Community Connect | Ballina Shire Council | Issue 37 | November 2019

ISSUE

37 NOV 2019

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AUSTRALIA DAY CELEBRATIONS 2020 SUNDAY 26 JANUARY 2020 Former Australian Diamonds Netball Captain, sports commentator and Ballina Shire resident, Liz Ellis will be our special guest at the Australia Day Celebrations in the newly opened Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC). See page 3 for details...

featured stories...

Nominate your local hero Australia Day Awards

River Street Duplication

Shop Local this Christmas

from the mayor's desk

From the Mayor's Desk 2019 has flown by so quickly and much has changed in the Ballina Shire since last Christmas.

There has been a continuing year of growth in visitors, land and house sales, new facilities and other projects just about to be completed.

These include the latest River Street Upgrade and Lake Ainsworth Foreshore Improvement Works. The shire is certainly buzzing.

One new facility, just opened, is the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC). Combined with the two Ballina Coast High courts, the centre can cater for a variety of large indoor sporting events. The amenities, change rooms, meeting rooms and the quality build make this complex one of the best in NSW. With the upcoming Christmas holiday period, readers should think seriously about shopping locally instead of online or heading up to the Gold Coast. To have a wide variety of shopping experiences in the shire all year round, a big Christmas spend will ensure that business viability is enhanced.

The shire has many amazing volunteers and Australia Day 2020 is a fantastic chance to recognise their importance to our community.

Please nominate someone who goes the extra mile but is often unrecognised and possibly working behind the scenes to ensure things happen. The shire is very proud of its wide variety of volunteers and council has the privilege of working with many. Your nomination can be a long term worker through to an inspirational leader; young or old it's a great way to be recognised.

Speaking of leaders, one person who knows this job well is Liz Ellis, our 2020 Australia Day ambassador. Liz has chosen Ballina Shire to raise her family and it is quite fitting that our staff have invited Liz to be our guest speaker for the 2020 Australia Day celebrations to be held in the new Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC). Liz, I’m sure, has competed and commentated in many indoor sports centres around the country and the world. Let’s hope she enjoys ours.

Based on the last school break, the upcoming holiday period will be full of visitors accessing our beautiful beaches, plateau rainforests, primary production farms, river, heath lands and waterfalls. This growth in tourist numbers is great for business but might cause inconvenience at times. However, a kind word or help with directions is a great way to say welcome.

I have again been very fortunate to visit many incredible groups over the last twelve months and on behalf of the whole community, I thank those organisations for what they do to help so many others.

I really hope that families have a well-deserved holiday break and that safety in the water and on the roads is paramount in everyone’s thoughts.

Please do what you can do to make someone’s holiday period a little better. Whether it’s a few words of greeting, an offer to help, an inclusion to join in a meal or a small gift – your generosity might be the thing that supports someone in experiencing a time of joy and fellowship.

contents prosperous economy Australia Day – Ballina Shire Awards 2020 Celebrating Christmas in our town centres Supporting a growing community River Street upgrade nearing completion Coastal Shared Path Ballina Byron Gateway Airport Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC) Skennars Head Sports Fields expansion Sport and Recreational Facilities Plan Future Road Network – River Street duplication Bitumen Reseal List 2019/2020 Over 2,000 New LED Streetlights for Ballina Shire Local experiences

3 4–5 6 7 7 8–9 10 11 11 12 – 13 14 15 17

engaged leadership Community Portal – providing access 24/7 18 Rates and charges – help and more payment options 18 Help us maintain safe swimming pools in Ballina Shire 19 Patrols for 2019/2020 swimming season 20 Ballina Shire residents win lifesaver major awards 20 Surf Awareness for Migrant Students 21 Lennox Village Vision – Phase 2 22 – 23

connected community What's on? Community Events 24 Lennox Head Community Centre improvement works 25 Arts Connect – Northern Rivers Regional Gallery 26 – 28

healthy environment Dogs in outdoor dining areas and public places 29 Beachwatch 30 Lake Ainsworth – foreshore improvement works Healthy Waterways Love it or Lose it – The Little Things Matter Landcare and Coastcare Profile Waste Watch Water Talk The Resource Recovery team

31 32 33 14 – 15 38 – 39 40 – 41 42

Please take care, ‘Slip, Slop, Slap’ and be safe.

Cover image: 2007 Netball World Championship Final between Australia and New Zealand in Auckland. Australian Captain Liz Ellis with Australian Diamond team mates celebrating their defeat over New Zealand 42 - 38, in their 9th world championship.

Cr David Wright

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THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE

Australia Day CELEBRATIONS SUNDAY 26 JANUARY 2020 ns Nominatio ay d n o close M ber m 2 Dece 2019.

AUSTRALIA DAY BALLINA SHIRE AWARDS 2020

Liz Ellis 2020 Australia Day Special Guest

Give our unsung heroes the recognition they deserve by nominating them for the 2020 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards.

Do you know someone who makes a significant contribution through their involvement in community based activities, sport, arts, or the environment?

Each year Ballina Shire Council recognises our individuals and groups who go above and beyond through the Australia Day Awards.

These people are often quiet achievers, but through their efforts and achievements they strengthen our community.

They also help to promote Ballina Shire and act as our ambassadors.

Categories for nomination include:

Liz Ellis is one of Australia’s elite athletes and most successful netballer ever. Liz was captain of the Australian Diamonds Netball Team and the Sydney Swifts, and surpassed the record for most test matches played for Australia.

Liz is also a sports and current affairs commentator, author and mother. She resides in the Ballina Shire and we are very pleased to have Liz as our special guest for the 2020 Australia Day Celebrations in the newly opened Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC) on Sunday 26 January 2020.

engagedleadership

ballina shire

Community Event of the Year Arts/Cultural Award Sporting Achievement Award Young Citizen of the Year (30 years and under) Senior Citizen of the Year (60 years and over) Volunteer of the Year Environmental Award (NEW CATEGORY)

LAST YEAR’S AWARD WINNERS: CITIZEN OF THE YEAR Marie Caldwell YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR Finn Ball SENIOR CITIZEN OF THE YEAR Lloyd Jansson

The Citizen of the Year Award will be selected by the Australia Day Committee from all of the nominees across the seven categories.

LOCAL HERO OF THE YEAR Robert Sword

Nominate online at ballina.nsw.gov.au/australiaday

SPORTS ACHIEVEMENT Samantha Brophy and Kyle Underwood

Nominations close: Monday 2 December 2019.

Awards announced: Sunday 26 January 2020.

For further information contact Tracy Lister, Coordinator Communications, Ph: 1300 864 444.

ARTS AND CULTURE AWARD Brian Pamphilon COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR Love Lennox Festival (Lennox Chamber of Commerce)

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IN OUR TOWN CENTRES BALLINA

CHRISTMAS ON RIVER STREET, BALLINA KIDS CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY COLOURING COMPETITION Looking for a fun kids’ activity? Get the kids in the festive spirit by entering the Christmas Colouring Competition. All entries will be displayed at participating Ballina Town Centre retailers and will be in the running to win a prize from Ballina Waterslide, Ballina Ten Pin Bowl or Ballina Fair Cinemas.

10 x double passes to the Ballina Waterslide 10 x vouchers Ballina Ten Pin Bowl 10 x double passes to Ballina Fair Cinemas.

HOW TO ENTER Download your copy from: ballinachamber.com.au Collect your copy from: • Visitor Information Centre – 6 River Street, Ballina • Ballina Library – 8 River Street, Ballina • Council Chambers – 40 Cherry Street, Ballina.

Submit completed entries to the Ballina Visitor Information Centre at 6 River Street, Ballina.

Entries close Wednesday 18 December and winners will be contacted by Friday 20 December 2019.

CHRISTMAS SHOPFRONT DECORATION COMPETITION Local River Street traders are invited to join in the festive fun by decorating their shopfronts and windows. To register your business, email info@ballinachamber.com.au Prizes for best dressed shopfronts include: Cash prize to celebrate with your business - valued $500 Local produce gift basket from the Ballina Visitor Information Centre - valued $200 Dining Package at Ballina Manor - valued $140.

Share your photos on Facebook and Instagram #RiverStreetChristmas

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THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE

12 DECEMBER 2019 SHOP RIVER STREET THIS CHRISTMAS Support local businesses and join a special Christmas shopping event in River Street on Thursday 12 December with retailers staying open until 7pm. The festive event offers shoppers the chance to WIN up to $500 'cash back' for purchases made on Thursday 12 December. Simply collect your ticket at the time of purchase and place it in the barrel in the Wigmore Arcade.

During the extended trading hours, there will be a free BBQ, free Santa Claus photos, carollers and performance by the Samba Blistas.

We hope to see you for what will be a fabulous community Christmas event.

Prize draw takes place 7pm Thursday 12 December in the Wigmore Arcade. Winner needs to be in attendance with receipt of purchase.

For competition terms and conditions visit the Ballina Chamber of Commerce and Industry website ballinachamber.com.au.

These events are brought to you by the Ballina Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

L E N N OX H E A D

PUT YOURSELF IN THE FESTIVE SEASON AT LENNOX HEAD

# tag to win

28 NOVEMBER 2019 TWILIGHT ON THE BOULEVARD Get along to Lennox Head’s main street this festive season, take your photo at the special Christmas location and tag #LovinLennoxHead to win $200 to spend in a Lennox Head business.

For full terms and conditions, please visit lennoxchamber.com.au/lovinLennoxHead

#LovinLennoxHead

LOCAL RETAILERS CONNECTING WITH CITY SHOPPERS. Regional centres, like ours, are home to a wide variety of products, gifts and services - so why not support locals and buy regional this Christmas?

A L S TO N V I L L E

ALSTONVILLE CHRISTMAS ON THE PLATEAU Support your local retailers on the Plateau this festive season.

Look out for trading hours and promotions at your favourite traders and via the Alstonville Wollongbar Chamber of Commerce Facebook page @alstonvillewollongbar

13 DECEMBER 2019 CHRISTMAS ON THE PLATEAU 4.30pm – 8pm Elizabeth Ann Brown Park christmasontheplateau.org.au Christmas on the Plateau is becoming a-must-attend tradition for shire residents, and this year it’s expected to be as popular as ever.

This free family event includes crafts, sausage sizzle, animal farm, face painting, rides and carol singing.

Find us on Facebook Instagram @alstonvillechristmas

Buy Regional this Christmas

13 - 14 DECEMBER 2019 ALSTONVILLE QUOTA CREATIVE CHRISTMAS TREE Alstonville Leisure and Entertainment Centre Enter a decorated tree, fancy, fun or just simple, full size or tabletop in the festive and fun community event.

Find us on Facebook: @ quotaalstonvillewollongbar

The NSW State Government is encouraging us all to discover the incredible and unique products available from regional NSW. You'll not only find great gifts for your loved ones, but you'll also have the chance to make a difference to those struggling through drought or other natural disasters.

prosperouseconomy

For a list of Christmas events that are happen in in Ballina Shire g see page 24.

Ballina Shire retailers are also invited to participate in the NSW Buy Regional hub and social media network. It's free to register and Sydney shoppers can check out what you have to offer this Christmas online.

The online hub showcases regional retailers in one place, to make it easy for shoppers to find the perfect Christmas gift and support regional NSW. Prospective shoppers can browse six shopping categories, wine, fashion, food, gifts for kids, art/design and hampers.

Shoppers can give retailers the present they want most this Christmas - customers!

To start shopping or register your interest as a business visit nsw.gov.au/ buyregional #BuyRegional

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SUPPORTING A GROWING COMMUNITY Ballina Shire is home to over 42,000 locals and we continue to attract new residents and many more visitors.

As our population continues to grow, we need to make sure we have facilities that continue to support our community.

THESE CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS HELP TO:

boost the local economy support jobs growth improve connections between places provide facilities that improve the lives our community.

Expansion of Ballina Byron Gateway Airport Terminal Construction of Ballina Indoor Sports Centre.

CURRENT PROJECTS: River Street Upgrade - Stage 4 (between Moon and Grant Streets) Coastal Shared Path (Skennars Head to Lennox Head via The Coast Road) Construction of Airport Boulevard Lake Ainsworth Foreshore Improvements Works Expansion of Skennars Head Sports Fields.

