The Byron Shire Echo – Issue 37.25 – November 30, 2022

Frances passes on on her apron her apron to Nikki to Nikki

Natural burial site found unsuitable

Paul Bibby

The long-standing plan to create a natural burial ground for locals who want to be buried sustainably has hit a major hurdle, with the site favoured for this use found to be completely unsuitable.

For decades locals have been talking about having a place where people can be laid to rest without the serious ecological impacts that come with conventional burial and crema tion. A picturesque site on Vallances Road in Mullumbimby had been ear marked for this purpose, with locals, councillors and staff pouring hours into planning and preparation.

Staff found that digging graves and revegetating the Vallances Road site would have required four-to-five times the amount of energy needed.

There were also issues around the small size of the available land at Vallances Road for natural burial that meant it would have provided only a finite benefit for the community.

Finally, the site was constrained by access issues, with the entrance currently located at a road safety black spot.

be at the Bruns Pub on Friday December 9, from 7pm, to celebrate, and it would be an honour for us if any old parents/students would like to pop in and say “hi”’. Photo Jeff Dawson

Hans Lovejoy

The Northern Rivers Reconstruction Corporation (NRRC), who are ‘leading the [flood] reconstruction effort’ say one of the biggest road surveys in regional NSW is now underway to ‘better inform the long-term rebuild of road and transport infrastructure in the region and ensure it can better withstand future floods’.

Yet unsealed roads have not been included in the audit.

The corporation said, in a press release, it will include, ‘All sealed roads in the Ballina, Byron Bay [Sic], Clarence Valley, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed LGAs’.

NRRC Chief Executive, David

Witherdin, said more than 5,500 kilometres of road surface will be assessed by the Australian Road Research Board (ARRB) ‘to measure roughness, texture and rutting, and to gather digital imagery for visual rating and automated crack detection’.

The Echo asked the NRRC: ‘Given that most of the roads that were hardest hit by the floods and landslides were unsealed, why weren’t they included in this assessment?’

No reply by NRRC

While the question was acknowledged by the NRRC, no reply was received by deadline.

The NRRC press release goes on to say, ‘This assessment informs how

we’re going to prioritise more than $4.9 billion in infrastructure work, including a pipeline of more than $1.7 billion to address road and transport infrastructure rebuilding across the region. Specialised road scanning vehicles, including an Intelligent Pavement Assessment Vehicle and a Network Survey Vehicle, are being used to provide a comprehensive analysis of the scope of what needs to be done and key priority areas.

‘Northern Rivers councils and Transport for NSW are working with the NRRC’s Infrastructure Coordina tion Office, which is prioritising the region’s infrastructure needs and examining ways to manage supply constraints and capacity issues’.

But a detailed investigation of the site by Council staff has found that it has multiple serious issues that have ultimately proved fatal.

Two other sites, at the Clunes and Mullumbimby cemeteries, are now being considered to host the burial ground.

Disappointed mayor

‘I’m very disappointed that it’s not going to go ahead, but the reality is that it’s just not suitable,’ Mayor Michael Lyon told last week’s Council meeting.

‘While it had the visual appeal, on pretty much every other level that we investigated, it wasn’t great.’

In their report on the Vallances Road site, Council staff found it to be ‘vastly flood prone’.

They also discovered that the soil there contained heavy clays that would not have allowed bodies to decompose quickly, and would have required significant time and carbon-burning energy to dig up.

‘In light of this information, Clunes is recommended as the more suitable site for the purpose, but it is acknowledged that it’s at the boundary/limits of the Byron Shire,’ Council staff said.

‘Therefore, staff should investi gate the viability of the Clunes and Mullumbimby cemeteries to allocate a section for natural burials, poten tially at both locations.’

The community effort to create a natural burial ground in the Shire goes back more than two decades, driven, in large part, by the desire to avoid the environmental impacts of conventional burial and cremation.

These impacts include the use of carcinogenic chemicals during the embalming process, and the toxic glues and lacquers used in coffins.

Cremation releases about 160kg of carbon into the atmosphere, the majority from burning the coffin, according to a report from the South Australian Centennial Park Authority. While plans for a natural burial ground go back decades, Cr Lyon put a motion before Council in 2019, which proposed looking for a suitable parcel of Council or privately owned land.

Director of the Lilly Pilly Community Preschool in Bayside, Bruns, Frances Dyett, pictured left, is retiring at the end of the year, after nearly 30 years in the job. Longtime local, Nikki Farrell, pictured right, will take on the new role. Frances told The Echo, ‘I would like to thank the community for all the support I have received’. She added school photos taken before the digital age have also been printed, and parents are welcome to come and collect them. ‘All the Lilly Pilly Aunties will

Bluesfest Green Room venue launches

A new live music venue called The Green Room was launched Saturday night, at the Byron Events Farm, the home of Bluesfest.

Organisers say tickets for Xavier Rudd and Bobby Alu sold out to 1,500 adoring fans.

In launching The Green Room, founder Peter Noble OAM said the first venue in Byron to attract crowds of 1,000 plus in the ’80s was the Byron Arts’ Factory.

‘The much-loved venue closed in 1992 in its original form, and so the opening The Green Room is a nod of thanks to [promoter] Dan Doepel and The Piggery, for giving music the opportunity to define our region’.

Byron Farmers Market celebrates 20 years

December marks the 20th birthday of Byron Farmers Market – one of the longestrunning farmers’ markets in Australia.

To celebrate this milestone, the farmers are throwing a party for everyone at the market on Thursday, December 8, at Butler Street Reserve in Byron Bay.

Byron Farmers Market manager, Tom Carey, said the occasion was a chance to step back and recognise how far the market had come, growing from half a dozen stalls in 2002 to its current 75 – all local farmers and producers.

‘It’s such an incredible achievement to have notched up two decades of supplying our community with fresh, locally grown produce every week,’ Tom said.

He says the market almost didn’t get off the ground, ‘as there was strong resistance in the beginning, but thankfully the founding members persevered and it paid off.’

Byron Farmers Market was started by a handful of local farmers – some of whom are still at the market today – who wanted to be able to

sell directly to the public and reduce food miles.

Assists small landholders

One of those founding members is Anthony Hotson, of Rainforest Foods, who said the farmers’ market had provided him with an outlet to support his farming enterprise; growing a range of native foods in the Byron hinterland.

‘The farmers’ market has assisted small landholders to have a viable farming income in the region, which was previously not possible,’ Anthony said.

‘Before the farmers’ market, most of us were selling via agents in the cities and sometimes, when market

prices were low, you would actually get a bill back’.

‘They treated us poorly and we had no control. Then when the farmers’ market started, we could sell our produce directly to the customers. Not only did we get fair prices, but our customers expressed gratitude for growing their food. There’s really no comparison, both from a financial and psychological point of view.’

Manager Tom said the positive impact of Byron Farmers Market could not be underestimated, and that he is now seeing the next generation of farmers coming through the market.

‘It’s great to see so many of our younger members following their parents into farming and coming to the market. It’s important to point out that the market wouldn’t be the success it is today without the support of the local community.

‘Our community has embraced us since the start and we are incredibly appreciative of their support over the years, so we are looking forward to celebrating with them and saying “Thank you”. Byron Farmers Market 20th birthday party will be held on December 8.

The Byron Farmers Market is held at the Butler Street Reserve from 7 till 11am every Thursday. Photo supplied

Bobby Alu. Photo by Tao Jones

Byron’s historic jetty engine unveiled

A piece of Byron Bay history, the old Green Frog jetty engine, has been restored and is now on permanent display at the Byron Bay Railway Station.

The Green Frog is housed in a large, custom-built case at the southern end of the Byron Bay rail platform.

Many of Byron Bay’s more recent residents have never heard of the Green Frog, but for old locals, the jetty engine was a familiar sight, chugging around the coastal town from the 1920s to the 1980s.

Byron Bay Historical Society (BBHS) president, Donald Maughan, told The Echo that for 63 years – from 1923 to 1983 – the Green Frog jetty engine ferried passengers and freight from the old jetty to the coast steamer that travelled to Sydney, and then shunted freight for the meat works, the whaling company, the Norco Cooperative and Zircon Rutile.

He said, ‘When the meat works closed in 1983, the old engine was presented to the Byron Bay Historical Society and the last two drivers, Brian Parks and his father, kept it in their shed, ensuring this important piece of the town’s history was preserved’.

‘This engine was a fixture of life in Byron Bay for decades, and is a symbol of the

town’s industrial history,’ Mr Maughan said.

‘Many people don’t know that Byron Bay was a traditional blue-collar, workingclass town where people were employed at the meatworks, the butter factory, the whaling station and in the sandmining industry,’ he said.

Industrial heritage

‘Much of the town’s industrial heritage has disappeared over the years and to be able to return the Green Frog to the track where it will be on display is wonderful, because it reminds everyone that Byron

Bay has a proud industrial history,’ Mr Maughan said.

‘The BBHS was successful in securing a grant from Sydney Trains and the State Rail Authority, which has resulted in the long-term preservation of the engine and the construction of its new home at the Byron Bay rail platform,’ Mr Maughan said.

‘On behalf of the historical society, and all the residents of Byron Bay, I extend our gratitude and thanks to Brian Parks and his father, who have looked after the Green Frog, in their shed, for almost 40 years’.

‘It’s been a labour of love and what a gift they have given to our community,’ Mr Maughan said. The addition of the Green Frog completes the rail precinct area, says Mr Maughan. ‘Late last year, Council unveiled the rail corridor upgrade which transformed an old section of the disused rail line into a beautiful park that celebrates and highlights the rail heritage of the town’.

‘Add to this, the restoration of the old water tank that was recently done by Transport for NSW and this historical precinct is now complete’.

The Ark in Mullum to close December 1

The community-led flood hub and free op-shop, The Ark, is closing up this Thursday December 1.

Coordinated by Holding Hands Under Ground (HHUG), The Ark began as the ‘Op Shop of Love’ at the Mullumbimby Civic Hall, as one of many programs of emergency rescue, relief and recovery, organised by the

community-led flood crisis operations.

Since mid-March, The Ark has been based in the Old Bank building on the main street of Mullumbimby, providing free clothing and other home goods to floodaffected people, along with free pain-relief treatments offered by professional body-workers.

Luke Jaaniste, co-director of HHUG and manager of The Ark, thanked those who donated their time, goods, skills and energies, as well as the building’s owner, who provided the use of the space for free. Luke says, at the time, the NSW government wanted the service to move out of the Civic Hall, ‘and we had nowhere adequate to go’.

‘People volunteered anywhere from a few hours to a few months, all of which combined into such a valuable gift to the community.’

‘If you are needing anything, make sure you pop in this week. Everything has to go. Come say hi and goodbye!’ The Ark’s final days are this Wednesday and Thursday 12 till 4pm.

Painted Earth is closing down

After 15 years of supplying sustainable paints and finishes to the community, we will be closing permanently on 23rd December 2022.

We deeply thank all customers, staff and supporters of the business over the past 15 years, and invite you to come in for cake, champagne and MAJOR SALES during December 12th –17th

Come in to say goodbye and celebrate beginnings and endings, and the transition times we are in.

1 Brigantine Street, Byron A&I Estate Open Monday–Friday 7.30am–4pm, Saturday 10am–2pm

DOCTORS

Dr Anthony Solomon Dr Rob Trigger Dr Bettie Honey

Dr Meera Perumalpillai-McGarry Dr Mann Ying Lim

OSTEOPATHS Paul Orrock Bimbi Gray

NATUROPATH Mandy Hawkes

AUDIOLOGIST Chris Adelaide at brunswick valley funerals

Pictured are Brian Kelly, NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Sam Farraway (Nationals), Mayor Michael Lyon, Byron Historical Society President, Donald Maughan, and Brian Parks, son of the Frogs last driver, Len Parks. Photo Jeff ‘Croaked’ Dawson

FURNITURE DONATIONS

Hans Lovejoy

A NSW Upper House committee examining the integrity of the Biodiversity Offsets Scheme handed down its report last week, and proposed 19 recommendations to improve the controversial planning mechanism.

Established in 2016 by the Department for Planning and Environment (DPE), biodiversity offsets were ‘designed to compensate for significant, residual biodiversity loss from development projects’.

Under the scheme, likefor-like flora and fauna is removed and then replanted/ transported in an effort to minimise the environmental impacts of development.

It was a key planning instrument that enabled the Byron Bay Butler Street Bypass, which resulted in the relocation of the protected Mitchell’s rainforest snail.

Current Mayor, Michael Lyon, supported the scheme at the time, which was also supported by then Mayor, Simon Richardson.

In September, the NSW Auditor-General found the scheme to be lacking in integrity, transparency, and sustainability.

The Auditor-General determined that biodiversity offsets do not have a ‘clear strategy to develop the biodiversity credit market or determine whether the scheme’s operation and outcomes are consistent with the purposes of the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016’.

Greens MLC, Sue Higginson, Upper House committee chair, said last week that the inquiry heard that the scheme’s design ‘allows too much flexibility to trade off threatened species in exchange for cash, without guarantee that genuinely equivalent offsets will ever be found’.

‘The report recommends that the design of the scheme be reviewed and reformed to ensure the ecological integrity of offsetting practices. This is essential if we are to turn back the tide of destruction and prevent extinction of even more native species’.

‘Further, we have heard

that this scheme’s operation is so opaque and complex that no stakeholder group has full confidence in it. With little transparency about the biodiversity offset market, or what offsets have been used for what developments, or the ecological outcomes of the scheme, it is not surprising that allegations of insider trading and collusion have surrounded it from the outset. The report makes

recommendations to improve the functioning and increase the transparency of the scheme’.

Recommendations include a review and reform of the scheme, ‘to ensure it meets best practice principles for biodiversity offsetting. Increased transparency is also sought, along with a definition of ‘a set of scientifically sound principles that govern the operation’.

go to hospital.

A key homelessness service in Byron Bay is undergoing significant repairs after a car drove into part of the facility last week.

The car mysteriously slammed into the gates and wall on the eastern side of Fletcher Street Cottage at around 8pm on November 22.

The lateness of the hour meant that the normally busy support service was empty and so none of the staff or clients were hurt.

However, the driver of the car was injured, and had to

Staff and volunteers were forced to adapt quickly to ensure that the next day’s community breakfast went ahead.

‘We had to pivot really fast but the team managed to pull together the regular brekkie and do it out the front,’ said the Communications Manager of the Byron Community Centre, Katie Love.

The damaged gates and wall serve an important function at the service, providing protection and privacy for clients and staff using the deck next to the cottage.

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Paul Bibby

What’s art worth? Exhibition bucks the trend

Paul Bibby

Who decides what a piece of art is worth?

Is it the artist? The art critic? Or perhaps that mythical beast known as ‘The Market’.

The desire to unpack this question lies at the heart of a new exhibition from Mullumbimby artist, Alexandra Diana, called Oscillations

Instead of giving every item in her Murwillumbahbased show a price tag, Ms Diana is turning convention on its head by inviting the audience to decided what some of the pieces are worth.

Other items will be given away for free.

‘I really wanted to explore this idea of how anyone can decide the value of art, particularly from a money perspective,’ Ms Diana says.

‘There is sometimes a sense of discomfort when the audience is forced to make the decision about how much something is worth.

‘And I think that is something that’s really worth exploring.’

The concept of value

The desire to explore the concept of ‘worth’ and ‘value’ is part of a broader examination within Oscillations of stripping away the societal and internal conditioning that shapes so much of how we see the world, and act in it.

Ms Diana does this through the concept of ‘the void’ – the idea that everything, our thoughts, our emotions and

our foundational beliefs, are all constructs that ultimately have no meaning beyond that which we ascribe to them.

‘If you look at the mind, you see that it’s so busy, and so full of thoughts, but ultimately these are all just constructions, and fundamentally empty,’ Ms Diana says.

‘The purpose of this exploration is to create enough space in between and around those aspects, so that a ‘void’ gets created.’

‘This void becomes a space of infinite potential, essence, and truth, showing [life] as a journey that has no destination.’

The works in the exhibition reflect this exploration.

In one piece, the artist displays written pages featuring streams of immediate thought, with the pages gradually fading and melting into nothingness, to depict the idea that our thoughts are nothing more than constructs of the mind.

These same pages appear in other formats throughout the exhibition, featuring

Draft Community Engagement Strategy on exhibition by Council

A new Draft Community Engagement Strategy is on exhibition from Council, and the community is invited to provide feedback on the document until December 1.

‘This Community Engagement Strategy is a new and important document for Council,’ Media and Communications Coordinator, Annie Lewis, said.

Active community

‘It highlights the importance and value of community and stakeholder input and its role in guiding and shaping the work and projects undertaken by Council, outlining how and when we communicate and engage.

‘We are fortunate that our community actively participates in opportunities to

provide feedback to Council on a wide range of issues and our engagement rates are generally very high, which is terrific.

‘This draft strategy takes a close look at who our stakeholders are, and outlines to people the ways that we will engage with them for different projects,’ Ms Lewis said.

She adds the Community Engagement Strategy, after being endorsed by Council, will be part of the suite of integrated planning and report documents that set out how Council is planning and preparing to meet the present and future needs of the community. Information on the Draft Community Engagement Strategy and how to provide feedback is on Council’s website.

in a spiral of words on one occasion, and in web-like installation in another.

‘The exhibition aims to offer the viewer an embodied experience of ‘full and empty’, an experience of contrast between the busy

mind and the void.

‘My aim is for the viewer to sense the spaciousness that can be experienced once thoughts are seen as that, just thoughts, and to experience the void as a space where anything is possible.’

TAFE graduation

Oscillations is showing at M-Arts in Murwillumbah as part of the TAFE Graduating Visual Art and Screen and Media exhibition, which showcases artwork from graduating students in the Diploma of Visual Art, the Bachelor of Creative Practice, and solo exhibitions from students in the Advanced Diploma of Visual art.

The exhibition will run until December 10.

TWEED VALLEY WAY WOOYUNG

Artist Alexandra Diana with her latest exhibition, Oscillations. Photo supplied

Council imposes development restrictions on Linnaeus

Paul Bibby

The plan to rezone part of Broken Head’s Linnaeus Estate in a bid to prevent further development proposals on the site has taken a step forward, with Byron councillors unanimously supporting the move.

The vote, at last week’s Council meeting, follows years of controversy over the precious 110-hectare site, including considerable animosity between the owners of the site and those who object to their plans.

‘I’m looking forward to the day when I never have to hear the word Linnaeus again,’ Mayor Michael Lyon told last week’s Council meeting at which he moved the rezoning motion.

‘It’s got such a history and so much contention and so much to it. And it’s time to draw a line under it.’

With the motion passed, Council will now begin the process of rezoning part of the site from SP1 Mixed Use to a C4 Environmental Living Zone.

This would be done with the aim of ensuring that ‘no additional development can be undertaken on the site other than the existing approved land uses’.

The rezoning involves multiple steps, including applying to the NSW Department of Planning and Environment for a gateway determination.

‘I want to push forward with getting this mix-used zoning removed because SP1 is the type of zoning that you can drive a truck through,’ Cr Lyon said.

‘At the moment you can build a Westfield [shopping centre] on that site as I understand it. It’s not an appropriate zoning and it needs to go.’

Earlier in the meeting a representative of the owners of the Linnaeus Estate, Steve Duchen, provided some much-needed clarity about their future plans.

Responding to questions from councillors, Mr Duchen said that Linnaeus would have 33 separate accommodation dwellings on the

site, with a capacity for up to 112 people.

Twelve of those dwellings would be solely for eco-tourism purposes, while the remainder would be part of a Community Title development.

‘That [Community Title area] would basically be about private residences in conjunction with the existing private education zoning,’ Mr Duchen said.

Mr Duchen also took the opportunity to respond to those who had publicly criticised the owners of Linnaeus.

‘Despite being the regular target of accusations within certain quarters of the Byron community, we have always followed best practice and the gold standard with our facilities on site, and in particular our waste water and water treatment facilities,’ Mr Duchen said.

‘We’ve also led the way in Broken Head, unlike our objectors, by committing 50 hectares to a biodiversity conservation agreement.

‘I am fully in support of the downzoning proposal’.

Pianos delivered, for the people!

Following the devastating 2022 floods, Pianos for the People answered the call to bring music to the people of the Northern Rivers.

Pianos for the People recycles pre-loved pianos for public and private spaces.

Founder, Yantra de Vilder, says 14 pre-loved pianos were recently reclaimed and re-homed, ‘giving them new homes in the aftermath of the floods, bringing music, joy and community connection to the people of Mullumbimby, Main Arm, Lismore and Brunswick Heads’.

Yantra says last weekend their haulage truck drove from the NSW Central Coast to Mullumbimby, heralding the arrival of the first fleet of nine pianos to the Northern Rivers flood victims.

