WONDERING WHO’S THE LEADER SINCE 1986 The Byron Shire Echo • Volume 41 #22 • November 11, 2026 • www.echo.net.au
State Mullum Show fun commits for all the family $3m for The Saddle Rd sewer link Paul Bibby The NSW Government will spend $3 million on a sewer link for The Saddle Road housing precinct near Brunswick Heads, a connection it says could service up to 600 residential lots. The funding, announced on 30 October, covers design and construction of a connection to the Brunswick Valley Sewage Treatment Plant. It forms part of a $12 million package under the NSW Reconstruction Authority’s Resilient Lands Program, with the remaining funds going to projects near Casino and Grafton. ‘People rightly want to see progress, but you cannot build homes without first laying the pipes, securing the water supply, and building the roads,’ Recovery Minister Janelle Saffin said. The precinct lies on elevated land between Brunswick Heads and Mullumbimby. It includes the proposed Gulgan Village, where Byron Shire Council anticipates between 400 and 550 dwellings will be built, including affordable rentals. Council expects the broader precinct could eventually accommodate about 1,500 homes. The planning proposal exhibited in June outlined an option to pump ▶ Continued on page 4
More public transport for the Northern Rivers ▶ p5
A bit hot on Saturday, perfect on Sunday – the Mullumbimby Show attracted an enthusiastic and eclectic crowd. Hazey and her four-legged friend, Honey were stars of the show’s hilarious Pet Parade. Check out more Mullum Show pics on page 11, and find out about the Bangalow Show on page 4, and pages 18–20. Photo Jeff ‘Show Me The Way I Will Follow’ Dawson
Call on state govt to exclude Byron from fast track development Aslan Shand The Byron Bay Masterplan Advisory Group (BBMAG) and People of Byron both came out strongly in support of Byron Shire being excluded from the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) and State Significant Development (SSD) state government fast track development pathways at the last Byron Shire Council (BSC) meeting on 15 October. The groups say the new statewide development application (DA)
approval process will wreck Byron’s character and built environment by making the locally-generated planning framework irrelevant. There were two motions before councillors, both moved by Mayor Sarah Ndiaye and seconded by Councillor Michelle Lowe. The first was to take a motion ‘to the 2026 Local Government NSW (LGNSW) annual conference calling on LGNSW to advocate strongly to the NSW government for the retention of planning powers by regional and rural councils’. The second
was a motion to seek an exclusion for Byron Shire from the HDA and SSD fast track state development pathways. The Byron Shire has clear height guidelines which locals and visitors fought to put in place, from the 1980s onwards, as developers sought to push up building heights and make Byron Bay a mini-Gold Coast. Despite the height restrictions there has been a constant upward
pressure as each height breach is strategically used by developers for future highest exceedances. This is the case even when the Land and Environment Court (L&EC) has specifically said that an approved breach should not be used in that way with, for example 4 Marvell Street, Byron Bay. It has also been pushed up by state legislation allowing height exceedances for certain types of development. Currently there are at least three proposals including two on Jonson ▶ Continued on page 7
What does the blue tsunami mean for us? ▶ p8
Love is louder: a husband’s plea to the Shire ▶ p10
The 125th Bangalow Show kicks off on Saturday ▶ p18
Local small businesses are a big deal to us ▶ p22
Keep our height limits
Local News
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Jewellery theft from Bangalow artists
Help get Mullum High junior debaters to state finals
Paul Bibby Hundreds of handmade jewellery pieces have been stolen from a Bangalow artists’ collective, leaving some members without any work to sell ahead of the crucial Christmas trading period. Hammer & Hand’s gallery in the Lumber Yard on Station Street was broken into on Saturday, 31 October, according to collective member Cristina Sharratt. Cash was also taken, but Cristina said the loss of collections built over months and years was particularly devastating for the group’s ten local metalsmiths. ‘All our pieces are completely handmade by us and are very distinctive,’ she said. ‘We hope that whoever took our precious collections has realised they will be very hard to sell without being recognised as ours.’ Cristina said several other businesses in the precinct had been broken into or targeted in attempted break-ins that night. She said footage from local businesses’ cameras had been passed to police, and the Lumber Yard’s owners were looking
Artists had their collections and materials stolen from a gallery in Bangalow last week. Photo supplied to further upgrade cameras around the precinct. Hammer & Hand has operated in the Northern Rivers for 18 years, including 12 in Byron’s Arts & Industry Estate and six in Bangalow. The collective’s artists include Bruce Pringle, Rosie, Jen Banks, Julian de Sax, Rachel Horsfall, Linda Young, Cristina Sharratt, Jed, Zoe Ace, Meg, and Louise Shaw. Cristina said the one-off jewellery could be readily traced to its makers, making resale difficult. Solder in the metal would also complicate melting it down for sale as raw material. Its members are sole traders who share rent and expenses, and each work one
day a week in the gallery. ‘For some of the members, Hammer & Hand is their only source of income,’ Cristina said. ‘Christmas sales help tide them over the quieter months and now some members have nothing left to sell.’ The collective is appealing for the jewellery’s return and has established a GoFundMe recovery campaign (https:// www.gofundme.com/f/ hammer-hand-recoveryfund) to help replenish stock and improve security. ‘We ask that they please return our work; leave in a safe place and let someone know where they are,’ Cristina said.
Mr Clarke, Purdey Killips, Rotem Eldar, Aleea Thompson, Lilly Sheppard-Gunther, and Hazel Beaton. Photo supplied After a stint as an English curriculum advisor, Mr Clarke is back as head of the English department at Mullumbimby High School, and debating is back with the junior debate team going to state finals in early December. Under the tutelage of Mr Clarke, and senior debaters Hazel Beaton and Eleanor Sena, the Year 7 students are in a Year 7-8 competition and have argued their way into being undefeated in their zone, and regional finals. They will be one of the top eight teams in the state finals, for a showdown over three days. ‘Debating taught me how to argue in a healthy way; I certainly wouldn’t be the same person without it. Honestly, I see such potential in the girls, I’m so proud of them for getting into state,’ said mentor Hazel Beaton. Speaking to The Echo Mr Clarke said that debating requires oratorial skill,
critical thinking, collaboration and a deep understanding of current social, cultural and political issues. He said they have performed with amazing skill and teamwork. ‘Debating is the ultimate forum for the education department’s focus on High Potential Gifted Education (HPGE) where rural students are able to enlighten our city counterparts on our unique challenges of housing, reduced public amenity, as well as climate challenges such as drought, fire and flood,’ he said.
Can you help? Mullumbimby High School students will have to travel the furthest in the state to get to the finals and they are seeking any sponsorship from businesses in the Shire to help ease the cost burden on families. This could be in the form of prizes which we could raffle off (contact Mr Clarke on james.clarke39@det.
nsw.edu.au), or by a direct contribution (contact paul. evans42@det.nsw.edu.au). ‘Debating means a lot to me; I never thought I could do public speaking but now I can speak in front of a crowd alone, or with my team. I’m so happy we made it to Sydney, and I cannot wait for the camp,’ said Rotem Eldar. Purdey Killips agrees, saying, ‘debating is such a great learning opportunity, and Mr Clarke has been such a devoted mentor to us all. I’m so excited for this new adventure.’ ‘I have learnt a lot in debating,’ explained Lilly Sheppard-Gunther. ‘My confidence and public speaking has definitely improved but also my teamwork, resilience and persistence have grown. I was super excited when I found out that we will get to go to Sydney.’ ‘Let’s all get behind our wonderful young people,’ said Mr Clarke.
Byron Rotary supports Nepalese after floods
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2 The Byron Shire Echo November 11, 2026
Two months on from the devastating flash floods that swept through Nepal, emergency shelter is still urgently needed. For families like Shyam Lal Shrestha, the devastation was sudden and overwhelming. ‘When I saw the water rushing towards us, I realised how serious the situation was. We had very little time to think or collect our belongings. Our main priority was simply to get ourselves and our animals to a safe place.’ Others, like Narayan Nepali, returned to find everything gone. ‘When I reached home, I could hardly believe what I saw. My house was gone, and so was my sewing machine. Sewing was our only source of income. We are just trying to understand how we can start our lives again from here.’ Since the disaster, the Rotary Club of Byron Bay
The Rotary Club of Byron Bay has raised $5,000 in support of flood victims in Nepal. Photo supplied has rallied behind families who lost their homes, raising thousands of dollars to support ShelterBox Australia’s relief efforts. The charity is part of the global ShelterBox network specialising in emergency shelter for families affected by conflict or disaster. ‘Living in the Northern Rivers region of NSW, we understand the devastation flooding can cause,’ said Ian Dipple, the President of the
Rotary Club of Byron Bay. ‘Byron Rotary has responded by rattling collection buckets every Thursday at the Byron Farmers Market, raising $5,000, through the generosity of local residents and visitors. ‘Every cent raised will go towards supporting flood victims in Nepal through the disaster-relief organisation ShelterBox.’ Donate online at: www. shelterboxaustralia.org.au. www.echo.net.au
Local News Impact of mega-dam proposals on Nimbin and the region David Lowe On Tuesday morning, the Lismore Council meeting saw a protest outside from Dam Free Nimbin, and heard evidence inside that the proposals for massive flood retention dams designed to protect the Lismore CBD are already causing negative impacts on people upstream. Before the debate on Cr Virginia Waters’ motion regarding the flood management committee and the CSIRO’s proposed ‘retention basins’, Jacqui Smith, on behalf of Nimbin Hills Real Estate, said she was concerned that many people to whom they had sold homes and farms would now be adversely affected by the proposed dams. She asked how the dams would affect roads – will food and medical supplies still be able to get to towns such as Nimbin?
Flooding people’s flood-free land Ms Smith also asked about compensation for affected landholders, for what could become unsaleable land. How will the country respond to being underwater for weeks? What about the environmental issues of petrol stations going under water? Could the amount of water in ten dams be released without generating land slips? Sharon Whaley, also from Nimbin, says she bought her land as it was flood free, but it would go underwater if the dam proposals were built. Ms Whaley said that including the dams in the Flood Risk Management Plan before the feasibility study has been completed was neither morally or ethically justifiable.
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Engineer and Richmond Tinnie Man Steve Posselt told Lismore councillors he has spent 30 years in water control gates. ‘As you know, the Tinnie Men have compiled comments on the CSIRO Flood Study. The comments demonstrate that the flood detention basins would be classified as dams and subject to Australian National Committee on Large Dams (ANCOLD) protocols. ‘They also show why the control gates proposed are not feasible. The detention times nominated by CSIRO are shown to be dangerously impractical due to the high probability of rapid draw down failure, leading to landslip.
They Had Cancer – men, it’s time to put your health first
False hope ‘People of Lismore, Coraki, Woodburn and Broadwater, to name just some locations, are still traumatised from 2022. They should not be given false hope. ‘People in the valleys are now being victimised and will continue to be for another two years until the $3m is spent, and the feasibility is completed. This is simply not fair.’ Steve Posselt closed with the words of a member of the Mary River Catchment Coordinating Committee, about another dam proposal that caused havoc in the local community: ‘In 2006 the Traveston Crossing Dam was announced. While this dam was never built, we experienced first-hand the destruction of the close knit social fabric of Mary Valley.’ Cr Big Rob’s response was to say that Mr Posselt is conducting ‘a scare campaign’. ■ Read full story in The Echo
online: www.echo.net.au.
Steven, Russell and Gareth are in their 50s and 60s. They look healthy from the outside but then they had cancer. They are encouraging men to listen to their bodies and go to the GP rather than putting it off. Photo David Young Aslan Shand When Russell had a bit of a morning cough he dismissed it, he’d smoked till he was 30, it was probably just a residue cough from that. It wasn’t until he had a swelling on the side of his neck the size of a mango that he finally went to the doctor. Life is busy, often people don’t ‘have time’ to go to the GP even when symptoms are persistent. Men are less likely than women to visit a doctor and Russell says that needs to change.
Visit your GP Russell and three other men have come together to highlight the importance of men, in particular regional men, listening to their bodies,and
stop putting off visiting the GP. Photographer David Young has worked with Russell, Steven, and Gareth, three men in their 50s and 60s who look healthy from the outside but had a hidden threat growing inside them, to create the photographic project They Had Cancer. All three are cancer survivors and they are taking a clear message to regional men of the importance of listening to themselves and their bodies because while you can appear ‘seemingly healthy from the outside, it can mask serious issues, mental and physical, inside’.
Look after yourself ‘The photograph is about showing our vulnerability, stoicism, imperfections,
strength, weakness, flaws, and frailties in men when it comes to physical and mental health,’ Russell told The Echo. ‘The important thing is don’t ignore the science that your body gives you, either psychological or physical, that something might be wrong. Whether it’s a physical thing like a lump in your neck, a persistent cough, difficult or painful urinating or you’re finding yourself irritable, quick to anger, or you’re drinking too much alcohol, recognise there’s something wrong.’ Russell had oropharyngeal cancer and treatment has impacted his hearing and Steven and Gareth are ‘navigating things in their private lives that
nobody talks about’.
Overcome stigma Russell said all four men wanted to encourage men of their generation to overcome the uncomfortableness and stigma when it comes to addressing health issues. He also said that getting treatment doesn’t bankrupt you, well at least here in Australia. ‘When I got diagnosed, I thought, “Oh, is this going to financially ruin me?” But I wasn’t financially ruined. Cancer is a big threat to our health and the services are there. I was very grateful.’ If you catch cancer at an early stage it significantly increases your survival rates. Find out more at: www.theyhadcancer.au.
November 11, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 3
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Celebrating 125 years of the Bangalow Show Learn to upcycle and repair at Circularity
Bangalow bards Angus Dickson, Dave Eastwell and Angus Thurgate from a previous year. Photo Jeff Dawson The Bangalow Show is celebrating 125 years this weekend on Friday, 13 and Saturday, 14 November at the Bangalow Showgrounds. From barrel racing, mower racing, and dog high-jump, to boot tossing, monster trucks and a team stockmen’s ironman, there is plenty of fun to be had by everyone. And for those with a more lyrical bent the bush poetry competition returns to the Bangalow Show at 11am on Saturday promising an
entertaining showcase of literary talent and creativity. Poets of all backgrounds and experience levels are invited to take the stage, with just two simple rules: deliver an original poem in no more than three minutes. Your poem must incorporate the words ‘one’, ‘two’ and ‘five’ in honour of the show’s 125th anniversary. Local poet and MC, Angus Thurgate, will return as the event’s host. Once again, he’s joined by a distinguished panel of judges who will
4 The Byron Shire Echo November 11, 2026
be scrutinising the performances. They will be gauging factors such as audience engagement and crowd reaction. The competition will take place on the picturesque Village Green, just past the Moller Pavilion. Poets are encouraged to arrive by 10.45am. To register your poem or find out more, contact Angus Thurgate at athurgate@hotmail.com. Find out more on the Bangalow Show on pages 18-20.
Have you been wondering how to upcycle some old clothes, take a ding our of your surfboard or what to do with all that scrap material you have lying around? Well now is your chance to find out with Stone & Wood’s Circularity, an afternoon of hands-on upcycling, mending and good times, all in the name of reducing waste and recycling right, on Friday, 13 November from 4pm at Stone & Wood’s Byron Bay Brewery. ‘Circularity is about more than recycling. It’s about rethinking what we buy and getting as much life as we can out of the things we already own,’ said Kurtis Day from Stone & Wood. ‘Bringing people together to mend, make and swap ideas is how small changes add up to something much bigger.’ The McTavish Ding Repair crew will be talking all things surfboards and how to get as much life and joy out of your board as possible while Atmosea will be using
Enjoy some tunes and get crafty with workshops at Stone & Wood’s Circularity workshops. Photo supplied sunshine and cyanotype printing to transform old T-shirts and pants into something uniquely yours. Enjoy a live soundtrack from the courtyard, a cold drink or two, learn a new skill, and breathe new life into some old favourites.
The Saddle Road sewer connection funded ▶ Continued from page 1
sewage to the Brunswick Heads pump station at the sports fields. At the time, Council was also investigating whether it could bring forward a direct link to the treatment plant. The exhibited draft planning agreement put responsibility for local sewer works and site-specific connections on the developer. It also allowed for a possible credit against developer charges where
extra pump-station capacity was built by the developer to serve future development. Council says the agreement was endorsed on 19 October. The funding announcement does not spell out how the publiclyfunded works will fit with the developer’s obligations. Sewer and water capacity were among the main concerns raised during public consultation on Gulgan Village, alongside traffic,
building height and impacts on nearby towns. Council received 74 public submissions and four from agencies. Council backed the village plans on 17 September, and the NSW Planning Portal lists the rezoning proposal at finalisation. The sewer funding does not approve the housing development. The state has yet to set out when work on the connection will begin, or when the first lots could be serviced.
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Local News Bus politics: more Northern Rivers public transport Zakai Sparkes The state government has announced more than 670 additional weekly bus services to run across Northern Rivers bus networks starting from 6 December, 2026. The extra services will run on the Byron Bay, Ballina, Lismore and Casino networks, and will ‘improve public transport access to key destinations,’ including hospitals, university and TAFE campuses, as well as Ballina Byron Gateway Airport said a press release from Lismore MP Janelle Saffin. This comes on the heels of Ballina Shire Mayor, and independent candidate for the seat of Ballina in the 2027 state election, Sharon Cadwallader, calling for ‘a radical new approach to public transport in the Northern Rivers’. In response to the new bus services, Cr Cadwallader says she ‘welcomes the minister’s announcement’, but feels the decision was ‘a bit reckless’, lacking in transparency and detail regarding an integrated timetable. Cr Cadwallader also said that community consultation was needed to understand ‘acceptable journey times, service frequency, and reliable connections.’ ‘Don’t get me wrong, I’m glad that we’ve had some traction. But there’s a lot more work to do, particularly with the community… you need to measure success by how useful the services are to the people who depend on them,’ she said.
Growing population Minister for North Coast, Janelle Saffin says these plans will see ‘real, tangible benefits for local communities’ and the additional services will ensure public transport keeps pace with the Northern Rivers
‘continued growth and thriving visitor economy’. ‘We have listened to what our communities need… helping people stay connected to jobs, education, healthcare and the places they visit every day.’ Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye (Greens), has also welcomed the new buses, saying ‘the decision was a win for people who have waited a long time to be heard’. ‘For years we have lobbied for this because so many people in our community have been isolated by the lack of public transport. When there is no reliable bus, our young people and our elderly depend heavily on family just to stay connected. It limits work, volunteering, recreation and, importantly, safety.’ Labor candidate for Ballina, and Byron Shire Councillor, Janet Swain, says she is making sure our ‘growing communities’ have more frequent access to the bus network ‘as more people move into the area.’ ‘Public transport is one of the biggest issues that is raised with me by locals across the electorate,’ she said.
Additional buses Under the changes, Byron Bay’s Route 640 will generally run hourly between Ballina Airport, Ballina and Byron Bay, a new Route 646 will cut 18 minutes off weekday trips between Ocean Shores and Brunswick Heads, more evening and weekend services will run from Lismore to Byron Bay, Ballina Airport and Mullumbimby. Epiq Marketplace in Lennox Head will have a public bus service for the first time, and there will be more Route 670 trips between Kyogle, Casino and Lismore, linked to the 8.21am train to Sydney. Greens candidate for
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Ballina, Mandy Nolan says the Northern Rivers region is ‘underserviced’ in the public transport sector and welcomes the announcement from state government, but says ‘it has to be available, and it has to be reliable’. ‘In order for public transport to become socialised within a community, the community has to trust that it’s reliable, and that it’s going to be continuous, and that will actually start to socialise our community into using public transport more,’ she says.
No Kingscliff bus Nolan raises particular concern over a lack of bus services connecting essential amenities, for example, routes from Mullumbimby and Byron to Kingscliff TAFE. The current plan does not include a bus route to Kingscliff TAFE as part of this initiative. ‘If you don’t drive in this region, you’re really disadvantaged when it comes to accessing health services or work or education and training… There’s been advocacy in our local community for over a decade to solve the public transport problem when it comes to getting people, for example, from Mullum and Byron to Kingscliff TAFE. There isn’t a bus service that takes anyone there. Doing that kind of work with the community, to find out what they need is important.’ These plans come as the NSW government announces 3,000 additional weekly bus services across the state, with Minister for Transport, John Graham saying ‘these improvements have been informed by extensive community consultation’. ‘We’ll continue listening to passengers as we work to deliver a better, more reliable bus network.’
Leah Ashenhurst, Coby Sullivan, mentor Sarah Armstrong, Summer Thurlow, and Craig Tobler. Photo Jeff Dawson It was 25 years ago when now-acclaimed novelist Sarah Armstrong attended the first week-long retreat for the Byron Writers Festival (BWF), and now she has returned as the mentor for four emerging authors for the BWF Residential Mentorship, now celebrating its 25th year. ‘It’s been a thrill working with these four writers. They all have strong voices and compelling stories,’ she said,
emphasising the importance of a regional program like this. ‘Emerging regional writers have fewer opportunities than their counterparts in the cities, which is why a program like BWF’s Residential Mentorship is so important.’ The four manuscripts are different genres and span nearly two centuries, from the streets of 1840s London and the Port Arthur penal settlement, to Gallipoli, a family yacht in the 1970s, and
the quiet creep of postnatal depression into contemporary domestic life. The five-day Residential Mentorship is Byron Writers Festival’s flagship development program for emerging writers. Its alumni include authors Jessie Cole, Hayley Katzen, Jarrah Dundler, Bronwyn Birdsall, Mirandi Riwoe, Sally Colin-James, Emily Brugman and the late Jesse Blackadder.
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A Northern Rivers family might be forced to leave their life behind without direct intervention by the Minister for Immigration, Tony Burke. The de Silva family have been living locally since 2020, contributing significantly to local businesses and to disaster recovery. In 2023, Hansa de Silva missed the deadline to apply for permanent residency due to the impacts of Covid and then the 2022 flood disaster. Since then the family have been engaged in an expensive and lengthy legal process to try and secure permanent residency. Now the only option remaining to them is ministerial intervention. ‘We arrived in Australia in early 2020, ready to work hard and build a future here. I am a chef and I have always been committed to working in regional communities where skilled workers like me are needed,’ said Mr de Silva. ‘I secured a sponsored position at The Channon Tavern, but when it was flooded in 2022, I suddenly found myself without a job. Eventually I found stable employment at the Eltham Hotel, and I have been there ever since. ‘Once we got through all the delays that resulted from Covid, and from the floods, my application for permanent residency was refused on age grounds
MP for Lismore, and Kevin Hogan, MP for Page. Everyone we talk to about this situation understands that we have done everything we can and are being refused on a technicality,’ she said.
Eltham Hotel
Ben Raymond, Head Chef Eltham Hotel; Sandu, Kathrin, Tara and Hansa de Silva; and Elly Bird, Executive Director Resilient Lismore. Photo supplied because I had just turned 45 when I finished working the required three years. To rub salt in the wound, only a few weeks later the employment time required was reduced to two years. ‘Without all these delays and the impacts of so many things outside of our control, we would be permanent residents now,’ he said.
