Community Connect | Ballina Shire Council | Issue 39 | June 2020

ISSUE

39 J U LY 2 0 2 0

T H E

M A G A Z I N E

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B A L L I N A

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C O U N C I L

CONTRACT MANAGERS AT OUR COMMUNITY POOLS Meet the husband-and-wife teams who have been at the helm for more than 25 years.

featured stories...

Draft Concept Plan for Lennox Village

See page 4 and 5 for details.

Gateway to Council

Waste Factsheet and Calendar Inside

from the mayor's desk

It is with great sadness that this will be my last column in the Community Connect that will be distributed in the Advocate due to the decision to no longer print and deliver the Advocate to households within our shire.

The Advocate has unfortunately had to make the difficult financial decision to only have digital format available to the public.

This change is a terrible loss to many residents who enjoy the weekly news and community updates. The Advocate will also be missed by service clubs and groups to distribute information for all their great work community work.

We recognise how important it is to stay connected with our community and Council’s Communications Team is already working on new strategies to deliver Council news to you. In the meantime, we encourage you to subscribe to our eNews via Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au Many of us have found it difficult over the last few months with social distancing and not being able to venture too far from home. However, it has been great to see so many people out exercising on the paths and beaches during this time. Please remember that most paths are shared paths and this means walkers, runners and cyclists need to be aware of everyone using them.

I am very proud of how our community has abided by the rules set by the State and Federal Governments. I am sure the early intervention has helped in containing the virus when compared with other countries.

During this time of change, Council has been operating its meetings online through Zoom. Council has followed the Covid-19 guidelines which has meant that members of the public have not been allowed in the Council Chambers for meetings. However, the meetings can be viewed via council’s website with councillors and staff adapting well to the new technology.

I wish to congratulate and thank the myriad of people from businesses, community groups and individuals who have helped those less fortunate with meals and social activity. I also thank all Council staff for going beyond their set roles to ensure that residents' needs are met. The 'Business Connect' program, which provides home delivery of food and staple household goods, has proved very successful during the past few months.

Even with the strict public health orders in place, our staff continued to work hard to ensure that all essential services were maintained. I congratulate all of our staff for their efforts in supporting the Ballina Shire during this time.

Ballina Shire will come through this global pandemic okay. Council planning staff have continued to process an increasing number of Development Applications as demand for businesses and housing continues to grow.

I wish to sincerely thank Kevin Hogan, the Federal Member for Page, for supporting Council’s grant application of $10 million to help fund the widening of the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport’s runway. This will allow larger aeroplanes to use our airport and provide a springboard to improved services. This will contribute to job and economic growth with all the new industrial and technology blocks coming online in the Southern Cross Industrial Estate.

As mentioned before, make sure you subscribe to Council’s eNews, visit Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au and follow us on Facebook.

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Ballina Byron Gateway Airport 3 Reappointment of Pools managers 4–5 Lennox Village Vision 6–7 Streaming Council Meetings 8 Policies on exhibition 8 Get answers 24/7 9 A gateway to council 9 Achievements 2019/2020 10 – 11 Rock fishing – wear a life jacket 12 Have your say on the name 'Gawandii Beach' 13

prosperous economy Ballina Coast and Hinterland 14 – 15 Keep safe and enjoy our shared paths 16 Do you have a smoky chimney?

17 Fire Pits 17 Projects in the pipeline for 2020/2021 18 River Street Duplication 18 Hutley Drive North Extension Road now open 19 Road Projects 19 Coastal Recreation Walk and Shared Path 20

connected community Airport Boulevard Southern Cross Industrial Estate 21 Stay at Flat Rock Tent Park 21 Wollongbar District Park Concept Plan 22 Community Spaces 24 – 25 Northern Rivers Community Gallery 26 – 27

healthy environment Landcare Profile – Patchs Beach Dunecare Ballina Biodiversity Strategy Report Illegal Dumping Dogs in the Ballina Shire Healthy Waterways Water Talk Waste Watch

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28 29 29 30 – 31 32 – 33 34 – 35 36 – 39

subscribe to council’s eNews You’ll never miss important community news and updates again!

ballina.nsw.gov.au

Cr David Wright

2

engaged leadership

ballina byron gateway airport Flightsto return a Ballin

New flights and return of services We are delighted to announce that services are returning to Ballina Byron Gateway Airport! The services look like this…

INAUGURAL QANTASLINK Flights will commence with 4 services per week after 1 July 2020

JETSTAR SYDNEY Twice daily flights, 7 days a week, from 1 July 2020

JETSTAR MELBOURNE One daily flight, 7 days a week, from 1 July 2020

REGIONAL EXPRESS Flights resume with 3 services a week from 1 July 2020

FLY PELICAN Flights continue for Sydney/Newcastle with 4 services per week.

Please contact your airline’s website for the most up-to-date information. * This information is correct at time of printing.

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

$10 MILLION BOOST FOR BALLINA BYRON GATEWAY AIRPORT Earlier in June the Federal Member for Page, Kevin Hogan MP, announced $10 million grant funding to help widen and strengthen the runway.

The total project cost is expected to be over $23 million, and will include widening the runway from 30 to 45 metres and strengthening the runway.

connectedcommunity engagedleadership

LATEST NEWS FROM

This project will contribute to the region’s economic growth and will ensure Ballina Byron Gateway Airport continues to support the entire region.

Airport Manager Julie Stewart was delighted with the announcement and this funding is very welcome news.

"It is so pleasing to know that the Federal Government shares our vision for the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport and is willing to financially support us to achieve our goals”.

shire council

supporting a growing community

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REAPPOINTMENT OF CONTRACT POOL MANAGERS Two husband-and-wife teams have been contracted to manage the local pools at Alstonville and Ballina for more than 25 years. Recently reappointed to the roles following a competitive tender process, Community Connect caught up with Greg and Kelly, and Lee and Vicki, to reflect on their journey so far.

Greg and Kelly @ Alstonville Aquatic Centre Almost 26 years ago Greg and Kelly Fettell relocated their young family from Wollongong to Alstonville to operate the local pool. It was a complete change of lifestyle – and one they fully embraced.

“We moved with four kids, with the eldest about 10 and the youngest just two at the time. I had been working two jobs and Kelly was working as well so it was one extreme to the next where we went from not seeing each other much, to always being together,” says Greg. “It has worked well for us, we love it.”

When Greg and Kelly arrived in 1994, the centre was already an established training hub for water polo. Over the years the sport has gone from strength to strength, with Alstonville Club teams winning state, national and international polo tournaments.

The aquatic centre also has a long history of nurturing talented swimmers and triathletes.

“At this point in time we’ve got seven kids aiming for the national swimming championships this year, which is fantastic for a small country town to have that much quality, thanks to Graham Walker who is the current coach.”

“We’ve had Olympians from overseas based here for summer camps, we’ve had fantastic squads use the facility and many really good triathletes use the pool for their swimming component.”

While their kids have grown up in and around the centre, Greg says it really will be a family affair.

They are very optimistic about continuing at the Alstonville Aquatic Centre, with their son Clayton, a professional triathlete and coach, stepping up to help with operations. The family is so thankful to the Alstonville community for their ongoing support and can’t wait to see what the next chapter will bring.

“The clientele here has really been fantastic,” says Greg. “I think the pool is very much appreciated by the community.”

ALSTONVILLE

Alstonville Aquatic Centre amenities upgrade Upgrades to the amenities and change rooms at Alstonville Aquatic Centre will begin from 1 July 2020 and take approximately two months to complete.

The male and female amenities and change rooms will be refitted with all new basins, showers, toilets, equipment and tiling.

The current accessible change room will be refurbished and equipped with chair lift.

The upgrade will also extend to the kiosk area, which will become more spacious with new benches, new flooring and fittings.

Funding of $400,000 has been allocated to this project through Council’s community facilities budget.

Alstonville Aquatic Centre will be closed for the two months from 1 July. While these works are being completed Ballina War Memorial Pool will remain open.

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Vicki and Lee Fitzgerald have watched generations of families grow up at Ballina War Memorial Pool – including their own. Twenty-five years ago they made the seachange from Tenterfield to Ballina with their five children.

Juggling parenthood and running a business wasn’t always easy. Vicki says support from her family and the tight-knit local community made it possible. The couple has seen plenty of change over the years, including the recent redevelopment of the pool to include a new heated 25-metre learn-to-swim pool, and a FINA compliant eight-lane 50-metre Olympic sized pool.

“It was quite different when we first came to Ballina to what it is now. I can remember when kids would just about have to be in a wetsuit [because the pool was not heated], especially if you got that breeze off the river,” says Vicki.

These days the outdoor 50-metre swimming pool is heated to approximately 27 degrees while the semi-enclosed 25-metre swimming pool is heated to approximately 32 degrees.

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

In 2000 they took over operation of the iconic waterslide, and more recently they have added the learn to swim business into the mix.

Vicki says one of the benefits of managing such a well-known local facility is the friendships formed. “It’s always had a really lovely family atmosphere and we’ve got to know lots of people really well,” she says.

“Over the years we’ve employed many local kids and now we find we’re employing their kids.”

Vicki and Lee look forward to watching the next generation – including their own grandkids – enjoy the beautiful Ballina War Memorial pool.