‘Flood-affected recipients of the first delivery of pianos include single mother of three, Baylee Woods, from Brunswick Heads’.

Yantra added that the musical Quirke family in Mullum received one, while filmmaker, Jane Hanckel, received one in Lismore.

‘The Mullumbimby

Community Gardens has become one of our piano hosts, with a piano installed in the rotunda, set among the beautiful community gardens.

‘Early Saturday morning, we installed a piano at Kohinur Hall in Main Arm, and heard about the role of the community and the hall in supporting the flood victims.

‘If you want to get involved in Pianos for the People, we are looking for people to become part of the team and project’. Contact Yantra via www.yantra.com. au/pianos-for-the-people.

Yantra de Vilder tinkles the keys, while Nathan Groves provides the muscle for the move from the Central Coast. The piano recipients here are the Quirke family: Steve, Dominique, Astariah, Zaia, and Tiani. Photo Jeff ‘Tinkled Pink’ Dawson

Local MP supports trust in teachers, pay rise

Last Friday, NSW Greens

Education spokesperson and Member for Ballina, Tamara Smith MP, announced to the NSW Teachers Federation Council meeting in Sydney her party’s vision to support teachers and educators in NSW, ahead of the 2023 election.

Speaking to teachers and educators from across NSW at the launch of their Trust in Teachers campaign, Ms Smith spoke about the chronic teacher shortage, and that an array of NSW Liberal premiers, ‘have so

clearly failed the education workforce in NSW’.

She also called for a 15 per cent pay rise for NSW public school teachers.

She said, ‘Teachers have told us, through direct action that, “Thanks is not enough” to attract and retain the professional teaching force we need across public education in NSW.’

‘This government has failed to produce a workforce strategy in their twelve long years in government, and have no idea how many teachers are even needed

over the next decade’, Ms Smith said.

‘The Department of Education’s own research tells us that NSW public school teachers are overworked and underpaid,’ Ms Smith said.

‘The Gallop Inquiry, led by teachers, told us that we need a minimum extra 11,000 teachers are needed in NSW over the next ten years’.

‘Whoever forms government in March 2023 has to put teachers and students at the heart of every decision, because we trust in public education and our teachers.’

Ava’s modelling takes her to NY

Born and raised in Byron Shire, 16-year-old Ava von Davi has been recognised as one of the most promising young Aussie models by international scout, Jasmine Dwyer. The teen posted a video of herself dancing in the rain on Tiktok, and two days

later, she signed with Bamby Management, Dwyer’s new modelling agency. It didn’t take long for her to gain international attention.

In between school breaks, Ava headed over to Korea for a two-month contract.

‘I never could imagine how quickly my life could change from hanging with

my friends, to living in Seoul and shooting for all these cool brands. I’m just saying “Yes” to all these opportunities – I feel so lucky’.

She’s been offered a three-year contract by the prestigious New York model agency, and will head over to the Big Apple next year to try her luck at fashion week.

All that grows, found in Mullum

Ava von Daviwill soon be off to New York.

Photo & story Jeff Dawson

On Saturday, the much-loved Mullumbimby Community Garden celebrated resilience and new growth with a free festival. Events for the day featured kids’ activities, gardening and regeneration workshops, yoga, sound healings, music, food and meditation. Pictured are Lilly, Charli and Daisy at the garden. Photo Jeff ‘Regrowth’ Dawson

Protect home sharing in Byron Shire

The Byron Shire Council wants to restrict short-term rental accommodation in some parts of the Shire to just 90 nights a year.

The move will impact visitors and local businesses across the Shire by reducing choice and affordability of accommodation. Tourism is a vital contributor to the local economy, and the proposal is unlikely to increase the Shire’s housing supply.

The Council should carefully consider the impact of this proposal:

•Less accommodation means fewer affordable options, and higher prices.

•Diminished capacity to welcome visitors during popular events in the area, such as Splendour in the Grass, Blues Fest and more.

•Fewer visitors means less spend in local retail, hospitality and other businesses.

•Greater difficulty for visitors who seek accommodation for non-holiday uses such as accessing work, education or medical treatment.

•Reduced ability for everyday Aussies to keep up with the rising cost of living; a third of Australian Hosts have said that hosting helps make ends meet.

Scan to learn more about how this proposal will impact the visitor economy in Byron Shire.

New Murwillumbah pump station to reduce flooding impacts

A new stormwater pump station for Murwillumbah will be built to reduce the effects of flooding to private properties and public infrastructure in the vicinity of Murwillumbah Leagues Club.

Lismore raises awareness on World AIDS day

The Red Ribbon Appeal is raising funds and awareness for programs that help prevent new HIV transmissions, eliminate HIV stigma, and support people living with HIV (PWH).

The fight for patient ratios and safety continues

Nurses and midwives around the country continue to fight for better staff-to-patient ratios with strike action, including at Tweed and Ballina Hospitals.

Satellites suggest oil and gas industries only revealing one third of their total carbon emissions

Satellite monitoring of greenhouse gas emissions revealed at COP27 calls into question data from the Global Carbon Project, providing a very different set of numbers for global carbon emissions.

Vegetation key to minimising landslip risk

The impacts of landslides have been a little lost in the conversations around the devastating floods that took place in the Northern Rivers in February and March this year, but it is essential that we recognise the impact they have had, and will continue to have.

Woman charged following house fire – Murwillumbah

About 11.55pm on Friday, 25 November, emergency services were called to a home in Commercial Road, Murwillumbah, following reports of a house fire.

Ballina council staff call for waste reduction project funding

Ballina Shire Council staff have drafted a new policy allowing for the funding of new projects tackling waste reduction in the shire.

Poppy seed tea causes hospitalisations and product recall

People are advised to check the poppy seeds in their kitchens following a nationwide recall of poppy seed products linked to poisoning.

Refugee resettlement org seeks support for vehicles

Mia Armitage

Two Syrian refugee families have been welcomed into the Northern Rivers in recent months, as part of a national resettlement pilot program featuring ten families.

Volunteer-run Ballina Region For Refugees (BR4R) played a key role in the local part of the project, supporting the families financially and logistically.

One family with young children has been settled in Brunswick Heads while the other is a mother with adult children living in Ballina.

Both families spent years waiting in the complex international refugee system after fleeing war-torn Syria, including time spent in

refugee facilities in Iraq.

BR4R President, Marilyn Leeks, says ‘the families are embracing life in the rainbow region, despite the environmental and cultural differences’.

‘Getting a drivers’ licence and a vehicle is essential for life on the Northern Rivers’, Ms Leeks said.

BR4R is aiming to raise enough money to buy vehicles for the families, and is hosting a fundraiser concert on Sunday December 4 from 6–8pm at the Brunswick Heads Memorial Hall.

Ticket proceeds will go towards the goal of buying vehicles for the two refugee families.

For more information, visit www.br4r.org.au.

Lismore hears of Grantham relocation

Jamie Simmonds, the man who directed the relocation of the town of Grantham in Qld, shared his story with Lismore residents last week.

Local NSW MP, Janelle Saffin (Labor), hosted his visit and said, ‘In 2011, Jamie was employed by Lockyer Valley Regional Council to run the Strengthening Grantham Project, following devastating flash flooding, which took the lives of 19 people’.

‘This groundbreaking project created, planned

and constructed a new residential estate and provided land through Australia’s first land-swap process. Within 12 months of that flood event, 120 families were moving into their flood-free homes’.

Simmonds said, ‘As more severe weather events become more frequent, this experience is becoming increasingly useful to communities and decisionmakers as they create a more resilient future.’

For more info, visit www. jamiesimmonds.com.

Ballina marches to eliminate DV

Application for Appointment of Board Members

Booyong Public Recreation And Preservation Of Native Flora Reserve Land Manager

Ever wondered who is responsible for keeping Crown reserves operating?

Countless facilities like showgrounds, local halls and parks are run by Statutory Land Manager Boards, made up of people just like you. People who understand the need and have a desire to manage public land and assets for the

Your role as a Board Member is voluntary, but the rewards of giving something back to the community are priceless. We are looking for a good mix of people with a variety of

skills and objective decision-making expertise would be a distinct advantage.

Don’t let this opportunity to do something for yourself and your community pass you by – contact us today.

The Booyong Public Recreation And Preservation Of Native Flora Reserve Land Manager manages the Reserve No.

Of Native Flora, Public Recreation. The term of appointment will be for a period not exceeding 5 years.

Application for membership can be made via portal.crownland.nsw.gov.au

All applications are required to be lodged by 9 January 2022.

For further information contact: Chrissy Haslem on (02) 6642 9213 or go to reservemanager.crownland.nsw.gov.au

Mandy Nolan

Hundreds of students from Ballina Coast High School, community leaders and the general public joined forces to mark November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

A march through the streets of Ballina was organised by Rotary Club of Ballina on Richmond, which launched their commitment

to DV elimination as common cause for 20 Rotary districts.

This campaign will be led by the Rotary Club of Ballina on Richmond.

President Dave Harmon said, ‘Rotary became involved with domestic and family violence through a keen interest Robyn and I have on social justice, and being the voice for those that are less fortunate.’

At the gathering at Ballina

Indoor Sports Centre, Ballina Coast High School students listened to lived experience talks by Ballina Mayor Sharon Cadwallader and myself, Mandy Nolan.

How the police respond to DV was discussed by Kiah Bowen, the police regional Domestic and Family Violence Coordinator. Mayor Cadwallader encouraged students to speak up and seek help if they were experiencing family violence.

Toxic Casino incinerator proposal meets strong resistance

Aslan Shand

Northern Rivers residents will be exposed to toxic air pollution if an incinerator proposal for the Richmond Valley Jobs Precinct in Casino goes ahead, say locals and politicians.

Residents Against the Richmond Valley Incinerator (RARVI) brought around 85 people together on Saturday to protest against the plans, which were previously rejected in Western Sydney.

‘If it is too polluting for Sydney, it is too polluting for Casino,’ said Jo Immig from the National Toxics Network.

The NSW state government introduced regulations that banned incinerators throughout the state owing to their pollution impacts on local communities.

However, they designated the Richmond Valley Jobs Precinct at Casino; Lithgow, Goulburn; and Parkes as sites where incinerators could potentially be built.

The rally raised a series of questions around how Casino came to be one of the four areas put forward by the state government to have an incinerator.

No community consultation

‘This regulation came out of nowhere as far as the community is concerned.

‘There was no community consultation. No one knows who put forward Richmond Valley jobs precint for an incinerator, and it was done without any assessment or consultation,’ pointed out Ms Immig.

The deputy mayor of Clarence Council spoke to the rally, along with respected local GP, Dr Jurriaan Beek; local farmer, Peter Nielsen; ALP candidate for Clarence, Leon Ankersmit; and Lismore Councillor, Adam Guise. They highlighted the serious negative impacts an incinerator would have, not only on locals’ health, but on farming, the

environment and the broader community.

‘A waste-to-energy incineration facility in Casino would emit dioxins and furans, which belong to a family of compounds known to be highly toxic and cumulative,’ said Dr Beek.

‘These particles are so small they cannot be effectively filtered. Dioxins have been proven to result in a myriad of harmful medical outcomes, ranging from birth defects to cancer formation, and population studies suggest that there is no safe margin of exposure for humans.’

The Northern Rivers Joint Organisation (NRJO), representing the Ballina, Byron, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley (RVC) and Tweed NSW local government areas, have been looking at a range of waste solutions for the region. The RVC went ahead with an expressions of interest (EOI) phase regarding dealing with residual waste. They have received a number of responses that are all based on incinerators, but they are yet to share the terms of reference (ToR) for the EOI, or the actual submission with the other councils.

Ballina students and community members marched against DV. Photo supplied

Casino incinerator protest, November 2022. Photo Chibo Mertineit

Wokie dokey

Last Thursday’s Council meeting was an example of when a good idea gets kiboshed because the people proposing the idea are considered crazy conspiracy theorists.

Mayor Michael Lyon proposed supporting a draft bill to establish a Commonwealth Postal Savings Bank. But as it turns out, it’s an idea being pushed by Bob Katter’s party and the Australian Citizens Party and the bill aparently also includes a minor pro-mining inclusion.

Cr Lyon’s rejected motion: ‘calls on the Commonwealth Parliament to establish a Commonwealth Postal Savings Bank to provide a people’s bank, fully guaranteed by the Commonwealth, as a dedicated postal savings bank, operating through Australia Post’s corporate and licensed post offices, which will ensure basic banking services – including deposittaking, small business and personal lending, and access to cash – and be available to all Australians’.

Finally, a truth bomb was let off in the chamber of unbearable self-belief and delusion.

There have been rare times throughout history when governments worked in the interests of most (unlike now).

The Commonwealth Bank Act 1911 allowed the bank to serve as both a government-owned trading bank and a savings bank, and according to the www.rba.gov.au, ‘was the only bank to be supported by a Commonwealth Government guarantee’.

But that was when Australia was a young country of poor English convicts. What better way to stimulate the economy than to offer zero- to low-interest loans?

Anyway back to 2022 in a small room in Mullumbimby: There was no problem in principle with the idea of a Commonwealth Postal Savings Bank, said Labor Cr Asren Pugh, but he had a problem with the Citizens Party, who are supporting the bill.

He then accused them and others of being conspiracy theorists and climate deniers.

‘[If adopted] This would mean that we would be a Council that they could name to further their campaign, which is about getting their message out there, across the country. It’s not about delivering on this policy’, he said.

An always enthusiastic Cr Mark Swivel also gushed that the idea was a ‘no brainer’, yet agreed with Cr Pugh that Council’s support will be used for political purposes.

Given all on Council’s plate, Cr Swivel said, it’s ‘not an appropriate use of our limited time here’.

The debate by councillors was a good example of political tribalism, where politicians go to great lengths to explain why they can’t do what is right.

With this motion, for example, it could have been made clear that the intention of a Postal Savings Bank is supported, and nothing more.

It’s not often that The Echo agrees with the mayor.

In fact, this is perhaps the first time ever; we are concerned by the many poor decisions and an aggressive, beligerant leadership style that backs Council staff over the community.

Symbolically saying you support a good idea, regardless of who came up with it, can be done in an instant in the chamber, and then councillors can quickly move on to other things.

Other things last week included realising that a natural burial location that has been worked upon for years won’t work. How much did that exercise cost ratepayers?

Another debated item was held in secret – the Mayoral Fund 2022/2023 – Allocation of Funding.

Why all the secrecy, councillors?

Hans Lovejoy, editor News tips are welcome: editor@echo.net.au

When Tony Abbott won the Liberal Party leadership in 2009, he said the politics of climate had changed. He was referring to soaring electricity prices and his belief that blaming these price hikes on the Rudd government’s proposed climate change commit ments would bring him electoral success.

It led to the demise of the carbon pollution reduction scheme (with the support of the Greens), a change of Prime Minister, and eventually inac tion on climate change for well over a decade.

But this time around, the progressive politicians are getting smarter at combating arguments around electricity and petrol prices.

Last weekend, Premier Daniel Andrews took the Victorian election in a landslide with a key commitment to reinstate the State Electricity Commission (SEC). The revived state-owned energy commission will pump out 100 per cent renewable energy into the grid, which can only be achieved through significant investment into clean, green energy supply.

The SEC in Victoria was originally privatised under the Kennett government, which led to higherthan-needed prices for consumers, a reliance on coal and the offshoring of profits.

Of course, international events such as the war in Ukraine are beyond anyone’s control and fore sight. Yet, our current energy crisis has shone a light on the weakness of neo-liberal ideology about what should be state-owned regulated monopolies.

Over the last two quarters, ExxonMobil, Chevron, Shell, BP, ConocoPhillips, and TotalEnergy earned over $100B more than they earned all of last year, and more than two-anda-half times what they earned in the same quarters of 2021.

In Australia, there have been significant profits in the last two years for key firms in the ASX Energy Index, which itself is up around 48 per cent in an environment where the broader market is down five per cent over the same period (a windfall profits tax anyone?).

Both the federal election earlier this year and the Victorian result over the weekend, however, suggest an

awakening on climate policy in our nation state.

A similar energy debate is brewing here in NSW. The government in Macquarie Street may take pride in its decision to privatise our state’s distributors and generators – but we’re all paying the price. Why? Simple; privatising a monopoly means monopoly profits without genuine competition.

The lack of investment and com mitment in renewable energy means we haven’t built the infrastructure to ensure we can move away from coal as our primary source of energy in times of need (i.e. right now!).

Opposition leader, Chris Minns, has already committed to no further pri vatisation in NSW – setting the scene for another energy focused campaign in this state come March 2023.

Western Australia, which has kept its electricity network in public hands, has seen energy prices increase less than one tenth com pared to NSW.

The Victorian election shows there is a way to reverse the privatisation trend and ensure a state can control its own energy security through clean means, creating jobs (around 60,000) and reducing the whole state’s footprint on the environment.

The federal government recently announced details of its offshore wind energy program in six regions across the country, including the coal communities of the Hunter and Illawarra. This is another significant policy shift in energy supply for our grids.

In addition, and separately, the government has recently joined the Global Methane Pledge – becoming one of the last major developed economies to sign on to the effort to reduce methane emissions by 30 per cent from 2020 levels by the end of this decade. Methane, which is predominantly produced by livestock, is the next big climate challenge, after fossil fuels,  as it contributes around a quarter of Australia’s total emissions.

To reduce these methane emissions the government will need to support methods that curtail the impact of cattle that fart and burp!

One of the innovative ways of tackling this particular problem is through an Australian owned innova tion, with companies like Seaforest leading the charge.

They produce a seaweed-based supplement that mitigates methane in livestock i.e. once they are fed the seaweed supplement, their burps and farts become 98 per cent less potent in the atmosphere! The product is already creating tangible emissions reductions and commercial benefits to farmers and feedlots.

At the last budget, the government made some modest commitments around further research into methane reduction. However, there is a long process to go in getting farm ers onside to use a new feed additive. Having said that, the government controls significant levers that could one day see farmers gain carbon credits for producing cattle that are environmentally friendly. Beef eaters might also become interested in choosing food that has a lower impact on the environment.

Australia may be lagging behind after so many years of inaction, dis traction and denial on climate. Only recently federal politicians (ahem, Morrison) were seen standing in the parliament with chunks of coal in their hands praising the producers of fossil fuels.

Even with all the hysteria coming from far right wing media, the good news is these recent shifts in Australian politics indicate of real change. There is clearly a long way to go, but bold progress is being made – and as we’ve just seen again in Victoria, the people are demanding a better climate.

Damian Kassabgi is a former senior policy adviser to prime ministers Gillard and Rudd.

election shows there is a way to reverse the privatisation trend and ensure a state can control

– Damian Kassabgi

Luxcon’s big con Developer Luxcon calling their new high-end development in the centre of Byron ‘Bohemian’ couldn’t be more on the nose.

Judging by the artist’s impression on the development’s website (no actual art was involved, it’s a computer program), the place looks about as un-bohemian as one can get. White-on-white (of course), a bit of beige, and dripping in luxury.

Calling this posh joint ‘Bohemian’ is as misguided as calling a five-star resort ‘Humility’, or a casino ‘Hunger’. A quick Wikipedia search is all it takes to find a description of Bohemian as ‘anti-establishment in political and social views, often expressed through art, frugality, simple living, van dwelling or voluntary poverty’. Hardly fitting for a complex of 44 luxe apartments and a retail plaza costing $200 million.

This development is an insult to a word I love, a word that better defines my musician friends living out of their cars, or my artist friend in her shack, surviving on tofu and farmgate broccolini. It’s a word that belongs to the poets living six-to-asharehouse who meet up on Friday nights to lament, in verse, the cost of living and housing insecurity.

Luxcon is living up to its name. A ‘luxury con’. Stealing

words of rebellion against capitalism for their flagrant capitalist agenda. As always, the elite are so devoid of originality all they can do is ride the wave created by true mavericks and artists.

Benjamin Gilmour Federal

Vehicles on beaches

Some Ballina councillors have their heads in the sand about vehicles on beaches! I ask them to think about the fact that increasingly other areas have banned vehicles on beaches and that this was done for good reasons.

Letters to the Editor

Beaches in Ballina Shire are some of the few that 4WD people can use, hence we’ve had more than our fair share over the years. I don’t want to get into the rhetoric about naughty Queenslanders coming here being prime culprits, but do ask yourself: why are their local beaches closed to vehicles?

How can people seriously consider camera surveillance when what will be seen will be the resulting destruction? It will not prevent it. And talk about stretching Council’s resources (both staff and finances)! There’s better things our ratepayers’ money can be doing for the environment – like banning vehicles on all beaches, like regenerative plantings, like educating people about the precious nature of beaches.

And to those people who want to drive on the beach for recreation, be aware

that health practitioners are encouraging us all to walk more. Forgo this advice? Your legs may fall off!

