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ISSUE

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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

45 DEC 2021

Help create a 'green' tree in Alstonville this Christmas See page 3 for details.

F E A T U R E

S T O R Y

What do you want to see in Ballina Shire in the next 10 years? See page 5 for details.

Help u s plan fo r the future !

from the general manager

From the General Manager Welcome to our December edition of Community Connect, with this edition completing another challenging year, as we all work our way through the covid-19 pandemic. At our November Council meeting, which was the last meeting of 2021, we recognised the outstanding efforts of 20 long-serving employees, while also farewelling the outgoing Councillors and Mayor David Wright, who has served our community as a Councillor for 34 years, 11 as Mayor. Our newly elected councillors will meet officially in January 2022, and Council will be busier than ever delivering essential services and carrying out major projects. Stage 1 of the Lennox Head village renewal works is in full swing, with the installation of stormwater services, drinking water mains, and undergrounding of the electrical network. You will find more information on this project inside this edition of Community Connect. Car park and terminal expansion upgrades are progressing at the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport. Once completed the car park will provide an additional 100 car parking spaces, while the terminal expansion will accommodate new security screening equipment to make our airport safer, as mandated by the Federal Government. Please allow extra time if you are travelling to the airport over the next couple of months. Parking is limited during the upgrade so we encourage travellers to get dropped off and picked up, or use taxis, shuttle buses or rideshare services where possible. We apologise for the inconvenience currently occurring at the airport as we are dealing with an unprecedented number of passengers due to the airlines having scheduled a large number of flights to meet the enormous demand from areas such as Melbourne and Sydney. The airport operates as a public transport hub and our passenger numbers have been amplified with the border restrictions in place restricting access to the Gold Coast Airport. We anticipate the current numbers will decrease substantially once the Queensland border restrictions are eased. With the holiday season fast approaching, parking will also be in high demand in our town centres. Council Rangers conduct regular patrols in these areas, including weekends. So please check the timed parking restrictions to avoid infringement notices. Also If you’re soaking up the scenery along our coastal paths, please follow the etiquette guide on page 19, it’s important to keep everyone safe while enjoying out great outdoors. It’s exciting to see community events returning. The Rotary Duck Race will be back in January 2022, the Lennox Head Cultural Centre will host live shows throughout December and January, and the brand new Green Living Expo is planned for Alstonville in April 2022. Check out the Community Events section on page 23 for all the details. Lastly, as we wrap up one year and head into the next, we are asking our community to do something very important. Council is developing a new Community Strategic Plan for the period 2022-2032, and we need your help! Head to Council’s website to complete the survey to help us plan for Ballina Shire’s future. Paul Hickey General Manager

communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L

engaged leadership Help create a 'green' tree in Alstonville Immerse yourself in Christmas New strategic plan for Lennox Head Help us plan for the next ten years in Ballina Shire Ballina Flood and Protection Feasability Plan Alcohol Free Zones – public exhibition DA processing delays Ferry Maintenance Dates for 2022 Long Service Awards

3 3 4 5 6 6 7 8 9

prosperous economy Ballina Byron Gateway Airport News River Street Duplication progress Angels Beach Drive / Bangalow Road Road and Stormwater projects Lennox Village Vision Project Update Keep your dog on the lead Kingsford Smith Reserve Master Plan Pop Denison Park Upgrade Wollongbar District Park Park art inspired by local youth

10 – 11 12 12 13 14 15 16 16 17 17

connected community Two ways to purchase 4WD permits 18 Beachfront camping at Flat Rock Tent Park 18 Coastal recreation path etiquette 19 Community events 20 – 21 What's on at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre and BISC 22 – 25 Northern Rivers Community Gallery 26 – 27

healthy environment Extreme Weather Information Rous County Council – Biodiversity weeds Report feral deer North Creek Coastal Management Plan When is it safe to swim in Lake Ainsworth Monitoring Ballina's beaches State of Beaches Report Patrols for 2021/22 Swimming Season Water quality of our public pools Inflatable swimming pool safety Water Talk Waste Watch ISSN: 2652-7243 (PRINT)

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

e e r T n e e r ' 'G IN ALSTONVILLE

Have you noticed anything different about the Christmas tree in Freeborn Park this year? Apart from lights, the tree has been left bare for you to decorate! This year the community is invited to make a decoration out of upcycled materials, place it on the tree, and upload a photo of your decoration on the tree for the chance to win a $50 voucher to a local Alstonville business of your choice. Christmas doesn’t have to be a wasteful time of year, in fact, holidays are the perfect time to get crafting! We recommend using materials you already have, search charity shops or visit the Salvage Shed tip shop for treasures. Competition entrants can be made solo or as a group. Council also has access to a range of clean milk bottle lids that can be provided to interested learning centres, schools or community groups. Upcycled decorations must be secured to the tree and withstand the elements so they don’t become litter. Decorations should not be too heavy or too large. Please keep the weight under 300 grams and the dimensions under 15cm3. So what are you waiting for? Put your creative cap on and submit your entry at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ChristmasTree or simply scan the QR code on the tree.

Entries close Wednesday 22 December 2021. Also, don’t forget to post your letters at Santa’s Mailbox while you are there!

Hot meals for the community The Presbyterian Church is holding a free Community Hot Brunch this month as we head into the Christmas season. WHEN: Saturday 18 December 2021, 10am to 12noon WHERE: Ballina Presbyterian Hall, Corner of Cherry and Crane Street (just behind the Presbyterian Church). There will be a sausage sizzle, hot dogs, sandwiches, coffee and tea, and fruit salad available. Whether you need a hot meal, or even just a chat, this community lunch is open to all. Takeaway is most welcome and frozen takeaway meals are also available.

Immerse yourself in

s a m t s i r Ch

engagedleadership

HELP CREATE A

Take the immersive image trail and snap yourself in the Ballina Coast and Hinterland images. Ballina Christmas scene Visitor Information Centre 6 River Street, Ballina

Surfing Santa Ballina Street, Lennox Head

Hope Springs Waterfall BP Travel Centre, West Ballina. #BallinaImmerseYourself

DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE 45

2043 2023-2043

communityconnect

NEW STRATEGIC PLAN for Lennox Head Lennox Head has undergone great change over the last decade. The new suburbs we see today were planned for in the Lennox Head Community Aspirations Strategic Plan 2002 and Lennox Head Structure Plan 2004. Most of the Plans have now been delivered. Ballina Shire Council has resolved to make a new Strategic Plan for the Lennox Head area covering Lennox Village, Ross Lane, Epiq Estate and surrounding communities, including Skennars Head down to North Creek. The new Lennox Head Strategic Plan 2023-2043 is a plan with a 20-year horizon. The community will be invited to identify what they love about Lennox and share their aspirations for the future, particularly in the areas of:

Active travel Greenfield development potential Biodiversity protection Cultural Heritage and local character Access to community services and facilities Employment land Infrastructure needs The timeframe for the project will be:

Image: Aerial of study area.

PHASE 1

PHASE 2

PHASE 3

PHASE 4

Technical Research Nov 2021 – May 2022

Initial Community Consultation Jun – Aug 2022

Plan Drafting Sep 2022 – Jan 2023

Public Exhibition Feb – May 2023

Community members will be encouraged to get involved during the community consultation phases of this project. To register your interest and receive updates visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/LennoxHeadStrategicPlan

communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L

...

HELP US PLAN FOR BALLINA SHIRE’S FUTURE! Ballina Shire Council is reviewing our Community Strategic Plan (CSP). This is a 10-year plan prepared by Council on behalf of the community. You can download the current plan at ballina.nsw.gov.au/planning-and-delivery

Why are we doing this? The world has changed a bit since 2017. A new Council will be elected in December to guide us through to 2024. The review of Our Community Our Future will help us ensure that the new Councillors know your views about the shire’s future. The survey will take 5-10 minutes to complete and will help us understand whether we still have it right.

com un ity stratem g plan. ic 2022–2 OU R CO DRA FT

032

MM UN ITY

OU R FU

TU RE

Get involved and complete the survey at ballina.nsw.gov.au/CSP2032 SURVEY CLOSES 21 JANUARY 2022

Australia Day 2022

engagedleadership

our community our future

What does your Ballina Shire look like in 2032?

WEDNESDAY 26 JANUARY 2022 Ballina Shire Council will be hosting the Australia Day 2022 ceremony at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre commencing at 9.00am. The ceremony will include a music performance, citizenship ceremony and the announcement of the highly anticipated Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards. We will recognise and celebrate the achievements and contributions of individuals, and groups, who showcase, promote and act as ambassadors for Ballina Shire. Thirty individuals and groups were nominated across the categories of Sports, Volunteer, Young Citizen, Senior Citizen, Community Event, Arts Culture, and Environment. The program recognises all nominees as well as the winners for each category before announcing the Ballina Shire Citizen of the Year. This is a COVID safe event. For event details visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/AustraliaDay

DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE 45

communityconnect

BALLINA FLOOD AND PROTECTION FEASIBILITY PLAN Seeking Community Feedback Existing and future flood risks in Ballina and the surrounding floodplain are a consistent theme for the lives of Ballina Island and West Ballina residents. Ballina Shire Council is seeking feedback on a recently developed plan to help mitigate existing and future flood risks. Due to our proximity to the coast, high tides pose a flood threat particularly when combined with floodwater from heavy rain. In the future, sea level rise due to climate change will result in more serious flooding. This means it is important to plan for future possible events. Council undertook flood investigations and developed the Ballina Flood Study in 2008 and the Ballina Floodplain Risk Management Study in 2012. From these documents the Ballina Floodplain Risk Management Plan (2015) was developed to help Council, emergency services and the community understand the potential for flooding in Ballina Shire. More recently the Draft Ballina Flood and Projection Feasibility Plan has been drafted and the Council is now seeking community feedback on this document. Feedback on the Draft Ballina Flood and Protection Feasibility Plan can made at ballina.nsw.gov.au/FloodManagement

Submissions close: Friday 28 January 2022

Community information sessions will be held in January 2022. If you are interested in attending a community information session register at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ FloodManagement

Enquiries: Jacob Franklin, Stormwater/Floodplain Engineer, 1300 864 444.

