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Byron Shire
June 4, 2026

Northern Rivers celebrated through the lens

Latest News

Wardell Knit n’ Knat Group – 22 years of knitting and giving

Since 2011, 15 years, Dawn and Robert Sword have been entrusted by the Wardell Knit n’ Knat Group with the privilege of distributing the beautiful handcrafted rugs, scarves, beanies and other knitted and crocheted items they have made to people in need throughout the Ballina Shire.

Other News

Bungawalbin Levee repair to improve flood resilience

A critical section of Bungawalbin Levee is proposed to be partially relocated to build its long-term resilience, benefitting the community, environment and agricultural industries in the Richmond Valley.

Byron Bay-based hydrofoil company awarded ‘Best of the Best’

Flite, a brand of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC) and the global pioneer of electric hydrofoil technology, have been awarded the Red Dot: "Best of the Best" – the highest distinction in the internationally renowned Red Dot Design Awards.

Israel’s rehabilitation

Israel’s genocide of the Palestinians has not ended and it will not end before Israel officially renounces its intention...

‘Forever’ chemical maker M3 faces court

NSW Greens MLC and Chair of the NSW Inquiry into PFAS contamination, Cate Faehrmann, say she has welcomed the federal government’s decision to launch legal action against chemicals giant 3M over PFAS contamination, but warned that communities and state governments must not again be left to foot the bill.

Appeals to help Alstonville High School teacher

Friends are rallying around a Alstonville High School teacher suffering from cancer, and are appealing to the public for financial help.

Mandy Nolan’s Soapbox: Saying Goodbye to a Very Handsome Man

Last week an old friend of mine died. His name was Gary Cook. We met here in Byron Bay, when I was 23. He would have been in his early 30s. He was handsome. And funny. And weird. And self-involved. He used to come to Ringos, where I worked as a waitress. He’d sing to himself, bludge cigarettes, and shine up the serviette holder. He loved looking at himself. He’d laugh and say, ‘God, I’m a handsome man,’ and then he’d laugh this really infectious laugh

Adult category 1st prize – Renee Trezise ($500, Byron Photo Magic) – “The Other Giant’s Causeway, Fingal Head”.

Regional Development Australia Northern Rivers have announced the winners of their regional photography competition.

As a government funded, not-for-profit, Regional Development Australia Northern Rivers say they “work with all levels of government, business and community groups to support the economic growth of our region”.

Adult Category 1st Prize was awarded to Renee Trezise ($500, Byron Photo Magic) for her photo “The Other Giant’s Causeway, Fingal Head”.

Organisers say is captured the striking hexagonal basalt columns at Fingal Head against a soft sunset, with a long exposure framing Cook Island.

Organisers say, “The competition attracted an impressive 152 entries and 333 photographs, including 20 youth entrants, with submissions spanning the entire region, from Fingal Head to Yamba, Hastings Point to Dunoon. Shortlisted locations also included Murwillumbah, Byron Bay, Lennox Head, Angourie, New Brighton Beach, Cudgen, Minnie Water and Maclean”.

Youth Category 1st Prize went to Harry Gilbert ($250, Byron Photo Magic) for his photo “Glow Worms, Burringbar Tunnel”.

Youth Category 1st Prize went to Harry Gilbert ($250, Byron Photo Magic) for “Glow Worms, Burringbar Tunnel”.

“A magical long-exposure image of glow worms illuminating the Burringbar Tunnel in blue light after dark.

“Reflecting the region’s natural appeal, 84% of entries captured landscapes and nature, while 16% highlighted people, working life and community events”.

RDA Northern Rivers Chair noted the high calibre of submissions and the strong regional representation: “This competition highlights not only the incredible talent across our communities, but also the unique environments, lifestyles and stories that make the Northern Rivers such a special place.”

“A total of $1,500 in prizes was awarded, generously supported by local businesses Byron Photo Magic and Lismore Art & Framing.

Winning and shortlisted Images can be viewed here:

• Adults Category Winners and Shortlist

• Youth Category Winners and Shortlist

“RDA Northern Rivers extends its thanks to all entrants and congratulates the winners and shortlisted photographers. The competition reinforces the region’s strong sense of place and provides a valuable visual asset to support ongoing investment promotion and regional storytelling”.



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Murwillumbah biz networking breakfast tomorrow

Join the Murwillumbah business community for their June Business Murwillumbah Networking Breakfast, to be held at at Crystal Creek Estate.

Update on Mullumbimby house fire which destroyed locals’ home

Long-term residents of Mullumbimby, Jeff and Alma Jackson lost their home to fire last week.

Local family-owned Byron businesses asking for your support

Long-term, local Byron businesses are calling on the community for support as they struggle to remain afloat as the drainage works in Byron Bay continue.

Bay FM’s Karena Wynn-Moylan wins at Aus Audio Awards

Australia’s top radio and podcast talent were crowned at the inaugural Australian Audio Awards last Thursday night at Carriageworks in Sydney. Entries were judged on their technical expertise, audio quality, content and impact.