OTHER PROJECTS PLANNED FOR 2019/2020:

Progress with design and consultation for River Street Duplication – Pacific Highway, West Ballina to Kerr Street, Ballina Extension of Hutley Drive to Byron Bay Road (and construction of roundabout) Upgrades to the Lennox Head Community Centre including air conditioning Commence construction of Wollongbar District Park Construction of the Coastal Recreational Walk (from Skennars Head over the headlands to Lennox point).

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE ALLOCATIONS FOR 2019/2020:

COMPLETED PROJECTS COMMERCIAL ROAD, ALSTONVILLE Carpark reconstructed and expanded.

MARTIN STREET, BALLINA (SEG 150) Road reconstruction.

BALLINA INDOOR SPORTS CENTRE (BISC) SKINNER STREET, BALLINA (SEG 30) Road reconstruction.

PIMLICO ROAD (SEG 110, 120) Road reconstruction.

COMPLETED PROJECTS:

project t snapsho

$22m for roads and bridges $4.8m for community facilities $2.3m for sports fields $2.5m for footpaths and shared paths $3.6m for airport $5m in water infrastructure $6.5m in wastewater infrastructure.

CURRENT PROJECTS RIVER STREET UPGRADE (BETWEEN GRANT AND MOON STREETS) See story on page 7 for details.

LAKE AINSWORTH FORESHORE IMPROVEMENT WORKS See page 31 for details.

SKINNER STREET, BALLINA (SEG 30) Road reconstruction.

AIRPORT BOULEVARD Road construction. See page 11.

HUTLEY DRIVE NORTH Road reconstruction and installation of new roundabout on The Coast Road.

See page 13 for details.

FUTURE PROJECTS CHICKIBA DRIVE, EAST BALLINA (SEG 10 - 30) Road reconstruction early 2020 PERRY STREET, ALSTONVILLE (SEG 10) Road reconstruction early 2020

WINTON LANE, BALLINA (SEG 40) Road reconstruction early 2020.

For project information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ supportingagrowingcommunity These projects are part of the Delivery Program and Operational Plan for 2019/2020.

For updates on road closures visit myroadinfo.com.au

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supporting a growing community | communityconnect

#supportingagrowingcommunity THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE

Coastal Shared Path The final link of the shared path, between the Skennars Head roundabout and the Pat Morton carpark is in progress.

The completed path will be a unique recreational asset and allow locals and visitors to enjoy our beautiful coastline all the way from Ballina to Lennox Head.

Funding for this section of the shared path is thanks to $880,000 from the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund and $880,000 from the Federal Government’s Regional Jobs and Investments Package.

RIVER STREET UPGRADE NEARING COMPLETION The River Street Upgrade, between Moon and Grant Street, is nearing completion.

Street trees have recently been planted and the final road asphalt will be applied at end of November, reopening the entire length of River Street to through traffic.

prosperouseconomy

R I V E R S T R E E T, B A L L I N A

The fourth and final zone will be paved and the finishing touches such as street furniture and landscaping will tie in with previously upgraded sections of River Street.

This $2.7 million project has seen the widening and paving of the footpaths, road reconstruction, planting of street trees and landscaping, stormwater replacement, lighting improvements, undergrounding of the electricity on the southern side of River Street.

The enhancements of our town centres will help deliver improved economic outcomes for our business community.

#supportingagrowingcommunity FUNDED BY BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

supporting a growing community

SKENNARS HEAD

#supportingagrowingcommunity JOINTLY FUNDED BY THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT AND NSW GOVERNMENT.

supporting a growing community

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LATEST NEWS FROM

ballina byron gateway airport

New airport terminal officially open and ready for take off...

In mid-October the newly upgraded Ballina Byron Gateway Airport terminal was officially opened.

The departure lounge is now triple the size and features new amenities, seating, gifts/retail shop, and an expanded cafe and bar. Construction of a new plaza area on the terminal's forecourt has improved the set down and pick up area.

This expansion project will be enjoyed by locals and visitors for many years to come, and is key to attracting more visitors to our region.

The $6.9 million investment in the airport was shared by the NSW Government and the Ballina Shire Council, including $4.5 million under the Restart NSW Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund.

For more information or to book your next flight visit ballinabyronairport.com.au

#supportingagrowingcommunity JOINTLY FUNDED BY THE NSW GOVERNMENT AND BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL.

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THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE

supporting a growing community

at the Airport Parking Traffic Consultants (PTC) is currently auditing the Ballina Byron Gateway Aiport carpark and nearby road and pedestrian areas. The aim of this audit is to enhance the passenger experience at the airport.

PTC will be looking at automated entry and exit, more parking and efficient layouts. This will assist in tying the carpark in with the recent terminal expansion project and the future development of Airport Boulevard.

what did you

say?

AIRPORT BOULEVARD SOUTHERN CROSS INDUSTRIAL ESTATE The bulk earthworks along the extension of Boeing Avenue to construct the new Airport Boulevard are progressing well.

Airport Boulevard will be a new statement road to the Airport and will unlock future industrial land in the Southern Cross Industrial Estate.

Once complete, the road will provide a visually enhanced gateway road, provide an efficient traffic corridor and access to industrial land.

Project outcomes include:

EXTENSION OF AND CONNECTION TO BOEING AVENUE CONNECTION TO NORTH CREEK ROAD CONSTRUCTION OF THREE ROUNDABOUTS

prosperouseconomy

Carparking

S O U T H E R N C R O S S I N D U S T R I A L E S TAT E

The total cost of the project is $6.7 million, and is made possible thanks to $3 million in Australian Government funding under the Community Development Grants Programme. Council will contribute $3.7 million to meet the project’s total cost.

Jane I will be able to check it out this Wednesday. I am sure it looks stunning.

Faye Well done. Thank you to everyone involved in making this happen.

The earthworks are expected to continue into early 2020.

Following the earthworks the construction of the road and associated infrastructure for the Airport Boulevard will commence.

Danny Awesome job Ballina Council with River Street upgrade and upgrade of airport and now to look how we can keep tourists in Ballina.

Lyn Getting a bit flashy flash now. I remember when it was first opened I wasn't there but about 33-34 years ago.

Tobin Trees out the front please! We are the skin cancer capital of the world!

#supportingagrowingcommunity JOINTLY FUNDED BY THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT AND BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL.

supporting a growing community

NOVEMBER 2019 ISSUE 37 171 LIKES

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18 SHARES 27 COMMENTS

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G N I T R O P S E F I L

BALLINA INDOOR SPORTS CENTRE (BISC) Ballina Indoor Sports Centre is officially open!

Ballina Shire Council’s Mayor and Councillors officially opened the centre in early November with NSW Government representatives.

The BISC already caters for basketball, indoor netball, futsal, lifeball and school sport activities. The two-court facility is connected to Ballina Coast High’s new two-court facility by an enclosed passageway.

Mayor David Wright said, “This project has been sought after for over 20 years, the facility looks great and the best part is seeing so many people using it” “I am really proud of what council has been able to achieve with the project, council working in partnership with the NSW Government to deliver this magnificent indoor sports centre. We could not have delivered a facility of this calibre, at this location, without the assistance of the Office of Sport and the Department of Education,” the Mayor added.

Ballina Shire Council contributed $5 million to the project, with a further $3.5 million in NSW Government funding thanks to the Regional Sports Infrastructure Fund.

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THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE

Now accepting Fitness Passport Perfect for casual hiring of an indoor court.

Season tickets also available…a perfect Christmas gift for your active loved one.

#supportingagrowingcommunity JOINTLY FUNDED BY THE NSW GOVERNMENT AND BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL.

supporting a growing community

Sport and Recreational Facilities Plan The Draft Sport and Recreation Facility Plan to help guide the future development of sport and recreation in Ballina Shire is now on exhibition for public comment.

The Plan is a community document and developed in conjunction with ROSS Planning, who undertook community consultation and analysed existing facilities.

The Draft Plan has been developed to: understand sport and recreation participation and needs establish a facility gap assessment for current and predicted future demand establish council's and the community's role in addressing demand

SKENNARS HEAD SPORTS FIELDS EXPANSION The Skennars Head Sports Field Expansion project is progressing well with completion of the project expected early in 2020. The $2.2 million project was identified as a key priority in the Ballina Shire Open Space Strategy and will help cater for our community's growing population and sport participation demands The completed improvement works include a new senior and junior playing field, sports field lighting, retaining wall, improved drainage, irrigation and revegetation.

maximise efficiencies (rationalising, avoid duplication, establish key partnerships) detail preferrred management arrangements develop a detailed and realistic implementation plan that will guide council, and the community, in the future provision and investment in fit-for-purpose sport, recreation and open spaces facilities.

Ballina Sport and Recreation Facilities Plan (Draft) can be viewed on council's website ballina.nsw.gov.au/ sportandrecreationplan Submissions close: Wednesday 18 December 2019.

prosperouseconomy

SKENNARS HEAD

The completed works are really starting to take shape with the installation and establishment of the new turf.

The site is currently closed to the public while council's contractor progresses works along Skennars Head Road to create the new entry and expanded carpark for the site. We look forward to reopening the completed site to the public in the coming months.

This project has been possible due to $990,000 from the NSW Government's Stronger Country Communities Fund with $1,285,000 from Ballina Shire Council.

#supportingagrowingcommunity JOINTLY FUNDED BY THE NSW GOVERNMENT AND BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL.

supporting a growing community

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FUTURE ROAD NETWORK River Street Duplication – Pacific Highway, West Ballina to Kerr Street, Ballina To support a growing community and address the congestion along River Street, Ballina Shire Council is continuing plans to duplicate River Street from the Pacific Highway to Kerr Street. Once complete, the four-lane roadway will double the road’s capacity and comfortably cater for traffic into the future. This project is estimated to cost $23 million and will be a significant investment to help improve our road network.

EXISTING AND PREDICTED TRAFFIC FLOWS Traffic modelling has identified the arterial roads into Ballina have insufficent capacity to handle the predicted traffic volumes to 2036.

The modelling also showed River Street and parts of Tamarind Drive are already at capacity in peak hours.

RIVER STREET, FISHERY CREEK BRIDGE Traffic flows 2019

26,103 vehicles

Predicted traffic flows 2036 29,501 vehicles TAMARIND DRIVE, CANAL BRIDGE Traffic flows 2019

23,335 vehicles

Predicted traffic flows 2036 28,140 vehicles Two-lane arterial roads have capacity for around 18,000 vehicles per day, and four lanes have a capacity for around 36,000 vehicles per day.

This means the River Street Duplication will

provide sufficient capacity for current and predicted 2036 traffic volumes in and out of Ballina.

The detailed designs and construction staging will be developed following community feedback.

CONCEPT DESIGNS

COMMUNITY FEEDBACK

Consultants, working in conjunction with council’s technical officers, have produced concept designs for the River Street Duplication.

Council is currently exhibiting the concept plans and seeking community feedback.

The concept designs identify a number of sections that need to be modified, these include: Pacific Highway Roundabout to Burns Point Ferry Drive Burns Point Ferry to Quays Drive Quays Drive to Barlows Road Barlows Road to East of Brampton Avenue Brampton Avenue to Fishery Creek Bridge Duplication of Fishery Creek Bridge Fishery Creek Bridge to Tweed Street

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The concept plans and intersection modifications can be viewed at: Council’s Customer Service Centre, 40 Cherry Street, Ballina Alstonville, Ballina and Lennox Head Libraries Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au/ riverstreetduplication Submissions close: Friday 6 December 2019.

The project team are also hosting Community Information Sessions on 19 and 21 November 2019. For more information visit ballina.nsw. gov.au/riverstreetduplication

supporting a growing community

As urban development continues to expand within the Lennox Head area, council has started construction of the Hutley Drive northern extension to service current and future residential developments.

Hutley Drive will link to Byron Bay Road by extending Hutley Drive to the north and connecting with a new roundabout on Byron Bay Road, north of the existing The Coast Road roundabout.

