Last Friday (24 October) locals, visitors, and employees of the Bangalow Bowlo were shocked to discover that it had been closed with little or no notice.
Workers at the Bowlo were told via email just hours before they were due to start work, and a sign went up on the doors stating that, ‘The club is closed until further notice. A review has been conducted and the state of the clubhouse, the financial losses as well as the trading outlook has determined that there is no other possible outcome’
A former staff member at the bowling club told The Echo that she was informed that her services would likely no longer be required just two hours before her shift was due to start.
‘I called my direct manager and he didn’t know any more than I did – it was clear that even management had been kept in the dark,’ the staff member, who asked not to be named, said.
‘I’d been making plans based on promises that had been made about my future work and then suddenly they just completely pulled the rug out from underneath all of us.’
The staff member said that she and her fellow workers were now left scrambling to find new jobs. She is seeking two-to-three weeks’ worth of wages for the upcoming shifts she had been counting on.
‘At least it’s Christmas so there’s a lot of hospitality work around but just losing your job, suddenly like that is not good,’ she said.
The staff member said that more than money, she just wanted the Bowlo to open up again.
‘It’s the best job I’ve ever had. We had an amazing team…some of them were my best friends. After the news broke there were staff crying. People couldn’t believe it.’
‘The Bowlo is such a pillar of the community. It really means something to people here.’
As far as the justification for the closure provided by Norths, the staff member said she didn’t buy it.
‘If the building is so unsafe why were we all working the night before the closure?’ she said. ‘I don’t think that’s what’s really going on.’
The Banglow Bowlo was handed over to Norths Collective three years and four days prior to the closure, after a contentious vote by members of the Bowlo. The vote taken on Sunday, 13 November 2022 saw 289 ‘Yes’ votes versus 192 ‘No’ votes in favour of handing the club to Norths Collective. Norths
Collective, whose business model relies heavily on income from gambling machines, including from their flagship club North Sydney Leagues Club, took over the club.
The terms of that amalgamation included how the club was to be operated, and under what circumstances it could be closed – set out in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that applies for the first ten years. This required Norths to do $3.5 million worth of work on the facility in the first ten years.
‘As a long-time resident of the Bangalow and Byron community, it saddens me to see Norths Collective take advantage of a once-struggling community asset,’ Bowlo member Rohin Knight told The Echo
‘We, as a majority were sold on the prospect of progress and
Angry locals Simon Evans, Craig Adams, Jess Smythe, Ian Holmes, Sally Schofield, and Cr Asren Pugh (standing) have come together to form a new Bowlo Advocacy group to look at ways the Bowlo can be returned to the community. Photo Jeff Dawson
The world premiere of Spaghetti Western at the Brunswick Heads Picture House launches this week on 29 October with ten shows. Three shows have already sold out so pick up one of the limited tickets remaining and see Spaghetti Circus Performance Troupe (Taito, Alice, Luca, and Sabyah) in action. Cowboy boots compliments of AI.
Jeff ‘Boot Scootin’ Dawson
Tourists roll van at local beach
The van that was rolled at New Brighton beach this week apparently belonged to two Belgian tourists.
One of the tourists told The Echo that he was asleep in the van and awoke to find his mate doing doughnuts on the beach and then suddenly the van rolled over. He believes it rolled three times. He sustained a few scratches and apparently the driver was okay.
Byron Shire Council (BSC), reminds everyone that, ‘driving on beaches in the Byron Shire is not allowed without a permit, except for specific
activities like launching a boat from an approved site’.
‘Generally all beaches in the Byron Shire are closed to public vehicles.’ The van was removed from the beach by BSC.
Local community rallies to look at how to keep Bangalow Bowlo open
the promise of a brighter future, however, since the takeover, it seems like nothing had changed, there were no upgrades, a rise in fees to play barefoot bowls, there was a brief stint of a members draw which shortly got shafted, there was a loss of independent liquor sales, and ceasing of our beloved Brackets and Jam night… the list goes on.
‘In the end this serves as a warning for community-run clubs. These clubs, although they might struggle from time to time, are the heart and soul of our communities and offer members the opportunity to be part of serving their community for the better. The volunteers in the tough time pull together to make things happen, mow the lawns, put together fundraisers. This is community, this is what gives people a sense of being part of their community, a sense of belonging. It seems like we have given this one away, and to the highest bidder with no interest in our locals, our culture, and our identity.’
Norths Collective posted losses in 2023 of around $3.6
million and 2024 of around $2.59 million and is currently considering a ‘de-amalgamation of the Seagulls property’ in Tweed Heads, according to a letter seen by The Echo.
Community
Following the notice of closure of the club on Friday, local community members came together to discuss how they would respond to the closure, which under the MOU potentially gives Norths the right to sell the property after three years.
A group of dedicated and informed Bangalow residents has formed a Bowlo Advocacy group to investigate the options of restoring the Bowlo to local operation and ensuring it continues to serve as a vital social and sporting hub. The group includes members of the existing Banglow Bowlo Advisory Group (BBAG) to Norths, disgruntled supporters of the original amalgamation, along with individuals who initially opposed the amalgamation – united now in their desire for transparency, accountability and a
positive outcome for the community.
‘The Bangalow community has been shocked by the unexpected and immediate closure of the much-loved Bangalow Bowlo on Friday, with no prior communication from Norths Collective. Even on Sunday afternoon, longtime members and locals arrived at the club expecting to share a drink and support weekend bowls, only to find the doors locked and a closure notice on display,’ said spokesperson for the Bowlo Advocacy group, Bangalow resident and Byron Shire Councillor, Asren Pugh.
‘Our group represents the full diversity of the Bowlo community, people from every side of the original amalgamation debate, all united in our determination to get our local bowlo reopened and serving the community once again.’
‘Norths’ sudden closure has caused deep frustration and disappointment among members, local sporting clubs and the broader community. These decisions impact real people and the social fabric of our town.
‘By closing the Bowlo
without notice to members or the community, we believe Norths may have breached the terms of the MOU. The BBAG Committee will be meeting with Norths management on Wednesday and we expect those discussions to be transparent and constructive.
‘We hope Norths comes to the table, engages openly with our community representatives, and commits to returning the club to local hands, allowing for trading to recommence as soon as possible,’ Pugh said.
In a statement on the Bangalow Bowlo website, Norths have stated, ‘Norths is continuing to make all efforts to give the community ownership of the site. Eight weeks ago, Norths asked the BBAG Committee if they are interested in taking the clubhouse back. Norths also remains open to de-amalgamating and also would consider leasing the property to the [BBAG] Committee (or its nominated entity) subject to an undertaking to fund all necessary capital works in full compliance to the Building Code of Australia.’
No clear communication
Responding to Norths’ claim that they had informed BBAG eights weeks ago, the [BBAG] Committee stated in a open letter to the Bangalow community that initially their relationship with Norths had been constructive but that ceased to be the case in the last year.
‘As change occurred within the Norths and Bowlo management, the [BBAG] Committee meetings ceased and communication was no longer informative or relevant to the parties roles in the MOU,’ stated the letter.
‘Prior to the Norths AGM on 30 May, and following its completion, the [BBAG] Committee met to progress the Bowlo’s agenda, as well as attempting to contact Norths to engage with the new management.’
Following the AGM BBAG had an informal meeting with Norths new CEO.
‘This informal conversation included a remark made by Norths about de-amalgamation and the [BBAG] Committee considered this was not a viable option. A formal
SCHOOL CANTEEN
process was not discussed around de-amalgamation nor did Norths push this agenda. The [BBAG] Committee did not consider this was a serious proposition, given the informal nature of the conversation, the lack of process, and nor did Norths communicate concerns about the financial viability of the Bowlo’ they said. At a subsequent meeting on 25 September with Norths management BBAG said, ‘Norths did not provide any indication or statements that de-amalgamation was imminent, building safety was in question, and there was no offer of advice relating to serious financial viability... Fast forward to 24 October. The [BBAG] Committee were advised by email, following a brief telephone call with one of the members, that the Bowlo would be shut immediately’. View the full statement at https://tinyurl. com/ms4bnaap
The local Bowlo Advocacy group will hold a community meeting in the coming weeks to share information, answer questions, and discuss the options available to secure the future of the Bangalow Bowlo.
▶ Continued from page 1
Tourists rolled a van at New Brighton beach.
Photo Jeff Dawson
Photo
Local artist Zion needs a helping hand
Well known local artist Zion Levy recently had a large dog, chasing a ball thrown by its owner, run into him on New Brighton beach, leaving him with a serious injury.
Zion was walking with his carer, as he does regularly, and the impact caused him to have a bad fall. Zion’s left leg sustained a tibial plateau
fracture (his kneecap area). This required surgery and a metal plate to be inserted.
‘Zion is very brave, and he seems to be recovering, and his fractured knee is repairing but he needs extra equipment and support,’ Christine Levy, Zion’s mother, told The Echo ‘During this time, he needs
to hire special equipment and it is not covered by NDIS, because his injury is not related to his disability so we need some help to cover this. We are asking for people to either donate to the GoFundMe campaign (https://tinyurl. com/4n9xtkje) or buy a painting. His website is
www.zionart.com.au.’
Dog owners are also asked to be in control of their pets when out and about, with other injuries to children and people having also been reported.
To report a dog incident to Byron Council, call the main office at 6626 7000 or after hours 6622 7022.
Getting in and out of Mullumbimby safely
Mullum is open and businesses are asking that locals keep visiting the town as Byron Shire Council (BSC) completes Stage 2 of the upgrade of Mullumbimby Road, between Gulgan Road and The Saddle Road.
Getting into Mullumbimby is pretty straightforward with access from the M1 via Mullum Road operating one way into town while the road works
are taking place.
For those concerned about leaving Mullumbimby the BSC has turned The Saddle Road into a one-way route heading north from Mullumbimby towards Brunswick Heads and the M1. The other alternative northbound route is via Coolamon Scenic Drive, known locally as Tunnel Road. Trucks are requested not to use either of these routes.
Seeking Soul Street creatives
Soul Street is one of the family-friendly activities that are set up to ensure that Byron Bay doesn’t get overtaken by alcohol-fuelled violence during New Year’s Eve as it has in the past.
Byron Shire Council (BSC) are currently calling out to family-friendly performers, musicians and roving artists to perform across multiple sites and stages.
‘This is a paid opportunity and all artists, irrespective of experience, are welcome to apply,’ said BSC’s Marisa
Snow, Arts And Culture Officer. The main music stage at Dening Park kicks off at 6pm with a series of rolling acts throughout the evening, including the popular silent disco which takes over the foreshore.
How to apply
Applications for the delivery of workshops, arts and crafts, and kids’ activities are welcome. Apply now at www. soulstreetbyronbay.com.au.
Applications close on 14 November.
Trucks are being directed to go via Myocum Road to and from the M1 and to then go either north or south. Myocum Road is also the route for anyone heading from Mullumbimby to Byron Bay, Bangalow, Ballina, or Lismore.
There will be no outbound traffic on Mullumbimby Road (other than for cars along The Saddle Road), including on weekends. Emergency
services, school buses and waste services will however have full access to Mullumbimby Road.
BSC has promised to speed roadworks up by starting Saturday roadworks from 6am to 6pm but locals are noting this has still not yet taken place.
If recent dry weather continues, then BSC are hoping that the planned works will be completed ahead of time.
Good Taste Eating Out Guide
Zion Levy takes the art of Mullumbimby to the streets of Mullumbimby. Photo Jeff Dawson
Marshalls Creek boardwalk plan stripped from all Council policies
Paul Bibby
The long-discussed plan to build a boardwalk connecting Ocean Shores directly to the beach has been formally dumped by Byron Council.
For decades locals in Ocean Shores have debated the idea of building a pedestrian path connecting the main residential areas of their suburb to the shopping centre and on to New Brighton beach.
There are those who argue that such a path would provide invaluable access to the beach for Ocean Shores locals, particularly for young people who can’t drive themselves to Brunswick Heads or make the long, uphill trek to New Brighton.
But others strenuously oppose the plan on the grounds that it would require carving a path through the Marshalls Creek Nature Reserve – a pristine piece of coastal wetland that is home to several threatened ecological communities.
The debate was settled at last week’s Council meeting, at least for the foreseeable future, when the Greens block of councillors stripped the project out of the Place Plan for New Brighton, South Golden Beach and Ocean Shores and all other Council policies.
The boardwalk was to be included in the Place Plan as a matter for consideration only, with Deputy Mayor Jack Dods moving a motion that its viability be considered as part of the plan, including the environmental impacts.
‘If you look at the current situation, we have 300 car trips a day up and down North Head Road,’ Cr Dods said.
‘There are birds right there next to the road and then there’s a parking area where we’ve got vanlifers with LPG cans right next to the shorebird nesting area.’
‘I struggle to see how that is a better solution than if we had a safe, flat, accessible path that not only links people to the beach and
nature reserve, but links the communities in that area.
‘South Golden Beach and New Brighton are detached from Ocean Shores unless you’re driving in the car, or unless you’ve got the strongest legs in the world and you’re willing to go over the hill.
‘This isn’t just an environmental issue for consideration, it’s a place planning consideration.’
But the Greens block of councillors, along with Independent councillor David Warth disagreed, outvoting the other councillors by five votes to four.
‘Nature reserves are for nature,’ Greens councillor, Elia Hauge said.
‘Nature reserves are not for human connection between point A and point B.’
‘The letter that we received from the Minister for Environment spelled out that under the National Parks and Wildlife Act, nature reserves are preserved to conserve biodiversity, maintain ecosystem functions and
protect features and natural phenomena…
‘I appreciate the need for more active transport links… but a nature reserve is not the place for an active transport link. We are not going to be able to police how e-bikes use that area, we’re not going to be able to enforce whether people bring their dogs into the nature reserve. It’s inviting the kinds of disturbances that will impact the critically endangered shore birds that we saw on site the other day.’
Backed by Greens
Mayor Sarah Ndiaye and her Greens colleagues, Cr Hauge successfully moved a motion which removed Marshalls Creek boardwalk from consideration in future development of the Active Transport Plan and ‘any other strategic Council documents where this project might be considered’.
Such a move essentially takes the boardwalk completely off the table, at least for the remainder of the current Council term.
Future of tourism for Byron Shire
Aslan Shand
Last week’s Destination Byron symposium raised serious questions around how Byron Shire can position itself going forward, the challenges it faces and how the business and local community can take hold of the future with positive, sustainable and, one day, regenerative tourism.
Michael Thurston, General Manager for Destination North Coast, was clear that tourism numbers and spend have been down for Byron Bay. The average cost of a night’s accommodation was comparable to Sydney at $350 per night compared to destinations Ballina and the Gold Coast that averaged $250 per night. The impact of this is shorter stays and lower spend overall from visitors, he said.
Destination Byron Board Member Sarah Anderson said the 2025 symposium was well received and members are keen to collaborate to ensure the visitor economy drives benefit for the community and businesses.
‘The symposium was a great first step,’ said Sarah.
There was focus on the need for a Destination Management Plan (DMP) for Byron Shire as it is the only local government area (LGA) on the
east coast without one.
‘We need a DMP, a roadmap for Byron Shire, that clearly articulates the vision for the future,’ Sarah told The Echo. ‘The DMP needs to represent our community’s interests and lay down a plan to ensure our community benefits from tourism, rather than just feeling the negative impacts of visitation.’
Sarah also said Byron Shire must protect its unique community.
‘Visitors will continue coming to Byron, and we should be telling people how to spend their money here to support the local community,’ she said.
‘Come here to connect with nature, enjoy health and wellness, indulge in our great locally-produced food and drinks, and get a thrill from our vibrant arts and creative scene.
‘We also need a wellfunded organisation, a DMO (destination management organisation), to have a voice for our local community, so it’s not just big business speaking on our behalf.’
A budget of $850,000 was proposed to set up a DMO for Byron. Ballina and Tweed Shire’s DMOs are funded for around $1-1.5 million respectively.
We need your help to create an independent Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)!
Labor will soon be introducing legislation to establish Australia’s first ever independent Federal EPA. But last time we tried to create a Federal EPA, the Greens and the Liberals & Nationals teamed up to block it.
Labor needs the votes of other Senators to get this legislation passed. Show your support by asking the Greens, and the Liberals & Nationals Senators to listen to our community and PASS the legislation to create an EPA.
Show your support and use your voice to make
Waterlily Park Landcare Group keeps the weeds at bay
A new Landcare group started in March this year at Waterlilly Park in Ocean Shores has a focus on removing weeds and introduced species, encouraging and planting native wildlife and giving the park the attention it deserves.
‘Our Waterlily Park Landcare Group consists of about a dozen members from within our local community, with five of those meeting weekly to work in the park,’ said member Ian Barker.
‘Since its inception, the group has focused on identifying and preserving native plants, removing non-native plants, such as Singapore daisy and Indian hawthorn, mulching those areas that we have cleared, and reintroducing native plants to the park.’
The group has been working closely with Byron Shire Council (BSC) and have been supported by Yallakool Landcare Group and the Brunswick Valley Landcare Group as they have got up and running.
‘The support we have received, and are still receiving from BSC has been great.
The bush regeneration team have helped in clearing weeds, plant identification, and various practical techniques when working with regenerating areas within the park,’ said Ian.
Salvinia work
They have also worked with the BSC drainage team to clear out an area of the
pond at the Orana Road drainage point, enabling the group to put the booms in place to prevent the drains being blocked by salvinia.
