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AMERICA IS AN OIL COMPANY WITH AN ARMY – GEORGE CARLIN The Byron Shire Echo • Volume 40 #31 • January 7, 2026 • www.echo.net.au

Movement at the station, or another missed train?

Malik’s musical ambitions are on the move

Paul Bibby

ould this be the year that Byron Shire Council takes meaningful, decisive action on building a rail trail between Mullumbimby and Byron Bay? For nearly three years locals have watched with wry smiles as hundreds of thousands of people have flocked to the rail trail in the Tweed Shire, pouring tens of millions into that Shire’s local economy. Meanwhile, plans to extend the trail into the Byron Shire have ground to a halt. In one of its last acts of 2025, Byron Shire Council quietly abandoned its plan to apply for a $1m grant from the NSW government to help fund the rail trail. The reason? The application wasn’t completed in time. ‘There are significant land tenure issues and questions for the rail corridor which means that we’re not ready to put in a grant, by tomorrow anyway,’ Labor councillor Asren Pugh told the last meeting of 2025. ‘And so my motion just removes that from the grant applications that will go in tomorrow and asks staff to ensure that they have grant applications ready to go for the next round. The meeting then heard that a key vegetation study in relation to the project had been completed by staff but not yet given to councillors or released publicly. ‘It hasn’t come to Council, yet…’ the relevant staff member said when asked about this key report by Greens Mayor Sarah Ndiaye. ▶ Continued on page 2

Development at Vallances Rd back on the agenda ▶ p2

Seventeen-year-old Bangalow concert pianist, Malik, is off to Melbourne to study soon. He will give a recital at the Byron Theatre on Saturday, 31 January from 2pm to raise funds towards his studies. Tickets available at www.byroncentre.com.au. See page 30. Photo Jeff ‘Tinkles’ Dawson

Christmas/NYE welcomed in the Bay Stephanie Rake

f there was ever any doubt that our Byron Bay community wanted to come together and celebrate, then with the Christmas Community’s Initiative of a ‘movie under the stars’, we got our

An update on Byron’s Special Entertainment Precinct plan ▶ p4

answer on December 22. More than 250 residents and visitors gathered at the Byron Bowlo and it was a huge success. The evening was opened by MC Jack Dods, Deputy Mayor, introducing our colourful and beautiful Mana Aloha dancers, followed by

Comment: Oil is back, baby! ▶ p8

the wonderful Caitlin Quinn, who brought so much cheer to the gathering with her beautiful voice singing Christmas songs and carols.

Surprise Santa Surprise, surprise Santa (Ian) arrived with his helper Ivan the elf

Art is a lie that makes us realise truth – Picasso Arts feature ▶ p18

on his bright yellow trike carrying a sack of candy treats. So many people came up afterwards and said, ‘This is what Byron needs’, and, ‘There is no sign of the festive season in Byron, no Christmas tree, no decorations. It ▶ Continued on page 3

Summertime means fun times! ▶ p21

The mighty Echo Gig Guide ▶ p32

( . 9 ( . ( c As many locals reassess their plans, you might be considering a move too. We’re here to provide you with simple, obligation-free insights into your property’s current value. 3 . 2 T N ;? CCE; B;;;

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Development at Vallances Rd back on the agenda Paul Bibby

ould vacant land adjacent to the Brunswick Valley Sewage Treatment Plant (BVSTP) become home to an affordable housing village where residents can walk or ride along the rail trail into the centre of Mullumbimby? This is an idea being considered by Byron Shire Council this year following a new report which provides much-needed clarity about the future of the picturesque northern Shire site.

Discussions for use going on for a decade Discussion about what should be done with the large, undulating parcel of land at the end of Vallances Road, Mullumbimby, has been going on for more than a decade. Bounded by the Brunswick River and with the old, unused northern rail line running through the middle, much of the site is owned by Council or the state government, giving it potential for use in a socially useful way. Multiple community groups have vied for a piece of the stunning spot over the years, with proposals including a natural burial ground, a social housing project, and spaces for community organisations such as Queer Family Inc and the Mullumbimby Men’s Shed. However, each of these projects have been either stymied or abandoned completely, owing to uncertainty about the future expansion

needs of the sewage treatment plant, and the other considerable issues which constrain use of the site. A new report by Council staff has provided some clarity on the future land use needs of the plant. The report outlines how the BVSTP may well take on significant additional sewage load if – as expected – the Council elects to decommission the ageing and overburdened Ocean Shores Sewage Treatment Plant. Staff have calculated just how much additional land at Vallances Road would be needed to accommodate this expansion, including a projected 400 metre ‘smell buffer’ around the entire site. This would still leave a sizeable proportion of land – some of it Council owned – for other uses, and Council is considering including some of this land in its residential strategy. It will also conduct a review of the 2017 Plan of Management (POM) for the site with an eye to possible future uses. Greens Councillor Elia Hauge, who moved that the POM for the site be reviewed, said that a range of uses should be considered. ‘There are some parts of the site which are out of the flood zone which could be amazing opportunities for community buildings,’ Cr Hauge said. ‘We have a number of community organisations, like the Men’s Shed, like Queer Family Inc, who are quite keen to have some land in the Shire.

Vallances Road, Mullumbimby. Image Byron Shire Council ‘We should also consider the environmental considerations – making sure the riparian zones are still being regenerated.’ ‘This is a great opportunity for us as a new Council to consider this incredibly important site and all of the potential that it holds for our community.’

Deputy Mayor Jack Dods (Independent) said the site had potential for ‘muchneeded affordable and attainable housing’. ‘This would be the perfect site for an urban peripheral Eco Village for people to live and work,’ Cr Dods said. ‘And it would be way quicker for people there to

walk or ride along the rail trail straight into the heart of Mullumbimby than it would be to drive. ‘It’s potentially a great example of how you could design and develop sustainable villages on the edge of towns, that utilise rail trails as a spine, and to incentivise trips to work and school and to the shops on foot or on bike. ‘It’s flood-free, it’s an excellent portion of land. Until now it’s been constrained by the overly liberal application of the STP buffer, so it’s excellent that this work’s been done. ‘It’s exciting to see that it also leaves the western third of Council-owned land at Vallances Road also outside of that buffer. So amending the POM to investigate potential

uses there is very exciting.’ Cr Dods later indicated that the topography of the site could potentially be ‘amended’ to facilitate more housing. However, having watched many plans for this site come and go, the community could be forgiven for a degree of skepticism regarding the current ideas being put forward. Not only does the site’s location right next to the Brunswick River make much of the land severely floodprone and susceptible to being cut off from town, but the main road access via the intersection of Vallances Road and Coolamon Scenic Drive is also a road safety blackspot. There is also the issue of private ownership around some key sections of the site.

Movement at the station, or another missed train? ▶ Continued from page 1 ‘It can be circulated. We can either present it as a report to Council or we can circulate it and then report it…’ It was a bit of a Yes Minister moment, but it would be incorrect and unfair to imply that the rail trail project has become derailed by staff inaction or ineptitude.

'ĶǔĶĈƖōƐ ĎĕĈĶƆĶşŕƆ Rather, it is the result of a more general state of paralysis created by the need to make some difficult decisions that have been hanging over the Council for more than a decade. Chief among them is the question of whether the

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Abandoned NSW government infrastructure. Photo supplied Council continues holding onto the dream of getting trains back on the tracks in Byron, or finally letting go of this fading vision and building a bike and pedestrian trail on the existing rail formation. It is fair to say this decision has been shunted down the line by four separate sets of councillors, each electing to commission yet another report rather than face the wrath of whichever side of the rail debate gets left at the station.

Councillor’s inability to choose a track has crippled the planning process for the Byron rail trail, making it extremely difficult to apply for government grants, and impossible to begin the design process.

Infrastructure Meanwhile, Mother Nature continues to quietly devour the bridge foundations and other basic infrastructure that will be needed regardless of which path is chosen, adding to the cost of the

project and increasing the risk that the Shire will simply end up with nothing at all or, even worse, a series of housing developments. But in the last meeting of 2025, comments from Cr Ndiaye suggested there might finally be movement at the station. ‘I think there’ll be some difficult conversations that we’ll have next year,’ Cr Ndiaye said of the rail trail plan. ‘We should all have a really good and wonderful break so that we’re ready for that,’ she continued, alluding to the likely backlash from the community. ‘But they need to happen. We need definitive clear plans so that we can request funding without having to freak out or give it back.’ Will this be the year that Byron’s rail trail finally gets up a head of steam?

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Local News Christmas welcomed in the Bay

Beating the drum for 2026

Byron businesses got behind the festive season with a Christmas Community Initiative. Photo supplied

▶ Continued from page 1 looks like a town Christmas forgot.’ It’s only when you delve a little deeper in to the Byron community in December, that you find a Christmas heart. We just need support to show our collective community spirit. It’s good for business and our economy, and us.

Lack of funding Council’s lack of funding for Christmas festivities is bewildering. Christmas is not just a single day, it is the season that drives our longest and most important holiday period. Our town needs it. Why can’t we incorporate both? Soul Street on New Year’s

Eve and Christmas festivities. They could coexist with shared funding to create two strong, well-run celebrations instead of one. After the sadness of the Bondi Beach attack, Australians are searching for what is real and meaningful.

Reconnect They travel to smaller towns to reconnect – with nature, with community, and with a sense of belonging. Byron has all of this – the beach, the ocean, the bush, village feel, and our cultural connection to country. So what is our mandate/ vision for Byron? Who are we, and where are we going? Perhaps instead of waiting for someone else to provide it, we should put up our own hands – residents,

businesses and Council together – to create and protect what we love about this place, and ensure Byron remains something special for future generations. I don’t know whether anyone noticed the many languages spoken by people visiting Byron Bay over Christmas and New Year. Christmas is a universal time of year, symbolic of joy and renewal and connection for so many different communities.

Supporters A special thanks to our local supporters the Byron Bay Bowling Club, The Byron RSL, First National Real Estate’s Chris Hanley, Ivan Ewert who made the Christmas tree float happen, Cass Lloyd for her support

Soul Street, a Byron Shire Council initiative, rolled out again in Byron’s CBD for New Year’s celebrations. Pictured is Brazilian-influenced drumming group Batala. Photo Jeff Dawson and guidance, and last but not least the wonderful Christmas cheer volunteers of the Christmas Community Initiative – this would never have happened without you, thank you. Let’s bring some joy back into Byron and let’s all work together. Q Stephanie Rake is a

volunteer coordinator of the Christmas Community Initiative.

Rotary donates $5,000 to support women in crisis The Women’s Emergency Relief Fund at Byron Bay’s Fletcher Street Cottage has been boosted by a generous $5,000 donation by the Rotary Club of Byron Bay. The funds will help local women across the Byron Shire facing domestic and family violence, housing insecurity and financial hardship. Rebecca Robinson, Relationships Manager at the Byron Community Centre (which runs the cottage), said the Rotary Club’s generosity will have a direct and lasting impact. ‘This donation will support women who need it most, women fleeing unsafe situations or struggling to

the Rotary Club of Byron Bay said the donation reflects Rotary’s ongoing commitment to community wellbeing.

History of support

Byron Rotary: Vanessa Wood, Jacquelyn Wilkosz, Dave Dwyer, Jens Krause, David Lurati/Rebecca Miskin Fletcher Street Cottage: Damian Farrell, Maddi Powell, Suzanne Flowerday. Photo Rotary Byron Bay find secure housing. The Byron Bay Rotary Club’s support will help us continue

to provide safety and hope during the toughest times.’ Vanessa Wood from

‘Rotary has a long history of supporting local projects that make a real difference. The Women’s Emergency Relief Fund provides vital, immediate help for women and families in crisis, and we’re proud to stand alongside Fletcher Street Cottage in ensuring local women have somewhere to turn when they need it most.’ For more info and donations: www.fletcherstreetcottage.com.au.

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Life-saving AED now in Billinudgel Update on plans to boost Byron

Bay’s night-time economy B E Crowle

Pictured are Steph Smith and Carol Donnelly. Photo Jeff ‘Heart Starter’ Dawson Billinudgel Fire Station is home to a new defibrillator (AED), kindly granted to the village by not-for-profit health insurer, Westfund. The AED unit is attached to the centre-front of the fire

station, and a spokesperson for the station told The Echo, ‘The Billi/Ocean Shores RFS crew will offer AED training in the new year, with businesses and community also being invited to attend’.

They added, ‘The Billi brigade welcomes new members and invites anyone interested in joining our crew to contact RFS: www. rfs.nsw.gov.au/volunteer/ join-the-nsw-rfs’.

Get your Byron All Shorts subs in by 28 Feb Northern Rivers short film competition for all ages, Byron All Shorts, is open for submissions. Finalists screening and awards will be held on Saturday 28 February, alongside

the Flickerfest International Short Film Festival tour at the Mullumbimby Civic Hall.

Local jury Organisers say, ‘A local jury of film industry experts

will award more than $3,000 in prizes which recognises and encourages excellence in short filmmaking’. Entries close Wednesday, 28 January – visit www. iQ.org.au or more details.

f you live in Byron Bay, you might have written a submission, attended a meeting, or at least heard talk of the proposed Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP), a NSW government policy designed to grow the 24-hour economy. Despite strong community opposition, councillors recently voted to push on with the draft SEP process; however, one crucial vote remains before a 12 to 18-month trial becomes irreversible. The perception seems to be that it is a done deal, but it is not.

What’s next While a time line is sketchy, Council must now exhibit a Precinct Plan, including proposed operating hours, a noise management plan and amendments to Council’s Development Control Plan/LEP, as outlined in the recent report. During this second consultation phase, the community will again be invited to comment on a policy tied to the NSW Vibrancy Reforms. For many locals, it’s another opportunity to restate why the SEP remains

an ill-fitting and deeply unpopular proposal for Byron Bay. Once submissions close, councillors will have a final vote, likely in late March, on whether to proceed with a SEP trial.

For and against In November 2025, councillors Lyon, Kay, Hauge and Warth heard the community concerns and voted to pause the SEP trial. Their position reflects a clear understanding of why a Sydney-centric model doesn’t suit the unique dynamics of our small, but growing coastal town. The pressures on local residents, the town’s limited infrastructure, late-night safety concerns, mixed messaging to the visitor economy and the absence of key management plans are legitimate concerns. While councillors Dods and Lowe voted for the SEP to proceed – they made the proviso that they will change their vote if consultation again shows overwhelming community opposition. Notably, all the councillors who voted in favour of the SEP trial do not live in Byron Bay itself. Some community members argue this distance may limit their appreciation of the

day-to-day realities and the strength of local opposition.

Funding unclear These councillors also believe this will open the door to government funding, though that has yet to be proven. In a fashionably late way, Council is now asking for participants to create a Precinct Working Group (PWG), designed to ‘meet regularly to contribute and assist in the co-ordination of the preparation and establishment, operation and monitoring of a 12 to 18-month SEP trial’ (Source: NSW government). However, many residents feel their concerns have not been addressed and this type of involvement resembles endorsement, rather than consultation.

Pens at the ready As the process enters its final stages, the message from many Byron Bay locals remains consistent: this decision is too significant to rush, too consequential to adopt without genuine community support, and too important for councillors to overlook the lived experience of the people who call Byron home.

Council calls for reform on pokie laws Paul Bibby The Whitlams once famously expressed the desire to ‘blow up the pokies and drag them away’. Byron Shire Council would settle for having some planning powers to regulate their use in local pubs and clubs. Fresh from locking horns with the owners of the Bangalow Hotel over the location of gaming machines at that venue, Council is seeking changes to laws which make poker machines immune from local planning rules.

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Pokies exempt from local planning Under a motion moved by Greens councillor Michelle Lowe, Council is demanding changes to Clause 209 of the Gaming Machines Act 2001, which removes poker machines from local planning processes, and places them under the auspices of the Casino, Liquor and Gaming Control Authority.

Under this clause, local councils have no power to regulate where poker machines are located within a particular venue, nor to impose restrictions on their use or to refuse development consent to a pub or club on the grounds that it intends to install them. In an impassioned speech to the last Council meeting of 2025, Cr Lowe said that the clause undermined local democracy and prioritised the interests of the gaming industry over community wellbeing. ‘The practical effect is stark,’ councillor Lowe said. ‘Councils cannot object to gaming machine applications on social impact grounds, even when they hold detailed planning, economic and social data about community composition and vulnerability’. ‘Most significantly, councils cannot use their planning powers to address gaming machine impacts – even when local evidence

clearly demonstrates concentrated harm. ‘The legislative framework treats gaming machine applications primarily as commercial matters rather than public health issues, despite problem gambling being formally recognised as a significant public health concern.’

Clause 209 review Council will now write to State MP for Ballina, Tamara Smith, and the NSW Minister for Gaming and Racing, David Harris, demanding that they advocate for the review and amendment of clause 209 on the grounds that it ‘undermines local democracy and prioritises local gaming industry interests over community wellbeing’. According to figures provided by the Australian Institute of Family Studies, NSW is currently home to approximately 87,500 poker machines – nearly half of Australia’s total and 10 per cent of all gaming machines worldwide. www.echo.net.au

Local News Maribeth Cole wins best actress at the Palmies

Maribeth Cole with 10 Minutes of Fame author, Michael Sharmon at the 2025 Gold Palm Awards. Photo supplied Congratulations to Maribeth Cole, who won Best Actress in a Leading Role in a Community Theatre Play at the 2025 Gold Palm Awards, for her role in the Drill Hall Theatre Company’s production of 10 Minutes of Fame. Maribeth was awarded at the Palmies’ presentation night held at Dracula’s Cabaret Restaurant, on Broadbeach, on 8 December, 2025. Drill Hall managers say, ‘Established in 2009 as the Gold Coast Area Theatre Awards, and regarded as a highlight of the performance

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year in South East Qld and Northern NSW, the awards acknowledge the huge contribution made to the area’s entertainment life, by awarding participants in shows staged by local community theatre groups, high schools and colleges’. They added that Maribeth had been away from the stage for a few decades. ‘Maribeth trained in performance theory, and dramaturgy and has spent the intervening years putting those skills to use as a professional chef and artisanal baker’, they said.

Bruns Breakfast Club given a boost

not-for-profit provider of employment and training services has awarded $7,500 to the Brunswick Heads Breakfast Club, a grassroots initiative offering meals, connection, and compassion to people experiencing homelessness and hardship in the local community. The ETC Community Support Fund will help cover the costs of providing breakfasts and other essential meals, ensuring the club can continue to serve the growing number of individuals seeking support. In the 2025 NSW Street Count, Byron Shire recorded the highest number of rough sleepers statewide, contributing to the 2,192 people counted across NSW – an eight per cent increase from 2024.

More than breakfast Every Friday morning from 8am to 9am, volunteers gather to offer not just food, but dignity, warmth, and a sense of belonging, says Isabelle Borrelli, Deputy Chair of ETC. ‘The Brunswick Breakfast

to provide what people are needing,’ said Renee. ‘You don’t have to explain why you’re here. You’ll be able to connect with other people and come for a hot drink. It’s amazing,’ added Renate. Supporters say the Brunswick Heads Breakfast Club stands as a beacon of hope, proving that small acts of kindness backed by community support can make a big difference. Renee is a volunteer at the Brunswick Heads Breakfast Club. Video grab from ETC

Club allows people to have a cup of coffee, a sandwich and to connect with people in their community,’ she said. ‘ETC has given the Breakfast Club the ability to continue. It’s important that we give back, that’s what the ETC Community Support Fund is all about.’ ‘The impact of the club is felt deeply by attendees and volunteers alike’. Nathan, a regular visitor, said ‘I can see things getting worse in Australia and not just for people that have mental health issues or

addictions, it’s become expensive here. Pretty soon it could be your children or somebody you know that’s experiencing homelessness’. ‘The stigma needs to go. Or it’s going to get worse.’ Volunteers like Renee and Renate have witnessed firsthand the growing need and the transformative power of community care.

Busier now ‘It’s definitely much busier here now. We started up a charging station, and people are requesting more veggies – so we’re just trying

Registered charity ETC, a registered charity, says it’s committed to giving back to the communities in which it operates. Through the ETC Community Support Fund, the organisation provides funding support to organisations addressing the greatest needs in communities related to employment, skills development, and overcoming major barriers to employment. Since its inception in 2012, ETC say it has provided over $3 million to community organisations, including $2 million in the last three years alone.

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Fabulous art at the Lismore Regional Gallery News from across the North Coast online

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Heading into severe heat and fire danger Bureau of Meteorology Senior Meteorologist, Dean Narramore, says that we can expect severe weather conditions over the next few days as a significant heat wave is likely to impact much of southern and south-eastern Australia.

Lifesavers deal with emergencies across state Surf Life Saving NSW and the state’s army of volunteer lifesavers have been under the pump over the weekend, responding to a deluge of incidents and emergencies, and sadly a number of drownings.

Getting ready for ‘big school’ Now that the festive season celebrations are over, many parents are preparing for their next challenge, getting their pre-schoolers off to ‘big school’.

Be aware of the weather and heat waves Summer is definitely the time of year for outdoor fun and physical activities, but the heat and sun can take their toll.

Teenager charged over alleged series of offences in Ballina area A teenager has been charged and refused bail after a spate of alleged break and enters around the Ballina area.

Wollumbin summit, track closure extended The Wollumbin summit and track are to be closed to the public until halfway through 2027.

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Last year was huge for the Lismore Regional Gallery, with 22 exhibitions, over 52 unique public programs, and two artist residencies. The year was capped off by a wonderful early Christmas present in the form of an IMAGinE Award for Bulaan Buruugaa Ngali, the magnificent Bundjalung weaving exhibition, an honour shared with guest curator Kylie Caldwell and touring partners Grafton Regional Gallery, Tweed Regional Gallery, and Arts Northern Rivers. The gallery was also thrilled to receive a Highly Commended nod from the IMAGinE Awards for their Art and Ageing Enrichment program. Currently there is work presented over three gallery spaces – by Clare Milledge, Sonka Pietrek, along with Club Ate – Justin Shoulder and Bhenji Ra.

Clare Milledge Until 15 March, 2026, Complex notophyll vine forest: ground proof is a significant survey of Milledge’s practice across the past two decades and is her first major exhibition on Bundjalung Country, the region where she grew up. The exhibition sweeps across three large galleries, permeating the connecting walkways and spaces in between. Understanding social and community place in relation to the environment, culture, history, and gender is explored through Milledge’s artworks, which

Club Ate Originally formed on Gadigal Country, Sydney, by trans-disciplinary artists Justin Talplacido Shoulder and Bhenji Ra, Club Ate is a collaboration inspired by their shared Filipino heritage, immersion in Gadigal’s underground nightlife and queer communities, and an interest in the body as a tool for transformation.

Queer resistance Club Ate, Ex Nilalang (video still) 2017. Image courtesy the artists and Art Gallery of New South Wales Club Ate generously and sometimes humorously invite the viewer to imagine fresh ways of being amongst a network of inter-species, inter-object relationships. Complex notophyll vine forest: ground proof features a new work in collaboration with local ceramicist Suvira McDonald, and is accompanied by a publication supported by the Gordon Darling Foundation. Milledge’s gallery STATION has generously assisted the realisation of this exhibition. Clare Milledge: Complex notophyll vine forest: ground proof is in on exhibition until March 15.

Sonka Pietrek Memory of motion explores a year of close observation in which the artist notices the subtle details in the world around her. Several pieces emerged during Pietrek’s first year of

Northern Rivers Shukokai Karate is proud to announce ‘Break4Millie’, a high-energy community fundraiser in support of local teenager Millie Trustum. In 2018, at just seven years old, Millie was diagnosed with T-cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma. After years of intensive treatment, she bravely beat the disease and had been in remission for nearly six years. Tragically, in May 2025, her family received devastating news: Millie was diagnosed with a High-Grade Glioma, an aggressive and incurable brain tumour.

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Extend Millie’s life While treatment may extend her life, Millie’s time is now precious. Her family and our community are now focused on one goal: helping her live out her bucket list and filling her days with joy, adventure, and memories that will last forever. FundraiserMillie has long been supported by generous local businesses and community members. This year the karate club is inviting the Northern Rivers community to get involved in a more hands-on, uplifting way. To honour Millie’s incredible spirit, Northern Rivers

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The Echo acknowledges the people of the Bundjalung nation as the traditional custodians of this land and extends respect to elders past, present and future. Disclaimer: The Echo is committed to providing a voice for our whole community. The views of advertisers, letter writers, and opinion writers are not necessarily those of the owners or staff of this publication.

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images into analogue forms (sometimes through multiple iterations) to investigate the transformation and evolution of images. Sonka Pietrek received the Southern Cross University Bachelor of Visual Arts VERGE Award 2024. Sonka Pietrek: Memory of motion is on exhibition until February 1.

Q For more info on Lismore Regional Gallery exhibitions, visit: www.lismoregallery.org.

‘Break4Millie’ fundraiser to support local teen

Volume 40 #31 • January 7, 2026 Established 1986 • 22,000 copies every week

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motherhood, focusing on quiet gestures and moments that often escape attention in the rhythm of everyday life. Sonka’s practice is a dynamic synthesis of digital and analogue techniques and explores the fluid and malleable boundaries between the two. Her work translates digital

Ex Nilalang, episodes 1 - 4 is a cumulative performancevideo project that transforms urban myths and traditional Filipino folklore into stories of queer resistance. Presented in partnership with the Art Gallery of New South Wales, and with the generous support of TLE Electricals, Club Ate: Ex Nilalang, episodes 1 – 4 on exhibition until February 15.

Shukokai Karate is hosting a Karate Board Breaking Fundraiser, on Sunday, January 18, starting at 9.30am at 2/67 Bridge Street, North Lismore.

giving families, friends, and supporters the chance to purchase a board and smash it in a powerful, symbolic gesture to ‘break the cycle of cancer’ and stand in solidarity with Millie and her family.

