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Byron Shire
November 9, 2026

Connecting community in Ballina

Latest News

Green Heroes among 2026 NSW Environment Award winners

The NSW Environment Awards, hosted by the state’s leading environmental advocacy organisation, Nature Conservation Council NSW, was recently held at Customs House in Sydney.

Other News

Byron surfing community gathers for positive change

On Sunday the community came together, with close to 200 people gathering at Clarkes Beach for a paddle out, and shore action, to raise their voices and say there are no more excuses for violence against women and girls.

National gun buyback scheme begins in NSW

The biggest gun buyback in 30 years began in NSW yesterday, with the first firearms set to be surrendered as part of the government’s commitment to reduce the number of guns in the community and help make NSW safer.

New Tweed Heads Hub backed by $3.8 million commitment

The newly opened Veteran and Family Hub at Tweed Heads will be backed by a renewed $3.8 million commitment from RSL NSW to sponsor veteran and family services, delivered by partner charity RSL LifeCare.

‘Go-ahead’ not positive

So the NRPP unanimously approved the controversial 57 Station St development after more than 2,500 signatories were against it. Those...

Work starts on eight-lane athletics track in Lismore

Construction has begun on an eight-lane athletics track at Southern Cross University’s Lismore campus, giving Northern Rivers schools and clubs a competition-standard venue closer to home when it opens in mid-2027.

Call for Mel Davis to be permanent Byron Public principal

Parents at Byron Bay Public School (BBPS) have started a petition to ask the NSW Department of Education (DOE) to reconsider their decision to replace Acting Principal, Mel Davis, and to allow her to continue permanently as principal.

Lennox Head Cultural Centre. Photo David Lowe

Want to connect with your local community groups? Ballina Council is inviting everyone to come along to the Ballina Shire Community Connections Expo on Saturday 29 August 2026, from 9am to 12pm at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre.

Organisers say this free expo is a great opportunity to join a club, volunteer, discover a new hobby or simply see what’s happening across Ballina Shire.

‘The Community Connections Expo was established by Ballina Shire Councillors to help connect residents with local clubs, community groups and volunteer organisations,’ said Ballina Cr Kiri Dicker.

Ballina Cr Kiri Dicker. photo David Lowe

‘This year, the event brings the whole shire together in one location.

‘It’s about showcasing the incredible groups that make our community so strong while giving residents the chance to get involved, give back, or just learn more about the support and services available.’

Big gathering

There are 40 community groups already registered to attend, from sporting clubs and environmental groups to creative collectives and support services. Come along and discover what’s happening in your community – and how you can be part of it.

The Community Connections Expo is happening from 9am–12pm, Saturday 29 August, at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre.

More stories about Ballina Shire Council:

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Overland flood studies open for community feedback

Ballina Shire Council says it now has three new overland flood studies on public exhibition for community feedback. The studies cover Alstonville, Wardell and Lennox Head.

Ballina debates regional arts funding, missing people and live music

Ballina Council's October meeting opened with Mayor Sharon Cadwallader acknowledging the attack on Dr Helen Haynes and calling for respectful public service. She said, 'Democracy depends on people being able to participate freely, respectfully, and without fear'.

Big meeting for Ballina Council this week

The agenda for Thursday's meeting includes six notices of motion from four councillors, with issues including missing persons, volunteer recognition, and arts funding.

Ross Lane flood-resilience works begin ahead of nine-week closure

Construction on a $4.35 million flood-resilience upgrade of Ross Lane at Lennox Head is due to begin today, ahead of a nine-week closure of the busy road later this month.

Ballina Council will be getting a new general manager

With Ballina Shire Council General Manager Paul Hickey deciding to retire after almost twenty years in the role, and even longer as a staff member, the task of finding a replacement has begun. Cr Damien Loone was also returned as Deputy Mayor after Cr Simon Chate withdrew his nomination.



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Remembrance Day 2026: 11am, 11 November

It is estimated that in WWl there were 20 million dead and 20 million injured. From a population base of fewer than five million,...

Love books? Join Friends of the Library

Friends of the Libraries, Byron Shire are looking for some fresh, new, younger faces to join the group and help keep it moving forward.

Racehorses shot for pet food by NSW breeder

Thirteen thoroughbred horses deemed no longer useful, have been destroyed with eight horses destroyed by firearm at Berkeley Park Stud.

Byron Bay Surf Lifesaving Club youngsters shine

Two young members of Byron Bay Surf Lifesaving Club have delivered outstanding performances at the Paddle NSW State Sprint Championships, held at the Penrith International Regatta Centre over the weekend.