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Latest News
Record pokies losses in 2023 as NSW waits for real reform
The people of NSW lost $8.129 billion to poker machines in 2023, an increase of $29 million on 2022 and the equivalent of $1,000 for every adult and child in the state.
Other News
Almost ten years since the Northern Rivers made history at Bentley
With hundreds of riot police expected to confront thousands of protectors on site at the Bentley blockade, west of Lismore, it was a great relief to many when the NSW government suspended Metgasco's Petroleum Exploration Licence on 15 May 2014, effectively handing a historic win to the community.
School’s long-awaited bus stop on the way
For years, catching a bus to or from Goonengerry Public School has been a potentially perilous activity.
Take a stand against violence against women in Ballina this Sunday
Say ‘No’ to domestic violence this Sunday, May 5 at 4pm in Ballina and stand in solidarity, honouring those who have lost their lives to domestic violence.
Should Local Land Service be the only consent for Private Native Forestry in Kyogle Shire?
The impact of Private Native Forestry agreements are often contentious and with eastern Australia being the only first world country identified as one of 24 ‘deforestation hotspots’ around the world the question of who provides permission and oversees the consent for PNF is important.
Toothless watchdogs and failed promises
The state of Australia's natural environment is rapidly going from bad to worse, as those in government with a duty of care choose to dress windows and kick potential solutions down the road.
Northern Rivers post-flood PTSD trial featuring MDMA approved
More than 200 people with post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of the 2022 Northern Rivers floods and landslides are to receive support through a clinical trial.
Stories about "Repair to Return":
Resilient Lismore’s ‘Repair to Return’ funding
On the eve of the second anniversary of the second devastating flood in 2022, Resilient Lismore has welcomed the finalisation of its funding deed with the NSW Reconstruction Authority, which will enable the continuation of its ‘Repair to Return’ program.
Byron Echo
Can artificial intelligence be used for beach safety?
Paul Bibby - 0
Is it time for a new approach to beach safety that utilises AI technology to tell locals and visitors where it’s safe to swim?
National News
New knife laws for NSW
The NSW government has announced a package of reforms to target possession of knives, particularly among young people, with the intention of reducing knife crime and boosting community safety.
Local News
Ballina Council delays Sharpes Beach redevelopment
David Lowe - 0
At the eleventh hour, Ballina Shire Council has voted to press pause on the controversial Sharpes Beach car park redevelopment, and seek further options.
Byron Echo
2022 flood data will not be incorporated into Council planning ‘at this stage’
With the recent release of local flood data from the devastating 2022 floods now public, Council staff have told The Echo there is no budget this year to apply for funding to incorporate it into their planning instruments.
