The Byron Shire Echo – Issue 38.35 – February 7, 2024

Lismore and its villages rising from the floods – page 7

DISTURBING THE HUMOURLESS AND HUMOURING THE DISTURBED SINCE 1986 The Byron Shire Echo • Volume 38 #35 • February 7, 2024 • www.echo.net.au

Pros and cons of investing in property

Echo Property Magazine #7

– page 12

THE NORTH THERN

Issue #7, Febru

ary 2024 • 24

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RIVERS’ BEST

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D-day for Wallum Connections for all ages Paul Bibby

The future of a rare and vulnerable ecosystem at the proposed Wallum urban development in Brunswick Heads is on the line this week, with Byron Shire councillors facing a decision which could potentially set the bulldozers in motion.

For more than six months, a large group of locals have run a concerted campaign to save the fragile wilderness area.

The Clarence Property Group has planning approval from the Northern Regional Planning Panel – which is not part of Council – to build 124 residential lots, three medium density lots, and a series of roads and supporting infrastructure.

But locals say the site is home to multiple threatened species, including the wallum froglet and the wallum sedge frog, and that measures proposed by Clarence to protect these species will do little to protect them.

Joined by Aboriginal elders and community members who say the site has deep cultural significance, the campaign is demanding that the land be protected.

DĶŕëō ƆĶīŕȒşǔ ćƷ !şƖŕĈĶō The matter is coming back before Council this week for a final sign-off that would allow construction to commence.

The developer is seeking a subdivision works certificate for the first stage of works to begin, with Council staff recommending to councillors that they are legally required to provide a procedural sign-off.

Councillors had already deferred this final step until after the summer break so that they could digest various plans provided by the

Council-led Land Trust idea re-emerges ▶ p4

developer in order to ‘demonstrate compliance’ with their obligations around vegetation management and species protection.

Staff have advised councillors that these plans have been rigorously assessed and that they are obliged to let the development commence as it has already been approved.

‘Should there be unnecessary delays in the finalisation of the subdivision works certificate, the applicant has rights of appeal through the Land & Environment Court,’ Council’s legal services team said.

‘Council would need to finance any defence and costs associated with it in terms of an appeal if it eventuated.’

But those fighting to protect the site say Council has an obligation to protect Wallum and to represent community values, even if it means going to court.

‘Some Byron Shire councillors are maintaining that they have to vote with staff recommendations, whereas some are solid in their integrity to vote to protect Wallum from premature destruction,’ one of the leaders of the campaign, James Barrie said.

‘Where do we stand if this is what democracy in local government looks like, when decisions are made from within an institution that doesn’t consult adequately with the public they are hired to serve, and employs elected representatives – only some of who represent ‘the public interest’ faithfully?’

‘We’re concerned that Council planning staff are stating the plans have been assessed as compliant – those plans will bulldoze a significant part of the SEPP [State ▶ Continued on page 4

What is planned for Byron’s Sandhills wetland? ▶ p7

All ages are welcome to the free Connecting Generations gathering this Sunday, February 11, at Heritage House in Bangalow, from 3 till 5pm. Organisers say flower suncatchers will be made, and there will be DIY face and body painting and intergenerational singing and dancing. ‘There will be surprise wonder boxes, water activities and delicious afternoon tea’, said co-organiser, Ruth Winton-Brown. Photo Eve Jeffery

Mayor defends hospital residential rezone More details are emerging around Council’s plans to rezone the former Mullum Hospital site to a residential precinct, which would see up to 130 dwellings built.

The planning proposal is open for feedback until February 11.

And while Mayor, Michael Lyon, confirmed that plans will include selling an unknown amount of land to recoup the $5m debt incurred in demolishing the building and

remediation works, Local State MP Tamara Smith (Greens) told The Echo, ‘The notion that the costs to develop the site are somehow owed to Council from the community is absurd’.

Council purchased the site from NSW Health in 2019 for $1.

Cr Lyon told The Echo there are no finalised plans for the site yet, ‘including the final component of social, affordable [housing] or otherwise’. Cr Lyon said, ‘We will undoubtedly entertain having

Cusack: Stereotypes and labels are so 2023 ▶ p8

Free speech and truth ▶ p14

Hans Lovejoy

social housing outcomes on the site, we won’t be paying for it, it will need to be funded by state and/or federal government’.

He also defended Council’s vision for the site, claiming that it will not be a transfer of public wealth to private investment.

Cr Lyon said a portion of the site – estimated at 20 per cent – will provide social and affordable housing and, ‘can potentially stay in public ownership and control’. ▶ Continued on page 5

A day to celebrate the one you love ▶ p20

The arts! ▶ p22

Local News

North Coast news online

V-Day and Vagina Conversations coming up Two important events are coming up to raise awareness and funds for women’s issues – V-Day and Vagina Conversations On Wednesday, February 14, the V-Day Byron Bay protest dance will return to Main Beach, as part of the global campaign, One Billion Rising.

It starts at 6.30am for a 7am dance.

Touted as ‘the biggest mass action to end violence in human history’, organisers say the event welcomes everyone.

Co-organser, Zenith Virago, says, ‘Wear red. Dance in defiance. Rebel. Be loud’.

‘Every February 14 we rise up locally and globally to show our local communities and the world as we say “enough is enough”.

‘V-Day activists donate 100 per cent of their proceeds to groups in their community who are doing anti-violence work at rape crisis centres and domestic violence shelters, groups working with incarcerated and formerly incarcerated women, with refugee women, and now with women affected by climate catastrophe.

‘Since 1998, the V-Day

Bruns residents call to retain şżĕŕ ƆżëĈĕ şưĕſ ĶŕǕōō IJşƖƆĶŕī Paul Bibby

A previous V-Day event. Photo Jeff Dawson movement has raised over US$100 million’.

And on February 14, 15, and 16, the Vagina Conversations will be held at the Brunswick Picture House.

Vagina Convos Creator and MC, Zenith Virago says, ‘After years of sell out performances this diverse collective of some of Byron Shire’s powerful, creative women and people with vaginas, present personal, professional or political stories to inform, educate,

entertain, and support’.

She says, ‘All proceeds will go to the Women’s Resource Service, Byron Escape Fund, and the Tweed DVIRC Impact Fund, which supports local women escaping intimate partner and family violence.

‘Together, we have raised over $90,000 to help finance women in crisis to pay for emergency needs, which keeps women and children safe’.

For more information, visit www.onebillionrising. org and www.vday.org.

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2 The Byron Shire Echo DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ

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What does the future hold for the park in Bayside, Brunswick Heads, that is currently hosting temporary housing pods for those left homeless by the floods?

Since August 2022, Byron Shire Council land and privately-owned land, located on the corner of Torakina Road and Kingsford Drive, has been under the control of the NSW Reconstruction Authority.

That authority has placed 27 housing pods on the site, which are home to people with nowhere else to go following the February 2022 disaster.

Local residents were told that, once the three-to-fiveyear lease period for the site concluded the park would reopen for public use.

While an adjoining area with children’s play equipment has remained untouched, the adjoining area is considered by some residents as a vital piece of open space in an otherwise busy residential precinct.

However, the Housing Options Paper recently approved by Byron Council identifies the site as having potential for future permanent housing.

This has caused concern among those residents, including the Brunswick

Residents Association, who want the park to remain open for public use.

At this week’s Council meeting, Greens councillor Duncan Dey will move a motion seeking the removal of the site from consideration for housing.

‘The community of Bayside supported this emergency measure, on the understanding that the precinct’s only open space would be returned to its long-term use after two or three years,’ Cr Dey said.

‘This arrangement was often reiterated by government agencies and is written into the village’s lease with Byron Shire Council.’

Council earmark żëſŊ Īşſ IJşƖƆĶŕī ‘Brunswick Residents Association (BRA) wrote a submission to Council’s Housing Options Paper process asking that the park not be considered an option for permanent housing.

‘I support BRA and strongly object to the principle of using public land for permanent housing following its use for temporary housing after climate disasters. With predictions of further such disasters, it is essential that Council and other levels of government

develop principles of how to relocate climate victims on a permanent basis.’

However, in written comments in relation to the motion, Council’s acting director of sustainable environment and economy, Sharyn French, said that the public concerns had been acknowledged, and would be addressed in a future report to Council.

‘As an investigation area, it requires further detailed studies to determine what land is suitable for development,’ Ms French said.

‘Additionally, while this land is zoned for residential purposes, the site classification would need to be changed from Community to Operational, before development could proceed, and this process requires a public hearing.’

The pod village is subject to a three-year lease with the NSW Reconstruction Authority, with two one-year options to renew.

The lease for the pod village commenced on August 19, 2022, with the village becoming operational in March last year.

The lease requires that the site be made good at the end of the term. The yield for the site in terms of permanent dwellings is estimated to be 31.

Housing landscape troubled, says Master Builders Australia With the release of Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data last week, Master Builders Australia say it presents a ‘troubling picture for the nation’s housing landscape’.

Master Builders Australia describe themselves as ‘The national voice of the $200 billion building and construction industry’.

They say the latest data reveals over the past year alone, material costs have risen for bricks (+13.5 per cent), paint (+11.6 per cent), sand (+11.0 per cent) and plaster products (+9.9 per cent).

Inflation, rental price pressures, slow building approvals and lending indicators are also ‘exacerbating

the existing housing crisis’.

‘We are not building enough homes, and when we do, they take too long to build and are too expensive.

With these changes, it would only get worse.

‘Everyone pays a price when there are fewer tradie businesses and higher costs for builders’.

Tallowood developer seeks waiver of contributions A request to remove ‘exotic and native trees’ to develop the stage nine subdivision of the Tallowood estate in Mullumbimby will come before councillors this Thursday.

Additionally, developer Eric Freeman is seeking to have Local Open Space and Recreation S7.11 Contributions removed, according to the upcoming Council agenda. He provided

a valuation report to Council indicating that the value of the land is now more than the amount of the contribution.

The issue was deferred from the November 9, 2023 meeting, with staff saying in their report their recommendation to approve the request still stands.

Regarding the ‘exotic and native trees’, Freeman told The Echo in May 2023, ‘Council

was aware that several trees were located within proposed roads and, notwithstanding, approved the design’.

He added, ‘When land is zoned for residential development, it is standard practice of Council to require that the applicant plant 10 trees for each tree removed. In this case, the offset trees will be planted up on the hillside to the west of stage 9’. www.echo.net.au

Local News Rhonda’s journey leads to Order of Australia LOVING VETCARE

Paul Bibby Rhonda Ansiewicz lay awake, a sea of faces swimming before her eyes.

Earlier that day, she had been named as a Member of the Order of Australia – a completely unexpected honour, and one that brought up a wave of recollections from the past.

‘All I could see was this sea of faces from all the people I’ve worked with,’ the Federal resident says of the award, which she received last week.

‘Their struggle becomes part of you.’

Much of Ms Ansiewicz’s life has been devoted to helping others who are struggling, though she insists that she has received just as much, if not more, in return.

Growing up in a welfare home following the death of her mother, Ms Ansiewicz had a taste of what life was like on the edges of society.

‘Most of us were there because our parents failed us,’ she says of the welfare home.

‘My father couldn’t run a chook shed, let alone look after a child. We were just meant to go into service – menial jobs. I was trained to work in a launderette.

I reckon ever since then, I’ve just had a rebellious streak and a strong sense of injustice.’

Driven by these qualities, Ms Ansiewicz worked hard at school, securing a place in teaching college.

But after just a few years working in a suburban Catholic School she went back to study social work and counselling.

Mum Shirl Soon after she found herself in Redfern, standing face to face with Mum Shirl, now recognised as one of the most influential Indigenous social-worker-activists in Australia’s troubled history.

‘The first day I came in, Mum Shirl just looked at me and said “what are you doin’ ’ere?”’ Ms Ansiewicz recalls.

‘I said, “I’m here to help”.

‘She looks at me and says, “you know how many times in the past 200 years we’ve had you lot come around and say you’re gonna help?

You want to help? Sit down right there and listen and try and learn something!”.’

This memorable moment was the start of a long and profound relationship between Ms Ansiewicz and www.echo.net.au

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Rhonda Ansiewicz . Photo Eve Jeffery

‘I love volunteering and working in this community’. the Aboriginal community in Redfern.

‘I was drawn to the poverty, sadness and dispossession,’ she says.

‘It was the most searing and inspiring experience in my life. That was an experience that defined who I am today.’

‘I loved it because I was just helping people. If someone needed a lift, I gave them a lift, if they needed a coffee, I made them a coffee. Just real simple grassroots stuff.’

Around the same time, the young social worker began working for Amnesty International, initially as a torture and trauma counsellor, and then as the campaign co-ordinator of the organisation’s NSW branch.

Her work in this area grew and she later became the co-founder of the Service for Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors in Fairfield, and the co-founder of the NSW Refugee Advice and Casework Service.

Redfern community Despite being incredibly busy, Ms Ansiewicz remained connected to the Redfern community, and the cause of Indigenous Australians more broadly.

In 1984, she became the co-ordinator of the Aboriginal Rural Education Program, which helps guide young Aboriginal people living in rural areas into tertiary education.

At the same time, she was transitioning into academia, becoming a lecturer in the Department of Social Policy

and Human Services at the University of Western Sydney.

It was only when all of this incredible and challenging work started to seriously affect her health that Ms Ansiewicz turned her attention to the Northern Rivers.

‘Toward the end of my time in Sydney, my asthma was starting to play up really badly,’ she recalls.

‘The specialist said, “you have to get out of Sydney and get well”. I knew that I needed a break, but I never intended to move here. Then a friend and I chipped in and bought a property here in Federal as a superannuation thing, and just fell in love with it. I had long service for a year, and three months in, I said, “I’m not going back, this is where I belong”.’

At the age of 59, and with nearly four decades of incredible service behind her, Ms Ansiewicz could have been forgiven for spending the next few decades floating around on a lilo.

But floating around lazily is not, it would seem, in her nature.

While the pace perhaps slowed a little, Ms Ansiewicz

continued to find a way to help.

Since 2005, she has been a volunteer with both the Winsome and Lismore Soup Kitchen, and the Bangalow branch of the Country Women’s Association.

There have also been numerous board memberships, including the Mullumbimby Neighbourhood Centre, the Northern Rivers Aunty Program, and the Federal School of Arts.

‘I love volunteering and working in this community, but really, there’s lots of people volunteering in this area. The award, as much as it was deserved at all, was really for the work I did in Sydney.

‘I was honestly shocked and pretty uncomfortable with it initially. But now I’m starting to realise that it’s been given to me, but it passes on to all those human beings that I worked with over the years. The forgotten ones on the edges. Like the Aboriginal person with a drinking problem, because they’re trying to drown out the pain.

‘I love grassroots work.

It’s about the relationships.

Connecting with people. It’s all about caring for people and for the land.’

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Fibre NBN now in Shire’s north Eligible residential homes and businesses can now connect to faster internet speeds in Mullumbimby, Billinudgel, Ocean Shores, Brunswick Heads, Mullumbimby Creek, New Brighton, Ocean Shores and South Golden Beach.

A press release by NBN Co says that full fibre continues to be rolled out across the country.

‘The delivery of full fibre is a part of NBN’s

commitment to invest in Australia’s digital backbone, and enable up to ten million premises – or up to 90 per cent of homes and business on NBN’s fixed line footprint across Australia to access NBN’s highest residential wholesale speed tiers by the end of 2025’.

Check your address on the nbn website www.nbn. com.au/fibreupgrade to see if you are in an eligible area.

DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ The Byron Shire Echo 3

Local News PŕĎĶīĕŕşƖƆ ǕōŔƆ Ɛş feature at Flickerfest Flickerfest and iQ Inc will celebrate 27 years in the Northern Rivers in 2024, kicking off their three-day festival of short films at the Mullumbimby Civic Hall, running from Thursday, February 29 to Saturday, March 2.

Organisers say, ‘Four incredible programs of short films will be rolling out on the big screen across the weekend, including stunning local highlights’.

More than 40 handpicked short films have been chosen from a record 3,400 entries, say organisers.

Four Northern Rivers films were selected from Flickerfest’s Oscar qualifying festival competition.

One of the featured films is Duwarra Wujura, which is directed by Eltham-based animator, Brett D McKee. Duwarra Wujura is described as ‘An ancient story written for the screen

by Yanyuwa elder, Dinah Norman a-Marrngawi, from Booroloola’.

‘Now in her 90s, Aunty Dinah is old enough to remember the “old ways” of her ancestors. Wishing to share her love of culture, she has translated this story for the screen, creating a stunning, finely crafted animation from a story passed down the generations for hundreds of years’.

Another highlight is the film, Djalbuyan Nahra.

Written and directed by four-time Flickerfest alumni and award-winner, Jahvis Loveday, the film explores his real-life story which blends his own and his little sister Nahra’s experience, touching on the impacts of being taken away from Country, home, people, and culture and the power of reconnection.

For more information visit www.iQ.org.au.

North Coast news online

D-day for Wallum ecosystem this Thursday ▶ Continued from page 1 Environmental Planning Policy], which is a protected area under state legislation.’

Mayor accuses Barrie of misleading But Mayor Michael Lyon described Mr Barrie’s comments as ‘misleading in the extreme’.

‘The ‘Save Wallum’ campaign has consistently painted this matter as if Council is the determining authority, and that somehow approval of this development can be stopped by Council,’ Cr Lyon said.

‘The fact of it is, we are not the determining authority. Our only role, which is always performed by staff following an approval, in this case by the NRPP, is to ensure that the conditions of consent of that approval have been met at each stage of the development progresses. In no correspondence received to date has there been evidence or valid argument that

Rainbow bee-eaters at Wallum in Bruns. Photo Mac Maderski the conditions of consent haven’t been met.’

Cr Lyon said that the plans provided by the development had been independently assessed as meeting requirements and that all councillors could legally do at Thursday’s meeting was to note this.

Call for supports on Thursday’s meeting The Save Wallum campaign is calling on locals who want to save the site to show up in numbers to this Thursdays meeting, which will take place at the Mullum Council chambers from 11am.

The meeting will also see a motion from Greens councillor Duncan Dey, who is seeking an Interim Heritage Order (IHO) to be made in relation to the site.

If the motion passes, Council will ask the NSW Minister for Environment and Heritage to make the heritage order, or authorise Council to do so.

However, Council senior staff say an interim heritage order cannot be issued for the site because it is already subject to an approved development.

‘In the circumstances Council is unable to make

an IHO owing to limitations under the ministerial order,’ senior planning staff said.

‘It may, if it considers it appropriate having regard to the Act, make representations to the minister to either authorise Council to make an IHO or for the minister to make an IHO.’ As part of his notice of motion, Cr Dey presented written requests from local Indigenous representatives and community members seeking the heritage order.

Among them were comments from local Aboriginal filmmaker, storyteller and dancer, Jahvis Loveday.

‘Here, you sit at a crossroads,’ Mr Loveday said.

‘You can make a decision that will benefit stories and culture that have come to us thousands of years before we both existed, and maybe, just maybe, if this place is protected, these stories can exist thousands of years into our future, long after we go.’

Visit www.echo.net.au for updates on Council’s decision.

Council-led land trust idea re-emerges Nearly three years after seeking to establish a Byron Shire Council-led land trust, staff have reported in the upcoming agenda that after their application was rejected in August 2021, they recommend re-applying to the state government.

And despite the delays, as outlined in the upcoming Council agenda, there is no clear time frame for when one could be established.

Housing trusts provide pathways to create homes for those who cannot afford to enter the property market.

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In September 2023, Byron Shire Community Land Trust, headed by wealthy philanthropists including Brandon Saul, submitted their first Development Application (DA) to Council for a housing project.

It is described as an Australian first, which is a ‘group home for single mothers, their kids, and older women’, and if approved, would be built on the former Eco Village site at 66 The Saddle Road, Brunswick Heads.

According to Council’s website, the Group Home and Ancillary Building application (DA 10.2023.266.1) is

‘in progress’.

Sustainable Environment and Economy director, Shannon Burt, wrote in her report in the February 8 agenda that Council could re-apply now for a land trust, given Council’s ‘better position to respond to the 2022 guidelines’.

Obstacles The obstacles over the past three years, says Burt, were that a ‘significant amount of work was needed’ to progress with the application, so a decision was made by staff to focus on ‘other competing housing initiatives’.

They included,

‘Affordable Housing Contributions Scheme, Residential Strategy, Mullumbimby Hospital redevelopment, 57 Station Street, and other housing planning proposals’.

Ms Burt recommends the preferred model is a ‘company limited by guarantee and licensed with Council being the majority shareholder’.

Form an entity To proceed, Council would ‘form an entity under Section 358 of the Local Government Act 1993, as per the 2022 guidelines for ‘Formation of Corporations and Entities’.

ëŕīëōşƱ ƆżşſƐƆ ǕĕōĎƆ ōĶīIJƐĶŕī īĕƐƆ ƖżīſëĎĕĎ The upgrade of lighting at the Bangalow Sports Fields gets underway next week, say Byron Shire Council staff.

In a media release, they say, ‘There will be no access to the car park at the bottom of the playing fields, near Jeff Schneider Oval, while this work takes place’.

‘There will also be limited access to the path and some of the playing fields for the duration of the project, which is expected to be finished by mid to late March, depending on the weather.

‘The $795,000 upgrade,

funded by the NSW government’s Essential Community Sports Assets program, comes as the existing lights on timber poles come to the end of their working life.

Malcolm Robertson, Manager Open Spaces and Facilities, said the existing lights need replacing and while they have served the community well, much better technology is available.

LED lights ‘The new lights will be energy-efficient LEDs and while the poles will

be approximately five to seven metres taller, they will be sleek and designed to reduce light spill,’ Mr Robertson said.

‘Not only will we save money on electricity, to the tune of around $35,000 a year, but the maintenance and upkeep of the new light poles will be much less.

‘This means less of an impact on neighbouring properties, as well as on any wildlife in the area, and it will improve safety for people using the fields and the nearby shared path,’ he said. www.echo.net.au

Local News DōşşĎżōëĶŕ żĕƐĶƐĶşŕ ōëƖŕĈIJĕĎ

lëƷşſ ĎĕĪĕŕĎƆ IJşƆżĶƐëō ſĕƆĶĎĕŕƐĶëō ſĕǀşŕĕ ▶ Continued from page 1

The eastern part of Mullumbimby during the 2022 floods.

Photo www.change.org Mullum resident, Lauren Lieberman, has started a www.change.org petition calling on Byron Shire Council to reverse its plans to develop on floodplains.

In December last year, a councillor majority approved a Housing Options Paper that included – without public feedback – known floodprone land on New City Road.

The Housing Options Paper will be determined by the state government.

Lauren writes, ‘Recently, our community was devastated by a 1-in-100 year flood that destroyed homes and disrupted lives in February 2022. This community tragedy has spurred me to take action against the local Council’s ongoing approval of developments in floodplains

www.echo.net.au

– a decision that puts our homes and lives at risk’.

‘Floodplains are areas naturally designed to absorb excess water during heavy rains. When we build on these lands, we not only disrupt this natural process, but also put ourselves at risk.

‘Our local council’s decision to approve developments on such risky lands is not just irresponsible; it is life-threatening. We must prioritise the safety and wellbeing of our residents over short-term economic gains.

‘We call upon all residents who value their homes and community safety to join us in this petition’.

The petition is at www. change.org/p/halt-councilapproval-of-developmentsin-flood-plains.

‘Further, in order to provide affordable housing outcomes, and to build the housing, some of the lots and/or land will need to be sold to the private market.

There is no other way to do it’.

The guarantee that the project will provide affordable housing, says Cr Lyon, is that, ‘it will be based on people’s ability to pay, rather than on discount to market, and it will be in perpetuity’.

‘We have developed the Affordable Housing Contribution Scheme (AHCS), the first regional Council in NSW to do so.

‘Through this, we will be able to facilitate social housing outcomes by lobbying for funding from state and federal governments so that a portion of these affordable houses can be converted into social housing outcomes’.

A spokesperson for the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure confirmed with The Echo that, ‘Council has not approached the NSW government to include social housing on this site’.

And like most Council projects, there is little transparency.

The Echo approached community members involved in the most recent design process, but they said reluctantly they were unable to comment, owing to them signing a media gag order.

Public, social and ëǔşſĎëćōĕ IJşƖƆĶŕī Local State MP Tamara Smith (Greens) told The Echo, ‘Byron Shire Council still has the opportunity to approach the state government for assistance to deliver public housing on the Mullumbimby hospital site, and I hope that they take the opportunity.’

Public housing is government-run (not for profit); social housing is provided in partnership with government and affordable housing developers (for profit) while affordable housing is developer-led (for profit).

Ms Smith said, ‘When the state government closed our hospital and offered the land back to the community after intense lobbying by our citizenry, it was a return to the community, not a windfall for Council’.

‘Council owns the land, and it is worth a lot of money.

It is an asset on their books,

so the notion that the costs to develop the site are somehow owed to Council from the community is absurd.

‘This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver much needed public housing for people in our community.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are overrepresented significantly on public housing waiting lists and the current waitlist for people in our area is 10-20 years!’

