The Byron Shire Echo Issue 40.15 - September 17, 2025

Hans Lovejoy

Mullumbimby Industrial Estate businesses have raised concerns around Council’s roadwork plans to block all traffic from travelling east to the highway, for four months (October to February) during the peak of summer/holiday trade.

The stage 2 roadworks by Byron Shire Council’s infrastructure team will impact around 13,000 vehicles per day (vpd), including heavy trucks, adding operational costs and time to motorists.

And it appears neither the option of night works throughout the project, nor an analysis of the impacts of the alternative routes, were considered by Council.

Trucks through town

Eastbound traffic along Mullumbimby Road, including from the Industrial Estate, will be diverted back to town to alternative exits to the M1 via Myocum Road or Coolamon Scenic Road. Council staff say that school buses and emergency vehicles will be given priority.

The works planned are for a short section (~900m) to widen the road, improve drainage, add culverts and lay new pavement.

During public access at Thursday’s Council meeting, local resident and industrial estate landlord, Sharon McGrath, told the chamber her concerns, and said that when she spoke to police, they said they were unaware of the planned traffic changes.

An urgency motion by Cr David Warth later passed, which ‘requests staff, as a matter of urgency, to

provide relevant information regarding [the] roadwork construction methodology and the rationale for using day works versus night works’.

During debate, councillors appeared to struggle as to how to proceed, or even grasp the potential impacts. Acting infrastructure director Phil Warner claimed that while the community’s interests were taken into account, there was no other way to undertake the complex project.

He also said the funding only accounted for day works.

Before the vote was taken, Cr Janet Swain asked whether the project had been explained to the community. She said, ‘This is fixing a road the community has been complaining about for years… a few people are complaining because it’s inconvenient… can we just get on with it?’

Crs Delta Kay (Greens) and Janet Swain (Labor) voted against the motion.

Biz impacts

Glenn Wright from Little Valley Distribution, who operates his business in the industrial estate, says, ‘The reason you don’t have industry estates in towns is because of the high volume of trucks which deliver to those businesses’.

‘We have around 12 to 15 truck movements a day, and that’s just us – there are around 40 impacted businesses’.

He fears that the current plans have the potential for increased traffic accidents.

Glenn told The Echo, ‘Consultation is not consultation if it involves

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There were plenty of fun activities, scrumptious munchies and eclectic entertainment at Durrumbul Preschool’s Children’s Festival last Saturday. Yet the main attraction, for toddlers or grandees, was the

antics of the ZAP family show – pictured are Will, Gabrielle and Frankie

Paul Bibby

The ongoing battle over plans to build two mega mansions on a stunning, tree-filled block at Wategos has taken another twist, with the owner submitting a modified Development Application (DA) for the controversial project.

The fight over the future of the extraordinary 4,087 square metre site at 1 Julian Place and 8 Brownell Drive has been playing out in the Land & Environment Court since February, when the owner of the

site, Antony Catalano, lodged an appeal against Byron Shire Council’s refusal of his plans.

At that time, Mr Catalano’s plans for the tree-filled block involved the construction of two neighbouring mansions: one a multi-level, sixbedroom dwelling and the other a multi-level, four-bedroom house.

The overall development, described as a family home, would have involved substantial clearing of protected littoral rainforest, and the excavation of up to eight metres into the steep hillside. This excavation

and associated work would require 4,078 cubic metres to be exported off site, requiring 30 trucks movements per day for four weeks.

But Council documents show that Mr Catalano has now submitted an amended DA for the project while the matter is still before the court.

It is not known whether Council will continue to fight the matter, or whether the parties will now settle the dispute during court-ordered conciliation meetings.

▶ Continued on page 3

madcap

Henderson. Photo Jeff Dawson

2,411 Mullum residents

Hans Lovejoy

Residents have come out overwhelmingly against a proposal by NSW government development corporation Landcom, and Council, to plonk oversized ‘affordable housing’ units on a busy Mullumbimby carpark near the town’s entrance.

Yet despite the clear message from the community and the recent discovery of sewer mains beneath the location, Greens Mayor Sarah Ndiaye and Landcom say they are still committed to the project.

Cr Ndiaye told The Echo a new DA will be submitted given the one submitted was ‘substandard’.

The Mullumbimby Residents Association (MRA) say over two weeks, 15 volunteers doorknocked houses across the town to determine community attitudes over the proposal.

Mullum resident Peter Brennan says, ‘Out of 653 households surveyed, 597 were against the development; 13 were for the development, and 43 were undecided or didn’t want to give an opinion’.

‘In other words, 91.4 per cent were against the development; 2 per cent for and 6.6 per cent undecided.

‘The rate of opposition was consistent across all suburbs and age groups’.

He said, ‘Volunteers reported that young people were just as opposed as older people. A common comment was: “Council seems to have

lost all common sense,” and the most common reasons for opposing the development were the height and design of the building not being appropriate, loss of parking, traffic impacts and impacts on surrounding businesses’.   Petition to relocate

Brennan adds, ‘In addition, 2,411 signatures were collected on a petition asking Council to relocate the development to a more suitable site. This is a stunning number, considering there were only 2,451 adults in Mullumbimby at the last census.

He added the 19 closest businesses to the development all believed that the development would negatively impact them.

‘The survey used the same methodology employed by the highly successful Gasfield Free Communities initiative more than ten years ago’.

Mayor accuses MRA of driving campaign

Within a long email outlining her dissatisfaction at The Echo’s reporting on the matter, Cr Ndiaye said, ‘The MRA have been the main force driving this campaign, [and] have… created petitions opposing every affordable housing initiative since I have been on Council. I don’t think another site would really make a difference, but it’s not feasible anyway’.

The MRA have outlined in detail how Council’s own carpark would be a much easier – and larger – site to develop, creating much less disruption to the town.

She added, ‘We have been following proper process so as not to get involved with the developers [Landcom] and the design – now is the appropriate time for Council to raise its concerns and it is’.

‘I am committed to keeping the businesses alive and getting the best possible outcome for the site that includes affordable housing’.  Sewer main question

Council staff only recently discovered a sewer main beneath the property, and told The Echo last week they were unsupportive of the DA in its location, as it contravenes policy around building over infrastructure.

The Echo asked Byron Council staff: why Council staff did not advise Landcom of this sewer main before they prepared and exhibited their DA; when Council staff became aware that this was a problem; and ‘whether Council staff were involved at all with Landcom’s DA?’

They replied, ‘Amended plans, once received, will be publicly re-exhibited for comment prior to a report being presented to the Northern Rivers Planning Panel (NRPP) for determination’.

‘No further commentary on the assessment process or the proposed development will be provided at this time’.

The Echo understands that as Council is still the landowner, it is up to Council to identify whether there is infrastructure beneath a property before a DA is submitted. Yet given agreements between Landcom and Council are confidential, it is unclear who is responsible.

The Echo asked Landcom: ‘Why didn’t Landcom establish the sewer mains first before proceeding with this DA? Will this project be

relocated elsewhere given the bulk and scale was required for it to be financially viable?

Is this project still without the certainty of a community housing provider?’

A Landcom spokesperson replied, ‘It is very common practice in NSW for sewer mains to be encased or otherwise managed through detailed design. The relevant Council policy is currently being considered as part of that process’.

‘There are no plans to relocate the project, Landcom and Council’s focus remains on delivering much needed affordable housing for Mullumbimby’.

Consultation?

Meanwhile, the MRA have sought clarity as to whether Landcom have fully complied with Council’s policy requirements around consultation.

MRA says a statutory declaration form, signed on April 10, 2025, swears that consultation for the development proposed in the DA was undertaken in accordance with the Byron Shire Council Community Participation Plan 2019 That policy requires that all landowners within a 500-metre radius of a development must be notified of the development application.

Business located close by have said they were not directly consulted.

A Landcom spokesperson dismissed the concerns.

They said, ‘Landcom’s community consultation

aligns with the Byron Shire Council’s Community Participation Plan guidelines’.

‘The opportunities for community to participate was promoted through various channels, offering multiple ways for community to access further information, attend drop-in sessions, and provide feedback prior to lodgement of the DA’.

Councillor assistance

To clarify last week’s report on the matter, councillors who ‘ignored’ locally-impacted businesses were listed, as they did not reply to The Echo’s request for assistance with the potential impacts.

Subsequent to the DA being exhibited, Crs Elia Hauge, Jack Dods, and Michael Lyon met with Other Joint cafe owner Eva and her landlord, James Stewart. Eva told The Echo that after meeting with Cr Hauge ‘We understood that a 4m easement would be needed’.

As for the other councillors, she said, ‘I had to email them three times, then call Cr Jack Dods for a response, and when he got back to me, he gave the impression it was a done deal’.

‘Cr Dods said developments happen everywhere and we won’t be the first cafe alongside a brick wall.

‘His proposal to put a longer line to get to the grease traps and gas bottles will be a cost I have to wear’.

Eva added, ‘When I met with Cr Lyon, he told me he hadn’t had the chance to go over the DA yet… really?’

Resident Michael Williamson last week handed Council a 2,411-signature petition against the redevelopment of 57 Station Street, Mullumbimby. Photo supplied

Local News

Tweed/Byron Police District say five teenagers were arrested last week for speeding, and their e-bikes will be destroyed, following an operation focusing on the illegal use of e-bikes in the Tweed Heads South, Banora Point, Kingscliff, Casuarina, and Pottsville areas.

The media statement reads, ‘On Saturday, September 13, officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District conducted Operation Cyclesafe, focused on the unlawful use of electric bicycles (e-bikes). As part of the operation, numerous cyclists and e-bike riders, both young persons and adults, were stopped and spoken to regarding offences including failure to wear a helmet and driving unregistered vehicles’.

An information session will be held for flood-impacted homeowners on September 18 from 4pm till 7pm at the Mullumbimby Civic Hall.

In a special collaboration last Friday, Creative Mullum Inc and Shearwater Steiner School presented Spark to Flame at the Mullum Civic Hall. It was part of the 25th anniversary of WAVE (Wearable Arts Vision in Education), which is an annual event hosted by the school. Leaders in youth mental health and creativity also took part. Pictured are models Jacinta, Aurora, Seren and Grace with some of the Wearable Art pieces.

The NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) say, ‘Have you recently received your home assessment report, are wanting help with your resilient measures grant application, or looking to discuss the types of works you could undertake?’

They say, ‘customer and delivery teams will be on hand to provide practical technical and tailored advice to help you get underway’.

Paul Bibby

Tom Kendall Reserve in New Brighton would be decommissioned as a sports field and turned into a ‘community and recreation precinct’ under a suite of changes to our open spaces being considered by Byron Council.

The plan to change the use of the popular football field is contained within the Open Space and Recreation Needs Assessment and Action Plan, which came before councillors at last week’s meeting for adoption.

The report stated that move would be determined by whether or not an additional sporting field was

▶ Continued from page 1

This amended application is significantly different to that which was originally submitted.

It would see the amount of native vegetation being cleared fall from 0.34 hectares to 0.19 hectares, while the number of trees to be felled would fall from 61 to 23.

At the same time, the proposed littoral rainforest rehabilitation zone would be

added to the Bob Bellear Sports Field in Ocean Shores, a plan which presented some significant issues in terms of environmental impacts. These changes were part of several changes to open space and recreational facilities being considered by Council.

This includes investigation into the creation of canoe and kayak launching sites at Marshalls Creek, Simpsons Creek, and Yelgun Creek.

There is also discussion of turning the Mullumbimby Recreation Ground sports fields into a youth and

increased from 793 square metres to 1,074 square metres.

The volume of excavation works would also be reduced from 4,078 cubic metres to 3,349 cubic metres. This would reportedly reduce the duration of the construction period from four weeks to three.

Lastly, the gross floor area of the mansions has been reduced by a total of 50.97 metres.

A flood-impacted resident told The Echo they believe that those who were previously rejected for house-raising, buy backs or retrofitting may now be eligible, as the flood criteria has now changed.

sporting precinct, including the creation of a BMX/pump track, an additional two tennis courts, and new amenities, canteen and storage facilities.

‘The overarching goal is to deliver a realistic, adaptable, and community-informed strategy that improves quality of life through better open space and recreation facilities,’ the plan states.

‘The plan prioritises improving the quality, accessibility, and usability of current infrastructure’.

‘It provides short-, medium-, and long-term recommendations, with flexibility to respond to emerging needs and funding

‘Amendments have been made to the proposed development in response to the issues raised by Council and the community,’ the developer’s amended Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) says.

However, the statement also acknowledges that, in spite of these amendments, the proposal still exceeds height limits for this part of Byron Bay, and does not comply with planning

‘There could also be $20,000 grants available to assist with the DA process’, they added.

opportunities.’

The plan was due to be quietly adopted by Council without community consultation, but Greens Mayor Sarah Ndiaye intervened, ensuring that it will be open for comment in the coming weeks.

‘These places really make or break a community,’ Cr Ndiaye said.

‘All these crucial bits of our environment – who’s going to play games where… all rests on this document so it needs this opportunity to go out to the community.

‘I hope the community take some time to provide feedback on this.’

guidelines in terms of the extent and depth of excavation, and the height and set back of one of the houses.

It is argued that permission should nevertheless be granted for the proposal on the grounds that ‘similar variations to the prescriptive measures for the building height plane and front setback have been regularly approved for developments in the Wategos Beach locality’.

Photo Jeff ‘Fancy Threads’ Dawson

Top Pub changes hands

Mullumbimby’s Top Pub and drivethrough, located opposite the town’s post office, has a new owner –Brenden Lawless. He bought the iconic venue from pharmacist Craig Watson around two weeks ago.

And the vision? ‘Entertainment and food driven,’ says Lawless.

Locals would be familiar with Brenden’s other businesses in the town, including

▶ Continued from page 1

one party telling the other what will happen and the other consulted party, having their concerns listened to and then totally not acted on’.

Glenn added, ‘For months, I have been suggesting a window in the morning and a window in the afternoon to get heavy vehicle traffic out. Or do it at night – it won’t be more expensive, as the works will run quicker, with no traffic on the road. The response has been, “We have made plans and it’s unfortunate, but the works must happen and the town will deal with it”. That’s not consultation.’

The Echo asked Council staff if they could provide the construction program, traffic management plan, and budget.

The Echo also asked whether a cost analysis of night works for the entire works duration was available, as well as an analysis of the impacts to the alternative routes proposed, i.e. how those roads will be impacted and whether the increase in traffic will be safe for the public etc?

the Middle Pub, Carsburgs, Kiva Spa and The Banya Bathhouse.

Lawless told The Echo he has already poured 150 litres of paint into the building, and plans are underway by an interior designer and architect to reconfigure the interior.

‘We will move the stage to the southern end of the building, the bar to the middle, and increase the kitchen size. Also we will activate the beer garden area and make it more of an entrance’.

A reply will be published if received.

Biz concerns

The Echo contacted other local businesses who operate trucks from the industrial estate, and all had concerns for the upcoming roadworks.

Simon from Mullumbimby Removals told The Echo that while he had been informed of the works by Council pamphlets from around the industrial estate, he felt that there wasn’t enough info to be informed.

Aaron from All Good Foods distributes health food locally to Santos and IGA Mullum, as well as travelling up to QLD.

He said he runs five to six trucks, and while he didn’t have concrete numbers on truck movements, he estimated over 50 trucks would use Mullumbimby Road.

‘It’s going to be a massive inconvenience’, he said, ‘Council is underestimating the impacts for one-way traffic… this will chew up Myocum Road…’

South Murwillumbahbased Peter Shoobridge, from family-owned-and-operated

The goal is to look like an old school ’60/’70s Aussie pub’, he added.

‘It’s still open every day through the initial redecoration/rebranding period, with the relaunch of bands and entertainment. The drivethrough bottle shop is also open as normal, and now opens later on Friday and Saturdays.

‘The bar will close for a short period once a DA has been approved for the larger works,’ added Lawless.

Shoobridge Transport, operates around 50 trucks, some of them B-doubles. He told The Echo the traffic diversion, ‘will add to operational costs’.

Cr Warth Q&A

The Echo asked Cr David Warth a range of questions, including ‘Why weren’t councillors informed of the potential impacts by staff before it got to this late stage? It appears to happen regularly across all manner of operations’.

He replied, ‘As you know I’m a strong advocate for genuine and timely community consultation. We are presented with a major works program where I am concerned that all options may not have been explored sufficiently in conjunction with input from our community.

‘I have been told that an infrastructure engineers report has been privately commissioned and will be available as early as this weekend. I have put forward a list of considerations on the possible advantages of night works to my fellow councillors’, added Cr Warth.

Group manager Jay Hudson and new pub owner Brenden Lawless oversee the refurbishment of Mullumbimby’s Courthouse Hotel, soon to be rebranded as Mullum’s Top Pub. Photo Jeff ‘Endlessly Renovating’ Dawson

Local News

Vale Bruns stalwart, Kim Rosen

Peter Wotton & Cherie Heale

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kim Rosen on Saturday, September 6, 2025.

Kim fought a valiant battle against cancer for five and a half years, and filled every moment of that with family, travel and supporting the Brunswick Heads Visitor Centre and Brunswick Chamber of Commerce.

She was so proud of her children Peta, Mali and Mathew and her grandchildren.

For over 25 years Kim, along with her husband Robert, have been active and passionate advocates of Brunswick Heads ‘Simple Pleasures’ promotion and huge champions of local businesses.

Initially, Kim started with the Outdoor Dining promotion project, which was a huge success for Brunswick businesses. Kim had a very close relationship with Byron Shire Council, and she sat on many consultation committees, including the Byron Tourism and Development Committee.

She also formed the Tweed Street Taskforce to create a beautification project after the highway upgrade. This included sourcing grants for the ten seat project, of which we ended up with four.

Instigator

Kim also started the Brunswick Visitor Information Centre (VC), which has been a special community hub taking care of visitors with over 40,000 walk-ins per annum. The VC has been mostly selffunded for nearly 19 years. It has also been a special place to volunteer and work, a haven for those who wish to learn new skills and support the local community.

Kim was also the instigator of many other projects including local events like the Old and Gold, Mullum2Bruns Paddle, Kites and Bikes and the Simple Pleasures Photo Competition.

These events are now an intrinsic part of Brunswick Heads, bringing much needed visitor economy revenue into the community for local community groups, such as the Surf Club, Marine Rescue, Rotary, the CWA

we have been very lucky that she has devoted so much time and energy into the betterment of Brunswick Heads.

And on a personal note, apart from all the incredible contributions she made to Bruns, she was a generous and loving friend. Kim helped many people with their personal journeys whenever she could.

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and the VRA, the Brunswick Public School, local businesses, and residents.

Kim created the Taking Care of Bruns during Falls Festival project, the Fly a Kite for Flood Affected Families event, the Bushfire R&R project that allowed fire-affected people a chance to come to Bruns for much-needed respite and relaxation to regenerate at the beach. In 2014, she was awarded the Byron Shire, Australian Citizen of the Year on Australia Day.

Everybody who knew Kim, knew that she was a very intelligent powerhouse, driven and passionate, and

She was a loyal friend, steadfast and never gave up. Showing those around her the true value of honesty and integrity, with the true grit she insisted: ‘There is no such thing as a problem, only solutions’.

Goodbye, Kim Rosen, it was a pleasure to work with you, and to know you, you will be missed, you are irreplaceable, leaving wonderful memories of our time together.

Kim’s celebration of life will be held at Sydney’s Maroubra Beach on September 24. Exact location and time TBC. A special memorial will be held in Brunswick Heads soon.