BALLINA

Ballina Memorial Pool & Waterslide

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Vicki and Lee @ Ballina War Memorial Pool

Lee and Vicki Fitzgerald 02 6686 3771 Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 6am - 7pm Saturday 8am - 6pm Sunday 9am - 5pm Find them on Facebook

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THE FUTURE OF LENNOX HEAD VILLAGE CENTRE

draft concept designs for the village centre Ballina Shire Council has endorsed a draft concept plan for exhibition for Lennox Head’s village centre renewal and we want to know if we got it right.

We have been talking with the Lennox Head community since 2018 about the project.

1953

responses to engagement activities received since 2018

We know Lennox Head has been a low-key and social coastal village for a long time, and the community told us these are essential characteristics to hold onto when making any improvements to the village. The draft plan proposes a design that improves public amenity and makes better streets and places for people. Check out the plans at ballina.nsw.gov.au/lennoxvillagevision and tell us what you think.

30.5% Percentage of the Lennox Head population engaged since 2018 (Based upon 1,953 responses and a population of 6,407 -2016 Census)

Feedback closes Friday 10 July 2020.

lennox village vision have your say

draft concept plan

communityconnect

lennox VILLAGEvision

exhibition period:

12 JUNE - 10 JULY 2020

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Place Directions

Did you know...

489

overview

The following place directions developed at a community stakeholder design charrette held in March 2020 synthesise the community values and priorities and build upon previous engagement outcomes.

#1

Minimise negative impacts on the environment and maximise climate change mitigation

#2

Offer a diversity of open spaces with a wider range of activities and amenities for all ages/ interests

#3

Celebrate what makes Lennox Head village special: environmental, social, economic and cultural

#4

Rebalance priority between people and cars to make it safer and more comfortable for all

#5

Create a physical environment that supports self sustaining community social activity and events

#6

Support local business diversity and fine-grain shop frontages to build attractiveness of the centre for jobs and night time economy.

Support diverse housing choices.

parking spaces are available in the main village block

1: 9

there is 1 parking space per 9.3 people

435m

is the length of the main village block

54%

of people are willing to walk 250-500m to the village centre

$

Total cost $10,000,000 Current funding $6,442,000

for more details and to share your feedback scan code to complete the online feedback form at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ lennoxvillagevision or email council@ballina.nsw.gov.au

connectedcommunity engagedleadership

at Tell us winhk you th

Feedback on the draft plan will be considered by Council when the plan is reported in August for adoption.

Renewal works are hoped to begin with Ross Park in the latter part of 2020, with works in Ballina Street to commence after Easter 2021.

the delivery of the project will be staged over a number of financial years as funding becomes available

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communityconnect

Streaming of Council Meetings Have you ever wondered what goes on in a council meeting but are unable to attend due to other commitments?

You can watch our meetings from the comfort of your home, or work, via our online livestream.

No need to worry if you miss the livestream as the recording is uploaded to Council’s website.

To join a livestreamed meeting or view a previous meeting visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/AgendasAndMinutes

POLICIES ON EXHIBITION Council develops policies when there is a legal obligation to fulfil or an issue that is likely to recur and requires consistent guidelines or where there is a requirement to set a standard to carry out a function of the organisation. These are reported to Council to adopt and each policy is reviewed at a minimum, every four years.

We review each policy on a regular basis and any changes are reported to Council. They are then placed on exhibition for public comment.

Policies on exhibition can be found on Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au/ ExhibitionDocuments

The following policies were endorsed for approval at the 28 May 2020 Ordinary Meeting.

Public Art Policy (Review) – the purpose of this policy is to encourage public art, promote artistic expression and commit to embellishing the shire’s public spaces Enquiries: Skye McNamara, Sustainability Planner

4WD Beach Access – Seven Mile Beach Lennox Head Policy (Review) – this policy provides a framework for the management of 4WD access to Seven Mile Beach in Lennox Head as well as to facilitate safe use and access to this beach.

Enquiries: Cheyne Willebrands, Manager Open Spaces

Markets on Public Land Policy (Review) – this policy documents how market managers can obtain approval to hold a market on public land.

Enquiries: Simon Scott, Strategic Planner.

Public comment on these policies is now open and closes Wednesday 8 July 2020.

To view these documents and make a submission visit Council’s website ballina. nsw.gov.au/ExhibitionDocuments

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subscribe to council’s eNews You’ll never miss important community news and updates again!

ballina.nsw.gov.au

As more of us do business online websites are quickly becoming the new shopfront. To provide a better user experience for residents, Council relaunched its website earlier this year. The new-look website has updated content and a modern layout.

We’ve also improved the homepage and search options so you can find the answers you want faster. Our ‘I want’ and ‘popular links’ section is a great place to start and features a range of common Council enquiries.

The website is also the place to go if you want to submit a Council form, pay your rates, find a dog exercise area, read current documents on exhibition or view a development application.

We would also love your feedback, so visit ballina.nsw.gov.au and tell us what you think.

A gateway to Council Council’s Community Portal is live and waiting for you to visit.

The online platform is our community’s one-stop-shop and allows you to register, login and interact with Council online 24/7. The portal has been popular and now has over 600 registered users, including residents, businesses and real estate agents.

connectedcommunity engagedleadership

GET ANSWERS 24/7

Using the portal you can:

REPORT POTHOLES SUBMIT REQUESTS PAY YOUR RATES AND CHARGES APPLY FOR CERTIFICATES AND MORE! Visit and start exploring the Community Portal at ballina.nsw.gov. au/communityportal

Hot tip!

Registering gives you a more personalised experience that will continue to improve as we increase our online services.

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achievements 2019/2020

connected community

prosperous economy

We feel safe

We attract new business

Confirmed preferred site for new Lennox Head Rural Fire Service Shed

Established a digital visitor services hub in the new BP Highway Service Centre

Completed road safety risk audit for Lennox Head Public School

Completed the River Street upgrade (Moon Street to Grant Street)

Established the Business Connect Program to support those in the community who were selfisolating

Endorsed the Lennox Head Village Vision concept plans for public consultation

We feel connected to the community Continued to support volunteer programs at the Northern Rivers Community Gallery, Visitor Information Centre and Ballina Byron Gateway Airport Provided $80,000 in community donations to community groups Held an Open Day at the Animal Shelter to build awareness of the services provided in rehoming animals

Services to suit your needs Completed the Skennars Head Sports Fields Expansion

Finalised the terminal upgrade at the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport Progressed rezoning of land at the Southern Cross Industrial Estate and the construction of Airport Boulevard Commenced design for the River Street four laning project

Adopted the Ballina Sports and Recreation Facilities Plan Opened the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre and held the Get Active Expo

This is a snapshot of achievements in Ballina Shire for 2019/2020, it includes works commenced and completed. For a complete look at our delivery program visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ planningandreporting

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My business can grow and diversify

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Improve liveability in Ballina Shire Completed Lake Ainsworth Foreshore improvements Completed the Hutley Drive/Byron Bay Road roundabout and access road Commenced the upgrade works to the Lennox Head Community Centre.

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healthy environment

Council works with the community

We understand the environment

Online Council meetings, public meetings and ward committee meetings held in response to COVID-19 lockdown Information sessions and commmunity consultation for the River Street duplication project Held weekend design workshop with wide range of stakeholders for the Lennox Village Vision project

Council’s finance assets are well managed Reviewed Heavy Haulage Developer Contributions Plan to ensure charges reflect contemporary cost of road damage

Lake Ainsworth Coastal Management Plan adopted Improved access and health of Shaws Bay Emigrant Creek Rehabilitation Project commenced

We use our resources wisely Implemented a Recycle Right waste education campaign Introduced new waste collection trucks that improve customer service through technology Continued to expand the recycled water program with total connections close to 1,800 residences

Completed road condition assessments to determine overall asset condition to assist in reviewing required funding levels Continued roll-out of field based mobile technology to generate efficiencies in service delivery and reduce administration

We are all valued citizens Provided a new website for community to access more user friendly content Delivered more online services through the Community Portal Prepared a Community Participation Plan for land use planning functions

connectedcommunity engagedleadership

engaged leadership

Our built environment blends with the natural environment Obtained planning approval for the new Wollongbar District Park Continued construction of the Coastal Shared Path Awarded construction contract for the Coastal Walk

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Rock Fishing –

wear a life jacket

Have you noticed these banners around town?

You must by law wear a lifejacket when rock fishing in Ballina Shire.

Thank you to our frontline teams and our community for keeping us safe

Anyone fishing from rocks exposed to an ocean swell must wear an appropriate lifejacket. This includes people helping you to rock fish and children. Breakwalls are excluded from this requirement. Signage at the relevant sites will be rolled out in the coming months.

Failing to wear an appropriate lifejacket may result in a $100 on-the-spot fine. But it’s not only the fine you should be worried about, it’s your own personal safety and those who may attempt to save you if you should fall in.

say?

Wear appropriate non-slip footwear and light clothing Stay alert to the weather conditions Never fish alone Plan an escape route in case you are washed in Never turn your back on the ocean Do not jump in if someone is washed into the water – call 000 or go and get help If in doubt, don’t go out!

For more information visit watersafety.nsw.gov.au/ rockfishing

FISH SAFE

OFF THE ROCKS !

ble ket suita 58 lifejac st.)

(An AS47 fishing is be for rock

Tianna Aged care facility workers and community workers.

