The Byron Shire Echo – Issue 38.29 – December 27, 2023

BREATHE IN PATIENCE, BREATHE OUT LOVE The Byron Shire Echo • Volume 38 #29 • December 27, 2023 • www.echo.net.au

Feros residents win battle over eviction threat

Everyone gets a feed!

Hans Lovejoy

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Byron’s Liberation Larder joined with Fishheads again to host the annual free Christmas lunch. Pictured are some of the organisers and volunteers getting ready to serve up more than 60 meals of cold meat, salad and yummy desserts at the Byron Surf Club. For more information visit www.liberationlarder.org. Photo Eve Jeffery

Byron’s streets close for all-ages NYE Family-friendly is the theme again for New Year’s Eve Soul Street celebrations in Byron Bay, say Byron Council, with the focus on inclusive, all-ages entertainment in Jonson Street and Dening Park.

In a press release, Council staff say, ‘From 3pm onwards in the section of Jonson Street between Lawson Street and Byron Street, including Lateen Lane, there will

be drumming workshops, an outdoor dining zone, live music and face-painting’.

Dening Park ‘From 6pm the focus of activity will move to Dening Park where people will be entertained by a wide range of musicians, many of the them locals’.

Byron Shire Mayor, Michael

Community groups unhappy Who is with Council secrecy and Steven land release plans ▶ p4 Miles? ▶ p8

Lyon, warned revellers that ‘If people are planning a massive night of drinking and carrying on, Byron Bay is not the place for them this NYE, but if they are looking for a night that’s inclusive, safe and family-friendly, Byron is the place to be’.

Staff went onto say, ‘Police will be patrolling the streets and enforcing the alcohol-free zones in

parks and on beaches’.

‘There will be no tolerance for anti-social behaviour and overnight camping in beach car parks and in streets is illegal and people will be fined.

‘Road closures will be in place in parts of the Byron Bay central business district from early on December 31 and all roads will be open again by 8am on January 1, 2024’.

Overcome isolation and commit to quit ‘busyness’ ▶ p10

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he eight remaining elderly residents at the Byron Feros aged care facility have been told they can stay, after NSW Crown Lands announced St Andrew’s Village Ballina will take over the lease.

The victory for the remaining residents comes after Feros Care management announced in February 2023 its intention to close the facility, claiming that the ‘buildings don’t meet today’s building requirements for a residential aged care facility under the Aged Care Act 1997’.

Feros Care management faced community backlash and condemnation from all sides of politics after asking around 40 elderly residents to relocate to other Feros facilities in the region so the facility could be redeveloped.

Throughout, Feros had not supplied any evidence to The Echo of why the facility needs upgrading.

In a media statement on December 21, Feros management said their ‘position is unchanged’.

‘We remain concerned for the welfare and safety of the eight remaining residents who refused to leave the Byron Bay home and for any future residents.

‘Without significant redevelopment requiring residents to relocate, there is no proposal that can bring the current buildings to the National Construction Code 9C requirements for residential aged care. This is based on the advice from local experts in town planning, bushfire management and ▶ Continued on page 3

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Wallum, as art The Annual Reading of the Credits The Echo was created, produced and distributed by the following drudges over the last year. Many thanks to all and apologies for any inadvertent omissions.

Adel Pheloung, Aletha Zylstra, Alexandra Birot, Alister Lockhart, Andy Holt, Angela Harris, Anke Richter, Anna Coelho, Annie Jamison, Ari Haslam, Arthur Randolph, Aslan Shand, Belle Budden, Bex Salt, Bob Morgan, Brent Malcolm, Brett McCauley, Brian Mollet, Cassie Douglas, Catherine Cusack, Charles Boyle, Cristina Sharratt, Crystal Appo, Daniel Troiani, Daniela Ulloa, Danielle Binder, David Heilpern, David Lisle, David Lovejoy, David Lowe, Eve Jeffery, Ewan Willis, Gordon Balfour Haynes, Hans Lovejoy, Ian Rogers, Ingrid Manning, Jacki Coward, Jeff Dawson, Jennifer Dallimore, Jim Beatson, Jo Immig, Joshua Munro, Kate Messenger, Katherine Leggett, Katie Thompson, Kaye Groves, Kerry Hathaway, Kim Beaver, Konstantina Noutsos, Leandro Tuao, Leisa Bekkers, Lesley Hannaford, Lilith Rocha, Lirhazel Evans, Lisa Bridges, Lucien Shand, Mandy Nolan, Melva Sparkes, Mia Armitage, Michael Ebeyer, Michele Grant, Miica Balint, Nantichar Yoknit, Neil McKenzie, Neil Young, Paul Bibby, Dr Ray Moynihan, Rebecca Salt, Rebecca Whan, Rebekah Rose, Renee Cunningham, Richard Jones, Robert Couldry, Robert Thorn, Robyn Eden, Ross Kendall, Sandra Davey, Simon Haslam, Stephanie Steinbrech, Stephen Berriman, Stephen Axelsen, Tamsin Smyth, Tasman Lindsay, Taz Lindsay (Jnr), Tim Naylor, Tirza Abb, Vicki Burke, Wendy Hardman, Dr Willow Hallgren, Winston Lamont, Zeeanna Rayment, Ziggi Browning

The Byron Shire Echo Volume 38 #29 • December 27, 2023 Established 1986 • 24,500 copies every week

www.echo.net.au Phone: 02 6684 1777 Editorial/news: editor@echo.net.au Advertising: adcopy@echo.net.au Office: 64 McGoughans Lane, Mullumbimby NSW 2482 General Manager Simon Haslam Editor Hans Lovejoy Deputy Editor Aslan Shand Photographer Jeff Dawson Advertising Manager Anna Coelho Production Manager Ziggi Browning

Nicholas Shand 1948–1996 Founding Editor

The Echo acknowledges the people of the Bundjalung nation as the traditional custodians of this land and extends respect to elders past, present and future.

Disclaimer: The Echo is committed to providing a voice for our whole community. The views of advertisers, letter writers, and opinion writers are not necessarily those of the owners or staff of this publication.

‘The job of a newspaper is to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.’ – Finley Peter Dunne 1867–1936 © 2023 Echo Publications Pty Ltd – ABN 86 004 000 239 Reg. by Aust. Post Pub. No. NBF9237 Printer: Sydney Print Centre, Chullora

2 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

A ‘Save Wallum’ fundraiser/art exhibition was held at the Brunswick Picture House last Wednesday. Titled Still Wallum, the display by local photographers showcased the broad spectrum of wildlife and nature within the controversial development site at Bayside in Brunswick Heads. Photo Eve Jeffery

Long lease approved for Old Byron Hospital site managers Paul Bibby Local not-for-profit Social Futures is set to be offered a 20-year lease for the management of the Old Byron Hospital site.

As the process of turning the Shirley Street site into a community hub in the heart of Byron Bay, councillors at their December 14 meeting voted to double the length of lease offered to Social Futures, at the request of the latter.

Council and Social Futures have been negotiating the lease, and a proposed rent discount arrangement, periodically since 2021.

However, in recent weeks Social Futures’ leadership have reportedly indicated

to Council that without alterations to the lease term and how the rent is recorded, their occupation and management of the site is ‘imperilled’.

It has emerged that, in order to attract a university as a key subtenant for the site, a lease of 20 years must be offered for the site.

dşƱ ſĶƆŊǽ ƆëƷ ƆƐëǔ Staff have recommended that councillors vote to amend the lease as Social Futures requested, describing the move as ‘low risk’.

At Council’s last meeting for 2024, councillors voted unanimously to authorise General Manager, Mark Arnold, to negotiate and settle changes

in relation to the lease.

This includes offering Social Futures a 20-year lease in the hopes that this will get the negotiations over the line.

The penalty for Social

Futures not meeting its key performance indicators is termination of the lease – a stipulation that was made at the request of Social Futures.

Lennox swimmer missing A search was conducted on Tuesday for a swimmer last seen at a Lennox Head beach.

Police say that around 3.20pm on Sunday, emergency services were called to Main Beach at Lennox Head, following reports a man was seen in distress in the water before failing to resurface.

‘Officers attached to Richmond Police District arrived and immediately

commenced a search for the man. The search involves local police as well as Surf Lifesavers, Marine Rescue NSW, and a rescue helicopter.

‘Police are appealing for anyone who might have seen the man around this time on Sunday, he is described as being of Caucasian appearance with brown hair.

‘At this point in time, no one has been reported missing to police’.

Doggie blood bank needed for region A push to establish a local emergency blood bank for dogs in the Northern Rivers is underway.

After losing her beloved family dog, an eight-year-old Kelpie named Boots, after a snake bite a few months ago, local dog lover, dog nutritionist and business owner, Donna Lorenz, got motivated ‘so others don’t find themselves in the same frustrating and heartbreaking life and death situation’.

She told The Echo that after Boots presented to the vet with apparent internal bleeding from an unknown cause, ‘We were told he needed a blood transfusion immediately – a significant cost – or

to do it. Our only option was to drive him to the Gold Coast, and unfortunately he passed away in the car enroute’, says Lorenz.

‘Once we got through the initial shock and grief, I knew I had to do something to solve this issue. It’s unacceptable. We have to try.’

Boots. Photo supplied

Legacy

we should euthanaise him’.

‘There was no guarantee he would make it through the proposed operation, but without it he would surely die.

‘We had pet insurance, and were willing to give it a try, but the problem was that there was no blood available

She says with support from local vets and the leader of the dog blood bank on the Gold Coast, she is in the process of establishing a not-for-profit, and has named it the 4Boots Emergency Blood Bank for Dogs.

‘This will be his legacy. We want our grief to turn into

something good. 4Boots will help dogs, dog lovers and vets who all suffer in these heartbreaking situations.

‘We will be engaging with local vets and dog lovers to ensure we serve all those impacted.’

‘There is still much to finalise in terms of logistics, however so far, we have an in principle agreement from the Gold Coast Blood Bank for advice and to process donated blood at their facility. This processing extends the life span of the blood from ten days to six weeks’.

To help with the initiative, visit www.gofundme. com/f/4-boots-emergencyblood-bank-for-dogs. www.echo.net.au

Local News Feros residents win their battle to stay at Byron facility ▶ Continued from page 1 building certification.

‘Currently, two thirds of the residential rooms are built within the bushfire asset protection zone, which by today’s safety standards is not allowed’.

And while Feros managers said it proposed a ‘multi-million dollar investment in Byron Bay to build a different form of affordable accommodation for up to 80 seniors’, they told The Echo they ‘did not submit a proposal for the lease of the site to Crown Land and handed back the Village’s bed licences to the Department of Health & Aged Care’.

The Echo asked new leaseholder, St Andrew’s Village Ballina, if they had assessed the buildings in relation to the claims

by Feros, and ‘are you confident you do not have to close the buildings and renovate to meet legislated requirements?’

St Andrew’s CEO Todd Yourell replied, ‘St Andrew’s have received advice that capital works that we intend to do at the facility will not trigger a change in building classification’.

‘We are intending to continue to utilise the facility in its current purpose’.

Yourell added, in a media statement, ‘We plan to offer a seamless transition for the eight current residents and we look forward to welcoming back any residents who have sought new accommodation

Feros Byron resident Kate Smorty and her daughter Dianne Brien when they got the news Feros Byron Bay would not be closing. Photo Tree Faerie since February and who may choose to return to the Marvell Street site.’

Mr Yourell said around $3M will be spent updating the facility in the short to medium term, with input sought from residents during the design process.

New plans afoot ‘The new plans already include $120,000 for new beds, $150,000 for a new nurse call system, and $48,000 for a new fall detection system as well as an upgrade to the facility’s kitchens’.

‘We believe we can improve and successfully operate the facility in accordance with the current class of use,’ he said.

‘We anticipate working closely with Byron Shire Council to carry out the upgrade with an absolute minimum of inconvenience to the residents’.

‘St Andrew’s Village Byron Bay will also offer places to individuals aged 65 plus who are grappling with low income, housing insecurity or other circumstances that heightens the risk of homelessness.

‘Founded by community members more than 40 years ago, St Andrew’s currently offer comprehensive care services, including a residential aged care facility for 123 residents, retirement living across four villages comprising 101 units, and extending support to around 400 home care and Veterans Care clients across Tweed Heads, Byron Bay, Lismore and Ballina’.

Politicised campaign Feros Care management told The Echo, they were proud of their 33-year history on this site, ‘and we are saddened the politicised campaign against the

closure resulted in depriving the Byron community of new affordable homes for up to 80 seniors’.

‘These new homes would have been compliant with all building and bushfire regulations, which the current site is not, irrespective of who runs the facility.

The Echo asked Feros Care ‘Can residents of other Feros facilities expect similar experiences in the future i.e. being asked to move for redevelopment, or was this a one-off case?’

They replied, ‘Feros Village Bangalow and Feros Village Wommin Bay are both compliant with the national construction code.

Feros Care, as a charity, will continue to invest in aged care across Australia’.

The Echo also asked, ‘Does the board concede there has been reputational damage from this exercise, and if so, are there plans to address it?’

Feros Care replied, ‘Feros Care made a responsible decision in the best interest of resident care and safety.

‘This was a very difficult decision to make which we knew would be unpopular, however our obligation and duty of care for residents is our priority.

‘We have apologised many times for the distress caused and we are disappointed that the reason of resident safety has been lost in the politicisation of the decision’.

Eureka multiple occupancy approved Paul Bibby A 42-hectare greenfield site in Eureka – which includes part of the town’s landscape conservation area – will become a housing development after the project got the green light from Byron Shire Council.

The owner of 16 Whian Rd was granted permission for the development, a 14-dwelling multiple occupancy (MO), at the last Council meeting for 2023, held on December 14.

The development will see dwellings arranged into four clusters, which will be constructed over three stages.

These clusters will be accessed by two new roads running off Federal Drive and Whian Road.

In recommending approval of the project, Council staff conceded that it was ‘likely to change the www.echo.net.au

character of the surrounding rural landscape’.

However, they also noted that the site had been identified in previous strategic planning studies as being suitable for additional rural housing.

Four of the proposed dwelling sites are within the Eureka Village Landscape Conservation Area (EVLCA) and in relatively close proximity to the heritage listed Anglican Church and Rectory on the corner of Federal Drive and Whian Road.

Council officers initially expressed concerns about potential impacts of the proposed development on site’s heritage and landscape values, prompting the submission of a revised layout plan by the developer in August 2023, along with further information in relation to visual impacts, bushfire,

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What’s a multiple occupancy?

Multiple occupancies are a private, shared living arrangements on large rural land lots. Financial institutions generally do not lend to buy into MOs, so landowners need to buy their dwelling entitlements with cash.

A Community Title (CT) is similar to a MO, and while it is harder to gain DA approval, financial institutions generally do provide loans on CTs. and biodiversity issues.

The amended layout plan shifted three of the dwelling sites to the eastern side of the access road and relocated a fourth site into the ‘farm residence cluster’, and is now deemed to be the appropriate for the site.

ÈĕīĕƐëƐĶşŕ ćƖǔĕſ To address land use conflicts, the proponent will establish a vegetation buffer along the boundary with neighbouring macadamia orchards to filter wind-borne

spray droplets emitted during periods of spraying.

Big Scrub restoration A significant ecological restoration project is also proposed as part of the development, which aims to enhance the remnant Big Scrub rainforest near Whian Road through natural and assisted regeneration.

It is intended that this will eventually create a link corridor with an adjoining rainforest remnant on the property to the north. 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 3

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Community groups unhappy with Council Hans Lovejoy With councillors adopting a large-scale rural land rezoning policy at their December 14 meeting, The Echo asked some community groups whether they believe their submissions were taken into account, and whether they would like to see more transparency in future given all public submissions were confidential.

As previously reported, Council will now be asking the NSW government to approve known floodplain areas of Mullumbimby for future development as part of its adopted Housing Options Paper (HOP).

Infrastructure capacity concerns were downplayed, while High Environmental Value (HEV) land is also included.

Urban development is slated at 6,695 new homes over 20 years, and will mainly occur in the north of the Shire, including Mullumbimby, Brunswick Heads and Saddle Ridge, located between Mullum and Bruns.

Bangalow is also expected to expand by 905 dwellings.

As the list of community

groups were not made public

by Council, The Echo contacted the following groups:

CABS Community Alliance for Byron Shire (CABS) say they represent 11 locality-based community groups across Byron Shire.

CABS secretary, Angela Dunlop, said, ‘Flood-affected areas in the Shire slated for residential development are of great concern. It appears that these concerns have not been given any gravitas by councillors and staff who, it appears, are willing to place more vulnerable people in harm’s way’.

As for Council transparency, Ms Dunlop replied, ‘We are unsure as to when and why submissions became confidential documents. The state’s Independent Planning Commission (IPC) publishes submissions that they elicit, so Council could certainly afford us the same access to submissions they receive.

‘To have faith in councillors and Council staff it is paramount that there is transparency and that our views are reflected by Council’.

4 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

As for increased density, she replied, ‘CABS most certainly did not request increased dwelling density.

In fact, we expressed concerns about the amount of proposed infill, especially in flood-prone areas’ .

SRLAMPA President of the Saddle Ridge Local Area Management Planning Association (SRLAMPA) is Matt O’Reilly.

He told The Echo their submission addressed the recognition ‘that the housing circumstances in Byron Shire have fundamentally changed since five years ago when we strictly opposed the inclusion of the Saddle Ridge. We acknowledge that the accumulated impact of bushfires, flooding, landslips, COVID-19, climate change, increases in house prices, high inflation and homelessness means that the Saddle Ridge is one of the few places in Byron Shire that can provide safe, long-term housing solutions’.

As for Council’s transparency, he said ‘There is a clear lack of transparency around the housing options paper review process. We do not

even know which private consultant Council hired to review the submissions. If Council was genuine about engaging with the community, instead of appearing to just rubber stamp the Housing Options Paper, they would have made the submissions publicly available’.

As for dwelling density and infrastructure capacity, O’Reilly said, ‘I personally opposed increasing dwelling density in established towns like Brunswick Heads, Mullumbimby and Ocean Shores, as there is no possible way to increase infrastructure to service this increased density’.

‘The diameter of the pipes in the ground is already too small to cope with high rainfall events. It is the same with roads, sewerage, telecommunications, parks, playgrounds, bike paths, footpaths, public transport. There is also not enough capacity in local primary schools. Increasing density in established towns that have not been master planned to cope with the high density is just waiting for a social disaster to happen’.

He did advocate, however, ‘for higher density in any new

greenfield suburbs and subdivisions (like Saddle Ridge)’.

‘This is because the best outcome, environmentally, and for the planet, is if humans live in higher density suburbs instead of sprawling out into rural land and further impacting wildlife and the environment’.

SGBCA South Golden Beach Community Association (SGBCA) president, Kathy Norley, told The Echo, ‘We are not happy about the decision. In fact, we are furious’.

‘We believe that none of the councillors went through the floods themselves, so how dare they make a decision like that, and place others in a position where they could lose their homes, belongings and possibly life’.

‘We had no idea that submissions were going to be confidential.

She says, ‘On the SGBCAFacebook page, we had to let community know what the difference was between fill and infill. So many where confused by these two words.

‘No to infill – it compounds flooding as absorption rate

is then limited. More infill means more concrete, so areas flood quicker.

‘We do not think our submission was taken into account, and know many from the north of the Shire had similar views as ours.

‘How [senior Council planner] Shannon Burt came to the conclusion the public asked for higher density is mystifying to us. Submissions must be published’.

Bruns Bayside RA Peter Tanner, president of the Bayside Residents Association (BRA) in Bruns told The Echo that residents there are concerned around ‘poor storm water drainage and sinkholes, and have repeatedly contacted Council about this’.

He raised the issue of Bayside being promised a retail precinct (shopping centre), which was lost after Council approved Kollective’s Corso boarding house on the location. Additionally, he says the adjoining park area is still earmarked in the HOP as ‘under investigation’ for new housing.

Tanner said, ‘Bayside

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secrecy and mass urban land release plans currently has up to 144 dwellings approved in the Wallum development; 20 townhouses being built on Bayside Way; 46 house blocks planned for the wholesale nursery on Bayside Way; and the Corso with 46 high-density units.

‘Bayside is already contributing significantly to ameliorating the housing crisis, and is at risk of being “brutalised” in this process; no shopping centre, no park or community space, poor access to the town etc’.

Tanner added more Council transparency is needed, and that higher density was not asked for.

Bruns PA Acting secretary of the Brunswick Heads Progress Association (BHPA), Jo Pilgrim, told The Echo her organisation does not feel that their submission was taken into account.

‘And if it was, how can we tell, as the staff report summarised the feedback at the Shire level, not by town or area’.

‘We would like to see greater transparency in

the future. Defining a new Residential Strategy for the Shire is a very important process, and those organisations and individuals making submissions could be offered a choice as to whether they would like their submission to be fully public or to have identifying details removed.

‘Feedback summarised by geographic areas would allow for more nuanced debate and more nuanced recommendations rather than “one recommendation fits all”.’

‘With submissions being confidential it makes it very difficult to determine whether errors have occurred in the compiling of documents by Council staff.

As for requesting higher density, Pilgrim said, ‘No, we did not. Quite the opposite’.

She added that BHPA ‘and many individual residents objected to increased density in the original village of Brunswick Heads, owing to concerns about already overstretched infrastructure and negative impacts on the character of the town’.

‘I am sure residents of other towns and villages were equally vocal about not

wanting increased density in existing urban areas from infill development’.

Mullum RA Dale Emerson, representing the Mullum Residents Association (MRA), provided The Echo with extensive material around Council’s lack of fair procedure and questionable late land inclusions into the HOP that came without public comment.

As for transparency, he said that in October 2022, Ballina Council published all submissions to its draft Strategic Urban Growth Area Review.

And according to page 5 of Byron Council’s Privacy Management Plan 2020: (2.3 Principles), it says: ‘Transparency – people should have access to the information they need to understand government planning and decision-making processes in order to participate in an informed way.’

Emerson said the pressure to comply with government deadlines resulted in ‘poor advertising of the HOP’.

‘Street names or numbers and area numbers, previously referenced in the Residential

Strategy 2020, were not included in the HOP, and made it difficult to determine locations. These details have now been included in the submission report!’

Emerson also said, ‘As stated in the Council report 13.6 (Page 97), not all NSW government state agencies provided feedback prior to the Council meeting’.

‘When Council adopted the Residential Strategy 2020 it highlighted that: ‘The most significant revisions to the

draft residential strategy have been in response to matters raised by the Department of Planning, Industry & Environment (DPIE), as these are considered necessary to enable the DPIE’s endorsement of a final residential strategy’.

‘Why has Council published before all DPIE submissions have been received, considering their importance?

‘Will the community be engaged for feedback once

these submissions have been received, reviewed and the strategy updated?’

According to staff, the HOP will ‘inform’ the residential strategy ‘refresh’.

The Echo has repeatedly tried to get a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer from senior Council staff around whether the strategy, expected to be presented to councillors early next year, will include public submissions.

The Echo is yet to receive a reply.

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'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 5

North Coast News

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Ballina gets into the Christmas spirit Lismore

Memorial Baths reopen

News from across the North Coast online

www.echo.net.au First official Widjabul Wia-bal Day The first official Widjabul Wia-bal Day has been recognised on the Northern Rivers this week.

From Ballina to Sambhav Festival in New Delhi Northern Rivers legends Suzanne Whiteman and Andy Bambach were joined by Ballina’s Leanne Thomas on a recent trip to the Sambhav Festival in India, which has a focus on giving artists with disabilities an opportunity to showcase their talents and shine.

Car accident Stokers Siding A man was airlifted from Stokers Siding to Gold Coast University Hospital on Monday, December 18 following a car accident.

Level 2 water restrictions for Nimbin Level 2 water restrictions have been introduced in Nimbin, effective from Wednesday, 20 December 2023.

Christmas elf sisters Colette Manihera and Renee Dunwoodie-Halverson at 30 Elkhorn Parade, North Ballina. Photo David Lowe

Stay safe in the water this summer

Rescission motion on Tweed’s Tringa Street access succeeds

From Point Danger, to Brunswick, Cape Byron, Ballina, Evans Head, Iluka, Yamba and Wooli there have been 325 search and rescue missions by Marine Rescue NSW units in the Northern Rivers, safely returning 673 people to shore during the first 11 months of 2023.

Another accident at Hanging Rock Falls At about 5pm on Sunday 17 December a Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked by NSW Ambulance to Barkers Vale, north west of Lismore, to rescue a man in his 60s who sustained injuries after diving into water at Hanging Rock Falls.

Police respond to NSW LGBQTI+ death inquiry recommendations The NSW Police Force says it will consider the recommendations of, and has issued a response to, this week’s Special Commission of Inquiry into LGBQTI+ Hate Crimes report.

www.echo.net.au

6 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

Aslan Sahnd Councillor James Owen (Liberal) had promised a rescission motion on last week’s refusal of a modification on the controversial industrial zombie development at 60 Tringa Street, Tweed Heads.

The previous refusal for a ‘temporary’ access to the site on the northern border had

been upheld on the casting vote of Mayor Chris Cherry as the absence of conservative councillor Warren Polglase from the meeting had left the decision with three votes each way.

On Wednesday, 20 December Tweed Councillors attended an extraordinary meeting and pushed through the approval as Councillor

Polglase was able to attend this meeting. They also refused to support an amendment by the mayor to seek an acid sulphate soil plan of management for the council land that would be effected by the temporary access.

Q Read full story in The Echo online at www.echo.net.au.

Lismore’s popular Memorial Baths have reopened earlier than expected, following months of extensive repairs due to damage caused by the February 2022 flood disaster.

Lismore Council has been able to achieve an earlierthan-anticipated opening of the facility by adopting reduced opening hours and patron capacity, while the facility worked toward becoming fully staffed and operational by January.

‘What a wonderful sign of Lismore’s revival, and a great introduction to summer,’ said Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin.

‘Being able to swim laps, hang out with friends, take the family to the pool, it’s all part of a regular Aussie summer and this helps us feel that life is getting back to normal.’

The Baths will be open seven days a week from 11am to 5pm with a maximum of 150 people at any one time to ensure the safety of swimmers. The facility will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

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NSW minister defends new Charlie thanks his supporters țëǔşſĎëćōĕ IJşƖƆĶŕīȜ ſĕĪşſŔƆ Hans Lovejoy Further to the latest ‘affordable housing’ reforms by the NSW Labor government, a spokesperson for the NSW Minister for Homelessness and the North Coast, Rose Jackson, has replied to Echo questions.

Recent reforms to the State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP), which guide affordable housing development, were roundly criticised by the peak body representing councils, Local Government NSW (LGNSW).

LGNSW president, Cr Turley, said the new SEPP removes councils from the approval process, and that it ‘further erodes councils’ involvement in town planning, giving developers increasingly free rein in both city and country’.

Yet a statement by Ms Jackson said the opposite, claiming that councils and communities had been consulted on the reforms.

The Echo asked whether Ms Jackson agreed her comments – that councils

were considered in the reform – are inconsistent and inaccurate, given the views of LGNSW.

0ǔĕĈƐĶưĕ ōëƱȃ Additionally, The Echo asked how the NSW government ‘can be confident that their affordable housing reform will be effective, given there is no measure of effectiveness in this reform’.

‘Does Ms Jackson support a parliamentary inquiry into the SEPP to establish how affordable housing outcomes can be measured and improved?’

A spokesperson for Ms

Jackson did not answer the questions, but told The Echo, ‘We remain committed to working across all levels of government to expedite the delivery of more homes’.

‘This includes continuous and ongoing conversations and consultation with Councils, local communities, and industry.

‘Availability of housing is at it’s lowest level in decades, the lack of supply directly impacts affordability.

