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Byron Shire
June 7, 2026

And the OS art winners are…

Latest News

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

Byron Bay-based hydrofoil company awarded ‘Best of the Best’

Flite, a brand of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC) and the global pioneer of electric hydrofoil technology, have been awarded the Red Dot: "Best of the Best" – the highest distinction in the internationally renowned Red Dot Design Awards.

More than a pantry – helping feed our community

Neighbourhood Centre has been running a low-cost community pantry? And over the last few years it’s really expanded.

Murwillumbah biz networking breakfast cancelled

Join the Murwillumbah business community for their June Business Murwillumbah Networking Breakfast, to be held at at Crystal Creek Estate.

Financial woes

Byron Shire’s financial woes are not the result of a lack of money, but rather the waste of it....

Wandana Brewing Co turns six

Six years ago, Wandana Brewing Co set up on the outskirts of Mullumbimby with a simple ambition: to make great beer and build something the community could genuinely call their own. This Saturday the Wandana Brewing crew are marking the occasion with a free, all-day birthday celebration, and everyone is invited!

Tweed Shire Council recognised at Local Government Excellence Awards

Tweed Shire Council has been recognised for its innovative approach to tackling incivility, winning the People, Workplace and Wellbeing Award at the 2026 Local Government Excellence Awards last night.

Angela Parr’s painting, The Reds, took out first prize in the printmaking, drawing and pastels category of the Ocean Shores Art Expo. She shared the Frank Mills Award with Heidi Houghting, who also won second prize for her oil painting, The First Year Of The Dragon. Photo Jeff ‘Invited To All The Best Gigs’ Dawson

The Ocean Shores Art Expo drew art lovers together to admire local creatives at the Ocean Shores Community Centre last weekend.

Organisers said, ‘From breathtaking paintings to intricate sculptures, the event truly showcased the vibrant artistic spirit of the region’.

A big congratulations to the winners Macarena Ruiz, Cate Cormack, Heidi Houghting, Jenny Sayer, Katherine Carson, Angela Parr, Rachel Dunn, Peter Faulkner-Roberts, Suvira McDonald, Lisa Galvin, Mon Manabu, Isabelle Hillier, Greg Newland, Dave Sparkes, Mark Seiffert, and Cameron Pitcher.

Organisers said, ‘Student artists from local primary and secondary schools also impressed with their creative contributions’.

‘Artworks are available online until Christmas Eve – email [email protected] to buy a piece for your collection.

New leader sought

‘Finally, after eight wonderful years, President and Secretary, Elizabeth Tomlinson, is stepping down. The Expo is now looking for a new leader to continue its creative legacy. If you’re interested in joining the committee or stepping into this vital role, please email [email protected]’.



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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.