THE NORTHERN EXTENSION WILL INCLUDE THE CONSTRUCTION OF: new connection road (extension of Hutley Drive) new roundabout connecting Hutley Drive and Byron Bay Road widening along Byron Bay Road sound barrier wall to reduce impact to local properties footpath signage safety barriers lighting.

Extension of Hutley Drive to Byron Bay Road will provide a safer connection to major roads, and reduce vehicle traffic in residential areas such as the Meadows Estate and Epiq Lennox Estate (currently under construction).

Construction has commenced and will be complete by mid-2020 (weather permitting).

This $4 million project is funded by Ballina Shire Council and developer contributions.

Skennars Head Roundabout Roadworks on The Coast Road and Headlands Drive associated with the Aureus development is on track to be completed by March 2020 according to developer, Intrapac Property.

The developer has outlined their intention to open the new pedestrian underpass to the public in late November, subject to weather. The underpass will convey pedestrians away from the roundabout roadworks.

WHAT IS CHANGING? The existing southern access into Skennars Head via Headlands Drive will ultimately close. This section of road just before Killarney Crescent will be remodelled into a carpark.

prosperouseconomy

Hutley Drive Northern Extension

A new southern entrance into Skennars Head will be built across from the entrance to Sharpes Beach. A roundabout on The Coast Road will facilitate smoother fourway traffic flow. This new road will meet up with Headlands Drive just before Killarney Crescent.

A new underpass will be constructed beneath this new road which will connect by paths to the existing underpass under The Coast Road.

#supportingagrowingcommunity

supporting a growing community

The works are approved by council, but are undertaken by the developer Intrapac Property.

If you have any enquiries please contact the developer on email info@aureus.com.au or call 02 9160 6484.

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BITUMEN RESEAL LIST 2019/2020 Council's spray seal contractor NSW Spray Pty Ltd is undertaking road surface resealing throughout the shire, this program is expected to be completed by March 2020.

Sections of the following roads will be included in this year's program.

Urban Roads Bayview St Beach Rd Cambridge Cres Casuarina Rd Chickiba Drv Compton Drv Coogee St Cunningham St Easton Pl Granite St Jameson Ave King lane King St Lighthouse Pde Lonergan St Merinda Pl North Creek Rd Old Coast Road Pine Ave Prospect St Rainbow Ave Rayner Ln

Richmond St Sandstone Crs Smith Ln Bentinck St Rural Roads Bagotville Rd Bundaleer Rd Fernleigh Rd Houghlahans Creek Rd Old Byron Bay Rd Pearces Creek Rd Rous Cemetery Rd River Dve Smith Dve Eltham Rd Jones Ln Pimlico Rd Back Channel Rd The Coast Rd Rifle Range Rd Ross Lane Newrybar Swamp Road

Marine Estate Management Strategy Grant to seal gravel roads in the Emigrant Creek catchment Some rural residents may have observed some local road maintenance activity.

North Coast Local Land Services and Ballina Shire Council are working together to seal some sections of dirt road in the Emigrant Creek Catchment Area this financial year. This is part funded from the NSW Government’s Marine Estate Management Strategy, and is contributing to water quality improvements in the Richmond River as part of a broader project being led by the NSW Department of Primary Industries.

The project will focus on sealing approximately eight kilometres of dirt road ensuring that during heavy rainfall or flooding events, road base material does not move into adjacent waterbodies and eventually into the Richmond River estuary.

Some sections of the following roads will be sealed; Cumbalum Rd, Emigrant Creek Lane, Houghlahans Creek Road, Howards Road, Grays Lane, Ingrams Lane, Whites Lane, Gap Road, Sandy Flat Road and Wellers Lane.

Drones in the skies this Christmas With Christmas holidays just around the corner there’s bound to be an increase in the number of drones in our skies. A drone may be on your Christmas wish list and our picturesque coast and hinterland offer virtually unlimited opportunities for magnificent aerial photographs.

If you fly a drone, it is important to understand your flying activities can impact others and that there are rules that govern what you can and can’t do with your aircraft.

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) has jurisdiction of the skies.

If drones are overflying your property and this concerns you, find out what action you can take by visiting casa.gov.au/drones/report-unsafe-drone-operations

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Ballina Shire Council has been working with Essential Energy to upgrade the pedestrian (Type-P) streetlights from compact fluorescent to new LED lighting.

Essential Energy completed the upgrade of approximately 2,005 streetlights across Ballina Shire in September.

The mobile van is coming to Ballina

Residents may notice that the LED lights have a different colour to the previous compact fluorescent streetlights.

Moon Street (River end)

LED Type-P streetlights use 60% less energy and it is estimated they will save council up to $35,000 each year.

21 Nov 2019 – Mid Jan 2020

Would you gift it to a friend?

Pre-Christmas is the perfect time to de-clutter and get the home ready to welcome family and friends for the festive season.

But before you pack your boot, ask yourself "would I give these items to a friend or family member?"

Unfortunately broken goods, ripped clothes and rubbish are commonly donated and the cost of disposing of these items is borne by charities.

Charity shops would appreciate donations of goods direct to the store during business hours. This will reduce the amount of money charities spend disposing of unsaleable items and help protect their volunteers who spend a lot of time sorting donations.

This also decreases illegal dumping, scavengers or the items being exposed to the elements.

Second-hand charity stores do great work in our community and give our unwanted items a second life! So remember, check the quality of your items, donate within business opening hours and keep donating.

BreastScreen – Don’t miss the bus!

21 NOVEMBER 2019 TO MID-JANUARY 2020 MOON STREET, FAWCETT PARK

The BreastScreen bus will be screening in Ballina from 21 November 2019 until mid-January 2020.

prosperouseconomy

OVER 2,000 NEW LED STREETLIGHTS FOR BALLINA SHIRE

Don’t miss the opportunity to book your free screening mammogram.

Recommended every two-years for women aged 50 – 74. However, all women aged 40+ are eligible to be screened.

It’s important. It’s free. 20 minutes every two-years could save your life.

Please note the service is closed over the Christmas and New Year period.

Call 13 20 50 to book now! breastscreen.nsw.gov.au

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ballina coast & hinterland

BALLINA VOLUNTEER TOURISM AMBASSADORS Ballina Volunteer Tourism Ambassadors have been out and about exploring the Ballina Coast & Hinterland to increase their product knowledge.

Tourism Ambassadors are based at the Ballina Visitor Information Centre and the arrivals terminal at the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport.

If you have family or friends coming to visit or just want to get out and do something different visit the Ballina Visitor Information Centre open 7-days or the destination website discoverballina.com

holiday parking The Christmas holidays are looming and that means parking is in great demand in our town centres. To ensure people have access to parking, restrictions are in place in these areas.

Please check timed parking restrictions to avoid receiving a Penalty Infringement Notice. Council Rangers and Parking Officers conduct regular patrols in these areas, including weekends.

Fines have increased to $114 for overstaying the sign posted time limit and $572 penalty plus 1 demerit point for parking in a disabled parking space without a current permit displayed.

total visitors to ballina coast & hinterland (shire) Year

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

Day Visitors

306,000

275,000

361,000

583,000

639,000

Overnight Visitors

310,000

249,000

450,000

322,000

328,000

International Visitors

82,000

91,000

98,000

76,000

72,000

Total Visitors

698,000

615,000

909,000

981,000

1,039,000

Source: Tourism Research Australia

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THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE

ENTERTAIN

CREATE

SHOP

SUMMER SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN

PAINT THE TOWN PRAWN PINK

UNIQUE GIFTS & ONLINE GIFT SHOP

The New Critter Capture Photography Workshop teaches the fundamentals of photography, how to capture great images/clips and develop an understanding of animals and their behaviour. For kids from 11-years use your $100 NSW Government Creative Kids voucher.

Consider yourself the creative type?

Drop in and see the talented crew at Still at the Centre, in Ballina’s Industrial Estate. Being a team of artists themselves, you’ll receive practical and valuable advice!

Need a special gift? The Ballina Visitor Information Centre is stocking a new range of local souveniers, Big Prawn merchandise and gift hampers brimming with locally sourced treats and handmade arts and crafts, just in time for Christmas.

For kids 7-11years become a ‘Wildlife Guardian’ with training on animal conservation and caring for native wildlife.

For kids from 12-years ‘Keeper for a Day’ teaches all about Zookeeping.

This beautiful art space is new to Ballina and houses everything you need to get creative. Time your visit around one of their free demonstrations (check their website) or book into a workshop to learn a new skill and have some fun.

Shop with ease and support our local producers with a gift hamper made to order or choose from what’s on display, all beautifully wrapped and presented.

They stock a wide range of art supplies, including their exclusive ‘Ballina Prawn Pink Paint’. Whether it’s painting, calligraphy, life drawing or something different – the team can point you in the right direction and you leave feeling tickled pink!

Rather gift a local experience? There are gift vouchers for food lovers, adventure and indulgence seekers, nature lovers and creative souls too!

THE MACADAMIA CASTLE

STILL @ THE CENTRE

BALLINA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Hinterland Way, Knockrow macadamiacastle.com.au

1/3 Ray O’Neill Crescent, Ballina the-centre.com.au

6 River Street, Ballina discoverballina.com | 1800 777 666

Creature Keepers is for children with a disability. It offers a safe experience in small groups to build confidence, skills and knowledge of wildlife.

Workshops include lunch and are fully supervised by Macadamia Castle staff.

Go to ‘Holiday Activities’ on the website to book or phone 02 6687 8432.

Connect with us and discover a unique experience or what’s on...

WEB: Discoverballina.com ballinacoastandhinterland

prosperouseconomy

Local Experiences

Local Experiences are profiled as part of the Unique Experiences marketing campaign.

BLOG: ballinabyronlife.com.au discoverballina

NOVEMBER 2019 ISSUE 37

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Help and more payment options

r 24 hou s acces

Your rates and charges have been issued and are due for payment by 30 November 2019.

There's now more payment options than ever. Choose to pay online via our new Community Portal, direct debit, Bpay, at Australia Post or at Ballina Shire Council's Customer Service Centre.

BUDGET HELP TO PAY YOUR RATES

COMMUNITY PORTAL

PROVIDING ACCESS 24/7

Our new Community Portal is now live and ready for the community to explore!

The portal allows you to register, login and interact with council 24/7 online. You can report potholes, submit requests, pay your rates and charges, apply for certificates and more!

We are encouraging residents and businesses to register as this gives them a more personalised experience that over time will be enhanced as we increase the services provided online.

Visit and start exploring the Community Portal at ballina.nsw.gov.au/communityportal

Budgeting and making smaller more regular payments can help take the stress out of paying your rates. Did you know you can elect to pay your rates and charges weekly, fortnightly or monthly using any of council's payment methods listed above? Give our Rating Team a call on 6686 1299 for more information on how to set up a regular payment.

Check you rates balance online via our new Community Portal, simply register and login. Once your profile is verified you can login anytime to see your current balance and previous payments.

Visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ communityportal to get started.

rates & charges notice

01/07/2017 - 30/06/2018

payments ph 1300 276 468 40 cherry street, po box 450, ballina nsw 2478 rating team ph 02 6686 1299 general enquiries ph 02 6686 4444 council@ballina.nsw.gov.au abn 53 929 887 369 ballina.nsw.gov.au

assessment number

rating category

property details

valuation amount

area

billing details

first

second

third

fourth

notice total: due this quarter:

second instalm due so ent on

date due:

messages

Instalments 2, 3 & 4 do NOT include future water based charges

your payment options Call 1300 276 468 to make payments using Visa, Mastercard or American Express.

BPAY this payment via internet or phone banking

Biller Code: 20404 Reference No:

Biller Code: 20404 Reference No:

www.ballina.nsw.gov.au Make payments online using Visa, Mastercard or American Express.

An authority form is available by phoning 02 6686 4444, or by visiting www.ballina.nsw.gov.au

*Service fee applies

*Service fee applies

BPAY View View and pay this bill using internet banking (Credit cards not accepted)

Completed authority forms must be received by Council two weeks before the next rate due date.

*credit card payments will incur a surcharge of around 0.5%.

Any Post Office throughout Australia. Cash, cheque and EFTPOS only.