‘Fast-tracking the delivery of more affordable homes is vital to help confront our housing crisis’.

!wÈP'ȒǞǦ ſĕĈşưĕſƷ īſëŕƐƆ ëưëĶōëćōĕ Up to $10,000 in grants are available to community groups across regional, remote and rural Australia as part of continued recovery from COVID-19.

Federal Labor said in a media release last week that The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s (FRRR) Strengthening Rural Communities program aims to ‘support local

organisations to uplift their communities following significant disruption from COVID-19’.

‘Grants could be for initiatives such as workshops, education programs or improving facilities and community equipment’.

For further information visit www.frrr.org.au/funding/ place/src-rebuilding-regionalcommunities/.

Charlie Emery wishes to thank the following sponsors for their donations in the Christmas raffle that is to support his upcoming brain surgery, and to alleviate his symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease.

They are: The Billinudgel Hotel; Mitre 10 (Glen Innes); Whatever – Brunswick Heads; Happy Dolphin Cafe – Brunswick Heads; Betta Electrical – Mullumbimby;

Charlie Emery Captains Stash – Brunswick Heads; Wicked Weasel

– Mullumbimby; Krystal Adult Shop – Byron Bay; Muscle Down Under Inc – Ocean Shores; Ray Towers Carpets – Mullumbimby; Farm Care – Mullumbimby; Wave Designs and Brims Hardware – Billinudgel.

For more information, and if you would like to donate to Charlie, please visit the gofundme page www. gofundme.com/f/charlieemery-needs-our-help.

0 Ʒſşŕ ëƷ ƆĈIJşōëſƆIJĶżƆ şŕ şǔĕſ Federal government funding of $1.26M has been announced for scholarships at the Byron Bay campus of SAE Creative Media Institute (SAE).

In a press release last week, SAE and and the Australian College of Applied Professions (ACAP) said they were thrilled about the funding, which will support 36 scholarships for new students and ‘enhance educational opportunities in creative media and counselling’.

A SAE media spokesperson said, ‘The Destination Australia program funds eligible tertiary education

providers like SAE and ACAP to offer scholarships of up to $15,000 per student per year to students to study and live in regional Australia.

Underrepresented ‘Domestic students from underrepresented groups such as from low socio-economic backgrounds, those who are first in their family to study at a tertiary level, those living with a disability, and First Nations people will be given priority. The study areas that qualify at SAE includes animation, audio, film, games and music.

‘At ACAP, the one-year

Diploma of Counselling Skills and three-year Bachelor of Counselling courses are eligible under the program’.

SAE General Manager, Dr Luke McMillan, said, ‘SAE is delighted to be providing new international and domestic students with financial support to pursue their dreams, while contributing to the growth of the Northern Rivers creative media industry’.

Scholarships will be available for new students commencing their studies in February 2024. Visit sae.edu. au/campuses/byron-bay/ for more info.

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A Christmas message for Darrell

The Byron Shire Echo Volume 38 #29 • December 27, 2023

Who is Steven Miles?

Qld’s new Premier, Steven Miles, has arrived in the big chair at a dramatic time.

One week into the job, he’s already faced one of the worst natural disasters in the state’s history, and taken on the fossil fuel industry. The bloke clearly doesn’t lack guts, or ambition.

During the dark days of covid, as Annastacia Palaszczuk‘s trusted deputy and Health Minister, Mr Miles was the one delivering the daily bad news about deaths and border closures. This made him a familiar face to Queenslanders, but not necessarily a popular one.

When Ms Palaszczuk fell on her sword, he was elected unopposed by his party.

Working class roots Steven Miles likes to emphasise his working class roots, and wrote his university doctorate about the union movement. Mr Miles is also a disciple of Al Gore, which means he understands the science of climate change, and is now in a position to do something tangible about it.

Unlike previous Queensland Labor premiers, he’s already done more than talk, banning oil and gas drilling in the Western Channel Country, and doubling the state’s emissions reduction target to 75 per cent by 2035.

This has enraged Santos and other fossil fuel interests, who are running campaigns in opposition to these policies and increased coal royalties. With Labor only being able to retain government by hanging on to regional seats, Mr Miles’ future as premier depends on him being able to convince voters across the state that renewable energy will provide more jobs than legacy fossil industries.

Focusing on the other end of the

problem, Steven Miles said in one of his first press conferences that Queensland has always been one of the most disaster-prone places in Australia, and with so much extra heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, ‘that’s only going to get worse’.

Mr Miles describes himself as a consensus politician, hoping to unite right and left, the cities and the regions. From a more cynical perspective, in the past he’s proven prepared to let conviction take a back seat to realpolitik, having switched from Labor’s Right to Left faction after he failed to win his first pre-selection ballot back in 2009.

With large areas of his state already fracked beyond recognition, thanks largely to previous Labor premiers, his decision to protect the Channel Country comes at a critical time, with ripple effects for NSW and SA, hence the panicky response of Santos and the minerals lobby.

At 46 years of age, Steven Miles has been in parliament since only 2015. Now he has less than a year to convince the voters of Queensland he’s the right person to lead the state into an uncertain future.

In terms of the big picture, Queensland has spent most of its history being derided or ignored

by Canberra and the other states, but the fact is that this massive, extraordinary place to our north contains crucial World Heritage areas on land and sea, a fastgrowing population, land-clearing to rival many developing countries, and further carbon ‘bombs’ beneath the ground (stored carbon with the potential to tip the world into runaway climate catastrophe, if released), along with vast renewable energy potential.

Guest editorial by David Lowe

H

appy, Merry Silly Season Darrell!

It was genuinely lovely to see you at the party the other week. It must be three years.

We share such long, hard, deep memories; Of youth, drugs, risks, loves lost, death, fires and friendships, yet somehow, we have come through it all relatively intact, although some would beg to differ.

Just seeing you warms my heart.

But maybe, old friend, you could have just asked one question about me or mine in the hour and 29 minutes you talked at my face about your life and your views and your ever-changing philosophy of your existence.

I know my pathway is somewhat boring and predictable in comparison to the minutiae of your latest thought spasm, and so I certainly excuse you from delving into material clearly of utter disinterest and somehow beneath you.

And yes, your family and travels are probably so much more interesting and wonderful than mine, and I guess your shitting pattern and health drama is front page news, whereas mine is just a footnote in some tiresome first year essay written by AI. And, of course, your latest haiku poem bears repeating seven times with an explanation of the syllable progression.

I still love you of course, that goes without saying, but I don’t reckon we will be spending much time together next party. Because I’ll hide.

I have a genuine interest in the lives and thoughts of other people.

It is why my favourite television show is Australian Story, and my go-to radio program is Conversations. Other people’s journeys are the meat on the bones of life which is pretty important and enlightening even for us vegetarians.

I particularly enjoy the company of people who are massive sharers, because it seems to rip down Victorian barriers I wish weren’t there anymore, even if it is sometimes so personal it is squeamish. And my friends and family and workmates

‘So many people seem to have lost IJëōĪȝƐIJĕ ëſƐ şĪ ĈşŕưĕſƆëƐĶşŕǼ ƐIJĕ ćĶƐ ƱIJĕŕ ƷşƖ ōĶƆƐĕŕ ëŕĎ ƆIJşƱ ĶŕƐĕſĕƆƐǼ ëŕĎ ĎşŕțƐ ŇƖƆƐ ƐëōŊ ëćşƖƐ ƷşƖſƆĕōĪțȁ David Heilpern are thankfully two-way conversers, except in times of crisis (mine or theirs) and that is always fine.

But so many people seem to have lost half the art of conversation, the bit when you listen and show interest, and don’t just talk about yourself. I have been on tenday treks through mountains when, by the end of it, some of the hikers would not know a single thing about my life, but every one of us knows the whole stunning history of Madame X backwards.

We went to a wedding recently where we were seated with strangers and the conversation with each of them never went beyond themselves.

They knew nothing about us by the final speeches. Discussing this in the car on the way home, we wondered if this was a new phenomenon of social media or whether we were just, apparently, really droll.

I have found wisdom and friendship in unexpected places by listening to fishermen, nuns, farmers, children and cleaners.

Everyone has a story My life has been deeply enriched by bus rides with strangers who share thoughtful insights, giving and receiving. I often wish ABC Conversations just took random people off the street and squeezed out their life stories, and I bet none would be less interesting than the writers and famous people who litter the airwaves. Everyone has a story.

Musing about this phenomenon, I realised that it is genuinely not (well, not entirely) about David feeling churlishly hurt and screaming internally, ‘What about me?’. It is an aching sadness at the lack of caring and sharing, and the prominence of insular self-centredness… Or is it a hidden shyness or anxiety that prohibits questioning others? Whatever

it is, what will become of the world if we lose the art of learning from each other? Will we drown in our own reflection, like Narcissus?

An example; one of my favourite questions of other people is ‘How are you sleeping?, because I sleep like crap some of the time, and I feel so much better exploring my own pathway when it is framed by the experience of others.

And if they ask me back, we have that sharing of perspective with vulnerabilities and personal reflection that leads to real learning, not the social media or book type.

But many don’t ask me back, and interested as I am in their nocturnal machinations, I mourn the loss of insight (possibly) gained by mutual organic communication.

And if everyone could really listen and appreciate others with compassion and even a touch of empathy, then maybe, just maybe saving planet Earth would be easier, war would be less likely, and loving kindness more prevalent. Now that would be an epic Christmas present.

To all the Echoites who read my column this year, and responded with warmth or harshness or correction – I thank you. For listening, responding and teaching me some humility and giving me an opportunity to stop and listen again…

So Darrell, if I get the courage inherent in my New Year’s resolution I will actually send you this column in the hope that we can rekindle our friendship on more equal terms.

But I suspect not – I think if I hold up the mirror to your face, you will melt away and spend time only with those who determine to bask in your glory’.

I’m a little sad, but maybe that’s okay too.

Q David Heilpern is Dean of Law at SCU and a former magistrate.

Do you need a massage, yoga class or nourishing treatment th ese holidays?

Head to the Byron Healin g website to view a host of wonderful spas, wellnes s centres, practitioners , classes and health based retailers in the region.

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Your guide to maintaining health and wellbeing in Byron and the Northern Rivers 8 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

www.echo.net.au

Letters Everyone reads The Echo!

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The Echo takes on Wall Street! Legendary mountaineer and Mullumbimby balloonist Chris Dewhirst reading The Echo – finding the USA one issue behind the Times.

Us and Them All we need right now is an alien landing, perhaps including their demonstration of firepower. Instantly the concept of Us and Them would widen. Humanity would suddenly become the unified Us: that being we have always been.

The clinging to culture, race, and religion, you know, those wonderful fantasies that compel Us to harm and kill our fellow humans, could just melt away. Would the aliens listen if we read to them The Universal Declaration of Human Rights?

Sapoty Brook Main Arm

Wallum I would like to thank the adults of our community for taking a step to save Wallum, a housing development proposed on the last wallum wildflower heathland in our Shire.

It’s about time that the oldies realised that they needed to step up and do something instead of leaving a mess for us, the younger generations, to clean up.

I hope that the Clarence Property Group see this and realise how much they are hurting our future. Once this heathland is gone, it is gone forever.

Thank you to the

grown-ups who are trying to save this beautiful ecosystem.

Luka Carnovale BrunswickHeads

ƖĶōĎ şŕ ǖşşĎżōëĶŕƆ I wonder if those Councillors and Council staff who think it is a good idea to put more houses on the coastal floodplain around Mullumbimby, despite last year’s flood, have been watching what has happened on the coastal floodplain around Cairns in the last couple of weeks? These events are not as rare as they used to be, or as some people would like them to be.

Matthew Lambourne Mullumbimby

Our future, how about our say Byron Council has resolved for a high growth future, dismissing the need for comprehensive assessments prior to identifying land in a strategy. The state’s bullying for an increased dwelling target has been exceeded by over 2,000 dwellings while they remain silent on their own responsibility to deliver much needed public housing.

Council has picked winners and will revise the 2020 Residential Strategy and send it to the State for

endorsement, without exhibiting for further comment. A huge win for developers but not the community.

NSW planning legislation requires public exhibition of a Draft Strategy, in fact it states, it’s the only requirement under the EP&A Act. Council statements about community engagement and open and transparent processes fall short when we are denied the right to comment.

I’ve read community group submissions on the Housing Options Paper and it appears they were ignored in favour of high growth, without consideration of impact and priority issues such as flooding, traffic, ecology and significant farmland.

I oppose the Byron Council’s lack of transparency with submissions and the processes for defining our future. It’s so important to be informed by locals who know their area, know the history, and present informed arguments. Council must exhibit the revised Draft Residential Strategy.

Jan Barham Broken Head

Make Mullum īſĕëƐȞëīëĶŕ Thank you so much for your intelligent assessment of Byron Council today in The Echo online.

Letters to the Editor and cartoons Send to Letters Editor Aslan Shand, fax: 6684 1719 email: editor@echo.net.au Deadline: Noon, Friday.

Letters longer than 200 words may be cut. Letters already published in other papers will not be considered. Please include your full name, address and phone number for verification purposes.

www.echo.net.au

Byron Shire Council has been dysfunctional for 50 years in its departmental inability to work as a team.

You would remember the council reorganisation some years ago in response to the NSW Local Government Act as a result of which council departments became corporate entities.

This to some extent has been used as an excuse for Council not working together with common goals.

I came back to this area around 2000, after a 15-year absence.

I called a meeting with two of my town planning

▶ Continued on page 14

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Loneliness and social

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A Gambit for the Muse ‘David Lovejoy’s latest novel, White Horses and Dark Knights, is… the story of the fictional George Marks, a British journeyman International Master whose rational mind struggles with the possibility that he may have met – or rather been chosen by – a muse, Kay Orikasa. …Fun to read, with Lovejoy keeping the action and plot twists going until the end.’

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ur region is made of hubs of interconnection throughout the towns and villages in our region. Well known as a beacon of health and wellbeing our focus on community includes a strong sense of our collective identity.

Building strong and resilient communities are a priority of governments at all levels and jurisdictions, especially in the wake of the ongoing impacts of climate change. Our responsiveness to climate change will undoubtably be more reliant on our strength of neighbourhood and community connections. But perhaps community connection has a role in addressing our health and wellbeing in a more holistic way.

Loneliness and social isolation is the global epidemic of our time. According to a 2023 Meta-Gallup survey of more than 140 countries, millions of people experience loneliness in their daily lives. Research shows that loneliness is associated with elevated risk of a wide range of physical and mental health conditions. This is seemingly absurd considering that humans are experiencing unprecedented connectivity through the internet, telecommunications, and social media.

The global data illustrates that a quarter of people report feeling very or fairly lonely, with older adults the least likely to report feelings of loneliness. This is concerning, especially for our young people and future generations who are now in a world that relies on algorithms for connections. Loneliness

is defined as a state of isolation is the global grounded in relationships isolation or being alone, of reciprocity for employepidemic of our time. loneliness is actually a ers and employees. state of mind. Loneliness Humans rely on other causes people to feel empty, not enough time to do them. humans to survive; as sociealone, and unwanted. People This is regularly confirmed ties become more privileged who are lonely often crave they forget how critical these by people answering ‘how human contact, but for a human interconnections are you?’ or ‘how have you variety of reasons find it been?’ with ‘Oh, soooo busy’. are to our survival. Covid difficult to form connections provided us with a clear Time poverty is the with others. demonstration of how conconcept that people do not Social isolation and nected our communities truly have enough discretionary loneliness can be harmful are and how the wellbeing of time – the time available to both mental and physical one is closely linked to their after engaging in necessary health. They are considered wellbeing of others. activities like sleep, and in substantial health and First Nations communities the committed activities of wellbeing issues in Australia understand this and our paid and unpaid work – to because of the impact they engage in activities that build cultures have this at the have on peoples’ lives. Data core. Our cultures are based their social and human capifrom the longitudinal House- tal. Time poverty is linked around genuine obligations hold Income and Labour of reciprocal care, recognising to lower wellbeing, physical Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) health, and productivity. the interconnectedness of Survey shows that, consistall individuals making up the Most importantly, it can lead ently from 2001 to 2021, community. Community is to stress, which is a gateway about one in five Australians our common unity, our shared to many serious health agreed with the statement ‘I connections that link us and problems. Our ‘busyness’ is often feel very lonely’ (Ausleading to our loneliness and make us stronger, and this is tralian Institute of Health and social isolation. where we need to refocus.

Wellbeing).

If ‘busyness’ is preventAustralia Institute’s Centre With the myriad of coning connection, we need for Future Work has gathered nections that exist at our to prioritise activities that annual data since 2009 on fingertips through social build our connection and the the unpaid overtime and media and dating apps these unsatisfactory working hours interconnectedness of the statistics are mind boggling. of Australians. This data illus- entire community, and in our We have a responsibility to trated a broader trend growing contemporary climate we our young people to address have some rebuilding to do. over time for young people the increasing incidents of owing to technology integra- Volunteering our time for a social isolation and lonelition in the workplace and how community centre or group, ness, as well as ensuring our emergency service, school contactable people are. communities are resilient or sports group may be the This includes people callin the face of the impacts of most vital first step we can all ing or messaging after hours climate change. It is a probmake towards our wellness or on the weekend, having lem that we cannot afford to and the resilience of our comwork emails or messages ignore for individuals or for munities. We can follow our on personal phones, and our communities. passions, build our friendattending meetings outside ships and maybe even have work hours. Our work hours Busy, busy, busy a bit of fun on our journey. are less contained, and this Can you commit to quitting Over the last 20 years doesn’t even consider the global wealth has increased, diminished conditions owing ‘busyness’, rebuilding your boundaries and finding time though this material affluto the casualisation of the for community in 2024? ence has not translated into workforce. It’s a complex time affluence. Many people issue, but starting with clariQ Pictured is ‘Intergenreport feeling persistently fying our boundaries is an erational Healing’ by ‘time poor’ – like they have important first step. Flexible Belle Budden. too many things to do and work conditions need to be

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A life’s journey and the changes it brings depression. As a consequence, he bailed out of that course after a year.

In his early twenties, he studied music composition at Wollongong University. ‘I took a folio of the music I’d been writing, and although I didn’t have school results, they let me into the course on the strength of the work that I had done. I only lasted a year in that course as well.’

Eve Jeffery Q This story contains elements that some people may find triggering.

W

hen I first met Matthew, we were both wildlife carers. I just knew him as the bloke who would come to snake training, and he rescued possums. He was great with flying foxes.

It wasn’t until later that I found out he was Matt Ottley – a multi-talented, multi-modality, multi-awardwinning artist, known across half the planet.

It wasn’t until even later, when I was standing next to him in the emergency room at Mullumbimby Hospital after his first suicide attempt, and the rise and fall of his chest stopped and I screamed at the top of my voice ‘Matthew: BREATHE!’, that I found out he was a terribly distressed earthling under the weight of bipolar disorder.

He was still a wildlife carer and still a multi-hyphenated artist but he was also very ill and I was powerless to help – so was he.

Matthew had been feeling the burden of his illness grow over many years, but it wasn’t until it came to a head, and during the long recovery process which followed, that he really began to understand how ill he was.

Matthew was born in Goroka in the highlands of Papua New Guinea. In 1962 his parents were the

What Faust saw

Award winning artist and author Matt Ottley. Photo Tree Faerie first generation of Australians in the central highland provinces. His childhood was pretty carefree, though his home life was also fairly dysfunctional.

‘It was an amazing lifestyle,’ says Matthew. ‘We’d just wander out into the bush and play with the Melanesian kids without really understanding the privilege of that.

As kids, we were witness to Melanesian Island village life before it was ever changed by the Australian incursion.’

Matthew contracted malaria at the age of six or seven which may be responsible for his synesthesia (experiencing more than one sense simultaneously) – there is also a higher incidence of it in the bipolar community.

‘That was a feature of the

Dear Man, You are the active pole on earth and needed like the sun – shining with honest care, in love, on to a woman.

She is like the earth – she receives, she gives, she knows. We are this beautiful life. In this self-made world man learned to show off, it is easy for you but are you brave enough to stand up for love? Be true – be simple and give your honest love and care and make sweetly and rightly love to her. It is a woman’s delight and need to grow with you and glow in love. It is your most fulfilling task. For this to be, you will have to give up selfish, restless sex. Be still, drop your demand, enjoy moment to moment life.

Love life.

Do you excite yourself with sex-thought? It overstimulates you. It makes you dishonest in love, so you just take, but you should ask and learn to give right love. We are influenced as a child... take a drug, get used to sex, be sexy, show off, be greedy, give your attention to the newest invention, get excited... nothing will be good enough for long and such greediness supports the sex business. Worldwide he manipulates young women to play sexy for him, to be his sex object and if she makes sex with such a selfish demanding ungiving man it makes her like him.

Infected and made discontent, both feel dependent on stimulation, for in truth they have not made love and so they say ‘let’s have some fun with a drug...’ Hey man, give up, you can’t just take what you want, you can’t just take love! You have to give to a woman. Life’s love is her gift to you, if you have earned it.

A woman today can be honest to man. If he is not honest, do not give to him, wait until he demonstrates true love. If you are honest, moment to moment and give to what is good and right, you simply feel well from the inside. With such a woman of love, you will listen to her carefully. Love is easily broken, it has to be made fresh, new, no other body belongs to you. Each of us has to stand up for love. Life felt inside is reflected in beautiful earth, universe – I belong to you.

From a Woman.

12 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

way I perceived the world from quite a young age,’ he says.

Trauma a trigger Matthew was sexually assaulted when he was nine, possibly a revenge rape because of the way some Australians were treating the Melanesian people. That may have been the incident that unlocked the genes he carries for type one bipolar disorder.

‘It was about at that age I first had experiences of visual hallucinations. I saw and heard things that weren’t there, and of course, the adults didn’t believe me because I was always regarded as having a very wild imagination.’

Matthew doesn’t remember much of the next

two years in New Guinea and that’s probably trauma related.

‘We came to Australia, and at 13 years of age I had what I can look back and see now as my first diagnosed episode of bipolar disorder; I had this massive high and what followed was a crash that lasted for several months. I was very severely depressed. I was taken for treatment, but that was very, very unfortunate – the first thing the doctor did was ask my mother to leave the room. And then he stripped me naked and spent the consultation examining my genitals.

‘I don’t know what passed between the doctor and my mother; once she was back in the room, she just steadfastly refused to talk about it. I kept

Are you a responsible, peaceful, joyful, simple and supportive man who is willing to serve in the restoration of love on earth? I have seen the Light so very bright. Honesty and Love make us grow and glow in consciousness.

pestering, you know, “What did the doctor say is wrong with me?” She just simply wouldn’t talk about it.’

Seeking approval From then on, all through high school, Matthew had fairly regular episodes that were sometimes mild, and sometimes quite severe.

He knew when they were coming on because he could feel his mind starting to race and he couldn’t sleep.

He knew his thoughts were becoming delusional.

‘I would just literally shut myself in my bedroom and ride it out.’

Matthew says he first seriously thought of suicide when he was 17. His family wasn’t interested in talking about anything emotional.

He wagged school because as the odd kid he attracted bullies – as a result he pretty much failed high school.

He attempted to follow in his father’s and uncle’s footsteps to win approval – he worked as a jackaroo and then as a ringer on cattle stations. He could ride a horse quite well and loved being alone in the bush. But he didn’t have an aptitude for that work and he was also struggling with a lot of depression, so he returned to Sydney.

Matthew studied at the Julian Ashton School of Art, but in what became a feature of his adult life, he would have a mental health episode every year. Sometimes it would be relatively mild, a few weeks of depression.

At other times, it would be a short period of really manic thinking, followed by a couple of months of

He was then offered a job doing illustrations for picture books. That set him on the path to the career he has today.

‘In my early thirties, I did a book called What Faust Saw. It’s a book I’m proud of. I don’t know that it’s my best work, but it just seemed to hit a sweet spot and was translated into nine different languages. It did really well.’

On the strength of that, he was offered a handsome book deal with a publisher, and his career was set up as a children’s book author/ illustrator.

It wasn’t part of the plan, but his mental health struggles made it easy just to accept work, not to have to look for it or think too much about things.

‘I discovered that you can really fudge deadlines, so I wouldn’t tell my editors that I was unwell and when I couldn’t come up with the goods by the proposed date, I’d just say I needed an extension. By that stage, they’re generally committed so they’d have to give it to you.

Some of those books started getting shortlisted and winning awards.’

Highs and lows A whole career was unfolding. It operated under its own momentum.

Matthew was also performing regularly, playing guitar with a flamenco troupe when he decided, on the spur of the moment, that he should take a person he’d just met to Bali. He booked the tickets that day, and then told her that they were going.

‘We’re going to just stay for a few days. I’d be back for my next rehearsal. But I just threw caution to the wind and ended up staying in Bali for a month having this overthe-top wild adventure. I’d be up jamming with Indonesian musicians until two in the morning, having a great old time. But the woman played me. She could

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Articles see I was losing the plot.

She ended up draining my bank account.

‘When we finally got back to Australia, I had totally destroyed my relationship with the flamenco band. I was really starting to crash then. It happened very quickly. I had my first serious suicide attempt.’

This is where I found Matthew – out of breath.

Not to trivialise the struggle or the cost, the 15 or so years from 2000 were a melding of art, a marriage that failed, terrific highs and unhealthy relationships, money spent on the ridiculous and the sublime, and death-defying lows.

I remember one of the many phone calls Matthew made to me from the west coast: he spent the whole conversation telling me he had to prepare for a big event the next day, all the while counting the tiles on his kitchen floor at the speed of light while he paced back and forward at the speed of insanity – all I could do was listen and hope he would come down soon.

Acknowledgement Matthew says that if he deconstructs everything, it started with a family that felt a lot of shame around

the subject of mental illness, and steadfastly refused to acknowledge it.

‘Bipolar is a progressive illness. It just got to the point where I could no longer hide it in my forties.

In my mid-forties, I had my second suicide attempt. I was sectioned and put in a psych ward in Sydney.’

His treatment in that place and his recovery are nothing short of horrific, but it led to the birth of an incredible book, The Tree of Ecstasy and Unbearable Sadness.

‘While I was in ICU I had two experiences. Because of what I’d done to myself – I severely damaged my central nervous system, and I had no use of my legs – just the most basic gross motor movements of my arms. What would happen maybe once a day, I’d have a major seizure.

They were really severe. My back would arch, my jaw was clenching, honestly, I thought I was going to break teeth and break bones.

‘There was a nurse who was just lovely. Once she was in the room with a male nurse – he grabbed my legs and she just threw herself on the top part of my body and said, “I’ve got you, darling. Don’t worry”. I had this unconditional care

and support from these strangers.’

Other medical staff weren’t so gentle – or nice.

Other friends and associates also weren’t nice. There seems to be a place in some humans where humanity stops. Some humans are vile and cruel.

Moving forward ‘There’s a kind of background stigma that is there constantly – since I was 13.’

That’s not the end of the story, the end of the trauma, nor the end of the recovery, but the seed of Matthew’s tree grew into a book that he hopes will enlighten people as to what bipolar might look like – from one man’s view.

The Tree of Ecstasy and Unbearable Sadness is a large-scale multimodal project, weaving together the worlds of literature, music,

and visual art. It’s the story of one boy’s journey into mental illness. The narrative unfolds around the metaphor of a tree growing within the boy, whose flower is ecstasy and whose fruit is sadness.

Matthew attributes his current stability to his partner Tina Wilson, his psychiatrist and the ongoing care he receives from The Health Lodge in Byron Bay – but he often lives on the edge of the tipping point, and has to manage many aspects of his life to accommodate his survival, up to and including a three-day mental health prep for our very triggering interview.

