Byron Shire Council, together with emergency response organisations, local services and groups, will come together later this month to deliver three information sessions about volunteering in a disaster. The sessions are a chance for the community to learn more about responding to disasters, like the 2022 floods, and more recently Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, through spontaneous volunteering. There’ll be short presentations, information stalls and some light refreshments during each of the two-hour events.Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said, “Local communities show incredible resilience and generosity, especially in times of hardship. The instinct to step up and support one another is a powerful reflection of our shared community spirit. “These sessions are about equipping people with the confidence, knowledge, and connections they need to make a real difference when lending a hand during a crisis or natural disaster.“By fostering knowledge-sharing and resourcefulness, we’re strengthening the foundations of volunteerism and building more connected, empowered communities.”Sarah Boulle, Byron Shire Council Community Resilience and Recovery Coordinator, encourages anyone curious about helping in times of disaster to attend.“These sessions are a great way to find out how you can get involved, stay connected, and be prepared. Come along to hear presentations from local groups and services, browse information stalls, and share some food with others in your community,” Ms Boulle said.Dates and locations:Tuesday 29 July from 6pm-8pm at St Martin’s Church Hall, 38-40 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby.Wednesday 30 July from 6pm-8pm at Ocean Shores Public School Hall, 166 Shara Boulevard, Ocean Shores.Saturday 2 August from 1pm-3pm at Marvell Hall, 37 Marvell Street, Byron Bay.“As the Byron Shire continues to thrive on the strength of its community, local spontaneous volunteering continues to be a powerful force for good—bringing people together in times of need,” she said.“We encourage anyone interested in contributing in a disaster to come along,” she added.The sessions will also include short presentations from local community resilience hub group representatives.“Our local groups are so valuable in our community’s disaster preparedness and recovery, so chatting with a local volunteer group leader can be a great way to find out about how to take action in your neighbourhood now,” Ms Boulle said. “Volunteering doesn’t always require a long-term commitment. But taking action now to find out about how best to lend a hand during a disaster could make a big difference when people are dealing with the next natural disaster,” she added.For more information, head to Council’s What’s On page.

The Richmond Police District completed its second high-visibility officer patrols last Thursday and Friday (July 10 and 11) in Ballina with great success.This follows the Lismore CBD patrols on May 27 and 28, when uniformed and plainclothes police officers conducted a joint operation with Loss Prevention Officers and Compliance Officers from Lismore City Council to detect and disrupt crime in the Lismore and Goonellabah areas.As a result of the operation, five people were charged with alleged shoplifting and drug offences, 27 criminal infringement notices were issued for shoplifting, 77 persons were scanned with hand-held devices under knife scanning powers, three youth cautions were conducted for shoplifting offences, and 18 move-on directions were issued.The joint operation in Ballina involved the Ballina Fair Shopping Centre, Bunnings Ballina and Loss Prevention Officers.As a result of the operation:17 shoplifters detected19 Criminal Infringement notices16 person searches9 persons scanned for weapons - nil finds2 business inspections1 ADVO compliance check1 warrant arrestRichmond Police District Commander Dave Roptell told the Lismore App, "We conducted a high visibility and a covert type of operation in Ballina, with the covert stuff mainly looking at shoplifting."We also overtly, which is in uniform, did some knife wanding or knife searches as part of the operation. Pleasingly, we didn't find anyone with any weapons on them. However, once we are there, and people see us, those carrying weapons obviously scatter from the place. So, that's a good deterrent focus. "We want to keep these operations going. We will continue to focus on the Ballina, Lismore, and Casino areas. In fact, the Casino area will be next. And we'll continue with follow-up operations with the OICs (Officer in Charge) of each of those locations to keep it in check. "We want to make sure that we are there to support the shop owners, Centrer Management and the community, and those results that we achieved during those operations actually support that, but there are offenses occurring and we just want to make sure that we are there to police it and ensure that the safety and well being of the community."

