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Byron Shire
June 21, 2026

Drive so others survive, in Ballina and beyond

Latest News

The NT intervention laws that shape lives

This Sunday marks 19 years since the then Howard Government announced the Northern Territory Intervention laws – ‘The Intervention’ began with a media release by Mal Brough, Minister for Indigenous Affairs, on June 21, 2007.

Other News

Humanity together

Dale Emerson’s letter last week expanding on Chris Hanley’s attitude to The Echo, and to our world, was impressive....

Early childhood educators to receive 15pc pay rise

The federal Labor government says it is investing a further $3.6 billion over the next two years to lock in the historic 15 cent pay rise for early childhood educators.

Byron Shire Rebels gutsy efforts

A day of contrasting rugby fortunes for the Rebels at Ballina, with the Men’s XV putting in a gutsy...

Byron Council budget up for discussion as rates rise looms

There is a potential 30 per cent or more rate rise in the wind for Byron Shire ratepayers by 2030. What’s needed is clear and concise budget documentation, accessible to your average ratepayer. It would seem the least Byron Shire Council (BSC) could provide in accordance with commitments to inform the community.

Will council support community participation in MHS development?

This Thursday (today), Byron Shire Council (BSC) will be discussing the establishment of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Byron Shire Council and Homes NSW (HNSW) as well as the potential for a Community Assessment Panel for the old Mullumbimby Hospital site.

Pottsville Beach Community Hall celebrates 40 years

The Pottsville Beach Community Hall is celebrating its 40th birthday and the whole community is invited to join the party.

National Road Safety Week pledge.

It’s National Road Safety Week and Ballina Shire Council is appealing to drivers to take the road safety pledge, so that others can survive.

‘It is important that everyone remains safe on our roads and there are practices we can all change to help,’ said Helen Carpenter, Road Safety Officer for Ballina Council and Transport for NSW.

‘Speeding is the major factor in crashes in Ballina Shire and the majority of people involved are locals.

‘Drivers need to remove distractions and not put people at risk by speeding,’ she said.

Drive as if your loved ones are on the road ahead

With 1,200 people losing their lives each year on Australian roads, and 44,000 being injured, Ms Carpenter said we can reduce these statistics by being aware and changing our habits.

‘It is vital to remain focused and present whenever you are behind the wheel.

‘A simple strategy is to drive as if your loved ones are on the road ahead,’ said Ms Carpenter.

For Road Safety Week, you can take the pledge online to Drive So Others Survive, at roadsafetyweek.com.au.

You can also show your support by:

  • wearing a yellow ribbon, or tying one to your vehicle
  • refreshing your knowledge on roundabout rules
  • slowing down, and keeping to the speed limit
  • not using a mobile phone while driving

National Road Safety Week is an annual initiative from Safer Australian Roads and Highways (SARAH) Group, partners in road safety and the Australian Government.



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Hemp industry given boost with development plan

A Hemp Industry Development Plan has been announced by the NSW government, which promises 'to unlock new opportunities for NSW businesses and add value to the state's low-THC hemp industry, which is forecast to become a $100 million Australian industry by 2032'.

Gambling harm recognised by Tweed Council, supported by Wesley Mission

Faith-based, not-for-profit organisation providing community services in NSW, Wesley Mission, has welcomed Tweed Shire Council’s decision to publicly recognise the impact of gambling harm and advocate for stronger harm-minimisation measures.

Winter Warmer fundraiser for homelessness

The annual Winter Warmer Homelessness Relief campaign, hosted by Dharma Care, will return for 2026 with cabaret at Salt, Kingscliff, on Thursday 2 July, headlined by comedian Mandy Nolan, interactive performance artist The Space Cowboy and the Kinship Doobai Dancers, with a Welcome to Country from Aunty Jackie.

Tweed Shire Council presents flood resilience series – part one

Over the coming weeks, Tweed Shire Council will present a flood resilience series, which looks at how 'Tweed's story is different from the standard flood recovery narrative and what happened next'.