Community Connect Extra March 2024

HEROES SHINE AT AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS CEREMONY

The Lennox Head Cultural Centre was once again the backdrop for a brilliant Australia Day Ceremony.

This year’s event featured performances from the Ballina Players and Lennox Beach Line Dancers, a heartwarming citizenship ceremony, and the announcement of the Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards.

Lennox Head local, Joel Taylor, took out top honours as our 2024 Citizen of the Year.

Joel has made a profound impact in the world of surfing and beyond. Originally a professional bodyboarder, Joel’s career took an unexpected turn due to a spinal cord injury at the age of 21. He has since made a remarkable comeback in parasurfing, winning the Australian Para Surfing Title and being crowned the 2023 ISA World Para Surfing Champion.

His story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of pursuing one’s dreams despite life’s challenges.

Your Ballina Shire Australia Day Award

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Joel Taylor

YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Lucy Trease

SENIOR CITIZENS OF THE YEAR

Dr Colin MacDonald

Yvonne Scarrabellotti

VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR

Ivan Leahy

Ken Delany

COMMUNITY EVENTS OF THE YEAR

Purple Friday Rotary Club of Ballina on Richmond and Cherry Street Sports Club

Domestic and Family Violence Walk Rotary Club of Ballina-on-Richmond

SPORTING ACHIEVEMENT

Lennox Beach Line Dancing

ARTS/CULTURAL AWARD

Ballina Players

ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD

The Wildlife Twins

For a full list of nominees and winners bios visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ australiaday

see page 6 for details

extra

from the mayor

Welcome to our first edition of Community Connect EXTRA for 2024!

Firstly, I would like to extend my congratulations once again to all the winners and nominees in this year’s Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards. The ceremony held at Lennox Head put the spotlight on those amazing individuals and groups who contribute to our beautiful community. It was inspirational to welcome our new Aussie citizens during the ceremony, this is always such a joyous occasion and a privilege to be part of this memorable day in their lives. Thank you also to Aunty Julia Paden for her warm Welcome to Country, and to the Ballina Players and Lennox Beach Line Dancers for their outstanding performances.

It’s shaping up to be another busy and productive year for Ballina Shire, with plenty of major projects on the agenda. The Wardell Wharf repairs, new Rural Fire Service Shed at Lennox Head, and Lennox Park Upgrade are in full swing while other major projects coming up this year including the Tamar Street Bus Interchange Upgrade, Ross Lane safety improvements, Wardell Village Revitalisation, and Alstonville Main Street/The Avenue Intersection Upgrade.

The Ballina Shire Draft Housing Strategy is on public exhibition until Friday 15 March – don’t miss this opportunity to comment on a strategy that will guide Council’s actions around housing for the next 20 years! Visit yoursayballina.com.au to get involved.

This month marks two years since the 2022 floods. No doubt this is a challenging time of year for so many people in our community, however I am sure we are all looking out for our family, friends, neighbours, and even friends of friends, offering support where we can. That’s just the kind of community we have here in Ballina Shire and it’s something we should never take for granted. If you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to Uniting Care or the Mid-Richmond Neighbourhood Centre who provide personalised recovery support; contact Service NSW to book a face-to-face appointment; or call one of the mental health hotlines on page 14 if you need to – help is at hand. Take care, stay safe, and I hope you enjoy this edition.

Cr Sharon Cadwallader Mayor

Ballina Shire Council acknowledges that we are here on the land of the Bundjalung people. The Bundjalung are the traditional owners of this land and are part of the oldest surviving continuous culture in the world.

Council meetings at a glance

A great number of items and issues get discussed at Council meetings. Here are some items discussed at the Ordinary Council meeting on 22 February 2024.

BALLINA CBD PARKING STUDY

Community feedback on the Ballina CBD Parking Study was presented to Council. Councillors agreed to take no further action on implementing proposed parking zone changes.

BALLINA COAST AND ESTUARY COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

Council accepted a tender for the program, which aims to identify current and future risks regarding the management of Ballina Shire beaches, Shaws Bay and parts of the Richmond River and North Creek.