Once, about 13 years ago, I asked Matthew if he would swap his incredible talent for good mental health. His answer was ‘No’.

In late November this year, I asked him the question again.

‘If I could be rid of the mental illness, but also be rid of my creativity – in light of everything that’s happened over the years, I would now say “Yes”, I would,’ he said.

‘We mustn’t at all romanticise bipolar, it’s a potentially lethal condition.

‘It has wreaked havoc in my life, destroyed friendships, and almost killed me.

I would have swapped all of that for a quiet mind’.

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'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 13

Letters

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associates who were employed with Byron Council when I was working in planning at Ballina Council.

I said at the meeting: ‘I have come back and the departments aren’t working together. The council appears to be totally dysfunctional as no one appears to be at the helm organising the five or six departments who don’t talk to one another’. My colleagues said: ‘That’s right’.

That was 20 years ago and still no go.

I will put my hand up now to reorganise this council.

It will take a year and cost $500,000.

The first order of business is that all heads of departments are to be declared vacant.

I attended the Byron Council meeting yesterday. I have had great hope for the future of this Council, but the affordable housing debacle indicates the desperate inadequacies of Council.

Aside from the size and location of future housing, Ballina Council set the model 40 years ago when they used ratepayers’ money to buy real estate and develop it to the benefit of the electorate.

The model is simple and makes the electorate and the council the masters of their own destiny, which in this situation is the provision of affordable housing. In this instance to rely on state and federal government is a folly as the past 50 years has proven.

We are not talking five or ten years hence before we get a result; we are talking about a program to provide land for affordable housing within a year at an affordable price like $50,000 a block.

Boyd Warren Main Arm

Dunoon Dam Rous County Council wishes to clarify several statements recently raised in the article ‘Will the Dunoon Dam go ahead?’ (8 December) in relation to Rous’ Future Water Project 2060.

A comprehensive cultural heritage and biodiversity study is scheduled for 2024 to assess the impact of a potential dam near Dunoon.

This is not an indication that the proposed dam will or will not go ahead. It is a critical initial step in ensuring that Rous has contemporary and comprehensive information to inform decision-making about whether to retain or remove this option.

The assessment will be done in consultation with the

Widjabul Wia-Bal people and will gather a broad range of ecological and cultural data.

The work is expected to take approximately 12 months to complete.

Significant water infrastructure projects have very long lead times. It is therefore important that investigations into all the different source options with consideration to social, cultural, economic, and environmental impacts are being investigated at the same time. We are currently investigating: purified recycled water, desalination, surface water (proposed dam west of the village of Dunoon), and groundwater.

Feasibility studies comparing the various long-term supply options are at a preliminary stage.

The financial costs for their construction and operation associated with the options will be investigated and carefully considered as part of the overall assessment.

The funding sources for the development of any new infrastructure are typically a mix of current and future water users, developer contributions, state and federal grants. This year, Rous received $2M from the NSW Department of Planning and Environment’s (DPE) Safe and Secure Water program to support the various Future Water Project 2060 initiatives.

The Far North Coast Regional Water Strategy does not explicitly rule out new surface water storages for the Northern Rivers.

The strategy acknowledges the proposed Dunoon dam has attracted both support and opposition in the community. DPE also makes clear the challenge of water security caused by population growth for our community over the next 40 years; and supports local councils to progress their options.

Rous acknowledges there are no perfect solutions to increasing our water supply but believes exploring all options thoroughly will lead to well-informed decisions, supporting the development of a sustainable and resilient water supply scheme.

Phillip Rudd General Manager

The Cars that ƐĕȞ Ʒſşŕ In 1974, Peter Weir filmed The Cars that Ate Paris. A ‘horror-comedy,’ part of the Australian ‘new wave’ genre of that era. A small NSW country town profits from deliberately engineered car crashes. Like the old Cornish wreckers, who lured ships

onto rocks and plundered them and their human casualties.

Here, in a different sense, are The Cars that Ate Byron. It seems that vehicle numbers here grow exponentially. There are supposed to be a billion vehicles on the planet. This tendency to excess seems ubiquitous in today’s world.

Take the markets here, for example. Of course they are a popular event and I concede many will disagree with my opinion. But I feel they have grown too big, too frequent, and are becoming something of an imposition on the town.

There are still council notices which supposedly prohibit vehicles from certain areas. But these supposed restrictions now appear to be waived. Certainly for market patrons; and others take the chance to park there at other times.

There is, or was, a small wetland ‘reserve’ near the Butler Street ground. Over a year ago, after the 2022 flooding rains, it closed for repairs: the wooden trackway into it had warped in the wet. But no repairs seem to have been effected and it remains ‘closed’.

But while the reserve is ‘closed’, regular more extended mowing of grass verges outside and abutting it has created what are obviously ‘de facto’ parking lots in an area where a year or two ago I saw few cars parked there. One can only assume this is now council practice, to make its own signs redundant in order to cater for more intrusive vehicles.

The reserve is, or has been, a small escape from the busyness of contemporary Byron, as well as an educational opportunity for some visitors in the erstwhile natural environment of this area. Not yet lost; but seemingly seen as irrelevant to the demands of the markets.

But sometimes small things lift my gloom. The other day, as I climbed ‘dump hill’ – the old tip (Where parking now also seems to happen on market days) – I spotted an unusual bird. It was a squatter pigeon, pottering on the ground near the remnant of old swamp forest. A bird nearly eliminated at settlement apparently. Yet here it was on the old dump hill. I suppose one should be grateful for its survival in this usually quiet corner.

Little joys...

David Morris Byron Bay

‘No’ voters Last weeks comments on the Referendum from ‘No’ voter Tim Harrington, like many other ‘No’ voters, demonstrates misunderstanding of both the process and the result.

The years of wide consultation of Australia’s First Nations peoples, put both of the proposals for Constitutional recognition and for an Aboriginal/Islander committee to sit in Canberra to work on resolving issues with the government of the day. The Prime Minister respectfully acted on the subsequent Uluru Statement from the Heart (USFTH) resolve.

While Mr Harrington and his ilk continue to see Aboriginal people as being subject to their will, it wasn’t down to the Prime Minister, or any other white fella, including Mr Harrington, to modify the USFTH request from this representative body.

The ‘No’ voters are falsely emboldened. They were a diverse group holding extremely divergent views, ranging from Blak Sovereignty to white racism, but what Mr Harrington has missed is that a large proportion of the ‘No’ voters, while they didn’t support the referendum, have nevertheless expressed support for addressing the social and cultural standing, and the gaps in health and justice, of Australia’s Aboriginal residents.

While the ‘No’ vote was a disappointment, I reckon the situation raised the issues that now 75 per cent of Australians are focused on resolving – so we have got somewhere. Mr Harrington, you and your ilk need to either get on board or consider if your minority really are decent members of this society.

The north coast was sold off by white people in Sydney, who didn’t own it, only 130 years ago – it was illegal under British Royal Law, British Parliamentary Law and International law to colonise already occupied land. If you buy a stolen car, it gets returned to the actual previous owner.

The USFTH was an Aboriginal initiative that trod lightly on not attempting to throw the colonised baby out with the bathwater, and we can see in the daily news where confrontation over land can lead to parties ceasing to consider each others’ babies.

Due to the spare capacity of cruise ships, the Invasion Day Committee has ▶ Continued on page 16 www.echo.net.au

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'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 15

Articles / Letters

North Coast news online

Knee highs, shorts and the socks from hell David Lowe

I

t was holidays, and the family were being tourists in far north Queensland, where the bus drivers all wore long white socks with their beige shorts.

On this day there were other socks on the bus that were attracting even more attention. They were a peculiar shade of green nylon, and belonged to a teenaged boy.

His little brother hated them.

‘Why don’t you ever wear different socks?’ he asked.

‘I like these ones.’

‘You could have more than one pair, like a normal person,’ said his sister.

‘Weren’t they white before?’ asked his father.

‘They were never white,’ said the wearer of the socks.

‘They’re certainly not white now!’ said his mother.

‘And they smell,’ said his little brother.

‘Not as bad as you,’ said the big brother.

‘That’s enough of that,’ said their father.

‘I hate those green socks,’ said the sister. ‘There ought to be a law against them.’

‘Leave me alone!’

The teenaged boy looked out the window as palm trees flew past

and the other people on the bus pretended they weren’t listening.

But his mother kept staring at the green socks. ‘They really are spectacularly appalling,’ she pronounced. ‘I don’t know why I’ve never noticed how awful they are.

Socks from hell.’

Her daughter nodded. ‘Something ought to be done about them.’

The teenaged boy shoved his feet out of sight under the seat in front. ‘Pick on someone else’s socks,’ he said.

When they got to the beach, the driver warned everyone about the risk of stingers. He said it was only safe for paddling. It was an idyllic place though, and even the teenaged boy stopped sulking. He took his shoes and socks off and went to check out the water.

His younger brother moved fast.

Checking no one was watching, he grabbed the disgusting green socks, then ran up the beach and buried them. He carefully smoothed over the evidence of his crime, then joined the others at the water’s edge.

When the elder brother returned to his towel he instantly knew what had happened.

The little boy saw him coming and took to his heels, but the older boy had longer legs.

Image by cloudcatchermedia ‘What have you done with them?!’ Before the little boy could think of a good lie, his brother started strangling him. It took both parents to pull him off.

‘What’s this about?’ asked the father.

‘He stole my socks!’

‘Is that true?’

The little boy nodded solemnly.

‘What did you do with them?’

‘I buried them. It was a community service.’

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The teenaged boy squirmed in fury. ‘You little—’ ‘When did you become a thief?’ their mother demanded of the little boy. ‘How would you like it if we buried your things?’

‘You said they were socks from hell!’

‘Never mind what I said, you dig those socks up right now or you’re not getting any dinner.’

Reluctantly, the little boy dug around where he thought he’d

▶ Continued from page 14 organised a First Fleet Back.

I have sent your name to them, Mr Harrington. But don’t worry, the Europeans are very friendly, and there are good jobs there, and if you have kids there is arrangements for their care in camps where they will be provided with plenty of flour and sugar so they won’t go hungry.

For those that want Australia to move forward to address the wrongs of the past, the local mob and reconciliation groups will again be at Main Beach Byron Bay on the 26 January for the 20th annual Survival Day event.

John Lazarus Byron Bay Break a leg I have been pleased to note the plethora of budding theatre and cinema actors in our area. It’s truly heartening to see these young ones coming on so well. They have their lines, they pick up their cues, and they take direction.

J Rose Mullumbimby

Southern Farce Read the latest edition online at: www.echo.net.au/eat-drink

16 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

A couple of weeks ago the Surfrider Foundation held an event in Byron called

buried the socks, but there was no sign of them.

The bus driver got wind of what was happening. ‘You can’t bury nylon socks in a World Heritage area!’ he said.

The driver got down on his knees and started digging. Soon the rest of the tour group was digging too.

The sun fell lower as the tour fell behind schedule and piles of sand appeared all over the beach.

The little boy’s sister starting digging next to him. She was sweaty and covered in sand.

‘It’s your fault we’re missing out on all the fun stuff,’ she scowled.

‘But you said there ought to be a law against those socks!’

‘Shut up and dig,’ she said.

It wasn’t fair.

The teenaged boy dug like a demon, but didn’t find his socks, and neither did anyone else. Eventually the bus driver called a halt to the great sock search. His formerly immaculate tie and socks were in disarray.

‘I’m sorry son,’ he said to the teenager, one hand on his shoulder.

‘We did our best.’

Everyone trooped back to the bus, staring grumpily at the little boy who’d caused all this.

That night, he didn’t get any dinner, but he was smiling inside.

It was worth it.

‘Southern Blast’. It was a film screening to raise support for their latest campaign – Save the Southern Sea. The event included the ‘Tour D Ice Cream Team’, which, according to the promo is ‘a retrofitted vegetable-powered vintage fire truck… stopping by for an evening of activism and ice-cream’.

Sounds pretty punk and DIY and peace love and mung beans doesn’t it? Well that’s the idea anyway. It’s actually run by international ice-creamery Ben and Jerry’s, who are in turn owned by Unilever. Unilever – a company who’s profit in 2022 was something like $15 billion AUD. It raises a question: Why would an organisation like the Surfrider Foundation make themselves a spearhead for the greenwashing campaign of a multinational company like Unilever?

Corporate greed and the endless growth demanded by shareholders is killing our planet – isn’t that why the Surfrider Foundation exists in the first place?

If you want to take real action on blasting in the Southern Ocean, you can easily send a letter to your local MP using the online form on the Ben & Jerry’s

website. And make sure you buy some ice-cream while you’re there, because every dollar you spend helps Unilever pay their marketing team.

Max Schlachter Alstonville

Peace in Israel, Gaza and Byron Bay Firstly, thank you Charles MacFarland for your letter in last week’s paper re demonstrating in favour of both Israel and Gaza in peace, as I totally agree.

Let us hope that the year to come will not look as crazy and violent as the closing of this year. By the time this letter is printed, Christmas Day would have come and gone, and Hanukkah was a few weeks ago. I am sending a belated Merry Christmas and a belated Happy Hanukkah to our two communities.

The festival of Pastehach of the beloved Pastafarian community will have also just finished so I am wishing the local Pastafarians all the very best.

To all other communities or those who simply celebrate the beginning of a new year, I am wishing you a great summer holiday, and an amazing year to come.

Danny Wakil Billinudgel www.echo.net.au

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'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 17

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Open 10am–8pm daily and 10am-9pm through Summer

Local service Old and rare wines Natural wines Craft beers Specialty tequilas

Views, Brews, Cocktails, Beats, and Eats!

Live Music Friday, Saturday, Sunday.

Bookings essential.

Head to lennoxpizza.com Follow on Insta: @lennoxpizza

The seasonal menu features classic and modern dishes with innovative twists.

Find something for all tastes, from epic burgers to vegan delights. Enjoy delectable treats and good vibes at this Mullum icon.

MURWILLUMBAH

Apex Dining

A hinterland ‘destination dining’ favourite with spectacular views, first or last stop on the Rail Trail Fully Licensed Café from M’bah station.

Brunch + Lunch Modern cafe / bistro fare featuring regional produce Weddings + Events with a cheeky Asian twist.

Wednesday–Sunday from 9am APEX DINING Excellent coffee, fresh artisan pastries and a full a la carte Bookings recommended.

TWEED REGIONAL GALLERY brunch and lunch menu accompanied by a natural wine ww.apexdining.com.au list, cocktails and house made soft refreshments. @apexdining

NEWRYBAR

Harvest 18–22 Old Pacific Highway Newrybar NSW 2479 02 6687 2644

‘Byron’s boutique bottle shop’

61 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay Ph 6685 6500

Your local artisan bakery, specialising in all things sourdough. Serving Old Quarter coffee along with freshly made sandwiches using our own sourdough bread, hand rolled pastries, award winning pies and a variety of house made cakes.

MULLUMBIMBY

book online - www.nobones.co

Loft Byron Bay

Open for takeaway daily, 12 midday until dinner.

Menu, more details – @mainstreet_burgerbar 18 Jonson Street 6680 8832

Lennox Head Pizza & Pasta

Gather your nearest and dearest for a festive 5 course feast that embodies the magic of exceptional food and great company, inspired by locally grown produce and native flavours.

BYRON BAY 11 Fletcher Street 0481 148 007 @nobonesrestaurant

Stone baked sourdough, hand rolled pastries, small batch pies, house made cakes.

LENNOX HEAD

JOIN US FOR CHRISTMAS

VEGAN KITCHEN + BAR.

Main Street

12 Byron St, Bangalow 6am–3pm weekdays.

7am–2pm weekends.

6687 1209 www.bangalowbread.co info@bangalowbread.co

4/74 Ballina St, Lennox Head

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.

1 Porter Street, North Byron Mon–Wed: 7am–3pm Thurs–Sat: 7am–10pm www.barriobyronbay.com.au @barriobyronbay 0411 323 165

Serving Byron Bay for 30 years.

Open 7 days.

Delivery from Suffolk to Ewingsdale.

2/3 Marvell Street, Byron Bay 6685 5700 www.legendpizza.com.au

Crystals and cocktails, tapas and wine In the heart of Byron Bay this crystal gallery is a Thursday, Friday, Saturday stunning visual experience and a taste sensation 12pm–10pm Upstairs at Mercato, above not to be missed. Sit amongst magnificent crystals from all over the world while sipping on crystal Woolworths, 108–114 infused cocktails. We also offer delicious vegan Jonson St. Byron Bay tapas by No Bones, an eclectic wine list, an event Insta – @thequartzgallery space, and a view of the Byron Bay lighthouse.

Web – quartzgallery.com.au

QUARTZ GALLERY

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.

Open Lunch Wed–Fri 12–2.30pm.

Dinner Mon–Sat 5–8pm.

Closed Sunday 3/31 Lawson St, Byron Bay

www.harvest.com.au @harvestnewrybar

RESTAURANT Lunch | Wed–Sun | 12–3.00pm Dinner | Thurs–Sat | 5.30–8.30pm DELI 7 days | 6.30am–3.30pm

CATERING

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.

CELEBRATIONS

BY LIZ JACKSON

Celebrations Cakes by Liz Jackson

lizzijjackson@gmail.com 0414 895 441 GLUTEN FREE AND SPECIAL DIETARY NEEDS CATERED FOR.

Find more tasty morsels at

18 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

www.echo.net.au

The

Good Life

Hummingbird Bistro Byron Bay At Hummingbird Bistro, the essence of European cuisine comes to life in a charming and intimate setting. Nestled in Bay Lane (Byron’s ‘Eat Street’), the bistro is a culinary haven that transports diners to the heart of Paris and the soul of Italy.

Owners Wizz and Ash take pride in their dedication to delivering an authentic and unforgettable dining experience. Honing her skills at the prestigious, two-hatted Rosetta in Melbourne, Ash’s culinary artistry is inspired by the rich and diverse flavours of French and Italian cuisine. Their menu is a curated celebration of classic dishes and innovative creations. From the rustic simplicity of an Italian pasta to the refined elegance of French culinary decadence, every dish is crafted with passion and precision.

Step through the doors of Hummingbird, and you’ll find yourself immersed in an ambiance that mirrors the romantic streets of Paris and the quaint charm of Italian villages. The carefully designed interior creates an inviting and intimate atmosphere, making it the perfect setting for a romantic dinner, a gathering of friends, or a special celebration.

The commitment to excellence extends beyond the plate; the Hummingbird team is dedicated to providing impeccable service, ensuring that every visit is a memorable culinary journey. ‘We believe that dining is not just about food; it’s about creating moments and memories that linger long after the last bite,’ say Wizz and Ash. ‘Indulge in our carefully curated wine selection and let our knowledgeable staff guide you through the perfect pairing for your meal. Whether you’re a seasoned food enthusiast or a casual diner, our diverse menu and warm hospitality cater to all palates.’

‘We like to feel that Hummingbird European Bistro is more than a restaurant; it’s a destination where passion for European cuisine meets the art of hospitality. Join us as we invite you to savour the flavours, embrace the ambiance, and experience the

Wandana Brewing Co.

Q 2/9 Bay Lane, Byron Bay. Open normal trading hours over Christmas. Closed Christmas Day. For bookings, please text 0408 358 309.

Web: Hummingbirdbistrobyron.com.au Fb: Hummingbird Bakery Bistro IG: hummingbirdbyron

Wandana is a small local brewery situated on the outskirts of the eclectic township of Mullumbimby. Its family-friendly tap room and beer garden is a perfect place to kick back with friends whilst gazing out over the paddocks at the iconic Mt Chincogan.

Wandana recently upgraded its beer garden with a huge camouflage net and misters, to make the hot summer days more enjoyable.

Another new addition to the beer garden is its permanent food truck ‘Sunset Eats’ – offering gourmet burgers, nachos and more from lunchtime onwards, made with locally sourced ingredients.

Lovingly crafted small batch beers are all made on-site and in full view of visitors – if you’re in luck you might get to taste an upcoming brew directly from the tank. The brewery has many pilot brews on tap, which are new, interesting beers that cannot be found anywhere else. So, there’s always something new to try.

The kids’ room is filled with toys, so families are taken care of, and it’s dog-friendly too. You don’t have to just love beer to show up – there are cocktails, wines, cider, glutenfree beer and non-alcoholic drinks on offer too. Wandana has more and more, a complete offering, yet keeping its relaxed vibe.

The Wandana Tap Room is open on Wednesday from 1.30pm, on Thursday to Sunday from 12.30pm. Extra trading days over the Christmas holiday period.

(dip) is excellent’, he tells me, ‘stirred through some pasta. It’s very easy.’ He says to heat it up with the pasta and, as all their dips are dairy-free, adding ‘a good sharp

cheese too, if that’s to your taste.’ Their best-selling Basil Pesto – of which they’re currently making vast quantities of given it’s the season for basil – is equally wonderful stirred through pasta, and, Rob tells me, ‘it’s especially good with gnocchi, or plonked on your favourite pizza, in drops.’

Furthermore, it can double as a dip – apparently many customers use it that way, as part of a platter.

Rob’s other ideas include sprinkling their Chermoula Spice Blend over pumpkin and sweet potato with lots of olive oil, and baking on very high, for a roast vegetable salad. ‘Throw some rocket over,’ adds Rob, ‘some roasted cubed beetroot, and maybe some feta and you’ve got an easy

Caramelised peaches, zucchini & ajoblanco – another delicate dish from the Hummingbird Bistro snack menu.

John Dory Fish Bites, tarragon mayo, roasted capsicum and olives.

magic of dining in the heart of Europe, right here in Byron Bay.’

Spice Palace Victoria Cosford I really cannot imagine having any of Spice Palace’s beautiful dips and pestos left over – until I remember how the Christmas period is traditionally one of excess, and definitely leftovers of everything. So I asked Rob Cullinan, one half of the Spice Palace couple – Duska Jefed being the other half – if he had suggestions for avoiding waste as far as their products go.

I asked the right man: Rob, background in food magazine editing, had loads. ‘The Roasted Pumpkin and Toasted Macadamia

www.echo.net.au

Q Takeaway beers and growler fills are available seven days a week.

20 Manns Road, Mullumbimby www.wandanabrewingco.com.au @wandanabrewingco @wandanabrewco

make-ahead-of-time salad.’ Yum! Or, as balm to all the ‘heavy, sugar-rich foods being served up at this time of year’, he suggests steaming a massive bunch of greens, adding olive oil, freshly squeezed lime and finishing off with a generous sprinkling of Dukkah.

As for those lovely glass jars that house the dips, ‘We love the feedback we get from customers who fill them with treats for their beautiful homemade Christmas gifts,’ he says.

Q Spice Palace are at New Brighton Farmers Markets every Tuesday from 8 to 11am and at Mullumbimby Farmers Markets every Friday from 7 to 11 am.

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 19

m aking S PA C E S Eden at Byrо

Why

Grow your own organic food. It’s better for you, and it tastes great. Start by enriching your soil with certified organic soil improvers and compost.

Choose from the huge range of beautiful organic herbs and seedlings at Eden at Byron, and top with a layer of organic sugar cane mulch.

Unlike Unblock Pipe Clearing, many plumbers don’t have the latest technology, equipment or experience that comes with specialising in clearing blocked pipes and drains. ‘It is what they do, all day every day.’

If you are growing food in pots, you will love their certified organic potting mix.

Feed your plants with organic fertilisers, and talk to them about organic pest and disease control. They’re passionate about growing food without using nasty chemicals, and they want you to be, too!

oose Unblock Pi‫ פ‬Cle ing?

The equipment allows them to accurately locate, identify and fix the issue correctly the first time. They don’t just fix the issue, they will give you a warranty on most jobs!

Being a local, family run business, you can be assured that they will take care of your best interests.

Phone James on: 0429 888 683

140 Bangalow Road, Byron Bay 02 6685 6874

Esca‫ פ‬to y r backy d Pepperberry Pods is a family owned business committed to creating stylish and affordable backyard spaces. As a Class 10a space, no council approval is required.

However they now also offer a habitable studio pod that can be council approved to be an Airbnb or secondary dwelling.

The standard studio pod is easily transportable and can be affordably craned over your existing house if side access is an issue.

Since 2018, Pepperberry Pods have been operating in Hobart and have now expanded to Coffs Harbour, Western Australia, and Byron Bay. At just $19,990 +GST, the studio pod is fully insulated, with a doubleglazed glass sliding door and window.

Pepperberry Pods are the most affordable way to create a safe, insulated, lockable space in your backyard. hello@pepperberrypods.com 0439 480 098

R nbow Po r C p

y

Circular PV Alliance is proud to announce Rainbow Power Company has joined as a founding member. This exciting collaboration marks an important step towards a sustainable, circular PV economy for the Australian solar energy sector.

Rainbow is a recognised pioneer of this sector. Originating in Nimbin in the 1980s, Rainbow’s founders Peter van der Wik, Dave Christmas and Jack Von Hest were early leaders and protagonists for solar energy. Rainbow continues to operate at the forefront of solar energy innovation and is committed to ensuring the Australian sector remains world class. Rainbow CEO, Zach Rook, sees strong alignment with CPVA’s mission (to transition solar energy to a circular economy) and Rainbow’s history of leadership in the industry as a natural and critical joining of forces.

02 66891430 | www.rpc.com.au

20 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

www.echo.net.au

NEW YEAR’S EVE BYRON BAY

SATURDAY DEC 31 FROM 4PM

FREE family-friendly entertainment, food trucks, markets stalls, roving performers and activations

soulstreetbyronbay.com.au Jonson St and Dening Park

Traffic and Parking Byron Bay New Year’s Eve Ma

in B

31 December 2023

eac

h

Apex Park

Surf Club

Roads closed

Police

Expect traffic delays

Main stage, food trucks

NYE in Byron Bay

Event Area Accessible Parking

is a community and family-friendly event

Pedestrian Access

• Byron Bay town centre is an ALCOHOL-FREE ZONE

Taxi Zone

• NO ALCOHOL allowed on the streets.

On-the-spot fines apply.

Detour - from 6pm

www.echo.net.au

For more information

Road closed

NO Parking

Mitre 10

• Pay parking in Byron Bay town centre from 9am – 6pm

The Byron Bay bypass will remain open to traffic Traffic control

• Taxi rank - Jonson Street near Marvell Street intersection

• Lawson Street south car park

Library

• Main Beach car park • Jonson Street between Byron Street and Lawson Street

Railway Park

From 6am on 31 December

Parking and public transport

• ZERO TOLERANCE for anti-social behaviour.

• WASTE WISE - Soul Street supports the use of reusable items. Please BYO cups, plates, cutlery etc.

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 21

NEW YEAR’S EVE 2023-2024 SOUL STREET FAMILY-FRIENDLY CELEBRATIONS IN BYRON BAY Family-friendly is the theme for New Year’s Eve Soul Street celebrations in Byron Bay with the focus on inclusive, all-ages entertainment.

From 3pm onwards in Jonson Street, between Lawson Street and Byron Street, there will be drumming workshops, an outdoor dining zone, live music and face-painting.

From 6pm the focus will move to Dening Park with entertainment by a wide range of musicians.

Police will be patrolling the streets and enforcing the alcohol-free zones in parks and on beaches. There will be no tolerance for anti-social behaviour and fines will apply for overnight camping in beach car parks and in streets.

Road closures will be in place in parts of the Byron Bay CBD from early on 31 December and all roads will be open again by 8am on 1 January 2024. Information about road closures and NYE is on Council’s website. www.soulstreetbyronbay.com.au www.byron.nsw.gov.au

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22 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

GET ‘LOST IN TIME’: NEW YEAR’S EVE AND GLITTERATI RIOT NEW YEAR’S DAY AT THE MULLUMBIMBY AT THE BEACH HOTEL EX-SERVICES CLUB We wish all our members, guests and trade suppliers a happy new year!