Karate Board Breaking Fundraiser Seeking additional Break4Millie will see prize donations participants purchase timber boards – available in a range of thicknesses – and come together for a spirited board-breaking session. On the day, attendees will warm up with a short practice using re-breakable boards before stepping up to break the real timber boards in a show of strength, solidarity, and community spirit. This event will be open to the entire community,

Organisers are also seeking additional prize donations from local businesses, to be raffled. All funds raised will go directly toward supporting Millie’s bucket list experiences. Find out more about Break4Millie from Northern Rivers Shukokai Karate Dojo Sensei, Barry Potts, via email: barry@northernriversshukokai.com.au, or phone (02) 6625 0091. www.echo.net.au

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NSW Police now decide who can protest

The Byron Shire Echo Volume 40 #31 • January 7, 2026

Oil is back, baby!

hich country is next? Quagmires ahoy! Yabbering about his next move is what the 79-yearold US reality TV president loves. While attention with grandiose incoherence is on-brand for the Home Alone 2 cameo actor, the distraction is certainly welcome. Jeffery Epstein won’t disappear, and the US economy isn’t improving. If the US media did their job, his lie that Venezuela traffics the opioid drug fentanyl to the US would be dispelled. And pressure would be applied around why he pardoned former Honduran President Juan Hernandez in November, who was found guilty, and was serving time for conspiring with drug traffickers and using his government position to help hundreds of tons of cocaine enter the US.

Venezuela Venezuela is home to 28 million people, around the same as Australia. Since 1958, it flirted with the idea that it could organise itself with democracy, and by 1976, it nationalised its natural resources. And that hurt the US and benefited China. The ‘West is Best’ narrative, by the likes of Scottish historian Niall Ferguson, says that Venezuela couldn’t manage itself under socialism, so it needed to be toppled. Latin American states have actually done better (in the long run) after a good ‘ol US invasion, he reckons. The other perspective is that under gruelling sanctions by the US, any country would eventually

find itself a ‘failed state’. And all that oil can’t go to waste now, can it?

The US National Security Strategy The US National Security Strategy was released last November at www.whitehouse.gov, and is only worthy of note because there isn’t a lot of Trump policy in writing. It’s a 33-page document which outlines how great they think they are, and how important it is to preserve US interests above everyone else’s. The justification for foreign invasions is on page 9. It starts with a preface that ‘America’s founders laid down a clear preference for noninterventionism in the affairs of other nations’, yet argues, ‘for a country whose interests are as numerous and diverse as ours, rigid adherence to non-interventionalism is not possible.’ What’s the message for Australia in there? There’s actually not much. On page 23 it reads, ‘Given that one third of global shipping passes annually through the South China Sea, this has major implications for the US economy. Hence deterring a conflict over Taiwan, ideally by preserving military overmatch, is a priority. ‘We will also harden and strengthen our military presence in the Western Pacific, while in our dealings with Taiwan and Australia we maintain our determined rhetoric on increased defence spending’. Will Australia do as it’s told? Hans Lovejoy, acting editor

he English poet Michael Rosen (1946–) wrote:

‘I sometimes fear that people think that fascism arrives ĶŕȝĪëŕĈƷ ĎſĕƆƆǼ Ʊşſŕ ćƷ īſşƐĕƆžƖĕƆ ëŕĎ ŔşŕƆƐĕſƆǼ ëƆ żōëƷĕĎ şƖƐ Ķŕ ĕŕĎōĕƆƆ ſĕȑſƖŕƆ şĪȝƐĲĕȝmëǀĶƆȁ DëƆĈĶƆŔ ëſſĶưĕƆ ëƆ ƷşƖſ ĪſĶĕŕĎțȁ

And despite my guest Echo editorial and Aslan Shand’s cautioning follow-up on protest laws, the NSW government response to Bondi has seen a huge transfer of power from the courts to the police. Previously, if a protest authorisation was sought, the form was filled in and the police could object. If resolution could not be agreed, the court decided balancing the freedom to protest with the objections made. Thus, on a rainy winter day up to 300,000 people marched in support of Palestinians across the Harbour Bridge sending a loud and clear message to governments that there was significant concern for Israel’s actions in Gaza. The police opposed it, the courts approved it and a peaceful and powerful event occurred. Marches are influential, not just because their numbers can be indicative of genuine community concern, but because they are an important democratic right protected by the court’s interpretation of the federal Constitution, and (until now) NSW laws. After decades of successful and appropriate balance, all that has changed in a rush. The new protest laws ban any applications in any period determined by the police commissioner. These periods are triggered by a terrorism event declaration. That declaration is determined by… the police commissioner. So, NSW Parliament has shifted the previous power to decide to permit a protest from the courts, to the police, famous for being unbiased arbiters of democratic rights. Under the old regime, if a mass protest march against a genocide in Gaza had been sought in the two weeks after the shootings, then the police may well have opposed it on public safety grounds. For example, if they had argued that their resources

‘We cannot exercise our democratic rights because it might be ĎĶƆſĕƆżĕĈƐĪƖōȝëŕĎ ƖŕĈşƖſƐĕşƖƆț – David Heilpern were stretched so thin protecting the Jewish community and they were concerned with copycat attacks then this would have almost certainly and rightly have thwarted the assembly. The police commissioner took no time at all flex his muscle and ban all march applications. And the reasons – not lack of resources, fear of further attacks or reprisals. No, the reason given included the most antidemocratic mush possible: ‘This is a time for community to come together and to show respect and courtesy. It’s not a time for large public assemblies and division’. Wow. So, we cannot exercise our democratic rights because it might be disrespectful and uncourteous. Let me tell you, I find the anti-immigration marches disrespectful and rude as hell, but I would be appalled if they had been banned. The pathetic numbers of sad souls wrapped in the Australian flag tell the whole story really. And I find the anti-abortion protests and marches with pictures of foetus, and replete with misogyny disgusting. But jailing the participants would be way worse. If a key factor in determining protest marches by police is going to be ‘respect and courtesy’ then presumably only those marches that don’t offend Mal Lanyon will be permissible. Maybe ANZAC day? And the two-up better be bloody polite too. And of course, the ALP ensured that industrial marches were still permitted. Phew. The other limb being rushed is the potential banning of certain phrases like ‘globalise the intifada’ and ‘from the river to the sea’. Emeritus Professor Anne Twomey has released the most brilliant YouTube mini-lecture as to why these provisions are likely going to be unconstitutional anyway. We already have laws criminalising offensive language and inciting violence or racial hatred. We even have laws specifically banning Nazi symbols and further protections against

discrimination. Enough already! So why are we even considering banning marches and words – because it is said that the marches and these phrases are somehow connected to the Bondi shootings. That first there are words, then there is property hate crime and then there were the shootings and so somehow the first has caused the third. An utterly evidence-free theory. Nobody really believes this. Not even the premier. I have searched every single inquest and enquiry I can locate following a terrorist attack and not one has ever recommended banning assemblies or SPECIFIC words OR PHRASES. Indeed, I cannot find even a submission to any enquiry that suggested such a thing. Nothing, because it is novel and absurd. They are only words. If you don’t like them, argue against them, call them out. If they are objectively offensive, then they are illegal. If they incite racial hatred or are discriminatory, they are illegal. And the best example is in the United Kingdom where ‘Palestinian Action’ has been declared a terrorist organisation and anyone protesting with a banner including those words is subject to 14 years imprisonment. Only 2,500 arrests later and suggesting that this has worked to increase community unity is laughable. The real reason the NSW government has acted is because some Jewish people don’t like these words or assemblies. They find (just like I find the anti-immigration and anti-abortion rants) offensive and scary and wrong. Ah, the pitfalls of democracy. So beware – transfer of the power from the courts to the police is a characteristic of every society that has drifted from democracy to fascism. Be afraid of that. Be very afraid. Q Professor David Heilpern is Dean of Law and Chair of Discipline at SCU.

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Letters to the Editor www.echo.net.au/letters No sense I am glad the hydrogenpowered waste truck will be quiet and emit low emissions because otherwise it makes no sense. The range of the truck is 300 km but one third of that will be used every time it has to be refuelled because it will have to go back and forth to Chinderah (around 100 km). At current 2025 rates, hydrogen fuel is estimated to be two-to-three times more expensive to operate than diesel on a per-kilometre basis (without the cost of refuelling). If ‘the environmental benefits’ are front-of-mind for Council they should look into BEV trucks and buses. BEVs convert a high percentage (often 70–80 per cent) of the energy from the grid to wheel power. Whereas FCEVs are less efficient – large energy losses occur when creating hydrogen, compressing it, transporting and then converting it back to electricity (often around 30-40 per cent efficiency). Greg Byrnes Lennox Head

A loving prelude A couple of days before Xmas 25, I am sitting in the Byron Community Centre. I am aware of a growing spiritual frailty within my body. I watch the wonderful volunteers at the centre aid a young mother with children, directing her and her children to further community aid in these hard times of war, climate angst and global structural poverty. The resonances of the Bondi tragedy seem trapped in my cellular body. I have contacted my Israeli and Palestinian friends sending mountains of love. I feel trapped in pain.

Caught spreading joy, happiness, and red and white candy canes – you know the ones – minty. Who’s next on Emperor Trump’s naughty and nice list? Image Openart AI I am a pacifist. I pray in nature daily. I see only the senselessness of profitmaking militaristic war machines and the death of innocents. I hear the words of my friend Lilith Rocha, ‘Jo, come upstairs, the women are dancing the hula – the healing dance of aloha. We need an audience’. I am ‘the audience’ with two other community volunteers. The room is filled with beautiful women from the community. Many I have known for years. The music commences, arms ascend to the heavens, hips sway gently, the music punctuates the bass, and quick dancing feet and knees respond. Swaying bodies turn and turn, painting circles in the air. Each woman emanates a deep inner beauty. Then accepting arms seem to unwind before me and a gesture from the closed hand to the gentle, opening of

same – welcomes me. The words, ‘Oh, how we have forgotten the “feminine”,’ spring from my unconscious. The hands draw out my inner repressions. My heart thumps in my throat, tears well in my eyes. The women have captured the power of peace and its sacred narratives. I let my tears flow. ‘The rhythms learned by our bodies and souls over hundreds and thousands of years are syncopated with nature. Walked through the world and integrated it viscerally, tangibly in sounds and fragrances, sensations wafting over skin…’ (Francis Weber). I have had a necessary catharsis. I know in my deepest heart of hearts that the remarkable community of civil society in the Byron Shire is strong and will maintain its spiritual power and vision into the challenging future – aided

by compassion, love, caring, mutual aid to all, respect to all life – and community art. Thanks Lilith for years of hard work and vision. I want to be ‘an audience’ for as long as life visits my declining body. Folks, do try love and peace – a collective, conscious, imperative, ongoing action. Let’s ‘come together’. Jo Faith, gypsy, hippy, and proud black Irish Byron Bay

0ŕşƖīĲ ƐëōŊ ȑ Ǖƶ ĶƐǿ This festive season, drivers will again crawl 45–60 minutes to enter Byron via the M1 Byron exit, while traffic queues dangerously into the 110 km/h motorway. Everyone knows this is unsafe. Everyone knows it’s been happening for years. Actually since Transport for NSW opened the new interchange in 2017. Yet nothing

Letters to the Editor and cartoons

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On 30 December many beaches between Byron and Ballina were closed due to

Chill out Mandy I’m so tired of this polarising narrative you push that divides self-proclaimed ‘locals’ and the town’s tourists – who, by the way, our entire town’s economy relies on. If you don’t like shopping alongside some of the world’s most beautiful people in tiny bikinis, move somewhere else. Maybe Ballina or Tweed Heads will make you less cranky. For me, I love this town, especially because the free beach party with a $10 cask of wine is always more fun than the private, invite-only one at the $10,000-a-night beach house. ▶ Continued on page 12

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rough seas. Not at Broken Head (except for a short shark alarm). Parking was at a premium with cars parking along the entry road nearly back to the coast road. Byron Council decided to have a parking blitz that can only be described as a cynical exercise in revenue raising. Pay parking was implemented earlier in December however there had been no improvements in providing formal parking areas or sealed shoulders on the entry road. Given these circumstances one can only guess that the issue of hundreds of parking fines was purely to raise revenue without any thought to improving the situation in the customary peak holiday period. I can only suggest to holiday makers, forget about Byron Council’s beaches and come to Ballina Shire where parking is free and the beaches are better! Max DeBoos East Ballina

AND THE FAMOUS

Send your letters to the Editor: editor@echo.net.au. Deadline: Noon, Friday. Letters longer than 200 words may be cut. Letters already published in other papers will not be considered. Please include your full name, address and phone number for verification purposes.

Ye Olde Stone School returns to The Farm in Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, where willing participants of all skill levels will learn to split, chisel and build stone for a traditional style cottage.

meaningful is moving. Let’s be clear: this is no longer just congestion – it’s a serious end-of-queue crash risk and a growing economic handbrake on Byron. Workers can’t get to shifts, some won’t take jobs here at all, and day-trippers simply turn around or don’t bother to come and spend their money elsewhere. Businesses lose trade, staff and confidence. What’s infuriating is seeing full-page political ads claiming federal support for the region while our single biggest safety and access problem sits stalled in bureaucratic limbo with no clear timeline. Parked, with Infrastructure Australia as a NOT A PRIORITY project. Forget debating new SEPs or ‘fixing Byron’ with planning slogans. If people can’t get into town safely and efficiently, nothing else matters. I urge every frustrated driver this summer to contact Federal Member Justine Elliott and demand this project be elevated to an urgent national safety and economic priority — not kicked another decade down the road. Let’s get the planning work for a solution funded and done for a start. This needs to start with a funding commitment from the federal government… let’s start with demanding real action and not full page advertising from our Justine Elliot and go from there. Anthony Stante Coorabell

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Opposing views on Gaza and Israel are so disparate it seems never the twain shall meet

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Two insane jihadists Bruce Porter (antisemitism’, Echo 23/12/2025) should not be used by has discovered an ‘elephant in the room’ anyone in pursuit of a that is the cause of the cohesive argument… vicious hatred directed at Jews this month and for the last two years (and two reform’ so now we can all millennia). Sorry, but it’s not own four guns! an elephant, it’s a bull, and a This is Labor’s weapons very incontinent one. reform in action, what a I don’t intend to restate dangerous joke. the history and politics of the Why is a government and Middle East that have been Israeli PM accused of war deliberately and unswervcrimes setting the agenda in ingly ignored by those seekthis country? Will we see a ing to burnish their keyboard national day of mourning for warrior credentials, but if Palestinians? Perhaps this any of them can bear to read could coincide with the visit the truth, turn to the letter by the Israeli president? from Dr Nicole Phillips on Australians should have the same page of that issue. the right to call out other It says it all clearly, concisely countries genocidal actions and accurately. because we are not threatenThanks to The Echo for ing anyone or inciting viopublishing Dr Phillips’ letter. lence. The newly appointed Dr Desmond Bellamy Jewish envoy Jillian Segal Byron Bay has a history of being a proIsrael Jewish lobbyist. We Rhetoric and have the right to challenge hypocrisy her proposals, however How much empty rhetoric mainstream journalists and and breathtaking hypocrisy media organisations seem to are we supposed to tolerate? lack the intelligence or courThe events at Bondi age to do this. Instead they were tragic, however if the demonise peaceful protestJewish community really ers who are crying out about want to improve their image the unprecedented horror and attempt to eliminate unfolding. Chris Minns is a alleged antisemitism disgrace for calling protestperhaps mainstream Jewish ers antisemitic. leaders in Australia should It’s astounding that ASIO, call on their government with a budget of over $700 to stop killing Palestinmillion and with a staff of ians. Now there’s an idea. over 2,000 and powers which People around the world can reach into Australians’ are disgusted at what Israel private lives, were unable is doing including many to link a suburban gun Jewish Australians. cache to a known extremist People may like to read connection. Incredibly, they media releases by the Jewish have bipartisan support for Council of Australia. budget increases regardless The latest figures from the of performance. UN have 70,900 civilians (and Some politicians are callcontinuing) since October ing for a royal commission ’23, mostly woman and into the Bondi shooting, children, as well as 10,000 which will cost millions. missing as well as untold I can tell them the root numbers of amputees. And cause and it won’t cost a let’s not get started with the cent. How many wars and last 75 years of ethnic cleans- suffering over hundreds of ing or illegal settler violence years has been driven by in the west bank, or Australia organised religious elitism? supplying weapon parts to And for those who want Israel, or using starvation as to argue the point, for any a weapon of war. Politicians acknowledged good they need to wake up. may do, religious organisaPerhaps Labor voters tions don’t have a monopoly could call on the government on kindness and compasto sanction the Israeli PM as sion. All Australians are equal the International Court of and minorities must feel Justice has recommended. safe. But what does the governEnough with the spin and ment do? Beginning to blah, blah, blah. restrict people’s right to Rod Murray protest and initiate ‘gun Ocean Shores

Two poles Two letters appeared in The Echo regarding the terrible shooting in Sydney a couple of weeks ago. One followed a concise and accurate summary of the situation from Bruce Porter. The other, from Dr Nicole Phillips, was a hectoring and overlong statement of perceived injustice, where The Echo, leftists, the ‘fake’ media and the Shire in general were the main culprits, along with people I know are not antisemitic. They are aghast at the 70,000 Palestinians killed by Netanyahu and the IDF, and at the moment view Israel through that lens. It seems the Jewish diaspora do not want to hear that. Because we are against the Israeli government we are also antisemitic. Along with Albo, Greens, local councils, teals, universities and the media, the good doctor points the pejorative finger at ‘hate marches’. I assume she means the hundreds of thousands of Australians who peacefully marched in support of the Palestinians. Why was this hateful doctor? Because Israel was being criticised? Because of the support of Palestinians? Or because everyone that marched was an antisemitic? Two insane jihadists should not be used by anyone in pursuit of a cohesive argument against the government, many institutions, or Australians in general. Frydenburg, Howard, Hanson and now Dr Phillips have used this strategy. It’s an illustrious crew, to be sure, but it’s going for the lowest common denominator. I believe if Israel acted as a responsible global citizen and stopped the apartheid system In place, stopped the neverending rate of expanding settlements and theft of Palestinian land, the absolute reliance on the US for their assistance, and maybe considered a Palestinian state, then this perceived antisemitism may end. How about the onus going on the UN (not Old Testament biblical) mandated Israel for a change? John Donnellan Ocean Shores

Cultural wisdom When will a majority of Jewish people and modern day Israelis take on board the wisdom of their own ancient scriptures where in the first book of the Torah (Genesis) it recounts how Cain, the son of Adam and Eve murdered his brother Abel out of jealousy, setting in train the Judaistic saying ‘an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth’. The fake outrage of Josh Frydenberg and Sussan Ley blaming PM Albanese or Allegra Spender as if they pulled the trigger at Bondi. The source of that brutal payback can be shafted home to where it falls squarely at the feet of Netanyahu and his genocidal war against the Arabs –Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, Iran. Isis and its training camps all over the world, including the island in the Philippines where the father and son got their training, was born out of two US invasions of Iraq with Israel cheering on, allowing US bombing Iraq to take place from Israeli air bases. No royal commission, no amount of federal police stationed at every tabernacle, Jewish school or public celebration will stop a madman terrorist father or son gunning down an innocent little Matilda and 14 others in revenge for the hundreds of thousands of innocent Muslim, Christians and non-sectarian Arabs who have fallen into the cross hairs of Netanyahu’s fanatical crusade. The only chance for Israelis to live in peace in their homeland is to elect a government that is committed to a two state solution, and picking up the tab with the US to rebuild Gaza, and a guarantee to the Palestinians living in the West Bank that no rabid right-wing Israeli new settlers will get away with murdering and firebombing them in their own homes and orchards as armed Jewish youth cry out, ‘Death to all Arabs!’ With 70-80 per cent of Israelis (including a lot of Zionists living in Australia) supporting Netanyahu and his modus operandi, I can’t see that happening. So we ALL must suffer and live in fear now. David Bradbury Wilsons Creek www.echo.net.au

Articles

What do we not get about death?

he day before Greg Mcqueen died in Brunswick Heads, the funeral director arrived at Greg’s home to organise his services. As ever, strong and sassy to the end – Greg was laying in his lounge room hospital bed. The family and I stood in sweltering March heat, as the cool-as-a-cucumber funeral director adjusted the cuff links beyond the sleeves of his navy blue Armani suit. He brought with him a well developed aura of austerity, fear and sadness as he ceremoniously opened the first page of the book – the book of coffins, caskets – boxes for dead people. He proudly showed us the one on the first page and he said, ‘this one is $10,000’. The Mcqueen family looked like they’d been doused in a bucket of ice water. Greg’s wife Angela looked at the book, and looked at the funeral director, and looked at me, and looked at her family, and looked at her dying husband who was enjoying the sun coming through the window, and looked back at the book. ‘Um. Well I don’t know…’ The clutches of the ‘butdon’t-you-want-the-best-foryour-dear-loved-one?’ grin had no effect on the funeral director’s audience. He turned the page and was in the middle of saying ‘this is quite a nice one for $8,000’, when I interjected and suggested there might be something more of a

The day before he died, Greg Mcqueen couldn’t care less about how shiny his coffin would be – he had his mind set on the death of this chocolate eclair. Photo Tree Faerie budget option. The relief in the room was visible, that is everyone but the funeral director who stared daggers at me while he flipped over to the very last page of his tome with a loud ‘floomp’. ‘Well, we have this plain pine one with rope handles for $1,800’. I was appalled by the man’s behaviour. ‘What do you think Greg?’ asked Angela from across the room. ‘I’m happy with that one,’ said Greg, and again I interjected and reminded them all that they would only be covering it with a Collingwood football flag anyway. ‘You won’t even see the box’. It was that day that I decided to make funerals more ‘user’ friendly. As a culture, we don’t do death well. We are not taught about it enough as children, we are frightened of it as adults and mostly, we just don’t know how to ‘be’ around it.

The knee jerk response to a death in white Australia is to immediately align oneself with the dearly or not-sodearly departed. All of a sudden there are ‘best friends’ popping up all over the place, and handfuls of ‘oh I went to school with them’, and ‘I used to shop on the street where they lived’ – we seem to need to bathe in the limelight surrounding the hole where someone once was. What is that? The other common phenomena is to home in on the people who really were close to the deceased and point out their faults – a local GP told me that is it very common for the care-giving children of an elder who has died or is dying, to be the subject of targeted character assassination from remote siblings, as a response to their own guilt. A woman I know spent almost four years, almost single-handedly (her choice),

living with her elder who didn’t want to go into a nursing home. Out of a blue, an interstate sibling who had always been congenial, turned into a slandering, bullying monster, who turned everyone’s life into a miserable abyss just as they were all grieving. WHAT IS THAT!? Yes, everyone grieves in a different way but it’s important that everyone UNDERSTANDS, that everyone grieves in a different way. Once we are born the only sure thing is that we will at some time, sooner or later, die. Wouldn’t it be better if we were prepared for that? How ‘normal’ would it be, and less mind, body and soul-wrenching if children were desensitised to the idea of death as a frightening ghoul waiting to pounce, and shown that, no matter the cause, it is a usual and expected part of our existence – people can attach whatever afterlife beliefs they want to it, but no matter where we end up, death is still part of the process, unavoidable, final and actually, ok. Imagine living life in a way that accommodated that… In an addendum to the Mcqueen story, his widow said the arrival of his cremains was an entirely different vignette to the Armani-clad coffin salesman. ‘When he turned up with Greg’s ashes he looked like he’d just walked off the beach, wearing thongs, a singlet and boardies.’ Ah, such is life – or death.

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Letters to the Editor www.echo.net.au/letters ▶ Continued from page 9 Relax Mandy, it’s Byron Bay – enjoy the views and chill out. Stop making it us against them and see Byron for what it really is: a place where with $10 you can have a better time than a millionaire, because the weather is hot, people are beautiful, and the vibes are high. Stop complaining, join a gym, do some squats, and maybe by this time next year you’ll join us bootylicious babes with butt cheeks hanging out of barely-there bikinis, buying batteries and blueberries at Aldi in Byron Bay. Sarah Brinkhege Suffolk Park

LëƐƆ şǔ Hats off to the Byron Shire Council for finally committing to a community consultation process for large projects (Echo Dec 31). After multiple failures and the resultant complete loss of faith and confidence by the community in Council, a motion was passed to formulate a process and engage with the community. Nice job. Someone’s listening. At last. What’s disturbing is that two councillors (Lyon and Dods) seemed content to lick their index fingers, stick

them in their ears, and sing ‘lalalalala’. Not us they say, we’re bloody geniuses, doing a great job, and know more than you jokers who actually live and work in our community (and care about it). Eat cake you imbeciles. Then our very well remunerated ‘leader from the shadows’, Council General Manager (GM) Mark Arnold chimes in with ‘not operationally feasible’. This can be translated as ‘I’m smarter than the councillors, and anyway, it’s too hard. We have our way and we’re always right. We’ve only got 400 or so employees, and it’s way past lunch time. Don’t you know we have homes to go to.’ Now the decision has been made and the motion passed, we can only hope that the reluctant councillors play some team ball, embrace it and work towards a plan that works for the community. Crs Lyon and Dods should park their egos (best hurry if 57 Station St is your parking preference). If not, they should resign. That’s democracy. As for the GM. The mayor should remind him that he is an employee, appointed by Council who has hire and fire authority over him. When given a directive from the board (Council in this

case), the GM’s job is to plan, execute, and deliver. GM’s don’t go all sooky-la-la because the democratically-elected Council did their job and gave clear direction to an employee who has been in the job a very long time and is perhaps getting a little too comfortable. So, councillors and Council staff, time to play your part in a team effort to win back confidence and engage the community in your decision-making matrix. Remember, fair-minded people want to be heard and will accept decisions if due process has been followed. Unlike some councillors we don’t always have to be right. Just heard. Jim Watts Mullumbimby

LëżżƷ ǫǧƐĲ Ɛş ¨Ĳĕȝ0ĈĲş, you rock! When I came to the Byron Shire over 30 years ago, there were three local newspapers. Since that time two have disappeared and others have come and gone. The Echo is still going after 40 years because they care about, and support us, above profit. It is truly the ‘echo’ of our community. We read about the local news, what went on in

Volume 8 ~ 2025-2026

Your free guide to the flourishing health and wellbeing industry of Byron and the Northern Rivers Do you need a massage, yoga class o r nourishing treatment th ese holidays ?