ǟǝ żĕſ ĈĕŕƐ żĕīīĕĎ ëƆ țëǔşſĎëćōĕȜ Federal Greens candidate, Mandy Nolan has been a vocal proponent for housing for those who are vulnerable and unable to find secure rental accommodation.

Given Council proposes just 20 per cent of the entire site as ‘affordable’, The Echo asked Ms Nolan whether she thought that would be a good outcome?

She replied, ‘We’re in the heart of a housing crisis, and this is a prime piece of floodfree land in Mullumbimby.

This is the perfect opportunity to take real action to address the housing crisis. The needs of this community needs to be at the centre of all decisions

made about this land’.

‘Everything possible should be done to keep this land in public hands. The state government needs to step up and support Council to do just that.

‘They have the money.

‘The Greens have fought for greater investment in housing at a state and federal level. Council should take advantage of the additional money The Greens have delivered and use the site to deliver much-needed public housing for our region.

‘We need to address the lack of confidence the community has with the term ‘affordable’ housing.

‘We know that in a market like ours, the affordable metric is problematic, and very often houses built with this in mind are not affordable. Or if they are, don’t remain so.

‘Any affordable housing component on this land must be in perpetuity, not for a fixed period, and be truly affordable. This means rents that are indexed to a person’s income and not based on the market rate, which is so astronomically high that even a reduced rental rate is out of reach for most renters’.

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Cyclist dead after falling to M1 and being hit twice

Amber blue-green algae alert for Lake Ainsworth

All southbound highway lanes were closed at Chinderah around six o’clock Monday, 5 February when police reported the discovery of a male body on the road.

There are currently no restrictions on the recreational use of the lake however, users should obey all signage erected by Council.

Information sessions on Tweed Flood Study

Ballina beaches for everyone?

The 2022 floods that devastated the Northern Rivers brought home to everyone the importance of understanding the impacts of flooding and how to mitigate their impact.

Public submissions recently closed for Ballina Council’s proposed changes to Sharpes Beach. Prominent among these was a call for better accessibility options for people with disabilities, which is an issue right across the Northern Rivers.

Women’s safety key part of flood recommendations

How do you envision the future of Lismore CBD?

The vulnerability of women and children, as well as the vital role women played during and after the Northern Rivers 2022 flood has been highlighted by a recent University of Newcastle study on the disaster.

How do the residents, businesses and those who rely on the City of Lismore for services look ahead to a future that recognises that future flooding is part of their reality while also rebuilding for a better future for the region?

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North Coast news online

Lennox Head’s Joel Taylor recognised Ballina Shire’s Citizen of the Year was recently announced as Joel Taylor. A Lennox local since birth, Mr Taylor has made quite an impact in the world of surfing and beyond.

Originally a professional bodyboarder in his teens and early 20s, Joel Taylor’s career took an unexpected turn due to a spinal cord injury at the age of 21. His passion for the ocean never waned however, leading him to embrace para surfing after two decades out of the water.

Within just 12 months of his return, Mr Taylor achieved remarkable success. He secured the Australian Para Surfing Title, earning him a spot in the ISA World Para Surfing Championships. His resilience and determination culminated in him being crowned the 2023 ISA World Para Surfing Champion in the Men’s Prone 1 Division.

Ballina Council says this achievement is not just a personal victory, but an inspiration to many, with his contributions also extending beyond his personal achievements. As the founder of Unite Clothing in 2004, Mr Taylor has been actively

Ballina’s Citizen of the Year, Joel Taylor, with his family.

Photo supplied supporting bodyboarding worldwide. His commitment to promoting bodyboarding associations ‘fosters a deep love for the ocean within the community,’ said a Council spokesperson.

Other awards Young Citizen of the Year went to Lucy Trease, for her volunteer work and support for evacuation centres during the flood emergency, as well as her coaching. Joint

winners of the Senior Citizen of the Year were Dr Colin MacDonald, for his medical and volunteer work, and the CWA’s noted volunteer Yvonne Scarrabellotti.

Joint winners of Volunteer of the Year were Ivan Leahy, for his diverse community service in Ballina and overseas, and Ken Delany, a dedicated volunteer with Ballina Marine Rescue for over 15 years.

Community Event of the Year was shared by Purple Friday (Rotary Club of Ballina–on–Richmond) and Cherry Street Sports Club, for their work raising awareness about domestic and family violence.

The Sporting Achievement Award went to Lennox Beach Line Dancing, and the Arts/Cultural Award went to Ballina Players with the Environmental Award taken out by the Wildlife Twins, Bridget and Sophie Thompson.

Seventeen new Australian citizens were also welcomed to Ballina on Australia Day, including people from the US, Bolivia, UK, Italy, Thailand, Denmark, Brazil, Philippines, and Vietnam.

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A peek inside what is planned for Sandhills wetland Hans Lovejoy Big changes are proposed for Sandhills wetland, located opposite Clarkes Beach and the Youth Activities Centre (YAC) on the edge of Byron Bay’s CBD. Extensive technical documents are on public exhibition until February 11, and can accessed via Byron Council’s website.

Council staff say, ‘The area was sand mined in the 1930s, destroying the natural wetland and a lot of the native vegetation. Restoring the wetland is one of the most significant environmental projects to be done in Byron Bay in recent years’.

A main feature is three large ‘cell’ areas located near Massinger Street, along with inlet ponds. They would be dug, on average, to about 1m deep, and as such, will require substantial tree and native vegetation removal.

These cells would provide ‘flow buffering and a dedicated place for the deposition and periodic removal of sediment’.

‘Preliminary’ concrete

path/cycle ways are proposed throughout the 1.8 hectare site.

The objectives, as stated in the Basis of Detailed Design Report, are ‘improving the site’s environmental and cultural values, flood mitigation, storm water treatment and storage, integration with catchment water cycle management objectives, providing education and recreation opportunities and creating connections between key sites in and around town centre’.

‘The Sandhills site is currently undeveloped with the exception of a pedestrian track connecting Cowper Street to Lawson Steet, and underground services (sewer, stormwater and recycled water main)’, says Council.

ĶşĎĶưĕſƆĶƐƷ wǔƆĕƐƆ As some of the area is known as a littoral rainforest, Endangered Ecological Community (EEC), Council is proposing the Biodiversity Offset Scheme (BOS) to remove 45 types of vulnerable/protected species of flora and fauna, and replace them, ‘like for

Image from Sandhills Wetland Basis of Design Report. Source Byron Shire Council website like’ elsewhere.

This includes 1.2ha of paperbark trees, and 2.1 ha of wetland that is home to the southern myotis vesper bat.

Fifteen brush box/tuckeroo littoral rainforest trees would be ‘retired’, as would 29 paperbark trees.

Their ‘retirement’ options include Burringbar-Conondale Ranges, Scenic Rim and Sunshine Coast-Gold Coast Lowlands.

Bangalow Film Festival reveals full program The Bangalow Film Festival is back for its fourth year from March 7 till 16, and the full program has been released.

Organisers say the line-up includes exclusive world and Australian premieres of critically-acclaimed feature films, award-winning documentaries, beloved classics, plus masterclasses with industry experts, Q&A sessions, special guest encounters and surprise events.

Highlights Highlights from the opening weekend include the premiere of A Portrait of Love, ‘a tender portrait of the relationship between Roberto Meza Mont and the late Archibald Prize-winning artist, Craig Ruddy, and the world premiere of the fungifocused visually stunning documentary, Follow The Rain, including a Q&A with the filmmakers’.

Festival co-director Janelle Morse says, ‘Adding to the opening weekend is the 30th anniversary of Australian masterpiece The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen www.echo.net.au

The stinking cryptocarya, which is known to be vulnerable to extinction, was also identified.

The vulnerable wallum froglet has been identified, as well as a marsupial ‘mouse-like’ carnivore, called the common planigale.

In August 2022, a report by the NSW Audit Office found that the Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) ‘did not establish a

clear strategy to develop the biodiversity credit market, or determine whether the scheme’s operation and outcomes are consistent with the purposes of the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016’.

Among the extensive criticisms of the scheme, the NSW Audit Office said there was no ‘long-term strategy with clear goals’.

Council also developed the Butler Street bypass under the

Biodiversity Offset Scheme.

According to the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) (prepared by Planit Consulting), they say in conclusion, ‘The proposed works will significantly improve local water quality, particularly at the Clarkes Beach stormwater outlet and provide additional flood storage to assist in mitigating flooding in the nearby Byron Bay Town Centre’.

‘The objectives of the project are to deliver improved cultural, social, economic and environmental outcomes.

‘An assessment of relevant legislation and environmental planning instruments has confirmed the proposal is permitted without development consent’.

$2m cost A bill of quantities estimate put the total cost at $1,999,129.99, yet excludes removing and treating material cut from the site and tree removal, which ‘assumes a rate of $120/tree for both medium and large trees’.

To see the documents, visit www.byron.nsw.gov.au.

Byron Historical Society forms new research group The Byron Bay Historical Society (BBHS) say they will hold monthly group research workshops at the Byron Bay library, on the second Wednesday of each month, starting at 9.30am to 11am, commencing on Feburary 14.

BBHS President, Donald Maughan, told The Echo, ‘Our first project will be investigating a reported

company who attempted to extract gold from sea water in the early 1900s at Broken Head, using supposed breakthrough technology’.

‘A British scientist at the time described it as “like trying to harvest sunshine from a cucumber”.

‘Who were these people, what happened, why did it not continue, what evidence

is there to support this claim?

‘We warmly encourage people with an interest in discovering and researching more of Byron Bay’s history to participate in the research group and help us write the story. Just turn up or email president@byronbayhistoricalsociety.org.au, or phone 0417 406 978.’

A still from A Portrait of Love, which chronicles the relationship between Roberto Meza Mont and the late Archibald Prize winning artist, Craig Ruddy. Photo supplied of the Desert’.

‘Adding sparkle and pizzaz, Priscilla is the queen of our festival in 2024, and we’ll be hosting a very special evening including an exclusive Q&A with the filmmakers, a special drag performance and the remastered screening.

‘Dress ups are encouraged!’

BFF of BFF Morse is also inviting members of the public to become a friend of the

Bangalow Film Festival.

She says, ‘You can pledge a donation to the festival and be welcomed into the BFF family, along with a double season pass and extra tickets to be used at your leisure across the festival. For more details, please contact partnerships@bangalowfilmfestival.com.au for attention of India Reynolds’.

The festival will be held at the A&I Hall and Showgrounds. For tickets and more info, head to www.bangalowfilmfestival.com.au.

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Stereotypes and labels are so 2023

I

The Byron Shire Echo Volume 38 #35 • February 7, 2024

Untethering from developers There’s no doubt that social and affordable housing in NSW is in need of life support.

Thankfully, the NSW government put out a media release last week to say the entire system will be rebuilt. But how? NSW Labor minister, Rose Jackson, is in charge of such things, and said a new government agency has been formed, called Homes NSW. She says, ‘Homes NSW will bring together the housing and homelessness services of the NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ), with NSW Land and Housing Corporation (LAHC), the NSW Aboriginal Housing Office (AHO) and key worker housing, all under one roof – making the system more efficient and accessible’.

She also claims Homes NSW will ‘drive collaboration’ between the NSW government and other stakeholders.

‘Collaboration’ was also promised with her government’s recent affordable housing reforms (under the State Environmental Planning Policy), yet it was clear from the peak body representing NSW councils (LGNSW) that their input was mostly ignored. It was a developer win!

As for social housing, The Echo asked the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure what exists, or is in the pipeline, for Byron Shire?

They replied in part, ‘There are 247 social housing properties in the Byron LGA. In the surrounding LGAs, a further 240 social housing homes (119 Tweed, 61 Richmond Valley, 29 Ballina and 22 in Lismore) have been committed to as part of the Flood Recovery Program’.

Given affordable and social housing are tied to developer profits, it’s public housing that is perhaps the most important

investment that governments can make (apart from taxing the fossil fuel industries, like Norway does).

As public housing is governmentrun, there is less pressure to return profits. It could also close the wealth gap that is currently emerging.

Yet government investment in public housing has been in decline over generations.

With the lack of public, social and affordable housing in the Shire, this week, councillors will vote on whether to proceed with a Byron Shire Council-led land trust.

As reported on page 4, Council’s planning supremo, Shannon Burt, says her staff are ready to tackle it.

It’s actually courageous, because Council are not known for being entrepreneurial.

A land trust could, for example, apply to the former Mullum Hospital land that is now up for rezoning. It wasn’t mentioned by Mayor Michael Lyon as an option in his reply on page 1, nor was public housing.

And it’s worth asking the questions, because under his leadership, Council does not provide much information around its grand visions.

It must be hard to articulate anything when making it up as you go.

Additionally, Council’s track record of flogging off public assets isn’t great.

Back in 2013, Council made the case that their finances were in trouble and needed to sell off low-hanging fruit. Despite a hard fought community campaign for it to be retained as a public asset, a valuable piece of real estate at the top of Ocean Shores, called the Roundhouse, was sold by Council well under market value.

Let’s hope the former Mullum Hospital site doesn’t suffer the same fate.

Hans Lovejoy, editor

first heard the term ‘the left’ as an HSC student studying Don’s Party, a 1971 play by David Williamson.

It is a largely plotless script about a group of middle-class Aussies who came together to celebrate Labor’s 1969 election victory. The play is iconic for its ‘Australian-ness’, crassness and humorous dissection of our character at the time.

But at my all-girls school, it all flew over our heads. My brilliant English teacher spent most of her time explaining what happens on election night, social changes we had not heard of, and unravelling the mysteries of political factions and events beyond our experience.

On the 1969 election itself, we were told it was complicated.

‘All you need to know is that Labor didn’t actually win.’ Okay.

What about ‘the left’? This was the good news. ‘Don’s Party is not one of the texts we are preparing for the exam’. There was audible relief and after a few more struggling lessons we got back to Shakespeare and Jane Austin.

My impression was that ‘the left’ is difficult, and we are not supposed to comprehend or worry about it.

This was fine for most of my life on the conservative side of politics, until I found myself being labelled a ‘left-winger’, because of my views on social issues and the environment.

As the first ever female Young Liberal State President, I drew gasps from the Liberal Women’s Council by telling them I was a ‘feminist’.

When asked about burning my bras, I reassured them ‘I am not that sort of feminist’ – only to be asked what other sort is there?

The wars in Ukraine and Gaza have ignited more recent debate about the political left.

A recent opinion piece by Thomas Friedman in The New York Times refers to ‘a titanic geopolitical struggle between two opposing networks of nations and non-state actors’.

He typifies an American world view, where there are either good guys or bad guys, according to their values and interests.

Friedman writes: ‘On one side is the Resistance Network, dedicated to

The Byron Shire Echo Volume 38 #35 February 7, 2024 Established 1986 • 24,500 copies every week

www.echo.net.au

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.

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 job of a newspaper is to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.’

– Finley Peter Dunne 1867–1936

© 2024 Echo Publications Pty Ltd – ABN 86 004 000 239 Reg. by Aust. Post Pub. No. NBF9237 Printer: Sydney Print Centre, Chullora

8 The Byron Shire Echo DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ

Ț Ɔ ƐIJĕ ǔſƆƐ ĕưĕſ ĪĕŔëōĕ ÏşƖŕī dĶćĕſëō ƐëƐĕ ſĕƆĶĎĕŕƐǼ P ĎſĕƱ īëƆżƆ ĪſşŔ ƐIJĕ dĶćĕſëō ÉşŔĕŕțƆ !şƖŕĈĶō ćƷ ƐĕōōĶŕī ƐIJĕŔȝP ƱëƆ ë ȘĪĕŔĶŕĶƆƐșȁț

– Catherine Cusack preserving closed, autocratic systems where the past buries the future’.

‘On the other side is the Inclusion Network, trying to forge more open, connected, pluralising systems, where the future buries the past.’

Resistance Network According to Friedman’s article, members of the Resistance Network (political left) include Vladimir Putin, who tried to drag his country and satellite states back to the Cold War era; and the Iran/Hamas/ Hezbollah axis, which is trying to stop Saudi Arabia from being friends with Israel, which may lead to a stabilised Middle East and expanded economic prosperity.

Inclusion Network Friedman describes the Inclusion Network as led by the US, which includes its allies who are loosely termed ‘the West’.

Their task is to stand up to bullies, protect the values of freedom and diversity, and promote free markets as the means to global prosperity.

Here in Australia, the Inclusion versus Resistance stereotype has done immense harm to complex issues, such as improving outcomes for Aboriginal Australians. Proposing to abolish Australia Day, for example, distracts from the actual problems. It confuses and divides.

And when it comes to ‘resistance’ and the left, I know for sure in Australia, the fight to save native forests and endangered species falls neatly into that cause.

So this is how I came to be judged a ‘left winger’ and somehow got lumped in as a champion of multiple causes. There’s many of these I disagree with, and some I have not even heard of.

To characterise anyone who wants to save native forests as a

Stalinist member of the ‘resistance’ is factually incorrect. It is an act of political bastardry to isolate and discredit the conservation movement.

It is incredibly unhelpful to the practical need to conserve our natural heritage.

It is the same in reverse.

To characterise everyone who wants to retain Australia Day on January 26 as genocidal and a racist is incorrect and unacceptable.

This stereotyping and labelling is increasingly the language of modern politics, and quite frankly it dumbs down the debate and puts most citizens off wanting to engage at all on the issues.

This idea of ‘identity politics’ blinkers public policy in alarming ways. Teal voters who care about the environment are labeled ‘latte sipping’ and ‘inner city’ – as a rallying cry to regional electorates.

The left’s description of all National Party MPs as ‘knuckledragging Neanderthals’ is equally guaranteed to fan anger and emotion on issues better served by focus on considered facts.

How has any of this inane sledging assisted service delivery and infrastructure to our own Northern Rivers communities?

The answer is that it has hindered and not helped good decisions.

Every protagonist in politics has an agenda. Do not let them distract you from appreciating nearly every issue has its merits, and every citizen has a potential contribution to make.

It is called being a ‘civil society’, where we are glued together by mutual respect between strangers who refrain from assumptions and focus instead on facts.

Q Catherine Cusack is a former NSW Liberal MLC.

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Letters

Cartoon by Antoinette Ensbey

Hot and humid You may be standing up against the sheep who are following climate change false narratives or against the billionaires trying to take over the global economy by banning hydrocarbons.

You may have developed a rationale of selected theories, or have faith that God is at the steering wheel of planet Earth.

You may be one of the people who, for decades, slowed down action against climate, now more aptly known as the climate emergency.

Well, just bear in mind that people, even people like you, are dying from heat stroke, heart attack, and organ damage from dehydration. These are the big killers of the climate emergency. Four per cent of those heat-affected people taken to hospital don’t come out alive. Those deaths will climb rapidly as we reach the limits of human capacity for heat and humidity. Just imagine what desperate evacuations from India will do for geopolitical stability!

Anyway, to those people who tout their favourite beliefs about climate normality, consider how many deaths you are, and will, cause if you keep dragging your feet over climate action! If you can’t do something positive, don’t say anything at all. Let the rest of us get on with the job!

Sapoty Brook Main Arm

Queenslanders Every time I hear on the news of the cyclones and floods in Queensland I think

of the green convoy to the Adani coal mine a few years ago and the reception they received from the Queensland population.

Queenslanders were determined to dig up all the coal they could and either burn it or sell it to other people to burn. In either case the coal would be transformed into carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and would worsen global warming. The Queenslanders regarded that outcome as some form of green hoax and were very antagonistic to the green convoy.

Perhaps they might think again after their experience of the recent cyclones and floods. I wonder what they might have to experience to be convinced that the earth is not flat.

Michael Trevaskis Alstonville

LşƖƆĕƆ Ɛş ǖşşĎ The constraints on housing development in our area are well known locally, as described in a letter last week, although apparently not recognised by the bureaucrats in Sydney who continue to insist that we must house more and more people.

Flooding is an obvious constraint, and nearly two years after the 2022 flood there are still people yet to return to their homes.

Council claims that they can ‘manage’ flooding issues, but they can’t.

The heaviest one-day rainfalls in Mullumbimby have increased in size by more than 90 per cent over the last 125 years, but Byron Shire Council think that including a 20

per cent increase above current design rainfalls (that don’t take into account the lessons of 2022) will cover changes due to climate change until 2100.

Lifting building heights might seem a good idea, but how high do you go? Many of the houses in South Lismore were on poles two metres or more off the ground, but in 2022 the residents were rescued from their roofs by the ‘Tinny Army’.

To be guaranteed of being flood-proof, houses in the areas proposed for development by Council in east Mullumbimby would have to be about four metres above ground level, hardly a practical solution.

There is plenty of land not too far from infrastructure and services that is not floodplain, and the additional cost of developing that land will be a good investment compared to the on-going costs of flooding.

Matthew Lambourne Mullumbimby

Feros vitriol We shouldn’t be surprised by provoking vitriol from their supporters (Keith Duncan’s letter, 31 January) when we challenge a politician to live up to their claims.

Kate Smorty and I wrote letters to the The Echo expressing shock and disbelief at the full page advertisement by Justine Elliot and the Labor Party (17 January) announcing she was ‘our voice in Canberra’ and had been primarily responsible for saving Feros Village for the community.

To my knowledge and many others, she had been both absent and silent in

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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.

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the widespread community protest to save Feros, and had commented to Kate that she couldn’t do anything to help. Vigorously active in the campaign to save Feros from the beginning were some residents and their families, members of the community, some councillors, and the Greens represented by Mandy Nolan and Tamara Smith.

Yet, when the decision is announced this year that Feros Village has a future, Justine claims the credit.

The Member for Richmond’s opportunistic behaviour highlights the growing bankruptcy of our political system, long dominated by the Labor Party and the coalition. That’s why the support for the major parties has steadily declined over the past 50 years and voters are increasingly drawn to independents and The Greens.

Labor’s national primary vote was just over 32 per cent in the last elections and Mandy Nolan almost defeated Justine Elliot. This explains the hostility Labor directs at the Greens, a party and movement which has forced it to address and live up to its nominal commitment to social justice, affordable housing, serious tax reform, protection of whistleblowers, serious action to curtail climate change, promotion of national sovereignty and so on.

As a final comment, I’d like to highlight the quote from Michael West, printed in Backlash in The Echo, which captures the substance and credibility of

▶ Continued on page 11

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Look Ahead: co-designing a brighter future Elizabeth Mossop

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ooking across Gretna City Park, in New Orleans, there are wildflowers blooming all around, and flocks of native birds resting on the lake.

It’s a lovely spot, but the real beauty lies in the fact that this project provides 24 million litres of stormwater storage from surrounding streets and homes. The neighbourhoods here would regularly flood during big storms, but not anymore.

At Living Lab Northern Rivers, we know about these game changing solutions, because we helped create them, along with projects in

Detroit, and New York, after Super Storm Sandy.

Now we’re bringing this knowledge home with ‘Look Ahead’, a co-design process where we’ll connect the best technical experts with the local community. Starting with a focus on Lismore’s CBD and surrounding neighbourhoods, the goal is to develop innovative plans for more regional towns, so everyone can thrive in uncertainty.

The Northern Rivers is like many places around the world that have gone through ‘unprecedented disasters’ in that government, businesses, institutions and people are struggling to find the best way forward in the aftermath.

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Life*eIQ eIQ*Safe The Mental Health delivery system lacks a similar comprehensive p ĞĚƵĐĂƟŽŶ ƐLJƐƚĞŵ͖ ƌĞƐƵůƟŶŐ ŝŶ ĞǀĞƌ ŝŶĐƌĞĂƐŝŶŐ ƐƉŝƌĂůƐ ŽĨ *Suicide and Male Physical, Sexual/DŽŵĞƐƟĐ *Crimes against Women and Children.

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The Prime Minister ŌĞƌ ŵLJ ϮŶĚ ĂĚ͘ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ :ĂŶ Ϯϳ ĞĚŝƟŽŶ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ Sydney Morning Herald - audited readership of 506,000 - I emailed our P.M., guiding him on a 10-minute read d of my Graph and 6-pt Plan, on my website. I then formally requested a 30-minute audience with his whole cabinet, in person, to explain the *PůĂŶ͕ ŚŝŐŚůŝŐŚƟŶŐ ƚŚĂƚ ACTion and Support of BOTH Federal and State Governments is needed, with Leadership p to promote p and spearhead p , coming right from the TOP eIQ*Safe Life*eIQ ??Can we do this?? * YESWECAN!* *E

Despite the incredible work done by individuals and grassroots organisations, there’s not much tangible progress in regard to housing or plans for the future of our towns.

Lots of those affected by the floods are still looking for safe accommodation and employment, so the ‘Look Ahead’ process will focus on shelter, as well as economic resilience and opportunities for education, arts and culture.

From experience, we know the only way to develop successful plans for recovery and adaptation is by connecting engineers, designers, architects, First Nations land managers, and other top professionals with the local community so they can work on solutions together.

, *Any Doctor, *Lifeline 13 11 14.. ..

tƌŝƩĞŶ ďLJ ƐŚĞĞƉ ĨĂƌŵĞƌ dŝŵ ĂƌƌŝƩ͘ ĂƌŽƐƐĂ sĂůůĞLJ͕ ^͘ ͘

10 The Byron Shire Echo DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ

The co-design process starts with informal chats in the community, where we begin testing our assumptions about the current situation.

