Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, is applauding Council’s 2025 Cane Toad Busting program, which removed 6385 toads and tadpoles from our local environment, contributing to control of more than 200,000 cane toads this season (24/25) across Australia.“A huge thanks to the 133 community members who stepped up and got involved in this year’s online Toad Bust program for the Byron Shire,” the Mayor said.Council’s Cane Toad Busting program offered an information session followed by a community toad bust event and a demonstration of the cane toad tadpole trap at Ocean Shores, plus the four-day Toad Bust Challenge in January.“Special thanks also go to our community freezer hosts, Jude Alcorn and John Purssey, and to all environmental champions who rolled up their sleeves to get the job done on Cane Toad Bust night in January and throughout the challenge.”“This is such important environmental work, and the best thing about Council’s Cane Toad Busting program is that it educates and empowers participants of all ages to continue their cane toad busting efforts,” the Mayor said.“At the end of January, one community member had collected more than 13,000 tadpoles, while another reported control of more than 1,400 adult cane toads over the 24/25 season. “Imagine the difference we could make if we doubled or tripled participation in next year’s Program!” the Mayor said.Consistent toad busting is key to reducing local populations and has the potential to reduce 28-47% of local populations, greatly reducing harm to local native animals. Cane toads (Rhinella marina) are an invasive species in Australia that impact our wildlife, domestic pets and eat beneficial insects, which can impact local agriculture and ecosystems.For more information and to get involved, go to Council’s website.

Ballina Shire Council has developed a Draft Streetscape Master Plan for Newrybar to improve its public spaces, balancing community aspirations identified during a collaborative design process in late 2024.The community identified their vision for Newrybar as a welcoming, vibrant village that celebrates character, community, and creativity.The Draft Master Plan outlines five key place values that reflect what the community loves about Newrybar:Authentic village charmMemorable artisanal experiencesHome-grown produce and flavoursHonouring the Big Scrub and connection to CountryFostering a connected community.“A key proposal is to make traffic on the Old Pacific Highway between Brooklet Road and Hinterland Way one way, which would create space for safer pedestrian movement, improved parking, more shade trees, and better public seating,” said Council’s Landscape Architect, Ms Sheryn Da-Re.“Council invites the community to view the Draft Master Plan, including diagrams and a list of the proposed improvements, so they can share their feedback.”Feedback can be provided in multiple ways:Complete an online feedback form on the Your Say page.Attend Council’s community workshop from 6pm – 7.30pm, Monday 19 May 2025 at Newrybar Community Hall.Visit yoursayballina.com.au/newrybar-streetscape-master-plan for more information.Submissions close Wednesday, 21 May 2025.No funding or grants have been secured at this stage for the implementation of any works. However, once completed, the master plan will enable Council to seek the funding required to make the community’s aspirations a reality.

Ballina Shire Council is encouraging motorists to drive safely over the coming days with king tides leading to minor flooding of some local roads.Where possible, motorists, motorcyclists, pedestrians and cyclists should avoid affected roadways.Motorists are reminded the tides will be occurring during the evening and that salt water may also affect maintenance of vehicle and bodywork.Roads likely to be affected by king tides and saltwater flooding include:• Tamar Street, Ballina • Riverside Drive, West Ballina• River Street, West Ballina • Burns Point Ferry Road, West Ballina• North Creek Road, North Ballina• Southern Cross Drive, North Ballina• Uralba Road, Uralba • Old Bangalow Road, Tintenbar • Tamarind Dr, Cumbalum For road information visit livetraffic.com or telephone Ballina Shire Council on 1300 864 444