Peter Wotton is Bruns President Chamber of Commerce and Cherie Heale is the Visitor Centre co-ordinator.

Our Treasurer is stepping down, so we are looking for an experienced hand to hold the purse strings.

You don’t need to have formal accounting

you do need to know your way around a P&L and be an experienced business manager.

BayFM is a registered charity and we run lean and keen. This voluntary role requires just a few hours a week, working together with our supersmart bookkeeper.

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Byron Shire’s 2013 Citizen of the Year, Kim Rosen. Photo Jeff Dawson

Drill Hall dips into death

are all part of a new Mullumimby Drill Hall production called Ghosting the Party

Anew production commences this week at the Mullumimby Drill Hall – Ghosting the Party

Written by award-winning Australian playwright, Melissa Bubnic, and directed by Liz Chance, Ghosting the Party is described as a pitch-black comedy which has won critical acclaim for its fearless wit and emotional honesty.

It tackles the subject we spend most of our lives avoiding – death – through the eyes of three generations of women brought together by a funeral. The result is bold, funny, and deeply moving theatre.

Synopsis

The synopsis reads, ‘This play deals with the complex reality of how ordinary

people deal with the collision between the strongest primal urge we have, the survival instinct, and a deep longing for rest. Do we have the right to decide, or do others get to decide for us?’

Warning: the play contains references to suicide, drug use, descriptions of self-harm, coarse language and sex.

For more info visit www.drillhalltheatre.org.au.

Time to bloom

Council-owned land audit criteria expands

At last Thursday’s meeting, councillors voted – except Cr Michael Lyon – to expand the criteria around staff’s audit of Council-owned or managed land and buildings.

Staff’s audit comes a year after it was requested by councillors, and has attracted considerable interest from community groups.

According to the Council minutes, debate was held behind closed doors, owing to the report containing ‘matters

affecting the security of the Council, councillors, Council staff, or Council property’.

The new criteria, tabled by Cr Elia Hauge, asks for an update to identify suitable land ‘within a 5km radius of towns and villages, including industrial areas [and] road reserve tracts >200m2’.

Community land

Community land that is not used for public recreation and <200m2 will also be

considered in a future report. An ‘emergency housing’ proposal at a Councilowned site will proceed, with the land’s location remaining ‘confidential to protect the personal safety of the vulnerable people accessing services’.

Queer Family home

A site for Queer Family will also be explored on Station St, Mullumbimby, or the Bangalow Scout Hall.

Byron and District Orchid Society President, Cass Emanuel, was one of the organisers of last Friday and Saturday’s successful orchid show, held at the Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club. Photo Jeff Dawson

L–R: Claire Atkins, Bianca Sirianni, Nichole Sullivan, Liz Chance, Greg Aitken, Elyse Dillinger and Sonia Borenstein

Photo Jeff Dawson

Drone pilot assists with whale entanglement

Filmmaker and drone

pilot, Marcus O’Brien, is down at South Golden Beach most mornings piloting his drone in search of whales to film.

O’Brien told The Echo, ‘Last Thursday, I spotted a slow-moving humpback swimming north, which was unusual, as I thought all other

whales are heading back south at this time of year’.

‘On closer investigation, I could see its fluke (tail fin) was tangled in netting and slowing him/her down considerably.

ORRCA help

‘I rang ORRCA, the Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans, who asked me if my drone could stay with the whale while the

Sea World rescue team and Marine Rescue could get to assess the situation.

He added, ‘The teams worked efficiently and carefully to avoid further stressing the creature. The operation appears to have gone well, and the whale was freed.’

Marcus contributes to www.youtube.com/@ greatmigrationsLIVE.

The Youtube channel is a

growing global community of whale watchers and animal lovers.

There, you’ll find live humpback migration streams, cinematic oceanscapes, dramatic rescues, and short bursts of pure whale magic.

Marcus told The Echo he has uploaded 15 minutes of footage of the whale being rescued.

‘For the sake of our health, our children and grandchildren and even our economic well-being, we must make protecting the planet our top priority’.

Jeff Dawson

A drone shot of the entangled whale by drone operator Marcus O’Brien. Photo of Marcus by Jeff Dawson

North Coast News

Search for Derrick Sharp

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

Eltham Hotel funded to get ‘gig-ready’

The Eltham Hotel is included in a list of 39 venues announced for funding as part of $5.1 million in state government grants.

Young motorbike rider killed in Lismore

A 30-year-old man has reportedly died after a motorbike crash in East Lismore on Sunday night.

Hospitals under pressure across Northern Rivers Hospitals across Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) continued to experience high emergency department and planned surgery activity, according to the latest figures from the Bureau of Health Information (BHI).

SES urges Northern Rivers residents to prepare for storm season

With the 2025–26 storm season now officially underway, the NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) is urging local communities to take proactive steps to prepare for severe weather.

What Matters

Most workshop for disaster adaption

A series of community workshop will be held across the Northern Rivers over the next month in the hope of getting residents’ input into the region’s first Disaster Adaptation Plan.

An award for women with futurechanging, bold idea

Do you know a woman with bold ideas and a drive to create positive change in rural and regional Australia?

Then it’s time to nominate her for the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award.

Two new, more accessible, loos for Lismore

Helping to accommodate people heading out on the Lismore to Bentley section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, the railway station facility features nine cubicles including two ambulant and one wheelchair accessible.

www.echo.net.au

Police are asking the public for help finding 59-year-old man Derrick Sharp, said to have been missing for a month.

Police say they were notified of his disappearance last Monday, 8 September when other attempts to contact him had failed.

Mr Sharp’s most recent known appearance was four weeks ago, on Monday, 18 August, in Kingscliff.

Mystery man had missing man’s property

Police say inquiries have established that around midday the next day, Tuesday, 19 August, an unknown male went to Tweed Heads Police Station and left a bag

containing Derrick’s possessions on the front counter of the station.

He is described as leaving immediately without speaking to police, who are urging him to contact them.

Mr Sharpe is described as Caucasian in appearance, about 160cm tall, with a thin build, and dark coloured hair.

He was wearing a grey hat, blue denim jacket, grey shirt with black and white horizontal stripes, blue jeans and white shoes when most recently seen.

Police say there are serious concerns for Mr Sharp’s welfare.

Anyone with information into his whereabouts is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

More Lismore buyback homes up for auction

Following an overwhelming community response to the sale of the first three flood-affected homes for relocation, another batch of houses will soon be put up for auction.

To date, 70 flood-affected properties, bought by the Government, through the $880 million Resilient Homes Program, have been sold and will be relocated to floodfree land by the new owner.

Most buyers to date have been locals, with purchase prices ranging from $347 to $200,000.

Ten buyback homes from South and North Lismore and Girards Hill going to auction at the Lismore Heights Sports Club from 5.30pm on 17 September and a further 12 buyback homes will go to auction on 7 October.

No reserve price

There is no reserve price on these houses, meaning bidding can start and end at $1, making it one of the most accessible housing

David Lowe

Having overcome numerous challenges in the past, the former mayor of Lismore, Jenny Dowell, is currently facing a major health crisis. She sat down with The Echo to reflect on the changes she’s seen across the rainbow region, and consider the future. This is part one of a two-part feature.

Originally from Melbourne, Jenny Dowell came to local government relatively late, and then rose fast, spending 12 turbulent years on Lismore City Council, including eight years as mayor. She was awarded an OAM for services to local government and the community in 2017.

Among many other contributions, she’s been the president of Social Futures, and of NOROC, the Northern Rivers Regional Organisation of Councils, as well as being an active supporter of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, the Red Cross, Country Labor, NORPA, and a patron of numerous organisations devoted to making this region a better place to live.

Since retiring from local government, she’s been a mayoral mentor with Local Government NSW, travelling across the state, and is also known for her involvement with community theatre and parkrun.

Jenny was diagnosed with breast cancer four days after she was elected as mayor.

‘So I did the mastectomy and chemotherapy and the whole bit. All the advice was, “The chance of you having cancer is the same as if you’ve never had it”.

The cancer has returned and Jenny said she is no longer a cancer survivor but is ‘living with cancer’.

Jenny Dowell was elected to Lismore City Council in 2004.

‘The gas thing was huge, but there were also more intangible things, like finally getting the money for the art gallery. I set out with a strong belief that Council was there for everyone. We weren’t just there for the ratepayers. We weren’t just there for the business people.

‘We were there for the people in public housing. We were there for homeless people. We were there for the LGBTQIA+ community. We

were there for young people. We weren’t just be there for the people who voted for us. I was strongly of the belief that we should embrace everyone.

‘That meant reaching out to young people to ask what they wanted. It meant embracing the Tropical Fruits New Year’s Eve party not just because it was economically good for Lismore, but because it was the right thing to do. We showed the rainbow community that they belonged and they were important to us.

‘So those things you can’t measure, but I really strongly believe that we are there for everyone, and I wanted everyone to feel that they had a voice and some interest in Council, rather than us being there for vested interests.’

Read full story, part 1 & 2 in The Echo online: www. echo.net.au.

Ten years of Kinship in Murwillumbah

This year the Kinship Festival will celebrate its ten-year anniversary in Knox Park, Murwillumbah on Saturday, 20 September.

opportunities in Australia. Successful bidders will have 12 months to relocate the houses to flood-free land.

Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin, said the demand from the public is there.

‘We want to make as many homes as possible available, so people can relocate them to a safer area.

Renovation project

‘For some people, this is the ultimate renovation project. For others, it’s the ultimate reset: a fresh start for the house and a fresh start for the person who takes it on.

Ms Saffin said this is about making the most of existing housing infrastructure. ‘It helps preserve the unique character of our region while helping people move to safer places,’ she said.

For more information and photos see: www.walmurray.com. au/pages/real-estate/ ra-auction-houses.

What began as a grassroots, First Nations-led project has grown into the largest cultural gathering on Bundjalung Country. Today, more than 6,000 people come together each year to share culture, ceremony, and community – an experience of kinship in action.

This year, the festival is proud to collaborate with the Makers and Finders Market, expanding the celebration across the whole of Knox Park.

Fire Stick Banksia –Keep the Flame

The 2025 festival theme, Fire Stick Banksia – Keep the Flame, honours knowledge, renewal, and the unbroken cycle of spirit.

‘At its heart, the fire stick banksia carries the spark of culture, guiding us to walk in balance with Country,’ said organisers.

The large-scale sand art installation will bring this story to life, weaving together pathways of land,

sky, water, and fire, and reminding us of the flame of connection that can never be extinguished.

Program highlights

The program highlights this year are – two stages showcasing First Nations performers and more than ten Aboriginal dance groups; a giant sand art installation of the fire stick banksia created with ochres, sands, and soils from across Bundjalung Country; children’s spaces with hands-on nature crafts and activities; a youth space at the skate park with free screen printing, skate workshops, and hip hop with JK-47; dance, weaving, language, art, and storytelling

workshops with Elders and cultural custodians; a flash mob at 12.30pm to Kulcha by OKA, open to all.

Inclusive festival

The Kinship Festival is unique in that all food, activities, and entry are free, ensuring equal access for everyone. Each year, free meals – including vegetarian and bush tucker options –are shared as a cultural practice of welcoming people into family.

Come along and join the fun at Knox Park, Murwillumbah, on Saturday, 20 September – this is an all-day free event with free meals and activities.

Missing man Derrick Sharp . Photo supplied

Rikkara McGuinness and Delta Kay dancing at an early Kinship Festival. Photo Tree Faerie

Jenny Dowell at home in Goonellabah. Photo David Lowe

Health Cove celebrates 20 years

From modest beginnings in 2015 with a team of just four practitioners, a local clinic has grown to a dedicated team of 24 allied health professionals in 2025.

With this growth, the New Brighton clinic has moved to a new purpose-built location in Brunswick Heads, as well as a second practice location in Cabarita Beach.

Health professionals and Health Cove owners, Angus and Chantelle, say they embraced the opportunity to take over a thriving natural health and wellness practice in New Brighton

from their then mentor, Dr Timothy Lyne.

The pair say, ‘Tim had established The Jade Tortoise Clinic of Natural Medicine in 2006, where he spent years building a respected foundation of health care within the local community’.

Legacy

Carrying this legacy forward, Angus and Chantelle say they set out to reimagine the future of the practice.

‘Our vision is to create a welcoming, integrative team that continued to offer our community gold standard health care which was a

reflection of both their professional values’.

Angus has deep connection to the area – as a secondgeneration local who grew up in Ocean Shores and attended school at Mullumbimby High.

His grandfather, Howard Timms, owned and operated a dental prosthetist practice, now known as Pearl Denture Clinic, which proudly celebrated its 50th year in business recently.

Angus and Chantelle say, ‘The name “Cove” was chosen with intention, as the sheltered coves along our coastline provide protection from waves and storms.’

Big garage sales this weekend

Second Hand Saturday returns on Saturday, September 20, a day when over 300 residents across the North Coast roll up their garage doors, decorate carports and adorn front lawns with pre-loved treasures ready to find a new home.

Organisers say, ‘Now in its 20th year, the mass garage sale event coordinated by North East Waste on behalf of Byron Shire Council, encourages residents to

buy, sell, swap or donate pre-loved goods instead of buying new’.

‘There are over 30 garage sales registered in Byron already and almost half of these are joint sales’.

A full list of Byron Shire addresses can be found in this paper (see page 5), at www.secondhandsaturday. com.au or on the free Second Hand Saturday app.

Organisers say six different households have

combined on Shirley Street, Byron Bay, and there will be plenty to rummage through at the Bangalow Industrial Estate, as sheds, leatherworkers and artisan workshops open their doors to clear out recycled, antique and vintage furniture, tools, art, books and more.

This project is a NSW Environment Protection Authority Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy initiative, funded from the waste levy.

Councillors agree to look

Paul Bibby

A former Greens councillor has called on Byron Shire Council to explore the common practice of developers being granted permission to exceed the Shire’s height limits.

Duncan Dey made the request during the public access section of last week’s Council meeting, where Bunnings successfully applied to exceed its nine-metre height limit in order to install air conditioning and solar panels.

‘There’s probably no reason not to approve this particular seeking of a variation, but I want to talk about the whole 10 per cent variation story, which personally I call a scam,’ Mr Dey said.

He said the Shire’s height regulations were set out on the Local Environment Plan (LEP), which was a document which set out the community’s agreed-upon standards for development.

This included an agreement that, for much of the Shire, the agreed building

height would be nine metres.

‘The reality then, for DAs, is if you go 10 per cent over nine metres you’ll pretty well get a gurnsey. So the conversation that was agreed with the community actually means that buildings get built up to 9.9 metres without anyone batting an eye.

‘I ask you, councillors, when you approve this DA, please foreshadow another motion which says that you will receive a report on the 10 per cent variation.

‘Please ask for a report that talks about this 10 per cent variation, why it’s here and how to get rid of it.’

Impacts played down by mayor

However, when the matter came up for debate in the meeting, both the mayor and deputy mayor downplayed Mr Dey’s concerns.

‘I know why it happens and I have no issue with it,’ Greens Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said. ‘We get better design outcomes, that’s the point of it…’

‘But there’s value in having that discussed more broadly because people may not understand.’

Deputy Mayor Jack Dods (Independent) said that Mr Dey was ‘making this out to be a more significant occurrence than I believe it is…’

‘It happens quite often,’ he said.

‘It’s part of the general provisions when assessing a DA that you can make that variation. Height used to be proscribed in number of storeys rather than metres, and I think it changed to metres in the mid-2000s.

‘Building codes changed the thickness of slabs, and ceiling cavities have to increase. So to fit three storeys in nine metres is really difficult. It’s just, you know, construction methodologies and designs just don’t keep up with such a prescriptive height rule.’

In the end, councillors agreed to move a motion at a later meeting to request a report from staff on the issue.

The team from the Health Cove, based in Brunswick Heads. Photo Jeff Dawson

The Byron Shire Echo

Volume 40 #15 • September 17, 2025

Apologies for those with sensitive sensibilities, for the headline here carries no grace or finesse. It is rather vulgar, although it was Macquarie Dictionary word of the year in 2024.

And in case you are wondering, no – this is not another rant about Byron Shire councillors.

‘Enshittification’ was coined by Canadian journalist Cory Doctorow to describe the decline in quality of online platforms and services as companies prioritise profit over users.

He just presented a keynote at CloudFest, which is an industry conference that discusses cloud computing and internet infrastructure.

Doctorow said Google, for example, initially had a great search engine, minimised ads and maximised their spend on engineering. This led to buying their way to dominance.

By coincidence Alphabet, Google’s parent company, surpassed $3 trillion in market value last week.

Doctorow says Google spent tens of billions every year to secure its dominance, so that no one would use another search engine.

That was stage one – locking in your users.

In stage two, he says platforms begin to abuse their users in order to tempt in business customers.

‘For Google, that is advertisers and web publishers… they use commercial surveillance to target ads to us’.

‘They attract advertisers, while making it worse for end users, yet also locking in the advertisers to the platform’.

Once this has been achieved, he says stage three of enshittification follows.

‘It is better to buy than to compete.’

– Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg

This is where Google claws back all the value in the platform both from business customers and end users ‘leaving just a homeopathic residue of value, just enough to keep everyone locked in, while the rest of the value is gathered in for shareholders and executives.’

And thanks to the 2024 anti-trust case against Google, we know why.

He says in 2019, Google found its growth had stalled and they essentially ran out of users, after gaining control of more than 90 per cent of the world’s search market.

The anti-trust case discovered that to boost growth, Google made search results worse. Reducing search accuracy meant you had to continue searching until you found what you were looking for.

Additionally, he says Google and Meta (Facebook) entered into a secret illegal collusive arrangement called ‘Jedi Blue’ that raised the price of advertising and reduced the payout to publishers.

Doctorow warns enshittification is coming to every sector that relies on cloud technologies.

He also explained Apple are no better, as they now surveil their users for profit, through its own ad services.

Forty years ago, he says the US adopted a pro-monopoly policy, which has led us to this dystopia.

The solution? Competition and anti-trust laws! How will that go down with the captured regulators?

Hans Lovejoy, editor

Our collective drift away from truth

What Is truth? asked Pontius Pilate. According to the Bible, the fifth governor of the Roman province of Judea was in a dilemma. He could find no cause for convicting and executing Jesus. He simply ditched the truth and caved in to the demands of High Priest Calaphus and other religious leaders who wanted this troublemaker gone.

If there was a problem with truth two thousand years ago, it has become a nightmare today.

For years, we took for granted that what was said in the media was true. We also trusted governments to tell the truth.

Now, there are entire TV channels and newspapers devoted to misleading propaganda.

The greatest lie generator of our time is Donald Trump. During his first term, The Washington Post logged 30,573 lies, an average of 21 a day. Virtually everything he says is fabricated, and yet millions believe every word. His Truth Social media platform is a sewer of misinformation.

His latest lie is the ‘extreme left’ was responsible for killing Charlie Kirk, triggering a blizzard of hatred from the right – including Elon Musk, who wrote on X: ‘If they won’t leave us in peace then our choice is fight or die’.

The avalanche of hate stopped abruptly when the alleged shooter, Tyler Robinson, was revealed to be an extreme right-winger, from a white, gun-loving Mormon, Republican family.

Trump has turned George Orwell’s 1984 into reality.

When Orwell wrote his prescient novel in 1948, he imagined that scenario taking place in 1984.

He was 40 years early. In 2025, lies are now ‘truth’.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has added to this burden. Once a photograph wouldn’t lie; now there’s a good chance it is a lie.

Social media channels are awash with fake AI images and stories. ChatGPT and other AI assistants have taken over the lives of many people too. They’re being used as

The Byron Shire Echo

General

Co-editor:

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‘When so much information we receive is incorrect, our level of trust diminishes.’