Come celebrate the new year at the best location in Mullum with free band Glitterati Riot. Come dressed in your best glittery outfits to win best dressed prizes.

Glitterati Riot will take you on a roller coaster ride of dancing hits from the ’70s & ’80s to now. Disco, pop, and rock... if you can dance to it, they play it!

Gurkhas on Dalley Bistro will be fired up and ready to provide anything from a small snack right through to a casual evening feast.

NYE Cash Climb, offers, $2,000 in cash prizes, with six cash draws between 7pm and 12.30am; a free members-only promotion. Terms and conditions apply.

This New Year’s Eve, the Beachy will once again host an electrifying lineup featuring some of the best local bands and DJs. Jerome Williams Band, Ragga Jump, Animal Ventura, Micka Scene Duo, plus DJs Quendo, No ID, and Reiflex will set the stage for an epic transition into 2024.

Then, coming in hot on New Year’s Day, they have an epic festival-style lineup planned, headlined by the sensational SAFIA, with Luen, Yolanda Be Cool, Jai Piccone, and Julian Munyard.

Tickets for both events are on sale now via Oztix.

Northern Rivers locals can purchase discounted tickets at the Beach Bottleshop, Beach Hotel 1 Bay Street, Byron Bay www.beachhotel.com.au

58 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby 02 6684 2533 www.mullumexservices.com.au

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www.echo.net.au

2023-2024 NEW YEAR’S EVE

SAFIA, NYD @ The Beachy

The Whitlams, Jan 1 & 3

THE WHITLAMS HIT THE COAST WITH THEIR CLASSIC BEATS The Whitlams’ first show outside Sydney was early 1993 at the Railway Friendly Bar. The band went on to become a Byron Bay regular on its way to winning Best Group at the 1998 ARIAs with their third album Eternal Nightcap.

Fast forward 30 years, and you can join Tim Freedman and the band for sunset sets at the Kingscliff Hotel on New Year’s Day, and Shaws Bay Hotel, Ballina on Wednesday 3 January, with children welcome. The Whitlams four-piece will be joined by Scott Owen from The Living End to recreate the rollicking energy on the double bass classics of their first three albums. Opening on both afternoons is William Crighton, winner of the ARIA for Best Blues and Roots album last year.

Tickets from www.thewhitlams.com/tour

www.echo.net.au

The sun set on another year in paradise...

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT WANDANA If you haven’t made your mind up yet for NYE, Wandana is throwing a magical dance party that is shaping up to be an absolute cracker, so join them to farewell 2023!

Wandana is a micro-brewery nestled in Mullumbimby. They produce fantastic beers and have a unique beer garden that features a roster of DJs and live music on a weekly basis.

With some of the best local DJs this area has to offer, these guys have a reputation of getting the dance floors moving. Supported by live performances, not to mention lasers, projections, and a great sound system.

Wandana offers a huge selection of beers, wines, cocktails and more.

The Sunset Eats Food truck will be serving gourmet burgers, nachos and more.

NYE tickets through Humanitix: events.humanitix.com/new-years-eve-wandana-23-24 20 Manns Road, Mullumbimby www.wandanabrewingco.com.au

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 23

Byron Arts & Industry Estate

5. BYRON BAY CAMPING & DISPOSALS

3. ART KIND BYRON BAY Art Kind is a beautifully curated contemporary art gallery and teaching studio with a rotating exhibition program showcasing paintings, ceramics and jewellery. Artist Bec Duff facilitates creative programs for children and adults.

Check the website for program schedules.

Open Tues–Fri, 10am–2pm, Sat 9am–1pm.

Have you found them in the Arts & Industry Estate yet?

Byron Bay Camping & Disposals moved from the old Woolies plaza site last year into their new building, located on the corner of Tasman Way and Centennial Circuit.

They stock popular brands and are regularly introducing new products to their store.

They have parking spaces out the front exclusively for customers and are open seven days.

3/18 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay 0404 946 553 www.artkind.com.au artkindbyronbay

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

1. BYRON ELECTRIC LASER TATTOO REMOVAL Discover Byron's premier tattoo removal studio located in a warehouse within the Arts & Industry Estate, offering private, by-appointment sessions. With more than 13 years of tattoo industry expertise, they use top-tier medicalgrade Quanta System lasers and specialise in full-colour removal and fading. Safe, affordable, and friendly.

Expect exceptional results.

Your journey to a clean slate begins here.

Mention this ad for a 20 percent discount!

Warehouse 5/59 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay 0406 188 060 info@byrontattooremoval.com.au www.byrontattooremoval.com.au byrontattooremoval

4. BODHI LIVING Bodhi Living showcases a carefully curated collection of furniture, homewares, rugs and lighting, sourced both locally and globally. They have recently introduced a sustainable range of furniture designed in-house, using natural materials such as rattan, timber and recycled fabrics. The brand encapsulates the freedom of spirit and the soul of the individual as represented through one's home.

Shop 1/18 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay www.bodhiliving.com.au bodhi.living

6. McTAVISH SURFBOARDS Mctavish is the ultimate destination for all things surf. Grab a pre- or post-surf coffee and browse the range of handcrafted surfboards (all made on-site in the factory behind the showroom), surf accessories and apparel or borrow a demo board for the weekend.

Surfboard Factory, Surf Shop & Cafe 91 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay www.mctavish.com.au mctavishsurf

Byron Arts & Industry Estate HABITAT PRECINCT

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Their warehouse shop is open every Wednesday–Friday!

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Tasman Way

Sample sale and warehouse clearance.

Men's and women's XXS–XXL. Prices from $15.

Every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 10am–3pm.

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24 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

www.echo.net.au

Habitat Precinct ј

12 11 9 10

Habitat Precinct Habitat is a cleverly designed village in Byron Bay, where you can live, work and play, all in one place.

Over 20 years in the making, Habitat combines the best of old-school Byron (community, creativity, respect for the environment) with the latest in design and thinking (renewable energy, car sharing, hybrid live + work spaces) along with plenty of good times (bars, cafes, ƂVPGUU UJQRRKPI VQ ETGCVG C NKVVNG QCUKU YKVJKP QPG QH VJG OQUV beautiful places on Earth.

7. SHACK PALACE Shack Palace have recently relocated into a new showroom.

Find their signature curation of artisan, functional pieces for the home as well as incense and teas alongside a growing collection of larger furniture pieces and artefacts in their new space.

Currently open weekdays, 10am–4pm.

1/2 Banksia Drive, Byron Bay www.shackpalace.com 0488 616 408

8. CIRCUS ARTS Circus Arts boasts a massive indoor training space offering drop-in classes, term programs, courses and workshops suitable for beginners to advanced, as well as self-training with a variety of fun apparatus to play on.

Kick off January with them!

School Holiday Program begins 2 January.

Adults circus classes and courses begin 8 January.

Open Day 29 January. Book full term, receive 50% discount.

02 6685 6566 info@circusarts.com.au www.circusarts.com.au

www.echo.net.au

9. BYRON BABY Byron Baby is a boutique general practice in Habitat.

Run by GP Dr Emma Bourke, Byron Baby specialises in women’s health, pregnancy and children.

Services include cervical screening, breast checks, contraception, pregnancy advice, shared care, antenatal care, and care for children including immunisations.

Bulk billing is available for children of all ages.

60/1 Porter Street, Byron Bay 02 6617 5950 www.byronbaby.com.au

10. DEPARTMENT OF SIMPLE THINGS Clothing and accessories inspired by vintage workwear, military surplus and sportswear.

They also show their love of surf and skate culture with an eclectic collection of skateboards, hot sauces, books, eskies and even a barbershop (call to book).

Monday–Friday: 8.30am–4pm.

Sunday: 10am–2pm.

Suites 39-41, Building C3 248 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay 02 8215 0723

11. BYRON FAMILY LAW $[TQP (COKN[ .CY KU C DQWVKSWG HCOKN[ NCY ƂTO established in Byron Bay. Through collaborative and resolution-focused practices, they support clients to separate more kindly and to rebuild following divorce or separation. They work in collaboration with local counsellors, conveyancers, accountants, mediators, and health and wellness professionals to support you and your family to not only survive but thrive following a separation.

1 Porter Street, Byron Bay 02 6687 2774 www.byronfamilylaw.com.au

12. EASY STREET Have you visited the newest part of Habitat yet?

Easy Street is an award-winning precinct that’s home to a beautiful collection of independent stores including Byron Bay hanging Chairs, MCM House and Vègètalment salon.

There’s also yummy snacks at B Smoothie Bar, renowned for their epic smoothies. It’s got all the style you love YKVJQWV VJG JCUUNG QH IQKPI KPVQ VQYP | Easy Street, Byron Bay

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 25

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15 2023 as captured by The Echo’s photographers, Jeff Dawson, Eve Jeffery and David Lowe.

1. Bucking the trend, Byron Shire said ‘YES’. 2. Recalcitrant Feros resident, Kate Smorty.

3. Beware DA zombies at Wallum. 4. Come to Mullum for love and vegetables. 5. The Darling Muffs of May. 6. Retiring Ballina ferryman, John Gallagher. 7. Jack and J’aimee at BBFF. 8. Max and Michael at Bluesfest. 9. Spooky shows at the Brunswick Picture House.

26 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

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10. Nippers enjoy a Bruns river paddle. 11. Celebrating Nightcap NP’s 40th. 12. V-Day skinny dippers. 13. Old & Gold treasure hunters. 14. The Big Prawn was a big paint job. 15. Akmal up to funny business for the Byron Comedy Festival. 16. Australian Seabird & Turtle Rescue save another sea creature. 17. Byron’s new fully sick skate park. 18. Bluesfest media crew can-can. 19. Uncle Jacko Anderson and the Cabbage Tree mob wish to return home. www.echo.net.au

Byron Twilight Market Byron Twilight Market lights up every Saturday night throughout the summer season creating a warm and inviting haven beneath the starry Byron sky. This enchanting market serves as a platform for local artists, designers, healers, producers and musicians to exhibit their handcrafted high-quality creations proudly.

Nestled in Railway Park it’s an intimate gathering that immerses visitors in Byron’s rich arts, crafts and culture. Delight in the offerings of boutique stalls manned by talented artisans, offering exquisite jewellery, leather goods, clothing and accessories. Live music serenades the crowd, and delectable food delights the palate.

This family-friendly event thrives on the vibrant energy of artists, designers and healers, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. The Twilight Markets beckons you if you’re seeking a unique way to spend your Saturday evening in Byron.

Saltwater Social Club #V VJG JGCTV QH $[TQP $C[ [QWoNN ƂPF 5CNVYCVGT 5QEKCN %NWD QRGP CV PKIJV for drinks, dancing and late night shenanigans.

Relaxed vintage vibes and classic coastal style set the stage for a great PKIJV QWV KP $[TQP $C[ 2QR KP HQT C ICOG QH RQQN QT UJWHƃGDQCTF KP VJG NCKF DCEM ICOGU TQQO QT JKV VJG FCPEGƃQQT VQ VJG UQWPFU QH $[TQPoU DGUV live DJs. Upstairs, have a cocktail and get cosy in the Library Bar, or chill out with a cold beer on the outdoor balcony overlooking the action of Byron’s main street.

Hot tip: the Library Bar is also perfect for private functions. saltwatersocialclub.com.au saltwatersocialclub

REGiSTER

TO STAY UP TO DATE!

EVERY SATURDAY

4 - 9pm Railway Park

ARTiSAN STALLS FOOD & LiVE MUSiC

www.echo.net.au

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 27

Lingerie No.5 Lingerie No.5 is one of the only underwear shops located in Northern NSW. Located in River Street, Ballina, Lingerie No.5 offers a one-on-one professional ƂVVKPI UGTXKEG KPUVQTG YJKNUV ECVGTKPI HQT CNN UJCRGU UK\GU CPF ECVGIQTKGU Not only do they stock underwear, but precious silks, cotton sleepwear, bamboo sleepwear and more!

8KUKV VJGO VQ ƂPF CNN [QWT HCXQWTKVG DTCPFU KPENWFKPI %- WPFGTYGCT $GTNGK Triumph, Simone Perele, Primadonna, Elomi, Godess and Wacoal, Marie Jo, %JCPVGNNG 2CRKPGNNG CPF OCP[ OQTG .KPIGTKG 0Q URGEKCNKUGU KP ƂVVKPIU UWEJ CU RTQUVJGUKU OCVGTPKV[ UJCRGYGCT everyday wear, etc.

Shop local at Lingerie No.5.

151 River Street, Ballina 02 6686 2353 lingerie_no_5

Better By Bike – E-Bike Hire McTavish Boards Mctavish is the ultimate destination for all things surf. Grab a pre- or post-surf coffee and browse the range of handcrafted surfboards, all made on-site in the factory behind the showroom. If you’re looking for any surf accessories they have you covered with everything from Nocs Provisions binoculars, to Remote Projects tarps, to travel board bags, and everything in between.

Rent an E-bike to tackle the trails around Byron Bay, go shopping, or to a distillery. The E-Bike, along with trail map, is dropped right to your door. Only $85/day.

If adventure is your thing, ride through lush hinterland, native rainforests, quaint villages and a 520m Glow Worm tunnel on the Northern Rivers Rail Trail.

Better By Bike provides high quality E-Bikes for rent, with trailside rentals if you have your own vehicle or a full-service experience with door-to-door return shuttles.

If you’d like to try one of their boards, stop by to test-ride a board from their demo range for the weekend.

The ride is suitable for all ages and riding abilities, including families, couples and large groups. Adults priced from $125 per person.

1RGP UGXGP FC[U C YGGM| Monday to Friday, 8am–5pm Saturday, 8am–2pm 5WPFC[ COs RO| 91 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay 02 6680 8807 mctavish.com.au

%JKNFTGP ECVGTGF HQT YKVJ GZVTC UOCNN ' $KMGU VCI CNQPI DKMGU EJCTKQVU CPF baby seats available. Dogs can ride also.

0408 444 858 betterbybike.com.au info@betterbybike.com.au betterbybikeoz better_by_bike_nothern_rivers_rail_trail

Gift vouchers available PROFESSIONAL FITTING SERVICE 151 River Street, Ballina | 6686 2353 www.lingerieno5.com.au 28 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

| Mon–Fri 9–5, Sat 9–3 www.echo.net.au

Crystal Expo Byron Bay 5VCTV VJG PGY [GCT YKVJ URCTMNG CPF URKTKV CV VJG $[TQP $C[ %T[UVCN 'ZRQ | Join them upstairs at the Byron Community Centre from 5–8 January for an extraordinary event featuring thousands of dazzling crystals. Open 9am- 4pm daily.

Explore an extensive collection of crystals, along with serene singing bowls, beautiful crystal journals, exquisite jewellery and more!

This event offers the perfect opportunity to kickstart your year with positivity and inspiration. Whether you’re a crystal enthusiast or just curious, Crystal Expo welcomes all to discover gems that resonate with your energy.

Embrace the summer holiday spirit and treat yourself to an experience that promises to add sparkle to your life.

Cape Byron Distillery – ‘Whisky & Cheese’ The local launch for the new Viognier Cask whisky will be an exclusive whisky and cheese pairing event, hosted at the distillery on Thursday, 4 January, 2024, at 5pm.

Ellie and Sam Studd have been invited to pair their specially selected cheeses YKVJ VJG %CRG $[TQP 9JKUM[ TCPIG CNQPI YKVJ C EGNGDTCVKQP QH VJGKT ƂTUV DQQM ‘The Best Things in Life are Cheese’. Over the last decade they have travelled the world, working with and learning from celebrated cheesemongers and makers.

Whisky & Cheese is a ticketed event with limited seats. For $65 experience a decadent tasting of four Cape Byron whiskies paired with four Studd cheeses, and some fun stories and insights into whisky and cheese from the Cape Byron Distillery spiritual advisors and the Studd siblings.

ƕƇƈƑƊƗ ƂƇƄƄƑƄ !Əȵƺ ɵȸȒȇ (ǣɀɎǣǼǼƺȸɵ hƏȇ ‫׭‬Ɏǝ ǔȸȒȅ ‫׮‬٥‫¨ שש‬x

‫ דהڟ‬ÁǣƬǸƺɎɀ ‫ٮ‬ XȇƬǼɖƳƺɀ ǔȒɖȸ !Əȵƺ ɵȸȒȇ áǝǣɀǸǣƺɀ ȵƏǣȸƺƳ ɯǣɎǝ ǔȒɖȸ ³ɎɖƳƳ ³ǣƫǼǣȇǕ Ƭǝƺƺɀƺɀ

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69 Jonson Street, Byron Bay Crystal Expo Gold Coast

capebyrondistillery.com/visit-our-byron-distillery

‫ ׎ז‬³Ɏ RƺǼƺȇƏ «ȒƏƳً xƬnƺȒƳɀ ³ǝȒȒɎً ɵȸȒȇ Əɵ

BYRON BAY

CRYSTAL EXPO 7KRXVDQGV RI &U\VWDOV 6WXQQLQJ -HZHOOHU\ 6LQJLQJ %RZOV &U\VWDO -RXUQDOV 0RUH FRI 5TH - MON 8TH JAN 9AM - 4PM DAILY BYRON COMMUNITY CENTRE -UPSTAIRS-

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www.echo.net.au

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 29

TW ON O F E

STARLIGHT FESTIVAL

THU

1 DAY PASS

35

$

THUR 4th - SUN 7th JANUARY A&I HALL BANGALOW

WORKSHOPS & TALKS

Vegan Food

WEEKEND PASS

60 (SAVE 10)

$

BREATHWORK & CEREMONY

Psychics & Readings

Thursday Jan 4th highlights

Healing & Wellness

OR

RS t E N T JAN 4 h& RY UAR FRI Y * 5 th

YOGA & DANCE

Natural Therapies

Friday Jan 5th highlights

Kriya Yoga

Qigong

Helen Selmeczy 11.15-12.15pm Invoking devotion,self awareness, courage & stability.

Aimo 10.15-11.15am Focus on opening and releasing the body to bring balance to your nervous system.

Pleasure Revolution

Activating the Heart’s Portal

Massage & Bodywork

$

SOUNDBATHS & SONG

Counselling & Coaching

Saturday Jan 6th highlights

Markets

Sunday Jan 7th highlights

Harmonium Choir Alice Miyagawa 9.45-10.45am Journey with the choir as we create transformational sound experiences.

Embodied Ritual

Open Your Heart Yoga Jem (ACT) 10-11.30am A gentle yoga session including music, mudras and massage to help peel away any layers or barriers.

Sound Healing & Breathwork

Zhara J. Mahlstedt 12.45-2pm See beyond divisions and Reunite with the love that you are.

Delamay Devi 11.15-12.15pm Journey through movement meditation into asana, somatic exploration and self inquiry.

Singbowl hands on workshop

Unlock the power of ritual

Heart Breathwork Meditation

Calling In The One Workshop

Anup & Brinley 1-1.45pm Learn how to use singing bowls for meditation, healing & clearing.

Prema 12.45-2.45pm Immerse in a heart connection cacao ceremony & heart song with live music.

Sophie Sämrow 1.15-2.45pm A journey to tap into your creative life force, create feelings of openness & love.

RoyB & Aida 12.45-2.45pm A fun & practical experience on clearing blocks holding you back from deep love.

Movement, Breath & Meditation

Sound of Being™

Heart Chakra Kundalini Yoga

The Matrix Deconstructed

Emma McCann (ACT) 12.30-1.45pm Discover a life powered by mindful, intuitive & intentional pleasure.

Junko 2.45-3.45pm Junko shares her passion of how to live life with ease & joy.

The Divine Code of Nature Brad Hay 4-5.30pm The foundational principles of Ayurveda and how to incorporate them.

Essence of Place Sound Journey Nicky and Peter (VIC) 4.15-6pm Nature recordings, crystal bowls, chimes, percussion, voice and live instruments.

Matty Rainbow 2-2.30pm A deeply nourishing sound healing weaving breathwork, mantra, intention & sacred instruments.

Sound Wave Healing Zarn Karjana 3.45-4.45pm Come on a journey, immersed in the sacred healing sounds of wonderous instruments.

Conscious Relationships & Inner Child Healing.

Monique Carmela (NZ) 5-6pm Teachings to support you on your healing journey.

Seriya & Matty 10.15-12.15pm A nourishing sound healing weaving breathwork & sacred instruments.

Linda Newman 11-1pm Movement, breathwork, and meditation to awaken your heart’s energy.

Erin & Monique (NZ) 2.45-4.15pm Catharsis, Ecstatic Dance & Kundalini Yoga.

Japanese Zen Sutra + Singing Ring

5 Dimensional Flow

Mayu, Chiho & Toshiko 3-4pm Embody the Divine energies within you for this transformation, healing and

Simon Borg-Olivier 4.15-5.45pm Simple spinal movements that can be done standing or sitting. A safe, accessible meditative flowing practice.

Yin Yoga & Sound Journey

Reclaiming Radiance

Carla Versitano (SYD) 4.45-6pm Be soothed by live sound & moved by the breath to unlock the body.

Tamica Wilder 4-4.45pm How to use sensual embodiment to change your life with Tamica Wilder.

Over 100 workshops, talks & classes included with entry.

FULL PROGRAM STARLIGHTFESTIVAL.COM.AU TICKETS ONLINE & AT THE DOOR. (KIDS FREE*) *Two for one with full price entry only. Kids under 13 free with paying adult. Program subject to change by divine intervention.

30 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

www.echo.net.au

Shine bright at the Starlight Festival The Starlight festival is a four-day festival of community and wellness that takes RNCEG HTQO s ,CPWCT[ KP IQTIGQWU $CPICNQY YKVJ ƂXG URCEGU QHHGTKPI QXGT 100 workshops, talks, classes, concerts and presentations, all included with entry.

Participants can build their own itinerary and discover a different mix of yoga, sound healing, ceremony and wellbeing each day. In-between events, Chef Todd ‘Stream’ Cameron, will be offering a nourishing vegan gluten free menu.

Participants can also browse the main hall to gain insight into their future with a TGCFKPI ƂPF VJG RGTHGEV ET[UVCN QT LWUV DNKUU QWV YKVJ C OCUUCIG 2TKEG QPG FC[ RCUU 9GGMGPF RCUU .QECNU VYQ HQT QPG FC[U QP s ,CPWCT[ Tickets at the door or online starlightfestival.com.au Bangalow (A&I Hall & Surrounding Pavilions)

Stewart’s Menswear Look good and feel great as you dive into summer with Stewart’s Menswear!

Whether you’re soaking up the sun at the Mullumbimby Pool or catching the waves at Byron Shire’s beaches, they have everything you need for a day of fun in the sun. Choose from their huge range of board shorts and thongs, select a beach towel and shield yourself from the sun with their cool caps, hats and sunglasses.

5WOOGT KU OQTG VJCP LWUV C UGCUQP KVoU C NKHGUV[NG YG GODTCEG JGTG QP VJG 0QTVJGTP 4KXGTU 'PLQ[ VJG UWP UWTH CPF UCPF YKVJ EQPƂFGPEG FTGUUGF KP SWCNKV[ clothing and accessories from Stewart’s Menswear.

Christmas trading: Wed 27 Dec, closed. Thurs 28 Dec–Fri 29 Dec; 10am–2pm.

Sat 30 Dec; 9am–12pm. Sun 31 Dec–Mon 1 Jan, closed.

Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby 6684 2148

The Island Luxe Family A family that shares a passion for travel… for the road less travelled, seeking beauty and inspiration in nature’s artistry and architecture. # NQXG QH ƂPFKPI QNF CPF CPVKSWG QDLGEVU EJCTCEVGTKUGF D[ VJGKT KORGTHGEVKQPU HCDTKEU CPF VGZVKNGU VJCV UVCPF VJG VGUV QH VKOG CTV CPF EWTKQUKVKGU VJCV VGNN C UVQT[ An aesthetic rooted in a timeless simplicity and a belief that we can experience a holistic sense of the world, and ourselves, through restraint and making considered choices for the way we curate our lives.

6JG +UNCPF .WZG GVJQU TGFGƂPGU NWZWT[ TGOKPFKPI WU VJCV URCEG YKVJ imperfections shows that nothing furnishes more beautifully and luxuriously than the spirit and the soul, and creating an immersive and transportive experience that mirrors our emotions when we travel.

Island Luxe 62 Byron Street, Bangalow info@islandluxe.com.au Island Luxe Tribe 1/11 Marvell Street, Byron Bay tribe@islandluxe.com.au

I S L A N D

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wish you

a wonderful festive season

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TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS THANK YOU FOR YOUR INVALUABLE SUPPORT. WE TRULY APPRECIATE IT. AS WE LOOK AHEAD TO 2024, WE ARE THRILLED TO OFFER YOU NEW AND EXCITING COLLECTIONS THAT WE CAN’T WAIT TO SHARE WITH YOU. WARMEST REGARDS, ISLAND LUXE TEAM X

www.echo.net.au

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 31

**--, *- #U CPQVJGT [GCT NCRU VJG UWP OCMG UWTG VQ VTGCV [QWTUGNH HTKGPFU CPF HCOKN[ VQ C URGEKCN VTGCV VJKU UWOOGT 6CMKPI [QWT NQXGF QPGU QP C DGCWVKHWN DCNNQQP ƃKIJV QXGT VJG 0QTVJGTP 4KXGTU KU C IKHV NKMG PQ QVJGT 5GTGPGN[ FTKHVKPI CDQXG VJG VTGG VQRU CPF FKUVCPV NCPFUECRGU KU C ITGCV QRRQTVWPKV[ VQ EJKNN QWV CPF TGƃGEV QP VJG [GCT CJGCF *QV CKT DCNNQQPKPI KU VJG WNVKOCVG JQNKFC[ GZRGTKGPEG VQ UJCTG YKVJ NQXGF QPGU YKVJ VJG HWP RCFFQEM RCEM FQYP CPF EGNGDTCVKQP DTGCMHCUV CHVGTYCTFU CV VJG 6JTGG $NWG &WEMU 4GUVCWTCPV 6JG (CTO Check out Balloon Aloft at @balloonaloftbyronbay or visit their website to book in at www.balloonaloftbyronbay.com

The Brunswick Heads Record Fair /CVV VJG 8KP[N ,WPMKG KU DCEM YKVJ CPQVJGT ƂXG FC[ OGIC TGEQTF UCNG KP $TWPUYKEM *GCFU #HVGT C UYGCV UQCMGF OKF UWOOGT XKUKV VQ 6QM[Q 6JG 8KP[N ,WPMKG JCU CFFGF C VQPPG QH HTGUJ UVQEM VQ VJG CNOQUV RKGEGU QH XKP[N EQXGTKPI OQUV IGPTGU 6JGTG YKNN CNUQ DG C UVCEM QH TGEGPVN[ CFFGF URGEKCNU &,U YKNN DG QP VJG FGEMU OQUV FC[U UQ EQOG CPF JCXG C FKI CPF JCXG C NKUVGP 6JG HCKT UVCTVU QP 6JWTUFC[ &GEGODGT CPF TWPU VKNN /QPFC[ ,CPWCT[ 1RGP CO RO GXGT[ FC[ Brunswick Heads Memorial Hall Fingal Street, Brunswick 10am to 6pm each day from Thursday 28 December–Monday 1 January

32 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

www.echo.net.au

Woody’s Surf Shack Yewwww, Woody’s is open for another summer!

Rocking a vintage surf vibe, Woody’s is Byron Bay’s late night bar and hangout...

HGCVWTKPI NKXG &,U EQEMVCKNU FGFKECVGF FCPEGƃQQT -QODK UV[NG DQQVJU QWVFQQT patio, foosball and billiards.

