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Byron Writers Festival cancelled but not defeated

In a devastating blow, the 2025 Byron Writers Festival (BWF) was cancelled last weekend after a successful, though wet, Friday session.

Organisers cancelled events at the main festival site owing to the weather conditions, parking conditions, and the predicted ongoing rain.

‘Though we had a wonderful but wet first day, the safety of our community was our highest priority. The forecast conditions made it impossible to continue the event safely,’ Festival Artistic Director, Jessica Alice, told The Echo. Festival organisers were nonetheless able to run all satellite events, including the Poets Out Loud Youth Slam, Guardian Australia’s ‘Are you Game Show’ and Beyond the Lines, and limited Sunday sessions.

Refunds available

Byron Writers Festival is offering full refunds for Saturday and Sunday ticket holders, and a twothirds refund for three-day pass holders.

‘Unfortunately, the festival’s insurance did not cover this specific scenario,’ said a festival spokesperson.

‘Insurance access and affordability is a major issue in the Northern Rivers and for outdoor festivals and small arts organisations, which has only increased in recent years since the Northern Rivers floods and Cyclone Alfred. If Australia wants to continue to have a vibrant cultural sector, we urgently need a festival insurance scheme that guarantees against loss for extreme weather events in a rapidly changing climate.

‘The festival is hopeful about

at his Sunday

its future but will require support. Byron Writers Festival has always made it our mission to support our community. We hope you, our community, will now support us

the

by choosing to donate your ticket costs or seek a partial refund.’

If you choose to donate your ticket back to the BWF that portion of the ticket price can also be a

tax-deductible donation.

If they haven’t heard from ticket holders in the 28-day period, they will assume you are donating your refund and don’t require a receipt.

Celebrating the amazing people of Byron Shire

Aslan Shand

The amazing contributions of members of the Byron Shire community were celebrated last Tuesday night with Byron Bird Buddies (BBB) founder Jan Olley becoming the 2025 Byron Shire Community Member of the Year.

‘Jan Olley’s contribution to the protection, awareness and preservation of birds in the Byron Shire is truly exceptional,’ Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, said on the night.

‘Jan is a fierce advocate for the birds and so very respected, in the community, at Council, and by many other agencies such as the NPWS and BirdLife Australia. Jan’s contribution to the protection, awareness and preservation of birds in the Byron Shire is truly exceptional.’

And unbeknown to us, The Echo had a small role to play in Jan’s work.

‘I’d just moved to the Byron area in 2003 when I saw a small notice

in The Echo inviting locals to attend a workshop to help erect a protective fence for nesting little terns at Belongil Estuary. I didn’t know all the bird species yet and was keen to learn more and get involved. The idea of contributing to something meaningful, right at the edge of the estuary, really appealed to me,’ she told The Echo

Byron Bird Buddies (BBB) is a volunteer group active since 2004, focused on bird monitoring, ▶ Continued on page 7

Australian icons, Tom Keneally and Barry Jones were highlights of Sunday’s truncated Byron Writers Festival last weekend with Tom saying, ‘Thank God the committee had the guts to cancel the festival,’

session in

Bangalow A&I Hall. Photos Jeff Dawson

The Saddle Road development DCP

Paul Bibby

A key planning document that will shape the future of the sprawling Gulgan North Business and Industrial Lands precinct is set to come before Byron Council for ratification this week.

The owners of the 52-hectare site at 66 The Saddle Road, Brunswick Heads already have preliminary approval for a large mixeduse development featuring both light industrial and work/live employment land.

But the new Development Control Plan (DCP) chapter to come before councillors this week sets the key parameters for the macro-planning and design of the development.

11.5m height to dominate?

Crucially, the DCP chapter, if adopted as written, features an 11.5m height limit.

The document’s authors state that this will facilitate a ‘strong architectural expression,’ but some have questioned whether this will mean the built form dominates the natural landscape.

They also state that the proposed amount of development on the site will be ‘dense’.

‘The challenge is to design building forms, appearance and material that can both express the intensity of development and a rural character,’ the document’s authors state.

Three precincts

Under the plan, there are to be three development precincts alongside a collection of environmental conservation, management, and rural landscape zones.

The first precinct will feature a range of businesses and workspaces with selfcontained accommodation for those who wish to live and work from home.

As such it will feature things such as office premises, creative industries, high technology industries, and information and education facilities.

The second precinct, toward the west of the site, will feature smaller artisanal workspaces with common facilities.

The preferred land uses in this area include creative industries, function centres, goods repair and reuse premises, neighbourhood shops, and indoor recreation facilities.

The third precinct will be the light industry and

general industrial zone, featuring operations such as boat building and repair facilities, freight transport and repair facilities, hardware and building supplies, and panel beaters.

In terms of roads, the planning document sets out that there will be an internal access road linking the upper and lower parts of the site that will be both a ‘collector’ road and a public road.

It will be designed to be rural in nature with the purpose of connecting the three distinct Gulgan precincts with each other and with Gulgan Road.

In terms of building design, the development is set to feature buildings that are described as ‘Byron style’, characterised as ‘informal, light weight construction that responds to the sub-tropical climate of the region’.

The buildings will reportedly feature a climateresponsive design, passive cooling strategies, high ceilings and open spaces and natural light integration.

For more information or to read the full report see the agenda to this week’s Council planning meeting on Byron Shire Council’s website www.byron.nsw.gov.au.

Can you help Byron shine this festive season?

Picture Railway Park or Apex Park lit up with festive lights, colourful banners designed by local school kids hanging across town, and families enjoying a Christmas movie under the stars.

For the past two years, the Byron Bay Christmas Community Initiative has helped light up Byron Bay township with a festive tree, twinkling lights, and a joyful spirit that brings locals and visitors together.

Organisers are calling on ‘residents, retailers, hoteliers, real estate agents, businesses, and anyone who calls Byron home. Whether you can contribute funds,

skills, or time – every bit counts,’ they told The Echo

‘This year, we’re dreaming of another bright Christmas –and we’d love your help.

‘Together with Byron Council, local clubs, and volunteers, we can create a season full of magic, connection, and community pride. Reach out at: christmascheerbb@gmail.com and let’s come together and make this Christmas one to remember.’

Rasa – seeds, security her great gifts

Paul Crebar

With gentle hearts, we mark the passing of Rasa Lynne Dover on July 27 – a beloved local gardener, seed-saver, and community inspirer.

In 2011, Rasa founded the Byron Hinterland Seed Savers, actively supporting our community until 2023. Under her guidance, more than 60 seed-saving and garden swap events blossomed in home gardens across the region, as well as at community festivals and markets.

Rasa’s commitment to preserving seed sovereignty connected our region to a global movement led by Michelle and Jude Fanton of the Seed Savers Network, located in Byron Bay.

Her work was widely celebrated, including in Vandana Shiva’s Seed Freedom publications, which honoured her dedication and contributions to the worldwide effort to protect seeds, local food security, and empower communities

Saturday night saw the Mullumbimby community come out in support for local Indigenous teacher Uncle Scotty who has just received a double lung transplant.

There were 20 tables filled to overflowing with people playing bingo, buying raffle tickets for the generous prize donations from local business, and celebrating the success of Scotty’s operation.

‘I’m so happy that the community came together to support Uncle Scotty,’ said event organiser Janelle Stanford who runs the Mullumbimby Newsagency.

to save and propagate their own seeds.

Her seeds will continue to grow

Her Goonengerry home stood as a vibrant example of what devotion to the land can yield – a thriving, foodrich and diverse landscape.

From here many seeds and plants have spread to hundreds of homes in the Byron Shire and other

networks in regional NSW and Qld expanding their seed saving networks. Her seeds, both literal and figurative, continue to grow in gardens and hearts throughout the Byron Shire and beyond.

Rasa spent her final years in Pottsville, closer to her son Raven and granddaughter Arielle. A heartfelt ceremony was held in Tweed Heads on Monday, 4 August, to honour her life and legacy.

‘Scotty is doing well and has around another four months in Brisbane, supported by his wife, as

he recovers from the lung transplant.’

Many of Scotty’s family members came to the event and they played a taped recording from Scotty where he told everyone, ‘that he is waiting for his lungs to fall in love with his body’. The event raised close to $4,000 along with the GoFundMe page that has raised another $26,000. You can still contribute at: www. gofundme.com/f/scottysentance-needs-our-help.

Rasa harvesting the edible root from the lotus flower at her property in Goonengerry. Photo supplied

Uncle Scotty with his wife Terese Sentance. Photo supplied

Reluctant readers? This just might be your solution

Paul Bibby

Local author Sarah Armstrong is on a mission.

Having watched reading rates among children plunge in recent years, the Mullumbimby resident is determined to write kids books that are ‘unputdownable’.

The latest result of this quest is Run, a fast-paced adventure aimed to appeal to reluctant readers who were born in the digital age.

‘The right book in the hands of a child ignites their imagination,’ says Ms Armstrong.

‘They’ll then look for the next book and the next book…’

‘So I wrote Run as pacey page-turner, that also has interesting ideas and heart, as a way of grabbing those kids that might not have the bug yet.’

The main protagonist in Run is Cas, a boy who thought running away from home would solve all his problems.

‘He runs from a complicated family situation but then finds himself lost in the wilderness and trying to survive…’ Ms Armstrong says.

‘He has no idea how to survive and he’s getting really scared that he might not make it. Then he stumbles on a family of three hiding in the forest from something massive.’

‘Its about survival, adventure… it’s a thriller but it’s also about family and forgiveness and a child’s relationship with nature.’

Having already penned two children’s books, Ms Armstrong is establishing herself as a key voice in

Australia’s children’s literature landscape.

She is looking forward to running a series of workshops with young people and their parents about Run – guiding the budding scribes in a story writing exercise involving the use of suspense.

‘The best thing about writing for kids is the kids…’ she says.

‘I’m very fortunate to give talks and run writing workshops in primary and

secondary schools and at writers’ festivals.

‘I love their imaginations and their enthusiasm for good stories.’

Run is available at most local bookshops, including The Book Room in Byron, The Book Shop in Mullumbimby, and The Book Warehouse in Lismore and Ballina.

For more information about Ms Armstrong and her work visit saraharmstrong. com.

‘Creating homelessness while abandoning functional homes’

Eve Jeffery

Housing First advocate Chels Hood-Withey of the House You organisation says that on 7 August NSW Sheriffs evicted residents from NSW Reconstruction Authority (NSW RA) buyback properties already functioning in their intended use.

A House You spokesperson said creating homelessness while abandoning functional homes contradicts the NSW Labor government’s mandate to end homelessness.

Chels Hood-Withey, who had been residing in 122 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby, says that three properties of ten on the Writ of Possession, could have been saved through win-win collaboration.

‘An unflooded home on Stuart Street – already functioning as transitional housing despite being designated for Homes NSW transitional housing; a relocatable heritage home on Lake Street’ said Hood-Withey.

‘North Lismore – rehabilitated with extensive food gardens and ready for First Nations-led vegetation management; and The Bridge at 17 Bridge Street, North Lismore – operating as a community hub serving local

groups for over a decade, are all homes that are again at risk of demolition.’

No taxpayer cost

Hood-Withey says recent arson attacks on an empty buyback property in South Lismore demonstrate the criminal risks facing abandoned homes. ‘Vacant South Murwillumbah buyback properties require ongoing police responses and escalating security costs, while current residents provide 24/7 security and maintenance at no taxpayer cost.’

‘Where are the 40 social homes the NSW RA promised from the buybacks? We haven’t seen one materialise,’ she asked.

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

Mullumbimby

author Sarah Armstrong. Photo Jeff ‘On The Run’ Dawson

Chels Hood-Withey after being evicted from a home she was keeping in ‘pristine condition’. Photo Lisa Sandstrom

Contention over proposed Ocean Shores boardwalk

Aslan Shand

A group in favour of the proposed Ocean Shores Boardwalk, that would connect New Brighton to Ocean Shores Shopping Centre in its first stage and run through three nature reserves, say there is strong community support for the idea.

The group includes locals Kim Dowling from the Ocean Shores Tavern; Justine Le; David Michie (who ran on Councillor Jack Dod’s ticket); and Labor Councillor Janet Swain, say they have collected over 1,100 signatures in support of the idea.

They say they are committed to minimal environmental impact and are actively seeking design and planning advice to ensure the structure works in harmony with its surroundings.

The proposed boardwalk would run through the Marshalls Creek nature reserve; the Brunswick Heads nature reserve and around the edges of Cape Byron marine park – much of which is a designated Habitat Protection Zone (HPZ).

This proposal has previously been opposed by NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) who have indicated ‘that the boardwalk was “inconsistent” with its plans, and would impact threatened ecological communities and threatened species’.

NPWS are aware of the current proposal.

The high conservation value of the nature reserves includes numerous flora, fauna, and ecological

communities as well as the white-bellied sea eagle (vulnerable), the beach stone curlew (critically endangered), the mangrove honeyeater (threatened), and the blacknecked stork (endangered).

The boardwalk is also opposed by three local community associations: the South Golden Beach Community Association; the New Brighton Community Association; and Conservation Of North Ocean Shores (CONOS).

Footpaths and roads

While the pro-boardwalk group say that the project won’t compete with footpath or road funding, CONOS representative Richard Whitling told The Echo that, ‘we don’t want the Council distracted from our real needs in the north of the Shire. There is a far greater need for footpaths and road repair than there is for this boardwalk proposal.’

‘The boardwalk supporters continually fail to outline their full plans and instead focus on a part of their plans which is to create a diversion around just of one of

the many hills in Ocean Shores. They arrogantly assume that the project can proceed through the nature reserves even though the NPWS have told Council that they do not support the project.

The cost and maintenance would come out of the NPWS budget at the expense of NPWS’s other commitments.’

Pro-boardwalk group member David Michie said that, ‘boardwalks don’t destroy nature – they protect it. They offer a solution to the very real issue we face in Ocean Shores: big hills, no footpaths, and a dangerous lack of safe pedestrian and cycling access.’

The pro-boardwalk group have also said that the boardwalk would also ‘act as a vital connector to the soonto-expand Northern Rivers Rail Trail’.

Mr Whitling responded to this saying, ‘It seems clear that the real purpose of the project is to funnel rail-trail enthusiasts through our quiet coastal villages north of the Brunswick River. We love our laid-back lifestyles and our quiet villages. We’ve seen what’s happening to the previously quiet coastal village of Brunswick Heads – that’s not our vision.

‘We have collected half their amount of signatures opposing the project in just one month, while they have been conducting an extensive, expensive PR program for over 18 months.’

Both supporting and opposing groups can be located online to find out more about their respective positions.

Lady Marmalade knows how to jam

Bennet

more widely known as Bay FM presenter Lady Marmalade, has celebrated more than 20 years of volunteering for Byron’s only community

The beloved Toasted presenter and trainer has been with the station since its early days back at the fondly remembered ‘love shack’ near The Rails. She used to help raise funds by raffling off her famous marmalade and in her final program last Wednesday shared her secret winning ingredient: a good dose of Scotch whisky! Members of the Bay FM family joined the last Toasted program in person and over the phone, although no one can quite pinpoint exactly how long Lady Marmalade has been on air – probably 25 years. Something about those chilled-out community vibes! Lady Marmalade says she will continue to volunteer off-air at one of the Shire’s charity op shops. Photo Jeff Dawson

How to create peace in the Middle East

Labor’s Stephen Lawrence MLC and Anthony D’Adam MLC, Labor’s Friends of Palestine, will be speaking about the role of Australia in the Middle East peace process at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre from 6.30pm on Thursday, 14 August.

President of the Mullumbimby Brunswick Valley ALP Branch Chaiy Donati says that, ‘in an era where political caution often mutes moral clarity, these two Labor figures have consistently spoken out.

‘Lawrence and D’Adam have emerged as bold and consistent voices within the ALP – calling for justice

for the Palestinian people, an end to occupation, and meaningful sanctions on Israel,’ he told The Echo.

‘As Labor moves to recognise a state of Palestine this September, this forum invites community members into the conversation. What does real solidarity look like? And

how can Labor, at both state and federal levels, ensure recognition isn’t merely symbolic, but a step towards a just and lasting peace in the Middle East?

‘Join us for a powerful discussion on values, responsibility, and peace in the Middle East.’

Liz

(centre),

radio station.

The proposed Ocean Shores boardwalks.

Double the size of Main Arm village

Aslan Shand

The proposal to change the approved Multiple Occupancy (MO) at 84 Blindmouth Road, Main Arm, development application (DA 10.2020.242.1), to a Community Title (CT), which Council staff have recommended for approval, has raised significant concerns for the Main Arm Rural Residents Association (MARRA).

MARRA say that by changing to a CT each of the 12 MO lots are seeking secondary dwelling entitlements which will increase the number of houses on the property to 24.

‘Main Arm village has 19 houses,’ a MARRA spokesperson told The Echo. ‘This proposal alone wants 24 houses in an unserviced rural valley. It is going to be bigger than the existing village!’

In Tweed Shire the use of MO and rural land sharing developments has been removed as there were multiple incidences of these planning instruments being used to implement subdivisions of rural land that would not have otherwise been permitted.

MARRA has asked why Byron Shire Councillors are allowing this ‘back door process’ for rural subdivision

to be pursued rather than ensuring the developers follow the correct pathways for subdivision, which is to restrict this intensive type of residential development to its designated place in Main Arm village.

