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Byron Shire
June 29, 2026

He’s a maniac

Latest News

Fresh ink: new releases making their festival debut

This year’s Byron Writers Festival is a first-look destination, with several of Australia’s most anticipated new books arriving at the festival before the ink has barely dried.

Other News

Man in court today after alleged pursuit near Kingscliff

A man will face court today after an alleged pursuit in December last year.

Wollumbin Art Award finalists announced

The finalists for the biennial Wollumbin Art Award, held by Tweed Regional Gallery, have been announced. They are Tweed based artist Kane Corowa, Gold Coast based artist Beth Andrews, and Byron based artists Kirsten Chambers and Monica Buscarino.   

Casino Suspension Bridge opens

Minister For Small Business, Recovery and North Coast Janelle Saffin joined Mayor Robert Mustow and Member for Page Kevin Hogan to officially opening the Casino Suspension Bridge today (Saturday).

Savour The Tweed returns, 22 October

Food and drink event, Savour The Tweed, returns to excite tastebuds this spring, from Wednesday 22 October to Sunday 26 October.

NSW budget and the Northern Rivers

The Minns government says it's handed down a budget which locks in major funding for North Coast health infrastructure, alongside targeted cost-of-living relief designed for regional households and disaster recovery, as locals continue to face higher costs.

Six dwellings proposed on flood-prone Mullum block

Six units are proposed at the eastern end of New City Road, Mullumbimby, on a site that was inundated during the 2022 floods. Submitted by Duncan Band's Kollective, Development Application (DA) 10.2026.269.1 at 73 New City Road is on public exhibition with Byron Shire Council, and sits within the Shire's flood planning area.

Ronan Maclean. Photo supplied

Emerging pop artist Ronan Maclean released his debut EP, The Maniac EP, last week. The project showcases Maclean’s versatility and strong pop music instincts, blending inspirations across four distinct tracks – all written, produced, and performed by the artist.

The lead single ‘I Hope U Never Know Her’ is out now and fans will be hearing these songs and more this September when Ronan Maclean embarks on his first headline tour, The Maniac EP tour, with his band.

Maclean will be performing at venues in Byron Bay, the Gold Coast, and Brisbane.

Originally from Brisbane, Maclean is inspired by artists like Justin Bieber and Ruel. He has built a loyal following through consistent releases and an authentic, hands-on approach to his craft with previous singles like ‘Love Situation’ and ‘Robbery’ receiving praise for their sharp production and catchy writing.

Maclean has performed on ABC radio Gold Coast and has received support from Triple J.

Catch Ronan Maclean from 7pm on Thursday at the Arts Factory Garden Bar, Byron Bay and on Saturday, 13 September from 12pm for an all-ages show at Mo’s Desert Clubhouse Burleigh Heads. Pick up your tickets here: https://ronanmaclean.com



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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.

Ballina Council finds savings in chairs

At its last meeting, as part of a long discussion about amendments to Ballina Council's delivery program and operational plan, there was a debate about whether Ballina Richmond Rotary Club should still be paid $8,000 to set up chairs for the RSL Lighthouse Day Club.

Man in court today after alleged pursuit near Kingscliff

A man will face court today after an alleged pursuit in December last year.

It’s investors who are causing the housing shortage

For years, people have been talking about how high house prices are, how you can’t get into the housing market without the bank of mum and dad. How it is virtually impossible to rent, save a mortgage, and then actually buy a property without placing yourself in housing stress.