K Lavender

Lennox Head

BS wildlife corridor Byron Greens congratulate Byron Shire Council on its commitment to wildlife corridors and to developing wildlife corridor mapping. We live in a nationally recognised biodiversity hotspot but also in a worldwide extinction crisis. So, there’s an urgent need to respond. The good news is that we can make a difference.

Corridor links provide a significant lifeline for fauna, flora and endangered ecological communities. Importantly the mapping developed for Council by Landmark has taken into account the ability for

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NSW Forestry challenged over failed forestry practices in precedent-setting case

Aslan Shand

What makes bushfires worse, causes native species collapse and creates forest dieback? Bad logging practices, which are being challenged on multiple fronts in the NSW Land and Environment Court (L&EC) following Monday’s decision by Justice Sandra Duggan to hear two challenges to logging approvals granted over 800 hectares of old growth and critical habitat in the Cherry Tree State Forest south-west of Casino.

‘They changed the legislation in 1998 to make it almost impossible to challenge the NSW Forestry Corporation as we had done in the early 1990s,’ explained ecologist and expert witness in the case, Dailan Pugh.

First of its kind

The matter is being brought by Wudjebal/Wahlubal Elder David Mundine. It is the first challenge of its kind to a logging approval in NSW, according to Al Oshlack from the Indigenous Justice Advocacy Network who is representing Mr Mundine.

‘This case has been three years in the making and its importance, both environmentally and to Indigenous rights, cannot be over-emphasised,’ said Mr Oshlack.

‘Our extensive research

has exposed Forestry approvals and practices are causing massive environmental damage including pollution and biodiversity loss, and are a leading cause of the looming extinction crisis,’ he explained.

Forestry NSW’s attempt to have the case, relating to NSW Forestry’s harvest plans, dismissed at a hearing on Monday, 21 November failed.

Mr Mundine, a lead Native Tile Applicant for the Western Bundjalung, is claiming he has been denied procedural fairness because NSW Forestry failed to consult with traditional owners as required under the Native Title agreement.

The Court has ordered that Mr Mundine can present expert evidence that the harvest plan for Cherry Tree State Forest will not deliver ‘ecological sustainable forest management’ as required under section 67L of the

Forestry Act.

The case has forced Forestry NSW to give undertakings to the Court in lieu of an injunction to cease all logging operations in Cherry Tree State Forest.

Five days in court

The potentially precedent-setting case is set down for five days, commencing 5 April, 2023.

Mr Oshlack says the case is already causing controversy as it could set a precedent that will affect all logging approvals in NSW.

An affidavit sworn by Mr Mundine and read in evidence before the Court stated that: ‘During the negotiations for the native title we put our Country first. We were hard pressed by the government representatives, particularly forestry, which was negotiated as a separate agreement to sign off.’

‘We were badly advised to sign that agreement. We were not made aware that agreement would allow logging in our forests on a scale where most of the old trees and places where our animals live would be cleared.

‘We were not informed

of the scale of logging or the lack of consultation and proper protection for our sacred cultural heritage.

BMAD

Jim Morrison, an ecologist who has been studying ‘Bell miner associated dieback’ (BMAD) in forests for over 20 years told The Echo that, ‘Canopy disturbance is the main causal factor in BMAD forest dieback’.

BMAD is caused when an area is logged, which facilitates the invasion and proliferation of lantana creating ideal conditions for the bell miner bird to move in and start farming sap-sucking psyllids. They also chase away other native species. This leads to the forest dying back and can lead to total ecosystem collapse for that area.

‘NSW Forestry don’t manage post-logging at all. That is the problem,’ said Mr Morrison.

‘BMAD is a key threatening process under the NSW environmental legislation. In Cherry Tree State Forest, NSW Forestry logged a couple of compartments in 2016. There was no follow up,

restoration or management of the sites and now they are thick with lantana and you can’t walk through the compartments and there are signs of BMAD in the trees.

‘On the north coast alone there are over 100,000 hectares affected [with BMAD] and the problem is increasing. Now they are looking at logging another four compartments at least and that will cause the bell miner associated dieback to spread further along the Richmond Range.

‘With the way NSW Forestry is logging our state forests they are only going to make it worse.’

Mr Pugh agrees, saying that he recently did an assessment at Cherry Tree State Forest and found that ‘over 90 per cent of koala food trees can be logged. If you do this, then you will cause the koala population to crash.’

He also highlighted that mature and hollow-bearing trees could be logged, which will negatively impact the koala and greater glider populations that were recently listed nationally as

endangered, and the threatened yellow belly gliders among other at-risk species.

‘The Richmond and Upper Clarence, and particularly around the Richmond Ranges, where Cherry is located are some of the worst areas in Australia affected by BMAD,’ confirmed Mr Pugh.

No assessment required

Currently, in NSW there is no significant assessment required of threatened species, such as the koala and greater glider, in the areas to be logged. However, in a recent case in the Supreme Court in Victoria Vic Forests were found to have broken the law ‘by failing to protect endangered gliders when logging in Gippsland and Central Victoria’, according to an ABC report.

‘Justice Melinda Richards used the precautionary principle under ESD (Environmentally Sustainable Development),’ said Mr Pugh, pointing out that it calls into question the viability of the logging industry in Victoria.

Top: Immediately after logging Cherry Tree State Forest in September 2022. Right: Lantana invasion after logging in Cherry Tree State Forest in 2015, which creates ideal

for BMAD. Photos Dailan Pugh

Assange controversy: what are the facts?

The controversy over the actions of Julian Assange seems to miss a crucial point. His motive for seeking asylum at the Ecuadorian Embassy was not to avoid charges of rape in a Swedish court.

He sought asylum because he believed, once in Sweden, he would be forcibly extradited to the USA and convicted on politically motivated charges, which would have put him behind bars for life.

It is disingenuous to suggest that his supporters would in any way excuse him if he was found guilty of rape. With due respect there are many more intelligent, reliable people, including two barristers, who support Assange, than detractors who agree with John Donnellan’s view of events. Assange even has Barnaby Joyce on his side!

Patrick Lenfesty Ballina

In reply to John Donnellan’s latest shrill attempt to besmirch Julian Assange’s character, it is important to highlight that no charges related to accusations from a trip Assange made to Sweden in 2010 were ever laid.

Exhaustive investigations were conducted and

concluded. These investigations included two days of Assange being grilled by Swedish authorities in 2016, a year before any statute of limitation ran out. This interviewing occurred without the requirement for Assange to travel to Sweden.

Assange was right to question the need to go to Sweden for police interviewing, something Swedish authorities eventually conceded. This did not in any way inhibit Swedish authorities meticulously exploring the matter.

Is Mr Donnellan privy to information nobody else is aware of? Was he in Stockholm in 2010 hunched wide-eyed by a window?

The outcome of Swedish police investigations was unequivocal: no grounds existed to pursue charges. Donnellan suggests people should be harshly punished for merely being accused of criminality.

Imagine a legal system based on Donnellan’s premise that accusation alone merits the meting out of punishment. That is the abandonment of rule of law. That is the dystopian lawlessness of Orwell’s 1984, where any persons

daring to question authority are themselves labelled a criminal.

In a week that saw Drew Pavlou physically removed from our houses of parliament for being classified as ‘high risk’, and former politician Danny Lim having his cheek fractured by police after being arrested for peacefully protesting on the streets of Sydney, it is apt we consider Julian Assange and the spread of state-sanctioned persecution, meted out to those people with the courage to exercise their right of free speech.

It is time people woke up to the rising thuggery of the state apparatus, and the concerted attacks on our civil liberties by a governance system captured by corrupted global market interests. This is what Julian Assange has been tirelessly warning us of for decades. This is what Wikileaks continues to bring to the light of public scrutiny. This is why Assange, and his fight for transparency and disclosure of government and media, stands alongside likeminded historical figures who shared his vision of freedom from oppression.

Marc Westley Mullumbimby

Gulihl Art exhibition – bringing First Nations artists and their connection to Country to you

Belle Budden

Byron’s ‘pop-up’ Firefly Art Gallery is presenting the work of local First Nations artists in the upcoming Gulihl Art exhibition in Marvell Hall. The social enterprise style gallery based in the Byron Arts and Industry Estate holds the artworks from First Nations artists from, and living in, the Bundjalung Nation.

Michelle Michels, director of Firefly Arts and Design, works with local First Nations artists to promote cultural and educational art. ‘First Nations art is based around depictions of Country, lore and the totem animals. This reminds us of the importance of the land and flora and fauna, it is sacred to our First Nations brothers and sisters and the art works can be gentle reminder of the beauty of Country and the precious animals and to protect and preserve all this.’

Artworks from Country

Gulihl translates as ‘smart’ or ‘clever’. All these works are definitely clever and smart art. Which all our community has been through this year,

biodiversity to respond to the impacts of climate change. By mapping areas of high conservation value, including 62 threatened vertebrate fauna species, 65 threatened flora species and 11 threatened ecological communities we now know which areas require urgent protection.

The corridors provide connection, refuge and the opportunity for biodiversity to thrive. It’s hoped landowners will respond and undertake protection and plantings, especially, important riparian waterway links

we thought it was a great time to share these amazing original artworks from Country with everyone in the region’.

The exhibition will include local First Nations artists such as Widjabul Wia-bul artist Oral Roberts, and amazing women artists Kate Constantine (Gadigal/Konstantina) and Belle Budden (Wakka Wakka/Kierrabelle Art) with a wide array of work including traditional and contemporary paintings, native plant pigment artworks, and woven wearable pieces. Emerging artist, Melinda Simon (Worimi artist), will be joining the collection of talented artists. Mel paints sea creatures and mermaids from her Country in vibrant colours, her artworks are mesmerising. Artist from other First Nations will also be included in the show.

Creating, part of life

‘I’ve been creating since I was a young child of four or five years old, sitting on the floor drawing with my father,’ explains Mel.

‘What most inspires me is Country and I wish to pay homage to nature, bringing about an awareness to care for our environment. I hope people will take away some

and where there are gaps in the existing corridors. This is an initiative that deserves community support. Please make a submission by 28 November and also encourage Council to seek partnerships with our state and federal governments to provide funds that will ensure that these nationally significant ecological survival links are protected and enhanced.

Jan Barham Byron Greens

Dogs – stay out Byron’s Main Beach and playground is a no-dog area.

Accommodation support after storms and

shared knowledge of the beauty of Country that we all live in; and for them to share the love we have in caring for our Country so that we may help stop climate change and the extinction of our beautiful environment.’

Oral Roberts has mentored many artists across Bundjalung Country and his work has contributed to the restoration of cultural

About ten signs clearly state this and unless someone is indifferent, or dumb, or a combination of the above it’s obvious.

And at any given day there are dogs there, most off leash and roaming. The police can’t be bothered, Council is too busy slapping fines on parked cars, and the rangers seem to predominantly exist on salary lists. That’s why anyone ruthless enough can walk their dog in and on the no-dog parks and beaches around here with impunity. You are more likely to meet a two-headed wallaby than a ranger on patrol.

practice and inspiredg many others to keep up their cultural practice. His well known work features important totems and stories of Country. Oral has been painting since he was six years old.

‘I’d like to see people going away feeling happy, with a smile on their face, understand what we are and how we love this land,’ he said.

One day one of those dogs on the beachfront will attack and injure a person, as happened in the Roadhouse cafe some years ago. Except, on a kids’ playground that’s going to be much worse – and as a dad I’m worried every time I see a dog there.

And then all those salarylist-dwellers will try to avoid responsibility and play the blame game after someone got hurt on their watch because of pure negligence. Let’s be clear; the law is there, the will is not. A patrol every now and then, some heavy fines and the issue would be sorted.

Love of Country is what unifies the artists. Community and Country have been under enormous pressure through the past few years and the Gulihl exhibition will showcase a celebration of First Nations connections to both. Firefly Art Gallery will bring together community to support and celebrate the work of our First Nations artists.

Experience our Culture

Kate Constaintine has exhibited work in London, Paris, Edinburgh, Herefordshire, Sydney and Melbourne, but ‘I always love coming home to a mob exhibition to support those that have always supported me,’ she says.

‘This exhibition is the perfect way for you and your kids to come and experience our Culture – I sincerely look forward to seeing you there.

‘We have been long silenced, long misunderstood and mistreated – it’s time to hit the regeneration cycle and put things right. I’m showing some pieces inspired by the cycling of nature and its patterns. No start, no middle and no

Or, let’s wait till someone else gets hurt.

Michael Brechbuhler Byron Bay

Follow school buses

In Byron Shire and beyond, we have a regular, convenient and reliable public transport system moving thousands of commuters through rapid connections and a rural on-demand pick up and set down at the front gate.

Anyone who has ridden the school bus system can’t help but marvel on how efficient and well operated it is. It gives every school child

end – but instead a cycle of life. It’s so interesting to disconnect your mind, as our old people have done for millennia, and stop thinking in linear time and begin thinking in cycles. It’s amazing how many of our so-called priorities and privileges are irrelevant when we can do this,’ she said.

‘I’d love for the local community to come out in force and support these amazing established local artists. Uncle Oral has been creating up on Country for decades and Belle has been practising but also advocating for Aboriginal people in this area since her teens. These beautiful people deserve the honour of a big turnout and lots of sales. I’m just very happy and humbled to be included in the lineup and be able to lend my voice to raise them up!’

The Gulihl Art First Nations exhibition is in Marvell Hall, Byron Bay on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 December. The show opens at noon on Saturday with an opening event and artists’ talk from 3–5pm. The show will be open 11am–5pm on Sunday. For more information contact info@fireflyartgallery.com.

the opportunity to get to and from school in a reasonable time, even if it is in another shire.

Outside the twice daily movement of students, the system grinds to a halt.

Drivers clock off, buses sit idle in the street and facilities go quiet. For everyone else there is no regular service.

Connections are poor.

Significant service gaps exist between the north, south and rural areas. A lack of shelters, stops, and bus bays often makes any service in rural areas invisible. Bus stops for locals are removed

▶ Continued opposite

at-home caravan program

Visit nsw.gov.au/caravan

Melinda Simon, Oral Roberts and Michelle Michels and other First Nations artists will be displaying their work.

Photo supplied

from main streets making public transport choice less convenient.

Reliability is particularly bad. Timetable information is hard to find and often wrong. The ‘trip planner’ app is a major disrupter of travel plans. I have personally logged hundreds of instances of out-of-date information and unlisted ‘ghost’ services. This approach to public transport is the marginal band-aid approach. And it’s a pretty scabby one at that. To bring our idle transport resources into a system that actually works for people requires political attention. Negotiating another bandaid through existing agencies will not heal the wound. Neither will good, but simple tonics such as switching to an E-Bus fleet.

The school bus system shows what can work. Let’s step forward with public transport as part of an integrated transport system, rather than as an isolated, marginal and disconnected system with little relevance to most people.

Our community has consistently told Council that public transport is a key issue. With this, Council has the authority to lead strongly with surrounding councils for

reform and funding. With the political parties having gone to sleep on this issue, Council’s vocal leadership looks to be the best way forward.

Basil Cameron Goonengerry

Waste solutions

Australia has a waste problem. Take plastic for example. Australians throw away around 179 million empty bottles of shampoo, conditioner and other personal care products each year, contributing to 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, or 100kg per person. Of this, 84 per cent is sent to landfill. And this is set to increase with the recent collapse of the soft plastic recycling program, REDcycle.

And food waste is worse. The 2021 National Food Waste Strategy Feasibility Study found that we create 7.6 million tonnes of food waste each year or 312kg per person. Food waste costs the economy a staggering $36.6 billion per annum and, like plastic, almost all food waste goes to landfill.

Fortunately, some new developments are in the pipeline. Australian company Rtec has reportedly discovered a way to recycle soft plastics in a single step. Another Australian company, Zero

Co replaces plastic personal care bottles with a set of ‘forever’ bottles made from ocean, beach and landfill waste (OBL), and provides a set of refill pouches made from recycled plastic and a postage-paid return envelope. For food waste, the federal government’s Food and Garden Organics (FOGO) collection service operating in about half of Australia’s local government councils has the capacity to reduce waste to landfill by 40 per cent.

It seems there are solutions out there. We just need to care enough to seek them out.

Ray Peck Hawthorn

Byron paramedics

Our health services are seriously under-resourced, wait times at emergency departments are out of control, nurses have been on strike for safe staffing levels, and there are fewer paramedics on the road, resulting in patients waiting longer to receive an ambulance. So I was apprehensive when I sought medical help last Saturday (19 November).

I rang Byron Hospital about my covid symptoms and was promptly put through to a registered nurse

The Vikings Weekender has been an end-of-year fixture on the ACT tournament calendar for almost a quarter of a cen tury and Junta Ikeda, who won the event for the seventh time last week, has been the dominant competitor.

Ikeda, now 31, took his first Vikings title in 2004 aged 13, and captured four more Vikings wins over the next seven years.

Yet curiously over the next decade – the period in which Ikeda joined Australia’s chess elite and earned Olympic selection –the ACT’s best player could man age only one more Vikings crown in six attempts.

In 2022, however, Ikeda looked every inch a winner, holding off the challenge from veteran week end warrior Stephen Solomon to secure the $1,000 first prize. (Mind you, this is just a fraction of the $3,500 that ANU student Anton Smirnov took home by travelling to Tasmania and win ning the main event at the new Huon Valley Chess Festival on the same weekend as Vikings.)

Ikeda’s win will cover his flight this week to Japan where he has become a major figure in chess promotion and education. After he won the 2013 Japanese Championship as a guest, Ikeda had the opportunity to transfer his allegiance to Japan, with nearcertain Olympic representation.

Ikeda stayed with Australia and earned a place in Australia’s Tromso Olympiad team in 2014. However, in recent years Ikeda has also done much to assist Japanese chess, through a wide ranging Twitter account as well as a blog on juntaikeda.com.

Vikings Weekender 2022

Can ‘local’ save anything? Will you be the movement?

Helena Norberg-Hodge

In a time of multiple major crises, localisation can seem far too small, and far too slow to make a difference.

Our loss of local food systems, economies and identities … has amounted to a near-absolute loss of independence for ordinary people.

Recognising that most of these crises have been caused or exacerbated by the global economic system is the place to start. Long before Putin, Davos or Bill Gates, centralised power was built by global trading elites breaking down local social cohesion and deep ecological knowledge about specific places.

Our loss of local food systems, economies and identities – be that through forceful colonialism or through insidious means like globalising economic policy – has amounted to a near-absolute loss of independence and

who assessed I needed an ambulance. Very soon two paramedics arrived at my house in Byron, checked me over, and said I needed IV fluids, which they could infuse right there in my bedroom. Hospital at home. They hooked up the drip to my curtain rail and assured me that with this medicated fluid in me I would feel much better. They were so calm, professional, and reassuring. They left after saying that they would return immediately if I felt worse.

autonomy for ordinary people.

It has roped us into dependence on big business and big government, on global trade, on the machinery of corporate capitalism.

Reweaving localised relationships is therefore a humble but systemic act of resistance to globalist rule.

We cannot wait for some top-down saviour: a new politician? Elon Musk? the BRICs? We can build parallel systems from the ground up.

Localisation is about community reliance. It means building bridges between the farmers and the shop

Before they left they asked if they could do anything else for me. I live alone, so I asked if they could change my soiled bed linen and they agreed – well outside their official role.

Their kindness meant a great deal to me at that moment. I give a heartfelt thank you to a system that despite being under great pres sure still managed to provide me with exemplary service. Finally a special thank you to those two great paramedics.

Pam Ditton Byron Bay

owners, the builders and the care-workers, the councillors, the educators and the activists, in order to create a living, breathing, systemic alternative to the corrupt global economy.

Start with our most basic need – food. I have seen the profound benefits of farm ers’ markets – for farmers and consumers, ecosystems and economies alike.

I’m convening an action group to look at strengthening the local food economy by taking a whole-systems approach.

Helena Norberg-Hodge, director of Local Futures, will be speaking on ‘Going local to save our planet – and ourselves’ at Turning Point Talks, Courthouse Hotel, Mullumbimby, on Wednesday, 30 November.

Development risk

Thank you, Aslan for your editorial. The public are to suffer a great deal in the future if all issues are to be ‘shuffled’ by the NSW government’s various departments. Recent reports on ABC TV on the floods in Forbes have revealed that insurance companies have withdrawn from any compensation for future flood victims. This includes residents on high land according to the mayor of Forbes.

We may well ask will ‘West

Byron and Arts and Industry Estate residents, businesses etc expect the same?’

The West Byron development continues with more questions than answers surrounding it. Why are risk factors and consequences so completely ignored by Byron Council? They seem to hide behind the skirts of the NSW government and be obedient children rather than diligent mature representative adults!

Jo Faith Newtown

Climate change: It’s here, say Australia’s peak science organisations

Top scientists renew calls for urgent decarbonisation

Cosmos Magazine

Climate change is impacting Australia today and will further impact human lives.