Resilient Lismore Hansa’s wife Kathrin de Silva works with local disaster recovery charity, Resilient Lismore, helping people rebuild their homes and lives, and strengthening the region’s preparedness for future disasters. ‘I am the Director of Operations with Resilient Lismore,’ she said. ‘It’s incredibly busy, and challenging, work but I know that the organisation is making a big difference locally and
I am very proud of the work that I do there. ‘I also volunteer with local community groups, and I teach yoga classes to support community wellbeing. We are passionate about bush regeneration and growing food, our two children are thriving academically at Richmond River High School, participating in local sport, and building their futures in Australia. ‘Our family has worked so hard to establish our lives here, but this process has nearly broken us. We have spent thousands and thousands of dollars paying lawyers to help us with a situation that we had no control over, that has been made worse by administration and shifting goal posts. ‘We have secured support letters from so many people to help with our appeal, including Janelle Saffin,
‘As an employer operating in a regional area, it’s a real struggle to find qualified chefs,’ said Matt Rabbidge, co-owner of the Eltham Hotel. ‘Hansa is an excellent chef, and he has a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry. We are worried that we will lose him. ‘Regional businesses like ours need skilled people who are committed to living and working locally. Hansa is very important to our business, and his family have established strong connections in the Northern Rivers, we are supporting their case, and we are very hopeful that the minister will intervene so they can stay.’ Elly Bird, Resilient Lismore’s Executive Director, said, ‘If Kathrin and her family left Australia, it would be very difficult to find someone with enough understanding of our community who also has her significant management skills. It would be a huge blow. ‘The family are making significant contributions and they should be permitted to stay, given that circumstances surrounding their application have been outside of their control,’ she said.
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Paul Bibby Byron Shire Council is proposing restrictions on entering residents’ personal and health information into artificial intelligence tools, with exceptions requiring an approved privacy assessment or the individual’s consent. The safeguards were added by councillors before a draft AI policy was released for public comment, alongside proposed requirements for human oversight of AI-assisted decisions and documents. Councillors unanimously endorsed the amended policy for exhibition at their 15 October meeting. Submissions are currently listed as closing on 17 November. The policy would apply across Council, covering councillors, staff, contractors, consultants and third-party systems incorporating AI.
Under the amendment moved by Cr Elia Hauge and seconded by Cr Michelle Lowe, personal information would receive specific protection. ‘Personal and health information must not be entered into, or made accessible to, any AI tool,’ the resolution states. Exceptions could be permitted following a privacy impact assessment approved for the specific use, with a register reported to Council’s Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee, or where the individual had consented. Any approved use would have to remain consistent with the purpose for which the information was originally collected and comply with privacy legislation and Council’s data-handling rules. The original draft also places responsibility for
AI-assisted work with people. It states that ‘a named person, not an algorithm, remains accountable for every AI-assisted decision or output Council relies on’. AI-generated content and decisions would require human review before being relied upon, published or acted upon, with scrutiny scaled according to risk. The draft requires assessments for bias before AI is deployed in processes affecting residents, and says its use must demonstrably improve services, efficiency or accessibility. Disclosure would generally occur through website statements and legal notices rather than individual labels on every AI-assisted document. Basic editing for grammar, clarity or formatting would not require disclosure. A separate safety and security plan would govern
approved tools, data handling, procurement and responses to misuse or breaches. Those technical controls could be updated without a Council resolution, with higher-risk changes requiring executive approval. The documents do not identify which AI tools Council currently uses or establish that residents’ information has been misused. The proposal comes against a regional backdrop of concern about AI and privacy, following last year’s disclosure that a Reconstruction Authority contractor uploaded Resilient Homes Program information to an unauthorised AI tool. There is no established connection between that incident and Byron’s policy proposal, which remains subject to the current public consultation process. www.echo.net.au
Local News Paterson Street grass fire Mullumbimby Uke Off After various reports from members of the public about an incident at Paterson Street in Byron Bay on the weekend, Fire and Rescue NSW has confirmed with The Echo that they responded to a Triple 0 call on Sunday evening. At around 7.43pm on Sunday, 8 November emergency services were alerted to a tree fire at Paterson Street, Byron Bay.
Crews found a small area of grass alight upon arriving on scene. The fire was quickly extinguished using two hoses and water from their trucks. No damage to property, nor injuries to firefighters or members of the public were reported. Fire and Rescue NSW crews completed firefighting operations within 30 minutes of arriving on scene.
For more than 15 years, Uke Mullum has been bringing ukulele players together to make music. Established in 2011, the club meets every Wednesday night at Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club. On Wednesday, 18 November between 6.30pm and 8.30pm a lively evening of original songs, big laughs and local stories, with live performers backed by a band will be taking place at the
Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club, 58 Dalley Street. The songs cover plenty of ground. Stephen’s written about buying a paddleboard from Aldi. Val Hodgson finds inspiration in Christmas shopping in Lismore. ‘Come along, enjoy the talent on our doorstep and give local songwriters a warm and enthusiastic audience,’ said Uke Mullum’s Stu Eadie, aka Stukulele.
Community supports Byron Council to keep local height limits ▶ Continued from page 1
Street in the state pipeline that exceed the height limit of 11.5m, including at the old Mitre 10 site at 148–156 Jonson Street and the old Woolworths site, 98–106 Jonson Street, (currently Haven) that are seeking to build to 16m and 21m respectively. ‘The threat to Byron’s character and built environment is real,’ Brook Crowle, from People of Byron told the meeting. ‘Right now, we need to protect this place more than ever. If the state government can [allow a proposal for] a 21m building today, what is
coming next? The implications and threat to Byron’s character and built environment is real. ‘The expedited pathway of the HDA/SSD proposals expose an imbalance of benefit to the developer on the promise of a small amount of affordable housing. Meanwhile, the community and Council are locked out of decisions that shape the very town and region in which we live.’ Anthony Bangallo from BBMAG told the meeting that the ‘proposed Byron Shire-specific exclusion from the HDA/SSD pathways is particularly important because it would help
maintain the integrity of our locally-developed planning framework’. Bangallo emphasised the importance of the distinctive character of Byron, the risk individual proposals present when they are not considered in context of the overall town and their cumulative effects on Byron Shire’s distinct character.
Developer challenge Independent councillor Jack Dods spoke up for the HDA/SSD fast track saying things should be made easier for developers. ‘The cost of construction, the rules in the National
ALONGSIDE
Construction Code, the rules around certification, the amount of rules that one has to prescribe with, in just submitting a DA. It makes your head explode,’ he told the meeting. ‘I understand why the state government has created this pathway, and for a project like the Jason Dunn Project, I don’t think this pathway is creating a huge issue,’ said Cr Dods referring to the proposed 16m height DA for the old Mitre 10 site. Nevertheless he voted in favour of both motions with every other councillor who all wanted the local rules to take precedence.
Help Byron High students get new laptops for learning Every student needs equal access to resources and that is what the Byron High P&C is working towards with their Summer Raffle. ‘Despite having more than 850 students, Byron Bay High School faces genuine funding challenges, and the P&C plays an important role in helping provide resources and facilities that enhance students’ learning experiences. This year, we are raising funds specifically to purchase much-needed new laptops for students, as many of the school’s existing devices are outdated,’ P&C
secretary Wandy Hochgrebe, told The Echo. There are 17 prize packages worth over $11,000 including local experiences and dining, to art, beauty, and shopping. ‘Every ticket helps the school purchase muchneeded laptops, giving students better access to the technology they need to learn and thrive,’ said Wandy. Pick up your tickets at: tickets.rafflelink.com/byronbay-high-school/get-readyfor-summer-raffle before Friday, 4 December.
Where dance meets art Contact improvisation (CI) is a dance of questioning, listening, presence and responsiveness say organisers of the Making Contact exhibition that opens on Friday, 13 November from 5pm at Mullum Garage Gallery. It will feature live music and dance performances, bringing the spirit of improvisation to life. Making Contact is a collective exhibition bringing
together artists from the Mullumbimby Contact Improvisation (CI) community. Working across photography, painting, sculpture, film and installation, the artists explore how their shared dance practice informs and inspires other creative forms. The exhibition runs from Thursday, 12 November to Tuesday, 17 November at Mullum Garage Gallery.
Help shape the future of transport in Byron Shire
MARSH
PUESTO
HERB REMEDY JEDDA
Council has released a draft Integrated Transport Plan and is now inviting the community to have their say on the document. The plan sets out goals and priorities for transport in the Byron Shire for the next 20 years.
More information yoursay.byron.nsw.gov.au/ transport-plan
Have your say
MARIA’S
You can provide your feedback by:
KICK BUILDING AND MORE
• Completing a short survey on Council’s website. • Coming along to a community drop-in session on Thursday 3 December from 3pm to 6pm at Mullumbimby Council Chambers. • Emailing a submission to council@byron.nsw.gov.au Feedback closes on Sunday 13 December.
ENQUIRIES: +61 421 031 014 www.echo.net.au
November 11, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 7
Comment
North Coast news online
The Byron Shire Echo
Volume 41 #22 • November 11, 2026
Defining the future of Byron
R
ecently friends visited from overseas, and we dropped one of them off at Byron for a day of adventure. They walked the beach up to the lighthouse, chatted to locals and visitors alike, sampled food and drinks, underestimated the Australian sun and got sunburnt, and had a wonderful day. Meeting them for dinner they had two things to say about the town, it was smaller than they were expecting and wasn’t it amazing that the buildings were so low and you could still see the sky. It was the second observation that struck home and reminded me of why it is worth fighting to keep the height limits in place for Byron Shire and Byron Bay. The lower building heights aren’t just a bunch of locals who don’t want the town to change; it is about how the town feels, how people – tourists as well as locals – interact with the town and how it makes them feel, whether they want to come back, or recommend it to friends. Currently there are three development applications (DAs) in the NSW state government’s fasttrack development pathways, the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) and State Significant Development (SSD) pathway for Byron Bay. These include one seeking to build to 16m high at the old Mitre 10 site, 148–156 Jonson Street, and one seeking to build to 21m high at the old Woolworths site, 98–106 Jonson Street, (currently Haven). Both significantly exceed the height limit of 11.5m. Byron Shire Council voted on 15 October to again ask the NSW state government to exclude the Byron Shire from both the HDA and SSD fast-track pathways that override our local environment plans (LEPs), town masterplans and development control plans (DCPs).
Everyone wants more affordable housing to be built (but rarely next door), and developers of these sites are entitled to seek approval based on the rules applicable at the time. However, unlike local planners, residents and our visitors, rule-makers in Sydney don’t have to live with the consequences of the approved developments forever. There is a NSW state government election coming up in May 2027 and this is an opportunity for anyone who wants to preserve the character and beauty of Byron Shire’s towns and landscapes to speak to your local MPs, both state and federal, as well as talk to potential future candidates of all persuasions about what their position is on removing Byron Shire from the fast-track development system and, particularly in the case of Labor, have they got a commitment from the party to pause current DAs in the system and to remove Byron Shire before the election? As we are seeing in the US midterm elections in places like Mississippi, every vote counts, and there are plenty of candidates that have thrown their hat in the ring for the marginal state seat of Ballina. Having a friend look around and see the beauty of the hinterland, the rivers of Bruns, to revel in the character of Mullumbimby, and appreciate the open sky of Byron Bay – it reminded me of how beautiful it really is here, and that some parts are worth keeping rather than selling to the highest bidder, presenting the most expensive tower. The real question is what are you prepared to do about it? It’s up to us to try our best to keep Byron’s character – no one else really cares that much. Aslan Shand, editor News tips are welcome: editor@echo.net.au
What does the blue tsunami in the US mean for Australia?
I
n a stunning repudiation of Donald Trump, and the Republican Party he remade in his image, US voters have chosen alternative candidates across the country in midterm elections. The Democrats have comfortably won control of the Senate, which was considered unlikely a week ago, and have won at least 254 seats in the House of Representatives, with only 218 needed for control and many races yet to be called. Immense amounts of private money, largely directed to fear and misinformation media campaigns, including almost half a billion dollars from Elon Musk, failed to stop voters supporting progressive candidates, even in traditional Republican strongholds such as Texas, Ohio and Mississippi. Although just under half the eligible voters in the country turned out, this is a massive number by American standards, and included more young, brown and black people than ever, defying attempts to rig the vote or intimidate those who were attracted by policy platforms focused on corruption, inequity, health and the cost of living. Donald Trump is still the president, and it’s yet to be seen if the midterms will halt the USA’s slide into tyranny, but the tide is now clearly against war in the Middle East and on local immigrants, the rule of the billionaires and the madness and graft of the Trump era. So what does it mean for us?
AUKUS AUKUS is the acronym for the trilateral security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, announced on 15 September 2021 for the Indo-Pacific region. One thing that was almost entirely lost in the media maelstrom following the US midterms was the result of the independent inquiry into AUKUS, announced in Canberra last week, which was
One immediate local response to the US midterms came from One Nation, who have been frantically scrubbing pages praising Donald Trump from their website. – David Lowe highly critical of this multi-billion dollar venture launched by Scott Morrison and enthusiastically pursued by Labor since, though the government found time to immediately reject its findings. The wide-ranging inquiry into AUKUS, which has been described as ‘the worst, riskiest and most costly defence decision ever made by an Australian government’, was led by Peter Garrett and former chief of the Australian Defence Force Admiral Chris Barrie. No one in the incoming US Congress has announced plans to cancel or suspend AUKUS, but it’s quite likely that Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth will now be impeached, potentially throwing future American defence/war strategy into even greater confusion. Our own Richard Marles, who has been photographed grinning with the idiotic, murderous Hegseth at every opportunity, obediently commented as acting PM last week, ‘We stand ready to work with the United States and whoever is governing it.’ A Democratic congress will be able to hold hearings on costs and timelines as the AUKUS program (which includes an expansion of the US military industrial complex in Australia, not just submarines) inevitably slides over budget. On trade, Democrats will now gain leverage over Trump’s tariffs through hearings, votes and spending fights, but he can still impose tariffs under existing laws, so a quick rollback is unlikely. Australian goods still face the extra 12.5 Section 301 duty in force since July, plus 10-50 per cent tariffs on things like steel, aluminium and copper.
Make Australia normal again? One immediate local response to the US midterms came from One Nation, who have been frantically scrubbing pages praising Donald Trump from their website. Trump’s mate Gina Rinehart has also been outed from the inside this week, by former One Nation campaign director Sean Black, as the chief architect of all the party’s policies, as well as the major source of its finances, apart from the Australian taxpayer. Globally, Trump-style politics is firmly in retreat following elections in Serbia, Brazil, Israel and now the United States itself. Even the rightwing National party in New Zealand was unable to win on the weekend, with a three-way tussle expected to take weeks to resolve. As the chaos behind One Nation’s facade comes more clearly into focus, the Nationals’ Matt Canavan has announced he will leave the Senate and attempt to win election to the lower house, in the Queensland seat of Capricornia. If he loses, the Nationals will have lost a senator and a leader. Keep an eye on whether Barnaby Joyce shows similar courage to stand under his new One Nation colours in the lower house. That will show whether the muchtouted orange wave is likely to be a tsunami or a ripple. ■ Originally from Canberra, David
Lowe is an award-winning filmmaker, writer and photographer with particular interests in the environment and politics.
The Byron Shire Echo
Volume 41 #22 November 11, 2026 Established 1986 • 18,000 copies every week
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8 The Byron Shire Echo November 11, 2026
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Letters to the Editor www.echo.net.au/letters Thanks, good men Men’s violence towards women in the surf, on the street, at home, or anywhere, is undeniably unacceptable. In Australia, women continue to die at an alarming rate from domestic violence. This year already, 58 women have been murdered. It’s more than one woman per week. It’s an epidemic. It’s femicide. It’s men’s problem and men are the only ones that can fix it. But for every bad man there are ten good ones. As a female surfer of 30 years, it is only a handful of times that I have been subject to a male’s aggression in the surf. But with each incident, another man, or men have come to my aid, had my back and ensured my safety. Men have shared their waves, let me drop in and apologised when I have clearly been in the wrong. Surfing with men is entertaining and inspirational. But unfortunately, for sport in the ocean, just like sport on the football field, testosteronefuelled violence does exist. Not only towards women but more commonly and dangerously towards other men. Without a doubt, women cannot stop men’s violence without the help of men. We need men to say ‘no’, when violence, sexual harassment, disrespect and gender inequality is witnessed. We need men to call out their mates, peers and colleagues when they witness abuse, sexual harassment and disrespect towards women. To all good men, please continue to watch our backs, stand with us, walk beside us and keep us safe. You are appreciated and we are grateful. To all our fathers, brothers and sons, please raise good men, protect and honour your mothers, sisters and daughters and be active bystanders and leaders in a society that never tolerates violence against women and children. We will support you when you bravely enter harm’s way to protect us. We have your back. We thank you. Helen O’Sullivan Ocean Shores
Career Guidance Vocational Psychologist with over 25 years experience offering expert assessment and counselling. Suitable for: • students • school-leavers • adults returning to work or study • career/work transition
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m 0407 811 484
PACIFIC BITUMEN • RESEALS • DRIVEWAYS • CARPARKS • ALL BASEWORK
Cartoon by Jamie Hoile
Flood-ready? So Lismore heritage treasures have been restored at a cost of over $100 million. Just in time for the next flood, and the next one, ad infinitum. Better yet, move Lismore up the hill. Simon Chance Richmond Hill
Belongil Dailan Pugh seems to be absolutely correct about the functioning of the Belongil wetland system and outlet to the sea in former times. Unfortunately, the retention basin has been filled in for the West Byron development. Had Byron Council not acted and opened the waterway, the large rain event that followed would have caused extensive flooding. It is a tragedy that despite almost the entire community, Council, independent planners, environmental consultants, and of course residents, being opposed to it, West Byron was pushed through by the state government. Council is in an invidious position. Once upon a time, in fact before the year 2000, most rainfall that fell on the towns and suburbs around Byron Bay went down through the sandy soil into the groundwater and slowly progressed to the sea. Now thanks to extensive concreting and the erection of so many buildings with sloped roofs feeding
Letters to the Editor 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. Letters edited for length will be able to be read in full (if a reasonable length) online at: www.echo.net.au/letters. www.echo.net.au
p 6680 1474
directly into the stormwater system, rain moves directly into overloaded drains at lightning speed. Due to decisions made elsewhere, serious flooding can occur frighteningly quickly. So as much as it is desirable to maintain the waterways in a more natural state, it is simply unavoidable to open the creek mouth whenever large rain events approach. As it happens, there is a solution. West Byron could be dismissed as a bad idea, apologies issued, money repaid, and the wetland returned. Unfortunately this seems astonishingly unlikely to happen. So we are stuck in a pattern. No one should be surprised. Matthew Hartley Byron Bay
Pothole angel To the pothole angel responsible for outlining the potholes in the first couple of kilometres of Left Bank Road – a huge ‘thank you’! Sunny Jatara Mullumbimby
Suffolk Park DA The developer’s ad for 9-15 Clifford St, Suffolk Park (4 November) has a lot of misleading and incorrect information. Here are just some examples. The ad says ‘Shops’, but the documents state there will be a 60-seat restaurant plus a 30-seat cafe, each open 7am–10pm, seven days per week. The ad champions their ‘affordable housing’ credentials. But they are demolishing nine 2–3 bedroom houses of modest rent and replacing them with three tiny units (1x 1-bed and 2x 2-bed). These they are the three smallest and worst units of them all,
in contravention of good planning principles from the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure. All face south on to Clifford Street, so not much privacy, and are above the noisy restaurant and cafe. And they will only be affordable for 15 years. The ad says ‘Parking exceeds requirements’. Technically this is correct, but the six luxury 3-4 bed houses (each with a pool) all have their own double garage. So that’s 12 spots, though the formula says they only need nine. So the people in the ten units (18 bedrooms in total) get to share the remaining five spots. The 60-seat restaurant (+6 staff), the 30-seat restaurant (+3 staff) and any visitors/tradies/delivery vehicles for units/shops get 14 spots to share. The parking spots are accessed via one six-metre-wide driveway for both directions. So is another four spots generous? The ad says ‘fully compliant’, but there’s not enough open space, even if they are allowed to count their inappropriate public art amongst trees as ‘open space’. ‘Attachment 30 – Apartment Design Guide Table of Assessment’, page 6. See linktr.ee/CliffordStDA for more info. Karin Kolbe Suffolk Park
57 Station St It is more than disappointing that the proposed development at 57 Station Street, Mullumbimby, has been approved by the Northern Regional Planning Panel (NRPP), particularly given the considerable community opposition. While I recognise the urgent need for affordable ▶ Continued on page 12
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November 11, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 9
Articles
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VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Love is louder: a husband’s plea to the Shire
CAN YOU SPARE 3 HOURS ONCE A WEEK OR ONCE A MONTH?
Every minute of your time helps towards re-homing dogs, desexing dogs, and helping people in desperate situations with housing and difficult home lives. Please call Astro (shop manager) at 0492 861 905 or visit the shop to chat about helping us to help dogs in need.
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The LOVE sign at The Paddock in Mullumbimby reminds everyone coming to town of the power of four simple letters. Photo Jeff Dawson John Stevens
I
have lived in this Shire for more than 30 years. I have raised my children here, swum at its beaches, walked its beauty, made some of my best, and lifelong friends, argued at its meetings and marched in its streets. I love this place. That is why I am writing something I never imagined I would need to. My wife is one of the best people I know. For more than three decades she has shown up for this community, openly and publicly, often at personal cost. She speaks plainly about issues, most of which are underpinned by inequity and about violence, especially violence against women. You don’t have to love her, I do. Not everyone agrees with her, I sometimes don’t. That is fine; that is what community is. What is not fine is what has followed.
Challenges of standing up
PEOPLE, POLITICS AND CULTURE
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10 The Byron Shire Echo November 11, 2026
Last week a man made a credible threat to kill her. In the same week, another man, known in this region for targeting people he dislikes, took a ten-yearold comedy video, re-edited it, posted it to community Facebook pages for the purpose of degrading and humiliating her. He invited
others to pile on. So many did (and thank you to the many who didn’t and those who stood up for her). Another time, a man ran a targeted campaign that included distributing images of our children and me being raped while my wife was beheaded. I will not describe them further. I wish I could forget them. These are not the whole story. They are just some of a long and ugly list: messages, posts and comments arriving daily, mostly from men, mostly online, some from people who would nod to us in the street, most from people who do not know her or what she truly stands for. I want to say plainly what this does. It hurts my wife. It hurts our kids. It hurts me. It sits at the dinner table with us. It makes us check the locks, install security cameras and think twice about leaving the house. It makes a woman who has given such a significant part of her life to this place feel unsafe in it. To understand her is to know that she might be afraid of this behaviour but she won’t be backing down. I am not writing for sympathy. I am writing because what is happening to my family is not only about my family. The abuse of women who speak up is not a sideshow to violence against women. It is part of the same pattern:
the belief that a woman who will not be quiet deserves to be punished. It also tells us something about ourselves. This Shire is famous, sometimes mocked and often secretly envied throughout the world, for being a place of beauty, love, peace and caring. We earned that reputation. But a reputation is not something we own; it is something we practise. When hate is posted, shared and laughed at in our own community groups, that practice is slipping. I have never seen it slip this fast.