‘There is no local support for this CT in Blindmouth and the Council has removed the distance (100m) between main dwellings and secondary dwellings. This will result in potentially, 24 houses spread out over the entire property, creating a new semi-urban village in a RU2 zone area,’ said MARRA.

‘When this development was just an MO, there was a chance that the dwellings would be affordable. A CT price will be unaffordable to the many with the greatest need.’

You cannot get a mortgage against an MO share which assists in keeping prices for this type of land and housing more affordable.

Cats and dogs

As part of the request to change from MO to CT the DA also seeks to modify a range of consent conditions, including allowing dogs and cats on the property.

‘The application seeks permission to remove the ban on dogs and cats, this is a major concern as the property is very close to Inner Pocket Nature Reserve’.

MARRA have also highlighted the fact that there is nothing to prohibit shortterm holiday letting in the DA, particularly in relation to secondary dwellings.

Concerns in relation to flooding, water supply and sewerage have also been raised.

‘This development has no town or other significant water supply, no mains sewerage, inadequate mains electricity, and no internet or mobile phone reception,’ they point out.

‘This DA has included the construction of a dam on a natural creek. There is no information or report regarding the impact on the creek and on species dependent on it. Main Arm is a known major fooding area and is also the main arm of the Brunswick River. Building dams without consideration for natural waterflow and the animals that live and use these waterways has caused many problems in Main Arm over the years.’

Celebrating art and books at Brunswick Primary

It was all action last week at Brunswick Heads Public School as they celebrated Public Education Week and all the incredible opportunities that are available to students.

The school’s bi-annual art show showcased both 2D and 3D art. There were class canvases which every student contributed to and the hall also hosted student and family competition pieces

and a Lilly Pilly Pre-School wall.

‘Over 500 people came through the gates with all money raised towards funding further creative arts events,’ said Principal Jodi Ridgway. Ms Ridgway was also nominated for Byron Shire Community Member of the Year by the P&C for her dedicated work to the school.

‘On Friday we celebrated

Book Week with all the students dressing up as book characters and joined in a parade, followed by open classrooms with the parents reading short-listed books and creating craft.

‘There were some incredible handmade costumes, a teacher dance-off, and generally lots of fun. Everyone got involved and preschoolers got to enjoy a taste for big school.’

From art and books to the art of dressing up, life at Brunswick Primary School was go, go, go last week with Ivy, Amber, Adaline, Winter, Joey, Sid, and Ivan enjoying the Book Week parade. Photo Jeff Dawson

North Coast News

Hogan stirs the pot

After an estimated 300,000 people ignored the rain and the wishes of the NSW premier to peacefully march across the Sydney Harbour Bridge in solidarity with the starving people of Gaza, Page MP and Deputy Nationals leader Kevin Hogan’s contribution was to share a number of images purporting to show that this event was actually about supporting Muslim extremism.

Long walk planned from Ballina to Myall Creek

Two mates from Goonellabah, Daniel John Peterson and Geoff Reid, are planning an epic walk from Ballina to Myall Creek, between Bingara and Warialda, to commemorate the massacre of at least 28 unarmed Aboriginal people there in June 1838.

Lismore City Council’s arts and cultural policy ‘obsolete’

Lismore City Council’s general manager says preliminary internal circulation of four policies flagged as ‘obsolete’ and worthy of elimination has not raised any official objections.

Vibes and beats return to the streets of Tweed

The Tweed’s biggest party is back, with the 2025 Tweed Regional Museum Street Party set to light up the Museum precinct on Saturday 6 September from 3pm to 9pm.

Alleged Tweed Heads kidnapper arrested

A 41-year-old Tweed Heads South man with an outstanding warrant for kidnapping was arrested on Friday, police said.

Funding boost for community projects across Ballina electorate Member for Ballina Tamara Smith has announced $447,808 in funding for 18 new community infrastructure projects through the NSW government’s 2025 Community Building Partnership Program (CBP).

News from across the North Coast online www.echo.net.au www.echo.net.au

State Labor’s commitments on the Cudgen Connection development called into question

When the new Tweed Valley Hospital (TVH) site was selected and its status as State Significant Farmland (SSF) was removed, both NSW Labor and the Liberal–National Coalition confirmed with the community that they would not allow any further development on the rest of the SSF at that site.

The question is will the Labor state government uphold its commitment? Or will it allow the rezoning of the site, and approve the Cudgen Connection development – that NSW Health has consistently stated is not required for the TVH health and education precinct, and that any growth will be contained within the existing TVH and TAFE footprint –including essential worker accommodation.

Is the commitment really ‘ironclad’?

State member for Tweed, Nationals MP Geoff Provest has repeatedly said that they would not approve any further development of the SSF at Cudgen.

This was clarified by the then Minister for Agriculture, and now leader of the NSW National Party, Dugald Saunders, who told The Echo in February 2022, ‘The NSW government made a commitment to protecting the remaining Cudgen farmland in the Tweed Shire. I support the local member and thank Geoff Provest for his advocacy in ensuring this land is protected for the Tweed

Shire community’.

At the time the SSF was rezoned for the Tweed Valley Hospital to be built, the ALP, at state and federal levels, all committed to ‘ironclad’ promises that no more of the SSF would be rezoned. This was then confirmed in the leadup to the state election on March 16, 2023 by ALP candidate Craig Elliot (husband of the current Federal Labor member for Richmond, Justine Elliot).

Labor on the record as being committed

The Echo had asked Mr Elliot, ‘Will you give an unequivocal guarantee to protect the remaining Cudgen State Significant Farmland, including any attempts to rezone for non-agricultural purposes, such as those proposed by the “Cudgen Connection”?’

‘Yes. Labor is on the record as being committed to protecting State Significant Farmland,’ he said. ‘I have never supported having this prime agricultural land

Accused Tweed Heads DV

A 38-year-old man who fled Australia with three outstanding warrants for serious domestic violence offences on the Northern Rivers is to appear in a Sydney court this week.

The man, said to be from Alexandria near Sydney, was included in a list of arrests by Tweed/Byron Police.

Arrested and charged 25 people

The local officers said they arrested and charged 25 people in the space of a week with a variety of offences.

Investigations from the North Coast Domestic Violence High Risk Offender

Team reportedly led to the arrest of the Alexandria man late last month.

He was wanted for alleged domestic violence offences between 2021 and 2025 in the Tweed Heads area.

Police said he had spent several months in jail four years ago but received bail before his hearing date and fled the country.

Earlier this year the wanted man is said to have returned to Australia and to have given Australian Border Force a false address in Tasmania.

He’s due to appear before the Downing Centre Local Court in Sydney on 13 August.

rezoned and sold off to developers.’

The Echo has asked Labor’s NSW Upper House MLC, Emily Suvaal, who covers northern NSW, if NSW state Labor will honour their commitment not to approve further development on SSF.

38m height DA on exhibition

The Cudgen Connection development application (DA) proposed by Allan Larkin, Digital Infratech Director, is currently on public exhibition and under assessment by NSW Planning. Submissions must be logged by 5pm on Monday, 18 August.

‘This is a critical matter for our community and Kingscliff Ratepayers and Progress Association (KRPA) urges community members to get informed about the project and let their voice be heard through a submission,’ said Peter Newton, President of KRPA.

The current proposal is seeking an increase from the

current 10m height limit to proposed heights of up to 38m, which is 12-13 storeys, assuming an average floor height of 2.8m to 3m, significantly exceeding current building height maximums in the area.

‘Approval will result in the loss of our community’s long-fought-for building height limits due to a DA’s proposed change to the Tweed Shire’s Local Environment Plan (LEP), which would allow building heights to 38m on this site! There is also no strategic merit in this proposal, and it does not sit within the shire’s current and future strategic planning,’ explained Mr Newton.

‘The proposal clearly accepts that it is not in keeping with the major planning frameworks of our community, but seeks to significantly change these in order to proceed with the commercial development.’

In a previous meeting attended by The Echo with the developer Mr Larkin, he made clear that once the

development is approved they would not be the ones building the proposed residential accommodations the DA proposes, and therefore not in control of the outcomes of that part of the DA.

‘Importantly, there is no guarantee that the proposal will actually be delivered beyond any approval to rezone SSF and dramatically change building height limits,’ explained Mr Newton. Proposal soundly rejected by Tweed community

‘The proposal has been soundly rejected by the Tweed community during the extensive Growth Management and Housing Strategy (GMHS) consultation process and it (Ciudgen Connection) has been removed from any further strategic consideration. It will not form part of the important GMHS draft strategy soon to be released to the community.

‘The commitment to no further loss of protected SSF has been confirmed consistently to the community time and time again by politicians of all levels and sides.

‘Our community has accepted these assurances in good faith.

‘We urge community members to consider the facts and let their voice be heard on this critical community matter by lodging a submission by 5pm, 18 August to: www.planningportal.nsw. gov.au/ppr/under-exhibition/ cudgen-connection.’

Ballina Council expo connecting

The Community Connections Expo is on at the end of the month and local community groups, clubs and not-forprofits are being invited by Ballina Shire’s A Ward councillors to be a part of the event.

The expo will be on Saturday, August 30 at the Ballina Surf Club.

Council says that following the success of the Lennox Head event earlier this year, this free expo will be a great opportunity for local organisations to connect with residents, new families, and businesses in the area – and to attract new members or volunteers.

A Ward Ballina Shire Councillor, Erin Karsten, says the Community Connections Expo is all about showcasing the incredible groups that make the community. ‘It’s a chance for the public to discover how they can get involved, give back, or just learn more about the support and services available locally,’ she says.

Community organisations are encouraged to register for a free table to promote their group and activities.

Each group will be provided with a 1.8m table.

Council says the Ballina Community Connections

Expo will be a fantastic opportunity for local residents to learn more about these community groups, meet their passionate volunteers, and explore ways to get involved and give back to our community.

There’s already over 20 community groups registered to attend, from sporting clubs and environmental groups to creative collectives and support services.

Register before August 15 on the Ballina Council website – .ballina.nsw.gov.au. The expo is on from 9am to 12pm, on Saturday August 30 at the Ballina Surf Club.

Proposed site for the $250m health and education development ‘Cudgen Connection’ on State Significant Farmland. Photo Jeff Dawson

Cr Hague calls for Byron SEP report

Paul Bibby

The ongoing debate over the introduction of a Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP) in the Byron CBD is set to continue at this week’s Council meeting, with one councillor formally calling for an urgent investigation report into the impact of such a move.

The proposed entertainment precinct is intended to revitalise the town’s ailing night-time economy by allowing for extended trading hours, particularly for live music venues, and streamlining the process for hosting events.

There would also be a Precinct Management Plan to standardise sound and trading rules.

But a significant section of the community has expressed concerns in relation to the plan.

In particular, they are worried about the risk of increased alcohol-related violence and antisocial behaviour, and the lack of infrastructure such as decent street lighting and late-night transport options to support the move.

Among those expressing concerns are health professionals and police.

At this week’s Council meeting, Green’s councillor Elia Hague will move a motion which, if successful, would see Council staff prepare an urgent report on the SEP.

This would include clearly setting out which licensed venues would be included in the precinct, how the SEP can extend, reduce, or incentivise the extension of trading

hours for these venues, and the mechanisms by which the changes made for the SEP trial can be reversed if the trial is not successful.

The report would further explore Council’s current capacity to address increased safety risks created by the precinct, and whether Council did its due diligence on the impact of the trial prior to applying for and receiving grant finding for its implementation.

Concerns over alcohol-fuelled antisocial behaviour

‘There are fears that Byron Bay could return to the levels of alcohol-related violence, sexual assault, and antisocial behaviour seen in the 2010-2015 period,’ Cr Hague said in her written comments accompanying the report.

‘During this time, Byron Shire frequently led the state in statistics for these kinds of crimes, and there is collective trauma within the community in those who witnessed, or were victims of, an alcoholfuelled party culture that dominated the town centre after dark.’

‘Strong concerns have been expressed around the available extensions to liquor licensing hours and how this could increase rates of alcohol-related violence, sexual assault, and antisocial behaviour..

‘[There are also concerns about] a lack of funding to improve key safety infrastructure like lighting and transport, lack of hospital staff and police, and a strong concern that appropriate community

consultation processes (e.g. establishment of a working group and pre-grant application engagement) were not followed).’

As part of her motion, Cr Hague also called for the staff investigation report to cover the establishment of a community reference group to guide the SEP trial, including emergency services, local small business owners, creative industry representatives, local residents, and tourism industry reps.

However, in their written comments in relation to Cr Hague’s motion, Council staff said that there were four phases prior to the establishment of a permanent SEP, and that many of Cr Hague’s concerns were due to be addressed as part of this process.

The first stage, for example, involved early engagement with state agencies, relevant stakeholders, the community, and residents and businesses in and near the proposed precinct.

‘Community input will be central to shaping a trial precinct and will include information sessions, a position paper, FAQs, survey, pop-up events and focus groups across a 2–3-month period in August to September,’ staff said.

‘In this phase, Council will develop a draft Precinct Management Plan, conduct acoustic testing and explore planning changes to the LEP and DCP to support a trial precinct.’

The matter will come before Thursday’s Council meeting, for debate by councillors.

Healthy vignettes from our community

Echo drudges have been having a little bit of fun in recent months working on a short series of video vignettes on the subject of health, covering everything from your brain to your bum and what happens in between.

Stars of the show are health workers who are all specialists in their field including, naturopath, author and health educator, Sally Mathrick; oncology clinician and researcher Dr Janet Schloss; Dr Marco Giuseppin the newly appointed Executive Director of Medical Services & Clinical

Governance for the Northern NSW Local Health District; local GP Dr Joel Hissink who knows a lot about diving and aviation medicine; Professor Jon Wardle who is a Foundation Director, National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University; and Associate Professor John Stevens who is Co-founder and Director of the Australasian Society of Lifestyle Medicine and the Discipline Lead of the Master of Lifestyle Medicine at Southern Cross University.

The videos cover topics including the importance

of bowel screening, SCUBA diving for asthmatics, CBD treatment for brain cancer, managing menopause, the Natural Therapies Review, and Lifestyle Medicine. The videos also look at careers in medicine.

The videos were made at the Mcgougans Lane studios and were produced by Aslan Shand, directed by Eve Jeffery, and wrangled by Ziggi Browning as DoP, lighting, and sound engineer.

▶ You can view the series at: www.echo.net.au/ category/videos.

Celebrating the amazing people of Byron Shire

▶ Continued from page 1

conservation, and education in the Northern Rivers region. Operating under Brunswick Valley Landcare, BBB runs ongoing projects mainly in Byron Shire, with outreach to nearby areas.

The Creativity Award was shared by Virginia Reid who has taught and mentored many creative journeys at Byron Community College and Anouska Gammon, the person behind the highlyregarded Bangalow Theatre Company.

‘Discovering I had been nominated for this award was a real surprise,’ said Virginia. ‘Apparently former students wrote emails and gathered the necessary support. It is a privilege to live and work in this community as a teaching artist and to share my understanding that art and artmaking has an essential role in our individual unfolding. We are all creative beings and

most of us can benefit from time and space to attend to our inner relationship with ourself – an art studio is great for that – you can’t help but be challenged, enriched and enlivened!’

Anoushka said it has been an amazing experience starting and running the Bangalow Theatre Company as well as sharing her passion and love of theatre with young people through her company BANG Academy of Performing Arts.

‘We’ve done about 20 productions now at the Bangalow Theatre Company and won lots of different awards. We’ve all been a group of volunteers who are always growing and shifting. We have an upcoming show Come From Away starting on 21 August at the Byron Theatre. It is a beautiful musical about a small town in Newfoundland that ended up housing 10,000 after 9/11. It is based on a true story.’

The Access and Inclusion Award went to local, and former World Number One surfer, Pauline Menczer. The Caring for Country Award went to Lisa Sandstrom who is an organiser of the Save Wallum campaign. Young Community Member of the Year Award went to Billie Rettenmaier who is a member of the Newrybar Rural Fire Brigde and is a keen volunteer with WIRES, protecting and rehabilitating injured wildlife. The Contribution to Health and Wellbeing Award went to Dianne Browne while the In Business for Good Award went to Perigee Farms. The final award for was awarded to Community Initiative of the Year – Sound Shell Piano and Community Care by Laura Upsall. Laura entered the ABC’s Play It Again competition and this year won a new piano for the community, much to the delight of locals and visitors.

The Byron Shire Echo

Volume 40 #10 • August 13, 2025

The cost of climate change

Over the weekend we saw the cancellation of the Byron Writers Festival owing to another significant rain event on the NSW east coast. Wildfires are burning again in Greece as temperatures ramp up across Europe, California has seen evacuations as fires burn again, and it wasn’t that long ago that our news feeds were filled with the Texas flash flood that washed children and adults away.

According to The Guardian, some parts of NSW have seen more than ‘their average monthly rainfall dramatically exceeded in the first eight days of August’.

It was predicted that climate change in the Northern Rivers of NSW would see an increase in rainfall, and that it would also see an increase in rain bursts, which is when a large amount of rain falls in a short time, which can lead to flash flooding.

‘A warmer atmosphere holds more moisture, and more energy to fuel storms,’ explained the Climate Council in their 2025 report At Our Front Door: Escalating Climate Risks For Aussie Homes

‘We are experiencing more of our rain in the form of short, intense downpours leading to a greater risk of floods.’

