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Byron Shire
June 23, 2026

Group C Michael Lyon – Byron Independents

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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.

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Group C – Byron Independents: Max Foggon, Cr Michael Lyon, Jeannette Martin and Rhett Holt.

Incumbent Mayor Michael Lyon (The Pocket) leads his team with Max Foggon (Wilsons Creek), Rhett Holt (Byron Bay) and Jeannette Martin (Mullumbimby).

Michael Lyon has been Mayor of the Byron Shire for three-and-half years, and has achieved much in a small space of time. Following the worst floods in recorded history, Michael led the response to provide temporary homes in three pod villages in the Shire and has fought hard for the funding to complete repairs like Federal Drive and Huonbrook Road.

Max Foggon is running for council to make a tangible impact and become a pillar in his community. He brings fresh perspective, innovative ideas and takes on issues that matter to younger generations. Growing up in Mullumbimby, he’s experienced the challenges youth and families face in our region.

Rhett Holt is the founder of a global software firm and a former Risk Coordinator for the Queensland State Government. His key priorities are the financial sustainability of local government, making tourism work for the Shire, helping local farmers to ensure local food quality an security and ensuring small businesses are supported in tough times.

Jeannette Martin is passionate about the Northern Rivers and in particular Byron Shire. She has family heritage in the region and found ‘home’ when she moved to Mullumbimby in 2006. Jeannette served on Council from 2016 to 2021 and is a team player, known on Council as a voice of reason.



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