Love and kindness So, I am asking you, as a husband, a father and a long-time neighbour, to do something; not to agree with my wife, but to stand against hate. If you see a pile-on, don’t join it. Better still, say something. Report it. Message the person being targeted and tell them you see them. Say to the one mate, the one relative, the one group admin: this isn’t okay, not here. One sentence from someone they respect can do more than a thousand from strangers. And if you are moved to do more, do what we do better than anywhere else. Take to the streets. That spirit, the willingness to grapple with hard things together, is what
makes us special. It has kept fast-food chains out of the Shire. It sent our kids out of classrooms to demand climate action for their future. It brought thousands of us together to say Black Lives Matter. It has protected forests and stood against injustice around the world. Let’s turn it now toward hate, division and violence against women in our own backyard.
Finding our voice I know the people of this Shire. I know the kindness that turns up after a flood, the strangers who become family at our beautiful markets, the fierce loyalty we show each other when things go wrong. The capacity to disagree without hate and violence has been a true feature of this community, just look at the letters to the editor in The Echo. That is who we really are. Hate is loud, but it is not the majority here. It only wins if the rest of us stay quiet. Love is not soft. It is the strongest thing we have. Let’s use it. ■ John Stevens is husband
to Mandy Nolan. Professor Stevens is Co-founder and Director of the Australasian Society of Lifestyle Medicine and the Discipline Lead of the Master of Lifestyle Medicine at Southern Cross University. www.echo.net.au
Local News
Plenty of weekend fun for everyone at the Mullumbimby Show
‘Show time’ means good times are had by young and old with around 4,500 people coming to enjoy the Mullum Show last weekend. The new train ride around the show met with great success, and saved lots of tired little legs, while both the cattle and show jumping saw record entries. The new children and youth section of the Australian Stock Challenge saw plenty of entries and lots of fun was had by all. Pictured from top left: Hudson and Jack aboard a WWII Harley; Cloudy and June with Daffy Dog; Holly Jolly aboard Snow White led by Matilda. Bottom row: MG TF gets a big hand; ground staff hurriedly preparing the Main Ring; Lauchie is also quite good on two wheels (or just one). Photos Jeff ‘Always a Showman’ Dawson
SUPPORT LOCAL, SHOP MULLUMBIMBY ed b r u t Fea
es usin
s
Photo: Jeff Dawson
Spaghetti Circus How high? How dizzy? How many? Which way? This November, the teenage performers of Spaghetti Circus are put to the test in the fun show Wait, What? Flip, juggle, spin, jump and balance. Two shows only: Friday 20 November, 6.30pm and Saturday 21 November, 11.30am, at the Spaghetti Circus Back Shed, Mullumbimby Showground. Spaghetti Circus is Mullumbimby’s own community circus school and a registered charity, helping young people (and adults) grow creative, confident and active. Tickets, classes and holiday workshops: spaghetticircus.com
BECOME A MEMBER! The Mullumbimby Chamber of Commerce represents a mixture of businesses and community groups that have come together for the purpose of ensuring Mullumbimby thrives and remains a vibrant community. Since its inception in 2013, the Chamber has hosted numerous successful events. These include street banquets, the revival of The Chinny Charge, Carols by Candlelight and the
MULLUMBIMBY
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.echo.net.au
annual Shop Local campaign before Christmas. The Chamber also supports Brunswick Valley Historical Society, Mullumbimby Community Gardens, GateWay Landcare, Spaghetti Circus and many other community organisations. If you have a business in Mullumbimby area or are a resident of the Mullumbimby area, you are welcome to join the Mullumbimby Chamber of Commerce. An initiative of the Mullumbimby Chamber of Commerce
www.mullumbimby.org.au November 11, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 11
Letters
North Coast news online
▶ Continued from page 9
housing in Byron Shire, I question whether this is an appropriate location and I question if development is the remit of our alreadyoverwhelmed Council. The loss of much-needed town centre parking, the legitimate concerns of local businesses regarding deliveries and access, and the proposed removal of the public toilet without a clear replacement plan are all significant issues. Parking in Mullumbimby is already difficult, and these practical considerations should not be underestimated. As a renter who has lived in the Shire for 26 years, I am well acquainted with the difficulties of finding affordable accommodation. My opposition is not to affordable housing itself, but to a development that I believe is poorly located and comes at a considerable cost to existing community amenities and to the main street businesses of our town. Byron Council would better serve the community by concentrating on its core responsibilities, including the maintenance and improvement of our increasingly neglected infrastructure. Developing housing is not the job of Council. How
Trump’s shellacking in the American midterms inspired our local artists this week. Above cartoon by Alain Raymond. Right: Lame duck cap cartoon by Sean O’Shannessy. much of ratepayers’ money has already been spent on this project – that would be interesting to know! I am disappointed that Mayor Sarah Ndiaye continues to support this proposal despite substantial community opposition. Good leadership requires listening to residents, and carefully weighing the long-term consequences of planning decisions. Affordable housing is essential, but so is sound planning that respects the needs and character of our town. I also wish to express my support for the concerns raised by Hilary Bone in her recent letter. H Rose Mullumbimby
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Let us be different Here, here to Mike Balson’s letter in The Echo of 2 October. I agree wholeheartedly with what Mike Balson has illuminated in that letter titled ‘Ain’t easy being green’. It is so frustrating to watch the Greens do exactly what he has described, which is to alienate Labor. Why are they doing this? I would like to see a policy of inclusion happening, surely the way that David Shoebridge attacked Labor is joining in with the destructive and alienating right-wing political attacks. Let us be different, let us listen. Speak our minds, be considerate, and look at the long picture. We are here for our children’s children’s children’s children. Julia Williams Ocean Shores
Collective punishment Over the last six decades the supranational Zionist polity has effectively normalised Israel’s illegal occupation of Palestine. With its Nation State law, passed by the Knesset in 2018, the Israeli government has not only normalised but formalised its apartheid status. And now, with the destruction of Gaza, it has normalised its genocide of the Palestinians. All those nations that stood down and did nothing to help the Palestinians
suffering collective punishment at the hands of Israelis, now find themselves subject to collective punishment imposed by the blockade of vital strategic chokepoints in the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab, increasing costs for everyone, a direct result of US/Israeli aggression. How much longer will the world maintain normalisation with the Zionist project and its agenda of occupation, ethnic cleansing and genocide in Palestine? The answer belongs to the current generation of engaged and informed citizens with the moral courage and commitment to forge a more civilised world for future generations. John Scrivener Main Arm
Cadwallader’s credibility As the NSW election looms, it is clear that candidates are unofficially on the hustings with the so-called independent and Mayor of Ballina running a spurious line in The Echo about public transport. In typical opportunistic fashion she proclaimed that the Northern Rivers should have a comprehensive ‘public’ transport system. In principle this is a magnificent proposal, but the proposal contradicts the policy stance of the candidate who by any measure is a staunch political conservative, and is a strong proponent of private sector
involvement, in any community service or infrastructure. This is an example of ideological disorientation and hypocrisy, at its best. I challenge the so-called ‘independent’ to provide concrete evidence of how this policy proposal has any chance of being implemented? The current NSW Labor government is not a progressive government by any stretch, and if you are saying that if a LNP government is elected, then the Northern Rivers will have an integrated public transport system, then that is just ludicrous. Be transparent and put your credibility to the test. Boyd Kellner Newrybar
Effluent misinformation What really has been achieved as outcomes from Byron Shire Council’s (BSC) two Biological Reduction Plants built at West Byron and Brunswick Valley. As stated by a previous mayor Jan Barham these plants’ objective is to supply a quality of effluent that is suitable to be supplied as recycled water for irrigation, and other reuse applications which became available. Also, to lessen the amount of treated effluent that was to enter rivers etc. Council has claimed success in achieving this, but have they? The claims of reuse being achieved via the Brunswick Valley Sewage Treatment Plant (BVSTP) is completely debunked by the recycled water usage which are visible on Council’s public data information site. The actual recycled water leaving the
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plant is minuscule in relation to the amount influent entering the plant. Also, the previous director of water and sewer claims that the plant would not be discharging treated effluent into the Brunswick River except during wet periods. The data shows the plant is discharging close to what is entering the plant daily into the Brunswick River. The previous director is quoted as saying that the trickling filter plant in Mullumbimby had reached its capacity, despite the plant still meeting its EPA licence requirements. One of the biggest issues affecting the Mullumbimby sewerage system is inflow and infiltration. This equates to water entering the gravity sewer mains during wet weather events. Council endorsed, in 2019, a company called Interflow on a five-year contract to investigate and reline the gravity sewer mains where necessary. The five years are up but the inflow infiltration issue has not changed, this is also visible by looking at the inflows into BVSTP during wet weather events. My information also is that the recycled water being used to flush public toilets has ‘seized’ and mains water is again being used. Concerns as to the amount of recycled water being sent to the Byron Golf Course has always been a concern as the causeway which flows under Old Bangalow Road from the golf course runs nonstop even during extended dry periods. Concerns also that the Average Dry Weather Flow (ADWF) used in the design concept for BVSTP should be revisited and brought up-todate, as when calculations are carried out it is short of the actual ADWF. In 2019 the utility manager was asked does BSC still have a recycled water policy in place, the answer was ‘no’. The utility manager was then asked are water and sewer actively pursuing sites that were seeking to take recycled water, the answer was no. Alan Dickens Byron Bay
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November 11, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 13
Mungo from the Bardo Soapbox www.echo.net.au/soap-box
Crossword by Mungo MacCallum 1
2
3
4
#35
5
6
7 8
9
11
12
13
14
16
17
10
21
W
15
18
19
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26
Cryptic Clues
Quick Clues
ACROSS
ACROSS
1. Handy tune improvised: soul is subtle! (2,5,5) 8. Stranded for a reason (7) 9. I about turn following the heart, perhaps – well, it concerns the heart (7) 11. Hero worshipper? (7) 12. Wooden spoon, perhaps, for the trouble maker (7) 13. Pommy a bit fruity and bitter, apparently (5) 14. Heartbreaking collapse causes avalanche (5,4) 16. New in expert: backs 50 crafts as part of heritage (9) 19. Entices to break rules (5) 21. Hoarse, Spooner says, meaning the back-up singers (7) 23. Dromedary drinks a river – it’s sweet (7) 24. Look longingly, then return to weep in the summerhouses (7) 25. Long live rent! Bring back commercial capital! (3,4) 26. Yes, German snooze! Grade 99s for 1 across, 7 and 10 down (4,8)
1. Famous jazz tune written by W C Handy (2,5,5) 8. Stranded, stuck (7) 9. Concerning the heart (medical) (7) 11. Legendary lover who drowned in the Hellespont (7) 12. Agitator, troublemaker (7) 13. Englishman (slang) (5) 14. Avalanche, collapse of soil (5,4) 16. Pertaining to forebears and heritage (9) 19. Tempts, entices (5) 21. Harsh or hoarse (of voice) (7) 23. Burnt sugar (7) 24. Garden pavilions (7) 25. Coastal city of Israel (3,4) 26. Best-known pieces of improvised music (4,8)
DOWN
1. Irony, wounding remarks (7) 2. Room for washing clothes (7) 3. Garments such as singlets and panties (9) 4. Draws fluid into the mouth (5) 5. Quite big, slightly oversized (7) DOWN 6. African country formerly part of 1. Car crashes into ritual Mass – that’s Abyssinia (7) irony (7) 7. Famous tune written by Scott Joplin 2. The French wet, it seems, their dirty (5,4,3) clothes… (7) 10. Blues song made famous by Bessie 3. …Some of which are inferior to Smith (8,4) manufactured goods, we hear (9) 15. Moves to a new place (9) 4. Audience of Kiwi half-dozen is 17. Yiddish term for cheek or despicable and worthless (5) impertinence (7) 5. Get a whip-around, right? Soldier is a 18. The entertainment industry (slang) (7) bit overweight (7) 19. Germanic mythological siren who 6. Newish country – not all consider it lured sailors to their doom (7) really established yet (7) 20. Takes away or takes off (7) 7. A sneer at Canada’s flag from the man who brought you The Entertainer (5,4,3) 22. Agave fibre (5) 10. Without a worry, zero; flip side of 1 across (8,4) Last week’s solution #34 15. Leers horribly while eating up S I G N P O S T A S P I R E Mexican snack, and finds a new A O L A A E N V home (9) L E O N A R D O D A V I N C I 17. Confused chap embraces opera O S T A R E E L house architect; not on, what M A E W E S T I G N O R E D impertinence! (7) E S A A T O 18. Exhibit hermaphrodite unknown – S T R U M P E T Y O W I E that’s entertainment? (7) S E S I A R C A P O N Y A C H T I N G 19. Tradition and a garland for the O A C H D A legendary siren (7) O P E N E R S 20. Takes away to cut up around doctor (7) R E M A T C H N E U I F B R S 22. Sibling with aluminium fibre (5) F E D E R I C O F E L L I N I
■ Crossword circa 2009
STARS BY LILITH In the final few demanding days before Venus and Mercury move forward, out of retrograde, prioritise soothing and supportive activities. Be patient, especially with yourself…
SCORPIO THE SCORPION
U L
E I
A
A B L E
S
A A L
How to bee
U
N
G
L E R G E N
e need bees. Simple tiny little bees. When it comes to pollinators, keeping our planet’s food supply flourishing, turns out bees are the best tech available. In fact, the bee’s knees. When it comes to pollinating our food crops, AI can’t save us. We need Bee-I. Small-winged tech. And it creates honey. Insanely sweet, antibiotic, preserving, immuneboosting honey. That’s crazy bee magic. Only nature could create something so insanely perfect and beautiful. Bees had drones way before we did. Most of the crops we eat are pollinated by bees. Nearly two thirds of our agricultural production benefits from bee pollination. One out of every three mouthfuls of food depends on bees. One, two, Bee. When you count it like that it really brings it home. Bees are critical to our food security. Farmers need bees. Flowers need bees. We need bees. And bees, well, bees need what most species need: not being sprayed with chemicals like herbicides and insecticides and not having habitat destroyed. Clear fell logging and urban encroachment hurts honey bees too. In fact many of the chemicals used in agriculture to increase yield, are toxic to bees. So that which is used to protect and enhance, in the end, taketh away. Right now our honey bees are in trouble. They are facing their most evil adversary: varroa destructor. The Trump mite. We thought we’d kept it out, but it got in. And sadly, yet predictably, it’s resistant to pyrethroid and amitraz. Eradication was deemed unachievable in late 2023, and since then bee keepers have been faced with the task of mandatory reporting mite infestations, and monitoring. The varroa mite has been carried by us. They originally co-evolved as non-lethal parasites of Asian honeybees but when we introduced the European honeybee to Asia, the parasite jumped species and as a naive species, it lacked the defences or grooming behaviours to inhibit numbers and infestation.
N O LA N
’S
illustration: thinkblinkdesign.com
Varroa mite is our version of neoliberal capitalism. Spread by us, infestation causes colony collapse through a ‘mite snowball effect’. Then we transport colonies, queens and beekeeping equipment internationally, which gave the mite a free ride onto other shores. Including ours. Varroa mite is our version of neoliberal capitalism. Spread by us, infestation causes colony collapse through a ‘mite snowball effect’. The mite feeds on the fat bodies of bees, puncturing the protective shell and feeding on the bee’s juicy body. This drains the bee’s vital nutrients, leaves open wounds and makes the bee prone to bacterial and fungal infections. Exactly like neoliberal capitalism. There are few wild swarms of honey bees living in the bush. This was where, for the bee community, a lot of biodiversity came from. When I was a kid, I remember the many times I was stung by those very swarms. Recently my friend discovered a swarm in his roof, above his bed. It was there for about two years. He learnt to sleep in the buzz of the hive.
ARIES: Been struggling to feel in sync with even your nearest and dearest, closest people? Don’t despair, you’re almost there. Take some space. As the ancient runes advise, let the winds of heaven dance between you, cooling friction and refreshing perspective. Use this week’s cues to make some proactive changes.
CANCER: With Mercury hibernating in your astral sector of creative entertainment, recent weeks may have seemed like the no-fun zone, but that’s set to change. Not for another few days though, so be patient until the weekend turnaround arrives and a Mars/Jupiter alignment starts energising your money zone.
TAURUS: Retrograde Venus asks if it’s time to review, renew or even retire a relationship, while Mercury retrograde is the zodiac’s transit for revisiting personal and business agreements which may be in need of refurbishing. Be open to letting this week inspire meaningful amendments which could benefit both parties. GEMINI: Gemini’s planet ruler Mercury winding up its retrograde in your sector of efficiency, time management and organisation is the perfect time to start getting prepped and in shape for the upcoming season of unreason. So craft a plan, write the to-do list, make the calls, now’s the time.
14 The Byron Shire Echo November 11, 2026
MANDY
We desperately need our pollinators. Tony Childs dedicated her musical career to our precious pollinators. Beekeepers are essential workers! Costa Georgiadis our muchloved garden guru says we need to eliminate pesticides, protect the environment and build habitat. The chemicals used to control varroa mite can impact beneficial insects and native pollinators. We need insect Airbee’n’bee – bee hotels! Bee aware. Bee afraid. And understand that without bees, we all suffer. We aren’t just humans. We are human bee-ings.
■ Mandy Nolan’s column has
appeared in The Echo for almost 25 years. She is a writer, comedian and artist, is the preselected Greens candidate for Ballina and was the Greens candidate at the past two federal elections.
LIBRA: Retrogrades are the zodiac cycles for renegotiating, and this is an excellent week to find out people’s love languages so you can communicate in the way they feel most understood and supported. Then be prepared for a week of extra compliments, quality attention, gifts, hugs and encouragement.
CAPRICORN: You’ll be happy to hear that the ongoing celestial complications of recent weeks are now playing out their final phase, planets be praised. Even better news? This is the last Mercury retrograde of the year, with both Mercury and Venus retrograde-free for the upcoming holiday season.
LEO: This week continues as a tricky time for Leos negotiating contracts or joint projects. If red flags start waving, it’s advisable to dial down drama rather than stir up a further wasp’s nest of complications – at least until the planetary traffic jam begins clearing on the weekend.
SCORPIO: Retrograde planetary interactions often tend to resurrect unresolved sore spots from the past, so be sensitive this week if other people’s views differ from yours. And since pleasure is one of Scorpio’s favourite fuels, nourish it as a precious personal investment, and your best birthday present to yourself.
VIRGO: Recent weeks may not have been the easiest, with relationships tested and communications askew, but no need to let your body pay the price. Right now Venus, and Mercury your planetary advisor, in your sector of connection are saying rest, reset and recharge while these celestial energies right themselves.
SAGITTARIUS: Tired of your own recurring stories? Had enough of the same old relationship patterns and misunderstandings? Good, because if you take the time this week to slow down and listen to something or someone outside of your repeating tape loop, a breakthrough could show how to approach things differently.
AQUARIUS: If the long and challenging Venus reversal is still causing interpersonal interference, clear and direct communication is always helpful. But until the planets of communication and affection shine their combined light forward again this coming weekend, you’ll want to say what you have to, very, very carefully. PISCES: With Mercury stirring up confusion in your communications with neighbours, coworkers and friends, are you holding back from speaking directly and then getting upset because people don’t know how you feel? Better to make the effort this week to be diplomatic, but honest, about what you want.
www.echo.net.au
Sport
Byron Bay Surf Life Saving Club youngsters shine
Byron Bay Surf Life Saving representatives Kaydan Muller and Jack Keough with their haul of medals from the Paddle NSW State Sprint Championships. Photo supplied Two young members of Byron Bay Surf Life Saving Club have delivered outstanding performances at the Paddle NSW State Sprint Championships, held at the Sydney International Regatta Centre in Penrith over the weekend. Fifteen-year-old Jack Keough and 16-year-old Kaydan Muller represented the club against some of the state’s best paddlers, following months of local training and preparation.
Both boys enjoyed successful championships, qualifying as finalists in all three individual K1 events – the 1,000m, 500m and 200m. Their performances in the K1 1,000m were particularly commendable, with both athletes navigating challenging and windy conditions to secure their places in the final. Sunday’s finals proved especially successful, with the boys teaming up to achieve an impressive third
and women’s doubles on Saturday, and mixed doubles on Sunday, with Australian Ranking points on offer. Get registrations in by 20 November at: https://tinyurl. com/5by8rrdz. Registration is $75 each and players require a Pickleball Tournaments
For the second year the Masters Roller Derby Tournament will be taking place on 14 and 15 November at the Cavanbah Centre in Byron Bay with all profits donated to the Byron Seniors Club. This year’s tournament brings together 16 teams from across the country, with the Prime Cuts from New Zealand returning to defend their titles as last year’s Open Gender winners. The tournament is hosted by Tweed Valley Rollers and Northern Rivers Roller Derby, who combine to play as a team – the Old and Sore-Us. ‘The response to our inaugural tournament was overwhelming,’ said Mojo, representing the Masters Roller Derby Tournament Planning Committee. ‘These athletes have powerful, inspiring stories
Skaters in action at the inaugural Masters Roller Derby Tournament in 2025. Photo Richard Tompsett that challenge stereotypes about age in full-contact sports. We are confident this year will deliver even more compelling coverage and unforgettable action on the track.’ Masters Roller Derby is a ‘B semi-competitive’ tournament, for the joy of ‘layering’ rather than just
the scoreboard. There will be two ‘funsies’ (non-competitive) games for those newer to the sport, or who prefer a lower intensity game, and two Grand Masters games for the over 50s – the oldest player is 70. Doors open each day from 9.30am to 5pm, entry $1 for kids, $5 for adults.
Close game for Kate and Jen in singles championships
place in the K2 1,000m, while also securing a third place in the K2 200m. Their results are a fantastic achievement and reflect the commitment, dedication and hard work both athletes have put into their paddling. A spokesperson for Byron Bay Surf Life Saving Club said that they’re extremely proud of Jack and Kaydan for representing the club at a state level, and congratulated both boys on their outstanding performances.
Register for the Tweed pickleball championships The Tweed Coast Regional Pickleball Championships are scheduled for 4 to 6 December at Tweed Heads Regional Tennis Centre, Cunningham Street. The Pickleball Australia Tier 2 tournament has singles on Friday, men’s
Skating for a cause at Byron Masters Roller Derby
account linked to current Pickleball Australia membership and a DUPR account. This tournament will use the current Global Pickleball Federation rules. They can be found at: www. globalpickleballfederation. org/pickleball-rulebook.
Kate Baker and Jenny Andrew enjoyed a close game at the annual Club Singles Championship at Brunswick Heads Bowling Club. Photo supplied Brunswick Head Women’s Bowls Club held their annual Club Singles Championship final between Jenny Andrew and Kate Baker. It was a most entertaining game. They were six all by the eighth end, then Jen
pulled ahead leaving Kate stuck on eight for five ends. Kate came back, winning a few in a row to get to 15 to 12 still in favour of Jen. Jen then went on to cement her lead and never really looked back, taking the match 25 to 16,
and the glory. Despite the score, the game was actually quite close. Kate played some amazing shots, but Jen was basically able to counter more of them. Congratulations to them both.