Since the 2022 floods we have heard how communities need to be ‘resilient’ in the face of climate change. However, it is not just the soft skills of resilience we need, but hard investments from government to create more resilient infrastructure along with action on climate-change reduction targets.

We are still looking at roads and infrastructure yet to be repaired since the 2022 floods. When grants finally do become available, they are more likely to be ‘like for like’ rather than the governmenttouted ‘build back better’.

Action is needed from all levels of government to meet the needs of their communities locally, nationally, and globally. The World Economic Forum (WEF) has pointed out the obvious economic pain: ‘Climate change has caused over $3.6 trillion in damage since 2000.’

In addition the Australian Investor Group on climate change (https://igcc.org.au) stated that, ‘New economic modelling shows climate damage will deliver a 14 per cent annual hit to Australia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) if current global climate policies continue, wiping out $6.8 trillion from our economy between now and 2050 and cutting thousands of dollars a year out of the pockets of Australians.’

While the cost of action may seem high the cost of inaction is extreme. The Climate Policy Initiative (CPI) estimates that climate finance needed to ensure global temperatures do not rise above 1.5°C could increase up to USD 12.2 trillion per year between now and 2050.

When you consider the future cost of inaction, governments should be clearly spelling out the how, the why, and the value of taking action on climate change right now.

Aslan Shand, editor News tips are welcome: editor@echo.net.au

Politicians ignore public opinion at their peril

The 80th anniversary of the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki was last week. We were taught this atrocity was necessary to end the war and we believed it. It was a Trump-style lie. The Japanese military was on its knees and within days of surrendering.

It was mass murder of 200,000 innocent civilians, to test the lethality of the very different ‘Little Boy’ and ‘Fat Man’ atomic bombs.

A preferred target was the ancient capital Kyoto, with 1,600 temples, some dating back over a thousand years. Secretary of War, Henry Stimson, persuaded President Truman such loss of cultural and historical heritage could hinder postwar reconciliation efforts.

That massacre of civilians was a war crime. What is happening in Gaza is a war crime.

Japanese people protested the Gaza genocide near the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima last week, coinciding with the ceremony commemorating bomb victims.

Premier Minns’ attempt to halt the bridge March for Humanity was thwarted by Justice Belinda Rigg who declared, ‘...the march at this location is motivated by the belief that the horror and urgency of the situation in Gaza demands an urgent and extraordinary response from the people of the world…’

Hundreds of thousands who braved the bitter weather and marched proved her right.

Minns’ own colleagues called his prohibition attempt ‘risible’. He is out of touch with the mood of the people.

This march was reminiscent of the huge one against the Iraq war in 2003.

Once again, the people were right. That war was trumped up on the false premise that Iraq had ‘weapons of mass destruction’. They didn’t.

Thirty-one countries joined President Bush’s ‘Coalition of the Willing’. France, Canada and Germany refused and were vilified. Australia should never have participated, but meekly joined in, as we have in most American military misadventures since WWII. That must now change.

The Byron Shire Echo

‘In America, disillusionment has set in. MAGA is in disarray over the betrayal they feel on

Politicians ignore public opinion at their peril. There’s seething discontent in many countries.

Governments of the UK, America and Australia are out of sync with their people.

UK PM Keir Starmer is too conservative, and his polls are plummeting. The drop is the largest of any newly-elected government in 40 years. Labour is polling just above 20 per cent, down 15 per cent from a year ago. Older voters are fleeing to radical Reform UK, young voters to the Greens. If an election were held today, neither Labour nor Conservatives would win.

Disillusionment with the two old parties was demonstrated in a startling way when former UK Labour leader, and now independent, Jeremy Corbyn and Labour MP Zarah Sultana announced in July, they were setting up a new party to ‘take on the rich and powerful’, currently called Your Party. Within days 500,000 had signed up. A revolutionary new movement is born.

In America, disillusionment has set in. MAGA is in disarray over the betrayal they feel on the Epstein cover-up. High-profile radical Marjorie Taylor Greene has turned on the GOP for abandoning MAGA. If Trump thinks his futile meeting with Putin in Alaska, minus Zelensky, will divert attention away from the Epstein scandal, he’s mistaken.

ICE goons seizing people off the streets and workplaces and imprisoning them has caused a furore across the country. Republican members of Congress hardly dare hold town hall meetings as they are howled down by angry constituents.

A recent poll showed independent Bernie Sanders, regarded as a left-wing radical, is at the centre of the US political spectrum, while both

– Richard Jones

Democrats and Republicans are seen as too far to the right.

Sanders and Democrat Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez drew gigantic crowds on their recent ‘Fighting Oligarchy’ tour, tapping into resentment felt by so many Americans having difficulty affording groceries and healthcare, while billionaires get tax cuts. America is now heading into a dismal period of ‘stagflation’, as tariffs raise prices and the economy stagnates.

Add to this the global chaos caused by the growing climate catastrophe, of which the Byron Writers Festival was just another victim.

In Australia, the current impasse after the Tasmanian election illustrates growing disillusionment with the two old parties. The fair Hare-Clark electoral system has resulted in Liberals having 14 seats, Labor 10 and Greens and independents 11. Conservative Labor leader Dean Winter is loath to do a deal with the Greens that would guarantee him government. Will he cave in?

Anthony Albanese has a huge majority, thanks to Greens preferences and teals taking the Liberal heartland. That could change in one election if the wishes of the people are ignored, as is happening in the UK.

Albo needs to listen and act fearlessly. That means scrapping AUKUS, repairing the capital gains tax and increasing taxes on the mega wealthy.

The people are finding their feet and voices, and will not be taken for granted.

As the revolutionary chant goes, ‘The people united will never be defeated’.

Richard Jones is a former NSW MLC and is now a ceramicist.

What is she smoking?

Before the authorities begin punishing sellers of ‘illicit tobacco’, (up to seven years jail and fines for unlicensed tobacco sellers, Echo July 30) they may need to do some research. Here in Lismore many legitimate tobacconists sell packs of 20 cigarettes for around $25. I can’t be sure what was in the cheap cigarettes I bought, but it certainly wasn’t tobacco. It didn’t look like tobacco or burn like tobacco. I’ve been told that companies have been growing pumpkin leaf for at least 20 years and passing it off as the real thing.

Ba-a-a-a-a-a-abe

Do you remember when the movie Babe was released to much acclaim? Well, not if you were born this century – it came out 30 years ago this year. It turned many viewers into vegans – they realised that the bacon they had been eating is not just a (carcinogenic) meat, but flesh from an intelligent, sensitive pig.

The lead actor, James Cromwell, who went vegan on the second day of filming, said that Babe ‘helped me see pigs not as ingredients, but as individuals. They love. They grieve. They dream. Their hearts beat with the same quiet tenderness we feel in a dog’s gaze or a cat’s purr. They are someone, not something’.

Yet piglets, like Babe, continue to be torn away from their distraught mothers just a few weeks after birth. Workers chop off their tails, snip their teeth with pliers, and castrate the male piglets. The young pigs then spend their short lives in cramped, crowded pens on filthy slatted concrete before being slaughtered in terror at about six months old.

The RSPCA is currently considering legal action against a piggery in South Australia where pigs were filmed wading through muck up to their stomachs and eating the corpses of their dead littermates.

As Cromwell said: ‘going vegan lowers your chances of suffering from heart disease, cancers, strokes, and diabetes. And … it’s the best way to end animals’ suffering’.

Being vegan means you can spare nearly 200 animals per year, help protect the environment, and improve your own health.

Dr Desmond Bellamy Special Projects Coordinator PETA Australia

Oh China

Nothing prepared me for China.

In Xiamen, a city of five million, I walked up to 12km some days, past glittering malls, bustling fish markets, and serene gardens, rode bullet trains, got lost regularly and met hundreds of locals.

I saw three foreigners all week. Not once did I feel unsafe, just the opposite. Shopkeepers, police, and even a Mongolian family, who adopted me for a day at the botanical gardens, treated me like someone worth cherishing. Strangers smiled widely and gave me thumbs up when I ate oyster pancakes with plastic gloves instead of chopsticks.

The people are very happy, friendly, clean, well dressed, the streets and shops are spotless and 200+ kilometres from the city was exactly the same.

WeChat was a blessing, it’s like Facebook on steroids, it pays bills, translates messages instantly, answers questions, even hires bikes. The city floats on kindness. No drunks, no aggression, just teenagers practising English on me and grandparents laughing as I tried to say ‘Xiamen’.

I went to trace my greatgrandfather, a 17-year-old shepherd who left for Australia before the gold rush.

After searching museums, universities, and hospitals, the city library spent an hour with me and they’re still looking. I was seven days in a place where kindness was effortless and where an 82-year-old stranger can walk all day and never feel unwelcome.

Len Hend Mullumbimby Houses, houses, houses

More great news from both the Minns and Albanese Labor governments as they continue to deliver for the north coast.

NSW Housing and Homeless Minister Rose Jackson announced a $9 million modular social housing development delivering 24 new homes has just been completed in South Grafton, delivered via a partnership between the state and federal Labor governments, Northern Rivers Housing and Anglicare North Coast.

This comes as the NSW government recently announced it will build 90 modular homes over the next year. Modular housing is the state’s secret weapon to tackle the housing crisis with good quality homes built significantly faster and cheaper.

NSW is now leading the country, taking inspiration from Europe where this technology is used extensively. These beautifully designed, energy-efficient dwellings will provide a safe, secure home for people who need it most. This is part of an historic $6.6 billion Building Homes for NSW program, the largest investment

Career Guidance

in housing in the state’s history.

The program will eventually deliver 8,400 new public homes, 21,000 affordable and market homes, and upgrades to 30,000 existing social housing properties. This vital housing initiative could have been delivered many months earlier, had it not been unnecessarily held up in the Senate; this is what Labor governments do, it’s in their DNA.

Keith Duncan Ballina Labor

The bleeding obvious Thank you Paul Gannon for stating the bleeding obvious. (Echo July 30)

Recently the Local Government Association commissioned a study which revealed that state and federal governments are cost-shifting the costs of services and infrastructure on to local councils and ratepayers to the tune of $1.5b

Rhonda Ellis Lismore

Assembly, Old School Games, Memorabilia, Open Classrooms, Maypole, Morning Tea and more!

Everyone with an association to the school, past and present, is invited to share this celebration. FRIDAY

Image by Tree Faerie and OpenArt AI

per year for infrastructure and services which are not the responsibility of local governments or ratepayers.

That amounts to $500 per ratepayer or $8m per year being stolen from Byron ratepayers.

Roads and road maintenance is just one of the major cost burdens Byron Shire ratepayers have to suffer since the train service was closed, despite having train stations in the centre of Byron Bay, Mullum and Bangalow within easy walking distance to everything.

The cost of repairing the line in Byron for a train cost just $660,000 per kilometre, but Byron Shire Council and the state government spent $24m on the (mostly empty) Byron by-pass and $12m on just three roundabouts on Ewingsdale Road.

That’s 20 times the cost of repairing the train line to get the commuter train services running and building the rail connection to Coolangatta, to reduce traffic as the politicians promised. The majority of the three million visitors to Byron Shire can get here in a more sustainable, low-emissions manner. As the politicians said ‘we will need more trains and more tourist trains’.

Why is our Byron Council allowing the state government to shift this massive cost of road transport for three million visitors on to sixteen thousand Byron Shire ratepayers? It’s not locals clogging up our streets or hogging all the parking spaces and making our towns unpleasant places for locals and visitors alike.

Despite the billions we’re told tourism brings to the area, on top of GST and billions in stamp duty from the sale of expensive real estate collected by the state government, ratepayers are paying through the nose for things that are the responsibility of state and federal governments.

Then they tell us extending the hours of trading in Byron will be great. Obviously not caring about the consequences for people who drink alcohol having to drive home.

As if ignoring the warnings of scientists that climate disasters will become more frequent and intense – as we’re aware – and we need to urgently reduce our emissions isn’t bad enough, there’s nothing ‘green’ about any of this.

Louise Doran Ocean Shores

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China has it

Just to be frank, I don’t think there is a future for electricity distribution, or local or regional battery storage in suburban, regional, or rural areas.

China is showing the world that home batteries and solar are becoming the global economical future. It’s only going to get cheaper and cleaner.

Suddenly grid power only makes sense in denselypopulated town and city centres.

Sapoty Brook Main Arm

Dear Sarah

Way to go Mayor Sarah Ndiaye. Brunswick Heads paid parking, no longer free for residents; Mullumbimby’s town entrance destroyed forevermore and Byron Bay becoming the ‘Kings Cross’ of the Northern Rivers. What a trifecta you have overseen to ruin Byron Shire. How can a supposedly Green mayor with a majority in Council allow this to happen? Our real Green Mayor, Jan Barham, kept the developers from ruining the shire with courage and tact and strength of character. All of which seem sadly missing from this current lot of no-hopers. The entrance

to Mullum (57 Station St carpark-to-housing development) proposal contradicts so many planning constraints and federal, state, and local regulations it could not pass a private DA. And the ex-Poinciana lot next door is now to be developed as more housing in an incredibly constricted area. Slum tenements making a mockery of our ‘heritagelisted’ community.

Shame upon shame Sarah and co. Now to our Byron ‘entertainment district’ proposal. Most people know that Byron town CBD is not safe after midnight, especially on the weekends. Drunks, fights, females abused and raped, thefts especially of ebikes, and now robberies in front of the Commonwealth Bank in broad daylight. Not safe to use the teller machine. Not ‘family-friendly’ at all. I feel another Wallum direct action movement coming on in Mullum if Byron Council continues to allow this monstrosity to proceed. Councillors you have been forewarned. As you say, ‘It’s a done deal’ – nothing more to say on the matter.

Noah Yamore Mullumbimby

No longer remain silent

Stephen Ralph

After having just watched the 2025 Oscarwinning documentary No Other Land, which highlights the Israeli violent oppression of Palestinians in the West Bank, I can no longer remain silent.

The recent killing by an Israeli settler of Odeh Hadalin, who participated in the documentary, along with the nightly horror show of watching starvation and death in Gaza, is for me the final straw.

While the actions of Hamas

abhorrent and indefensible, this war did not begin

SUNDAY 24 AUGUST

Like many others I am appalled that the world sits back while what is arguably genocide occurs before our very eyes.

If it were any other country (outside of Africa) other than Israel, there would be sanctions applied, no flight zones declared, and intervention by western powers, as happened in 1995 when NATO intervened in the Bosnian War. Whatever happened to respect for human life?

For all those who are focused on apportioning blame, I ask whatever happened to respect for human life and compassion for the suffering of others regardless of what side of the fence they are on. The notion that this is all the fault of Hamas fails to understand the historical context of this conflict.

While the actions of Hamas on October 7 are abhorrent and indefensible, this war did not begin on that day.

There have been decades of Israeli oppression of the Palestinian people prior to this in which killings and human rights abuses have been a daily occurrence.

The legitimate aspirations of Palestinians for statehood have been continually ignored by Israel and the rest of the world, with Israel now openly rejecting the notion of a two-state solution which was envisaged by all concerned at the time of Israel’s creation in 1948.

The former UK prime minister David Cameron in 2010 described Gaza as ‘a giant open prison’ in referring to the subjugation and oppression of the people of Gaza. The situation has

greatly deteriorated since then, and we now see the consequences of the failure of the world to act in support of the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people.

The vile actions of Hamas on October 7 was the culmination of all that has gone before, including the failure of world leaders to progress the two-state solution, while ignoring the desperate plight of Palestinians.

The merciless, indefensible killing of Israeli citizens by Hamas on October 7 was justified at the time by Hamas officials as driven by the need to provoke a response from western leaders to the hopeless and despairing state of the Palestinian people and the world’s failure to act.

Since then, the Israeli government has been emboldened to pursue its objective of seizing more territory, eradicating any perceived threat to its authority, and bombing its neighbours, all in the name of self-defence.

The support of the deluded, malignant narcissist who sits in the White House

This occurs with the support of the deluded, malignant narcissist who sits in the White House, who continues to arm Israel and who views Gaza as a potential real estate development.

After images of starving and dead children have been beamed nightly into our lounge rooms, the

citizens of the world are finally taking notice and world leaders have awoken from their slumber and are feeling pressured to act. However, empty declarations and endorsements of Palestinian statehood will not bring this war to an end, though it may give the Israeli government cause to show some restraint.

While Netanyahu remains in power though and continues to enjoy the support of the US there is little likelihood of any change occurring in the circumstances and aspirations of the Palestinian people.

No simple answer to this bitter,

There is no simple answer to this bitter, entrenched conflict –though it is obvious that Israel has created a new generation of embittered martyrs who will never forget the trauma and indescribable suffering inflicted upon them and their families by Israel and all those who had enabled them by standing idly by. It is a conflict that will now be endless.

Tragically, the lesson of the past that killing people is never a legitimate solution has somehow been lost in all of this.

For those who argue that a two-state solution is ‘a reward’ for Hamas, I say, surely compassion and respect for all human life outweighs any petty concerns about winners and losers.

Call me antisemitic, a supporter of terrorism, or deluded if you must, but I will live with it, because like many others I feel a need to be heard and can no longer sit idly by and watch the horror unfold.

Stephen Ralph is a psychologist who lives in

Mullumbimby.

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Another Palestinian activist silenced, Odeh Hadalin, who featured in the Oscarwinning documentary No Other Land, was recently shot and killed by an Israeli settler.