Ballina Shire Council has announced the completion of a major road safety upgrade in Lennox Head, with a new permanent roundabout now fully operational at the intersection of Byron Bay Road and Byron Street.The $1.53 million project has transformed the former T-intersection into a safer, more efficient roundabout that improves traffic flow and road safety for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists.Mayor Sharon Cadwallader welcomed the completion of the works, highlighting the long-term benefits for the community.“This is a vital upgrade for one of our key arterial routes. The new roundabout not only eases congestion but significantly improves safety for everyone travelling through this busy part of Lennox Head,” she said.“This project reflects our commitment to delivering infrastructure that supports a growing community and makes everyday journeys safer and more efficient.”This major improvement project included a new concrete roundabout, shared path connection, pedestrian refuges, and improved street lighting, along with new kerbs, line marking, and signage.The pedestrian improvements at the intersection will boost safety and connectivity, and this new section of shared path will ultimately connect to the future Lennox Head Shared Path (between Park Lane and Coopers Close).Ballina Shire Council’s Manager of Engineering Works, Paul Crozier, highlighted Council’s focus on delivering long-lasting infrastructure.“Over the past five years, we’ve delivered several major roundabouts designed for durability. By taking a sustainable approach and investing a little extra time and resources upfront, we’re reducing the need for ongoing maintenance and future upgrades,” Mr Crozier said.He also acknowledged the efforts of Council crews in keeping the project on track. “Despite a particularly wet autumn, our teams worked efficiently to complete the project on time and to a high standard.”Funded through the Australian Government’s Black Spots Program, the upgrade included:Concrete kerb and mediansAsphalt pavementShared path connection for pedestrians and cyclistsPedestrian refugesLine markingSignageStreet lightingTo learn more, visit Council’s project page at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ ByronBayRoadLennoxHeadRoundabout

The World Environment Day Festival attracted 300 attendees to Murwillumbah Showgrounds on Sunday (13 July), bringing together families, environmental advocates, and community members for a day of education, action, and celebration.Hosted by the Caldera Environment Centre and Tweed Landcare, the free festival showcased practical solutions to this year's global theme, #BeatPlasticPollution, through a completely zero-waste event that utilised 100% reusable crockery and cutlery.The diverse crowd included families with children, environmental advocates, green thumb enthusiasts, and community members passionate about protecting the Northern Rivers' unique biodiversity. Attendees engaged with numerous local environmental groups, renewable energy providers, and wildlife conservation organisations.Expert speakers addressed critical environmental challenges, including Professor Brendan Mackey from Griffith University on climate adaptation, Dr Owen Hogan from Southern Cross University on fighting plastic pollution, Bird language specialist Andrew Turbill, known as The Bird Guy, discussed how bird language can deepen our connection to country and the natural world, and Gerard Wedderburn Bisshop on forest conservation."The event was about showing that we are not alone in tackling the environmental issues of our times. The event was about maintaining and growing an environmentally conscious community, sharing knowledge and empowering each other to tackle the issues together", said Isabelle Oude-Egberink, event organiser from Tweed Landcare."World Environment Day proved that when our community comes together, we can demonstrate real solutions to our greatest existential challenges," said MC Chels Hood Withey from the Climate Justice Alliance. "What we don't lack is innovation and community commitment to sustainability - what we lack is political will. From renewable energy to circular systems, the solutions exist and our community is ready to implement them. I hope our decision-makers are listening - there's no excuse for further investment in coal and gas when a thriving, regenerative economy is not only possible, but is being initiated here in the Northern Rivers."The festival featured live music from local artists Birren and The Seeding, a performance from Hoopla Circus, and dedicated children's learning spaces. Community raffles raised funds for Murwillumbah Community Garden, Team Koala and Tweed Landcare's ongoing conservation work.Originally scheduled for Knox Park in June, the event was relocated due to weather conditions, highlighting the real impacts of climate change while showcasing community resilience and adaptation.The festival was supported by sponsors including Husk Rum, Rainbow Power Company, Tweed Shire Council, Murwillumbah Farmers Market and ITV Studios.

