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Byron Shire
July 15, 2026

Ballina Duck Fest set to make a splash for charity

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.

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Failed musician Joe arrives home from work to discover his stay-at-home wife Angela has invited their upstairs neighbours, divorcee Pína and her partner, widower Hawk, over for dinner at their apartment.

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The Billinudgel Railway Station building, managed by Byron Shire Council (BSC) on behalf of Transport for NSW (TfNSW), has been used as a free community shop where people can donate unwanted items which are available for others to take since 2022.

A hidden gem of culture and fun

With 73 films under their belts the Drill Hall Film Society are inviting you to come and see the next film they are showing – the 1971 classic and hilarious Harold and Maude.

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.

Deadly weaving at Lismore gallery

Eighteen months ago, a group of First Nations artists from the Northern Rivers came together at the Lismore Regional Gallery as part of the Gathering Space project.

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).

Ballina Rotary’s Jamie Marshall. Photo David Lowe.

Ballina is preparing for a high-energy celebration as Ballina Duck Fest returns on Sunday 8 March from 11am to 3pm at Captain Cook Park, raising funds for local community projects.

Presented by the Rotary Club of Ballina-on-Richmond, this year’s festival has expanded into a full family-friendly experience.

Some of the contenders among the ducks sponsored by Ballina businesses in the 2023 charity duck race. Photo David Lowe.

There will be live entertainment, children’s activities, food stalls, the colourful Best Dressed Duck Competition and the much-anticipated Community Duck Race on the Richmond River.

The powerful rhythms of Batala will bring the sounds of samba reggae drums to the riverfront, creating a vibrant festival atmosphere.

The energy of the Brazilian percussion group is expected to echo across Captain Cook Park and draw crowds throughout the day.

Adding to the entertainment, Sprung Dance Theatre will showcase dynamic and creative performances, bringing colour, movement and artistic expression to the festival program.
Entry to the festival is free, with food, activities and duck race participation available on the day.

The Rotary Duck Race is back in Ballina for 2026. Photo Jodie Shelley.

The Community Duck Race, where hundreds of bright yellow ducks will take to the Richmond River, remains a highlight of the afternoon, alongside the creative Best Dressed Duck Competition, involving local businesses and community groups.

Ballina Duck Fest raises funds for Rotary community projects while bringing the community together in a fun, inclusive and uniquely Ballina way. Don’t miss it!

Sunday 8 March, 
11am–3pm, 
at Captain Cook Park, next to Ballina RSL.



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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.