POLICIES ON EXHIBITION

Council endorsed the following policies for exhibition: Markets on Public Land; Property Investment and Development; Risk Management; Fraud and Corruption Control. Have your say at yoursayballina.com.au

LENNOX HEAD SHARED PATH PARK LANE TO COOPER CLOSE

Based on community feedback, Council adopted the preferred route for a new shared path along Byron Street and Byron Bay Road. Council will now proceed with the detailed design for this project.

To view the full agenda and minutes visit ballina.nsw.gov. au/agendasandminutes

BALLINA SHIRE HOUSING STRATEGY

Ballina Shire Council invites you to have your say on the future of housing in our community.

The Draft Ballina Shire Housing Strategy outlines the actions Council will take to assist in achieving better housing availability and meet the community’s housing needs over the next 20 years.

The vision of the Draft Ballina Shire Housing Strategy is the timely delivery of housing in the Ballina Shire that meets the needs of the local community in terms of locations, infrastructure and housing types that are resilient to change in environmental conditions and changes in household life stages.

Council activities to encourage housing supply will be guided by four principles:

Following a successful Expression of Interest (EOI) process, the Rainbow Region Dragon Boat Club has been selected to deliver Community Connect magazine for the next two years.

We are pleased to have the dragon boaters as our delivery partners as they have a wealth of experience delivering the magazine from 2020 through to 2023. We are excited to continue bringing the latest Council news to your doorstep!

As well as letterbox deliveries to urban properties, Council also bulk drops Community Connect magazine to more than 100 locations across the shire including service stations, real estate agencies, post offices and libraries.

Provide your feedback at yoursayballina.com.au

ROAD PROJECTS

COMPLETED PROJECTS

HENRY PHILP AVENUE, BALLINA

BOLDING STREET, BALLINA

BURNET STREET, BALLINA

CURRENT PROJECTS

RIVER DRIVE, EMPIRE VALE

WAVERLEY PLACE, WEST BALLINA

ROSS LANE SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS

FUTURE PROJECTS

FERNLEIGH ROAD, BROOKLET

HOUGHLAHANS CREEK ROAD, PEARCES CREEK

RUSSELL STREET, BALLINA

LIVE TRAFFIC NSW keeps you informed

New South Wales

Ross Lane Safety Improvements

As part of Transport for NSW’s Safer Roads Program, Council is undertaking road safety upgrades on Ross Lane and Byron Bay Road for motorists and cyclists.

The existing sealed shoulder and clear zone widths are less than desirable and have contributed to a poor vehicle collision history on the route.

Stage 1 works were completed in 2023. Stage 2 and 3 works will commence in March 2024 and continue until the end of June 2024 (weather and site conditions permitting).

The works include:

shoulder widening

clear zone improvements

chevron alignment markers

improved curve signage

non-skid road surface treatments

super-elevation curve improvements

painted and raised median.

Sections of Ross Lane will be reduced to one lane with Stop/Slow traffic control in place during the works.

The speed limit will also be reduced to 40km/h through the work zones. Motorists are advised to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and use an alternate route if possible.

Council thanks the community for their patience and understanding during this time.

For road status updates visit livetraffic.com

ROSS LANE BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION AND ROAD RAISING

In February 2023 Council was announced as the successful recipient of a grant under the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Program (RRTRP) for a project to raise a section of Ross Lane and construct a bridge.

This project is in early planning stages and is separate to the current road safety upgrades mentioned above.

The RRTRP program strengthens the regional transport network’s capacity to withstand natural disasters.

To learn more visit nswroads.work/rrtrp

PROJECT UPDATES

LENNOX HEAD RFS FACILITY

Construction of the new Lennox Head Rural Fire Service (RFS) facility, adjacent to the Byron Bay Road/Hutley Drive roundabout, is nearing completion.

