Latest News
Feros responds to Expression of Interest announcement
The announcement earlier today that the Minister for Crown Lands, Steve Kamper, started the Expressions of Interest (EOI) process for Feros Village Byron Bay has drawn a response from the Feros Care board that still sees the facility in terms of a 'closure'.
Other News
How do you rate the media rating system?
Parents are being asked to have a say on whether Australia’s media classification system is effective in informing decisions around age-appropriate films and video games for children.
Bicycle racing at Lismore attracts over 100 riders
Byron Bay Cycling Club’s (BBCC) inaugural closed road race through and around Lismore has been deemed a ‘success’ attracting...
Heat the biggest climate change killer – Tweed Council takes action
Since 1890, heat and heat waves have killed more Australians than bushfires, cyclones, earthquakes, floods, and severe storms combined and Tweed Shire Council are looking at ways to future proof the shire through their DCP.
State government pledges $5m for Lismore’s Two Rooms project
More than 350 flood affected homes in the Northern Rivers region can now be repaired, getting vulnerable people back on their feet and into safe housing thanks to Resilient Lismore’s Two Rooms Project, backed by $5 million in funding from the NSW Government.
Feros slaps ban on media visits
On Saturday, on the way to visit Feros Byron Bay residents, The Echo was told via text and email from a Feros Care media spokesperson that, ‘Unfortunately we have a policy of no media on site.
Pre-Incan mummies found in Peru by gas workers
The mummified bodies of eight individuals have been found by city workers who were digging a natural gas line in the Carabayllo district on the outskirts of Lima, capital of Peru.
Stories about "Cr Simon Chate":
Ballina adopts Biodiversity Strategy, but…
At its last meeting, Ballina Shire Council adopted the Biodiversity Strategy which has been on exhibition recently, but there were questions about whether it was a purely aspirational document, or would mean anything on the ground without adequate funding.
Ballina goes back to 26 January, by one vote
By a close margin, Ballina Shire Council has voted to return its official awards date to Australia Day in 2024, after deciding to try something different at its previous meeting.
No C Zone for land near Burns Point Ferry Road
Yesterday Ballina Shire Council decided not to apply a Conservation Zone to the contentious flood-prone land adjoining Burns Point Ferry Road, in West Ballina, which GemLife is seeking to develop for housing.
Australia/Invasion Day controversy continues at Ballina
Last month's Ballina Council meeting saw a decision to move the Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony, to be held at Lennox Head Cultural Centre, from the controversial date of 26 January 2024, to the evening of 25 January. This amendment to an earlier motion was moved by Cr Simon Chate with the support of Cr Stephen McCarthy.
No street gathering policy for Ballina Shire
A majority of Ballina Shire councillors have voted against a Greens-led motion for a new policy enabling resident-led street closures for gatherings and play.
Time running out to comment on Lennox 4WDs
Tomorrow is the deadline for public comment to Ballina Shire Council on the future of 4WDs on Seven Mile Beach, after a string of complaints about hooning behaviour, dune damage, and other issues.
Have you commented on Ballina’s Draft Biodiversity Strategy?
Time is running out to have your say on Ballina Council's Draft Biodiversity Strategy, which explains what's at risk, and what could be done, if there's the will from local councillors and residents.
Greens still smiling after a year on Ballina Council
Some people would need counselling after a year in minority on Ballina Shire Council, but Greens councillors Kiri Dicker and Simon Chate are still optimistic and looking forward to the next chapter. They spoke to The Echo about the big issues of 2022 and what they're hoping to achieve in 2023.
Ballina Council July wrap-up
The last Ballina Shire Council meeting contained all the tension Ballina-watchers have come to expect between humans and the natural environment, aspiration and the bottom line in this beautiful, fragile part of the world.
First Nations place-names under Ballina council spotlight
Greater efforts at reconciliation with First Nations people in the Ballina Shire when it comes to place-names is to happen after furious agreement at June’s council meeting.
Local News
Weed exit and smiley koalas get support
Aslan Shand - 0
Weed and smiley koalas were on the minds of Tweed Shire Councillors and staff at last week’s council meeting.
Byron Echo
Another wallaby death on beach prompts calls on dog owners
A Byron local says a dead wallaby found on Belongil beach last Saturday had all the hallmarks of a dog attack, and is calling on the public to be more vigilant and for authorities to step up to help protect native wildlife.
Local News
A win for Feros Village Byron Bay residents
Eve Jeffery - 1
A whole community can expel a sigh of relief at the breaking news that months of distress and sadness can now become part of history – this morning the Minister for Crown Lands, Steve Kamper, has announced that services providers for aged care are advised that Expressions of Interest (EOI) are now open for Feros Village Byron Bay.
National News
How do you rate the media rating system?
Parents are being asked to have a say on whether Australia’s media classification system is effective in informing decisions around age-appropriate films and video games for children.