Then there’s some formal workshops and research, where we collect local knowledge, explore people’s values and aspirations, and work through our understanding of the problems. And finally (hopefully) we end up with some solutions for a brighter future, not only for Lismore, but the region.

Living Lab Northern Rivers is holding two community workshops in February, which the public is warmly invited to attend. These will be followed by two expert design workshops in March, and final community meetings in May, so the public can review the outcomes.

Any ideas that come from ‘Look Ahead’ will be presented visually, with three-dimensional plans for the Lismore CBD and its surrounding neighbourhoods, so as many people as possible can have the same understanding of what’s being proposed. This way we can have an honest conversation about the issues at hand, which aren’t possible when proposals are theoretical or too technical.

These plans for a sustainable future will consider social and cultural issues, economic and business factors, plus environmental and ecological conditions. Thinking

The 2022 floods devastated Lismore with waters reaching 14.4m, significantly higher than the 1954 and 1974 floods of 12.11m and 2017 flood of 11.6m. Photo David Lowe beyond recovery, we feel there’s an opportunity for the Northern Rivers to build on our existing strengths, develop new opportunities, and be at the forefront of climate adaptation.

This confidence comes from our history. The Living Lab Northern Rivers team and our collaborators have done this before. In New Orleans, post-Katrina, we connected international experts with the local community and developed a plan to deal with their water through infrastructure.

In Detroit, we helped with the renewal of devasted neighbourhoods by renovating housing and transforming abandoned land into parks, orchards and gardens. In New York, we provided advice to a design competition that ended up attracting over $4 billion to address resilience challenges.

Can you imagine a tomorrow where local knowledge, nature-based solutions, and green technology have combined to create revitalised and dynamic towns, known for their education and culture?

If so, then come join us.

It is time to look ahead to the future of Lismore with Living Lab Northern Rivers. Photo Elise Derwin

Community meetings Let’s look ahead together and come up with a new model for disaster and climate adaptation planning that can be shared across Australia.

Living Lab Northern Rivers is hosting two community meetings

regarding the future of Lismore CBD and surrounds on Thursday, 15 February at 4.30pm and Saturday, 17 February at 2pm at Lismore City Bowling Club. For more information and to register your interest visit www.llnr. com.au/lookahead.

Q Elizabeth Mossop is the Academic Director, Living Lab Northern Rivers.

www.echo.net.au

Letters Save Wallum I oppose this proposed residential development at Brunswick Heads for the following reasons: 1. I believe Clarence Property’s luxury housing coastal subdivision is using a zombie development application, historically approved under old planning regulations.

It ignores [what should actually be] Byron Shire’s current ecological planning standards as determined by recent natural disasters and the extinction crisis. It is a ‘luxury’ residential development site that will not contribute any affordable housing options needed for the Byron Shire.

2. Byron Shire Council’s geographical information system (GIS) maps note the development sits on bushfire-prone and flood-liable

▶ Continued from page 9

this government, ‘The feds can find billions for AUKUS, but not for aerial firefighting despite recommendations of the Bushfire Royal Commission’.

This government appears to be afraid to lead, rather following the dictates of corporate lobbyists and great and powerful friends overseas. Unfortunately governments are becoming

land, with acid sulphate soils that generate large amounts of sulphuric acid that would threaten the health of any cement infrastructures. The area contains peat deposits that would exacerbate the duration and intensity of any bushfire.

3. Wallum is a place that provides habitat for 24 threatened species, rare wildflowers and old-growth trees. It is an important coastal landscape which plays an interwoven part in the ecology of Simpsons Creek and the Cape Byron Marine Park.

4. Under our national Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act (1999), any action that will have a significant impact on matters of national environmental significance, must be referred to

the minister as a ‘controlled action’. There are at least nine animal species that are threatened with extinction as well as rare plant species within the Wallum site. As such, the development should have been referred to the federal government as part of the application process that would assess risks to this special ecological community.

5. Rare and threatened species include koala, wallum sedge frog, wallum froglet, glossy black cockatoo, eastern grass owl, grey-headed flying fox, white-throated needletail, white-bellied sea eagle, collared kingfisher, common planigale, pale-vented bushhen, little bent-wing bat, large bent-wing bat, greater broad-nosed bat and southern myotis, pink nodding

orchid and the endangered ecological community of swamp sclerophyll forest (on coastal floodplain). This list shows Wallum to be a site of significant biodiversity.

6. There are only nine glossy black cockatoos left in the Byron Shire. Their local habitat has been diminished by an extensive heath fire on the other side of Simpson Creek late last year. The photograph of the glossy used as an icon in the Save Wallum campaign reveals scorched tail feathers from this fire.

7. The urgency of this campaign hinges on the fact that if our councillors fail to vote in support of delaying this development in their meeting next week, 8 February, bulldozers could move in early February to begin clearing.

Sue McLeod Myocum

increasingly remote from the communities they are serving. I’m old enough to know the ALP has not always been like this as I’ve supported it in the past. I do not know Kate Smorty, and am not a member of the Greens party.

Tony Christy Suffolk Park

we should not abandon cash for credit cards, and I agree with it 100 per cent. I would like to add two other points in favour of cash which were not included in his article.

First, credit card companies are private companies and can refuse service to anyone they want. This could be used for political ends if the company so chose. Service could be refused to a pharmacy in

America that insisted on selling birth control and sexual fulfilment items, to a Christian wedding supplies business that refused to sell to gay couples, or to a sex worker who wanted a credit card payment gateway for her customers to use. This may sound far-fetched, but I know of examples where exactly this sort of thing has happened. ▶ Continued on page 12

Cash or credit?

I enjoyed Richard Jones’s article (24 January) on how

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Articles / Letters

North Coast news online

It was once clear water, running over clean sand and pebbles…

Graeme Gibson

T

here is serious pesticide pollution in the Richmond River estuary. But the problems of the Richmond River start well upstream. And they started long ago with extensive timber clearing from the 1880s. The damage was quick, as noted by local historian Louise Tiffany Daley: ‘The squatters on the upper river were only too glad to clear their land for pasturage and to sell the great stands of rare timber. In a short time the forest country at Unumgar and Roseberry and around Kyogle was invaded by an army of workers. Long processions of bullock teams hauling great logs of cedar and pine could be seen making their way slowly towards Casino.’

The subsequent damage was extensive, and was felt well downstream. At Irvington, a few kilometres east of Casino, the logs were dumped into the river to float down to Coraki.

A wharf, built at Irvington in 1898, was later abandoned due to river shoaling. This is the deposition of eroded soil from upstream river banks.

Before the timber clearing, things were different.

Clear waters Some of the earliest squatters on the Richmond were the Bundock family; Wellington Cochrane and Mary Ellen Bundock settled at Wyangarie, north of Kyogle, in 1842. One of their daughters, Mary Bundock lived much of her life in the

Local historian Louise Tiffany Daley.

Photo www.richhistory.org.au area. She made an extensive collection of Aboriginal artefacts and kept meticulous records which are highly regarded for their accuracy.

In her memoir she noted: ‘The Upper Richmond was then a beautiful stream of clear water, running over clean sand and pebbles, an ideal of beauty and purity not to be surpassed anywhere, with steeply shelving banks either of clean grass or shaded by beautiful trees of many kinds.’

Damage to the river continues in the headwaters and along the full length of the Upper Richmond where the uncontrolled access of cattle to the river and its tributary creeks is commonplace. This leads to trampling of vegetation, an increase in nutrient levels and major soil erosion.

Whereas there was once ‘clear water, running over clean sand and pebbles’ the river is now very different. In the shallows it is common to sink almost knee deep in mud, and even with low

12 The Byron Shire Echo DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ

Who is responsible for cleaning up the rubbish in the Richmond River? ‘A healthy river should be seen as a public good, same as a school or a hospital’. Photos Graeme Gibson

flow, when it is at its clearest, it can only be described as murky.

Over much of the river channel above Casino, the river is wider and shallower.

It’s wider because of the erosion. And it’s shallower because that eroded material is deposited in the channel. That’s what happened at Irvington. It’s happening still.

The condition of the river comes down to a question of values and attitudes.

On a recent kayak journey south of Kyogle, over a stretch of about 500 metres five dead cows were seen on the river bank or in the shallows. And then there was the one cow stuck in the mud, still alive. Just. If it’s possible for a cow to have a forlorn expression, this one had it.

Paddling the river is to come across all sorts of items, either washed in during flood or dumped. A lounge chair. An axle from some sort of farm machinery.

There is also a widespread misunderstanding about ownership of the river channel and the extent to which adjoining landowners can manage the river. It’s not

uncommon to find a fence, from bank to bank, through the water channel. This is a method of controlling cattle movement up and down the watercourse. Not of keeping them out of the watercourse.

Coming across a barbed wire fence across the river while kayaking presents a challenge. It’s also decidedly dangerous. Imagine swift flowing murky water with a barbed wire fence at or just below the surface.

Fencing across a watercourse is also illegal. That applies to the river and creeks that are, from time to time, capable of navigation.

It does not apply to gullies and areas that may be inundated by floodwater.

The problems of the Richmond River have their origins and their continuing issues in two phenomena.

Colonialism that displaced Indigenous stewardship of the land and the river. And capitalism that saw profit as the main game at the expense of all else.

A healthy river should be seen as a public good, same as a school or a hospital. And just as schools and hospitals are funded by governments, actions to achieve a healthy river should be funded by governments.

This will require change by landowners. And in many cases that change will be resisted. There are issues over the level of government support and the question of compensation needs to be tested. There are some very good land and river managers who care. And Landcare makes impressive gains. But these are piecemeal.

Along with government support, what the Richmond River needs is a whole lot of care and a whole lot of love. It will never be what it once was, but it can be so much better.

▶ Continued from page 11

Power to evict

Second, I think it is only a matter of time until hackers realise the opportunities offered by AI. Hackers enjoy disrupting computers, sometimes for profits by fraud, and sometimes just to show themselves how smart they are. A hacker could create an AI hacker which would use powerful AI techniques to create viruses.

Such an AI hacker could reproduce itself quickly and create innumerable duplicates of itself all over the internet. It could cripple the banks and credit card companies. We have already seen the chaos that can occur to credit cards when a telephone service is victimised. Cash would be the only defence.

Charles MacFarland Ewingsdale

I would like to understand Byron Council’s legal basis and process for evicting home owners from unapproved dwellings on their property and/or forcing demolitions in the instance where the owner refuses to leave or demolish.

For a landlord to evict a renter who refuses to leave, the landlord must first obtain a termination order and warrant for possession from NCAT, and then must give this order to the Sheriff of NSW’s officer, who will forcibly remove the renter and their belongings, with police help if needed. The landlord is not permitted to remove the renter themselves.

However, I cannot find equivalent legislation or precedent case that gives a council power to remove

people from unapproved dwellings. Can anyone help me out? Or is this process actually a voluntary one where the council can issue, say, a demolition notice for an unapproved dwelling but has no power to force it to be carried out if the owners don’t willingly comply?

Name withheld

A road sign. Chemical containers. And then there’s the plastic festooning the riverbank trees – where there are riverbank trees – slowly deteriorating. Microplastic overload. However these items got there, no one is getting them out.

To some the river is little more than a water supply, or a drain. While there are farming families immensely proud of their achievements, there is a level of denialism over the condition of the river.

An Ecohealth report from 2014 rated the river as D+. A citizen science project over 2022-23, which has used a different methodology and cannot be compared directly with the 2014 report, has found similar problems.

Who owns the river?

Q Graeme Gibson is cur-

rently researching a social and environmental history of the Richmond River.

New beginnings I love Australia. I was born here, have grown up here, spent my 20s taking road trips up and down the east coast, surfing, working on farms, enjoying all that this beautiful land has to offer. I now have a family who benefit from a safe and prosperous society.

We can live out our dreams with a promise of a bright tomorrow. We are lucky.

▶ Continued on page 13 www.echo.net.au

Letters ▶ Continued from page 12

We want to acknowledge and celebrate this.

But I can no longer get behind celebrating Australia on a day which marks the beginning of the end for the First Australians’ way of life.

I am no longer able to put on the Paul Kelly, get out the cricket bat and stumps, the eski, and my flags with a Union Jack on them, and celebrate on a day which is so offensive to so many.

It’s time. Time for a new beginning. We need a new republic, with a local head of state, under a new flag.

Let’s keep it simple, and dispense with the Union Jack and that other imperial symbol – the seven pointed star. Let’s keep the Southern Cross on the blue background; something that unites all Australians and is common to us all. Australia Day will be celebrated on the day of the birth of this new republic. Any day will do.

How about 23 June, the first day after the winter solstice, a new beginning?

Rohan Smith Wilsons Creek

Water use If we use our water resources wisely and respectfully there should be no need for more dams.

www.echo.net.au

Some years ago on the New Inventors program a device was presented which reused all the water which was wasted down the gurgler when you turn on the hot water. The initial cold water was diverted to a holding tank which emptied when you next turned on the cold tap. The inventor estimated that between a quarter and a third of household water use was wasted.

I can vouch for this as I bail the first rush of water into a bucket in the bathroom and it amounts to between four to five litres each time.

The system was also able to be retrofitted – why it hasn’t been made compulsory I don’t understand.

David Gilet Mullumbimby

Does anyone care?

Scott Hymas is correct in describing large SUVs as an invasive species (Letters, 31 January). A $200,000 Dodge Ram emits 506g of CO2 for every kilometre travelled, a Subaru Outback 168g/km.

Many large SUV drivers love tailgating, forcing smaller cars to endure many of the notoriously bad hinterland roads at destructive and dangerous speed. It amuses them. Having a belching behemoth is a wonderful ego

prop for many, especially young male P-plate drivers who more often than not still live with their parents.

Compared with other countries our emission standards are woeful (think Russia). The Liberal/National government coalition continually resisted change.

The present government is still facing strong opposition from vested interests.

C Davies Mullumbimby

Take a good look Australia Day (26 January) has come and gone, yet again.

Social media posts are filled with bitching about Aussies staking out their turf on some beach or cliff (sometimes 24 hours or more ahead) to deny other Aussies access on Australia Day. Perhaps we should call the Australia Day holiday not ‘Invasion Day’ but ‘Selfish Aussie Day’?

What happened to ‘mateship’, looking after others?

As Australia reaches the 27 million population mark, what have we become and where are we headed?

A second America? Insulated and incapable of seeing anything but themselves, other than the Hollywood version where the lead actor

is always American and the plot’s end is the good guys (Americans) always beating the bad guys (Indians/Russians) or whatever?

Terry Sharples Tweed Heads

Eëǀë ŇƖƆƐĶǕĈëƐĶşŕ If there were ever a just war it is Israel against Hamas in Gaza. The 7 October invasion is an example of what Israel would face if it hadn’t the power and determination to retaliate on all fronts for its survival.

I’ve read and reread the history of the Jews from Abraham to the present day and they have fought off many nations more formidable than their present enemies, plus 2,000 years of pogroms in every European country ending with the Holocaust, which was aimed at total obliteration of their race. But miraculously the Jews are still here.

The Palestinians and their world supporters’ jubilant chant ‘from the river to the sea’ will not be the fate of this brave tenacious new nation and very ancient race of people. Israel has my full sympathy and moral support in this ongoing battle for survival.

Mary McMorrow Mullumbimby

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Opinion

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lëŕëīĶŕī Īſĕĕ ƆżĕĕĈIJ ëŕĎ ƐſƖƐIJ ëƆ ĎĕǕŕĕĎ ćƷ ŔëŕƷ ĎĶǔĕſĕŕƐ ưşĶĈĕƆ Will Liley

to catch them; they still drip faeces onto passers-by.

hesitated to add my voice to the chorus about the Gaza conflict, especially to the controversy over The Echo’s publication of a half-page advertisement by the Australian Jewish Association (AJA).

But to be clear: well done The Echo for doing so; you made clear it was a paid ad, you emphasised your own independence and in publishing it, you succeeded in stimulating the series of well-written and informative letters on this vexing subject, including the varying viewpoints recently from Jenny Bush; Boyd Kellner; Jamie Webb; and Dany Wakil.

The criticism of The Echo for doing so is misinformed: if only ‘your truth’ is worthy while ‘their truth’ is not, you don’t understand free speech.

Jenny Bush, if anything was too restrained, for example, in describing the behaviour of extremist Jewish settlers in Hebron.

They actually throw soiled nappies onto the heads of passing Palestinians and it’s so bad that the council had to erect nets in the alleyways

Who owns what

I

But there are even more fundamental issues here than were raised by your correspondents.

This is essentially a fight over real estate. Two tribes want it, each has rights to it, and extremists in both tribes want all of it, to the exclusion of the other tribe, driven partly by religious fundamentalism and partly by opportunism.

As the late and great Christopher Hitchens said: ‘…those who think they have divine permission are truly capable of any atrocity.’

That applied to Hamas on 7 October; it equally applies to the Jewish ultra-orthodox nationalist/religious settler movement in the West Bank.

They think they have a divinely ordained right to all of ‘eretz Israel’.

Time to share?

Finding a lasting solution to this piece of real estate has defied clever minds and people of goodwill for over 75 years. Any solution requires that the two tribes share the land. As is often said, ‘You can

‘Out of the current tragic mess, perhaps PƆſëĕōĶƆ ëŕĎ ëōĕƆƐĶŕĶëŕƆ ƱĶōō ǔŕĎ ƐIJĕ courage to sideline the extremists’ have peace or you can have all the land; you cannot have both ‘.

Getting there will require reasonable people in both tribes to confront their own extremists.

For the Palestinians, this obviously means stomping on Hamas, Islamic Jihad and all the other Islamist fanatics.

No one says it is easy, and one reason is that Islam as a religion has never had its own Enlightenment as did Christianity in the 16th and 17th centuries (after 200 years of Christians slaughtering other Christians).

So for Muslims the Koran is still the literal word of God as distinct from the Bible which for all but fundamentalist Christians is today considered inspirational but only metaphorically ‘true’. So ISIS and Hamas can readily find Koranic authority for their slaughter of Jews (and Christians and Hazidis, and even of Shia fellow Muslims), and because all Muslims worldwide are supposed to

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support fellow members of the umma (the faithful), condemnation of Hamas from other Muslims is often absent or mealy-mouthed.

For Israelis (and for the Jewish diaspora), the challenge is, if anything, even more difficult.

Why? Because of a contradiction that lies at the foundation of the State of Israel since its founding in 1948: the central, preferred place for the ultra-orthodox in Jewish life. They comprise most of the settler movement and today they hold the balance of power in Bibi Netanyahu’s government. Bibi will cling to power in order to stay out of jail on bribery charges, and does not care if he ruins civil society or Israel (just as Trump is doing everything he can do to delay his own trials in the hope that he can pardon himself if re-elected).

So Bibi allowed Hamas to do its thing in Gaza, with the tragic results we have all seen, and he continues to allow the settlers to murder

Palestinians in the West Bank (over 350 so far, just since 7 October). When I point out to my many Jewish friends that the settlers and the ultra-orthodox are a fanatical obstacle to peace, they change the subject. It’s all too hard. And that’s why this can has been kicked down the road for 75 years, and why Jews don’t want to talk about it.

Prising the settlers out of the West Bank (and frustrating their current plans to ‘ethnically cleanse’ the two million Palestinians so they can retake Gaza) will be resisted, probably violently.

The great Israeli Foreign Minister Abba Eban once said, ‘Palestinians never miss an opportunity to miss an opportunity’. Tragically, at no time was that more true than in 2001 when Yassar Arafat turned down Bill Clinton and Ehud Barak’s offer in the Taba Accords, ostensibly because they did not offer the ‘right of return’ to all Palestinians but really because Arafat was afraid he would be overthrown or even killed by his more radical Fatah members ( Egyptian President Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin both were murdered by

their own side for daring to try to make peace).

It is almost too sad to think that if he’d taken the offer, an independent State of Palestine today would be 23 years old, and probably thriving in a peaceful Middle East.

Having courage So, what to do? Moderate, reasonable Israelis and Palestinians (and they are many, even most of each tribe), supported by friends and well-wishers outside Palestine, will have to find the courage to say, ‘This is what we want. If you stand in the way, we will sideline you. If you try to sabotage it, we will suppress you. If you resort to violence, we will stomp on you.’

Difficult? Of course! But out of the current tragic mess, perhaps Israelis and Palestinians will find the courage to sideline the extremists and bring forward the leaders to grab this opportunity.

Israel could start by releasing Marwan Barghouti from prison, where he has been held for over 15 years on spurious murder charges, just as Nelson Mandela was in South Africa. Barghouti could be Palestine’s ‘Mandela’.

ĕžƖĶſĕŔĕŕƐ Ɛş ōşşŊ Īşſ ĕŕĎëŕīĕſĕĎ īōĶĎĕſƆ Ķŕ ōşīīĶŕī ëſĕëƆ ſĕŔşưĕĎ Aslan Shand

V

olunteers and community scientists have repeatedly highlighted the failure of NSW Forestry Corporation (NSWFC) to identify hollow-bearing tress used by the endangered southern greater gliders, the largest marsupial glider in the world. Now the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has removed the requirement for specific surveys for the greater gliders and greater glider den trees before logging operations start.

Nature Conservation Council of New South Wales (NCC) analysis has shown that areas with some of the highest numbers of greater glider records in the state are being logged right now.

‘The EPA seems to have agreed that surveying for nocturnal gliders during the day is ineffective, and rather than mandate nighttime surveys they have simply removed the requirements to look for them altogether,’ said Clancy Barnard, NCC spokesperson.

Instead the EPA has required that, in some areas,

there will a small increase in hollow bearing trees (80 cm or above) retained from eight to 14 per hectare.

ƖƆIJǕſĕ ĶŔżëĈƐƆ Approximately 900,000 hectares of NSW public forests are subject to logging and last week Friends of the Forest (Mogo) found 13 greater gliders and four of their den trees, in two nights at Flat Rock State Forest, in trees immediately adjacent to logging machinery subject to a stop work order.

‘This government’s cessation to survey for den trees will cause great environmental harm to forest wildlife already devastated by the Black Summer wildfires across NSW,’ said a spokesperson for NSW Forest Alliance.

‘The alarming loss of hollow-bearing trees in the 2019/20 wildfires requires that we should be protecting all remaining hollow-bearing trees for the 174 NSW species that depend upon them,’ said North East Forest Alliance spokesperson Dailan Pugh.

‘This decision attempts to override the current legal

requirement to identify and protect 50m around den trees. Allowing logging around den and nest trees is grossly irresponsible.’

Citizen scientists ‘It will now be up to citizen scientists to do the work the EPA and NSWFC won’t and identify the hollow-bearing trees that are vital sanctuaries for endangered species like the greater glider,’ said Mr Barnard.

Buyback contracts Vice-President of the North Coast Environment Council (NCEC) Susie Russell said that, ‘The government needs to immediately begin to buy back wood contracts to take the pressure off our wildlife because animals like endangered greater gliders die when their den trees die, and they die when their home range is cleared by logging machinery. That’s one reason they are endangered, and the EPA is meant to protect the environment, not the logging industry.’

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

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Articles

¨IJĕ żſĶĈĕ şĪ żşōĶƐĶĈëō ĶŕǖƖĕŕĈĕ Ķŕ ƖƆƐſëōĶë David Lowe

David Walsh. The Nationals received less than this, while the ALP received over $80 million in financial donations.

The Liberals topped the donations register with over $110 million.

The AEC says the details of donation spending on the Voice referendum won’t be available until 1 April 2024, 24 weeks after voting day.

D

espite promises of reform when the Albanese government was elected, Australia’s political donation laws remain unchanged, which is why it took until last week to find out who was donating in the last financial year, via the AEC’s Transparency Register.

So where was the money flowing? Despite spending much less than normal, Clive Palmer holds the record in 2022/23, donating over $7 million to his own party via the mining company Mineralogy. Visy cardboard king and Trump mate Anthony Pratt appears to have switched financial allegiances in this country, giving $1 million to the ALP and nothing to the Liberals (in previous years he’s thrown large amounts of money in both directions).

The fossil fuel industries, led by Woodside and Santos, have again received remarkable bang for their buck, jointly spending a bit over a million dollars on the major parties in return for billions in shareholder returns. The gambling, banking and

What else?

Anthony Pratt is among the big spenders in the Australian donation register.

Photo Wikipedia/CC pharmaceutical industries also feature prominently in the donations register, as do the four big consulting firms, including the disgraced PwC. The financial backers of the far right’s answer to GetUp, now called Advance, are beginning to emerge from the shadows, including a retired Perth car dealer named Brian Henderson ($1 million), venture capitalist Trevor St Baker ($50,000), Kennard Self Storage’s Sam Kennard ($115,000), Baker’s Delight

founder Roger Gillespie ($20,000), vitamin czar Marcus Blackmore ($25,000) and Melbourne Storm director and transport magnate Brett Ralph ($50,000).