The works include new stormwater, sewerage and electricity connections, construction of a standard RFS Brigade Station, carparking including disability parking spaces, footpath connections and new fire hydrant.

Funded by a partnership between Council, NSW Rural Fire Service, and the Australian Government’s Bushfire Recovery Grant.

TAMAR STREET BUS INTERCHANGE UPGRADE

The Tamar Street Bus Interchange in Ballina’s CBD will be upgraded this year. A tender has now been awarded, with works expected to commence in March 2024. The new bus shelter design aims to improve traffic flow within the interchange and increase passenger comfort and accessibility.

During construction, a temporary bus and taxi zone will be located nearby in front of 76 Tamar Street, Ballina. The entry to Wigmore Arcade and carpark will remain open throughout the project, however due to the construction zone, there will be a temporary reduction in available parking spaces.

This project is funded by the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Fund.

WARDELL WHARF REPAIRS

Repairs to the Wardell Wharf are now underway and are expected to be completed by April 2024.

Council has engaged contractor, Hunter Wharf and Barge, to carry out the works, which includes repairs to damaged wharf and boardwalk piles, installation of rock revetment along the riverbank and two temporary piles in front of the jetty for a barge to transport supplies for this project.

The boat ramp will be operational during the works, however, expect delays when the contractor uses the ramp for deliveries.

These repairs are funded by Council and the NSW Government’s Natural Disaster Relief Assistance Program.

STORMWATER RELINING WORKS

Council’s capital works program includes the rehabilitation of some degraded stormwater drainage pipes across Ballina Shire.

The rehabilitation works will include cleaning, root cutting and relining the existing stormwater pipes at several locations across the shire. The scheduled works are expected to be completed by June 2024. Impacted residents and businesses have received an initial notification letter.

updates visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/MajorProjects

Ferry maintenance schedule

The Burns Point Ferry closes for scheduled maintenance each month.

This maintenance is important to ensure a reliable ferry service for visitors and locals. Scheduled monthly maintenance will occur from 9am – 1pm on:

TUESDAY 12 MARCH

TUESDAY 9 APRIL

TUESDAY 14 MAY

TUESDAY 11 JUNE

For updates on the ferry status and road closure information visit livetraffic.com

The Burns Point Ferry operates continuously from 5.30am to 12.30am daily.

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

The Lennox Park upgrade is progressing well, with upgrades to electricity, stormwater, new boardwalk and pathways, landscaping, seating and new toilet block now complete.

The refurbishment of the shelter shed has taken longer than expected due to the dilapidated state of the existing structure and remains closed until refurbishment works are completed.

Need a Waste Calendar?

An arts component of the project includes local indigenous language on footpaths, seating and on the new bus shelter backdrop.

Download a copy from council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au

The upgrade includes a new bus stop. The existing southbound bus stop has temporarily been relocated to the front of McGrath Real Estate (opposite the northbound bus stop) until works are completed in March 2024 (weather and construction conditions permitting).

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

NEWS

Experience the airport’s VIP lounge at Bluesfest

Bluesfest is just around the corner and the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport is excited to be the 2024 Official Airport Partner and sponsor of the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport VIP Lounge!

The festival VIP Lounge is the perfect way to enjoy the sounds, and soak in the vibes. VIP festival passengers will also enjoy the Crossroads and Mojo tent performances with newly designed viewing platforms, offering the best view in the house.

Each year, thousands of music lovers travel through the Byron Bay Gateway Airport to experience Australia’s premier blues and roots music festival. This celebration of music now attracts over 100,000 fans bringing a welcome boost to our local economy.

Purchase your VIP ticket to enjoy 60 of the best local and international artists playing over five incredible days from Thursday 28 March to Monday 1 April 2024. For the full line up visit bluesfest.com.au

Travelling through the airport over the Easter long weekend?

For parking information and travel tips visit ballinabyronairport.com.au

Fawcett Park sculptures looking fresh

If you felt like there was something missing from Fawcett Park in Ballina, you’d be correct!

