WARDELL GREEN SPACE IN FULL SWING
Wardell’s new community space came alive for its first major event in August for the Wardell River Festival.
PROJECT UPDATE
The free, family-friendly festival was a huge success, with locals and visitors alike enjoying live music, local art, market stalls, delicious food and a range of children’s activities.
This event was organised by Wardell Core and supported through Council’s Festival and Events Sponsorship Program.
Wardell’s new community space includes a pedestrian-friendly zone with paving, seating,
Construction starts on Lennox Head Shared Path
See page 4
landscaping, public art, improved lighting and drainage, and removable bollards so that it can be opened for events.
The $1.7 million project was jointly funded by the Commonwealth and NSW Governments, with additional support from Ballina Shire Council.
See page 12 for more photos from the Wardell River Festival.
from the mayor
One of the true highlights of recent months was seeing the new community green space in Wardell come alive during the Wardell River Festival. This space, created as part of Council’s Wardell Village Centre Revitalisation project, was filled with music, colour and connection as hundreds of locals and visitors gathered by the river to celebrate. Congratulations to all involved!
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 25 September 2025.
TENDER FOR DUPLICATION OF BALLINA BRIDGES
Another milestone worth celebrating is the start of construction on the new State Emergency Service (SES) building and Emergency Operations Centre in Ballina. Breaking ground on this $6.3 million project marks the beginning of an important investment in the safety and resilience of our shire. Once complete, this purpose-built facility will improve response times, enhance coordination during emergencies, and ensure our community is better protected during times of crisis.
We’re also excited to see works commence on the Lennox Head Shared Path upgrade, which will link the town centre with residential areas such as Fig Tree Hill and Sanctuary Village. Council has also awarded the contract for the duplication of the Canal Bridge and Fishery Creek Bridge – a huge investment that will improve traffic flow, strengthen flood resilience, and deliver benefits right across our community.
While these major projects are vital, Council is equally responsible for the day-to-day services our community relies on such as maintaining local roads, footpaths, parks, playgrounds, libraries, community facilities and more. That is why careful financial planning is essential.
To continue providing these essential services and maintain existing community assets, Council is proposing a Special Rate Variation from July 2026. This will provide stable funding to keep Ballina Shire financially strong and resilient for the future. Your feedback is vital, please review the information on page 7 and visit yoursayballina.com.au to learn more and have your say.
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 awarded the contract for construction of the Canal Bridge with Tamarind Drive roadworks and the Fishery Creek bridge with River Street roadworks to Quickway Constructions.
WARDELL RECREATION GROUND
Council will make representations to the NSW Government seeking their support to ensure that there is no permanent transfer of the Wardell Recreation Grounds for essential housing, until a compensating area of open space is delivered to the community, or a separate site is identified for permanent housing.
FUTURE OF 26 ENDEAVOUR CLOSE, BALLINA
Councillors resolved to sell or commercially lease 26 Endeavour Close, Ballina to help match the $1.1m grant secured through the State Government’s Boating Infrastructure for Communities grant program, for the construction of watercraft facilities identified in the Cawarra Park Master Plan.
HEALTHY WATERWAYS
Council received a report providing an update on the Health Waterways Program and approved the implementation of a small grants program for the restoration of private land in rural areas.
To view the full agenda and minutes visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/agendasandminutes
WHAT’S ON?
ROTARY DV WALK
12.30PM, FRIDAY 28 NOVEMBER 2025
Ballina Visitor Information Centre
Join schools, businesses, groups and community members for the Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Walk. Starting at 12.30pm from the Ballina Visitor Information Centre (next to the Ballina War Memorial Pool), we’ll walk together to the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre. Hear from NSW Police and community voices, and experience inspiring music and dance performances by Ballina Coast High School students. Organised by the Rotary Club of Ballina-on-Richmond, this walk is your chance to help break the cycle. Walk with Rotary, walk for change.
For more information visit rotaryclubofballinaonrichmond.org.au
CONNECT & GROW: FREE BUSINESS NETWORKING EVENING
5-7PM, WEDNESDAY 29 OCTOBER 2025
Northern Rivers Community Gallery, 44 Cherry Street, Ballina Ballina Shire Council’s Destination and Economy Team invites local businesses to a relaxed evening of networking over drinks and nibbles as we wrap up Small Business Month and Tech Week. Hear from experts on cyber safety, take part in a short AI simulation exercise and experience the Northern Rivers Community Gallery’s latest exhibitions. Plus, bring your business card to enter the draw for a lucky door prize.