Standing for babies

Beautiful sad photo of an Iranian child featured on Mandy’s Soapbox recently about the babies of Gaza. A perfect example of how the messages we receive can be constructed from unverified sources. Mandy Nolan may think there is only one fact, but really we are all in the dark as to the reality.

Who are these starving children on our screens? How are the actions of Hamas, Iran, UN, IDF, Netanyahu and others weaponising human suffering? Can we trust any reporting from Gaza when the lines of communication are all so blurred and news stories are repeatedly retracted?

This ‘famine’ is definitely man-made, but by which men?  Is it the men who write the stories, the ones who fail to deliver the aid, the men who steal the aid, those men who fire on looters in selfdefence or the men who hold hostages and fail to make peace?  Will we ever know the truth?

I stand for the babies of Gaza, the situation is inhumane, but I also mourn for the Bibas babies of Kibbutz Nir Oz killed by Hamas in October 2023 and I do not trust the message that

claims that only Israel needs to be held accountable.

Bayla Nerden  Byron Bay

What’s with AI?

Manufactured systems management has caused an expanding result in the way people relate to existence. The growth of AI has expanded tremendously since 1979, when I first interacted with a computer numerically-controlled machine. I operated the machine; a Spanish man programmed the number control system that made the machine manufacture parts for other machines.

As an operator, I changed the numbers to compensate for deviations in the sizes of finished parts. I made a mistake changing the numbers, damaging the moving parts of the AI machine. Time has moved on; our government operates the AIM (artificial intelligence machine) by changing the numbers of the AI machine.

The programming originates offshore; the United Nations and affiliates are the foreign powers who program the Australian government. MyGov pressed the wrong numbers; they distorted the original constitution and have given Australian wealth

to foreign powers. The profit earned is taken away and transferred using misinformation, censorship, deception, force and taxation. Find the time to read the original AU 1901 Constitution to see why living has become so expensive. All because the operators intentionally change the numbers and transfer the wealth to the unseen powers, who are rewarded, instead of Australian people!

R Podhajsky Ocean Shores

What will the SEP do?

A Byron town SEP (special entertainment precinct) will not prevent future floods, fires, lower visitor numbers, high rents or most obviously a per-capita recession. It is not possible to ‘future-proof’ against these things. It does however risk very real unintended consequences should the fears of many residents, health professionals et al be realised and it would be near impossible to unscramble this egg.

Byron Bay is certainly a magical place but it is not a magic pudding, it is subject to the same economic forces as the rest of the east coast of Australia. If the council wishes to help the town back on its feet with ‘vibrancy and activation’ it

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is possible to do so within the existing framework. A good starting point would be getting all the wonderful creative people who make up this town and community together to discuss how.

Locking into a SEP of virtually the entire town centre, based around liquor licensing is not the way forward.

Tim Mack Byron Bay

Footpaths not boardwalk

Those who want to create a footbridge and boardwalk across Marshalls Creek into the north part of Brunswick Heads Nature Reserve (north of the river) have not taken into account what ‘nature reserves’ are and why they exist.

Already we have access by foot, boat, car or bike to this fragile and special ecosystem, so it’s hard to understand any need for a footbridge bringing heavy foot traffic on boardwalks. It is a delicate ‘nature reserve’, i.e., reserved for nature, which has a different protection listing to a ‘national park’.

This tiny piece of littoral forest holds many flora species that are rare and endangered. The shorebirds consist of several migrating species that have flown tens

of thousands of miles to rest here, such as the great and little terns (endangered), eastern curlew (critically endangered), the godwits (near-threatened, numbers declining), as well as the local oystercatchers (endangered), plus many more.

Already there are people who walk straight into bird camps on the beach without realising the birds must rest and gain weight before their return flights across the globe. A local species, the beach stone curlew (critically endangered and declining) on last count shows only three in the reserve.

Habitat will be destroyed in making bridge and boardwalk infrastructure. With increased human traffic, noise and litter, there will be disturbance to nesting, mating and habitat. Wallabies, bats, wallum froglets, pythons, will be exposed to possible fires, easy dog and fox access (already an ongoing problem), trampled flora etc. You can understand why a footbridge is not a good idea.

Already National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is hard pushed to keep this small and narrow isthmus protected, lying precariously between two tidal rivers and the battering ocean.

I can do no better than

quote from the NPWS website. ‘Nature reserves are areas of land in predominantly untouched, natural condition, with high conservation value.’

‘It is home to various threatened plant species and endangered ecological communities. Their primary purpose is to protect and conserve their outstanding, unique or representative ecosystems and Australian native plants and animals. Scientific research is an important objective in nature reserves, as it increases our understanding of their values and provides the information needed to conserve them.’

Richard Whitling (Echo 30 July) points to better ways to spend our meagre Council funds for worthy, nondamaging or basic needs of residents of Ocean Shores. Footpaths maybe? We, who are lucky to live here, have a big responsibility to protect our remaining endangered coastal forests and wildlife Ri Fraser Ocean Shores

There were more letters than space this week. Read people’s opinion about Gaza/Israel/Palestine and other general letters at: www.echo.net.au/category/ letters.

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On the wing – glossy black cockatoos

Byron Bird Buddies

Agentle breeze sends a whispering shiver through the weeping needles of the she-oak trees, muffling the sound of our footsteps. As our ears adapt to the ensuing silence, we hear the gentle cracking of she-oak cones and the soft fall of discarded ‘chewings’ – also called ‘orts’ – that alert us to the presence of glossy black cockatoo. How fortunate we are!

Of the marvellous black cockatoo with whom we share the Northern Rivers environment year-round, the glossy (Calyptorhinchus lathami lathami) is the quietest and most discreet.

Unlike their red-tailed and yellowtailed black cockatoo relatives, or the cheeky, raucous sulphur-crested, glossies go about their business in a more subtle and cryptic manner.

While the uninitiated would be readily forgiven for mistaking a red- or yellow-tailed for a glossy, there are a few helpful clues. Unlike some other cockatoo, their calls aren’t overly loud or harsh. It might be a ‘chur-ree’ or ‘cherreek sound repeated several times, often while they’re foraging or communicating with their mates.

Training binoculars on the pair we’ve found, it’s clear that the glossies are of smaller stature than the red-tailed and yellow-tailed black cockatoo. As we watch, the adult male clasps a thin casuarina branch with one claw and a casuarina cone in the other, which he raises to his bulbous bill.

The comparative size and shape of the bill is another confirming clue, being well adapted for prizing seeds from cones. Incredibly, his balancing act is achieved while the branch sways to the rhythm of the sea breeze.

A third clue that confirms the bird’s identity – and gender – is the colouring. glossy black cockatoo are sexually dimorphic.

This biological term means that males and females of the same species can be differentiated by their appearance. In glossy blacks, these differences are quite distinct:

Adult males have all-black plumage, with a distinctive red patch on their tail feathers, which makes them easily identifiable.

Adult females have a combination of black and dark brown plumage, often exhibiting yellow spots on their heads and necks, while juvenile birds can exhibit orange or yellow spots.

Adult tail feathers feature red panels with thin black bars, the red areas sometimes having yellow margins.

Sexual dimorphism helps birdwatchers and researchers

The bird we’ve spotted is clearly a male. But wait. Movement in the branches a little further away reveals a second bird – a female, whose gender is also easily confirmed, thanks to sexual dimorphism which helps birdwatchers and researchers alike determine the sex of these magnificent birds.

In the whole of Byron Shire, only one active glossy nest site has been identified since monitoring started in earnest in 2022 Thankfully, glossies have been sighted, including the ones we’ve observed, in four different feed trees areas.

A privilege to see them

It’s such a privilege to see these birds here in Byron Shire, foraging in their natural habitat. Absolutely captivated, we stay put until the sun begins to sink, when, as if on cue, the birds exchange a plaintive cry and take off. Our final treat is the sight of their short but resplendent tail feathers fully spread, undersides glowing in shades of red and yellow.

Thankfully, there are wonderful organisations with projects afoot to increase glossy numbers in our area. Here’s what you too, dear reader, can do to help our glossy black cockatoo if you feel so inclined:

Join Byron Bird Buddies and take part in surveys: byronbirdbuddies.com.au.

4/17 Tasman Way, Byron Bay www.nimbusco.com.au

Fosters and Volunteers URGENTLY NEEDED! Your time and heart can help change lives!

Beautiful, loving Yindi is ready for her forever home!

Yindi

Yindi (Heeler x Saluki) is sweet, affectionate, and great with people and dogs. She’s perfect for a family ready to open their hearts.

Come meet them, you’ll be so happy you did!

Microchips: 953010100406273 & 953010006014171

Julia:0458 461 935 | www.byrondogrescue.org

Indigenous sport talent days

Ross Kendall

The North Coast Academy of Sport (NCAS), in proud partnership with Underwriting Agencies of Australia (UAA), recently hosted two Indigenous Talent Identification Days (ITID) aimed at uncovering and nurturing Indigenous sporting talent from across the region.

The events, held on Tuesday, 29 July at Southern Cross University’s (SCU) Lismore Campus and Thursday, 31 July at SCU’s Coffs Harbour Campus, brought together 120 aspiring young athletes from schools stretching from Port Macquarie to Tweed Heads.

After some strength and conditioning, the athletes engaged in a series of fun, sport-specific activities delivered by qualified coaches from Basketball NSW, Netball NSW and Rugby NSW.

These sessions offered students an introduction to each sport and provided an exciting opportunity to showcase their athletic abilities whilst guided by some of the most experienced coaches in NSW.

Athletes who demonstrate

was one of

both physical aptitude and the personal qualities necessary for high performance are eligible for UAA Indigenous Athlete Scholarships. These scholarships assist with fees associated with NCAS sport programs, supporting Indigenous athletes on their journey toward higher levels of competition.

Creating opportunities

‘For four years now, UAA has supported North Coast Academy of Sport’s outreach efforts to find and nurture local talent throughout our region,’ Luke Field, NCAS Sport Programs Manager said.

‘UAA, Southern Cross University, ACE Performance, state sporting organisation partners and local high schools from Laurieton to Murwillumbah all chip in to support our ITID events and that’s really the success of it all – our community coming together to create opportunity’.

‘The North Coast Academy of Sport extends its heartfelt thanks to all participating schools, families, coaches and partners who contributed to the success of the day. Their support plays a vital role in nurturing the next generation of Indigenous sporting talent.’

Plenty of fun in the mud for AFL juniors

The U9s Brunswick Valley Bulldogs AFL team had a rumble against the Kingscliff Dolphins last weekend at Stan Thompson Oval in Brunswick. It was reported as a great game – full of mudslides, puddle tackles, and fabulous teamwork. The next home game (and last of the season) will be on 24 August. Photo Kartini Bell

AFL Saints come marching home

Ross Kendall

The Lennox Head Saints are sitting in third spot on the ladder of the Northern Rivers senior men’s AFL competition after beating the Nimbin Demons 5.11.41 – 3.7.25 at the Stan Thompson Oval last Saturday.

‘We had a good hard win,’ Lennox Saints President Brad O’Connell said. ‘Everybody had a crack, there was some real camaraderie between the teams. But it is always good to have a win’.

‘There was a bit of water on the field but not too much rain to contend with,’ he said.

The new look competition is billed as a social competition for men 16-55 to minimise any ‘big hits’, but is still played with competitive intent.

The game was part of round four of the new five-round competition that includes seven teams from across the Northern Rivers.

A finals day is scheduled for August 23 in Lismore that will see first place take on second, as well as play-offs

for third and fifth place involving the top six finishers. In other games from the weekend the Ballina Bombers continued their undefeated run beating Byron Bay Magpies 11.10.76 - 1.1.7. The win firmly establishes Ballina at the top of the table.

In the other game of the round Lismore Swans played their way into second place on the ladder with a win over the Casino Lions 8.3.51 – 3.5.23.

The Brunswick Heads Bulldogs had a bye.

NORTHERN NSW DEALER

Rugby

the three sports young Indigenous students participated in as part of the ITID run by the North Coast Academy of Sport. Photo supplied

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WELCOME TO THE ZEN BARBER. A PERSONAL TOUCH, EVERY TIME.

At The Zen Barber, you’re not just another appointment, you’re a valued guest. Owned and operated by AJ, your experienced head barber, this is a space built on genuine care, quality craftsmanship, and good old-fashioned service. From relaxing hot towel treatments and steam shaves to precision fades, beard trims, and restyle cuts, everything is tailored just for you. Enjoy fine tunes, a great chat (or a quiet moment), and a grooming experience that feels more like catching up with an old friend. AJ takes pride in every cut and makes sure you leave looking and feeling your best. Book in, relax, and experience the difference of a barber who truly cares.

Shop B, 16 Lateen Lane, Byron Bay 0413 734 350 www.thezenbarber.com.au

WELCOME TO SKIN & CLAY, WHERE RADIANT SKIN MEETS LUXURIOUS CARE.

Experience personalised consultations that tailor treatments to your individual needs. Indulge in their exclusive selection of high-end facials, where experienced therapists focus on a nurturing, corrective approach combining the latest technology and techniques, delivering effective, customised care for radiant, healthy skin. Their treatments ensure optimal results with minimal downtime.

At Skin & Clay they use cosmeceutical and paramedical skin care to address issues like pigmentation, rosacea, acne, scarring, wrinkles, and premature aging. They also offer gift vouchers to spoil that special someone.

Shop 2/66 Ballina Street, Lennox Head Call 0266 875 273 Online booking available www.skinandclay.com.au

A WORLD OF COLOUR AT THE LOCAL BYRON BAY.

Neutrals, step aside. Get your daily dose of colour at The Local Byron Bay, with a fun and eclectic mix of giftware, homewares, apparel, vinyl, accessories and more. You can’t miss this kaleidoscopic store on Fletcher Street, located right next to Combi Cafe with colour bursting at the seams and out onto the sidewalk. Pop in and shop iconic Australian brands like Dinosaur Designs, Jones & Co, Sage & Clare, Boom Shankar, Kip & Co and Skwosh.

With Father’s Day coming up, there is a huge collection of good-vibe gifts to take home for the rad Dad. Shop premium bags and accessories from Rains, solid colognes, or a matching cap and tee from Banabae.

Open 7 days, 9.30am–4.30pm 5/21-25 Fletcher St, Byron Bay 0461 582 656 thelocalstores.com.au • @thelocal.stores

PERACLES – BAREFOOT FREEDOM, CRAFTED IN AUSTRALIA.

SLICK BYRON BAY.

Slick is a natural grooming and skincare brand made for those who value quality, simplicity and sustainability. Their beardgrooming products, skin care, fragrances and deodorants are all handcrafted in small batches in their local studio, using local, organic ingredients and zero synthetics. Each scent is blended from pure essential oils – earthy, fresh and unique. No shortcuts. No chemicals. No fillers.

Working with growers and producers across the Byron Shire, the business is sustainable from start to finish, with low-impact production, reusable packaging, and conscious sourcing. Slick was created with a simple idea: grooming should feel good, work well, and align with your values. Their focus is always on quality over quantity. Good for your skin, good for the earth. This is natural grooming without compromise. This is Slick. www.slickbyronbay.com.au • @slick_byronbay

Not all sandals are created equal. Peracles are handmade in Bangalow to honour the way your feet were meant to move – bare, balanced, and in touch with the earth.

Designed to feel like a second skin, they move with you, not against you. Handcrafted with premium leather, zero padding, and plenty of soul, these sandals strengthen your feet, age beautifully, and can be repaired for years to come. No shortcuts. No plastic. Just honest footwear, built slow.

Visit the workshop, try them on, see how they’re made – and feel what barefoot freedom really means.

Mention this ad for $15 off- or bring a mate and you’ll both score $20 off. Good things travel by word of foot

Monday–Friday, 10am–4pm 7 Bugam Pl, Bangalow 0421 855 228

www.peracles.com.au • @peraclesfootwear

BLOE SALON

Byron Bay’s leading-edge hair salon, Bloe Salon is a space for creativity and self-expression, with an emphasis on personalised, unique hairstyling that embraces your natural hair texture.

The salon’s skilled stylists collaborate with each client to define their personal style, transforming your hair dreams into inspired reality, creating timeless, elegant beauty that defies the ordinary.

Bloe Salon specialise in colouring, cutting, extensions, and styling for weddings and special events.

Bloe Salon, Jonson Lane Complex, G11, 139 Jonson Lane Byron Bay Bloe Industrial, 5a/57 Centennial Circuit, Byron Arts & Industry Estate 0426 920 148 www.bloesalons.com @bloesalons

ZÓCALO

ZÓCALO is an ethical fashion company that started in Mexico 12 years ago, with two stores in Baja. They opened their Australia store over four years ago in Newrybar. A social enterprise, it focuses on bohemian, beautiful, unique pieces from Mexico, Australia and beyond. With brands like Spell, Nine Lives Bazaar, Ottway, BOPO and Leif, their shops are a must-visit.

A portion of every sale is donated directly to four charities they help to fund in Mexico.

Shop ZÓCALO in store or online: 17 Old Pacific Hwy, Newrybar Mon-Fri, 10-4pm • Sat & Sun, 9-4pm @shopzocalo shopzocalo.com.au

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EYE OF HORUS

Step into a world of better beauty. Eye of Horus is a luxury, cruelty-free beauty brand with a decade-long commitment to slow, ethical beauty. The brand is celebrated for high-performing formulas, naturallyderived ingredients, and a commitment to responsible design.