The iconic sculptures by artist Joe Stark have been getting some much-needed TLC in Council’s workshop.

The series of five mobile metal sculptures of a pelican and four fish (Angler Fish, Toothy, Coral Trout, Uncle Jim) were installed in 2004. They were commissioned as part of the Ballina CBD upgrade, inspired by the estuary environment and installed at Fawcett Park and along the Richmond River walk.

The recycled stainless-steel artworks, which are mounted on poles that move with the prevailing wind, have become a well-known feature of the Ballina foreshore.

The sculptures’ pivot system had broken down over time in the salty environment, causing them to squeak and groan.

Council’s workshop team re-fitted each item with a new pivot axle design, which will last a lot longer.

In December the workshop team installed the sculptures with the help of a crane, assisted by the engineering works crew who provided traffic control and pedestrian management.

These sculptures have now been returned to their mantles to be enjoyed for many years to come.

Workshop spaces for hire enquire now

For more information, or to arrange a booking, visit nrcgballina.com.au

contact our Creative Programs Producer on 02 6686 1217

MARCH 2024

current exhibitions

Exhibition Dates: 6 March - 28 April 2024

Launch Event: 5.30pm - 7.30pm Thursday 14 March 2024

Portrait of a Landscape Jenevieve Beves

Drawing inspiration from her surroundings, Jenevieve’s work is rooted in an ongoing exploration of mark making, landscape and memory. Through the fusion of abstraction and representation, Jenevieve seeks to capture the essence of place.

Image: Jenevieve Beves Portrait of the Nancy Lee on Lake Ainsworth, 2024

The Boy From Ramingining

Cassandra Scott-Finn

Each photograph offers a glimpse into the daily rhythms, spirit, and untold stories of Arnhem Land. This exhibition extends an invitation to witness the authenticity and cultural vibrancy of Ramingining and pays homage to Scott-Finn’s journey in Arnhem Land alongside her 8-year-old son.

Image: Cassandra Scott-Finn Boyca After Hunting, 2022

Mestiza/Mestizo Mark Kleine

Mestiza/Mestizo is an exhibition that celebrates the multifaceted nature of identity. Drawing from key components of Kleine’s practice, the exhibition speaks to their lived experience as a ‘mestizo’ - a person of ‘mixed’ Filipino descent. This is expressed through photographic narratives.

Image: Mark Kleine Rouge, 2013

Exhale, in forward motion

Curated by Fabian Pertzel

Exhale, in forward motion is a moment to breathe and share the unique perspectives shaped by regional Queer lives and experiences. They examine their lives and the world around them through this lens and explore Queerness in a way that extends beyond categories of identity.

Image: Linsey Gosper Grounding, charging, 2024

Image: Elise Derwin, NRCG Weaving Workshop with Jugan Dandii, 2023

at Ballina Surf Club Special occasions

Need a breathtaking backdrop for your next function?

There’s nowhere else quite like the Ballina Surf Club!

Whether you’re organising an intimate family gathering, hosting a banquet, or throwing a cocktail party, everything you need is right here.

Lennox Head Cultural Centre What’s On?

FAMILY FLICKS IN LENNOX!

Do you need a hand to get started online?

The spacious, light and airy function rooms can accommodate a variety of capacity and style options, feature an inbuilt audiovisual system, and have breathtaking floor to ceiling views of Lighthouse Beach and North Wall.

Catering is a breeze with Capiche Restaurant (located onsite) now providing a range of catering options to suit your needs. Whether it’s celebrants, florists, or other entertainment, our team can provide a list of local suppliers who can help you craft your dream event.

For further details call 02 6681 0599 or visit communityspaces.com.au

online learning for seniors

Kentwell Community Centre

1- 4pm Mondays

Do you want to build your digital skills and stay safe online? The Be Connected program can help!

Be Connected is a federally funded program to help seniors develop digital skills.

Do you need a hand to get started online?