‘With regard to the salvinia and parrott’s feather weeds within the pond, BSC are meeting internally to discuss and develop solutions for that situation,’ Ian explained.
‘Maintaining Waterlily Park is an ongoing task and we would like to encourage any community members to please come and join us, or just come down for a chat on Wednesday mornings between 8am and 10am. Alternatively, please contact us at: barker5057@gmail. com.au for more information about our group.’
November’s Rising Tide
Aslan Shand
Warning bells heralding the increasing impacts of climate change include local experiences such as the Black Summer bushfires in 2019 and the 2022 floods, as well as the recent warning from scientists that we have reached our first tipping point.
For many people the question of how to make change can feel overwhelming. One action you can take is joining the non-violent direct action Rising Tide blockade in Newcastle on the weekend of 29-31 November.
Local activist Valerie Thompson who helps organise Rising Tide Northern Rivers says she is, ‘passionate about standing up against our government’s inaction on the climate crisis, and their inexcusable failure to put the future of this planet ahead of the interests of coal and gas corporations who bankroll their election campaigns.’
‘Since 2022 the Labor government has approved 31 new and expanded fossil fuel projects. It is well documented that many of these corporations pay no tax,
despite collectively making billions of dollars in profits.
‘It can feel overwhelming to take on such powerful vested interests, however when we come together it is fun, life-affirming and there is genuine power in numbers,’ she told The Echo
Kayak training
There have been two trainings on the Rising Tide strategy and non-violent direct action, and monthly paddles on the Bruns River so people can build their kayaking confidence.
‘We are also supporting people to make their way down to Newcastle on Worimi and Awabakal land, for the blockade via our Northern Rivers Rising Tide Facebook groups. There is support with transport costs which has been fundraised and donated in part by Nimbin Environment Centre,’ she said.
Last year’s People’s Blockade was the largest single act of civil disobedience for climate action, with over 7,000 Rising Tide attendees and 173 arrests in Newcastle and a further 22 in Canberra.
Ian Baker in the foreground, with Angelique Gordon and Mike Svikis hard at work.
Photo Jeff ‘Well Pruned’ Dawson
Local News
NPaul Bibby
The much-loved and oft-used Tallow Creek Footbridge could remain closed for up to 18 months because of both the cost and paperwork involved in repairing or replacing it, Byron Council has heard.
The wooden walkway has provided a vital crossing for residents of the Shire’s south for 38 years, allowing people to walk and cycle between Suffolk Park and Byron Bay.
But the span has been closed since August 1 after a Council investigation found that it was no longer safe due to structural issues and a termite investigation.
Deputy Mayor Jack Dods successfully moved a motion at last week’s Byron Shire Council meeting seeking to expedite the process of repairing or replacing the aging structure.
‘We obviously have to respond very seriously to concerns of safety,’ Cr Dods (Independent) said.
‘But one thing that the community feels very strongly about, and I agree with them, is getting a new
there wasn’t as much use of the approval process, but in 2025 things such as land tenure are really important,’ Mr Holloway said.
The meeting heard that multiple steps were required before reconstruction could commence, including securing grant funding, designing the new structure, lodging an Environmental Impact Statement with the NSW Planning Department and consulting with the Department of Fisheries and the Traditional Owners.
Pancho Symes
An estimated 100,000 tonnes of solar panels are expected to reach the end of their life in Australia by 2030.
Disposing of expired panels via landfill can leach toxic materials into soil and water, posing environmental and public health risks.
With appropriate recycling infrastructure, expired panels can be effectively treated, and used to source valuable materials such as silicon, silver, copper, and aluminium.
in collecting data on the materials requiring solutions, and marrying these materials with companies that can repurpose, recycle, or remanufacture,’ Mayor Ndiaye said.
In a public access statement to Council, Dr Anne Stuart from ‘Zero Emissions’ said that solar recycling is an ‘unavoidable task’ in the face of a ‘tidal wave’ of predicted waste.
bridge installed as quickly as possible.
‘Unless you’re going over this footbridge, you’re going all the way down Clifford St and all the way back, that really disincentivises anyone who wants to get to the high school, the Roadhouse or to get to Lilly Pilly or Byron.
‘What we’re hearing is that the traffic on that road has already gotten much worse from people who would have gone by bike or by foot who now need to get in the car.’
Cr Dods motion asked
Council staff to ‘prioritise the expeditious delivery of a replacement bridge as a key project metric, ensuring design and procurement processes focus on the fastest practicable completion’.
However, Council’s Director of Infrastructure Services Phil Holloway told the meeting that there was no ‘quick fix’ which would ensure the project’s swift completion.
‘That bridge might have been put in at a time when
In the meantime, Council is considering whether it can provide a temporary structure to allow residents to cross the creek until the reconstruction process is complete.
‘A temporary structure is being investigated,’ Mr Holloway said in written comments in relation to the motion.
‘However, limited funds are available. The current issues of safety and environmental concerns will need to be addressed as part of this investigation, and as a result at this stage it’s not clear if the funding available for the temporary structure will be adequate.’
A motion was passed at the recent Byron Shire Council (BSC) meeting to investigate the establishment of a local program to support the design of a solar panel recycling scheme for the Byron Shire and Northern Rivers.
Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said ‘The Smart Energy Council and the NSW government have both made strong commitments to addressing this issue, and Southern Cross University has expressed interest in partnering on research and potential pilot programs
‘This project is funded by the NSW Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
‘The current phase is
‘Solar panels are classified as e-waste with a need for Australia to assess, recycle, or reuse panels locally.’
‘Recycling just 185 tonnes of solar panels can save up to 2,200 tonnes of C02. The Smart Energy Council estimates we have potentially over six billion dollars worth of recoverable critical minerals to reuse. Reused panels could generate 12 gigawatts of power by 2043, enough to supply three million homes.
‘It is a major opportunity to reduce landfill, mining, strengthen circular economies, and create new jobs,’ Dr Stuart said. Read
The Tallow Creek Footbridge has provided a link between Suffolk Park and Byron Bay for 38 years. Lack of maintenance by council has led to the bridge being closed.
Photo Jeff Dawson
Creating connections across the Northern Rivers
Aslan Shand
Bringing women, teens, and gender-diverse girls together to talk, walk, connect and thrive is the aim of Together She Thrives, a new local group that provides free spaces and activities for women to participate in.
‘The whole reason I started it up is because there’s a real need in our community for women to connect, especially teenage girls,’ said organiser Di Browne.
Di, who earlier this year received the Contribution to Health & Wellbeing Award at the 2025 Byron Shire Community Awards, has brought together a number of women from social workers to psychologists to create a committee and start the not-for-profit Together She Thrives in Mullumbimby with the aim of broadening the program to reach throughout the Northern Rivers.
‘The aim is to provide free weekly events for women and teen girls, providing opportunities to connect, grow, and thrive through activities such as bushwalks, clothes swaps, meditation, and workshops,’ she told The Echo
The free and communityfocused events will run at a range of different times each week so that more women have the opportunity to engage.
Supporting young women
‘We had a really successful clothes swap a few weeks ago and have a number of activities coming up, including a free crochet and knitting workshop in Mullumbimby on 31 October, 1.30pm to 3.30pm and a free guided bushwalk in the Byron Shire on Sunday 9 November, 9am to 12pm.’
This November they are also launching their first five-week program designed especially for teen girls.
‘Each week will focus on a different activity, from sport and creativity to wellness and self-expression. The aim is to build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. Our goal is to help young women feel supported, connected, and inspired to thrive in their everyday lives,’ she said.
If you are interested in getting involved you can check out their website at https://tinyurl.com/4x47t6r9 or touch base with Di on 0427 026 935.
100 years of butchery in the Brunswick Valley
Pancho Symes
The butcher shop is not just a place to buy meat, it is a place of craftmanship, and a centrepiece to a traditional community.
In today’s world, where convenience often surpasses quality, it is vital we acknowledge the role butcher shops play in providing trust and consistency to the consumer.
History of butchery
Last Friday evening, The Brunswick Valley Historical Society’s Mullumbimby Museum hosted a ‘Meat and Greet’ barbecue and exhibition showcasing one hundred years of butchery history in Mullumbimby, Billinudgel, Brunswick Heads, and Ocean Shores.
International ice imports
‘It’s so important to keep this type of history alive for the valley,’ said the Museum manager, Susan Tsicalas.
The museum showcased a detailed historical listing of local butchers and their lives, some aged photos of pretty serious-looking beasts being dismembered, and an array of old relics of the trade. There were hanging ‘meat safes’, a grimlooking ‘meat saw,’ and a timber icebox on display.
‘Ice was often transported interstate on ship from Sydney,’ Mrs Tsicalas said.
‘Sometimes it was even shipped from America, packed in sawdust to keep it from melting.’
‘Meat pools’
Mrs Tsicalas described the old ‘meat pool’ systems in the region – a cooperative for the distribution of locallybutchered produce.
‘The manager of the cooperative sourced all the meat from the local slaughterers.
‘It would then be chopped up and delivered to the members of the cooperative by the ‘cream carrier,’ Mrs Tsicalas said.
Local butchers – retired and practising – attended the event and shared old stories.
Butchery practices
Career butcher Craig Fawcett has lived in the Byron Shire his whole life.
In 1972, his father Stan opened a butcher store alongside what is today The Patch Cafe.
Stan’s store closed 25 years ago.
‘We came here in 1972 and I remember when the streets were just gravel,’
Mr Fawcett said.
‘We used to live where Kiva Spa is.’
‘People would often dump their pet cats and dogs in our backyard. They’d tie them up to our clothesline. The thinking was “oh you’re a butcher shop – you can feed it.” Times have just changed,’ he said.
Mr Fawcett has butchered in a dozen butcher shops since the closure of his father’s store.
‘I do two to three years in a place, then leave and I might reappear five years down the track. We’re a bit like chefs, butchers – we do the rounds. Sometimes I do 70-hour weeks, starting at five in the morning, and it can be physical work.
‘We all break beef, make all our own sausages, everything from start to finish, whereas, with Woolworths it’s all done at the factory
‘They slice it, package it and truck it between stores. We are chalk and cheese insofar as what we do.’
Amanda Becher, Rae Davis, Di Browne, and Virginia Williamson thriving together. Photo Jeff Dawson
Greg and Audrey Cromwell, Jay O’Harae, Larry O’Donnell, Susan Tsicalas, Craig Fawcett, Vince Devine, Paul Dalieu, and Gary Leeson celebrating the proud history of the region. Photo Jeff Dawson
Local News
Paul Bibby
It was during a casual afternoon walk in Las Tres Palmas, Mexico, that Northern Rivers locals Leigh and Kate McEvoy found their calling.
As the couple made their way through the town they came across a group of skeletal dogs, with barely enough energy to move.
‘That moment changed our lives,’ says Kate, a former teacher at Mullumbimby Public School.
‘The very next day with the help of some neighbours, we rescued these malnourished and impoverished puppies.
‘Overnight, we had all these puppies in our care, for which we were totally responsible.’
Two months later the couple had completely rehabilitated the puppies, taking them from death’s door to a place where they were ready for adoption.
Mexican Mutts
It was a transformative experience that has profoundly changed Kate and Leigh’s lives.
They are now running a small street-dog rehabilitation and rehoming centre called Mexican Mutts out of their small home in Las Tres Palmas, giving these neglected pups a second chance.
‘It’s truly shocking the number of abandoned street dogs living in misery,’ Kate says.
‘But it’s also truly rewarding to see how a little compassion goes such a long way in turning their lives around.’
It may only require a little compassion to help the dogs, but it requires a great deal of love, care and energy from Leigh and Kate to help them. Making this effort even more remarkable is their
determination not to let their limited physical abilities stop them from helping the dogs.
Leigh was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2006 and uses a wheelchair to get around. Kate has myalgic encephalomyeltis (ME), also known as chronic fatigue syndrome.
‘Kate is the driving force behind Mexican Mutts,’ Leigh says.
‘I have the privilege of fulfilling my purpose to serve and being supported by a loving and caring partner.
‘I’m learning to gently edge my way out of my comfort zone, step out in faith, and trust my inner knowing.
‘MS has also gifted me with an expanded capacity to be with suffering. I feel I am more compassionate and in tune with the dogs’ hardship, their resilience and their joys and see them for the innocent beings that they are.’
‘Thankfully Kate has overcome ME. However, she still lives with the residual affects from that.’
Leigh and Kate have set up a GoFundMe page to support their work, asking people back home as well as their new community to pitch in if they can.
Just $10 will provide a rescued dog with tick, flea, and heartworm protection, while $50 will feed one dog for a month.
‘Donations go towards food, medicine, vet visits and sterilisation,’ Kate says.
‘Our intent is to give as many suffering dogs as possible the love and care necessary to prepare them for a new life.
‘Also, through cultivating relationships within our community we are able to offer education on animal care and share the importance of sterilising dogs.’
To support Leigh and Kate in their work, go to the GoFundMe website and search for ‘Mexican Mutts’.
You can also make a direct donation via the following account details: ING account, BSB: 923100, Account number: 308297855.
Mullumbimby Show is coming around again and is a great chance for the community to connect.
‘There’s something special about seeing families who’ve been coming for generations sharing the day with new locals and visitors,’ said one show volunteer organiser Sue Walker.
New additions to this year’s Mullumbimby Show include: the All-Breeds Horseman’s Challenge in the Mavis Mann arena on Friday afternoon; traditional woodworking demonstrations, which tie in with this year’s ‘Tradies and Their Tools’ theme; the inaugural Mullum Mullet competition on the main stage Saturday afternoon; and the woodchop demonstrations presented by the North Coast Axemen’s Association on Saturday afternoon.
There are always plenty of competitions to enter from art to baking to who’s got the best chook, duck, or cattle on show. Find out more and get your early bird tickets at mullumbimbyshow.org.au.
A powerful series of short films showcasing Northern Rivers locals each finding their own way to adapt to a changing climate.
ADAPTATION STORIES
Kate and Leigh McEvoy with their rescued Mexican mutts.
Photo supplied
North Coast News
Reclaiming the night for everyone
MLismore gala to raise DV funds/awareness
As the Northern Rivers prepares to mark the annual global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the community is invited to come together for a powerful evening of celebration and purpose at the Women Up North Gala, to be held on Saturday, 8 November at the Lismore Workers Club from 6pm. Byron drainage upgrade underway Service relocation work on Jonson St has started in Byron Bay’s town centre, as part of stage 1 drainage upgrades in the Town Centre Catchment, say Byron Council staff.
MusicNSW backs local talent with Rising North Tour
MusicNSW say they are thrilled to announce the upcoming Rising North Tour NSW, a dynamic live music tour that will bring some of Australia’s most exciting emerging artists to regional NSW. The Rising North Tour NSW will feature performances from Shelly Brown, Pam Hata and The Florin Arc, who will perform at the Venetian Carnival at the Jacaranda Festival opposite the Crown Hotel in Grafton, October 31; The Beach Hotel (Byron Bay) November 5, and No.5 Church Street in Bellingen on November 8.
North Lismore Plateau court hearings wrap up
A court case involving Lismore City Council and a consortium of landowners pushing to develop a site on the North Lismore Plateau has had its final hearings, says environmental activist, Al Oshlack, who has been assisting Indigenous Elder Micky Ryan in matters relating to the case. He says, ‘It’s the single biggest development in the area, with 742 lots proposed, plus super lots, so it could end up being 1,300 or even 1,400’.
Public, community and affordable housing reforms announced
The NSW Labor government has released a 10-year plan to reform and rebuild the public, community and affordable housing system by delivering more homes, improving quality and maintenance, and creating a fairer system for tenants.
News from across the North Coast online www.echo.net.au www.echo.net.au
ore than a hundred community members gathered last Wednesday evening for the Reclaim the Night Northern Rivers 2025 event, a powerful annual gathering and march in the heart of Lismore calling for an end to gender-based violence, and the right for all women and gender-diverse people to feel safe in public spaces.
Reclaim the Night Northern Rivers is part of a global movement that began in the 1970s. It reminds us that safety is a right, not a privilege, and that change begins with collective action.
The evening began with a Welcome to Country by Aunty Jenny Smith, followed by a symbolic performance by the Nini-Nahri-Gali dancers and moving contributions from Lesley Hudson Moon, Ayla Wollumbin and Lavender.
The International Songs of Justice Group then led a
vibrant march through the CBD, celebrating resilience and amplifying the voices of survivors.
This year’s event carried particular urgency for the Northern Rivers, where domestic and family violence
rates remain alarmingly high.
According to the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research, the RichmondTweed region, including Lismore, recorded a domestic violence assault rate of 651.8 per 100,000 people, well
above the state average of 457.5. The impacts of recent floods have only intensified the crisis, with local services reporting increased demand and more complex cases.
Organised by a coalition of local advocacy groups,
service providers, and volunteers, the event focused on safety, solidarity, and systemic change. Attendees marched together to reclaim public spaces as places of freedom and safety.
Special thanks
Special thanks were extended to CWA Bangalow, Zonta Northern Rivers, Women Up North Housing and Women’s Health Northern Rivers for funding the event.
Event coordinator and MC, Mandy Nolan, said Reclaim the Night is more than a march, it’s a movement. ‘It’s about challenging the culture of silence and demanding real action to end violence in our homes, workplaces, and streets.’
The event also honoured lives lost to gendered violence and reaffirmed the community’s commitment to a safer, more inclusive future.
What’s Ballina Shire Council voting on?
