Byron Council faces a bill of at least $322,000 to complete the next stage of its long-running investigation into Mullumbimby’s future water supply, as it simultaneously prepares the ground for a possible 35 per cent increase in general rates.

With the absence of all four of its progressive councillors for various reasons, Ballina Council pushed ahead with its agenda at yesterday's monthly meeting, including a decision which is likely to close Ross Lane for months while the road is upgraded.

No-one would tolerate killing six teenagers with methanol-laced alcohol in Australia, as occurred recently in Laos. But in Australia, you can’t check your drugs to see if they’re safe.