Head to the Byron Healin g website to view a host of wonderfu l spas, wellne ss centres, practitioners , classes and health based retailers in the region.

byronhealing.com.au 12 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

North Coast news online Council meetings, who died, who was born, what tradies to employ and what’s on. The generous space they allow for ‘Letters to the Editor’ means that everyone can have their say, and that is a privilege and freedom that I truly respect. The wonderful, ubiquitous Jeff Dawson and Eve Jeffery are always on hand to capture whatever is happening. Their photographic collections over the decades must be an incredible record of this Shire. There is the fabulous Mandy Nolan, love her or not, with her courage to speak out on important issues, usually balanced with her great sense of humour. She is an icon for many women. And the number of times Lilith’s astrological predictions have been spot on are uncanny. Right or wrong, she is always erudite, succinct and entertaining. Just what we need in these difficult times. Deep gratitude to the editor et al for their hard work each and every week, bringing us the news of what is going on in our neighbourhood, and their commitment to free press, free speech and free community notices. Despite increasing costs and difficulties staying afloat in these changing times, I think it is more important than ever to support our local newspaper. It is not some conglomerate distributing (not to homes mind you) ‘local’ newspapers purely for profit, boring as batshit and not even particularly relevant to our unique, colourful, inclusive community. So thank you to all the local advertisers who bring in the much-needed revenue to keep the Echo going. It is important to not take our local paper for granted. There will be no use rueing it if the worst happens and it disappears. Magenta Appel-Pye Mullumbimby

¨Ĳĕ ëĶſ şƖƐ ƐĲĕſĕ Walking along the Brunswick River through the sculpture park in town, it was a windy day today and as I walked the gusts of wind picked up dirt and some grass debris into tiny whirlwinds around me. I was walking where I had seen the Council contract workers spraying deadly Roundup and glyphosate in large amounts only weeks before. I cringed and tried to avoid breathing it in, as this stuff doesn’t just break down and go away. This evening I am prompted to put this down into words as I can tell that I have been again affected by this poisonous stuff being

charged into the air today. I have that telltale feeling of a dry raspy throat and that every so subtle burnt sensation on my lips and on the skin around my face and nose. Like you’re sunburnt without being in the sun. A common feeling if you have been exposed to herbicide chemicals even in very small amounts. After some billion dollar lawsuits recently in the US, and the indisputable findings of research now surfaced, into the devastating effects exposure to this stuff does to the human body, even in micro doses, has prompted total abolishment of any further use of these dangerous poisons. New legislation has followed the release of information that states, ‘Any use of such now deemed, deadly chemicals is dangerous, no matter how monitored and even when in small amounts’. Totally abolished from use in many parts of the world including the US, Roundup and herbicides that contain the notorious active ingredient of glyphosate have been proven to cause the most horrendous of illnesses and diseases. Found to also cause learning difficulties in small children, and can be associated in many gut and autoimmune disorders, respiratory conditions and hypersensitive reactions as well. With all this knowledge out there now, and the fact that findings have been so clear and damning that many countries have entirely abolished its use in agriculture, domestic and all forms of land management, why are we still using the stuff in the Byron Shire? What is Council thinking? My property in Mullum backs onto the river and there is a stretch of Crown land before the river bank. Over the years I have walked down there and on a number of occasions I have found the entire place blanket stained with that menacing green dye that is added to the ‘mix’ to show where Round Up has been sprayed. My family and my neighbours have been totally horrified and traumatised over the years to think that this deadly chemical is in use only metres from our house and metres from where tiny children play daily and there is nothing seemingly we can do about it. In the past I have written to the Council and telephoned them to let them know how it is affecting my health. Attempting to make a

change to this insane practice even if only near where we live, but they readily pass the buck and claim, ‘We hire outside contractors to do this work, so we don’t know what it is they use’. I mean what a good excuse and way to wash their hands of it. I knew someone a decade back who told me the Council hired him to spray Roundup at night – at night because they didn’t want everyone to know about it’. The young guys I saw spraying most recently were in a group of around seven or eight, they were once again poisoning the river bank along Riverside Drive. They weren’t wearing gloves, they didn’t have masks, and their shoes and clothing were bright green from the chemical splashing on them as they worked. In conclusion to all this, this poison was a product of the 1950s I believe. It came from the same laboratories that created Agent Orange*. This is a chronically outdated farming and land management method. One that should have been left in the dark past along with things like thalidomide and other such horrific, archaic, destructive chemical compounds. There are very good alternatives to its use and to clarify and inform those who are still of the ‘old school’ way of thinking, Roundup is dangerous even in small amounts. It not only affects humans but it deviates our important and intricate underground mycelium networks, it leaches into our waterways killing delicate systems like our diatoms and natural moss and algae. When this stuff is introduced into our beautiful and delicate bush land and water, it causes utter havoc, throwing out balance and destroying systems that are thousands of years old. Far better alternative systems are readily available. Simply steam technology can manage the same organic growth without risking so much in the process. Join me in petitioning the Byron Shire Council to lead the way to an organic Australia. Ask that they stop poisoning us for one and for all! Sally Law Mullumbimby Q *Roundup and Agent Orange are chemically different and developed decades apart. They did not come from the same laboratories but both were manufactured by Monsanto: Wikipedia. – Ed

www.echo.net.au

Articles

We Live Here Now David Lowe

he cyclist pedalled into the tiny town as the winter sun was setting. The railway which had given the place a reason to exist was now a bike track. Peanut sheds rusted slowly. Beyond them, a wetland with dying trees. The town was a pub and a few boarded-up shops. Deep red soil could be glimpsed in the distance, but nothing was growing now. A defensive-looking woman patrolled the perimeter of the camping area, her big dog pulling her one way and then another. The cyclist looked for a place to camp. There was a tree about halfway between a cluster of vehicles with a noisy generator and a van with a tent hanging off one side and solar panels catching the last of the light. He pulled up and leaned his bike on the tree, then started unpacking his gear. On the woman’s second loop of the perimeter, her big dog strained towards the tree. ‘She thinks that’s her tree.’ ‘I won’t be here long,’ said the cyclist. ‘Can we share?’ ‘Are you homeless too?’ asked the woman. With a smile, he gestured to the nylon and poles he was unpacking on the ground. ‘Well, I’ve got my tent.’ He held out a hand for the big dog to sniff, and she wagged her tail. ‘She likes you,’ said the woman, softening. It was hard to say how old she was, but her face was deeply

‘We used to live in Kingaroy, but the fuckin’ real estate was so greedy. Rent kept going up and up. Fuckin’ crazy.’ The weatherbeaten man examined him. ‘I used to be like you, you know.’

etched with wrinkles. ‘We’re just over there,’ she gestured, pointing towards the cars strung with lines in the corner of the camping area, powered by the generator. There was a caravan, an old Holden, a motorhome, and a battered BMW with the front bumper hanging off. The cyclist noticed most of the number plates were missing. ‘This is the night we usually go to the pub,’ she said. ‘They have pokies too.’ ‘Not really my thing,’ said the cyclist, as he fiddled with his tent poles. She took a step closer. ‘We used

The woman looked at him quizzically, then pulled her dog away, resuming her restless circling. Later, the cyclist was stirring his dinner in the twilight when a man loomed out of the shadows. He was even more weatherbeaten than the woman. ’The missus told me you were out here freezing your arse off. ‘Need a kettle, or a beer?’ The cyclist gestured to his little camping stove. ‘I’m all good thanks.’ The man gestured to the battered BMW. ‘Cunts stole it.’ ‘Sorry?’ ‘Coppers turn up sayn’ it was used in a ram raid, thought I’d fuckin’ done it. I told ‘em it was stolen. Don’t they check their fuckin’ paperwork? Said I’d never see the Beemer again. I found it though, fixed the cunts, towed it out here.’ The cyclist didn’t know quite what to say. The weatherbeaten man examined him.’I used to be like you, you know.’ What did he mean? Did this guy ride a push bike? It was hard to imagine him in lycra. Then the

to live in Kingaroy, but the fuckin’ real estate was so greedy. Rent kept going up and up. Fuckin’ crazy. We live here now.’ ‘Lucky there’s still places like this, I guess,’ he said. ‘Not many,’ she said. ‘Not enough.’ The dog started nosing into the cyclist’s food bag. The woman tried to pull her back. ‘Out of that, you.’ The cyclist stroked the dog’s big head. ‘She’s beautiful.’ The woman smiled. ‘She’s my treasure.’ She shivered in the wind. ‘Are you going to be warm enough, out here on your own?’ ‘I’ll be fine, thank you.’ ‘Well if you need anything, we’re’ just over there.’ ‘Thanks again.’

cyclist realised what the man meant – he used to be mobile. The vehicles were all unregistered. These people were stuck here. Understanding passed between the two men. ‘I’ll turn the genny off in a bit, let you get some shuteye.’ ‘No worries, it’s not bothering me.’ ‘Anything you need, anything at all, just sing out. We look after each other out here.’ The cyclist was touched. ‘Thanks mate.’ The weatherbeaten man nodded, and sidled away into the darkness. In the morning, council workers arrived early to mow the lawns and hose down the toilet block. They didn’t meet the eyes of the campers as they whipper-snipped around the outdoor museum exhibits, the tourist information boards and the abandoned CWA hall. When the cyclist had finished his breakfast and packed up his tent to go, there was still no sign of life from the other campers. Even their dogs were still asleep, despite all the noise. He was wondering whether to knock and say goodbye to his neighbours when a teenage girl returned from the toilet block, looked at him strangely, and slipped into the caravan. She must be their daughter. The cyclist wondered about the other people stranded quietly in this camping area, designed for tourists, but now a last refuge in a dangerous world. He heard the woman’s words again in his head. ‘We live here now.’ Clicking into his pedals, he rode away.

Around and about the Bay with JD Photos Jeff ‘don’t call me Bae-B’ Dawson

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Always saying it better with photos – The Echo’s chief snapper was out and about on the weekend enjoying the glorious convergence of ley lines that is Byron Bay. While there he captured in pixels: Byron Bay Surf Club drone pilot, Hielrick on patrol at Main Beach last Sunday. The drone will operate all January to enhance swimmer / surfer safety, especially with so much recent shark interaction with bait balls. And one of the his favourite models, Mandy Peters, flanked by Muz and Madi at Byron’s first Beachside Market for 2026.

&RZRUNLQJ 3ULYDWH 2IILFHV :RUNVKRSV (YHQWV www.echo.net.au

`ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ The Byron Shire Echo 13

Crossword by Stephen Clarke

Cryptic Clues

Quick Clues

ACROSS

1. Hunter’s companion let loose among Green leaders (3,3) 5. Brigade regrouped around captain in place of confinement (8) 9. Remove academic (8) 10. Oberon’s imp left, grasping medicinal plant (6) 11. Pecorino maybe? That’s tough! (4,6) 12. Pair have a thing (4) 13. Working through month with youth leader on system of government (8) 16. Second young Cyrus singer is cheerful (6) 17. Chess champ heard to complain over virtuoso’s opening (6) 19. Phoned in the middle of execution? That’s crazy (8) 21. Colloquially opposed to unrestrained party behaviour (4) 22. Victor Darling is lodged by me in return for spreading the word (10) 25. Spear antelope? That lacks a point (6) 26. Spooner’s call: wait for fish (8) 27. Ugly arse nude below the surface (8) 28. These changes right for book in Bible (6)

1. Retriever or pointer breed (3,3) 5. Aviary for pet finches or canaries (8) 9. Not representational or concrete (8) 10. Uncomplicated or easy (6) 11. Tough luck or misfortune (4,6) 12. Single article or piece (4) 13. System with king or queen as head (8) 16. Happy face emoticon (6) 17. Russian chess grandmaster (6) 19. Mentally disturbed or insane (8) 21. Opposed to, informally (4) 22. Spreading of religious faith (10) 25. Pierce through with sharp object (6) 26. Flat marine fish with venomous tail (8) 27. Beneath ocean surface (8) 28. Biblical queen of Persia (6)

DOWN

2. Complete shadow during eclipse (5) 3. Old-fashioned or showing age (5) 4. Visual or explicit in detail (7) 5. Device storing electrical energy (7) 6. Bacon slices (7) 7. Agency or board with administrative or juducial authority (9) DOWN 8. Duck species or Bond film (9) 2. Shadow in part of Italy I avoided (5) 14. Ulster Protestant fraternity 3. Time to finally shed old hat (5) member (9) 4. Pictorial shows wine maker, briefly 15. Attached body part or limb (9) in fashion, missing opening (7) 18. Film or television audience 5. Nuts every other bear kept in members (7) storage unit (7) 19. Salt lake between Jordan and 6. Rex has shears adapted for bacon (7) Israel (4,3) 7. Conservative old men calling for 20. Syncopated piano music style (7) cut (9) 23. Genuine or authentic (slang) (5) 8. Spooner’s antique gent in Bond 24. Area sheltered from sunlight (5) movie (9) 14. POTUS on occasions a loyal Protestant! (9) 15. Extension of application to finish on time (9) Last week’s solution #88 18. People looking at six old Roman S E L F P O R T R A I T jugs (7) S G U V E P H B 19. Spooner’s quoted letter on expanse T O O T S I E R O N D E A U of water (4,3) T I N R E S T A P A R A K E E T 20. Echo, for example, arranged item of R U R A L I I R F U E T piano music (7) U S E R I M P R E S A R I O 23. Allowed to run away! (5) R C R I F N V E R M I C E L L I G U L L 24. Ghost in Hades is treated badly (5)

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

STARS BY LILITH The powerful planetary quartet of the Sun, Mars, Venus and Mercury, all in organised Capricorn, usher in a responsible, no-nonsense start to the new year…

CAPRICORN THE GOAT

I C B L O N G S H O T S E U O C L E A V E R E E S K D O N K E Y

N O LA N

’S

E A N S L U N G I K N E B L A D D E R I T E S S Y E A R S

hen I was a kid we used to swim in the river. Local waterways were full of fish and yabbies. We’d grab a giant inner tube from a tractor tyre and eight of us would fight to stay on the slippery surface. It was the closest thing we had to technology. Living inland, rivers and creeks were our swimming holes. Rivers could be placid or raging or still or fierce. They were places of serenity. Places of contemplation. Places we met for picnics. Places teenagers went to have sex. Or to avoid it. I never thought about these rivers as wild places because they were part of a broader ecosystem where we lived and they weren’t separate from the bush. Trees ran down to the riverbank, we’d walk a well-worn path to find a grassy bank to lay our towels. These were places where snakes and birds and lizards and koalas lived. Where frogs spawned, where eggs hatched, where life continued in its mundane yet miraculous life-death cycle. There is something potent about being on the river. It’s humbling to be held on its surface. To softly enter a quieter world. To watch lizards jump from river banks for a morning swim. To observe myself in distorted reflections on the ripples. Our rivers used to run crystal clear. No more. Our coastal river, the Richmond River is one of the sickest in NSW. Possibly the country. Possibly the world. Yesterday I spent time kayaking on the Richmond with Steve Posselt and Graeme Gibson – two blokes who know this river like an old friend. Albeit, an old sick friend. Last year they headed up the river in a tinnie to report back on how their old friend was going. Not so good. Steve told me of all the rivers he’d been on, including the Thames … the Richmond was the sickest. The Richmond River begins at the NSW-Queensland border and flows south-east for around 170 kilometres to the ocean at Ballina. And she is dying. This isn’t just what Steve and Graeme say, it comes from the mouths of the fishermen we came across pulling

ARIES: Your celestial cheerleader Mars, currently in its most mature and grown-up mode, strengthens your natural leadership skills to inspire others when morale needs boosting this year, because it takes the Aries kind of confidence and courage to believe that our individual actions do make a difference. TAURUS: Your planet guide Venus in the zodiac’s most no-nonsense earth sign suits Taurans’ practical nature right down to the ground. And Uranus retrograde’s last lessons before it moves forward are encouraging an in-depth review of your finances, standards and personal values, and a rethink of possibly limiting habits or mindsets. GEMINI: This week’s Saturnian template benefits from ruthless self-examination, as in deciding what you want more of this year, what less of, and where you’re prepared to spend your time, finances and emotional energy. Even small adjustments can make big strides towards a newer, happier, more successful you.

14 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

MANDY

Mandy Nolan

Soapbox www.echo.net.au/soap-box

A Voice for the River

#89

There is something potent about being on the river. It’s humbling to be held on its surface. To softly enter a quieter world. mullet from their nets. They talk about blackwater – where rotting vegetation takes oxygen from the water. In some parts of the river, the oxygenation is less than 1%. They talk about soil run off creating acid sulphate. Fish kills. Skin coming off the hands of a fisherman one day when he forgot his gloves. Who even knows the full extent of what the floods did to the Richmond? These are stories of river users. People who see this river every day. Who know. They tell me what I am looking at. I see the bruises of our colonised river. The muddy riverbanks that should be flourishing riparian zones. Instead they are heavily populated with vines and the red flowering coral tree, an invasive

CANCER: For the first half of January, Venus is assisting you in assessing relationships: culling those you’ve outgrown, deleting time-wasting energy-drainers, refining personal and professional partnerships for more beneficial outcomes. Figuring out how to support others this year while being clear about what you need from them. LEO: Your primo planet the Sun, accompanied by Mercury, Mars and Venus in this week’s VIP lounge, agree that your majesty’s astral advice for this year is to focus on the best and forget the rest. Use this mantra as your PGS (personal guidance system) and apply it to work, relationships and expectations. VIRGO: Venus, Mars and Mercury in a fellow earth sign are making you an attraction factor for love and money: how good is that? Also advising that this year less is more. As in less stress equals more fun. Less work, more play – so keep choosing what makes your heart sing rather than sink.

LIBRA: Libra’s guiding planet Venus in her most practical, ambitious and up-market mode invites you fashionistas to commence this year with your signature flair, and proceed as you mean to continue: by knuckling down, buckling up and making that look like the latest, up-to-datest style statement. SCORPIO: Putting a few simple, elegant changes into place could enrich your life this year. This week’s astrological energies suggest starting with a reassessment of social and intimate relationships, giving special attention to whether these share your values, and if they’d be willing to work through tough times together. SAGITTARIUS: Jupiter retrograde suggests starting this year by letting go of something you know you don’t need anymore. If this includes letting go of social connections you’ve outgrown, then spend some time figuring out what this new reality might look like, and how you’ll translate this inner decision to outer reality.

species that chokes the place where native vegetation should be. The waters look thick and black in parts. Cows graze in unfenced paddocks. Cane is cropped just metres from the water’s edge. ‘It’s about the sponge’ Graeme and Steve both tell me. They tell me that understanding river health is about understanding the impact of the broader systems. The role the wetland, now repurposed for agriculture via some 200 floodgates . Ah, the separation of connected systems for human endeavours never goes well. The solutions? Repairing and replanting riparian zones. Fencing farmland. And the need to start this important work at the top of the catchment, and work down. A strategy towards river health. Can our ‘wounded’ river be healed? Yes. But it takes political will. And it takes money. It takes the involvement of the business community. Of farmers. Of scientists. Of river users. And two blokes in a tinnie. It takes a community to stand for their river. To be a loud voice for a river who can barely breathe. Before it’s too late. Q 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: Even your high-level standards couldn’t order up a more auspicious planetary power package than this week’s celestial quartet of cosmic boss sun, celebrity Venus, assertive Mars and persuasive Mercury all conferring in Capricorn to download instructions for launching you into a confident, charismatic and capable new year. AQUARIUS: With your planetary guide Uranus igniting, inciting and inviting exciting new initiatives, your tolerance for the same old same old is at an all-time low, making this the perfect time to fall in love with your life all over again – an enterprise supported by this year’s call for constant and consistent self-nourishment. PISCES: With four planets currently in the sign of traditional list writing, there’s indisputably no better week for getting clear on where you might like to be a year from now. And to choose and commit to one thing you’re willing to do every day to make that happen.

www.echo.net.au

Comment / Local News

John Howard knew, and looked the other way David Lowe

he latest release of previously secret Cabinet papers, from 2005, show that John Howard and his government were perfectly aware of the dangers presented to Australia by the emerging climate crisis, but chose to bury their heads in the sand. A detailed submission to Cabinet by two senior ministers at the time, Alexander Downer (Foreign Affairs), and Ian Campbell (Environment) noted that: ‘The climate is definitely changing. There is clear evidence that global and Australian average temperatures increased during the late 20th century. The pace of global temperature change is unprecedented in human history, with the current atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide 30 per cent higher than at any time during the past 400,000 years’.

‘There is new and stronger evidence that the observed changes in climate are in part applicable to human activities.’ The report goes on to say that serious planetary transformations, such as decreases in Arctic sea ice and increases in ocean acidity, ‘are occurring more quickly than previously predicted’, noting that the evidence showed Australia was even more vulnerable to climate change than other developed countries (including the US, and those in Europe), with serious impacts expected on ‘water resources, agricultural systems, electricity supply, transport infrastructure, human health, urban and coastal communities, and tourism.’ With repeated instructions not to be copied or reproduced, the Cabinet document then predicts ‘more frequent and intense bush fires’, increased salinity

Former Australian prime minister, John Howard, in his happy place, at Lord’s, in 2005. Photo Peter West/NAA and erosion, and southward movement of weeds, pests and diseases, with thermal inertia meaning that any action taken immediately wouldn’t have any noticeable effect for years.

Broad agreement ‘While there are some outliers, the international scientific community is in broad agreement on the science of climate change,’ the document warns.

‘The magnitude of the mitigation challenge is huge. Globally, the International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that some 26 billion tons of carbon dioxide will need to be displaced by 2050 to achieve carbon dioxide levels double pre-industrial levels. This is equivalent to replacing 7,800 conventional 500-megawatt coal power plants with “zero emission” plants.’ So what did John Howard’s government do with

this information, which was delivered by their own trusted people, and informed by the latest science? They maintained their earlier decision not to ratify the Kyoto protocol on carbon emissions (which came into effect in 2005), rejected recommendations to strengthen Australia’s renewable energy target, and flatly refused to consider an emissions trading scheme. A couple of years later, the Liberals finally accepted the need for such a scheme, as a response to the charging behemoth of Labor’s Kevin07, but it was much too late by then, and John Howard and his government were swept from office. The pathetic, fossil fueldirected machinations of Howard’s successors, including Tony Abbott and Scott Morrison, ultimately led to the Coalition’s ludicrous current position, of abandoning

net zero and climate science completely, despite the worst predictions of the secret 2005 report all coming true by 2025, and then some. Former environment minister Ian Campbell managed to retain some shreds of dignity after leaving politics, joining the International Advisory Board for the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, while fellow Liberal Alexander Downer became one of the ‘outliers’ mentioned in his own report, questioning climate science and the need for net zero policies while in the employ of Rupert Murdoch’s News Corp. Whatever the price of mitigating the disastrous effects of climate change in Australia, if such a thing is even possible, the price is now exponentially higher than it was 21 years ago, when John Howard’s government had the opportunity to act, and did nothing.

wǔĶĈĕ şĪ dşĈëō EşưĕſŕŔĕŕƐ ƆƐşŔżƆ ĶŕƐş !şƖŕĈĶō ŔĕĕƐĶŕīƆ Paul Bibby

yron Shire locals generally don’t take kindly to external powers attempting to curtail their opportunities for discussion and debate. So the NSW government’s decision to impose a new mandatory code of meeting practice for all Councils late last year was not welcomed with open arms. Drawing particular opposition was the prohibition on conducting public access forums as part of Council meetings – something which has been a feature of our local democracy for many years. While the option to hold separate ‘public forums’ in Council will mean that the

community will still be able to have their say on agenda issues, it appears there will be no opportunity to make general submissions or to formally ask ‘questions on notice’.

ƖĕƆƐĶşŕƆ şŕ ŕşƐĶĈĕ ſĕŔşưĕĎ ĪſşŔ ŔĕĕƐĶŕīƆ The Office of Local Government (OLG) claims that its new rules will ensure that proceedings are ‘orderly, transparent, and consistent with democratic principles’. But the prohibition on public access at Council meetings seems likely to have the opposite effect. ‘There are real problems with not being able to bring

questions to the floor, and to discuss items which aren’t under the agenda,’ Byron Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said during the last Council meeting. ‘As a councillor, I find it such a wonderful way for people from the community to bring a problem – like the Old Bangalow Road issues – to councillors’ attention’. ‘We can’t be everywhere… but we can have this open forum where people can bring these things to us, and it also allows them to be on the public record and for staff to have a public response. ‘I’m really disappointed. We discussed potentially wanting to try and make changes [to the mandatory

rules] but the chances are that would just draw attention.’ In an attempt to maintain the status quo as much as possible, Council will hold public forums immediately prior to its Thursday Council meetings. The forums will be held between 9am and 10.30am, with the meeting to immediately follow at 11am. A further change taking place this year is that Council’s planning meeting and its ordinary meeting will no longer be held separately. Instead, there will be one combined Council meeting on the third Thursday of each month from 11am to 6pm. Other key changes to the Code of Meeting Practice,

as mandated by the state government include:

ÈşƐĶŕī şŕ żōëŕŕĶŕī ĎĕĈĶƆĶşŕƆ Where a Council makes a planning decision that is inconsistent with the recommendation made in a staff report, it must provide reasons for its decision and why it did not adopt the staff recommendation.

lëŊĶŕī ĶŕĪşſŔëƐĶşŕ żƖćōĶĈȞ The general manager must publish business papers for items of business, considered during meetings that have been closed to public, on Council’s website

as soon as practicable after the information contained in the business papers ceases to be confidential.

0ƶżƖōƆĶşŕ şĪ ƐĲĕ żƖćōĶĈ Members of the public can be expelled from Council meetings for engaging in ‘disorder’. This includes: speaking at meetings without being invited to, bringing flags, signs, or protest symbols to meetings, disrupting meetings, and making unauthorised recordings of meetings. Failure to leave a meeting when expelled is an offence under s660 of the Local Government Act, which carries a maximum fine of $2,100.