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan has announced a $519,000 commitment to upgrade the lighting at Stan Payne Oval in Evans Head, if a Coalition Government is elected at the upcoming election.“Stan Payne Oval is a much-loved hub for the Evans Head community, regularly hosting rugby league, rugby union and touch football,” Mr Hogan said. “The upgrade will provide modern, reliable lighting — ensuring the oval can be better used for evening training, night games, and more community activities year-round.”“This is an important investment for Evans Head and for all the players, families, and volunteers who use Stan Payne Oval.”The funding commitment will help deliver key elements of the Stan Payne Oval Masterplan, developed in 2023, which aims to transform the site into a diverse and cohesive sporting precinct for the town’s future.“This is about backing grassroots sport and building facilities that support both our local community and visitors to Evans Head.”“Good lighting means more opportunity for participation, greater flexibility for clubs, and more reasons for families to stay active and engaged.”The lighting project will complement future plans for Stan Payne Oval to grow into a premier sporting and community venue for the Richmond Valley region.

Further charges have been laid by strike force detectives following the death of a man at Kyogle earlier this month.About 11am on Monday, 14 April 2025, emergency services were called to a home on Irwin Street, Kyogle, following reports a man was injured.Officers attached to Richmond Police District arrived to find that a 49-year-old man was unconscious with assault injuries.He was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics; however, he died at the scene.Police commenced Strike Force Alonnah to investigate the man’s death.Following inquiries, strike force officers arrested a 56-year-old man on Highfield Road, Kyogle, about 4.30pm the same day.He was taken to the Casino Police Station where he was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and affray.The man refused bail to appear before the Casino Local Court on Tuesday, 14 April 2025, where bail was refused.Following this, the man’s charges were upgraded to include manslaughter and assault causing death at Lismore Local Court today (Monday, 28 April 2025).The man is next due to appear before the same court on Wednesday, 16 July 2025.

What makes a great night-time economy? Is it the warm glow of lights casting long shadows on laneways? The sound of music drifting from a nearby venue? A place where people gather — safely, joyfully — to share a meal, a story, a night out? What sets the scene for unforgettable evenings with friends and family?The Byron Shire has been reflecting on these questions and wants to explore the answers with the community. The NSW Government has awarded Byron Shire a Special Entertainment Precinct kickstart grant, supporting council's plans to trial a dedicated entertainment precinct in Byron Bay over the next 18 months.With over 2.4 million visitors in 2019 and 1.9 million in 2024, and a local population of around 37,000, Byron Shire’s night-time economy plays a vital role in both community life and regional tourism.“This grant gives us an opportunity to reimagine and reinvigorate that experience — not just for visitors, but for the people who live and work here every day,” Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said.“This funding comes at an important time for our local businesses and creatives, many of whom have weathered significant challenges in recent years.” “It’s a chance to trial new ideas that could support economic growth, jobs, safety and wellbeing — while keeping the unique character of Byron at heart.“We look forward to working closely with our community, local venues, artists and residents to shape a night-time economy that reflects who we are — vibrant, inclusive, creative and connected,” she said.The 18-month trial will explore ways to balance entertainment, culture and liveability in the heart of Byron Bay. Council says it’s one more step in an ongoing journey to make Byron Shire an even better place to live, work and visit – day or night.