Locals and visitors are invited to explore the Eye of Horus Concept Store in Byron Bay, where they can discover the award-winning range of clean cosmetics and skincare, book a personalised makeup session, and refill or recycle beauty essentials at the Refill & Recycling Station - embracing a circular approach to beauty.

Mention The Echo ad in-store to receive a 15% local discount on beauty and skincare products (T&C’s apply). Personalised beauty services, expert colourmatching, refill and recycling station.

Monday–Friday, 9am–4pm 4/1 Boronia Place, Byron Bay eyeofhoruscosmetics.com • @eyeofhoruscosmetics

BEAUTIFUL BROWS

According to the ancient art of ‘face reading’, the eyebrows indicate the current health, hopes and goals of an individual. It is believed that people with thick eyebrows are generous and emotional. They tend to joke around and are often attracted to action and adventure. What do your eyebrows say about you?

Get the eyebrows you want with bespoke cosmetic tattooing. Eyebrow tattoos are custom-designed in harmony with your existing eyebrows to look natural, and to flatter and complement your unique facial features. They last between 9 to 18 months.

Eyebrow tattoos can camouflage thinning eyebrows; reinvigorate the face and redefine the features; correct eyebrow asymmetry; soften the facial expression; create a more youthful appearance; repair over-plucked eyebrows; boost your confidence; or camouflage scars.

Contact Sally on 0405 925 193

SIP’N’STYLE SUNDAY SESSIONS AT BARBARELLA

You’ve evolved – now your hair should too.

This isn’t your average cut-and-blow-dry. Explore your natural texture, face shape, true tone, and hair energy in a deep-dive consultation.

Renowned hairdresser and stylist Tommy Ward, is now working alongside Brooke and Inga at Barbarella. Bringing 17+ years of elite salon experience he will curate these intimate sessions with the team.

You’ll leave with:

• A 1:1 professional consultation (all insight, no fluff)

• Live styling education you’ll actually use

• A personalised ‘Future You’ Hair Plan

• A luxe gift bag with testers, vouchers and feel-good extras

• Champagne and local grazing table delights

This isn’t a haircut. It’s a hair awakening.

Only six spots. First in, best hair. Contact now for bookings. 43 Burringbar St, Mullumbimby 02 6684 1441

@barbarella_hairandbeautysaloon

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BROW & LASH CO BYRON BAY

Brow & Lash Co Byron Bay is the go-to beauty destination for flawless brows, lashes, and luxury retail products. Nestled in the heart of Byron, this locallyowned salon is known for its warm, professional team and commitment to enhancing natural beauty. Led by the owner Hollie, a skilled and passionate brow artist with years of industry experience, the team takes pride in delivering exceptional, personalised service. Specialising in all things brows, lashes and spray tans, every treatment is tailored to suit each client’s unique features. The salon also offers a curated range of high-quality beauty products for at-home care. With a loyal local following and a welcoming atmosphere, Brow & Lash Co Byron Bay has become a trusted name in the Byron beauty scene.

2A/1 Byron Street, Byron Bay 02 6680 9708

hello@browandlashcobyronbay.com

STEWART’S MENSWEAR

Father’s Day is Sunday, 7th September so now’s the time to start planning. From practical essentials to thoughtful surprises,Stewart’s Menswear offers a wide-range of gift ideas to suit every kind of dad.

Whether it’s quality weekend wear, hardworking gear, or something a little special, shoppers will find plenty to choose from including a selection of Australian-made favourites. Free gift-wrapping is available in-store to make Father’s Day gifting simple and stress-free.

Proudly family-owned and serving the Mullumbimby community since 1929,Stewart’s Menswear invites you to visit the store or shop online atstewartsmenswear.com.au.

52-54 Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby 02 6684 2148

DR.MOOSE

Wanna win at Father’s Day? Look no further, legend. Dr.Moose has the best dad tees this side of the Big Prawn.

Whether your dad’s a grill lord, a surf rat, or just bloody hard to shop for, they’ve got the tee for him.

Stillnot hitting the mark? No worries! They make custom tees in-store while you wait.

Drop in with an idea and leave with a masterpiece!

Designed and printed right here in Byron Bay. It’s fast. It’s fun. It’s guaranteed to get a dad chuckle. Be the favourite child this Father’s Day.

Worn by legends. Built for chaos. Byron Bay since ’95.

Quote ‘Echo ’ for a 10% discount in store!

48 Jonson Street, Byron Bay 02 6685 5825

Vae Medical Aesthetics is nestled in the heart of Newrybar village, led by medical professionals Dr Jemma Buultjens and Dr Kate Allan. Vae offers advanced cosmetic and skin treatments, utilising regenerative therapies, Broad Band Light Therapy and Moxi Laser. At Vae, every treatment is designed with care, integrity and deep respect for your individuality. Step into their tranquil space and experience personalised aesthetic care and rediscover your confidence.

16 Old Pacific Highway, Newrybar 0422 639 013

info@vaemedicalaesthetics.com

MICHAELA’S HAIR & BEAUTY

Michaela’s Hair & Beauty are offering IPL Hair Removal specials to help you feel smooth, confident, and ready for summer. Now is the perfect time to start treatment so you’ll be looking and feeling fabulous once the warmer weather arrives.

With over 20 years of trusted service in the heart of Brunswick Heads, Michaela’s is a well-established salon known for professionalism, care and results. Owner and therapist Michaela brings over 25 years of experience to the industry, offering personalised treatments in a warm and welcoming space. Call Michaela today and take advantage of this season’s package deals.

02 6685 1330

2/12 Park Street, Brunswick Heads michaelashairbeauty@bigpond.com

@michaelas_hair_and_beauty

Facebook: michaelashairbeauty

AT OH MY GODDESS, BRA SHOPPING IS EASY!

It’s an open secret: Bra shopping is easy at Oh My Goddess - the retail therapy paradise for the goddess in every woman. Their huge range of bras in all sizes and styles, combined with expert, personalised assistance and comfortable change rooms, all make bra shopping a pleasure. And because they care deeply about women’s health, they specialise in no-wire bras. The also have one of the largest stockings ranges in the region.

Owner Daisy worked in show business for 20 years and also studied fashion design; this background shaped her boutique, where you’ll always find the latest in fashion, and she’s happy to help you play with options, and have fun reinventing yourself.

At Oh My Goddess looking and feeling fabulous doesn’t cost a fortune.

7 Park Street, Brunswick Heads Open daily 10.30am–3.30pm.

THE ANSR

The ANSR(All Natural Shampoo Replacement),pronounced like‘The Answer’,is a first-of-its-kind, waterbased live solution designed to cleanse and nourish the scalp and hair while supporting healthy hair growth. It can be used as a complete shampoo and conditioner replacement, between washes, or as a targeted scalp treatment for issues like dandruff, dermatitis, itchiness and hair loss. It’s even gentle enough for babies and children, making it perfect for treating cradle cap. Made with just five ingredients sourced from nature, The ANSR is completely nontoxic with no hidden nasties. Use on wet, damp, or dry hair. Simply spray directly onto the scalp and brush through. Handmade in small batches in Byron Bay, it’s so natural…you could eat it! www.wearetheansr.com @the_ansr info@wearetheansr.com

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JAC’S BEAUTY SPOT

Jac’s Beauty Spot has landed in beautiful Bangalow, inside Akaliko Skin Clinic! Jacqueline Reid is a diploma-qualified beauty therapist and certified lash and brow artist with 20+ years of experience and a deep passion for enhancing natural beauty. She is proud to be the 2021 International Lash Masterpiece 2nd Place winner and a 2025 International Lash Masters Finalist!

Her signature treatment, Lash & Brow Magic, is a client favourite and includes a Lash Lift & Tint, Hybrid Dye Brows with precision mapping, shaping and sculpting, plus a luxe collagen lip or eye mask. Jacqueline loves helping women feel uplifted and confident.

Mention ‘local love’ for 10% off!

Call or text 0424 177 967 or book online via Timely.

Good Taste

Mon–Sat 10am–late, Sun 10am–10pm Bistro Fri & Sat: 11.30am–2pm & 5.30pm–9pm Bistro Sun–Thurs: 11.30am–2pm & 5.30pm–8pm 77 Main St, Alstonville 02 6628 0719 thefedhotel.com.au

Serving amazing food, cold beers, delicious cocktails and a carefully curated wine menu, with a family-friendly atmosphere.

Sit on the front balcony for a drink in the sun or enjoy a meal in the dining room by the fire place. This historic building and its genuine and friendly staff will have you feeling like it’s your local in no time.

Australian Hotel Ballina Open Daily Pub Meals: Tue–Sat, Lunch & Dinner • Cantina: Wed–Sat, Lunch & Dinner • Sunday Lunch: 12–4pm 103 River St, Ballina @australianhotelballina

Ballina’s go-to for classic pub meals, bold Mexican, cold pints & cheeky margs. Live music, DJs, $9 Pacific Ale and free feed for the kids on Sundays.

Mention this ad for a free house beer or soft drink with any main meal. australianhotelballina.com.au

8/10 Wilfred St, Billinudgel www.rosefinas.place

26 Mullumbimbi St, Brunswick Heads (02) 6685 5739

www.riverrestaurantbruns.com.au

Reservations:  www.riverrestaurantbruns.com.au/book

Horizon Rooftop

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC 7 DAYS

Horizon Rooftop, Hotel Marvell 4 Marvell Street, Byron Bay

Open Daily | 12pm – late NO BOOKINGS REQUIRED Call: (02) 6685 7385 @horizonbyronbay

Forest Byron Bay

Open 7 days Breakfast: 7.30 to 10.30am Lunch on Verandah from 12 to 3pm Dinner: 5.30 to 9pm crystalbrookcollection.com/ byron/forest

Oyster Bar

4 Marvell St, Byron Bay

OPEN 7 DAYS

Breakfast 7–11:30am Lunch 12–4pm  Dinner 5–10pm Book byronbayoysterbar.com.au

Main Street

Open for takeaway daily, 12 midday until dinner.

Menu, more details –@mainstreet_burgerbar

18 Jonson Street (02) 6680 8832

Guided by the ethos “Wild at Heart, Local by Nature”, River is a celebration of Northern Rivers produce, people, and provenance – a space where community and creativity come together over beautiful food and wine.

Welcome to Horizon, Byron’s newest rooftop bar.

Enjoy hinterland views, stunning sunsets and signature cocktails showcasing local distilleries and breweries.

Hotel Marvell’s newest seafood destination OYSTER HOUR Tuesday to Saturday 5–6pm  Serving $3 oysters

Open for takeaway daily, 12 midday until dinner. Menu and more details @mainstreet_burgerbar ‘Make a meal of it’ Add chips and a drink, just $5.

Eateries Guide

BYRON BAY

ALSTONVILLE

BALLINA

BYRON BAY

The Good Life

Young farmers growing success: Josh and Lynette

At the Mullum Farmers Market, Josh and Lynette’s stall is a colourful display of leafy greens, cabbages, Romanesco cauliflowers, Asian greens, and kale. As young farmers, they’ve built their business from the ground up, literally, and their story is a shining example of passion, hard work, and seasonal farming done right.

Josh’s philosophy is simple but powerful: ‘Grow soil before you grow plants. Healthy soil is the foundation – the plant is just the reward.’ He’s learned that understanding the biology at the root level is the key to thriving crops. While quick growers like lettuce, Asian

greens and radish can be ready in six weeks, crops such as cabbage, garlic and cauliflower take five months of care. Planning ahead is vital, and now is the time to plant summer crops for a steady harvest.

While Josh nurtures the farm, Lynette turns their produce into flavourful, nourishing meals. One favourite is whole baked cauliflower: blanch briefly, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and dukkah, then roast until golden. ‘Dukkah has all the spices you need,’ she says.

Her chicken noodle soup is poured over freshly-sliced bok choy and tatsoi, topped

DJ this Sunday, 17 Augu

We’ve experienced unusually wet and wintery winter in the far north of the Northern Rivers recently, and as the community deals with winter fatigue, excitement over anticipated warmer weather is in the air.

Rosefina’s is getting the jump on spring this Sunday, 17 August in old Billinudgel town with their first ‘street-style’ Mexican BBQ. Step into a Mexican vibe from 12:30pm to 4:30pm(ish) where taco fillings are cooked over the open charcoal grill on the deck, and served fresh into warm hand-made tortillas right in front of you. The restaurant is already acquiring a name for their authentic Mexican flavours – you can enjoy your tacos with traditional salsas and toppings, all made in-house by chef Rodrigo. Enjoy as little as one or 100 tacos depending on your appetite. To help bring the vibe DJ Athol will be crossing the border from Brisbane

to bring us his collection of rare groove vinyl to help you settle into Sunday afternoon. A vinyl veteran around the Brisbane scene, Athol’s been keeping vibes high on dancefloors for well over two decades. With an extensive catalogue of forward-thinking and rare groove tunes that are Shazam-worthy, he’ll be bringing his electronic, soulful and disco-infused sound for your sonic pleasure.

Of course it wouldn’t be Mexican without tequila and mezcal either.

Rosefina’s boasts a boutique range of quality cocktails, many incorporating a touch of Mexico. Their margaritas are becoming recognised as some of the best in the Shire with people driving from miles away to get their lips around this zingy and salty delight. The Mezcalita, a punchier version of the margarita, brings a smoky base to this classic combination, making it next level.

If you’re not a lover of the agave-based spirit you can enjoy the Hibiscus Spritz, the Rosefina’s version of an Aperol Spritz incorporating their own hibiscus syrup reduction. For the designated driver or non-drinker there is also a selection of zesty mocktails, locally-made North Wall Kombucha on tap and the refreshing Jamaica drink.

Book ahead to receive two tacos of your choice and an Azteca Margarita for $25 or upgrade to their Classic or Tommy’s Margarita for an extra $5. Bookings can be made online at www.rosefinas.place to secure the special deal. Otherwise just roll on in, on the day, street style.

Rosefina’s 8/10 Wildred St, Billinudgel www.rosefinas.place

with coriander and shallots, keeping the greens fresh and crunchy. Kale chips are a hit with the kids, bake at low heat until crisp and serve with a tangy tahini-yoghurt dip. For something vibrant, Lynette’s Asian-style coleslaw mixes green and purple cabbage, carrot, coriander, and Japanese mayonnaise with lime juice.

From cultivating living soil to crafting simple, flavourpacked dishes, Josh and Lynette have turned their love for fresh food into a thriving farm business.

Find them every Friday at Mullum Farmers Market from 7am-11am

Northern Rivers Food organisation folds

The locally-based Northern Rivers Food (NRF) organisation, established in 2011 as a not- for-profit, member-based food group, has sadly folded.

Created and helmed initially by Brook Farm’s Pam Brook, it connected people in the local industry by providing regular events, workshops and other networking opportunities. ‘It became an informative haven for the 80-plus members – a family of sorts,’ said Pam, ‘and it was instrumental in furthering public interest in the region’s food products and resources.’

NRF’S Harvest Festival held in May each year was a popular activity celebrating the region’s unique food culture, landscapes and vibrant community spirit. Farm tours, handson cooking demonstrations and celebratory dining functions defined its offerings to the public and usually gave some financial return to NRF.

‘The present economic climate and the torrential weather across the month of Harvest this year combined to take NRF under the line,’ said the Chair of NRF, Mark Awad.

An administrator has been appointed.

NRF organisers said that, despite the current situation, so much goodwill exists within and outside membership that they were organising a ‘bring a plate’ farewell and the possibility of creating an informal ‘food social’ network.

Open 6am – 12pm Monday – Saturday Shop 6/108 Stuart Street Mullumbimby.

Greens from the farm: Josh and Lynette Dooley.

WHAT THE MONSOON KNOWS…

One-time Writer’s Fest-journo Ian Browne takes you beneath the epidermis of SE Asia, India, Sri Lanka, Darwin and the Northern Rivers of NSW. Culture, art, cuisine; the natural world, down steamy city back-lanes: see why Ian Browne’s journeys over ten years have inspired the production of popular UK and US television series.

Pure escapism, this book is a great gift for the traveller, the daydreamer, the teacher and student of environmental and social sciences. Enjoy the insights of our First Nation community. Stop for a yarn in Mullum with Frankie God of Hair and Mari the Lithuanian Jungle Vegan! You are sure to know at least one personality in the Northern Rivers chapters of What the Monsoon Knows

Book Website: www.ianbrowne.ampbk.com and local bookstore.

BUILD TRUST, BUILD WEALTH WITH LOCAL FINANCIAL EXPERTS

Establish trust and confidence with a dedicated financial adviser that meets clients in person, before choosing the investment strategies best suited to your goals.

With a history of fostering long-term local relationships, Ord Minnett’s advisers have helped generations grow and protect their wealth.

Call today for personalised financial advice with personalised service, and take a step towards a more informed financial future.

Ord Minnett is an Australian-owned wealth and investment services firm, managing more than $71 billion in funds under advice for its clients, as of 30 June 2025.

Contact Private Wealth Advisers Jake Blumberg, phone 02 8216 6359, email jblumberg@ords.com.au; or Sam La Cava, phone 02 8216 6301, email slacava@ords.com.au; or visit ords.com.au

Ord Minnett is the trading brand of Ord Minnett Limited ABN 86 002 733 048, holder of AFS Licence Number 237121; a Market Participant of ASX Limited and Cboe Australia Pty Limited and a Member of the Stockbrokers and Investment Advisers Association.