YOU MUST BY LAW WEAR A LIFEJACKET WHEN ROCK FISHING IN BALLINA SHIRE. MORE INFO VISIT: watersafety.nsw.gov.au/rockfishing

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Kym Support Workers..... working with people who don't understand why they can't go bowling, or to the movies or shops; why they can't see their friends, why they have to stay home.... I work with some amazing people and I'm thankful that I have my job.

Peter Centrelink staff who are on the front line. But also all the backroom public servants - many working at home with kids making the huge adjustments to our programs and budgets. It doesn't all just happen.

A WEAR KET C A LIFE J

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what did you

As well as always wearing a lifejacket, follow these handy tips to enjoy safe and responsible rock fishing:

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Ian I'm very thankful to all the above but also to all the shop assistants who kept their shops open and put up with some pretty awful customers.

J U LY 2 0 2 0 I S S U E 3 9 Jon Truck drivers who kept our supermarket shelves full.. As much as possible.

89 LIKES

9 LOVES

3 HUGS

9 SHARES

2,811 PEOPLE REACHED

where to get info...

extreme weather conditions ROAD CLOSURES myroadinfo.com.au for Ballina Shire rural road info MyRoadInfo is your one-stop app providing direct updates from the following sources: NSW LIVETRAFFIC www.livetraffic.com QLD TRAFFIC qldtraffic.qld.gov.au VIC ROADS traffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au

Have your say on the name

‘Gawandii Beach’

Ballina Shire Council has submitted a proposal to the Geographical Names Board to name the beach adjacent to Hill Street at the northern end of Missingham Bridge .

‘Gawandii’ is the Bundjalung Indigenous word for dolphin, which has a strong connection to the location and was identified through community consultation with JALI Aboriginal Land Council and the local community. Following community consultation in August 2019, Council received 106 suggestions from the community which strongly favoured dolphin and using an Aboriginal name.

The Geographical Names Board is now seeking community feedback on the proposed name, before it considers the proposal.

For further details and to submit feedback, visit gnb.nsw.gov.au. Submissions close 3 July 2020.

subscribe to council’s eNews You’ll never miss important community news and updates again!

ballina.nsw.gov.au

RADIO STATIONS Paradise FM 101.9 ABC North Coast 94.5 2LM 104.3 ZZZ FM 100.9

FIELD CLOSURES Contact your sporting club.

WEATHER CONDITIONS bom.gov.au Bureau of Meteorology

BALLINA BYRON GATEWAY AIRPORT Your local airline for flights to and from Ballina: Rex Airlines 13 17 13 rex.com.au Jetstar 13 15 38 jetstar.com Virgin Australia 13 67 89 virginaustralia.com.au Qantaslink 131 313 qantas.com FlyPelican 02 4965 0111 flypelican.com.au

ACTIONS TO TAKE Alerts are issued via Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au and via your local radio station.

Delay any unnecessary travel until conditions have cleared.

Look out for your neighbours If water is overflowing street stormwater drains, refrain from using internal water eg: washing machines, dishwashers, baths, showers and flushing of toilets until the water has cleared.

Watch for Council, SES and other State Government agency updates.

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BALLINA

KEY CONTACT NUMBERS SES 132 500 Ballina Shire Council 1300 864 444 or emergency after hours 02 6626 6954 Emergency Services Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade Triple zero 000

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ballinacoast & hinterland

We’re Back!

THE BALLINA TOURISM TEAM WELCOMES VISITORS TO THE REGION The Ballina Visitor Information Centre is helping locals and visitors make the most of their time in the Northern Rivers by sharing their local knowledge of where to go, what to see and what to do.

The team provides a free booking service for accommodation and tours, and has a selection of unique experiences that are bookable. If you want to know where the hidden gems are, need advice or just wish to pick up a local gift or some souvenirs, then call into the Visitor Information Centre to experience service with a smile.

With Government restrictions now allowing NSW residents to travel anywhere within the state, the Tourism Team has launched a campaign to urge local residents to invite their family and friends to visit the region, and for locals to support locals to help the Northern Rivers economy to get back on its feet. A video is being shared across local outlets and social media to spread this important message. “If you have friends and

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family in other parts of the state, invite them to visit you, rather than go elsewhere,” said Alicia Wallace, Team Leader Visitor Services. “We know people are keen to travel again and see their loved ones. There is no better place to come together than the Northern Rivers.”

Once Australians are safely allowed to travel from other states, the Tourism Team will launch its – ‘Come on, let’s get together in the Northern Rivers’ campaign, using a well-known local celebrity to invite visitors to holiday here. “We are hoping the campaign will deliver a much needed boost to our local economy and help our local businesses recover,” added Alicia.

6 River Street Ballina NSW 2478 | Mon-Sat 9am-5pm Sun 10am-2pm discoverballina.com.au | 1800 777 666

hen th missions to co ey have mpl amazing locatio ete, explore and re ns to wards to be won!

New Digital Visitor Hub at the BP Travel Centre Ballina Shire Council has been working with BP Australia to install a visitor hub at the new BP Travel Centre, to showcase the Northern Rivers and encourage travellers to explore the region.

The Digital Visitor Hub includes: two large touchscreens with regional information; an immersive waterfall image where people can put themselves in the picture; a floor-toceiling map and an interactive game for kids.

The BP Travel Centre is open 24-hours and conveniently located at the interchange of the Pacific and Bruxner Highways, enabling convenient access to the entire Northern Rivers. The centre serves both northbound and southbound motorists on the Pacific Highway and east and westbound motorists on the Bruxner Highway.

Ballina Shire Council worked with Lismore, Richmond Valley, Kyogle and Clarence Valley councils to deliver the regional visitor experience. The visitor hub has been launched under the new Northern Rivers branding to collectively market the region's diversity, including our unique natural environment and laid-back lifestyle. It is hoped it will attract visitors to the area and give them more reasons to stay here longer.

prosperouseconomy

BALLINA

What child doesn’t love outdoor adven an ture?

Especially w

New ‘Habitat the Game’ launched to entertain the whole family If your kids love a great game, a new adventure and discovering new things, then the app 'Habitat the Game' could really add value to your family holiday.

Habitat is now available for kids to play at the new Ballina BP Travel Centre on a large interactive screen that is part of the digital visitor hub showcasing the Northern Rivers Region. The beauty of the game is it can be downloaded on any device and taken on road trips too.

The whole preface behind Habitat is to connect kids with nature, giving them real life challenges and experiences. It really builds a desire and passion for being outside, teaching kids about the environment and how their real life actions impact on the world.

The game is centred on a virtual polar bear. In order to keep the polar bear happy and healthy, kids need to complete real life actions by visiting designated nature locations. The game teaches kids between 7 and 12 about ecological sustainability in a fun and empowering way.

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KEEP SAFE AND ENJOY OUR SHARED PATHS Polite and considerate behaviour on our shared paths helps to make our community a better place to live.

Here are some things we can all do to ensure everyone can enjoy the shared paths and stay safe.

.nsw.gov.au

PEDESTRIANS ON SHARED PATHS Keep to the left Travel in a predictable and safe manner, making way for twoway traffic Be aware of others around you, listen out for bike bells and move to the left Move off the path if you decide to stop Keep an eye on young children, making sure they stay to the left Keep your dog on a short leash and under control CYCLISTS ON SHARED PATHS Give way to pedestrians Ride at slow speeds in busy areas, around corners and crests Be courteous and ring your bell when approaching others Be ready to stop to avoid a collision Be extra careful around older pedestrians, young children and dogs Where possible, allow 1.5 metre space for pedestrians Download the Cycleways and Shared Paths map at ballina.nsw.gov.au

motorcycle touring guide Ballina Shire Council has produced the second edition of the Ballina Motorcycle Touring Guide featuring 18 touring routes across Northern Rivers NSW. The hills and valleys surrounding the Ballina Coast and Hinterland will have every motorbike enthusiast eager for the sweeping twists and turns while enjoying the scenic vistas.

The Touring Guide is a great tool for planning group rides. Download your free copy today from the destination website discoverballina.com.au or call into the Ballina Visitor Information Centre at 6 River Street Ballina.

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Give and expect respect o the shared pa n th and we all benefit.

Knockrow

Lennox Head Tintenbar

Wollongbar Alstonville

Ballina South Ballina

Wardell

Can you use a fire pit this winter?

Help keep your neighbourhood friendly by using your wood heater correctly to minimise smoke.

Your heater should only smoke for a few minutes when you first light it and when you add extra timber. Some tips to make sure your wood heater is working efficiently and generating minimal smoke is to:

only burn small logs of aged, dry hardwood (unseasoned wood has more moisture, which makes more smoke) use plenty of dry kindling to establish a good fire quickly store wood under cover in a dry and well ventilated area never burn rubbish, driftwood, treated or painted wood as they pollute the air and can be poisonous keep the flame lively and bright don’t let your heater smoulder overnight, keep enough air in the fire to maintain a flame check and clean your chimney each year before winter check your chimney regularly for smoke, if there is smoke coming from the chimney increase the air supply to your fire.

Smoke from wood heaters can contain carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and other nasties so it is important they are installed and operated correctly.

Check your heater has a compliance plate stating it conforms to Australian Standard (AS/NZS 4013:2014) and (AS/NZS 4012:2014).

For more information please contact Council’s Public and Environmental Health Section on 1300 864 444 or visit ballina.nsw.gov.au.

FIRE PITS Can you use a fire pit this winter?