– Richard Jones

replacements for human friendships. A virtual ‘friend’ may give advice and reinforce distorted views of the world. It answers questions and flatters them. For some, this is the only ‘person’ they can trust, as bizarre as that may seem.

When we wake up to the realisation that so much information we receive is incorrect, our level of trust diminishes.

This generalised lack of trust is fertile ground for wild conspiracy theories to flourish. Once they would have been ridiculed out of existence, but when so much distrust has built up with mainstream media, socials and government, these weird alternative possibilities gain credibility.

Blind trust in government and ‘authorities’ can be sadly misplaced.

Poisoned food

For example, we take it for granted that food sold in supermarkets is safe. Surely the government wouldn’t allow unsafe food to be sold to the public you ask. Yes, it does.

The regulator, the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA), is a body captured by the pesticides industry and depends on the sales of poisons for its income. It allows dozens of pesticides banned in other countries to be used in Australia.

Professor Kirsten Birkendorff of Southern Cross University (SCU) has just revealed high levels of the longbanned pesticide thiometon and dangerous levels of a still-permitted pesticide, dimethoate, in blueberries in two punnets she bought off the shelf in a supermarket.

Prompted by this embarrassing disclosure, the APVMA announced a review into the use of dimethoate on blueberries, raspberries and blackberries. Dimethoate was

banned in the EU in 2019, and classified by the US EPA as a ‘possible human carcinogen’.

The only effective way to avoid carcinogens in food, for those living in this region, is to buy fresh clean food at farmers’ markets and stores stocking local organic produce or grow your own. Cancers are rising sharply among young people, and it’s not worth the risk buying food sprayed with dangerous pesticides linked to serious health effects.

For many years we were bombarded with tobacco ads extolling the virtues of this highly dangerous drug that kills half of regular users.

Those old enough will remember the oft-used ad slogan ‘More doctors smoke Camel than any other cigarette’. It was a gigantic lie designed to reassure smokers.

Likewise, drinking a few glasses of red wine was once promoted as a benefit to the heart because it contains the antioxidant resveratrol. Stating the obvious, one doesn’t need to drink red wine to get that health benefit. Finally, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has decreed there is no safe level of alcohol use.

Corporations pushing these harmful products have no morality; they will lie blatantly, to maintain corporate profits.

In this fast-changing world, we need to be on constant guard in our attempt to differentiate between truth and lies.

We can no longer automatically accept pronouncements as true, whether in the media, by an authority, or even a friend.

We really need to hone our critical thinking skills and our ability to find accurate information.

Richard Jones is a former NSW MLC, and is now a ceramist.

Critical thinkers

In good old Mullumbimby, there have always been many long-timers who displayed a critical thinker’s aura.

Without speaking, you know that they know what you know, and the respect is mutual.

Even though many have passed and many have faded into the puzzle, they remain in my memory, captured in a sad smile or the victory nod that always stayed with them.

What makes a critical thinker?

While wandering through the back streets of Southeast Asia some time ago, I met a man. He was Australian, he was my age, and after the general hellos, we realised that we had trod much the same path; he was a critical thinker.

When I mentioned that I had asthma, he told me his story of why he was who he was. It was like meeting a long-lost friend.

I don’t know his name and will not seek him out, for his life is solely his own, but he holds a special place in my memory.

His story went like this. He said: ‘When I was eight years old, I woke up with a raging asthma attack. It was three o’clock in the morning. I woke my father, he got me into the car and drove me to the hospital. This was in the 1950s.’

‘We were going down Parramatta Road when we came to a new set of traffic lights. The lights turned red, and we stopped.

‘There was absolutely no vehicle, or any living thing

Cartoon by Michael Balson

whatsoever in sight in any direction, but my father waited for the full sequence of lights and did not drive off until ours turned green. That’s when I knew I was on my own’.

Len

Hend

Mullumbimby

Consult, don’t waste

It is my belief that Council has reneged on the 57 Station Street debacle because of the Mullumbimby Residents Association (MRA) canvassing every street in the whole Mullum area. MRA gained well over 2,000 signatures of locals opposed to the development.

Everyone but Council could see that this was not only breaking federal, state, and local regulations but was outrageously inappropriate for the carpark site at the entrance to Mullum. So after five years of planning, how much staff time and money has been wasted?

We the ratepayers demand a Development Assessment Panel investigation of this huge error of judgement. I propose Mr Dale Emerson, convenor of MRA, as one of the resident members of the investigating panel. This is the kind of error that needs the full light of WTF happened? Not to be swept under the carpet and forgotten about.

As The Echo stated last week, ‘how can the ratepayers have any confidence in Council unless they show good faith with the public?’ They should make a report and share it with us, in a timely manner.

Noah Yamore Mullumbimby

Byron Cr Michael Lyon’s apology

Councillor Michael Lyon’s apology in The Echo to the people in the audience at a Mullumbimby Residents Association (MRA) meeting is a bit confusing.

Cr Lyon stated he asked the Byron Shire Council (BSC) staff if the height requirement of nine metres was still in place and was instructed it was by staff.

Cr Lyon then says that this height requirement had been changed late last year to allow certain developments to exceed the nine-metre height requirement.

Why did Council staff not make Cr Lyon aware of this when he first asked about the height requirements?

I remember the design engineer employed in water and sewer on BSC stating, I think it was in 2016, that the sewer pump station in Stuart Street, Mullumbimby would be changed from a wet well/ dry well configuration to a wet well configuration as the lot 22 development would require more storage to be available in the Stuart Street pump station. Lot 22 was never passed.

At that time it was stated the rising main leaving the Stuart Street pump station was past its use-by date and also needed to be replaced. Has a design engineer given any recommendation as to the use-by date on the Mullumbimby gravity mains laid at the same time as the rising main that was being replaced?

For the Bayshore Drive roundabout and the 57 Station Street developments, BSC employs a manager of

important projects, but the Bayshore Drive roundabout reportedly has been delayed by the presence of underground services. The 57 Station Street development has been derailed reportedly by the presence of sewer mains on the lot. Does the manager of important projects or any other senior Council staff look at any Council plans which contain this infrastructure before these projects are approved?

Huge cheer to Steffen Ehlers for his letter in The Echo (10 September), he raises some very factual issues that should have been raised and discussed by senior Council staff before the plan to force all traffic leaving Mullumbimby wanting to travel north to use Coolamon Scenic Drive. Steffen’s description of the number of vehicles, etc. and what awaits them is very accurate.

The question is: has anybody working in a senior

Warnings about the Byron SEP and antisocial after-dark culture

I have had seven years experience in relation to the antisocial behaviour in the 1990s when there had been no control of liquor in town resulting in a riot, and Byron being labelled the worstbehaved town in Australia.

The community came together and unified to resolve the problem. I have drawn on seven years experience as the chairperson of the Byron Bay NYE Community Safety Committee 1993 to 2000 to make the following comments and observations:

1. By setting and expanding boundaries for the Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP) to the end of Jonson Street to the town bypass, this will impact on the new residential areas that are, and will be under construction, putting 5am closure patrons on the streets in residential areas. I fail to see why this new residential area should be included. It is a loss of amenity to an expensive residential area. This also puts it in the proximity of existing residential areas and the primary school.

2. This proposed area along Middleton Street will

back onto the newly created community Sandhills wetland – this will cause disturbance to native flora and fauna, and an area that will not be safe at night.

3. It is well documented from the police, social services, and hospital emergency department, that after 12am the chance of physical, sexual, and antisocial activity increases exponentially. These services are already overstretched and there is no additional funding from the state government to address this issue.

4. The use of the word ‘vibrant’ by any stretch of the imagination does not match up with the image of intoxicated persons leaving a late night premises after a long boozy session.

5. How do these patrons get home? There is no public transport, limited taxis and Uber. Roaming the street intoxicated and mixing with the real ‘vibrant’ community getting up to work or exercise?

6. This is not a good example to the youth of the shire, that this is the norm and an acceptable way to have ‘fun’.

7. I refer back to my seven years of experience in dealing with antisocial behaviour and the solution was to reclaim the town precinct by encouraging community and visitors alike to join in celebration.

This new direction will only drive locals away from the SEP. This concept only addressed more alcohol consumption and provides nothing for celebration.

8. I am absolutely gobsmacked about this concept and that the government is promoting this irresponsible direction without addressing the social problems that it will bring.

9. Why is the state government interfering in our local government issues?

10. What I find really disturbing is that only a very small group will benefit from this proposal while the community bears the burden of the problem, it would seem that the liquor lobby has the ear of the minister.

Rory O’Halloran Byron Bay

On Sunday, 6 September, at 5.15pm, I was sitting on my bike with a djembe

COMMUNITY NOTIFICATION

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Proposed Co-Living Housing at 115-119 Stuart St, Mullumbimby Mullumbimby, like many towns across the Northern Rivers, is facing a housing crisis that is

[drum] in a case on my back, checking out Byron Beach near the fish restaurant. A man aged about 45, wearing dark clothes, a hat and scarf sitting on a fence in front of the public toilets, yelled, ‘Take your fucking bongos somewhere else!’

I ignored him and he repeated this, shouting it, then said, ‘I’ll fucking kill you’. I looked away from him. I didn’t know if he was mentally ill, drunk, or on ice. He said it again, and, taking that seriously, I moved about 20 metres away to call Byron Police. He came within a metre of me, shouted at me, and took my photo with his phone. I was nervously trying to select the right numbers for the police. He left, shouting, walking towards The Wreck. Three people came over to me asking if I was alright. I said I was, albeit shaky, still trying to call the police.

I rode to the police station, told the attending officer the problem and asked for the police to go to the beach and investigate. The officer said ‘all the cars and staff were out on jobs,’ and it was ‘very unlikely anyone would attend’. She put in a report and I heard it ‘go out’ on the radio. She said to select ‘4’ on the phone to get through.

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position on Council actually raised any of these issues previously?

Alan Dickens Byron Bay

Get back to basics

We are seeking community feedback on a proposed co-living housing project in Mullumbimby, Thursday 2 October 2025 115-119 Stuart St, Mullumbimby, The Nest

Email: Website: Phone:

This was in daylight on a Sunday afternoon. Imagine if this were at 2am in Jonson Street with bars still open, liquor being sold, and influxes of people on the street. Imagine some people behaving badly, drunk people fighting, aggressive drugs like cocaine and ice (crystal meth) affecting people’s rationality. Imagine if you’re being accosted by one of these people, or being sexually pressured. Who are you going to call? You may as well call Ghostbusters, because there won’t be any police ‘cars or staff’, to help you.

Byron Bay does not need more liquor outlets or late night bars. I forgot to add this to the Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP) survey, the SEP which wants to ‘support after-dark culture’.

Do our councillors understand the after-dark drug and alcohol cultures and associated safety issues?

Raphael Lee Cass Byron Bay

Considering all the problems we have in Byron Shire, Special Entertainment Precincts (SEPs) are not a solution, despite what politicians may think.

After over 40 years of inappropriate development,

government matters, the people of this region are increasingly frustrated with local government failings. Presently, Bayshore Drive resembles Gaza, not because of foreign invasion but because of neverending Council roadworks.

Paul Keating once described The Greens as ‘pixies living down the bottom of the garden path’ and more recently as ‘self-serving opportunists and Trots’.

At the time, I dismissed Keating’s vitriol and continued voting Green believing they were keeping the bastards honest. However, I must say I’m increasingly disillusioned with the Greens, particularly on Byron Council.

Headlines such as ‘Byron Council condemns Israeli occupation of Palestine’ and ‘Byron Council condemns homelessness’ are all well and good. But, what we really want is not grandstanding, but decent roads, less potholes, and the ability to build a roundabout in under 12 months!

While this Council seems to be off with the fairies addressing state and federal

mass tourism and mass festivals, there’s little to show for it all other than rising crime rates, high numbers of homeless people, and lowpaid, insecure jobs for young people who cannot afford the astronomic rents – let alone buy a home.

That numerous family homes are used for shortterm holiday lets (STHL) is an absolute disgrace. The state of roads and infrastructure, traffic chaos and lack of parking – locals are constantly complaining about these issues, just to name a few.

There’s been enough destruction of community and quality of life, resources and the environment for little benefit to anyone except the entrepreneurs, developers, and those investing in family homes for STHL.

It’s time so many Byron Shire people, who have battled for decades to preserve what we have/had, got a fair go and had a say, and were listened to, about the future of our once-idyllic area. Or will billionaire corporates be allowed to dictate to the community?

Louise Doran Ocean Shores

See Opinion on page 15

The latest nonsense sprouted by Council is ‘workshops’ to address the horrific volumes of rubbish and illegal dumping littering our streets. Sorry, but I do not need a ‘workshop’ to pick up rubbish on the beach – I do it anyway. What we need is clever advertising against litter and cheaper tip rates.

Council seems to have a similarly useless strategy on the invasive species issues. You’d think the Greens would be the most proactive in protecting native forests and our beautiful region from the tsunami of camphor laurel, giant devil’s fig, tobacco weed, etc. Plenty of private groups and individuals are trying to stem the tide, but all Council can offer is more workshops. Meanwhile, weeds are growing everywhere including on Council land. Won’t be long before

we rename Hinterland Way, Wild Tobacco Road. Indeed, the Northern Rivers council with the toughest approach to many invasive species is Kyogle (with not one Green!). The last federal election should have been a wake up call for the Greens. Get back to basics. We didn’t elect our local council to take on Netanyahu, we elected them to deliver basic local services in a sustainable and intelligent fashion.

Simon Alderton Byron Bay

You voted for this On Australian Flag Day, 3 September, 2025, Pauline Hanson and Jacinta Price attempted to drape the flag over their shoulders during their speeches in the Senate, this was objected to by the Greens, consequently Hanson and Price were harangued by the speaker to remove the flag. What an appalling act of this parliament when Green members are allowed to wear the keffiyeh with not one objection. I ask the

▶ Continued on page 14

normal people of this great nation, please, what the hell is going on?

Still happy with your voting decisions people?

G MacDonald Pimlico

Value of action

I am one of those people old enough and lucky enough to have marched in the Free Nelson Mandela movement in London in the early 1980s. It was the spear tip of a movement that had been long fought and bitterly opposed for almost two decades. It succeeded in ending a violent apartheid and initiating the extraordinary Ubuntu trials. Truth-telling as a means of healing.

Other very practical and successful methods applied to put pressure on the ruling regime were boycott, divestment, and sanction (BDS) strategies. These strategies allow the ‘average citizen’ to be active in starving war machines of the fuel they need to continue their oppressive destruction.

Recently our local Council voted to uphold a motion that supports these principles in relation to war crimes. As a community that aspires to high ethical

standards it is commendable that we can add this to the list of our achievements.

In the current Palestinian crisis not all of us can be heroic enough to work in the hospitals in Gaza or join the unprecedented flotilla movement. However we can join an international BDS movement by downloading the UN list and using our power as consumers to send an unequivocal message to the warlords of our time. We will not participate in ethnic cleansing, genocide, or apartheid.

These are radical times and we must hold our vision high and never condone any form of racism. My heart breaks for the people who have been unheard in their cries for their bloodthirsty government to stop the war and return the hostages. I pray their movement continues to grow in strength and helps turn this dreadful tide.

There will always be as many opinions as there are people in this age of social media experts. However, I hope we can all agree that we want all children to live in peace and safety and we must use what tools we have to make this a reality in our times.

Gina Lakosta Huonbrook

Who are the terrorists?

It’s fascinating how those calling for peace and accountability in the Middle East are branded terrorist sympathisers by some of the letter writers to The Echo

If the number of civilian deaths, and casualties, engineered starvation, and countless amputations – frequently without anaesthetic, and widespread total obliteration is anything to go by, we know who the real terrorists are.

All the while our national leaders make minimal to no effort at sanctions or support for international law.

The recent action by Israel on Qatar against Hamas operatives in that

country has been called ‘state terrorism’ by the governments of both Turkeya and Qatar and declared a breach of international law.

Rod Murray Oceans Shores

Ridiculous excuses

Warren Kennedy in his letter (Echo, 10 September) has the usual rants, such as the common false statement that the IsraelGaza war started in 1948, not October 7, 2023.

Anyone who knows basic history knows that Muslims started massacring indigenous Jews, just for being Jews, in 1517 (First Safed pogrom Ottoman Palestine) and the massacres against the defenceless Jews continued ever since.

Yes, this current war is against Hamas and any Islamist terrorist bodies that support them in their bloodthirsty obsession with destroying Israel.

All wars are terrible, and lead to shocking loss of precious life. I have seen many wrongs on both sides, and I want the war to end today and have the UN take responsibility for ousting Hamas, and returning the Israeli hostages in Gaza. I believe in full self-determination for both Palestinians and Israelis.

Have you not noticed that I have not responded to letters for some time now, though many of them have been void of facts? You are upset that I thanked Bayla for a letter just because it was more balanced?

Seriously?

Peace starts in our community and we are not going to agree on many things, but there is far too much venom and hatred locally and that does not help anyone.

Peace starts here; peace starts now.

Danny Wakil Billinudgel

Time travel

Travellers of time, time travel is what we do. Every thought is a projection into our

determination of a moment in time. I can remember yesterday or can imagine tomorrow, the past or future. I remember or I imagine something, this imagemaking projects into the past or future in some form. The seconds on a clock tick one at a time, our imagemaking can be verified by observation.

We can slow the tick of our clock, and explore the undetermined expansion with decreasing time. We can increase the speed of the tick of our clock and explore the undetermined expansion with increasing time. What determines our image-making, is what we make for ourself, as we project ourself into our timetravelling in every moment, second, minute, hour, day, week, and year. How we do this is individual, no one else can do it for us. Never a dull moment – unless we chose it.

A mystery of life, the clock ticks and undetermined interactions happen from our external perceptions. The sun rises, things happen, we wake up and end up sleeping – this is after being with continual changes in our individual world of travelling in time.

R Podhajsky Ocean Shores

Opinion

Reframing the Byron SEP debate: from battle to opportunity

John McKay

‘Plant a tree for the shade of which you will not sit under.’

Reading your recent article (Echo, 20 August) about the proposed Byron Bay Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP), I was struck by Chris Hanley’s warning that this will become a ‘world-class battle.’

With respect, I don’t think this is a fight we need to have. What I see is a chance to imagine something better for Byron Bay – if we choose collaboration over conflict. Isn’t it time we came from a place of vision and possibility rather than fear and anger?

When I think of Byron’s past, it’s not just beaches or lifestyle that come to mind, but the overall vibe – live music, buskers, street culture, festivals, art on the streets and otherwise, and the mix of people of all ages sharing creativity. That was Byron at its best, and it can be again, but only if we start with ‘yes, how’, not ‘no, why’. Much has changed

Affordable hostels have given way to multimilliondollar residences. A town of 10,000 (2021 Census) now sustains more than 40 active

real estate agencies (Domain 2025). Cafes can’t find staff because young workers can’t afford the rents. Kids finishing school leave in droves. Byron has become a commodity, when once it was a community.

What would work for Byron?

The SEP offers a chance to reclaim some of that community through cultural life. This isn’t about importing Newtown or Petersham; it’s about something that reflects Byron’s size, spirit, and values.

Done well, the SEP could nurture small venues, live music, safe late-night spaces, and the kind of creative energy that restores the town’s heart and soul. But let us shape that vision, not the state government, which so often imposes from outside.

West Byron is a cautionary tale: what began as a local conversation ended as a deplorable state-approved subdivision. Imagine instead an outcome like The Cape at Cape Paterson in Victoria – proof of what’s possible when sustainability and community drive the vision.