Joint initiative with NSW State Government Cyber NSW
ALSTONVILLE AGRICULTURAL SHOW
24-26 OCTOBER 2025
Alstonville Showground
Friday kicks off with the ever-popular dog trials, followed by the excitement of the sideshow alley and children’s entertainment. Saturday offers a full day of family fun –poultry and cattle displays, bull ride, horse ring events, pavilion exhibits, children’s activities, food trucks and trade stalls. The action builds to a thrilling evening featuring monster trucks, FMX freestyle motorbikes and the rodeo, capped off with a spectacular fireworks finale at 8.15pm. For more information visitalstonvilleshow.com
FAIR GO SKATE COMPETITION
5-6 DECEMBER 2025
Ballina Skate Park
A free, family-friendly event featuring live music, local art, market stalls, food and kids’ activities. Set on the banks of the Richmond River, it promises to be a vibrant celebration of the village’s creativity, culture and community spirit. For more information visit instagram.com/fairgoskatecomp
WARDELL HALLOWEEN EVENT
FRIDAY 31 OCTOBER 2025, 6-8PM
CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUM
OPEN FRIDAYS 10AM-4PM AND SUNDAYS 1-4PM
10 Wardell Road Alstonville
Crawford House Museum is an original farmhouse where you can see many interesting household objects which reflect family life from the beginning of the 20th century to the 1960s. There are also research facilities for information about Ballina Shire, as well as books about local history and other great merchandise for sale. For more information visit aphsmuseum.org.au
ROAD PROJECTS
COMPLETED PROJECTS
HOUGHLAHANS CREEK ROAD, PEARCES CREEK
BYRON BAY ROAD ROUNDABOUT, LENNOX HEAD
CURRENT PROJECTS
KIRKLANDS LANE, FERNLEIGH
SHARPES BEACH CARPARK
FUTURE PROJECTS
TEVEN ROAD, TEVEN
RIFLE RANGE ROAD, ALSTONVILLE
LIVE TRAFFIC NSW keeps you informed
Live Traffic NSW provides real-time information about traffic conditions across all New South Wales roads.
For the latest traffic information download the Live Traffic NSW app or visit livetraffic.com.au
PROJECT UPDATES
LENNOX HEAD SHARED PATH
Ballina Shire Council is constructing a new shared path between Park Lane and Cooper Close, Lennox Head.
The shared path will improve connectivity between the town centre and residential areas such as Sanctuary Village and Fig Tree Hill Drive, while also improving cyclist and pedestrian safety.
The project will include:
Installation of a 3m-wide shared path for approximately 2.1km at locations along Byron Street, Byron Bay Road and Cooper Close
Installation of pedestrian fencing for approximately 200m along Byron Street
Installation of a pedestrian refuge on Fern Street
Drainage upgrades
Kerb and gutter adjustment to the bus bay on Byron Street
What to expect during construction:
Traffic control will be required, at times, during the path upgrade and drainage improvement works. Motorists should expect short delays on Byron Street.
The upgrades along Byron Bay Road and Cooper Close will have minimal impact on path users and it is expected that the existing path will remain open for the duration of the project.
This $3.55 million project is jointly funded by the Australian Government and the NSW Government under the Road Safety Program.
To find out more visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/LennoxSharedPath
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BALLINA SES BUILDING WORKS UNDERWAY
Construction of the new SES unit and Emergency Operations Centre in Ballina commenced in mid-September. The project will include:
New six-bay vehicle shed
Administration offices incorporating an Emergency Operations Room, Incident Control Centre, training room, meeting rooms, offices, locker room with showers, laundry, storage and kitchen/ dining facilities
Carparking and lighting upgrades
Connecting footpaths and stormwater infrastructure
Landscaping and offset planting
The current SES headquarters will remain operational during construction of the new facilities. The carpark will be established after the new building is complete.
This is a jointly funded project, with $2.1 million contributed by the NSW Government and $4.2 million from Ballina Shire Council. Construction is expected to be completed by late 2026.
To find out more visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/SESheadquarters
BALLINA BRIDGE DUPLICATION
Pre-construction works for the duplication of Fishery Creek and Canal bridges are progressing, including underground service relocations, geotechnical investigations and survey works.
Council has now awarded the contract for this project and will move into the design and approval phase, with bridge construction anticipated to commence in early 2026.
Once complete, this project will increase the traffic capacity of River Street and Tamarind Drive and improve evacuation routes during major flood events.
To find out more visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/BallinaBridgeDuplications
COMPLETED PROJECTS
STEWART STREET, LENNOX HEAD
HORIZON DRIVE, WEST BALLINA
CURRENT PROJECTS
PARK LANE TO COOPER CLOSE, LENNOX HEAD
YOUR SAY BALLINA
CURRENT ENGAGEMENT
PROPOSED SPECIAL RATE VARIATION
SPOONBILL RESERVE
LOCAL STRATEGIC PLANNING STATEMENT
ENGAGEMENT UNDER REVIEW
NORTH CREEK ROAD AND BRIDGE, BALLINA AND SKENNARS HEAD
DRAFT PLACE AND PUBLIC REALM FRAMEWORK
Spoonbill Reserve Master Plan
Ballina Shire Council is preparing a Master Plan for Spoonbill Reserve and we want to hear from you!
What do you love about the reserve? How would you like to see it enhanced?
Your ideas will help us draft the master plan and guide the revitalisation of the reserve into the future.