About 8:45pm on Thursday (10 July 2025), emergency services attended Avenue Road, West Bungawalbin (approximately 30km west of Woodburn), following reports of a crash.On arrival, officers attached to Richmond Police District found a single vehicle had crashed into a pole.The driver, a 23-year-old man, was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics for minor injuries before being taken to Lismore Base Hospital in a stable condition.A 17-month-old girl who was in the vehicle was also taken to Lismore Base Hospital with minor injuries.Following inquiries by Strike Force Haynes, comprising detectives from Richmond Police District, about 3.15pm yesterday (Sunday, 13 July 2025), the 23-year-old man was released from hospital and arrested by police.He was taken to Lismore Police Station, where he was charged with five offences – attempted murder (DV), cause bodily harm by wilful neglect, in charge of motor vehicle, contravene AVO (two counts) and stalk/intimidate intend fear physical harm.The man was refused bail to appear in Bail Division Court 1 tomorrow (Monday, 14 July 2025).

A passenger has died following a two-vehicle crash in Casino late last month.About 7.45am on Wednesday, 25 June 2025, emergency services responded to reports of a crash between a red Honda Jazz and a white Isuzu D-Max dual cab utility at the intersection of Canterbury Street and Colches Street, Casino.NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the passengers of the Honda – a 78-year-old man and an 80-year-old woman – at the scene before they were taken to Lismore Base Hospital in a critical condition.The man was later airlifted to Gold Coast University Hospital.The 50-year-old driver of the Honda and the 52-year-old driver and sole occupant of the Isuzu – both females – suffered minor injuries.Both were also taken to Lismore Hospital for mandatory testing.Officers from the Crash Investigation Unit have commenced an investigation into the matter. On Saturday, 12 July 2025, Richmond Police were advised the 78-year-old man had passed away in hospital.Police will prepare a report for the information of the Coroner regarding the man’s death.As inquiries continue, police are urging anyone with information about the crash, or who was in the vicinity of the location shortly before or after the incident, with any available dashcam/mobile phone footage, to contact Casino Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Marine Rescue Point Danger crews responded to an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) signal off Tweed Heads this afternoon.Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Steve Raymond said the alarm was raised at 1:08pm today (Friday, 11 July).“A crew from Marine Rescue Point Danger was already on the water assisting another vessel when the distress call came through.“With the assistance of Marine Rescue Point Danger radio operators, the Marine Rescue NSW vessel was deployed to the location of the EPIRB, approximately five nautical miles east of Point Danger.“NSW Water Police and NSW Maritime also responded.“The EPIRB had been activated by the crew of a vessel that had overturned offshore.“The two males from that vessel were successfully retrieved from the water.“NSW Police Marine Area Command subsequently tasked Marine Rescue Point Danger with retrieving the overturned vessel.“It appears as though the vessel has sunk, with our crew locating numerous pieces of debris.“Conditions offshore were favourable and calm for most of the day.“It is not yet known how the vessel capsized.“The multi-agency emergency services response to the EPIRB was rapid.“This incident highlights the importance of boaters carrying an EPIRB on board – it is a life-saving piece of equipment, and this afternoon it did just that: it saved two lives,” Inspector Raymond said.Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer-based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.