Established in 2007, the Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) is a leading arts and cultural organisation in the Northern Rivers, fostering creativity and engagement through quality exhibitions and programs, and supporting opportunities where arts and culture can thrive. NRCG presents four exciting new exhibitions this May, including an otherworldly botanical installation, a series of textile-based meditations, award-winning still life photography, and a series of relief printed portraits of distant friends made during social distancing. Distant Friends | Peter McLean Distant Friends was initiated soon after the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, when online platforms became the main means of maintaining friendships and social interactions. The exhibition encompasses relief-printed portraits based on social media photos of the artist’s friends as a basis to create a series of highly pixelated and innovative abstract portraits. Leaf and Flower | Robyn Barron Robyn’s practice as a still life photographer is informed by her horticultural and design background with the objects in her work often cultivated in her garden or collected from the Northern NSW coastline. Leaf and Flower showcases a selection of the artist’s recent photographs alongside some of her award-winning work. I hope this helps | Liv Enqvist I hope this helps is a series of textile meditations where you can stop, pause and take a deep breath. The exhibition offers a soft, embroidered space inspired by mindfulness and the art of being present. Den Inception | Immortal Soil ‘To undergo the transformation, we must surrender everything. ’ The inception den is a resting place, a place of recharge amongst nature’s physical embrace. This exhibition, Den Inception, creates a home within the gallery using botanical elements and soundscape to bring the outside in and give the viewer a sense of wild nature, recharge, reverence, and retreat. All exhibitions open on Thursday, 1 May and continue until Sunday, 22 June. The official exhibition launch will be held 5.30 – 7.30pm, Thursday, 1 May. The Northern Rivers Community Gallery is located at 44 Cherry Street, Ballina and is open Wednesday to Friday from 9am until 3pm and weekends from 9.30am until 1.00pm. For further information, contact the Gallery on 02 6681 0530 or visit the website www.nrcgballina.com.au.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for HEAVY RAINFALL for coastal areas of the Northern Rivers.Slow-moving showers and thunderstorms triggered by a trough moving from out over the ocean onto land will bring periods of heavy rain.Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall, which may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations that may be affected include Byron Bay, Ballina, Alstonville, Evans Head, Yamba, and Maclean.The State Emergency Service advises that people should:* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.* Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.* Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.* After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.* Unplug computers and appliances.* Avoid using the phone during the storm.* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.The next warning is due to be issued by 1:55 pm.

A man has been charged with multiple break and enter offences after he allegedly rammed a police car during a pursuit at Wiangaree earlier this month.About 8.10am on Wednesday, 16 April 2025, police located an allegedly stolen Toyota Landcruiser driving on Summerland Way, Wiangaree, about 14km north of Kyogle.When police approached the Toyota, the driver allegedly drove at and hit a police vehicle before leaving the scene in the Toyota.Police directed the driver to stop; however, when they allegedly failed to do so, a pursuit was initiated.The pursuit continued through the Wiangaree, Geneva and Afterlee areas before the allegedly stolen Landcruiser crashed through a fence and into a tree on Murray Scrub Road, Toonumbar.The driver – a 32-year-old man – was arrested at the scene by officers attached to Richmond Police District, Coffs/Clarence Police District and the Dog Unit after he attempted to leave the scene.During the arrest, police located items believed to have been stolen and a small amount of ammunition.The 32-year-old was taken to the Casino Police Station, where he was charged with:Larceny (two counts)Destroy or damage property (two counts)Take and drive conveyance without consent of ownerEnter building/land with intent to commit indictable offencePolice pursuit – not stop – drive recklesslyDrive motor vehicle during disqualification periodUse offensive weapon to prevent lawful detentionHinder or resist police officer in the execution of dutyUse class A vehicle displaying misleading number plate, andPossess ammunition without holding licence/permit/authority.About 11am on Thursday, 17 April 2025, police executed a search warrant at a home on Old Tenterfield Road Kippenduff where they allegedly located and seized items including a revolver barrel, cannabis, vehicle keys, mobile phones, SIM cards, firearm parts, ammunition, and a Mazda BT50 believed to have been stolen.The man was refused bail and appeared before Lismore Local Court on Thursday, 17 April 2025, where he was formally refused bail to appear before the same court on Monday, 5 May 2025.