Attend a Drop-In Session
Saturday 25 October 2025, 1pm - 5pm Epiq Marketplace
Tuesday 28 October 2025, 8am - 4.30pm Spoonbill Reserve (Redford Drive, Skennars Head)
You can also share your ideas online at Your Say Ballina. Submissions open Monday 20 October to Monday 17 November 2025.
For more information visit yoursayballina.com.au/spoonbill-reserve
register for your say ballina
It’s quick and easy, and ensures your voice is heard on the issues that matter most to you. By signing up, you’ll get updates on new projects and be first to know when consultations open, giving you a direct say in shaping our community.
yoursayballina.com.au
North Creek Road and Bridge
Ballina Shire Council thanks the community for their feedback on the North Creek Road and Bridge concept design.
This feedback will be collated and reported to a future council meeting where Council will consider the concept design, cost estimate, environmental impacts, landowner and community feedback, before deciding whether to proceed with and fund the next stage of this project.
Updates will be provided to participants registered via the Your Say Ballina platform and residents can also attend Council meetings or watch meetings live on Council’s website.
For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/Agendas-and-Minutes
future funding, stronger shire
PROPOSED SPECIAL RATE VARIATION
Ballina Shire Council has consistently managed finances carefully, delivering strong services while keeping rates around 11% lower than similar-sized councils. However, the rising costs of maintaining infrastructure and services now exceed our income.
Council is proposing a Special Rate Variation (SRV). If approved the SRV would allow Council to increase general rates above the annual ‘rate peg’ set by the NSW Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART).
Council is proposing a 6% increase to general rates each financial year from 2026/27 to 2029/30. This figure includes an estimated annual ‘rate peg’ of 3.25%, plus an additional SRV of 2.75%. The increase would commence 1 July 2026 and continue for four years.
The increase would apply only to general rates and would not affect water, wastewater, waste collection or stormwater charges.
By the end of the four-year SRV period (2029/30), the increase for an average Ballina Shire residential ratepayer would be an additional $346 per year. This is $166 more than if no SRV were applied. If approved, this would be a permanent increase to general rates and at the end of the SRV period (2030) revised total rates would increase by the usual annual ‘rate peg’ percentage.
Additional funds would be invested in renewing and maintaining infrastructure such as roads, footpaths, parks, sporting fields and community buildings. The funds would also support initiatives to improve community safety, biodiversity, and waterway health.
HOW WILL THIS IMPACT RATES?
Your voice matters
JOIN THE CONVERSATION IN PERSON
Come along to chat with our finance team and ask questions about what the proposal means to you.
Customer Service Centre, 40 Cherry Street, Ballina:
• Thursday 30 October (2pm to 3.30pm)
• Tuesday 4 November (12pm to 1.30pm)
EXPLORE THE ONLINE RESOURCES
Find out more and share your views.
• Use Council’s online rate calculators to see how the proposed SRV would impact you.
• Access FAQs and key resources
• Ask a question or complete the online survey
Visit yoursayballina.com.au
Provide your feedback by Friday 14 November 2025.
*This table and forecasted figures are based on average land values and a proposed rate increase of 6.0% from 2026/27 to 2029/30, which includes an estimated rate peg of 3.25%. Individual rates vary depending on your land value (determined by the NSW Valuer General). Visit yoursayballina.com.au to use Council’s online rates calculators.
PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS
CURRENT PROJECTS
PUMP TRACK, BALLINA
UPCOMING PROJECTS
CALOOLA PARK, LENNOX HEAD
MELDRUM PARK, BALLINA
MISSINGHAM PARK, BALLINA
CAMPBELL PARK, WOLLONGBAR
PROSPECT PARK, EAST BALLINA
ELIZABETH ANN BROWN PARK, ALSTONVILLE
WESTLAND PARK, WEST BALLINA
BASKETBALL COURT, LENNOX HEAD
Community spaces, parks, and playgrounds help bring people together and support healthy, active lifestyles. Ballina Shire Council is committed to creating safe, welcoming places for everyone to connect and enjoy the outdoors.
Playgrounds in Ballina Shire are renewed in accordance with the Playground Upgrade and Management Plan. Our budget for playground upgrades over the next four years can be found in Council’s Delivery Program and Operational Plan.
To find a playground near you visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/playgrounds
CAPITAL WORKS AND BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS
CURRENT PROJECTS:
Ballina Pump Track*
New Ballina SES Headquarters*
Ballina Bridge Duplication*
Sharpes Beach Carpark Upgrade*
Lennox Head to Coopers Close Shared Path*
UPCOMING PROJECTS:
Ross Lane Flood Resilience Project
Alstonville Cultural Centre
Wardell Village Centre Revitalisation Stage 2
CAPITAL EXPENDITURE BUDGETS FOR 2025/26:
$64.7 million – Roads and Bridges
$3.8 million – Open Spaces
$4.1 million – Footpaths and Shared Paths
$1.5 million – Carparks
$2.4 million – Sports Fields
$2 million – Stormwater
$3.5 million – Water Infrastructure
$11 million – Wastewater Infrastructure
$2.7 million – Emergency Services (SES Headquarters)
$5.4 million – Ballina Byron Gateway Airport
$8.6 million – Facilities Management
* With the assistance of funding from the Australian and NSW Governments
The Council budget and works program was adopted at the 26 June Council meeting alongside a suite of key strategic documents forming the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework. These include the Community Strategic Plan 2025-2035, Delivery Program and Operational Plan 2025-2029, Long Term Financial Plan and Budget, Workforce Management Plan, Asset Management Strategy and Schedule of Fees and Charges.