A teenage boy has been charged following an alleged break and enter and police pursuit on the state’s north coast.About 11pm last night (Thursday, 10 July 2025), police were called to a caravan park on Harbour Street, Yamba, following reports of a break and enter.Officers attached to Coffs/Clarence Police District attended and were told a male allegedly broke into a caravan before stealing a Toyota SUV.Police commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident.A short time later, police located the vehicle travelling on Yamba Road, Palmers’ Channel.Police attempted to stop the vehicle, and when it did not stop, a pursuit was initiated.The pursuit was terminated when the vehicle crashed into a power pole, which snapped and sparked a fire in nearby grassland. Fire and Rescue NSW crews attended and extinguished the blaze.The driver – a 17-year-old boy – was uninjured. He was arrested at the scene and was subjected to a roadside breath test, which returned a positive result.He was taken to Grafton Police Station, where he underwent a secondary breath analysis, which returned an alleged reading on 0.101.The boy was charged with aggravated break and enter and commit serious indictable offence-people there, police pursuit - not stop - drive recklessly, driver not wear seatbelt properly adjusted and fastened, never licensed person drive vehicle on road, drive with middle range PCA, steal motor vehicle and breach of bail.He was refused bail to appear before a children’s court today (Friday, 11 July 2025).

Over five million passengers have flown through Ballina Byron Gateway Airport with Jetstar since the airline’s first flight touched down 20 years ago.This long-standing partnership has grown into a vital connection between the Northern Rivers region and key destinations across Australia, with onward connectivity to international locations via Sydney and Melbourne.Ballina Byron Gateway Airport is proud to celebrate this milestone with Jetstar, an airline that has played a central role in making travel more accessible for locals and visitors alike. Over the past 20 years, this partnership has supported the local economy by enabling travel for tourism, business and residents, while helping keep families and communities connected.Since Jetstar commenced services at Ballina in 2005, the airline has played a pivotal role in enhancing regional connectivity, with more than five million passengers flying on almost 40,000 Jetstar flights in and out of the airport.Ballina Shire Mayor Sharon Cadwallader acknowledged the significance of the milestone."This is a wonderful achievement and a proud moment for our region. Jetstar has been a vital partner in connecting our community to key destinations across the country. This enduring partnership has contributed to the growth of our local economy and helped make our region more accessible to visitors from around Australia."Jetstar also recognised the importance of the milestone in strengthening its connection with the Northern Rivers. Jetstar’s Executive Manager, Customer, Jenn Armor said, "Ballina Byron Gateway Airport was one of Jetstar’s very first destinations, and two decades later, it’s still one of our most loved. That very first flight from Sydney to Ballina marked the beginning of a long and successful partnership, built on shared growth, and a passion for making travel more accessible.”  "For the past 20 years, we've carried over 5 million passengers through Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, and we’re incredibly proud to have played a role in connecting this beautiful region with the rest of Australia."Ballina Byron Gateway Airport and Jetstar look forward to building on their success and continuing their shared commitment to the Northern Rivers for years to come.

Creativity, culture and community will be at the heart of a project to reinvigorate a part of the Byron Bay town centre as part of a State Government-funded trial..The goal of this project is to explore the community’s interest in defining a specific part of the town centre, a special entertainment precinct, to enable more cultural and community events.It will also help local businesses wanting to host live entertainment, provide fairer and more uniform trading hours for small venues, and offer more on-street dining opportunities.In late July, Byron Council will ask businesses, residents, creatives, visitors and other stakeholders how they use the town centre during the day and night, what sorts of events and activities they think would positively enhance Byron Bay, and importantly, what problems or issues are evident now that need addressing.Jack Dods, Deputy Mayor of Byron Shire, said it’s important for everyone to know that this project is not about creating or promoting Byron Bay as a party town."This project aims to create a vibrant public realm in Byron Bay by activating spaces for community events, markets, and creative activities.I am hopeful that it will also give us the data to begin tacking challenges like safety, poor lighting, and excessive noise and set clear, enforceable guidelines and lay a strong foundation for renewed vitality enjoyed by both locals and visitors," Deputy Mayor Dods said. "I also hope it will bring new life to under-utilised parts of the town centre, like the rail corridor park and our laneways, by making it easier for our vibrant artistic community to host creative events at various times of the year," he said.Everyone will have the chance to provide feedback or information in a variety of ways with pop-up events, information sessions, focus groups and online engagement activities to be held from late July.Information about the Special Entertainment Precinct trial is on Council’s website, including a map showing the area identified for the trial. 

