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Byron Shire
October 20, 2026

Innovation leaders

Latest News

Cinema: NAZA

A must-see, award-winning documentary investigating AI warfare in Gaza. Fresh from winning the Special Jury Prize at the 2026 Venice International Film Festival, NAZA, the latest documentary from Academy Award-winning filmmakers Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor (No Other Land), examines artificial intelligence and surveillance in Israel’s military operations in Gaza.

Other News

Editorial – Time for a little respect

In 2020 unpaid care was estimated at three million unpaid carers in Australia that provide approximately $80 billion of unpaid care a year, that is $1.5 billion a week.

Calls on NRPP to defer consent for Mullumbimby’s 57 Station Street DA on Monday

At Thursday’s Byron Shire Council meeting there were multiple calls for a deferral of the 57 Station Street, Mullumbimby car park development application.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers on facts and feelings

Logan boy made good Jim Chalmers fronted up to the Australia Institute in Canberra last week to give a memorable and candid speech about the challenges facing his government, and the nation.

Fish kill follows Belongil Creek opening as Council reviews protocols

A fish kill at Belongil Creek has prompted warnings to avoid the affected area, with Byron Shire Council and government agencies investigating the incident following an artificial opening of the creek.

Lismore seeks feedback on waste rethink as disposal choices remain unresolved

Lismore residents are being asked to comment on a revised waste strategy as Council works towards diverting rubbish from landfill while leaving its long-term disposal options unresolved.

Double trouble as Byron High fundraiser hits $20,000!

A thousand dollars was enough to put Byron Bay High School’s principal in the barber’s chair. Twenty thousand means she’ll have company.

Inspired by darling Australian Damen Gameau’s epic documentary 2040, approximately 50 people gathered recently at the not-for-profit Paddock Project. Led by Karen Gross they listened to Tasmania’s celebrity chef, Matthew Evans, the Paddock’s devoted garden manager, Rodrego Pierin, and, local Mullumbimby resident Biologist/ Father/ Husband/ Friend (and all around optimist) John Bond as they rolled out their ideas on furthering Australia’s lead on solutions to climate change.  

This was a perfect addition to recently released Season 2 series Down to Earth that showcases some of Australia’s super success stories in this sector. 

Four short months ago, John Bond of Living Earth Biology showed up at The Paddock inquiring about their most problem-soil area, quietly sharing some of his ideas on regeneration with a community minded agenda. He volunteered his efforts to work on the most boggy and weed filled patch of land on the site, miraculously bringing it to life in less than three months with his techniques. 

These are good news stories we don’t frequently get to hear, but which are essential as humanity comes together to help each other on these important threats to civilization.

As a visitor to this great country, I found the sincerity and passion of these citizens, not only innovative, but adorable. I’m leaving Australia with such a good impression and hope for the future of my sweet grandchildren, that need us to care about the planet for generations to come.

Shelly Frank, Visiting Canadian ‘gramma’



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Interview with Genevieve Clay-Smith, director of Boss Cat showing at the Byron Bay Film Festival

When Sonja (Olivia Hargroder) loses her mother without warning, the only steady presence left in her life is her grandmother, Doris. But Doris’s idea of stability means dismantling everything Sonja has built. For Sonja, who lives with Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) and has spent her life fighting to be underestimated by no one, Doris’ plan feels less like protection and more like erasure. Directed by Genevieve Clay-Smith, Boss Cat is a vibrant, big-hearted Australian dramedy about independence, family and self-determination, anchored by a fearless lead performance.

Something for everyone at the Picture House

From Australian superstar musos, to brand new documentaries, to comedians at the top of their game, there really is something for everyone at the Brunswick Picture House.

Thirty-six unmissable films

The 2026 Russell Hobbs British Film Festival features an unmissable line up 36 films, including five retrospectives which will screen from 28 October to 29 November at Palace Byron Bay and Ballina Cinemas.

A timeless story of self-discovery

A husband with a promotion, two adorable children and a lovely new house. Nora thought she had it all. But did she? What was the discontent that was whispering to her in the shadows?