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
November 11, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 15
The
Good Life Good Taste Dining Guide
Check the vital details of some of the region’s finest foodies. BRUNSWICK HEADS
PACIFIC BISTRO AT BRUNSWICK HEADS BOWLING CLUB
Good food, great value, and no fuss! Enjoy fresh meals, pub favourites, burgers, weeknight specials, fortnightly chef’s specials, and Sunday roasts in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Check Facebook for the latest menu! Open: Tuesday–Sunday, 12–2pm and 5–8pm Address: 107 Tweed Street, Brunswick Heads brunswickbowlingclub.com @brunswickheadsbowlingclub
BYRON BAY THE BELONGIL
A world-class, multi-venue dining and lifestyle destination at the heart of Belongil Beach, Byron Bay. Open: Belongil Kiosk: 7 days a week, 6:30am–4pm Belongil Bistro: Wednesday–Sunday, 11:30 til late Feu – Dinner: from 5pm Thursday to Saturday, Lunch from 12pm Friday to Sunday Address: 33-35 Childe Street, Byron Bay Contact: 02 5643 9377 reservations@belongilgroup.com belongilgroup.com • @thebelongil
BAYSIDE YAKINIKU CLUB BY YUKO
Authentic Japanese Charcoal Restaurant Premium Australian Wagyu, homemade sauces, fermented food, rice bowls and deli salads. Open: Wednesday to Sunday Lunch 12pm–3pm Dinner 5.30pm–8.30pm Address: 1/14 Bay Street, Byron Bay Contact: 0493 565 508 @bayside_yakiniku _club
THREE BLUE DUCKS
At The Farm enjoy a wander in the fields, meet the animals, and picnic in the sun… there really is something for everyone. Open: Monday – Friday 8am–4pm Saturday 8am– 6.30pm Sunday 8am–8pm Address: The Farm, 11 Ewingsdale Road, Ewingsdale www.threeblueducks.com/byron
ROCA BYRON BAY
Latin fusion restaurant blending deeply rooted Latin American traditions, with innovative techniques and a flair for presentation. Open: every day except Wednesday 6.30am to late Address: 14 Lawson Street, Byron Bay www.rocabyronbay.com.au
FOREST BYRON BAY Rainforest views, farm-to-table dining, and a menu showcasing the best of Northern Rivers produce. Open: 7 days: Breakfast 7.30–10.30am Lunch on verandah 12–3pm Dinner 5.30–9pm Address: 77-97 Broken Head Road, Byron Bay crystalbrookcollection.com/byron/forest
BOMBAY TO BYRON AUTHENTIC INDIAN FOOD
Serving Indian food to Byron Bay for last 12 years. Open: Monday 4.30pm–9.30pm, Tuesday to Sunday 12 noon–3pm and 4.30pm–9.30pm Address : 3/93 Jonson Street Byron Bay Contact: 02 6680 7437 bombaytobyron@gmail.com
MANNA HAVEN
100% whole food, plant-based, house-made meals that are delicious and full of love. Celebrating 20 years in Byron! Open: Mon to Fri 11am–3pm Address: 97 Jonson Street, Byron Bay mannahaven.com.au
WILSONS CREEK
THREEWAYS OF THE VALLEY
Nestled in the lush Wilsons Creek rainforest, a beautiful destination for seasonal dining, nature and community. Live music: Fridays, 5:30pm–7:30pm. Rain or shine, the valley comes alive! Private parties and events: Enquiries welcome! Open: Breakfast & Lunch: Wed–Sun, 8am–3pm Friday evenings: 4pm–8pm Address: 10 Huonbrook Road, Wilsons Creek Contact: 0421 054 804 www.threeways.store @threeways_of_the_valley
NO BONES BYRON BAY
Vegan Kitchen + Bar $20 Carbonara Mondays – every Monday until sold out. Happy hour – $14 cocktails from 5-6pm every night. Live jazz – first friday of every month from 6.30pm. Open: 7 nights from 5pm Address: 11 Fletcher Street, Byron Bay @nobonesrestaurants
16 The Byron Shire Echo November 11, 2026
www.echo.net.au/good-taste www.echo.net.au
The
Good Life
Azure Bar and Grill unveils a new menu celebrating the flavours of the Northern Rivers
A quick and tasty Middle Eastern-inspired meal from Baraka Foods
Alan Schwarz from Baraka Foods has lots of tasty treats to eat on their own, or as delicious ingredients in a Middle Eastern-inspired meal. Allie Godfrey
From premium Australian steaks and locally caught seafood, to native botanicals foraged from the surrounding landscape, Azure Bar and Grill’s new menu brings the region’s finest ingredients to the table. Set within the lush coastal surrounds of Elements of Byron, Azure Bar and Grill has unveiled its new seasonal menu, celebrating exceptional Australian produce, the art of grilling, and the distinctive flavours of the Northern Rivers. Led by Executive Chef Craig Robertson, the menu embraces a ‘farm gate to foreshore’ philosophy, drawing inspiration from the region’s farmers, fishers and artisans, alongside native ingredients foraged from the resort’s own 50-acre landscape.
A celebration of local provenance The menu begins with an enticing selection of dishes that showcase the diversity of the region’s produce. Charred Ballina prawns are paired with sago crisp, preserved lemon and foraged finger limes, www.echo.net.au
while chargrilled goldband snapper is complemented by miso citrus emulsion, sunrise lime and bee pollen. For something distinctly earthy, hibachi coal-smoked mushrooms from Stokers Siding are served with macadamia granola, river mint verde and pickled shiitake, highlighting the kitchen’s creative approach to locally sourced ingredients.
Beyond the steaks, diners can discover line-caught whole plate fish, free-range Muscovy duck breast from Casino, and Guinness beef short ribs. Each grilled dish is finished with foraged warrigal greens, charred eschalot, onion emulsion and balsamic powder, with a selection of house-made butters and sauces to complement.
The art of the grill
A taste of the landscape
At the heart of Azure’s dining experience is its Coastal Grill, where premium Australian beef, seafood and carefully selected proteins are prepared with a focus on flavour, quality and provenance. Highlights include a richly marbled tajima wagyu porterhouse, tender beef fillet sourced from Casino in the Northern Rivers, and a onekilogram Little Joe T-bone designed for sharing.
Native Australian ingredients, foraged on site, weave throughout the menu, with finger lime, saltbush, river mint, Davidson plum and native thyme creating a connection between the kitchen and the surrounding landscape. The experience continues through dessert, with indulgent creations including dark brown sugar Basque cheesecake and a
banoffee tart with caramel custard, brûléed banana and rum cream. Combining considered technique with the natural abundance of the region, Azure Bar and Grill offers a distinctly Byron Bay interpretation of the modern Australian steakhouse. Azure invites locals to discover their ‘Locals Steak Special’ including a Northern NSW wagyu rump and glass of Rouge Gilbert for $45pp, available Tuesday and Wednesday nights, bookings essential.
Looking for a quick, tasty and wholesome meal that doesn’t involve spending hours in the kitchen? A delicious Middle Easterninspired falafel plate could be just the ticket. One of the signature products from Baraka Foods is their ready-to-use falafel mix, a wet mix that takes all the hard work out of preparing this traditional favourite. Popular with restaurants and cafes, it’s also available in retail packs, making it easy to enjoy at home. Simply roll the mix into balls or patties, heat a little oil in a frypan and cook, turning after about five minutes, until golden and cooked through. It’s that easy! For a quick lunch or light dinner, build your own Middle Eastern-inspired plate. Start with warm pita bread and a generous dollop of Baraka’s hummus and baba ganoush, then add your freshly cooked falafel. Drizzle with their creamy tahini, spoon over some Moroccan capsicum salsa, and finish with fresh rocket, and crumbled feta. A squeeze of lemon brings everything
together. It’s colourful, full of flavour, and perfect for sharing or packing up for a picnic. With traditional Lebaneseinspired favourites alongside their Moroccan flavours, Baraka’s range makes it easy to put together a delicious spread without spending hours in the kitchen. And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, there’s something for dessert too. They’ve created, what they describe as, Australia’s first dessert hummus, a healthier alternative to traditional chocolate spreads, with a 4.5 Health Star Rating. Available in chocolate, vanilla bean and mocha, these versatile spreads can be used to dip, spread or create a simple dessert. Try them with fresh or dried fruit, banana chips, pancakes or toast. You can even spoon some into a bowl, top with sliced fruit and serve with yoghurt or ice cream. From an easy, savoury meal to a little something sweet, Baraka Foods has plenty to get creative with. ■ Find Baraka Foods every
Friday at Mullum Farmers Market from 7am to 11am.
■ Azure Bar and Grill.
Elements of Byron, 144 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay
Dinner: Tuesday to Saturday, 5pm to 9pm Bookings: dining@elementsofbyron.com.au www.elementsofbyron. com.au/dining/ azure-bar-and-grill
CELEBRATIONS Cakes by Liz Jackson
lizzijjackson@gmail.com 0414 895 441 Gluten-free and special dietary needs catered for. November 11, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 17
125th Bangalow Show This year sees the Bangalow A&I Society hosting the 125th Bangalow Show. The society had its first show in 1897, but has had to cancel the show four times over the years, once because of the Spanish Flu in 1917, again in 1947 because of drought and more recently two cancellations due to Covid.
maiden, and novice categories; then Campdraft after 2 pm and into the evening. Dairy cows will be on show in the Scarrabolotti Ring, followed by the well-attended Children’s Pet Parade after school, starting at approximately 4pm. Battle of the Breeds for the beef cattle starts at 6:30pm.
The main celebration for the 125th show was the Dinner Dance held in August, but on Saturday, approximately 35 prior Young Women of the Year, or ‘Showgirls’ as they were previously known, are welcomed back to the showgrounds to join in the parade leading up to the official opening and announcement of the 2026 Young Woman of the Year at 2pm on Saturday.
Saturday begins bright and early with the Open Campdraft at 6am, with the finals to be held after the opening in the afternoon. There will be heaps to see in the rings with more horse events and beef cattle on show. Make sure you check out the poultry and all the trade stalls around the showgrounds as well. The Village Green hosts a range of activities beginning with the hotly contested Tart of the Show at 10am; the Bangalow Herald Bush Poet Prize; and fun and games for all, right up until the Bang Burger Bar Burger Bite competition – with registration at 12:30pm for two division, over- and under-12 years of age.
There is a full schedule of competition and events over the two days: The Pavilion, as always, will be jam-packed with wonderful exhibits from talented locals and children, with all manner of things they have grown, baked, painted and made; Sideshow Alley will be operating both days; along with shows from Steve’s Reptile World, Stans Woodworking; and Old MacDonald Farm will attend with their baby animals. Friday’s focus is on ring competition with the Working Dog Trials starting things off at 6:30am in Jarrett Arena. Horse events follow for the remainder of the day with led & ridden classes, showjumping, challenges and finishing with the junior, juvenile,
Our Saturday afternoon, the ring program includes all the favorites with the Farm Kid Challenge and Stockman Ironman competition and more. Monster Trucks will be back to finish off the evening followed by the fireworks.
Photos Jeff Dawson
Another great show to look forward to. For more information go to bangalowshow.com.au / bangalowshow@outlook.com
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18 The Byron Shire Echo November 11, 2026
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Photo Maralyn Hanigan
Fun & Competition for the whole family! Reptile show, baby animals, Stan’s woodworking, Sideshow Alley, Pavilion exhibits, food and stalls for all.
Friday
Working dog trials, dairy cattle, show jumping, stock horses, campdraft, afternoon pet parade and battle of the breeds.
Saturday
Beef cattle, poultry, caged birds, bush poets, Tart of the Show, Village Green games and kids’ events, show jumping, horse breeds, grand parade and official opening at 2pm, campdraft finals, Run/Rev & Ride Challenge, lawnmower races, Team Stockman Ironman competition, monster trucks and fireworks.
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November 11, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 19
Saturday 14 November All times are approximate and subject to change.
6am
Open Campdraft
Friday 13 November All times are approximate and subject to change.
6:30am
Lions Kiosk open
8am
Working Dog Trials Lions BBQ open for breakfast
Horse Led Classes / Ridden / Breed Classes Beef Cattle – Scarrabelotti Ring Show Jumping Poultry / Caged Birds – Poultry Pavilion
7am
10am
6:30am
Young Stock all Breeds Class ASH / Led & Ridden Classes
Paddock Pony Classes – Campdraft arena Stan Ceglinski – Woodworking Tart of the Show – Village Green Fun with Kidz Klub – Village Green Bush Poets – Village Green Junior Showgirl / Boy – Village Green Village Green Games
9am
Dairy Cattle Pavilion open for viewing Show Jumping Danny Thomas Memorial Challenge Junior & Juvenile SH Challenge
12:30pm
Bang Burger Bite – registration Village Green Boot Toss – Village Green Paddock Pony – Fancy Dress Barrel Racing
From 10am
Sideshow Alley Steve’s Reptiles Old MacDonald Baby Animals Stan Ceglinski – Woodworking Lions Club Bar & BBQ open
Photos Maralyn Hanigan
2pm
Official Opening – Main Ring
2:30pm
2pm
Open Campdraft Final Big Bang Burger Bite – Village Green Bareback Cut Out Working Dogs Demonstrations Mower Races Dog High Jump Farm Kid Challenge
Campdraft – Junior / Juvenile Maiden / Novice
4pm
Pet Parade – Scarrabelotti Ring Beef Cattle – Battle of the Breeds
5:30pm
For more details: bangalowshow.com.au
Farm Produce Auction Run / Rev & Ride Challenge Working Dog Demonstration Team Stockman Ironman Monster Trucks Fireworks
Photos Jeff Dawson
Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm
ENROL NOW
Supporting the Bangalow community
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20 The Byron Shire Echo November 11, 2026
SCAN TO ENROL
0411 757 425 tim@millerrealestate.com.au millerrealestate.com.au
6687 0675 4a Ballina Road Bangalow www.echo.net.au
Caught Shoplifting: local style takes the runway Achenē Studio brings independent fashion and community faces together in Mullumbimby on Friday 13 November. Mullumbimby’s newest hair studio is making room for more than hair. On Friday 13 November, Achenē Studio presents Caught Shoplifting, a runway event bringing local retailers, fashion and people from the community into the spotlight.
Stewart’s Menswear Shopping at Stewart’s Menswear is all about the everyday essentials men reach for again and again. Comfortable tees, cool, comfortable shirts, quality socks and underwear, thongs, hats and swimwear are all in store now. All handpicked by Sue and Gerard for comfort, economical price and real Byron Shire living. With Christmas on the way, these practical basics also make gifts he’ll wear every day. There’s plenty for the boys too, so dad, grandad and the kids can all be sorted in one easy stop in town. Gift-wrapping is free all year round, and the friendly team is always happy to help with sizing or ideas, whether customers are shopping for themselves or someone special. Visit Stewart’s Menswear in Mullumbimby or shop online anytime. 52 Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby 02 6684 2148 stewartsmenswear.com.au
Created by hairdresser and studio founder Tommy Ward, with Miles Jackson and Melody Lake (Inhouse creatives behind the Achene’s slow fashion boutique), the event puts the emphasis on the style already here: the independent shops, individual personalities and creative energy that give Mullumbimby its character. Achenē is providing hair and makeup at no cost to participating retailers, creating a collaborative platform for local businesses to show their clothes and connect with new audiences. Having opened in October, the studio is building a space where hair, fashion, music and community meet. This runway is its next invitation to get involved. Friday 13 November 2026 Achenē Studio – 3 Bridgland Lane, Mullumbimby (opposite KIVA Spa) https://events.humanitix.com/achenestudio
Filter Off beauty style fashion grooming
Your local beauty brand has a new home Born in Byron Bay 15 years ago, EOH has grown from a single mascara created for sensitive eyes into an award-winning Australian beauty brand, and still proudly based right here in Byron. They’ve recently moved into a new home at 5 Centennial Circuit, where the local community can explore and shop the complete collection in person. Discover considered makeup and skin-loving beauty made with purpose. As a thank you to the community that has supported them from the beginning, Byron locals receive 20% off when shopping in store. Come in, meet the team and experience EOH for yourself. They’d love to welcome you. 5 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay eyeofhoruscosmetics.com
www.echo.net.au
ZÓCALO Nestled in the charming hinterland village of Newrybar, ZÓCALO is a treasure trove of unexpected finds. With stores in Mexico as well, ZÓCALO brings together beautiful pieces from Mexican potters, weavers and artisans, alongside some of Australia’s most-loved fashion and lifestyle brands - Spell, Ottway, ARCAA, Leif, Gentle Habits, Posie, Ayu & Shemana and more. It’s an unsuspecting match made in heaven! Think bold prints, vibrant colours, handcrafted treasures and pieces with a story to tell. Beyond the beautiful pieces, a portion of every sale across all three stores and online helps to fund three charities in Mexico. With Christmas approaching, ZÓCALO is brimming with thoughtful gifts, unique finds and something for everyone on your list. And to make gifting even easier, complimentary gift-wrapping is available. 17 Old Pacific Hwy, Newrybar Mon-Fri 10 – 4pm, Sat + Sun 9 – 4pm 0493 382 497 @shopzocalo shopzocalo.com.au
November 11, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 21
YOUR FINANCIAL HEALTH CHECK: 30 MINUTES COULD MAKE A DIFFERENCE With rising living costs, changing interest rates and ongoing economic uncertainty, now is the perfect time to review your financial position. Join Alana Pincombe, Senior Financial Adviser, and Kirsty Brooks, Lending Manager, for a complimentary 30-minute Financial Health Check. Together, they’ll help you assess where you stand today and identify opportunities to improve your financial wellbeing. Whether you’re considering refinancing your mortgage, reducing debt, growing your wealth, maximising your superannuation, planning for retirement, or simply seeking a second opinion, a short conversation can provide valuable insights and clarity. There is no obligation, just practical guidance tailored to your circumstances, goals and future aspirations. Book your complimentary 30-minute Financial Health Check today. 0491 204 142 apincombe@viridianadvisory.com.au www.viridianadvisory.com.au
RICHARDSON MURRAY FAMILY LAWYERS Richardson Murray Family Lawyers is a leading family law firm based in Byron Bay, renowned for its exceptional legal services and commitment to supporting clients through challenging family matters.
YOUR AMBITIONS DESERVE A PLAN A well-planned retirement can provide the freedom to focus on what matters most. With more than 150 years of heritage, Ord Minnett helps Australians build confidence for the years ahead. Ord Minnett private wealth advisers Jake Blumberg and Sam La Cava focus on helping you make confident, informed financial decisions. Your financial needs come first. They guide clients through every stage of life. Whether you’re building wealth, supporting a growing family, advancing your career or preparing for retirement. Their tailored advice is designed to protect and grow your wealth so you can achieve your goals with clarity and peace of mind. Start a conversation. Partner with a local Private Wealth Adviser today to maximise your investments.
Contact Jake Blumberg on 0412 285 029 or jblumberg@ords.com.au, or Sam La Cava on 0413 717 528 or slacava@ords.com.au, or visit ords.com.au Ord Minnett is the trading brand of Ord Minnett Limited ABN 86 002 733 048, holder of AFS Licence Number 237121, a Market Participant of ASX Limited and Cboe Australia Pty Limited and a Member of the Stockbrokers and Investment Advisers Association.
FAMILY FUN DAY AT OCEAN SHORES COUNTRY CLUB! Bring the family along on Saturday, 14 November, from 1pm to 5pm, for a fun-filled afternoon of entertainment and activities!
With extensive experience in divorce, child custody, property settlements, and domestic violence cases, the firm’s team of dedicated professionals ensures clients receive personalised and empathetic legal advice. Known for their expertise, integrity, and results-driven approach, Richardson Murray offers tailored solutions to resolve disputes efficiently, whether through negotiation or litigation. Their deep understanding of the complexities of family law, combined with a compassionate approach, has earned them a stellar reputation in the region. Richardson Murray Family Lawyers is the go-to choice for those seeking trusted legal counsel in Northern NSW. 42 Parkes Avenue, Byron Bay info@richardson-murray.law www.richardson-murray.law
There’s a jumping castle, obstacle course, face-painting, games, fairy floss, snow cones, and plenty of laughs with children’s entertainer Shorty Brown. The Billinudgel/Ocean Shores Fire Brigade will bring their fire truck for interactive activities, while the Lions Club hosts a fundraising sausage sizzle. Enjoy live music with Carly and Roo, free barefoot bowls, golf instruction and free mini golf all weekend! Pacific Breeze Restaurant will be open with its regular menu plus family-friendly specials.
Take advantage of the one-day-only $5 Social Membership offer, with discounts on food, drinks and more! Entry is free, with optional gold coin donations supporting a cancer charity in conjunction with the Peter Irby Memorial Golf Day. 113a Orana Road Ocean Shores oceanshorescc.com.au
ARTIST DINNER – LISMORE REGIONAL GALLERY JIN WU KOON KARATE BYRON BAY Jin Wu Koon (JWK) Karate was established in Byron Bay in 1977 by Sensei Light. The club produced champions at regional, state, national, and international levels in karate, kickboxing, and kung fu, while positively shaping generations of Byron Bay locals. When taught well, karate supports strong personal development, building concentration, confidence, self-discipline, resilience, and self-awareness. Training also helps students manage stress, find purpose, and live by clear values. JWK Karate supports both children and adults to achieve goals on, and off, the mat through commitment, perseverance, and striving to be their best.
Friday, 20 November 2026 from 5.30pm to 8.30pm. An evening of art, conversation and connection. Join Art Byron for an intimate evening celebrating contemporary art, First Nations artists and Northern Rivers cuisine. The evening begins with roving canapés and drinks as guests explore Held by embracing droplets, the Gallery’s First Nations exhibition curated by Jocelyn Flynn. Local Bundjalung artist Delta Kay and a finalist in the Koori Mail Indigenous Art Award 2026, join Gallery Curator Ineke Dane and Susi Muddiman OAM in conversation.
Their code of conduct follows Bushido principles: loyalty, honour, courage, honesty, respect, and humility in daily life. Ewingsdale Hall jinwukoonkarate.com.au 0490 849 295 jinwukoonkarate@gmail.com
22 The Byron Shire Echo November 11, 2026
Michelle Anderson: ‘Kanpala’ 2025, Courtesy the artist, Spinifex Arts Project and Vivien Anderson Gallery.
Guests will then gather in the gallery’s largest exhibition space, surrounded by the award works, for a seasonal main course and dessert by Take Care Food, matched with Natural Order Wines. For the first time, the Art Byron dinner will take place entirely within the gallery, creating a unique experience where art, place, conversation and cuisine come together Tickets: $100 per person Details and bookings at www.art-byron.com.au or artbyrongallerydinner.eventbrite.com.au
www.echo.net.au
BOLT + BUCKLE We’re the ‘men are so hard to buy for’ store, and December is our busiest time of year. Whichever male in your circle you’re shopping for, we’ve got a gift for him: the storyteller, the one always on the go, the one who likes to scrub up, the one who likes the good stuff, and the one who already has everything. Think leather journals, enamel mugs, cologne or beard oil. Cheeky books, fun games and tricky puzzles for the Boxing Day lull. And of course, we’ve got the fashion side covered too. Pop in for some festive inspo and let our team help you choose. We’re in Murwillumbah and Alstonville, or shop online. Christmas: sorted at Bolt + Buckle. boltandbuckle.com.au Insta and FB @boltandbuckle
IT STARTED WITH A FEW LEMONS AND THEN THINGS GOT OUT OF HAND What happens when a Byron local gets bored during lockdown and starts making limoncello? Byroncello happens. Born in a Byron Bay kitchen during Covid, Byroncello has grown into a seriously sunny little drinks brand, hand-making small batches of Italian-style limoncello from organic local lemons, sugar, alcohol and water. Now there’s more trouble brewing. The Byroncello Spritz is bottled sunshine: Byroncello, Australian Prosecco and Byron Bay sparkling water, ready to pour over ice. There’s also a frozen Spritz Slushie for bars,
events and anyone who believes cocktails should be colder, louder and more fun. The brand’s mission? Bring a little Byron Bay sunshine to the glass, with no pretension and plenty of lemon. It’s local, handmade and unapologetically zesty. Basically, Byron Bay in a bottle. byroncello.com.au @byroncello
BUILD YOUR BEST LIFE, EVERY DAY Following a sold-out BUILD Your Best Life™ experience at Elements of Byron, local coach, author, and speaker, John Peitzman (JP), is helping people turn awareness into meaningful action.
