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Byron Shire
October 20, 2026

Nearly $5 million for busy Lismore route

Latest News

Cinema: NAZA

A must-see, award-winning documentary investigating AI warfare in Gaza. Fresh from winning the Special Jury Prize at the 2026 Venice International Film Festival, NAZA, the latest documentary from Academy Award-winning filmmakers Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor (No Other Land), examines artificial intelligence and surveillance in Israel’s military operations in Gaza.

Other News

Interview with Genevieve Clay-Smith, director of Boss Cat showing at the Byron Bay Film Festival

When Sonja (Olivia Hargroder) loses her mother without warning, the only steady presence left in her life is her grandmother, Doris. But Doris’s idea of stability means dismantling everything Sonja has built. For Sonja, who lives with Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) and has spent her life fighting to be underestimated by no one, Doris’ plan feels less like protection and more like erasure. Directed by Genevieve Clay-Smith, Boss Cat is a vibrant, big-hearted Australian dramedy about independence, family and self-determination, anchored by a fearless lead performance.

New koala strategy leaves local priorities to later implementation plan

Northern Rivers residents are being invited to help shape a new NSW koala conservation strategy, with specific local actions and investment priorities to be detailed in a separate implementation plan.

Cheaper school pool access proposed as Byron faces financial squeeze

Byron Shire’s schools could receive cheaper access to Council pools for swimming and water-safety programs under a proposal going before councillors on October 15.

Domestic violence: Lismore

I witnessed the aftermath of a serious assault on a woman in Conway Street, Lismore in broad daylight. This was...

Push for free conservation rezoning as report reveals Byron habitat protection gap

Byron Shire landholders could be offered a free pathway to stronger conservation zoning under a proposal coming before today’s Council meeting, following a report identifying significant gaps in protection for the Shire’s valuable habitat.

Courtney Act puts Gerwyn Davies’ colourful world in the spotlight

Sequins, spandex and seaside souvenirs will be up for discussion when Courtney Act takes the interviewer’s chair in Murwillumbah next month.

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg (centre) with workers on Dunoon Road (photo supplied)

The Lismore City Council says it has secured $4.86 million in federal funds to progress the upgrade of the Dunoon Road and Tweed Street corridor.

The corridor is described as a ‘key connection’ between Lismore and surrounding villages, including Dunoon, The Channon and Modanville.

Council staff announcing the funds say the road carries thousands of vehicles every day, including heavy transport.

The Lismore Showground and Cattle Saleyards is expected to benefit from the improved safety on the corridor as it is commonly used to reach the site.

The mayor says the upgrades will also help support future growth in North Lismore, including Richmond River High School and the Reconstruction Authority’s new housing development in partnership with Homes NSW.

Consult, design, build

Planned works include road widening, pavement upgrades, improved intersections including roundabouts, and shared paths for pedestrians and cyclists.

Council staff are to first work on detailed design and planning, including more stakeholder consultation.

Construction isn’t expected to start until 2027 and is hoped to be finished by November 2028.

The funds from the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program come after consultation last year with more than 500 residents, businesses and visitors as part of council staff efforts to strengthen their grant application.

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg says the grant’s success is a direct result of the community ‘stepping up and having their say’.



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Interview with Genevieve Clay-Smith, director of Boss Cat showing at the Byron Bay Film Festival

When Sonja (Olivia Hargroder) loses her mother without warning, the only steady presence left in her life is her grandmother, Doris. But Doris’s idea of stability means dismantling everything Sonja has built. For Sonja, who lives with Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) and has spent her life fighting to be underestimated by no one, Doris’ plan feels less like protection and more like erasure. Directed by Genevieve Clay-Smith, Boss Cat is a vibrant, big-hearted Australian dramedy about independence, family and self-determination, anchored by a fearless lead performance.

Something for everyone at the Picture House

From Australian superstar musos, to brand new documentaries, to comedians at the top of their game, there really is something for everyone at the Brunswick Picture House.

Thirty-six unmissable films

The 2026 Russell Hobbs British Film Festival features an unmissable line up 36 films, including five retrospectives which will screen from 28 October to 29 November at Palace Byron Bay and Ballina Cinemas.

A timeless story of self-discovery

A husband with a promotion, two adorable children and a lovely new house. Nora thought she had it all. But did she? What was the discontent that was whispering to her in the shadows?