Kyogle Council Mayor Danielle Mulholland has paid tribute to past and present service men and women, honouring their sacrifices and courage on the eve of ANZAC Day.Cr Mulholland urged everyone to take time tomorrow to stop and remember all the Australians and New Zealanders who have served and died in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.“The ANZAC story has helped shape Australia’s identity, and on this day of remembrance, we should all take a moment to give thanks for the contribution and suffering of those who have served.“We should also honour the qualities of those original ANZACS that helped forge the legend of the Australian spirit, which centres around resilience, courage under fire, larrikin humour and mateship.”ANZAC Day services will be held throughout the Kyogle LGA, including at Kyogle, Woodenbong, Bonalbo, Old Bonalbo, Tabulam, and Mallanganee. ANZAC Day ceremonies in the Kyogle Local Government Area can be found on Council’s website by following this link.“Council will join with the rest of the community tomorrow in honouring past and present service personnel, with Councillors attending and laying wreaths at all the official ceremonies,” Cr Mulholland said.“Even if you can’t attend a ceremony tomorrow, I urge you to stop for a moment, remember and be grateful.“Lest we forget.”

A significant erosion control project at Lake Ainsworth, a vital freshwater lake in Lennox Head, has been completed by the NSW Government and Ballina Council.   Crown Lands, part of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, provided a $250,000 grant from its Crown Reserves Improvement Fund (CRIF) for beach repairs and protection work. Ballina Shire Council funded the balance of the project to a total cost of $380,583.The NSW Soil Conservation Service was contracted to shore up eight beaches around the lake to protect the banks from water damage and nourish the beaches with more than 1200 tonnes of imported sand.Timber retaining structures were installed to protect the foreshore from rising water levels during heavy rain, and hundreds of metres of turf were laid to beautify the surrounding reserve. Revegetation work and protective fencing will further support the long-term sustainability of the lake’s environs.(New turf was laid after the restoration work was complete. Photo: supplied)The beach restoration project will improve access, safety, and amenity at Lake Ainsworth, ensuring locals and visitors can enjoy this local treasure for years to come. The lake’s revitalised sandy banks will give families easy access to the water. Alternatively, they can admire the picturesque waterway from nearby grassy knolls installed as part of the project.The project will also protect the health of the lake by reducing the amount of soil and runoff that flows into the water, which can contribute to algae growth and impact native vegetation.Lake Ainsworth, known for its distinctive ‘tea’-coloured water, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The lake covers about 12 hectares and has calm waters, making it a hotspot for families. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, kayaking, sailing, fishing, bushwalking, picnics, BBQs, dog walking, and bird watching.Lake Ainsworth also hosts a unique sensitive ecosystem that is home to over 100 species of birds, endangered melaleuca forest and a diverse array of aquatic plants.Ballina Shire Council Mayor Sharon Cadwallader said, “Lake Ainsworth is one of our region’s most treasured natural assets, and this project ensures its beauty and ecological health are preserved for generations to come.Surrounded by tea-trees, the tannin-soaked waters are said to have healing properties that will leave your hair and skin feeling refreshed. Thanks to funding from the NSW Government and Ballina Shire Council’s investment, we’ve been able to restore and protect the lake’s foreshore, improving safety, accessibility, and environmental resilience.“The upgraded beaches, new retaining structures, and revegetation efforts will not only enhance the visitor experience but also safeguard this unique ecosystem. This vital project will help protect Lake Ainsworth and ensure it remains a favourite destination for locals and visitors alike.”Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said, “The NSW Government is focused on building better communities and investing in our regions, and this joint project will protect the natural environment of Lake Ainsworth for everyone’s enjoyment.“The erosion mitigation work and beach nourishment plan will not only protect the beautiful lake but make it safer and easier for locals and visitors to access the foreshore.”

Ballina Shire Council is making progress on the major intersection upgrade at Byron Bay Road and Byron Street, Lennox Head.Stage 3 works will begin on Thursday, 24 April 2025, with the intersection transitioning to a roundabout traffic arrangement. This will be the permanent configuration going forward.Traffic control and VMS boards will be in place to guide motorists safely through the area. Please drive with care and follow all signage.This major intersection upgrade includes:A permanent roundaboutConcrete kerbs and mediansAsphalt road pavementShared path for pedestrians and cyclistsPedestrian refugesLinemarking, signage and lightingDespite recent wet weather, works remain on track for completion in June 2025.Council thanks the community for their ongoing patience and cooperation as we deliver this important infrastructure project.This $1.53 million project is proudly funded through the Australian Government Black Spot Program.For more information, visit Council’s project page ballina.nsw.gov.au/Byron-Bay-Road-Lennox-Head-Roundabout.

