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Byron Shire
June 8, 2026

Picture yourself on a boat on a river

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Cartoon of the week – 3 June, 2026

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Other News

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You don’t need kaleidoscope eyes to appreciate the view onboard the Jasmine cruising the beautiful Brunswick River, where wildlife has space, and humans’ impacts are minimal, whilst eating, drinking and enjoying this natural experience with friends.

‘The beautiful Brunswick River is the Byron area’s best river. It has an abundance of wildlife and marine life, and is part of Cape Byron Marine Park,’ says Simon Freeden from Byron Bay Eco Cruises & Kayaks. If it sounds as though he is a big fan of the river, that’s because he is.

This amazing river runs right through the middle of Byron Shire, but many locals have only seen the river from the town or from the bridge. All we can say is there so much more.

These cruises are a fun, easy way to enjoy the beautiful Brunswick River with your friends or family. The team’s award-winning commentary, designed by an environmental scientist from their team to best explain what passengers are seeing, is delivered by a local, passionate and knowledgeable group of river enthusiasts.

The Morning Cruise leaves Brunswick Heads Boat Harbour at 10am and returns at 12 noon, and includes complimentary morning tea with local Zentvelds plunger coffee and a range of teas. A hot recommendation from passengers is that the locally sourced chocolate macadamia brownies are the best, and don’t worry, they are GF. If you really have a sweet tooth, they don’t have marshmallow pies but they do have pecan and walnut pie, shortbread biscuits, hot chocolate and of course fruit juice and soft drinks.

Sunset is the most amazing time to be on the river; the light, the scenery and the wildlife all look so different and every sunset is unique. On the Sunset Cruise you can enjoy two complimentary beers or wines, fruit juice, soft drink and a delicious platter with cheese, carrots, celery, hummus, olives, water crackers and rice crackers (GF). Guests are welcome to bring extra.

The cost is $45 for kids and pensioners and $50 for adults.

Now, here’s an innovative idea for a party: take a private cruise along the river on this floating venue. Everyone will be smiling as you drift past the flowers, and the average price is around $40 pp depending on numbers

Jasmine is the team’s new larger boat, with three wildlife-viewing areas including the roof. Simon says, ‘The view from up there of the river and surrounds is some of the best scenery in our beautiful area. Your Eco Rainforest River Cruise will be an experience you will never forget.

‘We have many repeat customers who know the quality of our cruises and they happily bring their friends and relatives. It is a great way to showcase the area while socialising,’ says Simon.

Jasmine is licensed for 49 passengers, is all weather, has a toilet, and is a very comfortable boat.

‘She is the perfect venue for get-togethers, parties, weddings and meetings and, while she is available for private cruises starting at a very reasonable cost, if you are looking to host an upmarket event we can also cater quality food and drinks to suit all budgets and tastes.’

More info: Byron Bay Eco Cruises & Kayaks
Mob: 0410 016 926
www.byronbaycruises.com.au



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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.