Alternatively, register online to receive and pay your notices digitally with your MyPost Digital Mailbox www.digitalmailbox.com.au Detach slip at the perforation and post your cheque payable to Ballina Shire Council to the PO Box above, or pay at our Customer Service Centre.

If paying by mail, please tick if receipt is required.

name:

assessment:

total amount:

first instalment:

SAFER VENUES AND SAFER COMMUNITY:

Ballina Liquor Accord introduces Multi-Venue Barring Policy

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Local licensees, through the Ballina Liquor Accord have been working to reduce alcohol-related violence, anti-social behavior and other alcoholrelated harm in and around their venues. So in June this year, the Accord introduced a MultiVenue Barring policy using powers provided by the Liquor Act 2007.

members with advice from the police. The barring period will be determined with consideration of the offence and evidence, and will apply to all participating hotels, registered clubs, bars, restaurants, bottle shops and sporting clubs.

Under this policy, patrons involved in violent, criminal or serious anti-social or disruptive behavior on or near venues will be excluded from all licensed member venues. The decision to exclude or bar a person will be made by a panel comprising up to six Accord

Everyone has the right to enjoy safe and responsible drinking environments. The Ballina Liquor Accord’s new Multi-Venue Barring Policy will help protect staff and other patrons from anti-social behaviour making safer venues and a safer community.

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THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE

Similar initiatives have been operating for some time with the Richmond Valley/ Kyogle Liquor Accord and the Lismore City Liquor Accord, and have significantly improved patron behavior.

Participating venues in Ballina now display ‘barred from one, barred from all’ signage.

Do you love a good read, but are housebound or isolated?

The Library offers a free home library service to residents who are housebound or are unable to visit the library due to illness or frailty.

Library staff and volunteers select reading and audio-visual materials based on your interests and reading preferences. Then these items are delivered to homes in some areas throughout the region.

is your po registere ol d?

ARE YOU THINKING OF LEASING OR SELLING YOUR PROPERTY? Properties with a pool or spa must have a valid pool certificate of compliance or final occupation certificate (valid for three years).

The certificate must be attached to the sale contract or tenancy agreement before promoting your property for sale or lease.

Help us maintain safe swimming pools in Ballina Shire All pool owners are required to register their pool on the NSW Online Swimming Pool Register.

Council staff are reviewing all swimming pools in Ballina Shire to ensure all pools are registered to maintain safe swimming pools in our community.

Landowners with unregistered swimming pools or spas will receive a letter from council requesting registration on the NSW Swimming Pools Register.

Note: Renting your premises includes listing your premises for Short Term Holiday Accommodation, such as Airbnb and Stayz.

It’s a simple two-step process to register your pool. Visit swimmingpoolregister.nsw. gov.au or telephone council's Compliance Section on 1300 864 444.

For more information, about availability and eligibility contact your nearest library:

ALSTONVILLE LIBRARY Alstonville Leisure & Entertainment Centre 46 Commercial Road, Alstonville Ph: 02 6628 5527 Opening Hours Mon to Fri 9.30am - 5pm Sat 9am - 12 noon

engagedleadership

HOME DELIVERY – BOOKS TO YOUR DOOR

BALLINA LIBRARY 6 River Street, Ballina Ph: 02 6686 2831 Opening Hours Mon, Tues, Fri 9am - 6pm Wed, Thur 9am - 8pm Sat 9am - 12 noon Sun 1pm - 4pm

LENNOX HEAD LIBRARY Lennox Community Centre Cnr Park Lane & Mackney Lane, Lennox Head Ph: 02 6687 6398 Opening Hours Mon to Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9am - 12 noon

NOVEMBER 2019 ISSUE 37

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Patrols for 2019/2020 Swimming Season

BALLINA SHIRE RESIDENTS WIN LIFESAVER MAJOR AWARDS The contribution of two of our very own have been recognised at the 2019 Surf Life Saving NSW’s Awards of Excellence.

The annual Awards of Excellence honour outstanding achievements in all aspects of surf life saving.

Congratulations to Ben Dickens who won Lifeguard of the Year Award for going above and beyond the call of duty as a professional Lifeguard for the Australian Lifeguard Service last season.

Junior Lifesaver of the Year was presented to Mikala Campbell from Ballina Lighthouse & Lismore SLSC. Other award recipients from the Far North Coast included: Kaitlin Smith, Patrol Captain of the Year (Cudgen Headland Surf Life Saving Club).

Aidan Yourell, Youth Volunteer of the Year (Evans Head-Casino SLSC)

BEACH

PATROLS START

PATROLS FINISH

DETAILS

Seven Mile Beach Lennox Head

28/09/2019

26/04/2020

9am – 5pm* Professional Lifeguards Mon-Fri (5 days) Volunteers on weekends and public holidays

Flat Rock East Ballina (roving guard)

28/09/2019 21/12/2019 10/04/2020

13/10/2019 27/01/2020 26/04/2020

9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards 7 days a week

Sharpes Beach Skennars Head

28/09/2019 21/12/2019 10/04/2020

13/10/2019 27/01/2020 26/04/2020

9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards 7 days a week

Shelly Beach East Ballina

28/09/2019 21/12/2019 10/04/2020

13/10/2019 27/01/2020 26/04/2020

9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards 7 days a week

Lighthouse Beach Ballina

28/09/2019 21/12/2019 10/04/2020

13/10/2019 27/01/2020 26/04/2020

9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards Mon-Fri (5 days) Volunteers on weekends and public holidays

For award profiles visit surflifesaving.com.au/ news/far-north-coast-lifesavers-win-majorawards Images courtesy of NSW Surf Lifesaving

Ben Dickens

Aidan Yourall

* Lennox Head is 9am - 6pm during NSW Summer school holiday period L-R: Ainsley Dalton (Woolgoolga SLSC) with Mikala Campbell

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THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE

into the Community Pools The community pools in Ballina and Alstonville are ideal places to cool down and catch up with friends and family.

There’s plenty of aquatic sports and activities at the pools; making them great locations to host a family BBQ or kid's birthday party.

Ballina War Memorial Pool & Waterslide Lee and Vicki Fitzgerald | 02 6686 3771 Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 6am - 7pm Saturday 8am - 6pm Sunday 9am - 5pm Find them on Facebook

Want to escape for a few days but don't want to travel too far or be stuck in traffic? Then look no further than Flat Rock Tent Park.

The Park is located between Ballina and Lennox Head alongside Angels Beach and is surrounded by coastal bushland. It is the ultimate beachside hideaway that caters for tents and camper trailers and boasts grassy sites, modern amenities and BBQ facilities.

Flat Rock Tent Park offers a good old-fashioned camping experience by the ocean.

If this sounds like an experience you would like to have then give managers Kellie and Dave a call on 02 6686 4848 or book online at flatrockcamping.com.au

The place that stays with you

Alstonville Aquatic Centre Greg and Kelly Fettell | 02 6628 0826 Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 6am - 7pm Saturday 8am - 6pm Sunday 10am - 6pm Find them on Facebook

engagedleadership

flat rock tent park

SURF AWARENESS FOR MIGRANT STUDENTS In Ballina Shire, we are lucky to have some of the best beaches and waterways in the world. However, many new migrants to Australia are unaware of the dangers they potentially face. The size and strength of our surf, rips and gutters can pose significant risks for inexperienced beachgoers.

The Migrant Beach Safety Awareness program provided over 40 TAFE NSW Spoken and Written English (CSWE) students with the skills to assess beach conditions, swim where it is safe and understand the dangers associated with swimming and living near the ocean.

The beach safety and basic first aid training was delivered by Surf Life Saving NSW and included a rip awareness dye activity where students were able to see first-hand the strength and direction of a rip in the water.

Migrant Beach Safety Program is a partnership program between Surf Life Saving NSW, TAFE NSW and Ballina Shire Council.

NOVEMBER 2019 ISSUE 37

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•

Re-configuring and re-paving footpath areas to optimise landscaping, footpath dinning and other streetscape elements

•

Re-configuring the levels and alignment of Ballina Street from Park Lane to Byron Street and surfacing with new asphalt pavement

•

Associated reconstruction of kerb and gutter, underground stormwater drainage and utility services relocation

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•

Allocating space for street trees and other street plantings

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Upgrading pedestrian connections along Ballina Street between Park Lane and Byron

lennox VILLAGEvision

Street to enhance and unify the north and south parts of the village centre.

PHASE TWO – COMMUNITY SATISFACTION + USER EXPERIENCE MEASUREMENT Ballina Shire Council is committed to renewing the Lennox Head Village to enhance the public amenity and help deliver improved economic outcomes for our local business community.

Council has been gathering community feedback on issues and ideas to guide the future planning and development of the village centre's public places.

Council recently engaged Place Score to undertake community engagement as a part of phase 2 of the Lennox Village Vision project. Place Score offers two data collection tools, Care Factor and Place Experience (PX) Assessments.

Place Score staff, council staff and community volunteers collected face-to-face data between the 28 and 29 September, 2019 in Ballina Street Lennox Head. This data was used as the basis for a Town Centre Community Insights Report and PX report for the main street.

This process has provided a basis to guide future planning for Ballina Street in Lennox Head.

lennox village vision THE FUTURE OF LENNOX HEAD VILLAGE CENTRE Care Factor Survey

PLACE SCORE DATA These two tools act like a ‘place census’ to capture what the community really values and measure the community’s lived experience. The analysis of both data sets help identify what is important, how a place is performing and what the focus of change should be. An attribute with a high Care Factor but a low PX Assessment should be a priority for investment.

Care Factor captures what attributes your community values

PX Assessment captures how your community rates each attribute...

The benefits of using a Place Score approach includes: Data represents the community’s demographic Quantitative data for evidence-based planning to measure the impact of investment over time Identify place attributes the community cares about as well as potential conflicts to minimise risk Insights to guide strategic planning and the implementation of place based projects.

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L E N N OX H E A D

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THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE

The Care Factor survey invited respondents to prioritise the most important attributes in their ideal main street or town centre. The following five attributes were selected by the majority of the Lennox Head community:

07

A Place Experience (PX) Assessment is an observation study that asks respondents to rate how different aspects of a street are performing, resulting in a PX Score. The PX Score provides a number between 0 and 100 that captures the community’s place experience.

PX Assessments were undertaken on Ballina Street, Lennox Head between 28 and 29 of September 2019.

WHAT WE CAN BUILD ON Aspects of a town centre that are highly valued by the community and are currently perceived as performing well in Ballina Street.

SURROUNDINGS – The Lennox Head community values a town

centre that offers ‘Elements of the natural environment’ and great overall look and visual character. Both are currently perceived as performing well. Make sure that change builds upon rather than takes away from these features.

WELCOMING COMMUNITY – People perceive Ballina Street as a

place where they can go and feel welcomed and safe. Part of it can potentially be attributed to the community’s love and appreciation of current outdoor restaurant, cafes and/or bars. Make sure to maintain and build upon these strong social ties as well as the infrastructure that allowed it to flourish.

WHAT COULD BE IMPROVED Aspects of a town centre that are valued by the community and are currently perceived as performing poorly in Ballina Street.

Respondents rated their Place Experience in Ballina Street Lennox Head as 69/100. Scores >70 indicate a place is performing well, 50 – 70 indicates significant room for improvement, and <50 indicates urgent attention is required.

STRENGTHS AND IMPROVEMENT PRIORITIES FOR THE LENNOX VILLAGE CENTRE Village centre strengths that should be celebrated and protected.

Welcoming to all people Walking paths that connect to other places Sense of safety (for all ages, genders, day/night etc.)

Outdoor restaurant, cafe and/or bar seating Improvement priorities that are important but currently underperforming and should be addressed in a main street upgrade.

Ease of walking around (including crossing the street, moving between destinations) Vegetation and natural elements (street trees, planting, water etc.)

General condition of vegetation, street trees and other planting Cleanliness of public space Attributes to be aware of as they can become more significant issues and be considered in future planning of the main street upgrade.

INTEGRATION OF NATURE – Your community values ‘Vegetation and natural elements (street trees, planting, water etc.)’ as well its general condition, yet both are perceived as performing poorly.