Alcohol Free Zones – Public Exhibition Ballina Shire Council is seeking public comment on the continuation of Alcohol Free Zones (AFZs) in Lennox Head, Alstonville, Ballina and Wardell. AFZs have been in place in Ballina Shire since 2007 and have been successful in assisting NSW Police managing anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related violence in specific public settings which include public roads, carparks and footpaths. The continuation of these AFZ’s don’t apply to parks, sportfields and beaches, these locations are regulated separately and considered under Council policy. The NSW Police has requested Council continue with the AFZs that are currently in place, which are proposed to continue for a further 3-year period. View the proposed location maps and further information at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ExhibitionDocuments

Submissions close: Monday 10 January 2022.

Need more information before providing feedback?

communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L

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. Using the portal you can:

DAS ONLINE KEEPING YOU IN THE KNOW Want to keep up to date with Development Applications in your area?

Report potholes

The DAs Online section on Council’s homepage of the website is your portal to keeping up to date.

Submit requests

STEP 1

Go to da.ballina.nsw.gov.au

Pay your rates and charges

STEP 2

Read and agree to the Terms and Conditions for use

STEP 3

Click on the ‘Applications on Exhibition’ on the applications menu on the left side of the page.

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.

Specific applications can also be found via the ‘search’ function on this page. You can search by applications submitted this week or this month. You can also go into the search function and fill in the fields to find a particular street or application type.

DELAYS TO DA ASSESSMENT TIMES Due to a number of exceptional circumstances, Ballina Shire Council is experiencing delays in assessment times for all Development Applications. We apologise for the inconvenience and thank applicants for their patience during this time. We are working hard to complete the assessment of each application as quickly as possible.

Exten of Applicsion Review T ation imeframe Processin s g and

engagedleadership

A gateway to Council

adequac timefram y review es for ap p lications via the N submitte S W d Planning between Portal 20 Dece m 16 Janua ber 2021 ry 2 an extended 022 (inclusive) w d ill be due to th e Chris and New Year brea tmas k.

Since mid-2020 Council has experienced an unprecedented surge in DA assessments. Our staff have also been working on large-scale and complex subdivisions; transitioning to online and virtual service delivery for all planning-related applications via the NSW Planning Portal; and navigating the impacts of COVID-19 and border closures.

How you can help To help us reduce delays, please ensure your application is complete and the required information is comprehensive, clearly labelled and referenced throughout the application documentation. For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/the-da-process

DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE 45

communityconnect

BALLINA

FERRY MAINTENANCE DATES FOR 2022 The Burns Point Ferry closes for scheduled maintenance on the second Tuesday of each month, from 9am to 12noon. This maintenance is important to ensure a reliable ferry service for visitors and locals. Scheduled maintenance for the first half of 2022 will occur on the following dates:

Tues 11 January Tues 8 February Tues 8 March Tues 12 April Tues 10 May Tues 14 June Customers are requested to either postpone travel or use the Pacific Highway and River Drive, Wardell, at these times.

holiday parking The Christmas holidays are looming and that means parking is in great demand in our town centres. To ensure people have access to parking, restrictions are in place in these areas. Please check timed parking restrictions to avoid receiving a Penalty Infringement Notice. Council Rangers and Parking Officers conduct regular patrols in these areas, including weekends. Fines have increased to $114 for overstaying the sign posted time limit and $572 penalty plus 1 demerit point for parking in a disabled parking space without a current permit displayed.

For updates on the ferry status and road closure information visit myroadinfo.com.au The Burns Point Ferry operates continuously from 5.30am to 12.30am daily. For ticket information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au

care for our community

report abandoned trolleys

Did you know you could be fined for dumping a shopping trolley in a public place? Help keep our Shire beautiful, please return your trolley and report an abandoned trolley. Woolworths, Big W, Dan Murphy’s ph 1800 641 497 or visit trolleytracker.com.au Coles, Kmart ph 1800 876 553, download the Coles app or visit coles.com.au/customer-care/abandoned-trolleys Bunnings ph 1300 554 777 or visit bunnings.com.au/ contact-us Spar visit spar.com.au/contact Supa Value IGA ph 6686 4999 or visit supavalu.com.au/ contact-us All other abandoned trolleys, please call your local store or contact Council’s Public and Environmental Health Section on 1300 864 444.

communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L

Each year Council recognises the valuable contribution our long servicing employees make to Ballina Shire. This year we congratulate the following staff:

40 years:

Rick Nipperess – Waste Management Officer

35 years:

Brad Myers – Asset Inspection and Surveillance Officer, Road Maintenance Garry Meredith – Team Leader, Water and Wastewater Stewart Littleford – Manager, Information Services

20 years:

Neil Smith – Coordinator Fleet John Truman – Director, Civil Services Joanne Cordery – Executive Support Officer, Civil Services

RICK MARKING 40 YEARS OF SERVICE

Naomi McCarthy – Coordinator Development Assessment

Ballina Shire Council is lucky to have many long-standing employees who bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to their roles. Each year Council acknowledges, congratulates and thanks these staff members for their service to Council and the community.

Clint Stevenson – Supervisor Construction, Water and Wastewater

Council recognised employees who completed either 10, 20, 30 or 35 years plus of service during an annual presentation at the last Council meeting, followed by a morning tea with Councillors.

David Leslie – Waste Management Officer, Plant Specialist

This year Rick Nipperess, Waste Management Officer, is celebrating 40 years at Council. Rick started with Council when it was located in the building next door (now home to the Northern Rivers Community Gallery). The job interview lasted only a few minutes and involved the Chief Engineer telling Rick “You need to work bloody hard and if you want the job you can start on Monday”.

Kerri Watts – Manager, Public and Environmental Health

10 years:

Daniel Cooper – Labourer, Open Spaces Tony Partridge – Coordinator Asset Management Peter Brunt – WHS Officer Stuart Roach – Coordinator Risk Management

engagedleadership

Congratulations!

Chris Trainor – Coordinator, Trades and Services Emily Finch – Water and Wastewater Operator (Asset Investigation) Kylie Hardy – Administration Officer, Airport John Newton – Asset Maintenance Officer Marie Hollingsworth – Creditors Officer, Finance

From then on Rick has worked hard and always put his hand up for new opportunities. When Council was looking for a "good man on the garbage" Rick put his hand up and started as a runner. A runner was the person who ran alongside the garbage trucks and grabbed the bins. Rick ran about 200kms a week for more than 10 years. Brad Myers has been with Council for 35 years and is our Asset Inspection and Surveillance Officer, while Garry Meredith has been with Council for 35 years and is our Team Leader Water and Wastewater. This year 20 staff received long service awards and together they have served our community for a total of 355 years – what an outstanding achievement!

DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE 45

communityconnect

latest news from

Ballina Byron Gateway Airport PROJECT UPDATE

no entry

ARRIVE EARLY

Airport Terminal

under construction

staff parking only

taxi, shuttle bus, rideshare zone

drop off zone no entry

general parking entry

entry

ASK A FRIEND TO DROP OFF AND PICK UP

exit

premium shaded parking

entry entry

general parking

exit

rental car parking

entry exit

Southern Cross Drive

USE LOCAL TRANSPORT LINKS

enter here

road closed to public

ballina.nsw.gov.au/MajorProjects

The airport carpark upgrade is progressing well, and construction works have commenced to expand the airport terminal to accommodate new security screening equipment and improve access for passengers entering the departure lounge. The following traffic and parking changes are now in place:

Enter the airport via the new slip road entrance from Southern Cross Drive. Exit the airport via the new roundabout on Airport Boulevard, turning right onto Southern Cross Drive.

Airport upgrades now underway

Airport Carpark Upgrade

One-way traffic flow into and out of the main airport precinct.

Airport Boulevard currently closed to through traffic.

Strict set down and pickup only zones in front of the terminal (maximum two minutes, vehicles are not to be left unattended or fines apply).

Residents and visitors are urged to arrive early due to the increased number of flights operating, changed traffic conditions and the terminal works now underway.

General parking area open and Pay and Display parking ticket dispensers operating. Parking in the overnight/long-term parking area is limited while shade and solar panel structures are installed. Upgraded rental car area now operating. New dedicated zone for licensed taxis, shuttle buses, coaches and ride share services now operating.

communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L

The community is encouraged to avoid driving to the airport where possible. Consider asking a family member or friend to drop you off or pick you up, or use alternative transport options such as taxis and shuttle bus services. For transport options visit ballinabyronairport.com.au/ transport-links The airport carpark upgrade commenced in August 2021 and is expected to be completed in January 2022 (weather and site conditions permitting). For project information visit ballina. nsw.gov.au/airport-carpark-upgrade

Qantas launches Melbourne to Ballina flight

Craving great coffee and culture? Or maybe you have family and friends who can’t wait to visit our beautiful region. Whether you’re coming or going, the travel options to Melbourne have just expanded. Qantas has commenced direct flights between Melbourne Airport and Ballina Byron Gateway Airport. The inaugural flight arrived into Ballina on Friday 12 November, with the crew and passengers welcomed with a special water canon salute. The route will initially provide three services per week, and increase to daily throughout the high-demand summer holiday period. The service will provide start-up fares from $196 one-way. Travellers will be able to earn and use Qantas Frequent Flyer points on these new flights and enjoy Qantas' premium service, whether it’s complimentary food and drinks, baggage or access to Qantas lounges in Melbourne prior to departure. This new Qantas service is a welcome addition to Ballina Byron Gateway Airport and will provide a boost to our local economy through tourism opportunities and job creation. Bookings can be made via qantas.com.au

NEW SERVICE

Airport Boulevard Work on the third roundabout linking Airport Boulevard with North Creek Road is now complete and open to traffic. Access to Corks Lane is now through Airport Boulevard via either North Creek Road or Boeing Avenue. In October the first roundabout linking Southern Cross Drive to Airport Boulevard and the airport carpark was opened to traffic. However Airport Boulevard will remain closed to through traffic until the airport carpark upgrade is completed.

