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Byron Shire
October 20, 2026

Group E – Jack Dods – Bright Future Byron

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

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.

Activists arrested on gas platform

Greenpeace activists boarded Woodside's Scarborough gas platform off Western Australia on the weekend. After staying overnight, police removed the last two yesterday (Sunday 18 October).

Countless Strokes: Hend brings his world indoors

If you’ve walked down Mullumbimby’s main street and stopped to admire the murals, chances are you’ve already seen the work of local artist and muralist Daniel Hend.

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.

Found – Missing Robert Craig, last seen at South Golden Beach

Police are searching for 72yo, Robert Craig, last seen on a bush track at Helen Street, South Golden Beach, about 7.30am this morning.

Music overtones at Byron Bay International Film Festival

From the extraordinary life and legacy of Marianne Faithfull to the raw energy of Australia’s 1995 Summersault tour, a larrikin road trip through the Australian bush and the next generation of music video makers, music runs through this year’s Byron Bay International Film Festival. 

Group E – Jack Dods: Dr Niamh Dove, Jack Dods, Dr Meredith Wray and David Michie.

Bright Future Byron is a group of progressive independents giving voters an alternative to voting Green or Labor, free from party politics. Our vision is of a Byron Shire connected by cycleways with the rail trail as the backbone. We advocate for pedestrian-friendly towns, world class place- making, and improved, sustainable public transport. We will establish more affordable housing, and a greater diversity of housing types that young families and key workers can afford. We support better health and education services by supporting the establishment of a new secondary college and better mental health services in Byron Shire.

Jack Dods was born and raised in Bangalow and is an urban designer with degrees in architecture, urban design, and extensive experience on numerous Byron Council committees.

Dr Meredith Wray has a PhD in sustainable tourism and lives in Byron Bay. She will contribute to improved destination management planning and sustainable tourism planning.

David Michie lives in SGB and has been one of the Shire’s strongest advocates for the rail trail, cycleways, and walkable towns.

Dr Niamh Dove is a doctor and new mum from Eureka with a passion for improving local healthcare, education and childcare.



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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?