You can view the documents here ballina.nsw.gov.au/Council/Forms-and-Documents/ Integrated-Planning-and-Reporting
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New QantasLink flights taking-off
from Ballina Byron Gateway Airport
There is exciting news for Northern Rivers travellers with QantasLink introducing new weekday morning flights from Ballina Byron Gateway Airport to Sydney from Monday 27 October 2025.
The new six days a week service departs at 7.45am Monday to Saturday and lands in Sydney at 9.20am giving travellers the convenience of flying local and saving the long drive to Brisbane or the Gold Coast airports with the option to return the same evening.
From 24 November, QantasLink will also add a second daily flight at 11.20am giving travellers even more choice and convenience for both business and leisure trips.
Travelling beyond Sydney is easier too. Passengers will continue to enjoy the Qantas difference with food, drinks* and baggage when you fly with Qantas across the network. Plus, with the added benefit of cost-effective and convenient terminal parking, the airport offers a smooth and hassle-free experience for locals.
These new services highlight the airport’s role in keeping our region connected. More than 630,000 passengers travelled through Ballina Byron Gateway Airport in 2024, making it the third busiest airport in NSW.
Bookings are available now at qantas.com
Schedule subject to change. *Meals, beverages, entertainment offerings vary between flight times.
JOIN THE TEAM
From engineering and environmental science to arts administration and aviation, the opportunities with Council are extremely diverse!
We currently have opportunities for:
Customer Service Officer
Apprentice Civil Construction (road construction)
Civil Plumber/Pipe Layer
Construction Officer – Roads
Plant Operator – Specialist (backhoe) –Utilities Construction
Team Leader Road Maintenance
Traineeship and Apprenticeship opportunities (Civil Construction, Water Industry Operations, Horticulture, Carpentry)
You can receive opportunities straight to your inbox, simply subscribe to Council’s Job Alerts at ballina.nsw.gov.au/careers
at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ positions-vacant
WATER AND WASTEWATER PROJECTS
COMPLETED PROJECTS
TAMARIND DRIVE, BALLINA Water Main Replacement
FISHERY CREEK BRIDGE, BALLINA
Water Main Duplication
RAMSES STREET, WOLLONGBAR
Sewer Main Upgrade
SOUTHERN CROSS DRIVE, BALLINA
Recycled Water Main
CURRENT PROJECTS
SUNRISE CRESCENT, LENNOX HEAD
Sewer Main Upgrade
SEWERAGE PUMP STATION RENEWALS
KINGS COURT, LENNOX HEAD
Water Main Replacement
HYDRANT REPAIRS, ALSTONVILLE
LENNOX HEAD WWTP Belt Press Upgrade
ANGELS BEACH DRIVE
Recycled Water Main Replacement
FUTURE PROJECTS
FERNGROVE TO BALLINA WWTP Recycled Water Main Upgrade
STONEHENGE PLACE, LENNOX HEAD
Water Main Replacement
THE COAST ROAD, LENNOX HEAD
Water Main Replacement
WATER TALK
Water meter replacements
Water meters are mechanical devices that wear with use and age. To ensure that our meters continue to read accurately, Ballina Shire Council maintains a proactive meter replacement program.
Council has approximately 18,000 water meters servicing customers across the shire, and we aim to replace between 800 and 1000 of these each year.
This work is carried out by Council’s Water Team with the assistance of contractors, including Want Gas Plumbing.
WHAT TO EXPECT IF YOUR WATER METER IS BEING REPLACED:
Residents will receive a knock on the door to notify them before their water is briefly turned off during replacement works.
Individual water meter replacement takes less than 30 minutes. If no one is home a calling card will be left to notify customers that their meter has been replaced.
Contractors will have an authorisation letter, from Council, which explains that they have been contracted to replace meters. If you are unsure if a contractor is legitimate, please ask to see this authorisation letter.
There is no charge to residents for this work. If a resident suspects an individual is posing as a Council contractor and/or requesting cash payment for their meter to be replaced, please inform Council and report incidents to the Police or NSW Fair Trading at fairtrading.nsw.gov.au For
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WASTE WATCH
Recycle right reminders
Ballina residents are big recyclers. In 2024-25, residents recycled 3,924 tonnes of material through kerbside bins. That’s a lot of reusable and recyclable material saved from landfill!
Most of us recycle right, but our bin collection drivers and recycling facility have been reporting an increase in contamination in recycling bins lately, including:
Hazardous items aerosols*, chemicals, batteries* and items containing batteries*
Heavy items the truck can’t lift gas bottles*, appliances*, building material
Wrong items takeaway coffee cups, plastic bags and plastic wrapping (these need to go in your landfill waste bin).
