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Byron Shire
October 23, 2026

Uniquely Byron Business Awards

Latest News

Oh Byron Shire, the pipes, the pipes are calling…

Byron Shire Council largely does not know the condition of its $114 million underground stormwater network, with a draft infrastructure plan warning that limited inspections are creating a risk of pipe failure.

Other News

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.

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.

Byron weighs smart glasses ban at public pools

Byron Shire Councillors have voted unanimously in support of a motion investigating the ban of camera-equipped smart glasses from its pools, libraries, childcare centres and workplaces.

‘Coal mines are writing the laws’

The Minns government has announced it will bypass the independent planning process and legislate an increase in coal production at MACH Energy's Mount Pleasant mine, following the landmark High Court decision that found the mine's expansion approval was invalid because the climate pollution from exported coal had not been properly considered.

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?

BBFF Young Australian Filmmaker of the Year

Melbourne writer-director Jake James Whitford has been named the 2026 Young Australian Filmmaker of the Year at the Byron Bay International Film Festival (BBFF), for his short film 'The Squatters and the Fairy Princess'.

The 2026 Byron Bay Uniquely Byron Business Awards are now open. Image supplied

The Byron Bay Uniquely Byron Business Awards are now open.

‘These awards are a great opportunity to celebrate the creativity, resilience and diversity of our local business community with prestige and recognition. I encourage businesses to get involved and put themselves forward,’ said Chamber President Matt Wiliamson.

‘Advocacy, connection and promotion remain at the heart of what we do.’

The awards night will be held at Loft in November. 

Make sure you nominate your favourite business here.



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Editorial – The rise of the machines

When the last switchboard operator became extinct and the filing assistant closed the cabinet for the last time to join the lamplighters and ratcatchers we were, perhaps, mollified with the knowledge that newer, more interesting careers would open up before us.

Deadline extended for Uniquely Byron Business Awards

Byron businesses have until midnight tomorrow, Saturday, October 24, to enter this year’s Uniquely Byron Business Awards after organisers extended the application deadline.

Flash flooding advice follows days of heavy Northern Rivers rain

The NSW State Emergency Service has advised Northern Rivers residents to monitor conditions for possible flash flooding after more than 117mm of rain fell at Cape Byron and Ballina Airport over four days, with further falls overnight.

SCU exhibition marks the end of art and design degree

Twelve emerging Northern Rivers artists will exhibit their work in Lismore tonight at a graduation show marking the last large exhibition of Southern Cross University’s Bachelor of Art and Design degree.