Until recently the acronym DEI was unknown in Australia. Now it's become one of those annoying Americanisms like vacation, SUV and soda which are steadily invading our language. Like 'woke', its meaning has been inverted by malicious actors seeking to confuse, divide and conquer.

Public submissions recently closed for Ballina Council's proposed changes to Sharpes Beach. Prominent among these was a call for better accessibility options for people with disabilities, which is an issue right across the Northern Rivers. The Echo spoke to East Ballina resident Dr Mariann Lloyd-Smith to find out more.