NEW SERVICE

Airport Terminal Upgrade Construction works have commenced to expand the Airport Terminal to accommodate new security screening equipment and improve processing of passengers entering the departure lounge.

prosperouseconomy

NEW SERVICE

For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ AirportBoulevard

DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE 45

river street duplication

communityconnect

Stage 1 (Riverbend Road to Barlows Road) of the River Street Duplication project opened to dual traffic lanes in early November. Now the finishing touches are being made with landscaping works well underway. The landscaping includes planting of shrubs, groundcovers and mulching in the median strip and in the garden beds within the road reserve. Cabbage tree palms planted in the median strip help to create a sense of arrival and strong visual identity as residents and visitors enter Ballina Shire. The landscaping works will continue into early 2022. Stage 1 of the project, from Burns Point Ferry Road to Barlows Road, has:

duplicated inbound and outbound lanes provided additional pedestrian footpaths and crossings on River Street and adjacent roads provided a raised central median island along the full length of road reconfigured Ronan Place entrance to allow heavy vehicle left in/left out turns upgraded certain stormwater and water services The project team is currently working with Transport for NSW on a signalised pedestrian crossing on River Street. Ballina Shire Council thanks the local businesses and wider community for their continued patience as we near completion of this important upgrade. To learn more and register for emailed project updates visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ RiverStreetDuplication

What does your Ballina Shire look like in 2032?

...

Ballina Shire Council is reviewing the 10-year Community Strategic Plan (CSP) on behalf of the community. To develop a new CSP we need your feedback to get an insight into the community’s vision and goals for the future. To get involved please complete the online survey at ballina.nsw.gov.au/CSP2032

WEST BALLINA

communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L

comm strateguicnity plan. 20 22 –2 03 2 OUR COM MU DRAF T

NIT Y OUR FUT

URE

Early works for the Angels Beach Road/Bangalow Road Roundabout Lane Improvements are now complete. This includes the relocation of street lighting, water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure. Intersection widening works will commence in late January 2022. To enable works to be carried out as quickly as possible, a temporary closure of Bangalow Road will occur in March 2022. Further information will be provided to businesses and residents closer to this. Traffic detours will be in place. This project will improve safety, congestion and traffic flow through the roundabout at Angels Beach Drive and Bangalow Road. Key features will include:

Construction of dual lanes on Bangalow Road between Kerr Street and Angels Beach Drive (separated by a central concrete median). A new central median on Bangalow Road. The Bangalow Road/Clark Street intersection will become left in/left out only (no right turn). Providing extended dual lead in/lead out lanes for the Bangalow Road/Angels Beach Drive roundabout northwards on Angels Beach Drive (past Sheather Street) and eastwards on Bangalow Road (to near Moon Street), separated by a median. Extending Sheather Street to intersect with Angels Beach Drive to provide a left in/left out intersection. For project information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/BangalowRoadRoundabout

EAST BALLINA

ROAD AND STORMWATER PROJECTS

COMPLETED PROJECTS TAMARIND DRIVE – TINTENBAR INTERSECTION RIVERBANK ROAD, PIMLICO SERPENTINE CARPARK

CURRENT PROJECTS AIRPORT BOULEVARD CONSTRUCTION – CORKS LANE ROUNDABOUT RIVER STREET DUPLICATION (STAGE 2) ANGELS BEACH DRIVE AND BANGALOW ROAD ROUNDABOUT - LANE EXTENSIONS LENNOX VILLAGE VISION, ROSS PARK UPGRADE, STORMWATER UPGRADES, UNDERGROUNDING OF POWER STORMWATER RELINING PROJECT RIVER DRIVE, EAST WARDELL NORTH CREEK ROAD BOAT RAMP, LENNOX HEAD

prosperouseconomy

Angels Beach Drive/ Bangalow Road Lane Improvements

FUTURE PROJECTS PEARCES CREEK BRIDGE, PEARCES CREEK MOON STREET, FLOODGATE STEWART STREET, LENNOX HEAD GIBBON STREET ,LENNOX HEAD TEVEN ROAD, TEVEN LENNOX VILLAGE VISION ROAD AND PATHS, LENNOX HEAD

For updates on road closures visit myroadinfo.com.au DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE 45

lennox VILLAGE vision PROJECT DELIVERY stage 1

communityconnect

Stage 1 of the Lennox Village Vision project is in full swing, with the installation of stormwater services, drinking water mains, and undergrounding of the electrical network continuing. L E N N OX H E A D

rk Ross Pa ill w works ver the pause o er summ s holiday

Aboriginal Cultural heritage investigations. Undergrounding of power along Ballina St and within Ross Park. Installation of stormwater in Lennox and Ross Park including Gross Pollutant traps. Removal of play equipment and furniture in Ross Park in preparation for upgrade works in early 2022. Ross Park is temporarily closed while works continue, including installation of new picnic shelters and footpath and paving works. Adjoining carparks in Rayner Lane and Ballina Street will be unavailable during the temporary closure. Beach access will be maintained through Ross Park.

Subscribe for updates Businesses and residents are strongly encouraged to register for project updates and review the responses to frequently asked questions at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ LennoxVillageVision

For further information

The following works have been completed:

Visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/LennoxVillageVision or phone Council’s Manager, Kerry Condon on 1300 864 444. | T H E Project communityconnect MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

Ross Park will temporarily reopen to the public over the summer holiday period and then the park upgrade and landscaping works will continue in late January 2022. Road reconstruction of Ballina Street (Stage Two of the project) will commence from February 2022 near Park Lane, moving north. To register for project updates and for more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ LennoxVillageVision

d a e s on it L Ballina

CBD to

ERCISE your DOG

Get out and abou t with the who le family and enjo walking y your fourlegge friend in Ballina Shire d . Dogs must be public place on a lead at all time s in s, unless in one of off-leash our seve areas. n

DOG FRI

ENDLY BEA CHES

Angels Beac h, East Ballin a (on leash Sharpes Beach, Sken ) nars Head excluding

beach patro l area (on Seven Mile leash) Beach, Lenn north of ox Head surf club (off leash The Spit, ) Ballina (off leash)

Sharpes Beac

OFF LEA SH AREAS

RIDI on the RONG AD

Bicenten nial Gard ens, Balli Compton na Drive, East Ballina Gap Road , Alstonville Seven Mile Beach north Lennox of surf club Head , Ballina Heights Eastern Reserve Headland s Drive Drain Skennars age Rese Head rve, The Spit, Ballina Please be considera te of othe these area r users of s. Your dog under effec must alwa ys be tive cont rol. Take note of onsite signage rules. about dog

Always obey the road helmet laws rules, inclu ding Ride in a predictab le manner You are permitted to ride two but not more than abreast, 1.5 metr Give hand es apart signals whe lanes, turni n changing ng left, right or stopping Plan your route using cycleways quieter stree or share ts, d paths.

Visit www .gotogeth er.transpo gov.au for rt.nsw. more infor mation roads and on shar cycleways ing .

KEEP BAL

LINA

BEAUTI Rememb FUL er there ’s no such dog poo thing as fairy! Bag the the poo, it with you. bin it or take Visit balli na.nsw.g ov.au/ Exercisin gYourDog for more informati on

Angels Beac

Shared path s are for both pedestria ns and bike riders.

BIKE RID Give way

Bike rider s must dism ount and walk their bikes: on footp aths to use pede strian cross ings at the end of share d paths.

LOCK IT

UP!

Avoid theft and secu re your bike when unat tended. Carry a good bicycle lock and secu re the wheels and frame.

Dogs are allowed on Angels Beach, Sharpes Beach, Flat Rock and the coastal pathway but they must be on a lead. Lennox Head to Pat Mort on Look out

North Wall

Ballina

It’s a good idea to check the signs in public places to see if dogs are allowed in that location as a penalty infringement notice can exceed $330.

Council recognises the importance of exercising your dog and provides seven off-leash areas: Bicentennial Gardens, Ballina Compton Drive, East Ballina + dog agility equipment Gap Road, Alstonville Seven Mile Beach, Lennox Head north of surf club Ballina Heights Estate, Ballina Heights eastern reserve Headlands Drive, Skennars Head drainage reserve The Spit, Ballina These areas are not for the exclusive use of dogs and their owners. Please be considerate of all other users by bagging your dog poo, then bin it or take it with you, ensure your dog is always under your effective control, responds to your command and remains close to you. Immediately remove your dog if it shows any sign of anti-social behaviour or aggression.

PEDEST

RIA

MOBILITY SHOULD SCOOTERS :

WA KNOWNT MORE?

Ballina Visit or Informati on Cent Ph: 1800 re 777 666 discoverb allina.com .au ballinacoa standhin terland

ULD:

NS (includin walking, g jogging, skating, mobility scooters and moto wheelchai rized rs) SHO ULD: Keep to the left Travel in a predictab le manner Listen for the soun d of a bell and avoid moving into the path of a bike Supervise young child times ren at all Keep dogs on short leashes Move off the path if stopped.

to Dog ‘No-Go Areas:

Ensure you have a fully bell, horn functioni or other ng warning Lights and device reflectors increase visibility. your By law, you must have lights on between your sunset and sunrise, and in bad weather You shou ld also have visible from a red refle ctor the rear.

ERS SHO

to pede strians Keep left unless over taking Ride at low speeds in busy areas when approach corners ing and crest s Ring your bell and slow dow when appr n oaching other path users Where poss ible, allow metre spac onee for pede strians Move off the path if stopped.