Calling All Sports The Echo wants to support you. Please send stories, pics, match reports, upcoming events, tall tales (not too tall mind you), results and anecdotes to sport@echo.net.au. www.echo.net.au

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Good Taste

Eateries Guide LENNOX HEAD

BILLINUDGEL Rosefina’s Mexican MEXICAN

Thursday/Friday open from 4pm to late Happy Hour 4pm to 5.30pm Saturday 12 to 2.30pm, 5pm to late Sunday 12.30 to 8pm 8/10 Wilfred St, Billinudgel www.rosefinas.place

Lennox Pizza

Rosefina’s is going street-style with BBQ tacos for Sunday lunch

BANGALOW

4/74 Ballina St, Lennox Head Open Mon–Thurs from 3pm Fri–Sun from 12pm Online pick up orders available daily 12pm HAPPY HOUR: 3pm–5pm daily

Views, Brews, Cocktails, Beats, and Eats! Live Music Friday, Sunday. Bookings essential. Head to lennoxpizza.com Follow on Insta: @lennoxpizza

MULLUMBIMBY Bangalow Tuckshop Open: Tue for dinner Wed to Sat for lunch and dinner 43 Byron Street, Bangalow bangalowtuckshop.com hello@bangalowtuckshop.com.au @Bangalowtuckshop

Where good food and good times bump into each other and decide to stay for a drink. They’ve taken modern Aussie cuisine, given it a cheeky spin, and packed it with the best locally sourced produce the Northern Rivers has to offer. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Tuckshop offers a dining experience that feels both special and familiar at the same time.

Bacco Wine Bar Opening Hours: Wednesday – Sunday Opening times: 3pm – late Happy Hour: 3 – 5pm Email: bacco.mullumbimby@gmail.com Phone: 0434 450 415 Instagram: @bacco.mullumbimby

BYRON BAY

Bar Henri 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

NO BONES Kitchen + Bar. 11 Fletcher Street, BYRON BAY 0481 148 007

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. Join the Crystalbrook Crowd (it’s free) and save 10% on all food and drinks. From Tuesday to Saturday, indulge in Golden Hour from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

PXOOXPELPE\ HVW

Distillery & Tiki Bar Open 10am- 5pm Tuesday to Saturday. 4 Banksia Drive, Byron Bay lordbyrondistillery.com.au (02) 8646 4901

Olivewood Bistro

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 Murwillumbah Golf Club Open Lunch Monday – Sunday

Dinner Tuesday – Sunday

Book via our website and celebrate the season. www.nobones.co/whats-on

We have something for everyone... • Distillery Tour and Tasting • Gin Distilling Class • Cocktail Classes Book Online

Call: (02) 6672 1799 www.murwillumbahgolfclub.com.au

Threeways of the Valley

Wednesday – Sunday 8am – 3pm (kitchen closes at 2pm, drinks & treats till 3pm) Saturday Evenings Pizza Nights 4:30pm – 7:30pm Friday Specials 4:30 – 9pm See website for upcoming events. 10 Huonbrook Rd, Wilsons Creek 0421 054 484 | www.threeways.store @ threeways_of_the_valley

Exciting and seasonal food, live music every Sunday arvo, happy hour 3–5pm Friday to Sunday & our famous Sunday roast.

Open every day from 7am. Mon-Thurs: breakfast & lunch Fri-Sun: breakfast, lunch & dinner

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

Latin fusion all-day dining Come and try our new summer menu. Savour our Open: chargrilled anticuchos, indulge in fresh ceviche & Every day (except Wednesday) oysters, or elevate your night with the Roca dining from 6:30am to late experience. Pair it all with a classic Pisco Sour or our best-selling Hot Like Papi cocktail. 14 Lawson St, Byron Bay JUST OPENED: Roca Cabana – our brand new (02) 5642 0149 pool bar in the heart of Byron Bay. @rocabyronbay Follow us to find out more: @roca.cabana www.rocabyronbay.com.au

We warmly welcome Olivewood Bistro to Murwillumbah Golf Club. Locals know Le Ping and Simone from their time running ’White Olive’ where they built a strong reputation for excellent food and warm hospitality.

Nestled in the lush Wilsons Creek rainforest, Threeways is a vibrant, familyfriendly cafe where nature, nourishment, and community meet. Enjoy seasonal, seed-oil free food, all-day breakfast, woodfired pizza nights, and upcoming Friday events. With Wi-Fi, gluten-free options, and space to relax or play, there’s something for everyone.

CATERING

‘Make a meal of it’ Add chips and a drink, just $5.

Located at The Farm 11 Ewingsdale Rd. (02) 6190 8966

Enjoy live music and entertainment in the heart of Mullumbimby.

WILSONS CREEK

Open for takeaway daily, 12 midday until dinner. Menu and more details @mainstreet_burgerbar

About Us: Family-owned and Frenchinspired menu, we serve locally-sourced produce alongside a selection of natural, minimal-intervention wines and carefully curated cocktails.

MURWILLUMBAH

Celebrate Christmas at No Bones! Enjoy a vibrant five-course holiday banquet filled with festive flavours and indulgent dishes. Gather your loved ones and let us make your holiday one to remember.

Lord Byron Distillery

Roca Byron Bay

Opening Hours: Wednesday to Friday & Monday: 3pm – late. Tuesday: closed. Saturday & Sunday: 8am – late 20 Burringbar St, Mullumbimby (02) 6684 2306

Your favourite new wine and charcuterie board bar in Mullumbimby. Italian aperitivo in true enoteca style. Buon cibo. Buon vino. Buon amici.

CELEBRATIONS BY LIZ JACKSON

Celebrations Cakes by Liz Jackson

lizzijjackson@gmail.com 0414 895 441 Gluten free and special dietary needs catered for.

FEATURE YOUR CAFE OR RESTAURANT HERE IN THE ECHO’S GOOD TASTE DINING GUIDE If you’re serious about advertising and want your business served hot to a loyal, local audience of 50,000+ readers every week, The Echo is the only publication cooking up this level of reach in the Northern Rivers. Targeting the Byron Shire and beyond? We hand-deliver 22,000 copies weekly to homes and businesses and run our restaurant guide online at echo.net.au – so your ad gets gobbled up, not left to go stale in a stand or buried under yesterday’s memes. Get in touch with The Echo sales team to list your restaurant or cafe in GOOD TASTE, print and online. Contact: 6684 1777 or adcopy@echo.net.au

16 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

www.echo.net.au

The

Good Life

A Happy and Healthy New Year in 2026 The new year often arrives with a familiar feeling: after weeks of indulgent meals, festive treats and celebratory drinks, your body is quietly asking for a reset. Summer stretches ahead with long golden days, ocean swims and balmy evenings, the perfect time to feel light, energised and well. The farmers’ markets are the ideal place to begin. Start by supporting your gut with nourishing fermented foods and effervescent drinks. Look out for kombucha from Organic Forest, crafted with organic ingredients and a gentle natural fizz, alongside traditional herbal jamu, known for its warming, digestive benefits. Byron Fermentary is also a must-visit, using ingredients grown themselves or by local farmers, therefore offering seasonal ferments that change regularly – proof that krauts can be far more exciting than just cabbage. You’ll also find Yogi Nectar, a water kefir that supports improved gut health, stronger immunity and better digestion, available as refreshing drinks and probiotic gels. If you’re kicking off the new year gluten-free, be sure to check out Breadicine. Their range of breads,

muffins, pizza bases, brownies and biscuits prove that gluten-free can still be deeply satisfying. On The Ripe Side and Jungle Juice both make amazing, health-focused juices and smoothies, using fresh, seasonal produce. On the Ripe Side also prepares a delicious range of chia puddings and colourful Buddha bowls, all vegan-friendly and designed to nourish without weighing you down. Add extra vitality with Energetic Greens, offering crisp sprouts and powerful wheatgrass shots, and Sprout Lovers, whose sprouted legumes are easy to digest and rich in plant-based protein. For a clean, calm lift, explore Matcha Man’s matcha drinks, delivering sustained energy and antioxidants without the coffee crash. With so many thoughtful, small-batch producers in one place, the markets turn good intentions into delicious habits. Start the year gently, nourish your body from the ground up, and let summer be about feeling refreshed, light and truly energised. Q Find these products at Mullum Farmers Market

every Friday from 7 am to 11 am and New Brighton Farmers Market every Tuesday from 8 am to 11 am.

This healthy and delicious Buddha bowl is from On The Ripe Side.

Savvy: award-winning Australian performance nutritional products Mark Curry is the founder and nutritionist behind Savvy, the award-winning Australian brand pioneering performance nutrition. A functional nutritionist and former lawyer of the Supreme Court of NSW, Mark is passionate about helping people feel better, think clearer, and perform at their best through smarter, science-backed nutrition. At Savvy, he leads a team of scientists and health professionals to create functional foods and beverages using nootropics and adaptogens to boost focus, balance energy, and build resilience to stress. His expertise extends beyond his brand: he is an Honorary Fellow at UTS, a Startups Mentor, Vice Chair of an Australian mental health charity, and a University Medallist recognised for excellence across law, business, and health. Before founding Savvy, Mark practised law for three years until burnout forced him to reassess. Determined to understand the mind-body connection, he retrained in nutrition despite carrying significant student debt. With no investors or safety net, he bootstrapped Savvy from the ground up, driven to make everyday mental wellness accessible. Mark has kept complete control over quality, formulating award-winning products with over 25 times higher active ingredients than many brands. He is obsessed with making things as healthy and effective as possible, spending months experimenting with natural ingredients. His Savvy Cola, for example, achieves its rich brown colour naturally using black tea instead of artificial dyes. Every Savvy product is created in collaboration with Australian health professionals, naturopaths, and food scientists. The brand was first proven in high-performance workplaces like law firms and tech companies, not supermarkets. From those early Byron Bay beginnings, Savvy has grown into one of Australia’s fastest-rising wellness brands, stocked in over 1,000 retailers and recognised as the NSW winner in the Telstra Best of Business Awards. Mark continues to use business as a force for good, supporting charities like Beyond Blue, Life Education, and the Black Dog Institute, advocating for mental fitness.

www.echo.net.au

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Acrylic on canvas by Daniela Ulloa Kids Art classes - Ocean Shores ulloa.dani@gmail.com / @dani.artforkids

ART GALLERIES ARTIST STUDIO GALLERY

BURRINGBAR GALLERY

LONE GOAT GALLERY

Belongil Beach Open by appointment 0409 604 405 janrae7.weebly.com

Open Wednesday to Sunday 10am–4pm (or by appointment) 0408 998 446 6184 Tweed Valley Way, Burringbar www.burringbargallery.com.au

28 Lawson St, Byron Bay (located in the Byron Library building) Open Wednesday to Saturday 10am–4pm lonegoatgallery.com

ARTIST’S STUDIO GALLERY

GALLERY COSMOSIS

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

Visionary Art 22 Brigantine St, Byron Bay Open Thurs to Sat 10.30am–3pm or by appointment 0431 331 205 gallerycosmosis.com

BLACK FIG GALLERY

GARAGE GALLERY

Exhibiting Northern Rivers Artists Shop 7, Alstonville Plaza Wednesday to Friday 10am–4pm and Saturday 10am–2pm (or by appointment) 0480 676 957 blackfiggallery.com.au | @blackfiggallery

BLUE KNOB HALL GALLERY Blue Knob 719 Blue Knob Road, Lillian Rock Open Thursday to Sunday 10am–3pm 02 6689 7449 Blueknobgallery.com

BYRON CLAY WORKERS GALLERY Fairview Studios Open 10am–4pm Saturdays and Sundays John Stewart 0406 404 335 byronclayworkersgallery.com.au

18 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

‘Community Arts Hub’ (Byron Community College) Cnr Gordon & Burringbar Streets, Mullumbimby @mullum.garage.gallery 02 6684 3374

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

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

LISMORE REGIONAL GALLERY 11 Rural St, Lismore, Bundjalung Country NSW Open Wednesday to Sunday 10am–4pm, Thursdays until 6pm lismoregallery.org | @lismoreregionalgallery

MULLUMBIMBY CLAYWORKERS GALLERY Drill Hall Complex, 2 Jubilee Ave, Mullumbimby Open Thursday to Saturday 11am–3pm mullumclayworkers.com

MZ GALLERY Byron Bay Contemporary Artspace 57 Tennyson Street, Byron Bay 0468 718 045 www.byronartspace.com

NORTHERN RIVERS COMMUNITY GALLERY Cnr Cherry & Crane Sts, Ballina Open Wed–Fri 9am–3pm, Sat–Sun 9.30am–1pm 02 6681 0530 nrcgballina.com.au

STUDIO SUVIRA Ceramics & Sculpture Gallery Home gallery and sculpture garden 28 Left Bank Rd, Mullumbimby 0402 125 922 (call/text first) suviramcdonald.com

TWEED REGIONAL GALLERY & MARGARET OLLEY ART CENTRE Gallery hours: Wed–Sun 10am–4pm Café open: Wed-Fri 10am–4 pm, Sat-Sun 9am–4pm 2 Mistral Rd, Murwillumbah 02 6670 2790 gallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au

www.echo.net.au

KARENA WYNN-MOYLAN Karena Wynn-Moylan is an award-winning artist who over three decades has produced many beautiful paintings of the Northern Rivers area. This year, for the first time, she has made available artist’s quality fine art prints of her work. Printed onto 100% acid-free archival Hahnemuhle paper, there are ten images available. The prints are as close as possible to the original painting size ( A2 or slightly smaller). To see the full range of ten images currently available, scan the QR Code in the ad below to view video. Ready for framing, at $250 ,they are a beautiful, affordable version of this accomplished artist’s work. Please allow three weeks for delivery. Enq: wynnmoylan@gmail.com

LISMORE GALLERY

ART IN THE HEART OF MULLUMBIMBY: EXHIBITION 11

This holiday season, make time to visit Lismore Regional Gallery, the vibrant cultural heart of the Northern Rivers. With free entry and ample parking, it’s the perfect way to spark creativity while exploring the hinterland. The gallery features five beautifully renewed spaces, celebrating contemporary and traditional art. On view now is Clare Milledge’s Complex notophyll vine forest: ground proof; Club Ate’s Ex Nilalang, episodes 1 – 4; and Sonka Pietrek’s Memory of motion.

Step into colour, imagination, and community spirit at the Mullumbimby Comprehensive Health Centre, where the H’Art Gallery proudly presents its 11th six-monthly exhibition. This much-loved showcase features over 30 works by ten talented local artists, curated by acclaimed graphic impressionist Solveig.

Creative programs welcome all ages and abilities, join us for a weaving workshop with Kyra Togo on Saturday, 17 January, and Collage Club with guest artist Cassie Lee Fleming on Thursday, 22 January. Whether you’re a local, or visitor to the area, make the gallery a highlight of your holidays.

From bold canvases to intricate details, the two-floor gallery offers visitors a fresh experience every six months, ensuring there’s always something new to spark inspiration. More than art on the wall, the exhibition transforms the health centre into a sanctuary of creativity, bringing brightness and calm to patients, visitors, and staff alike.

Open Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 4pm Thursdays until 6pm 11 Rural Street, Lismore NSW 2480

Located on Stuart Street, the H’Art Gallery is truly art at the heart of Mullumbimby. Don’t miss this celebration of local talent! Enquiries: info@solveig.com.au Mullumbimby Comprehensive Health Centre 60 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby

GALLERY

Clare Milledge, ‘S: gel radiance’ 2023. Courtesy the artist and STATION Gallery.

HOLIDAY HOURS 7 – 11 January Wednesday to Sunday 10am – 4pm Thursday 10am – 6pm lismoregallery.org

www.echo.net.au

LISMORE REGIONAL GALLERY

Art in the heart INSPIRED LOCAL ART

11 Rural St, Lismore

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CUA31125 CERTIFICATE III IN VISUAL ARTS 2026 Apply Now, Places Filling Fast Applications are closing soon for Byron Community College’s nationally recognised CUA31125 Certificate III in Visual Arts, and now is the time to apply before limited subsidised places* are gone. This vibrant course is perfect for anyone ready to grow their creative skills in a supportive, hands on environment. Students explore drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking and mixed media while developing a confident artistic voice. The course blends art theory with practical techniques, encouraging experimentation and creative growth. Graduates leave with a strong foundation, a developing professional portfolio and clear pathways into further study or personal creative practice.

BYRON WRITERS FESTIVAL WORKSHOP

www.byroncollege.org.au or call 02 6684 3374 for more details. *For eligible students. This training is subsidised by the NSW Government. RTO 90013

Writing Trauma in Memoir and Story Learn how trauma shapes memory, language and narrative, and how to write the arc of posttraumatic growth in memoir and story with psychologist and author, David Roland. This trauma-informed workshop is designed for writers and memoirists who seek to explore and express personal or witnessed trauma with care, skill and authenticity. Through guided writing exercises, reflective practices, and thoughtful discussion, participants will learn how to portray trauma, healing and post-traumatic growth, and maintain emotional well-being while writing difficult truths. This workshop is suitable for writers of all levels and writing backgrounds, and ideal for those ready to tell powerful, honest stories that tap into vulnerability and resilience. Find out more at byronwritersfestival.com

TWEED REGIONAL GALLERY re/JOY is a major exhibition by Thai-born Australian artist, Vipoo Srivilasa, that honours and celebrates the multi-layered personal migration stories of people from all over the world who have made Australia home. The exhibition examines the emotional connection we have with everyday objects and their role in our lives through migration experiences and memories. re/JOY is an Australian Design Centre national touring exhibition (ADC On Tour), presented with assistance from the Australian Government Visions of Australia program, and Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm. 2 Mistral Road Murwillumbah gallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au

ǲǰǲǶ

CUA31125

Certificate III in Visual Arts limited subsidised places available

GARAGE GALLERY x££ÈËċ µ¸è£ Ą ¸Ë Ë£ɠ Ù®®£è¸Ò¯ £ ¸ ô£ ìå £ ®Ùè èô¸ìôì ôÙ ìµÙą ì£ ôµ£¸è ąÙèÈɟ

15 Nov 2025 – 8 Feb 2026 re/JOY is an Australian Design Centre (ADC On Tour) national touring exhibition, presented with assistance from the Australian Government Visions of Australia program and Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body. Vipoo Srivilasa Dance of Dreams (detail) 2024 ceramic and mixed media, 62 x 29 x 20 cm. Photo: Simon Strong © The artist

Wed – Sun, 10am – 4pm DST | 2 Mistral Rd, Murwillumbah | gallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au The Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre is a Tweed Shire Council Community Facility and is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW.

20 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

APPLY NOW! BBB -D=:9.:77020 :=2 ,@ .@>?:80=.,=0#-D=:9.:77020 :=2 ,@ This training is subsidised by the NSW Government.

www.echo.net.au

o l l e H

summer Vae Medical Aesthetics This summer season get event-ready with Vae Medical Aesthetics in Newrybar. Vae offers Broad-Band Light and Moxi Laser, cosmetic injectables, bioremodelling/ biostimulating treatments, Rejuran (salmon facial), SkinPen Microneedling, PRP treatments, and Healite LED packages. Vae is a doctor-led-and-owned clinic offering considered and evidence-based skin treatments and rejuvenation in the beautiful Byron Bay hinterland. Book in today with one of their lovely female GPs; Dr Jemma Buultjens, Dr Kate Allan and RN Emma Walker. www.vaemedicalaesthetics.com @vaemedicalaesthetics 16 Old Paciﬁc Highway, Newrybar 0422 639 013

Beyond Byron E Bikes Looking for an unforgettable adventure this school holiday break? Beyond Byron E Bikes, located in Mooball - closest to the Byron Bay end of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, offers a fantastic way to explore, with rides designed for ultimate comfort and fun. Their German-made e-bikes feature gel seats and puncture-proof tyres, ensuring a smooth journey as you take in stunning natural scenery. Families are well catered for with kids’ e-bikes, tag-a-longs, baby seats, and even dog trailers for furry companions. Riders can enjoy leisurely breaks and plenty of delicious options along the way. Easy online booking at www.beyondbyronebikes.com.au

RAIL TRAIL E BIKE HIRE COME RIDE WITH THE BEST! • Starting from Mooball (onsite parking) • Puncture proof tyres & gel seats • Most 5-star reviews • $99 for up to 6 hrs hire

A doctor led and owned skin, laser and cosmetic clinic Get your skin summer ready with our team We offer Broad Band Light and Moxi Laser, cosmetic injectables including volume, bio-remodelling / bio-stimulating, anti-wrinkle, PRP treatments, hydrafacial, chemical peels and Healite LED packages. We are offering complimentary skin consultations for the month of December! Book in today with one of our lovely female practitioners; Dr Jemma Buultjens, Dr Kate Allan and Emma Walker RN.

0422 639 013 • info@vaemedicalaesthetics.com vaemedicalaesthetics www.vaemedicalaesthetics.com The Harvest Precinct, 16 Old Pacific Highway, Newrybar. www.echo.net.au

beyondbyronebikes.com.au `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ The Byron Shire Echo 21

o l l e H

summer SCHOOL HOLIDAY

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Tweed Regional Gallery’s popular free drop-in summer program Artmaking for Everyone is back and takes inspiration from Vipoo Srivilasa’s sculpture Dance of Dreams. Follow Vipoo’s cats as they invite you to decorate a wall in the gallery foyer with symbols of joy.

This summer, give your kids the gift of strength, conﬁdence, and creativity. Spaghetti Circus Term 1 2026 enrolments NOW OPEN! All ages. All abilities. All skill levels. All fun.

Share your story Share your story about a broken object from a faraway place that is meaningful to you. How did this object come into your life? Draw your special object and display your story on the Gallery wall – it may travel to other places, sharing your story far and wide as the exhibition continues its journey!

Workshops for young clay makers! There’s nothing like working with clay to let your imagination run free – with two workshops at the gallery this January. Visit website for details. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm. 2 Mistral Road Murwillumbah gallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au

Classes for everyone: Preschool (2-5 years) - parent & child bonding. Community (5-12 years) - skills, confidence & friendships. Somersault teens (13+ years) - flip, fly & find your crew. Adults - because kids shouldn’t have all the fun! EARLY BIRD: Save $30 per class - enrol by 26 January. Not ready to commit? Holiday Workshops: 27-29 January 2026 (ages 4-14). Open Day: 31 January 2026, 9.30am–2pm ($5 per session) Spaces limited. Term 1 starts 2 February 2026. Book: www.spaghetticircus.com (02) 6684 3038 Mullumbimby Showground

H LIDAY

WORKSHOPS TUE 27 WED 28 THU 29 JANUARY MULLUMBIMBY SHOWGROUND

Art Making for Everyone

FREE SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN THIS SUMMER Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW.

Come and enjoy one, two or three days of circus fun!

BOOK NOW - PLACES ARE LIMITED

www.spaghetticircus.com

Open Wed – Sun, 10 am – 4 pm DST | 2 Mistral Road, South Murwillumbah NSW | W: gallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au

22 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

www.echo.net.au

Hello summer

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Enjoy the holidays or any day with everyone’s favourite… Yoﬂo!

The Wiiyaan are an unbroken line of origin, the ancestors of the Tweed Bundjalung. Discover the story of the three brothers. Step into an immersive journey that celebrates the origins of the Bundjalung nation. The three brothers is a creation story passed down through generations. Over the last several years the local Tweed Aboriginal community has created digital and material illustrations to ensure the perpetuation of the traditional stories of the Wiiyaan and other lore. This exhibition brings to life these cultural storyline artworks through immersive projection and sculpture. Curated by Biijang Slabb Animation partners Ludo Studios 2 Queensland Rd, Murwillumbah

Byron Bay’s iconic frozen yoghurt and dessert bar. Their self-serve experience is all about creativity, quality ingredients and celebrating our vibrant local community. Independently-created-and-operated in Byron Bay since 2011, Yoﬂo starts with 100% real natural yoghurt. Treat yourself to local toppings like Brookfarm granola and muesli, honey-roasted locally-grown macadamias, and delicious gluten-free Byron Brownies. Choose from a great selection of fresh cut fruit and ﬁnish with a wide range of hot sauces, including local Byron Bay Peanut Butter and macadamia cream. Build your perfect treat, sip on something refreshing or settle in and enjoy a moment that feels as good as it tastes. Lawson Street, Byron Bay Holiday trading hours: Open every day 8am to 9.30pm

Fresh and healthy

Yoflo, Byron’s iconic frozen yoghurt and dessert bar, since 2011. Located in Lawson Street, just moments from the beach. www.echo.net.au

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R O O H +

summer THINGS TO DO

+DSS\ VXPPHU VHDVRQ + Enjoy your holiday, or splash out on the greatest gift of all, a wholesome experience with your loved ones. A hot air balloon flight with friends, family, or staff is not only a magical moment but also healthy, outdoors, and educational. Learning the physics of flight whilst floating in the air across the Northern Rivers at sunrise is a special occasion not to be missed. Included is a delicious breakfast at the iconic Three Blue Ducks restaurant, the cherry on top of a great morning out!