Pop by on a Wednesday for Woody’s world famous Big Wednesday Surfboard Giveaway. One big winner every week.

Check our socials for daily DJ schedule and opening hours at @woodysbyronbay 90-96 Jonson St, Byron Bay

Byron Bay Chocolate Co The Byron Bay Chocolate Co. was founded in 1985 by husband and wife team David and Carole O’Connor, and for more than 30 years their family has poured their hearts and souls into every single chocolate made, using only the highest SWCNKV[ HTGUJGUV KPITGFKGPVU 6JG SWCNKV[ QH VJGKT RTQFWEV JCU GPUWTGF VJGKT NQPI term success. From humble beginnings, the Chocolate Co. has grown rapidly over the years, enjoying sweet success and a loyal customer base locally and globally. From the very beginning, all chocolates have been, and continue to be, handmade with love at their small family factory in Byron Bay. ‘Chocoholics’ throughout Australia and all around the world look forward to the next time they can indulge in these delicious sweet treats!

02 6685 8062 | byronbaychocolateco.com.au |

byronbaychocolateco

Drill Hall Theatre Too Young to be Angels is a ten day season of arts, celebrating and honouring our artists, which opens with the prestigious jazz ensemble Maroon. On Saturday PKIJV ƂNOOCMGT ,COGU 4KEMGVUQP YJQ YCU KORTKUQPGF HQT OQPVJU KP a maximum security prison in Cambodia on espionage charges, tells his CUVQPKUJKPI UVQT[ KP CP KPVGTCEVKXG VJGCVTG RGTHQTOCPEG CO 5WPFC[ KU C|HTGG event – Michael Hennessy’s 4GƃGEVKQPU QH C &CPEGT; # %QWPVT[ (QQVDCNNGT ,QKPU VJG 5[FPG[ &CPEG %QORCP[. Sunday at 7pm is &CPEG 5CNQP, a performance of shifting moods and styles. And this is just the beginning...

The historic Drill Hall Theatre is intimate, only 100 seats. However, the new stage area is epic. Evening show tickets are $28, including the double bills.

See the full list of inspiring Angels entertainment at drillhalltheatre.org.au.

TOO YOUNG TO BE ANGELS a new year special

10 DAYS & NIGHTS OF MUSIC, POETRY, DANCE, CABARET, PHOTOGRAPHY FILM, INTERACTIVE THEATRE & CONVERSATIONS 18 SHOWS, 5 FREE EVENTS, OVER 50 ARTISTS

5-14 JANUARY 2024 drillhalltheatre.org.au DRILL HALL THEATRE 4 JUBILEE AVE. MULLUMBIMBY CELEBRATING & HONOURING OUR ARTISTS

Australia’s Finest Chocolate Coated Fruit & Nuts

A DELICIOUS WAY TO START THE YEAR! OVER 30 DIFFERENT FLAVOURS TO CHOOSE FROM AVAILABLE AT LEADING LOCAL STORES www.byronbaychocolateco.com.au 02 6685 8062 @byronbaychocolateco

www.echo.net.au

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 33

Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club Come to any Dragon 50 show and sing your way through a long and sinuous road of golden songs. This is not only a celebration of 50 years of the band’s existence, it is a celebration of you and your relationship with the Dragon songs.

Witness songs from their young years, like ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll’, ‘Ponsonby’ and ‘Education’.

Songs from their glory years like ‘Sunshine’, ‘This Time’, ‘Get that Jive’, ‘Still in Love’, ‘April Sun’ and ‘Are You Old ‘Enough?’.

Songs from the mid-period s’80s come back, like ‘Rain’, ‘Speak No Evil’, and ‘Dreams of Ordinary men’.

Songs from the phoenix years, like ‘Don’t I look like Jim’, ‘Roses’, ‘Babylon’, and many more...

Dragon 50, live and loud. Coming to Mullum Ex-Services.

Get your tickets at the Club or online https://www.mullumexservices.com.au/ event/dragon-50th-year-anniversary-tour/ See you there!

02 6684 2533 58 Dalley St, Mullumbimby www.mullumexservices.com.au

Soulife Soulife has moved, reincarnating in a fresh new space in the very heart of Jonson St. Trading for over 33 years, owner Clint Hart has created magic in a store that has outlasted nearly all of its kind in Australia.

Core offerings are books exploring spirituality, alternative health and understanding – the largest range in the region – including an unmatched selection of oracle and tarot cards.

Widely appreciated by locals as a favourite source of crystals without the touristpremium prices, they also stock gold and sterling silver jewellery, most from local designers.

Fishheads at Byron While Christmas is a time of joy and festivities, there are many people in the community who experience hunger, homelessness, and loneliness. Yesterday, in working with Liberation Larder, Fishheads once again had the opportunity to provide a meal, company and celebration for those need in the Northern Rivers.

6JKU %JTKUVOCU ƂPF VJCV GZVTC URGEKCN nVQWEJ QH $[TQPo IKHV CV 5QWNKHG ECPFNGU incense, suncatchers, singing bowls, crystal and salt lamps, journals and unique 2024 calendars and diaries.

The Fishheads team want to sincerely thank Liberation Larder for their ongoing work, partners Bidfood, Coca Cola, Coastal Fresh PFD Foods and Peters for supporting this wonderful tradition, the private donors helping to provide those in need with turkeys, hams and more plus the volunteers who give their time on Christmas Day to come together with those seeking a safe and comfortable place to spend some time these holidays.

Come by today and visit their new home.

Pool photo courtesy Craig Parry Photography.

84 Jonson St (next to the Byron Visitors Centre) 02 6680 8090

1 Jonson St, at Main Beach YYY ƂUJJGCFUD[TQP EQO CW

Soulife explore spirituality, health & alternate understanding at Byron Bay’s singular retailer of the esoteric & sublime

Bookstore

Art, Aboriginal, AI, Aura, Alchemy, Angels Animals, Aromatherapy, Ayurveda, Birth Breath, Buddhism, Celtic, Crystals, ChakrasConspiracy, Channelling, Depression, Death, Dreams, Ecology, Education, Egypt Enneagram, Essenes, Fiction, Feng Shui Goddess, Gardening, Grief, Herbs, Healing Hindu, Islam, I-Ching, Jung, Kabbalah, Kids Longevity, Men, Magic, Massage, Music Mushrooms, Meditation, Mind, Mystics Mythology, NLP Nature, Oriental MedicineOccult, Oracles, Osho, Pagan, Paleo Palmistry, Parenting, Poetry, Psychedelics Psychic, Pendulum, Psychology, ProsperiW\ 3UHGLFWLRQ 5XQHV 5HˊH[RORJ\ 5HLNL 5HOLJLRQ 5HODWLRQVKLSV 6H[ 6FLHQFH Self Help, Stoic, Steiner, Shaman Symbols, TaiChi, Tantra, Travel, Tao, Tarot Tibet, UFO, Vegetarian, Women, Wicca Work, Yoga, Zen *2024 Calendars & Diaries *pre-loved books -gifts of wisdom-

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Crystals

Larimar, Moldavite, Shungite, Opal, Amethyst, Rose Quartz, Citrine, Tourmaline, Aquamarine +200more -gifts of beauty-

Jewellery

Gold Vermeil, Sterling Silver, Chains, Gemstone Pendants, Earrings & Rings -gifts of adornment-

Scent & Flame

Candles, Incense, Sage, Palo Santo, Resins, Woods & Essential Oils -gifts of ceremony-

Altar

Singing Bowls, Prayer Flags, Bells, -gifts of meditation-

Lamps

Himalayan Salt, Selenite, Crystal -gifts of illumination-

Gifts

Greeting Cards, Pendulums, Decals & Stickers, Amulets & Talismans Sun Catchers -gifts of appreciation-

Visit our new home at 84 Jonson St (next to Byron Visitor’s Centre) 34 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

www.echo.net.au

Byron Community College Create Your Future with Byron Community College! )GV GZEKVGF CDQWV Byron Community College’s commitment to offering accessible and affordable education, and witnessing the successful futures of their students, sees them launching into Term One with a bang.

They have nationally recognised and funded* trainings in Massage Therapy, Permaculture, Horticulture, Community Services, Individual Support or New $WUKPGUU RNWU VJGKT PGY 9QTM 5MKNNU EQWTUGU VQ IGV [QW LQD TGCF[ KU looking bright for all! #U CNYC[U VJGTG CTG OQTG VJCP QPG JWPFTGF IGPGTCN EQWTUGU QP QHHGT TGƃGEVKPI the uniqueness of our diverse and vibrant community.

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Cape Byron Distillery Celebrate the holiday season with your loved ones and experience the spirit of the rainforest when you visit Cape Byron Distillery, home to the award-winning Brookie’s Gin and Cape Byron Australian Single Malt Whisky. This B Corp EGTVKƂGF FKUVKNNGT[ KU PGUVNGF KP VJG JKPVGTNCPF LWUV OKPWVGU HTQO VJG EGPVTG QH Byron.

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'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 35

Mungo MacCallum’s Crossword #523 1

The White Dress

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MANDY NOLAN’S 11

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Dear Brittany, www.echo.net.au/soap-box You don’t know me, and you probably won’t ever read this. But I want it to sit in the public record; something emotive and kind and human.

STARS

BY LILITH Some things may not turn out the way you planned this week, but who’s to say they won’t be even better?

In the meantime, some wisdom from your fellow star signs to walk you through new year...

CAPRICORN THE GOAT

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You broke the code of secrecy.

These things happen and they go unreported.

They are stains on the hem of our white dress.’

Because we know the lies of this system enshrine and protect the power of men.

We know that only one in ten reported cases of sexual assault results in a conviction. We know that when there are no witnesses you are victim to bias.

You are victim to misinformation. You are victim to ideas about what passes as consent. You are victim to being a woman. The system is barbaric, and it re-traumatises women. Sometimes that rape is more brutal than the first.

It has been hard watching you. Seeing the justice you deserve slip away. It has been hard observing the public narrative. The lack of care for your wellbeing.

You are the same age as my daughters.

I watched you in awe. The tenacity. The strength. The aching vulnerability. The refusal to accept the cloak of shame so many tried to hang on your shoulders. I felt proud of you.

As you fly from Australia to take up your life in France, somewhere you may have some anonymity, I just want to say that there are women and people like me who see you. Who saw what actually happened.

The system may not have delivered what I believe you deserve. But you have delivered much more. You stood in the maelstrom of male power and you showed us what strength looks like.

Your vulnerability has changed me. I believe it has changed many.

Have a beautiful life.

Thank you.

When I wear a white dress I will think of you. It will remind me of your courage.

– Mandy Nolan

ARIES: ‘Technology is not going to save us. Our computers, our tools, our machines are not enough. We have to rely on our intuition, our true being. One way or another, we all have to find what best fosters the flowering of our humanity in this contemporary life’. Aries mythologist, Joseph Campbell.

CANCER: ‘Guard well within yourself that treasure, kindness. Know how to give without hesitation, how to lose without regret, how to acquire without meanness. And let us accept truth, even when it surprises us and alters our views’. Cancerian novelist, Amantine Lucile Aurore Dupin, writing as George Sand.

TAURUS: ‘We all have the extraordinary coded within us, waiting to be released. You are not a passive observer in the cosmos. The entire universe is expressing itself through you at this very moment.

My prayer is, let me be a blessing to someone or something today’.

Taurus author, Jean Houston.

LEO: ‘The Four Agreements: 1) Be Impeccable With Your Word. Use your words for truth and love. 2) Don’t Take Anything Personally.

Nothing others do is because of you.

It’s a projection of their own reality.

3) Don’t Make Assumptions. Ask questions. 4) Always Do Your Best.’

Leo author, Don Miguel Ruiz.

GEMINI: ‘God help us to change.

To change ourselves and to change our world. To know the need for it. To deal with the pain of it. To feel the joy of it. To undertake the journey without understanding the destination. The art of gentle revolution’. Gemini cultural commentator, Michael Leunig.

36 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

VIRGO: ‘Pay attention. Be astonished... The past is the past, and the present is what your life is, and you are capable of choosing what that will be, darling citizen. It is a serious thing just to be alive on this fresh morning in this broken world’.

Virgo poet, Mary Oliver.

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26

28

Cryptic Clues

Quick Clues

1. Sheep milk cheese, builders of Cordoba, offered Spooner, suggesting figures of speech (9) 6. Religious scholar catches a half-view of Buonarotti masterpiece (5) 9. Tanned hide around large capital (5) 10. Reckless nude keeps change, but remains the same (9) 11. Lefty got up with the symbol of Lancaster (3,4) 12. You hear bird call – ring Maurice, painter of cityscapes! (7) 13. Arise, rude brute – find secret stash!

(6,8) 17. COMPR – catch the drift, can’t quite get it (4-10) 21. Remove bonds concerning rentals (7) 23. Vivid quote back after Islamic festival (7) 25. Prepare, hasten – he’s going to put away his sword! (9) 26. Cook right with a kiln for hops (5) 27. Lubricated, removed 20s’ king and took the pressure off (5) 28. Ticket to leave before the set time for peer, an unknown, gentle idiot (5,4)

1. Comparisons between two unrelated ideas or images (9) 6. Famous male nude statue (5) 9. Indian city (5) 10. Constant (9) 11. Flower of love (3,4) 12. French painter of street scenes (7) 13. Valuable items concealed underground (6,8) 17. Only understand half of it (4-10) 21. Liberate (7) 23. Memory marked by detailed visual recall (7) 25. Cocoons (9) 26. Broil (5) 27. Alleviated (5) 28. Allows access to an event before regular opening hours (5,4)

ACROSS

You didn’t do that. You broke the code.

You wore the dress again.

So many of us never took our perpetrators to court. We have minimised the many rapes in our lives. We tell ourselves, I was drunk so who will believe me? I might have given mixed signals’...

We tell ourselves that if we don’t speak about it then it will fade. It’s not true. It festers in us all, as this deeply etched pain. This betrayal of our intimacy. Of our agency. Of our selves. But most of us never step forward. We stay mute.

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You are a hero. You are my Australian of the Year. You have stood strong where many would have crumbled. You have crumbled, and yet you have endured.

You have shown us what strength looks like. It is a young girl in a white dress.

That dress. The dress they shamed you with for wearing again. That somehow if a rape was committed in that dress you would never be able to wear it again? If that was the case how would anyone continue to go to work in their paramedic, or nurses, or defence force, or police uniform?

The white dress wasn’t just ‘evidence’ in an alleged crime. It was evidence of a patriarchal society’s inability to provide safe spaces for women. It was evidence that the fairytales of the virgin in a white dress are still pervasive and emblematic purity is as dangerous to our safety as dark streets. Dark streets that belong to us as much as any man.

But patriarchy does not permit it. Your story was evidence that the white dress narrative is toxic. You broke the code of secrecy. These things happen and they go unreported. They are stains on the hem of our white dress. The dress we wash ,naked at midnight, with our own tears.

13

ACROSS

DOWN

1. Shellfish delicacies (3,5) 2. Bathroom flooring option (5) 3. Italian chemist, writer and partisan (5,4) 4. Wealthy (7) 5. Legislation (7) DOWN 6. Dissuade (5) 1. Bum cards rejected for great food! (3,5) 7. Huge (4,5) 2. Bound over line, covered the roof! (5) 8. Failed to (3,3) 3. Publicity over one man – nothing 14. Signs up again (9) evil found for writer and holocaust 15. Meagrely (9) survivor (5,4) 16. Instructs (8) 4. Work – turn fast and rich (7) 18. Type of shoe with hole at tip (4,3) 5. A law for sculpture, over time (7) 19. Event to brief journalists (7) 6. Discourage antelopes around 20. Lament (6) territory (5) 22. Revise (5) 7. Wild revel – Gary OS (4,5) 8. Princess dead, no time – say it never 24. Diadem (5) happened (3,3) Last week’s solution #522 14. Relaxes over broken line and goes C O M E A P A R T S O N I C back in the army (9) A O V V R P O O 15. Cunning spread around loan?

M E D I A E M O T I O N A L Hesitation, pretty thinly (9) E U R N T N E L R O L L I N G S T O N E A 16. Teaches cut eased carelessly (8) A A C E E E E P 18. T, a kind of sandal (4,3) S T E E L A R M R E S T S 19. Media over the queen – she helps S I E S C E with the ironing! (7) H O N E S T L Y F R I A R O G L E A E L A 20. Mourn over dead king, initially U D A N C I N G B E A R S interred with first lady (6) L S M T O E T S 22. Noon edit? (5) D E C A M E R O N C R O N E 24. Coronet for Italian aunt –right E U E I Y C R T R I D E R C O M P A S S E S article (5)

LIBRA: ‘Be a part of all that is decent and be an ambassador for the kind of world that you want to live in. Leave every place you go, everything you touch, a little better for your having been there. When adversity hits, go out and learn something’. Libran actress, Julie Andrews.

SCORPIO: ‘I’m struck by how laughter connects you with people.

It’s almost impossible to maintain any kind of distance or any sense of social hierarchy when you’re howling with laughter. Laughter is a force for democracy. It just destroys any kind of system dividing people’. Scorpio comedian John Cleese.

SAGITTARIUS: ‘Let us believe in a long year that is given to us, new, untouched, full of things that have never been, full of work that has never been done, full of tasks, claims, and demands. Perhaps everything terrible is, in its deepest essence, something that needs our love’.

Sagittarian poet Rainer Maria Rilke.

CAPRICORN: ‘Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity. We must develop and maintain the capacity to forgive. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that. I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear’. Capricorn civil rights activist, Martin Luther King Jnr. AQUARIUS: ‘Our soul, our true self, is the most mysterious, essential and magical dimension of our being.

In fact, it is not a separate reality, but the cohesive force that unites our body, heart and mind. Dancing, singing, storytelling and silence are the four universal healing salves’.

Aquarian dancer Gabrielle Roth.

PISCES: ‘If we each took seriously the fact that every act, every word we utter, every injury we do another human being is projected into larger issues... then each of us, like a small cell, would do the work of creating a human self who wouldn’t have ghettos, that wouldn’t go to war’.

Pisces writer Anais Nin.

www.echo.net.au

Volume 38 #29 27 December, 2023 – 2 January, 2024 Editor: Eve Jeffery Editorial/gigs: gigs@echo.net.au Copy deadline: 5pm each Thursday Gig Guide deadline: 5pm each Friday Advertising: adcopy@echo.net.au P: 02 6684 1777 W: echo.net.au/entertainment

entertainment

Tommy Emmanuel

roundup inside!

☞

He was born this way If you have never heard of Tommy Emmanuel then you haven’t been listening to music in the last 50 years – it’s not everyone who gets to sit on top of a ’ten best acoustic guitarists in the world’ list, and you can be sure he has well and truly earned that spot.

Seven spoke to Tommy before he stepped onto the stage in San Francisco.

From the looks of your tour schedule you’ve got a few more shows in the US this year, then to the UK and Europe in January, then in February and for half of March you’re back in the US, then a month in Australia and New Zealand. What do you do to keep fit!?

I work! I don’t have time to go working out and doing all that kind of stuff. I mean, if I was really interested in it, I probably could, but I’m not interested. I’m more interested in taking a good walk, and I do that all the time. When I’m not resting or working or whatever, I’m walking, and I eat well. And my tour manager, who is also my sound man – a Bundaberg boy – is the same, so we never get sick!

Where is home for you at the moment?

I’m in Nashville, Tennessee – I’ve been there for 20 years yeah. It’s kind of my base. I have a UK base and an American base and I have family in both countries, and then I have the rest of my family back in Australia.

So I’m a US citizen, as well as still Australian – it just seems to be the right way to go. I mean, if I could do the things that I’m doing and still live in Australia, I would, no doubt about it, but it’s just too far. You can’t just fly without it taking 20 hours or whatever.

So you still call Australia home?

✹ NYE GIG

an audience when I moved to Sydney, I knew I was on the right track.

to support causes or stand up for things that you believe in?

My brother [Phil Emmanuel] and I worked together a lot in the early days. And that was good too. We built a following and we had a lot of work and the good thing was that we had a lot of experience. But I wanted so much more. You know? I’m a writer and a producer, and an arranger, and I had so much more that I wanted to do. The world is your oyster – take some risks.

Absolutely. Absolutely I do, but I don’t get up on a soapbox. I do it in other ways because I don’t need or want any glory or any of that bullshit. I don’t want anything to do with that, however I will be willing to tell you that I charge people to meet me, like a VIP meet – they pay for a ticket upfront at the show and they meet me an hour before the show. They get a swag of photos and stuff, but that money I raise goes to Doctors Without Borders or the Red Cross and UNICEF… but I just want to say that I never get up on my soapbox unless it’s something like when I’m teaching at a famous place like Berkeley. At Berkeley College of Music someone asked me about what they should do to be famous and I said: ’You better damn well learn some good songs’ – ha ha. I’m happy to preach about that!

So many people who teach music, they want you to learn the modes and scales, the blah, blah, blah and all that, and I’m like, ’No! learn some songs and all that will happen’.

I’ve always had a vision of where I belong. I knew I was a concert player. I knew I wanted to be on the stage all around the world. And I was not going to let anything stop me.

Do you consider yourself lucky to have had that vision?

I feel that it was nature’s way, because you can’t plan how you see things and how you think – it’s how you’re born. I think I found where I belong and what I’m supposed to be doing a long time ago – living a dream.

I’ve never wanted to do anything else.

You know, the problem for this generation is they put up videos on social media – they play at home, they film themselves, but I don’t see many videos of people playing in front of an audience. They play to a camera and then try to get people’s input. That’s not going to give you the experience you need. You need to play to real people in a real place where people want to hear music and then see what you got.

What inspires you?

Life and people, people’s stories. Sometimes, a movie will give me an idea that really takes off and becomes a song – that happens quite a bit.

Do you feel that as a person with a high profile, you have some sort of responsibility or obligation

Absolutely. Yeah, I always will. But, you know, America is a great place to live. And I’ve been very fortunate. I mean, no one’s taken a shot at me and everything just keeps getting better. It’s a good place to be and I can get to anywhere from here. And it’s big! There’s so many cities, I have toured five times this year in different areas – it was fantastic.

Tommy, are you having enough fun?

Oh my… that’s exactly what i said on stage last night – I was talking about how I developed fingerstyle playing and I stopped playing this song. And I said to the audience, ’Wouldn’t you like to have this much fun?’

So, yes. Always. It’s absolutely a big part of my whole persona and my whole thing with the public. There are so many people out there who think this is a very serious musician and they come along to a show. And I’m like, I’m a comedian who plays a few songs because I want to have fun and I want people to have fun. That’s what entertainment is all about. Yeah, that’s fantastic!

Tommy Emmanuel is playing at Bluesfest 2024.

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Do you find that living in Nashville there’s plenty of opportunities for collaboration or hooking up with other people?

Oh, totally. Plus, I do the Opry when I’m home and I enjoy that. There’s always recording projects going on and stuff like that. But, I like being home in Nashville because where I live is out of town and it’s very rural – I know all my neighbours – they’re all great people. My life is pretty normal off the road.

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Are you living the dream?

When I was young, I just didn’t know how I was going to do it. I had no idea. And I just kept plugging away.

Once I started making my own music and making my own records in Australia, I got a sense of where I could go with it. Also, I’ve never thought, ’I’m just a guitar player, what can I possibly do?’ I’ve never ever thought that way. I’ve always felt like, well, anything’s possible.

I thought: ’I’ve got to write the right songs. I’ve got to give the people the best I can’, and when I quickly built www.echo.net.au

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7 ✹ Austen Tayshus

entertainment

Interviewing Austen Tayshus is like ice skating along razorblades – it’s fast and it’s dangerous and everything will be fine as long as nobody stops moving, and after nine-and-a-half-minutes on the phone, I’m pretty sure that’s just the way he likes it.

It leaves me breathless, exhausted, exhilarated and vaguely annoyed – also, I suspect, just the way he likes it.

In 1983 Austen Tayshus released his first single, ’Australiana’, a four-minute-and-20-second spoken word monologue, which was number one on the charts for 13 weeks and ended up being the biggest-selling single of that year, and subsequently the highest-selling Aussie single of all time. Austen Tayshus was the biggest standup comedy star of the decade – some folks think he still is.

His brand of comedy is highly provocative, current, smart and mostly improvised on the stage or on the alcoholinfused carpets.

In these times of frightened victims, Austen stands out by being totally unafraid to approach any forbidden subject.

His shows are hilarious and, even after a lengthy career, still packed out.

Byron Bay is his favoured destination as the eccentric and eclectic crowds are always up for it – or ready to take the bait…

I spoke to Austen last week – we were both in a hurry.

Tell me about your doco.

Austen Tayshus Skin in the Game has been out for about a year now and it’s going very well there. It’s going to be there for another four years actually. It’s a retrospective of my career, travelling around and insulting people. It’s going well.

Are you the producer?

Ha, who else would? I’m the producer and I put the whole thing together. Peter Cox is the director and he did a great job. It’s edited by John Scott.

He did a beautiful job. It’s a

great little doco – better than John Farnham’s.

The tagline reads… ’he travels around the country pushing everyone to the limit’. Do you get exhausted by pushing everyone to the limit?

No, not at all. Particularly now when everybody needs a bit of a shake-up. It’s just an artistic approach, which is what I’ve always had. Some people misinterpret it, but it’s really about trying stuff on and improvising – creating something unpredictable for myself and for the audience.

When you say ’some people misinterpret it’, do you care?

Not really… You know, I’m not selling out stadiums so it’s hard work, but I’ve probably done 100 shows over the last 12 months. I’m going to continue until I’m 100. I’m gonna die on stage.

My favourite thing is doing stand-up. It’s very interesting to just think of something and then go straight out and give it a shot.

You’re in the big 40 year – how’s that going?

Yes, it’s 40 years since ’Australiana’ came out; 43 years, since I started doing this job. So it’s, you know, it’s an interesting proposition.

And you’re still performing ’Australiana’?

I do it in every show. I mean, the audience demand it – really demand it! And if I don’t do it straight through, if I muck around with it, I get heckled. But I really do enjoy it.

What inspires you?

Well, you know, currency inspires me…

You mean money?

Well, that’s a part of it, you know, I’m still getting a hundred grand per show. So that’s enough. Do you need more than that…? I meant current affairs – so I know what’s going on. I read every newspaper, every day, and you know, that is a great inspiration.

I just put it all together somehow, and it just happens informally. … a bit like channelling comedy?

Well, that’s what I do!

Have you ever had a heckler that you didn’t have a comeback for?

Once. After about 20,000 shows. But most people have got nothing to say. You know, they yell at you but they’re not saying anything. It’s very rare that you get anything clever coming from the audience. I’m usually the cleverest person in the room, so that makes it easier.

Are you having enough fun?

Well, enough, you know, well, that’s obviously relative, but compared to Donald Trump, I don’t know…

I am having a lot of fun. I’m travelling constantly, which I enjoy and it’s very therapeutic, like, you know, washing up without a machine, you know what I mean? I like being on the road and I’ve been on the road a lot this year, all around Australia and Europe, and I like travelling.

I like the smell of the car. You know? That’s a great thing.

Most of my friends are in retirement villages on oxygen.

Most people I grew up with have Zimmer frames. In fact, a lot of my audiences are on Zimmer frames. In fact, half the audience died in my last show in Wollongong.

Don’t miss Austen Tayshus at the Byron Bay Services Club on Monday, 8 January.

Tickets are only available from the club by phone or in person.

If you need a warm-up act, the documentary of this iconic career – Austen Tayshus Skin in the Game – is now streaming on Foxtel and Binge.