DISMOU AREAS NT

BIKE RI SAFETY DING

When ridin g, you are required law to wear by an helmet fitted approved bike and faste your head ned on Bike rider s must have brake a working

EXPERIENC E the BALLIN A COAST and HINTER LAND by BIKE, SCO OTER, ON FOO T and WIT H YOUR PET

E PATH is TH ERE to

Follow the same rules apply to that pedestria ns Ride on the footp ath or share path, not d the road Not exce ed 10km /h Ride at walk ing spee d (2-3 km/h ) in busy pedestria areas n Use bask ets or racks : overload ing may affect balance and cont rol Health and medicatio affect your ns may ability to use your scooter: check with your doctor or pharmaci st.

DOG

friendly AREAS

CYCLEWA PATHS of YS and SHARED BALLINA SHIRE

The Shared Cycleways an d P dog frie aths map inc ludes ndly are as the w family c hole an enjo y. Dow Shaws Bay

nload a au/exe t ballina.nsw.g or collec rcisingyourdo ov. t g the Visit from Council o or Inform r a ti on Centr Knockrow

e Shelly Beach, East Ballina Lighthouse Beach, East Ballina The Serpentine, East Ballina Shaws Bay, East Ballina Chickiba Lake, East Ballina, north/eastern corner surrounding migratory and shorebirds roosting area Flat Rock reef, Skennars Head Sharpes Beach, Skennars Head, northern end during surf patrols Seven Mile Beach, Lennox Head (south of beach access track located just north of Surf Club) Lake Ainsworth and surrounding foreshore/reserve

Shaws Bay

Loop Walk

Ballina Shire Council 40 Cher ry Street, Ballina Ph: 1300 864 444 ballina.ns w.gov.au ballinashir ecouncil

prosperouseconomy

p e e K

g o d your

CYCLEW AYS and SHARED PATHS of BALLINA SHIRE

Lennox

Tintenbar

Head

Wollongba

Alstonville

Ballina

South Ballin

.nsw.gov.au

Wardell

Fire Trail end of Camp Drewe Road, Lennox Head The ‘no-go’ areas are in place because of the popularity of some beaches and the presence of migratory and shorebirds. Don’t risk a penalty infringement notice of $330 by taking your dog to a ‘no-go’ area.

Further information ballina.nsw.gov.au/exercising-your-dog

The three steps to register your pet Koala Speed Zones Microchipping and lifetime registration of your cat or dog is a requirement under the NSW Companion Animals Act 1998. If your pet is not registered by six months of age, you may be issued with a Penalty Infringement Notice (PIN) which may exceed $305.

ballina.nsw.gov.au/register-your-pet | THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL communityconnect

DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE 45

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KINGSFORD SMITH RESERVE MASTER PLAN Ballina Shire Council recently adopted the Kingsford Smith Reserve Master Plan. The broad-scale plan guides the future development of Commemoration Park, Missingham Park and Kingsford Smith Park. The master plan for Kingsford Smith Reserve articulates community insights gained through a two-phase engagement process. When asked as part of an online survey, 94% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed with the master plan vision for Kingsford Smith Reserve as a “destination that brings the community together in an integrated sports and recreation parkland… (and which) will offer opportunities for play, leisure and social gatherings in a natural coastal environment that celebrates our enviable waterfront setting”. The Master Plan outlines the key functions of each park area as follows:

Commemoration Park will remain a primarily passive open space that supports general community use, play, exercise and small local events such as markets. Missingham Park will remain a multi-use parkland and be enhanced with a focus on leisure and play for all ages and capabilities. Kingsford Smith Park will retain its core function as a regional sports facility with enhanced compliance, safety and parkland amenity. Council has received $3.6 million in funding as part of an election commitment from The Hon. Ben Franklin and the NSW Office of Sport to upgrade some facilities at Kingsford Smith Park to meet the requirements of a regional sporting facility. The Master Plan identifies the following items for implementation as part of the funded scope of work:

Lighting improvements Change room / amenity improvements to bring in line with current sporting access, equity and inclusivity guidelines Grandstand improvements Netball facility upgrades Surface improvements Carparking upgrades. Other works in the plan are unfunded. However, the adopted Master Plan will support Council to work with community groups and government to attract additional funding for other projects identified in the plan. The adopted master plan can be viewed on Council’s website at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ KingsfordSmithreserveMasterPlan

communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L

EAST BALLINA

Pop Denison Park Installation of new play equipment will soon commence at Pop Denison Park. Council’s crews and contractors are taking special care not to disturb a pair of plovers who have made their nest in one of the newly established garden beds. Adventure pathways – integrated through existing vegetation and around landscaped gardens – have been constructed, along with sandstone block edging, a dry creek bed feature, balance logs, rocks and a timber bridge. The next stage of works will include installation of new swing sets, hammocks, mound slide, monkey bars, 4x4 rocker, play forts, fairytale ship and a spinning orb. This upgrade will bring to life the junior playground area of the Pop Denison Park Master Plan, which aims to transform this park into a recreational area of regional standing. The playground has been designed to be inclusive with nature and adventure-play based features to challenge and entertain children. Construction of the playground is expected to be completed in February 2022 (weather and site conditions permitting). For project information please visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ pop-denison-park-master-plan

PARK ART INSPIRED BY LOCAL YOUTH Drawings of native plants, made by a group of talented Year 8 Alstonville High School students, have inspired the public art at Wollongbar District Park. Artists Tim Fry and Jeremy Austin were engaged to create artworks for the new park, including a sculpture from natural timber poles and graphics applied to an outdoor ping pong table. A key component of the artists’ brief was to engage local youth in the art making process.

Wollongbar District Park The new Wollongbar District Park will be opening soon, with final works including the installation of the playground, vegetation and brick paving nearing completion. The park will include:

Public amenities and carparking Skate park, half-size basketball court, table tennis Multi-purpose circuit path with distance markers Exercise equipment Playground equipment including climbing net BBQs and park furniture Landscaping, shade trees and native species gardens Public art including totems poles and table tennis artwork

With Wollongbar District Park designed around a ‘Big Scrub’ rainforest theme, the artists had originally planned to hold inschool workshops with students to teach them about local plant species, but COVID restriction prevented this at the time. So they took a creative approach. They worked with the Year 8 students remotely, in liaison with their teacher Stephanie O’Brien. The artists made an educational video about The Big Scrub, which was streamed in class, and provided a learning brief and artwork criteria that would guide students to make drawings of native plants. Tim and Jeremy interpreted the students’ artworks and routed the designs onto the natural timber poles. The designs represent six Big Scrub species: teak, native ginger, walking stick palm, sandpaper fig, native bush nut, and native tamarind. With the poles completed, the artistic duo are now painting the outdoor ping pong table with an eye-catching design that pays homage to the old drive-in cinema that used to be located at the site. The design features cars of all different eras parked near a speaker system, which form a bright and colourful pattern that’s sure to bring a fun vibe to the park.

prosperouseconomy

WOLLONGBAR

The park is located on the corner of Plateau Drive and Rifle Range Road in Wollongbar. For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ WollongbarDistrictPark

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ballina.nsw.gov.au

DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE 45

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er mit p D 4W yment pa ions opt

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

TWO WAYS TO PURCHASE 4WD PERMITS Seven Mile Beach 4WD permits can be purchased in two ways:

The Park is located between Ballina and Lennox Head alongside Angels Beach and is surrounded by coastal bushland. It is the ultimate beachside hideaway that caters for tents and camper trailers and boasts grassy sites, modern amenities and BBQ facilities. Flat Rock Tent Park offers the good old-fashioned camping experience getting you outside after lock-downs and connecting you back to nature. If this sounds like an experience you would like to have then give managers Paul and Maree a call on 02 6686 4848 or book online at flatrockcamping.com.au

1. At the automated kiosk located along Camp Drewe Road (payment by card only). OR

2. Via the EasyPark App Download the app before accessing the beach, enter the location code (Seven Mile Beach is 40201), your registration number and choose your permit and payment option. For more information visit easypark.com.au or telephone 1300 734 070.

2021/22 FEES: 1 DAY PERMIT $20 30 DAY PERMIT $55 6 MONTH PERMIT $77 ANNUAL PERMIT $132. For more information about 4WD access within the Ballina Shire visit ballina.nsw.gov.au

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communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L

LENNOX POINT

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COASTAL RECREATIONAL PATH ETIQUETTE The Coastal Recreational Path (eastern track from Sharpes Beach to Pat Morton Lookout) is open for the enjoyment of people walking and riding bikes.

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Sharpes Beach Carpark

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The path provides fantastic scenery, leisure, and exercise. Lots of locals and visitors love using this path and experiencing the Ballina coastline.

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friendlGy AREAS

CYCLEW A PATHS o YS and SHARE f BALLINA SH D IRE

pocket map Get out and about with the whole family and enjoy walking and cycling in Ballina Shire. Download at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ cycling-and-walking or collect from Council and the Visitor Information Centre.

Shaws Ba

Follow th e same rules that apply to pedestr ians Ride on the foot pa th or shar path, no ed t the road Not exce ed 10km /h Ride at wa lking spee d (2-3 km/h ) in busy pedestr areas ian

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EXPERIE NCE the BALLIN and HINTEARCOAST by BIKE, SCOLAND OTER ON FOO T and W , EAST BALLINA YOUR PE ITH T

connectedcommunity

Pat Morton Lookout

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DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE 45

Wollong

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Alstonville Ballina Sout

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? on ’ s t a h W

COMMUNITY EVENTS Rotary Duck Race SUNDAY 16 JANUARY 2022 11AM – 3PM, FAWCETT PARK, BALLINA

The Ballina-on-Richmond Rotary Club is running The Great Duck Race on Sunday 16 January 2022, from 11am – 3pm in Fawcett Park. Buy a duck, watch it race along the Richmond River, enjoy the festivities with your family, and raise money for charity all at the same time!

