ISSUE
COMMUNITY
connect
34 APRIL 2019
The quarterly magazine of the Ballina Shire Council – Connecting our community
BALLINA WELCOMES OVER 1 MILLION VISITORS
The Ballina Tourism Team is ecstatic that for the first time ever, Ballina Shire has welcomed over one-million visitors. The news that 1,028,000 people visited the Ballina Shire in the 2017/2018 year was confirmed by Tourism Research Australia. This breaking news revealed visitors spent $311 million over this period in the Ballina Shire. See page 12 for details...
featured stories... Getting rid of unwanted items
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Mozzie Expert Q&A
from the mayor's desk
From the Mayor's Desk
2018 was a huge year for building infrastructure and I wish to thank Council staff for all their hard work leading up to the previous holidays.
We’ve just announced one million visitors came to the Ballina Shire in 2017/18, and this will only increase in years to come as further infrastructure is completed. We are working on upgrades to the airport terminal that will give more comfort to travellers. The works include a new café, larger departure lounge and upgraded amenities and will be complete by mid-2019. The latest $3.95 million grant from the NSW Government will help with the establishment of further industrial land near the airport, which is scheduled to be completed during the next two years. We have had lots of interest in this precinct and it will be interesting to see what types of businesses eventually operate in that location. The improvements at Shaws Bay were extensively used, especially on hot days, with many people praising the increased quality of the water and infrastructure. More works will be added this year. The two new swimming pool complexes had record numbers in attendance over summer, and I would encourage anybody who needs to use these facilities to use the 25m heated enclosed pool, especially during the winter months. I am incredibly excited with the progress of Council’s new indoor sports centre on the grounds of Ballina Coast High School. The huge structure and framework at the moment will be completed later in the year to become a regional hub for indoor sport on the North Coast. Our shire has many amazing volunteers and many were recognised on Australia Day. I really want to thank the lifesavers and lifeguards for their work through a very hot and dry January. Hopefully, by next season we will have international interpretive signs with phone connectivity that will explain the signs on the beaches and encourage greater safety. I offer a very special tribute to everyone who helped in the search for Raz Burtonwood, former teacher at Ballina High School and keen sportsman and member of the Ballina Lighthouse and Lismore Surf Lifesaving Club. So many risked their own lives in a dramatic attempt to find their mate. The memorial service demonstrated the community’s love for Raz and the amazing stories told by his mates provided a fantastic sunset for this remarkable man. Please enjoy a happy and safe school and Easter holidays whether it is on the road or at the beach. Cr David Wright
contents prosperous economy Customer satisfaction ratings 3 Road Projects / Civil Projects 4 Ballina Indoor Sports Centre 4 Yellow line means no stopping 5 New road names 5 Ballina Town Centre Upgrade – Stage 4 5 Lennox Village Vision – project update 6 The latest news from the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport 7 Ballina Shire population and development activity 8 Our Community Our Future 9 Rolling out the red carpet for filmmakers in Ballina Shire 9 Skennars Head Sports Field 10 Sport and Recreation Facility Plan 10 Land Use Planning Response 11 Industrial Land Public Auction 11 Ballina Coast and Hinterland 12 – 13
healthy environment Healthy Waterways Mosquitoes Fly In Food Safety Champion Waste Watch Tips for getting rid of unwanted items Water Talk
connected community Community Spaces Market Calendar Community Events – What's on? Arts Connect – Northern Rivers Community Gallery 2019 Australia Day Award Winners Anzac Day Commemoration Services
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THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE
24 25 26 – 27 28 – 29 30 31
engaged leadership Win $1,000 off your rates with eRates Online Services EasyPark for 4WD permits Let there be light Pooches in public places to be on a lead Patrols for 2018/2019 Swimming Season There's no such thing as the Dog Poo Fairy Staff Matters
Community Connect eNews is Ballina Shire Council’s electronic newsletter. Sign-up today to receive your Community Connect and other Council news via email. To subscribe visit ballina.nsw.gov.au (search eNews).
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14 15 16 17 – 19 20 – 21 22 – 23
32 32 33 33 34 34 34 36 – 39
subscr now ibe to community conn t enewec s
In November 2018, Council engaged a research firm to conduct a survey to examine community satisfaction on Council’s services and facilities. We do this every two years to ensure we are meeting the community’s expectations. A total of 505 interviews were undertaken and the sample size was weighted by demographic to reflect the Ballina Shire community. This sample size provides a 95% level of confidence, so if we replicated the survey we would get the same result 19 times out of 20.