Integrating well looked after greenery or other natural elements could be the best way to improve place experience.

WALKABILITY – Getting around on foot is highly valued by your

community, however ‘Ease of walking around (including crossing the street, moving between destinations)’ is not perceived as performing well. Consider ways to improve the permeability and walkability of the centre such as high quality and even paving or offering more pedestrian crossings.

engagedleadership

Place Experience (PX) Assessment

CARE AND MAINTENANCE – For your community, care is not

limited to the condition of vegetation. Clean public spaces are also an important part of their ideal town centre. Users of Ballina Street rated the current level of cleanliness and maintenance as contributing negatively to their place experience. Consider clean-up programs or the use of high quality and clean-looking materials.

LOCAL PRIDE – The Lennox Head community rated ‘Evidence

of recent public investment (new planting, paving, street furniture etc.)’ as performing poorly. While the improvement interventions noted here, may contribute to changing this perception, in additon, you may want to consider investing in other elements currently underperforming such as public art, amenities and facilities or local history or heritage features.

Evidence of recent public investment (new planting, paving, street furniture etc.)

Quality of public space (footpaths and public spaces) Amenities and facilities (toilets, water bubblers, parents rooms etc.)

Maintenance of public spaces and street furniture Public art, community art, water or light feature Local history, heritage buildings or features

The Placescore Town Centre Community Insights report and PX Assessment Report for Ballina Street Lennox Head are available on council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au/lvv

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For more information on th ese events please visi t discoverballina.c om

Christmas IN BALLINA SHIRE 28 NOVEMBER

TWILIGHT ON THE BOULEVARD 4pm-8pm | 80-84 Ballina Street Lennox Head

1 DECEMBER LENNOX HEAD CAROLS IN THE PARK

What’s on?

COMMUNITY EVENTS North Coast Street Machines 30th Annual Show n Shine SUNDAY 12 JANUARY 2020 BALLINA RUGBY LEAGUE FOOTBALL GROUND

2pm-9:30pm | Williams Reserve Lennox Head

The North Coast Street Machines is celebrating a monumental 30-years in Show n Shine.

7 DECEMBER

This show is in its 30th year, with street machines, vintage, veteran, hot rods, special interest cars and vintage caravans.

BALLINA CWA CHRISTMAS MARKET 8am – 3.30pm | Captain Cook Park, River Street

8 DECEMBER BALLINA RIVERSIDE CAROLS 3pm – 9pm | Seagulls Rugby League Grounds Ballina

This family friendly event is fully catered for, with lots of activities for all the family, including free jumping castle, vintage fashion pageant, tappet cover racing, wheel changing event, colouring competition and plenty of trade displays.

A.S.M.F (Qld) Branch will be judging vehicles and awarding many trophies.

Car setup from 7am. Gates open to the public from 9am. northcoaststreetmachines.com.au

12 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS ON RIVER STREET Special event from 5pm-7pm River Street Ballina

13 DECEMBER

ALSTONVILLE CHRISTMAS ON THE PLATEAU 4:30pm – 8pm Elizabeth Ann Brown Park Alstonville

13-14 DECEMBER

ALSTONVILLE QUOTA CREATIVE CHRISTMAS TREE 10am-4pm Alstonville Leisure and Entertainment Centre

25 DECEMBER

COMBINED CHURCHES FREE CHRISTMAS LUNCH 12pm-2pm | Presbyterian Church Ballina

26 DECEMBER

BALLINA BOXING DAY RACES From 12 noon | Ballina Jockey Club

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Events listed are correct at time of publication.

Visit discoverballina. com or telephone 1800 777 666 for event details.

There’s a craft market, a carboot market or a farmers market, somewhere in the Northern Rivers, every weekend.

LENNOX HEAD COMMUNITY CENTRE IMPROVEMENT WORKS Council is set to raise the roof with improvements to the Lennox Head Community Centre, after securing a $1.8 million investment from the NSW Regional Cultural Fund.

The enhancements will allow the Park Lane Theatre to accommodate bigger audience numbers in air-conditioned comfort all year round. The improvements will also resolve current roofing and internal lining issues in the main building. A new solar power system will be installed to assist in the operation of the new air conditioning.

Craig Brown, Manager of Community Facilities, explained that the inside temperature during the warmer months is uncomfortable for patrons, and this has had a bearing on the types of shows we can book at the Centre.

“When the improvements are complete we will be able increase our seating capacity from 480 to 580 patrons and allow up to 800 for standing room performances and activities.”

“The Lennox Head Community Centre will continue to be a great community asset, and these improvements will be a major enhancement to this popular facility,” added Craig.

The improvement program is expected to commence late November 2019 and finish by late March 2020, weather permitting.

For more information on this project visit ballina.nsw.gov.au (search Community Spaces).

Discover original artworks, handicrafts, fashion, jewellery, secondhand goods, as well as fresh local produce…or just sit back, relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of your local market.

BALLINA FARMERS MARKET (Weekly) Every Sunday morning 7am – 11am Commemoration Park, Bentinck Street, Ballina

EAST BALLINA LIONS CLUB COMMUNITY MARKET (Monthly)

Every third Sunday of the month 7am – 1pm Canal Road (between Saunders Oval and Ballina RSL Bowling Club), Ballina

connectedcommunity

Market Calendar

LENNOX HEAD COMMUNITY MARKET (Monthly)

Every second and fifth Sunday of the month 8am – 2pm Williams Reserve, Lennox Head

View the Norther n Rivers Market Gui de at discoverballina.c om to see where the m arkets are this week!

NOVEMBER 2019 ISSUE 37

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current exhibitions Exhibition Dates: 23 October - 15 December 2019 | Launch: 24 October 2019

Private Gods and the Yielding | Jo Olive

Image: Bridie McKelvey, Platypus with Flowers in Vintage Biscuit Tin, 2019

Fine Line | Anna Swain Drawing a fine line in the sand, this body of work examines the delicate ecological balance of the world’s oceans through a tactile and visual exploration of ocean topography. Fine details and unobtrusive inconsistencies are introduced to textile and photographic works through a variety of techniques and mixed media.

Image: Anna Swain, Sonar-detail, 2019

Alaska to Oaxaca: A Surf Journey by Bike | Tom Wolff Over the course of about a year and a half, Tom Wolff rode his bike from the wild, open spaces of the Alaskan interior to the warm-water and sand-bottom point breaks of Southern Mexico. This exhibition of 35mm photos will display some of the places he went and people he met during the 10,000km journey.

Image: Tom Wolff, The Long March Home, 2018

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THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE

2 0 19

Three Intrepid Novices (T.I.N) take on the concept of tin: Tin in content, concept, or material. 90 pieces by the three contributing artists: Bridie McKelvey, Melanie Miller and Shani Miller.

D E C E M B E R

TIN | Bridie McKelvey + Melanie Miller + Shani Miller

/

Image: Jo Olive, Mast-bones, 2018

N O V E M B E R

An exhibition in which Jo investigates a shift in her personal belief structures about spirituality and the self. This shift is interpreted as a “softening” or a surrender; finding herself in a place of non-resistance to all possibilities. Deeply autobiographical in content, Jo’s works are led by a love of process and spontaneous responses to the “directions” that arise within contemplative states.

workshops

Exhibition Dates: 15 January 2020 - 8 March 2020 | Launch: 16 January 2020

Term 1: Commences 12 February 2020

Pockets of Green | Nicole Wood

After School Art Program

Image: Joanne Mulcahy Zubani, Around Table Mountain (detail 2), 2018

20 20

Using innovative methods to enhance discarded materials, Joanne probes into the indelible ramifications of our carbon footprint, on the spectacular landscape of the Northern Rivers.

F EB R UA RY

I Harbour An Obsession | Joanne Mulcahy Zubani

/

Image: Nicole Wood, Welcome Tree, 2019

JA N UA RY

A collection of pastel drawings and acrylic paintings, depicting the pockets of green discovered through the Nicole’s regular travels. Featuring rainforests, tree-lined roads and open spaces, each place exhibiting her strong admiration of these environments.

BRIGHTsparks After School Program In term 1 students will be introduced to creating sculptures from recycled materials and cardboard to create cardboard city. Led by artist facilitator Imbi Davidson students will develop origin story’s for their cardboard city, create a range of 3D objects out of recycled materials, be tasked with sculptural challenges and build an imagined or real city out of recycled materials over the whole term.

Our program provides a nurturing environment where students are encouraged to interact and develop ideas collaboratively and independently to cultivate a deeper understanding of art practices and their own unique style.

At the end of each term students will be able to invite parents, care givers, friends and family to a pop-up exhibition of their work at Ignite Studios.

Intimate Fragments | Sabine Pick

Dates:

Sabine’s practice consists of making minimalist collage using parts of words, half words, unreadable words, unspoken words and random thoughts. These small works invite close observation of details that we often overlook.

Image: Sabine Pick, Untitled 2, 2019

Perpetual Transit: Five years on the road | Susan Joyce Following five years travelling around Australia, Susan’s abstract paintings record tracks from sparse plains to dense areas of vegetation or town.

The spacious, untethered, layered areas with subtle variations are in contrast to the boldly defined shapes of the concentrated hubs.

Image: Susan Joyce, Strange Place, 2019

Wednesdays 12 February – 8 April 2020 Ages: 8 – 15 years Full Term: $220 (9 x classes) Casual Bundle: $130 (5 x classes) Trial Class: $30 per class Where: Ignite Studios @ NRCG 60 Crane Street, Ballina Book Online or phone the Gallery on 02 6681 0530 Visit the What’s On section of our website for upcoming workshops As a registered provider for the Creative Kids program, you can redeem your voucher with us and create something great. If you don’t have a voucher, please visit service.nsw.gov.au.

connectedcommunity

upcoming exhibitions

Image: Bright Sparks workshop in Ignite Studios.

Photograph by Ben Wyeth

thanks to our sponsors The Ballina Shire Council and Northern Rivers Community Gallery gratefully acknowledge our exhibition sponsors: Stone & Wood Brewing and The Cellar.

THE

44 cherry street, ballina nsw 2478 | ph 02 6681 0530 open wed – fri 10am – 4pm | weekends 9.30am – 2.30pm (closed public holidays)

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NORTHERN RIVERS NEW CREATIVE DIRECTORY Find or be Found - for creatives to access global audiences Local creatives are encouraged to join Northern Rivers Creative, a premier online directory launched by Arts Northern Rivers.

The aim of the directory is to increase professional opportunities for creatives by connecting them to local and global markets.

With the highest concentration of creatives outside of metropolitan areas, the Northern Rivers is home to some of the most diverse, vibrant arts communities in Australia. Northern Rivers Creative celebrates the region’s thriving creative diversity, featuring a range of categories including creative services, visual arts, design, Indigenous arts, literature, music, performance and screen.

Northern Rivers Creative combats geographical, socio-economic and cultural barriers inhibiting emerging and established creatives. The resource will provide artistic excellence to potential markets while offering viable, sustainable work opportunities and professional development for our growing arts community.

Northern Rivers Creative is supported by Arts Northern Rivers’ contributing local councils and funding partners, Create NSW and Department of Communication and the Arts.

Find or be Found at…

Website: northernriverscreative.com.au Instagram @nrcreative Facebook: @northernriverscreative Image: Ceramics by Brooke Clunie at Red Door Studio in Ballina

EARTH, WATER, DANCE

A Sprung!! Integrated Dance Theatre "Summer Intensive" Project WHAT: A week of integrated environmentally based movement workshops.

WHEN: January 13-17, 10-4pm WHERE: Ballina Scout Hall, 33 Canal Road, Ballina WHO: Designed and facilitated by Sprung!! guest artists Asher Bowen Saunders and Che Pritchard, for dancers with and without disability and those seeking to connect more deeply with the physical environment.

Movement artists and social change makers, Asher Bowen Saunders and Che Pritchard, will present a week of movement and dance workshops, with the intention of deepening our connection and appreciation of the Earth and one another. The elements of nature will inform our exploration of organic human movement, contemporary dance, and Hip Hop/Street dance, through collaboration and devising. Asher and Che have a deep passion for environmental conservation and portray this through their art and through sharing their skills with others.