Gina Rinehart donated $150,000 to the Liberal Party (as much as she makes in less than 27 minutes, according to howrichareyou.com.au), with multinational tobacco company Philip Morris giving $75,000 to the Nationals.

At the opposite political extreme, teal-backers Climate

200 received financial support from Nick and Sandra Fairfax ($20,000), non-alcoholic beer company Heaps Normal (almost $18,000), as well as substantial donations from two Greek Australians, international weather analyst Marcus Catsaras and Sydney share trader Robert Keldoulis.

Together, their contributions amount to over $2 million.

The Greens received $25 million in donations in 202223, including $125,000 from the South Australian estate of

The latest official political donation numbers include $57 million of so-called ‘dark money’, which got around the need for detailed AEC reporting for various dodgy reasons.

The Liberal party received over $25 million of this unexplained cash, while Labor received over $22 million.

As a response to this anti-democratic situation, the Australia Institute is calling for real time disclosures of political donations as soon as possible, and an end to the current dark money loopholes, with donations under $15,000 not needing to be disclosed, along with ‘other receipts’ from things such as gifts and membership/affiliation fees.

There are also renewed calls for ministerial diaries to be made public and truth in political advertising.

Although jobs for the boys and girls and other financial ways of exerting political influence in Australia are not captured by the AEC data, it remains shocking how cheap it is to secure serious political influence over the major parties. Why buy half a house in Sydney when you can get the ear of a political party or government for less?

While it’s made some noises about reforming the donations situation (an interim report drew strong criticism from both the opposition and independents, for different reasons), the Albanese government is fast running out of time to introduce legislation to deal with these issues in this term.

At the next federal election, donations to political parties and interests are expected to beat all records, taking us closer to the disastrous situation in the United States, where the democratic process is entirely captured by corporate interests.

Bisque are designers, importers and retailers of fine furniture, lighting, homewares and ladies fashion. We have moved our entire retail operation into our space in the Byron Bay Industrial Estate and sadly closed our Bangalow store. On display we have a much larger range of products including outdoor furniture and ladies fashion.

We are also offering a complete interior design and styling service.

We can arrange full project management, sourcing builders, materials and a full client consultation service.

We are also providing furniture rental and styling service for home sales, where we use our classic Bisque luxe range to bring your property to the next level.

All pieces are also available wholesale.

See our comprehensive range at www.bisquetraders.com.au 3-4/60 Centennial Circuit, Byron Industrial Estate Phone: 0424 225 059 | Mon–Fri 11am to 4pm www.bisquetraders.com.au | Insta: @bisque_ bangalowbisque@gmail.com www.echo.net.au

DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ The Byron Shire Echo 15

Good Taste

Eateries Guide BYRON BAY continued

BYRON BAY

North Byron Liquor Merchants

‘Byron’s boutique bottle shop’

61 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay Ph 6685 6500

liquor@northbyronhotel.com.au

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

Main Street

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

Open for takeaway daily, 12 midday until dinner.

Open for takeaway daily, 12 midday until dinner.

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

Loft Byron Bay 4 Jonson Street, Byron Bay 6680 9183

Book online: www.loftbyronbay.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

Bangalow Bread Co. BANGALOW BREAD CO.

QUARTZ GALLERY

QUARTZ GALLERY

Success Thai

www.facebook.com/ pages/Success-ThaiFood/237359826303469

Menus available on Facebook.

The Rocks

therocksbyronbay.com.au @therocksbyronbay

KARKALLA Byron Bay

KARKALLA BYRON BAY Ancient food and modern flavours.

PROUDLY BUNDJALUNG

Native Indigenous Restaurant

DINNER Mon, Thur, Fri, Sat | 5pm-late Sunset Sessions from 4pm BREAKFAST Sat & Sun | 8am-1.30pm Sunrise Sessions from 10am SUNDAY live & local music

Cnr of Bay Lane & Fletcher St, Byron Bay

5614 8656

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

NO BONES

Lennox Head Pizza & Pasta 4/74 Ballina St, Lennox Head Open 7 days Lunch: 12–2pm Pizza & drinks only: 2–5pm Dinner from 5pm

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.

The Empire 20 Burringbar St, Mullum 6684 2306 Open for brunch and lunch, seven days 8am–3pm FB/Insta: EmpireMullum empiremullum.com.au

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.

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

We are a part of a plant-based movement and invite you to join us on our expedition to save the Earth one Brussels sprout at a time.

Vegan Kitchen + Bar. 11 Fletcher Street, BYRON BAY 0481 148 007

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

MULLUMBIMBY

Happy Hour 6pm–8pm $6 tap beer or wine $12 selected cocktails $25 Pasta & Wine/Beer + Garlic Bread Live Music Thursdays and DJ Saturdays Open for dinner Wed–Sun

Brunch 7am–1pm Dinner 5pm–10pm 14–16 Lawson St, 5642 0149

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

7am–2pm weekends.

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

LENNOX HEAD

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

Happy Hour | Every day from 4–6pm. $8 loft wine or lager, $10 spritzer, $14 margaritas & $30 house wine bottle Half price deli board & $2.50 fresh oysters Espresso Martini Nights | Every day 9pm–close, 2 for $25 Classic Espresso Martini.

Open 7 days from 4pm. Sat lunches from Noon.

BANGALOW

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

Signature cocktails, and casual dining with ocean views.

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

#brusselsnotbeef www.nobones.co

CATERING

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

16 The Byron Shire Echo DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ

www.echo.net.au

The

Good Life PƐȜƆ lëŕīş ƆĕëƆşŕ ëƐ 0ưĕſĕƆƐ DëſŔ Victoria Cosford

şƆĕǕŕëȜƆ ōëĈĕ ĈëſëưëŕȒĈëĪĕ şŕ ƐIJĕ ćĕëĈIJ ƆĶĎĕ şĪ ƐIJĕ ſƖŕƆ ĪşşƐćſĶĎīĕ If you take a walk across the footbridge over Simpsons Creek in Brunswick Heads and across to the beach you will find Rosefina’s Place, a converted caravan-cafe tucked away in a quiet corner of the busy Byron Shire.

Rosefina’s Place is the labour of love for Josie Richardson who came across the opportunity, operating originally as a simple coffee cart, when looking for a food truck to sell her Mexican dishes from. Its wonderful location, so close to the beach, held the greatest appeal for Josie, who started life beyond the tenth creek crossing of Upper Wilsons Creek in an old farmhouse.

As a small child she remembers the odd plane flying over and wondering about the big wide world it had come from – the valley was so quiet and remote.

Later her father would settle on 15 acres on the outskirts of Brunswick Heads to set up a palm nursery, and this became Josie’s home from which she traversed back and forth to Wilsons Creek and attended local schools in Mullumbimby. www.echo.net.au

Summers were spent swimming in the Bruns River. This all changed though when a relocation of the proposed Brunswick Heads bypass was announced – it had been diverted to run directly over her old home, with the RMS consuming the entire property.

Ultimately her father and his wife would relocate out of Byron Shire, and the home that Josie knew and loved was effectively gone.

Establishing Rosefina’s Place was an opportunity for her to find a way back home after building a life in Brisbane.

Located on South Beach Road, Brunswick Heads, Rosefina’s Place is a tranquil garden oasis that invites patrons to be in the moment with a good book or good

company. It’s a place where children can freely explore the fairy house and discover natural treasures in the surrounding trees and rocks. With a passion for Mexican cuisine, developed over many visits to Mexico from the age of 12 and a stepmother with a wickedly good talent for cooking, Rosefina’s Place offers delicious housemade treats paired with organic Old Quarter Coffee from Ballina.

Josie embraces diversity and welcomes all to this laid-back garden which captures the essence of Byron Shire that so many love and remember.

MANDY NOLAN PRESENTS

Isn’t it the quintessential summer fruit?

Sinking teeth into the flesh of a mango, juice everywhere, seems to be as much part of the hot summer experience as plunging into ocean waves (often the best idea after eating one).

According to Will Everest, it’s a good season.

‘It’s because of the earlier dry’, he explains. ‘Our trees are just laden with them.’ Will guesses there are about 600 of those trees on the hilly family farm behind Murwillumbah, and about seven varieties. It’s Kensington Prides now but soon will come those mammoth R2E2s, then the Valencia, Princess and Keats. ‘Our north-facing dry hills are really conducive to flowering’, he explains, ‘which is crucial to growing mangoes’.

These trees were planted about 40 years ago by a neighbour, who eventually sold the property to the Everest family. ‘We weren’t into mangoes,’ Will says, ‘but we inherited them.’ At this time of year it’s all hands on deck to assist with the picking – offspring and relatives. ‘It’s a big job and it’s all on mountains’, he tells me.

‘We took 65 crates the other day, and six people were required.’

I want to know what happens to the excess,

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cows!’ Will says – of course they are!

No sprays or chemical dyes are used on the mangoes either. ‘We pick them then sell them – no storage’, Will says. ‘It’s tropical fruit time!’

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

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given so many trees, such a good season and such an abundance of the fruit. ‘A quarter of our crop will go on the ground’, Will says, ‘the cows eat them.’

The cows like mangoes too? This is beautiful news to me – just the image makes me smile – but it gets better, because they not only love to eat the mangoes but the excess bananas too. ‘These are happy

Come and enjoy Yulli’s

7 PM S H OW 7P SH

Mini Flea Market

SHOW

STA RRIN G RRING

J EN N Y WYNTER JEN & PAU L MCMAH ON UL HON

ONE NIGHT ONLY!

WWW.NORTHBYRONHOTEL.COM.AU

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!!

DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ The Byron Shire Echo 17

SIGN ON SIGN N UP

Suffolk Park Football Club Suffolk Park Football Club invite you to join their friendly community club.

With their new change rooms and canteen completed, they are excited to have some football fun, meet new friends and cheer on The Phoenix back on the home field!

Miniroos (5-11 years) training starts 6 February on Tuesdays from 4-5pm at Linda Vidler Park, Beech Dr. Seniors - training starts 7 February on Wednesday nights from 6.30–8pm at Cavanbah Centre.

Are you interested in coaching our men's team?

Please get in touch! e: info@suffolkparkfc.com m: 0405 554 933 FB: SuffolkParkFC

NIX

SUF

SUFFOLK PARK FC

Miniroo teams 5–11 years – Training Tuesdays 4–5pm at Linda Vidler Park

Register Registeronline online from NOW 1st Feb

Redeem Active Kids Voucher with us! info@suffolkparkfc.com suffolkparkfc.com | SuffolkParkFC 18 The Byron Shire Echo DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ

Brunswick Byron Netball Association Whether you are a new or returning player, Brunswick Byron Netball Association invites you to join up for the 2024 netball season.

Visit their website for more information: www.brunswickbyronnetball.com.au/ COME AND TRY NETBALL DAY Free session for 5-10 years. No previous netball experience or knowledge is necessary.

When: Saturday, 17 February 8.30–10am (Mullumbimby netball courts)

Mullumbimby Brunswick Valley FC

register online: www.playhq.com/netball-australia/register/031114

www.mbvfc.com.au/registration/

NETBALL 2024 SEASON SIGN ONS NOW OPEN for: - NetSetGo Skills/Activities (5-7 years) - NetSetGo Competition (8-10 years) - Juniors (10-12 years) - Intermediates (13-17 years) - Seniors Register online: https://www.brunswickbyronnetball.com

MBVFC offers teams from Miniroos to Seniors for all levels including their men’s premiership team, and they have a dedicated female football program across all ages.

They welcome all levels to come join the fun!

Registration opens 1 February, and they encourage players to register early to help with team allocation.

Registration opens 1 February, 2024 https://www.mbvfc. com.au/registration/ Or contact info@mbvfc.com.au www.echo.net.au

SIGN N SIGN UP ON

Northern Rivers Tennis Academy Byron Ballet Shores United Shores United are back with a vengeance for the 2024 season!

Last year their men’s fourth league team and under 12’s both won their premiership titles.

This year is the first year they are offering a SAP Program for the 9–11 year olds who want more from their soccer.

Girls’ teams are flourishing on the back of the Matildas’ performance at last year’s World Cup. And overall the club is an exciting grassroots place to be.

Welcome to season 2024! GO SHORES! shoresunited.com.au

Byron Ballet courses are designed for the passionate dance student, and parents seeking age appropriate instruction within a holistic environment. They offer solid foundations in dance technique, training students in a disciplined and nurturing way, cultivating the artistic and joyful essence of dance in everybody.

Keen students also have the opportunity to perform with the Byron Ballet youth company, which will be performing Sleeping Beauty in 2024, and the Victorian State Ballet company, who collaborate with Byron Ballet during their tour.

Dance courses recommence on 5 February, and include classical, contemporay, jazz and musical theatre. Classes are available for all ages, from preschoolers to adults.

The Northern Rivers Tennis Academy has three experienced coaches. Director and coach Steve Gort was a past junior player and AMT and ITF competitor. He trained in Australia and at the John Newcombe Academy in Texas.

Coach Robert Dorman was a previous ITF player, competing in AMTs and ITFs in Australia and overseas.

Coach Emerald Cooke was a previous AMT player and played college tennis in the US until recently.

The Academy runs junior competitions during the school terms and holiday camps at Ballina and Mullumbimby in the school holidays. They have high profile male and female junior players of all ages, encouraging juniors to participate in tournaments and providing transport through the team bus – instilling team bonding and friendship.

www.byronballet.com byronballet@gmail.com

Contact Steve on 0412 731 814 www.northernriverstennisacademy.com

Ballina - Mullumbimby - Ocean Shores

SOCCER SIGN ON shoresunited.com.au

www.echo.net.au

- Daily squads - Private lessons - Adult clinics - Comp petit titiions - Ev Even ents ts for jun unio iors rs - Ho Holi lida dayy ca camp mpss - We Week ekly ly adu dult lt & soc ocia iall co comp mpss - Co Comp mpet etit itio ion n tr trav avel el - Onsit ite tennis i equipment i t shops h & restringi i ing serviice

Acti Ac tive ve Kid ids s vo vouc uche hers rs For enquires: Contact Steve on 0412 731 814 www.northernriverstennisacademy.com DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ The Byron Shire Echo 19

Love in Lights:

Byron Massage Clinic

A Community Celebration at The Paddock Project

IT’S LOVE MONTH!

The Mullum Chocolate Shop

Unwind and connect with your valentine at the Byron Massage Clinic.

Book a couples massage and let their experienced practitioners tailor treatments to promote deep relaxation and connection.

They also offer “Valentines Love Packs” with lots of goodies to enjoy at home.

Their beautiful clinic is located in the heart of Byron Bay. 6/4 Bay Lane, Byron Bay byronmassageclinic.com.au info@byronmassageclinic.com.au 66856107

This Valentine’s Day show your love with a special gift from The Mullumbimby Chocolate Shop! They have a wide range of great gift ideas, from chocolate hearts to chocolate roses or LOVE bars to Turkish delight, rocky road, chocolate covered nuts and fruits, beautiful gourmet chocolate gift boxes and hampers... and so much more!

As always, they are happy to make up special gift boxes or hampers with your selection of delicious treats!

Shop 1, 104 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby 6684 4825 @themullumbimbychocolateshop

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The Paddock Project is holding a (post) Valentine’s Day picnic on Feb 17th at the home of the iconic LOVE sign. Symbolising our community spirit, the recently transformed sign sets the perfect tone for all heading into town. Join them for a day filled with music, activities and a sense of Mullumbimby’s essence.

64 Argyle Street Mullumbimby www.paddockproject.com @paddock_project

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BYRON MASSAGE CLINIC

A multi-modality clinic in the heart of Byron Bay

Sweet treats for

Valentine's Day Relax and Unwind at Byron Massage Clinic Our experienced practitioners offer a variety of treatments to relieve pain and promote deep relaxation.

Our beautiful clinic offers a range of massage, including: Couples Massage • Remedial • Sports/ Deep Tissue U *Ài} > VÞ U ,i >Ý>Ì U ,iyiÝ }Þ • Lymphatic Drainage • Bowen

Shop 1/104 Dalley St, Mullumbimby

Health Fund Rebates / HICAPS available.

6/4 Bay Lane, Byron Bay 02 6685 6107 info@byronmassageclinic.com.au www.byronmassageclinic.com.au

20 The Byron Shire Echo DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ

BOOK ONLINE

6684 4825 Follow on Fb and Instagram @themullumbimby chocolateshop

Opening hours: Mon–Thurs 9am–5.30pm Fri 9am–6pm Sat 9am–5.30pm Sun 9am–3pm

www.echo.net.au

Kate Nutt Photography

Lingerie No.5

$100 Gift Vouchers

One of the only underwear shops located in Northern NSW, Lingerie No.5 is the perfect place to go to find luxurious, beautiful lingerie for your loved one or yourself this Valentine’s Day. Located in River Street, Ballina, Lingerie No.5 offers a one-on-one professional fitting service in store whilst catering for all shapes, sizes and categories.

As well as a great range of underwear and lingerie, they also stock precious silks, cotton sleepwear, bamboo sleepwear and more!

Visit them to find all your favourite brands including CK underwear, Berlei, Triumph, Simone Perele, Primadonna, Elomi, Godess and Wacoal, Marie Jo, Chantelle, Papinelle and many more!

Celebrate love in style this Valentine’s Day with exclusive Photo shoot Gift Vouchers! Capture the essence of your romance at a charming local location, creating timeless memories. These one hour photoshoot vouchers are available for just $100 (valued at $330). You can also add digital images and prints starting from $85 to cherish those special moments forever.

Contact Kate via phone or email to secure your voucher now. Don’t miss this opportunity to surprise your one and only with a unique and unforgettable Valentine’s gift. Embrace the magic of love through a personalised photoshoot experience.

Lingerie No.5 specialises in fittings such as prosthesis fittings, maternity, shapewear, everyday wear, etc!

Limited vouchers available, so get in touch to secure your spot and make this Valentine’s Day truly special! kate@katenutt.com 0421 274 796

Shop local at Lingerie No.5.

151 River Street, Ballina 6686 2353 Instagram: @lingerie_no_5

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“The Love Club” North Byron Hotel Valentine’s Comedy Night Wednesday 14th Feb - $60pp package Forget the traditional Valentine’s Day —celebrate with your mates, dates, or even your pup! Let’s make it a night of laughter and love.

The affair begins with a glass of bubbles, followed by a delectable dinner and a side of hearty laughter, featuring Jenny Wynter (Love Hack) and Paul McMahon, curated by Mandy Nolan.

The show won’t be suitable for little ones, so it’s best to book a sitter!

Book now for a memorable evening - northbyronhotel.com.au

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MANDY NOLAN PRESENTS

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JENNY WYNTER & PAUL MCMAHON

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www.echo.net.au

6686 2353 | 151 River St, Ballina www.lingerieno5.com.au | Mon–Fri 9–5, Sat 9–3 DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ The Byron Shire Echo 21

ART

GALLERIES

ART KIND Contemporary art gallery and studio providing engaging exhibitions, art classes and workshops 3/18 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay Open Tues-Sat 10am-2pm 0404 946 553 @artkindbyronbay www.artkind.com.au

ARTIST STUDIO GALLERY

GALLERIES

Belongil Beach Open by appointment 0409 604 405 www.janrae.com.au

GALLERY COSMOSIS

%ULJDQWLQH 6Wb Arts & Industrial Estate Byron Bay 0431 331 205 gallerycosmosis.com linktr.ee/gallerycosmosisbyronbay

MACKAY HARRISON GALLERIES 79 Bayview Drive, East Ballina Welcome by appointment Artist/sculptor David Harrison 0412 664 284

NORTHERN RIVERS COMMUNITY GALLERY Cnr Cherry & Crane Sts, Ballina Open Wed–Fri 10am–4pm, Sat–Sun 9.30am–1pm 02 6681 0530 nrcgballina.com.au

LENNOX ARTS COLLECTIVE

painting | photography | woodwork | ceramics jewellery | classes | workshops 2/72 Ballina Street, Lennox Head Open Tues–Sun 10am–3pm lennoxartscollective@gmail.com FB & Insta: @lennoxartscollective

LONE GOAT GALLERY

28 Lawson St, Byron Bay (Located in the Byron Library building) Open Wed–Sat 10am–4pm lonegoatgallery.com.au

H’ART GALLERY

Local art in the heart of Mullumbimby Mullumbimby Comprehensive Health Centre, 60 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby 0401 647 325

KARENA WYNN-MOYLAN, FINE ART World award-winning contemporary realism art direct from the artist at her Bangalow studio Phone or text 0414 822 196

MIST GALLERY

Shop 1B-51 Tweed Coast Rd, Cabarita Beach 0419 870 305 mist.gallery.cabarita@gmail.com FB & Insta: @mistgallery

MULLUMBIMBY CLAYWORKERS GALLERY Drill Hall Complex, 2 Jubilee Ave, Mullumbimby Open Thurs–Sat 10am–2pm mullumclayworkers.com

NIMBIN ARTISTS GALLERY 47 Cullen Street, Nimbin Opening hours 10am–4pm daily 02 6689 1444 www.nimbinartistsgallery.org

KRISTIE VAUGHAN After a 13–year career as a professional photographer, local painter Kristie Vaughan brings a seasoned eye to her canvas, skilfully navigating the subtle nuances of changing light and colour whilst capturing the beauty found in life’s imperfections.

In her newest body of work and upcoming solo H[KLELWLRQ bΖVODQG 'UHDP 9DXJKDQ ZKROHKHDUWHGO\ expresses her lifelong connection to balmy Australian summers with more than a dozen new works on canvas. There will be a community event to celebrate the opening of the show where visitors will have the opportunity to meet the artist, followed by a threeZHHN H[KLELWLRQ DWb$UW .LQG *DOOHU\bLQ %\URQ %D\ b The gallery will be serving complimentary refreshments and an art play table will be set up for opening night visitors to get creative. All welcome, this is a family-friendly event, doors open at 5pm on Thursday 8 February. Art Kind is located in the Arts and Industrial Estate at 3/18 Centennial Circuit, Byron %D\ b To register your interest in attending the opening event, contact the gallery via the website DWbDUWNLQG FRP DXbRU SKRQH

ARTIST’S HOME GALLERY

Byron Bay Landscape inspired works imparting a ‘spirit of place’ Open by appointment 02 6685 5317 jaypearse.com

STUDIO SUVIRA

Ceramics & Sculpture Gallery Home gallery and sculpture garden 28 Left Bank Rd, Mullumbimby FDOO WH[W ȴUVW suviramcdonald.com

TWEED REGIONAL GALLERY & MARGARET OLLEY ART CENTRE Gallery hours: Wed–Sun 10am–5pm Cafe open 9.30am–4pm 2 Mistral Rd, Murwillumbah 02 6670 2790 artgallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au

22 The Byron Shire Echo DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ

Term 1 Short Courses & Weekend Workshops enrolments now open byronschoolofart.com www.echo.net.au

BSA short courses and weekend workshops Byron School of Art has a full program of short courses and ZHHNHQG ZRUNVKRSV FRPLQJ XS LQ 7HUP LQFOXGLQJ SDLQWLQJ PL[HG PHGLD FHUDPLFV FRQWHPSRUDU\ ZDWHUFRORXU DQG FROODJH )RU PRUH H[SHULHQFHG VWXGHQWV WKH\ DOVR KDYH ([SDQG \RXU 3UDFWLFH DQG PHQWRULQJ DYDLODEOH (QUROPHQWV DUH QRZ RSHQ RQ %6$ȇV ZHEVLWH &ODVVHV ȴOO XS TXLFNO\ VR EH VXUH \RX GRQȇW PLVV RXW byronschoolofart.com

Image: Andrea Portela Moreno in her studio.

Photography @karlaconroyphotography

Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre

Byron Writers Festival Byron Writers Festival’s annual four week Membership 'ULYH LV NLFNLQJ R΍ RQ 0RQGD\ )HEUXDU\ ZLWK DOO new or renewing members going into the draw for VRPH IDQWDVWLF SUL]HV LQFOXGLQJ IHVWLYDO SDVVHV 6R ZK\ EHFRPH D PHPEHU RI %\URQ :ULWHUV )HVWLYDO" Are you... · Keen to support Byron Writers Festival and the ZULWLQJ FRPPXQLW\ LQ UHJLRQDO $XVWUDOLD" · Interested in receiving pre-sale access and discounts WR IHVWLYDO WLFNHWV" y 6HHNLQJ WR EH SDUW RI D FRPPXQLW\ RI UHDGHUV ZULWHUV DQG VWRU\WHOOHUV" y $Q HPHUJLQJ ZULWHU ORRNLQJ IRU ZD\V WR FRQQHFW OHDUQ DQG JURZ" y 3DVVLRQDWH DERXW ERRNV UHDGLQJ DQG LGHDV" 6LJQ XS WR WKH QHZVOHWWHU IROORZ %\URQ :ULWHUV )HVWLYDO RQ VRFLDO PHGLD RU YLVLW E\URQZULWHUVIHVWLYDO com/become-a-member/ to check out the prizes and MRLQ DV D PHPEHU WRGD\

Art in the heart of Mullumbimby Art-lovers look no further than the Mullumbimby Comprehensive Health Centre - home to the H’Art *DOOHU\ )HDWXULQJ PRUH WKDQ DUWZRUNV E\ ORFDO DUWLVWV WKH JDOOHU\ LV DQ DEVROXWH PXVW VHH *UDSKLF LPSUHVVLRQLVW 6ROYHLJ FXUDWHV WKH WZR ȵRRU JDOOHU\ DQG URWDWHV WKH H[KLELWLRQ HYHU\ VL[ PRQWKV The space provides local artists a platform for an H[WHQGHG SHULRG WR GLVSOD\ DQG VHOO WKHLU ZRUN 9LVLWRUV WR WKH KHDOWK FHQWUH DUH JUHHWHG E\ WKH DUW which provides a distracting escape from stress and FRQFHUQ ZKLOH FUHDWLQJ D YLEUDQW KHDOLQJ DWPRVSKHUH &RQYHQLHQWO\ ORFDWHG RQ 6WXDUW 6WUHHW WKH +ȇ$UW Gallery is art in the heart of Mullumbimby.