David Lowe
There were some positive outcomes from Ballina Shire Council’s meeting held last week, with a new partnership endorsed with the Jali Aboriginal Land Council, majority approval of a motion to oppose the NSW government’s environmental planning and assessment reforms, support for a new community Lennox preschool, and a new impetus towards phasing out 4WDs on Seven Mile Beach.
There has been a 50 per cent increase in vehicles on that beach over the last three years.
Lennox preschool
Bridget Isichei from Northern Rivers Preschools made a passionate deputation about the need for a community preschool in Lennox, with only one preschool place currently available in Lennox Head for every four children of preschool age, and 400 under-six-year-olds in Lennox without a spot in any childhood service.
‘We get phone calls every day from Lennox Head families who are extremely stressed by not being able to get preschool places. It really affects their ability to work. It affects their children’s ability to socialise and learn all those important skills,’ she said.
The vacant land near the new fire station at 9 Byron Bay Road has been recommended to be made available, with councillors voting unanimously to proceed with planning and support to provide a community preschool on the site.
A DA is expected within 12 months.
Jali partnership
In what was described by Cr Kiri Dicker as ‘an important step forward for reconciliation and collaborative decision-making’, Ballina’s councillors endorsed the new partnership agreement with Jali Aboriginal Land Council.
Cr Phil Meehan noted that the draft agreement includes a number of approaches to improve life outcomes, ‘for example, around Aboriginal employment within Council and other initiatives’.
‘It’s very important that we continue to move down the pathway of engaging with our key Aboriginal community group, [that we] do that productively, and we do it in an atmosphere and space, of agreement.’
Seven Mile Beach
On the ever-contentious issue of 4WDs on Seven Mile Beach, there was a discussion about the fact that higher permit prices
have not led to a reduction in traffic on the beach, and the associated hooning behaviour, damage to the access route, wildlife risks, dumped rubbish and other issues.
Cr Kiri Dicker said, ‘Now, we’re making a really healthy amount of money through doing something that’s ultimately really destructive for the environment. I don’t want us to start relying on that income stream, you know, because the resolution is to phase it out.’
It was noted that the situation further south at Airforce Beach was also increasingly dire, with domestic dogs and native wildlife being killed by 4WDs on beaches.
Associated environmental issues, such as damage to dunes and the intertidal ecosystem, remain largely ignored, despite a growing amount of science
illustrating the negative impacts of 4WDs on beaches.
Council’s Matthew Wood said staff would revamp and re-examine the permit system with a view to a full 4WD beach closure by 2028, as recommended by councillors.
Concerns over NSW Labor’s planning reforms
There was only one notice of motion at October’s meeting, brought by Cr Kiri Dicker with the support of Cr Erin Karsten, to make official representations to the NSW government over serious shortcomings in the proposed Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 reforms.
Cr Simon Chate said, ‘At its core, this bill centralises enormous planning power in the hands of the planning minister and departmental
secretary, and removes or reduces the input of all local councils, specialised agencies and even other ministers responsible for areas like the environment, biodiversity and marine protection’.
‘That’s a fundamental shift, one that disempowers local communities who know their land, their environment and our unique challenges best.’
Nine members of Ballina Council voted to write to the NSW premier and other key stakeholders to outline their concerns about the local impacts of the proposed new state laws.
Cr Phil Meehan was the only councillor to vote against the motion, saying ‘I do not understand in detail enough of the Act and its proposed amendments to make a statement about it’, but saying that ‘in principle’ reform was necessary within the NSW planning legislation.
Motorcyclist dies in single-vehicle accident at Tyalgum
NSW Police says a motorcycle rider died in a single-vehicle accident (SVA) at Tyalgum.
The report reads, ‘At about 7pm on, Sunday, October 26, emergency services responded to reports of a motorcycle rider being ejected after crashing into a tree stump along Tyalgum Creek Road, Tyalgum’.
‘Witnesses performed CPR but the rider could not be revived and died at the scene.
‘Officers from Tweed/ Byron Police District established a crime scene and have commenced an investigation.
‘While yet to be formally identified, the male rider is believed to be aged in his mid-50’s. A report will be prepared for the information of the coroner.
‘Anyone with information about the incident – or was in the area at the time with any available dashcam/ mobile phone footage – is urged to contact Tweed Heads Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000’.
Community turned out for the Reclaim the Night Northern Rivers. Photo supplied
CELEBRATING LOCAL EXCELLENCE:
Applications are in, and judging is about to begin for this year’s Uniquely Byron Business Awards – a celebration of the people
TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW:
Online and lonely
As the Australian government seeks to limit access to social media for under 16s, we might be pushing them further into isolation.
Data released as part of the 18th edition of the annual Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) report highlighted that loneliness and psychological distress is skyrocketing for young people aged 15–24. ‘More than 42 per cent of people aged 15–24 were psychologically distressed in 2021, up from 18 per cent a decade earlier,’ according to the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) News
Online learning has a range of benefits, including catching up on lectures and classes in your own time and at your own pace, being able to work and learn off-site, and of course there are significant cost savings to educational institutions. But what are the costs?
Talking to a range of young people in schools and universities, I was surprised by one university student noting that while online lectures are convenient, they missed the chance to sit in a lecture as it created the opportunity to meet other people. This was reinforced by other students who only attend uni or TAFE perhaps one day a week because the rest of the work can be done online.
They aren’t having the myriad of social interactions that I remember, those chance opportunities that were everyday occurrences that led to friendships, social interactions, challenges, and opportunities I otherwise would never have had.
According to Christian Heim in an article for The Institute of Family Studies, ‘Good relationships strongly protect mental health. Less engagement with close people adversely impacts brain chemicals and can lead to social phobia, anxiety, depression, and even suicide. To get over loneliness, adolescents turn to social media rather than to friends. This creates a negative, vicious cycle.’ (https://ifstudies.org/blog/australiassocial-media-ban-protects-the-mental-health-of-children-alook-at-the-evidence).
Time and again studies are showing us that we need social interaction, in-person engagement, and places, spaces, and opportunities to interact. We need to look at the issue of loneliness and mental health not just in the narrow band of banning under 16s from social media but also to look at how the internet, and its use throughout society, is impacting people.
I remember staff at university often joking that the university campus would be so much better without the students. Perhaps they should be careful what they wish for; we wouldn’t want them to become too isolated!
Aslan Shand, editor News tips are welcome: editor@echo.net.au
Dementia advanced care directive
The statistics are overwhelming – dementia is now the leading cause of death for Australians, and there are almost half-a-million living with this condition. About two million people are involved in the care of someone living with the syndrome.
It is time we had a difficult discussion.
Every state and territory now has voluntary assisted dying laws and while there are some subtle differences, there is one thing that they all have in common – dementia is excluded. The reasoning behind this is partly practical, and somewhat philosophical, leading to dementia belonging in the too-hard basket. Practically, there is only sometimes a window where people have the condition diagnosed and still have the reasoning to meet the hurdle of informed consent. Also, dementia does not neatly fall within the predicted mortality range of six to twelve months. Indeed, as we all know, some linger for many, many years with an active body and an unable-to-consent mind. Philosophically, the whole issue of mental incapacity and mental illness in voluntary assisted dying has troubled legislators and moralists. I have been spending a lot of time in aged-care facilities, hospitals overridden by those waiting for aged care, and wards operated for those with dementia or other memory conditions. And it is worth acknowledging that for some, this journey is milestoned by a gentle and accepting retreat into oblivion. Their families and friends have an opportunity to care, learn and reflect. But for many, dementia is beset by delusions, fear, humiliation, aggression, frustration and angst. It is agony for the patient and particularly gruelling for their loved ones who grieve for the person who once was, and long for an end to the suffering. There is such a spectrum.
But what if…
I, David Heilpern, date of birth 1 April 1979, of Wategos Beach, being certified below as being of sound mind and able to give consent, direct
The Byron Shire Echo
General
Editor:
Deputy
‘This is my life, and should be
all medical practitioners, nurses or other carers as below.
If for any reason (including advanced and progressive dementia, stroke, injury or aneurism) I am suffering a lack of memory or cognition or an inability to communicate, to the extent that my quality of life is greatly diminished, evidenced by ongoing suffering, and there is no realistic chance of recovery, I direct and give consent for end of life medication to be administered to me.
For me, ‘ongoing suffering’ may include an inability to make decisions about my own care, incontinence, failure to recognise loved ones, paranoia, delusions, severe loss of memory, confusion, depression, being bedridden or any combination of the above such that two medical practitioners (and each of the loved ones listed below) certify that any remaining and dwindling quality of life is extensively outweighed by the negative aspects of the suffering.
I am aware that I may not be able to consider consent at the time of this directive being activated by administration of end-of-life medication, however this Advance Care Directive is in lieu of that consent.
I make this directive voluntarily, in the absence of any pressure or duress from others, and in the full knowledge that it will remove from my future control the timing of the end of my life thereby reducing the suffering of myself, my family and friends. I am over 18 years, and I am an Australian citizen.
This is the model in the Netherlands, and partially in Canada, and there are variations in other parts of the world. Of course, no-one has to do this, and people of conviction should be able to live out their days and their daze as they wish. But for me, it would be an easy decision.
David Heilpern
First, because I would not want to be a burden on my loved ones. I am so grateful to them for the compassion and support they have offered me in my healthy life, let alone needing them to be unduly taxed and guilt-ridden in any potential decrepit ageing.
Second, because of the cost. Here I don’t just mean the depletion of my petty inheritance that could be put to far better use by family and charity than by drip feeding it into the state for care. The expense to the overall community of keeping people alive where they have deteriorated beyond limits is wasteful and indulgent. Spend the money on education and conservation rather than sustaining me. My spot could surely be utilised by someone else thus taking pressure off family, hospitals, or the state.
Third, because this is yet another frontier in the fight for non-physical versus physical pain. If I was suffering from cancer this option would be available to me now. Just because it is the brain not the liver that is diminishing, ought not exclude this as a valid choice.
Fourth, there is the issue of legacy. Call me vain or big-headed, but I would rather my community remember me as sprightly and sparkling rather than the shambling shadows I see in aged care.
Finally, this is my life, and should be my death. I want a say now over how, where and when, I shuffle off this mortal coil.
And one last observation and prayer – next Australia Day, let’s reserve all honours for aged care workers. I pray I will have one tenth of their patience for my loved ones (and they for me) should the need arise.
David Heilpern is a former NSW magistrate and is now Dean of Law at Southern Cross University.
Thank you
I would like to thank the following people for their kind assistance after I fell off my bicycle in South Golden Beach on Tuesday: Izelda, for phoning the ambulance and remaining with me until it arrived; Lucas, the Byron Council worker, who redirected traffic around the crash site; the off-duty paramedic who had just finished a 12-hour shift, who checked my vitals; the ambulance paramedics who efficiently and carefully transported me to Tweed Hospital; and last but not least, the staff in the ED at Tweed Hospital.
You all have my sincere thanks.
Allyson Lenaghan
South Golden Beach
Where is the
What has happened to Mullumbimby and its sense of love in recent years?
We moved here after falling in love with the town and its community when our daughter was born at the old Mullumbimby Hospital.
For many years, we enjoyed quiet Sundays riding the streets, swimming in the pool, using the skatepark, dining out – simply being part of what felt like a caring and connected community.
Sadly, that feeling has faded. Mullumbimby now feels divided, tense, and full of anger.
Downtown has become a battleground of arguments at intersections and over parking spaces. Having your own opinion or belief seems to make you a target – especially if it doesn’t align with the loudest ‘individuals’.
Entitlement and hostility are creeping into everyday life. Retail and hospitality staff are abused or ignored.
Basic courtesy has vanished, and road rules are treated as optional.
Every day at Uncle Tom’s corner, drivers ignore the red light and speed through the roadworks without a care for oncoming traffic. No matter what you do, it seems someone is ready to take offence – and make sure you hear about it.
And heaven forbid something new is proposed to be built or developed.
How do the NIMBYs expect Byron Shire Council to raise revenue if we can’t increase our rate base?
Yet the same people turn
around and complain when Council can’t fix or replace essential infrastructure.
Our elected mayor sets a poor example – bullying, throwing tantrums when questioned, and even walking out of meetings when things don’t go her way. The only thing ‘green’ about her might be a pair of socks.
What happened to the community spirit we saw during the floods and fires?
Back then, nameless heroes walked the streets helping neighbours and strangers alike, launching tinnies down roads to rescue those in need.
It might seem unfair to single out Mullumbimby –this problem extends across the Shire – but Mullum was once the heart of it all, the last truly connected big community in the Byron Shire.
Why was this place once full of peace, love, and acceptance?
And can we ever get that back? Or are we doomed to live with hate, anger, and contempt?
Aaron Mercer Mullumbimby
Having seen a gathering of camper vans along the foreshore of the Brunswick River, late afternoon during the week, my impression was that they added a youthful, international flavour to the scene. Their background music was not loud (the hotel’s was hundreds of decibels more), they were not yahooing, just enjoying supper and friends. Hey, we were all footloose and free once, right?
They are alleged to be pooping in public, entering private property for water (and power?).
Well, these are definitely a no-no. A simple solution would be for Council to install (more) signs using symbols, images, if needed, indicating the toilet block and water location. Also, installing push-button taps should solve the perceived problem.
I guess the offending occurs when the amenities are closed (if they close).
Surely Council does not begrudge them some free water, after all they probably patronise the local businesses for supplies, etc.
At least some of the vans would have onboard loos, like mine – it saves a lot of drama!
Michael Priestley
Byron Bay
It has been said that Ocean Shores has been left behind in terms of attention and development across the Byron Shire, but this notion is being reframed by locals who see it as a complete advantage these days.
We are not Byron Bay with the international reputation. We are not Brunswick Heads that has been gentrified and smartened up. We are Ocean Shores residents, grateful for the hill that separates us from the southern towns.
So, when the [NSW National Parks and Wildlife] NPWS refuses a proposed boardwalk into the Marshalls Creek Nature Reserve, we respect that without question, understanding the need to prioritise conservation over human-centric propositions.
This small reserve is critical for migratory birds that are under threat globally and drastically diminishing
in numbers each year, as well as endangered and critically endangered resident shorebirds who feed and nest here.
If we cannot protect them in the Byron Shire, they are doomed.
What an extraordinary privilege it is to be able to witness one of the greatest migration stories on the planet from our backyard.
Looking to the future doesn’t only mean the next election, let’s think 50 or 100 years ahead.
Do we want to be the place that has a boardwalk like every other east coast community, to invite more cyclists and tourists into this special place?
Or do we want to be the unique community espousing empathy and compassion that stands up for wildlife and protects these incredible animals for perpetuity? We can’t have both in the Marshalls Creek Nature Reserve.
Catherine Lane North Ocean Shores
Pictured is
entrance to the Captain Cook Museum at Whitby on the north-east UK coast.
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Saturday roadwork?
‘No revolutionary movement is complete without its poetical expression’
Despite ‘promises’ to fasttrack (no pun intended) the repair of Mullumbimby Road and associated drainage, there has been no work happening on Saturdays! Why not, Council?
Carole Gamble Mullumbimby
30 Chinbible Avenue
Four or so years ago a development application was lodged for 37 small dwellings on this 1.23-hectare site on a quiet street near the Mullumbimby Showgrounds. Adjacent development is around 15 dwellings per hectare.
The current proposal increased the density by about 60 per cent to around 25 dwellings per hectare.
Byron Council rightly rejected the initial application as the site was considered to be flood-prone. The developer won its Land and Environment Court appeal.
Amended plans were then submitted with dwelling numbers reduced to 35 and floor levels adjusted to suit updated, but questionable, flood assessments.
Council refused the amended application and again the developer took Council to court.
A decision is imminent… but will probably go the developer’s way, as flooding was the only issue raised in the court proceedings.
Sadly, Council made no reference to the increased density or the Low Rise Housing Diversity Design Guidelines in either of its refusals.
Design quality, traffic issues and neighbourhood amenity were not considered important by Council. These, and more, appear to have been ignored as worthy grounds for refusal. This is more than a little strange.
visual and environmental impacts of car parking and garages dominating a streetscape.
Council ignored this issue, which means 22 of the 35 total dwellings will have garages dominating the streetscape.
Thirdly, the guideline’s objective 2.1D-1 requires a designer to demonstrate how the built form, articulation and scale of a development relates to the local character of the area.
A Design Verification Statement is required to describe how this is to be achieved and how the development’s built form contributes to the character of the local area. The required statement has not been provided and, given the observations noted above, would probably be meaningless verbiage.
It is not hard to convincingly argue these three requirements have never been addressed.
Did Council give these issues the attention they require?
Were the strong and well-argued objections of the local community acknowledged?
Has Council stated why flooding was the only reason for refusal when there were many others? The answers, clearly, are no.
The conclusion? Council has been derelict in its duty of care to the good folk of Mullumbimby.
Given Council’s apparent ignorance about quality design or the impact this inappropriate development will have on residents, local traffic and flooding, it will not be surprising to regard it as a social and economic failure in a few short years. But will the developer care?
before any thought of digital ID existed.
Today with the many views people have about digital ID, they say it’s the ultimate method to control people and stop complaints happening.
People disagree with the authority of the king (now a government), who is just like everyone else and does not make the sun shine.
People share this fact equally as Humpty Dumpty discovered.
Robert Podhajsky Ocean Shores
Wages ‘por favor’
Could the director of finance at Byron Shire Council please supply the amount paid by ratepayers in wages for the directors, management, GM, mayor and councillors on a weekly basis?
