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Byron Shire
June 6, 2026

Highway already busy southbound as campers leave Bluesfest

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Cartoon of the week – 3 June, 2026

The Echo loves your letters and is proud to provide a community forum on the issues that matter most to our readers and the people of the NSW north coast. So don’t be a passive reader, send us your epistles.

Other News

Council tightens ‘affordable housing’ rules

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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

Rail trail funding 2

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Tweed Shire fisher faces court

A Tweed Shire commercial fisher pleaded guilty last week to six offences in relation to illegal fishing activity.

Push to slow traffic outside Coorabell Hall

The campaign to slow traffic on the short stretch of Coolamon Scenic Drive outside Coorabell Hall is gradually gathering momentum, with Byron Council supporting a lower speed limit despite advice the road may not meet state criteria.

Invisible elderly women

The 2026 Federal Budget has sent a clear, heartbreaking message to the senior women of the Tweed: you are...

Pacific Highway southbound near the Ewingsdale interchange on Tuesday, April 3, following Bluesfest. Photo David Pettifer

Traffic is already heavy on the Pacific Highway, especially heading south from the Bluesfest site, with reader David Pettifer sending through this picture of the situation at 8.30am.

The LiveTraffic website warns delays are to be expected heading towards the Ewingsdale interchange, with the situation likely to be replicated at Woodburn in a few hours.

Traffic heading north is considerably lighter at this stage, although with the Commonwealth Games set to start on the Gold Coast tomorrow, northbound lanes are likely to start clogging up later in the day.

Check out the LiveTraffic website for regular updates.



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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.