That’s the takeaway from the biennial State of the Climate Report published by the nation’s leading scientific organisations, the CSIRO and the Bureau of Meteorology.

It reports Australia’s climate has heated by an average of 1.47 degrees since 1910. While that figure is limited to the Australian continent only, it is notably 0.03 degrees shy of the 1.5-degree cap sought by the Paris Climate Agreement.

Sea temperatures have risen by 1.05 degrees on average since 1900, burdening oceans with more frequent extreme heatwaves and acidification.

Sea level rise has been recorded around Australia, with the report noting increased ‘risk of inundation and damage’ to infrastructure and communities along the coast.

Data published in the report show an increase in the temperature anomaly (which are departures from a three-decade averaging period from 1961–90) from the middle of the century.

Such is the extent of surface temperature change, that the recent La Niña events in Australia – which bring cooler, wetter conditions – were warmer than an El Niño (warmer, drier) event in the decades prior.

In releasing the report, Australia’s Environment Minister, Tanya Plibersek and Science Minster, Ed Husic described its contents as ‘sobering reading’ and proof of ‘the urgent need for action on climate change.’

They also emphasised their government is one that ‘believes… listens… and acts’ in line with science.

That language is stronger than the previous government’s, but effective action requires a significant turnaround in mitigation and carbon reduction activities. Historically, Australia has been one of the world’s highest per capita carbon emitters, and although recent declines in carbon dioxide output from Australia have been recorded, it also remains a top fossil fuel exporter. Mining and export industries globally may also be underreporting their carbon output by two thirds according to recent satellite monitoring.

Greenhouse gases still going up

Increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere are driving current climate

changes. Carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere is now 414.4 parts per million, marking an almost 50 per cent increase on pre-industrial levels.

But methane and nitrous oxides have also rapidly increased in atmospheric concentration. Methane levels are now around 158 per cent more than pre-industrial levels, and methane is 83 times stronger at trapping heat than CO2. The majority of this methane comes from fossil fuel extraction and use, and agriculture and waste.

Climate experts have again taken the release of this report, following similar global reports published this month, to continue calls to end fossil fuel use.

‘The consequences of our continued use of fossil fuels are clear in Australia, like elsewhere,’ says Melbourne University climate science lecturer, Dr Andrew King.

‘The [report] comes on the back of what feels like a never-ending series of extreme events; from the drought and heat of 2019 and 2020, to the more recent floods. Australia is experiencing more extreme heat, more fire weather, and more short-duration extreme rain. These types of extreme weather will only get worse until we approach global net-zero emissions.’

Health professionals, like cardiologist Dr Arnagretta Hunter from the Australian National University, emphasised the physiological risks posed by a warming climate.

‘Climate change is the major threat to health and wellbeing this century,’ Hunter says.

‘Reducing greenhouse gas emissions as fast as possible is so important for our future, as is attention to complexity of climate adaption. This report offers incentives for both rapid mitigation and for increased attention for climate adaptation in communities around Australia.’

Bleak outlook for Australia as fossil fuel use increases

The State of the Climate Report presents several increased risks for Australia, among them are increases in

extreme heatwaves, extreme fire weather, longer fire seasons, and rainfall decline across much of the continent.

When heavy rainfall does occur, it’s more intense. That’s because seven per cent more moisture can be retained by the atmosphere for every degree of additional warming.

Sea levels rose across the globe 25cm since 1880, half of which has occurred in the last fifty years. This is due, in part, to melting ice sheets in the Arctic and Antarctica. But despite an increase in sea ice in the 35 years leading up to 2014, the marked decline in ice coverage recorded since then is attributed to atmospheric and ocean temperature changes.

‘The warming of our oceans is contributing to longer and more frequent marine heatwaves, and this trend is expected to continue into the future,’ says Dr Jaci Brown, the director of the CSIRO Climate Science Centre.

‘We’re seeing mass coral bleaching events more often, and this year, for the first time, we’ve seen a mass coral bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef during a La Niña year. The rate of sea level rise varies around Australia’s coastlines, but the north and south-east have experienced the most significant increases.’

Main Street

Open for takeaway daily, 12 midday until dinner. Menu, more details –@mainstreet_burgerbar 18 Jonson Street 6680 8832

Success Thai

Open Lunch Wednesday –Friday 12 2.30pm.

Dinner Monday Saturday 5 8pm. Closed Sunday 3/31 Lawson St, Byron Bay www.facebook.com/ pages/Success-ThaiFood/237359826303469

Open for takeaway daily, 12 midday until dinner.

Menu and more details

@mainstreet_burgerbar ‘Make a meal of it’ Add chips and a drink, just $5.

All your favourites, every lunch and dinner. Experienced Thai chefs cooking fresh, delicious Thai food for you.

BYO only.

Welcome for lunch, dinner and takeaway. Menus available on Facebook.

The Rocks is back in business! We have a range of freshly sourced dishes, Reverence coffee, and hand-made juices and smoothies at locals prices. Fully licensed, all-day brunch

KARKALLA

Byron Bay

Native Indigenous Restaurant

Cnr of Bay Lane & Fletcher St, Byron Bay 5614 8656

Barrio Eatery & Bar

1 Porter Street, North Byron

Mon–Tues: 7am–3pm Wed–Sat: 7am–10pm www.barriobyronbay.com.au @barriobyronbay 0411 323 165

Supernatural

9 Bay Lane, Byron Bay 0477 629 271

@supernaturalbyronbay

Wahlburgers

Byron Bay

American style burger restaurant & sports bar Upstairs at Mercato on Byron, Jonson Street. www.Wahlburgers.com.au

from 7.30pm Bookings highly recommended, via our website www.karkalla.com.au | @karkallabyronbay

Barrio brings together the local community in a relaxed environment for all-day dining.

The wood-fired oven and open-flame grill is the heart of the restaurant. Keep an eye on socials for daily specials.

Now open for Sunday lunch from 11.30am–3pm

A Slice of Paris in Byron Bay

Come find us down the laneway for delicious share plates, natural wines, cocktails and potions.

Open from 5pm Tuesday to Saturday.

American & local sports played live Family Offer Buy 1 kids meal, get 1 free. $8 after 8 $8 drinks from 8pm Thur–Sun. Live music Fri–Sun.

Open 11am to 9pm daily – dine-in or takeaway.

Barrio now open every Sunday

If

dreaming

Owing to an increased demand for more leisurely Sunday dining in Byron Bay, Barrio have decided to open their doors every Sunday for a long and lazy lunch from 11.30am–3pm.

Indulge in the new summer menu created by chef Santiago Socrate, which features swordfish ceviche with finger lime; Bangalow pork chop with guindillas, capers and lemon; market fish cooked over coal with smoked

butter beurre blanc; grilled market greens, labne, guanciale, preserved lemon; charred Wagyu beef with condiments, and Basque

cheesecake with caramel. Barrio: at Habitat, 1 Porter St, Byron Bay barriobyronbay.com.au

Ballina Farmers Market: on Sundays

Going to Ballina Farmers Market on a Sunday is always a joy. The food and produce are outstanding, as the market hosts the best food producers this region has to offer. It is easy to fill the fridge for the week with all you may need or want. Then there are several delicious breakfast options to choose from; and to eat them by the river is the best, because the location of Ballina Farmers Market is spectacular.

What makes this market especially delightful, locals say, is the people who come and visit the market every week. The joy they bring when they come, shop, get their breakfast and linger to enjoy the atmosphere. There is an ease in the air when strangers chat with one another while waiting in line and in the light banter between customers and stallholders.

Ballina Farmers Market has its origin in a small collection of farmers selling their produce at Missingham Park since the 1980s. George Singh, well known for the beautiful flowers he grows, is the longestserving stallholder who is still at Ballina Farmers Market now.

Marlene and John Mayall, avocado

Greens for energy

growers, also have a long association with this market. They have been joined now by a vast array of organic and traditional farmers and food producers, bringing to the market everything, from meat to berries, bread to seedlings, burgers to sushi, eggs and pasta… and too much more to mention!

Ballina Farmers Market’s home is Commemoration Park by North Creek, however, as the park is currently being rejuvenated, the market is being held next to beautiful Missingham Beach every Sunday 7–11am. Come and join them.

Bangalow Bread: great bread, in Bangalow

Simon Haslam

Yep, the name says it all, Bangalow Bread make bread in Bangalow. But as anyone who’s perused the glutinous plastic bag offerings in the local supermarket will tell you, there’s bread and then there’s Bangalow Bread’s organic sourdough.

Tyson and Jess Phillips took over the small-town bakery in 2019, and brought the traditional methods of the age-old trade of baking into the modern, if still somewhat charming, main street of Bangalow. To use a modern word, this is ‘artisanal’ bread, but it really means something in this context – each loaf is handcrafted by their bakers, free of additives or preservatives.

Their gut-loving sourdough breads, which look fantastic by the way, are made daily by a traditional process and slowly fermented for a minimum of 24 hours so they have just the right amount of taste and chew. They use local suppliers to source everything in season, and fresh local ingredients.

Remember how huge wheatgrass juice was – ten to fifteen years ago? Walk past a local cafe and there’d be people tossing back tiny shots of emerald-green chlorophyll as if it were a virtuous vodka. According to Avi Karny, qualified engineer and plant scientist, and for the past two years owner of Energetic Greens, fresh wheatgrass juicing ‘takes a fair bit of time and material as well as a specialised juicer’ – and yet since his business started reintroducing it at the farmers’ markets he’s seen a steady increase in its sales.

It’s only one of the wildly nutritious offerings at the stall. Organic sprouts and micro-greens are all available, sprouts in a dazzling range I’d not known existed. There’s broccoli and snow pea and radish sprouts, sunflower and buckwheat sprouts, barley grass and salad mix sprouts, all certified organic, neatly and cleanly packaged; the wheatgrass in serried ranks of vibrant

and clover,

content increases 500 per cent when the seeds sprout, bursting with vitamins and antioxidants and enzymes. They truly are a superfood, and yet I’ve often wondered about their uses, apart from in salads. Avi, however, is educating me: ‘The more delicate ones such as broccoli and radish’, he says, ‘are mainly used to enrich sandwiches and salads. The hardy ones, such as sunflower and snow pea, can also make a great stand-alone snack, being so crunchy and full of flavour.’ What’s more, he adds, ‘some varieties go really well in hot dishes such as soups and stir fries – add them on top and mix in, they will remain crunchy and add texture.’

He personally consumes sprouts every day. ‘With some olive oil and balsamic vinegar: such a delight!’. I can well imagine.

Energetic Greens are at Mullumbimby on Fridays from 7–11am.

Just to further reduce your ‘food miles’ all the freshly baked items in the shop are made in house, and it’s not hard to find an advocate online for any one of their bakery items, including: some of the best pies you’ll ever taste (filled with slow cooked locally-sourced beef cooked on-site); musthave lemon tarts; exotic savoury focaccias (such as the jalapeno and cherry tomato version); chocolate mud cakes topped with maple bacon and peanut brittle; vanilla slices made with butter puff pastry and passionfruit icing… and all the rest. They all go perfectly with their coffee.

But, at the end of the day – or perhaps at the beginning of the day if you’re one of those people who can leave the house to buy fresh bread and then return to have it for breakfast – you should take home a loaf of their sourdough bread. Imagine how satisfying it will be to plonk it down in your kitchen and say, ‘Look at that, that’s Bangalow bread for you’.

So much more satisfying than buying bread from the distant faceless corporations who sell bread in the supermarket.

Where do you get this

Bangalow bread?

Bangalow Bread Co. 12 Byron St, Bangalow bangalowbread.co

Mon–Fri 6am–3pm. Sat and Sun 7am–2pm.

V. Cosford

green. Sprouts are the germinated seeds of plants like alfalfa and mustard

their nutrient

Avi Karny: qualified engineer and plant scientist.

WEEK 1 WINNERS!

Camilla Reynolds

– shopped at Mullum Newsagency

Renelle Harries – shopped at Santos

Sasha – shopped at IGA

Gail – shopped at Devine Meats

Jo Spice – shopped at Hooked & Cooked

Oh the joy that it is to shop in Mullum

Like it or lump it, good old ‘Santa’ is well and truly on his way and most of us will be either gratifying or attempting to appease the urge to go out and consume. I’m not a great shopper. Usually I will have a list and grimly work my way through it, hoping to get to the end with dignity, sanity and bank balance intact. I remember going to Tweed a couple of years ago and coming away ‘mall appalled’. Pale, frustrated and strangely manic folk everywhere you looked, and by the end of the day you were one of them... burning carbon miles on the way home trying to make sense of at least some of it. Last year I made the choice to shop locally in Mullumbimby and realised that you can get almost anything in our town that you could get from the mall... and a lot more besides. I also paid 15 bucks less for the same pair of boots in Mullum than those I had bought the year before. I felt more relaxed and actually made some really good buying decisions... except for maybe the pink board shorts I still haven’t worn... must have got lost in the moment there. The mall has lost a thrall...

– Brian Mollet

We’re back baby!

Our renovations are almost wrapped up and our brand new store is now open!

We’ve got your Christmas gift ideas wrapped up too!

From beautifully boxed gift sets from some of your favourite brands, to Christmas hampers, to beauty products for him and her and essential stocking fillers. With a great range of health food products like teas, sauces, nuts and other recommendations we can help you create your own selected Christmas hampers too!

Or shop online!

Simply go to www.govitabyronbay.com.au click and collect or have your shopping delivered straight to you.

For our members make sure you mark the date on your calendar for our final Super Tuesday (and Wednesday) celebrations for 2022.

Tuesday 6th and Wedneday 7th December. We can’t wait to welcome you back!

Byron Bay

Byron Bay

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Go Vita Byron Bay

Go Vita Byron Bay have wrapped up their renovations and they are back in their original location at 2/69 Jonson Street.

They have got your Christmas gift ideas wrapped up too, with beautifully boxed gift sets and Christmas hampers, beauty products for him and her and essential stocking fillers. With a great range of health food products like teas, sauces, nuts and more they can help you create your own selected Christmas hampers too!

Or make your shopping easier. Simply go to www.govitabyronbay.com.au and choose click and collect, or have your shopping delivered straight to you. Go Vita members make sure you mark the date on your calendar for their final Super Tuesday (and Wednesday) celebrations for 2022 on 6 and 7 December. 2/69 Jonson Street, Byron Bay www.govitabyronbay.com.au

Balloon Aloft

Spring into summer with family and friends this season on a special morning adventure! Hot air ballooning is a great way to celebrate the region, drifting aloft with the vast hinterland and treetops below. From above, you will get to see the rolling hills of the Northern Rivers and the first rays of Australia’s sunrise.

Enjoy a breakfast after the flight at Three Blue Ducks restaurant, The Farm. www.balloonaloftbyronbay.com

Merry Christmas!

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Byron Bay Pork

It’s that very merry time of year again and the butchers at Byron Bay Pork are preparing the finest cuts of Christmas meats and selections for customers.

Your local family-owned business in Mullumbimby and in Byron Bay, they source premium quality pork, beef, lamb and goat from their family farms. All meats are antibiotic and hormone free.

They have locally-sourced and smoked leg hams along with free range chickens, ducks and turkeys. Their specialty sausage range includes a gluten-free variety, salami and they stock a range of locally produced smallgoods, sauces, spices and products.

Come in and see the friendly staff, or place an order on the phone, for all your festive season needs.

Open Monday to Saturday.

70 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby or 130 Jonson street, Byron Bay 6684 2137

Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club

Christmas Raffles for 2022 will commence Sunday 4 December, with their famous Monster Toy raffle. Tickets selling from 3pm and winners drawn from 5pm.

The Monster Toy Raffle has something for all ages; 45 individual prizes and over $3000 in toys to be won. Nintendo Switch console, Apple Watch, four bikes, and toys from all your favourite brands such as LEGO, Barbie, Paw Patrol, Bluey, Spider-Man, Peppa Pig, Nerf, Fisher-Price plus loads more.

For those of us not organised with our Christmas shopping, or if you are looking for a stocking filler, join them for their Monster Toy Raffle.

They will have free children’s entertainment, circus, magic, and bubbles 4–6pm. Plus a visit from the big man himself, yes, Santa will be dropping by.

58 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby 6684 2533

www.mullumexservices.com.au

Christmas Toy Raffle

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Virtual Golf Centre Ballina

Looking to try something new and different in Ballina?

Come along and visit this state-of-the-art-indoor, air-conditioned virtual golf facility, with an amazing atmosphere.

Fully licensed and ready to cater for your next work or family function. Family friendly.

Great for the seasoned golfer, the beginner, or those just wanting to have some fun with mates.

Come play some of the best golf courses in the world, like St Andrews and Augusta. Also plenty of virtual golf games for the non-golfers, like putt putt and target golf games.

They welcome you to bring your own clubs. If not, they have clubs for you.

Gift vouchers and lessons available.

Open from 10am till 10pm, 7 days a week. 14 Ascot Rd Ballina www.virtualgolfcentre.com.au

Byron Bay Camping & Disposals

Your one-stop shop for Christmas and your next outdoor adventure.

If you need sleeping bags, tents, work boots, knives, lighting, kitchenware, stoves, mattresses, rainwear, snorkelling and fishing gear – they have it!

Byron Bay Camping & Disposals is a locally owned and operated family business of over 40 years, now located in brand new premises in the Byron Bay Arts and Industry Estate, with plenty of parking available.

Come in and meet the team. Their staff will give you friendly, expert advice, no matter whether your next adventure is a camp out, bush school, fishing trip, multiday hike, or you need Christmas present inspiration.

1/1 Tasman Way, Byron Bay 0439 212 153 www.byron-camping.com.au theteam@byron-camping.com.au

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CHRISTMAS TABLE CENTRE DESIGN CLASS 2022

Saturday 3 December 2022

10am–12.30pm

Make your Christmas table Spectacular this year!

Combine wild foliages, herbs, blooms, fruit, textured dried elements, fragrant cinnamon sticks, anise, moss and wood to create a stunning Christmas feature.

All tools supplied, loads of tips & tricks by two experienced floral teachers, and a stunning take home piece valued at $250.

Includes a glass of champagne or wine, nibbles, tea, coffee and cold drinks in their *NEW* gorgeous warehouse surrounded by flower fields in the Byron Bay hinterland.

Class: $299pp

10% in-store discount on the day Book now by calling 0478544106 or directly via the website https://piktflowers.com.au/

Flowers, fun and creativity!

Bookings open now for this one-off Christmas 2.5 hour Design Class – Saturday 3 December 2022 at Pikt Flower Farm & Florist.

Combine wild foliages, herbs, blooms, fruit, textured dried elements, fragrant cinnamon sticks, anise, moss and wood to create a Christmas themed feature.

Includes: hurricane vase, pillar candle, fresh and dried florals, large water base, (keeping your design fresh for weeks!) tools supplied, tips and tricks, a glass of champagne or wine, nibbles, tea, coffee and cold drinks in their new gorgeous warehouse surrounded by flower fields in the Byron Bay hinterland. $299pp.

$99 deposit required to secure your spot.

Take home piece valued at $250. 10am–12.30pm.

Two floral teachers. Free guidance on refreshing and longevity. 10 per cent in-store discount on the day.

0478 544 106 piktflowers@gmail.com www.piktflowers.com.au

Bolt + Buckle

When it comes to buying gifts for the men in your life, you’ve probably uttered the words “men are so hard to buy for”. Well, that problem is solved with Bolt + Buckle in Murwillumbah, they’re the self-proclaimed “men are so hard to buy for” store.

A great range of the latest casual men’s fashion from brands like Industrie and Levis, and some pop for the festive season from John Lennon shirts will have you covered. Will+Bear hats for up top, and Wild Rhino footwear for down below and your outfit is complete from head to toe.

Add to that an incredible array of gift ideas and leather bags and your men’s Christmas list is complete. Say hi to the team at Commercial Rd Murwillumbah. Cnr Commercial Rd & Proudfoots Lane, Murwillumbah

Fashionably arty!

Love clothes, art and fun? Two local ladies have combined their talents in art and fashion to hold “Dressed to View”, December 2nd - 4th at the Newrybar Hall.

Jenny Campbell, better known as “Jenny Jazz”, will be displaying and selling her latest summer catalogue, a result of collaborations with many fashion houses in Italy. With linens, silks, fresh cottons and funky fabrics her designs complement the many body shapes, ages and tastes.

Kaz Stanton’s work is varied and versatile, covering all genres including landscapes, still lifes, abstracts, portraits and even pets. You may even spot a few local Byron identities captured over the years! Many pieces will be available for purchase.