Not including superannuation, etc, cars, fuel cards, computers, phones, etc. wages only.
The local council legislation requires transparency and accountability by local councils.
Sharon Kelly Ocean Shores UFOs are real
The announcement by US Secretary of State Rubio, that UFOs are regularly loitering over sensitive American nuclear facilities, is the first official US government admission that UFOs are real.
So quietly ends the 100-year cover-up of their existence.
If the AI takes over one day, it will control all those robots.
Peter Olson Goonengerry
Where to, America?
The Trump empire brands all those who are not in sympathy with their sad and dangerous agenda as ‘Antifa’, which stands for anti-fascist. Conventionally the term was applied to so-called farleft activists, but recent usage seems to have broadened to include all those who do not support the Trump agenda. It would seem logical therefore to brand those who despise this mythical ‘conglomeration’ they have dubbed Antifa as ‘pro-fascist’ or ‘Profa’. Such a label would seem to align perfectly with the direction of Trump’s actions and policies as well as recent revelations that young Republicans have expressed pro-Nazi sentiments in their group chats. In such depressing times, we must go in search of some good news. While our blood may curdle at most things perpetrated by Trump and his band of sycophants, we can at least take some delight from the nascent architectural marvel which will be the Trump ballroom.
Greg Mills Ocean Shores
AUKUS deal
I’ll leave that judgement up to the affected residents and others concerned with decisions made by Council and Council officers.
David Brown Mullumbimby
Firstly, it seems the project’s Gold Coast interior designer is not registered by the Building Designers Association of Australia or the NSW Architects Registration Board.
Many details of the situation regarding UFOs were previously given under oath by former Canadian Defence Minister Paul Hellyer, who publicly released top secret classified information to the Disclosure Project, stating the American government was aware of more than a dozen different species and was in communication with a number of them.
The Chinbible St development requires either to be engaged as the accredited designer. Council appears unaware of, or has chosen to ignore, this fundamental statutory requirement.
Humpty Dumpty Humpty Dumpty sat on the wall; Humpty Dumpty had a great fall. All the King’s horses and all the King’s men, couldn’t put Humpty together again.
If you need to ridicule this information, that’s the normal part of adjusting to new information, which eventually, one will acknowledge, was obvious all the time.
Last Tuesday’s American White House media event between Trump our PM ‘Albo’ and our US Ambassador Kevin Rudd of course had nothing to do with the socalled scripted ‘critical minerals deal’, which was nothing more than a ‘red herring’. Trump loves money, and Australia’s ambassador Kevin Rudd sold Australia out yet again to keep his job as did his boss Anthony Albanese. The Murdoch media are raving about the deal, and the compromised ABC are going along with it.
www.byronandbeyond.com For advertising enquires: 0428 655 806 sales@byronandbeyond.com
Secondly, the design quality requirements and other significant elements embodied in the guidelines appear to have been ignored by Council’s officers.
Requiring compliance with the guideline’s objective 2.IN-3 should have been a start. This acknowledges the
In the written history the king was the closest link to what most of the people accepted as a god, a king was the highest ruler.
The author of Humpty Dumpty realised the truth of the situation and was inspired to write the rhyme that was told to the people and children of that time. A lesson people are still learning today, from a time
For the person who ridiculed The Echo letter describing ‘Killer Robot Dogs’, please note, that www.fortune.com says killer robots are the future of warfare, and www.military.com says the US army is already testing AI-controlled robot dogs armed with rifles in the Middle East.
So, the use of ‘Killer Robot Dogs’ is now happening. For more information, see www. stopkillerrobots.org.
For $375 billion of Australian taxpayers’ money we might get one ageing Virginia-class nuclear sub some time in the future. But who is going to crew it? And what is the sub’s real purpose? To attack China? Terry Sharples Tweed Heads
Human Rights Act
On October 23, the Lower House of Parliament in Macquarie Street in Sydney was packed with members from civil society supporting Jenny Leong MP for Newtown and Sydney Inner West, as she mounted her detailed submission on
Karma awarded top prize at Larnaca Biennale
Locally-based interdisciplinary artist, Karma Barnes, has been awarded the grand prize at the Larnaca Biennale 2025 for her large-scale installation CO-Lapses, She told The Echo the award was presented at Apothiki 79, a historic limestone warehouse in the centre of Larnaca, Cyprus.
She says she was representing Aotearoa, New Zealand and Australia.
‘The Larnaca Biennale, running from 15 October to 28 November, is the largest and most recognised international art and culture event in Cyprus’.
‘Curated by Sana López Abellán under the theme “Along Lines and Traces”, this edition invited artists to consider how time, movement, and memory leave visible and invisible marks on people and places’.
Abellán said, ‘The jury unanimously recognised Karma Barnes as the grand prix winner of the Larnaca Biennale, noting her remarkable capacity to merge poetic sensitivity with conceptual and environmental depth. Her work stood out as an emblem of this
the need for NSW to ratify a Human Rights Act. Jenny gave a wellresearched and heartening speech for this act. However, it must be noted that Jenny was not ‘playing’ politics. Her knowledge and conviction for such an act stemmed from her lengthy time as an activist for Amnesty International.
Jenny stated that the process will be ongoing and lengthy, and in its present stage, patience and expertise must be applied, with lots of public input.
We are all familiar with the plight of First Nations people. The mere existence of such an act could have prevented much death and suffering. This year alone, the highest total of deaths in custody in NSW prisons was recorded. What do we know of the surrounding circumstances? Nothing. A Human Rights Act would have aided legal transparency.
Jenny also spoke of the plight of many Elders and disabled people in rural NSW experiencing denial of human agency, and the trauma such political neglect has upon their wellbeing.
I was very inspired by her speech about the amount of young people on the Central
year’s exhibition where time unfolds not as a linear progression, but as resonance, rhythm, and return.’
Barnes says CO-Lapses is an upscaled interpretation of the miniature mud architectures built by wasps that inhabit her studio.
‘Using 31 earth pigments and oxides locally sourced from Cyprus, I constructed suspended vessels that slowly release fine layers of limestone sand and pigment. Over time, the work evolves as a living system, its flows and accumulations tracing
Coast, who had approached her with their intentions to be represented in the NSW Human Rights Act. Presently, 120 organisations are calling for this act. There are over 62 lawyers working on the proposed act. Jenny listed countless examples, and also urged civil society to acquaint themselves with other International charters addressing rights.
Jo Faith Newtown
War is over?
What, and why, are the local pro-Palestinian groups still protesting? Why are they not dancing in the streets?
Ceasefire has been achieved, aid is entering Gaza. War is over.
It’s hard to take seriously the performative outrage of certain locals who joined the recent flotilla. They seem more interested in playing the victims looking for attention, than in supporting the people of Gaza.
If they truly cared about humanitarian outcomes, they would be welcoming the current ceasefire, the increased flow of aid, and the release of all live hostages. Instead, we hear endless exaggerations about their
cycles of erosion, renewal, and material memory’.
Biomimicry
‘Grounded in biomimicry, CO-Lapses draws inspiration from the nest-building of mud-wasps that gather wet soil, mix it with saliva, and form clustered cells’.
She says she was influenced by biologist Janine Benyus’s Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature (2003), ‘where natural systems are approached not as symbols, but as frameworks for sustainable design and
‘ordeal’ during what was, in reality, a brief and lawful detention. Let’s be honest: what country on Earth wouldn’t detain individuals attempting to breach its maritime borders without authorisation?
Try entering Australia, New Zealand, or the United States without a visa and see what happens. Arrest and processing are standard, lawful processes.
Their selective outrage and inflated rhetoric aren’t helping anyone. All they’re doing is muddying the waters with self-serving narratives that distract from real progress and real suffering.
Stop the hollow virtuesignalling and spare us the tired victim routine.
Marianne McCormack Billinudgel
Hamas kills Gazans
An agreement was reached to stop the war, and isn’t it incredible that the UN announced the very next day that there was already three full months of aid inside Gaza (no famine whatsoever eh?).
Hamas agreed to the deal but initially stated that they could not locate a few of the 28 Israelis that they murdered in Gaza (or dragged there after butchering them in Israel).
CALLING ALL ARTISTS
Sell your art at our exhibition and support Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue at the same time
adaptive thinking’. Barnes says her work is based on an earlier iteration which was developed for an exhibition at Lismore Regional Gallery in NSW, which then went on to be exhibited at the Grafton Regional Gallery. ‘The installation was further developed and upscaled to travel to the 18th Arte Laguna Prize Finalist Exhibition at the Arsenale Nord, Venice (2024). ‘A new iteration of the work will be presented at the Arte Laguna Prize 20th Edition in Shanghai (2025), running from November to December,’ she adds.
As soon as Israel fulfilled her part of the deal in full (including returning nearly 2,000 prisoners including hundreds that were serving life sentences for mass murder of lsraelis) plus bodies of the Hamas terrorists that were killed in Israel during their October 7 invasion, Hamas declared that they can’t find and won’t be handing over the large majority of the 28 Israelis.
Now Hamas is on a murderous rampage butchering all Palestinians that could contest them in the future governing of Gaza (including their wives and children). No world outcry about that eh?
Israel made some shit decisions during the war as happens in all wars, sadly resulting in some innocent people being killed, but if you don’t say ‘Free Palestine from Hamas’, even at this point, you are the problem stopping Palestinians from having the quality lives that they always deserved.
Danny Wakil Billinudgel
Food stockpiled within the borders of Gaza has historically not been reaching the people affected by famine – Letters editor.
is Dec 1
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up an entry form - Ramada reception, 2 Martin St., Ballina. Closing date for entries
Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue
Artist Karma Barnes with her winning artwork.
Photo Charalampos Kouloumis
North Coast News
Lennox donkeys rescued, thanks to Lisa and public donations
David Lowe
It was a sad day for many people in Lennox Head when the iconic donkeys had to leave their hilly home of many years on the old Condon farm, but they have well and truly landed on their hooves at Coopers Shoot, thanks to Lisa Willey from Free Rein Horsemanship.
The Echo covered the first part of this story in August.
This week, we went along to see how the inseparable donkeys (mother and daughter) are going, and also met some of the horses Lisa has rescued. She explained that since the donkeys’ owner passed away many years ago, they had been monitored by community members from a distance, but it wasn’t until they came into care that issues with their hooves, teeth and worm load could be sorted out.
Her first priority was to fix their laminitis, which can seriously damage the feet of horses and donkeys and is now being treated.
‘Still, they’re superresilient!’ said Lisa. ‘They’ve
just had their teeth done, and the dentist said they’re both probably over 30 years old. They can live up to 50, apparently.’
Although she normally rescues horses, Lisa says she got involved after Nikki Tester posted about the donkeys’ plight on the Lennox community page.
She says the donkeys are now ‘pretty well on track’ to being rehomed and are getting on well with her horses. Lisa said she wanted to thank people for helping her out with the costs, with the online fundraiser still open for anyone wanting to assist the donkeys and her other rescues.
With 80 acres in the rolling hills of Coopers Shoot, Lisa Willey rescues horses from as far afield as Qld.
Lisa says, ‘I’ve been rescuing horses for about six years. Before that, I started training horses from scratch, and discovered there are a lot of horses that get sent to kill pens’.
‘There’s hundreds every month, and the only thing that’s “wrong” with them most of the time, is that they’re just not trained yet, so they’re mass-bred and then just sent to these pens.
‘So I started getting them and training them and just teaching them to be handled; teaching them to
Losers supporting locals
The Echo isn’t a multinational, or even interstate-based, media group that employs a couple of locals for each publication and does the minimum necessary to send maximum profits out of our area. Why? Because we’re not smart enough. We haven’t even set up as a NFP to reduce the tax we pay.
The fact that last year we gave more money back to this community than we gained from advertising is due solely to financial mismanagement – basically we employ far too many local people.
Supporting local businesses keeps the local economy circular and strong.
We pay 25 employees every week, more than double that if you include all the contract columnists, IT people, the 20-odd distributors and so on. And annoyingly, even though no-one at The Echo gets paid a lot, we can’t get them to resign and find a job elsewhere.
So, if you’re a local business that would like to make a direct contribution to your local economy, and loves being part of a lively and engaged community with access to accurate news and information, advertise with The Echo!
have all the basic care done, like picking up hooves, floatloading, getting rugged and unrugged and brushed and all of that.
‘If they’re old enough, I’ll teach them to be ridden, because then they’re more likely to get a home, they’ve got a broader range of people that are interested. So I just kept doing that.
‘Whenever I’ve got the space, and even sometimes when I don’t, I end up with some rescues.
Saved from slaughter
‘The last kill pen I went to was in Gympie, and that was the biggest one I’ve been to yet. There were about 70 or 80 horses. The dog meat buyers will go there and set a meat price and we have to outbid them.’
So far Lisa has rescued over 40 horses, with the costs subsidised by her riding classes and training work.
How to help
Like the rest of the Northern Rivers, conditions at Coopers Shoot have gone from very wet to very
dry in recent months, with Lisa Willey currently going through a huge amount of feed to keep her horses and donkeys going.
Lisa says that if anybody has the space, there are ‘so many’ horses that need saving from the kill pens, along with many other animals needing intervention to avoid the slaughterhouse.
She urges people who are looking for a horse to consider a rescue, instead of buying privately. Lisa also sells rescue horses, that she’s
trained, to new owners in order to fund more rescues. She wanted to pay tribute to her ‘amazing friends’ John and Claire who opened up their home to her, and let the rescue animals live on their beautiful property. You can find out more about the horses and donkeys and see videos about Lisa Willey’s training techniques at www.freereinhorsemanship.com.au, or via her Facebook page.
Full story www.echo.net.au
Broken steering cables spark Tweed rescue
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Point
Danger completed an 81km round-trip rescue after responding to a ‘Pan Pan’ call off the Tweed last week.
A Pan Pan call indicates an urgent situation that is serious, but where there is no immediate threat to life or the vessel.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector, Courtney Greenslade, said radio operators at Marine Rescue Point Danger heard the distress call at 5.45am.
Two sailors stranded
‘Two people on board the 11-metre catamaran were stranded 22 nautical miles (40.5 km) east of Point Danger, after the vessel’s steering cables broke and the back-up system failed while transiting to Ballina.
‘A volunteer crew was rapidly assembled and deployed just after 6am on board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Point Danger 31 to rescue the sailors,’ she said.
Marine Rescue Point Danger Deputy Unit Commander, Guy Youngblutt, skippered the rescue vessel
and said conditions were not favourable offshore.
‘The trip out was very uncomfortable, with twometre seas and 20-knot winds,’ he said.
Towline secured
The volunteer crew on board Point Danger 31 reached the distressed vessel at around 7.20am, checked on the welfare of the two people on board, and secured a towline for the long, slow trip back to the Tweed River.
‘Thankfully, conditions improved on the return leg,’ Youngblutt said.
Point Danger 31 and the catamaran safely crossed the
Tweed Bar on the incoming tide at around 11.05am before securing the vessel on a courtesy mooring at 11.30am.
‘Both people on board the catamaran were exhausted but extremely grateful to be taken to enclosed waters.
‘Our crew and radio operators did a wonderful job this morning in fatiguing circumstances,’ Youngblutt added.
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer-based, not-for-profit, professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.
For more info visit www. marinerescuensw.com.au.
Rescued donkeys Freya and Gaia. Photo supplied
Lisa Willey. Photo freereinhorsemanship.com.au
Point Danger 31 and the catamaran safely crossed the Tweed Bar. Image supplied.
North Coast News
Invasive weed to be targeted along Richmond River
Invasive weed, tropical soda apple, will be targeted along the Richmond River under funding announced by the NSW government.
Water, weed biosecurity, and rural flood mitigation utility, Rous County Council (Rous), says it is one of seven local councils and state government agencies to share in the $1.18 million investment under the Good Neighbours Program.
In a media release, Rous says, ‘The funding will see Rous deliver targeted works to help curb the invasive weed’s spread in key riparian zones along the Richmond River as part of the broader ‘Increasing tropical soda apple management across the North Coast and Northern Tablelands’ project’.
‘The Good Neighbours Program, led by Local Land Services and championed by The Hon. Tara Moriarty, MLC, promotes collaboration between public and private landholders, fostering joint action to manage pest animals and priority weeds.
‘The project will strengthen biosecurity efforts in the Northern Rivers
by enabling Rous’ weed biosecurity officers to work directly with landholders to control tropical soda apple across property boundaries.
High-priority weed
‘Tropical soda apple is recognised as a high-priority weed owing to its rapid spread and significant impacts on agriculture and native ecosystems.
‘The Richmond River has been identified as a major pathway for tropical soda apple dispersal, with seeds carried from the upper catchment downstream into lower tributaries and adjoining areas’, says Philip Courtney, Rous Weed Biosecurity
Manager.
‘The funding will support co-ordinated treatment of known tropical soda apple infestations along the length of the Richmond River, focusing on high-risk areas, including Wiangaree, Kyogle, Casino, Coraki, Woodburn and Broadwater,’ Courtney said.
‘Targeted work will also take place along Tunglebung Creek to reduce the potential spread into the Clarence River catchment.By concentrating efforts on these riparian corridors, the project aims to slow the spread of tropical soda apple and reduce its impact across the region.’
Rous weed biosecurity
Tweed Valley Hospital expands parking
With anecdotal stories of visitor frustration and stoushes with security staff, the Tweed Valley Hospital will, at long last, see more car parking spaces, following the appointment of local company, Alder, to undertake works to expand car parking capacity.