Kyogle is on the path to improved sewerage infrastructure and better protection for the environment, with the next stage of investigative works for a new high-tech wastewater treatment plant underway.This next stage of development will help lay the groundwork for future upgrades, delivering concept designs and detailed site investigations by the end of this year. This has been funded thanks to $379,500 from the NSW Government and $125,500 from Kyogle Council.The existing Kyogle Sewage Treatment Plant was constructed in 1957, with only minor upgrades in the 1990s and 2000s. The ageing infrastructure is struggling to treat wastewater efficiently in line with environmental standards for effluent discharge needed to protect this iconic region.This is why the NSW Government and Council have joined forces to progress the next stage of investigative works that will enable the new plant to be shovel ready when funding is secured at a later date.It builds on $225,000 funding from the NSW Government’s Safe and Secure Program and $75,000 from Kyogle Council for the early development phase of the project in 2022.Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said, “Kyogle is a gateway to the Border Ranges and Toonumbar National Parks, so it’s crucial we have the best possible environmental protections in place, including ensuring local sewerage infrastructure, which services over 2500 people, is up to scratch.“While this upgrade is still in the design phase, it’s important that we dot the ‘I’s and cross the ‘T’s to enable the most informed investment decision down the track and get the best outcome for the community.“The NSW Government will continue working closely with Council to get these concept designs and detailed specifications done, which will give us a clearer idea of what a new sewage treatment plant could look like and how much it would cost.”Mayor of Kyogle Council, Cr Danielle Mulholland, said, “Treated effluent is already recycled into our region through agricultural irrigation, and some of that also makes its way to the Richmond River, which is why it’s vital that our wastewater treatment process remains at a really high standard.“We know the sewage plant will eventually need to be replaced which is why we’re busy preparing and doing our homework now so we’re ready to hit go on construction when the time comes.”To learn more about the Safe and Secure Water Program, please visit: https://water.dpie.nsw.gov.au/our-work/water-infrastructure-nsw/grants-and-funding/safe-and-secure-water-program.

Australia’s coastal councils are calling on the incoming Federal Government to establish a national response to coastal climate risks, including rising sea levels, more severe extreme weather events and widespread coastal erosion.Sharon Cadwallader, Chair of the Australian Coastal Councils Association and Mayor of Ballina Shire Council, said the scale of dealing with coastal hazards along Australia’s vast coastline requires a national approach, national leadership and national funding.“We are calling on the Australian, State and Territory Governments to work with local government to develop a coordinated national response to coastal climate risk, recognising that 50% of Australians live within 7kms of the coast,” Sharon Cadwallader said.“Coastal councils are at the forefront of dealing with rising sea levels, more frequent and severe extreme weather events, and widespread coastal erosion, but they are restricted by a lack of resources and coordination at a national level.“Given that Australia’s vast coastline stretches for around 33,000kms, it is beyond the capacity of local councils to deal with these risks.”Sharon Cadwallader said what is needed is for the Australian Government, working with the States and Territories, to develop a National Coastal Adaptation Fund to be administered at a national level.“Coastal councils are ready and keen to work collaboratively with the Australian, State and Territory Governments to respond to coastal risks,” she said.