Enquire at info@solveig.com.au.

byronwritersfestival.com

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9DQLVKLQJ 3RLQW LV WKH ȴUVW VROR H[KLELWLRQ E\ HPHUJLQJ Northern Rivers artist Andrea Portela Moreno. +HU ODUJH VFDOH SHUVSHFWLYH SDLQWLQJV H[SORUH WKH vanishing point as a visual and conceptual point of mystery. Portela is drawn to urban environments and in particular the bustling energy of Spanish cities.

While navigating these spaces she mentally maps the LQWHUSOD\ RI FRORXUV VKDSHV OLJKW DQG VKDGRZ ZKLFK later becomes the foundation for her paintings. Her style skilfully fuses her love of modern architecture with minimalism and hard-edged abstraction to present works that challenge our perception of space. +HU H[KLELWLRQ 9DQLVKLQJ 3RLQW WDNHV XV RQ D MRXUQH\ WKURXJK WKH NQRZQ DQG WKH XQNQRZQ ZKLOH DOVR questioning the hidden narratives that lie beyond the horizon. gallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au 02 6670 2790 2 Mistral Road (Cnr Tweed Valley Way), Murwillumbah South

Vanishing Point Andrea Portela Moreno

GALLERY

Continues until 3 March 2024 Andrea Portela Moreno Fuencarral II (detail) 2023 acrylic on board, 150 x 120 cm, Image courtesy the artist © The artist A Tweed Regional Gallery initiative. An outcome of the PLATFORM program.

Art in the heart INSPIRED LOCAL ART Open Wednesday – Sunday | 2 Mistral Rd, Murwillumbah | gallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au The Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre is a Tweed Shire Council Community Facility and is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW.

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DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ The Byron Shire Echo 23

Mungo MacCallum’s Crossword #529 1

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Quick Clues

ACROSS

ACROSS

1. Robber first gentle, then angry (6) 5. Corrupted smile set forever (8) 9. Without any reason, a cat grabs libertarian Ayn (2,6) 10. Social insect, game of chasings, suggested Spooner as a short cut to a hot drink (3,3) 11. Rabin, an unexpectedly brilliant idea (10) 13. Current Australian politicians (4) 14. Fight down (4) 15. Cleaners put off by lavatory (10) 18. French magazine is in even contest (5,5) 20. Pleased for good boy (4) 21. Run down and turn back savage beast (4) 23. Very small units of radiation for grandmother, with love and remedies around India (10) 25. Fight back at belligerent state (6) 26. Get to the front – not so much, having been decapitated! (8) 28. Response to a sneeze: bad smell, turn over fewer! (5,3) 29. Better bottom, not many available (6)

1. Corsair (6) 5. Enduring (8) 9. Haphazardly (2,6) 10. Sachet to make brew (3,3) 11. Solve problems as a group (10) 13. Units for measuring electricity (4) 14. Depressed (4) 15. Washing powders (10) 18. French glossy magazine (5,5) 20. Delighted (4) 21. Stream (4) 23. Units of radioactivity (10) 25. Ancient Greek city-state (6) 26. Without a leader; foolish (8) 28. Gesundheit! (5,3) 29. Meagre (6)

DOWN

2. Among other things (Latin) (5,4) 3. Cupidity (7) 4. Finish (3) 5. Speed of a musical piece (5) 6. Rock formed by the action of heat and pressure (11) 7. Seepage (7) 8. Rascal (5) DOWN 12. Rock formed from compaction of 2. Among other things, retail in a separate particles (12) shake-up (5,4) 16. Dram (3) 3. Australian right into a habit of evil 17. Passes over (9) – greed (7) 19. Towards the interior (7) 4. Close aim (3) 5. Turn up for work, came across beat (5) 20. Great ape (7) 6. Encountered a rich Pom – ready to 22. Folded part on front of coat (5) 24. Indian jacket style (5) rock! (11) 7. Shelter, confined space, they said – 27. Donkey (3) but it isn’t secure! (7) 8. Little, affected, mischievous boy (5) Last week’s solution #528 R U B B E R A D D E N D U M 12. I am into sitting on a rock! (12) O R U O U I U 16. Little drink for little child (3) A N A G R A M U P R I S E S 17. Lift art with poems and crosses! (9) D V O I B O H E S C O O P X Y L O P H O N E 19. Where you find the patients – not I E E E E N outside! (7) D R U G A D D I C T B E A N 20. Silverback to turn brook over E N N B R O S E Australia (7) S I D E B L O O D B A T H S E R E S S T 22. The French friend turned up a sort N A R C I S S U S T O T A L of collar (5) O L G S E A R I 24. Indian premier raised domestic T R I P O L I S E C T I O N fowl and game (5) E N U N L P G S T E E R A G E D E F E R S 27. Fool, like son (3)

STARS

BY LILITH Boom crash! Enter the Eastern new year of the mighty Dragon.

Stupendous successes, spectacular collapses and massive natural catastrophes are all traditionally predicted for this swashbuckling and heroic year...

AQUARIUS THE WATER POURER

www.echo.net.au/soap-box

To Hall and Back T he floods of 2022 have taken our history. Taken our stories.

Taken not just the places where we live, but also the places where we gather. It’s a loss that is felt deep in the heart of our communities. And as we rebuild, we stand in the grief, in the absence of what was, and we reflect on what we once had.

Recently I went to book a comedy show into Corndale Hall. A small but vibrant country hall close to the Bexhill shop. It’s a magical meeting place, where locals and hill tribes rub shoulders with Lismore and Clunes, with drop-ins from Bangalow and beyond. Corndale is an unlikely remarkable place.

I rang the booking number only to be told ‘the hall was washed off the stumps love’. It took me a while to register. The hall was dead.

Oh. Really? How had I missed that?

In all the drama and loss, I had forgotten to check if the hall had made it. It hadn’t.

The February flood sent 2.7 metres of water through Corndale Hall. This water of biblical proportions reached to the roof. It wrenched the modest little building from its footings and set it free. It collided with a power pole and was broken into pieces. Such a violent and unexpected death for such a magical place.

It made me enormously sad. That little hall that stood over 130 years, gone.

The hall that has seen funerals and weddings, 21sts, wakes, concerts and possibly the most legendary comedy nights in regional NSW, gone. It was like another death.

My dear friend Jonathan Atherton, a wildly funny irreverent soul, started Corndale Hall Comedy Night in 1993 when his friends, macadamia nut farmers Chris and Pat Jung, asked him to put on a show. And wow did he put on a show. Jonathan invited comedians from around the national circuit to drop in and perform in what became a legendary gig in comedy circles. It ran for decades.

I remember my first Corndale Hall Comedy Night. I had three small

ARIES: Being passionate, direct and decisive, it’s no surprise the confident Dragon’s flash and dash corresponds to Aries in the western zodiac: so far, so fabulous.

Just one caution though, and it’s significant: don’t be so intent on your forward progress this year that you neglect to protect your rear.

Corndale Hall. Photo by Kate Nutt

The February flood sent 2.7 metres of water through Corndale Hall. This water of biblical proportions reached to the roof. It wrenched the modest little building from its footings and set it free.

It collided with a power pole and was broken into pieces. children in tow, the youngest still on my breast. I navigated the dark roads and found what must have been the hall. I felt like I was in a paddock. I was expecting two farmers and an esky.

I walked straight on stage to face 200 people. It was like an image from a Bruegel painting. Bearded men holding beers, women nursing children, women in the kitchen cutting cake, men in flannelette shirts squashed next to city types, all ruddy-faced and bright. All laughing together making this giant organism of joy. That was the phenomenon of Corndale Hall Comedy Night. I stood there for a moment blinking in shock and asked ‘Where did all you people come from?’

CANCER: The sometimes pompous and overbearing Dragon isn’t sentimental, romantic or caring about whose sensitivities it offends.

The good news is that its unsinkable buoyancy invites your inner entertainer out to play, which is set to lift and disperse those recurring periods of Cancerian pessimism.

TAURUS: Methodical, cautious Taureans aren’t likely to go overboard, even in the daring and showy Dragon year, though they could become more flamboyant, take bigger risks and venture way past their normal comfort zone. Biggest no-no this year?

A stubborn, inflexible, ‘I know best’ attitude.

LEO: Majestic and dazzling, Dragon’s a born leader: charismatic and demanding, whose presence and magnetism can attract spectacular good fortune. Or, for those Leos straying into its negative qualities of being headstrong, stubborn and wilful, it can mean calamitous losses, so for a successful year, best keep egos in check.

GEMINI: The magical Dragon is full of vitality, constantly on the go, enthusing and inspiring everyone, surrounded by admirers. But unless this fiery year is contained and not dissipated, its grand plans can go up in smoke. Dragon year’s most rewarding focus for Geminis will be discipline and regularity.

VIRGO: Not bothering with trivialities and small stuff, the daring and ambitious Dragon rushes in where angels fear to tread. So you may have already guessed that this makes for a year in which your sterling Virgoan virtues of attention to detail and perusal of the fine print will be absolutely invaluable.

24 The Byron Shire Echo DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ

MANDY NOLAN’S

LIBRA: Providing you can manage to stay stable and reasonably unspooked by the Dragon year’s dramatic fireworks, your Libran skills of tact and diplomacy – negotiating, conciliating and resolving conflicts – are likely to be in big demand, and you may be a premium peacemaker during this tempestuous year.

SCORPIO: The Dragon is a powerful force, but not a subtle one – nor is it cunning, contained or particularly interested in keeping secrets. So, wily ones, if you can direct this tremendous and intense energy towards projects that benefit the greater good, this will definitely be a year to remember.

SAGITTARIUS: The direct and forthright Dragon, like your Sagittarian self, operates best when devoted to a goal or working for a committed cause, so this year’s set to keep your inner fires stoked on that special mission or project. Your personal challenge? Staying open to differing or opposing viewpoints.

Everywhere. This hall was a meeting place for people from our entire region.

Jonathan knew that. It’s why even when he moved to Singapore and created a comedy scene there, he kept coming back. Corndale Hall Comedy Night was one of my top five gigs, ever, and I’ve performed thousands of gigs over 38 years. Hearing Corndale Hall was gone shocked me. It was hard not to see the death of the hall and the death of my friend as one giant metaphysical tragedy.

My friend Jonathan sadly passed on 8 February 2022. Just weeks before the beloved hall where he did his finest work was destroyed. My friend was washed off his stumps too. Cancer has a way of doing that. Suddenly and with cruel ferocity. He was gone so suddenly.

We must rebuild Corndale Hall. It is a cultural keystone in our region. It’s a place where magic happened. And when it is rebuilt, I promise to put on a comedy show that would do Jonathan and the old hall proud.

My flood reflection is that it is not enough to just rebuild the places where we live and where we gather.

We must also rebuild the stories of who we are. Stories that reach back into the history of the loss, but also into the narrative of who we are now, and who we will become.

Halls are places where stories are made.

Where stories are told.

They aren’t just buildings. They are us.

CAPRICORN: The Dragon has high standards and thinks big, just like a Capricorn. But it’s also imperious, impetuous and uncontrolled, so if you’re tempted to splash out and take a big risk this year, know that while Dragon fortunes can be enormous, failures could be on a similarly grand scale.

AQUARIUS: Like water pourers, the Dragon’s a natural pioneer, innovative and independent, but too headstrong and bent on doing things its own way to be sympathetic or nurturing, making this definitely a year for tempering Aquarian gusto with kindness and humility. Let boldness be your friend, but tread gently.

PISCES: Mutable Pisceans could easily get swept up in grandiose Dragon dreams. But be aware that the tidal momentum of this motivational, inspirational year can take you for a glorious ride, or dump you unceremoniously.

That said, stay open to facing new opportunities and experiences with grace and determination.

www.echo.net.au

Volume 38 #35 7–13 February, 2023 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

A JOURNEY FROM CRISIS TO HOPE LiMBOLAND is a poignant amalgam of true stories from around the country portraying the impact of natural disasters and the power of community when times get hard.

With a 35-year legacy, Full-On Theatre is a theatre company renowned for its commitment to authentic storytelling.

Based between Byron and Lismore, their works are always inspired by true stories spanning personal narratives, community impact and global perspectives. Their performances are characterized by lively performances, comic elements, original live music, and powerful narratives, creating engaging and impactful theatrical experiences.

Full-On Theatre returns to the Northern Rivers with their new show, LiMBOLAND and an exciting free theatre-making and acting workshop for youth under 25!

A powerful multicharacter play depicting the struggles of survivors and the heroes who emerged from Australia’s unforgettable summer of 2020, played

by Aurora Kurth and Dave Houston.

LiMBOLAND takes to the stage with the true stories of fires, floods and storms by those left stranded in a tent city of broken dreams and the many who step up to give a helping hand.

Showing at the Brunswick Picture House with a complimentary gourmet BBQ and meet-and-greet after the show, those on the coast will get a first look at this brand new work, based on local stories.

Then, just in time for the floodiversary, they move to the Star Court Theatre.

Two shows for the public, services and schools with a Q&A and debrief after the show and a complimentary drink on arrival with nibbles for the evening show. www.echo.net.au

Thanks to the support of the National Resilience and Recovery Agency, tickets to LiMBOLAND are subsidised to $5.

To ensure everyone feels supported and safe, there will be mental health first-aid support for anyone that just needs to sit with or speak with someone. It’s been one hell of a few years, and LiMBOLAND brings a welcomed voice to tell the stories of our area.

The project will also host free youth workshops – Full-On Theatre is excited to present a unique opportunity for aspiring young actors, with an exclusive day-long theatre-making workshop in Lismore. Led by Full-On Theatre Director, Dave Houston and acclaimed actress, Aurora Kurth, this program will provide an immersive and enriching experience in the world of professional theatre.

Open to youth aged 13-25 years, topics of natural disaster and stories collected from the development of LiMBOLAND will be explored. Completely funded and free, the workshop will run from 9.30am to 5.30pm on Sunday, 25 February at the Lismore Workers Club with a catered lunch and performance for family and friends at 4pm that afternoon.

Full-On Theatre invites audiences to join them on a journey of authentic storytelling, where every show is a unique blend of entertainment, social impact, and a celebration of the human experience.

LiMBOLAND at Brunswick Picture House on Saturday, 17 February at 4.30pm and the Star Court Theatre, Lismore on Friday, 23 February, at 1pm and 7.30pm.Tickets from www.fullon. biz or scan the QR code for all the details and to book your places and tickets quick – spots are limited!

WHAT’S THE FUTURE FOR PSYCHEDELiCASSiSTED THERAPY iN AUSTRALiA? A PANEL DiSCUSSiON

FEBRUARY 13 - 6PM

BYRON THEATRE .COM

DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ The Byron Shire Echo 25

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

CREDO FOR THE PEOPLE THEY’RE HOT AND THEY’RE BACK Look out ladies, the hunks from Sydney Hotshots are back to sizzle and seduce for one night only with a brand-new killer show. The two-hour production is a visual feast, choreographed and developed by Australia’s leading professionals. Their hand-picked selection of dreamy guys will have the ladies up from their chairs, screaming for more. With a totally interactive production, The Secret Fantasies Tour is the perfect night out with the girls. A high-energy production with a perfect mix of killer dance routines, eye-catching costumes, acrobatics, and jaw-dropping athletic male physiques.

The guys are selected from hundreds of men nationwide and are put through an intensive Hotshots Bootcamp all graduating with an A+ in hip-thrusting.

These fellas come from various backgrounds: tradies, cops, farmers and even a fireman. It’s hosted by seasoned professional Paul Reynolds (original cast member of Manpower Australia and Las Vegas headliner). Reynold’s showmanship and cheeky banter with audiences makes for an extra entertaining evening. It’s the most fun a girl can have standing up.

See the Hotshots at the Ballina RSL on Friday, February 23 at 7.30pm.

Connect your business to 10,000 loyal locals

CELEBRATING DEE DEE On Saturday, Dee Dee Lavell’s Celebration of Life concert will be held at the Courthouse Hotel.

Singer/songwriter Dee Dee Lavell was a much-loved and respected resident of Mullumbimby for many years.

Dee travelled the world performing and was one of the original members of The Honeybees.

She played at festivals and top venues around Australia, releasing two successful albums both here and in the US, where she lived for many years until she sadly passed away in 2023.

To farewell this popular, sassy woman – with a big heart and a big voice – friends from Sydney, Northern Rivers and Brisbane are coming together to present a night of music celebrating her life.

The Honeybees, featuring Tina Harrod, Belle Hendrik, and Liza Ohlback will present some of Dee’s favourite songs with Greg Ohlback, John Hill, Andy Thompson, Rod Coe and Steve McLeod.

This stellar lineup includes Peter Claydon and Barry Ferrier, Barry Milan, Andrew Baxter, Kellie Knight, Rebecca Ireland, Ilona Harker, Amanda Jane, Shelly Brown, Miss Amber and Stukulele, Clelia Adams and Doug & Biskit.

Join them for a night of music with a spirit and verve Dee would be proud of.

Courthouse Hotel, Mullumbimby, 7pm on Saturday, 10 February. Tickets are free – donations would be appreciated to cover expenses.

With over 15 members of The Central Coast and Northern Rivers Ephemera Choir, CREDO is an inspiring manifesto of freedom, a unique production of storytelling through music and a multi-disciplinary artist’s eye.

Composed and created by Yantra de Vilder, CREDO expands and develops award-winning music, art, and films from a film festival audience into a dynamic theatrical event.

Immersed in stunning film visuals, this multi-arts manifesto was written during lockdown and the Northern Rivers floods.

‘Credo means ‘to believe’ – to believe in the power of arts and culture holding the space for a brave new world.

I believe music and the arts have the power to lift our spirits. I believe they are essential services. I believe in a brave new world where we rise up for creativity and humanity,’ says Yantra de Vilder.

A love of music and the environment led de Vilder to start the community-based initiative Pianos for the People, and she brought a pre-loved grand piano to The Aquarius Festival. ‘Pianos are reinvented trees’, says de Vilder who is returning to the rainbow region after experiencing the power of music and the arts during her involvement to save the forests with the Terania Creek protests in 1979.

In November 2022 as Founder of Pianos for The People, Yantra de Vilder, with the help of her patron, David Helfgott, delivered 12 pre-loved pianos to flood-affected families and public spaces in the Northern Rivers.

May 2023 marked the arrival of six more recycled pianos to Northern Rivers destinations, including The Paddock in Mullumbimby, The Village in Byron Bay and The Church of Aquarius in Nimbin.

BayFM sponsorship is the trusted way to reach buyers in Byron and beyond. ˊ˛˘˧˛˘˥ ˬˢ˨ ˦˘˟˟ ˦ˢ˟˔˥ ˢ˥ Ё˫ ˠˢ˟˔˥˦ʟ ˪˘Ϟ˟˟ ˪ˢ˥˞ ˪˜˧˛ ˬˢ˨ ˧ˢ ˪˥˜˧˘ʟ ˣ˥ˢ˗˨˖˘ ˔ˡ˗ ˕˥ˢ˔˗˖˔˦˧ ˠ˘˦˦˔˚˘˦ ˧˛˔˧ ˖˨˧ ˧˛˥ˢ˨˚˛ ˧ˢ ˬˢ˨˥ ˣ˔˥˧˜˖˨˟˔˥ ˠ˔˥˞˘˧ʡ ˇ˔˟˞ ˧ˢ ʽ˘˙˙ ˢˡ ʣʧʦʪ ʫʫʧ ʧʣʨ ˔˕ˢ˨˧ ˢ˨˥ ˖ˢˠˣ˘˧˜˧˜˩˘ ˥˔˧˘˦ ˔ˡ˗ ˙˔˦˧ ˧˨˥ˡ˔˥ˢ˨ˡ˗ ˢ˥ ˛˘˔˗ ˧ˢ ˕˔ˬ˙ˠʡˢ˥˚

This concert of Credo celebrates the launch of the Pianos for the People at Kohinur Hall.

Free concert for the community on Saturday, 17 February from 5.30pm, performance from 7.30pm.

Food and beverages available for purchase from 5.30pm (cash only). The garden will have lights and fire pits.

The venue has chairs, please bring a cushion or blanket if you would like more comfort. Children are welcome, however with respect for the performance, must be taken outside if unsettled or noisy.

FEBRUARY 26 The Byron Shire Echo DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ

Composer, arts activist, and founder of Pianos for the People, Yantra de Vilder, is bringing a free concert – CREDO, a multi-arts performance – to Kohinur Hall on Saturday, 17 Ferbruary.

1-2 SOWETO GOSPEL CHOiR 7 DEAR ENGLAND | 13 PSYCHEDELiC ASSiSTED THERAPY 15 BUENA ViSTA CONCERT 16-17 HONEY SLiDERS PLAY THE BEATLES | 18 DAViD HELFGOTT | 20 LENNOX: BYRON LEGEND iN MY LiViNG ROOM THEATRE .COM 29 ROAD TO PATAGONiA

More information www.yantra.com.au.

www.echo.net.au

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

THE FUTURE FOR PSYCHEDELIC -ASSISTED THERAPY A discussion will be held at the Byron Theatre next Tuesday where a panel of experts will talk about the future of psychedelic-assisted therapy in Australia.

The Australian public is understandably confused about psychedelic-assisted therapy. Australian psychedelic-assisted therapy was way behind the field until a shock announcement by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in February 2023 that led Australia to become the first country in the world to confirm psychedelic-assisted therapy as a mainstream treatment.

Despite psychedelic-assisted therapy being approved as a mainstream clinical treatment from 1 July 2023, it is still practically impossible for Australians to access psychedelic-assisted therapy in a clinical practice.

The rollout appears to be happening at a snail’s pace and is likely to be exorbitantly expensive – well out of the reach of those who need it most.

Last week Seven spoke to Dr Stephen Bright, PhD (Clin Psych), MAPS, who is the Senior Lecturer on Addiction at the School of Medical & Health Sciences at the Edith Cowan University.

Dr Bright, what’s going on with psychedelics?

In the context of the TGA announcement, psychiatrists in Australia would be able to become authorised to prescribe MDMA for the treatment of PTSD and some treatment-resistant depression.

There’s been a lot of media hype and some misinformation around what this means.

While Psychedelic Institute Australia is doing some training in Byron Bay the week the panel’s running, we thought we would use it as an opportunity to open up a conversation with the Byron community given that various stereotypes exist around what the community might think about psychedelics.

What’s at the heart of why this sort of treatment is so important for you?

There’s good evidence that these treatments can be effective for people that don’t respond to other treatments. And I’ve worked in the drug space for the past 20 years advocating for decriminalisation, harm reduction, and ultimately, some sort of regulated safe supply.

In a nutshell, I don’t have any problem with people wanting to alter their state of consciousness through any drug, providing there’s no harm to other people.

But when we’re talking about this in the context of mental health, it makes it a whole lot more complex. And I think if you speak to anybody that’s had a powerful psychedelic experience they would attest that it can have a profound impact on a person’s life.

From my personal perspective, it’s really important that as this is starting to be rolled out – as something that’s going to be mainstream and the public is going to be able to access – to ensure that it’s done in a way that people are able to make informed decisions and have a good understanding of what the potential implications are of having a psychedelic experience. Things like ontological shock or questioning one’s religious beliefs, and those sorts of things, it can have a really powerful impact on people’s life trajectory.

I don’t have any problem with people doing that in their own time and usually people are doing that in a fairly informed way, but when we’re rolling this out as a mental health treatment, it sort of makes things a little more dangerous in terms of the information that’s been put out, and the potential hype and expectations that people are going to have coming into these treatments – and the potential disappointment, because they’re definitely not working for everyone in the clinical trials.

It is an experimental treatment at this stage, Australia is the first country to allow the drugs to be prescribed outside of clinical research.

Other members of the panel include: A/Prof Petra Skeffington (Murdoch University), Renee Harvey (Enosis Therapeutics), and Prof James Bennett-Levy (Southern Cross University). The panel will be facilitated by Mick O’Regan.

What’s the future for Psychedelic-assisted therapy? will be held next Tuesday, 13 February at the Byron Theatre at 6pm.