Consultation is crucial, but it should not be mistaken for resistance. Council has opened the door to conversation, and whether the process has been ideal or not, here we are now.

The question is: do we want Byron remembered only for soaring real estate prices, or for the culture and creativity that once set it apart and, I believe, could again?

What is the vision for the future?

Yes, there will be challenges – safety, scope, logistics – but these can be worked through if we begin with ‘yes, how’ instead of ‘no, why’.

We’ve seen this spirit succeed before. The skatepark, once proposed for the fringes, is now a thriving, cross-generational hub in the centre of town. The rail trail, by contrast, shows what happens when resistance wins: we missed the chance to connect Murwillumbah to Casino with a vibrant activetransport spine, and remain stuck in our cars.

Planting a tree is always an act of faith in the future. We may never sit under its shade, but others will. The

SEP feels like such a tree. If nurtured, it could bring life and joy to generations to come. Perhaps it’s time for us ‘oldies’ to offer up our wisdom and experience and then step aside and let the younger generation, those that will reap the benefit of the shade, decide the future shape of Byron and how they want to live.

This is why I believe the talk of ‘battles’ is so unhelpful. It looks backward, when what Byron needs most is to look forward. The world won’t change or slow down for us, this is what we’ve created so let’s at least choose to leave it a better and more interesting place than we found it.

The SEP is not a finished product. It’s an invitation. The opportunity is ours: to reject fear and conflict, and instead plant something that allows Byron to grow into a more creative, connected community for the future.

For those interested in learning more, a new social media community group has been organised by some interested locals called, ‘Byron is a community not a commodity’.

See Letters on page 12

So

Join today, become a Hospital Hero, and WIN! www.nrwh.com.au/hospital-heroes

Your monthly gift to the Wildlife Hospital will help:

$20/month – Provide food for orphaned wildlife

$30/month – Supply pain relief for injured animals

$50/month – Fund X-rays to diagnose fractures and injuries

$100/month – Feed recovering wildlife in our care

$200/month – Expand our capacity to treat more animals

Join today, become a Hospital Hero nrwh.com.au/hospital-heroes

Chaiy Donati

In the theatre of liberal democracy, there is a compact; imperfect, often frayed, but nonetheless sacred. It says: you may govern, but only if we may watch you do it. You may wield power, but only in the knowledge that your actions are visible, contestable, and ultimately accountable.

The Albanese government’s proposed overhaul of freedom of information (FOI) laws threatens to pull a heavy curtain across the stage.

At first glance, the motivations are understandable, even reasonable. Any public servant who has ever sifted through hours of vexatious FOI requests knows the toll. These requests are often fishing expeditions, expensive in time and labour, answered seriously even when unserious in spirit.

What will we lose

But the solution now tabled is far from a precise reform. It introduces broad measures that risk limiting scrutiny under the guise of improving efficiency.

The legislation would allow agencies to refuse FOI requests that would take more than 40 hours to process. It seeks to expand exemptions for Cabinet documents and broaden the definition of ‘deliberative’ material to include earlystage policy discussions. Additionally, it proposes introducing fees for all FOI requests involving nonpersonal information for the first time.

It makes it easier for the government to avoid answering the only question that matters in a democracy: What are you doing in our name?

The logic behind these reforms is seductive and dangerous. It frames FOI as a nuisance, as if the problem is not the opacity of governance but the curiosity of the governed. It treats transparency as a luxury to be managed, not a democratic duty to be maintained.

But a deeper philosophical contradiction lies at the heart of this move: we are being asked to accept a model where the individual must become increasingly visible to the state, while the state becomes increasingly invisible to the individual.

There is an old liberal principle that the rights of individuals and the rights of governments are not symmetrical. People deserve privacy because they are vulnerable, because their lives are their own, and because freedom cannot flourish under surveillance.

Governments, by contrast, do not have private lives, they have public duties. They operate with public money, enforce public laws, and act in the public name.

And yet, modern states, democratic or otherwise, often drift toward secrecy as naturally as rivers seek the sea. Secrecy shields incompetence and nurtures impunity. It slows the reckoning

are needed. The real challenge isn’t shutting down requests, it’s learning how to manage them wisely; not hiding more, but unlocking information with intelligence and transparency, perhaps even on an immutable ledger like the blockchain.

when things go wrong. It renders error invisible and accountability inert.

To be fair to the Albanese government, this is not paranoia but a response to a genuine challenge: the risk of being overwhelmed by excessive and often frivolous requests. There is a concern that bad-faith actors could exploit the system, diverting valuable time, energy, and public resources from already stretched agencies. The government seeks to prevent the growing demands from undermining its capacity to govern effectively with the resources it has.

Attorney-General Michelle Rowland has cited examples of absurd requests, like demands for the desktop wallpaper images of departmental staff. Others have pointed to anonymous FOI requests possibly generated by bots, foreign agents, or malicious actors. These aren’t imagined threats. But they’re also not new. Every right worth having is open to abuse, and still worth having.

Secrecy as policy breeds poor lawmaking. It discards nuance for blunt restriction, confuses noise with chaos, and erects walls where filters

If the government’s real goal is to preserve the integrity of the public service, the answer lies not in raising walls, but in restructuring how and when transparency occurs. Contracts should be published by default. Cabinet materials should be declassified by trigger, not whim. Public data should be accessible through searchable, open databases, not scattered across siloed files and internal systems that require lengthy bureaucratic time and approval to navigate.

If governments disclose by default, FOI serves as a last check, not the main tool for accountability.

At its core, FOI is not just about accessing government documents. It’s about the moral architecture of power. Governments do not govern for themselves, they govern on behalf of us all. We have the right to see beyond polished press conferences and sanitised reports, to witness the process itself: the conflicts, the doubts, the mistakes. Especially the mistakes. Transparency is not a threat to good governance. It is its pre-condition.

Chaiy Donati holds degrees in Political Science and Law from the University of Queensland. A former President of Queensland Young Labor, he is now President MullumbimbyBrunswick Valley branch of the ALP.

Birds, frogs, bats, snakes and mammals use hollow logs for a range of reasons.

Photos NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water

Byron Bird Buddies are highlighting the importance of tree hollows and fallen logs that provide important homes for Australian wildlife.

‘They are disappearing at an alarming rate,’ they said in a press release.

‘Hollow-bearing trees are especially important because many species use these hollows to nest and raise their young.

‘Tree hollows take hundreds of years to form. They are disappearing quickly due to land clearing and are not easily replaced. Keeping and protecting old trees with hollows, including fallen trees and debris, is essential for the future of native birds and animals.

‘Let’s work together to protect the homes of the wildlife we love.’

According to Beth Mott from the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water, ‘almost 40 per cent of wildlife in Australia have to use tree hollows at some stage of their life and to persist in their life cycle.

‘Even though there are lots of things that we know use tree hollows like birds and bats, tree hollows are

really important for frogs, goannas and snakes.

‘Tree hollows are important for breeding, they can offer food resources, and they are really important refuges when fires come through or just when it gets too hot.

‘They are also a repository for water when the environment dries out.’

How to help

• Retain and protect all trees with hollows, even dead ones.

• Allow for regeneration and regrowth of native vegetation.

• Leave fallen logs and debris on the ground.

• Allow leaf litter, fallen logs and branches to accumulate, including around farm dams.

• Fence remnant bushland, isolated trees, stream banks and rocky areas.

• Consider installing nest boxes if there are very few natural hollows.

For more information see: https://tinyurl. com/3ura43kx.

For advertising enquires: 0428 655 806 sales@byronandbeyond.com

Ross Kendall

The Mullumbimby U18s Giants side have claimed the minor and major premierships for 2025, after winning the NRRRL grand final against Bilambil Jets 18-6 last Sunday at Crozier Park in Lismore.

The win is the first premiership for the Giants’ U18 side for 13 years.

The game was tight at half-time, with the Giants taking a narrow 4-0 lead to the break, before scoring a six-pointer early in the second half. Bilambil struck back quickly, but from there, Mullumbimby tightened the screws and ran out four tries to one winners.

Man of the match

Giants’ winger Kyson Freer won the man of the

match award after scoring two tries.

‘Congratulations to the boys, let’s take it home,’ he said, after receiving the award.

Fitting reward

It was a great win for the club as a whole, as a core group of players have been in the side for at least ten years.

The premiership is a fitting reward for a side that

only lost one game in the regular rounds to claim the minor premiership.

Last week in their elimination final, the side got home in a thriller 17-16 against Tweed Coast.

Bilambil had a great run to get to the grand final, after finishing the regular season in sixth place.

To get to the final, they knocked over Murwillumbah and the Lower Clarence.

Byron AFL juniors hold strong against Gold Coast

Sarah Crook

The U13 Byron Bay AFL boys recently made it to the division 3 grand final, where they played a tough opponent in Broadbeach.

Sadly it wasn’t their day, and they lost by 1 point. A special mention must go to Arlo Peterson Lyne, who won the best and fairest award

for the whole comp, based on points given by umpires throughout the season.

Meanwhile, the U15 Byron AFL girls team, who were sitting last on the ladder for the first half of the season, finished strong, making it all the way to the grand final, where they played a strong Palm Beach Currumbin side. It was a tight battle, but the

CALLING ALL SPORTS

The Echo wants to support you.

Please send stories, pics, match reports, upcoming events, tall tales (not too tall mind you), results and anecdotes to sport@echo.net.au.

Byron girls dug deep and took home the premiership flag winning 13-1.

The club has also seen enormous growth in registrations, including 65 girls registering this year.

The club will be running pre-season training, commencing in October, to give people an opportunity to come and try AFL.

Brett Luker

A fiercely contested weekend of lawn bowls at Yamba on the weekend saw a contingent of our region’s best bowlers off to contest the state finals at Dubbo in June, 2026.

Leading the pack is Club Byron’s unstoppable women’s fours team, comprising club president Pat Bigg, Kym Quinnell, Julie Higgins and Bev Gawned.

In a nail-biter of a finish against Yamba, they were tied 23 all, then on the extra end,

Kym drew the jack and it was game over. The Byron ladies are on the bus to Dubbo! In the men’s triples final, Club Byron went down in a close finish to Yamba.

Back at Club Byron, the refurbished kitchen is now open with a new chef and menu, and the lawn bowls presentation night will be held on September 26 from 5pm. As always, everyone is welcome at our friendly club.

Brett Luker is from Club Byron.

Ocean Shores crowns its newest golf

champions

After four rounds of top quality golf at Ocean Shores Country Club, the 2025 Women’s Club Champions have been decided.

The course ground staff had prepared the course so that it was in top condition for the event.

Contact Michael Harmer on 0488 664 316 for more info.

The club are also trying to raise money to build a clubhouse and upgrade the facilities, so they can continue to match their Gold Coast rivals. To get involved, visit www.byronjuniorafl.com.au.

Crook is from Byron Bay AFL.

The Division 1 winner and Club Champion was Sally Bristow, with a four round score of 350, from Val Marsh on 363.

Division 2 was taken out by Kaye King, with Nerida Carsburg second.

The Division 3 winner was Lindy McGuren. Lindy has been taking part in a Golf Pathways program being run

by club professional, Chris Graham, and has clearly benefitted from her involvement in this fabulous introduction to golf.

Well done to all the women who helped make this such an enjoyable event.

Send us your sport stories!

We would love to run all kinds of local sport on these pages so please send your photos and stories to sport@echo.net.au.

Sarah

From left to right – Kym, Pat, Julie and Bev. Photo supplied

The Mullumbimby Giants U18 rugby league side enjoying their premiership win. Photo Sarah Archibald

Good Taste

Federal Hotel

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

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

Rosefina’s Mexican

Thursday, Friday, Saturday Lunch 12pm–2:30pm Dinner 5pm–8:00pm Sunday 12pm–8pm

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

Three Blue Ducks

Located at The Farm

11 Ewingsdale Rd. (02) 6190 8966

Open every day from 7am.

Mon-Thurs: breakfast & lunch

Fri-Sun: breakfast, lunch & dinner

Roca Byron Bay

Opening hours: 7am to late every day

14 Lawson St, Byron Bay (02) 5642 0149 @rocabyronbay www.rocabyronbay.com.au

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

Main Street

Open for takeaway daily, 12 midday until dinner.

Menu, more details –@mainstreet_burgerbar

18 Jonson Street (02) 6680 8832

Rosefina has decided it’s time to dig through her vinyl collection for Friday nights.

Delicious new winter dinner menu, live music every Sunday arvo, happy hour 3–5pm Friday to Sunday & our famous Sunday roast.

Enjoy a wander in the fields, meet the pigs, and picnic in the sun… there really is something for everyone.

Latin fusion all-day dining

Savour our chargrilled anticuchos, indulge in fresh ceviche & oysters, or elevate your night with the Roca dining experience. Pair it all with a classic Pisco Sour or our best-selling Hot Like Papi cocktail.

HAPPY HOUR

2 for 1 cocktails & beers / 5 – 7pm every day Tuesdays: $3 Oysters from 5pm Wednesday: $30 Lamb & Malbec from 5pm

Rainforest views, farm to table dining and a menu showcasing the best of Northern Rivers produce. Forest Byron Bay offers fresh, seasonal dishes and crafted cocktails.

Unwind with Golden Hour, 4 to 6pm Tuesday to Saturday, or enjoy house-made pasta with wine for Pasta Thursday.

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.

North Byron Hotel

61 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay (02) 6685 6500

Open: 11am Mon–Fri & 8am Sat–Sun

Kitchen hours: 11:30am–late daily

Breakfast: 8am–11am Sat & Sun www.northbyronhotel.com.au

Step away from the centre of town and into a shimmering oasis away from crowds. A tucked-away treasure, the North Byron Hotel is a thriving mecca of good food, great music, laughter and the ‘chilled Byron Bay vibes’. Eat Drink Discover

Eateries Guide

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. River – Wild at Heart

BYRON BAY

ALSTONVILLE

BALLINA

WILSONS CREEK

The Good Life

A reimagined MV Jasmine – on the river, and by the sea, is coming this November. The MV Jasmine is the first luxury floating venue in Byron Bay offering a Mediterraneaninspired on-river bar and dining experience that curates, collaborates with, and celebrates our region, set against the backdrop of the iconic River Brunswick.

The vessel is available for private charter, or you can jump aboard their weekly sunset, lunch or brunch cruises, and exclusive ticketed events.

Helen Caruana, co-owner of the MV Jasmine, describes the experience this way:

‘Welcome to our vessel, where

the world is our oyster – and yours. Where the seasons are our compass, and the tide is our guide, Jasmine is an expression of the world around her – both natural and finessed – and invites a sensory experience pairing the contextual and culinary worlds to capture a unique moment in time, so together we can create lasting memories and lingering impressions.’

‘Showcasing a ‘Region on Rotation,’ floating between in-house and guest chefs, we serve the finest seasonal produce in a famous on-water setting, exploring the diversity and variety of the local region amongst the changing soundscapes of local and

international musicians and artists.’

Guests can expect a warm and welcoming service with a hint of fun and flair as they begin an unforgettable experience with co-workers, or friends and family. Helen says, ‘Directed by the world around us, our menu explores the freedom of the season, and dishes are intentional, inspired and inventive: an expression of a moment in time, supporting the farmers, growers and artisans, alongside an award-winning wine and spirit list. Previously the Brunswick River Cruise, the experience has now transformed into the MV Jasmine – to delight in location,

From Bordeaux to Byron with love

Australian-born pastry chef Dan Grigoriou began his career in London before working his way around Europe, perfecting his craft at acclaimed restaurants including Noma in Copenhagen. Five years ago, he landed back on home soil and after continuing to hone his skills in local establishments, he has since realised his dream of running his own business – Sunflour Canelé, a smallbatch patisserie based in Byron.

For those who are yet to experience these fine little treats, Dan describes the canelé (pronounced ‘can-nuh-lay’) as ‘a delightful, sweet delicacy from the Bordeaux region of France, celebrated for its crispy caramelised crust and soft, custardy centre. Think a portable crème brulée cake.’

Say no more. Lucky for locals, Dan’s freshly made canelés, which come in a variety of flavours, are served up freshlymade every Thursday morning at Byron Farmers Market.

‘I’ve loved pastry for as long as I can remember,’ Dan says. ‘From baking cinnamon scrolls with my mum as a child to working in some of the world’s best kitchens, I’ve been on a lifelong quest to perfect my craft.’

‘This journey brought me to the

canelé – a simple yet remarkable pastry.

Sunflour Canelé started in December last year, and it’s been a real pleasure sharing our canelés with so many people!’

Dan sources ingredients locally, including rum from Winding Road Distillery, and fresh beeswax sourced from Two Busy Bees, a local honey producer in Teven.

‘We also source our milk and flour right here in Australia, ensuring every bite supports our local economy and environment,’ he says. ‘And we offer a range of nine different flavoured canelés, often changing with the seasons.’

‘In fact, a flavour that is just coming into the line-up is a blueberry cheesecake canelé – so delicious!’

The making of each canelé is an intricate process. Dan pours the canelé batter into individual copper moulds lined with a blend of beeswax and ghee before baking them at a high temperature to get a perfectly caramelised crust, while keeping the centre soft and custardy. From there various seasonallyinspired fillings are added.

‘I absolutely love baking, so the fact that I get to do it as a way of making a living is a dream come true,’ Dan says. ‘It’s also such a privilege to be able to

to bring joy through music, to celebrate community through food and service, to both inspire and enjoy.’

‘Step aboard, sip on a salty margarita and discover an experience you didn’t know you were missing – until now.

The MV Jasmine, our 18-metre, two-level vessel has been custom built from the hull up and curated down to the last detail. Born from a love of ocean life, great food, better cocktails, and effortless style, we created something we couldn’t believe didn’t already exist: a floating cocktail bar that feels like your coolest friend’s private yacht.’

Helen says planning is already well underway for the

connect with local producers and growers, and cook with the best ingredients Australia has to offer.’

You can find Sunflour Canelé at Byron Farmers Market every Thursday morning.

Byron Farmers Market is held every Thursday from 7am to 11am at Butler St Reserve, and Bangalow Farmers Market is held every Saturday from 7am to 11am in Piccabeen Park.

launch this summer: ‘We’re currently curating a small group of standout local partners for our Summer Series events which will be a celebration of Byron through food, wine, and music,’ she says.

‘You'll be in good company, with other local collaborators throughout the summer such

as Marias, Luna wine store, Flo Records, Azteca and The Hut.’ ‘This is your space to unwind, connect, and celebrate – uninterrupted and refined.’

For more info and bookings: www.mvjasmine.com cincin@mvjasmine.com @jasmincharters

BYRON BAY PORK & MEATS BUTCHERY

Come in and see our friendly staff for a choice of local, grass fed, organic & free-range meats. All antibiotic and hormone free.

| 6684 2137

Photo: Dan from Sunflour Canelé at Byron Farmers Market.

2025 – 2026

EUREKA PUBLIC SCHOOL

Come and discover the magic of Eureka Public School, a smaller school making a big difference in the lives of students by providing high-quality education with a more personalised learning experience.

Students are the central focus of the school. With strong parent and community input, working together to provide engaging learning environments where students are encouraged to become creative, confident and considerate learners. Together with the parent Garden Club, students are creating a sustainable garden from composting through to cooking their own food. Student voice is valued and encouraged with the Student Representative Council.

Eureka Public School is very proud of their students’ achievements, from debating in the Premier’s Debating Challenge to sporting achievements at zone, regional and state levels. Eureka Public School also hosts a playgroup every Wednesday morning where everyone is welcome. Come and discover the magic of a small school in a beautiful setting.