New Year’s Eve BALLINA RSL I just really enjoy trying to make things up on the stage, so utilising all of that stuff that’s around in the zeitgeist, Celebrations start on the Ballina RSL Boardwalk from 6.30pm with a captivating musical journey with Ino Pio. Hailing from New Zealand but calling Byron Bay home for the past four years, Ino brings a unique blend of earthy, upbeat sounds to the stage. From timeless classics to the latest chart-toppers, Ino’s performance spans the spectrum of acoustic excellence. This roots,

folk, and soul artist has swiftly earned a reputation for delivering soulful and professional performances that leave audiences spellbound. Dinner bookings recommended.

For an unforgettable night of super-tasty music and party times with DJ Scradley Beats, head up to Level One from 9pm. With a diverse mix of house, funk, hip-hop, R&B remixes, and various sub-genres of EDM, DJ Scradley Beats promises an unforgettable night of music. Expect surprises as DJ Scradley Beats remixes tunes on the fly, serves up sneaky mashups, and adds live percussion and finger drumming to bring that electrifying live element to the party.

Ballina RSL, from 9pm

NORTH BYRON HOTEL

38 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

JANUARY

The North Byron Hotel has a rager ready for Sunday night headlined by Iain Yes, who has been DJing, promoting and playing at festivals, clubs and parties around the world for almost 20 years. With over 1,000 gigs under his belt, he definitely knows good music when he hears it.

4 DAVE O’NEiL 10 SHORTY’S KiDS’ DiSCO 12 ARJ BARKER - POWER HOUR 13 PULP FiCTiON LiVE BYRON 18 BRiGHT LiGHTS THEATRE .COM 20 BOOGiE FOR BAY FM

After years honing his skills, playing gigs on all four corners of the globe, he is as comfortable playing underground techno in sweaty basements and festival dance floors as he is spinning forgotten rare-groove vinyl on sun-kissed terraces. With a deep record bag spanning many genres you can be sure that you’ll get a few surprises in any set – as well as a few exclusive edits.

You can catch him on New Year’s Eve at the North Byron Hotel from 10pm until late after Kai Noon at 5pm, Love Fontaine at 7pm and Yazmin at 8pm. www.echo.net.au

NEW YEAR’S EVE

GIG GUIDE WEDNESDAY 27

Q MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 8PM KRAPPYOKEE WITH JESS

Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 8PM KANE MUIR

Q CLUB LENNOX 7PM MAX HOORN

Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, POLA & BRYSON: DAVE QUENDO / SOPHDEXX / THE 420 SOUND / MC SNUZE

Q LENNOX HOTEL 9PM THE SWAMP CATS

Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 7.30PM BILL JACOBI

Q BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK 7PM OOZ

Q BANGALOW BOWLO 7.30PM BANGALOW BRACKETS’ OPEN MIC

THE RAILS EPIC, created to boldly go where other cover bands dare not, continue to aurally stimulate Australian East Coast audiences. EPIC’s primary purpose is… to play songs that other cover bands won’t.

EPIC features the incredible talent of Jesse Balfour (vocals/bass), Alan Park (keyboards), Stuart Kent (vocals/guitar) and James Palmer (vocals/drums).

All songs in the EPIC repertoire have been hits on a grand scale, and EPIC reproduces each song with accurate respect to the original, all critical parts represented with class and flair whilst still allowing the members’ personalities and musical influences to shine through.

This is all delivered through state-of-the-art sound and lighting production at every venue.

Prepare to embark on a journey back to the era when rock was truly EPIC! For an epic New Year’s Eve celebration, be at The Rails from 5.30pm for Majestic Knights followed

by EPIC at 9.30pm until late.

MORE NYE EVENTS! – see pages 21–23

Q METROPOLE, LISMORE, 7.30PM MONKEY AND THE FISH + DJ HOCKEY ROCKY

Q KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 6.30PM KINGY COMEDY – FEAT CHRIS RADBURN

Q THE LEVEE, LISMORE, 7.30PM DJ BIG RED & FRIENDS

THURSDAY 28 Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, SOUL FISH Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 4.30PM INO PIO + CHEAP FAKES Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4.30PM HARRY NICHOLS + MATT BUGGY Q THE ROCKS, BYRON BAY, 7PM JAMES SUTHERLAND

Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, SOUL’D

Q BALLINA RSL LEVEL ONE 7PM THE BIG GIG COMEDY NIGHT

Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 4.30PM GABRIELLE LAMBE, WHARVES, THE COLLIFLOWERS , DJ MY HAPPY PLACE

FRIDAY 29 Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, FRASER BELL BAND Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 4.30PM CHLOE JETT, JUNO + BIG TWISTY & THE FUNKNASTY Q BYRON THEATRE 6PM S.A.S.H BYRON – SONJA MOONEAR

Q ST JOHN’S SCHOOL HALL, MULLUMBIMBY, 7.30PM ECSTATIC DANCE MULLUM WITH DJ MARK SANKHARA

Session Times

Thurs 28 December – Wed 3 January

108 Jonson St, Byron Bay

Q CLUB LENNOX 7PM INSIDE OUTLAW

Q BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK 7PM TURTLE BOY DUO

Q WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM DJ BALA

One Life tells the inspiring true story of Sir Nicholas ’Nicky’ Winton, whose unsung endeavours on the eve of World War II saved more than 600 children from their doom at the hands of the Nazis. Nicky considered himself

Q WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM DJ MATTY P

Q LENNOX HOTEL 8.30PM THE VERSACE BOYS

Q NEWRYBAR HALL 7.30PM SING OUT SOCIAL

I am hanging out to see this film – even the trailer makes me cry!

Q NORTH BYRON HOTEL 1.30PM ANIMAL VENTURA, 5PM DJ KAI NOON Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4.30PM THE VERSACE BOYS

Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4.30PM ALLY PALMER + THE GIN BUGGS

What could be more perfect than one of cinema’s greats playing one of history’s greats?

Q KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 6PM MARK CROTTI

SATURDAY 30

Q THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 8PM SUN ROOM

ONE LIFE

Q MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES CLUB 6.30PM BRAD HOLMES

Q TWEED REGIONAL GALLERY 5.30PM SUNSET SESSIONS – BILL JACOBI

Q NORTH BYRON HOTEL 5.30PM DJ ABEL EL TORO

CINEMA

Q CHERRY STREET SPORTS CLUB, BALLINA, 7PM JOCK BARNES BAND

Q CHERRY STREET SPORTS CLUB, BALLINA, 8PM GLENN MASSEY & THREAD Q TWO MATES BREWING, LISMORE, 5PM SAM BUCKLEY Q METROPOLE, LISMORE, 7.30PM FUNNY GOATS + DJ MAGNUS

a banker, not a humanitarian, yet when he visited a recently annexed Prague in 1938 and saw the state of the fleeing Jewish refugees, he did what he believed was the right thing to do – the thing that anyone would do – and dedicated himself to the cause. War was approaching, and it was a race against time; how many children could he liberate before it ran out?

Fifty years later, it’s 1988 and Nicky is haunted by the fate of the children he wasn’t able to help. And so it’s not until he’s surprised by the survivors on live television that

Session Times

Ballina Fair Cinema

Thurs 28 December – Wed 3 January

47/84 Kerr St, Ballina

FAMILY FILMS

1:00PM, 4:20PM, 3:30PM, 6:15PM, 8:50PM 12:40PM, 9:00PM 6:00PM, 9:00PM. MIGRATION Wed: 10:30AM, 1:00PM, DREAM SCENARIO (MA15+) SALTBURN (MA15+) Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: NEW YEARS DAY Thurs, Fri, Sat: 9:10PM. 4:20PM, 9:00PM 10:00AM, 2:30PM, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: Mon, Tues, Wed: 10:00AM 4:00PM, 6:15PM. Mon, ALL FILMS 12:30PM. Mon, Tues, Tues, Wed: 10:00AM, Wed: 2:20PM, 4:30PM, THE BOY AND THE 12:20PM, 2:20PM, 6:50PM ANYONE BUT YOU (MA15+) 6:40PM, 8:50PM HERON (DUBBED) (PG) Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: TROLLS BAND 1:30PM, 3:45PM, 6:00PM, MASTER 10:40AM, 9:15PM. TOGETHER (G) GARDENER (M) 9:20PM. Mon, Tues, Mon, Tues, Wed: 3:30PM Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: Wed: 2:20PM, 4:45PM, Thurs: 1:10PM, 3:10PM. 12:00PM, 5:00PM. Fri: 1:10PM, 1:20PM. 6:50PM, 8:50PM THE HUNGER Mon, Tues, Wed: Sat, Sun: 1:10PM GAMES: THE BALLAD AQUAMAN AND THE 10:00AM, 12:00PM OF SONGBIRDS & (G)

ANYONE BUT YOU (MA15+)

Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: 1:30PM, 6:20PM, 8:40PM. Mon, Tues, Wed: 4:10PM, 6:20PM, 8:30PM

AQUAMAN AND THE LOST KINGDOM (M)

NEXT GOAL WINS (MA15+) Mon, Tues, Wed: 11:15AM, 3:45PM, 6:00PM

TROLLS BAND TOGETHER (G) Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: 9:00AM, 11:20AM. Mon, Tues, Wed: 9:30AM

Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: 1:20PM, 3:50PM, 6:10PM, 8:30PM. Mon, Tues, Wed: 1:30PM, 3:50PM, 8:30PM

WISH (PG)

Thurs, Fri, Sat: Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: 8:15PM. Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: 10:30AM, 12:00PM, Mon, Tues: 3:20PM, 10:00AM, 12:40PM, 2:00PM, 3:30PM, 8:20PM. Wed: 3:20PM, 1:20PM, 2:50PM, 7:00PM. 6:00PM, 8:20PM. 8:30PM ONE LIFE (PG) Mon, Tues, Wed: Sun: 10:30AM, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: 10:10AM, 1:10PM, 12:00PM, 2:00PM, TICKETS TO 11:00AM, 1:20PM, 3:50PM, TWO 3:50PM, 6:00PM 3:30PM, 8:20PM, GREECE (M) 6:10PM. Mon, Tues, Wed: Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: 9:10PM. Mon, Tues, WONKA (PG) Wed: 10:30AM, 1:10PM, 10:45AM, 1:20PM, 8:10PM 10:10AM, 1:20PM, Thurs, Fri, Sat: 10:15AM, 2:00PM, 6:20PM, 8:45PM 7:00PM, 1:15PM, 4:30PM, POOR THINGS (MA15+) 4:30PM, 8:15PM. Mon, Tues, COUP DE CHANCE (PG) Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: 6:50PM, 8:30PM. Wed: 12:00PM, 4:30PM, Sun: 10:15AM, 1:15PM, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: 10:30AM, 4:45PM, 4:30PM, 6:50PM, 9:00PM. 11:00AM, 2:40PM, 3:45PM, 7:40PM, 8:30PM. Mon, 6:45PM, 9:00PM 6:00PM. Mon, Tues, Wed: Tues, Wed: 10:30AM, Mon, Tues: 10:30AM,

MIGRATION (G)

WONKA (PG)

Session times include New Years Day release films. Please check online for ALL films screening.

Mercato Complex 3hrs FREE parking Validation for all Palace Cinemas customers. Session times subject to change - check web for most up to date sessions. *NFT = No Free Tickets Book Online at palacecinemas.com.au

Ballina Fair Shopping Centre FREE parking

WISH (PG)

LOST KINGDOM (M)

www.echo.net.au

NEXT GOAL WINS Mon, Tues, Wed: 10:15AM, 12:10PM, 2:40PM, 6:45PM

(PG)

SNAKES (M)

Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: 9:20AM, 11:40AM, 6:15PM. Mon, Tues, Wed: 9:00AM, 11:30AM, 6:30PM

Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: 9:30AM, 1:50PM, 4:00PM. Mon, Tues, Wed: 9:15AM, 1:40PM

To receive the absolute lowest ticket price and special offers, be sure to join our Free Movie Club!

It’s free to list your gigs in the gig guide. gigs@echo.net.au w: echo.net.au/gig-guide.

DEADLINE 5PM ON FRIDAYS

Q KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 6PM THE BLAKE EVANS BAND + MR TROY

SUNDAY 31 Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 5.30PM MAJESTIC KNIGHTS, 9.30PM EPIC Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM JEROME WILLIAMS BAND, RAGGA JUMP, ANIMAL VENTURA, MICKA SCENE DUO, AND THE BEATS SPUN BY DJS QUENDO, NO ID, AND REIFLEX Q JONSON STREET & DENING PARK, BYRON BAY, 4PM SOUL STREET Q THREE BLUE DUCKS, EWINGSDALE, 4.30PM UPBEAT Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4PM PINK ZINC,DJ KIRBY + JOCK BARNES Q BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 9PM NYE GALA EXTRAVAGANZA Q MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 3PM OPEN MIC WITH THE SWAMP CATS Q MULLUMBIMBY EX-SERVICES CLUB 8.30PM GLITTERATI RIOT Q WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, FROM 6PM SHARKS LLOYD, POB, MONSIEUR DIOP Q CLUB LENNOX THE TYLER DURDENS Q LENNOX COMMUNITY MARKET 8AM TIN PARLOUR Q BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK 2.30PM SOREN CARLBERGG QUARTET & PETE C, LEVEL ONE 6.30PM INO PIO + SOREN CARLBERGG QUARTET & PETE C + DJ SCRADLEY BEATS Q SHAWS BAY HOTEL, BALLINA, 3PM SOUL’D Q METROPOLE, LISMORE, 3PM DJ K-HZ Q THE LEVEE, LISMORE, 5PM TAHLIA COBY, 8PM DJ DRAZTEC Q THE CHANNON TAVERN 6PM COUCH WIZARD, KING COLEUS, WET DRIP, GOLDEN RATION, BIG RED, TRIPLE NIP, DBLM, SOUNDWAVE, SREAL & STUMP

Q MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES CLUB 6.30PM JORGE & ELLIE Q SALTBAR, KINGSCLIFF, 9PM DJ VII Q COOLANGATTA HOTEL 5PM THE HIGH GRADE, ANDRÉ CORDEIRO, SEVEN DROPS, SMASHED CRABS, RECKLESS Q CHINDERAH TAVERN 7.30PM JON J BRADLEY + BEN AMOR DUO

MONDAY 1 Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, MATTY ROGERS BAND Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 4PM SAFIA + LUEN, YOLANDA BE COOL, JAI PICCONE, AND JULIAN MUNYARD. Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4.30PM RAGGA JUMP Q METROPOLE, LISMORE, 6.30PM OPEN MIC Q KINGSCLIFF BEACH HOTEL 5PM THE WHITLAMS Q CHINDERAH TAVERN 2.30PM MASON RACK

TUESDAY 2 Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, A MUSOS NEW YEAR Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4.30PM NURANI ALSTON

WEDNESDAY 3 Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, MARSHALL OKELL Q BYRON BEACHSIDE MAKET 8AM GUY KACHEL + FELICITY LAWLESS FT. MSELENEOUS Q THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 7PM ALLEN STONE Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4.30PM JOCK BARNES Q SHAWS BAY HOTEL, BALLINA, 5.30PM THE WHITLAMS

he can accept that when facing devastating atrocities, saving even one life is a victory, and the British public learns the truth about the hero hidden in their midst.

Directed by James Hawes, the cast includes Anthony Hopkins as Nicholas Winton, Jonathan Pryce, Romola Garai, Johnny Flynn, Marthe Keller, Lena Olin and Helena Bonham Carter as Babi Winton, the young ’Nicky’s’ mother.

You can see One Life at the Ballina and Byron Bay Palace cinemas.

HAVE YOU SENT US YOUR GIG? gigs@echo.net.au

SCAN TO JOIN FOR FREE

Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: 11:00AM, 3:45PM, 8:20PM. Mon, Tues, Wed: 11:00AM, 1:20PM, 8:15PM

*NFT = No Free Tickets

Palace Cinemas is proud to be preserving Ballina’s cherished community cinema, where we’ll continue bringing exceptional movie experiences to the vibrant Ballina audience!

Book Online at palacecinemas.com.au

Submit your event to the Echo’s free Gig Guide.

Running in The Echo and online at echo.net.au. 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 39

THE MULLUMBIMBY CHOCOLATE SHOP

Fernleigh Dreaming Built to Last 631 Fernleigh Road, Fernleigh

4

3

4

• House: 3 bedrooms + sleep out, 3 bath residence with wrap around deck, high EGKNKPIU RQNKUJGF JCTFYQQF ƃQQTU VYQ NKXKPI CTGCU CP QHƂEG CPF UQNCT JQV YCVGT RCPGNU • Cottage: Rustic 1 bed, 1 bath with lounge • Double garage + large storage shed

For Sale:

/ /

• Land Size: JC CETGU CRRTQZ

View:

By Appointment

Agents:

Tony Farrell

Contact:

Tracey Donaldson

• Farm: Steel machinery sheds for processing, UVQTCIG CPF YQTM CTGCU 4KFIG XKGYU Skinners Creek boundary, small dam, OCECFCOKC VTGGU CPF|ECVVNG

Shop 1/104 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby • Truly a unique and wonderful opportunity to acquire what must be one of the best little businesses in Mullum.

• The presentation of this shop is outstanding and the trading figures match accordingly.

$229,000 + SAV

• Excellent lease, great position and lovely staff.

• Has a product list the envy of everyone who likes to be spoilt with goodies.

• This is a “walk in and bank your profits” type of business.

Call Mark Cochrane for detailed information on 0416 142 663 or email: markc@nclp.com.au 81–83 Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby P: 02 6684 2615 E: sales@nclp.com.au www.nclp.com.au

Shop 4/31 Lawson Street, Byron Bay 02 6685 7300 www.byronbayrealestateagency.com.au

40 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

www.echo.net.au

www.echo.net.au

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 41

37 NANA STREET, BRUNSWICK HEADS

Newly Built Architectural Marvel in Brunswick Heads: A Seamless Fusion of Old-World Charm and Modern Luxury 4

1

3

4

765M2 • An architectural masterpiece, meticulously designed using recycled materials • Attention to detail throughout the property, ZLWK IHDWXUHV VXFK DV WZR FR]\ ͆UHSODFHV UHDGLQJ QRRN VXQNHQ IRUPDO ORXQJH KHDWHG FRQFUHWH ͇RRULQJ and a wine cellar

Tara Torkkola 0423 519 698

• The upper level offers a bird’s eye view of the lower level • Outdoors features a natural pond, a 12m x 4m pool, DQG D ODUJH RXWGRRU ͆UHSODFH

PRICE | $5.5M - $6M OPEN | By Appointment

1109 COOLAMON SCENIC DRIVE, MONTECOLLUM

Hinterland Oasis with Dreamy Ocean Views to Julian Rocks 4

1

3

3

4047M2 • Stunning ocean views, extending to the lighthouse, -XOLDQ 5RFNV DQG WKH KLQWHUODQG

Sharon McInnes 0408 659 649

• /LJKW ͆OOHG RSHQ SODQ OLYLQJ GLQLQJ DQG NLWFKHQ IHDWXULQJ KDUGZRRG ͇RRUV DQG ODUJH ZLQGRZV • The outdoor entertaining area includes an expansive deck and inground pool surrounded by a meticulously landscaped garden • 8 minutes to Mullumbimby and 20 minutes to Byron

Maggie Kelly 0416 013 788

PRICE | $2.3M - $2.5M OPEN | By Appointment

36 KEYS ROAD, COORABELL

Rockinghorse Estate Boutique Land Subdivision of 4 blocks in the Byron Hinterland 4.8 – 6 ACRES • Underground power to all lots with potential for dual occupancy to build two homes (STCA)

Tara Torkkola 0423 519 698

• Lots 3 and 4 enjoy private access to Coorabell Creek ͇RZLQJ LQWR :LOVRQV 5LYHU • 4-minute drive to Federal, 14 minutes to Bangalow and Mullumbimby and 20 minutes to Byron • $EXQGDQW QDWLYH ͇RUD DQG IDXQD DQG VWXQQLQJ sunset views

Denzil Lloyd 0481 864 049

PRICE | $1.1M - $1.5M OPEN | By Appointment

www.byronbayfn.com.au | sales@byronbayfn.com | 35 Fletcher St, Byron Bay NSW 2481 | 02 6685 8466

42 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

www.echo.net.au

248 Seven Mile Beach Road, Broken Head 5 beds 3 baths 8 cars

Perched above Brays Beach, The Greenhouse and The Echidna houses share ocean and forest views, one of a few properties located within walking distance to the secluded Whites, Kings and Brays beaches.

FO R SALE Private treaty

WELCOME By appointment

AGENTS Susan Whyte 0478 010 735

Property Business Directory PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Property Management

CONVEYANCING BUYING and SELLING REAL ESTATE? We are here to help

02 6685 0177 rentals@ljhbrunswickheads.com Save yourself thousands, call the expert property management team.

NP CONVEYANCING PHONE 6685 7436 FOR A QUOTE

NPC

Investment Management Team LJ Hooker Brunswick Heads

ljhooker.com.au

PERSONALISED APPOINTMENTS IN BYRON BAY NOW NOW OPERATING OUT OF CENTRAL OFFICE IN POTTSVILLE Lic No 06000098

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Buying & Developing Property?

We offer sound advice to property buyers and those looking to develop. Our advice includes providing you with the potential for development opportunities, restrictions on title, pre-purchase inspections, facilitating design & approval processes, managing construction contractors to completion.

Conveyancing (NSW & QLD) Property • Leases • Wills Estates & Probate Contact Jess Riddell 0428 773 416

%JƤPMEXIH [MXL Castrikum Adams Legal, our businesses undertake the complete suite of property transactions, along with construction and development project management.

Complex property matters, conveyancing, easements, construction contracts, progress claims, completion inspections, we are there for you.

Contact Craig Adams, Project Manager / Director

0411 575 991

craig@cacm.net.au

PROPERTY STYLING Our services are: • Conveyancing NSW and QLD – competitive fixed prices! • Complex Property Matters • Sale & Purchase of Business • Retirement Village Contracts • Leasing • Options

P: 02 6687 0548 | F: 02 6678 0352 | Suite 2/5 Lismore Rd, Bangalow NSW 2479 hello@bangalowconveyancing.com.au | www.bangalowconveyancing.com.au

caconstructionmanagement.com.au www.echo.net.au

jess@jhmobilelawyers.com.au Local for 20+ years

PROPERTY STAGING styling for sale call us for a free quote on 0432 574 321 cactushillproject.com.au home@cactushillproject.com.au

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 43

Property Business Directory

North Coast news online

AGENTS

0411 757 425 tim@millerrealestate.com.au millerrealestate.com.au @timmiller_realestate

Ta took the hard work out of selling our home and kept us Tara informed every step of the way. We got a fantastic result in an amazingly short time and we couldn’t be happier. pierr

TARA TORKKOLA - SALES INTERNATIONAL MULTI MEDIA SELLING AGENT 0423 519 698 | tara@byronbayfn.com @taratorkkolafirstnational

@taratorkkola_realestate WWW.BYRONBAYFN.COM.AU

FINANCE • Over 40 years of combined real estate/marketing experience • Fresh and dynamic approach to marketing our properties • Call our award-winning team to receive a complimentary new market value of your property • Bringing world class corporate service with small town authenticity

3/47 Jonson Street, Byron Bay | 0487 287 122 admin@c21byron.com | byronbay.century21.com.au

8JTIJOH ZPV B TBGF BOE .FSSZ $ISJTUNBT BOE B )BQQZ /FX :FBS

WE ARE HERE TO SELL

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2022 - No #1 SALES AGENT 2023 - No #2 SALES AGENT for First National Australia Wide

SU REY YNO OLD LDS S

DIRECT DI CTOR/ OR/SALES - CHIE H F CULT CULTURA URA R L OFFI FICE CER CE E

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INDUSTRY LEADERS IN HIGH END MARKETING AND SALES

Rez Tal 0405 350 682

Dave Eller 0404 364 284

Michael Ibrahin 0414 325 556

byronproperty.com.au info@ byronproperty.com.au

[ª ɺUª­Ö ɴÙɺ¼Ç ¼ ¥­Â  ɺ üÓ Öà Home Loans Investment Loans First Home Buyers Car Loans

PAUL PRIOR SALES

0418 324 297 paulprior@byronbayfn.com Professional and results driven with extensive knowledge. Servicing the Byron Shire and beyond.

Debt Consolidation SMSF Lending Commercial Loans Development Funding

RãÙÙ ¼ɺUª ÷ Finance Broker

Call Paul for an appointment today.

russel@acceptancefinance.com.au

WWW.BYRONBAYFN.COM.AU

0412 833 280

Acceptance Finance Pty Ltd ABN 62 953 405 689 Australian Credit Licence Number 391715 Credit Representative Number 395628

SHARON McINNES SALES

0408 659 649 sharon@byronbayfn.com PREMIUM SALES RESULTS IN A CHANGING MARKET

BRYCE & RACHEL CAMERON - 0412 057 672

LOOKING TO SELL? LOOKING TO RENT? WE DO BOTH!

12 years local Real Estate experience Premium results & peace of mind Effective, modern technology Friendly & Approachable agents you can trust Highly competitive fees & introductory offers

Property Management & Sales

Alyce Field & Kasey Williams Ph: 04‫׎בא חבג ו׏‬ E: admin@byronpropertyhub.com.au

44 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

CONTACT ME TODAY justin@schmith.com.au www.schmith.com.au @schmithrealty

www.echo.net.au

Service Directory SERVICE DIRECTORY RATES, PAYMENT & DEADLINE

COOLMAN AIR CONDITIONING 23 years experience. Lic 178464C AU30147 ..............0412 641753

B&B Timbers

CLIMATE CONTROL AUSTRALIA Lic 362019C AU 27106... JARREAU.............................0421 485217

DEADLINE: For additions and changes to the Service Directory is 12pm Friday.

LINE ADS: $99 for 3 months or $340 for 1 year prepaid.

66867911

ARCHITECTS

For line Service Directory ads email classifieds@echo.net.au.

DISPLAY ADS: $70 per week for colour display ad. Minimum 8 week booking 4 weeks prepaid.

Please supply display ads 85mm wide, 38mm high. New display ads will be placed at end of section.

110 Teven Road, Ballina New logo - Same quality & service Structural – Landscaping Fencing – Composite Decking Hardwood – Pine – Hardware

OCEANARC ARCHITECTS Reg. 6042 www.oceanarc.com.au..............................................66855001

ASPHALT

For display Service Directory ads email adcopy@echo.net.au.

The Echo Service Directory is online – www.echo.net.au/service-directory

sales@bbtimbers.com.au

ACCOUNTS & BOOKINGS: 6684 1777

Lic: 317362C

INDEX Accountants & Bookkeepers ..........45 Physiotherapy...............................59 Acupuncture .................................45 Picture Framing ............................59 Air Conditioning & Refrigeration....45 Architects .....................................45 Picture Hanging............................59 Asphalt.........................................45 Plastering .....................................59 Automotive...................................45 Plumbers ......................................59 Blinds, Awnings, Curtains, Shutters.45 Bricklaying....................................45 Pool Services.................................59 Building Trades .............................45 Printing ........................................59 Bush Regen & Weed Control ..........45 Removalists ..................................60 Cleaning .......................................45 Roofing.........................................60 Computer Services ........................45 Concreting & Paving......................46 Rubbish Removal ..........................60 Decks, Patios & Extensions.............46 Self Storage ..................................60 Design & Drafting..........................46 Septic Systems ..............................60 Driveway Maintenance..................46 Earthmoving & Excavation.............46 Smart Farming..............................60 Electricians ...................................46 Solar Installation ..........................60 Fencing.........................................46 Television Services ........................60 Floor Sanding & Polishing..............46 Furniture Maker ............................46 Transport......................................60 Garden & Property Maintenance....46 Tree Services .................................60 Gas Fitters & Suppliers...................59 Upholstery....................................60 Graphic Design..............................59 Guttering......................................59 Valuers .........................................60 Handypersons...............................59 Veterinary Surgeons......................60 Health ..........................................59 Water Filters .................................60 Hire ..............................................59 Landscape Supplies.......................59 Water Services ..............................60 Landscaping .................................59 Welding........................................60 Locksmith .....................................59 Window Cleaning and Repairs .......60 Painting........................................59 Pest Control ..................................59 Window Tinting ............................60 Photography.................................59 Writing Services............................60

New Asphalt Asphalt Repairs Pothole Repairs Base Work Free Quotes

Licensed builder, specialising in Bathroom renovations.