The good news is that some of these items CAN be recycled, just not in your kerbside bin. Items with * can be disposed of for FREE at the Ballina Resource Recovery Centre.
Find out more at ballina.nsw.gov.au/crc
Embedded battery trial
Do you know how many products in your home have an embedded battery? There’s probably more than you think.
These products can catch fire when incorrectly disposed. When your battery is at end of life, don’t bin it!
The Ballina Community Recycling Centre is now accepting products with embedded batteries and you can bring them in for free.
Find out more about embedded batteries and how we’re providing safe, correct recycling options at ballina.nsw. gov.au/embeddedbatteries
Reminder to rural residents with a 2-bin service
Your landfill bin is now collected every other week, alternating with recycling. For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ RuralWasteChanges.
For questions, contact the Resource Recovery hotline weekdays between 8am and 4pm on 6686 1287.
VEHICLE WASHDOWNS COMBAT WEEDS
With Spring in full swing, the rising temperatures mark the start of renewed weed growth across Ballina Shire Council.
While weeds may spread through natural means such as rain, wildlife, and livestock, one of the most significant contributors is the movement of vehicles and farm machinery.
To help mitigate this risk, Rous encourages you to implement vehicle washdown procedures and adopt best practices for farm hygiene. Ensuring that vehicles, machinery, and equipment are thoroughly cleaned before entering or leaving properties can play a key role in preventing the spread of weeds.
Rous has developed two washdown videos with step-by-step guidance on effective cleaning techniques.
View the videos at rous.nsw.gov.au/ weed-biosecurity/weed-control
Emergency Services expo
wardell river festival
The Wardell River Festival was held on Saturday 30 August in the new community green space at the western end of Richmond Street.
Ballina Shire Council hosted an Emergency Services Expo at Ballina’s Missingham Park on Saturday 20 September.
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Come enjoy our off leash exercise areas
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 (two areas + dog agility equipment)
Seven Mile Beach, Lennox Head north of surf club
Ballina Heights Estate, Cumbalum 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.
For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/exercisingyourdog
Safety starts at home
Know the signs, prevent dog attacks
Any dog can bite, regardless of its size, age, or breed.
Young children are most at risk from dog attacks, especially those aged four and under. Most dog attacks happen at home or in familiar places..
To reduce the risk of dog bites, actively supervise your children and dogs, or keep them separated.
Children and adults should: pat a dog’s side, not its head never hug a dog around the neck as some dogs find it overwhelming be gentle when playing. Rough play can excite or scare a dog give dogs alone time. Never bother a dog when it’s eating, sleeping or caring for puppies never stare intensely at a dog. They can interpret this as threatening behaviour.
For more information visit wearefamily.nsw. gov.au/understanding. html#dogs
Time to get poolside
The Alstonville Aquatic Centre and the Ballina War Memorial Pool are open and ready for you to dive in! Both pools are ideal places to exercise and catch up with friends and family.
For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ community-swimmingpools
Clayton and Kendall Fettell 02 6686 3771
Opening Hours:
Monday - Friday 5.30am - 7pm
Saturday 7am - 6pm
Sunday 8am - 5pm
Find them on Facebook
Festival and events funding available now
Ballina Shire Council is pleased to announce that the Festival and Event Support Program for the 2026/27 financial year is now open.
The program – now in its 15th year – offers event organisers the opportunity to apply for funding from a pool of approximately $150,000 for their festival or event, to be held in the 2026/2027 financial year.
Over the years, the program has funded a range of successful events including:
Greg and Kelly Fettell 02 6628 0826
Opening Hours:
Monday - Friday 5.30am - 7pm
Saturday 7am - 5pm
Sunday 10am - 5pm
Find them on Facebook
Alstonville New Year’s Eve Family Festival
Love Lennox Festival
Fair Go (skate competition event)
Soundboks Oz Grom Open (junior surfing competition event)
Wardell River Festival
There are a number of eligibility criteria, including: the applicant needs to hold adequate public liability insurance; the total cost of the festival/event must be more than $20,000; and the festival/event must be held in Ballina Shire.
Applications close Friday 7 November 2025.
Applications will be considered at the December 2025 Council meeting so that event organisers know the outcome of their application by early January 2026.
For application forms and funding information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/FestivalEvents
ballina.nsw.gov.au/eNews
Monitoring Ballina Shire beaches
Each summer Council participates in the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water’s Beachwatch Program from November to February.
Having been involved since the program’s pilot in 2002, Council conducts weekly sampling of local beaches and waterbodies to monitor water quality for swimmer safety.
Lake Ainsworth
Seven Mile Beach
Shelly Beach
Lighthouse Beach
Shaws Bay
The Serpentine
Missingham Beach
The water samples are tested for indicators including enterococci bacteria, conductivity, dissolved oxygen and water temperature. Environmental observations such as stormwater runoff, water clarity and rubbish or leaf litter are also recorded.
Swimming is not recommended for up to 72 hours after heavy rainfall, depending on the site and catchment area.