The project will deliver 130 new street-level free car parking spaces, boosting the site capacity to more than 1,300 parking spaces, and includes upgrades to existing parking areas such as new signage, line marking, and enhanced parking management systems.
This project follows an extensive operational review into transport and traffic arrangements at the Tweed Valley Hospital, including consultation with emergency services.
This can’t come soon enough for the community who have struggled with finding spaces to park since the facility opened, with one distressed visitor telling The Echo that they were threatened and abused by security staff ‘doing their job’, on the way to visit their parent, mere hours before the parent died.
Most of the new parking spaces will be created on the
grassed area to the south of the existing multi-level carpark, which does not accommodate many tall cars or vans, and along Ring Road on the northern boundary of the hospital campus.
Completed in 2025
Work will be carried out in stages to help minimise disruption to patients, staff and visitors. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
The additional parking is being delivered by Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD), in partnership with Health Infrastructure.
Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park, said the new Tweed Valley Hospital
officers will undertake consistent, on-ground control in partnership with affected landholders, ensuring a strategic and collaborative response to one of the region’s most invasive weed threats.
Courtney said the funding comes at a crucial time for protecting the region’s biosecurity.
‘Tropical soda apple is quickly becoming one of the most problematic invasive weeds in the Northern Rivers – it threatens agriculture, biodiversity and even land access,’ he said.
‘Getting ahead of it requires coordinated, cross-boundary action – and this program supports that critical work.’
Rous General Manager, Phillip Rudd, echoed the importance of the project and collaboration amongst partners.
‘This is a timely and strategic response to a fast-moving problem,’ Phillip Rudd said. ‘We are grateful for the support provided by the NSW government’s Good Neighbours Program, which will help us to take a joint approach in a high priority area’, he added.
www.hnc.org.au
has been embraced by the local community, with activity rising significantly since opening in May 2024. ‘These works will boost capacity on site to more than 1,300 free parking spaces, improving access to the hospital and vital health services for the local community.
‘I’d like to thank all our staff and volunteers at Tweed Valley Hospital as well as the local community for their feedback.’
Minister for the North Coast, Janelle Saffin said, ‘We trust this additional free parking will ensure a better experience for patients, their families and carers and of course our wonderful staff, when they go to the hospital.’
Tropical soda apple. Photo supplied
Tweed Valley Hospital. Photo
Cryptic Clues
ACROSS
1.Big hit to state when voting comes around (6)
5.Criminal assets, including British capital, Oscar used for dodgy building material (8)
9.Audience member in cruise ship catches free set (8)
10.List of mistakes admitted by Kerr at Anfield (6)
11.Crooks join plagiarism scheme (10)
12.Sometimes parts have to be rejected for a romantic pairing (4)
13.Footnote covers later changes to hymnbooks (8)
16.Models modified rarely (6)
17.Set up by prominent Royal on the inside (6)
19.Bill checks latitude and longitude with surveyor (8)
21.Before long Hanson did away with heads of Homeland Security (4)
22.Upset at record gig where cocaine’s confiscated (10)
25.Carrier at last pays heed to Echo (6)
26.Celebs grab arm of scaremonger (8)
27.Old money a big hit with former VP (8)
28.Ridiculous words by Echo induce sleep (6)
DOWN
2.Parisian friend on leave with Spanish one! (5)
3.Trump loses power, replaced by left at plant (5)
4.Dear old partner leaves in a meditative state (7)
5.First of all, Republican bums have overdue payments (7)
6.Sleep with extras after British premieres of YouTube epics (3-4)
7.Projected translation of turtles is arranged (9)
8.Stinking, to be precise (2,3,4)
14. Plain silly green ties (9)
15.Strange old men cut top off lolly (5,4)
18.Failure gone crazy with resentment (7)
19.Servant escorts fool through hallway (7)
20.English overproof quaffed by fat cat (7)
23.Business chief plants a mike in miniature sculpture (5)
24.Romeo applies cunning schemes (5)
Quick Clues ACROSS
1.Heavy blow or thrashing (6)
5.Fire-resistant mineral once used in construction (8)
9.One who pays attention to sounds (8)
10.List of printing mistakes (6)
11.Secret plot by multiple people (10)
12.Individual article or unit (4)
13.Books of religious songs (8)
16.Rarely or infrequently (6)
17.Put a border around artwork (6)
19.Person conducting opinion surveys (8)
21.Soon or shortly (4)
22.Upset or unsettle someone (10)
25.Vehicle for transporting coffins (6)
26.Person who spreads panic unnecessarily (8)
27.Old British coin worth half a shilling (8)
28.Doze lightly (6) DOWN
2.Spanish word for mate (5)
3.Sacred water lily (5)
4.Deep in thought (7)
5.Overdue payments or debts (7)
6.Childish term for sleep (3-4)
7.Opera translations displayed above stage (9)
8.Exactly right or precise (2,3,4)
14.Famous African wildlife park (9)
15.Citrus-flavoured sweet (5,4)
18.State of angry resentment (7)
19.Narrow corridor or route (7)
20.Spotted big cat (7)
23.Small carved portrait or brief appearance (5)
24.Deceptive tactics (5)
What really happened to Prince Charming
Mandy Nolan
Last week King Charles prayed with Pope Leo. It was the first time in 500 years, since the royals split with the Catholics so Henry could divorce his wife. Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived. That was the fate of Henry’s six wives. That’s what you do when you are powerful and you don’t like the rules. You create a world where the rules suit you. I wondered what was said, as the King and the Pope quietly knelt together in the Sistine Chapel – did Charles lean into Leo and whisper, ‘Can you guys take Andrew back? Pleeease. We don’t want him.’ To which Leo replied. ‘Not even God wants him, Charles’.
Prince Andrew is the bloodstain on the doona of privilege that will never wash clean. He is a reminder of what entitlement to undeserved wealth and status does to a person. The sense that you are exceptionalised. That the rules that apply to the rest of us don’t apply to you. That you are special. That you deserve more. Not because of anything you have done, are doing, or will do. But just because you exist. Because your parents and their parents and all that came before were part of a bloodline that lived in golden castles built from the bodies of peasants. Us. Built from us. Stolen from us. And cleaned, maintained and paid for, by us.
As you can no doubt tell, I am not a fan of the monarchy. And I am certainly not a fan of Andrew.
Andrew, we have just found out has spent the last 20 years living in the Royal Lodge. It is owned by the Crown Estate. So in theory, income generated is paid into the UK Consolidated Fund, where it is added to funds arising from general taxation and then available to Treasury for the benefit of the nation. So when Epstein’s royal ‘fixer’ has managed to score 20 years paying a ‘peppercorn’ rent - and only payable if requested, it can only be assumed that a decent sum of money has not gone back into the public purse.
If conservatively the Royal Lodge could have been rented for 10,000 pounds a week, over 20 years, that’s
BY LILITH
Sun, Mars and Mercury in Scorpio have no time for half-measures, so be prepared: this week’s either all in or all out…
ARIES: Has your enthusiasm for a passion project waned? Then regard it as the process of finding your newer, truer direction. Neptune and Saturn, backtracking in your sector of unfinished business in need of closure, are directing you to the requisite prep needed before brave new plans can go ahead.
TAURUS: This week’s balancing act is finding the sweet spot between letting your heart lead, while simultaneously maintaining a cool head. Manage this and your social circle, colleagues, and core crew will thank you for keeping it light-hearted, calm, tender and gentle through this intense cycle of celestial retrogrades.
GEMINI: With your planet ruler Mercury, the communication principle at its chattiest in Gemini’s opposite and complementary sign on the astro-wheel, this week’s incoming information brings both confusion and opportunity – which calls for awareness and the conscious blending of these disparate frequencies to make the best use of them.
The sense that you are exceptionalised. That the rules that apply to the rest of us don’t apply to you. That you are special. That you deserve more. Not because of anything you have done, are doing, or will do. But just because you exist. Because your parents and their parents and all that came before were part of a bloodline that lived in golden castles built from the bodies of peasants.
about ten million pounds missing in action. Right now in the UK there are 8.5 million people who can’t access the housing they need. This includes 2 million children living in overcrowded, unaffordable or unsuitable homes. Meanwhile Prince Andrew is living in a 30-room mansion paying next to nothing. And it’s not like he’s working for the crown. He’s not even allowed near a morning tea.
He was stripped of his royal patronages in 2022 after a US judge allowed a civil sexual abuse case against him to move to trial. He was also stripped of his title of Colonel of the Grenadier Guards, one of the oldest regiments in the British Army. He can no longer use
CANCER: The present tri-planetary meetup in your sector of creativity and selfexpression says dress up, go out, have fun, and put your talents on display. Another pair of planets in your travel zone sees you on the move, though this could be an internal personal journey. Keep the drama filters activated, though.
LEO: This year’s most Scorpionic week mightn’t see things the way you do. In which case, rather than arcing up or digging in, why not see if there’s anything to be learned from investigating a different perspective, or questioning your own. You never know, it might be time for an update.
VIRGO: A triple dose of astral energy in your communication and community zone has three pieces of advice. First, connect with like-minded others to share ideas. Second, share your message on social media channels. And thirdly, let yourself feel what needs to be felt without rushing to fix it.
LIBRA: This annual solar transit helps you to zoom in on your finances and take a cleareyed look at spending habits. So, consider what small but meaningful adjustments you could make to support your economic stability. Pro tip: daily consistency rather than dramatic change is the secret to success.
SCORPIO: This week gets off to a steamy start with the Sun, Mars and Venus all firing up your birthday sign, so channel this triple-planetary energy boost constructively. Be strategic. Think quiet control. Resist any temptation to force or overpower. If required, hold your ground, but without going scorched earth.
SAGITTARIUS: Mercury entering your voluble sign kicks this week off with conversations both confronting and enlightening which could spark revelations, realisations and breakthroughs. This is a transit when choosing the right collaborators can sharpen your ideas, expand your reach and bring out strengths you didn’t know you had.
HRH. And has voluntarily given up all royal titles, except ‘prince’. He’s hanging on to that one.
He’s been on a ₤1 million annual allowance from his family until last year, when the King cut it, so now all he’s got is his ₤20,000-a-year naval pension. So maybe it’s time he put his name down for council housing. Although it might take a while. There’s currently just under 1.5 million people on the wait list. In the meantime Prince Andrew might need to get a room in a London sharehouse. On his naval pension, paying 250 quid a week is gonna be tight, and to be honest, I don’t know if anyone is going to live with a 65-year-old who was best buds with Jeffrey Epstein, the man accused of paedophilia, sex abuse and sex trafficking. And then there are the allegations against Andrew of sexual abuse all detailed in the posthumous release of a book by the brave Virginia Giuffre. Who died from suicide earlier this year.
So privilege be damned. It’s time for justice. Maybe it’s time Epstein’s favourite prince felt the power of the pavement.
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: The current astral emphasis in your zodiac zone of friends, groups and community involvement, makes this week about interpersonal interactions. And your planet boss Saturn in your sector of communications and social networks heightens empathy and intuition, making it easier for you to tap into subtle energies.
AQUARIUS: Your guiding planet Uranus heading into recession in the sign of economics for the final time in our lifetime can bring shakeups to the financial landscape. This transit is about getting creative with your resources: and being Aquarian, you’re quite likely to discover an unconventional path to fiscal stability.
PISCES: Pay attention to what’s bubbling beneath this week’s surface, because Mars is at his most intuitive, plus Neptune and Saturn in your psychic sign are all offering plenty of cosmic clues. It wouldn’t be wise to dismiss these inner prompts guiding you to where you need to be, and what you have to do.
MANDY NOLAN’S
‘Dad’s Army’ march on to take some glory in AFL and beyond
Dad’s Army team celebrates their win at the
Byron Bay’s own Dad’s Army team took to the field for the fourth time running and pulled off a rare but glorious win over an interstate side in the over-45s ‘well-seasoned’ division at the 2025 AFL9s Invitational played at the Cavanbah Centre last weekend.
The side is ‘a fearless mix of mainly Byron Bay Football Club dads with some classy ring-ins’, they say.
‘Not content with that win, a few of the lads backed it up the next day to take part in the BBFC’s Golf Day.
Two members of Dad’s Army, Nick and Kym, were part of
the team that finished in second place, proving that experience, hydration, and stubbornness can take you a long way,’ Kym Gilham said.
‘A big weekend of amateur dad sports, questionable recovery strategies, and solid banter all round. Bring on 2026,’ he said.
Ocean Shores Public slams fourth place at NSW Basketball Championships
Daria Bove
The school’s year six boys’ basketball team narrowly missed out on top honours when they competed in the NSW Public Schools Sports Association Basketball Championships in Sydney last week.
But all involved are very proud of their fourth place –an extraordinary result for a small regional school.
The team showed exceptional talent, teamwork, and determination throughout the tournament, proving that passion and perseverance can take you far.
Their dedication on and off the court has made the entire Ocean Shores community proud.
This remarkable result is a testament to their hard work, the support of their coaches, and the strong school spirit that defines Ocean Shores Public School.
A massive congratulations to the boys – you’ve truly made your mark.
Mullumbimby serves up a weekend Memorabilia Auction and November DV walk in Ballina
Ross Kendall
The Mullumbimby Tennis Club (MTC) is gearing up for one of the biggest weekends on the north coast tennis calendar, the Community Open andJ125 Tournament from 8–10 November.
Players and spectators can look forward to a fantastic mix of competitive tennis, live entertainment and food.
The tournament caters to all levels, with divisions ranging from 12 and under right through to B-Grade and Open events for both men and women.
There’s $5,000 on the line for the top players, with $1,000 in prize money up for grabs for both the men’s and women’s Open Singles Champions.
But it’s not all about the competition, the weekend is shaping up to be a celebration of local sport and good times. On Saturday afternoon, the club will host live music and a BBQ, with refreshments available from the licensed bar. Players can also take advantage of onsite stringing and re-gripping
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.
services throughout the event.
The club extends its gratitude to the local sponsors whose ongoing support makes the tournament possible each year.
Whether you’re keen to get on court or just looking for a fun weekend out, this tournament promises great tennis, great company, and a true taste of the Mullum community spirit.
For more information or to enter, visit the Mullum_Tennis Instagram or Facebook pages.
Rotary Club of Ballina-onRichmond’s Sports Memorabilia Auction, is to be held at Cherry Street Sports Club on Sunday, 9 November at 2pm.
This special community event will showcase a collection of rugby, cricket, and horse racing memorabilia, with 40 per cent of proceeds raised supporting Rotary’s Domestic and Family Violence Campaign, promoting awareness and education within our community.
‘This special opportunity has been made possible through the generosity of
Brendan and Lyn Byrne, who have donated items from their private collection built over many years,’ said a spokesperson.
You can view the catalogue online (www.rotaryclubofballinaonrichmond. org.au/auction) and attend the auction to bid on these items.
DV walk
Funds raised through the auction will help Ballina-onRichmond Rotary to raise awareness and advocate for a safer, more respectful
society through visible community engagement, including Purple Friday and the Community Awareness Walk on Friday, 28 November at 12.30pm, starting from the Ballina Visitor Information Centre.
Funds will also educate young people about Respectful Relationships through the Love Bites program that helps to shape healthy attitudes and prevent violence before it begins and provides support for individuals affected by domestic and family violence.
Proud Ocean Shores basketballers: (standing L-R) Matthew Henderson (coach), Anton Korge, Lava Kannan, Tex Campbell, Jarrah Walsh, Charlie Halpin; and (bottom) Freddy Korge, Caludio Benedetti, Hunter Gower, and Noah Cunningham. Photo supplied
The
Cavanbah Centre. Photo supplied
Taste
Federal Hotel
Mon–Sat 10am–late, Sun 10am–10pm
Bistro Fri & Sat: 11.30am–2pm & 5.30pm–9pm Bistro
Rosefina’s Mexican
Thursday, Friday, Saturday
8/10 Wilfred St, Billinudgel www.rosefinas.place
Rosefina has decided it’s time to dig through her vinyl collection for Friday nights.
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
Roca Byron Bay
Open:
Everyday from 6:30am to late
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
Three Blue Ducks
Located at The Farm 11 Ewingsdale Rd. (02) 6190 8966
Open every day from 7am.
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
Latin fusion all-day dining
Come and try our new spring menu. 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 / Sun to Thurs
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.
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.
Eateries Guide
Le Ping and Simone from their time running ’White Olive’ where they built a strong reputation for excellent food and warm hospitality.
BYRON BAY
The Good Life
New Shakshuka Bar in Byron Bay A taste of Christmas from Byron Bay Cacao
Shakshuka is a classic North African and Middle Eastern breakfast dish, and at the new Bar Shakshuka in Bay Lane behind the Beach Hotel they take this delicacy to new levels with seven different variations to sample, complemented by a range of other foods on the menu.
After serving you orgasmic falafel made with love for the last 18 years, Naomi and Oren are pleased to invite you to their new adventure next door, Shakshuka Bar, which currently is open for breakfast and brunch seven-days a week from 7.30am, but will morph into a bar serving tapas until late at night from November.
Their signature dish is, of course, shakshuka, which Naomi describes as, ‘two poached eggs nestled in our rich slowsimmered tomato sauce made with onions and fragrant spices, served in a hot, sizzling
skillet with hot bread. Add your favourite toppings like chorizo or bacon, feta, lamb, or our white creamy base with smoked salmon or mushrooms.’