0417 654 888

AUTOMOTIVE

CASH PAID FOR UNWANTED CARS $50–$1500

Free metal drop off Locally ally ow owned d

6684 5296 BUILDER – JOHN McGAURAN Personalised Service. 20 yrs exp. Lic 170208C.............0415 793242

HAVEN BUILDING All aspects of building. Lic 326616C...............................................0432 565060

FABRICA JOINERY Quality kitchens/timber doors/windows. Lic 244652C .........................66808162

ABSOLUTELY FREE

ALL CARPENTRY & BUILDING WORK Owner builder friendly. Lic 203206C................0424 158585 JOHN MONTGOMERY Building Lic 12223C. Scaffolding HRW990123.........................0414 332505

BUSH REGENERATION & WEED CONTROL

CAR BODY REMOVAL CASH ON THE SPOT GUARANTEE

• 28 years of experience • Professional chemical-free bush

$50 - $1000

WE BUY UNWANTED CARS, UTES & VANS

PHONE 0466 113 333 24/7 EMAIL: enquires@adrians.com.au

BLINDS, AWNINGS, CURTAINS, SHUTTERS

regeneration • Competitive rates • Chemical-free planting and management • Environmental weed management consultancy

organiclandcareinc@gmail.com 0478 272 300 organiclandcareinc.org WEED CONTROL SPECIALIST Bindii weed / broadleaf weeds in lawns etc......................0418 110714

CLEANING

BECK THE BOOKKEEPER: BAS Agent, Payroll & ATS (Accountant Translation Services).02 66084372 BLINDS

ACUPUNCTURE ACUPUNCTURE CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE M Collis.............................................0490 022183

SHUTTERS

AWNINGS

CURTAINS

SUNSCREENS

LOCAL SHOWCASE DEALER SHOWROOM

AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION

66 680 0 8862 6680 8862

FREE E MEASURE E QUOTE E

CURTAINS

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˘˗ ˘˞˛MEASURE ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˘ˏ FREE QUOTE

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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

BRICKLAYING

˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ˘˗ ˘˞˛ ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˘ˏ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜

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1st Year Apprentice & A Fully Qualified Service Technician

T: 6680 9394 E: artisan@artisanair.com.au

45 Manns Road, Mullumbimby Lic: 299433C ARC: AU40492

www.echo.net.au

Lic 246545C

– Sales – Installation – Repairs – All Commercial Refrigeration – Residential & Commercial Airconditioning – Coolroom Design & Construction – Freezer Rooms

6684 2783

ABN: 47576013867

PLANTATION SHUTTERS

ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜

SPECIALISTS IN HOME AUTOMATION

Services List Locally owned and Operated (Low Pressure Softwashing) Residential and Commercial Houses, Gutters, Roofs, Awnings, No job too big or small Solar panels, Retaining walls Obligation free quote Driveways, Paths, Pavers, Fully insured Fences, Decks, Patios, AQUA PRESSURE CLEANING Pool areas.

0426 119 550 info@nraquapressurecleaning.com.au

˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛

˘˗ FREE ˘˞˛ ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˘ˏ MEASURE QUOTE ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜ ˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ˘˗ ˘˞˛ ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˘ˏ ˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜ 1/84 ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ Centennial Circuit Byron Bay

AU 37088

Quality workmanship, and reliable and personalised service.

www.stoneysbuildingcreations.com

ACCOUNTANTS & BOOKKEEPERS

Mullumbimby Refrigeration & Airconditioning Services

www.bbtimbers.com.au

WALLFIX

REMEDIAL

• 20 years’ experience in lintel replacement • Crack stitching installation • Repointing • Retaining walls and all damaged brickwork

Byron Bay

5 Stars

CLEANING SERVICE CLEANS: Holiday, Residential, Bond, Commercial, Spring.

Phone Mick 0409 009 024 Email: mickbhl@gmail.com

DETAILED CLEANER/GUEST HOUSE MANAGER All natural products 4.8 Stayz rated..0410 723601 FULL CIRCLE REFINISHING Professional cold & hot water roof & pressure cleaning. ..........0455 5735545

COMPUTER SERVICES

Call: 0403 141 760 • Email: wallfixremedial@gmail.com www.wallfixremedial.com.au Servicing the Northern Rivers Lic no. 292267C Master Builder No. 3029326

BRICK/BLOCK LAYING Contractors. Lic 291958C. Phone Mark ........................................0409 444268

BUILDING TRADES • DEPT OF FAIR TRADING:A licence is required for all residential building work where the reasonable market cost of the work to be done (labour and materials) exceeds $5000 (including GST).

We provide solutions to Windows PC issues in the convenience of your home or business. Apologies we don’t work on Apple devices.

Call Justine and Jeffrey today for fast, reliable and affordable service!

• Software/hardware installation.

• New or improved PC setup.

• PC cleaning.

• Improving PC performance.

• Internet connection issues.

• Printer connection issues.

• Networking solutions.

• File backup. $100/hr.

0403 546 529 jjmooters@gmail.com

FLASH COMPUTERS Mac & PC. Affordable & helpful. 77 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby.02 66844124

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 45

Service Directory

North Coast news online

CONCRETING & PAVING

FENCING

SALISBURY

CONSCIOUS EARTHWORKS • DRAINAGE DESIGN • DRIVEWAYS • PADS • WATERWAYS • ALL ASPECTS OF EARTHMOVING

CONCRETING Lic.136717c

DARYL 0418 234 302 Over 30 yrs’ local experience.

All forms of concreting.

Residential • Civil • Industrial

ALL AROUND

Phone Zac: 0468 344 939

Lic No. 337066C

Driveways & Crossings | Trenching for Plumbing & Electrical | Drainage Solutions | House Pads | Flood Protection & Erosion Control | Pools & Ponds Ser vicing the Northern Rivers NSW

Tipper Truck with Driver Hire

0424 876 155

Ryan: 0477 285 074 newgroundex.com.au

Free Quotes

Phone Scott

BYRON & BEYOND FENCING Any fence, any time, prompt quotes....... 66804766 or 0439 078549 EDL FENCING Installations & repairs. Prompt service. ..................................................0432 107262 FLOW FENCING Pool fencing, timber/colourbond, local, professional and reliable.......0416 424256

FLOOR SANDING & POLISHING BYRON BAY FLOOR SANDING New and old floors. Non toxic.....................................0408 536565

FURNITURE MAKER Lic No 142383C

DECKS, PATIOS & EXTENSIONS

FREE QUOTES

Quality Work & Reliable Service

THE FLOOR SANDER New & old floors, decks, non-toxic finishes, special effects, free quotes..0407 821690 Lic# 378040C

SHAKA CONCRETING Driveways, sheds, slabs, p/ways, patios. Insured & Lic#391742C 0402 728207

DECKS

BT Straight Line Fencing

0419 443196

Over 15 years experience.

Excavating with Care, Precision and Respect.

CONCRETING Call Daniel

www.360earth.com.au

• 1.7 Tonne Excavator • Fully Insured • Rockbreaker • 300mm and 450mm Auger • 3M Tipper Truck • No job too small Phone James on 0429 888 683

For all your earthworks needs

Call Mark 0498 115 182

custom furniture and joinery @ianmontywooddesign

0414 636 736

Servicing the Northern Rivers

Call:

easily sand over nail/screw heads!

0447 295 178 NORTHERN RIVERS TRENCHING 65hp chain trencher, excavator, cable locating & tpr.0402 716857 EXCAVATOR & TIPPER HIRE Concreting & landscaping................................................0484 861966

QUALITY DECK RestoratioN free quote: 0455 573 554

fullcirclefinishing.com

GARDEN & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE All aspects gardening & mowing Enhancive garden makeovers 0430 297 101 livingearthgardens.com.au

ELECTRICIANS

Est. 2010

THE DECK DOCTOR Sanding & refinishing, cable balustrading. Free quotes. Richard...0407 821690 FULL CIRCLE REFINISHING – Specialist deck sanding and oiling. Free quotes ...........0455 573554

DESIGN & DRAFTING BAREFOOT BUILDING DESIGN www.barefootbuildingdesign.com..........Bob Acton 0407 787993 DAVID ROBINSON DESIGN DRAFTING All Council & construction requirements ......0419 880048 BYRON ENERGY EFFICIENT DESIGN & DRAFTING www.beedad.com.au ...............0423 531448

0439 624 945 AH 02 6680 4173 DOMESTIC ALL JOBS: SMALL COMMERCIAL OR LARGE 24 HOUR SERVICE Lic: 154293c

FENG SHUI DESIGN CONSULTANT Lizzie Bodenham livingbalancedesigns.com.au.......0431 678608 MIRO HALFORD BUILDING DESIGN mirohalforddesign.com......................................0402 613638 MARK OAKLEY DESIGN & DRAFTING www.modesign.au...........................................0422 666464 STUDIO153 ARCHITECTS Beautiful sustainable design studio153.com.au ..................0410 204431

DRIVEWAY MAINTENANCE

LEVEL 2 ASP ELECTRICIAN

DOMESTIC • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL SERVICING: • Tweed • Byron • Lismore • Kyogle • Mains installs / alterations • Switchboard upgrades • Meter queries • Tree maintenance near services Matthew Rutland matt.positivelectrical@gmail.com

0439 733 703 oast Asph alt st C Ea

ALL ASPECTS OF ASPHALT & BITUMEN SERVICES

NSW Lic# 312117 ASP Lic# 5547 AUTHORISATION# 503808

LAWN CARE | PADDOCK SLASHING | SLOPE MOWING | TREE PRUNING HEDGE REDUCTIONS | GARDEN BLITZES CALL/TEXT PAUL 0403 316 711

6677 1859 admin@ecasphalt.com.au

SERVICING THE EAST COAST OF THE NSW NORTHERN RIVERS

Lic. 211410C

Burringbar

EARTHMOVING & EXCAVATION

TINY EARTHWOR Philip Toovey

0409 799 909 various implements available for limited access projects

46 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

MULLUM.MOWING@gmail.com. Ride-on, large lawns & acreage. Ph Peter................0423 756394 GUTTERS CLEANED Solar panel cleaning, all areas, free quotes, fully insured .66841778 or 0405 922839

0458 267 777

A-Z gardening & maintenance, lawns, acreage, hedges, gutters, p. clean-ups, tip runs ..0405 625697

࠮Domestic ࠮Commercial ࠮Industrial ࠮Solar

LEAF IT TO US Specialists in tree services and acreage mowing ....................................0402 487213

matthesparky.com.au

COUGHRAN ELECTRICAL 24 hour service, Lic 154293C.......................... 0439 624945 or 66804173 RONNIE SPINKS Everything electrical. Lic 27673.........................................................0429 802355

TIP RUNS & RUBBISH REMOVALS 4m3 trailer..............................................................0408 210772 RICK’S PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Mowing, brushcutting, gardening, hedging.........0424 805660

JP ELECTRICAL All electrical. Level 2 ASP. Solar, data + TV. Lic 133082C.......................0432 289705 GREEN DINGO for all your mowing and gardening needs. Ph Michael .........................0497 842442 JIM LABELLE ELECTRICAL O.Shores, Mullum, Byron, Brunswick. Lic 176417C..............0415 126028 ACES Gardens, Maintenance, Handyman, Landscaping all aspects. ............................0477 851493 BEN FORSYTH, Electrician. Lic:240691C. Ocean Shores & surrounds. No job too small...0422 136408 -BYRON MOWING & GARDEN MAINTENANCE No lawn too big or small....................0431 089537 VALLEY WAY ELECTRICAL, 15 yrs exp. Domestic, commercial, new builds. Lic 253977c 0475 910622 MOWING, hedgetrimming, gutter cleaning and tree lopping. Call Trevor.....................0400 094265

www.echo.net.au

Service Directory GAS FITTERS & SUPPLIERS Free Delivery No Rental Reliable

LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES

PHYSIOTHERAPY NICK EDMOND Physiotherapy & Acupuncture. Open Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday

Locally Owned Est 1996

466 Main Arm Road, Mullumbimby.....................................................................................66845288 ANTHONY D’ORSOGNA Physiotherapy, acupuncture, hydrotherapy Suffolk Park 1 Bryce St... 66853511 OCEAN SHORES PHYSIOTHERAPY Manual therapies, dry needling, custom orthotics,

Sand | Soils | Gravels | Pots & statues | Lots, lots more

www.brunswickvalleygas.com • 0408 760 609

1176 Myocum Rd, Mullumbimby (just past golf course)

6684 2323

PELVIC FLOOR PHYSIOTHERAPY 88 Byron St Bangalow with Lisa Fitzpatrick.............0422 993141 EWINGSDALE PHYSIO Matrix Therapy, all ages, massage, home visits. Renata ...........0437 647137

PICTURE FRAMING

LANDSCAPING

Andrew Keller Plumbing & Gas Service Pty Ltd

shock wave therapy, real time ultrasound. Nigel Pitman.....................................................66803499

MULLUM PICTURE FRAMERS Studio located in Ocean Shores ..................................0403 734791

32 yrs servicing the local area

PICTURE HANGING

• Commercial Gas Equipment, Installation & Service Specialist p • General Plumbing Maintenance & Hot Water • Back Flow Device Testing • TMV Servicing

PROFESSIONAL PICTURE HANGING, also display of art and objects. Phone Lenny .0407 031294

LANDSCAPING & EARTHWORKS LA K KS

Byron Bay & SURROUNDING AREAS

PLASTERING

Text or Ph: 0448 401 638 8

0418 662 784 kellergasplumb@gmail.com m LIC: 103119c

PLASTERER, TRADE QUALIFIED repairs, renovations, cornices, quality assured. Kurt.0431 015414

20 years local experience

RENDERING / SOLID PLASTERING 25 years experience. Free quotes. .......... Ph John 0406 673176

goldleaflandscaping

GRAPHIC DESIGN

4 ton Kobelco

www.goldleaflandscaping.com.au

10 ton Kobelco

PLUMBERS

Graphic Design / Print Branding / Tutoring

NEED A PLUMBER? • General Landscape Creation • Rural Lifestyle Landscaping Specialists • Outdoor Carpentry (decks/ out

@thinkblinkdesign www.thinkblinkdesign.com

buildings/ fencing/ garden walls etc)

DRAINER? GASFITTER?

• Garden overhauls • Camphor/ Macadamia Conversions • Mass Plantings and

Chay 0429 805 081 25 YEARS LOCAL SERVICE

Rainforest Creation

%CNN 2CWN | ITCEGYQQFNCPFUECRGU EQO CW

Licence No. 207479C

GUTTERING

LEMONTREELANDSCAPES.COM.AU Liam. Lic 277154C ..............................................0423 700853

LOCKSMITH

! " # "# $ " #%

$ &'( )'* +* ,,,% -%! .

Brendan Duggan Locksmith. Automotive car keys and lock installation/repair .......0412 764148

PAINTING • DEPARTMENT OF FAIR TRADING INFO: When dealing with home owners, painters are required to quote a licence number only for external work valued over $5000.

Call Junior for friendly, genuine advice and service.

www.spotlessgutters.com.au

Servicing Mullumbimby, Ocean Shores, Brunswick Heads, Byron Bay & Surrounds 30 years’ experience Lic: 321191C

Taking on work NOW! 0427 528 108 | benwilton74@icloud.com

ALL-WAYS PAINTING

From leaky taps to construction

BYRON BAY

• Domestic & Commercial • Servicing all areas • Workmanship guaranteed • Attention to detail

0438 784 226 • 6685 4154

Jetter & Camera for all blockages Lic No 189144C

Gutter guard Gutter cleaning Locally owned Fully insured Free quotes

Ben The Plumber

0421 466 921 Two generations of local plumbing

0405 922 839 or AH 6684 1778 ABN 180 623 364 42 PERICA PAINTING 17 years exp. Qualified, licensed, insured Lic356906c.....................0424 135810

HANDYPERSONS

LOCAL FRIENDLY PAINTER Reliable, clean, quality work. Dean ..................................0421 432308

HANDY ANDY Carpentry, plastering, welding......................................... 66884324 or 0476 600956

PEST CONTROL

AWESOME REPAIRS Professional, commercial & domestic. Wayne...............................0423 218417 ABSOLUTE HANDYMAN. Repairs, renovation, maintenance, painting. Call Mark ........0402 281638 KEEN HANDYMAN SERVICES Repairs, maintenance, gardening, odd jobs ..................0428 679704 HIGHPOINT Repairs & handyman services. Painting, plastering & tiling. Michael........0421 896796 LOCAL, HONEST, RELIABLE, high quality work. Home maintenance, odd jobs. Ray..0407 802281 LOCAL CARPENTER Renovations & maintenance. Reliable. Lic 192987c. .....................0437 202050

• Drain clearing, inspections & repairs • CCTV camera & location equipment • 1.7T excavator & tipper truck • Fully insured

6681 6555 Free quotes on active termites Environmentally safe

HOME MAINTENANCE All aspects. Carpentry, decks, painting, repairs etc. Insured .....0434 705506

YOUR PEST & TERMITE SPECIALISTS

HEALTH

www.allpestsolutions.com.au

• OTHER HEALTH RELATED SECTIONS IN THIS SERVICE DIRECTORY: Acupuncture, Chiropractic, THE PEST MAN EXTRAORDINAIRE Second opinion / alternative views. 50 yrs exp .....0418 110714 Counselling, Dentists, Osteopathy, Physiotherapy ACUPUNCTURE & COSMETIC MEDICINE Dr Adam Osborne ...........................................66857366 MULLUMBIMBY HERBALS Naturopathic and herbal dispensary, consultations..............66843002

Lic# 378040C

BRUNSWICK BYRON PEST CONTROL................................................................................66842018

PHOTOGRAPHY

MOVE TO NURTURE PILATES STUDIO & mat classes. Lennox Head ............................0404 459605

Ph: 0429 888 683 unblockall.com.au

SAME DAY SERVICE • AVAILABLE 24 HOURS CALL US ON

0406 070 738 RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL REPAIRS • MAINTENANCE Pensioner discounts available Lic No: 218371C

byronbay-plumbing.com.au

BILL CONNORS All plumbing/draining. Lic #1051 .................................. 66801403 or 0414 801403 MARK STRATTON All plumbing & emergency. Sewer drain camera/locator. Lic 57803C ....0419 019035

MARK’S MASSAGE SERVICE Mark................................................................................0448 441194

Tree Faerie Fotos

THERAPEUTIC SUPPORT Mind and body healing, massage therapy. Rob ...................0432 583195

Professional • Commercial • Personal

BLUE EDGE POOL SERVICES Cleaning, maintenance, etc. 20 years experience. Joe..........0405 411466

HEARING VOICES? Therapeutic support. hearingyourvoice.au.............................. 0406 466642

30+ years experience in commercial photography and photojournalism

PRINTING

AYURVEDA, NATUROPATH, Herbs, Jacinta McEwen – Om Healing..............................0422 387370

HIRE MULLUM HIRE Marquees & all event equipment. Tools & machinery. Pool supplies & service 66843003

www.echo.net.au

www.treefaeriefotos.com • 0417 427 518

POOL SERVICES

TONY HAMPTON PRINTING CONSULTANT Good advice goes a long way. tonyhampton@icloud.com For an obligation-free chat: ................................................0416 152119

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 47

Service Directory

North Coast news online

REMOVALISTS

SEPTIC SYSTEMS TRINE SOLUTIONS Local sewerage specialists. Plumbers, drainers & gas fitters. Lic 138031C. 0407 439805

SHIRE REMOVALS & FREIGHT CO From Middle Pocket to Middle Earth Just give us a ring

• Freight services to Brisbane weekly • Carriers of fine art • Furniture removal • E-bay pick up & delivery

0409 917 646

!"#$%# &$' ()* +$$,-$&, .

SMART FARMING BYRON SENSOR TECH wireless farm sensors...................................................................... 0459 422387

SOLAR INSTALLATION Pioneers of the solar industry Serving Northern NSW since 1998 Your local, qualified team.

Specialists in standalone & grid interact system designs..

Call us on 6679 7228

&ŝŶĚ ŽƵƚ ŚŽǁ LJŽƵ ĐĂŶ ĞƌŽ LJŽƵƌ ƉŽǁĞƌ ŝůů ǁŝƚŚ &ƌĞĞ ƐŽůĂƌ ĞŶĞƌŐLJ

ǀĞƌLJƚŚŝŶŐ 'ŽŽĚ ŝŶ ^ŽůĂƌ͕ ĂƚƚĞƌŝĞƐ Θ ^ŽůĂƌ ,Žƚ tĂƚĞƌ Θ ^

Ăůů sŝŶĐĞŶƚ ^ĞůůĞĐŬ ĨŽƌ Ă &ƌĞĞ ŽŶƐƵůƚĂƚŝŽŶ

WŚ WŚ ϬϮ ϲϲϴϴ ϰϰϴϬ

ǁǁ ǁǁǁ͘ϴϴϴƐŽůĂƌƚĞŬ͘ĐŽŵ͘ĂƵ

• Sydney • Gold Coast • Brisbane • Melbourne • North Qld • Country • Interstate • LOCAL

Byron Coast Removals SERVICING THE NORTHERN RIVERS AND BEYOND Competitive rates and packing supplies available 0432 552 067 | 6684 5481 | byroncoastremovals@gmail.com

TELEVISION SERVICES TRANSPORT

BYRON BUS Co arrive@byronbuscompany.com.au

Door to Door Charter Services Call 0490 183 424

Get a Quick Quote Now

CAPE BYRON REMOVALS PTY LTD

MAN WITH A VAN/TRUCK Reasonable rates. Phone Don............................................0414 282813 BENNY CAN MOVE IT! .................................................................................................0402 199999

TREE SERVICES

CHOPPY CHOP TREE SERVICES

leafittous.com.au kascha@leafittous.com.au

Local . Reliable . Insured

0402 487 213

SUMMERLAND TREE SERVICES ............................................. Call Tim 66813140 or 0417 698227 BYRON TREE SERVICES Qualified, insured. Call Alex ....................................................0402 364852 MARTINO TREE SERVICES .............................................................................Martino 0435 019524 LEAF IT TO US 4x4 truck/chipper + crane truck. Local, qualified, insured. Free quotes .......0402 487213

UPHOLSTERY BANGALOW UPHOLSTERY Now at Billinudgel. Re-covering specialists.............................66805255

VALUERS VETERINARY SURGEONS NORTH COAST VETERINARY SERVICES Dr Lauren Archer.................................................66840735

WATER FILTERS

The Water Filter Experts for home, commercial and rural properties

6680 8200 or 0418 108 181

The Fully Insured Professionals

• Stump Grinding • Bobcat • Cherrypicker • Crane Truck • 18" Chipper

WATER SERVICES

Mark Linder Qualified Arborist

0408 202 184 choppychoptrees@bigpond.com

ROOFING

TREE CARE SPECIALISTS

MULLUM VET CLINIC: Richard Gregory, Bec Willis, Mark Sebastian – After hours avail ...66843818

Airport Transfers | Tours | Nights Out | Beach Walks Events | Parties | Weddings | Corporate | Festivals

Family Owned and Operated Local Business since 1989 Servicing Locally: %\URQ 6KLUH DQG 6XUURXQGV Interstate: &DLUQV %ULVEDQH 6\GQH\ &DQEHUUD 0HOERXUQH $GHODLGH Competitive Rates. Professional Service 0413 505 893 capebyronremovals@gmail.com

0435 019 524

DIGITAL ELECTRONICS REPAIR & SERVICE TV. Audio. Antennas .......... 66843575 or 0414 922786 BYRON BAY VALUERS NSW & QLD registerd. Chartered Valuers ............ 0431 245460 or 66857010

02 6684 2198 queries@mullumbimbyremovals.com.au

Byron Bay & Beyond

m 0428 320 262 e sunbeamsolar@bigpond.com w sunbeamsolar.com.au

Electric Lic 124600c

Martino TREE SERVICES

WATER SERVICES

• Same day & onsite pump repairs • 24 hour emergency call out • Water filtration design, supply & installation • Pool pump supplies & services • Pool contract servicing • Pool water testing • Household water testing

DOMESTIC • INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL

6684 2022 A/H: 0419 963 750

MONTYS METAL

ROOFING

Metal Roofing Installations Guttering • Downpipes • Fascia Skylights • Whirlybird Patios Repairs • Leaf Guard

WELDING

Licence NSW: 30715C Licence QLD: 1227049

Craig Montgomery – 0418 870 362

WELDING & FABRICATION Structural, General, Repairs: Steel, Aluminium & Stainless ..0408 410545

Email: montysmetalroofing@gmail.com www.montysmetalroofing.com.au

WINDOW CLEANING AND REPAIRS CLEAN VIEW Prompt, professional, insured. Phone David.............................................0421 906460

‘Local team 10 years in business’

PRUNING ~ REMOVALS ~ STUMP GRINDING • 20 years local knowledge and experience • Fully insured / free quotes • 19 inch chipper • Bobcat • Cherry picker • Crane truck

www.harttreeservices.com.au QUALITY roof RestoratioN free quote: 0455 573 554

0427 347 380

WINDOW TINTING SUNRISE W. T. 3/19-21 Centennial Cct, Byron. Cars, homes, offices, etc. High quality..0412 158478 SURFWAGON - Car/Home/Office tint. Lifetime Warranty. W/sale price.........................0434 875009

WRITING SERVICES

fullcirclefinishing.com

RUBBISH REMOVAL OCEAN SHORES SKIPS Mini skip specialists ......................................... 0412 161564 or 66841232 TIP RUNS & RUBBISH REMOVAL 4m3 trailer................................................................0408 210772

SELF STORAGE BYRON BAY SELF STORAGE...............................................................................................66858349

48 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

! "#$ % &#$' ( ) * +#!", "#"- ,(%. / !"0!")

1 0 2 ", $ 3 ! , . ,!") 2 " ($,#"-* 1 24 * !-5 ! +($-4!") / " 1# , ( % ) "-* 2#$$6 (, ! "#$' $!#3$ &!-

COPYWRITING, EDITING + GHOSTWRITING SERVICES www.heartcraftcreative.com Cassie Douglas | 0407 199 183

www.echo.net.au

Classifieds INDEX Birthdays............................. 50 Business Opportunity ........ 49 Caravans ............................. 49 For Sale ............................... 49 Garage Sales ...................... 49

ECHO CLASSIFIEDS – 6684 1777 CLASSIFIED AD BOOKINGS

PHONE ADS

Ads may be taken by phone on 6684 1777

Health Notices .................... 49

AT THE ECHO HEAD OFFICE

Musical Notes ..................... 50

Ads can be lodged in person at the Mullum Echo office:

Only Adults ......................... 50

Village Way, Stuart St, Mullumbimby

Pets...................................... 50

EMAIL ADS

Positions Vacant................. 49

Display (box ads) and line classifieds, email:

Professional Services......... 49 Public Notices..................... 49 Social Escorts..................... 50

DEADLINE TUES 12PM Publication day is Wednesday, booking deadlines are the day before publication.