Everyone enjoys watching the ‘bush telly’ during the cooler months, and Council often gets asked – can I have a fire pit in the backyard? The short answer is yes, but it’s useful to take a look at Council’s Backyard Burning Policy.

The policy aims to prevent air pollution and unwanted smoke generated by backyard fires. Under the policy, residents in our towns and villages can enjoy a backyard fire for cooking or recreational purposes, but not to burn vegetation or other waste. Instead, you need to dispose of garden waste in your green organics bin, compost or reuse it in the garden.

prosperouseconomy

Do you have a smoky chimney?

If you do have a backyard fire you need to make sure you only burn dry seasoned timber and manage the fire to minimise smoke and impacts on your neighbours. It is also important to check with NSW Fire and Rescue or Rural Fire Service as a fire permit may be required.

Fire and Rescue Ballina require that backyard fires must:

be in a purpose built area/device have a minimum cleared area of 2 metres pose no threat to life or property For more information contact Council’s Planning and Environmental Health Division on 1300 864 444 or visit ballina.nsw.gov.au For permits, bushfire danger periods and total fire bans visit fire.nsw.gov.au or rfs.nsw.gov.au

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PROJECTS IN THE PIPELINE for 2020/2021 Major projects planned for 2020/2021 include:

Ballina Byron Gateway Airport carpark and road improvements – $2M

Traffic modelling has identified the capacity of River Street is a major cause of traffic congestion during peak periods, and will continue into the future as traffic volumes grow.

To increase traffic carrying capacity, Council has begun works to duplicate the road into Ballina Island. Subject to availability of funds, Council will complete this significant road network investment across four sections. Council is now focusing on the project's first section from Burns Point Ferry Road Roundabout to Barlows Road Roundabout, West Ballina. The detailed design is now being completed, and construction is expected to start early 2021.

Alstonville Swimming Pools amenities upgrade – $400k

RIVER STREET DUPLICATION PROGRAM

Shaws Bay dredging – $900k

West Ballina (Burns Point Ferry Road to Barlows Road)

Wollongbar District Park construction including skate park – $1.35M Pop Denison Master Plan – $700k Ross Park playground upgrade Lennox Head – $400k Lennox Head Village Renewal – $4.6M Coastal Recreational Walk – $1.3M Lennox Head Rural Fire Service shed relocation – $900K Marom Creek Water Treatment Plant upgrade – $4M Wardell amenities upgrade – $180k Intersection Cherry Street and Fox Street - roundabout construction – $900k

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RIVER STREET DUPLICATION Pacific Highway, West Ballina to Kerr Street, Ballina

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INDICATIVE TIMETABLE

INDICATIVE COST ($)

*Preconstruction

2020 3,575,000

Construction

2020/21

Ballina Island (Henry Philip Avenue to Tweed Street) *Preconstruction

2020 1,910,000

Construction

2021/22

Fishery Creek Bridge (Brampton Avenue to Henry Philip Avenue) *Preconstruction

2020/22

Construction

2022/23

13,630,000

Pacific Highway Connection (Smith Drive to Burns Point Ferry Road) *Preconstruction

Construction

2020/21

6,340,000

Decision on a construction timetable deferred until there is more certainty regarding building a second approved Highway Service Centre, east of the Paciific Highway and associated construction by the developer of a roundabout and flood culverts on this section of River Street.

* Preconstruction activities generally include design, environmental & planning assessment/approvals, geotechnical investigation, consultation and any tendering activities.

#supportingagrowingcommunity

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

supporting a growing community

road projects

COMPLETED PROJECTS

HUTLEY DRIVE NORTH EXTENSION ROAD NOW OPEN Ballina Shire Council is pleased to open the extension of Hutley Drive North to Byron Bay Road.

The new road and roundabout offers a much needed, safer connection for residents to Byron Bay Road, improves access to the new shopping centre development and sports fields within Lennox Head’s Epiq Estate, and reduces local traffic in residential areas.

“It is great to see this important road network project come to fruition.

Now complete, the $4 million project will service current and future residential growth,” said Mayor David Wright.

“Residents living in the Meadows and Epiq Estates are now able to directly access major roads. It will save residents time, reduce local traffic in these residential areas and better meet the needs of our growing Lennox Head community,” Mayor Wright added.

The new Hutley Drive extension and roundabout is complemented by stormwater improvements, new footpaths, lighting and barriers. Council used a low noise pavement material in its construction to improve the performance of the road by reducing noise, plus offering better turning movements for vehicles, and improving safety. In addition, sound wall barriers have also been installed to further reduce noise impacts to local properties.

#supportingagrowingcommunity

supporting a growing community

HUTLEY DRIVE NORTH ROAD RECONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF NEW ROUNDABOUT ON THE COAST ROAD. See page 19

CHICKIBA DRIVE, EAST BALLINA (SEG 10 - 30) PERRY STREET, ALSTONVILLE (SEG 10) RIVER DRIVE, EMPIRE VALE (SEG130)

CURRENT PROJECTS AIRPORT BOULEVARD ROAD CONSTRUCTION. See page 21 THE COAST ROAD (SEG 230-236) SUMMARY OF WORKS MAROM CREEK ROAD LANDSLIP REMEDIATION

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SKENNARS HEAD

FUTURE PROJECTS SWIFT STREET, BALLINA (SEG 30) WINTON LANE, BALLINA (SEG 40) CARRS BRIDGE – RIVER DRIVE, EMPIRE VALE

For updates on road closures visit myroadinfo.com.au

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SKENNARS HEAD

Council is excited to start works to upgrade the three-kilometre section of the Coastal Recreational Walk from Sharpes Beach to Pat Morton.

The works have started and will include a new boardwalk at Boulder Beach, as well as improvements to large sections of the existing path to improve accessibility.

“This walk will be a great asset for our local community and help attract visitors to the Ballina Shire. Once complete, it will allow walkers to access and enjoy our unique coastline and provide additional infrastructure to support our local tourism industry,” said Mayor David Wright.

The $1.8 million investment has been funded by the State Government’s Restart NSW program through the Regional Growth Environment and Tourism Fund to the value of $750,000, with Ballina Shire Council providing the additional $1.05 million.

Pat Morton Lookout LENNOX POINT

LENNOX HEAD

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The focus of this walkway is to preserve the natural and organic landscape while providing the community with a safe and more accessible walking track. Once complete, the walkway will retain sections of existing grass, plus include new sections of gravel footpath and boardwalk.

Access to the existing track will be reduced over the coming months.

Council thanks the community for their patience during these works.

SHAG ROCK

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COASTAL RECREATIONAL WALK ON ITS WAY

The path is expected to be completed by the end of the year (weather permitting).

BOULDER BEACH

COASTAL SHARED PATH

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SKENNARS HEAD

Last year Ballina Shire Council commenced work to complete the final link of the Coastal Shared Path, along The Coast Road from Skennars Head roundabout to our iconic Pat Morton Lookout at Lennox Head.

SKENNARS HEAD

Sharpes Beach Carpark

These projects will deliver two iconic pathways, one to enjoy the diverse range of coastline environments, and the other a pedestrian and cycling path alongside our local roads, making the commute between Ballina and Lennox Head safer and easier.

SHARPES BEACH

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Shared Path West: East Ballina to Lennox Head (Existing) CO AST

Shared Path East: Skennars Head to Pat Morton Lookout Sharpes Creek

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Coastal Recreational Walk: Sharpes Beach to Pat Morton Lookout (to be upgraded) Flat Rock Carpark

FLAT ROCK

ANGEL

Flat Rock Tent Park

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JOINTLY FUNDED BY THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT, NSW GOVERNMENT AND BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL.

EAST BALLINA

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| THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

THE COAST RD

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supporting a growing ANGELS BEACH community

Angels Beach Carpark

FLAT ROCK TENT PARK IS REOPEN AND REJUVENATED

AIRPORT BOULEVARD SOUTHERN CROSS INDUSTRIAL ESTATE 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 The total cost of the project is estimated at $10 million (Stages 1 and 2), and is made possible thanks to $3 million in Australian Government funding under the Community Development Grants Program. Council will contribute $7 million to meet the project’s total cost.

Discover a piece of paradise and reconnect with friends and family by booking the ultimate beachside camping experience at Flat Rock Tent Park.

The park is conveniently located between Ballina and Lennox Head, positioned alongside stunning Angels Beach, and only a short drive to town or bike ride via the Coastal Recreational Path.

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BALLINA

If you are looking to escape without wanting to travel too far, this place ticks lots of boxes. You can sit around a warm campfire at night and listen to the waves. During the day enjoy the natural bushland setting.

The park has received a spruce up along with improvements to its facilities while it’s been closed under COVID-19 restrictions.

The sites have greened up and the camp kitchen has been improved including the expansion of the dining deck.

The park is taking bookings now and will be open for camping from 1 July 2020, just in time for the school holidays. Give the friendly managers, Kellie and Dave a call on 02 6686 4848 or book online at flatrocktentpark.com.au.

This is one place you can escape to yet feel miles away from anywhere, but be quick, as camping doesn’t get any better than this!

F L AT R O C K

Following the completion of the earthworks and major drainage structures (Stage 1), the construction of the road and associated infrastructure (Stage 2) is programmed to commence in August 2020.

JOINTLY FUNDED BY THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT AND BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL.

