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Byron Shire
July 15, 2026

New podcast on the Richmond River

Latest News

Renewables and battery storage stable amid global uncertainty

Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, in partnership with the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) today released the GenCost 2025–26 Final Report, finding renewable energy supported by storage is helping to protect Australia against global energy shocks and continues to provide the lowest cost pathway for Australia’s electricity system to achieve net zero emissions.

Other News

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Draft Bangalow Flood Study on public exhibition

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Arts Northern Rivers First Nations Committee

Arts Northern Rivers (ANR) is calling for members who have a connection to Bundjalung, Githabul, Yaegl and Gumbaynggirr Country to help them form a First Nations committee to guide and shape their First Nations program.

Here she comes

Tiffany Grace is a 22-year-old Brisbane-based singer/songwriter/guitarist. Her original songs are deep, uplifting, and relatable, with an acoustic, pop-country feel that are getting attention worldwide.

Forcing a reminder

Forces are constantly at play and work determinedly to give people the life we have. The minds of women and...

Alleged native tree removal continues in Lennox, says councillor

With a government agency now investigating the alleged clear felling of natives on a large private block in Lennox Head, Ballina Greens councillor Kiri Dicker has told The Echo that contractors were felling trees all morning, ‘trying to get the job done’.

Dead fish beside Richmond River following Cyclone Alfred. Photo David Lowe

Recent fish kills in the Richmond River have once again highlighted the significant need for action to improve the health of the river. 

Raising awareness of the issues and exploring the vital role rivers play in our lives the Richmond Riverkeepers have launched the new podcast We Are The Riverkeepers to celebrate and protect our waterways.

Who is responsible for cleaning up the rubbish in the Richmond River? Photo Graeme Gibson

Hosted by renowned storyteller, author, and presenter Mel Bampton, this groundbreaking series invites listeners to reimagine our relationship with rivers – from the Richmond River to the world.

Each episode weaves together voices from across the community: scientists, environmentalists, Traditional Custodians, artists, and everyday river champions. Together, they tell a story of connection, responsibility, and hope. Episode 1 features outgoing Richmond Riverkeeper and Southern Cross University Professor Mandy Reichelt-Brushett.

‘If the rivers could speak, what would they say?’ says host Mel Bampton.

Come and celebrate the Richmond River at RiverFest 2024. Photo https://richmondriverfest.com

‘That’s the question at the heart of We Are The Riverkeepers. Through moving conversations and deep listening, the podcast reveals how rivers shape our ecosystems, our health, and our stories. It goes beyond environmentalism to explore rivers as sources of culture, identity, and belonging.

‘In telling the stories of the rivers we remind ourselves how deeply our own survival and wellbeing are tied to theirs. This podcast is a call to action – and a love letter – to every waterway we depend on.’

A spokesperson for Richmond Riverskeepers said, ‘With the Richmond River in dire health, the timing of the podcast’s launch is especially poignant. As the river gasps for life, We Are The Riverkeepers amplifies the voices of those working to restore, heal, and protect our river systems.’

You can listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms or follow the links to: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/we-are-the-riverkeepers/id1807437249

https://open.spotify.com/show/3JYHN9rrPpBP43LCpbpGTq



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Lismore Boulevard Project announced

Design concept plans for the Lismore Boulevard – Shared User Path project are now available for community consultation, following Lismore City Council securing $2,383,030 in funding through the NSW Government’s Get NSW Active 2025–2026 program, administered by Transport for NSW (TfNSW).

Community responds to detention dams proposal

More than 110 residents gathered at Rock Valley Hall on Sunday 12 July and rejected claims that the recently released CSIRO report on flood mitigation was informed by strong community consultation.

Data shows biggest danger to wildlife is people, not cats

Human-created hazards are responsible for most wildlife rescues in New South Wales, and researchers are calling for more prevention strategies to save threatened species.

Try pickleball and support a great cause

Northern Rivers Pickleball Club are holding a marathon day of pickleball on Sunday, 19 July at the Goonellabah Tennis and Pickleball Club on Reserve Street, Goonellabah.