GLOBAL RIPPLE CHARITY OPSHOP A wonderland of treasures to service our community. Global Ripple has all your needs met. Clothing, accessories, furniture, household, linen, kitchen, kids, arts, and electrical! Generously donated by community, paving the way, recycling goodies, and helping others.
At the heart of his work is BUILD: Build Relationships; Understand the Business, Implement Strategies, Lead and Inspire, and Deliver Excellence.
Christmas is on the horizon, lots of treasure to re-home and gift to your tribe. Every purchase helps others in need, rippling out kindness over the silly season and beyond.
Developed through decades of business leadership, these principles apply equally to everyday life: strengthening relationships, understanding ourselves and others, making thoughtful choices and navigating challenges with clarity and confidence.
By donating you make the dream possible. Furniture? They have you covered with a pick up service! Text 0457 192 225 to arrange pick up!
Through personal coaching, JP helps people reconnect with what matters, explore new possibilities and create lasting change. Building your best life isn’t about doing more. It’s about being more intentional in how you live. John Peitzman (JP) – Personal coach, author, speaker 02 9072 7755 jp@johnpeitzman.com www.YourCoachJP.com
Global Ripple are seeking aligned, local, not-for-profit charities trying to make a difference! Need a helping hand? Reach out at info@theglobalripple.org Team up and ripple out kindness and magic together www.theglobalripple.org
VISTARA PRIMARY SCHOOL – ANNUAL SCHOOL CONCERT PERSONAL LEGAL SUPPORT NOW IN BYRON BAY, LISMORE AND THE NORTHERN RIVERS REGION With a strong regional firm behind him and a dedicated local team, Josh McKay combines legal expertise with compassion and clear communication. He is particularly experienced in supporting trauma survivors and is known for building trust through empathy and straightforward advice. The Byron Bay office emphasises person-to-person service: clients meet an experienced local lawyer rather than using an automated claims portal or dealing with a city-based lawyer they may never meet. Josh can arrange home or hospital visits so clients can learn their legal entitlements without delay. Don Cameron & Associates 1/19–21 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay 02 5643 9240 www.dcalaw.com.au
CHRISTMAS GIFTS THAT GET THEM RIDING Skip the shopping centre crowds this year. Better by Bike is the only bike shop in town stocking a full range of accessories, making us your one-stop spot for Christmas gifts the whole family will love. For ‘the big gift’ there’s kids’ bikes to get the little ones rolling, helmets for the whole family and Fox t-shirts for the riders who like to look the part. Need stocking stuffers? Check out the bike phone-holders, pumps and chain lube that won’t break the budget. All the essentials are on hand, from tyre-tubes to brake pads, making it easy to keep the family’s bikes in top shape. Shop early, find them on Bayshore Drive in Byron Bay, or at the Railway Station in Murwillumbah. betterbybike.com.au
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Vistara Primary School students are taking centre stage on Saturday, 28 November. The main performance, Dreamer – the Star Beetle, explores the theme of self-acceptance. Students from Kindergarten to Year 6 will take audiences on a journey through songs and colourful characters. The evening also features family-friendly comedy skits. The concert brings families together to enjoy the performances, and vegetarian and vegan food at intermission. Tickets at the door: Adults $15 Children (5 to 17 years) $10 4pm to 7pm 41 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill Please note: No parking at the school
Free shuttle bus from John Crowther Carpark, corner of Woodlark and Dawson streets Departures 3.15pm and 3.40pm Returns 7pm and 7.30pm
OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT JUST METRES FROM THE HEART OF BYRON BAY Be part of Byron CoLab on Arakwal Country, metres from the heart of town. Social Futures is seeking professional services, employment services, allied health providers and missiondriven organisations for tenancies. Byron CoLab on Arakwal Country offers both long-term and short-term leasing opportunities for a range of tenancy options, suitable for solo practitioners and consultants through to larger teams. The precinct amenities include:
• Visitor parking • A 5-star-rated cafe • A gallery featuring rotating exhibition of local artists.
• On-site management and shared reception services • Bookable meeting spaces with video conferencing equipment • End of trip facilities
0407 787 595 Pop in and see us at 2 Wordsworth Street, Byron Bay or visit socialfutures.org.au/ byroncolab to learn more
November 11, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 23
Volume 41 #22 11–17 November, 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
seven days of entertainment
They’ve got it all With only six weeks to go before Christmas, everyone is short on time, leaving things to the last minute (until it’s too late), and overextending themselves. Well, it’s time to let Brunswick Picture House make life easier for you… from throwing the coolest, cheekiest Christmas party for your team, to getting great Golden Ticket vouchers or awesome new merch as gifts, it’s all there!
How high? How dizzy? Spaghetti Circus teens put circus to the test in Wait, What? The teenage performers of Spaghetti Circus will flip, juggle, spin, jump and balance their way through a playful circus experiment this month, whenWait, What? comes to the Spaghetti Circus Back Shed at Mullumbimby Showground for two performances on Friday, 20 and Saturday, 21 November. Framed as a circus experiment in progress, the hour-long show pits the junior members of the Spaghetti Circus Performance Troupe against a team of ‘citizen scientists’ determined to measure just how high, how dizzy, how many, and which way? The question is whether any of the acrobats will get the better of the scientists. Wait, What? was originally created by Head of Circus School Petrina Hutchinson for Spaghetti Circus’s 2022 season at Woodford Folk Festival. This year, Head of Performance Troupe Scott McBurnie has reimagined it with the troupe’s junior members. The title comes straight from the training floor. ‘Wait, what? is often heard during classes, as our circus teenagers are encouraged to move out of their comfort zone and try different ways to move,’ says Petrina. ‘Making this show with the junior troupe has been one long experiment,’ says Scott. ‘We’d set a challenge, they’d say ‘wait, what?’, and then they’d go and find a way to do it that none of us expected. That’s what we want audiences to see – young people being brave, being silly and backing each other.’ The show is suitable for all ages, and no animals were used in the making of it. Tickets are on sale now at spaghetticircus.com. Wait, What? – Spaghetti Circus Performance Troupe on Friday, 20 November at 6.30pm and Saturday, 21 November, at 11.30am, at the Spaghetti Circus Back Shed, Mullumbimby Showground. Tickets: Adult $30; child (2-17 years) $15. Bookings: spaghetticircus.com via humanitix: events.humanitix.com/wait-what.
35–43 JONSON ST BYRON BAY 6685 6454 THENORTHERN.COM.AU @thenorthernbyronbay
24 The Byron Shire Echo November 11, 2026
One of the most anticipated events of the Picture House’s program, the Cheeky Cabaret, is back in December for its biggest season yet with 13 shows. With VIP posh-table seating, group discounts, and tickets starting from $30, it’s the perfect one to bring your colleagues, your posse, or the in-laws; sort out the babysitter and treat everyone to a banger of a night out. Close out the year with a festive bang from Thursday, 3 December until Sunday, 20 December. The Bruns Picture House has hosted some of the rowdiest, aweinspiring shows this year, and November is once again jam-packed with some big gigs. Don’t miss the superb Little Birdy frontwoman Katy Steel on Wednesday, 18 November; the hilarious and ridiculous Melia Naughton serving up big laughs and big tunes in Amalfi Roast on Thursday, 26 November; Canadian indie folk star Ryan Harris making his Australian debut on Friday, 27 November; and the mindblowing jazz collective The Vampires on Saturday, 28 November.
Melia Naughton Amalfi Roast
November also sees the return of two of the hottest events – the burlesque bonanza Wild Women on Thursday and Friday, 12 and 13 November; and the sexy mélange of life drawing, performance and live art in Kinky Drawers on 20 November. The Picture House has two much-loved circus shows for the whole family in December: Two Truths and a Lie on Saturday, 12 December from the Shire’s own Shemesh brothers, while the circus extravaganza Lil’ Cheeky finishes off the program on Sunday, 20 December. Tickets for all shows from brunswickpicturehouse.com.
THUR 12 NOV
Dan Hannaford 6pm | DJ Renee Simone 9.15pm Duelling Piano Bar 8pm
FRI 13 NOV
Kane Muir Trio 7pm | DJ Quendo 10.15pm Duelling Piano Bar 8pm | Melting Pot 8pm
SAT 14 NOV
Erin Shay Trio 7pm | DJ Shluffy 10.15pm Duelling Piano Bar 8pm | Flaming Hearts Presents 9pm
SUN 15 NOV
Dizzy J 5pm | Vinyl Sundays ft. Scott Plant 8.15pm Duelling Piano Bar 9pm
MON 16 NOV
Lachy Dwyer 6pm | DJ Quendo 9.15pm Duelling Piano Bar 9pm
TUES 17 NOV
Marshall Okell 6pm | Duelling Piano Bar 9pm
WED 18 NOV
Matt Armitage 6pm | Duelling Piano Bar 9pm
LIVE MUSIC EVERY NIGHT
COCKTAILS!
NORTHERN BOTTLESHOP
www.echo.net.au
Music, movement, mindfulness After years of producing events interstate, Danielle Djokic decided it was time to create something in her own backyard. The result is Byron Wellness Festival, a three-day celebration of music, movement, mindfulness and conscious living at Red Devil Park, from 27 to 29 November.
Mataio (Matt) and Sarah Brown MNZM are internationally recognised New Zealandbased advocates, authors, and communicators committed to eradicating family violence by inspiring a new generation of cycle breakers. Together, they co-founded the global movement She Is Not Your Rehab, first introduced in Matt’s groundbreaking 2019 TEDx talk, The Barbershop Where Men Go to Heal.
It’s a place to connect with yourself, connect with others, and celebrate everything that makes the Byron community so special. Whether you come for the music, the wellness experiences, or simply the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone. One of the biggest differences between this and other festivals is that the Byron Wellness Festival is an alcohol-free event. It’s also about bringing music and wellness together in a way that feels accessible and inclusive. You might start your day with yoga or a sound healing session, discover a new local brand at the markets, enjoy incredible food and then dance into the evening to live music. It’s a festival that celebrates wellbeing without losing the fun, energy and excitement of a great music event. The program offers a beautiful balance, with yoga, breathwork, sound healing, movement, workshops and inspiring conversations alongside an incredible lineup of live music. You can spend the morning nourishing your mind and body, explore the markets and wellness offerings during the day, and then immerse yourself in live music as the sun goes down. At its heart, this festival is about community. Danielle Djokic says the festival brings together local musicians, wellness practitioners, artists, makers, food vendors and small businesses to create a shared experience that celebrates the creativity and spirit of the Byron region. ‘We’re incredibly fortunate to hold the festival on Bundjalung Country, and we recognise the Traditional Custodians of this land and their enduring connection to Country, culture and community. We want the festival to be an opportunity to come together with respect, appreciation and a genuine sense of connection to the place we call home.’
She Is Not Your Rehab
The concept emerged from a decade of transformative conversations Matt held with men in his barbershops, via men’s groups and through his prison programs. These conversations invited men to confront their childhood trauma, take responsibility for healing, and disrupt cycles of intergenerational harm. Since its inception, the couple have worked relentlessly to redefine masculinity, advance mental health equity, and make family violence prevention both accessible and culturally resonant.
for the people who make this community so vibrant.’ Ms Djokic hopes the takeaway from the weekend will be beautiful memories, new connections and a sense of having experienced something meaningful. ‘Most of all, I hope people leave feeling uplifted, connected and wanting more. If we can create a weekend that leaves people feeling good and talking about the experiences they had, then we’ve achieved what we set out to do. Great news! Locals can enjoy a special 20% discount on full weekend tickets to the Byron Wellness Festival 2026. This exclusive local offer is available until 20 November. Grab your tickets here: events.leapevents.com/tickets/ byron-wellness-festival-2026/ tag/locals OR on the website. For more information, visit: byronwellnessfestival.com.
‘Creating opportunities for local businesses and practitioners to share what they do is also really important to us. The festival is not just about entertainment; it’s about creating a platform
DID YOU KNOW?
Their number one bestselling book, She Is Not Your Rehab, first published in 2021, has inspired countless people around the world, and is followed by their debut children’s book released in 2025, This Is Not Yours to Carry. The Men and Family Centre are very happy to host Matt and Sarah at the Byron Community Theatre on Monday, 16 November at 6.30pm. In their powerful keynote message, Mataio and Sarah share their innovative and revolutionary approaches to addressing family violence, emphasising the pivotal role of community and collective healing in breaking the cycle of intergenerational trauma while passionately advocating for healthy masculinity role modelling. Matt and Sarah encourage men to overcome shame while taking responsibility for their own healing. Their message inspires a transformative journey towards healthy relationships and cultural shifts that challenge ingrained norms to foster a safer, more empathetic and holistic society. This will be an inspiring evening. Tickets from byron.sales. ticketsearch.com/sales/ salesevent/169838.
An evening with
Matt and Sarah Brown Sharing their innovative and revolutionary approaches to addressing family violence
It’s free to post your gigs in the gig guide and it will also appear on Bay FM BYRON THEATRE
69 JONSON ST
BYRON BAY
MONDAY
16 NOV email gigs@echo.net.au with details. www.echo.net.au
6.30 PM
byron.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/169838
November 11, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 25
IT’S FREE TO LIST YOUR GIGS IN THE GIG GUIDE
seven days of entertainment
e: gigs@echo.net.au w: echo.net.au/gig-guide. DEADLINE 5PM ON FRIDAYS
WEDNESDAY 11 ■ BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM MILO GREEN ■ BYRON THEATRE 1PM SCREENING: FALLEN ANGELS ■ PALACE CINEMAS, BYRON BAY, BRITISH FILM FESTIVAL ■ THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM HAYLEY GRACE + DUELING PIANO BAR
Jimmy Willing & The Real Gone Hick-Ups live at the Free Love Festival
■ BANGALOW HOTEL 7PM OPEN MIC WITH SLIM PICKENS
If you don’t know who Jimmy Willing is, he’s a long-time local artist and musician who recently lost his home and studio in North Lismore. Following his eviction from Joy Love Studio, the house was demolished by the NSW Reconstruction Authority. Jimmy is now camping ‘in the prickles’.
THURSDAY 12
He’s cut down the weeds and mown the lawn in preparation for his housewarming party. There’s just one small problem: he no longer has a house. Instead, he’s hiring a tent, organising a few bands and inviting people to come and ‘sleep rough’ for one night. The Free Love Festival is a gathering to raise awareness of homelessness, destruction and displacement in Lismore, and the impact of decisions made in the wake of the 2022 floods. The Free Love Festival takes place on Lake Street on Saturday, 21 November from 6pm, continuing on Sunday, 22 November. Sunday morning features a Poet’s Breakfast, with music continuing into the afternoon. Read more about Jimmy’s story online. www.echo.net.au/2026/11/lismore-icon-madehomeless-by-nsw-government.
BAY FM
RECORD FAIR vinyl records for sale
■ THE PADDOCK PROJECT, MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM CURRY JAM ■ OTTILIES, MULLUMBIMBY, 6PM MONDO HUM JAZZ ENSEMBLE ■ ELTHAM HOTEL IRISH FOLK JAM
■ BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM MARSHALL HAMBURGER BAND ■ PALACE CINEMAS, BYRON BAY, BRITISH FILM FESTIVAL ■ THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM DAN HANNAFORD + DJ RENEE SIMONE + DUELING PIANOS ■ HAVEN, BYRON BAY, 7PM OPEN DECKS VINYL NIGHT + CONVENIENCE STORE ONLY ■ SAINT MARIES, BRUNSWICK HEADS, 6PM MONDO HUM JAZZ ENSEMBLE ■ HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM CHARLI JADE ■ BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 7PM WILD WOMEN: EDEN ■ LISMORE CITY BOWLO 7PM THE SUPPER CLUB SOUL BAND ■ BROADWATER HOTEL 5PM ROO
FRIDAY 13 ■ BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 5PM LACHY DWYER + NANA’S PIE + FIN KEY ■ BYRON THEATRE 7.30PM ABBA THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC ■ PALACE CINEMAS, BYRON BAY, BRITISH FILM FESTIVAL ■ STONE & WOOD, BYRON BAY, 4PM CIRCULARITY ■ ELEMENTS OF BYRON 5PM ADAM HARPAZ ■ NORTH BYRON HOTEL 5PM DJ QUENDO
GIG GUIDE
■ HAVEN, BYRON BAY, 6PM PIEZO (IT), LUCA DIOGUARDI, EVEL, & DJ FOXTROT ■ THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 7PM KANE MUIR + DJ QUENDO + DUELING PIANOS + MELTING POT ■ THE PARK HOTEL, SUFFOLK PARK, 6PM MILO GREEN
LANE
■ THE PARK HOTEL, SUFFOLK PARK, 6PM GUY & NICCI
■ PALACE CINEMAS, BYRON BAY, BRITISH FILM FESTIVAL
■ UKI MARKET 8AM CHRIS FISHER, MONKEY & THE FISH DUO, SOUL FISH
■ HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM MATT CORBY W/ BEN CAMDEN + YAZMINDI + DJ HONEY DOORS
MONDAY 16 ■ BYRON THEATRE 6.30PM MATAIO AND SARAH BROWN – SHE IS NOT YOUR REHAB
■ HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM MATT CORBY W/ JORDY QUINN + ALLY PALMER + DJ WHO’S WHO
■ WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM JAM SOUNDS PARTY WITH NU, LAINIE GODIVA, SNOW MONKEY
■ BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 7PM WILD WOMEN: EDEN
■ MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 6PM PIANO BAR WITH JOHN HILL
■ THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM LACHY DWYER + DJ QUENDO + DUELING PIANOS
■ WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM DJ PAPA BITCHO
■ BILLINUDGEL HOTEL 7PM THE HOOCHERS
■ ROCHDALE THEATRE, GOONELLABAH, 7.30PM A DOLL’S HOUSE
■ MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 5.30PM BALCONY BEATS + KRAPPYOKEE WITH JESS ■ ST JOHN’S SCHOOL HALL, MULLUMBIMBY, 7.30PM ECSTATIC DANCE MULLUM WITH DJ PUMAH ■ MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES CLUB 6PM WOLFIE ■ THE CITADEL, MURWILLUMBAH, 7.30PM JORDIE LANE ■ CLUB TWEED 7.30PM THE TARTAN TERRORS ■ THREEWAYS OF THE VALLEY, WILSONS CREEK, 6.30PM LUKE BENNETT ■ CLUB LENNOX 7PM JON J BRADLEY ■ WILLIAMS STREET KITCHEN & BAR, LENNOX HEAD, 6PM HITCHHIKE THE DAWN ■ LENNOX HOTEL 9PM LIVING IN THE 70S ■ TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS (QLD TIME), 7PM KATE CEBERANO ■ CHINDERAH TAVERN 7.30PM ROKUSTIX
SATURDAY 14 ■ BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 2PM MISS RENEE SIMONE + JACKSON SMITH + JEROME WILLIAMS DUO + DJ REIFLEX ■ HAVEN, BYRON BAY, 4PM SPRINTER, JOHNNY K B2B JAI TAYLOR, EURASIAN FANTASY B2B CUPID, & MONFRIQUE ■ NORTH BYRON HOTEL 5PM DJ MONSIEUR DIOP ■ THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 7PM ERIN SHAY TRIO + DJ SHLUFFY + DUELING PIANOS + LIQUID ZOO, RADIAL DELAY & ALLORA
■ LENNOX HOTEL 4PM OLE FALCOR ■ SHAWS BAY HOTEL, BALLINA, 5PM DJ LIPPO, DJ GOPHER GOLD AND DJ KRISTIN ■ CHERRY STREET SPORTS CLUB, BALLINA, 8PM ROCK FOR RESCUE ■ BROADWATER HOTEL 5PM MARK EASTON ■ MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES CLUB 6PM MERLIN ■ CLUB TWEED 7.30PM OFF THE GRID ■ TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS (QLD TIME), 8PM SEVENTH WONDER SINGS FLEETWOOD MAC
SUNDAY 15 ■ BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 4.30PM LATE FOR WOODSTOCK
■ PALACE CINEMAS, BYRON BAY, BRITISH FILM FESTIVAL
TUESDAY 17 ■ BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM BEN WALSH ■ BYRON THEATRE 6.30PM SCREENING – ALLOWED TO BIRTH ■ PALACE CINEMAS, BYRON BAY, BRITISH FILM FESTIVAL ■ THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM MARSHALL O’KELL + DUELING PIANOS ■ ROCHDALE THEATRE, GOONELLABAH, 7.30PM A DOLL’S HOUSE ■ TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS (QLD TIME), 11AM THE TWO TENORS
WEDNESDAY 18
■ PALACE CINEMAS, BYRON BAY, BRITISH FILM FESTIVAL ■ THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 5PM DIZZY J + VINYL SUNDAYS FT. SCOTT PLANT + DUELING PIANOS ■ THE PARK HOTEL, SUFFOLK PARK, 6PM TIM STOKES ■ HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4PM FAT PICNIC W/ HAYLEY GRACE ■ MULLUMBIMBY EX-SERVICES CLUB 3PM OPEN MIC WITH THE SWAMP CATS ■ MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 3PM THE BILLY BONES IRISH SINGALONG ■ BILLINUDGEL HOTEL 1PM JORDY QUINN
■ BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM AMBER ROSE & JACK REEVES ■ BYRON THEATRE 6PM BYRON COMMUNITY PRIMARY SCHOOL – MAGICAL MYSTERY ISLAND ■ PALACE CINEMAS, BYRON BAY, BRITISH FILM FESTIVAL ■ THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM MATT ARMITAGE + DUELING PIANOS ■ BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 7PM KATY STEELE ■ THE PADDOCK PROJECT, MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM CURRY JAM ■ OTTILIES, MULLUMBIMBY, 6PM MONDO HUM JAZZ ENSEMBLE
■ LENNOX HOTEL 4PM JB’S BLUES BREAKERS ■ BALLINA RSL 2.30PM BALLINA BLUES CLUB FEAT FBI ■ ELTHAM HOTEL 4PM JORDIE
■ ROCHDALE THEATRE, GOONELLABAH, 7.30PM A DOLL’S HOUSE
local traders PALACE BYRON BAY
SPECIAL SCREENINGS
fair prices
BITTER CHRISTMAS (MA15+) SESSION TIMES Thurs: 6:00PM – MC Preview THURSDAY NOVEMBER 12 TO WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 18 CHILDREN OF MEN (MA15+) Mon: 6:30PM – Cult Vault
good vibes live music
NT LIVE: GOLDEN BOY (CTC) Fri: 6:30PM COMING SOON
OPERA DI ROMA: TANCREDI (CTC) Sun: 1:00PM. Wed: 11:00AM THE HUNGER GAMES: SUNRISE ON THE REAPING (M) Wed: 6:30PM – Movie Mixer Preview
ALL FILMS NOW SHOWING
BYRON BOWLO SUNDAY 15TH NOVEMBER 10AM-3PM
26 The Byron Shire Echo November 11, 2026
SCAN TO BOOK ONLINE
BALLINA FAIR CINEMAS
GEORGE MICHAEL: THE FAITH TOUR (M) NFT Daily except Fri, Tues: 3:40PM, 8:15PM. Fri: 3:40PM, 8:30PM. Tues: 11:15AM, 3:40PM, 8:15PM GODZILLA MINUS ZERO (M) Daily except Sun: 1:50PM, 8:20PM. Sun: 1:50PM, 8:30PM HEART OF THE BEAST (M) Thurs, Fri, Sat, Tues: 1:30PM. Sun: 1:20PM HOW TO ROB A BANK (M) NFT Daily: 1:00PM, 3:30PM, 6:00PM LA BOLA NEGRA Daily except Tues: 10:45AM (MA15+)
PARKWAY DRIVE: HOME (M) NFT Daily: 4:20PM, 8:30PM
EBENEZER (CTC) NFT Daily except Mon: 10:45AM, PRIMETIME (MA15+) 1:40PM, 3:40PM, 6:15PM. Mon: Thurs, Fri: 11:00AM, 1:15PM, 10:45AM, 1:20PM, 3:40PM, 6:00PM 8:30PM. Sat, Tues: 11:00AM, 1:15PM, 6:00PM, 8:30PM. Sun: FATHERLAND (PG) NFT 10:30AM, 6:00PM, 8:30PM. Mon: Daily except Sun, Mon: 2:30PM, 11:00AM, 1:15PM, 8:40PM. Wed: 4:30PM, 6:30PM. Sun: 1:50PM, 11:00AM, 1:15PM, 6:00PM 4:30PM, 6:30PM. Mon: 11:10AM, 4:30PM, 6:30PM
SENSE AND SENSIBILITY (PG) Daily except Sun, Mon: 10:45AM. Sun, Mon: 10:40AM
EBENEZER (CTC) NFT Daily except Wed: 9:45AM, 12:00PM, 7:10PM. Wed: 9:45AM, 12:00PM, 7:20PM
WICKER (MA15+) Thurs, Sat, Tues: 10:50AM, 4:00PM, 6:20PM, 8:30PM. Fri: 10:50AM, 4:00PM, 6:20PM. Sun: 10:30AM, 4:00PM, 6:20PM, 8:30PM. Mon: 2:20PM, 4:10PM, 6:20PM, 8:30PM. Wed: 10:50AM, 1:30PM, 4:00PM, 8:30PM
GEORGE MICHAEL: THE FAITH TOUR
WILD HORSE NINE (MA15+) Daily: 10:50AM, 1:15PM, 6:00PM WILDWOOD (M) Daily except Mon: 10:50AM, 8:20PM. Mon: 8:20PM YOU CAN SEE EVERYTHING (M) NFT Daily except Sun, Wed: 11:00AM, 1:00PM, 3:30PM, 4:30PM, 7:00PM, 8:00PM. Sun: 10:30AM, 12:50PM, 3:30PM, 4:30PM, 7:00PM, 8:00PM. Wed: 1:00PM, 3:30PM, 4:30PM, 7:00PM, 8:00PM
FOR ALL BRITISH FF SESSIONS, PLEASE VISIT BRITISHFILMFESTIVAL.COM.AU
(M) NFT
Daily: 12:20PM HEART OF THE BEAST (M) Daily: 5:00PM PRESSURE (M) Daily except Wed: 4:45PM. Wed: 4:20PM PRIMETIME (MA15+) Daily except Wed: 2:45PM, 7:00PM. Wed: 2:45PM SENSE AND SENSIBILITY (PG) Daily except Wed: 4:30PM. Wed: 4:45PM THE HUNGER GAMES: SUNRISE ON THE REAPING (M) Wed: 6:30PM – Movie Mixer Preview WICKER (MA15+) Daily except Wed: 9:45AM, 2:15PM, 7:15PM. Wed: 9:45AM, 2:10PM, 7:15PM WILD HORSE NINE (MA15+) Daily: 9:50AM, 2:20PM
6686 9600 BALLINA FAIR • 6680 8555 BYRON BAY
www.echo.net.au
Classifieds
ECHO CLASSIFIEDS – 6684 1777 CLASSIFIED AD BOOKINGS
DEADLINE TUES 12PM
PHONE ADS
Publication day is Wednesday, booking deadlines are the day before publication.