All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to Fletcher Street Cottage to support the work it does with Byron Bay’s homeless. www.echo.net.au

DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ The Byron Shire Echo 27

GIG GUIDE

CINEMA

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

DEADLINE 5PM ON FRIDAYS

WEDNESDAY 7 Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, LEIGH JAMES Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 7PM HARRY NICHOLS Q BYRON THEATRE 1PM & 7PM NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE: DEAR ENGLAND Q BANGALOW BOWLO 7.30PM BANGALOW BRACKETS OPEN MIC Q ELTHAM HOTEL 6.30PM NOT QUITE FOLK JAM Q THE LEVEE, LISMORE, 7.30PM DJ BIG RED & FRIENDS

THURSDAY 8 Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, PHIL & TILLEY Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 7PM HARRY NICHOLS Q THE ROCKS, BYRON BAY, 6PM INO PIO Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM CALLUM CREELMAN Q BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 7PM CHEEKY CABARET Q LENNOX HOTEL HOTEL STAGE 8PM THURSDAY JAM NIGHT Q THE LEVEE, LISMORE, 5PM ROD MURRAY – A TRIBUTE TO JAZZ

FRIDAY 9 Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, SUPERCHEEZE Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 5PM ALEX TILLEY + SALARYMEN Q NORTH BYRON HOTEL 5.30PM DJ YAZMIN Q THREE BLUE DUCKS, EWINGSDALE, 1PM ZAC & JOE VINYL DJS + FELICITY LAWLESS Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM ADAM BROWN Q BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 7PM CHEEKY CABARET

Q WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM DJ PAPA BITCHO Q ST JOHN’S SCHOOL HALL, MULLUMBIMBY, 7.30PM ECSTATIC DANCE MULLUMBIMBY WITH DJ PUMAH Q MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 8PM KRAPPYOKEE WITH JESS Q CLUB LENNOX 7PM JACK PERRY Q BALLINA RSL LEVEL ONE 10AM DEAN DOYLE WITH SOPHISTICATION MORNING MELODIES Q CHERRY STREET SPORTS CLUB, BALLINA, 7PM TIM STOKES Q METROPOLE, LISMORE, 6.30PM KARAOKE + DJ MAGNUS

Q BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK 6PM LUKE YEAMAN Q CHERRY STREET SPORTS CLUB, BALLINA, 8PM HARRY NICHOLS BAND Q METROPOLE, LISMORE, 7PM JESSE MORRIS BAND + SKY EATER + DJ OREN SELECTA Q MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES CLUB 6PM GLENN SHIELDS Q KINGSCLIFF BEACH HOTEL 5PM PSEUDO ECHO Q KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 6PM ROCKIN’ RON Q SHEOAK SHACK, FINGAL HEAD, 7PM RAW ORDIO

Q COOLANGATTA HOTEL 7PM COOLY ROOTS – BOB MARLEY BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE

Q KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 6PM NATHAN KAYE

SUNDAY 11

SATURDAY 10

Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, THE SWAMP CATS

Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, THE MAJESTIC NIGHTS

Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 7PM DJ REFLEX

Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 7PM JEROME WILLIAMS DUO + DJ MY HAPPY PLACE

Q KARKALLA, BYRON BAY, 10AM LOKI HOUGH

Q THREE BLUE DUCKS, EWINGSDALE, 1PM ZAC & JOE VINYL DJS + MARK CROTTI Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4.30PM THE WHISKEYS Q BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 4PM & 7PM CHEEKY CABARET Q BANGALOW BOWLO SING OUT SOCIAL Q BANGALOW HOTEL EVAN MANTARRI Q WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM DJ OL Q COURTHOUSE HOTEL, MULLUMBIMBY, 7PM DEE DEE LAVELL’S CELEBRATION OF LIFE CONCERT Q CLUB LENNOX 7PM MILO GREEN TRIO

HAVE YOU SENT US YOUR GIG? gigs@echo.net.au

MONDAY 12

Q TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE SHOWROOM 2.30PM COME FLY WITH ME

Q MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES CLUB 6.30PM MARTIN WAY

Q NORTH BYRON HOTEL 5PM DJ CORQI

Q BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK 2.30PM SUNDAY BLUES CLUB SESSIONS HARRY NICHOLS BLUES BAND Q SHAWS BAY HOTEL, BALLINA, 3PM SUNDAY SESSIONS FT. DISCO DISCIPLES Q ELTHAM HOTEL 2.30PM NEIL MCCANN Q THE LEVEE, LISMORE, 4PM MICK DALEY Q PEARCES CREEK HALL, PIERCES CREEK, 3PM THE HEART COLLECTORS Q SALTBAR, KINGSCLIFF, 1PM JOAQUIN RUDD

Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, GUY KACHEL Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 7PM HAYLEY GRACE

TUESDAY 13 Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, JON J BRADLEY Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 7PM LEIGH JAMES Q BYRON THEATRE 5PM WHAT’S THE FUTURE FOR PSYCHEDELIC-ASSISTED THERAPY? A PANEL DISCUSSION Q THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 8PM THE CHATS + MEAN JEANS, THE PRIZE & THE GHOULIES Q MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES CLUB 11AM BACK TO THE TIVOLI

Q THREE BLUE DUCKS, EWINGSDALE, 1.30PM MOE PARKER TRIO + PHIL HOWELL Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4PM RAW ORDIO Q BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 6PM CHEEKY CABARET

WEDNESDAY 14

Q NORTH BYRON HOTEL 12.30PM ANIMAL VENTURA, 4PM DJ KAI NOON

Q CLUB LENNOX 4PM JB’S BLUES BREAKERS FEAT. LUKE BENNETT

Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, JAMEL BOUKABOU Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 7PM JOSH LEE HAMILTON Q BANGALOW BOWLO 7.30PM BANGALOW BRACKETS OPEN MIC Q BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 7PM THE VAGINA CONVERSATIONS #9 Q DUNOON SPORTS CLUB 4PM OPEN MIC ‘PLUCKERS AND POETS’

Session Times

Ballina Fair Cinema

Q BANGALOW HOTEL LEIGH JAMES Q MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 3PM OPEN-MIC WITH THE SWAMP CATS Q WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM DJ ABEL EL TORO

Thurs 8 February – Wed 14 February ANYONE BUT YOU (MA15+) Daily except Wed: 4:45PM, 7:50PM. Wed: 4:45PM

ARGYLLE (M)

47/84 Kerr St, Ballina

MIGRATION (G)

Daily except Sat, Sun: 10:00AM. Sat, Sun: 10:00AM, 12:45PM

Thurs, Fri, Mon, Tues: 10:20AM, 4:20PM, 7:15PM. Sat, Sun: 10:00AM, 4:45PM, 7:40PM. Wed: 1:20PM, 4:20PM, 7:15PM

POOR THINGS (MA15+)

FORCE OF NATURE: THE DRY 2 (M)

WONKA (PG)

Thurs, Fri, Mon, Tues: 1:20PM

THE BEEKEEPER (MA15+) Daily: 12:00PM, 3:10PM

Daily except Wed: 12:40PM

Daily: 10:15AM, 2:20PM, 5:30PM, 7:00PM

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

SCAN TO JOIN FOR FREE

INSPECTOR SUN (PG) Sat, Sun: 2:45PM

MADAME WEB (CTC)

Wed: 10:45AM, 12:40PM, 7:50PM

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!

Submit your event to the Echo’s free Gig Guide.

Running in The Echo and online at echo.net.au.

28 The Byron Shire Echo DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ

Ballina Fair Shopping Centre FREE parking *NFT = No Free Tickets

Book Online at palacecinemas.com.au

PRISCILLA – HER STORY In 1959, 14-year-old Priscilla Beaulieu was living with her family in Bad Nauheim, West Germany, where her father was stationed in the US military. At a party on the base Priscilla meets 24-year-old renowned singer Elvis Presley, who has been drafted into the military at the peak of his fame. Elvis takes an immediate interest in Priscilla, and the two begin casually dating despite her parents’ concerns over their age difference and Elvis’s celebrity status. The man who is already a meteoric rock-and-roll superstar becomes someone entirely unexpected in private moments: a thrilling crush, an ally in loneliness, a vulnerable best friend.

Elvis eventually returns to the United States after his service, and loses contact with Priscilla, leaving her crestfallen.

In 1962, Elvis reconnects with Priscilla, proclaiming his love for her, and asks that she come to the US to live with him at Graceland, his estate in Memphis, Tennessee. Elvis purchases Priscilla’s airfare to make a visit and the rest, as they say, is history – or rather her story.

From distributor A24 and director Sofia Coppola, who also wrote and produced, comes Priscilla an adaptation of Priscilla Presley’s 1985 memoir Elvis and Me. Starring Cailee Spaeny as Priscilla Presley and Jacob Elordi as Elvis, this biopic has received rave reviews from critics following its Venice Film Festival premiere last month with Spaeny winning the Best Actress award and being praised by Rolling Stone as an ‘absolute marvel’ for her performance.

Through Priscilla’s eyes, Academy Award winner Coppola tells the unseen side of a great American myth in Elvis and Priscilla’s long courtship and turbulent marriage, from a German army base to his dream-world estate at Graceland, in this deeply felt and ravishingly detailed portrait of love, fantasy, and fame.

Priscilla is on at Palace Cinemas

Session Times

Thurs 8 February – Wed 14 February

108 Jonson St, Byron Bay

SPECIAL SCREENINGS 11:00AM, 1:20PM, 3:40PM. Tues: 1:00PM, 2:40PM, MEAN GIRLS (PG) Sat, Sun: 11:00AM, 4:30PM, 8:20PM. Wed: Daily except Sun, Wed: CLIFF RICHARD: 3:40PM. Wed: 11:00AM 1:00PM, 8:15PM 11:15AM, 1:20PM. Sun: THE BLUE SAPPHIRE TOUR BOB MARLEY: ONE 11:15AM, 1:10PM. Wed: ALL FILMS 2023 (G) LOVE (CTC) STARTING WED 14TH 1:20PM Sun: 1:30PM Wed: 11:15AM, 1:30PM, ONE LIFE (PG) ALL OF US STRANGERS (MA15+) 3:45PM, 6:00PM, 8:15PM Daily except Wed: 11:00AM NT LIVE: DEAR (CTC) Daily except Sun, ENGLAND DUNE (RE-RELEASE) (M) POOR THINGS (MA15+) Fri, Sun: 6:00PM. Sat: Wed: 11:10AM, 1:15PM, Daily except Wed: Thurs, Mon, Tues: 6:00PM. Sun: 11:10AM, 3:00PM. Wed: 1:30PM 3:40PM. Wed: 3:20PM 11:10AM, 1:40PM, 7:45PM. 6:15PM. Wed: 1:15PM Fri: 11:10AM, 1:40PM, (M) THE NOTEBOOK: FALLEN LEAVES 8:15PM. Sat, Sun: 11:10AM, 20TH ANNIVERSARY (PG ANATOMY OF A FALL STARTING WED 14TH (MA15+) NFT 1:40PM, 8:30PM. Wed: Wed: 11:10AM, 1:50PM, Wed: 6:30PM Daily except Wed: 11:00AM, 7:45PM 4:00PM, 6:30PM THE ZONE OF 11:30AM, 4:10PM, 6:15PM, PRISCILLA (M) INTEREST (M)MOVIECLUBPREVIEW 7:15PM. Wed: 2:20PM, FORCE OF NATURE: (M) NFT Daily except Sun: THE DRY 2 Tues: 7:00PM 3:45PM, 6:45PM, 8:00PM 3:40PM, 5:45PM. Daily except Wed: ANYONE BUT YOU 11:00AM, 1:20PM, 3:45PM, Sun: 3:55PM, 5:45PM (MA15+) FAMILY FILMS 6:00PM, 7:15PM, 8:20PM. RICEBOY SLEEPS (M) Thurs, Mon, Tues: 2:00PM, INSPECTOR SUN (PG) 3:30PM, 5:30PM. Fri, Sun: Wed: 11:15AM, 1:40PM, Daily except Wed: 3:50PM, 6:00PM, 8:15PM 1:00PM. Wed: 11:30AM Sat, Sun: 1:30PM 2:00PM, 3:30PM. Sat: 2:00PM, 3:30PM, 6:20PM. MADAME WEB (CTC) THE HOLDOVERS (M) MIGRATION (G) Wed: 3:30PM, 5:30PM STARTING WED 14TH Daily: 11:00AM Wed: 11:00AM, 1:00PM, Thurs, Fri, Sun, Mon: 4:30PM, 8:10PM. Sat, 6:00PM, 8:15PM THE JUNGLE BUNCH ARGYLLE (M) NFT (PG) Tues, Wed: 8:10PM Thurs, Fri, Sun, Mon: WORLD TOUR (MA15+) NFT 1:00PM, 2:40PM, 6:45PM, MAY DECEMBER Daily: 11:00AM THE IRON CLAW (MA15+) Daily except Wed: 8:20PM. Sat: 1:00PM, Thurs, Sat, Mon, Tues: WONKA (PG) 4:30PM, 6:45PM, 8:20PM. 3:20PM, 5:40PM. 8:10PM Wed: 5:40PM Thurs, Fri, Mon, Tues: 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

www.echo.net.au

A U N I Q U E O P P O R TU N I TY TO O W N B Y RRI LL C R E E K ’S M O S T P R I Z E D S AN C TU AR Y 1 1 B e d 1 0 B ath 1 0 Car 7. 9 H e ctare s Introducing Evolve Retreat, a stunning, natural oasis with significant landholding located in the pristine ÅÅÚ¬®»»ÔśÅ ś6ÅÝÀÚų`}ÐÀ®À§ś Úé Àś ïÐÅÀś }ïś}À ų ÅÅ»}À§}ÚÚ}ı This is a rare chance to invest in a property with an excellent cashflow

Tania Sh ep p ar d 0438 446 578

0411 757 425 tim@millerrealestate.com.au millerrealestate.com.au

4 BANGALAY COURT, BANGALOW

Price Guide: $1,600,000 4 Auction: Sat 24 Feb 11:00am on site Open: Wed 7 Feb 1:30-2:00pm, Sat 10 Feb 11:15-11:45 am

2

A private oasis in a prized location www.echo.net.au

2

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Eliza be th Hicke y 0 4 74 9 0 8 5 5 5

0411 757 425 tim@millerrealestate.com.au millerrealestate.com.au

648 BANGALOW ROAD, TALOFA

744m2

Price Guide: $2,550,000 - $2,750,000 5 Auction: Sat 17 Feb 11:00am on site Open: Wed 7 Feb 12:30-1:00pm, Sat 10 Feb 9:30-10:00 am

4

2

6114m2

Byron Hinterland Hideaway DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ The Byron Shire Echo 29

77 BEECH DRIVE, SUFFOLK PARK

Stylishly Renovated Home in Popular Suffolk Park 3

2

2

2

711M2 • *HQHURXV ͇RRUSODQ ZLWK WZR OLYLQJ DUHDV SHUIHFW for families • (VWDEOLVKHG ODQGVFDSHG JDUGHQV ZLWK YHJJLH SDWFKHV DQG FKLFNHQ SHQ • 0DLQ EHGURRP LQFOXGHV D ZDON LQ UREH DQG HQVXLWH • ,GHDO ORFDWLRQ FORVH SUR[LPLW\ WR EHDFKHV VKRSV DQG VFKRROV

Su Reynolds 0428 888 660

5HQHH 6FKR͆HOG 0400 028 594

PRICE | 0 0 OPEN | 6DW WK )HEUXDU\ DP

17 KAMALA COURT, COOPERS SHOOT

Exclusive Coopers Shoot Address - Secluded Paradise on 10 Acres with Resort-Style Pool and Breathtaking Views 3

2

2

2 Tara Torkkola 0423 519 698

4.19HA • 8QLQWHUUXSWHG KLQWHUODQG DQG RFHDQ YLHZV • P UHVRUW VW\OH VDOWZDWHU SRRO HVWDEOLVKHG ODQGVFDSHG JDUGHQV DQG P2 RI H[WHUQDO GHFNLQJ DQG RXWGRRU HQWHUWDLQLQJ DUHDV • 1HZO\ UHQRYDWHG LQ ZLWK KLJK YDXOWHG FHLOLQJV DQG D ZHOO DSSRLQWHG NLWFKHQ ZLWK DPSOH VWRUDJH • PLQV WR %\URQ DQG PLQV WR %DQJDORZ

Jasmin McClymont 0434 029 668

PRICE | 0 0 OPEN | 6DW WK )HEUXDU\ DP

35 GORDON STREET, BYRON BAY

Exquisite Coastal Luxury: Award-Winning Designer Masterpiece in Byron Bay 5

2

4

2

• 'RXEOH KHLJKW FHLOLQJV VSDFLRXV RSHQ SODQ OLYLQJ GLQLQJ DQG NLWFKHQ ͆OOHG ZLWK QDWXUDO OLJKW • /DUJH VOLGLQJ GRRUV RSHQ RQWR WKH RXWGRRU HQWHUWDLQLQJ DUHD ZLWK EXLOW LQ %%4 • 3OXQJH SRRO ZLWK ZDWHU IHDWXUH DQG VHSDUDWH Kylin sauna • 0DLQ EHGURRP LV FRPSOHWH ZLWK D GHOX[H HQVXLWH ZLWK EDWKWXE ZDON LQ ZDUGUREH DQG SULYDWH WHUUDFH

PRICE | Contact Agent OPEN | 7KXUV WK )HEUXDU \ SP 6DW WK )HEUXDU\ DP

28 CARLYLE STREET, BYRON BAY

Tara Torkkola 0423 519 698

Denzil Lloyd 0481 864 049

‘Carlyle House’ History Meets Modern Luxury in The Heart of Byron 4

3

5

2

539M2 • 4XLQWHVVHQWLDO OX[XU\ RSXOHQW ͆QLVKHV DQG KLVWRULFDO DXWKHQWLFLW\

Su Reynolds 0428 888 660

• ([SDQVLYH KRPH OLYLQJ VSDFHV LQFOXGLQJ D separate guest suite • 6SDFLRXV DOIUHVFR GLQLQJ DQG RXWGRRU NLWFKHQ RYHUORRN WKH SULYDWH IUHVK ZDWHU SRRO • /RFDWHG LQ FHQWUDO %\URQ ZLWK HDV\ OHYHO ZDON WR 0DLQ %HDFK DQG WKH YLEUDQW KHDUW RI WKH &%'

5HQHH 6FKR͆HOG 0400 028 594

PRICE | Contact Agent OPEN | By Appointment

www.byronbayfn.com.au | sales@byronbayfn.com | 35 Fletcher St, Byron Bay NSW 2481 | 02 6685 8466

30 The Byron Shire Echo DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ

www.echo.net.au

Property EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST 5 -7 ARALUEN PLACE CRYSTAL CREEK

Mr Property Services Noble Lakeside Park–Kingscliff

2

Call us on 0403 713 658

Closing February 24th at 4pm.

1

Bilambil Creek Village

2

2

$525,000

Call us on 0403 713 658

Palms Village - Tweed Heads South

42 Acres (17.31ha) of private, elevated country living, with stunning views.

5 Araluen Place is set in an elevated, north facing position, looking across farmland and the Springbrook and Numinbah ranges.

Comfortable 3 /4 bedroom, 2 bathroom brick home with lots of storage.

Fully covered verandahs and a level backyard with rainforest trees, open lawn and a rustic garden shed.

The property is fully fenced and is suitable for cattle or horses.

The creek provides clean and reliable water for home and livestock.

A large farm shed with power is easily accessible.

Inspection by appointment only Agents disclose interest in this property Mark Zwemer: 0428 717 034 | mark.z@profking.com.au Wayne Yeo: 0468 920 130 | wayne.yeo@atrealty.com.au

2

Call us on 0403 713 658

1

$330,000

Royal Pacific - Chinderah

1

2

$375,000

Call us on 0403 713 658

1

1

1

S

$315,000

View over 50 homes at www.mrpropertyservices.com.au Email: enquiries@mrpropertyservices 139 Minjungbal Drive, Tweed Heads South Phone: 07 5523 3431 Mobile: 0403 713 658

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

%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 Jess Riddell 0428 773 416

jess@jhmobilelawyers.com.au Local for 20+ years

PROPERTY STYLING

Contact Craig Adams, Project Manager / Director

0411 575 991

craig@cacm.net.au

caconstructionmanagement.com.au www.echo.net.au

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

PROPERTY STAGING styling for sale call us for a free quote on 0432 574 321 cactushillproject.com.au home@cactushillproject.com.au

DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ The Byron Shire Echo 31

Property Business Directory

North Coast news online

AGENTS

VICKI COOPER 0411 757 425 tim@millerrealestate.com.au millerrealestate.com.au @timmiller_realestate

Tara took the hard work out of selling our home and kept us Ta informed every step of the way. We got a fantastic result in an pierr amazingly short time and we couldn’t be happier.

TARA TORKKOLA - SALES INTERNATIONAL MULTI MEDIA SELLING AGENT 0423 519 698 | tara@byronbayfn.com @taratorkkolafirstnational

@taratorkkola_realestate WWW.BYRONBAYFN.COM.AU

• Over 40 years of combined real estate/marketing experience

“Personal, Caring, Responsive” “Vicki has been a phenomenal Real Estate agent. She is reliable, fast, affective and efficient. She replies’s to text and emails promptly, and is supportive and caring.

I would highly recommend Vicki for her services. She is very easy to work with and it feels like we’ve known each other for years! She is kind, supportive and wise with her extensive 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

WE ARE HERE TO SELL

VICKI COOPER 0418 231 955 vickicooper@atrealty.com.au www.vickicooper.com

FINANCE

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

0428 28 8 888 660 | sre reyn yn nol ollds ds@b ds @b @ byr y on nbayf yffn.co com

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

PAUL PRIOR SALES

0418 324 297 paulprior@byronbayfn.com Professional and results driven with extensive knowledge. Servicing the Byron Shire and beyond.

[ª ɺUª­Ö ɴÙɺ¼Ç ¼ ¥­Â  ɺ üÓ Öà

Call Paul for an appointment today.

WWW.BYRONBAYFN.COM.AU

Home Loans Investment Loans First Home Buyers Car Loans

Debt Consolidation SMSF Lending Commercial Loans Development Funding

SHARON McINNES SALES

RãÙÙ ¼ɺUª ÷

0408 659 649 sharon@byronbayfn.com

Finance Broker russel@acceptancefinance.com.au

PREMIUM SALES RESULTS IN A CHANGING MARKET

BRYCE & RACHEL CAMERON - 0412 057 672

0412 833 280

Acceptance Finance Pty Ltd ABN 62 953 405 689 Australian Credit Licence Number 391715 Credit Representative Number 395628

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

32 The Byron Shire Echo DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ

For this week’s open for inspection listings visit: www.echo.net.au/ofi www.echo.net.au

Service Directory SERVICE DIRECTORY RATES, PAYMENT & DEADLINE

ASPHALT

Lic: 317362C

Licensed builder, specialising in Bathroom renovations.

DEADLINE: For additions and changes to the Service Directory is 12pm Friday.

LINE ADS: $99 for 3 months or $340 for 1 year prepaid.

For line Service Directory ads email classifieds@echo.net.au.

New Asphalt Asphalt Repairs Pothole Repairs Base Work Free Quotes

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.

For display Service Directory ads email adcopy@echo.net.au.

The Echo Service Directory is online – www.echo.net.au/service-directory

ACCOUNTS & BOOKINGS: 6684 1777

CASH PAID FOR UNWANTED CARS $50–$1500

AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION

$50 - $1000

E:3KRQH 1DWKDQ RQ blueriverbuilding1@gmail.com ( EOXHULYHUEXLOGLQJ #JPDLO FRP ( EOXHULYHUEXLOGLQJ #JPDLO FRP Licence No. 255659C / Fully insured /LFHQFH 1R & )XOO\ LQVXUHG EOXHULYHUEXLOGLQJ blueriverbuilding EOXHULYHUEXLOGLQJ BUILDER – JOHN McGAURAN Personalised Service. 20 yrs exp. Lic 170208C.............0415 793242

WE BUY UNWANTED CARS, UTES & VANS

HAVEN BUILDING All aspects of building. Lic 326616C...............................................0432 565060

PHONE 0466 113 333 24/7 EMAIL: enquires@adrians.com.au

FABRICA JOINERY Quality kitchens/timber doors/windows. Lic 244652C .........................66808162

BLINDS, AWNINGS, CURTAINS, SHUTTERS

ALL CARPENTRY & BUILDING WORK Owner builder friendly. Lic 203206C................0424 158585 JOHN MONTGOMERY Building Lic 12223C. Scaffolding HRW990123.............. 0414 332505 JOHN BUILDER Extensions, reno, new homes, insurance, landscaping, all jobs Lic 19953Q ...0403 458177 CARPENTER / JOINER 30 years experience. Prompt efficient service. Other licence trades available.