Beach Health results are published from November to February. To view visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/BeachHealth
SEWER PUMP STATION UPGRADES
Ballina Shire Council is continuing to upgrade wastewater pumping station switchboards across our shire.
Construction at the next five sites is due to commence in the third quarter of 2025 including Owen Street, Tamar Street, Cherry Street, Boat Harbour Road and Burnet Street in Ballina.
A pumping station electrical switchboard is an integral part of a sewerage pumping station’s electrical infrastructure. It serves as a control centre for managing the electricals within the plant, distributing power to pumps, motors, lighting, control systems, and other electrical devices.
Currently, there are almost 120 sewerage pumping stations (SPSs) across our shire. These pump stations help to move raw sewage, also known as wastewater, to sewage treatment plants via a network of underground pipes.
To improve the operational efficiency of our sewerage pumping stations, Council plans to upgrade 10 pump station switchboards per year over the next 6-7 years.
The new switchboards will be a larger and more modern design, with raised switchboard plinths for flood resilience.
public programs
Coloured Pencil Drawing with Lesley Ryan
Saturday 8 - Sunday 9 November 2025
Time: 9am - 3pm (both days)
Age: 16+
Where: Ignite Studios, Ballina
Cost: $265 (incl GST) - tools and materials supplied
In this two-day workshop artist Lesley Ryan will introduce students to the versatile medium of coloured pencil to create artworks. Over the course of the weekend Lesley will cover materials, set up, the application of design and composition techniques, texture solutions, and fixing mistakes. Participants will learn to mix colours, apply pencils evenly, layer, establish a tonal foundation and keep colours bright. Each participant will complete at least two drawings and leave with a solid basis for continuing to work with the medium.
current exhibitions
Exhibition Dates: 16 October – 7 December 2025
CONNECTIONS
Gill Williams
Through the mediums of painting and sculpture, and by blending abstraction and figuration, Gill creates artworks from an ever-flowing source of creative expression for the pure joy of the experience. CONNECTIONS demonstrates the commonality of human desires and capacity for connection beyond the limits of language and social structures. Gill encourages viewers to put aside the mind and connect to his work with the heart forward.
Bubblegum Bruises
Katie Pink
Bubblegum Bruises offers a universe that is tender, tough, and unapologetically pink. It is a space where trauma softens, where colour becomes a form of resistance, and where play is survival. Guided by impulse and play, artist Katie Pink allows materials to run wild, pushing, pulling, and reshaping until they surprise her and the viewer. This exhibition features abstract paintings, ceramic, mixed-media sculptures with pieces that celebrate both fragility and strength. Katie Pink is the recipient of the 2024 BSA Graduate Award.
Tending Grace Frayrer
Tending is a photographic series created using camera obscuras formed from the earth; shallow chambers dug into the woodland floor behind the artists’ late grandparents’ home in southeast England. Made after their passing, photosensitive paper placed inside the chambers recorded a day’s light from sunrise to sunset. The resulting soft, ghostly impressions of the tree canopy serve as quiet monuments to memory, place, time, and grief.
Food and Drink
Home School Achiever
Artist duo, Home School Achiever (Betty Russ and Michael Donnelly) present Food and Drink (entities in deference to their being), an experimental exploration of the ambiguity of meaning when material is encouraged to be objective. Informed and inspired by contemporary ideas of speculative horror and science fiction, institutional theory and immersion techniques within the expanded field, the artists engage in the creative process with the intention of generating a site specific, humming field of ontological activity unbound by intentional outcomes.
Image Credit: Home School Achiever, Twin Ferments, 2025
Image Credit: Gill Williams, Dandy Lions, 2025
Image credit: Lesley Ryan, Feathers and Fabric Budgie, 2024
Image Credit: Katie Pink, Candyfloss fire, 2025
Image Credit: Grace Fayrer, Tending II (negative), 2025
community spaces
Calling all caterers
Ballina Shire Council is inviting local caterers to apply for inclusion in our List of Caterers
This list will be shared with venue hirers across Council’s community facilities and will promoted through Discover Ballina channels, giving your business valuable exposure to both locals and visitors.
To be included, businesses must hold a current Public Liability Insurance and a Food Safety/Handling Certificate. Scan the QR code to complete the Expression of Interest form by Friday 31 October 2025
If you have any questions contact our friendly Community Spaces team at communityspaces@ballina.nsw.gov.au or call 6681 0528
into the BISC
KEEP THE KIDS ACTIVE AND MOVING AT THE BISC. GET THEM OUT OF THE SUN (OR RAIN) AND COME ON IN FOR SOME FUN BALL GAMES.*
CASUAL VISIT $7* or 3 MONTH MEMBERSHIP $78 terms and conditions apply
*subject to court availability - follow us on Facebook and Instagram for What’s On updates
@BISC2478
FERRY MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
The Burns Point Ferry closes for scheduled maintenance each month.
The Burns Point Ferry closes for scheduled maintenance each month. Regular maintenance is important to ensure a reliable ferry service for visitors and locals. Scheduled maintenance will occur from 9am – 1pm on:
11 November 2025
9 December 2025
Customers are requested to travel via the M1 Pacific Motorway and River Drive, Wardell, when the ferry is closed.