%HƔHU %\ %LNH Making family adventures easy and fun! Located right at Murwillumbah Railway Station, it’s the perfect spot to start your rail trail ride. Recently awarded GOLD at the NSW Tourism Awards for Best Retail, Hire and Service, you’re in great hands! The ﬂeet includes premium e-bikes, fat-tyre e-bikes, and awesome family options with tow-behind bikes, child seats, and chariots. Every hire comes with comfy gel seats, puncture-proof tyres, helmets, tunnel lights, locks, and waterproof panniers, everything you need to soak up the scenery and enjoy. With full trail support if you need to call us, plus genuine local insider tips, your rides will be safe, fun, and completely stress-free! Families have left hundreds of glowing 5-star reviews. Murwillumbah Railway Station Bikes can even be delivered to Byron Bay or the Tweed Coast. Open 7 days

Book your journey at www.balloonaloft.com

9LUWXDO *ROI &HQWUH %DOOLQD Looking to try something new and fun in Ballina. Come along and visit the state-ofthe-art, indoor, air-conditioned, virtual golf facility, with an amazing atmosphere. Fully licensed, tap beer, wines, spirits, cocktails and fresh-made pizza for your next function, party or catch-up with friends. Plenty of courses and games for everyone to enjoy – try Augusta, or Pebble Beach! There is also virtual putt-putt, kids courses and target games to enjoy. A new addition to the centre is the two new virtual car simulators. Come try Formula 1, Bathurst or NASCAR, and so much more. Open seven days from 10am 14 Ascot Rd, Ballina 0423 259 551 www.virtualgolfcentre.com.au

RAIL TRAIL E-BIKE adventure! E Two convenient start points: Murwillumbah or Mooball Family & pet friendly: E-bikes, kids bikes & attachments Award Winning: Gold in NSW Tourism Awards 2025! :)

BOOK NOW!

betterbybike.com.au

0408 444 858 24 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

www.balloonaloft.com | @balloonaloftbyronbay www.balloonaloft.com @balloonaloftbyronbay

www.echo.net.au

Hello summer

Jerrapark Hideaway Welcome to Jerrapark Hideaway, a tranquil rainforest retreat nestled in the Northern Rivers hinterland. Perfect for wellness weekends, quiet escapes, and small group retreats, their unique, eco-accommodation and wholistic spa pavilion are designed for deep rest and rejuvenation. Guests enjoy full access to the private wellness facilities, including a woodﬁred sauna, outdoor spa, hot tub, and magnesium swimming pool, all surrounded by subtropical forest and birdsong. Make yourself at ease on Jerrapark’s sleeper train that will take you away for a unique experience. The couchette carriages provide 2 single beds each, which can be converted into a double bed, There are 2 shared toilets, 2 shared showers, and a fully functioning kitchen with a common ﬁreplace for the cold winter evenings. 1049 Williams Rd, Bakers Value 02 6689 7579 www.jerrapark.com

Lismore Regional Gallery

Woven baskets. Image courtesy of Kyra Togo.

This summer school holidays, Lismore Regional Gallery offers two handson creative programs for young people and families. On Saturday, 17 January, youth aged 10–17 can join First Nations weaver Kyra Togo for a mindful ﬁbre weaving workshop, learning basic techniques and creating a small piece to take home. All materials and morning tea are included. On Thursday, 22 January, Collage Club welcomes guest artist Cassie Lee Fleming for a playful, experimental session using collage, weaving, and found materials. Free and open to all ages and abilities, the workshop encourages curiosity, creativity, and hands-on exploration. These programs are the perfect way to stay cool, inspired, and connected while making something unique this summer. 11 Rural St, Lismore Holiday opening hours: 7 to 11 January Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 4pm Thursday 10am to 6pm

Kyra Togo: Summer School Holiday Weaving Workshop 17 January 2026 10am – 12pm See website for details

HOLIDAY HOURS 7 – 11 January Wednesday to Sunday 10am – 4pm Thursday 10am – 6pm lismoregallery.org

LISMORE REGIONAL GALLERY 11 Rural St, Lismore

VIRTUAL GOLF CENTRE BALLINA The new way to enjoy golf 3 Virtual golf bays 2 virtual car simulators Fully licensed bar Gift vouchers available Lessons available Open 7 days Family friendly Kids under 12 free with paying adult

Luxury Farmstay - Small Groups RELAX / RENEW / RECONNECT

Virtual putt putt & mini golf Fresh cooked pizza Pool table Sports bar with large screen TVs 0423 259 551 14 Ascot Road Ballina turn right at the car wash www.virtualgolfcentre.com.au caddie@virtualgolfcentre.com.au

Jerrapark can host up to 40 persons for wellness events & provides tranquil accommodation for 8 persons onsite. Intimate rainforest setting the ideal environment to support wellness, creativity, and deep rest. 1049 Williams Rd Barkers Vale, NSW 2474 (02) 6689 7579 www.jerrapark.com www.echo.net.au

`ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ The Byron Shire Echo 25

o l l e H

summer Outdoorism Ideally positioned at the gateway to the lush green caldera, Mt Warning National Park and the region’s World Heritage–listed reserves, Outdoorism is more than a simple camping supply shop. Step inside and visitors will ﬁnd extensive gear built to carry you from sunrise summits to starlit campsites with reliable camping essentials, sturdy hiking boots and weather-ready clothing, all curated with care and expertise. The welcoming team pride themselves on guiding you to handpick gear tested in the wilds of the caldera and beyond, ensuring every customer feels prepared and conﬁdent before heading into the wilderness. Whether planning a weekend escape or a longer trek, their advice is as valuable as the equipment they supply. Roll into Outdoorism today and step out ready for adventure. Grab Ya Gear and Go... outdoorism.com.au 6 Wharf Street, Murwillumbah sales@outdoorism.com.au

Be inspired this summer The Sperry Tents team are passionate about delivering luxury, creative and sustainable events. They are able to turn these values into reality and offer a unique and visionary style of event planning. They bring a holistic approach to event hire by personally assisting you with all areas of event design and delivery to ensure your experience is smooth and enjoyable from the ﬁrst conversation to the last. Call 1300 773 779 or email hello@sperrytents.com.au @sperrytentsaustralia | @styleandhire

Make this summer count at Byron Community College Start 2026 with something just for you! Byron Community College offers a chance to learn new skills, meet like-minded people, and be part of a creative, supportive community. Courses begin early 2026, including nationally-recognised Certiﬁcates in Community Services, Individual Support, Mental Health, Massage Therapy, Permaculture and Visual Arts, with limited subsidised places available for elible students. Now is the time to apply. This training is subsidised by the NSW Government. Explore the new 2026 brochure online, and spot it in print in this weeks Echo. Creative courses starting soon include Printmaking, Italian Level 2, Growing Cut Flowers, Tech Savvy Seniors, and Beginners Contemporary & Modern Dance amongst just some of the many great courses on offer. Invest in yourself this summer, learn, create, and connect! www.byroncollege.org.au or call 6684 3374 for more details. RTO 90013

Son of Drum Head into Son of Drum in Mullumbimby and get some music into your life in 2026! Their latest range includes all sorts of folk and world instruments, tribal percussion, beautiful chimes and sound healing items, and plenty of fun stuff for the kids, so they’ve got everyone covered, from grommets to grannies! And if you’re no muso, no problem; get moving instead with some fun toys such as glo poi, ﬁre staff, juggling balls and more. And of course they’ve got all the strings, accessories, onstage and recording gear you need, so get down to 31 Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby and sort yourself out! (02) 6684 1742 Shop 1/31 Burringbar St, Mullumbimby sonofdrum.com.au

E ID W E R O T S F F O % 0 1 ! o g ’n r a e g a y b a r G Roll into Outdoorism today and step out ready for adventure!

6 WHARF STREET, MURWILLUMBAH sales@outdoorism.com.au outdoorism.com.au 26 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

www.echo.net.au

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Mullumbimby Pools in Mullum and Bangalow Looking for an unforgettable adventure this school holiday break? Welcome to Mullumbimby Pools, a family-owned-andoperated business led by the dynamic duo, Jake and Natalie O’Brien. With over three decades of combined experience in the industry, they take pride in being a local establishment that has successfully delivered some of the largest and most intricate pool projects across the region. At Mullumbimby Pools they are not only award-winning pool builders and technicians, they are your partners in creating aquatic havens. Their pool technicians are ready to visit your property throughout the Byron Shire. Whether it’s maintenance, leak detection, repairs, or renovations, our skilled team is dedicated to ensuring the longevity and vitality of your pool. Or, you can visit their shops in Mullumbimby and Bangalow, providing convenient destinations for supplies and parts. MULLUMBIMBY 12 Smith St 02 6684 4846 Mon to Fri: 8.30am to 5pm Saturday: 8:30am to 12pm

BANGALOW Shop 1, 5 Lismore Road 02 6683 4494 Mon to Fri: 8.30am to 5pm Saturday: 8.30am to 12pm

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Mullumbimby 12 Smith St, Mullum Industrial Estate (02) 6684 4846

Bangalow Ph. 02 6684 1742 Shop 1/31 Burringbar St Mullumbimby NSW 2482 www.echo.net.au

www.sonofdrum.com.au @son_of_drum_store

Shop 1, 5 Lismore Road (02) 6683 4494 M-F: 8:30am–5pm, Sat: 8:30am–12pm info@mullumpools.com

mullumbimbypools.com.au

`ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ The Byron Shire Echo 27

f seven days o

entertainm

Volume 40 #31 7–13 January, 2026 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

ent

Bust a ’70s groove

Eclectic Selection

Get ready to dust off your flares, platform shoes, and sequins – the party of the ’70s decade is coming to Byron Bay!

What’s on this week

Sydney’s six-piece sensation ‘Alive In The 70s’ brings their spectacular live show, ‘A Trip Through the 70s’ to the Byron Theatre on Saturday, January 17, for a night of pure nostalgia, infectious grooves, and feelgood fun. Since forming in 2017, Alive In The 70s has been lighting up stages across the country with their high-energy celebration of one of music’s most iconic eras. The band has earned a reputation as one of Australia’s premier ’70s tribute acts, performing to packed venues and ecstatic crowds, who can’t resist hitting the dance floor.

The Tyler Durdens are a local ’90s–naughties covers band featuring grunge, Aussie alternate, indie and Brit pop – the like of Pearl Jam, Kings of Leon, Blink 182, Arctic Monkeys etc. Only the good stuff. Friday at The Rails, Byron Bay. Free show.

There is the grace and soul of the blues, interspersed with the country strains of Guy Kachel’s youth in his music – and the tempering power of rock and roll. What emerges is a form of kicking country blues that esteems and embellishes the legacy of icons such as John Hiatt and Little Feat. Friday from 6pm at the Ballina RSL Boardwalk. Free show.

Utterly fresh and unique, but steeped in the tradition of real, authentic blues, Mojo’s music is truly world class. With charisma, and a captivating stage presence, Mojo breathes new life into roots-based sounds – Mojo transcends all age and fashion barriers. Sunday from 2.30pm at the Ballina RSL Boardwalk. Free show.

Fronted by powerhouse vocal duo Mama Cath and Papa Pan, and backed by a lineup of seasoned musicians, the band recreates the hits that defined a generation. Expect classics from ABBA, Fleetwood Mac, Sherbet, The Bee Gees, and more – all delivered with style, authenticity, and irresistible energy. Alive In The 70s isn’t just about the music – it’s a full ’70s experience. The band takes the stage in authentic vintage fashion, bringing the era’s flamboyant spirit to life. Their ever-evolving multimedia backdrop adds a vibrant visual layer that enhances the nostalgia and immerses audiences in the magic of the decade. ‘It’s more than just a concert – it’s a time machine’, says Northern Rivers local and lead singer Mama Cath. ‘We want people to come along, let loose, and relive the joy of the ‘70s – or discover it for the first time!’ Alive In The 70s promises a night packed with rock, pop, disco, and pure ’70s groove – the perfect excuse to grab your friends and dance the night away under the mirrorball! Saturday, January 17, 8pm at the Byron Theatre. Doors 7pm Tickets: byron.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/156408

There is no one else that comes close to the phenomenon that is Dave Hughes. Behind that cooked-looking facade is a mind that works like no other – now more brutally honest than ever, he is as good as it gets anywhere on the planet. Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the Brunswick Picture House, Brunswick Heads. Tickets from $36 at brunswickpicturehouse. com.

The Imperial Blues Review brings together the seasoned, notable talents of local legends John Hellmann, Azo Bell, Tim Longworth and Nicholas Churkin. It’s juke-joint, jumps, jive central – grab your spats and flats, it’s time to cut a rug. Saturday at The Rails, Byron Bay. Free show.

19-Twenty are a highenergy blues and roots band who storm the stage like a freight train. With a sound that blends footstomping rhythms, raw energy, and an undeniable sense of fun, 19-Twenty has quickly earned a reputation as one of the country’s most exhilarating live acts. Sunday from 4pm at the Hotel Brunswick, Brunswick Heads. Free show.

THUR

Front Bar: Sarah Grant Duo 6pm DJ Quendo 9.15pm Duelling Piano Bar 8pm BACKROOM: KIMMY AND CREW

FRI

Front Bar: Brooke Chivel Trio 7pm + JB Blues Breakers 10.15pm Duelling Piano Bar 8pm BACKROOM: MOXY. LEON

SAT

Front Bar: Kane Muir Trio 7pm + DJ Jamie Lowe 10.30pm Duelling Piano Bar 8pm BACKROOM: SERENA ROSE. TURTLE SKULL. LUNAR DIRT

SUN

Front Bar: Trilla 6pm + DJ Vinyl Sundays, Maiorano (Italy/Berlin) 9.15pm $15 MARGIS & SPRITZERS ALL DAY Duelling Piano Bar 6pm

MON

BACKPACKER MONDAYS Front Bar: Jerome Williams 6pm + DJ Davi Bangma 9.15pm Duelling Piano Bar 8pm

8 JAN

9 JAN 10 JAN

35–43 JONSON ST BYRON BAY 6685 6454 THENORTHERN.COM.AU @thenorthernbyronbay

28 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

11 JAN 12 JAN

TUES 13 JAN

Front Bar: Marshall OKell 6pm DJ Jamie Lowe 9.15pm Duelling Piano Bar 8pm

WED

14 JAN

Front Bar: Ino Pio 6pm DJ Cupid 9pm Duelling Piano Bar 8pm

SUN: $15 MARGIS & SPRITZERS ALL DAY

www.echo.net.au

seven days of entertainment

The big 1-0 at the ‘House The Brunswick Picture House turns ten this year and they’re celebrating by rolling out their biggest program yet. We all know summer in Bruns is pretty hard to beat, so it’s only fitting they bring you another jam-packed January, all in air-conditioned comfort. The shenanigans start off with their smash hit show Bruns Does Burlesque with another scorcher of a line-up for an all-new bumper three-week summer run from this Thursday until Sunday, January 18 – it’s sexy, sassy, stunning and innovative. What better way to start 2026 than with one of the Shire’s hottest shows? Don’t miss out, with discounted tickets available for preview night. Brunswick Picture House is the official home of comedy in the Shire and once again, their January lineup will leave you rollicking in the aisles as some of the superstars of Australian comedy descend to Bruns with all new shows, including Dave Hughes, Tommy Little, Celia Pacquola, Geraldine Hickey, Lloyd Langford and Josh Thomas. You’ll be the first in Australia to hear these jokes, from Friday until Saturday, January 31, before they take their shows on the road. For those missing their fill of cheek, fret no more as Cheeky Summer will return with an all new cast from Thursday, January 22, for another blazing three-week run. And never forget about the little ones as the all-ages, family-friendly Lil’ Cheeky returns for one summer show on Saturday, January 17. It’s been ten years of laughs, gasps, standing ovations and magic, leading to one massive summer party. So grab your mates, grab your tickets, and help them blow out the candles. Tix for all shows at brunswickpicturehouse.com

l a c i s u M heatre T

If Musical Theatre is your thing too then you are going to love 2026! ! " # $ # " ! $ WE ARE ENROLLING NOW FOR 2026 PRIVATE & GROUP CLASSES

WWW.BYRONBAYSINGING.COM www.echo.net.au

`ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ The Byron Shire Echo 29

Bondi Meets Berlin in Billi Nudge Nudge Wink Wink kicks off the new year on Saturday with a high-summer return to the Shed at the Billinudgel Hotel. It’s an afternoon-into-night celebration shaped by music, feel-good mischief and community, setting the tone for the year ahead and bringing people together on the dancefloor for amazing music and even greater causes. Since 2015, Cunning Stunts has donated more than $445,000 to 41 local organisations, proving that the Northern Rivers knows how to party with purpose. January’s Nudge features a carefully curated line-up of returning favourites, with both local and international DJs taking their place behind the decks. International DJ Nick Field returns to the Shed from his current locale of Bondi, bringing his signature blend of soulful dubby disco, and house back to the Nudge dance floor. DJ Kylie Rose returns to the Shed from her current home base in Berlin, bringing her unmistakable energy and deep musical intuition back to Nudge. A long-time favourite, Kylie blends disco, tribal rhythms, tech house, breakbeat and techno. Cunning Stunts co-founders and resident selectors, DJs Lord Sut and Dale Stephen, deliver their trademark blends of Balearic, twisted disco, deep house and funk, alongside their own lauded edits. Their sets don’t just fill the Shed, they shape it, creating an atmosphere that is equal parts familiar, euphoric and unmistakably Nudge. Brunswick Picture House joins the celebration with their signature surprises and delights, bringing colour, playfulness and theatrical magic throughout the evening. Proceeds from both the January and February events will support the Northern Rivers Community Legal Centre (NRCLC), a charity Nudge Nudge Wink Wink is proud to partner with for the first time. NRCLC provides free legal advice and advocacy services to people across the Northern Rivers, supporting individuals and families through some of life’s most challenging moments. Saturday from 4pm at The Shed at The Billinudgel Hotel. Tickets: this event is expected to sell out. You can still support Northern Rivers Community Legal Centre by donating via the ticket link: https://bit.ly/Tickets_Nudge_Jan10th Missed out? Check Tixel for the only safe resale options—no scalpers here!

It takes a village… They say it takes a village to raise a child. Well sometimes it also takes a village to send that child to music school. Join local pianist Malik at his piano recital, raising funds to send him to Melbourne to live his dream. Malik is a 17-year-old Bangalow pianist gaining attention and praise for his remarkable talent. It was just five-and-a-half years ago that his fingers touched the keys, where he found not just natural ability but profound passion and purpose. Most recently Malik featured on the popular ABC TV series The Piano, where he garnered praise from judges Harry Connick Jnr and Andrea Lam. He has been described by his mentors as ‘a one-in-a-million talent’ and ‘a true prodigy whose musical ability far exceeds his years.’ Starting piano in Bangalow with Linda Armstrong, Malik later came under the tutelage of Mark Hooper in Brisbane. In 2024, Malik passed his Licentiate Diploma of Music Performance with honours and in 2025, Malik was awarded first place in the 17 to 18-year category of the Queensland Piano Competition. Holding a scholarship at the Northern Rivers Conservatorium for two years running, Malik has also studied jazz with instructor Nic Campbell.

In 2026, Malik is looking forward to beginning tertiary studies at the Conservatorium of Music in Melbourne. He has been offered a partial scholarship that will shape his future as a professional musician. But the residential fees of Ormond College are unaffordable for Malik’s single mum Ambyr Johnston who works in the Mullumbimby Women’s Resource Service supporting women and children subjected to domestic violence. Ambyr has been supporting vulnerable women and children for years, and now it’s time to support her by attending Malik’s 50-minute recital at the Byron Theatre where he will be playing pieces from his favourite composers: Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt, and Rachmaninov. At 17, Malik is too young to start university far from home, so the opportunity to live on campus at Ormond College provides a safe and independent opportunity for a country boy. By supporting Malik, you are not just helping a young man study music – you are investing in a rare talent and a future artist. Please support this aspiring classical pianist. Saturday, January 31 at 2pm at the Byron Theatre, Community Centre Tickets $40 plus bf from byroncentre.com.au

There’s no ‘same old, same old’ at BayFM. Our wide range of music shows are diverse and dangerous (and a couple are deadly). Jump onto 99.9FM for the best in dance, pop, rock, blues, reggae, soul, folk, punk, Americana and vintage, plus hot local acts and music from around the world in our foreign language shows. Check our online Program Guide for details.

More at bayfm.org 30 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

www.echo.net.au

seven days of entertainment se

If you love musical theatre excluding them from the song (excluding them from singing) and in the famous sung words of Matilda: “And that’s not right! And if it’s not right! You have to put it riiiii-ight!” I’m trying to put that right.

When you think about it, musical theatre is probably the oldest form of entertainment. Back in the day when Ugg and Grok were sitting around the fire putting on a show for the other Neanderthals, they didn’t isolate the ballet from the opera, or the softshoe shuffle from Greek chorus and the drama and the jokes.

‘If singing isn’t bringing you joy then you need to change the way you are doing it. If someone tells you, you can’t sing – they are wrong. If you are telling someone they can’t sing – you are wrong! (and you need to examine your motives).

In ancient times a story would have all the elements of a good yarn without any boundaries between the ‘arts’. Musical theatre has come a long way since the cave, and still further since Brigadoon and Carousel . Even in modern times, the form has travelled a long way from Jesus Christ Superstar and Grease , to find us firmly planted in the front row of Wicked , Matilda , and Hairspray . One of the things we love about musical theatre is that it’s not tied to one style of music – there’s usually something fast, something slow, a love ballad, something funny or quirky, a dramatic aria and something anthemic to finish off – a little heartstring tugger. At Byron Bay Singing they love musical theatre so much, that they are dedicating the first half of the year to it – starting with a junior intensive in January. Then, all the private and group classes during the term will learn and rehearse

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selections of vocal arrangements, culminating in a performance on the first weekend of May. Byron Bay Singing director Eve Jeffery says for her, the same rules apply to the musical theatre lessons as to any of her other classes. ‘I want people to sing however they want. Though I love virtuoso performances and watching some of the TV “talent” shows, unfortunately singing has become very competitive – TOO competitive, as opposed to a form of self-expression and community connection.’

‘While I feel there is absolutely a place for choirs, (and we have so many great ones in the Shire), I don’t use the “C” word when it comes to holding space for singers. If your voice wants to sing high – sing high, or low, or start high then switch to low – off you go. ‘I don’t care if you don’t get it right, I just want you to enjoy the process. ‘When we apply too many rules to how someone sings a song, particularly for beginners, or people who struggle with confidence, then we are in effect

‘I know I sound overly soapboxy when it comes to singing but I can’t tell you the number of times someone has come to me and said: “Oh I can’t sing because my mum said I can’t,” or: “I wanted to join a choir but they said I wasn’t good enough”. I have had parents of primary-aged children tell me that they were refused entry into the school choir – what on earth is that! It’s absolutely terrible, let alone traumatic, to tell a child they can’t sing. ‘It make me sad when people feel excluded from singing. Everyone can sing. Everyone can join in. Singing is not a competition. It’s a place, and sometimes the only place, where people can unite’.

To find out more about musical theatre for juniors and adults in 2026, visit: evejeffery.com.au.

`ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ The Byron Shire Echo 31

GIG GUIDE

seven days of entertainment

ide. gigs in the gig gu ur yo t lis to ee fr It’s .au e: gigs@echo.net gu g- ide. w: echo.net.au/gi N FRIDAYS DEADLINE 5PM O

WEDNESDAY 7

Q BYRON THEATRE EATRE 7.30PM 7 30PM KARISE EDEN

Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4.30PM 4 30PM PISTOL WHIP

MONDAY 112

Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, JESSE WHITNEY

Q NORTH BYRON HOTEL 5PM DJ AFRODISEA

Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, SLIM PICKENS

Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM KATIE WHITE + DJ LONGTIME

Q THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 7PM BROOKE CHIVEL TRIO + JB’S BLUES BREAKERS + DUELLING PIANO BAR + MOXY. LEON

Q BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 6PM DAVE HUGHES, 8PM BRUNS DOES BURLESQUE Q WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM DJ VINYL DAN

Q THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM JEROME WILLIAMS + DJ DAVI BANGMA + DUELLING PIANO BAR

Q BYRON THEATRE 7.30PM PAT POWELL

Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 7.30PM DEVU

Q BILLINUDGEL HOTEL 4PM NUDGE NUDGE WINK WINK

Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM BENNY O’DWYER

Q BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 6PM DAVE HUGHES, 8PM BRUNS DOES BURLESQUE

Q LENNOX HOTEL 4PM BEN WHITING + FUNKY FREQUENCIES VOL 2

Q THE PADDOCK PROJECT, MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM CURRY JAM

Q MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 8PM KRAPPYOKEE WITH JESS

Q BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK 6PM ARCADIA

Q THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM INO PIO + DJ ALICE QUIDDINTON + DUELLING PIANO BAR

Q ELTHAM HOTEL 6.30PM NOT QUITE FOLK JAM

THURSDAY 8

Q BILLINUDGEL HOTEL 1PM SLIM ‘N STAN Q CLUB LENNOX 7PM HAYLEY GRACE

Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, ALLY PALMER

Q LENNOX HOTEL 9PM BULLETPROOF

Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 5PM IZZY DAY + SAMETIME + NANA’S PIE

Q BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK 6PM GUY KACHEL

Q BYRON THEATRE 7.30PM HUSSY HICKS Q THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM SARAH GRANT DUO + DJ QUENDO + DUELLING PIANO BAR + KIMMY AND CREW Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM JORDAN MAC Q BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 7PM BRUNS DOES BURLESQUE Q SAINT MARIES, BRUNSWICK HEADS, 6PM MONDO HUM Q LENNOX HOTEL 8PM THURSDAY JAM NIGHT Q KELP, BALLINA, 6PM JAY & LYNDEY Q LISMORE CITY BOWLO 7PM THE SUPPER CLUB SOUL BAND

FRIDAY 9 Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, THE TYLER DURDENS Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM TRILLA + COUNTRY NIGHT W/ BILLY GUDGEON

Q CLUB LENNOX 7PM SONIC FX

Q CHERRY STREET SPORTS CLUB, BALLINA, 8PM JOCK BARNES BAND Q CLUB TWEED 7.30PM ROCKIN’ THE 70S Q TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE STAGE 8PM ARJ BARKER

SUNDAY 11

Q BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 6PM TOMMY LITTLE Q THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM MARSHALL OKELL + DJ CUPID + DUELLING PIANO BAR Q ELTHAM HOTEL 7PM JONNY FRITZ, JOSHUA HEDLEY AND CHRIS ACKER

Q EVANS HEADS BOWLO 5PM JON J BRADLEY

Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 4.30PM EPIC

WEDNESDAY 14

Q TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE SHOWROOM 11AM POP SQUAD

Q THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM TRILLA + DJ MAIORANO + DUELLING PIANO BAR

Q CLUB TWEED 7.30PM CAPTAIN WOW

Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4PM 19-TWENTY + MICKA SCENE + BEN WHITING

SATURDAY 10 Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, IMPERIAL BLUES REVIEW Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 4PM JOSH LOVEGROVE + LOST BAGGAGE FEAT. CASSIAN, PARIS & LIKE GLUE Q BYRON THEATRE 7.30PM EMMA PASK Q NORTH BYRON HOTEL 1.30PM DJ ALICE Q + KATE ELSWORTH Q THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 7PM KANE MUIR TRIO + DJ JAMIES LOWE + DUELLING PIANO BAR + SERENA ROSE, TURTLE SKULL, LUNAR DIRT

28 YEARS LATER: THE BONE TEMPLE (MA15+)

FRIGHT NIGHT PREVIEW

Wed: 6:30PM SNEAKS

Sat, Sun: 3:20PM, 6:00PM MARTY SUPREME (CTC) AWARDS PREVIEW EVENT

Tues: 7:00PM NO OTHER CHOICE (CTC) MOVIE CLUB PREVIEW

Mon: 6:00PM PRIMATE (MA15+)

SNEAKS

Fri, Sat, Sun: 8:30PM SIX THE MUSICAL LIVE (PG) FILMED LIVE!