But that’s not the only exciting offering from the new menu – you can also have eggs your way, (or for those with a sweet tooth there are pancakes) as well as Merlo coffee, wraps, matcha and lots more delights.
‘From November our evening bar will be open for amazing cocktails and tapas with live music and community events coming soon,’ says Naomi, ‘follow us @shakshuka_ bar on Instagram for updates.’
Shakshuka Bar is behind the Beach Hotel in Bay Lane next to Orgasmic Falafel. Open seven days a week from 7:30am. For bookings or private events on their beautiful deck call 0438 247 791.
Step into the Byron Bay Cacao boutique this festive season and discover where true chocolate craftsmanship meets coastal charm. Every visit is an experience for the senses – the smell of cacao, the sound of chocolate shells cracking open, the sight of handcrafted bonbons glistening in gold and colour.
This small artisan team, now based in Ballina, handcrafts every creation with care – using premium couverture chocolate, ethically-sourced ingredients, and a dedication to quality that sets them apart. From delicate bonbons to indulgent chocolate bars and panned nuts, each piece is made by hand in their solar-powered factory, packaged beautifully, and ready to gift or enjoy.
This Christmas, Byron Bay Cacao’s limited-edition Advent Calendar captures the spirit of the season – 24 days of pure chocolate joy in a keepsake box adorned with gold. It’s the ultimate local gift for those who appreciate beauty, flavour, and craftsmanship.
When you visit, expect more than just chocolate. Enjoy barista coffee, housemade ice cream and gelato, and the rare chance to watch the chocolatiers craft each piece right before your eyes. There are plenty of options for vegans, coeliacs, and other dietary needs, so everyone can indulge. It’s the perfect stop for locals, travellers, and anyone who believes good chocolate should be shared.
Whether you’re curating your holiday table, choosing thoughtful gifts, or treating yourself to something extraordinary, Byron Bay Cacao makes it easy to celebrate the season deliciously. Visit the boutique to experience the full Christmas range – or order online for delivery Australia-wide.
Byron Bay Cacao
Unit 4/20-22 De Havilland Cres, Ballina byronbaycacao.com
Stored sunshine: honey for sunny times
Most honey on supermarket shelves isn’t what it seems. Much of it is imported, blended, or heated until its natural goodness is gone. Many large-scale operations rely on bees fed with sugar syrup and hives taken to pollination sites treated with chemicals. What’s left is a ghost of what honey should be.
Sunny Times Honey does things differently. Based in the Tweed Valley, their bees forage on diverse native flora, untouched by chemicals and never fed sugar.
Their hives are intentionally positioned adjacent to national parks and wildlife reserves and they remain stationary in pristine, thriving ecosystems. The result is honey that’s alive – full of natural enzymes, aromas, and the soul that nature intended.
With the arrival of varroa mites in the region, beekeepers everywhere are facing new challenges. At Sunny Times, they are committed to caring for their bees without the use of harsh miticides. As a
certified-organic producer, they rely on natural methods such as brood breaks and organic compounds to manage the mite responsibly – protecting their bee colonies while preserving the purity and quality of the honey.
At Sunny Times they say, ‘When you open a jar of Sunny Times Honey, you’re tasting a landscape that’s still pure. Every spoonful reflects a commitment to sustainability and to caring for the bees that hold our food system together.’
‘When you visit us at the Mullumbimby Farmers Market, each jar represents a choice — to support ethical beekeeping, local land stewardship, and real food made with integrity.’
‘At Sunny Times, we believe honey should nourish more than just your body – it should nurture our landscapes too. This is honey as it is found in the hive.’
Find Sunny Times Honey at Mullum Farmers Market held on Friday from 7am to 11am.
At the new Shakshuka Bar on Bay Lane in Byron they take this classic dish to new levels with seven different variations to sample.
MAde HeRe
great products in the region
From handmade, unique items to natural products or innovative and cultural classic clothing, there are plenty of things that wouldn’t exist if they hadn’t started here.
Taking a unique approach to how the world works and exploring natural products is a key part of the ‘made here’ ethos of the area, that is founded on the alternative ideas of The Rainbow Region. Coming together as a community to produce
the Mullum Clayworkers and Made in Mullum approach to creating, trading, and supporting the local region. The premise of both businesses is to work together to create an outlet for local creatives to make and sell their wares.
With a focus on natural products Wild Organic Ways gives us all the chance to step away from traditional products for cleaning and ensure we can keep our homes, businesses and lives healthy and chemical-free while ensuring we don’t damage the environment.
BYRON BAY DRESSING SHED
Change in comfort under an organic cotton Byron Bay Dressing Shed. It’s soft and cool against your skin, with extra large arm openings that allow you to pull your arms inside and change easily, plus an extra large hoodie and deep pockets. It’s light enough to take travelling and stylish enough to
Available in white and red as well as green and navy.
byronbaydressingshed@gmail.com
0499 155 504
www.byronbaydressingshed.com.au
MULLUM CLAYWORKERS
GALLERY & STUDIO
Mullum Clayworkers Gallery is a vibrant hub for ceramic artistry located in the Drill Hall complex in Mullumbimby. It showcases an extensive and diverse range of functional and sculptural ceramic wares from 15 local clay workers. The gallery is an artist-run collective and hosts regular events to bring the community together.
Light enough to take travelling, stylish enough to wear to a coffeeshop after a swim.
Lightweight organic cotton, extra-large hoodie, deep pockets. Fantastic sun protection! byronbaydressingshed@gmail.com
0499 155 504 byronbaydressingshed.com.au
local creative businesses in 1 shop!
And The Rainbow Region wouldn’t be the place it is if it wasn’t prepared to try out new clothing (or in some cases clothing optional) creations. While Dr.Moose is putting the ‘cult’ back into cultural, Byron Dressing Shed has realised they will never get a DA for a changing box on the beach in Byron Shire so have come up with their innovative solution to the no nude-bathing ban – and a way to change with a little privacy on the beach.
MADE IN MULLUM
Made in Mullum is an amazing collective of 64 local artists and makers sharing one shop. Open seven days a week, they have everything from handmade clothes, toys, ceramics and jewellery to original art, tie-dye kits and perfume.
Instagram/Facebook: Made in Mullum 22 Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby
DR. MOOSE
Dr.Moose is a family-owned-and-run, independent business, creating cult classics since ’95. They print high quality, 100% cotton tees and accessories while you wait, with their top of the range shirt printer, or you can choose from on trend premade tees.
As one of Australia’s OG T-shirt brands, they’ve been pumping out killer designs that capture the essence of Aussie subculture for decades.
Dive into their massive catalogue or unleash your creativity with high-quality custom options, all printed and designed in Byron Bay.
drmoose.com.au
48 Jonson Street, Byron Bay
Custom T-Shirts, Streetwear & Apparel Family owned and in Byron since ‘95
Print while you wait Full colour digital prints Order in store or online today! drmoose.com.au
48 Jonson Street, Byron Bay 02 6685 5825 Support Local Independent Family Owned Business
WILD ORGANIC WAYS
From our family to yours – naturally.
Northern Rivers, Wild Organic Ways was born from a desire to create truly natural cleaning and body products that nurture both home and planet. Founded by local brothers Charlie and Mikey Jenal, the brand transforms the invasive, noxious Camphor Laurel weed into powerful, eco-friendly ingredients, safe for families, gentle on the earth,
Recently recognised with multiple awards, including Excellence in Health, Care & Wellness and Excellence in Innovation at the Tweed and Northern Rivers Business Awards, plus a Naturally Good Award Finalist for their Antibacterial Cleaner, Wild Organic Ways continue to prove that clean living and environmental care go hand in hand.
This season, discover their Spring Cleaning Trio featuring the Natural Mould Cleaner, Multipurpose Cleaner, and Glass & Surface Cleaner, and Midge
wildorganicways.com
seven days of entertainment
The next generation saddles up
After months of flips, tumbles, and creative exploration, the Spaghetti Circus Performance Troupe is ready to ride into the spotlight with their brand-new show, Spaghetti Western – premiering October 29 at the Brunswick Picture House For these young circus artists, this show is more than a performance – it’s the culmination of years of hard work, friendship, and trust.
Directed by the award-winning YUCK Circus, Spaghetti Western reimagines the classic Wild West with a daring, high-energy twist. Expect chair acrobatics, contortion, dance, bar fights, and a massive six-person trapeze act! Spaghetti performer Jazzy says they’ve been rehearsing six hours a day, five days a week – it’s full-on. ‘But, when you’re surrounded by people who share your passion, it’s all worth it. This show is our trictionary – our dictionary of tricks –where we get to show everything we’ve learned and push it to the next level.’
The Performance Troupe brings together young artists from across the region, many of whom have grown up training side-by-side at Spaghetti Circus. Over the years, they’ve built an unshakable sense of connection – one that’s at the heart of this production.
‘When I started, I was the youngest and terrified of everyone,’ says Jazzy. ‘Now I’m helping the new kids learn. It’s come full circle – that’s what circus is about; helping each other grow and shine.’
That sense of community radiates through every act. Spaghetti performer Avalon says it’s going to be a wild, funny, and impressive ride. ‘People are going to love the handstand chair routine and our quirky dance numbers –there’s so much energy and personality in every act.’
Working alongside YUCK Circus has given the troupe a rare chance to learn from some of Australia’s best.
‘Even when we’re tired, everyone’s still laughing, working hard, and having fun,’ says Avalon. ‘That’s what makes this troupe special.’
From dusty saloons to flying stunts, Spaghetti Western is a celebration of courage, creativity, and the joy of performing together.
It’s a chance for audiences to witness the next generation of Australian circus artists take centre stage with pride, power, and plenty of yee-haw.
‘It’s exhausting and chaotic, but I think it’s going to knock people’s socks off,’ says Avalon.
Many shows have already sold out – find out where you can still find seats at: brunswickpicturehouse.com.
29 October to 5 November, 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
They’re on the rise
The Rising North Tour is bringing some of the region’s finest talent to Byron Bay next week – catch the dreamy sounds of The Florin Arc from Armidale, the powerhouse voice of Pam Hata from Grafton, and the soulful grooves of Shelly Brown from Byron Bay – all in one special event as part of the MusicNSW tour.
This is a rare chance to experience three unique acts who carry the heart of the Northern Rivers and New England in their music.
Indie-soul musician Shelly Brown was born to sailor and aviator parents, and is based in Lennox Head/Byron Bay – her intimate, soulful voice and unique, distinctive guitar playing have engaged audiences of all sizes, from small bars, to festival stages.
New England duo The Florin Arc are Alyce Proud and Heath Forsyth, a duo who have been crafting and honing their songs over the last five years. The pairing of Alyce’s vocal and instrumentation with Heath’s guitar and lyric book, has enabled the pair to create literally hundreds of songs together. Their sound is folk-rock yet it pulls elements of country, Americana and modern rock into the mix.
Pam Hata (pronounced ‘hearter’) is a stunning Maori vocalist based in Grafton where she curates an art gallery and gigs and tours. She is a powerful singer who gets toes tapping and hands clapping, Enriched with her love for her Australian stomping grounds and her own vibrant Maori culture, Pam brings an energy and warmth of personality to the stage that sparks interest from the very first strum.
The Rising North Tour is part of MusicNSW’s commitment to supporting and promoting local music talent to upskill and learn all the tricks to tour confidently, providing a unique opportunity for regional audiences to experience live music from some of the country’s most exciting up-and-coming acts.
This show is on at the Beach Hotel on Wednesday, November 5 from 6pm – this is a free show.
Rhythm, connection, and community
Nudge Nudge Wink Wink returns on Saturday bringing another unforgettable night of rhythm, connection and community to The
Now into its tenth landmark season, this iconic monthly event continues to prove that the Northern Rivers knows how to dance – and how to give back; since 2015, Cunning Stunts have donated more than $438,000 to 41 local organisations, helping those in need while keeping the region moving to world-class music.
November’s Nudge brings a wave of warmth, rhythm, and bighearted energy to The Shed, a perfect mix of seasoned talent and fresh faces ready to set the dancefloor alight.
At the helm is DJ Nick Law, a Sydney legend whose decades-long journey through Australia’s electronic landscape has earned him deep respect and enduring love from clubbers nationwide.
Making his Shed debut, Nick brings the wisdom and groove of a true craftsman, weaving house, progressive, and classic underground cuts into seamless stories that lift the spirit and move the body.
Adding her own spark to the night, Cashew steps up for her first Nudge appearance with an irresistible fusion of house, funk, disco, and tech grooves.
The Cunning Stunts co-founders and resident selectors, DJs Lord Sut and Dale Stephen deliver their trademark blends of Balearic, twisted disco, deep house, funk, and their own lauded edits –sounds that have become synonymous with the Nudge experience. They don’t just play The Shed; they channel it.
Returning to captivate, The Hoodlum Ballet’s renegade ballerinas will again transform the band stage into a vivid, dreamlike world of movement and magic.
Proceeds from both the November and December events will go directly to the Mullumbimby & District Neighbourhood Centre (MDNC) helping fund essential community services including emergency relief, domestic violence and homelessness support, food recovery, and inclusion programs.
Nudge Nudge Wink Wink isn’t just a party, it’s a celebration of togetherness, generosity, and the unifying power of music.
Saturday from 4pm to 11pm at The Billinudgel Hotel Ticket’s $38 from: bit.ly/Tickets_Nudge_Nov1st.
This month’s feature artists at the Big Gig Comedy Night is Kel Balnaves – instantly likeable and infinitely relatable, Kel is a laconic storyteller with a keen eye for those everyday things we all experience. Solid, reliable and punchy, he is the act to bet on.
Thursday 7pm at the Ballina RSL – Level One. Free show.
Making fun of life, the Versace Boys create satirical pop-hop that hits home every time. They lace their shows with freestyle litness, synchronised dance moves, anthemic bangers and insight into the struggles of being incredibly rich, famous, gorgeous and humble.
Friday from 8pm at the Australian Hotel, Ballina. Free show.
All songs in the EPIC repertoire have been hits on a grand scale, and EPIC reproduces each song with accurate respect to the original, representing all critical parts with class and flair while still allowing the members’ personalities and musical influences to shine through.
Friday from 8pm at The Rails, Byron Bay. Free show.
Ubuntu celebrates our shared humanity, compassion, and deep interconnectedness – come alive with an unforgettable evening of rhythm, dance, and connection – curated by master West African dancer, singer, drummer and teacher musician Gabriel Otu
Saturday from 6pm at the Mullumbimby Civic Hall.
Tickets from $30+bf from humanitix.com.
Hashimoto’s Cactus – their music is said to be hatched from a core of simple, yet complex, melody and rhythm.
Band member, Stephen Lovelight, we’re told, was the mushroom that ate a misty night and spewed out the stars and dark matter that begat Michael DiCecco, the finger-licking man on drums, and Hans Lovejoy, the super hands behind the bottom end of this weird foetus.
Saturday from 8pm at The Rails, Byron Bay. Free show.
Billy K’s Blues Band brings a soulful blend of blues, R&B, rock, and soul blues to every performance and they’ll have you grooving all night long. Don’t miss your chance to experience the one-of-akind sound of the Billy K Blues Band.
Sunday from 2.30 at the Ballina RSL Boardwalk. Free show.
Eclectic Selection What’s on this week
Like a summer wind’s ride through early autumn, Moranz & Fremlin are harbingers of a time on the verge – a dynamic Canadiana and bluegrass duo, multi-instrumentalist Ryland Moranz and mandolin aficionado Dan Fremlin champion the love and spirit to a disappearing art.
Sunday from 2.30pm at the Pearces Creek Hall. Tickets from $27+bf: humanitix.com.
Shed at Billinudgel Hotel
Trouble of the Good are an emerging Northern Rivers velvet-alt indie band weaving threads of psychedelic, blues and folk into their sound. Their original songs are honest and evocative, driven by the striking polarity of sweet, haunting vocals against riffs that linger long after their songs end.
Seven spoke to lead songstress Cassie Douglas in the lead up to their show at Music in the Valley 2025.
TROUBLE OF THE GOOD
You’re new on the local scene – can you give me a breakdown of the band?
Yes! Paul Van Der Vorst on guitar and vocals, Daniel Russek on bass, Dan Llewellyn on drums and I’m on vocals and guitar. We’re Northern Rivers based – Main Arm and Mullumbimby specifically, and we write honest and evocative songs that cross over many genres.
Who are your influences?
My personal influences are much of what I loved as a teen – Sonic Youth, The Breeders, PJ Harvey. The strength and vulnerability that came from that music was exciting. They all had such an unmistakably unique sound. I also really love the juxtaposed sounds of delicate vocals alongside distortion and chaotic instrumentation.
How did you all find each other?
Paul and I have a long history of playing music together. We used to write and perform our songs back when we lived in Western Australia many years ago and we’ve always had a musical connection. A couple of years ago I contacted him with the idea of playing music again.
We both had zero songs or any idea if we could still make music. But we both wanted to try. To begin, we just played covers, which is always fun, but I really love writing originals. There is nothing better than making music
BayFM local radio is vollies helping vollies. Every day we serve our community with messages from other are also volunteer-run.
Whether you can help us with some or design we’d love you to join us. Tech know-how and tradie skills most welcome!
If you can spare a couple of hours a
from scratch. It wasn’t easy at first – you always have to make bad art before you make anything good – but we persevered. We now have loads of songs and many more in the pipeline.
How does songwriting work for you?