Lic 43794C. 24/7 Emergency call-out available inc 4x4WD access.................................0423 500693

BLINDS

SHUTTERS

AWNINGS

CURTAINS

SUNSCREENS

66 680 0 8862 6680 8862

FREE E MEASURE E QUOTE E

6680 8862

BUSH REGENERATION & WEED CONTROL CLEANING

CURTAINS

PLANTATION SHUTTERS

6680 8862 6680 8862 6680 8862 ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜

SPECIALISTS IN HOME AUTOMATION

BUILDER Extensions, renovations, new homes, small jobs. Lic 37236...........................0402 181789

WEED CONTROL SPECIALIST Biocontrol of Parramatta grass.........................................0418 110714

˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛

AWNINGS

ZZZ EOLQGGHVLJQE\URQED\ FRP DX FREE MEASURE QUOTEROLL BLINDS FREE MEASURE QUOTE

˘˗ ˘˞˛ ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˘ˏ ˘˗ ˘˞˛ ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˘ˏ FREE MEASURE QUOTE

BRICKLAYING ˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ˘˗ ˘˞˛ ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˘ˏ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜ AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION ˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜ ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜ ˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

WALLFIX

1st Year Apprentice & A Fully Qualified Service Technician

• 20 years’ experience in lintel replacement • Crack stitching installation • Repointing • Retaining walls and all damaged brickwork

Lic 246545C

/LFHQFH 1R & 2YHU \HDUV Over 25 years RI of H[SHULHQFH experience. )XOO\ ,QVXUHG Phone Nathan on 0435 084 659 3KRQH 1DWKDQ RQ

CASH ON THE SPOT GUARANTEE

˘˗ 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

6SHFLDOLVLQJ LQ DOO DVSHFWV RI %XLOGLQJ DQG Specialising allDVSHFWV aspects 6SHFLDOLVLQJ in LQ DOO RIof &DUSHQWU\ 2YHU \HDUV RI H[SHULHQFH building and carpentry. %XLOGLQJ DQG &DUSHQWU\

CAR BODY REMOVAL

˘˗ ˘˞˛MEASURE ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˘ˏ FREE QUOTE

T: 6680 9394 E: artisan@artisanair.com.au

ABSOLUTELY FREE

SHOWCASE DEALER SHOWROOM

ACUPUNCTURE CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE M Collis.............................................0490 022183

6684 5296

LOCAL

ACUPUNCTURE

www.stoneysbuildingcreations.com

AUTOMOTIVE

Free metal drop off Locally ally ow owned d

Quality workmanship, and reliable and personalised service.

INDEX Acupuncture .................................33 Painting........................................35 Air Conditioning & Refrigeration....33 Pest Control ..................................35 Architects .....................................33 Photography.................................35 Asphalt.........................................33 Physiotherapy...............................35 Automotive...................................33 Picture Framing ............................35 Blinds, Awnings, Curtains, Shutters.33 Picture Hanging............................35 Bricklaying....................................33 Plastering .....................................35 Building Trades .............................33 Plumbers ......................................35 Bush Regen & Weed Control ..........33 Pool Services.................................36 Cleaning .......................................33 Printing ........................................36 Computer Services ........................33 Removalists ..................................36 Concreting & Paving......................34 Roofing.........................................36 Decks, Patios & Extensions.............34 Rubbish Removal ..........................36 Design & Drafting..........................34 Self Storage ..................................36 Driveway Maintenance..................34 Septic Systems ..............................36 Earthmoving & Excavation.............34 Smart Sensors...............................36 Electricians ...................................34 Solar Installation ..........................36 Fencing.........................................34 Television Services ........................36 Floor Sanding & Polishing..............34 Furniture Maker ............................34 Tiling............................................36 Garden & Property Maintenance....34 Transport......................................36 Gas Fitters & Suppliers...................35 Tree Services .................................36 Graphic Design..............................35 Truck Hire & Haulage.....................36 Guttering......................................35 Upholstery....................................36 Handypersons...............................35 Valuers .........................................36 Health ..........................................35 Veterinary Surgeons......................36 Hire ..............................................35 Water Filters .................................36 Landscape Supplies.......................35 Welding........................................36 Landscaping .................................35 Window Cleaning and Repairs .......36 Locksmith .....................................35 Window Tinting ............................36

0417 654 888

REMEDIAL

Call: 0403 141 760 • Email: wallfixremedial@gmail.com www.wallfixremedial.com.au Servicing the Northern Rivers Lic no. 292267C Master Builder No. 3029326

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

Byron Bay

ABN: 47576013867

5 Stars

CLEANING SERVICE CLEANS: Holiday, Residential, Bond, Commercial, Spring.

Phone Mick 0409 009 024 Email: mickbhl@gmail.com

BRICK/BLOCK LAYING Contractors. Lic 291958C. Phone Mark ........................................0409 444268 DETAILED CLEANER/GUEST HOUSE MANAGER All natural products 4.8 Stayz rated..0410 723601

Mullumbimby Refrigeration & Airconditioning Services

45 Manns Road, Mullumbimby Lic: 299433C ARC: AU40492

– Sales – Installation – Repairs – All Commercial Refrigeration – Residential & Commercial Airconditioning – Coolroom Design & Construction – Freezer Rooms

6684 2783

COOLMAN AIR CONDITIONING 23 years experience. Lic 178464C AU30147 ..............0412 641753 CLIMATE CONTROL AUSTRALIA Lic 362019C AU 27106... JARREAU.............................0421 485217

ARCHITECTS OCEANARC ARCHITECTS Reg. 6042 www.oceanarc.com.au..............................................66855001

www.echo.net.au

BUILDING TRADES • DEPT OF FAIR TRADING:A licence is required for all residential building work where the reasonable

FULL CIRCLE REFINISHING Professional cold & hot water roof & pressure cleaning. ..........0455 5735545

COMPUTER SERVICES

market cost of the work to be done (labour and materials) exceeds $5000 (including GST).

B&B Timbers 66867911

110 Teven Road, Ballina New logo - Same quality & service Structural – Landscaping Fencing – Composite Decking Hardwood – Pine – Hardware sales@bbtimbers.com.au

www.bbtimbers.com.au

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

DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ The Byron Shire Echo 33

Service Directory

North Coast news online

CONCRETING & PAVING

EARTHMOVING & EXCAVATION

SALISBURY

FENCING

TINY EARTHWOR

CONCRETING Lic.136717c

DARYL 0418 234 302 Over 30 yrs’ local experience.

All forms of concreting.

Residential • Civil • Industrial

BT Straight Line Fencing

Philip Toovey

0409 799 909

Quality Work & Reliable Service

Phone Scott 0419 443196

various implements available for limited access projects

BYRON & BEYOND FENCING Any fence, any time, prompt quotes....... 66804766 or 0439 078549

ALL AROUND

Lic No. 337066C

FLOW FENCING Pool fencing, timber/colourbond, local, professional and reliable.......0416 424256

CONCRETING

Tipper Truck with Driver Hire Call Free Daniel Quotes

0424 876 155

Lic. No. 391742c

0402 728 207

EDL FENCING Installations & repairs. Prompt service. ..................................................0432 107262

CONSCIOUS EARTHWORKS

• DRAINAGE DESIGN • DRIVEWAYS • PADS • WATERWAYS • ALL ASPECTS OF EARTHMOVING Phone Zac: 0468 344 939 www.360earth.com.au

DECKS, PATIOS & EXTENSIONS

FREE QUOTES

For all your earthworks needs

Lic No 142383C

DECKS Call Mark 0498 115 182

THE FLOOR SANDER New & old floors, decks, non-toxic finishes, special effects, free quotes..0407 821690 BYRON BAY FLOOR SANDING New and old floors. Non toxic.....................................0408 536565

FURNITURE MAKER

Lic# 378040C

• 1.7 Tonne Excavator • Fully Insured • Rockbreaker • 300mm and 450mm Auger • 3M Tipper Truck • No job too small Phone James on 0429 888 683

shakaconcreting.com.au

FLOOR SANDING & POLISHING

Servicing the Northern Rivers

Call:

custom furniture and joinery @ianmontywooddesign

0414 636 736

GARDEN & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE All aspects gardening & mowing Enhancive garden makeovers 0430 297 101 livingearthgardens.com.au

0447 295 178

Est. 2010

NORTHERN RIVERS TRENCHING 65hp chain trencher, excavator, cable locating & tpr.0402 716857 EXCAVATOR & TIPPER HIRE Concreting & landscaping................................................0484 861966

easily sand over nail/screw heads!

QUALITY DECK RestoratioN free quote: 0455 573 554

fullcirclefinishing.com

THE DECK DOCTOR Sanding & refinishing, cable balustrading. Free quotes. Richard...0407 821690 FULL CIRCLE REFINISHING – Specialist deck sanding and oiling. Free quotes ...........0455 573554

ELECTRICIANS

0439 624 945 AH 02 6680 4173 DOMESTIC ALL JOBS: SMALL COMMERCIAL OR LARGE 24 HOUR SERVICE Lic: 154293c

BYRON & BEYOND PATIOS Builder of patios roofs, opening roofs, carports & decks ...02 66802393

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 FENG SHUI DESIGN CONSULTANT Lizzie Bodenham livingbalancedesigns.com.au.......0431 678608

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

STRATTOCASTER LAWN & GARDEN MAINTENANCE Lawns, brushcutting, gutters, clean-up

FREE QUOTES

MARK OAKLEY DESIGN & DRAFTING www.modesign.au...........................................0422 666464

Local, friendly service Call Stratton ABN 0415 065 520 66220694659

DRIVEWAY MAINTENANCE ALL ASPECTS OF ASPHALT & BITUMEN SERVICES

6677 1859 admin@ecasphalt.com.au

SERVICING THE EAST COAST OF THE NSW NORTHERN RIVERS

Lic. 211410C

matthesparky.com.au

0458 267 777

࠮Domestic ࠮Commercial ࠮Industrial ࠮Solar

stratt000caster@gmail.com

RESIDENTIAL GARDEN SERVICE Regular Garden Tidying, Hedging, Pruning, Lawns & Edges, Plant Care, Landscape Design Professional

JP ELECTRICAL All electrical. Level 2 ASP. Solar, data + TV. Lic 133082C.......................0432 289705 BEN FORSYTH, Electrician. Lic:240691C. Ocean Shores & surrounds. No job too small...0422 136408

Burringbar

VALLEY WAY ELECTRICAL, 15 yrs exp. Domestic, commercial, new builds. Lic 253977c 0475 910622

34 The Byron Shire Echo DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ

Call Paul 0403 316 711 gracewoodlandscapes.com.au

NSW Lic# 312117 ASP Lic# 5547 AUTHORISATION# 503808

MIRO HALFORD BUILDING DESIGN mirohalforddesign.com......................................0402 613638

oast Asph alt st C Ea

• Lawn and Garden Maintenance • Paddock Slashing • Slope Mowing • Tree Pruning • Vegetation Control • Hedge Reductions • 1–4 Worker Garden Blitzes

Call David for a quote 0413 45 95 45 | Established 23 years

www.echo.net.au

Service Directory MULLUM.MOWING@gmail.com. Ride-on, large lawns & acreage. Ph Peter................0423 756394 ACUPUNCTURE & COSMETIC MEDICINE Dr Adam Osborne ...........................................66857366 GUTTERS CLEANED Solar panel cleaning, all areas, free quotes, fully insured .66841778 or 0405 922839 MULLUMBIMBY HERBALS Naturopathic and herbal dispensary, consultations..............66843002

PEST CONTROL

A-Z gardening & maintenance, lawns, acreage, hedges, gutters, p. clean-ups, tip runs ..0405 625697 MOVE TO NURTURE PILATES STUDIO & mat classes. Lennox Head ............................0404 459605 LEAF IT TO US Specialists in tree services and acreage mowing ....................................0402 487213 AYURVEDA, NATUROPATH, Herbs, Jacinta McEwen – Om Healing..............................0422 387370 TIP RUNS & RUBBISH REMOVALS 4m3 trailer..............................................................0408 210772 THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE $50 p/h Mark .......................................................................0448 441194

6681 6555

RICK’S PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Mowing, brushcutting, gardening, hedging.........0424 805660 HEARING VOICES? Therapeutic support. hearingyourvoice.au.............................. 0406 466642 GREEN DINGO for all your mowing and gardening needs. Ph Michael .........................0497 842442

Free quotes on active termites Environmentally safe

HIRE

SAM’S PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Ride-on, chainsaw, all aspects ...........................0477 851493

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE, Rural & residential, earthworks, lawn & pool care, tip runs.0449 220357 MULLUM HIRE Marquees & all event equipment. Tools & machinery. Pool supplies & service 66843003

LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES

GW MAINTENANCE Ride-on mowing, acreage and large lawns. Ph George..................0408 244820

www.allpestsolutions.com.au THE PEST MAN EXTRAORDINAIRE Second opinion / alternative views. 50 yrs exp .....0418 110714

GAS FITTERS & SUPPLIERS Free Delivery No Rental Reliable

YOUR PEST & TERMITE SPECIALISTS

BRUNSWICK BYRON PEST CONTROL................................................................................66842018

PHOTOGRAPHY

Locally Owned Est 1996 Sand | Soils | Gravels | Pots & statues | Lots, lots more 1176 Myocum Rd, Mullumbimby (just past golf course)

6684 2323

www.brunswickvalleygas.com • 0408 760 609

Tree Faerie Fotos Professional • Commercial • Personal 30+ years experience in commercial photography and photojournalism

LANDSCAPING

Andrew Keller Plumbing & Gas Service Pty Ltd

www.treefaeriefotos.com • 0417 427 518

32 yrs servicing the local area • Commercial Gas Equipment, Installation & Service Specialist p • General Plumbing Maintenance & Hot Water • Back Flow Device Testing • TMV Servicing

PHYSIOTHERAPY

LANDSCAPING & EARTHWORKS LA K KS Text or Ph: 0448 401 638 8

NICK EDMOND Physiotherapy & Acupuncture. Open Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday

20 years local experience

Byron Bay & SURROUNDING AREAS

0418 662 784 kellergasplumb@gmail.com m LIC: 103119c

466 Main Arm Road, Mullumbimby.....................................................................................66845288

goldleaflandscaping 4 ton Kobelco

www.goldleaflandscaping.com.au

ANTHONY D’ORSOGNA Physiotherapy, acupuncture, hydrotherapy Suffolk Park 1 Bryce St... 66853511 10 ton Kobelco

OCEAN SHORES PHYSIOTHERAPY Manual therapies, dry needling, custom orthotics,

GRAPHIC DESIGN

shock wave therapy, real time ultrasound. Nigel Pitman.....................................................66803499 PELVIC FLOOR PHYSIOTHERAPY 88 Byron St Bangalow with Lisa Fitzpatrick.............0422 993141

Graphic Design / Print Branding / Tutoring

• General Landscape Creation • Rural Lifestyle Landscaping Specialists • Outdoor Carpentry (decks/ out

buildings/ fencing/ garden walls etc)

@thinkblinkdesign www.thinkblinkdesign.com

PICTURE FRAMING

• Garden overhauls • Camphor/ Macadamia Conversions • Mass Plantings and

MULLUM PICTURE FRAMERS Studio located in Ocean Shores ..................................0403 734791

PICTURE HANGING

Rainforest Creation

%CNN 2CWN | ITCEGYQQFNCPFUECRGU EQO CW

PROFESSIONAL PICTURE HANGING, also display of art and objects. Phone Lenny .0407 031294 LEMONTREELANDSCAPES.COM.AU Liam. Lic 277154C ..............................................0423 700853

PLASTERING

LOCKSMITH

GUTTERING

Brendan Duggan Locksmith. Automotive car keys and lock installation/repair .......0412 764148

! " # "# $ " #%

$ &'( )'* +* ,,,% -%! .

RENDERING / SOLID PLASTERING 25 years experience. Free quotes. .......... Ph John 0406 673176

PAINTING

• DEPARTMENT OF FAIR TRADING INFO: When dealing with home owners, painters are required

ALL-WAYS PAINTING • Domestic & Commercial • Servicing all areas • Workmanship guaranteed • Attention to detail

Gutter guard Gutter cleaning Locally owned Fully insured Free quotes

0438 784 226 • 6685 4154

Lic No 189144C

BYRON BAY

PAINTERS

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

• Refurbishment

• Free Quotes

HANDY ANDY Carpentry, plastering, welding......................................... 66884324 or 0476 600956

• New builds

• Fully Licenced

AWESOME REPAIRS Professional, commercial & domestic. Wayne...............................0423 218417

• Clean & Reliable

• Fully Insured

Lic. 213034C

HANDYPERSONS

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

NEED A PLUMBER? DRAINER? GASFITTER?

Chay 0429 805 081 25 YEARS LOCAL SERVICE Licence No. 207479C

Ben The Plumber

Call Junior for friendly, genuine advice and service.

0405 922 839 or AH 6684 1778 ABN 180 623 364 42

PLUMBERS

to quote a licence number only for external work valued over $5000.

www.spotlessgutters.com.au

PLASTERER, TRADE QUALIFIED repairs, renovations, cornices, quality assured. Kurt.0431 015414

LLOYD SHERLOCK 0411 784 926

Servicing Mullumbimby, Ocean Shores, Brunswick Heads, Byron Bay & Surrounds 30 years’ experience Lic: 321191C

Taking on work NOW! 0427 528 108 | benwilton74@icloud.com

ABSOLUTE HANDYMAN. Repairs, renovation, maintenance, painting. Call Mark ........0402 281638 HIGHPOINT Repairs & handyman services. Painting, plastering & tiling. Michael........0421 896796

From leaky taps to construction

LOCAL, HONEST, RELIABLE, high quality work. Home maintenance, odd jobs. Ray..0407 802281

Jetter & Camera for all blockages

HOME MAINTENANCE All aspects. Carpentry, decks, painting, repairs etc. Insured .....0434 705506 REEL HANDYMAN Roofing, carpentry, repairs, all small jobs considered. Cain.............0491 278483 ALL CARPENTRY Door & stairs, fit-out. Reliable. Lic 192987C.......................................0437 202050

Professional Painter/Decorator •30+ Years Experience •Interior & Exterior •Reasonable Prices

HEALTH • OTHER HEALTH RELATED SECTIONS IN THIS SERVICE DIRECTORY: Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Counselling, Dentists, Osteopathy, Physiotherapy

www.echo.net.au

0451 298 363

0421 466 921 Two generations of local plumbing

splosh painting/decorating

LOCAL FRIENDLY PAINTER Reliable, clean, quality work. Dean ..................................0421 432308

Plumbers continued on next page DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ The Byron Shire Echo 35

Service Directory

North Coast news online

PLUMBERS (continued)

‘Local team 10 years in business’

ࠠ CCTV camera and locators

ࠠ High pressure jet rodder ࠠ Electric eel Drain clearing, inspections and repairs.

Reliable family owned and operated local business with 30 years plumbing experience and the latest technology.

Phone James 0429 888 683

ࠠ 1.7t and 3m tipper truck ࠠ Blocked drain specialist ࠠ 12 month guarantee on most jobs ࠠ Fully insured

QUALITY roof RestoratioN free quote: 0455 573 554

fullcirclefinishing.com

RUBBISH REMOVAL

Lic 378040C

OCEAN SHORES SKIPS Mini skip specialists ......................................... 0412 161564 or 66841232 BILL CONNORS All plumbing/draining. Lic #1051 .................................. 66801403 or 0414 801403 TIP RUNS & RUBBISH REMOVAL 4m3 trailer................................................................0408 210772 MARK STRATTON All plumbing & emergency. Sewer drain camera/locator. Lic 57803C ....0419 019035

POOL SERVICES

SELF STORAGE BYRON BAY SELF STORAGE...............................................................................................66858349

SEPTIC SYSTEMS

BLUE EDGE POOL SERVICES Cleaning, maintenance, etc. 20 years experience. Joe..........0405 411466

PRINTING TONY HAMPTON PRINTING CONSULTANT Good advice goes a long way.

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

SMART SENSORS

!"#$%# &$' ()* +$$,-$&, .

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 m 0428 320 262 e sunbeamsolar@bigpond.com w sunbeamsolar.com.au

Electric Lic 124600c

TELEVISION 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

TRUCK HIRE & HAULAGE

TILING TILER / WATERPROOFER. Lic 24418C. .............................................................Ph Karl 0439 232434

TRANSPORT

BYRON BUS Co

Door to Door Charter Services Call 0490 183 424

Get a Quick Quote Now

TREE SERVICES

CHOPPY CHOP TREE SERVICES The Fully Insured Professionals

Byron Coast Removals

• Stump Grinding • Bobcat • Cherrypicker • Crane Truck • 18" Chipper

SERVICING THE NORTHERN RIVERS AND BEYOND

Mark Linder Qualified Arborist

Competitive rates and packing supplies available

TREE CARE SPECIALISTS

DIGITAL ELECTRONICS REPAIR & SERVICE TV. Audio. Antennas .......... 66843575 or 0414 922786

Airport Transfers | Tours | Nights Out | Beach Walks Events | Parties | Weddings | Corporate | Festivals

02 6684 2198 queries@mullumbimbyremovals.com.au

0435 019 524

SOLAR INSTALLATION

arrive@byronbuscompany.com.au

• Sydney • Gold Coast • Brisbane • Melbourne • North Qld • Country • Interstate • LOCAL

Byron Bay & Beyond

BYRON SENSOR TECH Wireless, security, water leak, temp sensors ................................. 0459 422387

0409 917 646

Martino TREE SERVICES

TRINE SOLUTIONS Local sewerage specialists. Plumbers, drainers & gas fitters. Lic 138031C. 0407 439805

tonyhampton@icloud.com For an obligation-free chat: ................................................0416 152119

REMOVALISTS

! "#$ % &#$' ( ) * +#!", "#"- ,(%. / !"0!")

1 0 2 ", $ 3 ! , . ,!") 2 " ($,#"-* 1 24 * !-5 ! +($-4!") / " 1# , ( % ) "-* 2#$$6 (, ! "#$' $!#3$ &!-

0408 202 184 choppychoptrees@bigpond.com

0432 552 067 | 6684 5481 | byroncoastremovals@gmail.com

UPHOLSTERY BANGALOW UPHOLSTERY Now at Billinudgel. Re-covering specialists.............................66805255

VALUERS BYRON BAY VALUERS NSW & QLD registerd. Chartered Valuers ............ 0431 245460 or 66857010

VETERINARY SURGEONS MULLUM VET CLINIC: Richard Gregory, Bec Willis, Mark Sebastian – After hours avail ...66843818 NORTH COAST VETERINARY SERVICES Dr Lauren Archer.................................................66840735

WATER FILTERS

The Water Filter Experts for home, commercial and rural properties

MAN WITH A VAN/TRUCK Reasonable rates. Phone Don............................................0414 282813

6680 8200 or 0418 108 181

BENNY CAN MOVE IT! .................................................................................................0402 199999 ANDY’S MOVE & MORE Artworks, pianos, small moves, tip runs................................0429 149533

WELDING

ROOFING

WELDING & FABRICATION Structural, General, Repairs: Steel, Aluminium & Stainless ..0408 410545

DOMESTIC • INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL

WINDOW CLEANING AND REPAIRS

ROOFING

Metal Roofing Installations Guttering • Downpipes • Fascia Skylights • Whirlybird Patios Repairs • Leaf Guard

• 20 years local knowledge and experience • Fully insured / free quotes • 19 inch chipper • Bobcat • Cherry picker • Crane truck

Licence NSW: 30715C Licence QLD: 1227049

Craig Montgomery – 0418 870 362

www.harttreeservices.com.au

MONTYS METAL

Email: montysmetalroofing@gmail.com www.montysmetalroofing.com.au

36 The Byron Shire Echo DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ

PRUNING ~ REMOVALS ~ STUMP GRINDING

0427 347 380

CLEAN VIEW Prompt, professional, insured. Phone David.............................................0421 906460

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

www.echo.net.au

Classifieds INDEX

ECHO CLASSIFIEDS – 6684 1777

Annual General Meetings .. 37 Caravans ............................. 37 Death Notices ..................... 38

CLASSIFIED AD BOOKINGS

DEADLINE TUES 12PM

For Sale ............................... 37

PHONE ADS

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

Garage Sales ...................... 37

Ads may be taken by phone on 6684 1777

Houses For Sale ................. 37

AT THE ECHO HEAD OFFICE

Health Notices .................... 37 Musical Notes ..................... 38 Only Adults ......................... 38

Ads can be lodged in person at the Mullum Echo office:

Village Way, Stuart St, Mullumbimby

EMAIL ADS Display (box ads) and line classifieds, email:

Positions Vacant................. 37

classifieds@echo.net.au

Professional Services......... 37

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.

Social Escorts..................... 38 To Let................................... 37

HEALTH

Tradework ........................... 37 Tree Services ...................... 37 Tuition.................................. 38

HAWAIIAN MASSAGE Ocean Shores, Michaela, 0416332886

KINESIOLOGY

Wanted ................................ 37 Wanted To Rent .................. 37 Work Wanted ...................... 37

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.

AGMs PERIWINKLE COMMUNITY PRESCHOOL AGM Monday 19 February. 6.30–7.30pm 5 Sunrise Boulevard, Byron Bay, 2481

PROF. SERVICES

DENTURES

LOOK GOOD FEEL GOOD Free consultation. SANDRO 66805002

PUBLIC NOTICES

DYNAMIC DRAWING CLASSES RESUME

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

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.

