What is it that drew you to Byron Shire?
Was it the alternative lifestyle that was created in the 60s and 70s that continues in many different manifestations?
Would you like to engage with some of the people who were part of creating the place that the Byron Shire and the Northern Rivers has become? Or perhaps you’re just interested in how the rainbow region became the place it is today.
The Alternative Lifestyle Elders Event is being held this Saturday April 27 at Durrumbul Hall in Main Arm to explore this history and look to the future.
Organisers are bringing together a range of speakers from the early days of the alternative lifestyle of the Shire. ‘Mullumbimby is at an extraordinary place in history, and Sharon Shostak’s docos have also stirred up further interest in meeting with those still able to tell their story,’ says co-organiser Alan Grey.
‘The questions I get asked in the street are numerous… “How did Mullumbimby get its tag of the biggest little town in Australia”, “What planning of Mullumbimby’s CBD has gone down in the past?”, “What is the history of Mullumbimby Shire Council before it amalgamated into Byron Shire Council?”, “How did the community get the old hospital site gifted back – and its future?” and the list goes on.
Speakers
Local 91-year-old historian Frank Mills will regale with stories of the past, while David Bradbury will talk about the environment.
Mello from Organic Fossil Farm will address participation and education, and Binna Powell will discuss if there was an historic standing-stone site in the local area.
Alan Grey will talk about history, visions, and the benefit of community trust and life after the 60s.
The event will kick off at 1pm with a first-time local grassroots band playing as people get a chance to meet and gather.
‘It is envisaged that the interests from the event will become more regular with a representative from a youth council having a voice addressing their needs and aspirations as well,’ said Grey.
Contact Alan Grey on [email protected] to find out more.
I am open to correction by older Mullum residents, but my recollection is that Mullumbimby was a municipality, and never a shire. Until amalgamation, there was a mayor of Mullumbimby, while Byron Shire had a president.