BreastScreen Don’t Miss the Bus! 7 DECEMBER 2021– MID FEBRUARY 2022 FAWCETT PARK, BALLINA

The BreastScreen NSW North Coast mobile unit will be offering free screening mammograms in Ballina until mid-February 2022.

There will be food, games, entertainment, duck racing, best dressed duck and more.

It is recommended that women aged 50-74 to be screened every two years. It’s free, and 20 minutes of your time could save your life!

Tickets are $5 for each of the 1,000 community ducks and the winners will receive:

The mobile unit will be closed over the Christmas and New Year Public Holidays (23rd December – 3rd January).

1st Prize - $500 Harvey Norman Voucher 2nd Prize - $200 Ballina Fair voucher 3rd Prize - $100 voucher from Pet Stock Corporate Ducks can be also be sponsored for $50 with prizes for the “Best Dressed” and “Fastest” Duck. Funds raised will benefit Ballina Lighthouse and Lismore Surf Life Saving Club, Paradise FM Community Radio and Northern Rivers Animal Services. The Rotary Great Duck Race has been an iconic event of the Ballina calendar for almost thirty years. Money raised from the event goes to local and children’s charities and, since its inception, the event has raised well over a quarter of a million dollars. Buy tickets for the community duck race online at trybooking. com/BVFPL

Events lis at tim ted are cor e rect of Visit d iscove publication. rba teleph one 1 llina.com for eve 800 777 66 or 6 nt det ails.

communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L

Don’t miss the bus and book your appointment by calling 13 20 50 or book online at breastscreen.nsw.gov.au

The Lennox Community Market is reopening in January 2022 with artisan stalls, food and live music. The vibrant Lennox Market is held on the 2nd Sunday (and if applicable the 5th Sunday) of the month. It is located behind Lennox Head main street on Williams Reserve, beside the Lennox Head Cultural Centre, allowing you to combine a visit to beautiful Lennox Head with the markets. The stallholders work with management to ensure the best market possible, with shoppers always offered great products at fair prices, in a beautiful setting, while spending time with friends and family.

WHERE: WILLIAMS RESERVE

Adjacent to the Lennox Head Cultural Centre

WHEN: EVERY 2ND AND 5TH SUNDAY 8am - 3pm

UPCOMING DATES:

9 January 2022 30 January 2022

To find out more telephone the market managers on 02 6685 6807 or visit byroncentre.com.au/markets/lennox-market

Blood challenge a big success Ballina Shire Council has finished sixth nationally and third in NSW in the Lifeblood Local Government Councils Challenge 2021. Each year Australian Red Cross Lifeblood runs a challenge for councils and shire across the country to see who can save the most lives. This year – for the first time ever – community members were able to help by joining our Lifeblood Team. Together, we made 102 blood and 40 plasma donations during the challenge period, saving 430 lives! Thank you to all staff and community members who took part in this lifesaving challenge.

Inspired to donate? While the challenge has come to an end for another year, the Ballina Mobile Donor Centre still needs your support. For opening hours visit: donateblood.com.au/blood-donor-centre/ ballina-mobile-donor-centre People who are healthy and well, not waiting on test results or isolating can book online at lifeblood.com.au or call 13 14 95 or download the Donate Blood app.

Market Calendar

There’s a craft market, a car-boot market or a farmers market, somewhere in the Northern Rivers, every weekend. Discover original artworks, handicrafts, fashion, jewellery, secondhand goods, as well as fresh local produce…or just sit back, relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of your local market.

BALLINA FARMERS MARKET Every Sunday 7am - 11am Commemoration Park, Bentinck Street, Ballina

NEWRYBAR FARMERS MARKET Every Wednesday 4pm - 7pm Newrybar Hall

EAST BALLINA LIONS CLUB COMMUNITY MARKET Every third Sunday 7am - 1pm Canal Road, Ballina View the Northern Rivers Market Guide at discoverballina.com.au/visit/markets

Find a defib near you

connectedcommunity

LENNOX COMMUNITY MARKET

These small machines can make all the difference in a critical situation. Here’s the local Council facilities that permanently house defibrillators: Ballina War Memorial Pool Alstonville Aquatic Centre Ballina Council Customer Service Centre Ballina Indoor Sports Centre Ballina Surf Club Flat Rock Tent Park (on verandah) *Please note: this list is correct at the time of printing.

DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE 45

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COUNCIL VENUES PROVIDE A VIABLE START-UP OPTION Ballina Shire Council’s Community Spaces Team are helping start-up businesses get off the ground by providing venues that offer a lower-risk and lower-cost option. “We are finding local operators who want to get a new business off the ground are having trouble finding a premises to lease or are nervous about signing leases and taking on the added costs and responsibilities,” said Roberta O’Brien, Coordinator Community Facilities. “Council operates several venues in Ballina Shire that provide a variety of spaces that are ideal for new businesses wanting to dip their toe in the water.” Rebecca Ronayne recently launched Studio Lennox and is one local business owner who has done just that. “I’ve been wanting to launch my Pilates Studio in Lennox Head for some time but with closures, uncertainty, and a lack of suitable premises to lease, I found it impossible to get my business off the ground,” said Ms Ronayne. “I made some enquiries at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre and found a room that’s perfect for my needs! I’ve been able to launch my new business and will start by offering 10 classes a week. “Being a regular hirer I was entitled to a discount, so for me it’s been a win-win. I have a lovely space to conduct my business that’s clean, modern and air-conditioned, plus I get the support of Council’s Community Spaces Team to promote the classes I am offering at the centre. I couldn’t be happier.”

EPIQ NEW CENTRE at Lennox

Ballina Shire Council is excited to open the new Lennox Head Community Hub to new bookings to cater to sporting needs and activities in our community. The centre has attracted much interest from sporting clubs as well as operators looking to use hireable spaces for meetings and exercise classes. The new amenities building has a large light-filled, multipurpose space that opens out onto the green sporting fields and one smaller meeting room that will be great for health providers. With ample car parking available, and a convenient location, Council is happy to arrange site inspections and is welcoming booking enquiries.

For more information, booking enquiries and to discover what’s on, visit communityspaces.com.au Rebecca Ronayne (centre) launched Studio Lennox after finding a suitable venue for her new business at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre.

communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L

The new Lennox Head Community Hub is located on Hutley Drive in the Epiq residential estate at Lennox Head. To enquire on the spaces available, please contact Ballina Shire Council’s Community Spaces team on 6681 0500 or communityspaces@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Ballina Shire Council’s Community Spaces Team are fielding an increase in enquiries from locals seeking new activities and events to get involved in across its council venues. “We are seeing so much demand for activities from all age groups, with multiple enquiries every day for what’s on at the venues,” said Roberta O’Brien, Coordinator Community Facilities. “It’s exciting to see regular activities like pickleball are now back and new bookings at the venues coming through, offering the community everything from drama, dance and exercise classes, to cooking and art workshops, children’s activities, sport and live performances.

near

There are regular classes, live music, exhibitions and art workshops at venues near you. Visit communityspaces.com.au

LENNOX HEAD CULTURAL CENTRE CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVIVAL - LIVE TRIBUTE SHOW Saturday 18 December 2021

“I think the demand is coming from the community wanting to get out and do more, but we are seeing our regulars bringing along new friends and neighbours or family members that are new to the area. Demand is definitely high and growing.” For more information, booking enquiries and to discover what’s on, visit communityspaces.com.au

LITTLE MARKETTA BY MUMHUB COLLECTIVE Stalls with new, preloved, boutique and second-hand items Sunday 19 December, 9am – 1pm

BACKSLIDERS LIVE

Mee t the Wallers

Friday 7 January 2022

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on s ' t Wha you

COMMUNITY DEMAND FOR LOCAL EVENTS

20 Years in the making

Can love survive art and marriage?

Byron Bay Film Festival ‘Meet the Wallers’

OFFICIAL SELECTION

TASMANIAN

BOFA FILM FESTIVAL

OFFICIAL SELECTION OFFICIAL SELECTION

VISION SPLENDID OUTBACK SPECTACULAR

WINTON

A JIM STEVENS Film

OFFICIAL SELECTION

BRISBANE

ANTENNA

FILM FESTIVAL

SYDNEY

INTERNATIONAL

FILM FESTIVAL

OFFICIAL SELECTION

BYRON BAY INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

ABBA AND THE BEE GEES - LIVE TRIBUTE SHOW Friday 14 January 2022

Filmed over 20 years in Australia Friday 17 December 2021

“ Fantastic, rivteting, honest, open, raw, so compelling to watch”

For further information and bookings visit communityspaces.com.au DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE 45

communityconnect

What's on at the

NOTE: A depend ctivities are health o ent on public to date rders. Keep up w commu ith what's on a nityspa ces.comt au or b . y call 6681 05 ing 02 99.

FLYING THE FLAG FOR LOCAL SPORT Big, bold and colourful new sporting flags are flying at the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC) to identify the sports that call the BISC home. The flags promote basketball, pickleball, volleyball, netball and futsal, capturing the attention of passersby and clearly defining the sports that are offered at the centre. “We have welcomed organised sport back at the centre with competitions, social games, introductory games and skills development all on offer,” said Roberta O’Brien, Coordinator Community Facilities. “If you are interested in joining a new sport or just want to give a new sport a try, give us a call or get in touch with the local sporting association.” The BISC is open 7 days. For further information, booking enquiries and to discover what’s on visit communityspaces.com.au

Bounce into BISC over Summer

Keep the kids active and moving at the BISC throughout the summer school holidays. Get them out of the sun (or rain) and come on in for some fun ball games. CASUAL FEES $6 or UNLIMITED 3 MONTH MEMBERSHIP JUST $72.

Pro Training Machine Hire at the BISC!

