The people of NSW lost $8.129 billion to poker machines in 2023, an increase of $29 million on 2022 and the equivalent of $1,000 for every adult and child in the state.

At the eleventh hour, Ballina Shire Council has voted to press pause on the controversial Sharpes Beach car park redevelopment, and seek further options.

Tomorrow night will see one lane closed on Tamarind Drive in Ballina while  Lennox Head will see the beginning of roundabout construction at Ballina Street and Allens Parade, Lennox Head start on Monday, May 13.

Detours will be in place overnight for southbound traffic around Tugun bypass at Tweed Heads starting Sunday, May 12. 

Wednesday saw another wallaby put down after a suspected dog attack on the beach at Byron Bay, the second in a short period of time.

Mullumbimby’s Laneway Festival was a kaleido of colour and fun as the Main Street was shut down and the laneways turned into hubs of activities and excitement on Sunday afternoon and evening.