026688 4272 eureka-p.schools.nsw.gov.au

FEDERAL COMMUNITY CHILDREN ´ S CENTRE

Nestled in the Byron Hinterland, Federal Community Children’s Centre is a preschool and long day care service catering for children aged 2-5. Children can experience diverse social, cultural and educational experiences in the context of learning through play in a safe, nurturing environment. The centre consists of a dedicated toddler and preschool room with an impressive shared outdoor play area, including the famous Bush Tucker Living Classroom. Their educational program includes a daily transition to school program.

Federal Community Children’s Centre acknowledge the value and importance of traditional custodians of the area, the Widjabul. Come along to their famous Family Fun Day and Open Day on 18October.

Enrolments can be completed via the website and tours booked via their email.

02 6688 4371 federalccc.com.au

A COMMUNITY THAT INSPIRES

St. John’s Primary School, Mullumbimby, is a vibrant learning community where students are empowered to achieve their full potential. With a rich history of providing a quality, faith-centred education, the school fosters a warm and inclusive environment that celebrates the unique spiritual and cultural identity of every child.

Guided by the Catholic tradition, St. John’s is committed to inspiring creative and curious learners. The school’s dedicated teachers create a supportive and engaging atmosphere, utilising modern teaching methods and evidence-based practices to ensure academic excellence. Beyond the classroom, a strong emphasis on community involvement and service instils values of dignity, leadership, and responsibility.

At St. John’s, every student is seen and valued. It’s a place where children are not just educated but nurtured, preparing them to be confident, compassionate, and lifelong learners.

02 6684 2386 mbyplism.catholic.edu.au/

VISTARA PRIMARY SCHOOL - EDUCATION WITH HEART AND PURPOSE

At Vistara Primary School, learning is more than academics. It’s about nurturing wisdom, compassion and a lifelong love of discovery. Guided by Neohumanist principles, we foster respect for self, others and the natural world, weaving creativity, values and academic excellence into every day.

Our small classes mean every child is known, celebrated and encouraged to grow with confidence. Surrounded by nature, supported by a caring community, students flourish not only in their studies but in their sense of belonging and purpose

Enrolments are now open. Come and see how education at Vistara inspires children to think deeply, act kindly and embrace the world with joy.

Book your tour today 02 6624 4127 vistara.nsw.edu.au

CAPE BYRON RUDOLF STEINER SCHOOL

Cape Byron Rudolf Steiner School is a coeducational school located in Ewingsdale near Byron Bay. Our school offers an inspired education from Kindergarten to Class 12 that is guided by the observations and insights of Rudolf Steiner.

We deliver an education that allows children to grow into adults who, from within themselves, can find meaning and purpose in their lives. Our holistic education produces balanced young people whose academic studies and personal development contribute to a healthy and just society.

In the face of unprecedented technological challenges, an education that is profoundly human-centred is needed to nurture independent thinking that can respond creatively to both personal and global challenges. Our school’s aim is to create an environment where children can discover their unique potential, eventually moving into the community with a strong sense of social responsibility and a broad perspective of the world.

For further information about our school and education please book a tour via our website: capebyronsteiner.nsw.edu.au or call our Enrolments Officer 02 6639 9300

Through the art of education, we create an environment and experience which allows our students to become whole and balanced human beings.

empathy, and to create a more cohesive and beautiful world.

At Cape Byron Rudolf Steiner School, we nurture hearts and minds to educate the whole child. Our K-6 curriculum fosters academic, artistic, social, and emotional development. It is structured around developmentally appropriate themes where core academic content is balanced with creativity and feeling. Imagination is not only integral to this process but is also a tool for learning, harnessed at every age.

We believe that strong relationships are the foundation of learning. That’s why our secondary students not only enjoy close, mutually-respectful relationships with teachers but also form enduring, lifelong bonds with their peers. Our balanced curriculum is designed to challenge students academically while nurturing a practical skillset for the future. Through our extensive outdoor education program, we foster a profound appreciation of the natural world, cultivating independence, resilience, and genuine self-

Our teachers leverage their long-standing connections with students to inspire a deep and personal engagement with every subject. The HSC curriculum becomes a powerful tool, providing students with every opportunity to reach their personal and academic best.

capebyronsteiner.nsw.edu.au 02 6639 9300

MULLUMBIMBYCOMMUNITY PRESCHOOL

MullumbimbyCommunity Preschool offers a holistic approach to children’s learning.For children 4-5 there is school readiness program from Monday to Wednesday and a play-based program on Thursday and Friday for children aged 3–4. The large outdoor includes a mud kitchen, sandpit, fort and vegetable garden. Indoors, arts, crafts, fine motor and construction activities are conducted in the air-conditioned space.

02 6684 1269

90 Station Street, Mullumbimby mullumpreschool.org.au

2025 – 2026

BYRON COMMUNITY PRIMARY SCHOOL

The Byron Community Primary School Whales class (Years 5–6) is a shining example of holistic, engaging and deeply meaningful education. With a passionate teacher and full-time aide, students benefit from small class sizes and personalised support across academic, social and emotional learning.

Programs like Beach School, Skate School, Rock and Water, and Becoming a Teenager equip students with real-world skills, resilience, and a deeper understanding of themselves and others. Leadership is encouraged, with students contributing to the day-to-day running of the school in authentic ways. The class has a strong connection to Country, recently planting native trees on a local farm for National Schools Tree Day. Creative expression is also a key focus, with opportunities in visual art, music writing and performance. In Whales, students grow into curious, compassionate, and confident individuals, ready to thrive within their community and beyond. Places are available now for Year 5 and 6 in 2026.

02 6685 8208

53 Tennyson St, Byron Bay bcps.org.au

COBBERS CHILD CARE CENTRE

For 19 years Cobbers has been an owner-operated family business in the heart of Mullumbimby. They take on the role of an extended family, providing a warm, caring environment to nurture and educate children aged 2 to 5 years. Long serving educators and an early childhood teacher deliver their preschool program. They foster an environment which allows children tofeel safe and grow in self-esteem and confidence and develop trustingand caring relationships with the educators.

Enquire now for 2026 enrolments.

02 6684 2164 cobberschildcare.com.au admin@cobberschildcare.com.au

STUDY VISUAL ARTS IN 2026

Applications are now open for 2026 year-long courses at Byron School of Art. These courses incorporate studio programs designed to help students acquire the knowledge, skills and experience needed to form an integrated understanding of contemporary ideas and practices.

For those looking to start something sooner BSA’s Term 4 Short Courses and Weekend Workshops are now open for enrolment including a selection of painting, ceramics and watercolour classes. Visit the BSA website for more information.

byronschoolofart.com

2025 – 2026

EMMANUEL ANGLICAN COLLEGE

Kindergarten is the beginning of an exciting journey of learning and discovery. At Emmanuel Anglican College, they want every child to flourish academically, socially and emotionally, building a strong foundation for the years ahead.

They provide a safe, supportive and engaging environment where children are encouraged to explore, ask questions and develop independence. With caring educators and plenty of opportunities for play-based learning, students grow into confident learners who are eager to take on new challenges.

Emmanuel offers a seamless education from preschool through to year 12. Guided by Christian values, they partner with families to guide young people as they grow into capable, compassionate and resilient adults, ready to embrace the future with optimism. Their students enjoy access to a broad range of learning opportunities including sport, music and cultural activities, ensuring every child thrives in their own way.

As a College community, they are proud to nurture each child’s unique strengths and help them reach their full potential.

Enrolments for Kindergarten 2026 are now open.

02 6681 5054

62 Horizon Drive, West Ballina eac.nsw.edu.au enrolments@eac.nsw.edu.au

HINTERLAND CHRISTIAN COLLEGE ENROLMENTS 2026

At Hinterland Christian College, we believe education is more than just lessons and classrooms — it’s about community, character, and cultivating a love of learning that lasts a lifetime. Our ‘village’ culture means every child is known, valued, and encouraged to flourish. We are a school where relationships matter, creativity is celebrated, and faith shapes the way we live and learn together.

From the Greenhouse (K–2), where curiosity takes root, through Ignite (3–4) and Blaze (5–6), where confidence and friendships grow, and into Secondary, where students are equipped for the future — our programs are designed to nurture both hearts and minds. With small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a Christcentred foundation, students at Hinterland are inspired to explore their gifts, discover purpose, and step boldly into life.

We invite you to come and discover a school where your child is not just enrolled, but truly belongs. Enrolments for 2026 are now open.

02 6684 1559

114A Main Arm Road, Mullumbimby hinterland.nsw.edu.au

UPPER COOPERS CREEK - A UNIQUE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

At Upper Coopers Creek Primary School, learning comes to life through exploration, discovery, and hands-on fun. We know that every child is an individual, with their own unique talents and personalities and we tailor learning to be personal, engaging, and memorable. Our students learn with and through nature and our weekly timetable incorporates mindfulness, bush school, cooking, gardening and cultural learning, with traditional academic areas. Our teachers are committed to developing each child’s academic, creative, social, and sporting potential, sharing the responsibility to nurture, guide, inspire, and challenge every learner. We pay our respects to the people of the Bundjalung nation upon whose country we learn and teach, and we acknowledge that this place is, was and always will be traditional Aboriginal land.

02 6688 2128

Cooperscrk-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Cooperscrk-p.schools.nsw.gov.au

CHINNY CHARGE

THE

RECHARGE OF THE CHINNY CHARGE

1960 saw the first Chincogan Charge run up Mount Chincogan – started as a fundraiser to build the Mullumbimby Memorial Swimming Pool. The second race wasn’t run until 1967 which saw local Colin Creighton win after he had come second in the 1960 race.

‘The year I won it I was cutting cane at Wooyung,’ said Colin. ‘I was pretty fit because of the cane cutting, but I had to run barefoot because a few days before I’d cut my foot cutting cane and had four stitches in it.’

The 2024 winner, Jack Gill, did the return run in just 30 minutes and ten seconds, beating his 2023 run of 30 minutes and 44 seconds.

This Saturday, September 20, Frank Cornale will be opening the race and you can either run or walk up Mullumbimby’s Mount Chincogan as part of the Chinny Charge.

Beautiful walk

The Chinny Charge became an annual feature of Mullumbimby from 1967 and was run in conjunction with the Chincogan Fiesta however, they ended in 2001.

After a 16-year hiatus the Mullumbimby Chamber of Commerce brought back the Chinny Charge race in 2017 after negotiating with local landholders to have the running route opened up for this one day event each year. Now you can run or walk up the mountain depending on your preference.

Kids run at 1.30pm

The children’s race, up to 12 years old, starts at 1.30pm and the main race and walk begins at 2pm.

‘Even if you are only registered to walk up the mountain, you need to start the walk at 2pm,’ Jenelle reminded all participants.

‘Everyone, runners and walkers, needs

The Chinny Charge is a great chance for anyone interested in climbing the mountain to enjoy the beautiful views. There will be some beautiful viewing spaces on the mountain where you can take a photograph – even if you don’t want to go to the top. There is no place to take photos at the top as it is quite rocky for the last bit.

‘Walkers just need to remember that they need to be off the mountain by 5pm so that emergency services and volunteers can finish cleaning up and also come down off the mountain,’ said Jenelle. Everyone is reminded that no dogs are allowed.

Sustainable event

The Chinny Charge is once again an environmentally sustainable event, all runners and walkers MUST HAVE A WATER BOTTLE THIS YEAR.

There will be no cups allowed or available on the mountain.

to be registered and wearing their bib to walk through the departure arch at the beginning of the event. If you turn up late to the start you will not be allowed up onto the mountain.’

Jenelle has also reminded everyone that the walk is over private property, ‘so please treat it with respect so we can continue to enjoy this annual event that is facilitated by Mullumbimby Chamber of Commerce,’ she said.

‘The local NSW Fire and Rescue in Mullum, (Station 388), police, local businesses and community come together to put this event on. There is a food stall provided by Mullumbimby Primary School, drinks are available at the Ex-Services Club, and locals get a once-a-year opportunity to take a run or walk up their local Mount Chincogan,’ said Jenelle.

Prizes

Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club is sponsoring prizes for the first three female and first three male runners across the line with the first-place winners receiving $500.

The Echo is sponsoring prizes for the first three local female and first three local male runners across the line with the first-place winners receiving $350.

There are three in-perpetuity memorial awards including The Kevin Moran Memorial Shield that is awarded for special effort and encouragement of others; the

awarded to first

across

and

for the

CHECKLIST

Road diversions

Diversions in place for road travel.

Prices

$25 to walk

$50 to compete

Registration on day $75.

Book online at www.eventwizards.com.au

Children

Participants 12-years-and-under can only go to the base.

Race kit

Your race kit, including your race bib with timing chip attached will be available for pickup at the race start at Civic Hall in Dalley St, Mullumbimby, from 11.30am till 12.45pm.

If you don’t have a numbered bib on you cannot access the mountain.

Start time and place

Main race: departing from outside the Mullumbimby Fire Station at 2pm. Strict starting time.

Children’s challenge: (to the base of the mountain) Only over 12s can access the mountain. Start time 1.30pm.

Entertainment

While the event is underway, directly in front of the Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club will be family-friendly fun and entertainment, including food and drinks.

• Check out and sit on the town’s NEW sandstone seating created by the THREE SEATS team recently installed in the Park

• 260 ROCKS - sculptural installations in the Civic Hall will be open for all the Charge patrons; step inside and be astonished!

• Give your hands a run with Mindful Clay making supervised by local Keramika in Memorial Park.

Food & drinks

Mullumbimby Public School P&C are having a bbq, selling refreshments and having a cake stall from the Cake Master at Mullum Primary.

health & healing

A new apothecary and clinic Opens in Bangalow

Bangalow welcomes a unique new space dedicated to natural healing and community wellbeing. The Bangalow Apothecary and Clinic blends traditional herbal knowledge with a modern approach to holistic health. Visitors will find a fully-stocked family herbal pharmacy, handcrafted remedies, and an organic, vegan skincare range made on the premises with care and integrity. Free walkin consultations offer accessible guidance for everyday health concerns and preventative care, with longer sessions available for deeper healing journeys. Guests are also invited to linger - enjoy a cup of hand-crafted herbal tea and browse the library. With a focus on sustainability, connection, and the wisdom of plant medicine, the Bangalow Apothecary and Clinic is set to become a cherished part of Bangalow’s health landscape for generations to come.

www.janellapurcell.com

@janellapurcell2

Blackwell Lane, Bangalow (off Station St)

Dr Sam Gartland

Dr Sam Gartland is a UK-trained doctor, whose practice of medicine has been profoundly influenced by his own recovery from multiple sclerosis (MS). His area of interest is Lifestyle Medicine, a lifestyle approach centering on plant-based nutrition. Sam’s new practice, Life Medical Mullumbimby, offers Lifestyle Medicine consultations that address the causes of disease alongside GP services, skin-checks and natural therapies.

Sam also holds a Masters in Sports Medicine. He has worked with Premier League and ‘A’ League football clubs and has been published in Sports Medicine literature. He has been a retreat facilitator for Overcoming MS and is a co-author of the Overcoming MS Handbook. Sam is committed to empowering others with the skills and knowledge to optimise their health.

Life Medical Mullumbimby

02 6680 2486

113 Stuart St, Mullumbimby lifemedicalmullumimby.com.au

Santos Organics

A little shop with a big heart, Santos Organics is not just a health and bulk food store with a vibrant cafe. It is a community hub, established in 1978 and proud to be 100% not-for-profit, which means every time you shop with them, you’re shopping for the good of people and planet. They make conscious shopping easy, sourcing only the best organic food and natural lifestyle products. Customers can also access free naturopathic consultations by professional naturopaths in-store.

Open Mon to Fri 8:30am-6pm Sat 8:30am-5pm and Sun 10am-4pm

105 Jonson St, Byron Bay

Unit 3, 7-17 Brigantine St, Byron Arts & Industry Estate, Byron Bay

51/53 Burringbar St, Mullumbimby  santosorganics.com.au

A beautiful smile –your way

At Byron Bay Denture Clinic, we believe everyone deserves a confident smile, without unnecessary pain or financial stress. Whether you’re considering dentures or implantretained options, we’re here to help you choose what’s right for you.

Dental Prosthetist, Troy Fraser, is both experienced and qualified in both conventional dentures and implant dentures, offering you expert care tailored to your needs. While implants may appeal to some, they involve surgery, higher costs, and no guaranteed success. In contrast, dentures are affordable, painless, and natural-looking, fitted with precision and care, and are an effective solution for most patients.

Explore your options at our relaxed, pressure-free clinic.

Book your free consultation today and smile with confidence. 02 6685 8744 | Shop 8/14 Middleton St, Byron Bay www.byronbaydentureclinic.com.au

Byron Community College

This term, Byron Community College invites you to nurture your health and wellbeing through courses designed to support your body, mind and lifestyle. Discover the joy of seasonal growing in their two-day Feed Your Family Seasonally (Spring) masterclass, where you’ll learn how to create a thriving veggie garden and develop the skills to harvest fresh produce to nourish yourself and your loved ones year-round.

For those looking to support the wellbeing of others, their NDIS Support Worker Workshop offers a comprehensive one-day introduction to the skills, insights and knowledge needed to begin your journey as an independent or agency support worker, making a meaningful difference in your community. Be part of a supportive learning community and take the next step in your wellbeing journey.

www.byroncollege.org.au 02 6684 3374

health & healing

Mullum Herbals and Brunswick River Herbals

Mullum Herbals is an over-the-counter naturopathic dispensary stocking an extensive range of high-quality herbal and naturopathic medicines. Their team of qualified naturopaths offer professional health care and product advice. Serving the community for 31 years, this iconic business also has a second store in Brunswick Heads and online, shipping products Australia-wide and offering free advice over the phone. Full naturopathic consultations are offered by experienced practitioners.

They manufacture an extensive range of tinctures, creams, and oils, and stock high quality essential oils, and the Mullum Herbals Easy Cleanse, as well as a Parasite Cleanse.

Mullum Herbals: 79 Stuart St, Mullumbimby 02 6684 3002

Brunswick Herbals: Shop 2/28 Mullumbimbi St, Brunswick Heads 02 6608 2661 www.mullumherbals.com.au

Kinesiology and energy psychology

Your body is an incredible database that stores records of every experience you’ve ever had, and kinesiology is a remarkable modality that can access all parts of this database. Using gentle biofeedback muscletesting Kate communicates with your physical body, sub-conscious mind and energy systems, tapping into this database in a very precise and targeted way – identifying the root cause of your issue, and utilising the most appropriate therapeutic techniques to free your innate healing capacity, allowing you to move towards better health and wellbeing.

Kate can work with you around physical and emotional issues, trauma, stress release, pain relief, postural and flexibility issues, fears and phobias, sabotage programs, compulsive behaviours, herbal and nutritional support, learning issues and more! Contact her for a free discovery call.

Mullumbimby

www.katemessengerkinesiology.com.au

@katemesseger_kinesiology 0413 003 301

Byron healing is a go-to website featuring informative and entertaining articles on health and wellbeing. It features a host of practitioners and businesses in the industry, offering a range of modalities and services across the Northern Rivers.