Police have charged two teenagers with numerous shoplifting offences in the Tweed Heads area.Operation FURITTUS was initiated to enhance community safety by addressing anti-social behaviour, shoplifting and other offences occurring within local shopping centres, public spaces and public transport hubs in the Tweed Heads area.Detective Inspector Matt Zimmer from Tweed/Byron Police District said, “This operation reinforces our commitment to maintaining a strong presence in the community by disrupting individuals who engage in criminal activity and holding them accountable for their actions."Ongoing investigations led to a search warrant being executed at a home on Cambridge Court, Kingscliff, yesterday (Wednesday, 9 July 2025). During a search of the premises, police allegedly located and seized numerous clothing items alleged to be linked to several shoplifting offences.A 16-year-old boy was arrested at the address and taken to Tweed Heads Police Station. He was charged with twenty-two shoplifting offences. He was given conditional bail to appear at Tweed Heads Children’s Court on Wednesday, 20 August 2025.A 17-year-old girl was also arrested at the home. She was charged with six shoplifting offences and issued a Future Court Attendance Notice. She will appear before a children’s court on Wednesday, 20 August 2025.Investigations under Operation FURITTUS are ongoing.

Byron Shire Council’s Resourcing Strategy is one of the organisation’s key documents, focusing on assets, staff and finances, and it’s now on public exhibition.In late June, Council endorsed the Delivery Program for 2025 - 2029, which lists the priority projects and work to be done over the four-year Council term.  The Resourcing Strategy outlines the time, people and assets available to implement the Delivery Program.The Resourcing Strategy includes:Long-Term Financial PlanningWorkforce Management PlanningAsset Management PlanningWithin the Resourcing Strategy, the Workforce Management Strategy is about how Council will ensure it has the right people to achieve its strategic goals and objectives.The Long-Term Financial Plan presents how Council intends to fund its work over the next ten years, and the Strategic Asset Management Plan guides how assets will be managed to service the community in the most cost-effective way.Information about the Resourcing Strategy and how to make a submission is on Council’s website.Submissions close on Sunday, 3 August.

Byron Council says it’s time for residents in the Byron Shire to step up and join Council and some amazing businesses in Mullumbimby to say no to single-use coffee cups in July.Some of Mullumbimby’s much-loved businesses are partnering with Council and local business, Good Reusables, to do their bit to eliminate single-use packaging, specifically takeaway coffee cups.When people go to grab their daily cuppa at their favourite haunt in Mullum and they’ve forgotten their reusable cup, they can pay a small deposit to borrow a ‘good’ cup, which is refunded when it is returned.Statistics from Department of Climate Change, Energy and the Environment and Water found that Australians use 1.8 billion single-use, hot beverage cups each year, that’s almost 500,000 cups that are sent to landfill each day.Sarah Child, Council’s Resource Recovery Strategy and Engagement Officer, said awareness about reuse is gaining momentum, especially in the Byron Shire.“We have been working really hard with event organisers and the markets in the Shire to stop single-use packaging, and each week they are currently removing an average of 6,000 items a week from going to landfill,” Ms Child said.“People think that take-away coffee cups are recyclable or compostable, and therefore there’s no harm in using them.“But the reality is they are not able to be recycled in any way, and they go straight into landfill. “It’s much easier for people to take their own cup or borrow,” Ms Child said.Cafes in Mullumbimby taking part in Reuse July include:The Other JointBimbiYa’manSantos OrganicsThe PaddockHeaps GoodLulus“I am hoping people will get behind these great businesses and acknowledge their efforts to reduce the use of single-use cups.,” Ms Child said.“I would love to see the number of take-way coffee cups used in Mullum plummet in July, so I am inviting everyone to join the challenge,” she said.Businesses wanting to take part in Reuse July should email Anika Brown at anbrown@byron.nsw.gov.au.