Byron Bay will become the first regional area to establish a trial Special Entertainment Precinct to promote and preserve its nightlife.As part of the NSW Government’s ongoing rebuild of the state’s night-time economy, Byron’s famous pubs, performance spaces and restaurants will be future-proofed as a nightlife precinct.Special Entertainment Precincts (SEPs) allow councils to change trading hours and sound rules within a designated area to allow shops, businesses and local hospitality and entertainment operators to thrive and protect them against neighbour complaints.The Byron Bay precinct – bounded by beachfront Bay Street, Jonson Street and the rail corridor, with Middleton and Browning Streets – will protect the famous vibrancy of the town centre as the area experiences cost and real estate pressures.Within the precinct are time-honoured live music venues, the Backroom at the Great Northern Hotel, the Beach Hotel and The Rails.The Backroom has hosted The White Stripes, PJ Harvey and Paul Kelly, while Nirvana and Midnight Oil played the Beach Hotel in the past, and The Whitlams and The Cruel Sea have played at The Rails. Byron Bay attracted 2 million visitors in the 12 months to September 2024.Byron Shire Council is one of six regional councils in NSW that have put their hand up to explore establishing a SEP following the recent announcement that Burwood and Fairfield had been given the green light to establish their own precincts in Sydney’s west.Enmore Road became the first permanent SEP in December 2023, boosting night-time foot traffic, visitation and business revenue. The area was soon after named on Timeout’s Top 20 coolest neighbourhoods in the world.Byron Shire Council has received a Special Entertainment Precinct Kickstart Grant of $162,800 from the NSW Government, which supports the local council to consult with operators and the community to determine new opening hours and sound rules.The establishment of a SEP then precludes the need for local businesses within its boundaries to go through the expensive and time-consuming process of submitting new development applications to trade later. Under the ‘eyes wide open’ provision of the vibrancy reforms, which will take effect later this year, councils are also required to notify new property buyers, residents and businesses that they are to make an informed decision to live in a vibrant precinct.SEPs are being established alongside the NSW Government’s vibrancy reforms, which have:Permanently relaxed the rules for outdoor dining, allowing venues to make the most of their outdoor space on private land, including car parks and bowling greens.Increased incentives for live music and live performance, with two hours’ extended trading and an 80% reduction in liquor licence fees for licensed venues offering live music and performance.Ended single noise complaints shutting down pubs and other licensed venues through sound management reform, which established a single noise regulator for licensed venues, raised the number of complainants needed to consider a formal complaint from 3 to 5, and introduced an order of occupancy consideration.Created easier pathways for extended trading hours for licensed venues during major events like the Olympics and World Cups.Amended the Major Events Act so it can be used to cut red tape and support recurring significant events like Vivid Sydney and Sydney Festival.Made it easier for more venue types, including restaurants and small bars, to trade during special events across Sydney and regional NSW through extended event trading.Removed the ‘5km Rule’ for NSW registered clubs by repealing the requirement to become a member of a club to visit if a local resident lives within 5 kilometres of the venue.Stopped placing the standard condition on licensed venues that patrons must be seated while drinking outdoors.Made it easier to activate streets for festivals and events via the Transport for NSW Open Streets program and provided more guidance about traffic and transport management for special events.Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy John Graham said, “A night out in Byron Bay has been a special part of the lives of so many people, whether they are locals to the area or visitors getting a taste of North Coast NSW.“Byron Shire is an iconic destination, and the establishment of a trial Special Entertainment Precinct will ensure the classic days continue well into the night.“Our commitment to rebuilding nightlife following the era of lockouts and useless red tape that strangled fun is by no means confined to Sydney, and Byron Bay will be one of a number of regional NSW centres to commit to their local nightlife with a Special Entertainment Precinct.“I am delighted by the level of interest from councils across Sydney and NSW, and in response, we have increased the funding pool to over $1.94 million, so more councils can establish SEPs in the coming months.”  24-Hour Economy Commissioner Michael Rodrigues said, “The Byron Bay business chamber had been interested in the work of our Office for some time now and I am glad that there is a tangible project now on foot being led by the Council.“The Special Entertainment Precinct model is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It allows councils to work with businesses and local communities to put in place the right settings. I’m keen to see how this progresses. “Byron Shire Council Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said, “We’re so happy to receive this kickstart grant for a Special Entertainment Precinct in Byron Bay.“This is a unique opportunity to collaborate with our community — our artists, venues, businesses and residents — to shape a night-time economy that’s vibrant, welcoming and truly reflective of Byron’s creative spirit and coastal lifestyle.“With so much change over the past few years, this funding comes at the right time to support fresh ideas, local jobs and a safe, inclusive after-dark culture.“We want to create a night-time experience that not only supports our local economy but also celebrates the essence of Byron — its people, its stories and its unmistakable energy.”For more information, visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/business-and-economy/office-of-24-hour-economy-commissioner/vibrancy-reforms/seps. 