Learn to shoot like a basketball pro at the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre. Visit communityspaces.com.au or call 02 6681 0599

communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L

63 Cherry Street, Ballina Call 6681 0599 communityspaces.com.au

Please check communityspaces.com.au for details during COVID restrictions. We welcome fitness passport holders!

B MembIeSC available rships fo

r Xmas!

3 month su Ask ou nlimited just $ r staff. 72. conditio Terms and ns app ly.

Give a unique local gift Available from:

Ballina Visitor Information Centre 6 River Street Ballina NSW 2478 1800 777 666 | discover@ballina.nsw.gov.au Open: Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm Sundays and public holidays 10am - 2pm Open until 5pm Christmas Eve discoverballina.com.au

BallinaCoastandHinterland

Northern Rivers Community Gallery

If there’s one word to describe the skills of our Gallery team, it’s expansive! The team wears many hats requiring a broad range of skill sets including curatorial, project management, curriculum development, customer service, marketing and social media content management, graphic design, video production, AV and lighting tech and grant writing. This is aside from the highly specialised technical skills needed to oversee artist management and installation of artworks for each new group of exhibitions at the gallery. Lee Mathers oversees the curatorial, programming, partnership and strategic development of the gallery and Ignite Studios. The role of Gallery Services Officer is shared between Emma Pinsent who works on curation and project management of the exhibition program, and Louise Clark who manages frontof-house operations, including the shop and volunteer program. The team is also about to expand with a Creative Producer position who will be responsible for the gallery’s public programs. Two casual exhibition installers assist with each changeover every eight weeks. Tim Crawley has been working with the gallery for nearly eight years as an installer and brings a wealth of technical curatorial, art handling and install experience to the team. The gallery also has an extensive volunteer program, with 18 volunteers staffing gallery reception on a monthly roster.

44 Cherry Street Ballina NSW 2478

“Our wonderful vollies are the face of the gallery, they are a vital part of our team and literally keep our doors open,” says Lee.

02 6681 0530 | contact@nrcgballina.com.au Open: Wednesday - Friday 10am - 4pm Weekends 9.30am - 1pm | Closed public holidays Open until 4pm Christmas Eve

One of the gallery’s most successful collaborative projects has been through a partnership with SPRUNG!! Integrated Dance Theatre.

NorthernRiversCommunityGallery

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MEET OUR TALENTED GALLERY TEAM

“This partnership has evolved over time. It started with SPRUNG!!’s 2014 exhibition, which included a series of behind-the-scenes photographic works of the dancers during rehearsals, complimented with a short performance at the launch event,” says Lee. Following many conversations between Lee and SPRUNG!!’s founder and Director, Robyn Brady, combined with the right mix of collaborators, timing and funding the acclaimed virtual reality exhibition

order now to send overseas before Christmas

‘Virtually Impossible’ was realised as part of the Gallery’s 2019 exhibition program. The most recent evolution of this ongoing collaboration is ‘Awakenings – The Making of Things Impossible’, an experiential digital exhibition recently showcased in the gallery during September and October this year. For current exhibition details and opening times visit nrcgballina.com.au

DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE 45

current exhibitions Exhibition Dates: 3 November – 24 December 2021 | Launch Event: Online Screening

Playing House | Amy Meng

Image: Amy Meng, Game Boy Game Gal, 2019

This is Nothing New | Gala Jane A continuation on from the highly successful series, I Have A Voice, containing the, now infamous, bra-cup face mask portraits. In this exhibition, Gala opens up a dialogue with the viewer, looking at how sexism and the gender imbalance is prevalent in society. Gala Jane is the recipient of NRCG’s - Southern Cross University (SCU) 2020 Graduate Art Prize. Image: Gala Jane, Angry?, 2021

BAM Art Prize 2021 | Finalist Exhibition Presented by Byron Arts Magazine in partnership with Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG). The BAM Art Prize promotes awareness of the arts in the Northern Rivers by presenting a national art prize within the region. Open to all mediums and artists, the BAM Art Prize Finalist Exhibition showcases shortlisted works in the 2021 prize and features a diverse range of works, selected by the judges. Image: BAM Art Prize 2021 Finalist Exhibition (installation view), 2021. Image: Courtesy of Northern Rivers Community Gallery

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

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THE

communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L

For more Information go to nrcgballina.com.au

DE C E MBE R

Drawing influences from manga, anime and video games, in Playing House Amy Meng situates the bishoujo (beautiful young girl) within the context of kawaii (cute) culture and the domestic landscape, and investigates how our fascination with her escalates the infantilisation and pornification of society.

Exhibition Dates: 12 January – 6 March 2022 | Launch Event: Online Screening

This exhibition is a cross-cultural artistic exploration of the processes of healing through fire, flood and COVID-19. Four local, multi-disciplinary artists will document and reflect on their journeys from isolation to connection.

J AN UARY

Image: Anne Leon and Belle Budden, Back to Country, 2021

–

Breaking Through: Transition to Transformation | Anne Leon, Potts, Belle Budden, Dhinawan Baker

MARC H

In Absentia | Jill Runciman, Katie Alleva + Rebecca Tapscott A collection of works by three Northern Rivers artists, ‘In Absentia’ looks at the impact absence has on the physical, environmental and emotional landscape. Image: Katie Alleva, In Her Absence, 2021

My Hands Hold Everything | Portia Sarris My Hands Hold Everything is a body of work that aims to reduce the disparity of what is felt and what is communicated. Image: Portia Sarris, Red, 2019

connectedcommunity

upcoming exhibitions

3 | Jodi Woodward, Katrina Hill and Eliza McIness 3 is an investigation into colour and pigment – three artists, three colours, three works each -creating a cohesive installation bound together, yet individually considered - combining the known and unknown. Image: Katrina Hill, Breath-Exhale, 2021

44 cherry street, ballina nsw 2478 | ph 02 6681 0530 open wed – fri 10am – 4pm | weekends 9.30am – 1pm (closed public holidays)

DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE 45

SES LAUNCHES NEW FLOOD AWARENESS CAMPAIGN

where to get info...

extreme weather conditions

cut out and keep!

ROAD CLOSURES myroadinfo.com.au for Ballina Shire rural road info

TRAFFIC CONDITIONS Live Traffic NSW livetraffic.com

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 Qantas 13 13 13 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, reduce internal water use 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.

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

With the prospect of another La Nina event this summer and the Northern Rivers at risk of another active storm season, the NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) has launched a new flood awareness campaign. The Floods. The Risk is Real, campaign encourages communities throughout the Northern Rivers – including Ballina Shire – to be aware of their risk of floods and take steps to get prepared. Commander of the service’s Northern Zone, Chief Superintendent Steve Patterson, said communities have experienced flooding before and they will again. “The Bureau of Meteorology has advised that this Storm Season, which will run from October to March, we are likely to see a repeat of the conditions experienced last season,” Mr Patterson said. “With the threat of another La Nina event, this will include the risk of increased rainfall and flooding.” The campaign is designed to help people, especially newcomers to the area, know what they can do before a severe weather event strikes. “As part of the campaign, NSW SES has provided a range of localised resources to offer the best guidance for people who live, work or visit these areas,” Mr Patterson said. This includes a new website ses.nsw.gov.au/NSWFloodAwareness with useful information on local risk levels and river gauges in each Northern Rivers Local Government Area.

Rous County Council is the control authority for weeds in the Northern Rivers. Covering Tweed, Byron, Ballina, Lismore, Kyogle and Richmond Valley Council areas, Rous works with a wide range of stakeholders to combat the spread of targeted weeds. The most cost-effective way to minimise the impact of weeds is to stop them establishing in the first place. That is why the majority of Rous County Council’s efforts focus on prevention and early eradication. Weeds in the following four invasion phases are the responsibility of the landholder:

Prevention – Work to stop high-risk weeds from breaching the area. Landholders can prevent outbreaks by familiarising themselves with high-risk weeds.

Eradication – Sightings of high-priority weeds in the area. The focus is on promoting these weeds to stakeholders with the goal of finding and eradicating the weed before it becomes established.

Containment – Weeds have become widespread in the district. The priority is to prevent it from spreading further.

Asset Protection – The weed is established and the focus shifts to asset protection Includes protection of farmland, industry, recreational areas, and natural ecosystems. Many of the high-priority weeds Rous County Council is currently tackling have resulted from the introduction of foreign plants or ‘collectables’ which have unintentionally spread from people’s gardens. If you discover a weed that you are unsure about, the NSW Weedwise app can help you identify weeds and provides information on biosecurity status and recommended control methods. Any new or unidentifiable weeds should be reported to Rous County Council. The graph below shows how distribution and abundance of weeds plays a significant role in how Rous County Council responds to infestations. For further information telephone Rous County Council on 02 6623 3800 or visit rous.nsw.gov.au

Report feral deer Ballina Shire Council has joined forces with local councils to launch ‘The Northern Rivers is on Feral Deer Alert’ program. The campaign asks the whole Northern Rivers community to stay on Feral Deer Alert, while they are driving, bush walking or managing their property, and to report feral deer sightings. Ballina Shire Council’s Environmental Scientist, Jack Hastings said there are six species of introduced feral deer in Australia are all causing significant and widespread problems. “The Northern Rivers is one of the last areas in New South Wales where feral deer populations haven’t become established, but they are starting to be seen more frequently.

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BIODIVERSITY WEEDS

“They also have a significant human impact because they can reduce the ability of farmers to earn a living, spread disease to livestock and other animals and are a hazard to drivers, straying onto roads and causing accidents,” Mr Hastings said. Report all sightings of feral deer to feralscan.org.au/deerscan or phone Local Land Services on 1300 795 299. The Feral Deer Alert campaign is a collaboration between Tweed, Lismore and Kyogle councils, and the Tweed and Border Ranges-Richmond Valley Landcare groups. Ballina Shire Council is supporting the campaign. It has been funded by the Australian Government’s Communities Combating Pest and Weed Impacts During Drought.

DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE 45

When is it safe to swim in Lake Ainsworth?

communityconnect

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

NORTH CREEK COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN Ballina Shire Council is in the process of developing a Coastal Management Program (CMP) for North Creek. A CMP is developed under the NSW Government Coastal Management Framework and includes a program for the long-term management of coastal environments. This process involves consultation between relevant government agencies and local community groups to develop shared ideas to ensure the North Creek system is strategically managed for the long term and to the benefit of all stakeholders. Stage Two of the North Creek Coastal Management Program (CMP) is now underway. This includes water quality monitoring and the development of a hydrological model for North Creek and surrounding catchment area. This important work will allow Council to understand the mechanisms of poor water quality and the influence of the different parts of the catchment on the North Creek system. Importantly, it will allow Council to identify and assess preliminary management options and start planning for the future. Visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/North-Creek for more information.

communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L

NO ALERT (no restrictions in place) GREEN ALERT (no restrictions in place) AMBER ALERT (some restrictions in place) RED ALERT (full restrictions in place – no swimming allowed) Although the Lake is tested regularly its condition can sometimes change rapidly. Slicks and scums can form and disappear quickly, depending on the amount of blue green algae present and certain weather conditions, especially wind. Council's Environmental Health Officers encourage lake users to always avoid slicks and scums no matter the lake's current alert level. For more information on blue green algae sampling please visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/lakeainsworthstatus To be added to the weekly Lake Ainsworth status update email list please email pehd@ballina.nsw.gov.au

The annual State of the Beaches Report was released in October 2021. The report findings indicate that the water quality at nine of the 13 swimming sites in Ballina Shire were graded as Very Good or Good between November 2020 and February 2021.

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

With above average rainfall recorded in this period the results are encouraging as storm water run-off is a major factor driving poor water quality at recreational swimming sites. To view the annual State of the Beaches Report visit environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/water/ beaches/reporting-beach-water-quality/stateof-the-beaches

The beaches and waterbodies that are sampled include:

Lake Ainsworth Shaws Bay Seven-Mile Beach Shelly Beach Lighthouse Beach The Serpentine The program provides weekly information to the public about the quality of water, allowing the public to make informed choices regarding potential swimming locations. The swimming sites are tested five times per month and are considered safe for swimming when bacteria remain below threshold levels. Advisory warnings are issued where water quality testing indicates a potential health risk. After heavy rainfall swimming is generally not recommended for up to 72 hours depending on the site and catchment area. Ballina Shire Council’s Beachwatch sampling procedure is audited by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment every year. For further information on Beachwatch sampling and weekly star ratings please go to environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/ water/beaches/north-coast-beaches/weekly-star-ratings

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State of the Beaches Report

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ballina.nsw.gov.au

DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE 45

communityconnect

Patrols for 2021/2022 Swimming Season

With summer just around the corner many residents will be taking a dip in the public pools across our shire – and they can do so knowing that Council is monitoring the water quality and safety of these sites. During the warmer months of November through to April Council undertakes inspections of public swimming and spa pools. This includes pools located at motels, gyms, caravan parks, and learn-to-swim pools, whether a fee is paid or otherwise. All public swimming and spa pools must comply with the operating requirements outlined in the Public Health Regulation 2012. This means they must be fitted with an automated or continuous disinfectant dosing system and be disinfected with chlorine or bromine.

BEACH

Seven Mile Beach, Lennox Head

PATROLS START

20/09/2021

PATROLS FINISH

DETAILS

22/04/2022

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

Flat Rock, East Ballina (roving guard)

18/09/2021 18/12/2021 09/04/2022

04/10/2021 27/01/2022 22/04/2022

9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards 7 days a week

Sharpes Beach, Skennars Head

18/09/2021 18/12/2021 09/04/2022

04/10/2021 27/01/2022 22/04/2022

9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards 7 days a week

Shelly Beach, East Ballina

18/09/2021 18/12/2021 09/04/2022

04/10/2021 27/01/2022 22/04/2022

9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards 7 days a week

Lighthouse Beach, Ballina

20/09/2021 18/12/2021 09/04/2022

04/10/2021 27/01/2022 22/04/2022

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

* Seven Mile Beach, Lennox Head is 9am - 6pm during the NSW Summer school holiday period

For further information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/beach-recreation

WATER QUALITY AT OUR PUBLIC POOLS

communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L

Council’s Environmental Health Officers conduct onsite water quality testing and send samples to a laboratory for further analysis. The aim is to ensure that these pools are being managed to keep the water and surrounds clean and safe for our community. Need to register a pool or spa? Have a general question about this topic? Contact Council’s Public and Environmental Health Section on 1300 864 444. For more information about Council’s monitoring program visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/public-swimmingpools-and-spas--175

The community pools in Ballina and Alstonville are ideal places to cool down and catch up with friends and family.There’s plenty of aquatic sports and activities at the pools; making them great locations to host a family BBQ or kid's birthday party.

Ballina War Memorial Pool & Waterslide

Alstonville Aquatic Centre

Lee and Vicki Fitzgerald | 02 6686 3771 Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 5.30am - 7pm Saturday 7am - 6pm Sunday 8am - 5pm

Greg and Kelly Fettell | 02 6628 0826 Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 5.30am - 7pm Saturday 7am - 5pm Sunday 10am - 5pm

Find them on Facebook

Inflatable swimming pool safety When it comes to pool fence regulations, portable and inflatable pools are not exempt from the need to be fenced or obtain approval.

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s l oo P y t i n u m om into the C

genera pool safelty tips

In NSW, inflatable pools that are capable of being filled with 30cm or more of water are required to be registered to the Swimming Pool Register and must be surrounded by a safety barrier separating the swimming pool from any residential building or place adjoining the premises. Fences surrounding pools must be designed, constructed, installed and maintained to meet Australian Standards AS 1926.1. For a list of requirements download the NSW Government’s Portable Inflatable Pool Checklist at swimmingpoolregister.nsw.gov.au/checklists In many circumstances, you will need Council approval to install an inflatable pool. All pools with a water volume of more than 2000 litres require development approval to be obtained. If you need more information regarding pool fencing compliance, contact Council’s Development Services Section on 1300 864 444.

DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE 45

communityconnect

Check online for water outage updates

Water meter replacement program update

Do you know where to go for water outage information? Both planned and unplanned water interruptions are published on our website at ballina.nsw.gov.au/WaterOutage So if you’re ever experiencing low water pressure, or a water interruption, please check online to see if there’s an outage near you. You’ll also find information on how to report a water leak and helpful water outage tips.

As part of Ballina Shire Council’s proactive water meter replacement program, Council has engaged Want Gas Plumbing to replace 4,000 residential meters over the next two years. This renewal program started in April and will cost approximately $680,000. So far more than 1,820 meters have been replaced. To find out more visit ballinawater.com.au

Calculate your water use Do you know how much water you use in and around your home? Our bulk water supplier, Rous County Council, has launched an online home water calculator. It takes you through each area of your home to determine your water use. The calculator then compares your usage to our regional goal of less than 160 litres per person per day. Having a better understanding of your daily consumption is the first step in saving water and reducing demand on our water supply. To understand your water consumption and discover simple ways to save water, visit rous.nsw.gov.au/watercalculator.

Every drop counts. Water saving starts with you!

communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L

This information has been provided by the NSW Health Department.

WATER NIGHT RESULTS ARE IN! Water Night was a big success in the Northern Rivers region this year. Across our region, 164 people participated in the ‘water mindfulness’ challenge by not using taps, showers and running water for 24 hours. To encourage our community to get involved in the event, Rous County Council committed to planting 10 trees for each registered participant from across the Ballina, Byron, Lismore and Richmond Valley local government areas. Rous County Council will plant a total of 1,640 native rainforest trees at Fosters Spur at Rocky Creek Dam. This planting is scheduled for March next year. This important work will enhance nearly 40 years of rainforest regeneration at Rocky Creek Dam, our region’s main drinking water source, which is surrounded by the ancient Gondwana Rainforests of Nightcap National Park.

COMPLETED PROJECTS Marsh Ave, Ballina Water Main Replacement Acacia Place, Ballina Water Main Replacement Gibbon Street, Lennox Head Water Main Replacement

CURRENT PROJECTS: Access Upgrade At Basalt Court Drinking Water Reservoir Lennox Head Wastewater Treatment Plant Ocean Outfall Switchboard and Pumps Replacement Moons St, Ballina Water Main Replacement Martin Street (Ballina High School), Ballina Recycled Water Main Replacement Jarrett Street, Ballina Water Main Replacement

What can you do?

Camburt Street, Ballina Water Main Replacement

‘Water mindfulness’ is important all year round, even during times of high rainfall as we are experiencing now.