Q BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 5PM DAVE HUGHES, 7PM BRUNS DOES BURLESQUE

FAMILY FILMS GRAND PRIX OF EUROPE (G) NFT Daily: 9:45AM, 11:45AM THE POUT-POUT FISH Daily: 9:45AM

(G)

Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, HARRY NICHOLS Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM SARAH GRANT Q THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM INO PIO + DJ JAMIE LOWE + DUELLING PIANO BAR Q BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 6PM TOMMY LITTLE

Q BILLINUDGEL HOTEL 1PM DREAMS OF INDIGO

Q THE PADDOCK PROJECT, MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM CURRY JAM

Q LENNOX HOTEL 4PM HEARTBREAKER Q BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK 2.30PM BALLINA BLUES CLUB FEAT MOJO WEBB BAND

Q ELTHAM HOTEL 6.30PM IRISH FOLK JAM

Q ELTHAM HOTEL 4PM SLIM PICKENS Q CLUB TWEED 1PM DARREN LEIGH + MONO

THE CHORAL (M) NFT Daily except Wed: 9:45AM, 3:45PM, 6:10PM. Wed: 9:45AM, 3:45PM, 6:00PM

THE HOUSEMAID (MA15+) Daily except Sat, Sun: 1:00PM, 4:30PM, 5:00PM, 8:00PM. MY BROTHER'S BAND (M) Sat, Sun: 12:45PM, 4:30PM, Daily except Mon, Tues: 3:50PM, 5:00PM, 8:00PM 5:50PM. Mon, Tues: 3:50PM WICKED: FOR GOOD (PG) NUREMBERG (M) Daily: 1:50PM, 7:45PM Daily except Sat, Sun: 10:20AM,

FOR BOOKINGS AND SESSION TIMES PALACECINEMAS.COM.AU

32 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

The southern stars are aligned and Steve Banks is back for another summer show with his celebrated rockin’ band The Sidemen, coming soon to the Byron Theatre on Friday, January 16. The cream of the Shire’s many musicians and a personal project of Steve’s, the Sidemen are something of a moveable feast, depending on their availability. With one founding member away on a working world tour and another likewise indisposed, Steve’s recruited a new face for the show, Alex McLeod on guitar, joining his two mates (and regular Sidemen) Mike Mills and Grant Gerathy from local power trio, The Sea Benz. Should be fun! Both seasoned sidemen, Mike’s done time on bass with Alex Lloyd’s band and Grant’s held the drummer’s chair for more than one world tour with the John Butler Trio. Two of Steve’s favourite chanteuses, Amie Stuart and Chloe West, are back on seamless backup and featured lead vocals, along with busy sideman Brendan St Ledger on keyboards and the old Black Sorrow himself, Jeff Burstin on guitar. Another founding member and effective musical director for the band, Jeff’s got history on stage and record with two of Australia’s top bands (in their day), Jo Jo Zep and the Falcons and The Black Sorrows. These days he gigs regularly around Melbourne and records with The Hornets. As usual, Steve will be spotlighting each player with tunes they wrote or helped to make famous, or were inspired by – the ones they wish they’d written.

One night only, 7.30pm start – they hope to see you there! Tickets: byroncentre.com.au BALLINA FAIR CINEMAS

AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH (2D) (M) Daily except Sat, Sun: 10:00AM, 12:00PM, 3:45PM, 7:10PM. Sat, Sun: 10:00AM, 12:00PM, 7:10PM

The stars aligned

That’s a seven-piece rockin’ band for your listening pleasure – with frontman Steve directing the spotlight, kidding you along, and tossing in a couple of his own songs.

Q SHAWS BAY HOTEL, BALLINA, 3PM SOUL’D

THE SPONGEBOB MOVIE: 4:50PM, 7:30PM. Sat, Sun: SEARCH FOR SQUAREPANTS (PG) 10:20AM, 4:50PM, 8:00PM Daily: 9:50AM, 12:30PM, 2:40PM RENTAL FAMILY (M) ZOOTOPIA 2 (PG) Daily except Wed: 12:10PM, Daily: 10:00AM, 12:20PM, 2:40PM 3:30PM, 8:30PM. Wed: 12:10PM, 3:30PM ALL FILMS SENTIMENTAL VALUE (M) (M) ANACONDA Daily: 9:50AM, 4:40PM, 7:50PM Thurs: 11:50AM, 1:50PM, SONG SUNG BLUE (M) NFT 6:00PM, 8:10PM. Fri, Sat, Daily except Sat, Sun: Sun, Tues: 11:50AM, 1:50PM, 10:15AM, 2:30PM, 5:10PM, 6:00PM. Mon: 11:50AM, 1:50PM, 6:00PM, 8:45PM. Wed: 7:30PM. Sat, Sun: 10:00AM, 2:30PM, 5:10PM, 7:30PM 11:50AM, 1:50PM, 8:30PM

CHRISTY (MA15+) NFT Daily: 1:45PM, 7:50PM

Daily: 1:30PM

SCAN TO BOOK ONLINE

Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM DAN HANNAFORD

Q TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE SHOWROOM 11AM ISSI DYE

HAMNET (M)

NOW SHOWING

Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, CHRIS ARONSTEN

Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, ANDY JANS-BROWN

PALACE BYRON BAY

COMING SOON

TUESDAY 13

Q CHERRY STREET SPORTS CLUB, BALLINA, 7PM ADAM GARDINER

SPECIAL SCREENINGS SESSION TIMES THURSDAY JANUARY 8 TO WEDNESDAY JANUARY 14

Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM YAZMINDI

ANACONDA (M) Daily except Thurs: 11:10AM, 7:15PM. Thurs: 11:15AM, 7:30PM

THE HOUSEMAID (MA15+) Daily except Thurs: 4:30PM, 7:50PM. Thurs: 5:20PM, 8:00PM

to post your gig in the Echo Gig Guide

AVATAR: (G) FIRE AND ASH (2D) (M) THE POUT-POUT FISH Daily: 9:00AM Daily except Thurs: 9:00AM. Thurs: 9:10AM THE SPONGEBOB MOVIE: SEARCH FOR GRAND PRIX OF SQUAREPANTS (PG) EUROPE (G) NFT Daily except Thurs: Daily except Thurs: 9:00AM. Thurs: 9:10AM 1:20PM. Thurs: 1:15PM PRIMATE (MA15+) NFT SNEAKS ZOOTOPIA 2 (PG) Fri, Sat, Sun: 6:00PM Thurs: 10:00AM, 11:00AM, 5:10PM. SONG SUNG BLUE Fri, Sat, Sun: 9:15AM, (M) NFT 11:00AM. Mon, Daily except Thurs: Tues, Wed: 9:15AM, 11:30AM, 3:00PM, 11:00AM, 5:40PM 8:00PM. Thurs: 12:15PM, 3:20PM, 8:00PM THE CHORAL (M) NFT Daily except Thurs: 2:10PM. Thurs: 3:00PM

It will appear in the paper, the online gig guide and on Bay FM 6686 9600 BALLINA FAIR • 6680 8555 BYRON BAY

email gigs@echo.net.au with the details www.echo.net.au

Classifieds

ECHO CLASSIFIEDS – 6684 1777 CLASSIFIED AD BOOKINGS

PHONE ADS

Ads may be taken by phone on 6684 1777

AT THE ECHO HEAD OFFICE

Ads can be lodged in person at the Mullum Echo office:

Village Way, Stuart St, Mullumbimby

EMAIL ADS

DEADLINE TUES 12PM Publication day is Wednesday, booking deadlines are the day before publication.

RATES & PAYMENT

LOCALS SPECIAL! BRUNSWICK HEADS CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL BANNER PARK Any Sunday until 25th Jan 2026 from 6.30pm

Prepayment is required for all ads.

Want to volunteer? Volunteers are the heart of our community. Your time, energy and dedication help shape a more connected, vibrant and caring Byron. We simply couldn’t do it without you! 02 6685 6807 volunteers@byroncentre.com.au

FUNERAL NOTICES

Palmer (nee Baker)

Joanne Maria 10.11.1963 ~ 23.11.2025

BUY 1 RIDE GET 1 FREE

Born and raised in Byron Bay. Jo will be forever missed by her loving family, friends and all that knew her. Dearly loved daughter of Colin and Joan (both dec). Beloved sister to Tim & Serina, Kerry and Kim. Adored mother of Rick and Daniel. Loving partner to Kevin. Cherished aunty to Morgan, Kayla & Josh, Dylan & Laura, Xavier (dec), Riverlyn, Harlow and Koda. “Forever Living In Our Hearts and Everlasting Memories” Relatives and friends are invited to attend Jo’s Funeral Service to be held at St Finbarr’s Catholic Church, Byron Bay on Friday (9 January, 2026) commencing at 11am (NSW time). We thank everyone for your love and support.

AGMs

MULLUMBIMBY & DISTRICT NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE AGM Wednesday 28th January 2026. 5pm for 5.30pm start at The Hub, 55 Dalley St Mullumbimby. All are welcome to attend. All new memberships are welcome, and paid-up members can vote at the AGM. Membership is $5 per year. To join or renew your membership pop in to the centre or go on our website www.mdnc. org.au. For members who cannot attend in person, proxy forms are available from the MDNC reception. For catering purposes, please RSVP your attendance either by email to communityhub@mdnc.org.au or call the centre on 66841286.

www.echo.net.au

TUITION

Cash, cheque, Mastercard or Visa

HEALTH

BUSINESS FOR SALE

TIME FOR A NEW YEAR RESET? Restore your body and nervous system with professional massage therapy in a peaceful Upper Main Arm forest sanctuary. Trusted local practitioner. Private, safe and professional space. Justin 0490 132 697

PRODUCTIVE home-based ethical micro business: local produce, frozen confectionery, wholesale distributor, stable overheads, established clients, potential for growth $40K - 0431284741

20 years local experience • 19 inch chipper • Stump grinding • Cherry picker • Crane truck • Bob Cat

Fully insured • Free quotes

0427 347 380

KINESIOLOGY

Clear subconscious sabotages. Reprogram patterns and beliefs. Restore vibrancy and physical health. De-stress. 0403125506 SANDRA DAVEY, Reg. Pract.

HYPNOSIS & EFT

Simple and effective solutions. Anxiety, Cravings, Fears & Trauma. Maureen Bracken 0402205352

HYPNOSIS & NLP

Over 30 years of experience WendyPurdey.com. Ph 0497 090 233

ENERGY HEALING

and bodywork. 20 + years prof. exp. Strong, intuitive. Ph 0435835113

Mindfulness @ Work Bring greater focus, clarity and calm into your workplace. Certified Mindfulness Educator Paul Bibby 0401 926 090

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Furniture and rubbish removals Over 15 years exp.Jarrod 0415 139 308

These prices include GST.

Guardian Funerals Ballina 02 6686 7036

! " # $% & ! ' "%

WORK WANTED

1 or 2 MEN + UTE

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

DISCLAIMER

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

www.echo.net.au/classified-ads

• Arborist • 15” Wood Chipper • Stump Grinder • Fully Insured

contact@thinkblinkdesign.com www.thinkblinkdesign.com

LOCAL REMOVAL

& backloads to Brisbane. Friendly, with 10 years local exp. 0409917646

6681 3140 Mobile 0417 698 227

BALLINA SELF-STORAGE UNITS Secure. From $22p/w. Ranging from 10–44 m3. Across 3 locations. 66867011

TRADEWORK

TO LEASE

3EPTIC 7ASTE 2EMOVAL

OFFICE/WORKSPACE 42sqm $350pw Billinudgel. Ph Lifestyle Group 66851206

3UMMERLAND %NVIRONMENTAL

4HE ,IQUID 7ASTE 3PECIALISTS

POSITIONS VACANT

DINING TABLE 1800 x 800, lovely, with centre drawer $99. Ph 66841478

SCT LOGISTICS TRUCK WASHERS Temporary opportunity. We’re looking for truck washers at our SCT Logistics depot, 117 Baraang Drive Broadwater NSW 2472 (sugar mill site). Mon to Fri, 38-hour week, weather dependant. Starts in December and runs through to the end of January. Full training provided..Please send brief resume to Wendy.Keel@sctlogistics.com.au or during ofﬁce hours call 0409568795

GARAGE SALE

THE OTHER JOINT is seeking a front of house allrounder. mullum@otherjoint.com

s 3EPTIC TANK CLEANING s 'REASE TRAP SERVICING s /ILY ,IQUIDS s 0ORTABLE TOILET HIRE s HOUR SERVICE

ITEMS UNDER $100

Tip Runs & Rubbish Removal

WANTED

LEAF IT TO US - Tree Care Specialists Local, qualiﬁed, insured, free quotes. Big to small we enjoy it all 0402487213

• Photoshop • Indesign • Illustrator

Byron Bay & Surrounding Areas

0408 210 772

TREE SERVICES

Experienced Professional Tutor

2 FREE STANDING HOUSES ON ONE BLOCK IN GOONELLABAH. https://www. domain.com.au/8a-8b-jennifer-placegoonellabah-nsw-2480-2019800564 OR mobile 0429023402

TO LET

HOUSES FOR SALE

Adobe Tutoring

LADIES WANTED, MUST BE 18+ Work available in busy adult parlour. Travellers welcome. 66816038 for details. TAXI DRIVERS WANTED Flexible work hours – perfect 2nd income Email operations@byronbaytaxis.com

PETS PET SITTER AVAILABLE Kind, conﬁdent animal carer available for your four-legged fur baby. References available. Call Pawla on 0415340744

Cinnamon is 1 of 4 kittens with names beginning with ‘C’. They were all initially quite reserved in nature but are now coming into their own. Cinnamon & her siblings are all light grey tabbies & are so sweet! Remember, all good things come in C’s! To meet Cinnamon & our other cats & kittens, please visit the Cat Adoption Centre at 124 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby. OPEN:Tues 2.30-4.30pm Thurs 3-5pm | Sat 10am-12 noon Call AWL on 0436 845 542 Like us on Facebook! AWL NSW Rehoming Organisation Number: R251000222

Byron Dog Rescue (CAWI)

Nurse Practitioner Grafton, Coffs Harbour & North Coast NSW

TREE FERNS Any shape, size. Royalties paid. Ongoing supply needed. 0414904396

Nursing - General Medical & Surgical (Healthcare & Medical)

LP RECORDS: good condition, no op shop crap! Matt 0401955052

Full time $100,000 – $150,000 per year

CARAVANS

Apply now with : kelly.onley@t1recruitment.com.au 0411 641 919

CARAVANS We buy, sell & consign. All makes & models. 0408 758 688

And take the next step in your career as a Nurse Practitioner with Tier One Recruitment

HAZEL

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

WHERE TO GET THE ECHO

Echo Classies also appear online:

LINE ADS: $17.00 for the first two lines $5 .00 for each extra line

CINNAMON

classifieds@echo.net.au

PUBLIC NOTICES

CLASSIFIEDS THAT WORK ALL WEEK!

Are you cat friendly with great attention to detail? My 5 bdr. Ewingsdale home needs a permanent 4-6 hr clean each Friday. Everything supplied, 100% eco-friendly products. ABN required. $45/hr. Phone Artemis 0432 788 843.

$17 for two lines is the minimum charge.

Display (box ads) and line classifieds, email:

Advertisements placed in The Byron Shire Echo do not reﬂect the views or opinions of the editorial staff. The Byron Shire Echo does not make any representations as to the accuracy or suitability of any content or information contained in advertising material nor does publication constitute in any way an endorsement by The Byron Shire Echo of the content or representations contained therein. The Byron Shire Echo does not accept any liability for the representations or promises made in paid advertisements or for any loss or damage arising from reliance on such content, representations or promises.

LOVE CLEANING?

Meet Hazel, a seriously cuddly and affectionate girl who just wants to be your loyal companion. She is quite energetic, loves beach walks and most of all, playing ball! She’s got all the basic commands and is a super fast learner, great with kids, even lived with a cat. Great with most dogs, but best to be the only dog in the home. Not suited to homes with chickens or pocket pets. Hazel needs a high and secure fence. MC 953010004574864 Call Julia on 0458 461 935 or apply via byrondogrescue.org

`ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ The Byron Shire Echo 33

Classifieds / Community at Work

Regular As Clockwork

PETS (continued)

SPENCER

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

Tech-savvy seniors

Spencer is a 7-year-old Pug. He is personality plus. He has been living with 2 other Maltese dogs. He is great with children, but not fond of cats. M/C # 953010002027282. Please fill out an expression of interest at: www.friendsofthepound.com/adoptionexpression-of-interest/ For more information please email Tracy: johnsontracy832@gmail.com. Visit friendsofthepound.com to view other dogs and cats looking for a home.

ABN 83 126 970 338

VIGILANT SINCE 1986

The Echo’s Market Guide Find it online: www.echo.net.au/market-guide

MONTHLY MARKETS:

ONLY ADULTS Need proper erotic relaxation? Tantric Massage Men, Women, Couples. Ph 0480779325 CURIOUS ABOUT PEGGING? ivso.me/venus-knox 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 p 3 Wayy Play

1st SAT: 1st SUN:

Brunswick Heads Markets – 8am–2pm Byron Community Market – 8am–3pm Pottsville Beach Markets – 7am–1pm 2nd SUN: The Channon Craft Market – 9am–3pm Chillingham Markets – 8am–1pm Coolangatta Arts & Craft Markets – 8am–2pm Tabulam Community Market – 9am–1pm 3rd SAT: Mullumbimby Community Market – 8am–2pm Murwillumbah Makers & Finders Market – 9am–2pm Salt Beach Markets, South Kingscliff/Casuarina – 8am–1pm 3rd SUN: Federal Village Market – 8am–2pm Uki Buttery Bazaar Market – 8am–2pm Pottsville Beach Markets – 7am–1pm Lismore City Bowlo Markets – 9am–1pm 3rd SUN (Dec & Jan): Byron Community Market – 8am–3pm 4th SAT: Kyogle Bazaar – 9am–2pm Last SAT: Evans Head Rotary Market – 8am–1pm 4th SUN: Bangalow Market – 8am–2.30pm Nimbin Markets – 9am–3pm Murwillumbah Showground Market – 8am–1pm 4th SUN (in a 5-Sunday month): Coolangatta Arts & Crafts – 8am–2pm 5th SUN: Nimbin Markets – 8.30am–3pm Seasonal: Byron Beachside Market – four times a year: Wed 7th Jan 2026, Easter, July and Sept

FARMERS/WEEKLY MARKETS: Safe fe Consensual Erotica

0480 779 325 SOCIAL ESCORTS LOTS OF GORGEOUS LADIES available for your pleasure nearby. Spoil yourself. In-house & outcalls. 7 days. 0266816038.

Each TUE: New Brighton Farmers Market – 8am–11am Lismore Organic Market – 7.30am–10.30am Each WED: Murwillumbah Farmers Market – 7am–11am Nimbin Farmers Market – 3pm–6pm Newrybar Hall Twilight Market – 3pm–7.30pm Each THU: Byron Bay Farmers Market – 7am–11am Lismore Produce Market – 3pm–6pm Each FRI: Mullumbimby Farmers Market – 7am–11am Evans Head Farmers Market – 2.30pm–6.30pm Each SAT: Bangalow Farmers Market – 7am–11am Duranbah Road Farmers Market (Tropical Fruit World) 8am–11am Uki Farmers Market – 8am–1pm Lismore Farmers Market – 7.30am–11.30am Byron Twilight Market (October to April) 4pm–9pm Each SUN: Ballina Farmers & Producers Market – 7am–11am The Echo updates this guide regularly, however sometimes markets change their routine without letting us know. Please get in touch if you want to advise us of a change.

SUN, MOON & TIDES

– TIMES FOR NEXT 2 WEEKS DATE DAY, SUN MOON HIGH (Jan) MOON RISE / RISE / TIDES, PHASE SET SET height (m)

7 W

LOW TIDES, height (m)

5:55 22:43 05:23 0.28 12:15 1.76 19:48 9:36 18:45 0.32

5:56 23:12 00:36 1.20 06:11 0.39 8 TH 19:48 10:36 12:53 1.62 19:22 0.36

North Coast news online

5:57 23:40 01:27 1.19 07:01 0.52 19:48 11:33 13:29 1.47 20:00 0.40

5:58 02:24 1.20 08:00 0.63 10 SA 19:48 12:28 14:07 1.33 20:38 0.43 5:58 0:08 03:30 1.23 09:13 0.72 11 SU 19:48 13:22 14:52 1.20 21:23 0.45

12 M

5:59 0:37 04:38 1.29 10:40 0.75 19:48 14:17 15:50 1.09 22:14 0.46

6:00 1:10 05:40 1.36 12:03 0.71 13 TU 19:48 15:13 17:01 1.03 23:09 0.46 6:01 1:46 06:31 1.45 13:09 0.64 14 W 19:48 16:10 18:12 1.02

15 TH

6:02 2:27 07:17 1.53 00:02 0.43 19:48 17:06 19:10 1.04 13:59 0.56

16 F

6:03 3:13 08:00 1.60 00:49 0.40 19:47 18:00 19:57 1.07 14:39 0.49

6:03 4:06 08:40 1.66 01:32 0.35 17 SA 19:47 18:50 20:37 1.12 15:15 0.44 6:04 5:03 09:18 1.71 02:12 0.31 18 SU 19:47 19:35 21:15 1.16 15:49 0.40 6:05 6:02 09:55 1.75 02:49 0.27 19 M 19:47 20:15 21:54 1.19 16:22 0.36 6:06 7:02 10:30 1.77 03:28 0.25 20 TU 19:47 20:51 22:32 1.23 16:55 0.34 6:07 8:02 11:05 1.76 04:07 0.25 21 W 19:46 21:24 23:13 1.26 17:29 0.32 Data sourced from Bureau of Meteorology. Times adjusted for Daylight Savings when applicable.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS AMBULANCE, FIRE, POLICE.............................................000

AMBULANCE Mullumbimby & Byron Bay................................131 233 POLICE Brunswick Heads.......................................................... 6629 7510 Mullumbimby ................................................................ 6629 7570 Byron Bay......................................................................... 6685 9499 Bangalow ......................................................................... 6629 7500 STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE Storm & tempest damage, flooding...132 500 BRUNSWICK VALLEY RESCUE Primary rescue........................... 6685 1999 BRUNSWICK MARINE RADIO TOWER.................................... 6685 0148 BYRON CENTRAL HOSPITAL...................................................... 6639 9400 BYRON COUNCIL: EMERGENCY AFTER HOURS............. 6622 7022 NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE (Mullumbimby) ........................... 6684 1286 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 24 hour crisis line.................................1800 656 463 LIFELINE...................................................................................................131 114 MENSLINE....................................................................................1300 789 978 ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS 24 hours .................................1800 423 431 AL-ANON Help for family and friends of alcoholics .......................1300 252 666 NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS Meets daily ...................................... 6680 7280 NORTHERN RIVERS GAMBLING SERVICE............................ 6687 2520 HIV/AIDS – ACON Confidential testing & information ..................... 6622 1555 ANIMAL RESCUE (DOGS & CATS)............................................ 6622 1881 NORTHERN RIVERS WILDLIFE CARERS.............................. 6628 1866 KOALA HOTLINE ............................................................................. 6622 1233 WIRES – NSW Wildlife Information & Rescue Service... 6628 1898

34 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

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. We will be closed from December 18 and re-open on February 5, 2026. For all enquiries please phone Gill 0428 846 328. 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 U3A is a group for retired folk offering lifelong learning and activities. On 11 November, the forum talker is Mel Williams on Mullum and District Neighbourhood Centre. Interest groups are garden group, foodies, movie/lunch, men’s shed, French revisited, Scottish folk dance, mahjong, walkers and talkers, shabashi, table tennis, chess, debating group and ukelele. For more info email info@bru3a.org or call Denise 0423 778 573.

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.

Support after suicide StandBy provides support to people who have lost someone to suicide. They provide free face-to-face and telephone support and are accessible 24/7. Follow-up contact is available for up to one year. Find out more at: www.standbysupport.com.au or

call 13 11 14. If you, or someone you are with, are in need of immediate support please call an ambulance or police on 000.

Volunteer call out Support for New Mums Inc. a Northern NSW community program are recruiting volunteers in the Byron Shire. We offer a free of charge, home visiting program for mothers with babies. For more information email Deb: newmums8@gmail.com.

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

Co-dependents Anonymous (CoDA) 2025 convention. Codependents anonymous is a 12-step fellowship whose common purpose is to develop healthy and loving relationships with others and ourselves. We warmly welcome anyone, whether you have experience in the program, or are a newcomer, to attend our 2025 convention on October 18, 9am-3.30pm, at Marvell Hall Byron Bay. Tickets can be purchased on the day or via the link on our website www. codependentsanonymous.org.au. There is also a Zoom only ticket option. This will be a wonderful opportunity to connect with people who are dedicated to recovery from self-neglect, abuse and abandonment. Whatever you may think about the word codependency, be prepared to rethink it! ‘To thine own self be true’.

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

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

End-of-Life Choices Voluntary Euthanasia End-of-Life Choices are discussed at Exit International meetings held quarterly. Meetings are held at Robina, South Tweed and Ballina. Attendees must be Exit Members. For further Information www.exitinternational. net or phone Catherine 0435 228 443 (Robina and South Tweed) or Peter 0429 950 352 (Ballina).