Most of the time, I come up with the bones of a song. Which means writing some lyrics and putting them to chords. The song has a general feel, but all of it is subject to change. Paul is a wizard and composes insane guitar riffs and melodies that are really original and complement the song. He’s very intuitive to what the song needs. He also writes some songs and although our styles are different, they seem to complement one another.
Is there a record on the horizon?
Of late, we’ve been recording some demos and next year we will start on our first album. We’ll also be playing around Byron Shire over the summer months and we’re looking forward to playing at Music in the Valley 2025!
What is it that you love about Music in the Valley? Music in the Valley is a super down-to-earth, grassroots kind of festival. Local musicians, barefoot kids and the community coming together in gorgeous Main Arm. The festival always has a joyful energy, and the kids love it.
MUSIC IN THE VALLEY IS A FREE, FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENT AT THE MAIN ARM
PUBLIC SCHOOL ON SUNDAY, FROM 11AM TO 4PM
Why are events like Music in the Valley important for small communities?
They bring us all together, and music, as we all know, has an incredible way of connecting people. Music in the Valley is the perfect excuse to carve out your Sunday to slow down, listen to some great live music, kick your shoes off, and just have fun.
What other performers are you looking forward to seeing?
Orly Raquel! And... Emily Lubitz is always completely captivating in her performances.
What music will you be performing at the event?
Although we have a few covers that we pull out from time to time, we are playing all originals….
Cassie – are you having enough fun?
10,000 per cent ! Making music – writing, creating, rehearsing, performing – never feels like work and outside of our families, it’s our absolute favourite thing to do.
Bloom & Bling Spring Ball
As the Northern Rivers prepares to mark the annual global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the community is invited to come together for a powerful evening of celebration and purpose at the Women Up North Gala.
Hosted by Women Up North Housing Inc. (WUNH), the Bloom & Bling Spring Ball gala will raise critical funds for women, young people and children experiencing, and at risk of, domestic violence, and the Bugalma Bihyn Aboriginal Women’s Refuge, a culturally safe and trauma-informed space for women and children escaping domestic and family violence.
The event comes at a time when domestic violence rates in regional NSW are rising at alarming levels. According to the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research, domestic violence-related assaults have increased by up to 24 per cent in some regional areas, with Northern NSW among the hardest hit. Executive Officer of Women Up North, Jillian Knight-Smith, says this is not just a gala – it’s a call to action. ‘We are seeing more women and children in crisis than ever before. The community’s support is vital to ensure we can continue to provide safe housing and support services.’
The gala will feature live entertainment, guest speakers, dinner, raffles, and auctions – all in support of WUNH’s mission to provide safety, dignity, and hope to women across the region.
Women Up North has been consistently supporting our community since 1987. Last year they won the regional award for Community Organisations. Women Up North manages the budgets and resources carefully and are a registered charity –donations to the organisation are tax-deductible. They can be trusted to ensure funds go directly to supporting women and children and young people experiencing domestic, family and sexual violence.
‘The gala also serves as a lead-in to the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign running from November 25 to December 10, which calls for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls,’ says Knight-Smith.
‘By attending the gala, you’re not only supporting a local cause – you’re joining a global movement. Together, we can create a future where every woman and child is safe, respected, and free.’
Bloom & Bling Spring Ball is on Saturday, November 8 from 6pm at the Lismore Workers Club. The dress code is formal / glamorous and the theme is empowerment and resilience. Tickets: www.wunh.org.au or call 6621 7730.
Skunkhour are Up To Our Necks In It
In the early 1990s the golden days of live Australian music had subsided to a burnt-out landscape of encroaching pokies and corporate pop. Yet, on the outskirts, change was signalled with the emergence of grunge, the rise of rave culture, and the first jolts of hip-hop beginning to spark.
One group that emerged out of this time to forge a unique path in the Oz music annals is Skunkhour, cited by many fans, and artists, down through the years to today, as a unique, innovative presence. A diverse amalgam of members that fused eclectic influences to form a brand of rhythmic, indie-soul-pop, combining funk, rock, and rap, with elements of a new wave, to carve new ground.
An irresistible rhythm section, of brothers Dean and Michael Sutherland, melded with the innovative cut of Warwick Scott’s guitar, overlaid with the exhilarating lead vocals of Aya Larkin, cemented by brother Del Larkin’s arresting rap, spiked with a shimmering brass section.
Moving rapidly, they hit Australian radio airwaves for the first time in 1993 with the independent debut album Skunkhour. The record quickly achieved cult status, catching on with a knowing audience around the country.
Their debut was followed by the gold-status bestselling album Feed in ’94, including the iconic track ’Up to Our Necks In It’. Thirty years later Skunkhour perform nationally for their Up To Our Necks In It (for 30 years) tour, celebrating this smash hit that cemented the cult sonic alchemy that catapulted the band from the local scene to international, renown. This tour showcases the track ‘Up To Our Necks In It’ alongside all your other favourites, and a few surprises. Join them in 2025 to celebrate the past, present and future of this influential genrebending collective.
Thursday 7pm at The Northern, Byron Bay Tickets $45 from thenorthern.com.au.
Calling all artists and creatives for Byron Bay NYE
The streets of Byron Bay will explode to life over New Year’s Eve with the much-loved Soul Street taking over the heart of the town. Expect roving street performers, community acts and family-friendly entertainment headlined by much-loved local performers.
Multiple street hubs with food stalls, interactive lighting and world-class entertainment will be activated across Jonson Street and Dening Park. This is a wonderful family-friendly environment allowing the whole community to welcome in the new year in a safe space.
Applications are now open for local artists to join the line-up in 2025. Organisers are looking for a wide range of family-friendly performers, musicians and roving artists to perform. This is a paid opportunity and all artists, irrespective of experience, are welcome to apply.
NYE celebrations in Byron Bay are spread across two areas –Jonson Street and Dening Park.
The activities in Jonson Street start at 4pm with roving performers and kids’ activations in a family-filled program aimed at younger families.
The main music stage at Dening Park kicks off at 6pm with a series of rolling acts throughout the evening, including the popular silent disco which takes over the foreshore.
Applications for the delivery of workshops, arts and crafts, and kids’ activations are welcome.
Apply now at www.soulstreetbyronbay.com.au.
Applications close 14 November.
seven days of entertainment
CINEMA
The best of British!
The 2025 Russell Hobbs British Film Festival, presented by Palace, lands in Byron Bay this November with a spectacular line up of exquisite dramas, fascinating documentaries, muchloved retrospectives, comedies and more at Palace Byron Bay and Ballina Fair Cinemas
The festival centrepiece is the highly-anticipated drama Anemone starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Sean Bean and Samantha Morton, in the directorial debut from Ronan Day-Lewis. In a script cowritten by Daniel Day-Lewis and son Ronan, the film explores the complex and profound ties that exist between brothers, fathers, and sons. The explosive drama is Day-Lewis’ first film in eight years, in which he portrays a former British soldier who lives in the remote woods who must confront his past.
In icy suspense thriller The Dead of Winter, Emma Thompson plays Barb, a woman travelling alone through snowbound northern Minnesota. Barb interrupts the kidnapping of a teenage girl, and hours from the nearest town and with no phone service, she realises that she is the young girl’s only hope.
Moss & Freud is the biopic about the life of era-defining supermodel Kate Moss and her relationship with the acclaimed British artist Lucian Freud, starring Ellie Bamber, and Derek Jacobi as Freud. When Freud offered to paint Moss nude during the nine months of her pregnancy in 2002, it prompted her to embark on an intense journey of self-discovery.
At the age of 85, the inimitable John Cleese sets off on what might be his final European tour in John Cleese Packs It In Covering five countries, 16 cities, 23 shows, and retaining just two original body parts, John Cleese Packs ItIn is a wry, behindthe-scenes portrait of a comedy legend on the road, battling various ailments, chaotic travel, and his own stubborn refusal to stop.
Scenic drama The North is an adventurous tale of two old friends who embark on a 600-kilometre journey through the Scottish Highlands. They seek to reconnect not only with nature but with each other and the parts of themselves they lost.
The Russell Hobbs British Film Festival opens on Wednesday, November 5 in Byron Bay, and ends on Sunday, December 7.
The full program can be viewed on the festival website: britishfilmfestival.com.au.
For more information and tickets, visit: palacecinemas.com.au.
GIG GUIDE
WEDNESDAY 29
RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, JASON DELPHIN
BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM DEVU
THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM LUKE PAULEY, 9PM
DUELING PIANOS: MITCHELL
DORMER & SHANE PARRY
THE PADDOCK PROJECT, MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM CURRY JAM
BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 10.30AM SPAGHETTI WESTERN, 7PM SPAGHETTI WESTERN
TINTENBAR HALL 7.30PM PORCH COUCH
KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS
6.30PM KINGY COMEDY –FEAT KEL BALNAVES WITH MC: ELLEN BRIGGS AND DENZO FEATURE
THURSDAY 30
RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, MICKA SCENE
BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM SUNNY LUWE DUO
BYRON THEATRE 7.30PM BYRON LATIN FIESTA
THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 5PM DAN HANNAFORD DUO + DJ KIRA SUNDAY, 7PM
SKUNKHOUR + RESIN DOGS, 9PM DUELING PIANOS: SAM
WHEAT & JAKE BRISTOW
KELP, BALLINA, 6PM LUKE
YEAMAN
BALLINA RSL LEVEL ONE
6.30PM THE BIG GIG COMEDY NIGHT
LENNOX HOTEL 8PM
THURSDAY JAM NIGHT
HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM
ADAM JAMES
SAINT MARIES, BRUNSWICK
HEADS, 6PM MONDO HUM
ELTHAM HOTEL 6PM
BLUEGRASS JAM
LISMORE CITY BOWLO 7PM
THE SUPPER CLUB SOUL BAND
THE CITADEL, MURWILLUMBAH, 6PM
AMATEUR’S MUSIC EVE
TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE SHOWROOM 8PM JD FORTUNE
CHERRY STREET SPORTS CLUB, BALLINA, 7PM THE FUNNY GOATS BAND, 7PM INO PIO
BALLINA RSL LEVEL ONE 7PM
THE AUSTRALIA BEACH BOYS SHOW
AUSTRALIAN HOTEL, BALLINA, 8PM VERSACE BOYS + DJ REBEKA ROBOTA
LENNOX HOTEL 8PM
BEATDUSTA, 9PM PISTOL
WHIP
HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM ALL STAR FEMALES
MULLUMBIMBY EX-SERVICES
CLUB 7PM JOJO SMITH
MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 8PM KRAPPYOKEE WITH JESS
OCEAN SHORES TAVERN
5.30PM OPEN MIC NIGHT
LISMORE CITY BOWLO 7PM
THE FUNNY GOATS BAND
THE LEVEE, LISMORE, 8PM MCCOY
CONDONG BOWLS CLUB
7.30PM THE GOLD COAST BIG BAND
MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES
CLUB 6.30PM TAYLAH LITTLE
KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 6PM JASON DELPHIN
SALTBAR, KINGSCLIFF, 7PM CHRIS PALMER
CLUB TWEED 7.30PM TOMMY MEMPHIS & THE TREMORS
SATURDAY 1
RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, HASHIMOTO’S CACTUS
BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 3PM JOSH LOVEGROVE + TRILLA DUO + JAMESJAMESJAMES + JAMIE LOWE
BYRON THEATRE 7PM BYRON LATIN FIESTA
NORTH BYRON HOTEL 4PM DJ MR NICE
HAVEN, BYRON BAY, 4PM
JAMES PEPPER, CHARLIE
SHELL, TORI PEPPER, PEDRO IMPINCE, ROOM TEMP & HANK
THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 7.30PM THE COLLIFLOWERS
+ THIRST TRAP, GOODFRND & SLIM JIMZ, 7.30PM
DUELLING PIANOS – BODHI
ACTON & SHANE PARRY
LENNOX HOTEL 8PM DJ FRXSTY
HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4.30PM NATHAN HAINES
BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 2PM SPAGHETTI
WESTERN, 6.30PM SPAGHETTI WESTERN
WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM DJ TAZ
MULLUMBIMBY CIVIC HALL 4PM UBUNTU WORLD MUSIC CELEBRATION
BILLINUDGEL HOTEL 4PM
NUDGE NUDGE WINK WINK DJS NIICK LAW, CASHEW, DALE STEPHEN & LORD SUT + THE HOODLUM BALLET
ELTHAM HOTEL 4PM SYLVIE + JACK DAVIES
MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES CLUB 6PM PHIL & TILLEY
SALTBAR, KINGSCLIFF, 6PM MILO GREEN
KINGSCLIFF BEACH HOTEL 7PM DJ ELG
CLUB TWEED 7.30PM
MEATLOAF BACK OUTTA HELL
PACIFIC HOTEL, YAMBA, 9PM THE FUNNY GOATS BAND SUNDAY 2
RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, BURNING HANDS
BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 3PM SUNDAY LEMONADE + HERNAN CATTANEO
BYRON THEATRE 5PM BYRON LATIN FIESTA
THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 9PM DUELLING PIANOS –JOHN HILL & SHANE PARRY
BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK 2.30PM BALLINA BLUES
CLUB FEAT BILLY K’S BLUES BAND
SHAWS BAY HOTEL, BALLINA, 3PM FAT ALBERT
LENNOX HOTEL 4PM JB’S BLUES BREAKERS HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4PM BULLHORN
BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 2PM SPAGHETTI
WESTERN
WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 3.30PM DJ MONSIEUR DIOP
MAIN ARM UPPER PUBLIC SCHOOL 11AM MUSIC IN THE VALLEY FESTIVAL
ELTHAM HOTEL 4PM
MATTHEW ARMITAGE
PEARCES CREEK HALL, PIERCES CREEK, 2.30PM MORANZ & FREMLIN
BILLINUDGEL HOTEL 1PM CINNAMON SUN THE CITADEL, MURWILLUMBAH, 7PM ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW – 50TH ANNIVERSARY SCREENING CLUB TWEED 1PM ROSE POWELL + COREY HARGREAVES
MONDAY 3
RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, KATRINA HARRIS
BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM LEIGH JAMES
TUESDAY 4
RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, KANE MUIR
BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 3PM LACHIE DWYER DUO + SALI BRACEWELL
SALTBAR, KINGSCLIFF, 1PM FAT ALBERT
SEAGULLS, TWEED HEADS, 3PM LISA HUNT
WEDNESDAY 5
RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, HAYLEY GRACE DUO BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM THE RISING NORTH TOUR FEAT. SHELLY BROWN, PAM HATA & THE FLORIN ARC BYRON THEATRE 1PM NT LIVE: MRS. WARREN’S PROFESSION, 6.15PM SCREENING: LOVE LETTER TO THE UNSEEN – SAVE THE SKATE BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 10.30PM
Ads can be lodged in person at the Mullum Echo office: Village Way, Stuart St, Mullumbimby
Classifieds
PET (continued) ONLY ADULTS
(CAWI)
Your Energetic Best Mate! Archie is a 2-year-old Heeler x Staffy x Pointer mix (desexed). This playful, bouncy boy loves adventures, then curling up to chill and have couch time. He has had basic obedience training and will thrive with a family. Archie adores people and will be your loyal companion. Ideal home: secure yard, older kids, no cats or livestock. Fall in love with Archie today! Please volunteer or adopt –visit www.byrondogrescue.org. MC: 953010007090123
Paisley is a 2.5 year old, Mini Dachshund. She is a sweet, affectionate little dachshund who loves gentle company. She’d suit a semi-retired couple familiar with dachshunds and their needs.
# 991001005604854 -Location: Murwillumbah For more information contact Yvette on 0421 831 128. Please complete our online adoption expression of interest. https://friendsofthepound.com/adoptionexpression-of-interest/
Visit friendsofthepound.com to view other dogs and cats looking for a home. ABN 83
Looking to add a furry friend to your family? Oreo is a handsome two-year-old black and white domestic shorthaired cat with a heart full of love. Curious, playful and affectionate, he enjoys exploring, relaxing and curling up for cozy lap time. If you’re seeking a loyal companion to bring warmth and joy to your home, Oreo is waiting to meet you. Every home feels brighter with a cat named Oreo.
Rehoming #R251 00 00 60
Meet ‘Nimby’ (as he’s affectionately been named) after he was found roaming the streets of Nimbin looking very bedraggled and lost. He has since visited the vet and is in good care with us.He’s a big sweet, soft natured boy with a black mid length coat and green eyes. He seems like he will make a lovely companion and is very affectionate! Looking for a loving new home.3 yo. Microchip no. 9910039028276652
To make an appointment 0403
BALLINA EXCLUSIVE 34 Piper Dr. Open 7 days 10am till late. In & Out Calls. 66816038. Ladies wanted Find us on Facebook and Twitter!
KRYSTAL ADULT SHOP
Large variety of toys and lingerie 6/6 Tasman Way, A&I Est, Byron Bay 66856330
Couples 3 Way Play
SOCIAL ESCORTS
LOTS OF GORGEOUS LADIES available for your pleasure nearby. Spoil yourself. In-house & outcalls. 7 days. 0266816038.
Community at Work
On The Horizon
DEADLINE NOON FRIDAY
Email copy marked ‘On The Horizon’ to editor@echo.net.au.
Suffolk Prog Assc AGM
Suffolk Park Progress Association is holding its AGM on Wednesday, 19 November at 6pm at the Suffolk Park Community Hall. Hope to see you there for a friendly community meeting.