A man has died following a unit fire in Kingscliff earlier this week.About 7.30am on Monday, 7 July 2025, emergency services were called to Monarch Drive, Kingscliff and found a single-level retirement unit well-alight.An 85-year-old man who sustained severe burns and was taken to Royal Brisbane Hospital in a critical condition has since died from his injuries.A report will be prepared for the coroner.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

AFTER a four-month closure due to construction and restoration works, Broadwater Bridge, a vital transport link for residents, commuters, and businesses, has officially reopened today following a significant upgrade project which enhances safety, accessibility, and connectivity.The Broadwater Bridge lift span, originally repurposed from Barneys Point Bridge in 1933, no longer met modern requirements. To improve safety and extend the Bridge’s lifespan, the existing lift span was replaced with precast trough girder, matching the other spans of the Bridge.Richmond Valley Council, in partnership with Lismore City Council, awarded the tender to Ark Construction Group Pty Ltd. This project was co-funded by both councils, along with the support of the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.To increase structural strength to handle heavier loads, the $1.6 million project saw the replacement of the centre bascule span with a new concrete span. This involved the demolition of the ply decking, checker plate covers, hydraulic system and headstocks. Precast deck units were then installed, forming the foundation of the Bridge deck. Following this, concrete barriers were poured to complete the structure.Acting Richmond Valley Council Mayor Steve Morrissey said the reopening of the Broadwater Bridge restored a key connection for hundreds of people and businesses who relied on it every day.Cr Morrissey said the upgrade was not only about infrastructure - it was also about reconnecting communities.He said Broadwater Bridge, located on Broadwater Road over the Richmond River, was a vital infrastructure link for both residents and the agriculture industry in the region.“Broadwater Bridge has served the community for 25 years, and this restoration ensures it will continue to do so for decades to come,” Cr Morrissey said.Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said the major safety upgrade was a good example of local councils working together for their communities. “This bridge is crucially important for residents, farmers and businesses,” Cr Krieg said.

Premier Chris Minns and NSW Government Ministers will head to the Tweed in the state’s Northern Rivers for the NSW Government’s next Community Cabinet.Community Cabinet provides valuable insights into the diverse needs and opportunities for the different regions across NSW and connects communities with the state’s decision-makers.The Premier and Ministers will engage with community members and organisations and host a community forum on Wednesday, 30 July.The community forum will provide an opportunity for community members to ask questions of the NSW Premier and Cabinet Ministers, as well as raise matters of importance in the Tweed region.This will be the Minns Labor Government’s third Community Cabinet of 2025 and eighth since forming Government, as they continue work to build a better New South Wales informed by local voices. Community Cabinets have also been held on the South Coast and the Central Coast as well as in Broken Hill, Orange, Riverstone, East Hills and Penrith.Community Q&A ForumThe Premier, will be joined by NSW Ministers for a Community Q&A, giving members of the community an opportunity to directly engage with the NSW Government about local matters of importance.WHERE: Twin Towns Clubs and Resorts, Level 5, 2 Wharf Street, Tweed Heads.WHEN: 12:00pm-1:15pm, Wednesday 30 July 2025.NOTE: Registration is required to attend this event.Members of the community can register by visiting nsw.gov.au/communitycabinet or phoning, 02 9228 5188.Registration is free and closes on Monday, 28 July. Pre-registration is required as places are limited.NSW Premier, Chris Minns said, "The North Coast, including Tweed Heads have faced a difficult few years, from historic floods, to Cyclone Alfred as well as the threat of fire ants along the Queensland boarder – it is not an exaggeration to say this part of our state is home to some of the most resilient communities in our country.“Community Cabinets are vital in our work to ensure we deliver solutions informed by local voices, I’m looking forward to hearing firsthand about the opportunities and challenges that are front of mind on the ground. "I’ve made multiple visits to the region over the past two years, but coming for Community Cabinet is special because it’s not about one or two major issues of the day: it’s about hearing everything.“Flood preparedness and recovery is high on our radar, and we want to know how that’s tracking, but we also want to ensure we have a deep understanding of all issues that and opportunities that affect the region.”Minister for the North Coast, Janelle Saffin said, "I’m pleased to be bringing Community Cabinet to the Tweed to continue strengthening the connection between the government and our passionate residents."This event is a chance for the Tweed community to meet with government leaders and help them better understand the challenges, benefits and way of life up here in Tweed.“Our residents and businesses experience unique circumstances, particularly as a border community, and it’s important for government decisions to reflect and respect those experiences."I strongly encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity to meet with the Premier and Ministers and share their perspectives, ensuring their priorities are heard and recognised.”