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supporting a growing community

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2121

WOLLONGBAR DISTRICT PARKLAND: FUN AND FITNESS FOR ALL CHALLENGING _ LEARNING _ CONNECTING : EMPOWERING BODIES _ MAKING MEMORIES

FUTURE CHILD CARE CENTRE

WOLLONGBAR

FUTURE RESIDENTIAL

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RAINFOREST MINI-ARBORETUM 7. Area 1- Subtropical rainforest species with a narrow walking trail and species information signage 8. Area 2 - Subtropical rainforest species with information signage along the pathway edge 9. Street and park trees including species tags

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D E ROA RANG RIFLE

PICNIC 10.

Central BBQ (2 BBQ cooking plates plus bench) and picnic area 11. Informal picnic area with table settings and large shade trees GROUP FITNESS AREA 12.

Fitness equipment (street workout and cross training) suitable for teenagers, adults and seniors 13.

Climbing net (children and adults) 14.

Juniors playground activity fort with slide and swing area (ages 3+) 15.

Multi-purpose circuit pathway (250m long) with distance markers

Possibility to explore traffic calming options and pedestrian connections to Killarney Park and Wollongbar Sports Grounds

MULTI-FUNCTIONAL OPEN SPACE 18.

Multi-functional open space for general use (painting, outdoor learning, ball games etc) 19.

Multi-court (15m x 10m) with basketball ring and backboard 20. Outdoor table tennis on hardstand (6.25m x 4.5m)

WOLLONGBAR DISTRICT PARK – CONCEPT PLAN GENERAL FEATURES

SKATE AND RIDE 16.

Small skate park facility suitable for skate boards, scooters and park bikes with shaded seating area at western end (day use only with low level solar security lighting at night).

17.

Acoustic and observation mound.

As residential development continues in Wollongbar, so does the need for a quality recreational open space for all the community to enjoy, Wollongbar District Park will fill that need!

design team ink : landscape architecture + urban design

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Pedestrian refuge

Plan Scale 1:500 at A3

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GENERAL FEATURES 1. Car parking - 24 spaces (22 + 2 accessible) 2. Main parkland entrance - Recycled brick paving, seating, gardens and artwork 3. Main street footpath (2m wide) 4. Park interpretative footpath (1.5m wide) with pavement etchings providing historical information about the drive-in theatre or other related themes (solar lighting at night) 5. Site of former drive-in theatre screen (footings to be removed). New collaborative art interpretative pillars (drive-in theatre theme) 6. Toilet Building - one male, one female and one unisex accessible toilet

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www.designteamink.com

The concept plans were endorsed by Council in 2019, and approvals are now in place, which means construction of the park is set to commence in the new financial year.

The park will include:

public amenities and carparking skate park, half-basketball-court, table tennis and multi-purpose circuit path with distance markers exercise equipment playground equipment BBQs and park furniture landscaping, shade trees and rainforest walk.

The park will be located on the corner of Plateau Drive and Rifle Range Road in Wollongbar. Some members of our community may know it as the old drive-in movie theatre site.

The project will cater to so many in the community and is great news for anyone who loves to keep active and being outdoors!

To view the concept plans visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ wollongbardistrictpark

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Document Revision A: Date 24 May 2019

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R O A D

1

1. Car parking - 24 spaces (22 + 2 accessible) 2. Main parkland entrance - Recycled brick paving, seating, gardens and artwork 3. Main street footpath (2m wide)

11. Informal picnic area with table settings (2 with shelters) and large shade trees CONCEPT DESIGN PLAN GROUP FITNESS AREA 04 of 04 12. Fitness equipment (street workout and cross training) suitable for teenagers, adults and seniors

4. Park interpretative footpath (1.5m wide) with pavement etchings providing historical information about the drive-in theatre or other related themes (solar-lighting at night)

13. Climbing net (children and adults)

5. Site of former drive-in theatre screen (footings to be removed).

New collaborative art interpretative pillars (drive-in theatre theme)

SKATE AND RIDE

14. Juniors playground activity fort with slide and swing area (ages 3+) 15. Multi-purpose circuit pathway (250m long) with distance markers

6. Toilet Building - one male, one female and one unisex accessible toilet

16. Small skate park facility suitable for skate boards, scooters and park bikes with shaded seating area at western end (day use only with low level solar smart-security lighting at night)

RAINFOREST MINI-ARBORETUM

17. Acoustic and observation mound.

7. Area 1- Subtropical rainforest species with a narrow walking trail and species information signage

MULTI-FUNCTIONAL OPEN SPACE

8. Area 2 - Subtropical rainforest species with information signage along the pathway edge 9. Street and park trees including species tags PICNIC 10. Central BBQ (2 BBQ cooking plates plus bench) and picnic tables

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

18. Multi-functional open space for general use (painting, outdoor learning, ball games etc) 19. Multi-court (15m x 10m) with basketball ring and backboard 20. Outdoor table tennis on hardstand (6.25m x 4.5m)

As part of Council’s commitment to renew equipment, a number of playgrounds around the shire will soon receive an upgrade including: Commemoration Park – replace existing playground with outdoor exercise equipment stations and shade structure.

Megan Crescent Playground – replace existing playground equipment with new equipment including soft fall under surface and a new shade sail structure.

Shelly Beach Swing Set – replace existing swing set with a new larger swing and basket including bark soft fall.

Ferngrove Park – replace damaged shade structure and install new swing set.

Lighting up Winter Sports Our sports fields have recently had a lighting upgrade!

Saunders Oval and Williams Reserve have received new LED sports field lighting systems to improve the use and safety of our sporting venues.

Installation of lights are also scheduled for the sports fields at Hutley Drive in Lennox Head in the coming months.

The upgrades will improve the use of the fields, improve energy efficiency and ensure the safety of the competitors that play under lights.

We know this will be welcome news for all players and their families when sport returns to the fields.

Make a Will for your loved ones Your Will protects the ones you love and is one of the most important documents you’ll ever sign. We have been here for the people of NSW for over 100 years, and we are here for you today. We can help you plan ahead for some of life’s most critical moments.

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Happy Playing

Our branch remains open because we know how important it is for you to make your Will, Power of Attorney and Enduring Guardianship. We have taken strict measures to keep our branches safe and clean. We ask pre-screening questions before all face-to-face appointments. Please follow the advice of NSW Health if you feel unwell or have returned from overseas. For those who cannot visit the branch, you can now make your Will via a video conference appointment.

Call our friendly team to book an appointment Lismore branch: 6 Zadoc Street, Lismore 02 6626 3200

www.tag.nsw.gov.au

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Australian Red Cross Lifeblood UPGRADE SETS THE STAGE FOR LIVE EVENTS

Improvements to the Lennox Head Cultural and Community Centre are progressing well and are expected to be completed by September 2020.

Works include a new roof with solar panels, installation of airconditioning in the foyer and Park Lane Theatre, replacement of ceiling and wall linings.

“The new roof will double the solar capacity, which will help to run the air-conditioning,” said Craig Brown, Manager Community Facilities.

“A new black ceiling will add to the atmosphere for live events while improved insulation and wall linings will enhance the quality of the acoustics.”

Seating capacity in Park Lane Theatre will increase from 480 to 580 people and up to 800 people will be allowed for standing room performances and activities.

These works will cost approximately $2.3 million which has been assisted by $1.8 million investment from the NSW Regional Cultural Fund.

L E N N OX H E A D

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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

Australian Red Cross has safeguarded Australia’s blood supply for more than 90 years.

Every couple of weeks the Red Cross hires the Richmond Room for Ballina Shire residents and workers to donate blood or plasma.

During Covid-19 Red Cross increased their visits to Ballina, and as Council staff are big supporters they didn’t hesitate to donate life-giving blood and plasma.

During Covid-19 restrictions blood donations are more vital than ever. If you would like to become a donor telephone 13 14 95 or visit lifeblood.com.au Together, we’re Australia’s Lifeblood.

Extended due dates

There is nothing quite like the art of quilting to bring people together. For 20 years the Ballina Coastal Quilters have gathered at Northlakes Community Centre to share their love for the art and craft of stitching.

When the community centre closed due to COVID-19, the group didn’t let that stop them from connecting. Members have been busy emailing details of their latest projects to facilitator Georgia Clements, who publishes the group’s e-newsletter.

Georgia says the quilters are used to adapting. After all, their craft has changed dramatically over the years. While some members still quilt by hand, many have embraced new forms of stitching and working with fabric.

“Stitchers of yesteryear would be very envious of the modern-day stitchers in our group,” explains Georgia.

“Sewing machines have become more like a computer than sewing machine. Fabrics are more varied these days, with some digitally printed, and new methods to print, paint and dye fabrics give us so much more choice.”

YouTube and Pinterest have also opened new ways to source and share inspiration.

Of course the art and craft of stitching is not the only reason they meet.

“We have wonderful friendships. We love coming to our group, talking to each other and having a cup tea together. We just can’t wait to get back to our meetings.”

Many of the finished quilts are donated to Ballina Hospital or gifted to other fundraising activities.

In October the quilting group is planning to host its annual ‘Big Show and Tell’ where quilting groups from surrounding towns are invited to bring along their favourite works.

"It’s a wonderful sharing day and a feast for the eyes as the hall fills with magnificent stitchery,” says Georgia.

Ballina Coastal Quilters ordinarily meet twice a month at Northlakes Community Centre.

The group plans to continue this once restrictions are lifted.