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
RATES & PAYMENT LINE ADS: $17.00 for the first two lines $5 .00 for each extra line
$17 for two lines is the minimum charge.
Display (box ads) and line classifieds, email:
DISPLAY ADS (with a border): $14 per column centimetre
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.
These prices include GST.
classifieds@echo.net.au
DISCLAIMER
WHERE TO GET THE ECHO
*** If you live in NEWRYBAR, LENNOX HEAD, BALLINA MAIN ARM, BILLINUDGEL, LISMORE but outside our current home delivery area, you can pick up an Echo from many locations. For example: LISMORE: Dragonfly Cafe NEWRYBAR: Newrybar Providore *** BALLINA Richies IGA Ballina, Ballina RSL, One Stop Shop Ballina, Ballina Golf Club East Ballina, Brighton St Takeaway near The Shawsy *** LENNOX HEAD IGA Lennox Head, Seagrass Lennox, Lennox pub drive-through, Station St Grocer Lennox, Epiq Marketplace Hutley Dr Lennox *** MULLUMBIMBY Mullumbimby IGA; Mullumbimby Newsagent; Liberty and Carsburgs servos, Echo office stand. *** BYRON BAY Byron Bay Newsagent, Community Centre, supermarkets, cafes, servos etc *** ALSO: FEDERAL Store MAIN ARM Store BILLINUDGEL Newsagent BILLINUDGEL General Store & Pub CRABBES CREEK Store NEW BRIGHTON Store OCEAN SHORES Country Club
PROBLEMS WITH ALCOHOL...? ...THERE IS HELP TUESDAY NIGHTS 6:00PM 73 BYRON ST, BANGALOW CONTACT: 0401 945 671
www.echo.net.au
Echo Classies also appear online:
www.echo.net.au/ classified-ads
Prepayment is required for all ads.
IN MEMORIAM
THANK YOU The family of the late John ‘Robbo’ Robson wish to express their sincere thanks and heartfelt gratitude to all friends, for the kindness, support, cards, cooking, flowers and sympathy received during our recent sad loss.
AGMs Marcus G Saville Forever in our hearts, never forgotten.
DAVE HOWARD BUILDER 02.11.1964 – 14.11.2022
COORABELL HALL ASSOCIATION will hold their AGM at Coorabell Hall 565 Coolamon Scenic Dr, Coorabell on Tuesday 1 December at 12.00 midday All welcome. THE BYRON ENVIRONMENT CENTRE is holding its AGM and general meeting on Monday 23rd November at 2pm in Byron Bay in Railway Park at the BEC Rotunda. For more info please email Renee renee8@aapt.net.au. All members are invited to attend.
HEALTH
KINESIOLOGY
_________________________ Forever loved X
DEATH NOTICES In Loving Memory of
Janice Margaret Pickles 2 October 1954 – 8 November 2026 Beloved wife of Kevin for 50 wonderful years. Cherished mother of Zoe and Marcus, and much-loved Nonni to Poppy, Albert and Harvey. Forever loved, always remembered and deeply missed.
John Edwin Blackhall
‘JB’
31/3/1968 – 25/3/2026
Clear subconscious sabotages. Reprogram patterns and beliefs. Restore vibrancy and physical health. De-stress. 0403125506 SANDRA DAVEY, Reg. Pract. LYMPHOCYTE RESTORATION All cancer types/green support Richard 0486193383
Deeply loved & dearly missed.
‘My work here is done’
Dune Campervan Awning 8ft Best offer. Ph Colin 0483138422 12 VOLT FRIDGE: Works well, suit offgrid. Best Offer. Ph Colin 0483138422
GARAGE SALES
Tip Runs & Rubbish Removal
TRADEWORK
Septic Waste Removal
Summerland Environmental • Septic tank cleaning • Grease trap servicing • Oily Liquids • Portable toilet hire • 24 hour service
6687 2880
TREE SERVICES
TREE FERNS Any shape, size. Royalties paid. Ongoing supply needed. 0414904396 LP RECORDS: good condition, no op shop crap! Matt 0401955052
PREGNANT? FREE BEACH PHOTOSHOOT
Pristine Priorities
CRAFT TEACHER See our ad p5
TO LEASE
PRIME BUSINESS LOCATION
Mullumbimby: 59 Burringbar St Set up for Retail or Professional 83sqm - Airconditioned - Gallery lighting - Kitchenette - Bathroom Hardwood feature wall - Change room - Custom built counter - Ample storage for stock - Freshly painted Ready to set up shop! Avail. November 2026: Ph 0455 222 877
WORK WANTED Professional cleaner available for regular housekeeping/ cleaning Air BnB, bond cleans & more. 25 years local experience. Great references.
Call Trace 0431 224 158
PETS PET SITTER AVAILABLE Kind, confident animal carer available for your four-legged fur baby. References available. Call Pawla on 0415340744
THE ECHO HAS A POSITION VACANT FOR A JOURNALIST
See our ad on the back page Gracie is a gorgeous pale grey tabby who is extremely affectionate. Currently being looked after by one of our amazing foster carers, Gracie is wanting to find her forever home. If you’d like to meet Gracie or are interested in adopting any of our other cats or kittens, please either visit the Cat Adoption Centre at 124 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby or give us a call . OPEN: Tues 2.30-4.30pm Thurs 3-5pm Sat 10am-12 noon. Call AWL 0436 845 542 Like us on Facebook!
HOLDEN RODEO UTE 1990 2.6 petrol 8 mths rego $3000. Ph 66840317 after 2pm
LOCAL REMOVAL
Meeting at the Ocean Shores Country Club 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month – 5.30 for 6pm.
TAXI DRIVERS WANTED Flexible work hours – perfect 2nd income Email operations@byronbaytaxis.com
0427 347 380
& backloads to Brisbane. Friendly, with 10 years local exp. 0409917646
‘Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things’
brunswickmullumbimby. nsw@lions.org.au 0400 484 419
20 years local experience
TO LET
Lions Club of Brunswick / Mullumbimby Inc
Receive a relaxed pregnancy photoshoot valued at $350, plus a SARAY pregnancy piece valued at $150, in exchange for modelling for SARAY marketing. Easy beach styling, no modelling experience needed. Byron Bay. Email hello@saray.au with a little about yourself.
• 19 inch chipper • Stump grinding • Cherry picker • Crane truck • Bob Cat
MOTOR VEHICLES
WANTED
POSITIONS VACANT
The Liquid Waste Specialists!
Now available again in private practice Individual and Relationship Therapy 0403 730 304 awarecounselling.com.au
Bring greater focus, clarity and calm into your workplace.
STORAGE/WORKSHOP with elec. 36sqm Billinudgel $149.50pw Ph Lifestyle Group 66851206
0408 210 772
Fully insured • Free quotes
Certified Mindfulness Educator Paul Bibby 0401 926 090
Treasured son, brother, uncle, father & grandfather.
FOR SALE
Masti Adler
Mindfulness @ Work
LARGE ROOM 22sqm (approx) light-filled first-floor commercial office room to lease in shared office with built-in shelving, aircon. $400pw (incl. GST) including electricity, wifi, outgoing phone calls (and 2 desks + chairs if required). Shared use of toilets/small kitchen. Available now. Enquiries: 0409324724
LADIES WANTED, MUST BE 18+ Work available in busy adult parlour. Travellers welcome. 66816038 for details.
Cash, cheque, Mastercard or Visa
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.
PUBLIC NOTICES
CLASSIFIEDS THAT WORK ALL WEEK!
MULLUM CBD
AWL NSW Rehoming Organisation Number: R251000222
VIGILANT SINCE 1986
VOLUNTEERS
NOW RECRUITING Volunteer with Marine Rescue Cape Byron and help save lives on the water Find out more: mrnsw.com.au/join
Byron Dog Rescue (CAWI)
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
CAN YOU SPARE 3 HOURS ONCE A WEEK OR ONCE A MONTH? Every minute of your time helps towards re-homing dogs, desexing dogs, and helping people in desperate situations with housing and difficult home lives. Please call Astro (shop manager) at 0492 861 905 or visit the shop to chat about helping us to help dogs in need
www.byrondogrescue.org
November 11, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 27
Classifieds / Community at Work FERGIE
PETS cont.
ONLY ADULTS Who gives a Cluck?
Adopt a Rooster.
Fergie is a 3½-month-old Bull Arab X Blue Heeler who loves company and being included in everyday life. Affectionate and happy, she has the potential for loyalty, intelligence and energy. She’ll suit active people committed to patient, consistent training, positive experiences with dogs and people, and activities that keep her mind busy. Fergie needs someone who’ll enjoy watching her grow, build her confidence and celebrate her progress along the way. Rehoming Number R251000060
Flame, a medium sized quiet young boy was rescued with his friend Oreo (#98) in the Terranora area by a very kind Hooman, who then brought them both to Ann-Maree, our Rooboy Foster Carer. Health and temperament checked. Just waiting for a flock to protect.
whogivesacluck.org/shop/roosters-to-adopt/ whogivesacluck.org @whogivesacluck
T: 6681 1860 E: shelter@nras.org.au W: www.nras.org.au
GIZMO
Meet ‘sweetie pie’ Gizmo, who just oozes affection! This lovely soul has so much love to give. See the video on our fb page, this boy absolutely lurrrrves attention!!• indoor cat• good with children• possibly good with small quiet dog.• lap cat• playful Gizmo is desexed, and vaccinated. Microchip 991003002921203 - D.O.B 27/3/20 Ready for adoption! To make an appointment 0403 533 589 • Billinudgel petsforlifeanimalshelter.net
TUITION
Adobe Tutoring Experienced Professional Tutor • Photoshop • Indesign • Illustrator contact@thinkblinkdesign.com www.thinkblinkdesign.com
The Echo’s Market Guide Find it online: www.echo.net.au/market-guide
MONTHLY MARKETS:
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 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 1st SAT: 1st SUN:
Seasonal: Byron Beachside Market – four times a year: Tues 29 Dec 2026, Easter Friday 26 Mar 2027, Sat 10 Jul 2027, Sun 19 Sep 2027
Byron Community Christmas Market – Sun 20 Dec 2026
FARMERS/WEEKLY MARKETS:
Each TUE: New Brighton Farmers Market – 7am–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.
28 The Byron Shire Echo November 11, 2026
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 0416 899 048
SOCIAL ESCORTS LOTS OF GORGEOUS LADIES available for your pleasure nearby. Spoil yourself. In-house & outcalls. 7 days. 0266816038.
SUN, MOON & TIDES
– TIMES FOR NEXT 3 WEEKS DATE DAY, SUN MOON HIGH Nov MOON RISE / RISE / TIDES, / Dec PHASE SET SET height (m)
LOW TIDES, height (m)
5:46 6:35 10:21 1.66 03:18 0.22 19:13 21:11 22:15 1.11 16:50 0.37
11 W 5:45 7:22 10:57 1.63 03:49 0.27 12 TH 19:14 22:04 22:52 1.06 17:31 0.40 5:45 8:13 11:34 1.59 04:23 0.32 13 F 19:14 22:53 23:31 1.01 18:15 0.44 5:44 9:08 0.39 14 SA 19:15 23:37 12:15 1.53 05:00 19:00 0.47 5:44 10:04 00:16 0.97 05:44 0.46 15 SU 19:16 12:59 1.47 19:50 0.49 5:43 11:00 01:12 0.95 06:36 0.53 16 M 19:17 0:15 13:47 1.42 20:46 0.50 5:43 11:56 02:22 0.95 07:44 0.58 19:18 0:50 14:43 1.38 21:43 0.47
17 TU 5:43 12:52 03:41 1.01 09:00 0.61 18 W 19:18 1:21 15:42 1.36 22:33 0.42 5:42 13:48 04:46 1.11 10:14 0.60 19 TH 19:19 1:51 16:40 1.35 23:17 0.35 5:42 14:45 05:41 1.24 11:21 0.55 20 F 19:20 2:20 17:33 1.35 23:58 0.27 5:42 15:45 06:30 1.40 12:22 0.48 21 SA 19:21 2:50 18:25 1.34 5:41 16:49 07:15 1.55 00:36 0.20 22 SU 19:22 3:23 19:14 1.32 13:19 0.41 5:41 17:58 08:01 1.69 01:15 0.14 23 M 19:22 3:59 20:03 1.29 14:15 0.33 5:41 19:09 08:48 1.80 01:54 0.09 24 TU 19:23 4:43 20:52 1.25 15:09 0.27 5:40 20:22 09:36 1.88 02:36 0.08 19:24 5:35 21:43 1.20 16:03 0.23
25 W 5:40 21:30 10:26 1.91 03:20 0.09 26 TH 19:25 6:36 22:34 1.15 17:00 0.22
5:40 22:30 11:16 1.90 04:08 0.13 27 F 19:26 7:44 23:29 1.11 17:56 0.24 5:40 23:20 0.20 28 SA 19:27 8:56 12:09 1.85 05:00 18:52 0.27 5:40 00:28 1.08 05:58 0.29 29 SU 19:27 10:07 13:02 1.76 19:49 0.30 5:40 0:03 01:33 1.07 07:01 0.38 30 M 19:28 11:14 13:58 1.66 20:45 0.33 5:40 0:39 02:45 1.10 08:14 0.47 1 TU 19:29 12:18 14:55 1.54 21:40 0.34 5:40 1:12 03:58 1.18 09:30 0.53 2 W 19:30 13:18 15:52 1.43 22:31 0.33 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 HOSPITAL6639 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
North Coast news online
On The Horizon DEADLINE NOON FRIDAY
Email copy marked ‘On The Horizon’ to editor@echo.net.au.
GCAT The Green and Clean Awareness Team’s monthly Dunecare Day is on Sunday, 15 November from 8am to 11am, meeting in front of the Beach Cafe at Clarkes Beach. We plant in the sand dunes from Clarkes Beach to Main Beach. From 11am, enjoy a delicious free BBQ and be in the draw to win one of four excellent prizes. It’s good fun. Inquiries to Veda 6685 7991 or Peter 0488 715 565.
Prostate Cancer Support The next meeting of the Northern Rivers Day Prostate Cancer Support Group is on Wednesday, 11 November, 10am until 12noon at The Alstonville Plateau Sports Club, Deegan Drive, Alstonville. Men previously and newly diagnosed with prostate cancer are urged to join and partners and carers welcome. Please feel free to bring a friend or someone you know who may be in need of support. Enquiries phone Bob Corney 0493 075 612.
Romantic comedy The very funny romantic comedy from 1960, The Apartment, starring Shirley MacLaine, Jack Lemmon and Fred MacMurray and the winner of five Academy Awards, will be playing at the Drill Hall on Wednesday, 18 November at 7pm. Enquiries and bookings to drillhallfilms@gmail.com.
Social Cohesion Week Byron Bay Library is hosting two special free events for Social Cohesion Week: a book launch for Unspeakable by Dr Jean Renouf and Richard Hil in conversation on Thursday 19 November 3pm to 5pm. This is followed by a Community Resilience Workshop on Friday 20 November 10.30am to 2pm. Bookings essential for both events in branch, 66858540 or online www.rtrl.nsw.gov.au.
Gem and Lapidary Club Byron Gem and Lapidary Club, a local non-profit hobby club, are having a street stall in Mullumbimby on Friday, 13 November, 9am to 2.30pm, near the taxi rank. Drop by to see some wonderful mineral specimens. Locally made jewellery available, and lucky dips for the kids. Get in early for the gifting season!
Clean Up Australia Day Registrations are open for Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday, 7 March 2027. Business Clean Up Day is on Tuesday, 2 March 2 and the Schools Clean Up Day on Friday, 5 March 2027. Register now at cleanup.org.au.
BV Scrabble Club Brunswick Valley Scrabble Club meets at Brunswick Heads Bowling Club
every Tuesday afternoon at 1pm. Beginners and experienced players all welcome. All equipment provided. For information call Steve Bellerby on 0407 844 718.
Pollinator’s Week The Lismore Rainforest is holding a Guided Walk ‘Native Bees as Pollinators’ with Graeme at 9.30 am on Saturday, 14 November for National Pollinator’s Week. Bookings are essential, email: publicity@ friendslrbg.com.au to book. Adults $5 and children free (pay cash on the day please).
Rehydrate Australia Pearces Creek Talks are hosting a screening of the documentary film Rehydrate Australia, on Saturday, 14 November at 6.30pm. The film shows how land managers are improving their farm using ‘natural sequence farming’, improving both resilience to drought and reducing the downstream impact of floods. The film will be followed by a Q&A with Stuart Andrews of Tarwyn Park Training, and Josh Wellman of Banyula Farm, Clunes. $5 per person, supper included. Tickets: https://linktr.ee/pearcescreektalks.
Kirtan and meditation A free evening of kirtan and meditation is being held on Saturday, 28 November, at Bangalow A&I Hall at 7pm.
AGM Friends of Libraries The AGM of the Friends of Libraries (FOL) Byron Shire will be held on Wednesday, 18 November at 10am in the Local History Room at Byron Bay Library with a guest speaker to be announced. Both members of FOL and the general public are welcome to attend.
Free digital workshop 50 or over and need a hand working out all things digital? The Byron Community Centre is running a series of free workshops to help you feel more confident with your computer. Workshop 12 November, 10am to 12pm at Byron Community Centre. Register at: seniors@byroncentre. com.au phone: 6685 6807 or drop in top book a place.
Amitayus Home Hospice Service For over 30 years, Amitayus Home Hospice Service has provided free support and non-medical assistance to people who are palliative, at the end of their lives, or are living with life limiting conditions, to remain at home as long as possible. We offer respite to primary carers and families free of charge. We aim to uphold and enhance people’s
independence and freedom of choice in challenging circumstances. We are a non-sectarian, not-for-profit organisation serving the Byron Shire and surrounds. Find out more at: www.amitayus.org.au, email: info@amitayus.org.au, or phone: 0468 483 857.
Free Tech Lessons for seniors Are you a senior looking to build confidence with technology? Whether you want to learn how to use your smartphone, send emails, access online services, video call family and friends, or stay safe online, we’re here to help. Don’t let technology hold you back. Gain confidence, learn new skills, and stay connected with family, friends, and your community. Phone Mullumbimby Library on 6684 2992 to enquire about our free 40-minute sessions each Wednesday morning and Friday afternoon until the end of the year.
Byron Book Fair Friends of Libraries (FOL) are now collecting books for next year’s Book Fair from 9am to 10am Tasman Way, Byron Arts & Industry Estate. Books will need to be in very good, clean, and dust-free condition. Books of all genres greatly accepted. Book drop– off will take place the first Monday in November and December and next year, excluding January 2027, each month on the first Monday same place until the Book Fair. On arrival a FOL member will be at the gate to collect books. Enquires contact Monique: 0414 811 323.