WHAT YOU TOLD US
OVERALL SATISFACTION WITH COUNCIL WAS 87%
OVER HALF SURVEYED HAD CONTACTED COUNCIL IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS AND 77% SAID THAT THEY WERE SATISFIED
YOU FIND INFORMATION ABOUT COUNCIL SERVICES AND PROJECTS VIA THE BALLINA SHIRE ADVOCATE, LOCAL TV AND LEAFLETS AND NEWSLETTERS IN THE MAIL
AT LEAST 83% OF THE COMMUNITY WERE SATISFIED WITH THE LEVEL OF COMMUNICATION FROM COUNCIL
THE TOP FACILITIES AND SERVICES THAT ARE IMPORTANT TO YOU:
GARBAGE COLLECTION
ROADS
CRIME PREVENTION
BEACHES & FORESHORES
prosperouseconomy
customer satisfaction ratings
WATER SUPPLY
THESE ARE THE THINGS YOU WANT US TO IMPROVE ON:
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
OVERALL HEALTH OF RICHMOND RIVER
OPPORTUNITIES TO PARTICIPATE IN COUNCIL DECISION MAKING
MANAGEMENT OF DEVELOPMENT
LONG TERM PLANNING
To view the current and previous results of the Community Priorities and Satisfaction Survey visit ballina.nsw.gov.au (search ipr). * survey results are published on the Integrated Planning and Reporting webpage. APRIL 2019 ISSUE 34
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communityconnect
road projects / civil projects update
COMPLETED PROJECTS WARDELL ROAD (Seg 70-80) – Road reconstruction, with culvert widening to follow in April 2019.
KALINGA STREET, WEST BALLINA – 570 metres footpath footpath in progress, including an access ramp and a centre refuge, as per Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan (PAMP).
LAKE AINSWORTH FORESHORE IMPROVEMENT WORKS – formalised carparking on the southern road and bitumen seal of Camp Drewe Road. For project details and drone footage visit Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au (search Lake Ainsworth).
CURRENT PROJECTS BALLINA INDOOR SPORTS CENTRE (BISC) – All concrete slabs have been poured and steel work erected over the sports courts. Roofing has been completed with early electrical works underway. The contractor is currently installing the external cladding to the sports court area. It is expected that the remaining steel work and roofing over the foyer and amenities will be concluded in the coming weeks. More details next column.
LINKS AVENUE, EAST BALLINA – Road reconstruction underway with footpath construction completed.
BAGOTVILLE ROAD (SEG 50/SEG 45) – Road reconstruction SIMMONS STREET, BALLINA (SEG 20) – Part road reconstruction BALLINA BYRON GATEWAY AIRPORT – Terminal Upgrade (see page 7 for details).
FUTURE PROJECTS FERNLEIGH ROAD, TINTENBAR (SEG 10) – Road reconstruction near Tintenbar Road
PERRY STREET, ALSTONVILLE (SEG 10) – Road reconstruction REGATTA AVENUE, BALLINA (SEG 30) – Road reconstruction GIBBON STREET, LENNOX HEAD (SEG 20) – Road reconstruction MARTIN STREET, BALLINA (SEG 150) – Road reconstruction CRANE STREET, BALLINA (SEG 70) – Road reconstruction BALLINA TOWN CENTRE UPGRADE – (between Grant and Moon Streets) (see page 5 for details)
AIRPORT BOULEVARD – Road construction. For updates on road closures visit myroadinfo.com.au
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THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE
Ballina Indoor Sports Centre Thanks to $3.5 million NSW Government funding and along with approximately $5 million from Ballina Shire Council, construction of the new Ballina Indoor Sports Centre is progressing well. This two-court facility will adjoin another two-court facility constructed by the NSW Department of Education. The two facilities will be linked by an enclosed passageway and combined they will form a four-court regional scale sports facility. Sports infrastructure is essential for creating an active community and will boost participation in sports such as basketball, netball and futsal. For project details visit Council's website ballina.nsw.gov.au (search Sports Centre).
An unbroken yellow kerb line indicates a ‘No Stopping’ zone. A continuous yellow line painted on the edge of a road is used either instead of, or to reinforce, ‘No Stopping’ signs. Motorists must not stop for any reason, except a medical or similar emergency.
New road names
With the Woolgoolga to Ballina Pacific Highway Upgrade (W2B) progressing well, some local roads in the southern part of Ballina Shire will be renamed. The proposed names are significant to the history or flora and fauna of the location.