The Burns Point Ferry operates continuously from 5.30am to 12.30am daily.
For updates on the ferry status and road closure information visit livetraffic.com
For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/Burns-PointFerry
Ballina Library Upgrade
Ballina Library will reopen Monday 3 November following its first major upgrade in ten years.
The upgrade includes new flooring and paint, an accessible service counter, flexible shelving to support a range of uses and programs, and a refreshed layout designed to enhance community connection and engagement.
The temporary pop-up Library at the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC) has now closed so staff can prepare the new space for reopening
During the short transition period:
The Mobile Library will continue operating on weekends at La Balsas Plaza, between the Ballina Visitor Information Centre and the Ballina War Memorial Pool.
Please check the library website for program details and times.
All regular services, including after-hours returns, computers, Wi-Fi, printing, and programs, remain available at Alstonville and Lennox Head libraries, as well as other Richmond Tweed Regional Library branches.
The Online Library is available 24/7, with free access to eBooks, eAudiobooks, magazines and more.
The project is being delivered in partnership with Richmond Tweed Regional Library and is funded through the Public Library Infrastructure Grant from the State Library of NSW and Ballina Shire Council’s 2025/26 Capital Works Program. For more information visit rtrl.nsw.gov.au/Ballina_Library
subscribe to council’s eNews
ballina.nsw.gov.au/eNews
Welcome TO OUR NEW AUSSIE CITIZENS
Say hello to our newest Aussie citizens!
Citizenship ceremonies are always such a joyous occasion! This represents a very special day in people’s lives.
At our most recent ceremony we proudly welcomed 18 new Aussies to our nation and shire.
Our newest Aussie citizens come from many nations including Canada, Germany, Italy, France, Estonia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.
Congratulations and welcome! Thank you for choosing Ballina Shire as your new home.
Follow us on facebook for more images facebook.com/ballinashirecouncil
KEEPING YOUR CONTACT DETAILS UP TO DATE
Have you moved house recently, changed your phone number or email address?
Incorrect contact details can mean missing out on important information from Council including rates notices, animal registration reminders, and responses to enquiries.
There are two simple ways to update us:
ONLINE
Complete the ‘Change of Address for Rates and Charges’ form available on Council’s website at ballina.nsw.gov.au/forms
PHONE
Contact Council’s Rating Team on 1300 864 444 so that we can update our records.
extreme weather conditions where to get info...
KEY CONTACT NUMBERS
SES 132 500
cut out and keep!
Ballina Shire Council 1300 864 444 or emergency after hours 02 6626 6954 Emergency Services Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade, Triple zero 000
LOCAL ROAD CLOSURES AND CONDITIONS
LIVE TRAFFIC NSW livetraffic.com.au or download the Live Traffic NSW app Download the HAZARDS NEAR ME app Follow SES BALLINA on Facebook
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
EMERGENCY DASHBOARD
Stay informed and get real-time updates all in one place.
Visit emergency.ballina.nsw.gov.au
GET INVOLVED IN COUNCIL MEETINGS
Ordinary Council meetings are held on the fourth Thursday of each month at 9am at the Council Chambers, 40 Cherry Street, Ballina.
Agendas for these meetings are available to view online at ballina.nsw.gov. au/agendas-and-minutes on the Friday before the Council meeting and in hardcopy at the Council Chambers on the Monday before. Members of the public can attend a council meeting in person or watch the livestream on our website.
DEPUTATIONS TO COUNCIL
Deputations by members of the public can be made at Council meetings on matters included in the agenda. Deputations are limited to two speakers in the affirmative, and two speakers in opposition. Each speaker is given five minutes to address Council. Requests to speak must be lodged in writing or by phone with the General Manager by noon the day before the meeting.
PUBLIC QUESTION TIME
The public may ask questions of the Council on any topic during the Public Question Time session of Ordinary meetings.
To join a livestream or view a meeting recording visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/council-meeting-recordings
councillorReadprofiles at ballina.nsw. gov.au
Cr Sharon Cadwallader p 0428 339 023
e sharon.cadwallader@ballina.nsw.gov.au
Cr Damian Loone p 0438 463 710
e damian.loone@ballina.nsw.gov.au
Cr Erin Karsten p 0427 723 880
e erin.karsten@ballina.nsw.gov.au
Cr Phillip Meehan p 0408 349 833
e phil.meehan@ballina.nsw.gov.au
Cr Michelle Bailey p 0429 279 482
e michelle.bailey@ballina.nsw.gov.au
Cr Kiri Dicker p 0419 493 898
e kiri.dicker@ballina.nsw.gov.au
Cr Eva Ramsey p 0419 542 905
e eva.ramsey@ballina.nsw.gov.au
Cr Simon Chate p 0419 593 233
e simon.chate@ballina.nsw.gov.au
Cr Therese Crollick p 0437 947 859
e therese.crollick@ballina.nsw.gov.au
Cr Simon Kinny p 0427 410 192
e simon.kinny@ballina.nsw.gov.au
Councillors are elected in Wards, however each councillor represents the entire community and can be contacted on any matter. You can contact councillors in person, by phone or email. All councillors can be emailed at councillors@ballina.nsw.gov.au
what ward are you in?