9.30am–12.30pm.Thursday 15 February RSL Hall, Fawcett St, Bruns Heads 0428132297 or dynamicdrawing.com.au

Call Wendy 0497 090 233

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE Techniques in Swedish, Relaxation, Full Body Remedial, Deep Tissue, Pijat and ASMR. 60 mins $50, 75 mins $65, 90 mins $80

Mark 0448 441 194

Date: Saturday 24th February Time: 11am Venue: Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Centre Cnr of Kirkwood Road & Duffy Streets, Tweed Heads South.

Agenda Items include: CLBP, General Business, Contact No: 07 5536 1763 or admin@tblalc.com www.echo.net.au

www.echo.net.au/classified-ads

DISPLAY ADS (with a border): $14 per column centimetre These prices include GST.

Cash, cheque, Mastercard or Visa Prepayment is required for all ads.

KINESIOLOGY STUDENT CLINIC SESSIONS

TREE SERVICES Leaf it to us 4x4 truck/chipper, crane truck, stump grinding. Local, qualified, insured, free quotes. 0402487213

Mullumbimby Available throughout February.

Contact Kate Messenger to enquire or book.

Kate@ crystalsanddreaming. com.au

0413 003 301 crystalsanddreaming.com.au

FOR SALE

HOUSES FOR SALE

BICYCLES

GRANITE BELT DRESS CIRCLE

Professional, conscientious repairs, maintenance and assembly. Thoroughly refurbished low-footprint bikes for sale.

By appointment. Mullumbimby Nick 0427620711

MIELE WASHERS

• Arborist • 15” Wood Chipper • Stump Grinder • Fully Insured Byron Bay & Surrounding Areas

6681 3140 Mobile 0417 698 227

Appointment Setter and Executive Assistant for Wealth Strategist

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 CANON LEGRIA videocam with u/w housing & hard case. Exc cond $500.

0488235179

White Horses and Dark Knights

A unique opportunity to work closely with a 30-year professional in property wealth strategies. Clients range from first time investors through to sophisticated wealthy investors.

Could poetry ever be a matter for calculation?

Could chess be inspired by a Muse? In this story two very LQ‫ٺ‬MZMV\ _WZTL[ KWTTQLM

This is an autonomous position but results maximised by working a minimum of 25 hours per week spread across 5 or 6 days.

David Lovejoy’s book is available at The Echo W‫ٻ‬KM

Tasks include setting appointments for new clients, existing clients and managing diary for top executive.

All work is by phone and laptop so there is flexibility to work from anywhere with stable internet.

FIREWOOD

Full training and mentoring provided.

Attributes essential are: intermediate computer skills, good communication, results-driven and hard-working.

CALL MARK

Retainer and Bonus package offered.

All application ation to: rtyinvestors.com..au a opportunities@propertyinvestors.com.au

3EPTIC 7ASTE 2EMOVAL

3UMMERLAND %NVIRONMENTAL s 3EPTIC TANK CLEANING s 'REASE TRAP SERVICING s /ILY ,IQUIDS s 0ORTABLE TOILET HIRE s HOUR SERVICE

• FULLY INSURED

• PROFESSIONAL SERVICE • FREE QUOTES

0427 490 038 GARAGE SALES

Tip Runs & Rubbish Removal

0402 364 852 0408 210 772

Comfortable 4-bedroom home bordering Girraween National Park. 120ha, 3 titles Outstanding views, rocks and kangaroos. Reliable water.

A wonderful place to live.

Seeking offers over $1.5m.

Tel 07 4684 5168 or 0405 699 550

TO LET 2 BEDROOM HOUSE AND STUDIO. Pet friendly. $650p/w. John 0415482009

LOCAL REMOVAL

& backloads to Brisbane. Friendly, with 10 years local exp. 0409917646

WANTED TO RENT STUDIO WANTED FOR mature aged single woman. Lennox Head or East Ballina.

Working full-time, quiet & clean person.

Max $400p/w. 0491726317.

POSITIONS VACANT CASUAL GARDENER / LABOURER required 3 days p/w (Tue, Wed, Thu).

Excellent environment for a motivated, hard-working person interested in horticulture, gardening and machinery maintenance. 0417682276 to arrange interview. Applications close end of Feb. LADIES WANTED, MUST BE 18+ Work available in busy adult parlour. Travellers welcome. 66816038 for details.

TA X I DRIVERS WA N T E D Flexible work hours – perfect 2nd income Email operations@byronbaytaxis.com

Career Opportunity Dino’s IGA Mullumbimby Second In Charge Fruit & Vegetables We are looking for someone with experience in fruit and vegetables, or a fast learner with leadership skills, must be able to work weekends and evenings and run the department when the Manager is not there. A fulltime position for the right person. You must have a passion for customer service and an eye for detail.

Please send resumes to accounts@madjack.com.au applications close 24/02/2024

WORK WANTED TINA’S CLEANING SERVICES

WANTED LP RECORDS: good condition, no op shop crap! Matt 0401955052

FOR SALE

SISTERS OF SALVAGE IT’S STILL SUMMER SALE 43 Fingal Fi St, Brunswick Hds. 8am–12pm.

Great collection of clothes, jewellery, G Gre Ray Bans. Vintage, designer and more

TRADEWORK

4HE ,IQUID 7ASTE 3PECIALISTS

TWEED BYRON LALC ORDINARY MEMBERS NOTICE

Echo Classies also appear online:

LINE ADS: $17.00 for the first two lines $5 .00 for each extra line $17 for two lines is the minimum charge.

Pets...................................... 38

Public Notices..................... 37

RATES & PAYMENT

CLASSIFIEDS THAT WORK ALL WEEK!

CARAVANS 20 years local experience

TREE FERNS Any shape, size. Royalties paid.

Ongoing supply needed. 0414904396

• 19 inch chipper • Stump grinding • Cherry picker • Crane truck • Bob Cat

WORLD PEACE

0427 347 380

Fully insured • Free quotes

MILLARD PINNACLE 22ft, registered.

Gas certificate, bathroom, laundry, BBQ, annex, fridge. $32K. 0475040733 CARAVANS We buy, sell & consign.

All makes & models.

0408 758 688

Thorough and reliable Regular bookings One-off appointments End of lease cleans $55 an hour (3 hrs minimum) 95% Eco-friendly/low-tox products used Servicing Byron Shire Call Tina on 0400 015 939

DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ The Byron Shire Echo 37

Classifieds

North Coast news online N No

MUSICAL NOTES

TUITION

Sax, Clarinet, Flute, Piano tuition with Kate Gittins. 0421574858 Sax tuition and Jazz Improvisation (all instruments) with Ken Stubbs 0432197388. All levels/ages welcome.

Limited places available for 2024.

FRENCH F ENCH • ITALIAN • GERMAN FR Eva 0403224842 www.languagetuitionbyron.com.au

ONLY ADULTS

GUITAR STRINGS, REPAIRS Brunswick Heads 66851005 SEEKING DRUMMER for established reggae band 0434438706

DEATH NOTICES WILLIAM WARD (BILL) STEWART Passed away peacefully at Galleon Gardens, Currumbin Waters on 2/2/2024 aged 71.

Father to Holly, Ellie, Amanda and James and grandfather to Zane, Finn and Ari. Formerly of Mullumbimby.

Funeral or memorial details TBA.

INDY Indy is a 3.5 year old, Kelpie X. She is an

energetic girl who is looking for a family to call her own. She is great with school age children, cats and other dogs. M/C # 941000025593208 Location: Murwillumbah For more information contact Yvette on 0421 831 128.

Please complete our online adoption expression of interest: www.friendsofthepound.com/adoptionexpression-of-interest Visit friendsofthepound.com to view other dogs and cats looking for a home.

ABN 83 126 970 338

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

M A RIA OPEN: Tues 2.30–4.30pm, Thurs 3–5pm Sat 10am–12 noon Call AWL on 0436 845 542 Like us on Facebook!

AWL NSW Rehoming Organisation Number: R251000222

Byron Dog Rescue (CAWI)

LUCKY

Lucky is a 6-month-old male Kelpie Cattle Staffy; Lucky is a healthy, happy, very sweet-natured and loving boy who is gaining tons of confidence residing at our open-air shelter. Lucky will need ongoing training, an active lifestyle and we recommend crate-training as a way to combat separation anxiety and the current destructive period that pups undergo. Lucky is gorgeous with young children and great with other dogs.

Contact Shell on 0458 461 935.

MC: 991003002332297

SUN, MOON & TIDES – TIMES FOR NEXT 2 WEEKS DAY, SUN MOON HIGH LOW DATE MOON RISE / RISE / TIDES, TIDES, (Feb) PHASE SET SET height (m) height (m)

W

6:21 19:38

2:42 17:34

0725 1.67 1929 1.12

0008 0.39 1404 0.46

8 TH

6:21 19:38

3:48 18:31

0815 1.80 2023 1.20

0106 0.30 1449 0.35

9

6:22 19:37

5:00 19:21

0904 1.91 2113 1.29

0159 0.20 1532 0.25

10 SA A 19:36 20:04 6:23

6:13

0949 1.97 2200 1.37

0249 0.12 1614 0.19

11 SU

6:24 19:35

7:25 20:42

1033 1.98 2246 1.43

0338 0.09 1654 0.16

12 M

6:25 19:35

8:35 21:17

1115 1.92 2333 1.48

0427 0.12 1733 0.17

13 TU 19:34 21:51

1157 1.79

0517 0.20 1813 0.20

6:25

9:42

14 W

6:26 19:33

10:48 22:25

0022 1.49 1237 1.61

0610 0.33 1852 0.27

15 TH

6:27 19:32

11:53 23:01

0115 1.49 1319 1.41

0710 0.48 1932 0.34

16 F

6:28 19:31

12:58 23:41

0214 1.47 1407 1.22

0823 0.61 2017 0.42

17 SA

6:28 19:31

14:03

0325 1.46 1510 1.06

0956 0.69 2115 0.49

18 SU 19:30 6:29

15:05 0:25

0445 1.47 1643 0.98

1137 0.68 2228 0.53

19 M

6:30 19:29

16:04 1:14

0557 1.52 1813 0.99

1254 0.61 2343 0.52

20 TU

6:31 19:28

16:56 2:08

0654 1.57 1913 1.05

1344 0.54

21 W

6:31 19:27

17:43 3:05

0742 1.62 1959 1.13

0045 0.47 1422 0.47

Data sourced from Bureau of Meteorology. Times adjusted for Daylight Savings when applicable.

This gorgeous laid back 3 month old ginger kitten is Eddie who was found abandoned on a beach at Lennox Head. He is playful and is also super affectionate. He’d be excited to make your acquaintance and give you his love.

Devoted to Pleasure

All cats are desexed, vaccinated and microchipped.

No: 900164002214330

SOCIAL ESCORTS

Please make an appointment 0403 533 589 • Billinudgel petsforlifeanimalshelter.net

Ɔ

Couples, Men & Women Ɔ

touchofjustine.com

0407 013 347

LOTS OF GORGEOUS LADIES available for your pleasure nearby. Spoil yourself. Inhouse & outcalls. 7 days. 0266816038.

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 Each THU Byron 8-11am 0414 595 169 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

knowledge and explore meaning in a safe, accepting space. First Thursday of the month. Info call 0406 466 642.

DEADLINE NOON FRIDAY

Story walk at Lismore Botanic Gardens

Email copy marked ‘On The Horizon’ to editor@echo.net.au.

Bedtime stories Bedtime Stories for Elders discussion group starting March for eight weeks, using fairy tales to help us make sense of our ageing, and discover their wisdom. $5 contribution weekly. Women over 50 encouraged to enquire: 0430 175 923 or wildandwonderful@myyahoo.com.

Tough Guys Book Club The book club for the thinking man.

You don’t need to be tough. Meets at Ballina Sports Club, 7pm on the first Wednesday of every month.

Completely free. https://www. toughguybookclub.com.

Dementia Inclusive Ballina offers a free AI workshop at Crowley Education Centre, Ballina, on 9 or 23 February, 9.30 till 11.30am. Explore ChatGPT, Bard, and more! No experience needed. Enjoy hands-on training, demystify AI myths, and meet fellow carers over a morning tea. To register, text/call or email Sabrina: 0429 455 720, dib.digitaltraining@gmail.com

Junior Book Club Byron Bay Library Junior Book Club.

Are you 8–12? We invite you to read, laugh and explore with children’s librarian Jacky Wilkosz. Books chosen by genre, perfect for all reading levels.

Meeting monthly from Thursday, 8 February. To join contact the Byron Bay Library 6685 8540.

Author in conversation Join local author PA Thomas in conversation about his debut novel, The Beacon, a page-turning murder mystery that is set in Byron Bay. Lismore popup Library on Friday, 9 February at 10am; Ballina Library Monday, 12 February from 10am;

Lennox Head Library Tuesday, 13 February at 10am; Astonville Libraray Wednesday, 14 February at 11am; Kingscliff Library Wednesday, 28 February at 10.30am; Byron Bay Library Thursday, 22 February at 4pm.

Light refreshments provided. Bookings essential 6685 8540.

Mullumbimby CWA The first meeting for 2024 is on 14 February at 10am at the CWA Rooms, 55 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby. Bring a plate for a light lunch following the meeting. Mullumbimby CWA always welcomes new members into its ranks.

For more information: Jenny 6684 7282 or Sue 6684 1675.

BV VIEW AGM Brunswick Valley VIEW Club AGM on 8 February at Brunswick Bowling Club, Brunswick Heads at 10.30am for 11am start. Pay $20 membership before the AGM to vote. Apologies to Wenda: O449 563 580 or email: wjhunt@ yahoo.com.au.

Young onset dementia Dementia Inclusive Ballina has started hosting a young onset dementia support group for family and friends of people who live with young onset dementia. Young onset dementia includes all people who were diagnosed before they turned 65. All people from across Northern NSW are invited. We meet every first Friday of the month at 10am-12pm at Summerland Farm, 253 Wardell Rd, Alstonville. Info: Sabrina Pit 0429 455 720 or dementiainclusiveballina@ gmail.com.

Hearing voices?

Hearing Voices Peer Support Group in Brunswick Heads. Anyone with present or past experience of voice hearing (or visions) is welcome.

Offer your experience, gain support,

Regular As Clockwork DEADLINE NOON FRIDAY Please note that, owing to space restrictions, not all entries may be included each week. Email copy marked ‘Regular As Clockwork’ to editor@echo.net.au.

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

38 The Byron Shire Echo DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ

On The Horizon

Tech training for dementia carers

Eddie

As a teen mumma cat, Maria need not worry about her babies finding their forever homes. The question is, who will adopt this bobtailed beauty who is ridiculously affectionate? Maria is the full package even if she doesn’t have a full tail! To meet Maria and her kittens, please visit the Cat Adoption Centre at 124 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby.

F

BALLINA EXCLUSIVE 34 Piper Dr. Open 7 days 10am till late.

In & Out Calls. 66816038. Ladies wanted Find us on Facebook and Twitter!

LICENSED TO THRILL Premium Massage & Play touchofjustine.com/byron-bay-outcalls

PETS

7

BEAUTIFUL TRANSGENDER ESCORT in Lismore area.

Message 0421672487 for details.

Community at Work

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: Tuesday–Friday, 7–9am. Showers and laundry: Tuesday–Friday, 7am–12pm.

Office support: Tuesday–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.

Low-cost or free food Food Box Thursdays 9.30–11.30am at Uniting Church, Mullumbimby. You may purchase cheap food, obtain free veges, and enjoy a cuppa. The Hub Baptist Church in Ocean Shores has food relief available for anyone doing it tough, please contact us on 0434 677747 if you find yourself doing it tough. 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

Read the story walk book The Hide and Seek Tree of Rainforest Creek, Written by local author Lee Duncan, and illustrated by local artist Laila Paige, at the Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens. The 12 illustrated panels are a great way for parents, guardians and carers to take a walk with the kids and learn about the birds of the Richmond region.

Kyogle Garden Club Kyogle Garden Club will be holding their Annual Flower & Foliage Spectacular on Friday, 19 April, 9am till 5pm and Saturday, 20 April, 8am till 2pm at St Brigids, School Hall. Entry $3. There will be plants on display and for sale along with lots of other garden-related art and products.

Phil Dudman from ABC Gardening will make a guest appearance on the Friday.

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).

Ballina Bridge Club upcoming lessons Be challenged to learn this fun, wonderful game. Lessons begin Tuesday, 6 February and run for six weeks at 9.30 till 11.30am. In comfortable air-conditioned rooms at 13 North Creek Rd. (Opposite Aldi).

Cost for tuition and workbook is $80.

Also enquire about evening lessons.

For additional information and to register, please contact Judy on 0407 664 337. 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.

www.echo.net.au

Sport Supported by Dino’s IGA Mullumbimby Local wins European BJJ gold medal Local AFL teams join forces to Raz Harel

Thalison Soares with a hard-earned gold medal form the European BJJ Championships last month. Photo supplied

Byron Bay local, Thalison Soares, won a gold medal at the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu European Championship 2024 held in Paris, France, earlier this year.

The prestigious European Championship is one of four major events held annually by the International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF).

The best women and men of Jiu Jitsu attend this event annually, to fight for the European crown.

At just 24 years of age, the head instructor of The Academy Byron Bay claimed his seventh European title with his most recent win.

Fighting in the black belt, bantamweight division Thalison defeated Jonas Andrade 5–0 on points.

Thalison is a multiple world champion and keeps building his legacy with huge international wins, and by building the next generation of champions in Byron Bay. The next major international event is the Pan American Championship in Florida, USA in March, where Thalison and his local team will be aiming to win more titles for Australian jiu jitsu.

Bobsledders XI claim big win The Mullumbimby Brunswick Bobsledders cricket team had a big win after posting a 40-over score of 9/414 in their Tweed Distrct Cricket Association clash with the Murwillumbah Panthers Green last Saturday afternoon.

Playing at home, the Bobsledders were sent in to bat after losing the toss and proceeded to score at more than ten runs an over.

Big scores featured across the lineup with Jonty Thompson topping the list with an unbeaten 93 off 41 balls, while Jared Carr (76 from 31), Heath Godbee-Johnston (76 from 41) and Lachlan McKenzie (60 from 46) all having a good hit.

Ten Panther bowlers had a go to try and stem the runs. Dougall Hughes proving the most successful taking 3/29 off four overs.

In reply the Panthers were all out in the 38th over after scoring 175 runs.

The Mullum-Bruns bowlers had early success, reducing the Panthers to 5/39.

Ned Serne then came to the crease and top-scored with 76 from 89 balls. The last three wickets fell for 24.

Rick Collings was the pick of the home

take on SE Queenslanders The Byron Magpies and the Ballina Bombers senior teams will play together this season as the Southern Stingrays in the hope that strength in numbers will give them a good showing in the SE Queensland competition.

‘We realised we probably wouldn’t have the numbers to play strong teams in both seniors and reserve grade across the season, which is what you have to be able to do if you register in the SE Queensland Division 2 competition,’ Bombers president Trent Rees said.

Last year the Byron Magpies fielded only a senior team so had to play in the Northern NSW AFL competition.

There won’t be a merger of the clubs as such, and each will field senior women’s teams under their regular club colours.

With the current players they have signed on, Trent is positive the amalgamated Southern Stingrays will be able to have every chance of success in a ‘very competitive’ competition.

‘We had talks with Byron

After winning the Northern NSW AFL flag last year the Byron Magpies will amalgamate with the Ballina Bombers in 2024.

Photo supplied Magpies over the summer and it was clear that the best way for them to get back into SE Queensland, and for us to stay there, was to amalgamate the men’s sides,’ Trent said.

The team won’t play in red, white and black as these colours are already taken in the competition as are the nicknames ‘ bombers’ and ‘magpies’. We are still working out what the new colour palette will be,’ he said.

The draw hasn’t been decided, but the idea is for home games to be shared

between the Cavanbah Centre and Ballina. Training is also expected to be shared between the two towns.

The move will also cut down on travel time for Byron Bay who had to venture to Port Macquarie for some games last year.

The Byron women are also seeking to be registered in the SE Queensland competition for 2024. The Bombers women were in this league last year and will play there again in 2024. SE Queensland AFL only requires one women’s side per club.

Crowded table in Coastal League cricket

Heath Godbee-Johnston has been enjoying his cricket for the Mullumbimby Brunswick Bobsledders. Photo supplied bowlers with 4/39 off seven overs, followed

by James Clarke 2/6 from five overs.

The win leaves the Bobsledders second on the ladder behind the Casuarina Crocs.

The Cudgen Hornets are third in front of the Panther Ninjas.

Lennox Head hang on to top spot on the Coastal League after a win against fifthplaced Cudgen last Saturday.

Cudgen were sent in at Reg Dalton Field and were bowled out for 160, with Lennox’s Nicholas WinklerMaloney doing the most damage with 4/29 off eight overs.

Lennox chased down the total in 25 overs with opener Blake Perkins leading the charge with 69 off 66 balls.

The win keeps Lennox Head on top of the table with

104 competition points, just one above Byron Bay (103) who are just two points clear of Colts (101), with Terranora in fourth (81), followed by Cudgen (59).

Byron Bay beat Lennox Head two weeks ago and got on top of Bangalow last Saturday at the Cavanbah Centre.

Banaglow elected to bat and were bowled out for 139 in the 34th over with Jason Trisley the pick of the Byron bowlers collecting 3/23.

Anthony McPhail scored 44.

Byron chased down the total in 15 overs from the bat of Doug Jarvis (71 from 38 balls) and Stephen Daniels (52 off 42).

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Khentrul Lodrö T’hayé Rinpoche

returns to Byron Shire!

PUBLIC TALK

The Four Immeasurables Learn more about how to develop for yourself immeasurable equanimity, loving kindness, compassion, and joy.

Wednesday February 28, 6-8pm.

Mullumbimby Civic Memorial Hall, 55 Dalley St, Mullumbimby.

Free admission.

WEEKEND TEACHING

Transforming Happiness and Suffering Saturday & Sunday, March 2 and 3, 10am-noon, 2-5pm both days. Free admission.

Ocean Shores Community Centre, 55 Rajah Road, Ocean Shores.

Khentrul Rinpoche will reveal how we can enjoy much greater wellbeing in our lives by sharing some remarkable and little known tools for transforming adversity.

For weekend teaching, please pre-register @ katog.org/events Info: Julia 0421 022 428; australia@katogcholing.com

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40 The Byron Shire Echo DĕćſƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǫ

Congrats to local muso and filmmaker, Barry Ferrier, who recently won ‘Best Experimental Film’ at the prestigious New York Arthouse Film Festival. Barry says his 30-minute sc-fi film Entombed is based on a dramatic short story written 25 years ago by his friend, Des Collins. ‘I am so proud to have helped Des to finally gain recognition for his writing’, Barry says.

Is this a case of laws not keeping up with the crime?

The Federal Court declared last week that Westpac engaged in unconscionable conduct in October 2016, when executing a $12 billion interest rate swap transaction. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) describes it as ‘the largest of its kind in Australian financial market history’. The large bank will pay the maximum penalty of $1.8 million, together with $8 million for ASIC’s litigation and investigation costs.

Were the costs of being fined factored into the offence?

Local retired journo, Jeremy Cornford, has published a new book: 233 Domain – To Kill a President. Former Echo

Tully started kinder at Mullumbimby Public School last Tuesday. At almost five years of age, the thing she’s looking forward to most at school is playing with her friends. Photo Eve Jeffery journos Ken Sapwell and Luis Feliu get an acknowledgement too. To get a copy, visit the big badass of avoiding taxes, destroying competition and dominating all markets – Amazon/Booktopia.

The latest ABS data has confirmed that while overall inflation has dropped to 4.1 per cent, rental inflation is

close to double that at 7.3 per cent. And the cost of building continues to soar – see page 2.

A $15,000 scholarship to study counselling is available through Destination Australia. Find out more at www. acap.edu.au/destinationaustralia-scholarship.

Lismore Council have got in early to offer prospective councillor candidates an info session in May. Local government elections are in September.

‘Norway taxes the fossil fuel industry and gives kids free degrees. In Australia, we subsidise the fossil fuel industry, and charge our kids a fortune to go to uni. Choices matter’ – economist Richard Denniss, speaking at the National Press Club last week.

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NOW MANAGED BY A NEW TEAM

There are some new faces at the old place.

Hungerford Lehmann Solicitors has been a trusted presence in the Northern Rivers community for many years. With a wealth of experience and passion, Josh and his team are dedicated to continuing their service to the region. With a fresh approach, Hungerford Lehmann is a local you can trust.

We’re here to listen, call Josh Allan or go to www.hungerfordlegal.com.au to find out more.

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School’s back, and so is Council’s first meeting of the year this Thursday! Perhaps the issue that will get the most attention will be councillors explaining why they can’t do anything about Wallum (See page 1). So what will councillors do to protect similar lands in the future? Since being elected in 2021, almost every councillor has shown little to no interest in any type of reform that would reflect community wishes or protect the environment.

Hungerford Lehmann Solicitors • 64 McGoughans Lane, Mullumbimby P: 02 6684 2477 • E: advice@hungerfordlegal.com.au • www.hungerfordlegal.com.au

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