To learn more contact Georgia Clements on 6687 6834 or Janette McNaughton on 0439 855 848.

The latest on libraries We can all look forward to the doors reopening at local libraries from 1 July 2020, but did you know that you can access a range of library services online?

connectedcommunity

QUILTING KEEPS RESIDENTS CONNECTED

You can join online for free (if you aren’t already a member), and gain access to online books, magazines and loads more.

You can also pick up ‘Click & Collect’ orders once a week, reserve books, as well as other things like jigsaw puzzles and DVDs. If you don’t have Internet access, simply phone the local branch and request the ‘staff picks’ selection of books.

The libraries have also extended all due dates until their doors reopen to the community.

Head to rtrl.nsw.gov.au for all the latest information, to get started with online membership and to access the Click & Collect service.

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gallery opening ho urs

gallery has reopened

Wed – Fri 1 0am – 4pm Temporarily red opening ho uced urs on weekends due to COVID-19

After a two-month hiatus the gallery reopened its doors to the public in early June.

Our creative staff developed a range of free online programs to help the community stay connected with the gallery during the closure. Council received very positive feedback about these programs during this period.

With the gallery now reopened strict guidelines and social distancing protocols are in place, with visitor numbers limited in each gallery. Hand sanitiser stations and clear signage have been installed to keep our patrons safe. Visitors will be required to sign a register on entry.

At this stage the gallery will be open Wednesday to Friday to ensure safe work practices while we transition back into full operation.

The gallery staff thank the community for their patience throughout this time and we look forward to seeing you soon!

EXHIBITION CALLOUT Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) is currently inviting exhibition applications across all art forms from artists, artist groups and curators.

Successful applicants will be offered a date between June and December 2021 with additional limited dates to be offered for late 2020.

Applications close 31 August 2020 Applications to be completed online Visit nrcgballina.com.au and click on Apply To Exhibit

Images (clockwise from top left: Self portraits and Light Graffiti by

Image: Matt Purves, No 12 Modal 4, 2019

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Ziah, Erin, Sophie and Angus.

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

P R O G R A M

Participants explored photographic techniques such as light graffiti, multiple exposures, abstract still life and dynamic self-portraiture.

Y O U T H

As part of Northern Rivers Community Galleries response to COVID-19 local photographer Natalie Grono was engaged to deliver an online photography course for young people during lockdown, as part of National Youth Week.

O N L I N E

creative community

Exhibition Dates: 3 June – 9 August 2020

By The Flesh | Mark Stapelfeldt

Image: Mark Stapelfeldt By the Flesh #2, 2017

J U N E /J U LY

A photographic series taking an abstract look at lust, sensuality, life, death and the role of Christianity in modern society.

2 0 2 0

Seven Creators | Celebrating NRCG Artist Facilitators NRCG Artist Facilitators are a passionate team of artists who act as creative catalysts working with residents and visitors at every life and artistic stage. They deliver diverse and exciting creative programs at NRCG and Ignite Studios year-round. This exhibition celebrates their individual artistic practices.

Exhibitors: Imbi Davidson, Cara MacLeod, Natalie Grono, Narelle Bretherton, Karma Barnes, and Duke Albada Image: Karma Barnes,Transformations - through the pressures of time (detail) 2020

Marks of Time | Helen Halliday The natural flow of time saturates Halliday's art. Her work explores ancient landscapes reflecting on the interconnected histories of people and place. The use of chance, gesture and useable accidents reminds us of the earth’s struggle for survival over millions of years.

Image: Helen Halliday, Whale Totem 2019

Proprietary Variables and the Modal Illusion of Happiness | Matthew Purves A study on economics, globalisation, brand value and the effects this has on society. Purves uses a mathematical algorithm as the basis for his works to reflect data from multinational companies such as logo, age, number of employees and deaths visually. Twenty of the world’s most valuable brands take on their own metaphysical form.

connectedcommunity

current exhibitions

Image: Matthew Purves, Resin sculptures and exhibition In situ

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

stay up to date THE

Be sure to sign-up to our E-News or follow us on Facebook or Instagram to be kept in the loop!

For more Information go to nrcgballina.com.au

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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SOUTH BALLINA

LANDCARE + COASTCARE

profile

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 Patchs Beach Dunecare.

Taking the scenic drive to Patchs Beach, we travel on the Burns Point Ferry from West Ballina to South Ballina then drive further south to Patchs Beach Lane. It's picture postcard perfect, and easy to see why this part of the shire is becoming popular.

Patchs Beach Lane is also home to a residential hamlet and provides access to an expansive stretch of coastline that extends from the South Ballina Wall to Evans Head.

During our visit, horses and their owners return from their morning ride, and a light sea breeze floats over the dunes into the picnic area and vegetation that Patchs Beach Dunecare protect.

Patchs Beach Dunecare is a very small group of volunteers who look after dune stablisation, revegetation and weeding, which provides a sanctuary for native wildlife such as the pied oyster catcher, osprey and swamp wallaby.

Vicki McCarty, the coordinator of the Patchs Beach Dunecare, says the location was previously relatively unknown. “We’ve seen an increase in visitors in recent times. Visitors are more than welcome, but they also need to

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BALLINA

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PATCHS BEACH

Patchs Beach Dunecare

respect this natural environment, the wildlife and the nearby residents.”

HISTORY OF THE SITE Vicki has a generational attachment to Patchs Beach. Her grandfather Albert Reuben Patch (known as Reub) donated the reserve to Tintenbar Council. Patchs Beach Dunecare is one of the oldest Landcare groups in Australia, with Vicki's father, Ted Patch, being a founding member.

PROBLEM WASTE AND ACTIVITIES There are many users of the beach, some who do the wrong thing and damage dunes and the native vegetation. The beach has also been infested by weeds, including the Bitou Bush, which was originally planted along the NSW coastline after sand mining.

"Unfortunately we also have littering problems. We often have to clean up after visitors who seem to think that the bin fairy will come along and take their rubbish away.

They leave behind nappies and take-away containers. It is really disappointing that some people do this, it’s not difficult for people to take their rubbish with them," said Vicki.

PERFECT PLACE TO GIVE BACK YOUR TIME… If you regularly visit Patchs Beach or are a user group of this stretch of coastline, why not give something back.

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

Patchs Beach Dunecare have native plants ready for planting, they just need volunteers to help out at one of their monthly planting days.

Planting days are held from 8.30am to 10.30am on the first Sunday of the month (excluding the summer months).

Pack a thermos and a picnic, and remember to bring your digging tools, gardening gloves, sun protection and insect repellent.

If you’re an organised person who can assist with administration and grant applications, Vicki would love to hear from you too. Ph: 0422 170 467 email: kjandvmmccarty@yahoo.com.au

SUPPORTING LANDCARE Ballina Shire Council provides plants to local Landcare groups. These plants are propagated at Council's nursery by the Regional Works Crew.

Richmond Landcare oversee all the activities of the local groups. Individual groups apply for grant funding each year to fund activities, tools and implements.

GIONA RE

G ILLE AL

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Council understands our responsibility to help preserve this diversity, now and into the future. Key to this is developing a Ballina Biodiversity Strategy, which is now being drafted by Council’s Environmental and Planning Section.

“Once complete, the Ballina Biodiversity Strategy will integrate legislation, policies and plans with the community’s expectations of a healthy environment. It will also include a suite of tools, actions and outcomes needed to manage our obligations to biodiversity,” explained Elisha Taylor, Council’s Environmental Scientist.

The project team will be seeking input and comments from the community and key stakeholders during the development of the strategy.

“We know our local community is connected to nature and value what makes our shire a special and unique place,” added Elisha.

The Ballina Biodiversity Strategy is currently in the research phase, with community consultation expected to commence in late 2020.

For project information and updates visit ballina.nsw.gov.au

BALLINA

Report it and help stop

illegal dumping in Ballina Shire

engaged leadership healthy environment healthyenvironment

Ballina Shire is a biodiversity hotspot. It is located within a region that is one of the most diverse landscapes in the country and the most biodiverse in NSW. It’s also home to around 150 threatened animals and 80 threatened plants, mostly within habitats that are also considered threatened.

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Ballina Biodiversity Strategy

If rubbish such as household furniture, tyres and building materials dumped on kerbsides or in the bush makes you see red, remember - you can help stop it!

Illegal dumping is a bad look, is very costly to clean up and can be a serious hazard to both the environment and human health.

A statewide initiative enables the public to report illegal dumping incidents. Using your phone or computer, you can report illegal dumping in just a few minutes.

Your report is automatically sent to Council so that it can be investigated and cleaned up as quickly as possible. On-the-spot fines start at $4,000 for those illegally transporting or dumping asbestos.

To report illegal dumping visit ridonline.epa.nsw.gov.au or contact Ballina Shire Council on 1300 864 444.

To find out more about the responsible disposal of waste and how to stop illegal dumping visit illegaldumping.com.au Pictured: Elisha Taylor and Ian Gaskell, Council's Environmental Scientists.

Supported by the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment.

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29

communityconnect

New Dog

Exercise Area Following feedback from the community, Council has provided further fencing at the dog off-leash exercise area at Compton Drive, East Ballina to improve safety to dogs and their owners.

Dog owners will soon be able to put their pets through their paces with agility and exercise equipment to be installed over the next couple of months.