BYRON COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Want to kick-start your career in the construction industry? Byron Community College is offering NSW White Card Training (fee free)* – CPCCWHS1001 Prepare to Work Safely in the Construction Industry. This essential unit equips you with the knowledge to work safely on construction sites, covering workplace safety requirements, hazard identification, correct use of PPE, safe work behaviours, emergency procedures, and your legal responsibilities. You’ll also learn how to report unsafe conditions, ensuring you can contribute to a safer workplace from day one.

Upcoming dates:

26 Aug 2025 – Mullum Campus

16 Sep 2025 – Byron Campus Byron College also offers first aid courses (not funded). Check the website for available dates and information about this course.

www.byroncollege.org.au • 02 6684 3374 *This training is subsidised by the NSW Government.

125 YEARS OF THE POCKET PUBLIC SCHOOL

This year, The Pocket Public School is excited to be celebrating 125 years of quality education, community partnerships and growth. Anyone with an association to the school, past and/or present, is invited to share this celebration. On Friday, 19 September, the school will welcome visitors from 9 to 11am for a special assembly, old school games, memorabilia and photo displays, open classrooms, maypole, morning tea and more! From 4pm come along to the Billinudgel Hotel for a social catch up and memory sharing over drinks and snacks. Come and experience

The Pocket School in 2025 and look over the past 125 years; inspiring, inclusive, empowered.

For more information or if you’ve got a story to share, they’d love to hear from you via 125tpps@gmail.com

SALT CREEK MOTORCYCLES

Salt Creek Motorcycles was founded in 2020 on a passion for riding, and a commitment to helping local motorcyclists. As the Northern Rivers’ official Royal Enfield dealer, they’ve quickly become a trusted part of the community, known for their personal customer service and dedication to keeping riders on the road. They offer more than just new bikes, also stocking a good selection of used bikes for sale. Their services include rentals, guided tours, and expert servicing for a wide variety of makes and models. They also carry a full range of gear, including apparel, helmets, jackets, tyres and accessories, along with the kind of solid advice you can only get from fellow riders. When you visit them, you’ll be talking directly to the owner or their skilled mechanic – never a salesperson.

Lox and Chain is the brainchild of powerhouse duo Federica Freire, Creative Director, and Zakariah Mardon, Design Director — visionaries who transformed their passion into a multimillion-dollar jewellery business with a global reach. Since founding the brand, Federica and Zak have redefined modern jewellery through bold storytelling and distinctive design.

Zak meticulously crafts each piece, such as the iconic Till Death Ring, Breakable Heart Necklace, Sacred Heart Locket, and Signets, all of which have contributed to the brand’s multi-million-dollar revenue. Federica brings each collection to life with striking, scroll-stopping campaigns that have become signature to Lox and Chain’s identity. Their creative synergy has produced standout campaigns like Made for Two, Black Friday, Bare Essentials, and Engravables, generating millions of views and driving exceptional commercial success.

loxandchain.com

2C/42 De-Havilland Crescent, Ballina Industrial Estate 02 5629 7907 saltcreekmoto.au @saltcreekmoto

MR MAC: SERVING THE BYRON SHIRE

Mr Mac specialises in hardware and software upgrades, system maintenance, backup help, battery replacements, replacement screens and all things Mac-related in a dedicated computer workshop.

Mr Mac offers in-home visits to help with tuition / problem solving. Devices needing more specific attention can be dropped in to theBrunswick Heads workshop (by appointment). Customers PLEASE NOTE: After taking over Mr Mac in May 2019, it’s been nonstop Mac action so it’s time for a break – so Mr Mac will be taking the month of October off.

During this time urgent Mr Mac enquiries should be directed to his good friend Ulrich from TekWizard, based in Mullumbimby 02 6684 6010

MR MAC has been proudly serving the Byron Shire since 2001.

www.mrmacintosh.com.au

@Mr Macintosh @mrmacbyronbay 0418 408 869

NORTHERN RIVERS WILDLIFE HOSPITAL OPEN AND SAVING LIVES

A new era in wildlife care has arrived.

Northern Rivers Wildlife Hospital (NRWH) has officially opened its doors at a purpose-built site in Wollongbar, offering expert care, treatment and rehabilitation for sick, injured and orphaned native animals.

Set on peaceful acreage and powered by a skilled team of local wildlife vets, carers and volunteers, the hospital is quickly becoming a vital lifeline for our region’s unique and vulnerable wildlife. They’re proud to work alongside local and national rescue organisations to provide high-quality, collaborative care.

Every animal they save is a step towards a healthier future for our native species – and every donation helps treat more animals and grow this essential service.

To donate or learn more, visit 50 Lindendale Rd, Wollongbar 02 5657 9447 • www.nrwh.com.au @NorthernRiversWildlifeHospital

Articles

THE PADDOCK PROJECT ACHIEVES ORGANIC CERTIFICATION

After eight years of regenerative syntropic farming, The Paddock Project has taken the plunge and undergone full organic certification. Working with Southern Cross Certifiers and using a Bio Meter test, they discovered their regenerative practices have created exceptionally high microbiological health in their soils.

Achieving organic status means the world to them. It’s more than a label — it’s proof that land, even after years of depletion, can be restored through good farming practices and care. For our community, it’s reassurance that the food grown here comes from healthy, living soil.

The Paddock Project remains committed to farming that nourishes people and heals the land for future generations.

64 Argyle Street, Mullumbimby 0400 348 209 paddockproject.com

REVIVE YOUR OLD PHOTO ALBUM

With the war breaking out in Ukraine recently, Irina was forced to leave everything behind, taking just her two children with backpacks, to a safer country.

There was no space for anything at all, including their large family photo album. They lost all photos from their happy past. Having worked in television and video editing all her life, Irina has decided to help others who may want to cherish old photos the way she does.

She will carefully scan and edit your photos, turning hardcopy albums into a convenient and durable digital album in a contemporary photo frame. Your photos will no longer gather dust, but will be in constant access, and you will be able to view them every day!

0493 384 422 irynakardanova@gmail.com

Public school kids rock the Opera House

By Miranda Burne

There was not a dry eye in the house when almost 700 children from public schools across the state decked the stage of the Concert Hall at the Sydney Opera House last week.

The wave of ethereal sound from the soprano voices of the Combined Public School Choir accompanied by the NSW Public Schools Symphony Orchestra uplifted an adoring audience.

Five public schools were selected from the local area to be part of the performance: Byron Bay, Lennox Head, Murwillumbah, Southern Cross, and Teven-Tintenbar.

An unforgettable evening at an iconic venue

The Northern Rivers children had an unforgettable evening, performing at one of the most iconic venues in the world.

The students, who have been rehearsing twice weekly since the start of the year, as well as putting in hard work on their own

at home, performed ‘Second Star to the Right’, ‘Yilaalu’, ‘Skipping Stones’, ‘Arlington’, ‘A Moment in Time’, ‘Manly Ferry’, ‘Spring in My Hometown’, ‘Children of the Wind’, the theme from Spider-Man, and ‘You’ve Got a Friend in Me’.

After this amazing show, performer Evie Brett, said it was

definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience, ‘Most people would not ever get to perform at the Opera House, but we did at 11 years old!’

No small feat

And it was no small feat to get there, with the children spending the year rehearsing many hours

each week to get the songs right.

Year 5 student, Jude Goodman said, ‘Although the rehearsals were long and hard, it was worth it to get the Opera House .’

The event was run by the Arts Unit of the NSW Department of Education and is one of many creative opportunities offered to

children attending public schools across the state. Other programs include, the North Coast Creative Arts Camp, North Coast Music Camp, and the State Winds Band which will also be performing at the Opera House next month.

The experience of performing at the Opera House is one that has the potential to change a child’s view of what is possible, and what they can achieve if they apply the effort.

Experience giving a

‘I might be a famous singer one day because that experience gave me a taste of what it feels like,’ said Evie Brett.

Programs like this, run by the Arts Unit, aim to promote connection and inclusion through the arts for public school students in NSW, working to reduce the impact of disadvantage and offering alternative pathways to grow.

‘It was amazing performing in front of all those people, it makes me want to do more choir performances in the future,’ said Jude.

Hundreds of children from public schools across the state decked the stage of the Concert Hall at the Sydney Opera House. Photo Arvind Lo

Cryptic Clues

ACROSS

1.Tell procurer and harlot not to start (6)

4.Outline of sailor’s first yacht (6)

9.Hey! Hitler’s men are trapped by left extremists (4)

10.Distressed farmer stuck in station on frozen waste (10)

11.Golden boy starts to admire Donatello’s ‘Oedipus Naked’ in situ (6)

12.Storyteller hurried back to speaker, missing nothing (8)

13. Fool of a president confused tree with fish (9)

15. Echo in ecstasy over tiny jumper (4)

16.Contradict male (4)

17.He writes inferior verse: ‘Flower of Italy, and Latin flower’! (9)

21.Philosopher boxes, following first of standing orders (8)

22.Lots of dogs abandoned by Penny (6)

24.Low score to managers of walkways (10)

25.Look at trendy cut (4)

26.In movie, ogre crushes beginning of incursion with a high-pitched scream (6)

27.Monster that is abandoned by a close friend (6) DOWN

1.Person in the know jailed over resistance (7)

2.Deception in bed, from top to bottom (3-2)

3.Claver response to solemn inscription by old holy woman (7)

5.New rendition of aria OK for greeting neighbours! (3,3)

6.Animal torturers badly roasted over finale to slaughter (9)

7.Guy’s right-wing account of past events (7)

8.Queen’s old man, the artist formerly known as a crook type! (6,7)

14.Spooner’s Rugby forward, one who spreads scandal (9)

16.Distinctive ways to articulate footwear (7)

18.On reflection, shoe is too tight to accommodate foot (7)

19.One who retreats before item becomes problematic (7)

20.Comfortable with domestic situation (2,4)

23.Able to keep large pieces of pottery (5)

If you would like to provide any feedback to Stephen Clarke about his crosswords please email: crosswordfeedback@echo.net.au

BY LILITH

Mercury jetting out of retrograde to amp up the sun in the fiery sign of the lion is guaranteed to reignite this week’s social spark…

Quick Clues

ACROSS

1.Share knowledge or information (6)

4.Quick drawing or outline (6)

9.Whispered call for attention (4)

10.Permanently frozen ground in polar regions (10)

11.Exceptionally handsome young man (6)

12.Person who tells a story (8)

13.Brass instrument player (9)

15.Baby kangaroo (4)

16.Male deer or rabbit (4)

17.Inferior poet (9)

21.Ancient Greek philosopher (8)

22.Large amounts (6)

24.Wooden walkways over wet ground (10)

25.Cut of meat from animal’s back (4)

26.High-pitched scream (6)

27.Very close friend (6) DOWN

1.Person with access to confidential information (7)

2.Hoax or deception (3-2)

3.Quick, clever reply (7)

5.Māori greeting used in New Zealand (3,3)

6.Spanish bullfighters (9)

7.Study of past events (7)

8.Husband of a reigning queen (6,7)

14.Journalist who exposes corruption (9)

16.Heavy shoes with decorative perforations (7)

18.Affectionate term for a foot (7)

19.Religious recluse or hermit (7)

20.Comfortable in a particular situation (2,4)

23.Blue and white pottery from the Netherlands (5)

week’s solution #67

AUNTIE SMARTSET D A S P E S PEASOUPER ANTE P X S SPOT TAKEHEART P R R M P E CASTRATI INSTEP R S C N S P F TRACKEVENT ABED O A M R L I R WARDEN TENNIS

Cancel Climate Change!

Mandy Nolan

My climate change session got cancelled. Because of climate change.

I guess that pretty well says it all. Saturday morning at the Byron Writers Festival I was looking forward to talking climate change with Dr Joelle Gergis, an IPCC scientist and author and host Mel Bampton. But it was cancelled. Ironically because of the weather. Which was part of what we were going to talk about. In fact, the whole festival was cancelled, not just because of the rain. It’s climate change. You can deny it all you want, but the reality is climate change doesn’t care what you think. It will take you out regardless. Apparently, it’s not a fan of authors.

One of the things they don’t tell you about climate change is that along with warming, and adverse weather events, it also creates disappointment. For those of you, who like me spend all year looking forward to the one weekend of the year when we all come together to talk ideas and politics and stories in a glorious outdoor setting, the relentless driving rain was a serial pest. And when it comes in that hard you can’t beat it. You have to surrender. Safety first. It’s so boring.

I was just a few minutes into a session with authors Lisa Messenger and Sarah Megginson about their book The Power of Two, which told the unique story of their surrogacy journey. (I have to say journey here because I don’t know what else goes with surrogacy – other than surrogacy rollercoaster? Collab?) The rain came down so heavily we couldn’t hear ourselves talk, the water was rising around the tent, gushing across roadways, and then the power went down. More irony. So we sat on the edge of the stage and yelled at what was left of our audience until we were evacuated from the site.

Is this the future? I guess it is. Expect the unexpected. Coastal sea rise and global temperature rises of over 2 degrees which means something like 2.5 degrees here because we are a vast expansive country. It’s happening faster than we thought. We passed the 1.5 degrees and now we are crossing the dangerous threshold of human-induced

ARIES: The current unfolding scenario could benefit from a wide lens, gentle touch, and remembering speed doesn’t equal success. If something feels slow, it may need time to marinate. This includes your inner world, so don’t force yourself. Clear space physically, digitally and energetically for answers to show up.

TAURUS: There’s no shortage of complexities to untangle when redesigning your life, and mapping the next steps through financial changes. So it’s worth listening to late week’s waning moon in Taurus advising you to stop and reconnect with your core values before making significant decisions – or burning bridges.

GEMINI: Three planets settled into retrograde in your sector of group dynamics and creative collaboration is an excellent time to take inventory of your social circle. Do certain friendships or groups seem past their use-by dates? This week encourages thoughtfully checking-in, with a view to quality over quantity.

power this country 50 times over) but to extend the licence of Woodside’s North West Gas Project to 2070. Boo! Hiss!

The rain came down so heavily we couldn’t hear ourselves talk, the water was rising around the tent, gushing across roadways, and then the power went down.

climate change which could see millions if not billions of people in lowlying areas without a home. And local readers also without a festival! Climate refugees. Bad news Byron, those $30 million properties are gonna go under –you’re below sea level. So is Brunswick Heads. South Golden …actually nearly all of our region. We know this, so why aren’t we all climate activists?

Fossil fuels are fucking us up. They know it. Scientists know it. Our government definitely knows it. Yet the first thing they do when they get elected isn’t something bold like recognise the urgent need to reinstate the carbon tax that Abbott abolished, or fast-track to solar (which we have enough of to

CANCER: The first meetup of nurturing Venus and big-picture Jupiter in Cancer after more than a decade invites you to extend the reach of your care, however that might work for you. It could look like meeting up with like-minded others to help people in need who could use a leg-up.

LEO: With Mercury taking a turn for the positive in your sign, irritations morph into uproarious stories and creative projects get a fresh stimulus package. As this week issues a director’s call to your passionate majesty’s theatrical hormones, you’ll want to take charge, but don’t neglect to let others have their say.

VIRGO: Try blocking this week’s influx of unwanted information so you can listen to your instincts, because your muse needs you rested and receptive, not rushed and reactive, impatient of delays or opposition. Tune into your own frequency and you might be surprised just what inspiration shows up for you.

LIBRA: If you’ve been feeling underappreciated lately, this week’s celestial ingredients suggest using the opportunity to reassess relationship dynamics. As Mercury surges forward, so does your creativity as a gifted wordsmith, and the possibility of negotiating a long-standing problem through to a user-friendly solution.

SCORPIO: This week’s astrological energy in your public sector suggests taking a good look at your resources, timelines and key collaborators: do any of those recent reconnections have professional potential? Focus on solutions rather than what’s bothering you, and try to come up with some tangible suggestions.

SAGITTARIUS: Expressive Mercury flaring forward once more in the zodiac’s most performative fellow fire sign ensures you’re a confident and convincing speaker and keen listener. Whatever you’re pitching or presenting this week, juice it up with lashings of dramatic flair: colourful visuals, creative imagery and entertaining stories.

When our local writers’ festival tells people they have had to cancel an event that is planned for our driest month because of the rain, I think, here we go. The new normal. The new normal is there is no normal. Just records being broken, patterns smashed, and people who’ve worked bloody hard standing in the mud wondering why they bothered.

Long-term climate change is causing NSW to warm and this is increasing the likelihood of extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall near the coast. We need to pressure our governments to meet their climate targets. Yes for a liveable future. But also so we don’t die of heat… and boredom!

Big love to the Byron Writers Festival who have to clean up after a party they didn’t get to have. Kind of like our kids.

Mandy Nolan’s Soapbox column has appeared in The Echo for almost 23 years. The personal and the political often meet here; she’s also been the Greens federal candidate since before the last two federal elections. The Echo’s coverage of political issues will remain as comprehensive and fair as it has ever been, outside this opinion column which, as always, contains Mandy’s personal opinions only.

CAPRICORN: Should there be any unresolved tension around joint finances, shared resources or long-term emotional obligations, this week’s celestial energetics support initiating straightforward talks about money and expectations. Just don’t go into full-on project-manager mode because this isn’t the time to make unilateral decisions: discuss things first.

