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Byron Shire
June 12, 2026

‘A quick buck’

Latest News

Up to 550 homes pegged for Byron Shire’s newest suburb

Community feedback is now sought on three planning documents that will shape the future of Gulgan Village, a new residential suburb proposed on the elevated slopes of Saddle Road. 

Other News

Lismore’s Blakebrook quarry proposal meets resistance

A recent gathering of locals concerned about a proposed ‘mega dump’ landfill at Blakebrook quarry has been supported by Lismore Greens councillors. Lismore Council say they are still considering the proposal.

Sweet Moon Language

Mazarine is a nine-piece ensemble performing original compositions influenced by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean traditions. With repertoire ranging from orchestral soundscapes to upbeat folk style tunes, Mazarine effortlessly combine rhythmic complexity with layered textures and timbres, taking the listener on an uplifting and inspiring musical journey.

Mono wins in Hawaii and Japan

Australian adaptive surfing champion Mark ‘Mono’ Stewart has once again celebrated success on the international stage. Mono claimed victory at...

Fear and ignorance should not drive abortion debate

I did not think I would need to defend the right to safe abortions again. Abortion is no longer a criminal offence in Australia. There are well-reasoned and effective legal structures around abortions based on healthcare and women’s choice. It is broadly accepted that if you’re pregnant, it’s your decision to have children, or not.

Compassion missing

Predictably, Marianne McCormack (Letters, 3 June) chooses to ignore my personal claims that I am not a racist, to support...

Prayers For Peace at Durrumbul Hall, 21 June

A Winter Solstice concert will be held Sunday 21 June, from 6.30pm at Durrumbul Hall, Main Arm.

Did you know there is a fortune to be made in Federal? Forget Airbnb it is far too labour intensive with a poor financial return. What is $2,000 to $6,000 a night when you can make a million or two for doing nothing at all?

All you have to do is sign a piece of paper and hand over your property to a film company for a few months, or maybe permanently. There is a slight snag, as they are only supposed to film for 30 days a year, but no one is going to check that are they? The film company can do as they like.

Even if they carve up your property with earth works it really doesn’t matter. Just think of the money. Best of all, they don’t need a DA, so Council can’t – or won’t – do anything about it. It is even more exciting if you don’t live in the village because you can forget all about it. If it’s your home, just go on holiday for a while. If you don’t want anything to do with the neighbours, well, you don’t have to. You should let them know what you are doing, but if you forget, again don’t worry, because no doubt they are onto it and probably planning to do the same.

I must confess, I am tempted. My property will greatly increase in value. My neighbour’s property may increase in value too. Of course, this will depend on the nature of the film. If it is trashy then my neighbour’s property may decrease in value. And I must be careful, as they may be able to recover that loss from me. But not to worry because my property lends itself to a nature conservation program.

After giving it much thought I have decided that, seeing as when I die I can’t take the money with me, sitting in silence on my deck and listening to the birds is actually priceless. However, for those of you wishing to have a go, take pride in the fact that you may all be able to amalgamate your properties and convert the whole village into the Federal Film studio. Just think of the money. Eat your heart out Hollywood.

Footnote: the above does not constitute legal advice. You are advised to seek legal advice before commencing.

Hilary Bone, Federal



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Load limit increased for Byron Creek Bridge

The load limit for Byron Creek Bridge has been increased to 24 tonnes, say Byron Shire Council, following structural analysis of the bridge.

Festival and event grants on offer

Community organisations are encouraged to apply for NSW government grants to bring cultural festivals and events to life across the state over the coming year.

Dr Bronwyn Bancroft wins prestigious Ochre Award

Bundjalung woman and artist Dr Bronwyn Bancroft AM has received the Red Ochre Award for Lifetime Achievement in Artistic Excellence.

The Pocket Winter Festival bringing you music, food and fun

The Pocket Winter Festival is set to return on Sunday, 21 June, from 10am to 2pm, bringing together the community for a day of music, food, entertainment and family fun at The Pocket Public School.