Urgent questions are being raised about Byron Bay’s future as the NSW government increasingly uses fast-tracked planning pathways that can allow major developments to bypass or vary local planning controls, including height limits, raising concerns about how Byron’s unique character, built environment, and community expectations will be protected.

With International Overdose Awareness Day approaching on 31 August, NSW now has the evidence, the tools and record overdose deaths but lacks the will on permanent, community based pill testing.

They’re almost here – Baggy Trousers bring ‘Madness’ to Ballina next week! London-born and hailed as the Southern Hemisphere’s premier Madness tribute show, Baggy Trousers brings to life the legendary UK band’s iconic hits in The Sound of Madness and bring the energy, humour and soundtrack of the UK’s golden era to Ballina RSL.

A $1 million CCTV network targeting crime hotspots and major roads in Ballina and Lennox Head is finally moving into the installation phase, following years of calls for greater surveillance across the shire.