Seniors Cards You are most welcome to join our friendly 500 Card Group. We play at a convenient local venue in Byron Bay. Enquiries text Nancy 0498 480 373.
Bruns U3A Lifelong learning for retired folk in their 3rd age. Our interest groups are Tuesday Forum, garden group, foodies, movie and lunch group, men’s shed, French revisited, Scottish folk dance, mahjong, walker’s and talkers, Shabashi. Table tennis (needs new players, ring Jane 0403 170 315), chess, debating group, ukelele. For info Denise 0423 778 573 or info@bvu3a.org.
SES Ballina Three iconic local bands Fossil Rock, Kitchen Table Band, and the One 2 Many Band are all re-forming for this one-off mega fundraising concert for the Ballina SES at Cherry Street Sports Club, Ballina on Saturday, 14 November. All 18 band musicians donating their time and effort for free. Tickets $10 at: www. trybooking. com/DOOTJ and all proceeds from the concert will go directly to SES Ballina unit.
Regular As Clockwork DEADLINE NOON FRIDAY
Please note that, owing to space restrictions, not all entries may be included each week. Email copy marked ‘Regular As Clockwork’ to editor@echo.net.au.
Mullumbimby District Neighbourhood Centre Mullumbimby & District Neighbourhood Centre is open Monday–Thursday 9am–4pm and offers a range of services and activities. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy art, music, games, great food and more. Call reception on 6684 1286 and discover what is on offer. MDNC services that are running include: Community support/emergency relief: Food parcels, meals, assistance with electricity and Telstra bills.
Listening Space: free counselling. Staying Home, Leaving Violence program. Integrated Domestic & Family Violence program. Financial Counselling: outreach available Thursdays & Fridays Financial Counselling: free service funded by the government, offering advocacy & assistance to find options to address debts. Information, referral and advocacy. To enquire about accessing any of these services call 6684 1286 or fill out an online enquiry form.
Byron Community Centre Homeless Breakfast: 7:30–9am Wednesday. Homeless Showers: Monday and Wednesday 10am–12pm (book in at breakfasts). Women’s Support and Counselling: Friday 1–3pm, Community Cabin Carlyle St. Free Phone Counselling: Call 0415 322 064 10am–2pm. Seniors Computer Club: Friday 9am–11am, Community Cabin Carlyle St. Seniors drumming, yoga, ukulele, art, nourishing arts and drama: 66856807 for booking and time details. Volunteer Hub referral service: Call 66856807.
www.echo.net.au
Service Directory BUILDING TRADES
ECHO SERVICE DIRECTORY RATES, PAYMENT & DEADLINE
• DEPT OF FAIR TRADING: A licence is required for all residential building work where the reasonable market cost of the work to be done (labour and materials) exceeds $5000 (including GST).
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
B&B Timbers 66867911
110 Teven Road, Ballina New logo - Same quality & service Structural – Landscaping Fencing – Composite Decking Hardwood – Pine – Hardware
www.echo.net.au/service-directory
sales@bbtimbers.com.au
www.bbtimbers.com.au
BUILDER – JOHN MCGAURAN Personalised Service. 20 yrs exp. Lic 170208C........... 0415 793242
SERVICE DIRECTORY INDEX
ARCHITECTS
Accountants & Bookkeepers.29 Landscaping ....................... 30 Acupuncture....................... 29 Painting.............................. 30 Air Conditioning & Refrigeration...................... 29 Pest Control........................ 30 Architects........................... 29 Photography....................... 30 Automotive......................... 29 Physiotherapy..................... 30 Bicycle Repair..................... 29 Picture Framing.................. 30 Blinds, Awnings, Curtains, Shutters.............................. 29 Plastering........................... 30 Bricklaying.......................... 29 Building Trades................... 29 Plumbers............................ 31 Bush Regeneration & Removalists........................ 31 Weed Control...................... 29 Carpentry & Joinery............ 29 Roofing............................... 31 Cleaning............................. 29 Rubbish Removal................ 31 Computer Services.............. 30 Self Storage........................ 31 Concreting & Paving............ 30 Curtains.............................. 30 Solar Installation................ 31 Decks, Patios & Extensions... 30 Television Services.............. 31 Design & Drafting............... 30 Tiling.................................. 31 Driveway Maintenance........ 30 Earthmoving & Excavation.. 30 Tree Services....................... 31 Electricians......................... 30 Transportation Services....... 31 Fencing............................... 30 Upholstery.......................... 31 Floor Sanding & Polishing... 30 Valuers............................... 31 Garden & Property Maintenance....................... 30 Veterinary Surgeons............ 31 Gas Fitters, Suppliers & Servicing............................ 30 Water Filters....................... 31 Guttering............................ 30 Welding.............................. 31 Handypersons..................... 30 Health................................ 30 Window Cleaning & Repairs.31 Hypnotherapy..................... 30 Window Tinting.................. 31 LOCAL
OCEANARC ARCHITECTS Reg. 6042 www.oceanarc.com.au..........................................0412 251392 CARPENTER / JOINER 30 years experience. Prompt efficient service. Fully insured. Other licensed trades
AUTOMOTIVE
avail, incl plastering/painting etc. 24/7 Emergency 4WD call-out avail. Lic 43794C.........0423 500693
WE PAY FOR
BUILDER very exp. All aspects: comm/residential + bthrm/ktchn renos Lic348357c.......0483 279644 BUILDER Asher Landini All aspects: building, renovations, extensions Lic498385c...........0488 150778
UNWANTED CARS
TRADIE DAN MULLUM - Building work/repairs under $5k.................................................0410 284550
$50–$1500
6684 5296
Free metal drop off Locally owned
VIDLER BUILT decks, extensions, bathrooms, kitchens, timber fencing Lic 304237c .......0413 502281
BUSH REGENERATION & WEED CONTROL
ABSOLUTELY FREE
reforestnow.org.au
CAR BODY REMOVAL
Bush Regen Tree Planting Native Forest Nursery Weed Management
CASH ON THE SPOT GUARANTEE
$50 – $1000
0461 164 911 enquiry@reforestnow.org.au
WE BUY UNWANTED CARS, UTES & VANS
PHONE 0466 113 333 24/7 EMAIL: enquires@adrians.com.au
CARPENTRY & JOINERY
BICYCLE REPAIR
MOBILE BICYCLE REPAIRS & servicing. All bikes/e-bikes: twowheelstoday.com........0474 148450 ALL CARPENTRY Doors & stairs, all repairs. Reliable. 20 years exp...............................0437 202050
BLINDS, AWNINGS, CURTAINS, SHUTTERS
BYRON BAY CARPENTRY & CONSTR. Decks, kitchen, bath, laundry. Lic 337421c........0432 549082
CLEANING LOCAL
SHOWCASE DEALER SHOWROOM
LOCAL
BLINDS LOCAL
LOCAL
SHUTTERS
SUNSCREENS AWNINGS
SUNSCREENS SHOWCASE DEALER SHOWROOM
SHOWCASE DEALER SHOWROOM 1/84 Centennial Circuit Byron Bay
LOCAL
CURTAINS
SHOWCASE DEALER SHOWROOM
1/84 Centennial Circuit Byron Bay SHOWCASE DEALER SHOWROOM
1/84 Centennial Circuit Byron Bay
FREE MEASURE QUOTE
6680 8862
mpSlU etR eE raQ ng fE FoRnEoEurMcEoA UeOoT
Services List Locally owned and Operated (Low Pressure Softwashing) Residential and Commercial Houses, Gutters, Roofs, Awnings, No job too big or small Solar panels, Retaining walls Obligation free quote Driveways, Paths, Pavers, Fully insured Fences, Decks, Patios, AQUA PRESSURE CLEANING Pool areas. SUNSCREENS
SUNSCREENS
SHOWCASE DEALER SHOWROOM
80 8862 66668 0 8862
ACCOUNTANTS & BOOKKEEPERS
HAVEN BUILDING All aspects of building. Lic 326616C................................................0432 565060
CURTAINS
CURTAINS
SUNSCREENS
SUNSCREENS PLANTATION SHUTTERS
CURTAINS
0426 119 550 info@nraquapressurecleaning.com.au
ABN: 47576013867
PLANTATION SHUTTERSHOT WATER interior & exterior on F oR uE rEcM om p l e t e r a n g e o f CURTAINS QtUsOTE PRESSURE CLEANING windowEtArSeU atRmEen BLOOMING BOOKKEEPING and BAS Agent................................................... Ph Leah 0434 121077 PLANTATION SHUTTERS 1/84 Circuit Byron Bay in rmCentennial &pleex terr iogr o n toeur rio co te an e of CURTAINS SPECIALISTS IN HOME AUTOMATION CURTAINS AWNINGS riotr & tByron ee rn iotrsBay w inindtoew r eaetxm 1/84 Centennial Circuit 1/84 Centennial Circuit Byron Bay www.blinddesignbyronbay.com.au ACUPUNCTURE window treatments ROLL BLINDS BOOKKEEPER Reg BAS provider, payroll, A/P, A/R. Xero & MYOB. Local, reliable..........0410 206627
6 6 860 8AWNINGS 862 6 6 8 0 8 8 2 ACUPUNCTURE CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE M Collis..............................................0490 022183 6680 8862 SPECIALISTS IN HOME AUTOMATION SPECIALISTS IN HOM E AUTOM ATION
AWNINGS
www.blinddesignbyronbay.com.au www.blinddesignbyronbay.com.au ROOF CLEANING & PAINTING • DECK RESTORATION BLINDSBLINDS ROLL ATS UOTEROLL FREE MF ER ASE UE REM QE UO EURE QPLANTATION SHUTTERS PLANTATION SHUTTERS
n BLINDS ouU rR co oE mpo lQ e tU erIndoor r an eOutdoor o LUXURY BYRON BAY Blinds, Manual, n u c og&m pflet e rMotorised ang eor o f Shade Awnings, EoA S O T E AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATIONFREE M Fr quote PLANTATION SHUTTERS interior & exterior
Residential. Measure................0480 304 755 ianntg ee rorio o xtQuote er&io r on our Zipscreen, compRoman letBlinds. e rCommercial fr & eFree window treatments
Call or scan today
0455 573 554 FCRTEAM.AU
w n dow treatments interiorSPECIALISTS & extINeHOME riio r AUTOMATION AWNINGS – Sales – Installation – Repairs BRICKLAYING Mullumbimby www.blinddesignbyronbay.com.au window treatmSPECIALISTS ents ROLL AWNINGS BLINDS IN HOM E AUTOM ATION 5.0 Google reviews – All Commercial Refrigeration Refrigeration & Airconditioning – Residential & Commercial SPECIALISTS IN HOM Ewww.blinddesignbyronbay.com.au AUTOM ATION AWNINGS ROLL BLINDS Airconditioning Services www.blinddesignbyronbay.com.au Mould inspections · Cleaning · Remediation – Coolroom Design & Construction – Freezer Rooms
45 Manns Road, Mullumbimby Lic: 299433C ARC: AU40492
6684 2783
COOLMAN AIR CONDITIONING 36+ years exp. Lic 178464C AU30147.......................0422 291433 ARTISAN AIR Airconditioning and refrigeration. ...............................................................66809394
WALLFIX ROLL BLINDS REMEDIAL
• 20 years’ experience in lintel replacement • Crack stitching installation • Repointing • Retaining walls and all damaged brickwork Call: 0403 141 760 • Email: wallfixremedial@gmail.com www.wallfixremedial.com.au Servicing the Northern Rivers Lic no. 292267C Master Builder No. 3029326
Locally owned · Northern Rivers
0419 964 797
unmould.com.au
BETTY’S CLEANING & HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES............................................... Text 0476 984649
SKIP AIR: Airconditioning installation, servicing, repairs. Free quotes. 5-star rated......0406 485187 BRICK/BLOCK LAYING Contractors. Lic 291958C. Phone Mark.........................................0409 444268 CLEAN AND GREEN BYRON residential cleaning. All areas.................................... 0494 823880
www.echo.net.au
November 11, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 29
Service Directory
North Coast news online
COMPUTER SERVICES
ELECTRICIANS
HANDYPERSONS HANDY ANDY Carpentry, plastering, welding.......................................... 66884324 or 0476 600956
One-on-one, patient, experienced teacher offering digital support for seniors needing help with phones, laptops and computers.
AWESOME REPAIRS Professional, commercial & domestic. Wayne................................0423 218417
0439 624 945 AH 02 6680 4173
Phone or email: 0420 235 624 contact@thinkblinkdesign.com
DOMESTIC ALL JOBS: SMALL COMMERCIAL OR LARGE 24 HOUR SERVICE Lic: 154293c
THE COMPUTER THERAPIST home callouts, repairs, Wi-Fi, printers, new PC setup......0422 697586
ABSOLUTE HANDYMAN Repairs, renovation, maintenance, painting. Call Mark..........0402 281638 A HANDY GUY All trades & small construction. Bruns, Ocean, SGB & Mullum................0411 858201 HOME MAINTENANCE Carpentry, painting, repairs, gardens, jet washing. Insured......0434 705506
HEALTH ACUPUNCTURE & COSMETIC MEDICINE Dr Adam Osborne............................................66857366
CONCRETING & PAVING
AYURVEDA, NATUROPATH, Herbs, Jacinta McEwen – Om Healing...............................0422 387370
SALISBURY
MASSAGE THERAPIST Sports, remedial, Swedish, relaxation. ................Contact Mark 0448 441194
DARYL 0418 234 302
HYPNOTHERAPY
CONCRETING Residential • Civil • Industrial
Lic.136717c
Over 30 yrs’ local experience. All forms of concreting.
ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE Jonathan Flantz. Mullumbimby. ...........................................0400 677672
JP ELECTRICAL All electrical. Level 2 ASP. Solar, data, TV, TV Antennas. Lic 133082C.....0432 289705 MOONLIGHT HYPNOTHERAPY QHHT, RTT for clarity, healing, insight, purpose. Teresa.0422 179941 BEN FORSYTH, Electrician. Lic:240691C. Ocean Shores & surrounds. No job too small....0422 136408 JIM LABELLE ELECTRICAL O.Shores, Mullum, Byron, Bruns. Lic 176417C........................0415 126028
LANDSCAPING
SHAKA CONCRETING Driveways, sheds, slabs, p/ways, patios. Insured & Lic#391742C.....0402 728207 HARVEST POWER Solar. Batteries. All electrical Lic 141097C............................................0422 033757
FENCING
CURTAINS
QUALITY CUSTOM MADE Curtains and Soft Furnishings. ............................Call Michelle 0412 771872 EDL FENCING Installations & repairs. Prompt service. ...................................................0432 107262 FLOW FENCING Pool fencing, timber/colourbond, local, professional and reliable........0416 424256
DECKS, PATIOS & EXTENSIONS
TOM’S FARM MAINTENANCE Fencing, orchards, cattle work. Experienced & reliable..0412 860132
DECK REFINISHING EVANS HEAD Customer satisfaction guaranteed..........................0413 786879 FCR DECK SANDING, OILING Local, 12 years exp. 190x5-star reviews. Free quotes ... 0419 789600
FLOOR SANDING & POLISHING
MIRO HALFORD BUILDING DESIGN mirohalforddesign.com.......................................0402 613638
GARDEN & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
LEMONTREELANDSCAPES.COM.AU Liam. Lic 277154C...............................................0423 700853
PAINTING
HOLM.STUDIO architectural drafting & planning services. holmstudio.com.au...........0488 216555
DRIVEWAY MAINTENANCE
admin@ecasphalt.com.au
0448 401 638
THE FLOOR SANDER New & old floors, decks, non-toxic finishes, special effects, free quotes..0407 821690
DESIGN & DRAFTING
oast Asph alt st C Ea
Swim Ponds, Landscaping, Water Features, Earth Moving
HOUSEHOLD PAINTING inside/out. Northern Rivers - 10 years exp..............................0488 278220
PEST CONTROL
ALL ASPECTS OF ASPHALT & BITUMEN SERVICES
6677 1859
SERVICING THE EAST COAST OF THE NSW NORTHERN RIVERS Burringbar
MULLUM.MOWING@gmail.com. Ride-on, large lawns & acreage. Ph Peter.................0423 756394 GUTTERS CLEANED Solar panel cleaning, all areas, free quotes, fully insured..66841778 or 0405 922839
TIP RUNS & RUBBISH REMOVALS 4m3 trailer..............................................................0408 210772
Protect your home this season. Save 10% on our Termite Inspection & General Pest Control Package, covering cockroaches, ants and spiders. Or save 10% on mosquito treatments. Contact our friendly team. Phone 02 6685 4490 • service@sanctuarypest.com.au
RICK’S PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Mowing, brushcutting, gardening, hedging..........0424 805660
10% discount applies to full-priced services only.
LEAF IT TO US Tree care specialists & acreage mowing...................................................0402 487213
EARTHMOVING & EXCAVATION
TINY EARTHWOR Philip Toovey
GREEN DINGO for all your mowing and gardening needs. Ph Michael..........................0497 842442 GW MOWING Ride-on /acreage. Tip runs...............................................Call George on 0408 244820 THE GREEN WAVE: Land management, regen. gardening, maintenance, handyman...0491 117656 COAST & COUNTRY Acreage mowing, brushcutting, weed control. Mike.......................0413 812582
0409 799 909 various implements available for limited access projects
CONSCIOUS EARTHWORKS
• DRAINAGE DESIGN • DRIVEWAYS • PADS • WATERWAYS • ALL ASPECTS OF EARTHMOVING
BRUSH–CUTTING ..................................................................................Rob 0455 587425
GAS FITTERS, SUPPLIERS & SERVICING
5T Excavator & Skidsteer
Landscaping Install & Supply
8 Tonne Tipper
Retaining & Rockwalls
Attachments:
Bulk & Green Waste Removal
Rock Grabber, Auger
All Earthworks Requirements
350/450, Compactor
BEN - 0499 985 555 License 479630C. Fully Insured.
NORTHERN RIVERS TRENCHING 65hp chain trencher, excavator, cable locating & tpr..0402 716857
30 The Byron Shire Echo November 11, 2026
Tree Faerie Fotos Professional • Commercial • Personal 30+ years experience in commercial photography and photojournalism
Locally Owned No Rental Fees Servicing your area Free Call: 1300 727 013 Email: swapabottle@bigpond.com
Phone Zac: 0468 344 939 www.360earth.com.au Drainage Consultation & Installation
PHOTOGRAPHY
www.treefaeriefotos.com • 0417 427 518
PHYSIOTHERAPY OCEAN SHORES PHYSIOTHERAPY Manual therapies, dry needling, custom orthotics, shock wave therapy, real time ultrasound. Nigel Pitman.........................................................66803499
GUTTERING
PICTURE FRAMING ✔ Gutter guard ✔ Gutter cleaning ✔ Locally owned ✔ Fully insured ✔ Free quotes
MULLUM PICTURE FRAMERS Studio located in Ocean Shores...................................0403 734791
PLASTERING
Call Junior for friendly, genuine advice and service.
PLASTERER, TRADE QUALIFIED repairs, renovations, cornices, quality assured. .Kurt 0431 015414
0405 922 839 or AH 6684 1778 ABN 94 239 089 086
CAPE BYRON PLASTERING. Gyprock/Venetian. 30 yrs exp, free quotes, lic + insured.. 0402 538155
www.spotlessgutters.com.au
PLASTERING cornices, partition walls, water damage repairs etc Guaranteed quality. 0413 338203
www.echo.net.au
Service Directory PLUMBERS
TELEVISION SERVICES
Ben The Plumber
DIGITAL ELECTRONICS REPAIR & SERVICE TV. Audio. Antennas........... 66843575 or 0414 922786
Servicing Mullumbimby, Ocean Shores, Brunswick Heads, Byron Bay & Surrounds 30 years’ experience Lic: 321191C
Taking on work NOW! 0427 528 108 | benwilton74@icloud.com
INSTALL SERVICE: TV, Wi-Fi, AV, special pensioner/concession rate. ............ Damian 0414 741233
TILING WALL & FLOOR TILER/WATERPROOFER/STONEMASON Lic 24418C. ............Ph Karl 0439 232434
TRANSPORTATION SERVICES
BYRON BUS Co-
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
REMOVALISTS
From Middle Pocket to Middle Earth Just give us a ring
Door to Door Charter Services
Call 0490 183 424
arrive@ byronbuscompany.com.au
• Freight services to Brisbane weekly • Carriers of fine art • Furniture removal • E-bay pick up & delivery
0409 917 646
LEAPFROG REMOVALS
Free Quotes |Insured |Amenity Tree Pruning Removals |Chipping |Block Clearing Council DA Assistance if required
Call Sam 0456 044602 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 THREE TREES AQF Level 8 Consulting Arborist. ................................... Call Lisa Barnes 0427 959835
MARK STRATTON All plumbing & emergency. Sewer drain camera/locator. Lic 57803C.....0419 019035
SHIRE REMOVALS & FREIGHT CO
17 Years Experience as an Arborist Experienced crew ready to go.
NORTH COAST SPECIALIST ARBOR: Tom Wardlaw. All tree work. Level 5 Arborist.......0411 777733
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
Get a Quick Quote Now Airport Transfers | Tours | Nights Out | Walks Events | Par ties | Weddings | Corporate | Festivals
WATER FILTERS
The Water Filter Experts
BYRON BAY’S LOCAL REMOVALIST MOVING THE SHIRE FOR OVER 10 YEARS
TREE SERVICES
for home, commercial and rural properties
0432 334 200 02 6680 8170
CHOPPY CHOP TREE SERVICES
6680 8200 or 0418 108 181
leapfrogremovals@yahoo.com.au
The Fully Insured Professionals
• Stump Grinding • Bobcat • Cherrypicker • Crane Truck • 18" Chipper
WELDING
ROOFING
Mark Linder Qualified Arborist
WELDING & FABRICATION Structural, General, Repairs: Steel, Aluminium & Stainless...0408 410545
FCR ROOF PAINTING Local, 12 yrs exp, best paints avail, 190x5-star reviews. Free quotes.0455 573554
choppychoptrees@bigpond.com
WINDOW CLEANING AND REPAIRS
RYAN’S MINI MOVES....................................................................................................0406 657 755
0408 202 184
CLEAN VIEW Prompt, professional, insured. Phone David..............................................0421 906460
Metal Roofing & Guttering Experts Serving from Ballina to Gold Coast.
