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Byron Shire
November 13, 2026

A Happy and Healthy New Year in 2026

Latest News

Students strike to reclaim their future

On Friday 20 November, students in the Byron Shire and surrounds will close their books and laptops to meet at Apex Park, Byron Bay in another strike for climate action.

Other News

Let us be different

Here, here to Mike Balson’s letter in The Echo of 2 October. I agree wholeheartedly with what Mike Balson...

Plenty of free fun for all the family this Saturday in Ocean Shores

The Ocean Shores Country Club is hosting a Family Fun Day on Saturday, 14 November, from 1pm to 5pm where there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

‘Dancing against violence’ in Lismore

A sold-out gala in Lismore has raised more than $200,000 for Women Up North (WUN) and its Bugalma Bihyn Aboriginal Women’s Refuge, which can accommodate up to five families.

They’ve got it all

With only six weeks to go before Christmas, everyone is short on time, leaving things to the last minute (until it’s too late), and overextending themselves. Well, it’s time to let Brunswick Picture House make life easier for you… from throwing the coolest, cheekiest Christmas party for your team, to getting great Golden Ticket vouchers or awesome new merch as gifts, it’s all there!

A quick and tasty Middle Eastern-inspired meal from Baraka Foods

Looking for a quick, tasty and wholesome meal that doesn’t involve spending hours in the kitchen? A delicious Middle Eastern-inspired falafel plate could be just the ticket.

Are you a Northern Rivers creative?

Regional Arts NSW CEO, Tracey Callinan will be at the Byron Community Centre from 12 noon tomorrow to hear about the needs and experiences of local artists and all Northern Rivers creatives are invited to attend. 

This healthy and delicious Buddha bowl is from On The Ripe Side.

The new year often arrives with a familiar feeling: after weeks of indulgent meals, festive treats and celebratory drinks, your body is quietly asking for a reset. Summer stretches ahead with long golden days, ocean swims and balmy evenings, the perfect time to feel light, energised and well.

The farmers’ markets are the ideal place to begin. Start by supporting your gut with nourishing fermented foods and effervescent drinks. Look out for kombucha from Organic Forest, crafted with organic ingredients and a gentle natural fizz, alongside traditional herbal jamu, known for its warming, digestive benefits.

Byron Fermentary is also a must-visit, using ingredients grown themselves or by local farmers, therefore offering seasonal ferments that change regularly – proof that krauts can be far more exciting than just cabbage.

You’ll also find Yogi Nectar, a water kefir that supports improved gut health, stronger immunity and better digestion, available as refreshing drinks and probiotic gels.

If you’re kicking off the new year gluten-free, be sure to check out Breadicine. Their range of breads, muffins, pizza bases, brownies and biscuits prove that gluten-free can still be deeply satisfying.

On The Ripe Side and Jungle Juice both make amazing, health-focused juices and smoothies, using fresh, seasonal produce. On the Ripe Side also prepares a delicious range of chia puddings and colourful Buddha bowls, all vegan-friendly and designed to nourish without weighing you down.

Add extra vitality with Energetic Greens, offering crisp sprouts and powerful wheatgrass shots, and Sprout Lovers, whose sprouted legumes are easy to digest and rich in plant-based protein.

For a clean, calm lift, explore Matcha Man’s matcha drinks, delivering sustained energy and antioxidants without the coffee crash.

With so many thoughtful, small-batch producers in one place, the markets turn good intentions into delicious habits. Start the year gently, nourish your body from the ground up, and let summer be about feeling refreshed, light and truly energised.

Find these products at Mullum Farmers Market every Friday from 7 am to 11 am and New Brighton Farmers Market every Tuesday from 8 am to 11 am.



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Cadwallader says Ballina hospital infrastructure plans ‘a shambles’

Ballina is trapped in a health planning paradox, with no hospital site, no construction funding and no clear investment pathway, according to independent candidate for Ballina and local mayor Sharon Cadwallader.

The fastest climate solution has two wheels and no tailpipe

As the climate negotiations start in earnest at COP31, major Australian cities are backing a global citizens initiative calling for targets for cycling to be included in Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

Stretched to the limit – Stolen Generations orgs say time is running out

Stolen Generations organisations from across Australia have issued an urgent challenge, just months out from the 30th anniversary of the landmark Bringing Them Home report, for governments and the nation to ensure the experiences, truths and recommendations of the report are not forgotten and commit to change for survivors and descendants.

They Had Cancer – men, it’s time to put your health first

When Russell had a bit of a morning cough he dismissed it, he’d smoked till he was 30, it was probably just a residue cough from that. It wasn’t until he had a swelling on the side of his neck the size of a mango that he finally went to the doctor.