The euphemisms were flying when Australia's Defence Minister Richard Marles announced last week that an extra $50 billion would be spent on our military over the next decade, and that $72.8 billion of already announced spending would be redirected.

The legendary Northern Hotel’s Backroom opens its doors to laughter when it welcomes The Byron Comedy Fest with eight big headline shows. With audiences packing out shows every year, Festival Directors Mel Coppin and Zara Noruzi have decided a new venue with increased capacity was in order. It also means the festival is an all-weather event – expect all your favourites!

Emergency services will be on show in Banner Park, Brunswick Heads on Saturday April 27 from 9am until 2pm.

This week we sadly publish the last of Mungo MacCallum’s puzzles. Before he died in 2020 Mungo compiled a large archive of crosswords for The Echo.

Around Australia people will come together this Thursday to pay their respects and remember those who have served, and continue to serve, the nation during times of conflict. Listed are details for Tweed, Ballina, Lismore, Byron, Kyogle, and Richmond Valley Council areas.

Tweed Shire Council’s (TSC) draft Sport and Active Recreation Strategy 2023-2033 is open for public comment. The strategy will provide...