The Lismore App
The Lismore App
Your local digital newspaper
Games/PuzzlesBecome a SupporterFlood RecoveryPodcasts
The Lismore App

Northern Rivers


Ready-to-build residential lots go to auction in Wollongbar on 6 August 2025
Ready-to-build residential lots go to auction in Wollongbar on 6 August 2025

24 June 2025, 1:33 AM

Ballina Shire Council will auction six residential lots in the picturesque village of Wollongbar, offering a rare opportunity for families and investors to secure land in a well-connected, fast-growing community.The lots located on Avalon Avenue will go to public auction on Wednesday, 6 August 2025, and range in size from 600m² to 820m², with all blocks registered and ready for immediate construction.“These blocks offer the ideal foundation to build a home in a location that ticks all the boxes – lifestyle, location and community,” said Paul Tsikleas, Manager Commercial Services at Ballina Shire Council.“This important project supports our community’s growing housing needs by unlocking well-located land for new homes, while also providing a revenue stream to sustain Council operations,” said Paul.Lifestyle, location and regional connectionBallina Shire Mayor Sharon Cadwallader says Wollongbar continues to grow in popularity thanks to its welcoming community, peaceful setting and convenient access to everyday essentials.“Wollongbar offers the best of both worlds – a relaxed village atmosphere with great local amenities and quick access to surrounding towns. It’s a wonderful place to raise a family, stay connected to the region, and enjoy a balanced lifestyle,” Mayor Cadwallader said.The neighbourhood is home to Wollongbar Public School, a local TAFE campus, preschools, sporting fields, shops and a popular local tavern. A new childcare facility is also proposed, adding further appeal for young families. Wollongbar District Park is a short stroll away and features modern recreational facilities for active lifestyles.Positioned between Lismore and Ballina, Wollongbar residents enjoy easy access to Alstonville and the broader region, including Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, making it ideal for commuting, travel or visiting family and friends.“With a growing sense of community, scenic surrounds and everything families need close by, it’s no surprise Wollongbar is becoming a sought-after place to call home,” Mayor Cadwallader said.Auction detailsThe public auction will be held at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre.Date: Wednesday, 6 August 2025Time: Registrations from 5:00pm, Auction starts at 6:00pmLocation: Lennox Head Cultural Centre, 1 Mackney Ln, Lennox Head NSW 2478For more information and real estate enquiries, please contact:Paul Tsikleas, Manager Commercial Services, Ballina Shire Council, 0458 276 362Leanne Harding, Coordinator Property, Ballina Shire Council, 0429 909 976Or speak to your preferred local real estate agent.

Climate Conversations project set to launch at Lone Goat Gallery
Climate Conversations project set to launch at Lone Goat Gallery

22 June 2025, 9:26 PM

The biennial Climate Conversations project returns to Lone Goat Gallery this July, inviting the community to connect, reflect, and take action on climate change through art and dialogue. The project is a creative initiative of Byron Shire Council, bringing together Northern Rivers artists and communities to explore adaptation, resilience, and evolution in response to climate change.The project will kick off on Friday, 11 July at 5pm with a launch event for Rise and Fall by acclaimed Wiradjuri artist Karla Dickens. Her powerful installation explores the personal and collective trauma of climate catastrophe through a First Nations lens. The work draws deeply from Karla’s lived experience during the 2022 Lismore floods and her connection to Bundjalung Country.“We are so excited to be running the Climate Conversations project again, and it is incredible to have the opportunity to bring this powerful installation by Karla Dickens to a local audience. Through the lens of our First Nations people and the power of art, we can listen and learn about our shared responsibility,” Lone Goat Gallerist, Sarah Harvey said.“Karla brings an important message to the community – that we need to act swiftly and take action if we are going to care for this country. I think this growing urgency to act is something we all feel, as we continue to see more climate disasters,” she added.The Climate Conversations exhibition will run from 12 July to 9 August, alongside a thought-provoking series of free talks, workshops, and creative activities designed to inspire action and foster community connection. This year’s theme: Rising.Program of Free Events:Project Launch: Rise and Fall by Karla Dickens - Friday 11 July, 5–7pm.Project on exhibition, Wednesdays to Saturdays from 10am to 4pm - Saturday 12 July – Saturday 9 August.Let’s Talk Recycling: Reducing Plastics in Byron Shire with Sarah Child - Saturday 12 July, 10.30–11.30am.Working Together as Community with Ella Bancroft and Karla Dickens - Saturday 19 July, 2–3.30pm.Creating Space with Karla Dickens - Saturday 26 July, 1–3pm.Rescue Mission Making Space for kids and adults - 12 July – 9 August during opening hours.Bookings are essential for selected events. For full program details and to book your place, visit the Lone Goat Gallery website.

Beyond the beach: Byron Shire starts work on a community-curated night-time economy
Beyond the beach: Byron Shire starts work on a community-curated night-time economy

19 June 2025, 9:48 PM

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

Byron Council gives long-term licence for Fletcher Street cottage 
Byron Council gives long-term licence for Fletcher Street cottage 

18 June 2025, 8:28 PM

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

Council investigating potential for part of old Byron Hospital to be used for key worker accommodation
Council investigating potential for part of old Byron Hospital to be used for key worker accommodation

18 June 2025, 8:26 AM

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

Community asked to have their say on future of Kyogle LGA
Community asked to have their say on future of Kyogle LGA

16 June 2025, 12:28 AM

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

Kyogle Council targets growth with $61.3 million budget
Kyogle Council targets growth with $61.3 million budget

13 June 2025, 6:25 AM

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

Get to Kyogle Showground this Saturday for World's Biggest Happy Dance
Get to Kyogle Showground this Saturday for World's Biggest Happy Dance

12 June 2025, 6:41 AM

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

2025 Richmond Valley Business Awards now open
2025 Richmond Valley Business Awards now open

05 June 2025, 7:49 AM

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

Byron Council says reconstruction of South Beach Road underway
Byron Council says reconstruction of South Beach Road underway

03 June 2025, 7:33 AM

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

1-20 of 205
The Lismore App
The Lismore App
Your local digital newspaper


Get it on the Apple StoreGet it on the Google Play Store