Friday 2 December 6pm–10.30pm Fashion Show 7.30pm Saturday 3 December 10am–5pm

Sunday 4 December 10am–4pm Newrybar Hall 13/15 Old Pacific Highway, Newrybar

Festive S son

BoMi

comm o live your heyar

and healthi

BoMi’s purpose is to empower you to live your best and healthiest life. Meet BoMi (short for Body & Mind). They are a community health hub of practitioners, health ambassadors, athletes and leaders who believe our whole lives matter, and continue to work towards merging body and mind health. A gathering of experienced and accredited holistic healers can be found at their Byron A&I, where a cluster of specially designed studio spaces will help you to heal, move, and improve, no matter your ailment or concern. Their service list continues to expand; currently they are offering specialised services in the realms of osteopathy, massage therapy, exercise physiology, dietetics and pilates (among others). Reach out today.

0468 442 932

1A Banksia Drive, Byron Bay www.bomi.com.au

Study with Byron Community College in the new year

Colle

Is one of your resolutions for 2023 to create a new and fulfilling career for yourself? Then the flexible and diverse lifestyle that comes with being a Massage Therapist could be just what you need!

Their nationally accredited HLT42015 Certificate IV in Massage Therapy delivers everything you need to start a career in private practice, spa facilities, aged care or sports, including approval to apply for membership to the Australian Traditional Medicine Society.

Certificate courses are also available in Individual Support, Community Services, Horticulture and Permaculture. Enrolments are now open. Fee free and subsidised places are available if eligible. This training is subsidised by the NSW Government. For more information visit www.byroncollege.org.au or call them on 6684 3374. RTO: 90013

Festive S son

Byron Community Market

Come and support local by Christmas shopping at the Byron Community Market this Sunday, 4 December.

Looking for a unique gift to put under the tree? This market has the goods. Spend the day in beautiful Byron Bay and browse over 200 stalls, from handcrafted decorations to locally designed clothing and boutique wares – there’s a Christmas gift for everyone.

Enjoy a delicious meal, take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront and be entertained with live music by Cameron Alexander and Sam Buckley. Get into the Christmas spirit at Byron’s iconic Sunday market.

If you miss this market, there’s a special festive Community Market on December 18 to get your Christmas goodies.

Sunday 4 and 18 December. 8am–3pm, Main Beach Foreshore www.byronmarkets.com.au

Toyworld

For children, toy stores are magic places. At Toyworld you’ll find everything you need to make your child’s Christmas truly magical, with a huge range of high-quality toys that are made to endure. From beautiful rattan dolls’ furniture to organic soft dolls and Jellycat Rabbits in all the colours of the rainbow. Toyworld has all of your favourite brands. It’s hard to go past the range of beautiful wooden infant toys or the extensive range of walkers, ride-ons and scooters to keep kids active.

For the games buff you will find all of your childhood favourites, along with hard-tofind games and quality puzzles for the whole family. For the creative child there are art and craft and science kits to fuel the imagination and teach while they play.

Shop 2, 103 Jonson Street, Byron Bay 6680 8811

64 Woodlark Street, Lismore 6621 3473

Mytoykingdom.com.au

We help make kids Christmas dreams

Retreats Byron Bay: day pass

Tune in, turn on, drop out. #holistichedonism: the pursuit of pleasure that’s good for you! Soak in the saltwater pool, or take some time in the Far Infra Red Sauna with Colour Therapy. Have a psychic reading, book an experiential www.I-of-RA.com/experientials

Feed your creative spark at the drawing table, play a game, or just be amongst the beautiful flora and fauna. Enjoying amazing food from www.aliveandwild.com to awaken a jaded palate and satisfy the hangry.

Available Wednesday to Saturday, 12 noon until 4pm. Bring a friend or come alone. Also available to hire for small gatherings, team building, special events. Bookings essential as numbers are limited. www.retreatsbyronbay.com/day-pass Email stay@retreatsbyronbay.com Text 0412 400 085

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Ninbella

Ninbella Gallery exhibits a fine range of work by First Nations Australian artists alongside paintings by Northern Rivers artists.

They represent highly sought-after, award-winning artists and work directly with wholly Aboriginal owned art centres in remote communities such as Ampilatwatja, Yuendumu, Yirrkala and the Tiwi Islands. Collectable Western and Central Desert artists include Willy Tjungarrayi, Makinti Napanangka, Mitjili Napurrula, Naata Nungurrayi and Dorothy Napangardi.

Among their other contemporary indigenous artists are Kurun Warun, Gloria Gardiner, Ethan-James Kotiau, Gabriella Possum, and Melissa Ladkin.

Local artists Vlad Kolas, Hilary Herrmann, Lae Oldmeadow, Tanith Kershaw, Beryl Miles and Leah Anketell are also represented.

The gallery is a member of the Australian and New Zealand Fair Trade Association and stocks a range of Better World ethical giftware.

ninbella.com grant@ninbella.com 19a Byron Street, Bangalow 02 6687 1936

Red Ned s

Red Ned’s is a family-owned business that has been operating at Tweed for almost twenty years.

They are dedicated to recycling and are proud to do their bit to help the planet. With five showrooms and over an acre of quality recycled building materials and kitchens on display, they’re bound to have whatever you might need!

‘Give us a ring before you get the wreckers in. We pay cash for everything’.

Buying from Brisbane to Byron six days a week.

Monday to Friday 8.30am–4.30pm and Saturday 8.30am–1.30pm.

46 Machinery Drive, Tweed Heads South | 07 5524 4244.

Holy Joe Coffee

It’s smooth, it’s rich and can be enjoyed over ice on a hot day.

Show your office who’s really the boss with a bottle of Holy Joe.

Organic cold drip coffee, brewed for 12 hours and combined with Australian native functional mushrooms to support your health.

Hot or cold; whether you’re making a latte or espresso martini – Give the gift of a perfect coffee.

Find your nearest stockist at www.holyjoecoffee.com

Follow @holyjoecoffee on Instagram

Festive S son

The best Santa photos in the business

Celebrate coastal living with Santa at the Beach. These stunning photos never fail to impress. 2022 is Byron Beach Santa’s 7th year and third La Nina! Through wind, rain and heatwaves the dedicated team at Byron Beach Santa deliver the goods, every year.

Photos sessions 1–21 December.

Don’t miss out on an awesome Christmas photo –bookings essential, through byronbeachsanta.com

Reer Endz – organic cotton mens underwear

Reer Endz, underwear makers of eco-friendly men’s underwear crafted from GOTScertified organic cotton, are based in Lennox Head.

They are an underwear label that cares about you and the planet.

Their goals are simple. They want to eliminate waste, conserve energy and water, avoid chemicals, and wear organic cotton as much as they possibly can.

Organic cotton is a natural, biodegradable and renewable resource. Organic cotton is grown without the use of harsh chemicals and requires less water than conventional cotton.

The Reer Endz team are committed to making the least negative impact on the planet possible, learning more every day, and making as many positive changes as they can along the journey.

#COVERYOURZ www.reerendz.com.au

Festive S son

The Cork Shop

Cork is harvested from the bark of the cork oak tree. It is 100 per cent natural, sustainable, recyclable, durable and waterproof. Cork is also hypoallergenic, microbial and is not prone to stretches or tears. It is an amazing, organic raw material.

Cork is also very soft, smooth, flexible, and incredibly lightweight, which makes it comfortable to wear. Cork is a great vegan alternative to leather. The cork oak tree is unique in that its thick bark can be harvested every nine years or so, and cork oak trees can live up to 250 years.

Cork is used to make many beautiful items such as handbags, shoes, wallets, jewellery, sunglasses, homewares, toys and more. Choosing cork is great for our environment.

thecorkshop.com.au Byron Arcade, 13 Lawson Street, Byron Bay 0422 262 675

Dispensing musical medicine

Son of Drum is a candy store for adults – alive with the sounds of musical instruments you can try out and taste with your ears! They have musical instruments and accessories for all ages and skill levels and to suit any budget. Their range is constantly evolving and improving, so it’s worth swinging by regularly to keep up to date with what’s new. They also carry out instrument repairs and arrange tuition. They pride themselves on their helpful and intimate local knowledge. Oh yeah, and their prices are pretty competitive too! Drop in and see what they can do for you before you buy anywhere else, including online. You may be pleasantly surprised! They’re fully stocked for Xmas.

Shop 1 / 31 Burringbar St, Mullumbimby 6684 1742 www.sonofdrum.com.au

Editor: Eve Jeffery

Editorial/gigs: gigs@echo.net.au

Copy deadline: 5pm each Friday

Advertising: adcopy@echo.net.au P: 02 6684 1777 W: echo.net.au/entertainment

A FESTIVAL FOR FILM BUFFS

Building upon last year’s electric event, the Byron Underground Film Festival (BUFF) returns to shake things up, expand the mind, and celebrate the curious through the majesty of curated films.

To kick-start the event the festival is showcasing the world premiere of Remix Experiment on Friday – the debut feature film by local maestro Benjamin Walsh Saturday is all about Leigh; the portrait of an artist who has used his experiences of abuse, destruction and loss to craft a life of connection and meaning through the art of carving with a chainsaw.

On Wednesday 7 December the program is a healthy dose of risqué films – all about sex! Conversations continue with a Tantric class during the intermission. Friday 9 December will be full of quirk/ comedy films, and is underpinned by BUFF’s trademark stand-up comedians throughout the night.

The brilliance of arthouse will be shown under the stars on Saturday 10 December at the last bohemian stronghold in Byron Bay.

Sunday 11 December screenings take place in three sessions at the Brunswick Picture House, where this year’s award nominees are shown during our Best of BUFF screening.

Godfather of Changa/DMT, Julian Palmer, showcases Contemplations, a doco that delves into the realm of psychedelics and consciousness. A Q&A panel with the director will follow the film.

To cap off the festival, Benjamin Walsh returns to perform a spectacular live musical rendition that will accompany his Remix Experiment. It’s bound to blow the top off the Picture House.

Byron Bay Underground Film Festival, 1–11 December: www.thebuff.com.au.

THE UNASSUMING GROOVES OF BOBBY ALU

Having just clocked up 50 shows with Xavier Rudd, Bobby Alu is back in town for a solo show on the weekend with some smooth harmonies, rhythms inspired by a strong family lineage of Polynesian performance, and unassuming grooves that work a gradual, smile-inducing high for even a casual listener.

Bobby Alu tunes have a way of sneaking into the subconscious and taking up residence. Every now and then, one will pop up as a toe-tapping reminder to take it slow, enjoy the ride. He’s the curator of calm’s way –delivering island-time vibes with gentle optimism rather than forceful instruction, and encouraging the type of reflection best achieved in a hammock. Though it’s not all palm trees and daydreams – there’s a robust energy in Alu’s mastery of traditional Samoan log drums, and a vitality to his songwriting that nods to world, roots and pop intelligence.

With a reputation as a performer that leaves audiences feeling truly good in the heart, Bobby Alu continues to observe the ebb and flow of life while locking into his tried and always true grooves. There’s a fire that comes from the ability to hold a 20,000 strong festival crowd captive with beats, and when mixed with the love that comes from serenading your nearest and dearest with an instrument handed down from your mother, very special moments will always emerge.

A show not to be missed this, Sunday, 4pm at the Hotel Brunswick

GIVING THE 7TH A NUDGE

Turning seven feels like heaven! Cunning Stunts celebrate the seventh birthday of the beloved Nudge Nudge Wink Wink FUNdraiser held at The Billinudgel Hotel! Their purpose, for the past seven years, has been to support local communities. They’re celebrating their seventh birthday by bringing back their traditional Nudge Nudge Wink Wink format to raise as much money as they can to help those who are homeless this holiday season. In line with all the conscious activities Cunning Stunts represent, 100 per cent of online raffle ticket sales (featuring seven of the most popular sponsors contributing exciting

prizes for this special online version of our legendary raffle) and 50 per cent of their profits will be donated to this cause. Be in it to win from the best restaurants, health and wellness operators, and food producers in the area. Prize pool circa $3.3K in value.

Raffle tickets are available online only – so make sure you buy some when purchasing your event tickets.

Exclusive limited merchandise range will be for sale on the day at the event: USBs pre-loaded with a range of the most popular and loved NUDGE DJs’

FIRST GIG AT BYRON’S GREEN ROOM

It was certainly auspicious that the very first event at Byron’s new live music 1500person venue, The Green Room, on Saturday night was sold out. The crowd came to see Xavier Rudd but it was support act Bobby Alu who had the honour of being the first to play. Peter Noble welcomed the crowd to the new venue during the break, paying tribute to the vision of Danny Doepel, who purchased the Byron Arts Factory building in 1984 to create a music venue that attracted local, national and international acts to Byron, the precursor to the East Coast Blues & Roots Festival, which later became Bluesfest.

Rudd’s concert was powerful and compelling and showcased his skilful, wideranging use of instruments and his talent to create luscious musical moods. The venue is on the Byron Events Farm site (the northern car park end of the Bluesfest site) and it looks suitable for all kinds of events, like weddings, conferences etc – they have conditional approval for up to 100 events per year. It’s in a lovely natural setting on the edge of the lake, fringed by trees. On the opening night, a few food trucks flanked the courtyard at one end of The Green Room and punters lazed on the grass or sat on benches or at tables.

The venue itself is more like a giant marquee built on a solid slab, so there’s a concrete apron around the whole room before the grass starts, and solid floor-toceiling walls. The interior was draped with silk. I must say, it’s hugely convenient to attend an event where there is a massive amount of free parking right outside. It seems like the recent floods are being factored into planning for the venue, as according to Peter Noble, since last year they have ‘invested over $500k upgrading and waterproofing the Bluesfest site. Both myself and my team are currently looking at every single aspect of the Bluesfest experience to ensure it’s of the highest quality possible.’ Apparently, there are also plans for a permanent, larger venue.

mixes, calendars, stubbie holders and stickers. Your holiday gifts are sorted. Bring lots of cash on the day for this limited release merchandise.

The DJs for this special celebration include the icon himself: DJ Stephen Allkins; the ladies of Nudge – Laura Peck (Miss L) and Sarah Sutton (Lady S); and our residents Dale Stephen and Lord Sut Throughout the event there will be dance performances by FLUID.

Event tickets and raffle tickets are available bit.ly/Nudge7HeavenTICKETS (a limited number remain).

So far you have helped the crew raise over $364,00, helping 31 charities since December 2015. Funds are donated to locally-based registered NFPs assisting our communities during these challenging times. December’s event continues with a cumulative percentage of their profits being donated from the last Nudge and this. Gotta love community supporting its own!

To ensure you get advance notification of ticket sales for all their events, sign up to their e-newsletter here www.cunningstunts.com.au/subscribe/

Simon Haslam

Xavier Rudd at Byron’s Green Room opening.

Photo: Tao Jones

David Lane is best known for his vibrant and colourful seascapes, however his ability to capture colour and light in his subjects is also reflected in his delightful landscapes and still lifes.

David holds an exhibition of new work and a studio sale at his studio gallery in Tintenbar each year in December. His annual exhibition has become a local icon, and organisers say that this year’s show won’t disappoint. The exhibition offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy his vibrant and colourful paintings in his garden setting and to chat to David about his work.

If you visit David’s exhibition this year you are in for a special treat with his

exhibition including a range of stunning reflections from his recent travels in the Northern Territory and East Kimberlys. His love of our local beaches does, however, continue to dominate his work with some spectacular ocean views, including his signature work Surfers’ Track

While David will have a full range of new paintings for sale, he also has several pieces available in his studio sale. All visitors are welcome to enjoy his work and to enjoy his much-loved garden.

David’s studio gallery is at 31 Fernleigh Road, Tintenbar in northern New South Wales. The gallery is easy to find, just off the motorway, 10 minutes’ North of Ballina and 20 minutes’ from Byron Bay.

SO MANY STRINGS TO HIS BOW

Andy Jans-Brown is a multidisciplinary artist, who works through the mediums of film, music, theatre and art. As a musician he has toured extensively both in Australia and abroad. He has opened the show for Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds fronting his then Sydney band, Iris. He has had his songs played on national radio Triple J, and had his film clips broadcast on RAGE. Leading his band, Andy Jans-Brown & Cozmic, he has played the Caloundra Music Festival Qld, the Indie Entertainment Summit in North Hollywood, California, USA, the Wildwood Festival in Port Macquarie, The Byron Bay Guitar Festival, The Nellijam Festival, Batemans Bay, The Darebin Festival and Warandyte Music Festival. Other notable supports include Phil Jamieson (Grinspoon), Portugal The Man, ME, The Preatures, Boney M, and Stonefield. Andy has also produced two critically acclaimed double albums – Letting Go (2012) and Sunshine Avenue (2014) and has just completed and released a new double album (vinyl) and multiple-awardwinning feature film Hell is Light

Check him out Friday, 5.30pm, at the Ballina RSL.

7 DAYS OF ENTERTAINMENT

The event opens Saturday and Sunday, 3–4 December at David’s Studio Gallery then daily from Thursday 8 December until Sunday 11 December. Opening hours are 11am–5pm.

For more information and to view a selection of his work please visit David’s website www.davidlane.com.au.

INFATUATING AUDIENCES

Byron Bay indie-rock outfit The Collifowers have made a habit of infatuating audiences all along the east coast with their high energy live show since their debut in November of 2021. Pulling elements from legendary influences such as Dire Straits, Pink Floyd and Stevie Wonder, alongside contemporary artists Lime Cordiale, Ocean Alley and Catfish and the Bottlemen, ‘The Colliflower Experience’ is a spectacle that spans generations and genres alike, enjoyed best when served shoulder-to-shoulder in the front row.

The enigmatic pull of the band-turned-best-mates on the stage has contributed to their swift rise, seeing them added to lineups alongside Pacific Avenue, Surf Trash and Lazy Ghost as well as heading down south with Peking Duk, Vera Blue and Cosmo’s Midnight for Festival of the Sun 2022 (before its unfortunate cancellation).

Subscribe to BayFM before December the 13th and you could win a super sharp brand newApple MacBook Airvalued at almost two grand!

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The show must go on however, and in true The Colliflowers fashion, they’re aiming to give the fans what they want with the release of their new single ‘Nighttime Whispers’ in time for summer 2022–23. The release signals a new sonic aesthetic for the group, featuring an immersive atmosphere engineered by fat bass grooves and diverse guitar tones while still holding true to the foundation of luscious melodies and punchy drum tracks that fans have come to expect from The Colliflowers. With more releases on the horizon, 2023 is shaping up to be another stellar outing for The Colliflowers. Be sure to keep an eye on their socials to be the first to hear about new music and shows, and see them for yourself this Friday at the Beach Hotel from 7pm.

CINEMA

SERIOUSLY RED

If you’re a fan of Dolly Parton, then this just might be your happy place for the summer. Seriously Red is a rowdy and rambunctious musical dramedy, finding Red (Krew Boylan) at a crossroads in her life. A vivacious and hilarious redhaired woman grappling with high expectations and low self-esteem, she pours herself a cup of ambition and trades her 9-to-5 career in real estate for a life under the spotlight as a Dolly Parton impersonator.

After misreading her work’s party dress code, Red tumbles out of bed into a new world of tribute artists and impersonators in a wild and messy journey that includes romancing a Kenny Rogers (Daniel Webber) impersonator. Red has to lose herself in order to find herself.

For locals in the Northern Rivers you might find that a few of the streets look familiar; some of the venues may have been on your last pub or theatre

crawl and some of the voices are impersonated by some of the folk you have heard around the traps. Not naming names, but you’ll hear them if you listen carefully. You will even see Celeste Barber!