AQUARIUS: Aquarians are known for their big picture vision, but with three retrograde planets in your social synergy and cooperation sector, this week could bring about a need to reset some interpersonal agreements. If addressed with tact, clarity and transparency, honest conversations are the best route to restore mutual understanding.

PISCES: Saturn, Neptune and Chiron currently retrograde in your personal sector of earnings and values is the perfect time to slow down and give some thought to financial regulation and organising money matters. As outgrown and formerly reliable structures dissolve, look for security and steadiness in your relationships and contributions.

MANDY NOLAN’S

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

seven days of entertainment

Eclectic Selection

What’s on this week

Callum Creelman was a closet musician until he found a home on stage across the Northern Rivers’ restaurants, bars, cafes and markets. Now he’s putting a raw vocal spell on a range of genres – Cal covers a variety of artist hits and hidden gems of songs from the ‘80s to now!

Thursday from 6pm at the Hotel Brunswick, Brunswick Heads. Free show.

Animal Ventura is the brainchild of Brazilianborn, Byron Bay-based singer-songwriter Fernando Aragones. As a boy, Fernando followed the steps of his father in ‘Rodas de Samba’ – these days he’s known for his rich tone and timeless

vocals, served with a tasty side of new-wave live looping and strong songwriting skills.

Friday from 5pm at the Beach Hotel, Byron Bay. Free show.

Two great screenings are on this weekend when the Bruswick Picture House presents: the Top Dog Film Festival 2025; and Gutsy Girls Adventure Film Tour 2025. The names say it all!

Saturday – Top Dogs 2pm, Gutsy Girls 7pm, Brunswick Picture House, Brunswick Heads. Tickets from $23 via brunswickpicturehouse. com.

When Jerome Williams picks up an acoustic guitar, he makes it do things you’ve never heard before. Expect the

unexpected as he switches from percussive guitar beats to spitting bars then suddenly throwing in some insane shredding. Kind of like if Drake and Slash had a mildly-deranged lovechild.

Sunday from 1pm at the Billinudgel Hotel. Free show.

The Guy Kachel Trio are coming at you this Sunday – the strains of country, rock, and blues mingled in Kachel’s increasingly accomplished craft, makes this trio awesome.

Sunday from 2.30pm at the Ballina RSL, Boardwalk. Free show.

Popular Byron Bay entertainer, Jon J Bradley delivers live, engaging and energetic party music in the form of pop and retro-rock

alternative classics. Jon’s earthy acoustic renditions exhibit strong, versatile vocals with warm harmonica and rhythmic guitar.

Tuesday at The Rails, Byron Bay. Free show.

Alphabet Poets is on and the letter for this month is X! Yes X. It’s a bit of a challenge, so they will also accept words beginning with Ax, Ex, Ix, Ox or Ux. So bring a poem on a subject that begins with the letter X or by a poet whose name begins with X –but, you can also bring a poem about your ex, your axe, a poem full of oxymorons, or a poem about uxoriousness.

Wednesday from 7pm at The Levee, Lismore. Free show.

Ever-evolving Vinted Vineer

Vinted Vineer began as a creative outlet for Brisbane friends Dominic Ritchie (lead vocals/rhythm guitar) and Charlie Normoyle (lead guitar), who started crafting guitar-pop together in high school. Their DIY beginnings evolved into a full band with the additions of longtime friends Koen Yoshida-Martin (bass) and Mathew Appleton (synthesizer), and in 2023, Theo Lang (Drums) joined, bringing fresh energy and new perspectives to the group.

Since launching their sound in 2021, and off the back of their 2023 self-titled EP release, they packed a year full of east coast shows, bringing their sound to new audiences. In 2024, they released Tobi Yume, a neon-plated love letter to the 2010s hip-hop scene sealed with signature guitar-rock.

With their sound ever-evolving and an appetite for new influences, Vinted Vineer is ready to take on fresh horizons and redefine what comes next – you can catch them on Saturday with Cosmic Vice , EJ Wood and Ratmongers

This is a free show from 7.30pm at The Northern in Byron Bay.

seven days of entertainment

No-holds-barred lyricism

Paper Lane is one of South East Queensland’s newest indie rock acts. With a vintage pop-meets-rock sound and their no-holds-barred lyricism, Paper Lane have just released their debut single ‘Better In My Head’ which debuted on Triple J Unearthed and reached #1 on the AMRAP Metro Charts.

Since their formation in early 2023, Paper Lane has swiftly asserted themselves as a significant presence in the vibrant South East Queensland music scene.

As dedicated, full-time musicians, this four-piece band is in constant motion, gracing stages across the eastern coast of Australia. Paper Lane’s sound is a captivating blend, characterised by their infectious melodies reminiscent of Spacey Jane and their invigorating energy evocative of Paramore, all woven together with a distinctive twist that is unmistakably their own. Even this early on, Paper Lane has quickly etched a name for themselves as a band to keep a close eye on.

Sept 6 - Sept 27 thth

Course runs over 4 Saturdays 9.30 - 1.30pm

band is in cons eastern is a c th

See Paper Lane on Saturday at The Rails.

Anytime someone tells me that I can’t do something, I want to do it more. – Taylor Swift

Authentic

songs

Sara Storer is one of Australia’s most beloved and authentic singer-songwriters, renowned for her ability to capture the heart of rural life with an uncanny sense of melody and lyrical precision. Since the release of her critically-acclaimed debut albumChasing Buffalo in 2001, Sara has built a loyal following across the country, earning accolades for her deeply personal and evocative songs.

Over the course of her career, Sara has achieved extraordinary success, winning an ARIA Award for Best Country Album and an impressive 22 Golden Guitar Awards – a testament to her enduring impact on Australian country music. Her songs, often described as ‘poetry set to music’, have been praised for their honesty, warmth, and ability to tell the stories of real people. As Lee Kernaghan once said, ‘Sara Storer writes songs that paint the spirit of the bush with breathtaking beauty’, while Rolling Stone hailed her as ‘one of the finest lyricists this country has ever produced.’

Sara has just released her highly anticipated eighth solo album, Worth Your Love, a collection of songs that continue her tradition of heartfelt storytelling and rich, melodic songwriting. She is currently on a national tour bringing her timeless music to audiences across Australia once again.

From humble beginnings to becoming one of the country’s most respected artists, Sara Storer’s career is a shining example of authenticity, artistry, and a deep love for the land and its people.

Sara is playing the Ballina RSL showroom on Saturday, August 30. Info and tickets at ballinarsl.com.au.

CINEMA

In your face!

The 2025 live-action remake of Disney’s 2002 animated science-fiction comedy-drama, Lilo & Stitch is that same story as the early century original, just so much more in your face! (Stitch is actually moderately frightening).

The story begins on planet Turo, where Dr Jumba Jookiba is convicted, by the United Galactic Federation, of illegal genetic experimentation for creating an aggressive, near-indestructible creature with advanced learning capabilities called Experiment 626 – our cutsey, cute, cutey bubba Stitch. Jumba is imprisoned, while 626 is exiled for his destructive behaviour. However, 626 escapes by stealing a police cruiser and using its hyperdrive to reach Earth, crashing on Kaua’i. The Grand Councilwoman offers Jumba freedom if he recaptures 626, pairing him with Earth expert, Agent Pleakley. 626 crashes near a wedding reception and is run over by a tourist trolley before being taken to an animal shelter. An orphaned Hawaiian girl named Lilo Pelekai is expelled from hula school for pushing her bully Mertle off stage due to frustration over her sister Nani’s absence. Their social worker, Mrs. Kekoa, visits and finds Nani unfit to care for Lilo, demanding she complete her expected tasks in a week.

The film revolves around the story of the two individuals: Lilo, who is raised by her struggling older sister, Nani, after their parents’ deaths; and the geneticallyengineered extraterrestrial creature, whom Lilo adopts as her ‘dog’ and renames ‘Stitch’. Stitch, who was designed to cause chaos and destruction, initially uses Lilo to avoid recapture by an intergalactic federation. They develop a close bond through the Hawaiian concept of ohana, or extended family, causing Stitch to reconsider his intended destructive purpose, to keep his newfound family together.

Lilo & Stitch is screening at Palace Cinemas this week. Find out more at palacecinemas.com.au.

GIG GUIDE

WEDNESDAY 13

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, TIM STOKES

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 3PM KANE MUIR + ALLY PALMER

BYRON THEATRE

6PM SCREENING ‘FUTURE

COUNCIL’ + EXCLUSIVE Q&A WITH DAMON GAMEAU

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM INO PIO, 9PM DUELLING PIANOS – JON SHORTER & SHANE PARRY

BANGALOW BOWLO

7.30PM BANGALOW BOWLO BANGALOW BRACKETS’ OPEN MIC SESSION

FRIDAY 15

THE PADDOCK PROJECT, MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM OPEN MIC JAM

LENNOX PIZZA 6.30PM OPEN MIC

ELTHAM HOTEL 6.30PM IRISH FOLK JAM

THE LEVEE, LISMORE, 7PM ALPHABET POETS

TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE SHOWROOM 7PM ARC PRESENTS PINK FLOYD

THURSDAY 14

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, INOSEIO PLO

HOTEL BRUNSWICK

6PM CALLUM CREELMAN

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, BULLETPROOF

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 5PM ANIMAL VENTURA + VELVET TRIP

NORTH BYRON HOTEL

4.30PM DJ NAT WHITE ELEMENTS OF BYRON 5PM MARTIN LARTIGAU

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 9PM DUELLING

PIANOS – MICK BUCKLEY & JOHN HILL 11PM

DIZZY J & JON SHORTER, 10.30PM HASHIMOTO’S CACTUS

WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM DJ XUJA

MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 8PM KRAPPYOKEE WITH JESS

THE LEVEE, LISMORE, 8.30PM KAZ

MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES

CLUB 6.30PM CHRIS C KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 5PM BLAKBOI

SALTBAR, KINGSCLIFF, 6PM JAMES ALEXANDER

CLUB TWEED 7.30PM DANNY FAI FAI TRIO

SATURDAY 16

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, PAPER LANE

BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 2PM TOP DOG FILM

FESTIVAL 2025, 7PM GUTSY GIRLS ADVENTURE FILM TOUR 2025

WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 420 SOUND

MULLUMBIMBY EX-SERVICES

CLUB 6PM MARTIN WAY

BILLINUDGEL HOTEL 5PM GRAVITY’S GUMBO

WILLIAMS STREET KITCHEN & BAR, LENNOX HEAD, 6PM ROD MURRAY

BALLINA RSL LEVEL ONE 6PM INO PIO

EVANS HEAD RSL 8PM SONIC FX

THE LEVEE, LISMORE, 8.30PM SI & DJ GEZ X TIKLE

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 5PM DAN HANNAFORD + DJ QUENDO, 9PM DUELLING PIANOS – DIZZY J & JON

SHORTER

SAINT MARIES, BRUNSWICK HEADS, 6PM MONDO HUM

LENNOX HOTEL

8PM THURSDAY JAM NIGHT

KELP, BALLINA, 6PM DANI QUAYLE MUSIC

LISMORE CITY BOWLO

7PM THE SUPPER CLUB

SOUL BAND

LISMORE WORKERS CLUB 8PM FLEETWOOD MAX

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 3PM ERIN SHAY + MICKA SCENE 2+ DJ QUENDO

NORTH BYRON HOTEL 1PM DJ SHANE COLLINS + MOHCO

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 7PM DONNY SHADES DUO + KATHLEEN HOLLORAN, 7.30PM VINTED VINEER, COSMIC VICE, EJ WOOD AND RATMONGERS, 9PM DUELLING PIANOS – MICK BUCKLEY & JOHN HILL 11PM SHANE PARRY & DIZZY J BANGALOW HOTEL JOE CONROY

HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4.30PM HARRY NICHOLS BAND

MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES CLUB 6PM PHIL & TILLEY

KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 5PM TIM STOKES

SALTBAR, KINGSCLIFF, 6PM HAYLEY GRACE

ELTHAM HOTEL 4PM THE LONESOME BOATMAN

CLUB TWEED 7.30PM HOME GROWN

TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE SHOWROOM 8PM THE MERSEY BEATLES

SUNDAY 17

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, PASSPORT TO AIRLIE

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 4.30PM FLEETWOOD NICKS

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 5PM ALEX BOWEN

HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4PM LIVING IN THE 70S & 80S

BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 6PM SAVE WALLUM POETRY SLAM

WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 3PM DJ

DARLAN

BILLINUDGEL HOTEL

1PM JEROME WILLIAMS

AUSTRALIAN HOTEL, BALLINA, 2PM JB’S BLUES BREAKERS

LENNOX PIZZA 3PM DIVINYL + NAT WHITE

UKI MARKET 8AM RUSS JALAKAI AND LIONHEART

REBELLION

THE CITADEL, MURWILLUMBAH, 6PM MOVIE NIGHT-CALDERA

CINEMATHEQUE PRESENTS ‘ONE TO ONE’ CLUB TWEED 1PM PAULLY + CURT LUXTON

MONDAY 18

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, ANDY JANS BROWN BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM GUY KACHEL

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM MARK USHER, 9PM DUELLING PIANOS –JOHN HILL & SHANE PARRY

TUESDAY 19

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, JON J BRADLEY

BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK 2.30PM BALLINA BLUES CLUB FEAT GUY KACHEL TRIO

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM TIM STOKES

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM MARSHALL OKELL, 9PM DUELLING PIANOS –MICK BUCKLEY & DIZZY J

WEDNESDAY 20

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, DAMIEN COOPER BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM JOE CONROY NORTH BYRON HOTEL 5PM DJ NIC CAMPBELL THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM DAN HANNAFORD, 9PM BODHI ACTON & DIZZY J BANGALOW BOWLO

7.30PM BANGALOW BOWLO BANGALOW BRACKETS’ OPEN MIC SESSION THE PADDOCK PROJECT, MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM OPEN MIC JAM

LISMORE WORKERS CLUB 11.30AM THE EVERLY BROTHERS – MORNING MELODIES

FILMS F1: THE MOVIE (M) Daily: 11:00AM, 2:00PM, 5:00PM, 8:00PM FOUR LETTERS OF LOVE (M) Thurs, Mon, Tues, Wed: 1:00PM FREAKIER FRIDAY (PG) Daily except Wed: 11:10AM, 1:30PM, 6:15PM, 8:30PM. Wed: 11:10AM, 1:30PM, 6:15PM JURASSIC WORLD: REBIRTH (M) Daily except Sat, Sun: 1:00PM, 8:20PM. Sat, Sun: 1:30PM, 8:20PM

MR BURTON (M) NFT Daily except Sat, Sun: 11:10AM, 1:45PM, 4:30PM, 7:00PM, 8:30PM. Sat, Sun: 11:00AM, 1:10PM, 4:10PM, 7:00PM, 8:30PM NOBODY 2 (CTC) NFT Daily: 1:30PM, 3:30PM, 5:30PM, 7:30PM PRIDE & PREJUDICE (20TH ANNIVERSARY) (G) NFT Daily: 3:20PM, 6:00PM SUPERMAN (M) Daily except Sun: 1:15PM, 8:20PM. Sun: 12:50PM, 8:20PM THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS (PG) Daily except Tues, Wed: 10:50AM, 1:10PM, 8:30PM. Tues, Wed: 10:50AM, 1:10PM, 5:50PM, 8:30PM

THE FRIEND (M) Thurs, Fri, Mon, Tues: 1:30PM, 4:00PM. Sat, Sun: 1:30PM. Wed: 1:15PM, 3:45PM THE LIFE OF CHUCK (M) NFT Daily: 10:45AM, 3:45PM, 6:00PM THE STOLEN PAINTING (M) Thurs, Mon, Tues: 11:00AM, 3:50PM, 6:30PM. Fri, Sat, Wed: 11:00AM, 3:50PM. Sun: 10:45AM, 3:50PM WEAPONS (MA15+) Thurs, Sat, Tues, Wed: 3:40PM, 5:45PM, 8:15PM. Fri, Mon: 3:40PM, 5:45PM, 8:30PM. Sun: 3:40PM, 5:45PM, 8:20PM

FREAKIER FRIDAY (PG) Thurs, Mon, Tues, Wed: 12:00PM, 2:50PM. Fri, Sat, Sun: 9:45AM, 2:50PM JURASSIC WORLD: REBIRTH (M) Daily: 4:50PM LILO & STITCH (PG) Daily: 12:30PM NOBODY 2 (CTC) NFT Daily: 12:20PM, 5:15PM, 7:30PM PRIDE & PREJUDICE (20TH ANNIVERSARY) (G)

PALACE BYRON BAY

BALLINA FAIR CINEMAS

ECHO CLASSIFIEDS – 6684 1777

CLASSIFIED AD BOOKINGS

PHONE ADS

Ads may be taken by phone on 6684 1777 AT THE ECHO HEAD OFFICE

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: classifieds@echo.net.au

Ad bookings only taken during business hours: Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm. Ads can’t be taken on the weekend. Account enquiries phone 6684 1777.

DEADLINE TUES 12PM

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

RATES & PAYMENT

LINE ADS:

$17.00 for the first two lines

$5 .00 for each extra line

$17 for two lines is the minimum charge.

