Byron Shire Council has voted to continue investigating the use of Lavertys Gap as a water supply for Mullumbimby despite staff advice that the scheme faces major regulatory hurdles, water quality concerns, and increasing costs.

Byron Council has formally partnered with Homes NSW in a bid to accelerate social and affordable housing projects across the Shire, with the former Mullumbimby Hospital site identified as a key priority.

Public support is being sought to help wheelchair-bound former Paralympic athlete gold medalist Tracy Barrell with her living expenses after an alleged National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) decision reduced her ability to be fed and assisted.

There is something quietly remarkable about LisAmore! Every year, thousands of people make their way to a corner of the Northern Rivers and, for a few hours, swap the everyday for something altogether warmer – the aromas of fresh pasta and cannoli in the air, the sound of an accordion drifting across the grounds, children twirling spaghetti with the kind of concentration usually reserved for far more serious pursuits.

I had the opportunity to speak to the NSW Reconstruction Authority (NSW RA) last month. One of the matters I brought up was the proposed 57 Station Street, Mullumbimby development. It was clear that the only ‘community feedback’ they would be listening to supported housing development on that site.