Tumble out of bed and get yourself to the Ballina Fair Cinemas or the Palace Byron Bay to get your Dolly on and enjoy Seriously Red

WEDNESDAY 30

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, SARAH GRANT

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 12PM DJ WAX ADDICTS 4.30PM GRACE GROVE, 7PM VELVET SUEDE, 8PM DJ MY HAPPY PLACE, 11PM KEL HOLIDAY

FOXY LUU’S, BYRON BAY, 6.30PM TONY AND THE THIEF

TREEHOUSE, BYRON BAY, 6.30PM BEN MITCHELL

THURSDAY 1

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 8PM JON J BRADLEY

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 12PM DJ NOAH DEVEGA, 4.30PM JORDAN MAC, 7PM JEROME WILLIAMS BAND, 9PM DJ ZAC EWING

HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM MATTY ROGERS

CITADEL, MURWILLUMBAH, 7PM JACKIE MARSHALL

FRIDAY 2

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 4PM CHRIS FISHER, 8PM ADAM HOLE BAND

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 12PM DJ REIFLEX, 3.30PM SCHMONE, 6PM THE MERCHANTS, 7PM THE COLLIFLOWERS, 8PM IN THE FLOWERS, 10PM SET MO

BYRON THEATRE 7PM ASCEND PRESENTED BY AG DANCE CO

HOTEL BRUNSWICK 7.30PM THE HIGH GRADE BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 7PM CHEEKY CABARET

LONE GOAT GALLERY, BYRON BAY, 5.30PM TEARAWAYS

EXHIBITIONS OPENING

OCEAN SHORES COUNTRY CLUB 5.30PM GERALD RASCIONATO

OCEAN SHORES TAVERN 7.30PM CHRISTMAS KARAOKE

WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4.30PM DJ ARUANDA

Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975)

HOOPERS, MULLUMBIMBY, 6PM ROD MURRAY – A TRIBUTE TO JAZZ

ST JOHN’S SCHOOL HALL, MULLUMBIMBY, 7.30PM ECSTATIC DANCE MULLUMBIMBY WITH DJ LO QI

MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 8PM KRAPPYOKEE

BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK 5.30PM ANDY JANS-BROWN

SERPENTINE COMMUNITY GALLERY, LISMORE, 6PM LISMORE VISUAL ARTS TAFE GRADUATION SHOW KINGSCLIFF BEACH HOTEL 4PM BEN MITCHELL

TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE STAGE 8PM

MEAT LOAF: THE CONCERT

PEARCES CREEK HALL, PIERCES CREEK, 7PM EMILY MAGUIRE

CLUB LENNOX 7PM SAM BUCKLEY

LENNOX HOTEL HOTEL STAGE 8.30PM NATHAN KAYE

SATURDAY 3

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 4PM LEIGH JAMES, 8PM JAMIE ASHFORTH BAND BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 12PM DJ SOOTY, 4.30PM MICKA SCENE DUO, 7PM SAMETIME, 8PM DJ AXEL TAYLOR, 10PM DJ MADAN HOTEL BRUNSWICK 2PM MARSHALL OKELL, 7.30PM PUSH

BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 7PM CHEEKY CABARET

BYRON TWILIGHT MARKET 5PM GUY KACHEL

BANNER PARK, BRUNSWICK HEADS, 7PM BRUNS RIVER FLICKS – THE ADVENTURES OF PRISCILLA, QUEEN OF THE DESERT RATED M OCEAN SHORES COUNTRY CLUB 7PM THE TYLER DURDENS

WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, DJ ABEL TORO

THE ALLEY, MULLUMBIMBY, 7PM MUMBO JUMBO BILLINUDGEL HOTEL 4PM NUDGE NUDGE WINK WINK – 7 HEAVEN

BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK 6.30PM BALLINA BLUES CLUB WITH FBI

ALSTONVILLE PLATEAU BOWLO & SPORTS CLUB 5PM SING & STRUM

REGENT CINEMA, MURWILLUMBAH, 6PM BALCONY SESSIONS WITH BILL JACOBI TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE SHOWROOM 8PM A HOLLY CHRISTMAS WITH SCOTT CAMERON CLUB LENNOX 7PM PINK ZINC

JIGGI HALL 7.30PM EMILY MAGUIRE LENNOX HOTEL HOTEL STAGE 8.30PM SAM BUCKLEY

SUNDAY 4

RAILWAY

BRUNSWICK HEADS MEMORIAL HALL 6PM SONG DYNASTY MUSIC –CONCERT FOR REFUGEES WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM SHANDALL

MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 5PM SUNDAY JAM

UNITING CHURCH, MULLUMBIMBY, 7PM 30 MINUTES FOR FREEDOM – CHANTING AND MEDITATION

BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK 10.45AM BALLINA COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB

HOTEL ILLAWONG, EVANS HEAD, 2PM THE HILLBILLY SKANK

LISMORE CITY BOWLO 2PM LISMORE JAZZ CLUB – THE CLARENCE JAZZMEN

REGENT CINEMA, MURWILLUMBAH, 3PM BALCONY SESSIONS WITH JESS WITNEY

SALTBAR, KINGSCLIFF, 1PM JON J BRADLEY KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 6PM GREGG PETERSON

TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE SHOWROOM 2PM TOMMY MEMPHIS CLUB LENNOX 3PM GUY KACHEL

MONDAY 5

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, STEPHEN LOVELIGHT BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 12PM DJ GENE ENGLISH 3.30PM PABLO LAVERDE, 6PM KURILPA REACH, 8PM DJ OREN SELECTA, 10PM DJ DANNY B

KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 6PM BILL JACOBI

TUESDAY 6

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, TIM STOKES

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 12PM DJ KIRA SUNDAY, 4.30PM JEROME WILLIAMS, 7PM VELVET SUEDE, 8PM DJ QUENDO, 10PM DJ SOOTY

BYRON THEATRE

6PM PATHWAYS TO REGENERATION WITH ZACH BUSH MD

BANGALOW HOTEL 7.30PM BANGALOW BRACKETS OPEN MIC

WEDNESDAY 7

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, SIMON MEOLA

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 12PM DJ MADAN, 2.30PM SCHMONE, 5PM MISMO TEMPO, 8PM DJ LOUIS BLUMES, 10PM DJ DANNY B & THE HORN STAR

BYRON THEATRE 11AM MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING – NT LIVE SCREENING

FOXY LUU’S, BYRON BAY, 6.30PM TONY AND THE

The Black Pearl holds back a river for the populace (6)

BK, containing volumes (8)

Primitive outfit – it rears relatives! (8)

Flowers for the rainbow goddesses (6)

Vehicle, with one very short distance, to turn a quarter – but it never gets crook! (10)

Sins, sick and small (4)

Pieces found in horses’ mouths (4)

Put clothes on over wild rain –what tedium! (10)

Ordered: eat plain. No, three flavours of ice cream! (10)

Spies report oceans (4)

Before fifty, the old city is just an indistinct image (4)

Heart of a bulldozer? (10)

Rush to look after the queen (6)

Hold back, rest uneasily in the downpour (8)

Grabs the short songs (8)

Turn greyish brown – a winner! (6)

Corporate big shot to inflict capital punishment over four (9)

Birds or apes (7)

The Spanish with 1000 antelope (3)

You French follow prohibition of African language group (5)

Berlin havoc explodes – but there’s an offer of peace (5,6)

Issue to amend charge (7)

Quiet White Day

– you in?

Will the Voice to Parliament make a difference if white people won’t listen? White voices occupy all the spaces. We are used to hearing white voices. White voices run government. White voices are on TV and radio. White voices are on your news feed. White voices confirm everything you think. White voices mean white people are always heard. Our perspectives inform the status quo. The white voice tells us what we like to hear; it tells us we are progressive, we’re not racist and that we are inclusive.

White stories and thoughts hang in our galleries. White voices are the storytellers in our cinemas. White voices read the news. A white voice pulls us over and asks us how much we’ve had to drink. A white voice is at every meeting we go to. It tells us how to board a plane and what the rules are. We listen to white voices because those voices belong to us. We believe a white voice is universal. And when I say ‘us’ I mean ‘white people’.

We talk about what Indigenous Australians need for autonomy and the changes needed to address systemic racism… but we never talk about what the non-Indigenous community need to do in response. Ironically, the future of the Voice to Parliament rests on white voice; either through a referendum where mainly white people will vote, or in parliament, where it’s the same. The antiquated referendum laws have been called ‘not fit for purpose’ and the call has been to modernise them before the Yes/No campaign starts. More white voice.

But as we talk about Voice to Parliament, maybe we have to focus on our inherent bias. How do we change? How do we make space for unheard voices? How do we shut up and learn to listen and sit with the uncomfortable? How do we hear what we have never heard before?

How do we share the solution space?

Generally white Australia doesn’t listen. And by ‘listen’ I don’t mean the simple act of hearing, I mean deep listening. I mean actual understanding. I mean true transformational listening. The kind of listening that informs new ideas and builds pathways; that reminds us that, yes, perhaps we are beneficiaries of privilege built on a history of racism and theft.

But we don’t do it. In fact, I reckon we’re really shit at it.

I saw it the other day at a panel where a First Nations woman spoke. She was on a predominantly white panel and she spoke to a room full of white people. She spoke loudly. Articulately. She spoke with precision and passion. But she went unheard. It wasn’t anyone in particular. It was all of us. It’s what white people do. We don’t listen to Black voices. We don’t know how. How could we? We occupy all the speaking space. We think we are allies and we don’t ever see we are part of the problem. We don’t see that we are in the way and that the best way to help make change happen – to recognise Indigenous voice – is for us to shut up. Just shut up, and hear it.

And I am as guilty as anyone. I occupy so much space with my voice. To

MANDY NOLAN’S

prepare for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament we need a process so that not just parliament recognises it, ordinary non-Indigenous people must too. So, on the 26 January next year, instead of me banging on about how this shouldn’t be Australia Day, and that we need to change the date, maybe it’s more meaningful if I hand over to a First Nations writer. Maybe it’s a day we all hand over. Let’s make it a ‘Quiet White Day’.

That’s just one day when all us white fellas shut the fuck up. When we step away from all the public spaces that we’ve colonised with our perspectives and allow Black voices to come forward. On Quiet White Day we shut up on radio, on social media, on TV. We make room for Black voices to occupy the space, and we listen. All day we listen. We don’t come up with solutions, or justifications, or apologies. We just be quiet. This is how our country can prepare for the Voice to Parliament.

So, on 26 January 2023, let’s open our ears, and our hearts. Quiet White Day – you in?

STARS

BY LILITH

ARIES: Savvy Rams will be thinking cooperative rather than competitive this month. Treating everyone you meet as a potential teammate or colleague, because who knows...? Offer your gift of swift decisionmaking freely, but be aware that during touchy and triggering weekend Aries moon, it may attract blowback.

TAURUS: December’s got legs, which this week are off and running in the annual frenzy of food shopping, gift buying, holiday haggling and summer strutting. But easy-going, comfortloving, strong-willed Taureans like to take their time, so resist the pressure to haste and agitation. Maintain your own sweet rhythm.

GEMINI: With Mars retrograde in your sign it’s important not to focus on problems, to stay positive and proactive. As the month progresses there’ll be way too much on, so make your working mantra ‘less is more’. Don’t race; pace yourself. Choose the best, forget the rest. And remember you’re blessed.

CANCER: When Mars is retrograde in Gemini, the zodiac’s number one cross-pollinator, ideas travel far and fast – as do gossip, disinformation and misunderstandings. All of which gives Cancerians the opportunity to slow down, reflect on knee-jerk reactions, examine their emotional landscape and consider making a daily gratitude list.

LEO: Leo’s gift to soften end-of-year stress is your majesty’s natural capacity for leadership, though you will need to lead by example if you want others to follow. If the fun factor in this week’s celestial chemistry seems a little low-key, your sign has the greatest capacity to make it entertaining, so don’t hold back.

VIRGO: While Virgo’s mentor planet Mercury is busily buzzing in a dozen different directions with plans and ideas, the following angst-lowering attitudes may be helpful this week: Whoever arrives are the right people. Whatever happens is the right thing. Whenever it starts is the right time. When it’s over, it’s over...

LIBRA: Way too many conversations going on in your head? As equilibriumseekers you’ll be pleased to know both sides of the Libran brain get a workout as December morphs from chaos to organisation, conflict to compromise, frustration to resolution. Your key to balancing this emotional seesaw? Not getting caught up in the small stuff.

SCORPIO: Serenity could be an elusive target during the first half of December’s helter-skelter agitations, with a Jupiter/Neptune conjunction ensuring the dream machine’s working full pelt. Being brutally honest could cost you friends and future opportunities, so maybe consider tempering strong communications with a little diplomacy.

SAGITTARIUS: December’s effervescent Sun, expressive Mercury and adventurous Venus in your energetic sign paint a rainbow of birthday and holiday options. It’s a combustible month though, so if the going gets feisty, be generous with your special gift of inviting others to find the funny side in whatever’s happening.

CAPRICORN: December’s called the silly season for good reason, though bizarro behaviour, dummy spits, retail overreach and assorted festive stresses are really more to do with the year that was. This week’s astrological imperative is to locate whatever pleasure’s present in the escalating seasonal cacophony, and stick with uplifting people, because high vibes are contagious.

AQUARIUS: Aquarians are astrologically blessed with the qualities of being determined and purposeful, while at the same time wildly original thinkers. Which makes your gift to perennial endof-year tension some delightfully out-ofthe-box problem solving, so be ready to pivot where necessary and brainstorm alternative, unorthodox solutions.

PISCES: Finally, after five months of soul-searching, your planet guide Neptune surges out of its staycation in Pisces to join Jupiter in your sign. Now all those things that have been percolating away during the long backspin can start taking tangible shape, especially during late week Pisces moon.

Sun, Mercury and Venus in Sagittarius are fiery, Neptune and Jupiter flowing forward in Pisces are watery: all suggesting a hot-water kinda week...

“The Butter Factory” Shops

Ray White Commercial Byron Bay have the exclusive privilege to offer an outstanding opportunity for you to become part of the incredible commercial market place in Byron Bay.

On

is 4 strata title shops,

be sold as a package in The iconic Butter Factory complex on Jonson Street.

of 257sqm

4

MAJESTIC, PRIVATE & TRANQUIL

Private established gardens, rock retaining walls, all timber house with full running verandahs. Quiet, elevated, flood free location, modern contemporary internal living with the charm only a timber house has.

Shores & South Golden Beach, the property is literally a walk to the beach, canal, farmers markets, schools, sports fields, river, Mrs Birdy’s & New Brighton store.

Price Contact Agent

Inspect Saturday 3rd December at 11am

Contact Peter Browning 0411 801 795

EVERYTHING & MORE

72 Tweed Street, Brunswick Heads 26 Booyun Street, Brunswick Heads

THE STREET OF STREETS

Inspect Saturday 3rd December at 1pm Contact Peter Browning 0411 801 795

677m2

33 4 14 3

Some things never go out of style – like this blissful beachside sanctuary. Sitting pretty on a level 2.9 acre allotment and a mere 500 metres from the unspoilt sand and surf of South Golden Beach, it’s a heavenly pocket of paradise that restores your senses, soothes your soul and can even offer an enticing income. Featuring a charming primary reside nce with lush grounds, a sparkling pool, outdoor hot and cold shower, and many species of birdlife. It also spoils you with a cosy 3 bed, 2 bath selfcontained studio. Ideal as an Airbnb, it can be used in conjunction with the American-style barn with a wet bar - perfect for parties and functions.

Nightcap

Cocooned within the lush Byron hinterland, “Nightcap Ridge” is the ultimate rarity. Spanning 67 pristine acres, this is the only place in Australia where you can buy land within a World Heritage Listed the opportunity to secure a coveted lifestyle, home and thriving business rich with untapped future potential.

Nestled approx. 30 minutes from Byron Bay, “Nightcap Ridge” is renowned as an eco-luxe, naturebased tourism destination. Steeped in serenity, three charming off-grid cottages grace the rolling greenery, proudly boasting high occupancy rates.

The outside world disappears when you shut the front door of this resplendent house. Before you is the most breathtaking view imaginable, stretching out across the treetops and rural pastures to Cape Byron Lighthouse and the ocean. There’s nothing in between - no rooftops or powerlines, no signs of traffic … welcome to your private sanctuary in the Byron Bay hinterland. Set on two acres, every aspect of this mansion is designed to take in the sublime view and tranquil environment. jam@manare.au 0411 081 118

Every day will feel like a holiday in this fabulous beachfront between you and the spectacular beach and stunning headland. Go for a surf, doze in the hammock or marvel at the magnificent view, you’ve found paradise. Your dream home awaits in this intimate beachfront community. And this is a special rare opportunity to secure your piece of coastal heaven. adrian.howe@manare.au

Tucked away in a quiet street, surrounded by a beautiful manicured tropical garden, this marvelous four-bedroom home in Ocean Shores is ready for the family. Slide open the large glass doors and step out onto the private balcony. Listen to the breeze gently rustle through the tall palms, you’ve found home.

Known for its nature, sports and relaxation, Ocean Shores is the Northern Byron Shire’s most sought-after beach suburb.

Are you after a tranquil coastal lifestyle close to all the amenities? Located in a peaceful cul-de-sac near the beautiful Marshalls Creek in Ocean Shores, here is your new home. With the flexibility of a self-contained living area downstairs and another upstairs, each with a private entrance, this twostorey home offers several lifestyle options. Welcome home. Perfect for extended families or families with grown children, the separate yet connected living spaces open many possibilities.

8 Sallywattle Drive, Suffolk Park

Online Timed Auction – Starting Bid $2.2M

Open: Saturday, 3rd December 10.30–11am Scan QR code to make a bid on our secure selling platform or register to follow this property

Tara Torkkola 0423 519 698 Su Reynolds 0428 888 660

• The property includes manicured lawns, established trees, and gardens

• The kitchen features wooden cabinetry, a large island bench and storage

• Featured is a large undercover deck overlooking the inground pool

• There are multiple options for indoor dining with the conservatory offering beautiful views of the surrounds and an additional dining area

• Numerous fruit trees including banana, papaya, mango, avocado and more!

240 The Manse Road, Myocum

Online Timed Auction – Starting Bid $2.2M

Open: Saturday, 3rd December 10–10.30am

Scan QR code to make a bid on our secure selling platform or register to follow this property

Tara Torkkola 0423 519 698 Jasmin McClymont 0434 029 668

Located in a prime position on Byron Bay’s iconic beachfront, these two blue-chip apartments are situated in one of the best spots in town.

Ideally positioned opposite Main Beach and moments from the Beach Hotel and Bay Lane dining quarter, they’re the perfect choice if you’re looking to invest in holiday accommodation or you’d like to live in downtown Byron Bay.

All the best cafes, restaurants, and one gorgeous store after another are just moments away. You can start the day with a swim or pick up the walking path to the lighthouse outside the resort. Then, settle in, make yourself at home, and indulge in all the pleasures of living Byron Bay’s beachside lifestyle.

The apartments benefit from onsite parking and can be bought fully furnished. In addition, the current owner rents out the properties as holiday accommodation and reports a great return on investment.

Inspect: By appointment only

Contact: Ed Silk 0418 660 063

Ed Silk Byron Bay

Due to circumstance the price has been reduced on this charming 1950s-character timber home, which must be sold. Situated on one of the largest blocks in central Mullumbimby, the 2A zoning offers a variety of development options or create your own private family oasis right in the centre of town. Just a five-minute stroll to the vibrant town centre, the perfect private property is set back from the road on a corner block and has neighbours on just two boundaries.

There are three good-sized bedrooms, a study, a big open-plan lounge and kitchen plus a spacious family room that flows onto a covered deck overlooking a huge sunny, private swimming pool area.

Stunning established gardens feature an array of native and tropical plants and citrus trees. Plenty of options for subdivision (STCA)29m street frontage, 54m lane access.