Upcoming byron healing client events

Feed Your Family

Seasonally (Spring)

Held by: Byron Community College

Date: Saturday 20 and Saturday 27 September Time: 10am – 3pm

Address: Mullum campus (6/8 Burringbar St, Mullumbimby NSW 2482)

Booking: (02) 6684 3374 customercare@byroncollege. org.au www.byroncollege.org.au

NDIS Support Worker Workshop Held by: Byron Community College

Date: Sunday 21 September Time: 10am – 3pm

Address: Mullum campus (6/8 Burringbar St, Mullumbimby NSW 2482)

Booking: (02) 6684 3374 customercare@byroncollege. org.au www.byroncollege.org.au

The Returning X Plan C Culture Camp

Held by: The Returning Date: 13 – 1 7 October, 2025

Join The Returning on Country for our 4 night Culture Camp.

Time: Monday 13 October, 3pm – Friday 17 October, 10am

Address: Midginbil Eco Resort 252 Midginbil Road, Midginbil

Booking: https://www. thereturning.com.au/culturecamp#culture-camp-ticketsscroll

Egyptian Emotional Clearing Technique –practitioner course Held By: Aromatica

Date: 10 – 17 November 2025

Time: 8am – 6.30pm daily (finishing times are approximate) Address: Ewingsdale

Booking: https://www. trybooking.com/CXUYT

Pathway to the Sun Fair

Held By: Holographic Kinetics

Date: Sunday 21 September

Time: 8am – 3pm

Address: Crabbes Creek

Community Hall

Our Holographic Kinetics Team team have a stall and are available for intro sessions all day

Booking: Natwah beautifulspiritsong@gmail. com 0434 223 756

Crossword by Stephen Clarke

Bombed on Board

Mandy Nolan

You can’t take nail clippers on a plane. They’re seen as a potential weapon. So trimmed toenails are out but booze is in. Yep – you can serve alcohol and lock people in a flying cylinder for up to 15 hours at a time. I haven’t seen the hard data, but anecdotally I reckon drunk men are more dangerous than a tiny pair of scissors.

Cryptic Clues

ACROSS

1.Locum has brochure to take away (8)

5.Romeo involved in a feigned retreat (6)

9.Something unusual, primarily used in bleach, ruined priestly garment (8)

10.Headgear for cricketer (6)

12.Push to have glamorous lead in new version of Dune (5)

13.Perverted prince led with instrument of correction (3-6)

14.Dismissed by tribunal at hearing (6)

16.Type of delivery turned with slant (7)

19.But in fact was wrapping present (7)

21.Motivation essential to motor racing is returning (6)

23.Rose Galen developed has tapering spike (9)

25.Asian capital only spoken of (5)

26.Half-heartedly nibble choice afternoon tea entrees (4,2)

27.Parking, Leo skirts a Volkswagen’s front end at exhibition building (8)

28.Original Australian drama incorrectly depicted warships (6)

29.Judge has a stretch! (8) DOWN

1,20. Carelessly disclose knight position, at first where one could be caught (6,4)

2.Management meeting with opposition to possible monopoly (5,4)

3.Make up with debauchee over pigtail (5)

4.Guilty party starts to promote revolutionary ideas within sect (7)

6.Funny spoof revealing Ken and Romeo may be engaged (6,3)

7. Store licensed to stock old item (5)

8.Spoil jewellery with decorative pattern (8)

11.Tuber Penny planted in old Tokyo (4)

15.Constant gardener arranged to get residency permit (5,4)

17.In favour of going on campaign (9)

18.Charming letter read out by Bloom (5,3)

20. See 1 down

21.Burn Echo Frenchman put in chest (7)

22.Ram takes breather during exercise (6)

24.Substitute left over copper with Bond’s chief (5)

25.Impoverished relations in the way (5)

Quick Clues

ACROSS

1.Reduce by a particular value (8)

5.Spiritual hermitage in India (6)

9.Outer garment worn by clergy during services (8)

10.Cricket player who delivers the ball (6)

12.Gentle push with the elbow (5)

13.Mark corrections with a coloured writing tool (3-6)

14.Trapped (6)

16.Bowling technique that turns ball from off to leg side (7)

19.Considering the fact that (7)

21.Orange root vegetable (6)

23.Wild rose variety (9)

25.South Korean capital city (5)

26.Eat reluctantly in small amounts (4,2)

27.Large sumptuous tent (8)

28.Fleet of warships (6)

29.Punishment given by judge in court (8)

DOWN

1.Unit of time equal to 1/60th of a minute (6)

2.Entertainment played on flat surface with pieces (5,4)

3.Red cosmetic for cheeks (5)

4.Person responsible for a crime (7)

6. Already in a committed relationship (6,3)

7.Ancient object of historical interest (5)

8.Swirling pattern sometimes used to decorate old books (8)

11.Tropical root vegetable similar to taro (4)

15.US permanent residency permit (5,4)

17.Advancement to higher position at work (9)

18.Fragrant flowering climbing plant (5,3)

20.Fielding position behind the wicket in cricket (4)

21.Reduce a body to ashes by burning (7)

22.Sudden steep drop (6)

24.Temporary stand-in for another professional (5)

25.Having no money (5)

HIGHTEA

Last week’s solution #72 ■ If you would

crosswordfeedback@echo.net.au

STARS

BY LILITH

This week’s starmap supports care for your body, your address on earth. Scheduling checkups, stretching, dancing, limiting screentime, and healthy eating are all investments in your future stamina…

N R A I O SMOKEBOMB ROVER U I R O U G A E PACKARD GOOGLED

Let me qualify that – not all drunk men. And of course, for the sake of equality – some drunk women. But a big drunk man who is clearly an out-ofcontrol alcoholic? Yep that’s scary. And I’d say that’s more of a weapon than nail clippers.

It happened recently on my flight from Brisbane to Singapore. A large bloke got very clearly pissed. And very elevated. He was creating issues at the front of the plane where he was seated, so they brought him to the back of the plane, just two seats in front of me where they could keep an eye on him.

He didn’t love being refused service. He was using the call button like a DJ. Hitting that thing like a beat. The flight attendant would say, ‘I can’t give you any more alcohol sir,’ and he’d get agitated. He started banging on the seat in front. Punching the headrest. Which was very relaxing for the dude seated in 54B. A drunk angry man seated about two metres from a baby. What could be problematic with that?

The tension was palpable. Everyone on the plane was aware of drunk man. He got more attention than the inflight entertainment. He was the inflight entertainment. Drunk on a Plane. Not a movie you want to star in or, like us, be an extra in. Drunk man had his headphones on and was punching the air, standing up, swaying. It was weird. It looked, from my seat, like he was getting himself all geed up. The flight attendant kept returning to placate him with cans of coke. She was amazing. I wondered why they didn’t send one of the bald, bearded dudes. I’ve never been happier to have a diverse workforce. Then I realised, they are deescalating him. They have realised that any confrontation with a man could set him off.

ARIES: This final week in your nuts and bolts sector of work and organisation can be surprisingly satisfying for taking stock of how you work and live, upgrading habits and routines, and streamlining your commitments to free up space for projects that light you up and are worth your full attention.

TAURUS: Your prima planet Venus is about to downshift from indulgent, over-the-top mode, back to basic essentials – just your cup of earthy sensuality, favouring a laid-back, leisurely savouring of simple pleasures that provide the kind of joy that lasts longer than an instant hit or passing thrill.

GEMINI: This Mercurian week will reward setting realistic timelines and refreshing your workspace into a place where ideas want to land, which can make a measurable difference in your productivity and mood. The more you put into this now, the more spontaneously dynamic you can be when circumstances require.

The tension was palpable. Everyone on the plane was aware of drunk man. He got more attention than the inflight entertainment. He was the inflight entertainment.

Another passenger tells me they are considering turning the plane around. Wow. Drunk man can ground a flight. What a wild turkey. Right now, he’s coming off his booze high, hitting his cold turkey. And we’re all hoping he passes out. But he’s swaying and singing and being really disturbing. I am fixated on what he’s watching – then I see it. Bollywood. The dude is dancing to a Bollywood movie. I feel instantly calmer. He’s a drunk Bollywood fan. After a few hours he starts to sober up. We land. I can feel the relief. I imagine the carnage of a big drunk man going off, on a flight. One sideways look from another bloke. One angry word

CANCER: Take advantage of Virgo season’s final week turbocharging your sector of colleagues, community and kindred spirits. Could sharing ideas and resources with a collaborator move things further, faster than doing it alone? Try it out this week via brainstorming and/or testing the waters by co-hosting an event.

LEO: This week’s grounded, resourceful energy in your sector of income and security is helpful for tying off financial loose ends and locking in whatever changes to your money mindset and earning potential that recent economic shifts have made necessary – all best attended to before next week’s socialising kicks in.

VIRGO: This is your reset week to clarify top priorities for the year ahead, whether creative ventures, upgrading skills, or making more time for close relationships. When Venus and a bonus, second new moon light up Virgo this coming weekend, wrap up your month in the sun with something utterly soul-nourishing and sublime.

LIBRA: With Venus heading away from dramatic highs and lows for more stable, sensible behaviour, treat this week as your annual spiritual housecleaning. Instead of sorting wardrobes, delete limiting beliefs, let go of negative self-talk and emotional baggage, make space for your month in the sun’s replenishing new energy.

SCORPIO: The last week of Virgo season offers you an opportunity to seek out original thinkers whose strengths complement your own. A little delegating will go a long way towards motivating creativity and inspiring people to bring their best to the table and add their own magic to the group mix.

SAGITTARIUS: This week of planetary emphasis in your worldly work sector could bring an unexpected offer which helps turn your visionary ideas into something actionable, so bring your best to project meetings. Align with collaborators who complement your strengths, and don’t hold back on what you’re prepared to contribute.

and the guy would have exploded. We could all feel the danger. Even the babies were quiet. No one dared make a noise. It was like the whole plane had to go into deescalation. There was a bomb on the plane. A big drunk man. Bombed out of his brain.

In Australia 1 in 10 people meet the criteria for alcohol dependence. That makes the likelihood of service of alcohol leading to drunkenness pretty high. So don’t serve booze on the plane. Simple. I haven’t felt so unsafe in an enclosed environment for a long time. It was terrifying. There was nowhere to go. We were trapped.

I see drunk man at the baggage claim. He hasn’t got a clue what a spectacle he made of himself. How he frightened everyone into a frozen silence for hours. How he almost brought down the plane.

Time to ban drunks on planes.

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: This week stimulates Capricorn’s sense of expansion and exploration, so start saying yes to change. Choose experiences that shake up your routine, or broaden your worldview, listen to people who alter your thinking in exciting and beneficial ways. New horizons are beckoning, with a renewed sense of possibility.

AQUARIUS: Intimate relationships may have gone through a few defining moments recently. Be honest this week about what’s working, what’s past its use-by date and get clear about what you truly want. This is about discernment: not in an exclusionist way, but to prioritise your time, energy and emotional wellbeing.

PISCES: This week’s planetary energetics focus on Piscean partnerships: romantic, business, creative and/or collaborative, from one-on-one connections to group alliances. Be prepared to meet people in new ways, explore fresh social scenes and stay open to surprises. Trust your finely tuned intuition to steer you towards the right matches.

MANDY NOLAN’S

Volume 40 #15

17–23 September, 2025

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

Eclectic Selection

Taylah Little’s powerhouse soulful vocals, heartfelt lyrics and authentic storytelling, blend pop, soul and indie acoustic influences to create music that strikes an emotional chord – Taylah brings a raw and genuine energy to her songs often exploring themes of love, self-discovery and personal growth.

Friday from 6.30pm at the Murwillumbah Services Club. Free show.

Lucid Safari is fast becoming an exciting dream rock act, with shimmering ‘80s-inspired sounds and heartfelt lyrics – their latest single ‘Something More’ dives into the ache of missed timing and emotional echoes.

Friday from 8pm at the Australian Hotel, Ballina. Free show.

Geraldine Hickey’s stand up career emerged from her participation in the 2001 RAW Comedy Festival which

took her from her hometown of Albury to Melbourne. With an effortless ability to turn low-key yarns into high-stake rollercoasters, Hickey is one of Australia’s most beloved stand-up comedians.

Saturday 7.30pm at the Soundlounge, Currumbin. Tickets $40 from soundlounge.com.au.

This week the Ballina Blues Club features a band raised on brown snake venom and moonshine – Burning Hands are known for their high-energy, hot live performances and unique arrangements playing traditional Delta and Chicago-influenced roots and dance music from a forgotten time.

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

Twenty years ago, a young Clare Bowditch surprised even her own parents by scooping the coveted Best Female Artist ARIA Award thanks to her breakthrough album What Was Left. This is your perfect chance to be up close and in-person with one of Australia’s most entertaining storytellers, to feel the warmth, hear the untold stories, and re-

experience the songs from back then.

Sunday 6pm at the Brunswick Picture House, Brunswick Heads. Tickets from $36 from brunswickpicturehouse.com.

Join TheBredda Brothers Trio for a sunset session packed with energy, eclectic sounds, and a whole lot of fun – they’ll mash up classics from the ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s, and 2000s with dance bangers, drum & bass, and their own original tracks, all delivered with their signature twist – reworking the songs you love into something completely fresh.

Sunday at The Rails, Byron Bay. Free show.

Jamel Boukabou is a dynamic and talented rock artist who has taken the music scene by storm with his inimitable style, infectious energy, and irresistible charm. With a passion for both classic covers and original material, Boukabou has become a fan favourite and a staple of the live music circuit.

Monday at The Rails, Byron Bay. Free show.

So many awesome shows

The outrageous and hysterical boylesque troupe Briefs Factory return soon to Brunswick Picture House for a two-week residency, fresh off their world tour. Fierce and provocative, all to a pumping soundtrack, the gang is stomping it out for eight sessions of Club Briefs from Thursday, September 25 to Sunday, October 5, then they’re turning the game show format upside down with the raucous Bearded Bingo on Sunday, September 28 and Sunday, October 5 – and for the kiddies – the mischief makers will bring a high-energy, super-fun, glitter-bombing afternoon all-ages show with Brats Carnival or Friday and Saturday, October 3 and 4

We’re used to Australian music royalty on the Picture House stage and now Clare Bowditch has been added to the list – join her for the celebration of the 20th anniversary of her ARIA-winning breakthrough album What Was Left –this Sunday!

The ‘House is absolutely chuffed to welcome back two Australian superstars: Ash Grunwald – who brings a full gospel choir on Saturday, October 18 and multi-award-winning Emily Wurramara, who celebrates the release of ‘Adore Me’ on Friday, October 24

Picture House favourite Nazeem Hussain is back with You Paid for This on Saturday, October 11 and powerhouse comedian, and TV star Dave O’Neil steps on to the Bruns stage for the first time on Friday, October 17

It really is one of the kinkiest nights on our calendar; Kinky Drawers comes back out for the coolest life drawing burlesque art event yet on Friday October 10

Big doco films are back in October! Rising Tide presents a duo of direct action stories with live panel discussion: ‘Turning The Ship’ and ‘To Kill A War Machine’ on Wednesday, October 15, and the world’s best new action-sports films in ‘Adventure Reels Tour’ on Thursday, October 16

Tickets for all shows at brunswickpicturehouse.com.

ASH GRUNWALD

A Spaghetti Western for Bruns

Spaghetti Circus and Brunswick Picture House are set to co-produce a breathtaking new show, the circus spectacular Spaghetti Western, for its world premiere season at Brunswick Picture House from October 29 to November 9

Directed by Australia’s award-winning, all-female, internationally-acclaimed circus sensation YUCK Circus, Spaghetti Western stars Mullumbimby’s extraordinary Spaghetti Circus Performance Troupe in a daring reimagining of the classic western.

This high-energy production sees Northern Rivers’ finest, flipping, flying, and fearlessly crafting a world where heroes rise, dreams collide, and the Wild West gets a delightfully Spaghetti-style makeover.

Expect prancing ponies, spectacular acrobatics, gravitydefying stunts, bar fights, cow folk, and a heartfelt celebration of courage and community, all set to toetapping music. This rollicking new work will have you cheering, gasping, and laughing along with Spaghetti’s talented Performance Troupe as they lasso the spirit of the Wild West and bring it to life with their signature circus flair. From the dusty saloons to the open plains, it’s a wild ride for all ages!

‘It’s such an honour to direct the Spaghetti Performance Troupe; an incredible bunch of kind, talented, passionate teens ready to rock the Picture House stage,’ said YUCK Circus’s, Georgia Deguara.

‘With Spaghetti graduate Hannah Richards in our YUCK cast, it’s a privilege to be able to inspire the next generation of artists with a hometown-perspective. You gotta see it to be it!’

Spaghetti Circus’ Director of Circus, Petrina Hutchinson, said that she was excited to partner with YUCK Circus to bring the show to life.

‘Partnering with YUCK Circus allows our young performers to learn from some of the best in the industry. The Spaghetti troupe are not just part of a show – they are part of a living tradition of contemporary circus, carrying forward skills, stories, and values for the next generation.’

Spaghetti Western opens on October 29 for a ten-show season. Tickets and information at eventfinda.com. au/2025/spaghetti-western/brunswick-heads.

Trilla in Byron

Not so long ago, this gold-tooth-wearing powerhouse was a full blown hippy. In 2020, as the music industry came to a grinding halt, Trilla felt her breakthrough moment slip away. She had just played on the Delta Stage after winning runner-up in a Bluesfest comp, won the Woodford comp which awarded her a residency the following year, and was invited to play a festival in place of Tones and I, who couldn’t make it. Accepting her assumed fate with the music industry was coming to a halt, Trilla went underground, weaving song and sound at plant medicine ceremonies and retreats out of the public eye.

Being a natural-born musician, who can pick up a guitar and learn any song by ear, Trilla accessed something new and profound – playing channeled music in these spaces. She discovered the potency of her voice being laced with ancient wisdom and a shaman said they witnessed her voice go to the energy field of the participants which altered and healed their DNA.

Trilla now brings her years of working in ceremonial space to the mainstream, layered with her personal journey of traversing the depths of the human experience. Her cinematic soundscapes, haunting melodies and revolutionary vocals, give you a deeplyfelt experience. She shares a transmission of heartfelt presence and full-blown power, where her voice truly touches the unseen parts of us and can heal on a cellular level. She is a genre-bending, queer, androgynous, Aquarius of the Aquarian Age. Imagine the voice of Stevie Nicks, the rock star badass power of Miley Cyrus and the looping soundscapes of Tash Sultana. This is Trilla.

Sunday from 5pm at The Northern, Byron Bay.

In your car?

Jump onto BayFM at 99.9FM for the Shire’s own and only radio station. On your device?

Find us on your radio app, or go to the source at bayfm.org to listen live or to listen back via the Program Guide. Yep, you have options.

More at bayfm.org

È il festival del cinema Italiano!

The largest celebration of Italian culture and film outside Italy, the ST. ALi Italian Film Festival (IFF), returns to cinema screens this September and October with an unmissable selection of the best new Italian cinema. Presented by Palace, the 2025 edition of the festival will screen in Byron Bay and Ballina, commencing on September 25. Opening the festival is Paolo Genovese’s recordbreaking hit Somebody To Love (FolleMente) , a romantic comedy with an all-star cast including Edoardo Leo, Pilar Fogliati and Vittoria Puccini Following the global success of Perfect Strangers (IFF 2016), writer/director Genovese’s latest film reveals the innermost thoughts and uncertainties of a modern Italian couple on their awkward first date. From acclaimed filmmaker Ferzan Özpetek comes the stunning, female-led drama Diamonds (Diamanti). An ode to the beautiful craftsmanship of film costume designers and seamstresses, Luisa Ranieri and Jasmine Trinca star as sisters running a couture costume design house in 1970s Rome, exploring the lives and relationships of the women working within it.