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

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

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Service Directory 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

ACCOUNTANTS & BOOKKEEPERS

B&B Timbers 66867911

BYRON BOOKKEEPING BAS, Payroll, AR/AP, Xero, QB, MYOB......................................0415 639548 BOOKKEEPER Reg BAS provider, payroll, A/P, A/R. Xero & MYOB. Local, reliable. ........0410 206627 BLOOMING BOOKKEEPING and BAS Agent.................................................. Ph Leah 0434 121077

ACUPUNCTURE ACUPUNCTURE CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE M Collis.............................................0490 022183

AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION

110 Teven Road, Ballina New logo - Same quality & service Structural – Landscaping Fencing – Composite Decking Hardwood – Pine – Hardware sales@bbtimbers.com.au

www.bbtimbers.com.au

BUILDER – JOHN MCGAURAN Personalised Service. 20 yrs exp. Lic 170208C .......... 0415 793242 HAVEN BUILDING All aspects of building. Lic 326616C...............................................0432 565060

Mullumbimby Refrigeration & Airconditioning Services

SERVICE DIRECTORY INDEX

– Sales – Installation – Repairs – All Commercial Refrigeration – Residential & Commercial Airconditioning – Coolroom Design & Construction – Freezer Rooms

45 Manns Road, Mullumbimby

6684 2783

FABRICA JOINERY Quality kitchens/timber doors/windows. Lic 244652C .........................66808162 CARPENTER / JOINER 30 years experience. Prompt efficient service. Fully insured. Other licensed trades avail, incl plastering/painting etc. 24/7 Emergency 4WD call-out avail. Lic 43794C ........0423 500693 BUILDER Extensions, maintenance, new homes, insurance, landscaping Lic19953Q....... 0403 458177

Lic: 299433C ARC: AU40492 Accountants & Bookkeepers........................... 35 SEA LION BUILDERS: All Building Works / Maintenance Lic #243734C ....................Ph 0407 351720 Acupuncture .................................................... 35 COOLMAN AIR CONDITIONING 23 yrs exp. Lic. 178464C AU30147............................0422 291433 VIDLER BUILT decks, extensions, bathrooms, kitchens, timber fencing Lic 304237c.......0413 502281 Air Conditioning & Refrigeration ................... 35 ARTISAN AIR Airconditioning and refrigeration. ..............................................................66809394 Architects ......................................................... 35 BUSH REGENERATION & WEED CONTROL Automotive ...................................................... 35 ARCHITECTS Barber Shops.................................................... 35 Blinds, Awnings, Curtains, Shutters............... 35 OCEANARC ARCHITECTS Reg. 6042 www.oceanarc.com.au.........................................0412 251392 THE GREEN WAVE: native reforestation and weed management....................... (John) 0491 117656 Bricklaying ....................................................... 35 AUTOMOTIVE CARPENTRY & JOINERY Building Trades ................................................ 35 Bush Regeneration & Weed Control............... 35 LOCAL CARPENTER small, medium or large jobs. Lic 207899c...............................Ph 0431 048856 Carpentry & Joinery ........................................ 35 Chimney Sweeping.......................................... 35 ALL CARPENTRY Doors & stairs, all repairs. Reliable. 20 years exp. .............................0437 202050 Cleaning ........................................................... 35 UNWANTED CARS BENNETT CARPENTRY Construction & maintenance. bennettcarpentry.com.au .......0448 031221 Computer Services .......................................... 35 $50–$1500 Concreting & Paving........................................ 36 Free metal drop off BYRON BAY CARPENTRY & CONSTR. Decks, kitchen, bath, laundry. Lic 337421c.......0432 549082 Locally ally owned Decks, Patios & Extensions ............................. 36 Design & Drafting............................................ 36 CHIMNEY SWEEPING Driveway Maintenance ................................... 36 Earthmoving & Excavation ............................. 36 BLACKS CHIMNEY SWEEPING & REPAIRS AHHA member, insured. 3rd generation .....66771905 Electricians....................................................... 36 Fencing ............................................................. 36 CAR BODY REMOVAL AL CLEANING Floor Sanding & Polishing .............................. 36 CASH ON THE SPOT GUARANTEE Garden & Property Maintenance ................... 36 $50 – $1000 Services List Locally owned and Operated Gas Fitters, Suppliers & Servicing .................. 36 WE BUY UNWANTED CARS, UTES & VANS (Low Pressure Softwashing) Residential and Commercial Guttering.......................................................... 36 PHONE 0466 113 333 24/7 Houses, Gutters, Roofs, Awnings, No job too big or small EMAIL: enquires@adrians.com.au Solar panels, Retaining walls Obligation free quote Handypersons.................................................. 36 Driveways, Paths, Pavers, Fully insured Health ............................................................... 36 Fences, Decks, Patios, BARBER SHOPS Hire ................................................................... 36 AQUA PRESSURE CLEANING Pool areas. Hypnotherapy.................................................. 37 PENSIONERS/KIDS FROM $25 – ADULTS FROM $30: 6 Brunswick Tce Mullum.....0421 679015 Landscaping .................................................... 37 0426 119 550 info@nraquapressurecleaning.com.au ABN: 47576013867 BLINDS, AWNINGS, CURTAINS, SHUTTERS Locksmith......................................................... 37 Pest Control...................................................... 37 Photography .................................................... 37 Byron Bay Physiotherapy.................................................. 37 Picture Framing ............................................... 37 Plastering ......................................................... 37 CLEANING SERVICE BLINDS SHUTTERS AWNINGS CURTAINS CLEANS: Holiday, Residential, Bond, Commercial, Spring. Plumbers .......................................................... 37 Removalists...................................................... 37 SUNSCREENS Phone Mick 0409 009 024 LOCAL Email: mickbhl@gmail.com Rendering......................................................... 37 SHOWCASE DEALER SHOWROOM Roofing ............................................................. 37 Rubbish Removal............................................. 37 BETTY’S CLEANING & HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES.............................................. Text 0476 984649 CURTAINS FREE E MEASURE E QUOTE E Self Storage...................................................... 37 ˘˗ ˘˞˛MEASURE ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˘ˏ PRESSURE WASH IT WASHING !!! ................................................... Text YOKO 0475040733 FREE QUOTE Septic Systems ................................................. 37 6680 8862 ˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ˘˗ ˘˞˛ ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˘ˏ Solar Installation ............................................. 37 FREE MEASURE QUOTE ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜ PLANTATION SHUTTERS ˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ˘˗ ˘˞˛ ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˘ˏ COMPUTER SERVICES Television Services .......................................... 37 ˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜ 1/84 ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ Centennial Circuit Byron Bay ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜ Tiling................................................................. 37 SPECIALISTS IN HOME AUTOMATION AWNINGS Tree Services .................................................... 37 ZZZ EOLQGGHVLJQE\URQED\ FRP DX One-on-one, patient, experienced FREE MEASURE QUOTEROLL BLINDS Transportation Services.................................. 38 FREE MEASURE QUOTE [LHJOLY VɈLYPUN KPNP[HS Z\WWVY[ MVY ˘˗ ˘˞˛ ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˘ˏ ˘˗ ˘˞˛ ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˘ˏ Upholstery ....................................................... 38 MEASURE FREE QUOTE ˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ZLUPVYZ ULLKPUN OLSW ^P[O WOVULZ BRICKLAYING ˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ Valuers.............................................................. ˘˗38 ˘˞˛ ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˘ˏ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜ SHW[VWZ HUK JVTW\[LYZ ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜ Veterinary Surgeons ....................................... 38 ˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ϻLAYING ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ BRICK/BLOCK Contractors. Lic 291958C. Phone Mark ........................................0409 444268 Water Filters ..................................................... 38 ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜ Phone or email: 0420 235 624 Welding ............................................................ 38 BUILDING TRADES contact@thinkblinkdesign.com Window Cleaning & Repairs ........................... 38 • DEPT OF FAIR TRADING:A licence is required for all residential building work where the reasonable Window Tinting................................................ 38

WE PAY FOR

6684 5296

ABSOLUTELY FREE

5 Stars

66 680 0 8862 6680 8862

6680 8862 6680 8862 6680 8862

market cost of the work to be done (labour and materials) exceeds $5000 (including GST).

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FLASH COMPUTERS Mac & PC. Affordable & helpful. 77 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby..02 66844124

`ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ The Byron Shire Echo 35

Service Directory

North Coast news online

CONCRETING & PAVING

RICK’S PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Mowing, brushcutting, gardening, hedging.........0424 805660

ELECTRICIANS

GREEN DINGO for all your mowing and gardening needs. Ph Michael .........................0497 842442

SALISBURY

BLADE RUNNER ACREAGE MOWING Local, reliable....................................................0428 856687

CONCRETING Over 30 yrs’ local experience. All forms of concreting. Residential • Civil • Industrial

0439 624 945 AH 02 6680 4173 Lic.136717c

DARYL 0418 234 302

BRUSH–CUTTING Whipersnip, clearing saw, light chain saw................................Rob 0455 587425

DOMESTIC ALL JOBS: SMALL COMMERCIAL OR LARGE 24 HOUR SERVICE Lic: 154293c

NORTHERN RIVERS SLASHING & LANDCARE......................................... Call Keni on 0417 509299 GW MOWING Ride-on /acreage. Tip runs..............................................Call George on 0408 244820 GROWING WELL gardens residential lawns, hedging and design. 20 years experience .0413 459545 THE GREEN WAVE: Eco property and garden care .............................................. (John) 0491 117656

SHAKA CONCRETING Driveways, sheds, slabs, p/ways, patios. Insured & Lic#391742C....0402 728207 MIRO HALFORD BUILDING DESIGN mirohalforddesign.com ......................................0402 613638

LEVEL 2 ASP ELECTRICIAN

DOMESTIC • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL SERVICING: • Tweed • Byron • Lismore • Kyogle

DECKS, PATIOS & EXTENSIONS

• Mains installs / alterations • Switchboard upgrades • Meter queries • Tree maintenance near services Matthew Rutland matt.positivelectrical@gmail.com

0439 733 703

easily sand over nail/screw heads!

NSW Lic# 312117 ASP Lic# 5547 AUTHORISATION# 503808

COAST & COUNTRY Acreage mowing, prop. maintenance, prof. reliable service... Mike 0413 812582

GAS FITTERS, SUPPLIERS & SERVICING Free Delivery No Rental Reliable

QUALITY DECK RestoratioN free quote: 0455 573 554

FULLCIRCLEREFINISHING.COM

BYRON BAY FLOOR SANDING by Chris Wallace. Quality assured. Best prices...............0408 536565

DECK REFINISHING EVANS HEAD Customer satisfaction guaranteed .........................0413 786879

DESIGN & DRAFTING

JP ELECTRICAL All electrical. Level 2 ASP. Solar, data, TV, TV Antennas. Lic 133082C ....0432 289705

MIRO HALFORD BUILDING DESIGN mirohalforddesign.com ......................................0402 613638 BEN FORSYTH, Electrician. Lic:240691C. Ocean Shores & surrounds. No job too small...0422 136408

DRIVEWAY MAINTENANCE

admin@ecasphalt.com.au

Locally Owned wne ned ed No Rental Fees Feees es Servicing your aarea rea re ea Free Call: 1300 7277 013 013 13 Email: swapabottle@bigpond.com com

JIM LABELLE ELECTRICAL O.Shores, Mullum, Byron, Bruns. Lic 176417C.......................0415 126028 ATLEE ELECTRICAL Lennox/Ballina/Byron. All jobs Lic125138C.......................................0499 456558

oast Asph alt st C Ea

www.brunswickvalleygas.com • 0408 760 609

ALL ASPECTS OF ASPHALT & BITUMEN SERVICES

TOPAZ ELECTRICAL. All electrical work. Reliable. Lic No. 461605C............................ Ph 0421 707380

FENCING

6677 1859

BYRON & BEYOND FENCING. Any fence, any time, prompt quotes .....0439 162 069 or 66802393

SERVICING THE EAST COAST OF THE NSW NORTHERN RIVERS

EDL FENCING Installations & repairs. Prompt service. ..................................................0432 107262

Burringbar

FLOW FENCING Pool fencing, timber/colourbond, local, professional and reliable.......0416 424256

MC2 RURAL Earthmoving, mulching, camphor/weeds, property maintenance ........... 0427 900701

TOM’S FARM MAINTENANCE Fencing, orchards, cattle work. Experienced & reliable. 0412 860132

FLOOR SANDING & POLISHING

EARTHMOVING & EXCAVATION

GUTTERING Gutter guard Gutter cleaning Locally owned Fully insured Free quotes Call Junior for friendly, genuine advice and service.

www.spotlessgutters.com.au

0405 922 839 or AH 6684 1778 ABN 94 239 089 086

HANDYPERSONS

THE FLOOR SANDER New & old floors, decks, non-toxic finishes, special effects, free quotes..0407 821690

TINY EARTHWOR

HANDY ANDY Carpentry, plastering, welding......................................... 66884324 or 0476 600956

GARDEN & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

ABSOLUTE HANDYMAN Repairs, renovation, maintenance, painting. Call Mark..........0402 281638

Philip Toovey

All aspects of gardening and mowing Enhancive garden makeovers

0409 799 909 various implements available for limited access projects

Est. 2010

0430 297 101

livingearthgardens.com.au

• DRAINAGE DESIGN • DRIVEWAYS • PADS • WATERWAYS • ALL ASPECTS OF EARTHMOVING

%% ,) - #

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MULLUMBIMBY HERBALS Naturopathic and herbal dispensary, consultations..............66843002 MULLUM.MOWING@gmail.com. Ride-on, large lawns & acreage. Ph Peter................0423 756394

A-Z Garden maintenance, acreage, gutters, rubbish removal, tip runs, top jobs ..................0405 625697

ALL CARPENTRY Doors & stairs, all repairs. Friendly, reliable. 20 years exp..................0437 202050

ACUPUNCTURE & COSMETIC MEDICINE Dr Adam Osborne ...........................................66857366

GUTTERS CLEANED Solar panel cleaning, all areas, free quotes, fully insured .66841778 or 0405 922839

HIGHPOINT Repairs & handyman services. Painting, plastering & tiling ........ Michael 0421 896796

HEALTH

* % + #

HOME MAINTENANCE Carpentry, painting, repairs, gardens, jet washing. Insured .....0434 705506

THF SERVICES home maintenance, repairs, garden work.............................................0402 019625

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PFM HANDYWORKS Repairs, pressure cleaning, maintenance ......................Call Aari 0484 729139

HANDYMAN 40 years experience in the building game. Call Paul.................................0422 017072

Phone Zac: 0468 344 939 www.360earth.com.au

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A HANDY GUY All trades & small construction. Bruns, Ocean, SGB & Mullum...............0411 858201

AW WOODWORK Furniture, kitchens, carpentry, handyman services. Call Adam........0455 813965

CONSCIOUS EARTHWORKS

$ " % & %%

AWESOME REPAIRS Professional, commercial & domestic. Wayne...............................0423 218417

LEAF IT TO US Tree care specialists & acreage mowing..................................................0402 487213

AYURVEDA, NATUROPATH, Herbs, Jacinta McEwen – Om Healing..............................0422 387370 THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE. Sports, remedial, Swedish. Discount rates. ................Mark 0448 441194

HIRE

NORTHERN RIVERS TRENCHING 65hp chain trencher, excavator, cable locating & tpr.0402 716857 TIP RUNS & RUBBISH REMOVALS 4m3 trailer..............................................................0408 210772 MULLUM HIRE Marquees & all event equipment. Tools & machinery. Pool supplies & service 66843003

36 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

www.echo.net.au

Service Directory HYPNOTHERAPY MOONLIGHT HYPNOTHERAPY QHHT, RTT for clarity, healing, insight, purpose. Teresa 0422 179941

LANDSCAPING

PLUMBERS

RENDERING

Ben The Plumber

RENDERING / SOLID PLASTERING 25 years experience. Free quotes............ Ph John 0406 673176

Servicing Mullumbimby, Ocean Shores, Brunswick Heads, Byron Bay & Surrounds 30 years’ experience Lic: 321191C

Taking on work NOW! 0427 528 108 | benwilton74@icloud.com

Swim Ponds, Landscaping, Water Features, Earth Moving

0448 401 638

Phone James 0429 888 683

FRC ROOF PAINTING – Local, 10 years in biz, 150 x 5-star reviews. Free quotes ..........0419 789600

Metal Roofing & Guttering ering Experts Serving from Ballina to Gold Coast. ast.

ࠠ CCTV camera and locators

- A Lifetime Warranty on Workmanship ship - Double Satisfaction Checks - Spotless Work Sites, Every Time

ࠠ High pressure jet rodder

admin@oceanbluepr.com.au

ࠠ Electric eel Drain clearing, inspections and repairs. Reliable family owned and operated local business with 30 years plumbing experience and the latest technology.

ROOFING

0429 909 433

ࠠ 1.7t and 3m tipper truck

www.oceanbluepr.com.au License # QBCC: 15327621 NSW: 381929C

ࠠ Blocked drain specialist ࠠ 12 month guarantee on most jobs ࠠ Fully insured

RUBBISH REMOVAL

Lic 378040C

OCEAN SHORES SKIPS Mini skip specialists ......................................... 0412 161564 or 66841232 Landscaping, Vegetation Control & Earthworks

• General Landscaping • Vegetation Control • Excavations & Civil Residential

Call Paul 0403 316 711 gracewoodlandscapes.com.au Lic 474317C

LEMONTREELANDSCAPES.COM.AU Liam. Lic 277154C ..............................................0423 700853

LOCKSMITH

Plumbing Service Scotty’sPro Reliable and experienced p d 2NWODKPI s &TCKPCIG s .2 )CU ƂVVKPI 4QQƂPI TGRCKTU tile and metal

Working in Byron Shire for over 20 years Phone Scotty anytime 0419 443 196 scottypro27@gmail.com – NSW Licence Number L13549

Brendan Duggan Locksmith. Automotive car keys and lock installation/repair .......0412 764148 MARK STRATTON All plumbing & emergency. Sewer drain camera/locator. Lic 57803C ....0419 019035

PEST CONTROL

TIP RUNS & RUBBISH REMOVAL 4m3 trailer................................................................0408 210772 TIP RUNS & RUBBISH REMOVAL 7m3 trailer. Prompt, reliable service........................0413 289443 BYRON SHIRE Rubbish and furniture removals. ................................................ 0415 139308

SELF STORAGE BYRON BAY SELF STORAGE...............................................................................................66858349

SEPTIC SYSTEMS

BRAD EVELEIGH PLUMBING based in Ocean Shores, no job too small. Lic 257153C........0438 140075 DAVE SPARKES Plumber Byron based, call out $110 incl. first hour. Lic209669C.............0418 167074

Say Goodbye to Septic Woes Q Q Q Q

REMOVALISTS

Book our Termite Inspection & Pest Control package this winter and receive 10% off. Protect your home and save money with this limitedtime offer! Contact us today to schedule your appointment. Phone 02 6685 4490 • Email: service@sanctuarypest.com.au

BRUNSWICK BYRON PEST CONTROL................................................................................66842018

PHOTOGRAPHY

Tree Faerie Fotos Professional • Commercial • Personal 30+ years experience in commercial photography and photojournalism

SHIRE REMOVALS & FREIGHT CO From Middle Pocket to Middle Earth Just give us a ring

0409 917 646

!"#$%# &$' ()* +$$,-$&, .

Phone James 0429 888 683

Lic 378040C

TRINE SOLUTIONS Local sewerage specialists. Plumbers, drainers & gas fitters. Lic 138031C. 0407 439805 APPROVED COMPOST TOILETS, council reports, septics etc. www.poohsolutions.com..........0427 897496

Serving Northern NSW since 1998

PHYSIOTHERAPY

shock wave therapy, real time ultrasound. Nigel Pitman.....................................................66803499

Servicing the Byron Shire & Surrounds

ࠠ Servicing and repairs ࠠ New installations ࠠ Pre-purchase inspections ࠠ Free quotes and honest advice ࠠ Quality products ࠠ Highly experienced local plumbers ࠠ Fully insured

SOLAR INSTALLATION

www.treefaeriefotos.com • 0417 427 518

OCEAN SHORES PHYSIOTHERAPY Manual therapies, dry needling, custom orthotics,

Contact Daniel and the Team 24/7 for ALL your Septic System needs 02 6672 1644 or 0418 751 765

• Freight services to Brisbane weekly • Carriers of ﬁne art • Furniture removal • E-bay pick up & delivery

Born & Bred Locals Qualified Plumbers Fully Insured FREE septic evaluation with EVERY pump-out

• Sydney • Gold Coast • Brisbane • Melbourne • North Qld • Country • Interstate • LOCAL

02 6684 2198 queries@mullumbimbyremovals.com.au

EWINGSDALE PHYSIO Matrix Therapy, all ages, massage, home visit. Renata.............0437 647137

Your local, qualiﬁed team Specialists in standalone and grid interact system designs

0428 320 262 sunbeamsolar.com.au

enquiries@sunbeamsolar.com.au

Elec Lic 353963C

PELVIC FLOOR PHYSIOTHERAPY Bangalow Mon & Wed. Lisa Fitzpatrick ...................0422 993141

TELEVISION SERVICES

PICTURE FRAMING

DIGITAL ELECTRONICS REPAIR & SERVICE TV. Audio. Antennas .......... 66843575 or 0414 922786 MULLUM PICTURE FRAMERS Studio located in Ocean Shores ..................................0403 734791

PLASTERING

www.dansremovals.com

0435 565 964 Call Dan for a quote

INSTALL SERVICE: TV, Wi-Fi, AV, special pensioner/concession rate. ........... Damian 0414 741233

TILING

PLASTERER, TRADE QUALIFIED repairs, renovations, cornices, quality assured. Kurt 0431 015414 BENNY CAN MOVE IT! .................................................................................................0402 199999 WALL & FLOOR TILER/WATERPROOFER/STONEMASON Lic 24418C. ...........Ph Karl 0439 232434 CAPE BYRON PLASTERING. Gyprock/Venetian. 27 yrs exp, free quotes, lic + insured.0402 538155 RYAN’S MINI MOVES ...................................................................................................0406 657 755 AJ’s TILING all aspects. Bathrooms, kitchens, walls, floors, waterproofing. Lic 239988C..0416 345202

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`ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ The Byron Shire Echo 37

Service Directory

North Coast news online

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

BYRON BUS Co arrive@byronbuscompany.com.au

Door to Door Charter Services Call 0490 183 424

Get a Quick Quote Now

Martino TREE SERVICES

TREE SERVICES

CHOPPY CHOP TREE SERVICES

Mark Linder Qualiﬁed Arborist

0408 202 184

OUT ON A LIMB TREE SERVICES Lucas Holland qualified arborist .........................Luc 0402 191316

UPHOLSTERY BANGALOW UPHOLSTERY Now at Billinudgel. Re-covering specialists.............................66805255

VALUERS BYRON BAY VALUERS NSW & QLD registerd. Chartered Valuers ............ 0431 245460 or 66857010

VETERINARY SURGEONS MULLUM VET CLINIC: Richard Gregory, Bec Wills, Heidi Jenal. After hours avail..............66843818 NORTH COAST VETERINARY SERVICES Dr Lauren Archer.................................................66840735

Byron Bay & Beyond

The Fully Insured Professionals

• Stump Grinding • Bobcat • Cherrypicker • Crane Truck • 18" Chipper

! "#$ % &#$' ( ) * +#!", "#"- ,(%. / !"0!") 1 0 2 ", $ 3 ! , . ,!") 2 " ($,#"-* 1 24 * !-5 ! +($-4!") / " 1# , ( % ) "-* 2#$$6 (, ! "#$' $!#3$ &!-

0435 019 524 TREE CARE C SPECIALISTS

WATER FILTERS

The Water Filter Experts for home, commercial and rural properties

choppychoptrees@bigpond.com

6680 8200 or 0418 108 181

Local . Reliable . Insured

leafittous.com.au kascha@leafittous.com.au

0402 487 213 WELDING

17 Years Experience as an Arborist Experienced crew ready to go. Free Quotes |Insured |Amenity Tree Pruning Removals |Chipping |Block Clearing Council DA Assistance if required PRUNING ~ REMOVALS ~ STUMP GRINDING

Call Sam 0456 044602

• 20 years local knowledge and experience • Fully insured / free quotes • 19 inch chipper • Bobcat • Cherry picker • Crane truck

www.harttreeservices.com.au

0427 347 380

WELDING & FABRICATION Structural, General, Repairs: Steel, Aluminium & Stainless ..0408 410545

WINDOW CLEANING AND REPAIRS CLEAN VIEW Prompt, professional, insured. Phone David.............................................0421 906460

WINDOW TINTING

BYRON TREE SERVICES AQF Level 5 consulting arborist, insured...................... Call Alex 0402 364852 LEAF IT TO US 4x4 truck/chipper + crane truck. Local, qualified, insured. Free quotes .......0402 487213

SURFWAGON - Car/Home/Office tint. Lifetime Warranty. W/sale price.........................0434 875009

LOCAL TREE GUYS 15m crane truck. 18 inch chipper. Bobcat..............................Jason 0488 489159 SUNRISE window tinting, mobile Byron+ N. Rivers. Cars, homes, offices, etc ..............0412 158478

If you’re serious about advertising and want your business seen by a loyal, local audience of more than 50,000 readers every week, The Echo is the only publication that delivers this level of reach in the Northern Rivers. If your target market is the Byron Shire and beyond, we hand deliver 22,000 copies weekly to homes and business, ensuring your ad is actually seen, not left in a stand or scrolled past among the mass of online content.

Get in touch now for unbeatable 2026 deals to advertise your business in this Service Directory. Offering free ads in the general section of the paper, plus digital display ads to make your advertising reach further.

Contact the Echo sales team on 6684 1777 or adcopy@echo.net.au 38 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

www.echo.net.au

Property Insider

www.echo.net.au/echo–property

41 Bottlebrush – a rare coastal sanctuary in Byron Bay It’s rare to find a pocket of Byron Bay that still feels private, spacious and connected to nature. Rarer yet to find an untouched location that gives you the freedom to create something truly your own. That’s exactly what this new gated community offers – 16 generous blocks wrapped in bushland, ocean breezes and a sense of calm. Welcome to 41 Bottlebrush Crescent, Suffolk Park. Situated just minutes from Tallow Beach, the estate sits in one of Byron’s most sought-after destinations. Imagine barefoot morning walks along the shoreline, a swim after work or a coffee run into town. Byron’s rhythm is close enough to enjoy, but far enough to step back from whenever you want a slower moment.