Inspect: Saturday December 3, 10am

Auction: Date Pending - Price Guide $1,375,000–$1,495,000

Contact: Todd Buckland - 0408 966 421

Gary Brazenor - 0423 777 237 Byron Shire Real Estate

Open For Inspection

Byron Shire Real Estate

• 10/20 Booyun Street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 10–10.30am

• 22 Kiah Close, Ocean Shores. Sat 10–10.30am

• 3–7 Myokum Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 10–10.30am

• 8 Bower Street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 11–11.30am

• 7A Tathra Glen, Ocean Shores. Sat 11–11.30am

• 13 Teven Street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 11–11.30am

• 280 The Pocket Road, The Pocket. 12–12.30pm

• 4 Yemlot Court, Brunswick Heads. 12–12.30pm

• 4B Goondooloo Drive, Ocean Shores. Sat 1–1.30pm

Century 21 Plateau Lifestyle

• 93 Weis Lane, Rous. Sat 9–9.30am

• 97 Park Road, Ruthven. Sat 10.30–11am

Elders Brunswick Valley

• 10/2 Arika Way, Ocean Shores. Sat 10–10.30am

• 5/4 Bindaree Way, Ocean Shores. Sat 11–11.30am

• 7/11 Booyun street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 12–12.30pm

First National Byron

• 1576 Hinterland Way, Bangalow. Wed 2–2.30pm

• 88 Station Street, Mullumbimby. Wed 3.30–4pm

• 32 Argyle Street, Mullumbimby. Thu 12–12.30pm

• 4 Tyagarah Street, Mullumbimby. Thu 2–2.30pm

• 119A Balemo Drive, Ocean Shores. Fri 11–11.30am

• 19 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby. Fri 12–12.30pm

• 88 Station Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 9–9.30am

• 10 Tahra Crescent, Ewingsdale. Sat 9–9.30am

• 1/50 Paterson Street, Byron Bay. Sat 9–9.30am

• 6/26 Beech Drive, Suffolk Park. Sat 9.30–10am

• 240 The Manse Road, Myocum. Sat 10–10.30am

• 2/24 Paterson Lane, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30am

• 2/10 Corkwood Crescent, Suffolk Park. Sat 10–10.30am

• 10 Whian Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 10–10.30am

• 6–7 Pacific Esplanade, South Golden Beach. Sat 10–10.30am

• 4/49 Belongil Crescent, Byron Bay. Sat 10.30–11am

• 8 Sallywattle Drive, Suffolk Park. Sat 10.30–11am

• 19 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 11–11.30am

• 5/6–8 Browning Street, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am

• 12 Brunswick Street, New Brighton. Sat 11–11.30am

• 14 Brooklet Road, Newrybar. Sat 11–11.30am

• 26 Oakland Court, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am

• 44 Bangalow Road, Byron Bay. Sat 11.30am–12pm

• 678 Broken Head Road, Broken Head. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 4 Mango Lane, Coorabell. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 358 Binna Burra Road, Binna Burra. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 1B Chinbible Avenue, Mullumbimby. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 6 Avocado Crescent, Ewingsdale. Sat 1–1.30pm

Harcourts Northern Rivers

• 6 Karalauren Court, Lennox Head. Sat 9–9.30am

• 129 Ballina Road, East Lismore. Sat 10–10.30am

• 30 Unara Parkway, Cumbalum. Sat 10–10.30am

• 97 Chickiba Drive, East Ballina. Sat 11– 11.30am

• 4 Eden Place, Girrards Hill. Sat 11–11.30am

• 2/14 Patricia Parade, Lennox Head. Sat 11–11.30am

• 20 Sunnybank Drive, West Ballina. Sat 11– 11.30am

• 59 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 33 River Drive, East Wardell. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 20 Tamar Street, Ballina. Sat 1–1.30pm – AUCTION

Helene Adams

• 10 Old Bangalow Road, Byron Bay. Wed 10–10.30am

• 10 Old Bangalow Road, Byron Bay. Sat 9–9.30am

• 61 New City Road, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30 am

LJ

Hooker Brunswick Heads

• 31 Natan Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 11–11.30am

• 26 Booyun Street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 65 Fingal Street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 72 Tweed Street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 1–1.30pm

MANA Real Estate

• 30 Nugget Street, Diggers Camp. Wed 12–12.30pm

• 4 Walgooan Way, Ocean Shores. Thu 12–12.30pm

• 51 Garden Avenue, Nunderi. Thu 4.45–5.30pm

• 4/2 Nunyar Court, Ocean Shores. Fri 2.30–3pm

• 1/3 Haylard Court, Ocean Shores. Fri 3.30–4pm

• 4 Walgooan Way, Ocean Shores. Sat 9–9.30am

• 4/2 Nunyar Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 9.30–10am

• 1/3 Halyard Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 10.30–11am

• 51 Garden Avenue, Nunderi. Sat 11–11.45am

• 10 Flintwood Street, Pottsville. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 30 Nugget Street, Diggers Camp. Sat 12.30–1pm

McGrath Byron Bay

• 35 Belongil Crescent, Byron Bay. Wed 4.30–5pm

• 5/133–141 Broken Head Road. Thu 4.30–5pm

• 18 Scott Street, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30am

• 56 Parrot Tree Place, Bangalow. Sat 10–10.30am

• 20 New City Road, Mullumbimby. Sat 10–10.30am

• 5/133–141 Broken Head Road. Sat 11–11.30am

• 35 Belongil Crescent, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am

• 1 Elizabeth Avenue, South Golden Beach. Sat 11–11.30am

North Coast Lifestyle Properties Mullumbimby

• 1/99 Moon Street, Ballina. Sat. 9.30–10.15am

• 1 Willow Tree Drive, Chilcotts Grass. Sat 11.30am–12.15pm

• 1/3 Boondoon Cres, Ocean Shores. Sat 2–2.45pm

North Coast Lifestyle Properties Brunswick Heads

• 1 Mullumbimbi Street, Brunswick Heads. 10–10.30am

• 19 Grevillea Avenue, Mullumbimby. Sat 10–10.45am

• 46 Kallaroo Circuit, Ocean Shores. Sat 11–11.45am

• 6 Coonawarra Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 11–11.30am

• 70 Helen Street, South Golden Beach. Sat 11–11.30am

• 20 Redgate Road, South Golden Beach. Sat 12–12.30pm

Ray White Byron Bay

• 3 Yalla Kool Drive, Ocean Shores. Wed 3–3.30pm

• 4/10 Marvell Lane, Byron Bay. Thu 2–2.30pm

• 8/1 Wollumbin Street, ByronBay. Thu 4–4.30pm

• 1635 Coolamon Scenic Drive, Mullumbimby. Thu 4–4.30pm

• 103 Paterson Street, Byron Bay. Fri 1.30–2pm

• 29 Helen Street, South Golden Beach. Sat 9–9.30am

• 56/11–19 Cooper Street, Byron Bay. Sat 9–9.30am

• 5/18 Mahogany Drive, Byron Bay. Sat 9–9.30am

• 222 Friday Hut Road, Possum Creek. Sat 10–10.30am

• 3/14 Sunrise Boulevard, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30am

• 126a Stuart Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 10–10.30am

• 12 Hibiscus Place, Mullumbimby. Sat 10.30–11am

• 8/1 Wollumbin Street, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am

• 13/46 Old Bangalow Road, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am

• 3 Yalla Kool Drive, Ocean Shores. Sat 11–11.30am

• 2/4 Hazelwood Close, Byron Bay. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 18 Kiyung Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 3 Yalla Kool Drive, Ocean Shores. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 280 PicadillyHill Road, Coopers Shoot. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 12 Old Bangalow Road, Byron Bay. Sat 1–1.30pm

Ray White Rural Bangalow

• 259 Arthur Road, Corndale. Sat 9.30–10am

Real Estate of Distinction

• 454 Crabbes Creek Road, Crabbes Creek. Sat 11.15am–12pm

• 35–37 Edwards Lane, Kynnumboon.Sat 4–4.45pm

Ruth Russell Realty

• 54 Main Arm Road, Mullumbimby. Sat 11–11.45am

• 76 Orana Road, Ocean Shores. Sat 12.30–1pm

New Listings

Century 21 Plateau Lifestyle

• 13 Main Street, Alstonville

North Coast Lifestyle Properties

Mullumbimby

• 6/2 Condon Drive, East Ballina

• 15 Clifford Street, South Golden Beach

• 480 Left Bank Road, Mullumbimby Creek

• 1/99 Moon Street, Ballina

• 78–82 Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby

North Coast Lifestyle Properties Brunswick Heads

• 3 Paldi Court, Ocean Shores

• 18 Banksia Avenue, Bogangar

• 6 Coonawarra Court, Ocean Shores

• 2 Kiah Close, Ocean Shores

• 11 Coral Court, Brunswick Heads

• 172 Orana Road, Ocean Shores. Land.

• 1/16 Helen Street, Sth Golden Beach

• 70 Helen Street, South Golden Beach

• 1 Mullumbimbi Street, Brunswick Heads

• 1/38 Mullumbimbi Street, Brunswick Heads

Auction

Ray White Byron Bay

• 103 Paterson Street, Byron Bay. Fri December 2, 2pm onsite

• 2/4 Hazelwood Close, Suffolk Park. Fri December 9, 3pm onsite

• 3 Yalla Kool Drive, Ocean Shores. Friday December 9, 4.30pm onsite

• 8/1 Wollumbin Street, Byron Bay Friday December 16, 4pm onsite

DEADLINE TUES 12PM

Publication day is Wednesday, booking deadlines are the day before publication.

CLASSIFIEDS THAT WORK ALL WEEK!

Echo Classies also appear online: www.echo.net.au/classified-ads

DISCLAIMER

Advertisements placed in The Byron Shire Echo do not reflect the views or opinions of the editorial staff.

The Byron Shire Echo does not make any representations as to the accuracy or suitability of any content or information contained in advertising material nor does publication constitute in any way an endorsement by The Byron Shire Echo of the content or representations contained therein.

The Byron Shire Echo does not accept any liability for the representations or promises made in paid advertisements or for any loss or damage arising from reliance on such content, representations or promises. W

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE VODAFONE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT EAST BALLINA INCLUDING 5G 2409 Ballina: 1A Suvla Street, East Ballina NSW 2478 - (RFNSA 2478002)

The proposed facility consists of the addition of new equipment and associated works, including 5G, as follows:

Removal of existing Vodafone antennas and equipment

Installation of three (3) panel antennas, 2.7m long, on a new headframe, and Installation of ancillary equipment including up to fifteen (15) remote radio units, antenna mounts, cabling and works within the equipment shelter

1.Vodafone regards the proposed installations as Low-impact Facilities under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”), or as Exempt Development under the SEPP (Transport and Infrastructure) 2021, based on the description above.

2.In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile

High School Design and Technology (D&T)

Temporary 6 Month Contract commencing Term 3, 2023.

Cape Byron Rudolf Steiner School is an independent K-12 school dedicated to the educational principles inspired by Rudolf Steiner. The school is situated near the township of Byron Bay.

Applications are sought for an experienced, dynamic and enthusiastic High School (7-12) D&T Teacher. As the D&T Teacher you will have experience using woodwork machines and experience in teaching Stage 4, 5 and 6.

The successful applicant will have the ability to provide creative and engaging educational programs for the D&T Department.

Applications close 4pm Monday 12th December. Position description and application process available capebyronsteiner.nsw.edu.au

11.00am,

Gender and Disaster Australia (GADAus) and Northern Rivers Women and Children’s Services (NORWACS) are delighted to co-host an event to mark this year’s 16 Days of Activism against GenderBased Violence campaign.

The event will include an address from both the Hon. Justine Elliot MP, Assistant Minister for Social Services and Assistant Minister for the Prevention of

insights from Lismore community members and

The event will focus on the collaboration between GADAus and NORWACS to prevent and respond to in the aftermath of the 2022 Lismore and Northern

We hope you’ll join us!

To register go to Eventbrite (http://ow.ly/z64K50LOoYb) or call Lee-Anne Wilson on 0412 368 917.

POSITIONS VACANT

THE ECHO

PAPER DELIVERY

The Echo has 2 contract positions delivering papers to:

1. BYRON CBD 1450 PAPERS. On foot, would suit reasonably fit person. Inserting, if necessary, then dropping papers at shops, cafes, bulk drops etc.

*

2. LENNOX HEAD: 1000 PAPERS: folding, inserting and if necessary bagging papers then driving around in a car throwing accurately

*

The successful applicant for each run will have an ABN, a reliable vehicle and ideally they will live near the distribution area. They will collect the papers/ inserts from Ballina or Mullumbimby or Byron A&I Estate mid-morning on Wednesday and will have delivered all the papers by 6pm Wednesday. Suit mature or stable person. Shop delivery needs a friendly manner, and Lennox run needs a strong throwing arm. Commencing asap.

Email simon@echo.net.au or phone/text 0409324724

LONG TERM JOB

Experience preferred with zero turn mowing and detailed whipper snipping but not essential. Open to training for the right person. Pay above award. Females encouraged to apply. Position is 4-5 days pw. Apply to kascha@leafittous.com.au

FEMALE NUDE MODELS, 18–25, for private project in Byron Bay. Awesome pay. Ph Andrew 0431393320

CHAUFFEUR, PRIVATE DRIVER Luxury airport transfers company seeks driver, 30–40 hrs p/w with rotating roster (may incl. weekends). Must hold unrestricted licence. Light rigid licence preferred. Opportunity for role to expand into operations. Send your details to grant@ byronbayluxurytransfers.com.au

LADIES WANTED, MUST BE 18+ Casual or permanent work available in busy adult parlour. 66816038 for details.

SOCIAL MEDIA GURU for small local business. Please call Wayne 0423218417

ENGLISH TUTOR HSC Advanced. Prefer current Yr 12 teacher 0448338707

Lilly Pilly Community Pre-school

Requires casual staff. Temp / part time support teacher role. 5-days per fortnightcommencing 2023. Cert 111 or Diploma Call 66 851 621

Shearwater, the Mullumbimby Steiner School, has the following exciting opportunities available: Preschool Assistants Permanent full and part time, and casual positions. Applications will be assessed as they come in. For position descriptions and details on how to apply please refer to our website: www.shearwater.nsw.edu.au /working-at-shearwater

ONLY ADULTS

MALE 2 MALE MASSAGE

See ad in the early general news Phone 0476069889

EXQUISITE Be impressed with my hot body and warm hands. Tweed area. 0438573677

BALLINA EXCLUSIVE

34 Piper Dr. Open 7 days 10am till late.

In & Out Calls. 66816038. Ladies wanted Find us on Facebook and Twitter!

COVID SAFE

FULL BODY RESTORATION

Healing Through Pleasure massagebyronbay.com or 0425347477

LICENSED TO THRILL

Premium Massage & Play touchofjustine.com/byron-bay-outcalls

KRYSTAL ADULT SHOP

Large variety of toys and lingerie 6/6 Tasman Way, A&I Est, Byron Bay Ph 66856330

BLISSFUL MASSAGE FOR WOMEN BY A WOMAN Gift your wife a sensual treat! Ph 0407013347

SOCIAL ESCORTS

LOTS OF GORGEOUS LADIES available for your pleasure nearby. Spoil yourself. In & out. 7 days. Ladies always wanted. 0266816038. COVID SAFE

30W 5:40 19:28 11:52 0:44 0222 1.04 1446 1.60 0745 0.45 2137 0.33

1TH 5:40 19:29 12:56 1:22 0339 1.10 1548 1.52 0904 0.50 2233 0.31

2F 5:40 19:30 13:57 1:56 0448 1.20 1649 1.45 1022 0.52 2322 0.29

3SA 5:40 19:30 14:55 2:27 0548 1.33 1745 1.38 1134 0.52 4SU 5:40 19:31 15:54 2:58 0640 1.45 1835 1.31 0005 0.26 1238 0.49

5M 5:40 19:32 16:52 3:29 0726 1.55 1921 1.25 0043 0.23 1334 0.46

6TU 5:40 19:33 17:50 4:02 0808 1.63 2003 1.20 0118 0.21 1425 0.43 7W 5:40 19:33 18:49 4:37 0847 1.68 2043 1.16 0151 0.20 1511 0.40 5:40 19:47 0924 1.70 0224 0.21

Z u ri Zuri

Zuri is the sweetest girl. Her name means ‘beautiful’ in Swahili & she certainly lives up to it. Zuri is a sociable girl in the shelter and really enjoys being fussed over. She is a young girl who would fit well into most family situations and how lovely would it be for her to be settled in time for Christmas? To meet Zuri, please visit the Cat Adoption Centre at 124 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby.

If you’re looking for a handsome medium sized dog, look no further than 11 month old, Mastiff X RUFUS!

A lovely young dog, Rufus loves playing with his sister Ruby and doing laps of the paddock. He can be a little shy at first but soon warms up. He would suit a quiet household with older children. M/C # 991003001419745

Location: Murwillumbah

For more information contact Yvette on 0421 831 128.

Complete our online adoption expression of interest.

https://friendsofthepound.com/ adoption-expression-of-interest/

Visit friendsofthepound.com to view other dogs and cats looking for a home. ABN 83 126 970 338

1st

1st

1st

Flea Market, Bangalow 0490 335 498

2nd SAT Woodburn 0439 489 631

2nd SAT Tabulam Hall 0490 329 159

2nd SUN The Channon 6688 6433

2nd SUN Lennox Head 6685 6807

2nd SUN Chillingham 0428 793 141

2nd SUN Coolangatta

3rd SAT Mullumbimby 6684 3370

3rd SAT Murwillumbah 0413 804 024

Devoted to Pleasure

3rd SAT Salt Village Market, Casuarina

3rd SUN Federal 0433 002 757

3rd SUN Uki 0487 329 150

3rd SUN Lismore Car Boot 6628 7333

3rd SUN Ballina 0422 094 338

4th SAT Evans Head 0439 489 631

4th SAT Wilsons Creek 6684 0299

Kyogle Bazaar kyoglebazaar.com.au

4th SUN Bangalow 6687 1911

4th SUN Nimbin 0475 135 764

4th SUN Murwillumbah 0413 804 024 (in a 5 Sunday month) Coolangatta

5th SAT Flea Market, Bangalow 0490 335 498

5th SUN Nimbin 0458 506 000

5th SUN Lennox Head 6685 6807

Peripatetic Cellist Tutor Commencing Term 1, 2023.

Cape Byron Steiner School is a vibrant and progressive K-12 school dedicated to the educational principles inspired by Rudolf Steiner.

Cellist to teach individual lessons to students Classes 3 to 7, eight weeks per term one day per week with a view to extra days. Previous experience in Steiner Education would be desirable.

The successful applicant will have the ability to provide creative and engaging lessons for our students.

Application close Friday 9th December, 2022.

Position description and application process available capebyronsteiner.nsw.edu.au

Beautiful “Shollie” pups available now. These gorgeous dogs are super intelligent, loyal and lovingly devoted. Perfect for families.

Both the parents are very gentle, with loving natures. Pups come with all papers and are vaccinated, chipped and wormed. $500 each.  Please text – 0421 106 998

FARMERS/WEEKLY MARKETS

Each TUE New Brighton 0424 168 672

Each TUE Organic Lismore 6628 1084

Each WED 7-11am

Lismore

8.30-12am Blue Knob

7-11am Ballina 0493 102

He is an absolute gentleman with other dogs and excellent with children of all ages.

IGGY ZIGGY

Ziggy will endow his family with an abundance of love and loyalty. He weighs in at 48kgs, but could easily lose 8kgs with regular exercise and a carefully managed diet. Please contact Shell on 0458461935.

953010002255803

Byron Dog Rescue (CAWI)

Community at Work

Regular As Clockwork

DEADLINE NOON FRIDAY

Please note that, owing to space restrictions, not all entries may be included each week. Email copy marked ‘Regular As Clockwork’ to editor@echo.net.au.

Mullumbimby District Neighbourhood Centre

Mullumbimby & District Neighbourhood Centre is open Monday–Thursday 9am–4pm and offers a range of services and activities. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy art, music, games, great food and more. Call reception on 6684 1286 and discover what is on offer.

MDNC services that are running include: Community support/emergency relief: Food parcels, meals, assistance with electricity and Telstra bills. Listening Space: free counselling. Staying Home, Leaving Violence program

Integrated Domestic & Family Violence program

Financial Counselling: outreach available Thursdays & Fridays Financial Counselling: free service funded by the government, offering advocacy & assistance to find options to address debts.

Information, referral and advocacy. To enquire about accessing any of these services call 6684 1286 or fill out an online enquiry form.

Byron Community Centre

Homeless Breakfast: 7.:30–9am Wednesday. Homeless Showers: Monday and Wednesday 10am–12pm (book in at breakfasts). Women’s Support and Counselling: Friday 1–3pm, Community Cabin Carlyle St. Free Phone Counselling: Call 0415 322 064 10am–2pm. Seniors Computer Club: Friday 9am–11am, Community Cabin Carlyle St. Seniors drumming, yoga, ukulele, art, nourishing arts and drama: 66856807 for booking and time details. Volunteer Hub referral service: Call 6685 6807.

Low-cost or free food

Food Box Thursdays 9.30–11.30am at Uniting Church, Mullumbimby. If you have any sort of Centrelink card you may purchase cheap food, obtain free veges, and enjoy a cuppa. Free Food Relief Bags for anyone doing it tough, every Wednesday 10–12noon at The Hub Ocean Shores, cnr Rajah Rd and Bindaree Way. No ID or Concession Card required. NILs referral service also available. Check Facebook page The Hub Baptist Ocean Shores for details.

Respite Service

Byron Shire Respite Service Inc delivers high-quality respite care to a broad range of clients throughout the Byron, Ballina and Lismore shires. Donations welcome: Ph 6685 1921, email fundraiser@byronrespite.com.au, website: www.byronrespite.com.au.

Alateen meeting

Alateen meeting every Thursday at 5–6pm. Do you have a parent, close friend or relative with a drinking problem? Alateen can help. For 8–16-year-olds meet St Cuthbert’s Anglican Church Hall, 13 Powell Street, corner of Florence Street Tweed Heads. Al-Anon family groups for older members at the same time and place. 1300 ALANON 1300 252 666 www. al-anon.org.au

ACA

Adult Children of Alcoholic Parents and/or Dysfunctional Families (ACA) help & recovery group meets in Lismore every Friday 10–11.30am, Red Dove Centre, 80 Keen Street. Byron meetings are on Tuesdays at 7pm via Zoom - meeting ID 554 974 582 password byronbay.

Drug support groups

Call Alcoholics Anonymous 1800 423 431 or 0401 945 671 – 30 meetings a week in the Shire – www.aa.org.au. Are you experiencing difficulties and challenges because of the alcohol or

drug use of someone close to you? Learn coping skills and gain support from others. Narcotics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women for whom drugs had become a major problem. We are recovering addicts who meet regularly to help each other stay clean. For information and meetings call1300 652 820 or text your postcode to 0488 811 247. www. na.org.au. Are you concerned about somebody else’s drinking? Al-Anon Family Groups meeting held Fridays 2pm. Uniting Church Bangalow – 1300 252 666 www.al-anon.org.au.

