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Byron Shire
June 7, 2026

Comedic paranoia

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Cartoon of the week – 3 June, 2026

The Echo loves your letters and is proud to provide a community forum on the issues that matter most to our readers and the people of the NSW north coast. So don’t be a passive reader, send us your epistles.

Other News

Protest march

Byron Shire’s infrastructure has become beyond repair. Reports of new overflow of sewage. Reports of decades of no maintenance...

Threatened species protection in NSW overhauled

A "new, holistic approach to threatened species conservation" has been introduced by the NSW Labor government, reforming the Saving our Species program.

Israel’s rehabilitation

Israel’s genocide of the Palestinians has not ended and it will not end before Israel officially renounces its intention...

Gathering in the beauty of community

Community garden committees and volunteers from across the Northern Rivers and into South East Queensland gathered at Shara Community...

Interview with Pacific Avenue

South Coast rockers, Pacific Avenue, have left an indelible mark on the music industry, their debut studio album Flowers secured a spot as a number one Australian album earning two ARIA nominations. Now, their recently released second studio album, Lovesick Sentimental, looks to be heading in the same direction.

Animals on country roads safety campaign launches

Motorists are being urged to slow down and stay alert for wildlife as Transport for NSW launches its annual ‘Animals on Country Roads’ safety campaign.

Despite Peter Olsen’s limitless comedic ability, perhaps it’s time for The Echo to curtail his paranoid multi conspiracy theories conspicuous in his letters.

Really, if you can’t sustain your argument without resorting to lies (can’t go to the beach from Federal, concentration camps etc), then it means your argument doesn’t hold much water, because it’s shot through with holes.

Peter is living truth to the old fascist/Trump maxim that says if you lie/misinform enough, the gullibles and idiots in society will eventually believe you. This has led America to the brink of the end of a great democracy.

Unfortunately for Pete, Australians usually don’t go for bullshit. Until now. The crap that some of Peter’s anti-vax cohort believe is absolutely ridiculous. Just read his letters for evidence.

The only conclusion that can be drawn is that these people have no idea of community, or the moral contract involved in keeping society, as a whole, safe. Because their precious bodies are obviously more important than the vast majority of people, and us sheeple have just got to wear it. They know more than any professional. That’s obviously why they rely on fantasy that resides on the internet to support their arguments. Wake up.

John Donnellan, Ocean Shores

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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.