The workshop will be enhanced by the setting among trees on the banks of the tidal canal connected to the Richmond River.

Sprung!! Integrated Dance Theatre is a not for profit community organisation based in Northern Rivers NSW, providing dance and theatre training and workshops for persons with and without disability. We use collaborative and disability-led processes to develop inspiring dance theatre works that explore the human condition and promote a more inclusive society.

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THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE

"

Honouring the creative spirit through dance, theatre, integration and collaboration.

NO DOG AREAS: Playgrounds The Serpentine Shelly Beach Lighthouse Beach Flatrock Platform Southern end of Seven Mile Beach, Lennox Head.

ON LEASH AREAS: Angels Beach Sharpes Beach Flat Rock Beach OFF LEASH EXERCISE AREAS:

DOGS IN OUTDOOR DINING AREAS Are dogs allowed in outdoor dining areas?

What if the cafe owner says no?

Yes dogs are permitted in outdoor dining areas provided the owner/manager of the premises allows it. Dogs must be on a leash, on the ground at all times, and can be watered but not fed.

While assistance animals must be permitted in customer access areas, it is the cafĂŠ owner's discretion to allow other dogs in outdoor dining areas.

Are there rules that exempt assistance animals in dining areas?

An assistance animal (a guide dog wearing a harness) is permitted in any area of a food premises where customers can access. This includes public bars, indoor and outdoor dining areas, supermarkets, serving areas of kiosks and takeaway food outlets. This provision is legislated under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992, the Companion Animals Act 1998 and the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code.

Assistance animals are not permitted in areas of food premises that are off limits to the general public. No-go areas include kitchens, food preparation and food storage areas.

What about dogs in public areas?

Dogs are permitted in public places such as parks with picnic tables, except in no-dog areas, as long as they are under effective control and on a leash. Dogs can be given food and water on the ground and can sit on your lap.

Bicentennial Gardens, the northern area of the reserve, Ballina Compton Drive, East Ballina Gap Road, Alstonville Seven Mile Beach, north of Lake Ainsworth, (old 4WD access point), Lennox Head Ballina Heights Estate, eastern reserve area, Ballina Heights Headlands Drive Drainage Reserve, Skennars Head The Spit, Ballina

engaged leadership healthy environment healthyenvironment

Pooches in public places

Dogs in public places must be under the control of a competent person over 16 years of age.

When can the dog be off the leash when dining outdoors?

Dogs can be off the leash in designated off-leash areas. Dogs can be given food and water on the ground, can sit on your lap, but cannot sit on tables or chairs or have contact with food and drink utensils used by humans.

More Information: Public and Environmental Health Section 1300 864 444.

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kiosnk new o locati

CHANGED LOCATION FOR 4WD PERMIT KIOSK Seven Mile Beach 4WD permits can be purchased in two ways: At the automated kiosk which has been relocated along Camp Drewe Road.

OR Via the EasyPark App Download the app before accessing the beach, enter the location code (Seven Mile Beach is 402021), your registration number and choose your permit and payment option.

For more information visit easypark. com.au or telephone 1300 734 070.

2019/20 FEES: 1 DAY PERMIT $15 30 DAY PERMIT $45 6 MONTH PERMIT $65 ANNUAL PERMIT $110.

For more information about 4WD access in Ballina Shire visit ballina.nsw.gov.au

Beachwatch

Between November and February each year Ballina Shire Council conducts microbiological sampling at our beaches and waterbodies to detect faecal contamination (analysing Enterococci sp. as indicators) in partnership with the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment under the Beachwatch Program.

The beaches and waterbodies that are sampled include: Lake Ainsworth Shaws Bay Seven-Mile Beach Shelly Beach Lighthouse Beach The Serpentine The program provides weekly information to the public about the quality of water, allowing the public to make informed choices regarding potential swimming locations.

The swimming sites are tested five times per month and are considered safe for swimming when bacteria remain below threshold levels. Advisory warnings are issued where water quality testing indicates a potential health risk. After heavy rainfall swimming is generally not recommended for up to 72 hours depending on the site and catchment area.

Ballina Shire Council’s Beachwatch sampling procedure is audited by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment every year and once again Ballina Shire Council passed with flying colours.

For further information on Beachwatch sampling and weekly star ratings please go to environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/water/beaches/north-coast-beaches/ weekly-star-ratings We also test the water quality of Lake Ainworth, see the opposite page for details.

Lake Ainsworth Coastal Management Plan Following approximately two years of work the draft Lake Ainsworth Coastal Management Program (CMP) is now on public exhibition. The CMP once adopted and certified will set the longterm strategy for the coordinated management of the Lake.

Lake Ainsworth is a unique and sensitive ecosystem and a highly valued recreation spot. The input of the community is essential in ensuring the CMP is robust and able to achieve its aims. The draft CMP can be accessed via the project website https://www. hydrosphere.com.au/lakeainsworth and submissions are welcome up until the close of the public exhibition period on 6 December 2019.

Enquiries: Public and Environmental Health Section 02 6686 1210.

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The $1.7 million investment to improve the Lake Ainsworth foreshore is almost complete.

This improvements works include three-metre wide accessible pathways, barbeques, picnic tables, sandstone block seating, formalised parking, erosion rehabilitation and landscaping.

The upgrades, designed in consultation with Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Community Access Reference group, provide improved access for disabled and mobility impaired people.

The improvements to the Lake also include the installation of a roundabout adjacent to the Lennox Head and Alstonville Surf Life Saving Club. It is expected this will be completed by Christmas.

Note: vehicles wanting to access the Sport and Recreation Centre or Seven Mile Beach need to use the sealed Camp Drew Road on the western side of Lake Ainsworth.

When is it safe to swim in Lake Ainsworth?

Between October and April each year, council's Environmental Health Officers test Lake Ainsworth every week for blue green algae. This public health program detects potential algal outbreaks so we can advise the public of potential health risks. The sampling is conducted in accordance with the National Health and Research Medical Council (NHMRC) Guidelines and the results and alert level are published each week on council's website.

engaged leadership healthy environment healthyenvironment

Foreshore Improvement Works

Dog access arrangements for Lake Ainsworth and Se ven Mile Beach will be communicated to the community after the 21 November Counc il meeting.

The weekly alert level will be one of the following: NO ALERT LEVEL (no restrictions in place) GREEN ALERT LEVEL (no restrictions in place) AMBER ALERT LEVEL (some restrictions in place) RED ALERT LEVEL (full restrictions in place - no swimming allowed) Although the Lake is tested regularly its condition can sometimes change rapidly. Slicks and scums can form and disappear quickly, depending on the amount of blue green algae present and certain weather conditions, especially wind. Council's Environmental Health Officers encourage Lake users to always avoid slicks and scums no matter the Lake's current alert level.

#supportingagrowingcommunity FUNDED BY BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL.

supporting a growing community

For more information on blue green algae sampling or to subscribe to our weekly alert email update please visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/lakeainsworthstatus We also test the water quality of our beaches, see the opposite page for the Beachwatch program.

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ENVIRONMENT

Love it or Lose it

IMPROVING ACCESS AROUND SHAWS BAY Council continues the actions from the Coastal Zone Management Plan to improve the health of the Shaws Bay ecosystem and the local amenity. Council is currently constructing a footpath along Pop Denison Park, this is expected to be completed before Christmas.

Dredging and foreshore works will commence in early 2020, and will be followed by the final path connecting to Compton Drive. The boardwalk style path will meander through vegetation and allow for saltmarsh to establish in the ecological zone.

Emigrant Creek Rehabilitation Project If you have been down to Crosbys Lane, Tintenbar lately you might have noticed some changes. This is because Council has begun implementation of the Emigrant Creek Rehabilitation Project.

The project is progressing well with vegetation regeneration consultants beginning to implement the Vegetation Management Plan in a staged approach across the project area. On ground works have commenced in both Crosby’s Lane and Old Bangalow Road. The works undertaken so far have involved understorey and mid-storey weed treatment, as well as significant camphor laurel removal.

To compensate for the removal of hollows in camphor laurels, a variety of fauna nest boxes will be installed. Our contractors have done a great job in balancing the removal of weeds, and ensuring there is still room for the local fauna which includes sugar gliders, possums and birds.

#supportingagrowingcommunity FUNDED BY BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL.

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supporting a growing community

THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE

Plans are being drawn up for the two reserves within the project area; Old Bangalow Reserve which is also known as ‘the common’ as well as the reserve adjacent to Tintenbar Medical Centre. These plans will detail the embellishments to be provided as well as the planting areas. Root balls will be installed within the creek soon to retain bank stability, and provide additional fish habitat.

(...and so do you)

1

2

3

In Zack’s desperation to mow the

Now it’s raining and Pete is saving

Well, it goes down the drain and

lawn before it rains, he has forgotten

water by washing his car! But

out of sight, until ….

the catcher on his mower! Now

where is all this filthy runoff

the only thing to catch the grass

going to end up, I wonder?

clippings is the roadside gutter.

4

5

6

Wow, what a difference if Zack

… and if Pete washed his car on

Then swimming will be much more

used his catcher. No grass

the lawn instead of the driveway!

fun and you might even catch a

clippings in the roadside gutter!

engaged leadership healthy environment healthyenvironment

THE LITTLE THINGS MATTER

big one.

LOVE IT OR LOSE IT Help us keep our waterways clean.

Making positive changes in your backyard, business or on the land will ensure future generations can continue to enjoy clean drinking water, healthy fish and beautiful waterways.

For more information visit loveitorloseit.com.au

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ENVIRONMENT ALSTONVILLE

LANDCARE + COASTCARE

prof ile

Landcare volunteers take on vegetation restoration works and bring their skills, experience and dedication to target weeds and promote natives species in a number of locations throughout Ballina Shire.

In this issue of Community Connect we profile Alstonville Maguires Creek Landcare.

Alstonville Maguires Creek (AMC) Landcare is a committed group of volunteers who cover six-urban bushland sites from Lumley Park to the Alstonville Bypass along sections of Maguires Creek in Alstonville.

We visit the group on a clear October morning at the Maple Drive and Coral Street sites.

The team is industrious; digging holes for planting, mulching and removing weeds. We are welcomed into an oasis of shade and tranquillity, and enveloped by the unique scent of the Australian bush as they show us the difference they are making in this urban bush paradise.

START WITH A PLAN The Alstonville Maguires Creek Landcare group formed a core group of seven volunteers with the specific aim to implement the Bulwinkel Park and Associated Reserves Vegetation Restoration Strategy.

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Developed by consultants the strategy was adopted by Ballina Shire Council in 2018 and covers the public bushland reserve areas in the urban areas of Alstonville.

This strategy has been a real strength for AMC Landcare, as it plans out the vegetation works as well as the group's operations. The strategy has been a great guide providing a weeds list to target, a species list to plant, and specifications on low, medium and high growing natives.

SO MUCH GROUND TO COVER FOR A SMALL GROUP AMC Landcare is a small group, but they pack a tidy punch.

Clearing weeds and replanting 6,000 rainforest tubestock, they have revegetated a one-kilometre corridor along Maguires Creek.

But they are modest about their achievements and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like to take all the credit, calling on local schools and residents to help out when they have larger quantities to plant. In March this year, they put in 2,000 plants. Thankfully, within 24-hours, 100 mls of rainfall provided a perfect start for these new plantings.

THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE

TREASURES UNCOVERED The Maple Drive and Coral Street sites previously hid a freshwater creek. Before AMC Landcare came in, the creek could not be accessed due to the thick cover of lantana. Corridors of natural regeneration are developing since the removal of weeds and regenerated natives are tagged with ribbon, so that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not inadvertently damaged.

The group have also formed a walking track to improve access for site maintenance, education and community activities.

VERITABLE OASIS New plantings tap into the underground moisture that naturally exists in this area, allowing the plants to thrive, providing a lush green environment. The ridges however get a bit dry, and in these extreme dry conditions require some watering.

SUPPORT AND EDUCATION Ongoing community and corporate sponsorship have helped AMC Landcare continue their work and education.

