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Byron Shire
October 20, 2026

Connecting community in Ballina

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

New koala strategy leaves local priorities to later implementation plan

Northern Rivers residents are being invited to help shape a new NSW koala conservation strategy, with specific local actions and investment priorities to be detailed in a separate implementation plan.

Cheaper school pool access proposed as Byron faces financial squeeze

Byron Shire’s schools could receive cheaper access to Council pools for swimming and water-safety programs under a proposal going before councillors on October 15.

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.

AI growing up quick

We are exactly at the point where we lose control of the AI, and it will try to hide...

Two men charged following alleged robbery

Two men have been charged following an alleged robbery in Casino last week.

Coorabell Hall Spring Fever

Spring Fever Fashion Parade celebrates a stream of flower-powered, funky, upcycled, reloved and new fashion for gals, guys and some kidswear along with jewellery, hats and reloved accessories twirling on the Coorabell Hall runway on Friday, 16 October at 7pm. Music from DJ MLC and co MC Dr Baz.

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:

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.

Ballina debates dog parks and net zero

September's meeting opened with a minute's silence for much-loved community member and Lennox Head restaurant owner Blake Rogers, who lost his life last week.

Michelle Bailey targets net zero in Ballina

Fresh from winning pre-selection as the Nationals candidate for the state seat of Ballina, the 'independent' first-term Ballina councillor Michelle Bailey has put forward a notice of motion asking Council to scrap its fixed 2030 net-zero target in favour of what she describes as a 'flexible sustainability strategy'.



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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?