At its last meeting, as part of a long discussion about amendments to Ballina Council's delivery program and operational plan, there was a debate about whether Ballina Richmond Rotary Club should still be paid $8,000 to set up chairs for the RSL Lighthouse Day Club.

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.

Byron Council will investigate private sponsorship, tourism partnerships, and smaller staged projects as it seeks a new path forward for the long-delayed Northern Rivers Rail Trail (NRRT) after a major federal funding bid failed.

A Community Memorial, recognising the sacrifice and service of Marine Rescue Ballina volunteers, all first responders and to remember fallen Marine Rescue Ballina volunteers Bill Ewen and Frank Petsch who lost their lives during the Ballina 30 rescue tragedy on May 4, will be held on Sunday 5 July, 11am at RSL Memorial Park, Ballina (beside Ballina RSL club).

The Echo loves your letters and is proud to provide a community forum on the issues that matter most to our readers and the people of the NSW north coast. So don’t be a passive reader, send us your epistles.

Council is currently looking for a new volunteer with a particular interest in agriculture to join its Biodiversity and Agricultural Advisory Committee.