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Byron Shire
July 13, 2026

Masthead hues

Latest News

From refugee to community contributor – a personal story

When I first arrived in Australia from Syria, I carried many emotions with me. Like many refugees and newcomers, I was grateful to be safe, but I was also overwhelmed by the challenges of starting over in a completely new country.

Other News

$5.5 million for surf clubs

The NSW government says the state's surf life saving clubs can now apply for a share of $5.5 million through the Surf Club Facility Program, to upgrade, rebuild or future-proof the facilities that keep beaches safe.

A hidden gem of culture and fun

With 73 films under their belts the Drill Hall Film Society are inviting you to come and see the next film they are showing – the 1971 classic and hilarious Harold and Maude.

Response to the Special Rate Variation

Why spend $120,000 on a community engagement plan to find out if residents will be happy to see their...

Oz Grom Open wraps up in Lennox

The 2026 Soundboks Oz Grom Open saw a fairytale finish to competition yesterday with huge performances, bluebird skies and local wins in dreamy two-foot conditions.

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'.

Longboard titles return to Tweed July 24–30

Billed as the 'longest running event on the Australian surfing calendar', the Thermos Australian Longboard Titles will return for a third consecutive year to Tweed Coast beaches 24-30 July.

Michael McDonald, Metung VIC

In last week’s letters there were laments about changes to The Echo’s masthead, some of them from former drudges. As a former drudge, editor and current minor shareholder I know that part of The Echo has always been about experimentation – mostly with wine varieties – and I welcome that.

I also welcome the addition of images of community events to the masthead. This creates a constantly changing tableau, which is pretty much the state of news media these days.



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Oz Grom Open wraps up in Lennox

The 2026 Soundboks Oz Grom Open saw a fairytale finish to competition yesterday with huge performances, bluebird skies and local wins in dreamy two-foot conditions.

Jeff Dawson captures Mullum Roots Festival

Did you make it to Mullum Roots Festival on the weekend?

Coorabell art show inspired by natural world

'Elemental: Conversations with Nature' is the title of a forthcoming exhibition featuring eight established and midcareer artists working across painting, drawing, weaving, ceramics, and textiles.  Inspired by the natural world, each artist explores the forms, patterns, materials, and forces found in nature.

NSW Women of the Year nominations closing soon

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin is calling on residents of the Lismore electorate to get their nominations in for the 2027 NSW Women of the Year Awards.