Event:

The lessons are free and provided by Stedroy Farrell who has been volunteering for many years and has wonderful experience in assisting people to become more digitally connected. Each Monday, individual lessons are available at the Kentwell Community Centre, on the corner of Moon Street and Bangalow Road, Ballina between 1pm and 4pm. Bookings essential.

To make a booking call 02 6681 0599 or email communityspaces@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Saturday 30 March 2024

Looking for a family fun activity?

Check out the next Family Flicks

#ForTheWildLife event now hosted at Lennox Head Cultural Centre each month. All funds go to the wildlife at The Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. Movie tickets include day entry to the Wildlife Sanctuary. Book now at communityspaces.com.au/tickets

ROSS NOBLE

JIBBER JABBER JAMBOREE

Tuesday 21 May 2024

To celebrate his 21st solo stand-up tour, Ross Noble invites you to join him for an evening of the sort of inspired nonsense that has cemented his place as the supreme master of stream of conscious freewheeling stand up. Book now at communityspaces.com.au/tickets

before frogbit control

Look out for Fire Ants

Fire ants have been detected in Wardell.

NSW DPI, the National Fire Ant Eradication Program and Ballina Shire Council are working together in response to the detection.

Red Imported Fire Ants (solenopsis invicta) swarm agressively, stinging over and over causing severe reactions, and rarely, fatalities. They form super colonies, killing off native plants and animals and damage ecosystems beyond repair.

Fire ants could be moved in hay, potted plants, soil, sand, mulch, turf and on agricultural machinery. A Biosecurity Emergency Order is in place with restrictions on the movement of fire ant carrier materials out of the 5km Wardell control area while the ants are controlled.

FIRE ANTS ARE:

Dark reddish-brown with a darker brown-black abdomen

Not all the same size in the one nest (between 2-6mm long)

Aggressive, swarming out of the nest if disturbed or poked with a stick

Fire ant nests are flattish mounds of soil up to 40cm high, with no obvious entrance holes and are loose or crumbly looking with a honeycomb appearance inside.

Think you’ve spotted fire ants?

Call the NSW Biosecurity Helpline 1800 680 244 or report online at dpi.nsw.gov.au

New rescue equipment on our beaches

Ballina Shire Council has installed new beach rescue equipment along our coastline, supported by key partners.

Critical Response Kits are available at 10 locations along our coastline in clearly marked storage boxes.

Critical response kits contain:

Defibrillator

Bleed kit

CAT tourniquet

CPR mask

First Aid instructions

The inner case is designed to be carried onto the beach to give first aid directly to any member of the community in case of a critical emergency.

Rescue tubes, which can help someone drowning to stay afloat, are also available. Signage on the storage boxes advises tubes should only be used by a strong swimmer after dialling 000, and if there is no lifeguard or surfboard available to assist.

Contents of the critical response kits and the rescue tubes are maintained by Council. The community can report any use, loss or damage of the equipment by scanning the QR code located on the storage box and completing a simple online form.

For further information and location of beach rescue devices visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/beach-safety

Leash Up! for everyone’s safety

Regardless of how well trained your dog is, on-leash rules are there for everyone’s safety.

Keep your pup on a leash for these paw-sitive reasons:

RESPECT OTHERS: Some fear dogs, so keeping your dog under control helps everyone feel comfortable

PREDICTABLE VIBES: Leashes = better control, avoiding surprises

CLEANER TRAILS: Easy poo pickup with your furry sidekick on a leash

WILDLIFE GUARD: Protect critters by preventing unwanted chases

STAY SAFE: Leashes avoid accidents with walkers, cyclists, and cars.

Let’s keep our beautiful Ballina Shire a space for everyone to enjoy!

To find a dog-friendly exercise area near you, visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ exercising-your-dog

Fire agencies and land managers are developing a new Bush Fire Risk Management Plan for our area.

Your feedback will assist the Far North Coast Bush Fire Management Committee to prioritise the communities, places, spaces, resources, and assets that hold the most value to you.

Submissions close Wednesday 13 March 2024.

