found Byron Shire has the second highest number of people sleeping rough in the State, and despite this, of the 355 public and community homes to be delivered in the Northern Rivers in the next two years, none are planned for the Byron Shire.The theme for Homelessness Week this year is Homelessness Action Now!“Homelessness and housing stress are critical issues for our community, and solutions will take a whole of community approach,” Anna Lockwood, Backbone Lead Ending Rough Sleeping Collaboration Byron Shire, said. “With co-funding from a philanthropic foundation, Council employs the Backbone team of the Ending Rough Sleeping Collaboration Byron Shire, a community-led initiative with more than 30 members, including the not-for-profit and community services sector,” Ms Lockwood said.  “Our remit is to work together and share knowledge and resources that identify and address the root causes of homelessness and the housing crisis, so we can develop and advocate for solutions that work for our community. “The Collaboration’s focus right now is the 1000 Voices Project, where we are seeking 1000 local people to complete a survey which asks people in the Byron Shre to share their thoughts on homelessness and what they think can be done to solve it,” Ms Lockwood said.Council also employs two Public Space Liaison Officers who are in the field every day, speaking with and checking on rough sleepers, connecting them to services and help.“My ask is that people in the Byron Shire take a moment out of their day this week and take action by completing our 1000 Voices survey or becoming a community researcher,” Ms Lockwood said.Information about how to get involved and take action against homelessness is on Council’s website.

Tamara Smith MP, Member for Ballina, announced $447,808 in funding for 18 new community infrastructure projects through the NSW Government’s 2025 Community Building Partnership Program (CBP).The Member for Ballina has assisted more than 100 community organisations and delivered nearly $4 million in grants through this program since being elected in 2015.Member for Ballina, Tamara Smith MP said, “These community-based grants supply a much-needed source of funding for grassroots projects and organisations that are so often doing the heavy lifting in terms of providing social supports.”“We know that this program adds value to the work that community-based, not-for-profit organisations do to improve the lives of people and the quality of our natural environment.”“I congratulate all of the organisations that were successful in their application and look forward to seeing the positive social, environmental and recreational outcomes in our community.”“The next round opens in September. Contact my office if you would like more information.”About the Community Building Partnership ProgramThe Community Building Partnership program has funded more than 22,400 community projects since it commenced in 2009.Local not-for-profit community organisations and councils were eligible to apply for grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, with up to $450,000 allocated per electorate.For more information, visit the Community Building Partnership website: nsw.gov.au/cbpThe full list of successful projects and funding amount in the Ballina electorate for the 2025 round are:

Ballina Library will undergo major renovations starting on September 1, 2025, with an expected completion in early November 2025.“This project is about giving our much-loved library a freshen-up so it continues to serve our community well into the future”, said Cr Sharon Cadwallader, Mayor of Ballina Shire. “We’re renewing the flooring, painting, upgrading the service counter, and installing modern, movable shelving to make the space more flexible and welcoming”.To maintain services to the community during this time, a temporary library will be set up in the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC) from September 8. Opening hours will be 9am to 2:30pm on weekdays. Patrons can pick up reserved items, access a limited collection (comprising adult and junior fiction and non-fiction, youth fiction, picture and board books, and a small number of audiobooks and DVDs) or return loans.On weekends, from 6 September 2025, the Mobile Library will offer similar services parked opposite the Ballina War Memorial Swimming Pool on Saturdays from 1 to 4pm, and Sundays from 9:30am to 4pm throughout the refurbishment works. Read, Make, Play community programs will be held every Wednesday at the Richmond Room, located behind the Library (access via 5 Regatta Avenue). All other programming will be on pause throughout the refurbishment works. The after-hours return chute at Ballina Library will not be available during this time. Patrons can access after-hours return chutes, along with other library services, at both the Lennox Head and Alstonville Libraries. Cr Cadwallader said, “The refurbishment is being delivered in partnership with Richmond Tweed Regional Library and is funded through the Public Library Infrastructure Grant from the State Library of NSW, along with Ballina Shire Council’s 2025/26 Capital Works Program. We thank our community for their understanding while the work takes place.”Further information and service updates can be found at https://rtrl.nsw.gov.au/Ballina_Library.

A man has died following a single-vehicle crash west of Kyogle today.About 2pm (Sunday, 3 August 2025), emergency services were called to Mount Lindesay Road, Koreelah – approximately 82km north west of Kyogle – following reports a motorcycle had left the roadway before hitting a fencepost.The rider – a man believed to be in his 50s – was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics; however, he died at the scene.The man is yet to be formally identified.A crime scene was established, and police commenced an investigation into the incident.A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.Anyone with information about this incident or any footage 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.

A man will face court tomorrow over an alleged robbery in Byron Bay today.Just after 9am (Sunday, 3 August 2025), police were called to Jonson Street, Byron Bay, following reports of an alleged robbery.Officers attached to Tweed-Byron Police District were told a 71-year-old woman was approached by an unknown man before he took an amount of cash from her and left the scene.The woman was not injured.Following inquiries, about 2pm today, police arrested the 19-year-old man on the same street.He was taken to Byron Bay Police Station, where he was charged with robbery and breach of bail.He was refused bail to appear at Bail Division Court 1 tomorrow (Monday, 4 August 2025).Anyone with information about this incident or any footage 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.

With forecasts of big seas predicted to build across the north coast this weekend and into next week, there could be more erosion on some beaches in the Byron Shire.Beaches at Suffolk Park, New Brighton and South Golden Beach were badly eroded during Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, and more sand could be stripped from these areas in the coming days.This means that beach access paths may drop off steeply, and the dunes could become unstable.Members of the public are asked to be aware of the potential for erosion, big seas and changed conditions to pathways when going to the beach in the coming days.People should also stay away from the foot of sand dunes.Council’s Open Space team will be inspecting beach accessways and closing them if necessary.