They have been called on to demonstrate best practice grazing and riparian

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Big Scrub Publishes Rainforest Restoration Manual Big Scrub Landcare has published its third edition of its highly regarded Subtropical Rainforest Restoration – a practical manual and data source for Landcare groups, land managers and rainforest regenerators.

The manual is a comprehensive guide to rainforest and subtropical rainforest restoration practices.

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It provides information on how to rehabilitate and care for existing subtropical rainforest remnants and re-establish subtropical rainforest.

First published in 1998 with a second edition in 2005 the manual has sold over 4000 copies to date.

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The third edition identifies and incorporates the latest science and current best practice techniques, and important data relevant to planting trees and shrubs that occur in lowland subtropical rainforest.

The manual is $25, to purchase visit bigscrubrainforest. org or email info@bigscrubrainforest.org.

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ALSTONVILLE MAGUIRES CREEK LANDCARE COMPLETED WORKS (2017-19)

Completed works

management by assisting with the inclusion of the two-hectare Alstonville Police Paddock in their project area. AMC Landcare are also hoping to expand the Maguires Creek site by another twohectares.

AMC Landcare provide regular assistance to Alstonville High School farm with weed control, livestock exclusion fencing and student training.

Council’s Nursery is also grateful for their rainforest seed collection.

These seedlings are propagated by the nursery staff and used by Landcare groups and for council’s planting across the Ballina Shire.

A LASTING LEGACY The AMC Landcare project has reached a point where they can proudly display the incredible natural beauty and biodiversity of Maguires Creek: attracting the next generation of Landcare volunteers to continue this project.

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ENVIRONMENT Erosion and Sediment Control Program Council has previously run erosion and sediment control training for local builders and construction workers, to enhance their skills and knowledge to prevent soil and other material leaving building sites.

There is significant building activity in our area, which can have a huge effect on water quality as the drains and gutters flow to our waterways. Studies by the NSW EPA show that one building site can lose up to four truckloads of soil in a single storm.

Christine Pitman, Contaminated Land Officer.

HELPING COUNCILS MANAGE CONTAMINATED LAND

Maintaining adequate erosion and sediment controls save the builder and site owner money and help keep our waterways clean and healthy.

Get your own copy of the Guidelines for Erosion and Sediment Control from Council’s Customer Service Centre or download from council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au/sedimentcontrol

Ballina Shire Council, on behalf of the Northern Rivers Joint Organisation (NRJO), has been awarded a $420,000 grant to tackle contaminated land in the Northern Rivers.

Christine Pitman was recently appointed as the Council Regional Capacity Building Contaminated Land Officer to ensure that NRJO councils have policies, procedures and registers that comply with legislation and EPA guidelines for managing contaminated land.

“Christine's expertise will assist when dealing with land contamination issues arising from historical underground fuel tank leaks or land which was formerly used for industrial activities,” Councillor Wright said.

“Bringing this expertise to our region and upskilling councils through training will help protect our community and environment now and into the future.”

GUIDELINES

FOR

N EROSIO ENT

The Northern Rivers Joint Organisation incorporates Ballina Shire Council, Byron Shire Council, Kyogle Shire Council, Lismore City Council, Richmond Valley Council and Tweed Shire Council.

AND

SEDIM

ON CONTROLSIT ES BUILDING

The grant is through the NSW Government's $4.2 million Council Regional Capacity Building Program, which runs from 2018-2021.

Love it or Lose

rways

Protect Our Wate

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it

Get your own copy of the new Guidelines for Erosion and Sediment Control from Council’s Customer Service Centre or download from Council’s website ballina. nsw.gov.au (search erosion and sediment control).

Coral Tree

"The coral tree I’ve got is different to the coral tree my friend has?"

We have previously profiled a pest species of the cockspur coral tree, but did you know there is more than one type of coral tree?

In fact, there are three…

There is a native coral tree, known as a ‘bats wing coral tree’, which grows on the margins of rainforest locations and is also known as grey corkwood. It is deciduous and often flowers whilst still without leaves, usually during spring and summer. It is more commonly found in northern Australia.

The coral trees more commonly found along our waterways are both pest species. They both have red flowers (although they look a little different) and they can both spread vegetatively – this means through branches that have broken off. Cockspur coral tree also spread by seeds. They both lose their leaves during winter, and love our warm subtropical climate. They also love the moisture our creeks and rivers provide them.

COUNCIL POWERING FORWARD Ballina Shire Council's fleet has welcomed a futuristic and sustainable new vehicle. The Nissan Leaf electric car was recently purchased following a Council decision to source more sustainable vehicle options.

If you are removing either of the pest coral trees, they need to be poisoned and every last piece of them removed from the site. They are extremely vigorous and can regrow from very small pieces of stem or leaf. Professional help in their removal is advisable, both for your safety around herbicides but also to ensure you are using the latest knowledge in successful removal. Alternatively, Rous County Council have factsheets on the Cockspur Coral Tree that can assist you in correct herbicide dosage and application.

engaged leadership healthy environment healthyenvironment

PEST SPECIES

They each have nasty thorns, so be careful when doing any work with them.

Staff are already enjoying the new car, which can travel about 270km on one charge and is 100% powered by electricity.

The use of electric vehicles around the world is becoming more popular and affordable. Electric vehicles (EVs) also help reduce carbon emissions and save on fuel costs. In Australia, petrol is more expensive than electricity which means the average EV owner can save up to $1500 each year by powering their car with electricity over fuel.

Council is hopeful this car will be the first of many more sustainable changes for council's vehicle fleet.

Pictured is Council’s GIS Officer, Leslie Sanderson and Fleet Coordinator, Neil Smith

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WASTE

WATCH

Low Waste Christmas Guide FACT

SOLUTIONS

FOOD WASTE

Australians spend a combined $554 million on extra food and drink at Christmas time. One third of all the extra food is wasted, most of which is sent to landfill.

GIFTS

About $4 billion worth of unwanted gifts are generated at Christmas time with most of those ending up in landfill.

Donate, don’t buy – there are many organisations to choose from including Oz Harvest, Care Australia, World Wildlife Fund, Red Cross and Amnesty International Donate unwanted gifts Buy less Buy local/regional products Gift an experience such as a concert ticket, massage or class Foil wrapping paper is NOT recyclable. If you receive some, why not save it for reuse?

GIFT PACKAGING

8,000 tonnes of wrapping paper is used each year. This is the equivalent of around 50,000 trees.

Flatten cardboard packaging and boxes Have two containers handy at the time of opening gifts: one for paper/recycling and one for landfill Wrap gifts in reusable materials such as reusable gift boxes, hessian, cloth, children’s artwork or recycled wrapping paper.

Create a meal plan and think about portion control before food shopping Lighten your load by asking everyone to bring a dish Ensure there is a food scraps container handy for the kitchen/BBQ. Use safe techniques for food storage so they can be used as leftovers Check out the hundreds of leftover recipes available online or create your own Place all food scraps in your organics bin.

LIDS 4 KIDS While residents cannot place small lids in the kerbside recycling bin, some lids can now be donated to a worthwhile charity.

Lids 4 Kids is a nation wide volunteer organisation that collects plastic drink bottle lids so that they can be turned into prosthetic limbs for disadvantaged children both within Australia and all over the world using 3D technology. We are lucky to have some passionate volunteer residents setting up a wonderful collection network across the shire and Council thanks East Ballina Lions Club, Donna Lloyd and Wayne Morcom

for your enthusiasm with this worthy cause. Thank you to the many businesses collecting their own lids for collection.

Residents can drop off their washed milk, soft drink and water bottle lids and bread clips to the following council facilities: Ballina Council Cherry Street offices Lennox Community Centre Alstonville Leisure and Community Centre To find out more about how you can get involved with Lids 4 Kids, please contact Council on 1300 864 444.

Details on this program are correct at time of publication.

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Fact sources: Australian Ethical; University of Sydney; The Clean Collective

WASTE

Did you know that on average, Australians spend 60% more of our incomes and have 30% more household waste over the Christmas period? Christmas waste is a real issue but with a little awareness and planning, your household can avoid excessive waste.

WASTE MANAGEMENT CENTRE (excluding public holidays) Southern Cross Drive, Ballina ph 02 6686 1287

WHAT DO YOU USE? Food scrap bin liners Newspaper? Yes

Nothing? Yes

Let’s all recycle our Let’s all recycle our food andfood gardenand waste in ourwaste green organics garden in ourbins. green organics bins.

For more information contact council’s Resource Recovery Team on 1300 864 For more information contact 444 or visit the Ballina Shire Council council’s Resource Recovery website ballina.nsw.gov.au/organicwaste

Team on 1300 864 444 or visit the Ballina Shire Council website ballina.nsw.gov.au/ organicwaste

Expired Flare Collection

Plastic, degradable and biodegradable bags? No

A certified compostable bag liner? Yes

Only use compostable bags with this seedling logo.

Only use compostable bags with this seedling logo.

waste services over the holiday season WASTE MANAGEMENT CENTRE HOURS Ballina’s Waste Management Centre will be closed on: Wednesday 25 December Thursday 26 December Wednesday 1 January It will be open 8am – 4pm all other days.

PUBLIC HOLIDAY COLLECTION DAYS There are no changes to kerbside waste collection services over the holiday period.

Please place your bins out as usual.

Expired Flare Collection

CHRISTMAS COLLECTION WEEK Christmas falls on a recycling and organics collection week with year.

Roads and Maritime Services expired marine flare collection program is on again from November 2019 to January 2020. Find a collection point near you to safely dispose of your expired flares.

Tweed Heads to Port Macquarie Kennedy Drive Boat Ramp, Tweed Heads

Saturday 16 Nov Thursday 2 Jan

8–10am 7.30–10am

Fishery Creek Boat Ramp, Ballina

Saturday 16 Nov Thursday 2 Jan

11.30am–2pm 1–3pm

Evans Head Boat Ramp, Evans Head

Saturday 16 Nov Thursday 2 Jan

3.30–5.30pm 4.30–6.30pm

Spenser St Boat Ramp, Iluka

Sunday 17 Nov Friday 3 Jan

7.30–9.30am 7.30–11am

Roads and Maritime Services expired marine flare program is 17 collection Nov 10.30am–12.30pm Yamba Ramp, Yamba AreRoad youBoat looking to safely dispose of expiredSunday marine The Roads Friday 3 Find Janflares?

2–5pm on again from November 2019 to January 2020. a collection point and Maritime Services expired marine flare collection program is on Service NSW Centre car park, Coffs Harbour Sunday 17 Nov 3–6pm near you to safely dispose of your expired flares.

Coffs Harbour Boat Ramp, Coffs Harbour

again in November and January 2020.

Tweed Heads to Port Stuart Island Boat Ramp, Nambucca Heads Where: Fishery CreekMacquarie Boat Ramp, Ballina

7am–12.30pm

Friday 22 Nov Saturday 4 Jan

8–11.30am 3–5pm

Saturday 16 Nov

8–10am 1–5pm 7.30–10am 8–11am

Friday 22 Nov 2019 11.30am-2pm Thursday Jan Sunday 5 2 Jan Thursday 2 January 2020 1-3pm Saturday 16 Saturday 23 Nov Nov

Kennedy Drive Boat Ramp, Tweed Heads Mattys Flat Boat Ramp, South West Rocks When: Saturday 16 November

Saturday 4 Jan

Fishery Creek Ramp, Westport BoatBoat Ramp, PortBallina Macquarie Evans Head Boat Ramp, Evans Head Spenser St Boat Ramp, Iluka

Thursday Jan Sunday 5 2 Jan

11.30am–2pm 7.30–10am 1–3pm 1–5pm

Saturday 16 Nov Thursday 2 Jan

3.30–5.30pm 4.30–6.30pm

Sunday 17 Nov

7.30–9.30am

engaged leadership healthy environment healthyenvironment

OPEN 8AM-4PM 7 DAYS A WEEK

TIP: to extend the use of your bins, ensure you have separate containers in your home to capture recycling and organics, keeping them out of landfill.

Friday 3 Jancollection 7.30–11am For more information on the schedule and other locations across NSW visit rms.nsw.gov.au/flares orNov call 13 12 36.