Complete the short 5 minute survey at rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare/ managing-bush-fire-risk/bush-firemanagement-committees/far-north-coast

Dive in to the Alstonville Aquatic Centre and Ballina War Memorial Pool!

Both pools operate seven days a week. These community facilities are ideal places to exercise and catch up with friends and family.

For more information please visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/communityswimming-pools

Lee and Vicki Fitzgerald

02 6686 3771

Opening Hours:

Monday - Friday 5.30am - 7pm

Saturday 7am - 6pm

Sunday 8am - 5pm

Find them on Facebook

Greg and Kelly Fettell

02 6628 0826

Opening Hours:

Monday - Friday 5.30am - 7pm

Saturday 7am - 5pm

Sunday 10am - 5pm

Find them on Facebook

WATER AND WASTEWATER

COMPLETED PROJECTS

MARTIN, BURNET & ROSS STREET Water Main Replacement

BALLINA WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT Septage Receival

CURRENT PROJECTS

STONEYHURST DR, LENNOX HEAD Reservoir Construction

SEWERAGE PUMP STATION Access Track & Switchboard Upgrades

WASTEWATER RELINING PROGRAM

SKENNARS HEAD Pressure Reduction Valve

ALSTON AVENUE, ALSTONVILLE Water Main Replacement

WOLLONGBAR SPORTS FIELD Recycled Water Main

KELLIE-ANN CR, LENNOX HEAD Recycled Water Booster Pump

FUTURE PROJECTS

NORTH CREEK ROAD, LENNOX HEAD Pressure Zone Extension

TEMPLE & CRANE STREET, BALLINA Water Main Replacement

FERNGROVE TO BALLINA WWTP Recycled Water Main Upgrade

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.

Creek Dam and Emigrant Creek Dam to

WASTE WATCH

Green Organics Bins go back to basics

New green organics bin rules mean it’s easier than ever for NSW residents to sort out their waste.

Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) bins should now only be used for food scraps and garden waste. This means fibre-based materials are no longer accepted, including paper towel, tissues, cardboard, compostable packaging and teabags.

Too many fibre-based products claim to be compostable but contain chemicals and substances that can harm the environment and our health. Keeping those potentially harmful items out of our green organics bins means that we can create high-quality commercial compost to support food production and soil health.

These new guidelines are supported by the NSW Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) Position Statement on FOGO best practice:

WHAT IS ACCEPTED: WHAT CAN’T GO IN:

Fruit and vegetable scraps

Meat and bones

Seafood and shells

Pasta, bread, rice and cereal

Eggs and dairy products

Loose tea leaves and coffee grinds

Garden clippings

Compostable liners that comply with AS 4736-2006 and paper used to wrap scraps

Fibre-based products (bamboo, cardboard, paper etc.)

Paper towels, serviettes, tissues, napkins

Compostable or biodegradable products (excluding AS 47362006 kitchen caddy liners)

Vacuum cleaner dust

Washing machine and dryer lint Pet poo and poo bags

Treated wood and timber

For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/3-bin-guide

Check It! before you chuck it

Check the Australasian Recycling Label (ARL) to take the confusion out of which bin to recycle in.

The ARL provides easy to understand instructions on how to correctly recycle all parts of a product’s packaging. Look for the ARL today!

For more information visit arl.org.au

ORGANICS

Discover our new visitor guide

The Ballina Tourism Team is thrilled to unveil the new Ballina Coast and Hinterland Visitor Guide.

In collaboration with over 45 local businesses, the Ballina Coast and Hinterland Guide publication showcases the region’s unmissable experiences through captivating imagery, insightful editorials, and essential visitor information.

With 50,000 copies in print, the guide is making its way across NSW, Southeast Queensland, and parts of Victoria.

Pick up your free copy from the Ballina Visitor Information Centre, 6 River Street, Ballina. Businesses are also welcome to collect copies to provide to their visitors.