The festival Special Presentation is the winner of the Grand Jury Prize at the 2024 Venice Film Festival, The Mountain Bride – Vermiglio (Vermiglio) . For this atmospheric, visuallybreathtaking portrait of a family caught between tradition and modernity in the final year of WWII, writer/director Maura Delpero drew upon her own family’s past and collective memory to create this rich, intimate drama that follows a series of consequential events.

A box office sensation in Italy, moving drama The Boy With The Pink Trousers (Il ragazzo dai pantaloni rosa) features rising star Samuele Carrino in a powerful performance. Exploring the real story behind Italy’s first publicised case of

online bullying, the film garnered much attention in Italy and sparked important discussions about the issue.

Starring popular comic duo Ficarra & Picone and festival favourite Toni Servillo, The Illusion (L’Abbaglio) is a fun re-imagining of Giuseppe Garibaldi’s 1860 campaign that unified Italy. Directed and co-written by Roberto Andò (Strangeness (IFF 2023) this entertaining tale blends comedy and drama to illuminate a piece of history, exploring the paradoxes of Sicilian identity.

The adventures of the Rovelli family continue in When Mum Is Away – With The In-Laws (10 Giorni con I suoi) . This time the family head to Puglia in the hit comedy directed by Alessandro Genovesi and starring Fabio De Luigi and Valentina Lodovini

The 2025 ST. ALi Italian Film Festival, presented by Palace, screens in Byron Bay and Ballina Fair Cinemas from September 25.For information and updates, please visit italianfilmfestival.com.au and sign up or follow on Facebook @ItalianFF and Instagram @ItalianFilmFest for all the latest news.

Where Love Lives LOVEMORE

Where Love Lives Events presents LOVEMORE, a night filled with love and joy in Lismore.

This event is set to be a dope night, filled with house and disco beats that’s sure to get everyone into the groove with a stacked lineup including DJ Magnus (Lismore), Eleketropanda (Brisbane) Rob Davis (Syd) and Anubis (Melb).

Where Love Lives is a community-driven event series designed to celebrate and promote inclusivity and diversity. The

promote and diversity The initiative brings people of various ages, sexual orientations, and identities together under the common banner of love and acceptance.

The atmosphere at each event is vibrant and welcoming, encouraging openness and unity among all attendees.

Don’t ghost Ghosting the Party

‘No-one ever came back, but all reports indicate it’s lovely…’ So begins Ghosting the Party, a wickedly-funny and moving black comedy about death, motherhood, and the messy business of being alive.

Written by award-winning playwright Melissa Bubnic and directed by Liz Chance, this acclaimed play opens at the Drill Hall Theatre, Mullumbimby on Friday.

The story follows three generations of women: Grace (Sonia Borenstein), 87 and ready to ‘leave the party’; her daughter Dorothy (Nicole Sullivan), appalled but devoted; and granddaughter Suzie (Elyse Dallinger), juggling career pressures with family ties.

Joined by Drill Hall all-stars, Claire Atkins and Greg Aitken, the cast delivers Bubnic’s signature mix of wit and compassion, asking big questions with humour and heart.

For Director Liz Chance, the play is both timely and deeply Australian. ‘It deals with one of the last great taboos in modern society – death. The one thing we know is coming for us all, and yet the last thing anyone wants to talk about. Melissa makes us laugh about it – it’s miraculously funny.’

Ghosting the Party runs from September 18 to October at Drill Hall Theatre, Jubilee Avenue, Mullumbimby. Bookings: drillhalltheatre.org.au.

Affordable ticket prices ensure that financial barriers do not prevent anyone from attending.

The event has been crafted to offer a platform for expression, connection, and celebration, featuring a range of incredible performances and primarily soul, disco and tech house music. It will also feature exceptional sound and lighting effects. By fostering connections and providing opportunities for shared experiences, Where Love Lives aims to break down barriers and build a strong foundation of empathy and understanding. The events serve as a powerful reminder that love has the ability to transcend differences

to brea

variety of talents

The lineup of artists and performers is carefully selected to showcase a variety of talents and perspectives, ensuring that ever y participant feels seen, heard, and valued

The goal is to create a community where people can be their true selves without fear of judgment or prejudice.

barriers and build a fou and understanding reminde has the to transcend and unite us all

Whether you’re looking to dance, enjoy a riveting performance, or simply find a safe space to be yourself, Where Love Lives is the place to be. Join us in our mission to spread love and acceptance, and let’s create a world that truly embraces

Whether t a riveting performance, o a safe space to be yourse Love Lives is the us in our mission to s and an a world that e diversity. Make sure to ma calendars and ent Join the fu Hotel Me Lismore Septem from 6p

Make sure to mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable evening of fun and entertainment! Join the fun at the Hotel Metropole Lismore on Saturday, September 27, from 6pm –complimentary bubbly and nibbles between 6pm and Tickets at eventbrite.com.au

The full Nimbin Roots

The full program for the tenth and final Nimbin Roots Festival has been released.

While putting an end to the annual festival weighs on founder and director, Lou Bradley, as she wistfully gears up to give Nimbin one last event to remember, she is also trying to contain her excitement about upcoming announcements for next year’s Mullum Roots Festival.

And in the middle of juggling both these festivals, Lou has been recording her own music, anticipating her first album release in 15 years in early 2026.

Her own experience as an independent artist seeking outlets for live performance led to her founding the Nimbin event.

Around 25 years ago she and her young family landed in Huonbrook, deep in the Byron hinterland, and drew inspiration from her local surrounds. Because of Huonbrook’s location, Lou found herself geographically and creatively pulled to the Nimbin area as much as she was connected to Mullumbimby.

Her music went national very quickly, with ARIA and Golden Guitar nominations. But, she says, ‘As happens with musicians, finding work to make ends meet, when you’ve decided to have a life dedicated to the arts, was a struggle. The continuing question was do I keep my focus on my music or focus more on family and conventional work?’

‘That’s when Nimbin Roots Festival was born. Over the years, I’d been to a number of performances of “successful” artists –large venues, people packed in – and I always said that’s not for me.’

‘It felt like we had to create something just for artists who needed an outlet to perform their original music. They wouldn’t have to be famous, nor have to be successful, but just had to really mean it with their songwriting because that’s when you get back to the roots of your art.’

With her life and music partner, Phil Chaffer, Lou toured through the Northern Territory to raise funds from their own gigs to mount the first Nimbin Roots Festival. That continued every year, steadfastly playing to welcoming audiences in the NT to earn the money to stage the Nimbin event. It inevitably became exhausting, and now coming full circle to shift her festival energies from Nimbin to Mullumbimby, Lou’s drive and vision are reignited.

Meanwhile, Dog Trumpet, The Audreys, Hussy Hicks and dozens of other artists will entertain at Nimbin Roots Festival from October 24 to 26. More info and tickets at nimbinrootsfest.com.

WEDNESDAY 17

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, TIM STOKES

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM

LUKE BENNETT

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM KANE MUIR, 9PM

DUELLING PIANOS – MICK

BUCKLEY & BODHI ACTON

BANGALOW BOWLO 7.30PM

BANGALOW BRACKETS’ OPEN MIC SESSION

THE PADDOCK PROJECT, MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM CURRY JAM

HEAPS GOOD FOOD STORE, MULLUMBIMBY, 5.30PM THE SPOKEN WORD SOIRÉE

THURSDAY 18

GIG GUIDE

BAR HENRI, MULLUMBIMBY, 6PM

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, GUY KACHEL

NORTH BYRON HOTEL 5.30PM OPEN MIC

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM ALEX BROWN + DJ ZAC

EWING, 9PM DUELLING

PIANOS – SAM WHEAT & BODHI ACTON

SAINT MARIES, BRUNSWICK HEADS, 6PM MONDO HUM HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM INO PIO

DRILL HALL THEATRE, MULLUMBIMBY, 7.30PM GHOSTING THE PARTY

KELP, BALLINA, MILO GREEN

LISMORE CITY BOWLO 7PM THE SUPPER CLUB SOUL BAND

LENNOX HOTEL 8PM THURSDAY JAM NIGHT

FRIDAY 19

ROD MURRAY – A TRIBUTE TO JAZZ

ST JOHN’S SCHOOL HALL, MULLUMBIMBY, 7.30PM

ECSTATIC DANCE MULLUM WITH DJ PUMAH

DRILL HALL THEATRE, MULLUMBIMBY, 7.30PM

GHOSTING THE PARTY

MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 8PM KRAPPYOKEE WITH JESS

CLUB LENNOX 7PM BEN WHITING DUO

LENNOX HOTEL 8.30PM MATT DAY TRIO

CHERRY STREET SPORTS CLUB, BALLINA, 7PM ADAM GARDINER

AUSTRALIAN HOTEL, BALLINA, 8PM LUCID SAFARI

MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES

CLUB 6.30AM TAYLAH LITTLE

KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 5PM

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, MATTY RODGERS & JC & THE TREE BAND

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 5PM LIFE IS A MYTH + BILLY

GUDGEON

ELEMENTS OF BYRON 5PM

ADAM HARPAZ

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 7PM ISAAC FRANKHAM + DJ

JAMIE LOWE, 8PM DUELLING

PIANOS – MICK BUCKLEY & SHANE PARRY + SAM WHEAT & DIZZY J

HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM PACIFIC AVENUE+ DJ LOXHART

WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM DJ XUJA

GREER SULLIVAN

SALTBAR, KINGSCLIFF, 6PM

CHRIS PALMER

TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE SHOWROOM 8AM OH

WHAT A NIGHT

CLUB TWEED 7.30PM SOULCUTZ

SATURDAY 20

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, THE WHISKEYS

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 3PM PAT TIERNEY + THE RECORD BREAKERS + LITTLE FRITTER & SEKTA

NORTH BYRON HOTEL 5PM DANI QUAYLE MUSIC

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 7PM DONNY SHADES DUO + JB’S BLUE BREAKERS, 8PM DUELLING PIANOS – MICK

BUCKLEY & SAM WHEAT + BODHI ACTON & DIZZY J HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4.30PM ANDY V, EMPRESS KATIA, JUMAN AND THE RIDDIM SQUAD & SUNNY SIDE UP DJ WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM DJ LAINIE GODIVA

MULLUMBIMBY EX-SERVICES CLUB 6PM STEPHEN LOVELIGHT

DRILL HALL THEATRE, MULLUMBIMBY, 7.30PM GHOSTING THE PARTY

BILLINUDGEL HOTEL 6PM LOTUS

LENNOX HOTEL 5PM DJ LONGTIME, 8PM ROUND UP!

CLUB LENNOX 7PM GUY

KACHEL TRIO

CHERRY STREET SPORTS CLUB, BALLINA, 8AM OUTBACK ROAD

BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK 6PM

TURTLE BOY DUO, LEVEL ONE 7.30PM ALEX LLOYD

ELTHAM HOTEL 7PM WOMEN OF COUNTRY

NORTHERN RIVERS

CONSERVATORIUM, LISMORE, 4PM LYRICAL

MASTERPIECES: FINALE OF THE CONSERVATORIUM’S 2025 VISITING ARTIST SERIES

LISMORE WORKERS CLUB 8PM OH WHAT A NIGHT

MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES CLUB 6PM PHIL & TILLEY

KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 5PM NATHAN KAYE

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

SALTBAR, KINGSCLIFF, 6PM SCOTT WHATMAN

SHEOAK SHACK, FINGAL HEAD, 2PM FRANK SWABY

CLUB TWEED 7.30PM THE HITMEN

TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE SHOWROOM 8PM ELVIS: AN AMERICAN TRILOGY

SOUNDLOUNGE, CURRUMBIN, 7.30PM GERALDINE HICKEY

SUNDAY 21

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 7PM THE BREDDA BROTHERS

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 4.30PM NAI PALM + SUNNY LUWE & IZZY DAY

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 5PM TRILLA+ DJ FAZZ, 8PM DUELLING PIANOS – JOHN HILL & MICK BUCKLEY

BANGALOW HOTEL 3PM

BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK

2.30PM BALLINA BLUES CLUB FEAT BURNING HANDS

SHAWS BAY HOTEL, BALLINA, 3PM HOMEGROWN 70S & 80S

ELTHAM HOTEL 4PM SLIM PICKENS

UKI MARKET 8AM TROMBONE

KELLIE GANG + ANNE MARIE, KUWANI LI AND THE HENRY

WILKINSON DUO

CLUB TWEED 1PM RHYDIAN LEWIS + CURT LUXTON TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE SHOWROOM 8PM

MICHAEL JACKSON KING OF POP

MONDAY 22

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 12PM JAMEL BOUKABOU

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM MILO GREEN THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM MARK USHER + DJ WHITTI, 8PM DUELLING PIANOS – MITCHELL DORMER & SHANE PARRY

TUESDAY 23

PHANTOM LIMBZ

HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4PM

TROPIKALIA

BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 6PM CLARE BOWDITCH WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 3PM DJ

DARLAN

MULLUMBIMBY CIVIC HALL 4PM

THE LITTLE BIG BANG

DRILL HALL THEATRE, MULLUMBIMBY, 5PM GHOSTING THE PARTY

BILLINUDGEL HOTEL 1PM INO PIO

LENNOX PIZZA 5PM LUKE YEAMAN

BYRON BAY,

OKELL, 9PM

PIANOS – BODHI ACTON & MITCHELL DORMER

TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE SHOWROOM 11AM FRANKLY SINATRA

WEDNESDAY 24

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, STEPHEN LOVELIGHT

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM INO PIO THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM DAN HANNAFORD, 9PM DUELLING PIANOS – BODHI ACTON & MITCHELL DORMER

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

KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 6.30PM KINGY COMEDY –

(CTC) NFT

KANGAROO (PG) NFT

except Thurs: 11:15AM, 12:20PM, 3:45PM, 6:15PM. Thurs: 11:15AM, 1:40PM, 3:45PM, 6:15PM

BAD GUYS

(PG) NFT Thurs: 11:10AM, 1:30PM, 2:00PM, 5:45PM. Fri, Tues, Wed: 11:10AM, 1:30PM, 2:40PM, 5:45PM. Sat: 11:10AM, 1:30PM, 3:20PM, 5:45PM. Sun: 11:10AM, 1:30PM, 2:40PM, 6:10PM. Mon: 11:10AM, 1:30PM, 2:40PM, 6:00PM

except Thurs, Sat: 11:00AM, 1:20PM, 3:40PM, 6:00PM, 7:30PM. Thurs: 11:00AM, 1:20PM, 3:40PM, 6:00PM. Sat: 11:00AM, 1:20PM, 3:40PM, 6:00PM, 7:45PM BOLÉRO (PG) NFT Daily except Thurs, Sun: 11:30AM, 3:30PM, 6:00PM. Thurs: 11:10AM, 3:30PM, 6:00PM. Sun: 10:45AM, 3:40PM, 6:00PM BUT ALSO JOHN CLARKE (M) Thurs: 3:20PM, 8:30PM. Fri, Tues: 11:20AM, 3:20PM, 8:30PM. Sat: 11:00AM, 8:30PM. Sun: 10:45AM, 8:30PM. Mon: 11:10AM, 3:20PM. Wed: 11:20AM, 3:20PM CAUGHT STEALING (MA15+) Daily except Sun, Wed: 1:15PM, 8:30PM. Sun, Wed: 8:30PM

DEMON SLAYER: KIMETSU NO YAIBA INFINITY CASTLE (MA15+) Daily except Thurs, Sun: 2:00PM, 5:00PM, 8:00PM. Thurs, Sun: 5:00PM, 8:00PM DOWNTON ABBEY: THE GRAND FINALE (PG) Daily except Sat, Wed: 11:10AM, 4:00PM, 6:00PM. Sat: 11:00AM, 4:00PM, 6:00PM. Wed: 11:10AM, 4:00PM SPLITSVILLE (MA15+) Thurs, Fri, Tues: 11:00AM, 8:30PM. Sat, Sun, Mon, Wed: 8:30PM THE BALLAD OF WALLIS ISLAND (PG) NFT Daily except Mon: 1:45PM, 6:10PM. Mon: 11:15AM, 1:45PM THE CONJURING: LAST RITES (MA15+) Daily except Sun, Mon: 1:40PM, 8:00PM. Sun: 1:00PM, 8:20PM. Mon: 1:20PM, 8:15PM THE LONG WALK (MA15+) Daily except Wed: 8:30PM. No screening Wed THE NAKED GUN (M) Thurs, Fri, Sat, Tues: 4:20PM, 6:30PM. Sun: 1:10PM, 6:30PM. Mon: 4:00PM, 6:30PM. Wed: 4:20PM, 8:30PM THE ROSES (MA15+) Thurs: 11:40AM, 4:00PM, 8:30PM. Fri, Sun, Mon, Tues: 1:45PM, 4:00PM, 8:30PM. Sat: 1:30PM, 5:30PM, 8:30PM. Wed: 1:45PM, 4:00PM

BYRON BAY

BALLINA FAIR CINEMAS

Classifieds

ECHO CLASSIFIEDS – 6684 1777

BOOKINGS

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

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.

PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notice of Praecipe, Tacit

Acceptance and Reconveyance

Wilhelmina Elsa Ford© of Reedy Creek, Queensland state is not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and is the irrefuatable Holder in Due Course of her property and all associated Copyright Protected Trade Names, including Dustin Hartley Smith RPP44 639000510020133 23600

Proclamation Date 30th December 2024 and Monique Zoe Smith RPP44 63900051002013203605 Proclamation Date 30th December 2024, since the rebutted lawful reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis, commonly known as The Commonwealth of Australia. Wilhelmina Elsa Ford© Public Record Number RPP44 63900051002013202608, with Proclamation Date 25th November 2024 does sever Usufruct Subjugation ties with the Australian Corporation in its entirety. The occupying corporate government of Australia and its affiliates are instructed to immediately cease and desist any further infringement upon these copyright protected Financial Instruments and cease and desist misaddressing Wilhelmina Elsa Ford© in fraudulent debased dog-Latin; Glossa.

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

BUSINESS

Community at Work Classifieds

On The

Horizon

DEADLINE NOON FRIDAY

Email copy marked ‘On The Horizon’ to editor@echo.net.au.

GCAT

The Green and Clean Awareness Team’s monthly Dunecare Day is on Sunday, 21 September 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

22M 5:35 17:42 5:36 18:04 0831 1.42; 2038 1.54 0216 0.21; 1420 0.26

23TU 5:34 17:42 6:03 18:58 0904 1.46; 2107 1.45 0243 0.21; 1458 0.30

24W 5:33 17:43 6:31 19:53 0937 1.48; 2136 1.36 0307 0.22; 1535 0.36

25TH 5:32 17:43 7:01 20:48 1011 1.49; 2205 1.26 0332 0.25; 1615 0.42

26F 5:30 17:44 7:34 21:44 1046 1.47; 2238 1.15 0400 0.29; 1658 0.49

27SA 5:29 17:44 8:11 22:41 1125 1.44; 2315 1.04 0428 0.35; 1747 0.56

28SU 5:28 17:45 8:53 23:37 1210 1.39; 1851 0.61 0500 0.42

29M 5:27 17:45 9:410001 0.95; 1309 1.34 0544 0.49; 2015 0.63

SOCIAL ESCORTS

LOTS OF GORGEOUS LADIES available for your pleasure nearby. Spoil yourself. Inhouse & outcalls. 7 days. 0266816038.

30TU 5:26 17:46 10:35 0:30 0112 0.89; 1426 1.33 0647 0.55; 2142 0.60

1W 5:24 17:46 11:34 1:19 0253 0.89; 1542 1.37 0817 0.57; 2244 0.52

sourced from Bureau of

adjusted for Daylight Savings when applicable.