Beachgoers are urged to take care this long weekend as lifesavers prepare for hot weather and hazardous surf over what could be the last busy weekend of the season.Warm conditions are forecast across the state, with sunny days and temperatures likely to hit the mid-to-high 20s all Easter weekend.Lifesavers will be on high alert with long weekends and public holidays traditionally bringing heightened risks for swimmers.A Hazardous Surf Warning is also in place across the state, amplifying the importance of taking safety seriously.This Easter long weekend also coincides with the middle of school holidays.Flags will come down across NSW for volunteer lifesavers on Sunday, 27 April at the end of the Anzac Day long weekend.To find your nearest patrolled beach, visit www.beachsafe.org.au or download the Beachsafe app.Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said, "We’ve had a busy summer period on our beaches across NSW, and with warm weather forecast for this Easter weekend, we’re anticipating big crowds along the coast.“There are more than 20,000 volunteer lifesavers and lifeguards across the state, and I want to thank them for their contribution this holiday weekend and right across the summer.“Remember – don’t swim at unpatrolled locations, look for the red and yellow flags, and understand your limits when entering the ocean.“Stay vigilant, follow the guidance of our lifesavers and enjoy our stunning NSW beaches safely this Easter.”Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steve Pearce said, “Our volunteers will be out in force this Easter weekend, and our Rescue Services teams are conducting roving patrols using jetskis and drones. We’re throwing everything we can at keeping people safe.“We strongly advise people to head to a patrolled location and, particularly this long weekend, where a lot of people will be celebrating the Easter holiday, remember that drugs, alcohol, and water do not mix.”

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan has announced a $264,307 election commitment to deliver a full reshape and major trail network upgrades at the Kyogle Mountain Bike Park.The popular mountain bike trails were impacted by the 2022 floods and recent weather, with trail damage making the course unpredictable and difficult for riders.“This funding will completely reshape the existing trails and restore the network to a high standard, so it’s safe and enjoyable for all levels of riders,” Mr Hogan said.“Mountain biking is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, with more people getting on their bikes than ever before.”“The project will include trail realignment, clearing, drainage improvements and re-surfacing - enhancing safety and accessibility for riders and helping the town attract visitors and events.“This will be a massive asset for Kyogle, not just for local families and young people looking for something fun and active, but also for sports tourism.”