Owners can exercise their dogs off their leads in this area. To prevent antisocial behaviour dogs must be well socialised before being unrestrained. When leaving the area dogs must be restrained on a leash until they are safely secured in their car or walked back home.

EAST BALLINA

Pooches in public places to be on a lead Dogs in public places must be on a lead that is controlled and held by a competent person over 16 years of age.

Dogs are not allowed in areas termed 'prohibited' such as playgrounds, The Serpentine, Shelly Beach, Lighthouse Beach, Flatrock Platform and the southern end of Seven Mile Beach, Lennox Head.

Dogs are allowed on Angels Beach, Sharpes Beach and Flat Rock Beach but they must be on a lead. It’s a good idea to check the signs in public places to see if dogs are allowed in that location.

There’s no such thing as the

Dog Poo Fairy!

You own a dog, you own its poo! Bag the poo, bin it or take it with you.

Penalties apply for non-compliance.

Keep Ballina Shire Beautiful!

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communityconnect |

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

for Dogs

Because of the popularity of some beaches, and the presence of migratory and shore birds, dogs are not allowed on: Shelly Beach Lighthouse Beach

The three step process to

protect your pet

Seven Mile Beach, south of Lake Ainsworth Reserve, Lennox Head Flat Rock Reef Sharpes Beach (northern end of Sharpes Beach during summer when the beach is patrolled) Chickiba Lake (north/eastern corner surrounding the migratory and shore birds roosting area) Lake Ainsworth and surrounding foreshore/reserve Fire Trail, end Camp Drewe Rd, Lennox Head The Serpentine Other areas as signposted.

If a person has their dog in a prohibited area they may be issued with a Penalty Infringement Notice (PIN) of up to $330.

engaged leadership healthy environment healthyenvironment

NO GO ZONES

Don’t forget the final step by registering your pet on the NSW pet registry: petregistry.nsw.gov.au

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communityconnect

Love it or Lose it

Seagrass Seagrass often feels a bit icky, whether it’s washing up on the beach or you’re swimming through it in the estuary.

But it’s a really important part of the estuary, both for fish and humans.

Seagrass, whether alive or dead, is important as habitat and food. Live seagrass hosts fish, sometimes for their entire life cycle, and many graze on the small animals and algae that live on seagrass. Dead seagrass provides a home and food source for crabs, as well as preventing erosion and trapping sediment where it has washed up in adjacent saltmarsh communities.

Less seagrass leads to less fish over time and poorer water quality. It slows down wave action in estuaries, trapping nutrients and sediments, while also reducing the potential for erosion.

Whilst they are an important estuarine ecosystem, they are very sensitive to change. Poor water quality has a large impact on their ability to survive, as do changes to the land adjacent. The seagrass-saltmarsh-mangrove communities work in tandem to provide varying habitat niches, different food sources and ecological services (such as managing sediment loads, banking carbon etc) and often an impact on one of these communities can be a limiting factor in the ability of the others to flourish, or even survive.

Sea lice are sometimes an annoying result of swimming in and around seagrass. They are actually small jellyfish larvae which can get trapped in your swimmers and sting, causing itchy red bites. It is important to wash your swimmers after swimming in seagrass to remove sealice, as they will sting again next time you swim.

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communityconnect |

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

Our shire’s beautiful waterways provide the perfect environment for us to enjoy the activities we love. No one wants to fish, surf, swim, kayak or sail in waterways that aren’t healthy or clean.

The health of our waterways is impacted by our everyday actions. Everything on our streets, in our gutters and drains eventually flows into local creeks, river and beaches, often untreated. This can lead to fish kills, algal blooms, sedimentation of waterways and public health risks.

The only thing that should go down a stormwater drain is rain.

S H AW S B AY

Continuing improvements for the health of Shaws Bay Council is continuing the actions from the Coastal Zone Management Plan to improve the health of the Shaws Bay ecosystem and the local amenity.

It’s easy to think a small amount of detergent or rubbish going into your stormwater drain won’t make a difference, but across the community this all adds up and the effect is shown in the health of our local waterways.

Let’s work together to protect our beautiful waterways and stunning shire. If we don’t love it, we will lose it. Here's our top tips:

Wash your car or bin on a grassed area to let the water soak in Builders check your erosion and sediment controls every day Disconnect downpipes before cleaning roofs Pick up your dog poo Put your rubbish in the bin Maintain your onsite wastewater management system Use a catcher when mowing the lawn.

For more information go to loveitorloseit.com.au or contact Council’s Public and Environmental Health Section on 1300 864 444.

engaged leadership healthy environment healthyenvironment

LOVE IT OR LOSE IT

The next stage of improvements will see:

dredging of the bay foreshore improvements along Pop Denison Park beach nourishment of existing access points around the bay expansion and rectification works on groynes on the eastern arm along Fenwick Drive.

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

The final path connecting Compton Drive into Pop Denison Park will also be completed. The boardwalk style path will meander alongside vegetation and allow for saltmarsh to establish in the ecological zone.

33

communityconnect

Weird and wonderful water You might think running water and flushing toilets isn’t complicated business, but there’s actually a lot more happening right under our feet than we realise.

Council’s Water and Wastewater Section has almost 40 staff members who use their experience and skills to keep our shire’s network functioning efficiently and safely.

Together the team looks after around 300km of water and wastewater pipeline, four treatment plants and over 125 pump stations.

The good news is we don’t need to be engineers to appreciate our flowing clean water, but here’s some common water and wastewater terms you might have heard and wondered what they mean.

Potable water – Also known as drinking water. Ballina Shire Council provides over 4,000 Megalitres of potable water to homes every year.

Dual reticulation – A property that is supplied with both drinking water and recycled water has a dual reticulation system. Recycled water is delivered through separate purple coloured pipes, taps and water meters.

Flow – The amount of water or wastewater transported in a certain amount of time.

Pressure – The amount of force put on water or

wastewater to make it move from one location to another.

Sewerage System – The network of sewage collection, transportation, treatment and by-products (effluent and biosolids) management facilities.

Wastewater – Sewage discharged from domestic, industrial, commercial, agricultural or trade waste customers. Essentially everything going down your drain.

Valve – A device used to control the passage of water or wastewater through water and wastewater mains. These valves are used to control the pressure and flow.

Consumption – The quantity of water used and measured by your property’s water meter.

Pump station – Pump stations help transfer wastewater from low to high level areas, from here it’s fed into a larger gravity main where it will continue its journey to the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Trade Waste – All liquid wastewater from a commercial or industrial entity discharged to the sewerage system.

Smart Metering – A radio device that attaches to your water meter to record water consumption digitally and more frequently.

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communityconnect |

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

words

Washing your hands correctly and thoroughly is such an important and easy thing to do to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

No doubt you’ve heard and read a lot of hand washing tips lately, one key piece of advice is wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. Of course, we are all about saving lives as well as water and it’s important to know a running tap uses about one litre of water over 20 seconds.

WIPES GO IN THE WASTE

So whether you choose to hum or sing Happy Birthday at the top of your lungs, just remember to flick the tap off while you lather that life-saving soap on.

For more information visit the Australian Water Association website watersource.awa.asn.au

Antibacterial wipes might be hard to find on supermarket shelves, but unfortunately there’s an abundance in our community’s wastewater network.

Across Australia and the world the demand for sanitising products, such as wipes has increased significantly over the past few months. But have you wondered where these wipes end up? Often it’s down the toilet.

These products often claim they are ‘flushable’, but we are here to tell you that is not the case. Cleaning, makeup and baby wipes are all made with reinforced material that does not break down like toilet paper. This causes a lot of problems and blockages within our wastewater network, and on average Council is fixing three wet wipe blockages a week. These often happen overnight and ultimately the staffing and material costs are worn by the ratepayer.

engaged leadership healthy environment healthyenvironment

STOP THE FLOW WHILE YOU WASH

You are more than welcome to use wipes to keep your surfaces sanitised, we just don’t welcome them down the toilet. Instead, keep your toilet to the three Ps – poo, paper and pee!

For more information visit ballinawater.com.au

Want to know the dam level?

Rous County Council is our shire’s bulk water supplier, they look after the treatment and supply of water from Rocky Creek Dam and Emigrant Creek to local properties.

If you would like to see the current dam levels visit rous.nsw.gov.au

ROCKY CREEK DAM 100% *current as of 12 June 2020

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35

WASTE

WATCH

communityconnect

3-bin urban domestic 2020/21

waste collection fortnightly

weekly

fortnightly

collection of garden/organics (food scraps, garden & lawn clippings)

recyclables (cardboard, paper, glass, cans & recyclable plastics)

6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28

1 8 15 22 29

SEPTEMB ER 2020

AUGUST 2020

2 9 16 23 30

3 4 5 10 11 12 17 18 19 24 25 26 31

1 2 5 6 7 8 9 12 13 14 15 16 19 20 21 22 23 26 27 28 29 30

3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25 31

JANUARY 2021 7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25 31

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

1 2 7 8 9 14 15 16 21 22 23 30 29 28

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

APRIL 2021 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

2 3 4 5 6 9 10 11 12 13 16 17 18 19 20 23 24 25 26 27 30

DECEMBE R 2020

NOVEMBE R 2020

OCTOBER 2020

4 5 6 11 12 13 18 19 20 25 26 27

collection of landfill waste (non-recyclable) Dark green or red lid bin

collection of

JULY 2020

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

FEBRUAR Y 2021

MARCH 2021

1 8 15 22

2 9 16 23

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

6 13 20 27

3 4 5 6 7 10 11 12 13 14 17 18 19 20 21 24 25 26 27 28 31

JUNE 2021

MAY 2021 3 4 5 6 7 10 11 12 13 14 17 18 19 20 21 24 25 26 27 28 31

1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30

5 12 19 26

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au

PLASTIC FREE JULY REGISTER FOR THE CHALLENGE NOW! This global challenge sounds simple enough: attempt to consume no single-use plastic during the month of July.