Remembrance Day
The Mullumbimby RSL Sub-Branch would like to advise that a Remembrance Day Service will be held at the Mullumbimby Cenotaph commencing at 10.50am on 11 November. For further inquires please contact the Mullumbimby RSL SubBranch at MullumbimbySB@rslnsw. org.au.
No Probus meeting
Brunswick Valley Probus Club . There will be no meeting in November, as it is Melbourne Cup Day. Our next meeting is on 2 December.
Together She Thrives
Together She Thrives is a local NFP in the Byron Shire helping women and teen girls connect, grow and thrive. A free crochet and knitting workshop in Mullumbimby will be held on 31 October from 1.30pm to 3.30pm. A free guided bushwalk in
the Byron Shire will be held Sunday, 9 November from 9am to 12pm. Also our free five-week teen girls program will run every Saturday in November from 10am till 12pm, with the aim to build confidence, creativity, wellbeing and connection while engaging, in hands-on activities and supportive community experiences. For more info email togethershethrives@outlook. com or call 0427 026 935.
Death conversations
As Day of the Dead, All Souls, and Halloween approach, cultures around the world prepare to honour their ancestors, building altars, lighting candles, and offering flowers, food, and memory. These rituals remind us that death is not an ending, but a continuation, a conversation between worlds. In this special Day of the Dead edition of Death Conversations, hosted by local Deathwalker Chi Chi Menendez, community are invited to come together to explore and discuss ritual, home funerals and ceremony as meaningful ways to remember and honour the dead.
This free community event is part of an ongoing local project by ‘The Dying Well’ cultivating death literacy and reimagining how we meet death with
Regular As Clockwork DEADLINE NOON FRIDAY
presence and creativity. Reservations essential info@thedyingwell.com.au
The event will be held at The Paddock Project, Mullumbimby, on Saturday November 1, from 10am–12 pm. It is a free community event. For more, visit www.thedyingwell.com.au.
AIR
Nov 14
Please note that the usual meeting of Australian Independent Retirees will not be held on the first Friday of November, but has been transferred to the second Friday because of other groups meeting on 7 November. We will meet as usual at the Ballina RSL Club, 1 Grant street, Ballina on Friday, 14 November, 2025, with friendship commencing at 9.30am for a 10am meeting. The guest speaker will be Geoff Hutchinson, who will be giving us a step back in time to the mid 1800s. Enquiries to the President, Mrs Jill Huxley ph 6686 8958.
Pop up Picnic for Peace
Remembrance and Armistice Day, on Tuesday, 6 November 6 from 4pm at Lismore Quad (or a venue of your choice). This is an open invitation, to all people of good will. Let’s come together, somewhere nice, to create a picnic honouring all those, past, present and emerging, who have, do and will dedicate their lives to love, peace and understanding. I want to make a picnic that is an excellent kids party. Zoe Humphreys 0434 476 309.
SEASONAL MARKETS:
(Oct to Apr) 4pm–9pm Each SUNDAY:
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
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.
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. Bookings essential at: www.rtrl.nsw.gov.au or phone the Byron Bay branch 6685 8540.
Bruns backgammon
The Bruns Backgammon Club meets on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at the CWA Hall in Brunswick Heads, from 5.30pm till 7pm. It’s a relaxed, social evening open to all skill levels – newcomers are always welcome!
Sing and play along
Free weekly sing along sessions for over 70s in Mullumbimby, on Wednesdays from 10.30 to 11.30am. Feel free to bring your ukulele and/or guitar and enjoy singing the songs of your youth. Limited spaces. Contact Magenta on 0447 844 215.
Free baby clothes
Free baby clothes are available each Friday morning (during school terms) from 10-12am at Mullumbimby CWA Hall, corner of Tincogan and Gordon sts. And if you like hanging out with mums and bubs and have a penchant for folding tiny clothes, we’re always keen for more volunteers to join our happy team! More info: www. pbbmedia.org/outreachhub. Contact: hello@pbbmedia.org.
Mullumbimby District
Neighbourhood Centre
Mullumbimby & District Neighbourhood Centre is open Monday–Friday 9am–4pm (closed 12.30–1.30pm for lunch). We offer a variety of services. Everyone is welcome. Call reception on 6684 1286. Some of our services include: Flood recovery support service: personalised, long-term support
for those impacted by the floods. Community support: food parcels, meals, showers, assistance with electricity bills. Work Development Orders.
Listening Space: free counselling. More Than A Meal: free community lunch Tuesday–Thursday 12.30–1.30pm. Financial counselling Staying Home, Leaving Violence program: Information, referral, and advocacy.
Gulganii affordable pantry shop: located at 3 Bridgeland Lane.
Orange Sky: free laundry service Mon morning & Wed afternoon.
To enquire about accessing any of these services call reception 6684 1286, check our website www.mdnc.org.au, or follow us on Facebook or Instagram. @ mullumbimbyneighbourhoodcentre.
Byron Community
The Byron Community Centre provides community services and programs including meals, advocacy and counselling for locals in need. Fletcher Street Cottage: A welcoming, safe and respectful space where people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness can come to enjoy practical relief opportunities, find connections and access broader support. Fletcher Street Cottage services are open Tuesday–Friday; breakfast 7am–9am; showers and laundry 7am–12pm; office support 9am–12pm. Individual support appointments with community workers and specialist services available please book on (02) 6685 7830. Fletcher Street Cottage, 18 Fletcher St, Byron Bay. More info: www.fletcherstreetcottage.com. au. Byron Seniors Club: www. byronseniors.com.au. More info on Community Services: www. byroncentre.com.au Phone: (02) 6685 6807.
Low-cost or free food
Food Box Thursdays 9.30–11.30am at Uniting Church, Mullumbimby. You may purchase cheap food, obtain free veges, and enjoy a cuppa. The Hub Baptist Church in Ocean Shores
has food relief available for anyone doing it tough, please contact us on 0434 677747 if you find yourself doing it tough. No ID or Concession Card required. NILs referral service also available. Check Facebook page The Hub Baptist Ocean Shores for details. Liberation Larder Takeaway lunches and groceries Monday and Thursday 12 till 1pm. Fletcher Street end of the Byron Community Centre.
Respite Service
Byron Shire Respite Service delivers high-quality respite care to a broad 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.
Bruns U3A
Lifelong learning for retired folk in their third age. Our interest groups are Tuesday forum, garden group, foodies, movie lunch group, men’s shed, French revisited, Scottish folk dance, mahjong, walkers and talkers, shabashi, table tennis, chess, Monday debating group, and ukelele. For more info Denise 0423 778 573 or email info@bru3a.org
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.
Drug support groups
Call Alcoholics Anonymous 1800 423 431 or 0401 945 671 – 30 meetings a week in the Shire – www.aa.org.au. Are you experiencing difficulties and challenges because of the alcohol or drug use of someone close to you? Learn coping skills and gain support from others. Narcotics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women for whom drugs had become a major problem. We are recovering addicts who meet regularly to help each other stay clean. For information and meetings call 1300 652 820 or text your postcode to 0488 811 247. www. na.org.au. Are you concerned about somebody else’s drinking? Al-Anon Family Groups meetings held Fridays at 2pm by Zoom. 1300 252666 www. al-anon.org.au.
VIGILANT SINCE 1986
ECHO SERVICE DIRECTORY RATES, PAYMENT & DEADLINE
Deadline: For additions and changes is 12pm Friday
Line ads: $99 for 3 months or $340 for 1 year prepaid
Display ads: $70 per week for colour display ad. Minimum 8 week booking 4 weeks prepaid. Please supply display ads 85mm wide, 38mm high. New ads will be placed at end of section. Contact: 6684 1777 or adcopy@echo.net.au
www.echo.net.au/service-directory
Service Directory
HANDYPERSONS
Property Insider
Eastwood living: a new benchmark for lifestyle living in Goonellabah
Anew boutique residential community is taking shape in the tranquil surrounds of Goonellabah, offering a rare blend of family-friendly living, modern convenience, and natural beauty. Known as ‘Eastwood’, the masterplanned estate by renowned developers McCloy Group is set to deliver approximately 312 homesites across a 57-hectare parcel of scenic land.
Designed to appeal to buyers at all stages of life, from first-home buyers to growing families and downsizers - Eastwood will become one of the Northern Rivers’ most sought-after addresses.
The community will feature thoughtfully landscaped parklands, a children’s playground, and an array
of public art installations paying homage to the region’s rich timber heritage.
Already, Eastwood’s impressive entry feature has set the tone for what residents can expect as this estate continues to grow.
Conveniently located near the amenities of Lismore, the estate combines peaceful surroundings with
proximity to shops, schools, and services. The name Eastwood reflects both the area’s historical connection to the timber industry and its eastern location and outlook.
The McCloy Group has a well-established reputation for delivering high-quality, sustainable communities across New South Wales. As a family-owned company,
they are currently developing more than 6,500 residential lots across regions including the Hunter, New England, South Coast, and Northern Rivers.
‘Our philosophy is simple – we finish what we start and we’re here for the long haul,’ said a McCloy Group spokesperson. ‘We focus on building communities where people feel
safe, connected, and proud to call home.’
The group’s developments are known for their commitment to open space, mature landscaping, and integrated community features such as cycleways, playgrounds, and vibrant streetscapes enriched by public art.
With a focus on owner-occupiers, McCloy
communities are designed for long-term liveability and enduring value – many residents choose to remain within their McCloy neighbourhood when it’s time to upsize or downsize.
Whether you’re seeking your first home, room to grow, or a peaceful place to settle, Eastwood offers an exceptional opportunity to build a brand-new home in a setting that’s both welcoming and well-connected.
To find out more about land for sale in Eastwood, visit www.eastwoodliving.com.au or contact Land Sales Consultant, Clint McCarthy at land@ eastwoodliving.com.au for more information.
Release: Just 4 homes remain
A boutique collection of new 3-bedroom, freestanding homes, minutes to shops, school, beaches, Brunswick River and more. Each unique residence features light-filled, open plan spaces promoting indoor-outoor living, premium inclusions and finishes, energy-efficient appliances, high-speed broadband and solar power. Discover low-maintenance luxury living, now complete and ready to move in.
92 ROBINSONS ROAD, WILSONS CREEK
4
Price: $2,350,000
Open House: Saturday 1 November 11am–11.45am
Open House: Saturday 15 November 11am–11.45am
• Riverside position just meters from the tidal waters
• Amazing views across to Smokey Valley and up to Mt Chincogan
• Very solid 4-bedroom home, with three ensuites
• Front and rear verandahs, 4-car accommodation
• Previously council approved as a yoga studio
Contact Agent: Mark Cochrane 0416 142 663 markc@nclp.com.au
The Palms Village – Site 81
The Palms Village, Tweed Heads
Positioned in a highly sought after location, this well-appointed 3-bedroom home offers new owners three spacious bedrooms, a large living area, a renovated stylish kitchen, as well as a fabulous entertainment deck designed for a relaxed, idyllic lifestyle.
The open plan living/dining area has raked ceilings, reverse-cycle split system air conditioner, ceiling fan, and floor coverings that complement the interior design. The fabulous, renovated kitchen features modern white self-closing soft-touch drawers for that easy-access storage, as well as a good size walk-in pantry, electric Westinghouse stove with ceramic cooktop, stainless steel dishwasher and decorative splashback.
The three generous size carpeted bedrooms all have built-in wardrobes and ceiling fans. The third bedroom has double doors allowing the room to have multiple uses.
The bathroom is in good condition and consists of a glassed-in shower, built-in bath, vanity with storage, as well as a separate toilet.
Adjoining the home is a carport with roller screen door suitable for one vehicle plus an extra open car space in front. It is an energy efficient home with a 3.5kW solar system and solar hot water. Village amenities include a swimming pool, club house, social club and library. This is retirement living at its best without the associated costs of exit fees and no stamp duty.
• 184 Binna Burra Road, Binna Burra. Sat 10.30–11am
• 3 Train Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 1–1.30pm
Ray White Rural Bangalow
• 6 Thomas Street, Bangalow. Sat 10–10.30am
Mana
• 15 Muli Muli Avenue, Ocean Shores. Wed 3.30–4pm
• 237 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah. Thurs 11.30am–12pm
• 22–24 River Street, Brushgrove. Thurs 12–12.30pm
• 6 Royal Avenue, South Golden Beach. Thurs 3.30–4pm
• 1/44 Helen Street, South Golden Beach. Sat 9–9.30am
• 15 Muli Muli Avenue, Ocean Shores. Sat 10–10.30am
• 15 Nargoon Court, Ocen Shores. Sat 10–10.30am
• 4 Gara Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 10–10.30am
• 10 Canowindra Court, South Golden Beach. Sat 11–11.30am
• 16 Berrimbillah Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 11–11.30am
• 15 Kallaroo Circuit, Ocean Shores. Sat 11–11.30am
• 6 Orion Street, Lismore. Sat 11am–12pm
• 17–21 The Esplanade, New Brighton. Sat 12–12.30pm
• 86 Tyalgum Ridge Road, Tyalgum. Sat 2–2.30pm
• 15 Kallaroo Circuit, Ocean Shores. Sun 9–9.30am
• 15 Nargoon Court, Ocean Shores. Sun 10–10.30am
• 16 Berrimbillah Court, Ocean Shores. Sun 11–11.30am
• 4 Gara Court, Ocean Shores. Sun 12–12.30pm
Real Estate of Distinction
• 25 Peter Street, South Golden Beach. Sat 11–11.30am
• 11 Bian Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 12–12.30pm
• 876 Tamarind Drive, Tintenbar. Sat 1.30–2pm
Ruth Russell Realty
• 148 Stuart Street Mullumbimby. Sat 11–11.45 am
Dodds Real Estate
• 5/6 Bugam Place, Bangalow. Sat 10–10.30am
• 365 Boatharbour Rd, Boat Harbour. Sat 11.30am–1pm
• 1275 Lismore Road, Clunes. Sat 1–1.30pm
NEW LISTINGS
First National
• 47 Bulgoon Crescent, Ocean Shores
• 6 Park Street, New Brighton
• 420 Mackie Road, Rosebank
• 33 Scenic Vista, Ewingsdale
• 15 Scenic Vista, Ewingsdale
• 202 Binna Burra Road, Binna Burra
• 5 Luan Court, Byron Bay
• 41 McGoughans Lane, Mullumbimby
• 92 Robinsons Road, Wilsons Creek
Property Business Directory
Backlash
Byron Homemade Pizza has you covered. Enjoy our all-you-can-eat pizza menu, designed to Are you
Call Damian and Benji on 02 7201 7525 or send an enquiry to sales@byronhomemadepizza.com www.byronhomemadepizza.com
Pathway To Song do you want to sing solo, in a duo, trio or a large group? term 4 has started and we are already getting ready for our 2026 mid-year show for soloists and groups Byron Bay Singing puts you on the pathway to singing your song the way you want to sing it
Grants are available for properties impacted by the 2022 floods to assist with raising, retrofitting, rebuilding or relocating houses to safer ground. Grants of up to $100,000 for house-raising and up to $50,000 for retrofitting and $20,000 for associated costs is available via NSW Reconstruction Authority. See www.nsw.gov.au/nswreconstruction-authority/ resilient-homes-exposnorthern-rivers.
It was ten years ago that local MLC Jan Barham introduced a bill to the NSW state parliament that would have imposed a duty on the premier to ensure that NSW achieved a target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, with interim targets of 25 per cent less than 2000 levels by 2020, 40 to 50 per cent less by 2025 and 60 to 80 per cent less by 2030. These figures were the IPCC 2014 targets. As of 25 September 2025 the Australian government has set a target to reduce emissions to 62-70 per cent below 2005 levels by 2035. If only the NSW parliament had been smart enough to listen!
Where reasoned argument finds arid ground, short slogans like ‘Stop the Boats’ work. Will ‘No Kings’ cause Trump supporters to doubt ceding power to a billionaire who’s gilding the White House and erecting a $300 million 1,000-seat ballroom? Or is he still a man of ‘we the people’?
The Byron Bay International Film Festival has wrapped its 19th edition after ten packed days of screenings, Q&As and special events across the Northern Rivers. One of the last events was this Local Lens session at the Bruns Picture House, on Sunday. This year’s festival featured more than 100 films across nine venues and celebrated the work of filmmakers from around the world – with a strong showing of local talent. Back row: Scarlette-Rose Driver, Ash Mines, Sam Clarke, Joshua Schroeder Nabung, Tahlia Giffard and J’aimee Skippon-Volke. Front row: Sophie Wilksch, Trevor Worden, Natalie Grono, Jordan Edmeades and Jessie Jean. Photo Jeff Dawson
incorrect. Please note that the Periwinkle Christmas Fair will take place on 22 November 2025 and will be a private event for Periwinkle families only.
Scientists have learned that plankton, seaweed and other photosynthesizers produce more than half of the world’s oxygen. SINGING
In our 15 October edition, an advertisement was published regarding the Christmas Fair at Periwinkle. This information was
The Daily Telegraph reported American actress Jessica Alba last week used Little Wategos for ‘meditating’, and Wategos Beach for lying face down; whereas a breathless report on her bum on Insta described for concerned readers how ‘her skimpy leopard-print bikini… hugs her body, as sand clings to her thighs and booty’ at a Gold Coast beach. Is Byron no longer ‘drivel-worthy’ enough for the Telly?
Broken window? Creepy crawlies sneaking in?
Time to call the ghostbusters of glass and screens — Working Windows! We repair and replace windows, doors, fly screens, and security screens. With 10+ years’ experience, we’ll make your home safe, snug, and scare-free this spooky season.