MONTHLY MARKETS

Our next monthly screening will be on Wednesday, 24 September at 7pm with the doors, bar and kitchen open from 6.30pm. The film, with a rather odd title ‘Film stars don’t die in Liverpool’ is an entrancing biopic

about Gloria Grahame, based on a book written by her young lover, Peter Turner and directed by the talented Scottish director, Paul McGuigan. Gloria is brilliantly played by Annette Bening with a great supporting cast. Enquiries and bookings email drillhallfilmsociety@gmail.com. Membership is due and guests are always welcome.

Lifelong learning

For retired folk in their third Age the 23 September forum group excursion is to the Condong Sugar Mills. Other interest groups include: Tuesday forum, garden group, foodies, movie and lunch group, men’s shed, French revisited, Scottish folk dance, mahjong, walkers and talkers, shabashi, table tennis, chess, debating group, ukelele group starting soon.

Regular As Clockwork DEADLINE NOON FRIDAY

Please note that, owing to space restrictions, not all entries may be included each week. Email copy marked ‘Regular As Clockwork’ to editor@echo.net.au.

Mullumbimby District

Neighbourhood Centre

Mullumbimby & District

Neighbourhood Centre is open

Monday–Thursday 9am–4pm and offers a range of services and activities. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy art, music, games, great food and more. Call reception on 6684 1286 and discover what is on offer.

MDNC services that are running include:

Community support/emergency relief: Food parcels, meals, assistance with electricity and Telstra bills.

Listening Space: free counselling. Staying Home, Leaving Violence program

Integrated Domestic & Family Violence program

Financial Counselling: outreach available Thursdays & Fridays

Financial Counselling: free service funded by the government, offering advocacy & assistance to find options to address debts.

Information, referral and advocacy. To enquire about accessing any of these services call 6684 1286 or fill out an online enquiry form.

POLICE 000

AMBULANCE Mullumbimby & Byron Bay 131 233

POLICEBrunswick Heads .......................................................... 6629 7510 Mullumbimby 6629 7570 Byron Bay 6685 9499 Bangalow 6629 7500

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE Storm & tempest damage, flooding 132 500 BRUNSWICK VALLEY RESCUE Primary rescue 6685 1999 BRUNSWICK MARINE RADIO TOWER 6685 0148

CENTRAL HOSPITAL 6639 9400

COUNCIL: EMERGENCY AFTER HOURS 6622 7022

CENTRE (Mullumbimby) 6684 1286 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 24 hour crisis line 1800 656 463

131 114

1300 789 978

ANONYMOUS 24 hours 1800 423 431

Byron Community Centre

Homeless Breakfast: 7:30–9am Wednesday. Homeless Showers: Monday and Wednesday 10am–12pm (book in at breakfasts). Women’s Support and Counselling: Friday 1–3pm, Community Cabin Carlyle St. Free Phone Counselling: Call 0415 322 064 10am–2pm. Seniors Computer Club: Friday 9am–11am, Community Cabin Carlyle St. Seniors drumming, yoga, ukulele, art, nourishing arts and drama: 66856807 for booking and time details. Volunteer Hub referral service: Call 66856807.

Low-cost or free food

Food Box Thursdays 9.30–11.30am at Uniting Church, Mullumbimby. If you have any sort of Centrelink card you may purchase cheap food, obtain free veges, and enjoy a cuppa. Free Food Relief Bags for anyone doing it tough, every Wednesday 10–12noon at The Hub Ocean Shores, cnr Rajah Rd and Bindaree Way. No ID or Concession Card required. NILs referral service also available. Check Facebook page

All info Denise 0423 778 573 or info@ bru3a.org.

Friends of Libraries AGM

Friends of Libraries Byron Shire are holding their Annual General Meeting on 15 October in the Arakwal Room, Byron Library at 10am. All positions will be declared vacant, opening up a wonderful opportunity for those interested in supporting and fundraising for our local shire libraries. The members are a vibrant and interesting group working to raise funds through the well-known Annual Book Fair, book events and all things that keep the libraries functioning so well in our community.

Tech-savy Seniors

Free, fun tech lessons are on at Byron Bay Library. Join our friendly training sessions where library staff help you to get online and build your digital skills. The 40-minute Friday sessions offer a broad range of topics to choose from that will help you gain confidence and stay connected. The first session kicks off on Friday, 12 September and these

for up to one year. Find out more at: www.standbysupport.com.au or call 13 11 14. If you, or someone you are with, are in need of immediate support please call an ambulance or police on 000.

Feel Good Friday

The Hub Baptist Ocean Shores for details. Respite Service Byron Shire Respite Service Inc delivers high-quality respite care to a broad range of clients throughout the Byron, Ballina and Lismore shires. Donations welcome: Ph 6685 1921, email fundraiser@byronrespite.com. au, website: www.byronrespite.com. au.

Alateen meeting

Alateen meeting every Thursday at 5–6pm. Do you have a parent, close friend or relative with a drinking problem? Alateen can help. For 8–16-year-olds meet St Cuthbert’s Anglican Church Hall, 13 Powell Street, corner of Florence Street Tweed Heads. Al-Anon family groups for older members at the same time and place. 1300 ALANON 1300 252 666 www. al-anon.org.au

ACA

Adult Children of Alcoholic Parents and/or Dysfunctional Families (ACA) help & recovery group meets in Lismore every Friday 10–11.30am, Red Dove Centre, 80 Keen Street. Byron meetings are on Tuesdays at 7pm via Zoom - meeting ID 554 974 582 password byronbay.

Drug support groups

Call Alcoholics Anonymous 1800 423 431 or 0401 945 671 – 30 meetings a week in the Shire – www.aa.org.au. Are you experiencing difficulties and challenges because of the alcohol or drug use of someone close to you? Learn coping skills and gain support from others. Narcotics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women for whom drugs had become a major problem. We are recovering addicts who meet regularly to help each other stay clean. For information and meetings call1300 652 820 or text your postcode to 0488 811 247. www. na.org.au. Are you concerned about somebody else’s drinking? Al-Anon Family Groups meeting held Fridays 2pm. Uniting Church Bangalow – 1300 252 666 www.al-anon.org.au.

Support after suicide

StandBy provides support to people who have lost someone to suicide. They provide free face-to-face and telephone support and are accessible 24/7. Follow-up contact is available

sessions continue on to the new year. Bookings essential at: www.rtrl.nsw. gov.au or phone the Byron Bay branch 6685 8540.

Co-dependents Anonymous

Co-dependents Anonymous (CoDA) is a 12-step fellowship whose common purpose is to develop healthy and loving relationships with others and ourselves. We warmly welcome anyone, whether you have experience in the program or are a newcomer, to attend our 2025 convention on 18 October, 9am to 3.30pm, at Marvell Hall, Byron Bay. Tickets can be purchased on the day or via the link on our website: codependentsanonymous.org.au. A delicious veg/gf lunch is also available for purchase in advance via the ticket link. This will be a wonderful opportunity to connect with people who are dedicated to recovery from self neglect, abuse and abandonment. Whatever you may think about the word codependency, be prepared to rethink it! ‘To thine own self be true’.

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

A free weekly group for women to access support and relax. Feel Good Fridays happen every Friday from 1 till 3pm at the Byron Community Cabin on Carlyle Street (behind the tennis courts in the recreational grounds). Just drop-in, no bookings or commitment necessary. For any further information and any questions just let me know by calling the Byron Community Centre on 6685 6807.

Library fun

Baby Bounce and Storytime for toddlers and pre-school children have moved online for now. See Richmond Tweed Regional Libraries on YouTube.

Social sporting groups

Mullumbimby: Tuesday Ladies Group of Riverside Tennis Club welcomes new players 9.30am every Tuesday next to Heritage Park, for social tennis, fun and friendship. Info: Barbara 6684 8058. Byron: Drumming with Gareth Jones at Byron Theatre; Chair Yoga with Pippy Wardell 12 till 1pm. Wednesdays: Choir with Kim Banffy, 10–11am; Ukulele 11.30–12.15. Suggested donation of $10. No bookings needed, information seniors@byroncommuntycentre. com or call 6685 6807. South Golden Shores Community Centre Women’s table tennis every Monday at 10am. Phone 0435 780 017. Byron Bay Croquet at Croquet Club next to the Scout Hall at the Byron Rec Grounds every Monday at 3.30pm. Ring 0477 972 535. Pottsville Fun Croquet Club at Black Rocks Sportfield. Beginners and visitors welcome. Game starts 8.30am Tuesday and Thursday. $5 per game.

Enquiries 0413 335 941.

Contact Improvisation

Contact Improvisation Saturdays 11am-1pm at Gondwana, 23 Prestons Lane, Tyagarah. All levels of dancers welcome. Enquiries 0402 059 564.

End-of-life choices

Voluntary euthanasia options are discussed at quarterly meetings, currently online. Attendees must be Exit members. More information on www.exitinternational.net or phone Catherine 0435 228 443.

Carers’ support

Mullumbimby Mental Health Carers’ Support Group for family members

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

Language exchange Byron language exchange club runs every 2nd last Friday of the month from 6pm (alternating Ballina/ Byron). Practise other languages or help someone with your English! Find us on Facebook. Contact byronbaylanguages@gmail.com.

Museums

Brunswick Valley Historical Society Inc Museum corner of Myocum and Stuart Sts Mullumbimby, open Tuesdays and Fridays 10–12 and market Saturdays 9–1. Discover your local history, join our team – 6684 4367 or email: admin@mullumbimbymuseum. org.au. Bangalow Heritage House Museum & Cafe is open Wednesday to Friday 10am-2:30pm, Saturday 8:30am-12:30pm. Enjoy home style cooking, fresh baked scones and more. Monthly meeting 9:30am on the 1st Tuesday of each month at Heritage House Bangalow. Info: 0429 882 525.

Toastmasters

Byron Cavanbah Toastmasters meetings coaching in communication and self-development run on 1st and 3rd Mondays, 6:15 for 6.30pm at Byron Bay Services Club, Byron Bay. Online attendance allowed. Mullum Magic Toastmasters meet every 2nd, 4th and 5th Monday Presbyterian Church Hall, 101 Stuart Street Mullumbimby 7–9 pm. Contact Shona 0457356567 or Bronte 0451567996.

Meditation

Dzogchen meditation and study group 2nd and 4th Saturdays each month at Mullumbimby CWA Hall. Didi 0408 008 769. Buddhist meditation and conversation with John Allan, Mondays 6.30–8.30 pm, The Yurt, Temple Byron. No fees. John 0428 991 189. Byron yoga philosophy club free meditation classes Monday, 7pm, 1 Korau Place Suffolk Park. Go to www. wisdom.yoga or phone Kris 0435 300 743. Byron Bay Meditation Centre, Tuesday 6.30pm at Temple Byron. For more info: byronbaymeditationcentre. com.au or contact Greg 0431 747 764.

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

2A CLIFFORD STREET, SUFFOLK PARK

21 EXCELSIOR CIRCUIT, BRUNSWICK HEADS

14 Wirree Drive,Ocean Shores Architect-designed with mid-century style, this home offers a self-contained flat, raked ceilings, timber floors, and lush gardens on a 967m² block. Walk to the golf club and 700m to the beach - a rare lifestyle opportunity.

Property Business Directory

Open For Inspection

Byron Shire Real Estate

• 2/24 Rush Court, Mullumbimby. Sat 9–9.30am

• 143 Tweed Street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 10–10.30am

• 47 Argyle Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 10–10.30am

• 2 Kookaburra Crescent, Brunswick Heads. Sat 11–11.30am

• 3 Kookaburra Crescent, Brunswick Heads. Sat 11–11.30am

• 5 Kookaburra Crescent, Brunswick Heads. Sat 11–11.30am

• 7 Kookaburra Crescent, Brunswick Heads. Sat 11–11.30am

• 14 Wirree Drive, Ocean Shores. Sat 11–11.30am

• 73 Prince Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 11–11.30am

• 9B Byron Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 8 Nana Street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 5 Berrimbillah Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 115 Shara Boulevard, Ocean Shores. Sat 1–1.30pm

• 4/20 Booyun Street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 1–1.30pm DJ Stringer Property Services

• 10 Mourne Terrace, Banora Point. Sat 9–9.30am

• 15/243 Boundary St, Rainbow Bay. Sat 10–10.30am

• 38 Amaroo Dr, Banora Point. Sat 10–10.30am

• 244/6-8 Stuart St, Tweed Heads. Sat 11–11.30am

• 501/85 Golden Four Dr, Bilinga. Sat 11–11.30am

• 1444/6-8 Stuart St, Tweed Heads. Sat 11.30am–12pm

• 803/106 Pacific Pde, Bilinga. Sat 11.45am–12.15pm

• 1091/14-22 Stuart St, Tweed Heads. Sat 12.15–12.45pm

• 9/277 Golden Four Dr, Bilinga. Sat 12.30–1pm

• 2085/18-20 Stuart St, Tweed Heads. Sat 12.45–1.15pm

• 2104/18-20 Stuart St, Tweed Heads. Sat 1.15–1.45pm Dodds Real Estate

• 1275 Lismore Road, Clunes. Sat 10–10.30am

• 48 Tinderbox Road, Talofa. Sat 12–12.30pm First National Byron Bay

• 10 / 47-49 Shirley Street, Byron Bay. Wed 11–11.30am

•  2 / 18 Helen Street, South Golden Beach. Wed 11– 11.30am

• 30 Koranba Place, Coorabell. Thurs 10.30–11am

• 18 Corkwood Crescent, Suffolk Park. Thurs 12–12.30pm

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

• 2 / 18 Helen Street, South Golden Beach. Fri 1.30–2pm

• 18 Corkwood Crescent, Suffolk Park. Sat 9–9.30am

• 5 Deacon Street, Bangalow. Sat 9.–9.30am

• 2A Clifford Street, Suffolk Park. Sat 9.30–10am

• 18 Whipbird Place, Ewingsdale. Sat 10–10.30am

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

• 16 / 3 Pecan Court, Suffolk Park. Sat 10–10.30am

• 11 Roses Road, Federal. Sat 10–10.30am

• 25 Byrne Road, Rosebank. Sat 10.30–11am

• 2 / 122 Lighthouse Road, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am

• 325 Riverbank Road, Pimlico. Sat 11–11.30am

• 21 Excelsior Circuit, Brunswick Heads - Sat 11–11.30am

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

• 30 Armstrong Street, Suffolk Park. Sat 11–11.30am

• 73 Old Bangalow Road. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 480 Left Bank Road, Mullumbimby Creek. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 64A Carlyle Lane, Byron Bay. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 44 Argyle Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 247 Friday Hut Road, Tintenbar. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 25 Gordon Street, Byron Bay. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 2 / 1 Banksia Drive, Byron Bay. 12–12.30pm

• 4 Seaview Street, Byron Bay. 12.30–1pm

• 93 Station Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 1–1.30pm

• 465 Uralba Road, Lynwood. Sat 1.30–2pm

Mana Real Estate

• 7 Kiyung Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 9–9.30am

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

• 75 New Brighton Road, New Brighton. Sat 10–10.30am

• 16B Palmer Avenue, Ocean Shores. Sat 10–10.30am

• 86 Tyalgum Ridge Road, Tyalgum. Sat 10–11am

• 132 Middle Pocket Road, Middle Pocket. Sat 11–11.30am

• 56 Narooma Drive, Ocean Shores. Sat 11–11.30am

• 17-21 The Esplanade, New Brighton. Sat 12–12.30am

• 23 Matong Drive, Ocean Shores. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 402 Racecourse Road, Tygalgah. Sat 12–1pm

• 15 Kallaroo Circuit, Ocean Shores. Sat 1–1.30pm Harcourts Northern Rivers

• 50A Presentation Crescent, Cumbalum. Sat 9–9.30am

• 15/41-47 Skinner Street, Ballina. Sat 9.30–10am

• 1/16 Hackett Lane, Ballina. Sat 10–10.30am

• 11 Mahogany Parade, Goonellabah. Sat 10–10.30am

• 13 Linderman Street, West Ballina. Sat 10.15–10.45am

• 101 Riverside Drive, West Ballina. Sat 11–11.30am

• 76 Dolphin Drive, West Ballina. Sat 11–11.30am

• 66 Riverside Drive, West Ballina. Sat 11.45am–12.15pm

• 125 Riverbank Road, Pimlico. Sat 11.50am–12.15pm

• 2/10 Marge Porter Place, West Ballina. Sat 12.30pm–1pm

• 47 Bath Street, Wardell. Sat 12.30–1pm

• 412 Bagotville Road, Meerschaum Vale. Sat 1.15–1.45pm

Real Estate of Distinction

• 54 Hinchinbrook Road, Burringbar. Sat. 10–10.30am

• 11 Bian Court, Ocean Shores. Sat. 12–12.30pm

• 876 Tamarind Drive, Tintenbar. Sat. 1.30–2pm

• 21 Mcleish Road, Kinvara. Sat. 2.30–3pm

Tim Miller Real Estate

• 3 Lofts Road, Coorabell. Sat 9.45–10.15am

• 3 Train Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 11–11.30am

First National Byron Bay

• 517 Friday Hut Road, Brooklet Mana Real Estate

• 86 Tyalgum Ridge Road, Tyalgum

• 23 Matong Drive, Ocean Shores

• 15 Kallaroo Circuit, Ocean Shores

Property Business Directory

Backlash

Born in 1973, we’ve been enriching lives for more than 50 years.

We specialise in the care and support of people with mental health and alcohol and other drug conditions.

We deliver residential rehabilitation and outreach programs right across the Northern Rivers, from Tweed Heads to Kempsey.

Now we know that Landcom and Council will pursue their large ‘affordable housing’ project in Mullumbimby’s CBD at all costs (which are secret and now increasing), despite no certainty of a community housing provider, no certainty of it being truly affordable, and it being widely rejected by the community – see page 2. Is this courageous governance or potentially a great win for poor decision-making?

The ABC reports ‘First climate risk assessment finds 1.5m Australians at risk from sea level rise by 2050’. Perhaps the threat of property devaluations will spark more government interest in reform?

Congrats Avid Constructions and Contracting, who just scooped a slew of Master Builders Association awards. A few of the awards for the Ballina-based company were for its Bangalow Copperstone project, which they completed last year.

Former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro refused to accept he lost his country’s democratic election in 2022 and tried to remain in power and incite supporters to attack the nation’s capitol. In response, Brazil’s Supreme Court barred him from ever running again and he faces jail for 27 years. So at least there’s one country that upholds democracy as a safeguard from tyranny.

Psst: The UK ambassador to the US, Lord Peter Mandelson, was apparently buddies with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. That would have presumably made him a valuable UK asset to curry favour with Epstein’s bestie,

The Bruns Bakery has been crowned the category winner in the 36th Great Aussie Pie Competition, taking out the coveted gold medal for best potato top Shepherd’s Pie at the Fine Food Australia 2025 event, held September 11 at the International Convention Centre in Sydney. Pictured are bakers Hamish Lane, Tom and Dane Williamson and boss Kurt Hogan, with their winning potato and Guiness pie. Photo Jeff ‘Presented With Pies And Pastries Since 1986’ Dawson

Trump. But alas Mandelson was sacked after public pressure – he wrote around 100 emails to Epstein, encouraging him to fight for an early release from jail.

A federal inquiry into creating sustainable economic growth in rural and regional Australia is underway. Subs close October 17. For more info visit https://tinyurl.com/ymb2fj3w.

Heard of the new Byron Bay entertainment precinct proposal? To find out why some are against, scan the code. There’s also a case for it on page 15.