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Byron Shire
July 2, 2026

Editorial – Spot the difference

Latest News

Women to the front: the female voices shaping the 2026 Byron Writers Festival

The 2026 Byron Writers Festival program puts women front and centre. Journalists, novelists, and an award-winning columnist bring an extraordinary breadth of stories to Bundjalung Country this August.

Other News

Women to the front: the female voices shaping the 2026 Byron Writers Festival

The 2026 Byron Writers Festival program puts women front and centre. Journalists, novelists, and an award-winning columnist bring an extraordinary breadth of stories to Bundjalung Country this August.

The ghosts of generations – Siang Lu at Byron Writers Festival 2026

The Byron Writers Festival talks to author Siang Lu about his book, Ghost Cities, which won the Miles Franklin Award in 2025.

Crocs U10 go undefeated at Gala Day

The United Shores, U10 Crocs soccer team enjoyed a fantastic day of football at the 2026 Richmond Rovers MiniRoos...

Youth internship program inspiring new volunteers

Students gaining practical emergency response skills while helping build the next generation of volunteers has been the focus of the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) Youth Internship Programs across the state during this school term.

Tweed Mayor advocates to restore funding at Local Government assembly

Tweed Shire Council say it has secured national support at the Australian Local Government Association’s National General Assembly, with four key motions carried.

Missing man in Ballina

Police are appealing for assistance to locate a missing man. Caine Tierney, aged 47, was last seen on Ross Street, Ballina, about 12.30pm on Wednesday 24 June 2026.

What is ChatGPT – Beginners Guide.

Online artifical intelligence bot, ChatGPT, was asked to write an editorial on local politics in the style of Hans Lovejoy from the Byron Shire Echo. This was the result:

Greetings dear readers of the Byron Shire Echo, it is I, Hans Lovejoy, here to share with you my thoughts and opinions on the current state of local politics.

As we approach the upcoming Council election [Correction – it’s an upcoming state election, not Council – Ed], the atmosphere in the Byron Shire is charged with political tension.

With a range of candidates vying for the top job, it is a crucial critical time for the future of our beloved community.

But with so many personalities and agendas at play, it can be challenging to navigate the political landscape and make an informed decision.

That’s why it’s crucial for us, as citizens, to stay engaged and informed, to ask the tough questions, and hold our elected officials accountable.

One issue that has been dominating the local political scene is the proposed development of the West Byron wetlands.

[Note: This issue has been determined through the courts and development is now underway – Ed]

While some argue that it would create much needed housing and economic growth, others fear it could lead to irreversible damage to our natural environment.

The debate surrounding West Byron is just one example of the complex challenges facing our community. It is a reminder that we must balance economic growth with environmental conservation, and that the decisions we make today will have a significant impact on future generations.

Another issue making waves is the ongoing tension between locals and the influx of tourists.

While tourism is undoubtably a significant contributor to our local economy, it can also lead to overcrowding, environmental degradation, and a loss of the authentic Byron vibe that draws so many visitors in the first place.

As we move forward, it’s essential that we strike a balance between supporting our local business, and preserving the character of our community.

In conclusion, dear readers, I urge you to stay engaged and informed as we approach the upcoming Council elections [Correction: its a state election – Ed].

Let’s ask the tough questions, challenge elected officials, and work together to build a brighter future for the Byron Shire.

Yours in journalism,

[AI] Hans Lovejoy, [virtual] editor

News tips are welcome: [email protected]



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Osher’s next act: transforming recovery into a toolkit

Byron Writers Festival talks with best-selling author Osher Günsberg whose new book, So What? Now What? is a mental health toolkit and a compelling follow-up to his critically-acclaimed 2018 memoir, Back, After The Break.

BaySounds opens the door for songwriters

Some songs arrive quickly. Others sit half-finished in notebooks, voice memos or guitar cases for years before somebody finally hears them.

Bay FM’s Mia Armitage heads to Germany

Northern Rivers journalist Mia Armitage has been selected for a prestigious international internship with Germany’s public broadcaster, Deutsche Welle.

Biosecurity strategy up for comment

Feedback is now open on the draft NSW Biosecurity Strategy that the government says will provide the focus for improvements to the state’s biosecurity framework over the next 10 years.