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.
ISSN: 2652-7243 (PRINT)
Information, including dates and times, in this issue of Community Connect are correct at time of printing.
council contact information
Ph: 1300 864 444
Email: council@ballina.nsw.gov.au
Web: ballina.nsw.gov.au
Street Address: 40 Cherry Street, Ballina
Postal Address: PO Box 450, Ballina 2478
Office Hours: 8.15am to 4.30pm Mon-Fri (excluding public holidays)
After hours contact: 02 6626 6954
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Hello!
We’re excited to launch our new weekly Discover Ballina newsletter – designed especially for locals who want to stay connected with what’s happening around the Ballina Coast and Hinterland. From community markets and live gigs to fresh new businesses and local events, it’s your go-to guide for discovering what’s on in our area.
Delivered straight to your inbox at the end of each week, the newsletter will make it easy to plan your weekends, support local, and never miss a thing.
Signing up is simple – or visit discoverballina.com.au/subscribe or scan the QR code
Warm regards,
The Ballina Destination & Economy Team
Looking for something new?
Started Christmas Shopping?
The Ballina Visitor Information Centre is stocked with a great range of unique gift ideas, from fun prawn merchandise to delicious local produce. Whether you’re after a quirky Secret Santa present, a thoughtful hamper, or just something a little different, you’ll find plenty of options. With new items arriving between now and Christmas, it’s the perfect excuse to pop in regularly and explore what’s fresh on the shelves.
BALLINA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE
6 River Street, Ballina NSW 2478
Freecall: 1800 777 666
E: discover@ballina.nsw.gov.au @discoverballina
Discover what’s new or changed around the Ballina Coast & Hinterland, there’s plenty of fresh attractions and hidden gems to discover.
Rhea Food & Wine
Rhea Food & Wine is Lennox Head’s newest hotspot, offering lunch, dinner, and social hour featuring vinyl-spun tunes. Open Wednesday to Sunday, book a table with your friends for a relaxed, chilled evening out. Check them out @rhea.food.wine
Prairie Coffee House
New to the Ballina hinterland, Prairie Coffee House is a charming cafe caravan nestled in Brooklet’s green hills. Opened Friday to Sunday until 1pm, Prairie Coffee House serve great coffee and delicious baked goods making it the perfect pit stop while exploring the region’s scenic, winding backroads. @prairie.coffeehouse
EXCITING NEW CHAPTER FOR THE
Ballina Coast & Hinterland Destination Website
The Ballina Destination & Economy Team is excited to unveil the rebranded and relaunched discoverballina.com.au. This isn’t just a facelift: it’s a strategic upgrade designed to inspire visitors, support local operators, and bring our destination to life online.
With fresh branding, stronger visuals, deeper content and a much more user-friendly design, the site is a genuine leap forward. Think of it less as a brochure, more as a digital concierge. And best of all, it’s still growing! The site is still a work in progress that will continue to evolve with new content, features and feedback.
What’s new and improved
INTERACTIVE MAP FUNCTION
Visitors can now explore the region visually, with a map that highlights local operators, attractions, dining and experiences. It’s a powerful tool for planning and plotting your day trip or looking for places to eat nearby.
DESIGNATED TOWN PAGES
Towns across the Ballina Coast and Hinterland now have their own dedicated page, offering local highlights, insider tips and easy access to businesses and events. It’s a way to shine a light on the diversity of the shire making it easier for visitors to find something special in every corner.
CREATE YOUR OWN FAVOURITES LIST
A new “favourites” function allows users to save events, attractions, dining spots and activities to their personal list. With one click, visitors (and locals) can build a tailored itinerary that fits their interests.
RICH STORYTELLING
A growing blog library features engaging articles about the region, offering local insights into what makes the Ballina Coast and Hinterland special.
CURATED ITINERARIES
Suggested itineraries and themed journeys (from family-friendly day trips to foodie trails) provide inspiration and practical guidance for getting the most out of the region.
Why It’s Great for Locals Too
WHAT’S ON
Find out about upcoming events, live music, markets and more by visiting our What’s On Calendar. The dynamic events calendar keeps residents up to date with what’s happening across the region all in one central hub.
FAMILY FUN ALL YEAR ROUND
The new Family Fun page highlights activities and attractions that are perfect for kids and parents alike, from school holiday programs to family-friendly adventures you might not have discovered yet. It’s an all-season resource for planning weekends and holidays closer to home.
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER
Sign up to our weekly newsletter and find out What’s On for the weekend, where the markets are and be in the know when new businesses are opening.
The new discoverballina.com.au is more than a tourism website. It’s a community asset, a business platform and a digital showcase of our region. By blending practical tools with inspirational storytelling, it delivers for visitors and locals alike. Check it out now!