Two people have been taken to hospital following an explosion and unit fire in Kingscliff this morning.Emergency services were called to Monarch Drive shortly before 7.30am (Monday, 7 July 2025), and found a single-level retirement unit well-alight.An 85-year-old man has been taken to Royal Brisbane Hospital with severe burns; he’s described as being in a critical condition.An 83-year-old woman has suffered minor burns to her face and body and is in a stable condition at Tweed Valley Hospital.Officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District are working with Fire and Rescue NSW investigating the cause; however, initial advice to police indicates the cause may be a leak from an internal portable gas appliance.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

NSW is calling on Queensland to help fix a cross-border legal anomaly that gives taxi drivers north of the border an advantage over their NSW rivals and makes life harder for passengers and tourists seeking to catch a ride into NSW.Queensland drivers can pick up a fare in NSW whereas NSW drivers are banned by Queensland law from picking up in that state outside of a handful of dedicated ranks for NSW-bound passengers.This has created an economic disadvantage for NSW drivers and point to point operators and reduced the level of service for tourists and residents flying into Gold Coast Airport as a gateway to Northern NSW.The NSW taxi industry has complained of Queensland cabbies operating in NSW during big events like Bluesfest in Byron Bay.More concerning is the impact on NSW residents requiring specialised transport services and often returning from medical appointments in Queensland.NSW residents requiring wheelchair accessible taxis for medical appointments on the Gold Coast face considerable challenges. They are currently unable to book their trusted NSW drivers for return journeys and often endure extended wait times, as well as difficulties with the NSW subsidy scheme being accepted by Queensland operators.This situation creates unnecessary distress for people relying on these services.The NSW Point to Point Transport Commissioner raised the issue at the recent Cross Border Tourism and Transport Forum and there has been discussions this year between the NSW Taxi Council and Gold Coast service providers, who have expressed support for allowing NSW drivers to conduct return trips for NSW passengers with disabilities.Minister for Transport John Graham has now written to his Queensland counterpart Brent Mickelberg, Minister for Transport and Main Roads, to propose an immediate change to allow passengers using the NSW Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme to book a return trip with their preferred NSW operator.This first step would improve service for vulnerable passengers from NSW.Minister for Transport John Graham said, “Our two states compete hard, whether that is to attract tourists and visitors, in business or on the sporting field - as will be seen again on Wednesday night in the State-of-Origin series decider, which we expect the Blues to win.“To do so, we both require a level playing field and that is what we are calling on Queensland to help us provide when it comes to cross-border transport.“The current regulatory frameworks on point to point services give Queensland drivers an advantage over their NSW counterparts. We believe an unfair advantage and that state border anomalies should not exist in Australia in 2025.“This results in a poorer service for visitors getting into our state and at times distress for NSW residents who need to access medical treatment in Queensland and rely on the NSW Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme to return home.” Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said, “Competition between states is great, but not when it comes to accessing transport.“The Queensland Government is on the wrong foot. Access to critical services should not depend on where you live, but that is the reality for some people living in the border communities of NSW and Queensland. “Unfair operating arrangements between NSW and Queensland doesn’t just impact our most vulnerable residents, it also disadvantages our small businesses in the taxi sector as well as tourism and hospitality. We need a level playing field to ensure people across the Queensland and NSW borders can access services, and operators are playing under one set of rules when to comes to fares. “The NSW Point to Point Transport Commissioner would be pleased to work with the Department of Transport and Main Roads to develop and implement these arrangements.“Transport doesn’t need to be a political football. Let’s keep the football on the field and work together to ensure that everyone along our state border can get where they need to go.” NSW Taxi Council chief executive Nick Abrahim said, “The NSW Taxi Council welcomes the move to allow NSW taxi drivers to carry out return trips after dropping off a Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme participant in Queensland.“We would like to see this measure extended to allow for all passengers to be given the opportunity to return in a NSW Taxi for all trips that cross the border.” 