NO STREAKS ATTACHED Local, experienced, friendly, insured.......................................0431 398358
- A Lifetime Warranty on Workmanship - Double Satisfaction Checks - Spotless Work Sites, Every Time
WINDOW TINTING SURFWAGON - Car/Home/Office tint. Lifetime Warranty. W/sale price..........................0434 875009
admin@oceanbluepr.com.au
SUNRISE window tinting, mobile Byron+ N. Rivers. Cars, homes, offices, etc...............0412 158478
0429 909 433 www.oceanbluepr.com.au License # QBCC: 15327621 NSW: 381929C
BLUE SKY ROOFING NSW
PRUNING ~ REMOVALS ~ STUMP GRINDING
Roof repairs Replacements
Gutters Downpipes
• 20 years local knowledge and experience • Fully insured / free quotes • 19 inch chipper • Bobcat • Cherry picker • Crane truck
0450 659 114
Lic No. 304784C
www.harttreeservices.com.au
0427 347 380
RUBBISH REMOVAL TIP RUNS & RUBBISH REMOVAL 4m3 trailer.................................................................0408 210772
SELF STORAGE BYRON BAY SELF STORAGE................................................................................................66858349
SOLAR INSTALLATION
ALL AREAS OF THE NORTHERN RIVERS & SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND
0401 208 797
• Professional Tree Removal, Surgery & Maintenance • Stump Grinding • Weed Control • Arborist Reporting & Consultancy • EWP Cherry Picker Hire • Mulching of Green Waste • 24 Hour Emergency Call-Out • Professional, Reliable Service
Serving Northern NSW since 1998
Specialists in standalone and grid interact system designs
Martino TREE SERVICES
0428 320 262 sunbeamsolar.com.au
Byron Bay & Beyond
Your local, qualified team
team@sunbeamsolar.com.au
HARVEST POWER Solar. Batteries. All electrical Lic 141097C.........................................0422 033757
www.echo.net.au
0435 019 524
ECHO SERVICE DIRECTORY RATES, PAYMENT & DEADLINE Deadline: For additions and changes is 12pm Friday Line ads: $99 for 3 months or $340 for 1 year prepaid Display ads: $70 per week for colour display ad. Minimum 8 week booking 4 weeks prepaid. Please supply display ads 85mm wide, 38mm high. New ads will be placed at end of section. Contact: 6684 1777 or adcopy@echo.net.au
www.echo.net.au/service-directory November 11, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 31
Property
North Coast news online
Solhaven: a new approach to townhouse living
Renders are indicative only and vary per townhouse. Two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a private terrace and a ground floor flexi room you can make your own. Move-in scheduled for the end of 2027 – a limited number of townhouses remain. The flexi room is what sets these townhouses apart. It works as a home office, creative studio, consulting room, third bedroom or guest retreat, and selected townhouses offer kitchenette and powder room upgrades to make it fully self-contained. Every townhouse is all-electric, with rooftop solar, electric hot water, efficient air conditioning, LED lighting and EV charging provision, while passive house principles
keep running costs low and the home comfortable year round. Step outside and the Wellness Park is waiting, with cold plunge pools, magnesium hot tubs, an infrared sauna, a yoga stretch space and a zen lawn retreat. A communal deck and garden beds bring the village together, while CCTV, on-call security and a phone-controlled intercom keep it secure. With curated shops and food and beverage offerings planned for the wider masterplan, alongside co-working spaces and offices, Solhaven brings people of all ages together in everyday moments. Together, these facilities enhance everyday living and
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Call us on 0403 713 658
1
Tweed Broadwater - Tweed Heads South
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$649,000
Call us on 0403 713 658
Banksia Waters – Tweed Heads West
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running costs and a flexible ground floor that appeals to a wider pool of tenants, from remote workers to small business owners. With quality rentals in short supply across the Northern Rivers, it’s positioned for strong rental demand and long-term returns. Whichever buyer you are, you can lock in today’s price now and settle on completion at the end of 2027. Call for floor plans and the price list, or book a private appointment at the display suite, 134 River Street, Ballina. ■ First National Byron www.byronbayfn.com.au Jasmin McClymont 0434 029 668 Luke Elwin 0421 375 635
No Sales Just Property Management
Mr Property Services Palm Lake Resort – Banora
set Solhaven apart from anything else on offer in the Northern Rivers. Solhaven is designed around the idea of a 20-minute community, where almost everything you need is within easy reach. The river is right across the road for kayaking, fishing, and bike rides, with the Fishermen’s Co-op close by. Ballina CBD is 4 minutes away, Shelly Beach 10, the airport 11 and Byron Bay 26. For downsizers and owner-occupiers, this is lock-and-leave living without leaving the community you love. For investors, it’s a brand-new townhouse with low maintenance, energy-efficient
Call our property management experts today for a free appraisal on (02) 6680 8111.
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$559,000
Banksia Waters – Tweed Heads West RE D UC ED
2
Call us on 0403 713 658
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2
3
$565,000
Call us on 0403 713 658
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2
$620,000
View over 50 homes at www.mrpropertyservices.com.au Email: enquiries@mrpropertyservices.com.au Phone: 07 5523 3431 Mobile: Heike Wilson 0403 713 658 Kelvin Price 0423 028 468
32 The Byron Shire Echo November 11, 2026
BYRONCOASTAL.COM.AU
(02) 6680 8111
BYRONBAYACCOM.NET
| 1/27 F L E TC H E R S T, BY R O N B AY www.echo.net.au
6 BLUE HORIZON DRIVE, LENNOX HEAD
Neat & Elevated Home in Lennox Head Village Precinct 5
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609.6M 2 • Spacious and flexible family-friendly layout • Large level backyard with potential for a pool or studio (STCA) • DA-approved renovation plans offering scope to add value and personalise
Helen Huntly-Barratt 0412 332 232
• Lennox Village cafes, shops and beach is an easy 7min walk via a designated path
EOI | Closing Mon 7th December 4pm OPEN | Sat 14th November 11 - 11:30am
32 RANKIN DRIVE, BANGALOW
A Beautiful Family Home in the Heart of Bangalow 4
2
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610M2 • Quality finishes throughout, including polished concrete floors, engineered oak timber flooring, premium kitchen appliances and feature fireplace • Versatile family layout with multiple living areas and dedicated home office • Expansive backyard with magnesium swimming pool, lush lawn and raised vegetable gardens
Su Reynolds 02 6685 8466
• Outlook across Bangalow Showgrounds and within walking distance of the village centre and school
PRICE | Contact Agent OPEN | Wed 11th November 1 - 1:30pm *Agent Declares Interest
61/11-19 COOPER STREET, BYRON BAY
Low Maintenance Living in Over-55s Community with Private Courtyard 2
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• Spacious tiled living and dining areas, air conditioning, ceiling fans and a covered outdoor entertaining area overlooking established gardens • Secure, well-maintained over-55s estate offering easycare living
Sharon McInnes 0408 659 649
• Access to community facilities, including an indoor heated swimming pool, community hall and historic Victoria House with library and sitting rooms • Convenient location within walking distance of shops, cafés and beaches
PRICE | Contact Agent OPEN | Fri 13th November 11 - 11:30am Sat 14th November 9 - 9:30am
991 COOLAMON SCENIC DRIVE, COORABELL
Paul Prior 0418 324 297
65 Years in the Making, A Multi-Generational Family Compound 7
5
3
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5.3AC • Two independent residences, ideal for multigenerational living • Extensive lifestyle amenities including a 12m saltwater pool, powered cabana, BBQ, wood-fired pizza oven, oversized tennis court and yoga deck • Established tropical gardens offering exceptional privacy, with approximately 280 mature macadamia trees
Tara Torkkola 0423 519 698
• Substantial infrastructure including a powered machinery shed and substantial water storage
PRICE | Contact Agent OPEN | By Appointment
www.byronbayfn.com.au | sales@byronbayfn.com | 35 Fletcher St, Byron Bay NSW 2481 | 02 6685 8466
www.echo.net.au
November 11, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 33
Property
North Coast news online
Have your property seen in The Echo and online! UNBEATAB
0411 757 425 tim@millerrealestate.com.au millerrealestate.com.au
156 Repentance Creek Road, Goonengerry
ADVE RTISI LE NG PACK A AVAIL GES AB NOW LE !
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.
Price Guide: $1,750,000 - $1,850,000 Open: Sat 14th November, 9:45 - 10:15am
Contact us today for great advertising options in The Echo newspaper and on the website. adcopy@echo.net.au 02 6684 1777 www.echo.net.au
1/21 Woodlands Dr, Banora Point. Sat 9–9.30am 23 Botanical Circuit, Banora Point. Sat 10–10.30am 1/52 Tweed St, Coolangatta. Sat 11–11.30am QLD Time 9/198 Kennedy Dr, Tweed Heads West. Sat 11–11.30am 65/955 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach. Sat 12–12.30pm QLD Time
First National 32 Rankin Drive, Bangalow. Wed 1–1.30pm 51 Ruskin Street, Byron Bay. Wed 5–5.30pm 10/1–2 Cape Court, Byron Bay. Thurs 10–10.30am 2/49 Sunrise Boulevard, Byron Bay. Thurs 11–11.30am 51 Ruskin Street, Byron Bay. Thurs 12–12.30pm 77 Tamarind Avenue, Cabarita Beach. Thurs 12–12.30pm 103 Paterson Street, Byron Bay. Fri 11–11.30am 61/11–19 Cooper Street, Byron Bay. Fri 11–11.30am 1/34 Bangalow Road, Byron Bay. Fri 12–12.30pm 17 McAuleys Lane, Myocum. Fri 12–12.30pm 134 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby. Fri 1–1.30pm 10 Lorikeet Lane, Mullumbimby. Fri 1.45–2.15pm 440 Corndale Road, Corndale. Fri 2–2.30pm 61/11–19 Cooper Street, Byron Bay. Sat 9–9.30am 7/11–19 Cooper Street, Byron Bay. Sat 9–9.30am 6 Hakea Crescent, Suffolk Park. Sat 9–9.30am 10 Lorikeet Lane, Mullumbimby. Sat 9–9.30am 1/7 Cooper Street, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30am 671 Ellis Road, Rous. Sat 10–10.30am 18 Heritage Court, Suffolk Park. Sat 10–10.30am 5/7 Cooper Street, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30am 5 Bower Street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 10–10.30am 77 Tamarind Avenue, Cabarita Beach. Sat 10–10.30am 4/45 Pacific Parade, Lennox Head. Sat 10–10.30am 92 Sunrise Boulevard, Byron Bay. Sat 10.30–11am 6/95 Blackbutt Lane, Broken Head. Sat 11–11.30am 22 Scott Street, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am 6 Blue Horizon Drive, Lennox Head. Sat 11–11.30am 127 James Street, Dunoon. Sat 11.30am–12pm 2/16 Nandroya Avenue, Ocean Shores. Sat 11.30am–12pm 17 Corella Crescent, Mullumbimby. Sat 11.30am–12pm 71 Broken Head Road, Newrybar. Sat 11.30am–12pm
34 The Byron Shire Echo November 11, 2026
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1.618ha
‘Morton Brook’ - exceptional character and beauty in the Byron hinterland
Open For Inspection DJ Stringer Property Services
3
www.echo.net.au/ofi 6 Muli Place, Suffolk Park. Sat 12–12.30pm 5 Kingsford Drive, Brunswick Heads. Sat 12–12.30pm 134 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 12.15–12.45pm 58 Pacific Heights Drive, Cumbalum. Sat 12.30–1pm 36 Wallace Road, The Channon. Sat 12.30–1pm 17 McAuleys Lane, Myocum. Sat 1–1.30pm 77 Tamarind Avenue, Cabarita Beach. Sat 1–1.30pm 13A Byron Street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 1–1.30pm 440 Corndale Road, Corndale. Sat 1.30–2pm
Harcourts Northern Rivers 1/12-14 Hacket Lane, Ballina. Sat 9–9.30am 33 River Street, Woodburn. Sat 9.30–10am 10 Hillcrest Drive, Tintenbar. Sat 10–10.30am 75 Swift Street, Ballina. Sat 10.30–11am 4 Seaward Street, Lennox Head. Sat 11.15–11.45am 80-82 Hillcrest Avenue, Goonellabah. Sat 11.15–11.45am 3/184 Tamar Street, Ballina. Sat 12–12.30pm 5 Cooper Street, Byron Bay. Sat 12.45–1.15pm
Lifestyle Ballina 21 Leach Crescent, West Ballina. Sat 9–9.30am 19/1 Sirius Place, West Ballina. Sat 10–10.30am 2/19 Barwen Street, East Ballina. Sat 10.10–10.40am 13 Catherine Crescent, Ballina. Sat 11–11.30am 31 Compton Drive, East Ballina. Sat 12.30–1.30pm
Lifestyle Brunswick Heads 5a Moonlight Close, Mullumbimby. Sat 9–9.30am 168 Scenic Drive, Bilambil Heights. Sat 11–11.30am
Lifestyle Byron Bay 43 Shelley Drive, Byron Bay. Wed 11–11.30am 12/5–7 Old Bangalow Road, Byron Bay. Wed 12–12.30pm 12 Cemetery Road, Byron Bay. Wed 1–1.30pm 5/14 Seaview Street, Byron Bay. Thurs 11–11.30am 30 Rainforest Way, Lennox Head. Fri 12–12.30pm 40 Kingsvale Road, Myocum. Sat 10–10.30am 5/14 Seaview Street, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am 34 Belongil Crescent, Byron Bay. Sat 11.30am–12pm 30 Rainforest Way, Lennox Head. Sat 12–12.30pm 103 Plantation Drive, Ewingsdale. Sat 12.30–1pm
Mana RE 3/87 North Creek Road, Ballina. Sat 9–9.30am 3/3 Durroon Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 9–9.30am 2/73 Orana Road, Ocean Shores. Sat 10–10.30am 32 Kolora Way, Ocean Shores. Sat 10.30–11am 3A Langi Place, Ocean Shores. Sat 11–11.30am 7 Bulgoon Crescent, Ocean Shores. Sat 11.30am–12pm 11 Philip Street, South Golden Beach. Sat 12–12.30pm 12 Gilba Avenue, Ocean Shores. Sat 12.30–1pm 14 Goolara Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 1–1.30pm 146 Shara Boulevard, Ocean Shores. Sat 1.30–2pm 19 Oakbank Terrace, Murwillumbah. Sat 3–3.30pm
Raine & Horne Jet 1/16 Honeysuckle Street, Tweed Heads West. Sat 9–9.30am 2/35 Hall Drive, Murwillumbah. Sat 9.30–10am 454 Crabbes Creek Road, Crabbes Creek. Sat 9.30–10am 2/14 William Street, Murwillumbah. Sat 10.30–11am 34 Chevell Place, Smiths Creek. Sat 10.30–11am 460 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah. Sat 10.30–11am 114 Byangum Road, Murwillumbah. Sat 11.30am–12pm 9 Mebbin Drive, Kunghur. Sat 11.30am–12pm 45 Fernvale Road, Fernvale. Sat 11.30am–12pm 3 Panorama View, Kunghur. Sat 12–2pm 20 Panorama View, Kunghur. Sat 12–2pm 2981 Kyogle Road, Kunghur. Sat 12–2pm 28 Tombonda Road, Murwillumbah. Sat 12.30–1pm 837 Nobbys Creek Road, Nobbys Creek. Sat 12.30–1pm 5 The Plateau, Murwillumbah. Sat 1.30–2pm 8 Hemlock Street, Murwillumbah. Sat 2.30–3pm
Real Estate of Distinction 33 Broadway, Burringbar. Sat 10–10.30am 3 Kalemajere Drive, Suffolk Park. Sat 11.30am–12pm 175 Coolamon Scenic Drive, Coorabell. Sat 1–2pm
Tim Miller Real Estate 156 Repentance Creek Road, Goonengerry. Sat 9.45–10.15am 1–3 Walker Street, Clunes. Sat 11–11.30am
www.echo.net.au
Property Business Directory AGENTS
CONVEYANCING BUYING and SELLING REAL ESTATE? We are here to help
TARA TORKKOLA SALES
NP CONVEYANCING
0423 519 698 tara@byronbayfn.com
PHONE 6685 7436 FOR A QUOTE
@taratorkkolafirstnational
0411 757 425 tim@millerrealestate.com.au millerrealestate.com.au @timmiller_realestate
@taratorkkola_realestate www.byronbayfn.com.au
NPC
NOW OPERATING OUT OF CENTRAL OFFICE IN POTTSVILLE Lic No 06000098
We would like to thank everyone for their support throughout 2026. Our office will close from 12 noon on Thursday 17 December 2026 so we can regroup, refresh and recuperate to be back on deck at 9am on Tuesday 5 January 2027.
Call today for an obligation free chat 0418 123 393
PAUL PRIOR
PERSONALISED APPOINTMENTS IN BYRON BAY NOW
SALES
0418 324 297 paulprior@byronbayfn.com
02 6680 8522
BYRON BAY AGENT OF THE YEAR Damien Smith Sales Director Ray White Byron Bay www.rwbyronbay.com
bvk
bvk.com.au
SOLICITORS ATTORNEYS
QUALITY LEGAL ADVICE
Boutique, family-owned and proudly serving Byron Bay & beyond.
SHARON McINNES SALES
Where personalised service isn’t just a promise - it’s our way of life.
0408 659 649 sharon@byronbayfn.com
JANIS PERKINS
02 6680 8588 | 0438 841 122 janis@reodbyron.com.au Shop 9/15-19 Fletcher St, Byron Bay www.reodbyron.com.au
NSW & QLD Conveyancing, Leases, Business Sale & Purchase P: 02 6687 0548 | hello@bangalowconveyancing.com.au We would like to thank everyone for their support throughout 2026. Our offices will close from 12 noon on Thursday 17 December 2026 so we can regroup, refresh and recuperate to be back on deck at 9am Ballina Office 02 6681 4814 on Monday 4 January 2027.
FINANCE
Tweed Heads 07 5599 4456 Ocean Shores 02 6680 2888
BYRON BAY HOME LOANS
Refinance and save We’ll compare 60+ lenders to lower your repayments
The Shire’s local finance expert Home Loans Investment Loans First Home Buyers Car Loans
vka
vkalaw.com.au
SOLICITORS ATTORNEYS
VA N K E M P E N & A S S O C I AT E S
Debt Consolidation SMSF Lending Commercial Loans Development Funding
Russel Shaw Finance Broker
russel@acceptancefinance.com.au 0412 833 280
entourage.com.au (02) 6678 1751 Office 3/6 Jonson Street, Byron Bay NSW Australian Credit Licence 475676
SCAN TO BOOK
www.echo.net.au
Acceptance Finance Australia Pty Ltd ABN 20 678 011 571 Australian Credit Licence Number 391715 Credit Representative Number 395628
November 11, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 35
Backlash
Ana Iti, I am a salt lake (video still) 2025. Courtesy the artist.
ART BYRON GALLERY DINNER Art • Conversation • Dining Friday 20 November, 2026, 5.30–8.30pm Join Art Byron for an intimate gallery dinner celebrating contemporary art, First Nations artists and Northern Rivers cuisine. Local Bundjalung artist Delta Kay and a finalist in the 2026 Koori Mail Indigenous Art Award join Gallery Curator Ineke Dane and Susi Muddiman OAM in conversation. Tickets: $100, Bookings essential Venue: Lismore Regional Gallery Menu: Three-course dinner by Take Care Food, matched with Natural Order Wines. art-byron.com.au
JOURNALIST – PRINT AND ONLINE 2 days per week (12 hours pw) some flexibility and potentially work-from-home hours available. Permanent part-time position paying a salary + super. Echo Publications has two well-regarded free news publications serving the Northern Rivers: The Byron Shire Echo (a well-established and popular free weekly community newspaper), and a daily news website (echo.net.au). We are seeking a trained experienced journalist to join our small and dedicated editorial team, to work from our Mullumbimby office with potential to work from home. We are looking for someone who is in sync with the Echo ethos and prepared to work hard (for relatively low pay!) to keep the local community served with vital factual information. An existing network of Northern Rivers contacts would be an advantage. Key requirements: • An interest in and knowledge of Northern Rivers issues and politics
• Strong organisation and time management
• Proven technical ability to post photos and stories online
• Must own a vehicle and maintain a current driver’s licence.
• Proven skill in research and writing as a journalist
• Resident of the local area
Start date: Immediate To apply for this role please email a cover letter and resume to positions@echo.net.au. For any questions call 6684 1777.
It has recently been revealed that five of the trees at 57 Station Street car park in Mullumbimby are indigenous food and medical plant trees, including the tree known as the peanut tree, red-fruited kurrajong, or balkpalk, which according to www.indigenousplantsforhealth.com/2024/04/16/sterculia-quadrifida-information-sheet is, ‘currently being investigated for breast cancer treatment’. The trees will be chopped down to make way for the contentious, almost 12m-high development at the site. The community has been ‘honouring these silent friends’ by decorating them ‘to show deep appreciation’ for the shade, food, and character that they have given the town that will soon be lost. Photos supplied One of the best ways we’ve seen to address both the housing and domestic violence crises is ‘Tinkle House’, a conscious spirit dwelling with separate yin (F) and yang (M) entrances. The architect-designed compact structure’s open, curving design ‘captures and concentrates community energy’, according to Council, who have a prototype on display at 57 Station Street. Unfortunately rollout of further models is not scheduled to commence until 2030.
a knife edge with Democrat Scott Colom at around 2,700 votes ahead of his Republican rival. See page 8 for more.
Speaking of Byron Shire Council they are wanting to inform the community that the work that was scheduled on Mullumbimby Road from 16 to 19 November has been postponed. The final seal on Mullumbimby Road will now take place next year.
Ever take someone to the Coolangatta (Gold Coast) airport? Be warned about your journey back to the Shire. There is a combo redlight and speed camera that targets southbound traffic at the intersection of Cordyline Drive in Tweed Heads and the Gold Coast Highway – exactly at the point you start to enter the slipway. In NSW it is second only to a Sydney camera for the number of fines (26,000) issued last year – do not speed up for the M1 too soon!
And then there were the American midterms! While the Democrats took out plenty of ruby red states including Texas, the Carolinas, and Kansas; the count in Mississippi continues on
‘The government has amended its proposed Digital Duty of Care Bill so that gender-based violence is now included as a serious online harm. Tech platforms will now have a duty to prevent material that encourages, promotes, incites or instructs gender-based violence.’ – The Australia Institute
‘Whatever women wear, wherever they go, indeed whatever they drink, they retain the right to say no and to demand justice from the
criminal courts when sexual predators like you, Russell Brand, act without their consent.’ – The presiding judge, Mr Justice Bennathan
WORKING WINDOWS
BYRON BAY’S DOOR & WINDOW SPECIALISTS
Restoring ease and function to homes across the Byron Shire
SPRING SPECIAL 20% OFF FIRST REPAIR
Sticky sliding doors, torn fly screens, worn locks, security screens that won’t latch, we fix it all properly. That’s us, Jake and Toby, two trades who believe walking in and out of home should feel effortless. SPRING SPECIAL: 20% OFF YOUR FIRST REPAIR Call Toby or Jake now to lock in your spot.
0435 506 465 | 0405 793 994 workingwindows1@gmail.com workingwindows.com.au
WAIT, WHAT? Circus experiment in progress!*
Draft Byron Shire Overland Flood Study This study is about overland flooding, sometimes called flash flooding, caused by short periods of intense rainfall overwhelming drainage systems, resulting in water flowing across land, roads and properties.
The study is NOT about riverine flooding from rivers and creeks following long periods of rain.
FRI 20 NOV 6:30PM & SAT 21 NOV 11:30AM
More information yoursay.byron.nsw.gov.au/overland-flood-study PO Box 219 Mullumbimby NSW 2482 02 6626 7000, Nikki Bourke, Shila Sivanadiya ipt@byron.nsw.gov.au
TICKETS
Adult: $30 Child: $15 SPAGHETTI CIRCUS BACK SHED
Community feedback will help improve our understanding of flood behaviour and inform future flood planning across Byron Shire. Submissions close 29 November
02 6626 7000 • www.byron.nsw.gov.au
36 The Byron Shire Echo November 11, 2026
spaghetticircus.com MULLUMBIMBY SHOWGROUND
*No animals were used in the making of this show.
www.echo.net.au