The NSW Government is empowering regional and rural women with essential skills in first aid, and mental health and crisis support through free training with St John Ambulance.  Coordinated by the Rural Women’s Network, the government has provided $90,000 in funding to deliver approximately 30 free workshops tailored for women across 15 regional locations, including Ballina, on June 12 and 13, 2025.The ‘Rural Women’s Network Skills Roadshow’ program will run workshops for up to 450 women across regional New South Wales from May until November 2025.The program aims to be accessible and includes skills to respond effectively in emergency situations, recognise mental health issues, recognise situations where people may be in imminent crisis, provide appropriate interventions and learn where to direct people for further support.Recent St John Ambulance statistics highlight the need to increase first aid and mental health knowledge:In New South Wales, 33% of adults have never trained in first aid (the highest proportion of any state/territory in Australia) and only 37% have done training in the last three years.Women are less likely to be confident providing first aid (44% of women are confident) compared to men (57% of men are confident).87% of Australians would be more willing to provide help to a person with a mental health issue if they were taught how.Workshop participants will receive a nationally accredited certification once they have completed their training.To find out more about the roadshow and register for the Ballina course, visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/women-nsw/rural-womens-network/rwn-events/rural-womens-network-skills-roadshow-2025.Minister for Regional New South Wales Tara Moriarity said, "It’s so important to equip rural and regional women with the first aid skills that they need to be a crucial first responder during an emergency because it can literally be the difference between life and death.“It’s not just about physical injuries either, this program helps develop the skills to identify and respond to someone experiencing a mental health problem or crisis, until professional help is available.”Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said, “For the first time women across regional and rural NSW - from Ballina to Broken Hill to Bega - will have access to free first aid and mental health training thanks to this program.“The New South Wales Government is making it easy for women to access this life-saving training to bridge an important gap, particularly for women who would have otherwise missed out due to cost or travel. We’re not only giving them essential skills but building resilience in regional communities.“Thank you to St Johns Ambulance for partnering with us to deliver this exciting program, which will deliver 30 workshops right across New South Wales.“For women living in regional or rural NSW, I encourage you to register for one or both courses nearest to you to help keep your family, workplace and community safe.”

The NSW Government is expanding support for the families of veterans as part of the NSW Veterans Strategy 2025-2030 released today.The strategy sets out a whole-of-government approach to support the wellbeing of veterans and their families and acknowledge their vital contribution to NSW.Building on the inaugural Veterans Strategy released in 2021, the strategy continues vital support while taking a greater focus on women veterans, along with the spouses and the children of veterans.Key additions to the strategy include:Building on the successful public service Veterans Employment Program by developing peer-support networks for veteran employees. The Veterans Employment program has been adopted by 30 councils and helped more than 1,000 veterans into jobs across NSWDeveloping career resources for veterans’ partners. This digital roadmap will also deliver resources to educate employers, policymakers, and stakeholders about the experience of spouses and partners.Supporting the children of veterans by promoting resources for schools and teachers of defence force-connected students, such as when transitioning between schools.Providing greater flexibility of school enrolment requirements for the children of veterans until a family has secured housing.The NSW Office of Veterans Affairs is partnering with RSL NSW and Monash University on an important research project aimed at improving support services for women veterans in NSW.The NSW Government has considered last year’s recommendations of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide and the Commonwealth Government’s response in finalising this strategy.The Government’s ongoing engagement with veterans, their families and ex-service organisations has ensured lived experience has remained central to the strategy.Its suite of programs and initiatives aims to ease the transition into civilian life for veterans and their families and honour service.Other components of the strategy include:Supporting the continued rollout of Veterans and Families Hubs that provide wellbeing services, support and opportunities for veterans and their families, with 5 hubs open and more to be announced soonResources to help veterans into employment and to establish or grow their careers such as conducting ‘jobs ready’ workshops for veterans and promote veteran-friendly employment opportunitiesDelivering a new memorial to acknowledge our contemporary veterans and their families.Support for veterans affected by problem gambling.Key actions of the current strategy are available in its 2023-2024 Final Report here: https://www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/assets/veterans-affairs/NSW-Veterans-Strategy-Final-Report-web.PDFTo download a copy of the NSW Veterans Strategy 2025-2030, go here: https://www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/assets/veterans-affairs/NSW-Veterans-Strategy-2025-2030-web.PDFMinister for Veterans David Harris said, “I am pleased to announce the second Veterans Strategy, which will allow the NSW Government to better recognise, inform and support the almost 130,000 veterans and their families who call NSW home.“This strategy is focussed on the experiences of veterans and their families and the issues that matter most to them.The Minns Labor Government is committed to delivering outcomes to support veterans and their families and recognise them for the sacrifices they have made.“The Strategy continues the great work of the first NSW Veterans Strategy and includes a number of new programs, initiatives and partnerships.”