Support after suicide

StandBy provides support to people who have lost someone to suicide. They provide free face-to-face and telephone support and are accessible 24/7. Follow-up contact is available for up to one year. Find out more at: www. standbysupport.com.au or call 13 11 14. If you, or someone you are with, are in need of immediate support please call an ambulance or police on 000.

Feel Good Friday

A free weekly group for women to access support and relax. Feel Good Fridays happen every Friday from 1 till 3pm at the Byron Community Cabin on Carlyle Street (behind the tennis courts in the recreational grounds). Just drop-in, no bookings or commitment necessary. For any further information and any questions just let me know by calling the Byron Community Centre on 6685 6807.

Library fun

Baby Bounce and Storytime for toddlers and pre-school children have moved online for now. See Richmond Tweed Regional Libraries on YouTube.

Social sporting groups

Mullumbimby: Tuesday Ladies Group of Riverside Tennis Club welcomes new players 9.30am every Tuesday next to Heritage Park, for social tennis, fun and friendship. Info: Barbara 6684 8058.

Byron: Drumming with Gareth Jones at Byron Theatre; Chair Yoga with Pippy Wardell 12 till 1pm. Wednesdays: Choir with Kim Banffy, 10–11am; Ukulele 11.30am–12.15pm. Suggested donation of $10. No bookings needed, information seniors@ byroncommuntycentre.com or call 6685 6807. South Golden Shores Community Centre Women’s table tennis every Monday at 10am. Phone 0435 780 017. Byron Bay Croquet at Croquet Club next to the Scout Hall at the Byron Rec Grounds every Monday at 3.30pm. Ring 0477 972 535. Pottsville Fun Croquet Club at Black Rocks Sportfield. Beginners and visitors welcome. Game starts 8.30am Tuesday and Thursday. $5 per game. Enquiries 0413 335 941.

Carers’ support

Mullumbimby Mental Health Carers’ Support Group for family members and friends who have a loved one with a mental health issue. Meeting on 4th Thursday of each month 9.30am at the Mullumbimby Neighbourhood Centre. Info: Susanne 0428 716 431.

Rainbow Dragons

Rainbow Dragons Abreast (RDA) welcomes breast cancer survivors for a paddle at Lake Ainsworth, Lennox Head (and sometimes at Ballina) on Sundays 7.30 for 8am start. Contact Marian 6688 4058, mazzerati2010@ gmail.com.

Language exchange

Byron language exchange club runs every 2nd last Friday of the month from 6pm (alternating Ballina/ Byron). Practise other languages or help someone with your English! Find us on Facebook. Contact byronbaylanguages@gmail.com.

Museums

Brunswick Valley Historical Society Inc Museum corner of Myocum and Stuart Sts Mullumbimby, open Tuesdays and Fridays 10–12 and market Saturdays 9–1. Discover your local history, join our team – 6684 4367 or email: admin@mullumbimbymuseum. org.au. Bangalow Heritage House Museum & Cafe is open Wednesday to Friday 10am-2:30pm, Saturday 8:30am-12:30pm. Enjoy home style cooking, fresh baked scones and more. Monthly meeting 9:30am on the 1st Tuesday of each month at Heritage House Bangalow. Info: 0429 882 525.

Toastmasters

Byron Cavanbah Toastmasters meetings coaching in communication and self-development run on 1st and 3rd Mondays, 6.15 for 6.30pm at Byron Bay Services Club, Byron Bay. Online attendance allowed. Mullum Magic Toastmasters meet every 2nd, 4th and 5th Monday Presbyterian Church Hall, 101 Stuart Street Mullumbimby 7–9pm. Contact Shona 0457356567 or Bronte 0451567996.

Meditation

Dzogchen meditation and study group 2nd and 4th Saturdays each month at Mullumbimby CWA Hall. Didi 0408 008 769. Buddhist meditation and conversation with John Allan, Mondays 6.30–8.30pm, The Yurt, Temple Byron. No fees. John 0428 991 189. Byron yoga philosophy club free meditation classes Monday, 7pm, 1 Korau Place Suffolk Park. Go to www. wisdom.yoga or phone Kris 0435 300 743. Byron Bay Meditation Centre, Tuesday 6.30pm at Temple Byron. For more info: byronbaymeditationcentre. com.au or contact Greg 0431 747 764.

Rebuilding for flood resilience

Mullum Cares is supporting the community with information about rebuilding homes to be more floodresilient. Their shipping-container office is open Monday to Wednesday at the corner of Prince and Ann Streets Mullumbimby. Drop in between 9 and 11am or make a booking on the Mullum Cares website: https:// mullumcares.com.au.

Exercise for older adults

Chair Based Older Adults Exercise Classes run by a qualified instructor, that feel more like fun than exercise, are held every Thursday at 10.15am in the Brunswick Memorial Hall. Cost $10. All welcome. Just show up or if you have any questions please contact Di on 0427 026 935.

Seniors computer club

Byron Shire seniors computer club invites interested seniors to come to learn how to use your photos creatively. Meets at Ocean Shores Community Centre, Wednesdays 1–3pm during school terms. For more information phone Lynne on 0428 665 948.

Lions Club

Interested in making new friends and helping our community? Lions Club of Brunswick Mullumbimby meets 1st & 3rd Tuesdays at 7pm Ocean Shores Country Club. Info: Joan Towers 0400 484 419.

Byron Gem Club

The Bryon Gem and Lapidary Club is open weekly to members new and old. Visitors welcome to view club facilities. Activities – semi-precious and gemstone cutting, shaping and polishing – gem faceting – silver work – gem setting and jewellery making etc. Facebook @ Byron Gem Club. Club work shed located past Sky Dive Byron at Tyagarah Airfield. Contact 6687 1251 or 0427 529 967 for more info.

Craft group

The Uniting Craft & Social Group meets every Monday 9.30am–2.30pm at the Uniting Church in Carlyle Street, Byron Bay. Bring lunch and whatever else you need. Small cost. All welcome. Do you

prefer patchwork and quilting? Come along on Monday evening same place at 6pm. Enquiries Tilly 6685 5985.

Volunteer Hub

The Byron Community Centre Volunteer Hub is open weekdays at the Byron Community Centre. If you would like to volunteer in the local area fill out a volunteer application form on our website www.byroncentre.com.au or, contact us by phone 66856807 or email volunteers@byroncentre.com.au

Potters & Sculptors

Mullumbimby Potters & Sculptors at the Community Art Gallery at the Drill Hall is open Thursday to Saturday 10am–2pm and on the 3rd Saturday of the month (Mullum Market Day) 10am4pm. Pottery and sculpture crafted by local artisans for sale, 2 Jubilee Ave, Mullumbimby. Enquiries: mullum. potters@yahoo.com.au.

CWA Bangalow

Bangalow CWA has reopened and our hours are Monday-Friday 10am–2pm and Saturdays 8am–12 noon.

Toy Library

The Byron Shire Toy Library is open Mondays and Thursdays 9am–12 noon, at the Children’s Centre, Coogera Cct, Suffolk Park. Come and see the large range of preschoolers toys available for loan.

Up your skills

Come to Upskill in Mullumbimby, a free introductory building and carpentry workshop. Workshops are

held every Saturday, 9am to 1pm at Shedding Community Workshop. Bookings Essential via shedding.com. au. Contact Sophie Wilksch via email at shedding.communityworkshop@ gmail.com.

Baby cafe

Bubbamummas baby café drop in mornings, Thursdays from 9.30am at New Space, Shop 2 next door to Target 86 Rajah Road Ocean Shores. Morning tea, discussions, guest speakers. Ocean Shores Community Association (OSCA). Details 0431 477 445.

Muslim prayer

Friday Muslim prayer. Jumu’ah service held weekly at the Cavanbah Centre at 1:30 pm. Come to the remembrance of Allah.

Free ESL

Free English as a Second Language classes suitable for beginners to advanced learners. Kingscliff 6674 7267.

Landcare

Bangalow Land and Rivercare working bee every Saturday 8.30–10.30am. See www.bangalowlandcare.org.au or call Liz 6687 1309.

Soap Aid saving lives

Soap Aid is a not-for-profit organisation recycling and sending critical soap to communities facing major hygiene challenges. Please drop in your partly used household or holiday rental soap for recycling to Kim at Raine & Horne Byron Bay 39

On The Horizon

DEADLINE NOON FRIDAY

Email copy marked ‘On The Horizon’ to editor@echo.net.au.

Bangalow Progress Association AGM

The next Bangalow Progress Association AGM will be held at 6pm Tuesday 13 December at the Bangalow Men’s Shed, off Station St carpark, Bangalow. All residents in the 2479 postcode are invited to attend the AGM. Our shared values and proactive engagement in development and infrastructure projects can produce significantly better outcomes for our village. Plenty of community action to discuss. Come along and become involved.

Cat’s claw weaving

A weaving and camping workshop focusing on cat’s claw creeper biological management will run 3–4 December 2022. 20 years of heavy-duty herbicide use, by cutting and painting and spraying, as an attempt to control it, isn’t working and cat’s claw is a significant weed in the Clarence and Richmond River catchments. For more information contact byronshirechemicalfreelandcare.org.

Secondhand books

Friends of Libraries (FOL) Byron Shire, are calling for secondhand books in good condition for the annual Book Fair. The fair will be held in June next year. The FOL book fair has become a major fund raiser for the local shire libraries. All donations from the community are always greatly received and the fair itself is a wonderful place to browse though many hundreds of books looking for hidden gems. For collection information email byronbayfol@gmail.com.

AIRFNCB

The next meeting of the Association of Independent Retirees, Far North Coast Branch (AIRFNCB) will be held in the Spinnakers Room at Ballina RSL Club Friday, 2 December, from 9.30am. This will be followed by our Christmas luncheon. Everyone is invited to come along. There will be no speaker, but morning tea will be available. Book lunches with Anne Nalder. This will be the last meeting for 2022, and the next meeting will be the first Friday in

February, 2023. All enquiries to John Ritchie, President/Secretary, Far North Coast Branch: 0437 509 618.

BV Probus Club

The Brunswick Valley Probus Club meeting is on Tuesday 6 December, 10am, at the Ocean Shores Country Club. Guest Speaker is Tian Evans talking on the importance of eating wholesome food and living a healthy lifestyle. This is our last meeting for this year. Brunswick Probus wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Next meeting will be next year on Tuesday 7 February 2023. Visitors welcome. Inquires ring Margaret 6680 3316.

BV VIEW Club

The next luncheon of Brunswick Valley VIEW Club is 8 December at Brunswick Heads Bowling Club. Wear something festive. The guest speaker is Patt Gregory. Casual members need to advise if they are attending. Members unable to attend need to apologise to Wenda on 0449 563 580 or email wjhunt@yahoo.com no later than the Monday before the meeting. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women. The club supports seven disadvantaged students in The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. Info: view. org.au, call 1800 805 366 or email view@thesmithfamily.com.au.

Julian Assange

Turing Point Talks is delighted to welcome Julian Assange’s father John Shipton to give an update on Julian’s present situation at 7pm Thursday 8 December in the Courthouse Hotel opposite Mullumbimby Post Office. By donation. All proceeds go to supporting Julian.

Going Local

Turning Point Talks is pleased to announce Helena will be presenting Going Local To Save The World – And Ourselves at 7pm Wednesday 30 November at the Courthouse Hotel opposite the Mullumbimby Post Office. Helena will discuss the need to move away from dependence on global monopolies towards decentralised regional economies.

Fletcher Street 0499 839 566. Small and large quantities welcome. https:// soapaid.org.

Sex & Love Addicts Anon

Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous is peer-support group of men and women for whom sex and/or romance have become a problem. For details of weekly meetings, phone 0452 074 974 or visit www.slaa.org.au.

Volunteers sought

Volunteers sought for Northern Rivers Volunteering, representing more than 100 community organisations. Info: 6621 7397

Bridge club

Brunswick Valley Bridge Club meets every Monday, seated at 12.15 to commence play at 12.30. Visitors welcome. See bridgewebs.com/ brunswickvalley/home.html or for partner ring Lesley 0468 807 306.

Facebook Brunswick Valley Bridge Club.

BV scrabble club

Brunswick Valley Scrabble Club will meet each Tuesday afternoon from 1 till 4pm at the Brunswick Bowling Club. New members welcome. Contact Steve on 0407 844 718.

Repair Cafe

Mullumbimby’s Repair Cafe at Shedding (Mullum Commons), 91 Main Arm Rd on Saturdays 1.30-4.30pm. Volunteers will be there to help you fix things that might otherwise end up in the tip, or to advise how it might be done.

End-of-Life Choices

Voluntary Euthanasia End-of-Life Choices are discussed at Exit International meetings held quarterly. Meetings are held at Robina and Tweed Heads South. Attendees must be Exit Members. Philip Nitschke will hold a workshop early next year on the Gold Coast, to discuss the ‘Voluntary Assisted Dying’ laws, and how they may affect you, plus other important Information. For further Information www.exitinternational.net or phone Catherine 0435 228 443.

Prostate cancer support

The final gathering of the Northern Rivers Day Prostate Cancer Support Group for 2022 is to be held on Tuesday 6 December. This is to be the Christmas luncheon rather than a regular meeting. Start 12.30pm at the Wollongbar Tavern. It is imperative for members, partners and carers to confirm as soon as possible so table bookings can be secured. Enquiries Bob Corney 0493 075 612, or 0400 747 630.

Suffolk Park Progress Association AGM

The Suffolk Park Progress Association will hold its AGM on Wednesday 30 November for 7.30pm at the Suffolk Park Community Hall. All community are most welcome. Hope to see you there.

Free Family Fun Day at Tweed Heads

There will be a Family Fun Day at Jack Evans Harbour Tweed Heads (between Twin Towns RSL and Tweed Mall shopping centre). Fun kids games, food, music, crafts and more – giveaway prizes include a new surf board. This event is put on by the local churches and community groups in the Coolangatta/Tweed area on Saturday, 3 December from 2pm–4pm (NSW time). For more info please call 0434 671 101.

Falls Festival tickets

Volunteer in exchange for Falls Festival Tickets! Join us at the ‘Taking Care of Bruns During Falls Festival’ project to help mitigate any negative impact of the festival on Brunswick Heads, from Friday 30 December through to Monday 2 January. In return, you’ll receive a three-day Falls Festival ticket. Or, you could volunteer and gift your ticket to a family member or friend. Call Belinda on 0435 228 443.

Local tennis players bring home Wendy Saville Cup

Local tennis players Lachlan Johnson, Sylvie Peart, Marielou Baudouin and Onyx Cheong represented the North East region in the U/16 division of the Wendy Saville Cup in Newcastle over the weekend and came home with the shield after playing against some of the best players in the state.

On day one of the contest the team had three wins from three, including an 8–0 triumph over South West, to top their pool and head into the playoffs.

The side was managed by David Johnson.

On finals day they came away with a 6–2 win against a metropolitan side and also won the final 6–2 against Northumberland.

Onyx and Marielou play with the Mullumbimby Club, while Lachlan is from the Tweed and Sylvie plays in Ballina.

‘The girls were undefeated in all of their singles and female doubles games, the boys only lost a couple of games as well,’ David said.

‘The depth of the side was our advantage, and they have played plenty of tennis alongside each other, so that helps as well.

‘There is good understanding between everyone.

‘The Wendy Saville Cup is highly contested by a lot of good players, so to win is a great achievement and an honour.

‘To be able to take on some top metro sides, and win, shows that tennis development is not lacking in the regions,’ he said.

Strong winds and good tides set up a race day of fast sailing on the Tweed River

Michael Grace

A big incoming tide and a sustained 20 knots of wind; all the ingredients for a great race, greeted the Tweed Valley Sailing Club fleet for race two of the summer season.

After practising his race starts earlier in the week Brennan Malone jostled It’s Academic for a ripper start and it was on.

The crew have really found their form, and it won’t be long before they will get a podium finish.

Four lasers, an impulse, a catamaran, and four corsairs were racing, and it was a close one.

The safety boat had its work cut out too, supporting the lasers that struggled in the gusts, and dealing with capsizing.

Dave Robinson’s impulse loved the downwind leg,

and the strong winds did not seem to bother Kate Yoemans.

The race was three laps.

At the end of the first lap, Kate led, followed by Mark Reynolds and crew on Keanas just 59 seconds later.

The second lap saw the Keanas crew nipping at Kate’s heels now 48.28 seconds behind.

The final lap was a

nail-biter, it was neck-andneck all the way, but Kate crossed for the win (1. 09.31) and 49 seconds later came the Keanas crew. Lex Branch was not too far behind, coming in for a solid third place at 1.13.04. It’s Academic came in at 1.16.15.

Matt Andrews on Powder Monkeys (with Mia, Aidan and Posie) crossed soon after at 1.17.09.

Rip Starters light up twilight cricket

The Rip Starters have played big hitting cricket to go to the top of the Byron Bay twilight cricket ladder, but there is plenty of competition for the minor standings as the season’s halfway mark approaches.

The Rip Starters are undefeated after five starts and have posted the competition’s top score of 160 from 16 overs.

TNR sit in second place while Off the Rails and Eureka Grass are one point behind.

The Bowlo and the Kronix Parkies sit above the Loafers and Rugby, who each have one win.

Rugby tried to change that last Monday when they took on Eureka Grass, but were sent into field and let the openers get off to an 11

run per over start.

Eureka’s Adam (31 no) and Sam (25) scored boundaries early and were ably supported by Tim Stokes (31 no).

Rich (15) and Steve (12) also chimed in to get the side to a total of 138.

Rugby’s best bowlers included Connor (2/10) and Jack (2/21).

In reply Brady (31 no) and

to

no.

Connor (25) got the team off to a flyer and were on track with 80 runs after eight of their 16 overs.

But wickets began to fall and a golden duck to Larso saw a big drop in momentum for the Rugby boys. A late charge by George (14 no) and Joelby (31 no) got them close, but ultimately they fell short by 13 runs.

Calling All Sports

The Echo wants to support you. Please send stories, pics, match reports, upcoming events, tall tales (not too tall mind you), results and anecdotes to sport@echo.net.au.

Local tennis players took on the best of the state and delivered a top level performance to claim the Wendy Saville Cup. Photo supplied

Matt Andrews with his trusty crew puts Powder Monkeys through its paces. Photo supplied

Jolbey winds up on his way

31

Photo Ross Kendall

Byron Bay’s senior men’s team has beaten the Bellinger Braves in the local basketball grand final. The side is undefeated for the season. Photo supplied

Byron Beez win Sunshine Conference championship

Beware Wilsons Creek residents – cars are being stolen, according to social media posts. A communication tower is also being proposed for the valley, which despite it being earmarked for emergency use, has some residents concerned it will become a 5G tower.

Congrats Marie Lawton, from the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, who just won the leadership (volunteers) category of the annual Cycling Luminaries awards, presented by We Ride Australia at Randwick Racecourse in Sydney.

Local activist and author, Helena Norberg-Hodge, will speak about ‘Going Local To Save The World – And Ourselves’, at the upcoming November 30 Turning Point Talks event at the Courthouse Hotel. Helena speaks passionately and eloquently about the need to move away from dependence on global monopolies towards decentralised regional economies. Starts at 7pm and entry is by donation. Her article is on page 18.

From satirist David Milner: ‘Imagine being RBA governor Philip Lowe. You earn $900,000 pa for the privilege of being wrong without consequence and then when the poors get uppity and ask for pay rises to meet inflation – which you’ve failed to control – you tell them not to be silly while making their mortgages more expensive’.

There was a suspected arson attack on the house of satirical journalist, Jordan Shanks, aka Friendlyjordies, last week. Shanks is facing court action by Clubs NSW

and has created a long list of enemies because, um, he is a real journalist. Like the vultures they are, mainstream media swooped in and exposed his home address.

Online shopping platform, Etsy, tops Collective Shout’s list for exploiting children because it sells child-like sex dolls and replica child body parts, modelled on the bodies of little girls and marketed for men’s sexual use. Just so you know.

Bee health alert – new detections of the Varroa mite have prompted an expansion of the current red zone for the state’s beekeepers. NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) say a property near Cessnock brings the total number of infested premises to 103, since the mite was first identified during routine surveillance at the Port of Newcastle on June 22.

Saturday’s SMH (Nine) edition ran a piece on the Bondi exodus to Byron with some poor subbing.

The mayor’s name was quoted as Lyons (it’s Lyon) and he is the Mayor of Byron Shire, not Byron Bay.

Spencer Jones (Principal of Billinudgel Public School, 1958 to 1985) and publican Ken Barnham (former Billinudgel School Captain) are pictured in front of some of the school’s past students, staff, parents and community who celebrated the reprinting of the local history book, Billinudgel Public School 1893–1993 the First One Hundred Years Photo Jeff Dawson