Sunday 17 10.30am–12.30pm

Yamba Road Boat Ramp, Yamba

Friday 3 Jan

2–5pm

Service NSW Centre car park, Coffs Harbour Coffs Harbour Boat Ramp, Coffs Harbour

Sunday 17 Nov Saturday 4 Jan

3–6pm 7am–12.30pm

Stuart Island Boat Ramp, Nambucca Heads

Friday 22 Nov Saturday 4 Jan

8–11.30am 3–5pm

Mattys Flat Boat Ramp, South West Rocks

Friday 22 Nov Sunday 5 Jan

1–5pm 8–11am

Westport Boat Ramp, Port Macquarie

Saturday 23 Nov Sunday 5 Jan

7.30–10am 1–5pm

RMS.19.1399

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1 egg

196L

1kg

17,000L

WIPES ON THE RISE

1 shirt

Council’s Wastewater Fitter, Mark is passionate about his job and keeping wet wipes out of our sewer system.

2,700L

How much water do you eat each day?

How long have you been working at council? Five and a half years.

We bet it’s more than the recommended eight glasses a day!

What does a typical day for you involve? Pumpstation maintenance, upgrading pumps, cleaning our wet wells, installing new pumps – mixed with break downs and a lot of problem solving!

We are often told our washing machines and showers use the most water in our households, but there’s perhaps a few other culprits we don’t think about!

What is a pumpstation? It’s basically a collection point that pumps our community’s wastewater to our treatment plants.

Like your fridge. It’s very likely that every item within your fridge needed water to make or produce it.

For example, it takes about 196 litres of water to produce just ONE egg and 17,000 litres of water for 1 kilogram of chocolate – that’s enough water to fill a swimming pool. Another household area going under the radar is your wardrobe. It can take 2,700 litres of water to produce a single t-shirt.

Why can’t wipes be flushed down the toilet? There’s so many different wipes available these days - baby wipes, wet wipes, makeup wipes and cleaning wipes but none of them should be flushed because they never break down. Even if they say ‘flushable’!

Of course, we are not suggesting you go on a hunger strike or take up a naturalist lifestyle. We all have a part to play in making sustainable choices whether it’s turning off the tap or reducing our food waste.

What happens when someone flushes a wipe? It’s likely to cause a blockage at one of three places: 1. Within the property’s own plumbing 2. Within our sewer main 3. At one of our 124 pumpstations.

Wipes are our biggest culprit when it comes to blocked pumpstations. The material used to make these wipes is actually quite strong so when hundreds meet in a pumpstation they become one very tough mass that even wears away at the steel within our pumps!

Whether it’s reducing waste, saving energy, or being a conscious consumer, small actions can make a big difference. Think about ways that you could save energy and water.

How often does this happen? Since starting with council five years ago I’ve noticed an increase in wipes and the problems they cause. On average, we are fixing about three wet wipe blockages a week and these often happen overnight. At the end of the day, these staffing and material costs are worn by the ratepayer.

Information sources from greenpeace.org.au and worldwildlife.org

What can people put down the toilet? Our sewer system runs like a dream if we all remember the three Ps – pee, poo and paper down the toilet.

What’s our dam level?

Our shire’s water supply comes from two main water sources. Rocky Creek Dam is our shire’s main water source. This dam is currently 79% full, as at 11 November 2019.

To find out more visit rous.nsw.gov.au

79% as at 11 November 2019

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Behind the scenes (and under the ground!) council proactively undertakes a program of capital works to upgrade infrastructure to ensure a reliable water and wastewater service and peace of mind for residents. Equipment age and population growth within our shire are key drivers for upgrade projects.

INVESTING IN OUR WATER AND WASTEWATER INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADE OF BOOSTER PUMP STATION AND NEW WATER BOOSTER PUMP IN PROGRESS Boosting East Ballina’s water pressure and upgrading existing assets East Ballina’s water pressure is set to improve after council installs a new water booster pump station. These pumps will be connected to the East Ballina reservoir, which has been out of service following a recent upgrade. The $1 million project which also includes the upgrade of the Basalt Court booster pump station will also reduce energy costs and reduce the operational noise generated by the existing pump station

MAROM CREEK WATER TREATMENT PLANT UPGRADE IN PROGRESS Improving drinking water quality The preliminary design for Phases 1 and 2 of the upgraded Marom Creek Water Treatment Plant are complete. Next the team will get to work seeking the appropriate approvals, followed by construction and plans to complete the upgrade by July 2022. This $4.7 million project has been supported by $1.1 million in grant funding from the NSW Government’s Safe and Secure Water Program. The state funding will be used to upgrade the existing treatment plant which was constructed in the early 80s. This important investment will secure high quality drinking water for Wardell and Meerschaum Vale and Cabbage Tree Island communities now and into the future.

REPLACED RECYCLED WATER MAIN COMPLETED

engaged leadership healthy environment healthyenvironment

Projects in the Pipeline

Growing our recycled water service As our recycled water service continues to grow so does its infrastructure. This project involved replacing over 1.8 kilometres of recycled water mains from North Creek Rd to Angels Beach Drive in East Ballina. This pipeline delivers recycled water from our Lennox Head Wastewater Treatment Plant (where it’s treated) to East Ballina residents.

REPLACE SEWER MAIN COMPLETED Improving our wastewater infrastructure In conjunction with the above project, we have also recently replaced a primary sewer main that runs from Angels Beach Drive to North Creek Rd in East Ballina. The pipeline transfers sewage from East Ballina to our Lennox Head Wastewater Treatment Plant, where it’s treated and delivered back to our recycled water users.

Council used a range of technical and innovative engineering processes to upgrade this 1.8 kilometre sewer main and the 1.8 kilometre recycled water main. Two of the most innovative were horizontal directional drilling and trenchless relining, which are faster, more cost effective and help minimise the disruption to the local community and environment.

For more information on these projects, visit ballinawater.com.au or call our Water and Wastewater Team on 1300 864 444.

NOVEMBER 2019 ISSUE 37

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staff matters

The Resource Recovery Team have no time to waste! the ballina shire is safe with a connected community, a healthy environment and a thriving economy.

The Resource Recovery Team looks after all things waste and recycling. Together, they collect and manage thousands of tonnes each year!

The team's responsibility starts in homes and businesses, with creative education programs to encourage our community to do the right thing to increase recycling and reduce contamination.

Our Waste Management Officers start at 5am each day, collecting hundreds of the 55,000 bins in circulation around our shire - that's a lot of milk bottles and egg cartons!

The material collected is then dropped off at the Waste Management Centre where it's sorted and bulked up before it's sent off to regional recycling processing facilities or landfills. On average the team manage about 26,000 tonnes of waste and recycling material every year!

Our customer service team are also busy on the phones answering customer enquiries, from broken bin lids to new services.

At the Transfer Station, the staff help customers sort their materials correctly to increase reuse and reduce what's sent to landfill. Down at the weigh bridge the team completes over 53,000 customer transactions annually and weigh every kilogram of material that comes in and out!

This is just one of the NSW EPA's requirements in a very heavily regulated industry.

This is where our waste managers and strategic officers come in. They develop and implement a broad range of strategic programs and procedures to ensure we meet our legislative requirements and operate within strict Environmental Protection License conditions.

All this is happens on a day-to-day basis â&#x20AC;&#x201C; after all council's waste service operates 365 days a year!

THE MOST CHALLENGING AND REWARDING PARTS OF THEIR WORK As essential service providers, challenges are never too far away! Regular challenges include collecting bins on narrow streets or helping educate the community to correctly recycle their waste.

They also work within a highly volatile domestic and international market for recyclable products. This can make annual budgeting very difficult.

Unfortunately we also see asbestos coming through the weighbridge or via the kerbside bin collection. This practice is not only illegal but it also exposes staff members to dangerous asbestos fibres and dust. It is disappointing that some people disregard the well-known dangers of asbestos â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the weighbridge rejected over 75 loads this calendar year.

All this aside, it's rewarding to provide an essential service that's crucial for every person that lives in the shire. They pride themselves on doing this safely and efficiently for each and every person in our community.

42

from Ballina Shire Councillors and Staff

43

phone 0415 965 403 david.wright@ballina.nsw. gov.au

Council services – Christmas and New Year period 2019/2020

Cr Phillip Meehan

LOCATION

CLOSING

phone 0408 349 833 phil.meehan@ballina.nsw. gov.au

Customer Service Centre

3pm Tuesday 24 December 2019

Alstonville Library

2pm Tuesday 24 December 2019

Ballina Library Lennox Head Library Northern Rivers Community Gallery

2pm Tuesday 24 December 2019

8.15am Thursday 2 January 2020 9.30am Thursday 2 January 2020 9am Thursday 2 January 2020

2pm Tuesday 24 December 2019

9am Thursday 2 January 2020

Cr Stephen McCarthy phone 0435 759 987 stephen.mccarthy@ballina. nsw.gov.au

WARD A

Cr Nathan Willis phone 0434 154 782 nathan.willis@ballina.nsw. gov.au

Waste Management Centre

Cr Sharon Cadwallader phone 0413 091 440 sharon.cadwallader@ ballina.nsw.gov.au

Cr Keith Williams phone 0418 504 644 keith.williams@ballina.nsw. gov.au

WARD B

your councillors

MAYOR

Cr David Wright

Cr Jeff Johnson phone 0438 677 202 jeff.johnson@ballina.nsw. gov.au

phone 0408 683 052 sharon.parry@ballina.nsw. gov.au

WARD C

Cr Benjamin Smith phone 0415 482 412 ben.smith@ballina.nsw. gov.au DEPUTY MAYOR

phone 0407 416 149 eoin.johnston@ballina. nsw.gov.au

Ballina War Memorial Pool and Waterslide Burns Point Ferry

Cr Sharon Parry

Cr Eoin Johnston

Alstonville Aquatic Centre

All councillors can be emailed at councillors@ballina.nsw.gov.au Councillors are here to represent your views.

Councillors are elected in Wards, however each Councillor represents the entire community and can be contacted on any matter. You can contact Councillors in person, by phone or email.

COMMUNITY SPACES Alstonville Leisure & Entertainment Centre Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC) Jingi Wahla rooms (Ballina Surf Club) Kentwell Community Centre Lennox Community Centre Richmond Room Visitor Information Centre After hours emergency number 6626 6954

REOPENING

2.30pm Sunday 22 December 2019 4pm Tuesday 24 December 2019

10am Wednesday 15 January 2020 8am Friday 27 December 2019 8am Thursday 2 January 2020 4pm Tuesday 31 December 2020 8am - 4pm 7 days a week except public holidays Bins will be collected as usual on public holidays. Please have bins kerbside by 5am on your normal collection day, as start times and the order of collection may vary.

10am Thursday 26 December 7pm Tuesday 24 December 2019 2019 10am Wednesday 1 January 6pm Tuesday 31 December 2019 2020 9am Thursday 26 December 7pm Tuesday 24 December 2019 2019 5pm Tuesday 31 December 2019 9am Wednesday 1 January 2020 12 noon Wednesday 25 5.30am Thursday 26 December December 2019 2019 Usual hours of operation 5.30am to 12.30am daily.

Administration office closes 3pm 8.30am Thursday 2 December Tuesday 24 December 2019 2020

Community Spaces may be hired during the closure period by prior arrangement with Council staff.

5pm Tuesday 24 December 2019 5pm Tuesday 31 December 2019

10am Thursday 26 December 2019 10am Wednesday 1 January 2020

Emergency calls concerning water, sewage, roads, stormwater and health matters.

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council contact information Ph: 1300 864 444 | Email: council@ballina.nsw.gov.au | Web: ballina.nsw.gov.au Street Address: 40 Cherry Street, Ballina | Postal Address: PO Box 450, Ballina 2478 Office Hours: 8.15am to 4.30pm Mon-Fri (excluding public holidays) | After hours contact: 02 6626 6954 Council’s Community Access Points: Meeting agendas and documents on exhibition can be viewed at council’s Customer Service Centre; Alstonville, Ballina and Lennox Head Libraries and Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au Photo contributors: Ben Wyeth, Getty Images Sport, TAFE NSW