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Byron Shire
June 6, 2026

Former Ballina mayor on honours list

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Cartoon of the week – 3 June, 2026

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Ballina Shire Council’s special rate variation approved

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See Echonetdaily‘s 2012 interview with former Ballina mayor Phil Silver.

Phil Silver, Ballina’s mayor for nearly a decade, is a medal recipient on the 2014 Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

Mr Silver, who was also very active in the disability sector, was honoured with an Order of Australia for his work in both local government and the community.

His 20-year tenure in local politics was matched by Ross Tucker, who was awarded for his 21 years on Byron Shire Council.

Mr Silver told ABC this morning the award ‘was recognition for the whole family, including my wife Virginia, because they’re the ones that let me pursue that career – and we did enjoy it.’

Six other north coast residents received Queens Birthday Honours, including: Mullumbimby doctor Michael Pellmore, long-time Yamba volunteer Joyce Bell, Tweed Heads aged welfare worker Finley Mackay, Woodenbong Justice of the Peace Eric Taylor, Townsend music teacher Gweneth Berman and Alstonville firefighter Kevin Gray.



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Marooned yacht on rocks near Ballina

A local photographer has shot a marooned yacht at Flat Rock, in Ballina Shire. It's the second boat to be washed ashore in recent months

Echo celebrates 40 with awards night tomorrow

Tickets are selling fast! Come join a fun-filled night of community celebration – This Saturday (tomorrow) The Echo is set to mark its 40th year in style with a ’30s swing-era style party and community awards night featuring the dynamic sounds of the Melbourne Ska Orchestra.

Author Tristan Bancks follows up with Two Wolves sequel

Local author Tristan Bancks launched his new book for readers 10+, Raised By Wolves, at Byron Book Room last night (Thursday 4 June).

Lismore City Council recognised for environmental leadership at LG awards

Lismore City Council has been recognised for outstanding achievement in environmental leadership, resilience and community infrastructure at the 2026 LG Professionals NSW Local Government Excellence Awards.