Marine Street, Ballina Water Main Replacement

Our drinking water is not limitless. Even in wet times, considerable resources and energy are required to treat and transport water from the source to our taps. The following resources can be helpful all year round: Save water indoors > rous.nsw.gov.au/save-water-indoors

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Water and Wastewater Projects

Sewer Pump Stations - Electrical Conductivity Instrumentation Installation

FUTURE PROJECTS

Save water outdoors > rous.nsw.gov.au/save-water-outdoors

Upgrade To Marom Creek Water Treatment Plant Alstonville Wastewater Treatment Plant Inlet Works Upgrade West Ballina Recycled Water Main Ballina Wastewater Treatment Plant Rectification Works and Gantry Crane Installation Alstonville and Wardell Wastewater Treatment Plant Solar Farm Installation Ballina Wastewater Treatment Plant Septage Receival Station

DECEM JU BN ER E 2021 ISSUE 45 3

WASTE

communityconnect

6 Waste Wise Christmas Tips Celebrating the season with friends and family is a wonderful way to end the year, but let’s be real: hauling garbage bags full of packaging, torn gift wrap, ribbons and leftover food down to the bin after Christmas clean up isn’t a great feeling! 1

WATCH

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE FOOD! – planning a menu in advance and only buying what you need is key to avoiding unnecessary food waste. Involve guests by incorporating their contributions into the planning phase, and correctly store and use leftovers. Avoid joining the competition of who can place the most food on the table and if desired, fill spaces with fresh plants and existing decorations instead.

s a m t is r h c is h t n e e r g go

KNOW YOUR ORGANICS BIN – For food that can’t be saved, ensure you have a separate bin or container for all food waste, serviettes and dirty/greasy paper and cardboard. These items can all go in the urban lime-lidded organics bin.

u g what yo Only buyin to avoiding y need is ke food waste ary unnecess

BUY THOUGHTFUL GIFTS – choose an experience such as movie tickets, a charity gift or take your recipient on a shopping date. For parents known to get festive fever, a great rule of thumb is to follow a simple formula for children’s gifts to use as a guideline and minimise overspending. For example, ‘something they want, something they need, something to wear, something to read’. THINK BEFORE YOU WRAP – gift wrap takes up valuable bin space and cannot be recycled if its glittery or foil-based. Consider wrapping gifts in materials such as fabric (washable and can be festive themed if desired), hessian, gift bags or recycled gift wrap. STORE SPENT BATTERIES – batteries can cause fires at the waste management centre. Please store them in a container and at a convenient time for you, transport to a Community Recycling Station or the Community Recycling Centre (CRC) for FREE drop off. Search ‘CRC’ on council’s website for more information on free drop off items. WHAT GOES WHERE? – visitors and guests may not necessarily understand your bin system or know what goes in each bin. Set everyone up for success by ensuring all bins are labelled to reduce contamination issues and make the most of your bins. Home bin labels and clear information on what goes in which bin can be downloaded and printed from ballina.nsw.gov. au/resources

For food that can't saved, ensure you be ha separate bin or co ve a ntainer for all food waste

Buy thoughtful gifts and minimise overspending

Consider wrapping gifts in materials such as fabric, hessian, gift bags or recycled gift wrap

6 ORGANICS

ries in Store spent batte ke to a ta d an a container g Station in cl cy Re ity un Comm op off dr e fre r or Centre fo

communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L

RECYCLING

LANDFILL

Ensure all bins are labelled to reduce contamination issues and make the most of your bins

waste services over the holiday season organics

TOP TIPS

for your organics bin Kitchen organics caddies are available for only $10 from council customer service centre and the waste management weighbridge. The caddies are labelled with what can go in them, open easily and close snugly to keep the summer flies away

Liners aren’t required, however 100% compostable or paper liners may be used. If using compostable liners, only choose bags with the compostable seedling logo.

Freeze meat and seafood scraps in paper or compostable bags then simply pop in your organics bin on collection day

Place paper towel, serviettes, tissues and greasy paper in your organics bin too

WASTE MANAGEMENT CENTRE HOURS The Waste Management Centre and Salvage Shed tip shop will be CLOSED on the following public holidays:

Saturday 25 December to Tuesday 28 December 2021 Saturday 1 January 2022 Monday 3 January 2022 The centre is open all other days from 8am – 4pm. Expect delays on 29 December.

CHRISTMAS WEEK BIN COLLECTION Christmas week is a landfill and organics bin collection week. There are no changes to the three-bin kerbside waste collection service over the holiday period.

BIN COLLECTION GUIDELINES Times may vary over peak season, so please ensure your bins are out before 5am or the night before Don’t compact bins. This can lead to blockages and the truck may be unable to fully empty Bins need to be under 60 kg and not overfull for the truck to successfully lift and empty Will you have visitors? Make sure your bins are unobstructed by cars so that the collection truck can access your bins

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

Visit our website for a range of resources to help you out ballina.nsw.gov.au

ORGANICS

RECYCLING

LANDFILL

For more information and to download our bin liner guide, head to ballina.nsw.gov.au/3binguide

DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE 45

WASTE

WATCH

Ballina Salvage Shed Open Day

UNWANTED ITEMS

sell • donate • recycle

Saturday 11 December 11am – 3pm Sausage Sizzle and Prizes to be won. Have a waste free Christmas – shop second hand, recycle, upcycle and enjoy!

communityconnect

ILLEGAL DUMPING IN PUBLIC BINS

What options do I have for disposing of unwanted items? If your item is clean, in good condition and operational: SELL IT

Did you know that placing household or commercial waste in public bins is illegal?

Hold a garage sale, use local print media or sell online – for example at sites such as local Facebook pages or Marketplace, Ebay or Gumtree.

The purpose of council provided public bins is to capture waste generated by the public who are using community reserves and open spaces for activities such as recreation and sport. This assists in preventing litter. It is illegal to dump household or commercial waste in public bins as doing so is likely to lead to overfilling of bins, vermin and odour issues, as well as polluting local waterways and the marine environment.

DONATE OR GIVE AWAY

Persons identified illegally dumping household or commercial waste material may be penalised with one of the following:

Fines of up to $1100 for acting contrary to notices erected by council On the spot fines of $4000 for individuals or $8000 for corporations Fines up to $250,000 for individuals or $1,000,000 for corporations for more severe cases Fines up to $1,000,000 for individuals or $5,000,000 for corporations and prison sentences for wilful or negligent disposal of waste causing actual or likely harm to the environment, such as asbestos or hazardous chemicals.

Give to a friend, neighbour, or donate to a charity shop. There are also local Facebook pages and Marketplace where you can post free items for collection.

If the item is destined for landfill - broken, dirty/ stained or past its use by date: TAKE TO BALLINA WASTE MANAGEMENT CENTRE - 167 Southern Cross Drive, Ballina. MANY HOUSEHOLD ITEMS CAN BE RECYCLED FOR FREE - Visit ballina.nsw.

gov.au/waste-management-centre for more information

Please consider alternatives to landfill. Reducing the items entering the waste stream reduces the impact to the environment and the above options are often cheaper or even free.

ONLINE

ridonline.epa.nsw.gov.au

LET’S GET RID OF ILLEGAL DUMPING 38

communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L

Do you have unwanted or obsolete agricultural/veterinary (AgVet) chemicals you need to safely dispose of? ChemClear are holding a collection in New South Wales in March 2022. Simply register your chemicals by 28 January 2022 and they will be safely collected and disposed of. AgVet chemicals that display the drumMUSTER logo are collected free of charge. Please take note of the following dates:

28 JANUARY 2022 – REGISTRATIONS CLOSE Register at chemclear.org.au

FEBRUARY 2022 – Registered chemical holders disposing of their agvet chemicals will be notified of a collection date and location for their area.

MARCH 2022 – ChemClear collection begins.

Return and Earn recycling continues at both the Ballina Memorial Pool & Waterslide and Alstonville Aquatic Centre, thanks to the dedication of the Ballina and Alstonville Lions Clubs to ensure less goes to landfill and more funds go into local causes! To support their recycling efforts, please remember:

Eligible cans, bottles and juice boxes only in the return and earn bins No coffee cups please Definitely no nappies or food! To find out more about Return and Earn, head to returnandearn.org.au

DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE 45

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CHEMCLEAR COLLECTION IS COMING TO NSW AGVET CHEMICAL USERS

Return and Retur Earn at the Pools

Council services – Christmas and New Year period 2021/2022

a n i l l a B m fro s r o l l i c n u o C S h ir e and S taff

LOCATION

CLOSING

REOPENING

Customer Service Centre

3pm Friday 24 December 2021

8.15am Tuesday 4 January 2022

Alstonville Library

4pm Friday 24 December 2021

9.30am Tuesday 4 January 2022

Ballina & Lennox Head Libraries

4pm Friday 24 December 2021

9am Tuesday 4 January 2022

Northern Rivers Community Gallery

4pm Friday 24 December 2021

10am Wednesday 12 January 2022

4pm Friday 24 December 2021

8am Wednesday 29 December 2021

4pm Friday 31 December 2021

8am Sunday 2 January 2022

Waste Management Centre

4pm Sunday 2 January 2022

8am Tuesday 4 January 2022

Alstonville Aquatic Centre

7pm Friday 24 December 2021

10am Sunday 26 December 2021

Ballina War Memorial Pool and Waterslide

7pm Friday 24 December 2021

8am Sunday 26 December 2021

Burns Point Ferry COMMUNITY SPACES Jingi Wahla rooms (Ballina Surf Club) Lennox Head Cultural Centre Richmond Room Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC) Visitor Information Centre After hours emergency number 6626 6954

Don’t dispose of me yet

Bins will be collected as usual on public holidays. Please have bins kerbside by 5am on your normal collection day, as start times and the order of collection may vary.

12 noon Saturday 25 December 2021 5.30am Sunday 26 December 2021

Usual hours of operation 5.30am to 12.30am daily Administration office closes 3pm Friday 24 December 2021

8.30am Tuesday 4 January 2022

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

3pm Friday 24 December 2021

8.30am Tuesday 4 January 2022

5pm Friday 24 December 2021

10am Sunday 26 December 2021

Usual operating hours 7 days a week (excluding above public holiday) Emergency calls concerning water, sewage, roads, stormwater and health matters.

Please note the following Council services are closed on Australia Day Wednesday 26 January 2022: Customer Service Centre, Waste Management Centre, Community Facilities, Libraries, Northern Rivers Community Gallery

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

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council contact information

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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 een' ate a 'gre Help cre tonvill tree in Als tmas this Chris See page

3 for details.

R Y S T O U R E to see in years? t 10 you want What doShire in the nex Ballina

F E A T

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5 for details.

Help us plan for the future!

Office Hours: 8.15am to 4.30pm Mon-Fri (excluding public holidays) After hours contact: 02 6626 6954

ISSN: 2652-7243 (PRINT)