View the guide online at discoverballina.com.au/visit/visitorguide

BALLINA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

6 River Street Ballina NSW 2478

(next to Ballina War Memorial Pool)

Freecall: 1800 777 666

E: discover@ballina.nsw.gov.au

@discoverballina

Support our poppy knitters this ANZAC Day

Helen Hargreaves and Laurie Jackson from the Rotary Satellite Lifestyle Club of Ballina and the Ballina RSL are spearheading an inaugural ANZAC day poppies and flags initiative for ANZAC Day 2024.

This initiative, inspired by the red poppy’s symbolism from In Flanders Fields, aims to craft 5,000 handmade poppies for ANZAC Day, symbolising unity and remembrance, and our collective respect for those affected by wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping missions.

These poppies, being hand knitted and crocheted by locals, are available for a $5 donation. The ambition is to decorate an ANZAC letters structure in Ballina RSL’s foyer, creating a moving visual tribute that captures the spirit of ANZAC Day’s remembrance.

Volunteers, including the Country Women’s Association (CWA), have contributed significantly, with over 2,000 poppies already made.

This community effort, supported by various clubs, organisations, and Ballina Shire Council, aims to become a growing tradition, fostering unity and support for the ANZAC Day service. Local businesses are encouraged to participate by adopting a red poppy theme in April, and the public can support by purchasing poppies from Ballina RSL, with all proceeds going to support Open Arms Veterans Counselling Services.

Purchase your $5 commemorative poppy at Ballina RSL Club from 1 April

COMMUNITY RECOVERY RESOURCES

Two years ago, our community encountered significant challenges due to the flooding events.

As we continue our collective recovery we acknowledge that individuals are at different stages of their recovery journey.

In the coming three months, Ballina Shire Council’s Community Recovery Officers will host a range of wellbeing programs, including burnout workshops, creative recovery activities, and capacity building information sessions. For more information about these programs, please reach out via email communityrecovery@ballina.nsw.gov.au

If you require specific support, please don’t hesitate to contact Ballina Shire Uniting and the Mid-Richmond Neighbourhood Centre. Additionally, confidential 24/7 hotline services are available for immediate assistance.

Subscribe to Council’s Flood Recovery eNews at ballina.nsw.gov.au/eNews

CALL OUT FOR HELP

Having a tough time and need someone to talk to?

The

are there to listen and help you out. They are

011 511

15 MARCH - 30 JUNE 2024

Crawford House Museum

Find out what Alstonvillians were up to during the 1880s, 1890s and 1900s and discover the story behind the fascinating artefacts dug up on our very own doorstep at the latest exhibition at Crawford House Museum, Digging Deeper 10 Wardell Road, Alstonville aphsmuseum.org.au

WEDNESDAY 13 MARCH 2024

10.30am Ballina RSL

Two course lunch with entertainment by Dean Doyle With Sophistication plus special appearance by Monique Feain’s Silver Sweetheart Dancers. Proudly Sponsored by Ballina Shire Council. For tickets visit ballinarsl.com.au/event/ seniors-week-luncheon/

extreme weather conditions where to get info...

ROAD CLOSURES AND TRAFFIC CONDITIONS

LIVE TRAFFIC NSW livetraffic.com.au or download the Live Traffic NSW app

RADIO STATIONS

ABC North Coast 94.5 (National Emergency Broadcaster)

Paradise FM 101.9

ZZZ FM 100.9

SPORTS 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:

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, refrain from using internal water e.g. 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

Cr Sharon Cadwallader

phone 0428 339 023

Cr Phillip Meehan

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

Cr Rod Bruem

phone 0419 508 753 rod.bruem@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Cr Stephen McCarthy

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

Cr Jeff Johnson phone 0428 970 112 jeff.johnson@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Cr Eva Ramsey phone 0419 542 905 eva.ramsey@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Cr Kiri Dicker phone 0419 493 898 kiri.dicker@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Cr Eoin Johnston

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

Cr Simon Chate phone 0419 593 233 simon.chate@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Cr Nigel Buchanan phone 0419 590 661 nigel.buchanan@ballina.nsw.gov.au