However, once you start to assess your shopping habits it may be surprising to find how much there is.

So, what is a single-use plastic? A single-use plastic is any plastic item that is intended to be used once and then thrown away. Reasons to avoid them include the fact most plastics are made from fossil fuels, only a small percentage of single-use plastics are ever recycled, and they pollute our waterways and oceans, killing wildlife and entering food chains.

5 EASY WAYS TO REDUCE SINGLE-USE PLASTICS: 1. Now that we’re in the habit of taking our reusable bags to the store, try reusable net or cloth bags for produce 2. Shop for staples like rice and pasta in bulk food stores 3. Keep handy a clean reusable cup - and support cafes that accept reusable cups (research and authorities agree that they’re perfectly safe when using adequate hygiene practices) 4. Use reusable containers/packaging for your lunch 5. Always carry a reusable water bottle For more on Plastic Free July, including loads of helpful resources and tips for communities, schools and businesses, how to sign up to the challenge, and a space to share your experiences and ideas visit plasticfreejuly.org

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inside this issue

communityconnect |

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

Waste calendars In this edition of Community Connect, please find your Waste Calendar for 2020/2021.

If it is missing you can collect from Council’s Customer Service Centre, 40 Cherry Street, Ballina or telephone 1300 864 444 and we will mail you one.

Please take a moment to read over it. The calendar clarifies

Collection week cycles Accepted items for each bin Bin presentation rules for collection

2020/2021

waste services guide

Bin collection rules Please follow the nine simple rules below so we can ensure your bin is collected.

If the truck is unable to collect your bin contents for any of these reasons, you may need to make other arrangements to transport your materials to the Waste Management Centre or wait until the next collection day.

1

2

3

60kg

PRESENT YOUR BINS BEFORE 5AM OR ON THE NIGHT BEFORE YOUR COLLECTION DAY AND REMOVE FROM THE KERBSIDE ON SAME DAY OF SERVICE

When do I put my bins out for collection?

Our drivers are busy people, collecting 20,000 bins per week!

If your bin is not collected at the usual time, please leave it out and a truck will collect your bin contents as soon as possible.

4

NOT BE OBSTRUCTED BY ANY VEHICLES, TREES OR OTHER OBJECTS.

5

BINS HEAVIER THAN 60KG ARE NOT ABLE TO BE LIFTED.

6

LESS THAN 1 METRE FROM EDGE

DON'T OVERFILL.

7

As our community population expands, drivers need to accommodate new homes and neighbourhoods into their bin collection routes.

While collection days remain unaffected, the hour your bin is collected may change. Please remember to present your bins to the kerb before 5am or on the night before your bin collection day.

Collection times may vary

WASTE MANAGEMENT CENTRE OPEN 8AM-4PM 7 DAYS A WEEK (excluding public holidays) Southern Cross Drive, Ballina ph 02 6686 1287

1 METRE APART

PLACE ON KERB WITH A MAXIMUM OF 1M FROM THE EDGE OF THE ROAD SEAL.

8

BE A MAXIMUM OF 1M FROM THE EDGE OF THE ROAD SEAL WITH FRONT TO THE ROAD AND 1M APART.

9 20/21

Waste

business name:

Unauthorised copying or theft of this sticker may lead to prosecution

No: <<WasteStickerNO>>

20/21 20/21 business name:

business name:

Waste Recycling Unauthorised copying

or theft of this sticker

may lead to prosecution

ickerNO>> No: <<WasteSt

Unauthorised copying

ON FLAT GROUND.

or theft of this sticker

may lead to prosecution

ickerNO>> No: <<WasteSt

FOR BUSINESS AND RURAL PROPERTIES, STICKERS MUST BE PRESENTED

FILL WITH THE CORRECT ITEMS FOR EACH BIN

For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au

2020/2021

waste services guide

Ballina Waste Management Centre Most waste materials that do not fit and cannot be placed in your existing bin system can be taken to the Waste Management Centre. On arrival, weighbridge staff will direct you to the appropriate area. All vehicles are weighed in and out of the Waste Management Centre and charged on a weight per category basis.

TIPS 1

We do not accept asbestos, chemicals, hazardous waste or needles and sharps. Please contact the Waste Management Centre for disposal options on 6686 1287. Illegal dumping of these materials can lead to fines up to $1 million.

3

Your local Community Recycling Centre is open. You can drop off:

Sort your load and save. To ensure you are charged the cheapest rates, make sure you sort your items into waste, recyclable materials and FREE drop off items prior to your arrival.

2

Waste matters Drop off your household problem waste

Household hazardous wastes must be kept out of kerbside bins as they contribute to incidences of fires in waste and recycling piles. A range of common household hazardous waste materials can be dropped off for FREE at the Community Recycling Centre for quantities of 20kg or 20 litres. Accepted materials are:

Fluorescent light bulbs and globes All sized batteries Cooking and engine oils Gas bottles Fire extinguishers Smoke detectors Paint E-waste can also be dropped off for FREE, including TVs, computers, printers and electrical cables.

What else can I drop off at the Waste Management Centre?

Scrap Metal Green organics Mixed recycling Cardboard Household garbage Bulky waste (for example, household furniture and carpet) A full list of accepted items along with fees and charges are available on our website ballina.nsw.gov.au

WASTE MANAGEMENT CENTRE OPEN 8AM-4PM 7 DAYS A WEEK (excluding public holidays) Southern Cross Drive, Ballina ph 02 6686 1287

Paint

Gas bottles and fire extinguishers

Fluoro globes and tubes

Household and car batteries

Smoke detectors

Motor and other oils

Your Community Recycling Centre is located at: Ballina Waste Management Centre 167 Southern Cross Drive, Ballina Hours: 8am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4pm every day (closed public holidays)

For more information call Ballina Shire Council on 02 6686 1287 or visit www.newaste.org.au Only household quantities accepted 20kg or 20L maximum container size.

This project is a NSW EPA Waste Less, Recycle More initiative funded from the waste levy. Visit www.epa.nsw.gov.au

Site safety rules When on site please adhere to the following safety rules: 20 km speed limit 10m exclusion zone must be maintained from all site plant equipment Children and animals to remain inside vehicles while onsite Staff directions must be followed Check our website for more details ballina.nsw.gov.au/WasteCentre

For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au

WATCH

Lift the Lid Update Many residents have seen our waste staff on the street as part of the Lift the Lid program. We wanted to thank the high number of residents that do an amazing job keeping our community’s recycling and organics bins in top shape and would like to share some of the results on our recycling bins so far: Overall, 74% of households visited had perfect recycling bins. Thank you Ballina, Lennox Head and Alstonville communities!

10% of bins had only a tiny amount of incorrect materials (.5-1% of the bin contents).

74%

of households visited had perfect recycling bins

What happens to batteries once they’re dropped off for recycling?

Household batteries can be recycled at our community recycling stations or through our existing community recycling centre at the waste management centre.

Household batteries are our largest problem waste recycling stream and the NSW Environmental Protection Authority collects them for transportation to a Victorian facility for processing. First, they’re separated into their different types (alkali, NMHi, etc) then the processing breaks the batteries down to their component parts. These separate streams can then be sold off and a good portion goes back into battery manufacture.

14% of bins had between 5-10% incorrect items in their recycling bins.

Only 2% of our recycling bins were highly contaminated and not collected.

thanks! for doing your bit...

What were the most common incorrect items in the recycling bins?

NOT RECYCLABLE 1

Soft plastics

engaged leadership healthy environment healthyenvironment

WASTE

SOLUTION Minimise single use plastics Recycle soft plastics through leading supermarkets’ REDcycle program

2

Dirty paper and cardboard (primarily paper towel, serviettes, pizza boxes and greasy takeaway packaging)

Place all dirty or greasy paper and cardboard in the organics bin or your home compost.

3

Small lids

Remember nothing smaller than a credit card in the recycling

4

Meat trays and frozen meal trays

Avoid purchasing or place in your landfill bin

We are currently looking at ways to adapt the program so that we can support more residents and look forward to sharing it with residents in the near future.

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39

your councillors

MAYOR

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

what ward are you in?

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

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

WARD A

Cr Stephen McCarthy

WARD B

Cr Nathan Willis nathan.willis@ballina.nsw. gov.au

LENNOX HEAD

WOLLONGBAR

Cr Sharon Cadwallader

CUMBALUM SKENNARS HEAD

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

WARD B

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

WARD C

BALLINA

WARD A

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

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

WARDELL

WARD C

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

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

DEPUTY MAYOR

Cr Eoin Johnston

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.

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 Meeting agendas and documents on exhibition can be viewed at Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au

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Don’t dispose of me yet

Use this issue of Community Connect to wrap kitchen waste and dispose in the green organics bin.

© NSW Spatial Services 2020. This map is illustrative and not to scale.

ALSTONVILLE