RATES & PAYMENT

CLASSIFIEDS THAT WORK ALL WEEK! Echo Classies also appear online:

LINE ADS: $17.00 for the first two lines $5 .00 for each extra line

www.echo.net.au/classified-ads

$17 for two lines is the minimum charge.

classifieds@echo.net.au Ad bookings only taken during business hours: Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm. Ads can’t be taken on the weekend.

Account enquiries phone 6684 1777.

DISPLAY ADS (with a border): $14 per column centimetre These prices include GST.

Cash, cheque, Mastercard or Visa Prepayment is required for all ads.

To Let................................... 49 Tradework ........................... 49 Tree Services ...................... 49 Tuition.................................. 50 Wanted ................................ 49 Wanted To Lease ................ 49 Work Wanted ...................... 50

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.

PUBLIC NOTICES

LOCALS SPECIAL! BRUNSWICK HEADS CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL BANNER PARK Any Sunday until 21st Jan 2024 from 6.30pm

BUY 1 RIDE GET 1 FREE

BUY 1 RIDE GET 1 FREE

THANK YOU

PROF. SERVICES

DENTURES

LOOK GOOD FEEL GOOD Free consultation. SANDRO 66805002

HEALTH HAWAIIAN MASSAGE Ocean Shores, Michaela, 0416332886

KINESIOLOGY

Clear subconscious sabotages.

Reprogram patterns and beliefs.

Restore vibrancy and physical health. De-stress.

0403125506 SANDRA DAVEY, Reg. Pract.

HYPNOSIS & EFT

Simple and effective solutions.

Anxiety, Cravings, Fears & Trauma.

Maureen Bracken 0402205352

PURA VIDA

WELLNESS CENTRE Brunswick Heads COLON HYDROTHERAPY HYPERBARIC OXYGEN FAR INFRARED SAUNA REMEDIAL MASSAGE + more 66850498 REMEDIAL MASSAGE Beachside, Suffolk Park Kylie 0448774589 Health Rebates available

Mindfulness @ Work Bring greater focus, clarity and calm into your workplace.

Certified Mindfulness Educator Paul Bibby 0401 926 090

HYPNOSIS & NLP www.wendypurdey.com

33 years experience.

Call Wendy 0497 090 233

KINESIOLOGY STUDENT CLINIC SESSIONS Mullumbimby Available throughout January.

Contact Kate Messenger to enquire or book.

Kate@ crystalsanddreaming. com.au

0413 003 301 TRADEWORK

3EPTIC 7ASTE 2EMOVAL

3UMMERLAND %NVIRONMENTAL

4HE ,IQUID 7ASTE 3PECIALISTS s 3EPTIC TANK CLEANING s 'REASE TRAP SERVICING s /ILY ,IQUIDS s 0ORTABLE TOILET HIRE s HOUR SERVICE

Leaf it to us 4x4 truck/chipper, crane truck, stump grinding. Local, qualified, insured, free quotes. 0402487213

• FULLY INSURED

• PROFESSIONAL SERVICE • FREE QUOTES

Mitre 10 - Glen Innes Whatever – Brunswick Heads Happy Dolphin Café – Brunswick Heads Betta Electrical – Mullumbimby Captains Stash – Brunswick Heads

www.echo.net.au

For more information and if you would like to donate to Charlie, please visit the go fund me page - https://www. gofundme.com/f/charlie-emeryneeds-our-help or scan the QR code

20 years local experience • 19 inch chipper • Stump grinding • Cherry picker • Crane truck • Bob Cat

Fully insured • Free quotes

0427 347 380

FOR SALE

MIELE WASHERS

Dryers and dishwashers available at Bridglands Mullumbimby. 66842511

ARCHIBALD’S CHEAP QUARRY PRODUCTS

Road base, gravel, blue metal and metal dust. ALL SIZE DELIVERIES. Phone 66845517, 0418481617

HYPATIA’S LEGACY

crystalsanddreaming.com.au

TREE SERVICES

Wicked Weasel – Mullumbimby We wish to thank the following sponsors Krystal Adult Shop – Byron Bay for their donations in the upcoming Muscle Down Under Inc – Ocean Shores Christmas raffle that is being held Ray Towers Carpets – Mullumbimby to support local man Charlie Emery Farm care – Mullumbimby with his upcoming brain surgery to Wave Designs alleviate his symptoms of Parkinsons Brims Hardware – Billinudgel Disease Billinudgel Hotel

0402 364 852

David Lovejoy Books are notorious time travellers, and a dangerous book from first century Alexandria has arrived in the present.

On sale at Mullum Echo office $12

GARAGE SALE

Tip Runs & Rubbish Removal

! "

!

# $ " % % % !

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CABINS FOR SALE RELOCATABLE CABIN/STUDIO Insulated, power, kitchenette. 3m x 7m. $23,500 ono. Free delivery in Byron Shire. 0413289443

TO LET STUNNING, SPACIOUS UNIT 2 master bedrooms with ensuite; one upstairs with sea views and one downstairs with garden views and spa and ceiling fan. 3 smart TVs. Chairlift. 2 aircon upstairs. Beautiful outlook in living and dining room with kitchen. Verandah with mountain views.

2 car garage. Walk to Ocean Shores golf course. Washing machine/dryer and nice furniture. Rent $1000 p/w all inclusive, includes internet. Quiet place. Long-term lease. 0458179026

LOCAL REMOVAL

& backloads to Brisbane. Friendly, with 10 years local exp. 0409917646 BALLINA SELF-STORAGE UNITS Secure from $22p/w, 10 cubic mtr shed.

Across 3 locations. 66867011

POSITIONS VACANT

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0408 210 772 WANTED EXPERIENCED CHESS PLAYER WANTED Near Byron Bay. 0401020293 LP RECORDS: good condition, no op shop crap! Matt 0401955052

CARAVANS CARAVANS We buy, sell & consign.

All makes & models.

0408 758 688

• Arborist • 15” Wood Chipper • Stump Grinder • Fully Insured

BUSINESS FOR SALE

Byron Bay & Surrounding Areas

HAIR SALON

6681 3140 Mobile 0417 698 227

Long established. Owner retiring, low overheads. WIWO. $22k. 0434028328 acutaboveballina@gmail.com

LADIES WANTED, MUST BE 18+ Work available in busy adult parlour.

Travellers welcome.

66816038 for details.

TAXI DRIVERS WANTED Flexible work hours – perfect 2nd income Email operations@byronbaytaxis.com

FAMILY DAY CARE OCEAN SHORES SPOTS AVAILABLE WED-THU OVER 2YO 043 2436 843

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 49

Classifieds

Community at Work

THE OTHER JOINT

Regular As Clockwork

Seeking experienced kitchen hand, Tuesday to Thursday, 9am–3pm.

Locals only.

Email resume to mullum@otherjoint.com

WORK WANTED TINA’S CLEANING SERVICES Thorough and reliable Regular bookings One-off appointments End of lease cleans $45 an hour (3 hrs minimum) 95% Eco-friendly/low-tox products used Servicing Byron Shire Call Tina on 0400 015 939

DEADLINE NOON FRIDAY stitch Stitch is a 2.5 year old Kelpie X. She is energetic and loves to play games like fetch. Stitch is looking for an active family who can provide her with space to run and lots of things to do.

M/C #900164002075887 For more information contact Yvette on 0421 831 128.

Location: Murwillumbah Please complete our online adoption expression of interest. www.friendsofthepound.com/ adoption-expression-of-interest Visit friendsofthepound.com to view other dogs and cats looking for a home.

ABN 83 126 970 338

MUSICAL NOTES GUITAR STRINGS, REPAIRS Brunswick Heads 66851005

TUITION FRENCH • ITALIAN • GERMAN Eva 0403224842 www.languagetuitionbyron.com.au

Adobe Tutoring Experienced Professional Tutor • Photoshop • Indesign • Illustrator

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.

ONLY ADULTS BALLINA EXCLUSIVE 34 Piper Dr. Open 7 days 10am till late.

In & Out Calls. 66816038.

Ladies wanted Find us on Facebook and Twitter!

FULL BODY RESTORATION Healing Through Pleasure massagebyronbay.com or 0425347477 KRYSTAL ADULT SHOP Large variety of toys and lingerie 6/6 Tasman Way, A&I Est, Byron Bay 66856330 LICENSED TO THRILL Premium Massage & Play touchofjustine.com/byron-bay-outcalls

contact@thinkblinkdesign.com www.thinkblinkdesign.com

Devoted to Pleasure

BIRTHDAY

Ɔ

Couples, Men & Women Ɔ

touchofjustine.com

0407 013 347

SOCIAL ESCORTS LOTS OF GORGEOUS LADIES available for your pleasure nearby. Spoil yourself.

In-house & outcalls. 7 days. 0266816038.

SUN, MOON & TIDES – TIMES FOR NEXT 2 WEEKS DATE DAY, SUN MOON HIGH LOW (Dec/ MOON RISE / RISE / TIDES, TIDES, Jan) PHASE SET SET height (m) height (m)

Happy Birthday Dani!

Lots of love from The Echo crew xx PETS Byron Dog Rescue (CAWI)

Mullumbimby District Neighbourhood Centre Mullumbimby & District Neighbourhood Centre is open Monday–Friday 9.30am–4pm (closed 12.30–1.30pm for lunch). We offer a variety of services. Everyone is welcome. Call reception on 6684 1286.

Some of our services include: Flood recovery support service: personalised, long-term support for those impacted by the floods.

Community support: food parcels, meals, showers, assistance with electricity bills. Work Development Orders.

Listening Space: free counselling.

Free yoga: every Tuesday 3–4pm.

More Than A Meal: free community lunch Tuesday–Friday from 1.30pm.

Financial counselling Staying Home, Leaving Violence program: Information, referral, and advocacy.

Gulganii affordable pantry shop: located at 3 Bridgeland Lane.

Orange Sky: free laundry service Mon morning & Tue afternoon.

To enquire about accessing any of these services call reception 6684 1286, check our website www.mdnc.org.au, or follow us on Facebook or Instagram. @mullumbimbyneighbourhoodcentre.

Byron Community The Byron Community Centre provides community services and programs including meals, advocacy and counselling for locals in need. Fletcher Street Cottage: A welcoming, safe and respectful space where people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness can come to get practical relief opportunities, find connections and access broader support. Fletcher Street Cottage services are open Tuesday–Friday.

Breakfast: Monday–Friday, 7am–9am.

Showers and laundry: Monday– Friday, 7am–12pm. Office support: Monday–Friday, 9am–12pm. Support appointments: Individual support appointments with community workers or specialist services. For bookings please call 6685 6807.

Fletcher Street Cottage, 18 Fletcher St, Byron Bay. More info: www. fletcherstreetcottage.com.au.

Byron Community Cabin: Seniors Computer Club (school term only), 9–11am, Friday, Carlyle Steet. More info: www.byroncentre.com.au Phone: 6685 6807.

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.

Liberation Larder Takeaway lunches and groceries Monday and Thursday 12 till 1pm. Fletcher Street end of the Byron Community Centre.

Respite Service Byron Shire Respite Service 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 call 1300 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 meetings held Fridays at 2pm by Zoom. 1300 252666 www. al-anon.org.au.

27 W

5:47 19:45

20:14 5:24

0936 1.77 2138 1.09

0230 0.23 1612 0.36

Low-cost or free food

Support after suicide

28 TH

5:48 19:45

21:04 6:22

1015 1.76 2217 1.09

0309 0.25 1651 0.36

29 F

5:49 19:46

21:47 7:21

1053 1.73 2255 1.08

0347 0.28 1728 0.37

30 SA 19:46

5:49

22:24 8:20

1129 1.68 2332 1.08

0425 0.32 1802 0.40

Food Box Thursdays 9.30–11.30am at Uniting Church, Mullumbimby. You may purchase cheap food, obtain free veges, and enjoy a cuppa. Free Food Relief Bags for anyone doing it tough,

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

31 SU 19:46

5:50

22:56 9:17

1203 1.63

0504 0.37 1837 0.42

5:51 19:47

23:24 10:11

0012 1.07 1238 1.56

0545 0.44 1914 0.44

5:51

23:51

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5:52 19:47

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DEADLINE NOON FRIDAY

4 TH H

5:53 19:47

0:17 12:49

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Email copy marked ‘On The Horizon’ to editor@echo.net.au.

5

5:53 19:47

0:44 13:42

0408 1.19 1535 1.21

0945 0.72 2210 0.43

5:54

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5:55

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5:56 19:48

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4:02 18:52

0832 1.76 2032 1.15

0121 0.24 1506 0.37

1

M

2 TU 19:47 11:04 3

F

YANDI

6 SA 19:48 14:38

Yandi is rather a special girl. She’s a 3-year-old Border Collie x Labrador with a pinch of Staffy. She is smart, loving and affectionate. She connects with humans on a deep soul level. She knows basic commands and is like a sponge with learning and wanting to please. She is also great with children.

If you are a confident dog-person looking for a loyal, devoted companion or a gorgeous family dog, please contact Shell on 0458 461 935.

MC: 953010100675219

8

7 SU 19:48 15:38 M

9 TU 19:48 17:47 10 W

Data sourced from Bureau of Meteorology. Times adjusted for Daylight Savings when applicable.

50 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ Ŕćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǮ ǩǧǩǪ

On The Horizon Ballina Bridge Club Upcoming Lessons Be challenged to learn this fun, wonderful game. Lessons begin on Tuesday, 6 February, 2024 and run for six weeks at 9.30 till 11.30am. In comfortable air conditioned rooms at 13 North Creek Rd. (Opposite Aldi). Free tea/coffee with onsite parking. Cost for tuition and workbook is $80. Also enquire about evening lessons. For additi ti additional information and to register, please contact Judy on 0407 664 337.

For The Kids Free entomology e and environmental scienc workshop on Wednesday, 10 science January at the Mullumbimby Library Janua with Nat. N Join us for an introduction

to entymology (insects) as we use microscopes and magnifying glasses to zoom in on their detail. Phone 6684 2992 to book as places are strictly limited. Seven years and up.

End-of-Life Choices Voluntary Euthanasia End-of-Life Choices are discussed at Exit International meetings held quarterly.

Meetings are held at Robina, South Tweed and Ballina. Attendees must be Exit Members. Philip Nitschke will be holding a workshop on the Gold Coast early February 2024. For further Information www.exitinternational. net or phone Catherine 0435 228 443 (Robina & South Tweed) or Peter 0429 950 352 (Ballina).

North Coast news online 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.

Volunteer call out Support for New Mums Inc. a Northern NSW community program are recruiting volunteers in the Byron Shire. We offer a free of charge, home visiting program for mothers with babies. For more information email Deb: newmums8@gmail.com.

End-of-Life Choices Voluntary Euthanasia End-of-Life Choices are discussed at Exit International meetings held quarterly.

Meetings are held at Robina, South Tweed and Ballina. Attendees must be Exit Members. For further Information www.exitinternational.net or phone Catherine 0435 228 443 (Robina and South Tweed) or Peter 0429 950 352 (Ballina).

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 7.30am for 8am start. Contact Marian 6688 4058, mazzerati2010@gmail.com.

Older adult exercise 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.

$5 pilates classes Pilates for the price of a coffee! Come and join us for $5 Pilates classes every Thursday at 8.45am in the Memorial Hall, 22 Fingal Street, Brunswick Heads and Monday at 8.45am in Mullumbimby. It doesn’t matter what level you are, as beginner to advanced options are shown. Just bring a mat and water. My goal is to keep the Shire active and feeling great one person at a time. No need to book just show up.

For more information contact Di on 0427 026 935.

Pottsville Community Association Pottsville Community Association meetings are on the last Tuesday of the month at 6.30pm at the Anglican Church in Coronation Drive, Pottsville. Have your say on what is going on in your local area.

For details contact secretary@ pottsvillecomunityassociation.com or via Facebook.

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.

Brunswick Valley Historical Society The Museum is on the corner of Myocum and Stuart Sts Mullumbimby, open Tuesdays and Fridays 10am–12pm and market Saturdays 9am–1pm. Discover your local history, join our team – 6684 4367.

MONTHLY MARKETS 1st SAT Brunswick Heads 0418 400 415

4th SUN Coolangatta (in a 5 Sunday month)

1st SUN Byron Bay 02 6685 6807 1st SUN Lismore Car Boot 02 6628 7333

5th SUN Nimbin 5th SUN Lennox Head

0475 135 764 02 6685 6807

2nd SAT Tabulam Hall

0490 329 159

2nd SUN The Channon 2nd SUN Lennox Head 2nd SUN Chillingham 2nd SUN Coolangatta

FARMERS/WEEKLY MARKETS

02 6688 6433 02 6685 6807 0428 793 141

Each TUE New Brighton Each TUE Organic Lismore

02 6684 3370 3rd SAT Mullumbimby 0415 328 672 3rd SAT Murwillumbah 3rd SAT Salt Village Market, Casuarina

3rd SUN Federal 3rd SUN Uki 3rd SUN Ballina

0433 002 757 0487 329 150 0422 094 338

4th SAT Evans Head 0432 275 765 4th SAT Kyogle Bazaar kyoglebazaar.com.au 4th SUN Bangalow 4th SUN Nimbin 4th SUN Murwillumbah

02 6687 1911 0475 135 764 0415 328 672

0424 168 672 02 6636 4307

Each WED Murwillumbah 7-11 0415 328 672 Each WED Nimbin 3-6pm 0418 940 653 Each WED Newrybar Hall 4-7pm 0414 595 169 Each THU Byron 8-11am Each THU Lismore 2.30-6.30pm 0459 309 223 Each FRI Mullum 7-11am

0424 168 672

Each SAT Bangalow 8-11am 0414 595 169 Each SAT Duranbah Rd 8-11am (Tropical Fruit World) Each SAT Uki 8am-1pm 02 6679 5438 Each SAT Lismore 8.30-11am Each SAT Blue Knob 8.30am-12pm Each SUN Ballina 7-11am

The Echo updates this guide regularly, however sometimes markets change their routine without letting us know. Please get in touch if you want to advise us of a change.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Please stick this by your phone

AMBULANCE, FIRE, POLICE .............................................000

AMBULANCE Mullumbimby & Byron Bay................................131 233 POLICE Brunswick Heads.......................................................... 6629 7510 Mullumbimby ................................................................ 6629 7570 Byron Bay......................................................................... 6685 9499 Bangalow ......................................................................... 6629 7500 STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE Storm & tempest damage, flooding...132 500 BRUNSWICK VALLEY RESCUE Primary rescue........................... 6685 1999 BRUNSWICK MARINE RADIO TOWER.................................... 6685 0148 BYRON CENTRAL HOSPITAL...................................................... 6639 9400 BYRON COUNCIL: EMERGENCY AFTER HOURS............. 6622 7022 NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE (Mullumbimby) ........................... 6684 1286 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 24 hour crisis line.................................1800 656 463 LIFELINE ...................................................................................................131 114 MENSLINE....................................................................................1300 789 978 ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS 24 hours .................................1800 423 431 AL-ANON Help for family and friends of alcoholics .......................1300 252 666 NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS Meets daily ...................................... 6680 7280 NORTHERN RIVERS GAMBLING SERVICE............................ 6687 2520 HIV/AIDS – ACON Confidential testing & information ..................... 6622 1555 ANIMAL RESCUE (DOGS & CATS)............................................ 6622 1881 NORTHERN RIVERS WILDLIFE CARERS.............................. 6628 1866 KOALA HOTLINE ............................................................................. 6622 1233 WIRES – NSW Wildlife Information & Rescue Service... 6628 1898

www.echo.net.au

Sport Supported by Newy Store

Local sport highlights for 2023...

Junior footballers triumph at Northern Mullumbimby High wins north coast futsal NSW Champion of Champions tournament ǕŕëōƆ Īşſ ƆĕĈşŕĎ Ʒĕëſ ſƖŕŕĶŕī

Champion of champions: The Bangalow Bluedogs U/16s. Photo supplied Local junior teams backed up their 2023 premiership wins with great results at the Northern NSW Champion of Champions tournament held in Coffs Harbour in october.

The Bangalow Bluedogs U/16 side lost one game on

their way to the Championship final, which they were able to win 2–0 against Port United.

‘It was an awesome end to the season,’ said coach Damian Bisoqni.

The Byron Bay boys

Mullumbimby Golf Club ĎĕƐĕſŔĶŕĕƆ ćĕƆƐ żōëƷĕſƆ

U/14 side also came away from Coffs Harbour with a Champion of Champions trophy after beating Coffs City United in the final.

Alstonville boys U/15 won their final against Woolgoolga 5–0.

The team, led by stalwart captain Macey Donnelly, included Lilly Donnelly, Ella Brittain, Monet Shortland, Summer Browning, Polly Jefed, Honey Mowbray, Rhianna Browning, Luna Delaney and Zilla Wolff. Photo supplied Mullumbimby High School’s U/16 girls won a hard fought final against Port Macquarie High, earning themselves back to back titles at the CHS

north coast futsal finals held in October.

Down 3–1 at half time this champion team produced an amazing comeback

performance storming home as winners, 5–3.

Another great result for the school’s futsal program and coach Brian Hedge.

Local winners in NSW croquet ƐşƖſŕëŔĕŕƐ IJĕōĎ Ķŕ ëōōĶŕë

Ʒſşŕ ëƷ ōëĎƷ ćşƱōĕſƆ ĈĕōĕćſëƐĕ ĎĶƆƐſĶĈƐ żĕŕŕëŕƐƆ ƱĶŕ

Julianne Ross rests easy after winning the Club Championship for the second year running. Photo supplied

Byron Bay’s Stuart Elliott is a picture of concentration as he lines up his shot during the NSW doubles. Photo supplied

The team included: (L-R) Mirtha Christian (absent from photo), Pam Scarborough, Judy Wallace, Kym Quinnell, Pat Bigg, Julie Higgins, Linda Child, Beverly Gawned and Anne Hadwell (absent). Photo supplied

Adam Bullock and Julianne Ross emerged as Mullumbimby Golf Club’s 2023 champion golfers after finishing on top after four rounds of the club championship that came to an end on Saturday 16 September.

Adam has won three club

Local croquet players revelled in the opportunity to test their skill against talented opposition when the clubs at Byron Bay and Ballina hosted the 2023 New South Wales Golf Croquet Championships over five days to 2 July.

championships and three foursomes championships.

The ladies also played a consistently high level of golf over four rounds, and Julianne Ross was able to retain the top spot as Mullumbimby Club Champion for a second year in a row.

In the doubles final, Ballina’s Margaret Mitchell and Sharon Daley staged a tremendous fightback to recover from 2–7 down to overcome Chris Cox (Port Macquarie) and Jim Hannigan (Ballina Cherry Street) in an absorbing final, 9–8.

Byron Bay Bowling Club women’s team won the Tweed Byron District Pennants Division 3 for 2023, in a fantastic celebration of the Club’s centenary year.

The final went down to the last bowl, but the ladies

were able to finish on top against Brunswick Heads.

‘Every breath was held as the bowl left her hand beautifully,...it rolled in a perfect line to pull to a stop just next to the little white jack,’ Mirtha Christian said.

Newy Store

OPEN 7:30am – 6:00pm 7 DAYS A WEEK • Licensed post office • General convenience store • Fresh produce & groceries • Soft drinks, lollies, ice cream • Newspapers & magazines • Wine, beer, spirits & tobacco

50 RIVER STREET, NEW BRIGHTON 02 6680 1102 • www.echo.net.au

@newystore

Art by Chrissie chrissieartwork@gmail.com

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ The Byron Shire Echo 51

Backlash Merry Christmas everyone!

REGiSTER

TO STAY UP TO DATE!

SUNDAY 31 DECEMBER 8am – 2pm Williams Reserve FAMiLY FUN FOOD & LiVE MUSiC

Tin Parlour

There will be ten big nights of music, poetry, dance, cabaret, photography, film, interactive theatre and conversations at the Mullumbimby Drill Hall Theatre from January 5–14. Too Young To Be Angels also features free events and is curated by Gregory Aitken and Sunita Bailey. For more info visit www.drillhalltheatre.org.au.

Two new fenced dog parks have opened to the public in Mullumbimby; one for small dogs and the other for large dogs. Both parks are on the town’s southern end, near Mullum’s skatepark and netball and tennis court precint. Byron Shire Council Coordinator Open Spaces, Jim Roberts, says the parks are the Shire’s first, and were funded by a federal government grant.

Another artist announcement has been unveiled for the upcoming 35th Bluesfest: New Orleans soul singer and Maroon 5 keys player, PJ Morton, and Allman Betts Family Revival will join Tom Jones, Jack Johnson, Taj Mahal and Elvis Costello, among many others, from March 28 till April 1, 2024.

Visit www.bluesfest.com.au for more info.

With councillors approving an extra $250k for the compliance department recently, it’s great to see it has been put to good use. The Echo hears that Mullum businesses were recently visited by three compliance officers – yes, three – demanding, in not such a friendly way, that all sandwich boards are to be taken off the streets.

Surprising Song

FLASH! FLASH! BANG!!

BANG anywhere you song, need a song or back up sin singers

(for when you’re too nervous to express your feelings on your own)

i iit FOR O you!

We can sing We can sing it WITH you! ÁDVKEDQJFKRLU#JPDLO FRP 52 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǮǽ ǩǧǩǪ

Interviewer: ‘Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?’

Interviewee: ‘In your chair, asking better questions’.

Photo www.theonion.com

ICYMI – North Sydney’s mayor says the NSW Labor Chris Minns government is overriding planning protections like a ‘totalitarian’ regime, reports www. theguardian.com. They want to override heritage protections to allow for greater housing density in the city.

Cannabis industry pioneer Paul Benhaim, has announced his latest venture, Australia’s first Cannabis Psychedelic Therapy company, which is now available at the Nine Perfect Strangers resort in Byron Bay. He says the therapy is designed to ‘provide holistic healing for individuals suffering from a range of mental health challenges, and those simply looking to improve their wellness’. All you need is a valid prescription for medical cannabis. Visit www. cannabispsychedelics.com.au for more info.

NSW government-run Forestry Corporation of NSW (FCNSW) has been fined $104,000 for the unlawful felling of hollow-bearing trees in Mogo State Forest on the South Coast. According

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to www.epa.nsw.gov.au, they breached ‘site-specific operating conditions following the damaging 2019/20 Black Summer bushfires’.

So who pays Forestry Corp’s fine for their reckless disregard for precious ecosystems? You, the taxpayer!

Happy New Year!

Congrats Knitting Nannas Helen Kvelde and Dominique Jacobs who won a huge victory for the right to protest in NSW. The Supreme Court found offences established under the former LiberalNationals government’s anti-protest regime unconstitutional. The Supreme Court ruled recently that sections 214A (1) (c) and (d) of the NSW Crimes Act 1900 ‘impermissibly burden the implied freedom of political communication contrary to the Commonwealth Constitution’. ICYMI NSW Labor supported the laws at the time.

From The Chaser: ‘[Opposition Liberal leader] Peter Dutton calls to cancel Christmas after learning it celebrates middle eastern refugees’.

REGiSTER

TO STAY UP TO DATE!

WEDNESDAY 3 JANUARY 2024

Main Beach Foreshore ARTiSAN STALLS FOOD & LiVE MUSiC

SkyEater Felicity Lawless Ft. MsEleneous Guy Kachel

IS E R I P M E E H T T SPOT

MULLUM’S HO TS, FOR DELICIOUS UEOAUS SUMPT DRINKS,

TREATS GALORES,,

COCKTAIL PLUS MUCH MUCH MORE! THE EMPIRE • 20 Burringbar St Mullumbimby Open seven days 8am–3pm • Licensed venue empiremullum.com.au • EmpireMullum

www.echo.net.au