An exclusive new land release, ready to build, at 41 Bottlebrush Crescent, Suffolk Park, just minutes from stunning Byron beaches.

Byron Bay’s most exclusive new estate What makes this enclave especially unique is the thoughtful way it has been shaped with more than 65% of the site reserved for natural habitat, wildlife corridors and community greenspace. The trees, birdlife and coastal

vegetation are part of the site’s identity. It’s no surprise the project recently received the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) Award for Excellence in Residential Subdivision, recognised for its ecological sensitivity and sustainable urban design. From stormwater solutions to biodiversity enhancement,

the judges highlighted that this development sets a new benchmark for how communities can be created in harmony with the environment. The blocks are large, elevated, and designed for privacy with several offering sweeping ocean views. Every lot is fully serviced with underground utilities, keeping sightlines clean

and uninterrupted. For those who prefer a more streamlined path to building, bespoke architect designed, house and land concepts are available on request. Otherwise, you’re free to collaborate with your own builder and craft a home that fits your lifestyle, whether that’s a coastal retreat, a family sanctuary or a place

to downshift into something quieter. Parks, beaches, schools and everyday conveniences are just moments away, ensuring you don’t lose practicality for seclusion. This subdivision offers an extension of the calm and quiet luxury, natural beauty and wellness culture synonymous with Byron Bay – the renowned wellness destination. For those searching for a coastal address that offers both rarity and authenticity, 41 Bottlebrush may just be the opportunity that doesn’t come around again. Q Enquire today to arrange a viewing or receive more information. Reach out to Karin Heller, at Kim Jones & Co, karin@kimjonesandco.com or 0409 177 659.

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14 Short Street, Brunswick Heads

445m²

Open House: Thursday 8 January, 4pm–4.30pm Open House: Saturday 10 January, 11am–11.30am • Beautifully renovated, versatile family home in prime location. • Prized northerly aspect, landscaped gardens, rare 20m street frontage. ŵ *YPP] WIPJ GSRXEMRIH KVSYRH ƥSSV TIVJIGX JSV KVERR] ƥEX SV LSWXIH %MVFRF ŵ 1SHIVR WTEGMSYW OMXGLIR [MXL LMKL IRH Ƥ\XYVIW 0Y\YVMSYW FEXLVSSQW ŵ (EMOMR HYGXIH EMV GSRHMXMSRMRK WITEVEXI SJƤGI ERH WITEVEXI WXYHMS GVIEXMZI WTEGI • Perfect for the large family, dual living set up or those wanting income potential.

'SRXEGX %KIRX Nathan Donnelly 0421 942 630

nathan@nclp.com.au

02 6685 1839

www.echo.net.au

nathan@nclp.com.au

www.nclp.com.au

`ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ The Byron Shire Echo 39

Property

Nestled beneath the sweeping canopies of magnificent 120 year-old fig trees, this private 102 acre coastal retreat captures a rare sense of serenity, seclusion and timeless beauty. Here, the rhythm of rural life meets refined comfort. A place where gentle sea breezes drift through century-old branches, and every sunset over the rolling hills feels like a painting. Offering both lifestyle and lucrative income, the property features 4,500 established macadamia trees and fertile cattle-grazing paddocks, all set against picturesque rural and distant ocean views. The beautifully renovated 125 year-old farmhouse (three bedrooms, two bathrooms plus study) combines country character with modern amenity, while the fully self-contained Old Dairy Bails studio and separate studio annex provide versatility for guests, extended family or additional income.

North Coast news online

4 spacious bedrooms Open plan living and dining 1 Contemporary gourmet kitchen Generous outdoor entertaining areas Direct access to beach Positioned in the heart of Wooli village

Just minutes from Newrybar, Tintenbar, Lennox Head and Ballina, this is a rare chance to own one of the Northern Rivers' most idyllic and productive lifestyle properties - where heritage, income and natural beauty live in perfect harmony.

0412 370 772 sales@solitaryislandre.com.au www.solitaryislandre.com.au

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Introducing the Assisi Apartments at Crowley Care. Independence celebrated. 26 unique apartments designed with care, built with purpose. Request your information pack today.

Melanie Smith

Nestled along the serene banks of Ballina’s North Creek, Crowley Care’s latest Independent Living development offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, comfort, and community. Designed for you, the Assisi Apartments provide an inspirational living experience, where every detail is considered for elegance and ease. AT A GLANCE

Number of Apartments: 26 self-contained residences Apartment Sizes: 1 and 2 bedroom configurations with 1 or 2 bathrooms. Secure undercover parking space with remote access.

Trusted since 1979

Phone us on 1300 139 099 or visit www.living.crowley.org.au

Expected Completion: February 2026 Accessible Location: 154 Cherry Street, Ballina NSW 2478 Community Features: Beautifully maintained landscaped gardens, plus shared activity and entertaining areas.

DISCOVER MORE:

Scan the QR code to visit our website at www.living.crowley.org.au or call us on 1300 139 099 to learn more about this exciting new development.

40 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

CRO292_43_1225

Safety & Security: Enjoy peace of mind with our 24/7 emergency call system, nightly security patrols, and regular wellness checks by our Independent Living Coordinators.

www.echo.net.au

2/6 KEATS STREET, BYRON BAY

Refined Coastal Luxury in a Prime Byron Setting 4

317M 2 • Hamptons-inspired home with seamless indoor–outdoor ͇RZ IHDWXULQJ ELIROG GRRUV WR D FRYHUHG DOIUHVFR %%4 and plunge pool • 'HVLJQHU NLWFKHQ ZLWK EXWOHUȓV SDQWU\ DQG VHUYHU\ ZLQGRZ • /RZ PDLQWHQDQFH WURSLFDO JDUGHQV DQG OHYHO ODZQ

Jane Johnston 0466 327 375

• 4XLHW FXO GH VDF VHWWLQJ MXVW PLQXWHV E\ ELNH WR %\URQ %D\ȓV VKRSV EHDFKHV DQG VFKRROV

PRICE | Contact Agent OPEN | By Appointment

49 GRANUAILLE ROAD, BANGALOW

Hinterland Retreat with Panoramic Views, Multiple Living Spaces and Pool 5

725M 2 • (OHYDWHG UHVLGHQFH FDSWXULQJ VZHHSLQJ %DQJDORZ KLQWHUODQG YLHZV

5HQHH 6FKR͆HOG 0400 028 594

• 2SHQ SODQ XSSHU OHYHO ZLWK NLWFKHQ OLYLQJ GLQLQJ DQG ZUDSDURXQG YHUDQGD IRU VHDPOHVV LQGRRUȎ outdoor entertaining • 'RZQVWDLUV IHDWXUHV D JDPHV URRP DGGLWLRQDO OLYLQJ DUHDV EHGURRPV DQG SRROVLGH GHFN • &RQYHQLHQW ORFDWLRQ FORVH WR %DQJDORZ 9LOODJH VKRSV FDI©V DQG DPHQLWLHV

Su Reynolds 0428 888 660

PRICE | Contact Agent OPEN | By Appointment

103 FEDERAL DRIVE, EUREKA

‘Allensby ’ Federation Elegance with Pool, Studios & Views 5

3.12HA • Federation style character home with period detailing; stained-glass windows and ornate ceiling mouldings

Helen Huntly-Barratt 0412 332 232

• 2SHQ SODQ OLYLQJ DQG GLQLQJ ZLWK EL IROG GRRUV WR FRYHUHG GHFN LQ͆QLW\ SRRO DQG ODQGVFDSHG JDUGHQV • 2XWGRRU /LIHVW\OH $PHQLWLHV LQFOXGH D FKDPSLRQVKLS VL]H WHQQLV FRXUW UDLVHG YHJJLH EHGV SRQ\ VWDEOH DQG a chook shed • 9HUVDWLOH DFFRPPRGDWLRQ LQFOXGLQJ WZR VHSDUDWH VWXGLRV IRU JXHVWV RU ZRUN IURP KRPH

Mia Stevie 0402 098 032

PRICE | Contact Agent OPEN | By Appointment

7 HAYTER STREET, SUFFOLK PARK

AUCTION Unless Sold Prior 4

636M 2 • 6LQJOH OHYHO OLJKW ͆OOHG KRPH RSHQ SODQ OLYLQJ ZLWK SROLVKHG FRQFUHWH ͇RRUV DQG VHDPOHVV LQGRRUȎ RXWGRRU ͇RZ • 9HUVDWLOH DFFRPPRGDWLRQ EHGURRPV SOXV D JXHVW VWXGLR ZLWK SULYDWH HQVXLWH LGHDO IRU IDPLO\ YLVLWRUV RU KRPH RI͆FH • /RZ PDLQWHQDQFH JDUGHQ VSDUNOLQJ SRRO FDEDQD ͆UH SLW DQG RXWGRRU VKRZHU

Oliver Aldridge 0421 171 499

• 3ULPH 6XIIRON 3DUN ORFDWLRQ VKRUW VWUROO WR 7DOORZ %HDFK DQG WKH YLOODJH KXE

ON SITE AUCTION | Sat 31st Jan 10am OPEN | By Appointment

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

www.echo.net.au

`ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ The Byron Shire Echo 41

42 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

www.echo.net.au

B Y R O N B AY

T H R E E B E D R O O M A PA R T M E N T S L I M I T E D AVA I L A B I L I T Y

BRAD ROGAN Ɠ ķĻĹķ ļŀĹ ĸĸĹ

SALES BY

www.echo.net.au

C U R AT E D & B U I LT B Y

LANDSCAPE DESIGN BY

`ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ The Byron Shire Echo 43

44 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

www.echo.net.au

Property

Are you selling? Have your property seen in the Echo newspaper and online at echo.net.au

UNBEATABL E ADVERTISIN G PACK AGES AVAIL ABLE NOW!

Reach an engaged and affluent audience! Research shows that advertising is more effective placed within news content. 22,000 weekly Echo newspapers are distributed directly to homes and businesses across the Northern Rivers. Plus we have over 30,000 weekly readers online at www.echo.net.au.

adcopy@echo.net.au • 02 6684 1777 • www.echo.net.au

www.echo.net.au

`ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ The Byron Shire Echo 45

Property Business Directory

North Coast news online

AGENTS

ARCHITECTS

Kaldera

TARA TORKKOLA SALES

0423 519 698 tara@byronbayfn.com @taratorkkolafirstnational

Kaldera Architects

@taratorkkola_realestate

Bangalow ˙ Passive House ĐěƌƙĽǔěĖ ˙ DBP Class 2 registered

www.byronbayfn.com.au

kaldera.au

hello@kaldera.au 0479051742 Katharine Turner NSW 11419

PAUL PRIOR SALES

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

SALES & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Call Paul for an appointment today. WWW.BYRONBAYFN.COM.AU

Contact the team today on 0412 057 672

SHARON McINNES SALES

0408 659 649 sharon@byronbayfn.com

Boutique, family-owned and proudly serving Byron Bay & beyond. Where personalised service isn’t just a promise - it’s our way of life.

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

JANIS PERKINS 02 6680 8588 | 0438 841 122 janis@reodbyron.com.au Shop 9/15-19 Fletcher St, Byron Bay www.reodbyron.com.au

Open For Inspection

www.echo.net.au/ofi

Mana RE

Ruth Russell Realty

• 1/21A Balemo Drive, Ocean Shores. Sat 9–9.30am • 10 Gin Gin Crescent, Ocean Shores. Sat 10–10.30am • 25 Flinders Way, Ocean Shores. Sat 11–11.30am • 33 Robin Street, South Golden Beach. Sat 12–12.30pm.

• 148 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 11–11.45am

North Coast Lifestyle Properties Brunswick Heads • 14 Short Street, Brunswick Heads. Thurs 4–4.30pm • 8 Teven Street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 9–9.30am • 14 Short Street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 11–11.30am • 68 Mullumbimbi Street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 12–12.30pm

DJ Stringer Property Services • 2/311 Golden Four Dr, Bilinga. Sat 9–9.30am QLD time • 1/42–44 Thomson St, Tweed Heads. Sat 10–10.30am NSW time • 9/277 Golden Four Dr, Bilinga. Sat 10–10.30am QLD time • 1444/6–8 Stuart St, Tweed Heads. Sat 11–11.30am NSW time • 1091/14–22 Stuart St, Tweed Heads. Sat 11.45am–12.15pm NSW time • 101 Dutton St, Coolangatta. Sat 11–11.30am QLD time • 1/39 Wyuna Rd, Tweed Heads West. Sat 12.45–1.15pm NSW time • 7/38 Bay St, Tweed Heads. Sat 1–1.30pm NSW time • 5/5–10 Quayside Ct, Tweed Heads. Sat 1–1.30pm NSW time • 5/2 Surf St, Bilinga. Sat 1–1.30pm QLD time • 4/27 Dutton St, Coolangatta. Sat 1–1:30pm QLD time • 175 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah. Sat 2–2.30pm NSW time 46 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

Harcourts Northern Rivers • 428 Old Bagotville Road, Bagotville. Sat 9:30–10am • 1 Tyagarah Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 10–10:30am • 275 Signata Road, Pimlico. Sat 10:15–10:45am • 2/11 Westland Place, West Ballina. Sat 11–11:30am • 8/334 River Street, Ballina. Sat 11:30am–12pm • 3/20 The Terrace, East Ballina. Sat 12–12:30pm

First National Byron • 2/6 Keats Street, Byron Bay. Wed 11–11.30am • 9/1 Belongil Crescent, Byron Bay. Wed 1–1.30pm • 8 Banksia Place, Mullumbimby. Fri 10–10.30am • 134 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby. Fri 3–3.30pm • 2/122 Lighthouse Road, Byron Bay. Sat 9–9.30am • 325 Riverbank Road, Pimlico. Sat 9–9.30am • 125 Alcorn Street, Suffolk Park. Sat 9–9.30am • 8 Banksia Place, Mullumbimby. Sat 9–9.30am • 35 Shelley Drive, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30am • 47 Bulgoon Crescent, Ocean Shores. Sat 10–10.30am • 69 Paterson Street, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30am • 43 Lychee Drive, Rosebank. Sat 10–10.30am

• 2/6 Keats Street, Byron Bay. Sat 10.30–11am • 787 Corndale Road, Corndale. Sat 10.30–11am • 93 Paterson Street, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am • 2/113 Paterson Street, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am • 22 Burns Street, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am • 7/37 Childe Street, Byron Bay. Sat 12–12.30pm • 9/1 Belongil Crescent, Byron Bay. Sat 12–12.30pm • 4 Ryces Drive, Clunes. Sat 12.30–1pm • 134 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 1–1.30pm • 47 Kingsley Street, Byron Bay. Sat 1–1.30pm • 1452 Kyogle Road, Uki. Sat 1–1.30pm • 49 Granuaille Road, Bangalow. Sat 1.30–2pm • 14 Rush Court, Mullumbimby. Sat 1.45–2.15pm • 56 Ruskin Lane, Byron Bay. Sat 2–2.30pm • 4 Wright Place, Bangalow. Sat 2.30–3pm

New Listings First National Byron • 2/6 Keats Street, Byron Bay • 9/1 Belongil Crescent, Byron Bay • 22 Burns Street, Byron Bay www.echo.net.au

Property Business Directory CONVEYANCING

FINANCE

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

BUYING and SELLING REAL ESTATE? We are here to help

NP CONVEYANCING

[ª ɺUªÖ ɴÙɺ¼Ç ¼ ¥Â Â ɺ üÓ Öà

PHONE 6685 7436 FOR A QUOTE

NPC

PERSONALISED APPOINTMENTS IN BYRON BAY NOW

Home Loans Investment Loans First Home Buyers Car Loans

NOW OPERATING OUT OF CENTRAL OFFICE IN POTTSVILLE Lic No 06000098

We project manage building, HIZIPSTQIRX ƤVI WEJIX] QIEWYVIW 'VEMK %HEQW | Project Manager 0411 575 991 craig@cacm.net.au

Debt Consolidation SMSF Lending Commercial Loans Development Funding

RãÙÙ ¼ɺUª ÷ Finance Broker

PROPERTY STYLING

russel@acceptancefinance.com.au 0412 833 280

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

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PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

12 years local Real Estate experience Premium results & peace of mind

4DBO 5P #PPL

NSW & QLD Conveyancing, Leases, Business Sale & Purchase P: 02 6687 0548 | hello@bangalowconveyancing.com.au

www.echo.net.au

Effective, modern technology Friendly & Approachable agents you can trust

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Highly competitive fees & introductory offers

Property Management & Sales

Alyce Field & Kasey Williams Ph: 04‫׎בא חבג ו׏‬ E: admin@byronpropertyhub.com.au

`ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ The Byron Shire Echo 47

Backlash

!ɖ ȸ ȸ ƺ ȇ Ɏ Ǽ ɵ Ə Ƭ Ƭ ƺ ȵ Ɏ ǣ ȇ Ǖ Ƭ Ǽ ǣ ƺ ȇ Ɏ ɀ An EMDR focused practice Relationship issues Childhood trauma Chronic pain Depression Addiction Phobias Anxiety PTSD 0493 579 052 www.billipsychology.com

ONE-ON-ONE LESSONS FOR SENIORS Be tech savvy and learn how to use your phones, tablets, laptops and computers. Regular lessons, one-off lessons. Tech help available for Apple devices

Qualified, patient and experienced teacher Phone or email: 0420 235 624 contact@thinkblinkdesign.com

Ten years ago in The Echo: ‘Residential properties in Byron Shire increased in median value by 17.85 per cent last year to $383,000, up from $325,000 last year.’ Instead of tinkering around with first home owner grants and the like, a much better way to provide the younger generation with a pathway to home ownership would be giving them tax-free status until they are 30. Sound fair? From The Guardian: ‘Israel has announced it will stop dozens of aid organisations working in Gaza for failing to meet stringent new requirements to hand over personal details of Palestinian and international staff deployed in the devastated territory’.

There was a retro-style synchronised swimming pop-up show in Brunswick Heads on Saturday. Hoppers Bounce Dance entertained a large crowd on low tide, and say they will be back again between the bridges on Sunday, January 18 from 5pm. Photo Jeff Dawson

The Suffolk Park home of the ‘Queen of Byron Bay’, Ruth Harris, is up for auction on January 31. According to www.realestate.com.au, ‘A decade before her Suffolk Park purchase, Ruth had sold her 1960s home at nearby Wategos Beach, which according to local paper The Echo had “white curved walls and movie-star looks”, for $1.375m to Vincent Rae.’ The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) says they have recorded their second busiest year on record, ‘responding to an average of 1,100 incidents every week to exceed 60,000 jobs completed in 2025… The busiest NSW SES units in 2025 were Wyong, Gosford, Tweed Heads, Port Stephens and Maitland City, with the Northern and Metropolitan Sydney regions recording the highest number of incidents statewide’.

‘The federal Labor government must urgently lift income support payments as routine indexation falls far short of what people need to afford basic necessities’, lobby group Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS) said. ‘From Monday, Youth Allowance for a single person living away from home is only going up by $6.95 a week. This lifts Youth Allowance and Austudy to just $338.60 per week, which is 36 per cent of the minimum wage’, CEO Cassandra Goldie said.

‘I’m seriously starting to question the credibility of the FIFA Peace Prize’ – comedian Tony Martin referring

Need A Quick Phone Repair?

A number of 2022 flood recovery projects have now been completed or are nearing completion, Council staff say – visit www.byron.nsw.gov.au to see what and where. What is the meaning of life? If you asked writer Kurt Vonnegut (1922–2007) he replied, ‘We are here on Earth to fart around, and don’t let anybody tell you different’.

to Trump’s invasion of Venezuela and subsequent threats to invade other countries – see page 8.

1 Hour Service Available 1/ 130 Jonson Street Byron Bay 02 6685 5585

devicetrader.com.au

MOBILES - REPAIRS - ACCESSORIES

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ISSUE #9 ~ SUMMER 2025 MINDFULNESS @ WORK

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ER 2025 ISSUE #9 ~ SUMM

m 8 E> drinks, the amazing food, A celebration of #ÒÄ½ł ~ Öł~¾ ŁÒ ÖÜ~àÒ~¾ÜÖŁÄ¾ŁÜ¥ Ł Ä ern Rivers ~ÖÜŁÜÄŁ ~ÒÖŁ~¾ Ł North native forest meanders in the hinterland, if you take the and delights of the chance to explore what’s on offer you will

elcome to summer – it’s time to let your hair down, relax, and enjoy a little respite from the winter months as the days lengthen and the warmth gets us up early and out later in Ü¥ Ł~ Ü Ò¾ÄÄ¾ÖŁ~¾ ł ë ¾§¾¡ÖńŁ

There is no shortage of experiences to draw you in, take òÄàŁÄàÜŁ~¾ Ł· ÜŁòÄàŁ¥~ë Ł à¾ńŁ]¥ÒÄà¡¥ÄàÜŁÜ¥§ÖŁ §Ü§Ä¾ŁÄ à¾ńŁ]¥ÒÄà¡¥ÄàÜŁÜ¥§ÖŁ §Ü§Ä¾ Ä Ł Eat Drink you can explore what the Northern Rivers has to offer on a plate, in a garden or farm, or in a jar, tin, or glass Ï ¾ §¾¡ŁÄ¾ŁòÄàÒŁÖ ÜÜ§¾¡ńŁ With food being grown throughout the region you can explore gathering your own produce at places like The Paddock, or selecting it from stalls at farmers’ markets and turning it into delicious home-cooked meals to eat ~· Ò Ö ÄŁ~ÖŁÜ¥ ŁÖà¾ŁÖ ÜÖŁ~¾ ŁÜ¥ Ł¥ ~ÜŁÖà Ö§ ÖńŁ If you are a little over making your own delights then make sure you explore the pages ahead for the diverse range of options available to you from farm to plate, high-end to casual restaurants and cafes, to having special catered ½ ~·ÖŁ ·§ë Ò ŁÜÄ òÄàÒŁ ~ëÄàÒ§Ü ŁÖ ÜÜ§¾¡ńŁ ½ ~·ÖŁ ·§ë Ò ŁÜÄŁòÄàÒŁ One of the delights of the region is taking the chance to explore and creating a personalised trail of food and drink delights that can give you the perfect opportunity ÜÄŁ ñÏ·ÄÒ ŁÖÄ½ ŁÄ ŁÜ¥ Ł ÖÜŁÖ ¾ ÒòŁ§¾ŁÜ¥ ŁÒ ¡§Ä ¾ńŁ

also have the opportunity to explore the beautiful nature and spaces Ü¥~ÜŁÜ¥ ŁÒ ¡§Ä¾Ł§Ö Ò ¾Äì¾ Ł ÄÒń Ü¥~ÜŁÜ¥ ŁÒ ¡§Ä¾Ł§ÖŁÒ ¾Äì¾ Ł ÄÒńŁ

Whether it is a solo journey, a family adventure, or a romantic getaway there is something on offer for every à ¡ ÜŅŁ~¾ ŁÖÜò· ńŁ Similarly, you have every chance to tailor your food and beverage experience to suit your dietary and libation ÏÒ Ò ¾ ÖńŁ* Ł§ÜŤÖŁë ¡~¾Ł~¾ ŁÄÒ¡~¾§ ŁÜ¥ Ò Ł~Ò ŁÏ· ¾ÜòŁÄ Ł delights to be had as is the case for the full meat-lovers’ ñÏ Ò§ ¾ Ł~¾ Ł ë Òòì¥ Ò Ł§¾Ł Üì ¾ńŁ Local distilleries and breweries abound, offering you everything from beautiful views and tours, to great ë ¾à ÖŁÜÄŁ¥Ä· ŁòÄàÒŁ ë ¾ÜÖńŁ#ÄÒŁÜ¥ÄÖ Łì¥ÄŁ½§¡¥ÜŁÏÒ ÒŁ a delicious drink without the alcohol there are plenty of delights on offer that make you feel special and tantalise òÄàÒŁÜ~ÖÜ ł à ÖńŁ As a local this is a great chance to remind yourself of all the region has on offer and for visitors take the time to make your experience special, meet your needs, and Ò ~Ü Ł½ ½ÄÒ§ ÖŁÜ¥~ÜŁì§··Ł·~ÖÜŁ~Ł·§ Ü§½ ńŁ – Aslan Shand, editor

Phone James on 0429 888 683 Lic 378040C

48 The Byron Shire Echo `ëŕƖëſƷ Ǯǽ ǩǧǩǭ

DINING Frida’s Field

No Bones – DRINK plant-based dining with 6 Ł soul ]EŁ]

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Sunshine Low GI Sugar

Bay Pizza Lab

Experience the be best of local dining at Azure Bar and Grill G Byron Bay Pork & Meats

take people FREE for you to and landscape are all I think food, culture,

The Paddock Project, Mullumbimby. Photo by Jeff Dawson

absolutely insepara ble. – Anthony Bourdain

6 EAT DRINK Summer 2025

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Bring greater clarity, focus, and wellbeing into your organisation through the practices of mindfulness.

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Azteca Margarita: ]¥ ł ÖÜŁÖ¥§Ò ŤÖŁ ÖÜŁ ½~Ò¡ŁŖł~ ÄÒ §¾¡ŁÜÄŁë wise and clever people ÒòŁ

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· Resources to support ongoing wellbeing. · Live or online. Enquiries and bookings: 0401 926 090

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EAT DRINK Summer 2025 15 EAT DRINK

Summer 2025

A celebration of the amazing food, drinks, and delights of the Northern Rivers #§¾ ŁòÄàÒŁ#S Ł ÄÏòŁ~ÜŁÜ¥ Ł ¥ÄŁÄ ĝ ŅŁ at select spots around the Shire, or read it online at www.echo.net.au/eat-drink

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YOUR FACILITATOR Paul Bibby is a qualified local mindfulness and meditation educator who has helped organisations across the country boost their performance and wellbeing through the practical tools and strategies of mindfulness.