DISPLAY ADS (with a border): $14 per column centimetre

WHERE TO GET THE ECHO

If you live in Newrybar, Lennox Head or Ballina, but outside our current home delivery area, you can pick up an Echo from many locations, including: Newrybar Providore Newrybar; Richies IGA Ballina, Ballina RSL, One Stop Shop Ballina, Ballina Golf Club East Ballina, Brighton St Takeaway near the Shawsy, Seagrass Lennox, Lennox pub drive-through, Station St Grocer Lennox

Mullumbimby

PUBLIC NOTICES

LOCAL HIGHLAND BAGPIPER

Byron Shire: Weddings, Functions, Funerals, Tutoring Ph 0473174033

SEWING

A weekly sewing club for beginners and young creatives in Skennars Head. Wed: 1.5-hour classes $45. Ph 0490 807 494

COMMUNITY HOT BRUNCH FREE

FIRST SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH

- Kitchen Hands- Retail Assistants- Drivers and Co-driver- Community Support AssistantsMDNC is in needs of dedicated volunteers to be part of a big loving family. All skill sets welcome. Contact SylviaVolunteer Coordinator Mon-Fri 6684 1286

These prices include GST. Cash, cheque, Mastercard or Visa Prepayment is required for all ads. TWEED BYRON LALC ORDINARY MEMBERS NOTICE

Date: Friday 22nd August

Time: 10am

Venue: Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Centre

Cnr of Kirkwood Road & Duffy Streets, Tweed Heads South.

Agenda Items include: Welcome, Apologies, CLBP Update, General Business

Authorised: Chairperson Tweed Byron LALC

LIFE CELEBRATIONS

DEATH NOTICES

CONDIE 27/8/1942 - 22/07/2025

Athol peacefully passed at home in his beloved hometown of Mullumbimby. Athol was the father of three children, Todd, Craig and Lana, with Lorna Condie. Family and friends are invited to attend Mullumbimby Cemetery at 10.30am on Friday 15th August 2025. WILL BE MISSED BY MANY.

IN MEMORIAM

DEAR SHEZZY

We miss all the wonderful times we shared with you. Your footprint on our lives is always fresh in our memories and close to our hearts. All our love Shane & Liz

Walter McPhail

We thought of you today, just as we do every day.

We remember your gentle way, and your lovely smile, and find comfort in the tears. Life goes on without youbut nothing is the same. You will live forever in our hearts. Always, with love and memory. Sadly missed by Susan, Brett, Sally, Anthony, Gavin, Miranda, Mikayla, Finn, Joanne and Mark.

Thank you to the beautiful Federal / Mullum community for your love and support for Linda Gardner’s memorial on

In loving memory of JOHN “BOURKEY” BOURKE

17.09.1964 – 05.08.2025

It’s with great sadness that we announce the loss of one of the storytellers. John passed away peacefully Tuesday 5th August.

An invitation is warmly extended to all to attend the funeral service at St John’s Catholic Church Mullumbimby on Thursday 14th August 2025 commencing11.00am.

Wake to follow immediately after at the Middle Pub, Mullumbimby. Our thoughts are with his children Zayla, Ivy, and Eden, along with his granddaughter Nyah, mother Pat, and siblings Stephen, Kerry, Julie and Vicki.

Brunswick Valley FUNERALS 6684 6232

Classifieds

GARAGE SALES

ORCHID SALE

9AM-1PM.

CARAVANS

BUSINESS FOR SALE

mrnsw.com.au/join

TO LET

LOCAL REMOVAL

First consult FREE 0492 994 646 geesdogtraining@gmail.com

Community at Work On The Horizon

BV VIEW

The Brunswick Valley VIEW Club are holding their 40th birthday celebration on Thursday, 14 August with luncheon at the Brunswick Bowling Club. We have a very special guest speaker this year, Normie Rowe.

NR Community Gateway

Meet Maxi, absolute softie! This 11-month-old Kelpie x Bull

in a

Couples 3 Way Play

SOCIAL ESCORTS

pup is

submissive, and dog-friendly, Maxi is a fast learner who’s crazy for treats and cuddles. He’s got working dog energy with couch potato charm – the best of both worlds! Maxi needs an active, loving home (farm life ideal!) to thrive. Don’tmissyourchance–he’stheone! byrondogrescue.org MC: 941000028968305 | Call Julia 0458 461 935

BILLIE

Meet Billie, a handsome black-and-white feline companion, who’s calm, quiet, and as gentle as he is loving, With his soft fur, soulful eyes and gentle personality, he’s the kind of cat who enjoys the simple pleasures in life — a sunny windowsill and the occasional affectionate head bump.Billie is relaxed, sweet-natured and well mannered. He’s content doing his own thing but always nearby when you need company. Rehoming Number R251000060

T: 6681 1860 E: shelter@nras.org.au W: www.nras.org.au

Come to the Northern Rivers Community Gateway at 76 Carrington Street, Lismore. Free fresh bread and produce are available Tuesdays after 11am. Call 6621 7397 to check your eligibility. Free tech support clinic for seniors to build skills and confidence using their laptops and mobiles to stay connected with friends, family, and essential services is on Wednesdays call 6621 7397 for more information and to book your place.

Dying well

Saint Mary’s Anglican Church Ballina will see a free talks on the ‘Kinder Side of Dying’ by Dr Michael Barbato on Friday, 15 August 2025 at 5.30pm and ‘In Conversation with Dr Barbato’ on Saturday, 16 August at 2pm To register contact Kerry kerrymj@ymail.com.

Heart Circle

Heart Circle is a singing gathering open to everyone. We meet every Sunday, 10-11.30am at South Golden Beach Hall to sing uplifting songs, be inspired by some short readings and a brief meditation. Cost is a small contribution toward the hall rent. A balm for the soul.

End-of-Life Choices

Voluntary Euthanasia End-of-Life Choices are discussed at Exit International meetings held quarterly. Meetings are held at Robina, and South Tweed. Philip Nitschke will be holding a workshop on the Gold Coast on Friday 5 October 2025. Attendees must be Exit Members. For further Information www. exitinternational.net or phone Catherine 0435 228 443 (Robina & South Tweed).

Green and Clean

Awareness

The Green and Clean Awareness

Team’s monthly Dunecare Day is on Sunday, August 17 from 9am to 12 noon, meeting in front of the Beach Cafe at Clarkes Beach. We plant in the sand dunes from Clarkes Beach to Main Beach. From 12 noon to 1pm,

enjoy a delicious free BBQ and be in the draw to win one of four excellent prizes. It’s good fun. Inquiries to Veda 6685 7991 or Peter 0488 715 565.

Mullumbimby Drill Hall

Film Society

Our next screening is on Wednesday, August 20 at 6.30pm, with the doors, kitchen and bar open from 6pm. The film is the eagerly awaited Dr Strangelove or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb starring the incredible Peter Sellers in several roles.

For bookings and further information please email drillhallfilmsociety@ gmail.com.

Memberships are now due and guests are very welcome.

Voluntary Euthanasia

Voluntary Euthanasia End-of-Life Choices are discussed at Exit International meetings held quarterly. Meetings are held at Robina, and South Tweed. Philip Nitschke will be holding a workshop on the Gold Coast on Friday, October 5, 2025. Attendees must be Exit Members.

For further Information www. exitinternational.net or phone Catherine 0435 228 443 (Robina & South Tweed)

Carers’ support

Mullumbimby Mental Health Carers’ Support Group for family members and friends who have a loved one with a mental health issue. Meeting on 4th Thursday of each month 9.30am at the Mullumbimby Neighbourhood Centre. Info: Susanne 0428 716 431.

Rainbow Dragons

Rainbow Dragons Abreast (RDA) welcomes breast cancer survivors for a paddle at Lake Ainsworth, Lennox Head (and sometimes at Ballina) on Sundays 7.30am for 8am start. Contact Marian 6688 4058, mazzerati2010@ gmail.com.

Older adult exercise

Chair-based older adults exercise classes run by a qualified instructor, that feel more like fun than exercise, are held every Thursday at 10.15am in the Brunswick Memorial Hall. Cost $10. All welcome. Just show up or if you have any questions please contact Di on 0427 026 935.

$5 pilates classes

Pixie is a ginger tabby girl who is desperate for a proper home! This poor young girl came to us at just 2 1/2 years old, with kittens in tow AND heavily pregnant! All her kittens have now been adopted, she has been desexed, and is more than ready to start her new life in a loving new home! Pixie is sweet, playful and affectionate, and enjoys human company. Microchip no. 9002630031539915

To make an appointment 0403 533 589 • Billinudgel petsforlifeanimalshelter.net

Pilates for the price of a coffee! Come and join us for $5 Pilates classes every Thursday at 8.45am in the Memorial Hall, 22 Fingal Street, Brunswick Heads and Monday at 8.45am in Mullumbimby. It doesn’t matter what level you are, as beginner to advanced options are shown. Just bring a mat and water. My goal is to keep the Shire active and feeling great one person at a time. No need to book just show up. For more information contact Di on 0427 026 935.

Pottsville Community Association

Pottsville Community Association meetings are on the last Tuesday of the month at 6.30pm at the Anglican Church in Coronation Drive, Pottsville. Have your say on what is going on in your local area. For details contact secretary@ pottsvillecomunityassociation.com or via Facebook.

AU G U S T U S AUGUSTUS

Byron Dog Rescue (CAWI)

ECHO SERVICE DIRECTORY

RATES, PAYMENT & DEADLINE

Deadline: For additions and changes is 12pm Friday

Line ads: $99 for 3 months or $340 for 1 year prepaid

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 ads will be placed at end of section. Contact: 6684 1777 or adcopy@echo.net.au

www.echo.net.au/service-directory

HANDYPERSONS

456 ELTHAM ROAD, ELTHAM

Byron Coastal Property Management

95 DUNGAY CREEK ROAD DUNGAY

OPEN HOMES

MARK RONAN 0432 052 315 mark.r@amirprestige.com.au 37 Acres* 208m²* 10+ 44

There's something truly special about finding a property that speaks to your whole lifestyle - where you can live comfortably, work the land, and give your horses and cattle the space and care they deserve. 95 Dungay Creek Road is exactly that kind of place. Set across 37 acres of gently rolling hinterland, approximately 29 minutes* from the coast, it offers the perfect balance of rural living, equestrian-ready facilities, and income-generating potential. This is a home built for real life - for families who want their kids to run free, for horse lovers who need top-class paddocks and stables, and for anyone dreaming of a sanctuary where nature and lifestyle come together. Disclaimer *= approx.

Saturday 16th August 3.00pm - 3.45pm Wednesday 20th August 4.00pm - 4.45pm

36 KEYS ROAD, COORABELL

44 ARGYLE STREET, MULLUMBIMBY

Open For Inspection

First National Byron Bay

• 5 Karinya Place, Clunes. Wed 1–1.30pm

• 2/59 Brandon Street, Suffolk Park. Wed 1–1.30pm

• 160 Reardons Lane, Swan Bay. Thurs 11–11.30am

• 103 Orana Road, Ocean Shores. Thurs 11–11.30am

• 3/45 Belongil Crescent, Byron Bay. Thurs 12–12.30pm

• 73 New City Road, Mullumbimby. Fri 10–10.30am

• 14 Rush Court, Mullumbimby. Fri 11–11.30am

• 2/59 Brandon Street, Suffolk Park. Fri 1–1.30pm

• 73 New City Road, Mullumbimby. Sat 9–9.30am

• 103 Orana Road, Ocean Shores. Sat 9–9.30am

• 3/6 Keats Street, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30am

• 2/122 Lighthouse Road, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30am

• 4/161 Tamar Street, Ballina. Sat 10–10.30am

• 14 Rush Court, Mullumbimby. Sat 10–10.30am

• 10 Canowindra Court, South Golden Beach. Sat 12–12.30pm

Real Estate of Distinction

• 11 Bian Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 10–10.30am

• 126 Harwood Road, Burringbar. Sat 11–11.30am

• 102 Harwood Road, Burringbar. Sat 11.45–12.15pm

Ruth Russell Realty

• 73 New City Road, Mullumbimby. Fri 11–11.30 am

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

• 29 Prince Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 11–11.45 am

Harcourts Northern Rivers

• 18 Howard Crescent, West Ballina. Sat 9–9.30am

• 3/20 The Terrace, East Ballina. Sat 9.30–10am

• 66 Riverside Drive, West Ballina. Sat 9.45–10.15am

• 496 Myocum Road, Myocum. Sat 11–11.30am

• 1C Short Street, New Brighton. Sat 11–11.30am

• 3/45 Belongil Crescent, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am

• 234A Bangalow Road, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am

• 5 Karinya Place, Clunes. Sat 11.15–11.45am

• 2/18 Helen Street, South Golden Beach. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 20 Keats Street, Byron Bay. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 3 Palm Tree Crescent, Bangalow. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 93 Station Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 12 Burns Street, Byron Bay. Sat 1–1.30pm

• 47 Teak Circuit, Suffolk Park. Sat 1–1.30pm

• 101 James Street, Dunoon. Sat 1–1.30pm

• 44 Argyle Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 1–1.30pm

Tim Miller Real Estate

• 2/13 Opaki Place, Wollongbar. Sat 10–10.30am

• 876 Tamarind Drive, Tintenbar. Sat 10.30–11am

• 6/3–13 Sunset Avenue, West Ballina. Sat 10.45–11.15am

• 722 Pimlico Road, Pimlico. Sat 11.30–12pm

• 4/31 McKinnon Street, East Ballina. Sat 11.45am–12.15pm

• 412 Bagotville Road, Meerschaum Vale. Sat 12.15–12.45pm

• 20 Cedar Crescent, East Ballina. Sat 12.30–1pm

• 2c Fletcher Street, Broadwater. Sat 1–1.30pm

• 16/121 Kalinga Street, West Ballina. Sat 2–2.30pm

NEW LISTINGS:

• 60 Federation Drive, Eltham. Sat 9.15–9.45am

• 70 Possum Creek Road, Bangalow. Sat 10.15–10.45am

• 456 Eltham Road, Eltham. Sat 11.30am–12pm

MANA Real Estate

• 26 Redgate Road, South Goldern Beach. Wed 13th 3.30–4pm

• 15 Muli Muli Avenue, Ocean Shores. Sat 9–9.30am

• 22 Berrimbillah Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 10–10.30am

• 132 Middle Pocket Road, Middle Pocket. Sat 10–10.30am

• 75 New Brighton Road, New Brighton. Sat 11–11.30am

• 38 Banool Circuit, Ocean Shores. Sat 11–11.30am

First National Byron Bay

• 4/161 Tamar Street, Ballina

• 2033 Coolamon Scenic Drive, Mullumbimby

• 5 Karinya Place, Clunes

• 5 Deacon Street, Bangalow

• 100 Fowlers Lane, Bangalow

Auction

Tim Miller Real Estate

• 456 Eltham Road, Eltham. Sat 12pm on site

Property Business Directory

Backlash

Open: Thurs & Fri th & 15th Aug 10am to 6pm Exclusive luxury hand crafted alpaca woollen garments from the Peruvian Andes.

Beautiful hand made rope shoes, woollen rugs, hats and other unique items.

Local bird enthusiast and photographer Angie Priestly let The Echo know that she spotted a jabiru last Saturday afternoon in Main Arm. She told The Echo this is the first Jabiru spotted in Main Arm.

With one in four Australian school-aged kids experiencing bullying, the ongoing Bullying No Way: National Week of Action, 11–15 August says parents are key to stopping bullying before it starts. Find out how to support your kids at: www.triplepparenting.net.au, or kids go to www.kidshelpline.com.au for assistance or call 1800 55 1800, anytime, and for any reason.

BazaarButteryMarket

Last of the 70s style markets Third Sunday of every month

Residential land sales nationally are at their lowest quarterly level in 25 years, according to new Housing Industry Association data. ‘The steep decline comes as the cost of building has grown by nearly 40 per cent since 2019,’ according to www.smartpropertyinvestment.com.au.

anonymous on request.’ Any questions email: onelawforallnsw@gmail.com or find them on social media: @ onelawforallnsw.

One Law For All (OLFA ) NSW is a newly established youthled advocacy organisation fighting for the protection of LGBTQ+ students in the NSW private education system. ‘By pushing for vital changes to the Anti-Discrimination Act, we are fighting for the right to education without discrimination,’ they said in a recent press release. OLFA have created a submission guide on their website www. onelawforallnsw.org and they ‘strongly encourage young LGBTQ+ people with a lived experience of discrimination to submit their stories, which can be made

One local in Byron has asked if we need to copy the European approach to tourist fines. ‘This summer, Europe is cracking down on unruly holidaymakers. From wearing flip flops while driving to smoking on beaches, a new wave of tourist fines is sweeping the continent. In Portugal’s seaside town Albufeira, wearing swimwear off the beach could cost you up to €1,500 (AUD 2,674). In Spain’s Balearic Islands –including Mallorca and Ibiza – public drinking fines can reach €3,000 (AUD 5,349). Even small infractions, like reserving a sunbed and disappearing, could put a dent in your holiday budget.’

Old Billi Butcher Shop

7 Wilfred St, Billinudgel

Russ Jalakai, Josie Doolan, Imandan, Jesse Willaton, Ben Rubly, Dave Innes, Ladi Abundance, Matrix Motion

These distinguished Jewish writers, Josh Bornstein, David Leser, and David Heilpern met at the Byron Writers Festival launch and quickly bonded over their despair of Bibi Netanyahu and the government he leads. They immediately decided to form a band named the ‘Selfhating Jews’ and

The Echo to take a photo for posterity’s sake! Photo Aslan Shand