NAIDOC Week is a special time to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and achievements and is an opportunity to recognise the contributions Indigenous Australians make to our country and society.This year’s National NAIDOC Week marks 50 years of the week-long celebrations. The theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy, celebrates achievements of the past and the bright future ahead, empowered by the strength of young leaders, the vision of communities, and the legacy of ancestors. Over the decades, NAIDOC Week has grown into a powerful national celebration, a testament to the enduring strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. As the community commemorates this 50-year legacy, Ballina Council also looks forward, honouring the next generation who will carry the torch, shaping the future with courage, insight, and deep respect for our roots. Guided by the wisdom of our Elders and the groundwork laid by our forebears, each NAIDOC Week reinforces our vision for an Australia where Indigenous voices are not only heard but also lead. Some of the activities planned for the Ballina Shire are:ANNUAL CELEBRATION WALKMonday 7 July 10am for walk from 10.30amRiver Street, Ballina The whole community is invited to join the annual Celebration Walk that starts from the Ballina RSL Club and proceeds along River Street to the front of the Ballina Visitor Information Centre for the official flag raising ceremony, dancers and speeches. Refreshments, BBQ, displays and games will be staged in the closed off area of the carpark with morning tea provided for community Elders in the Richmond Room.ELDERS LUNCHTuesday 8 July from 10.30am – 1.30pm Richmond RoomSpecial elders luncheon with hand massages, jewellery making, art with ochre, lingo bingo, elders photo booth and more.BULLINAH BASKETBALL 3 x 3 Wednesday 9 July from 10am – 2pm Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC)Free 3 x 3 competition, skills and drills for 8-18 year olds with lunch provided and singlets for all registered playersGARIIMA ELDERS GROUP EXHIBITION Wednesday 9 to Sunday 13 July Ignite Studios – 60 Crane Street BallinaA pop-up exhibition at Ignite Studios by local Ballina CPL Gariima Elders Group for NAIDOC Week, representing themes of family, cultural connections, colours of country, nature, gathering, ceremony and homeland, and using a combination of natural ochres and other materials sourced on Bundjalung Country. Open Wed – Fri 10am – 2pm, Sat – Sun 10am – 1pmGOORI CULTURAL ART & MUSIC FESTIVAL Thursday 10 July 10am – 2pmMissingham Park Amphitheatre Cultural activities including weaving, dancing, jewellery making, cultural art, cultural tours, didgeridoo playing, bush tucker tastings and live music.COMMUNITY MURAL PAINTING & WEAVING CIRCLEFriday 11 July 10am – 2pm Ignite Studios – 60 Crane Street BallinaA community mural painting in the grounds of Ignite Studios, led by Bundjalung/Dunghutti artist Sonya Breckenridge, and drop-in weaving circle with local weaving collective Jugan Dandii. All welcome, tools and materials provided. Wear clothes that can get messy!NYANGBAL NAIDOC GROUP EXHIBITIONThursday 26 June to Sunday 17 August Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) – 44 Cherry Street BallinaA group exhibition at the Northern Rivers Community Gallery featuring emerging local artists from the Nyangbal clan of the Bundjalung Nation - Daniel Roberts, Savannah Hickling, Loren Del Signore and Levi Roberts.