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October 20, 2026

David Warth and the What’s Going On events

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

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

Coorabell Hall Spring Fever

Spring Fever Fashion Parade celebrates a stream of flower-powered, funky, upcycled, reloved and new fashion for gals, guys and some kidswear along with jewellery, hats and reloved accessories twirling on the Coorabell Hall runway on Friday, 16 October at 7pm. Music from DJ MLC and co MC Dr Baz.

AI growing up quick

We are exactly at the point where we lose control of the AI, and it will try to hide...

Early works finished for Byron’s $8.2 million fire station

Early works have been completed for Byron Bay’s new $8.2 million fire station, with construction of the building set to begin.

Mayor Sharon Cadwallader announces bid for state seat of Ballina 

Ballina Mayor Sharon Cadwallader will contest the state seat of Ballina as an independent, arguing that local ratepayers are carrying costs that should be met by the NSW government.

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.

Independent David Warth.

David Warth and the What’s Going On events

The Echo: We want to remind the reader that you run the What’s Going On events, and that your views may not be considered conventional or traditional. Presumably issues around covid, vaccination, climate science, and diminishing civic rights won’t play much part in local governance, but do you see there being a cross-over where Council policy around these matters could have some influence at a state and federal level?

David Warth: ‘The What’s Going On events are serious presentations and discussions based on published government and corporate documents. For instance, the last WGO covered the government’s Strengthening Australian Democracy report, and the findings of the 2023 Edelman Trust report, Navigating a Polarised World’.

‘The factual content of the information at WGO is what is making the events so popular. It is time to bring our community together to deal with the many challenges we are facing.

‘I feel there is a responsibility that we share to create harmony rather than division. I truly believe that Democracy was never about everyone saying the same thing… that is something completely different’.

‘I am well acquainted with climate change science. I studied Palaeontology and Geology in my teens. I have been mentored by eminent scientists such as the late Dr Mary White, who was a world renowned palaeobotanist.

‘I have made award-winning documentaries with strong climate change content.

‘The science on anthropogenic forcing with relation to climate change is far from settled’.



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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?