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Byron Shire
October 20, 2026

Of course it’s better by bike!

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

Courtney Act puts Gerwyn Davies’ colourful world in the spotlight

Sequins, spandex and seaside souvenirs will be up for discussion when Courtney Act takes the interviewer’s chair in Murwillumbah next month.

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.

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.

Editorial – Time for a little respect

In 2020 unpaid care was estimated at three million unpaid carers in Australia that provide approximately $80 billion of unpaid care a year, that is $1.5 billion a week.

Tweed sets out stronger shorebird protections after nesting failures

Tweed Shire Council is considering formal guidelines to protect threatened beach-nesting birds, following breeding failures linked to visitor disturbance at Hastings Point.

Early works finished for Byron’s $8.2 million fire station

Early works have been completed for Byron Bay’s new $8.2 million fire station, with construction of the building set to begin.

Hooray for an award nom! Photo supplied.

If you have ever travelled on a two wheeled human powered vehicle, you will know life is better by bike – you see and feel things you just don’t get to experience at 100kph.

NSW Tourism Association has revealed the finalists for the 2025 NSW Tourism Awards, and cycling has come out a winner with Better by Bike being recognised.

Better By Bike Australia is an eco-tourism business in Murwillumbah, NSW, offering e-bike and bike hire, self-guided and guided cycling experiences across the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, Tweed Coast, and Byron Bay. They also operate a retail shop, provide repair services, and offer shuttle transfers for riders or walkers accessing trail points.

The best adventure for kids in on two wheels. Photo supplied.

Joyful, eco-friendly adventures

Campbell Shepherd, owner of Better by Bike, said Better by Bike is more than just a bike hire. ‘We create joyful, eco-friendly adventures connecting people with nature and community.

‘Since launching alongside the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, over 8,000 riders have joined us. As the trail grows, so will we—promoting this incredible region, supporting local businesses, and sharing smiles, stories, and a love for the land through our “cycle of positivity”.’

It was a record year for the awards with over 230 nominations across the state and 125 finalists in 30 categories.

Mr Shepherd said entering the awards celebrated the passion, innovation, and community spirit driving Better by Bike. ‘Being named a finalist recognises how far we’ve come and inspires us to keep growing, giving back, and helping every rider enjoy the best day ever.

Better By Bike family ride. Photo supplied.

An honour

‘Being a finalist is an honour. It reflects our team’s dedication to creating memorable, sustainable experiences and the amazing community that has welcomed us. Every ride connects people with this beautiful region, and this recognition inspires us to keep spreading joy, supporting local businesses, and showing that sustainable tourism can be fun, meaningful, and impactful.’

The 2025 NSW Tourism Awards will be announced at the NSW Tourism Gala on Thursday, 27 November 2025 in Sydney.



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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?