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Byron Shire
October 20, 2026

Positive future for Byron’s visitor economy

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Northern Rivers Rail Trail. Photo supplied

Last Thursday saw Destination Byron bring together over 150 attendees looking at the future of Byron and its visitor economy.

Speakers included Rebecca Masci from the Brisbane 2032 Olympics Organising Committee, data commentator Simon Kuestenmacher and STR’s Paul Hammond. Sessions covered visitor economy data, sustainable tourism and how the Byron Shire can capitalise on the lead up to the 2032 Games.

‘It was encouraging to see a broad mix of people – from accommodation and experience operators, media, community members, and all keen to collaborate to better manage and promote our Shire,’ said Jeanie Wylie, Destination Byron’s President.

‘Tourism works best when everyone’s pulling in the same direction, and the fact that so many people want to be part of that conversation gives me a lot of confidence and optimism about where we’re headed.’

Byron Fest

The symposium also heard about Destination Byron’s $200,000 Regional Night-Time Economy Program grant that will be used to help support the creation of Byron Fest, a new mid-winter festival planned for June 2027.

The festival will focus on arts and culture, sustainability, wellbeing, food and beverage, and entrepreneurship and is asking businesses and local organisations to sign up and participate in the event.

For more information about Destination Byron, Byron Fest or how to get involved, visit destinationbyron.com.au.



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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

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Thirty-six unmissable films

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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?