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Byron Shire
July 11, 2026

How bizarre

Latest News

Plastic not so fantastic

There is nothing healthier than drinking some water – or so I’ve always told my kids. It doesn’t contain sugar or colour additives – as one person used to tell us as children, ‘it’s sky juice’! What could be better?

Other News

Protests over ALDI supply chain safety issues

Hundreds of transport workers are protesting nationally at Aldi stores as the Transport Workers' Union highlights dangerous practices in the supermarket’s transport supply chain, from lack of maintenance on vehicles to underpayments and worker injuries.

Local union players to benefit from Legacy grants

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin is encouraging local councils and rugby union clubs to take advantage of an opportunity to upgrade their facilities, player pathways and increase local participation.

Manna Haven Cafe – loving Byron for 20 years

One of Byron Bay’s favourite lunch spots is wowing guests after a recent community-gifted makeover. More than 50 volunteers...

Ocean Shores man charged with advocating terrorism online

Police say a 20-year-old Ocean Shores man is behind bars (refused bail) and will face court in Tweed Heads Local Court on 18 September, charged with advocating terrorism.  

Cudgen Connection approved by NRPP

A contentious $300 million proposal on State Significant Farmland (SSF) next to the Tweed Hospital has been recommended for approval by The Northern Regional Planning Panel (NRPP). The Cudgen Connection decision came in late yesterday, after years of deliberations, opposition and political commitments to protect the SSF. It is located at 741 Cudgen Road.

Amani’s bite of the Big Apple

Although I was grateful that The Echo wrote an article about my daughter Amani Wiriyanjara being accepted into the...

Bizarre-Garden-Where is the Bizarre Garden? How is is situated for camping – showers and access to water etc?

Bizarre Garden is 1.5 hours west of Byron Bay. This will remain a mystery until closer to the date.

There is adequate space and facilities for camping and there will be hot showers, drinking water, local food and clothing stalls, workshops, not to mention loads of fresh coconuts!

Who are Essential Intentions and what is their vision for the event?

Essential Intentions is an event company focused on good vibes and quality electronic music. The commercial EDM scene has been in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. We aim to provide patrons with something different. We showcase world-class forward-thinking house and techno artists from around the globe with local purveyors of the best sound, production and decor in the country creating a unique energy and visual enhancement that has helped put Byron Bay on the map as a hot spot within the Australian dance music community.

What is at the core of gatherings like this?

No bullshit. Just good times with good people.

What is a typical day like in the Bizarre Garden? I would love it if you could talk me through from a punter’s perspective!

Immerse yourself in the lush north coast forest where people leave the day-to-day schedule behind to connect and dance in a bizarre wonderland of positive vibes and fun-filled activities.

Tell me about the Headliners – who are you most excited about having on deck?

Where do I start! Headlining we have Polish house music legends Catz ’n’ Dogz, who are currently dominating worldwide and have just featured on Triple J’s mixup exclusives.

We also have internationals Oliver Koletzki, Niko Swchwind, DJ W!LD, German Brigante and Be Svendsen along with some of the best dance acts in the country including UONE, Thankyou City and Cassian.

What should people expect for Bizarre Garden?

The second coming of one of Australia’s most magical sessions into the green unknown. Camp, explore, express.

5–7 February 2016. For more info visit bizarregardenfestival.com



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Ballina courthouse windows smashed, man charged

Police say a man will face court today, charged after 12 windows were allegedly smashed in Ballina last night.   Police say, 'About 10.35pm (Thursday 9 July 2026), police were called to Martin Street following reports of a man smashing windows'.

Alleged native tree removal continues in Lennox, says councillor

With a government agency now investigating the alleged clear felling of natives on a large private block in Lennox Head, Ballina Greens councillor Kiri Dicker has told The Echo that contractors were felling trees all morning, ‘trying to get the job done’.

Ocean Shores man charged with advocating terrorism online

Police say a 20-year-old Ocean Shores man is behind bars (refused bail) and will face court in Tweed Heads Local Court on 18 September, charged with advocating terrorism.  

Ballina king tide alert for 13–16 July

Ballina Shire Council is encouraging motorists to drive safely over the coming days with king tides leading to minor flooding of some local roads.