LOCATION PROPOSED ROAD NAME NAME ORIGIN
‘No Stopping’ zones are important for community safety, and for minimising traffic delays and the risk of crashes. Stopping within a ‘No Stopping’ zone, marked either with a yellow line or sign, can result in a fine of $263, or a $337 fine and the loss of two demerit points if in a school zone. This National Road Rule came into being in 1999 and allows yellow lines to replace No Stopping Signs. This was written into NSW legislation in 2008 and into the NSW Road Users’ Handbook.
LOCATION PROPOSED ROAD NAME NAME ORIGIN
LOCATION PROPOSED ROAD NAME NAME ORIGIN
Ballina Town Centre Upgrade – Stage 4
Old Pacific Highway – Broadwater to Coolgardie
BLACKWALL DRIVE Previous name for Wardell - black wall of water/bank (possibly indurated sand) in Richmond River near Wardell
Old Pacific Highway – Coolgardie to Pimlico Road
SIGNATA ROAD Predominant local tree species eucalyptus signata
Whytes Lane (east)
EGRET LANE NSW bionet atlas - little egret
prosperouseconomy
Yellow Line Means No Stopping
Council has begun planning the next stage of the Ballina town centre upgrade on River Street between Moon Street and Grant Street. The $2.7 million upgrade will be consistent with previous River Street upgrades to enhance public amenity and help deliver economic outcomes for our community. Works will include widening and paving of the footpaths, reconstruction of the road pavement, new street trees and landscaping, stormwater upgrades, new and upgraded street furniture, improved footpath accessibility and lighting improvements. Works are scheduled to commence in late May 2019 and will take approximately six months to complete. To minimise the impact to motorists and pedestrians these works will be completed in four sections. Traffic restrictions will be in place and motorists may be detoured via Tamar Street. There will also be a combination of night and day works to ensure business access can be maintained during the upgrade. For project details visit Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au (search Ballina Town Centre Upgrade).
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It has been a number of weeks since the One-Way Traffic Trial commenced in the Lennox Head village centre. The community will now have experienced the one-way traffic arrangement, parking options and general amenity. If you haven’t visited Lennox Head recently, the one-way traffic trial will run through to July 2019 with the following traffic arrangements being trialled:
• BALLINA STREET IS ONE-WAY TRAFFIC SOUTHBOUND BETWEEN BYRON STREET AND PARK LANE. • PARK LANE IS ONE-WAY TRAFFIC NORTHBOUND FROM THE SOUTHERN BOUNDARY OF WILLIAMS RESERVE TO THE T-INTERSECTION WITH BYRON STREET. • RAYNER LANE IS ONE-WAY TRAFFIC NORTHBOUND. Parking arrangements are also being trialled with parallel parking in the northern section of Ballina Street and angle parking in the southern section. To seek community feedback the online survey will be available on Council’s website from Monday 8 April 2019.
lennoxtraffic head trial village one-way traffic trial one-way LENNOX HEAD VILLAGE
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THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE
timeline
BALLINA STREET
WEEK STARTING MONDAY 11 MARCH 2019
Install temporary infrastructure (weathe
dependent) for a one-way traffic arrang
in Lennox Head village centre (Ballina S Park Lane, Rayner Lane) MARCH TO JUNE 2019
One-way traffic trial and ongoing monit by Council APRIL TO MAY 2019 Community survey available (4 weeks) JUNE 2019 Review of one-way traffic arrangement
PARK LANE
reporting to Council JULY 2019
Temporary infrastructure for one-way tr
In response to this feedback, Council approved a trial of a one-way traffic arrangement for the Lennox Head WILLIAMS Village Centre. RESERVE
arrangement removed, retained or mod
RAYNER LA
Phase 2 One-way traffic trial
NE
In September 2018 Council endorsed phase two of the LVV project that includes a trial of a one-way traffic management arrangement for the Lennox Head village centre. ET
It is important 2 to determine whether this is suitable for the village centre. This trial will help Council and the community ‘test drive’ this option to gain a practical understanding of how a one-way traffic arrangement will operate. LANE
Your feedback
PARK
3
Timing of trial
Subject to change.
depending on outcomes of the trial
ROSS PARK
The set up and commencement of a one-way traffic trial proposed in the week starting Monday 11 March 2019 a expected to be in place until July 2019 (subject to the su the trial). © Spatial Services 2019. This2019. map is illustrative andisnot to scale. Subject change. ©NSW NSW Spatial Services This map illustrative andtonot to scale.
See Council's website for further information or register to receive notification when the survey is launched at ballina.nsw.gov.au
Both two-way and one-way streetscape concept designs were included in the engagement material. When asked if a one-way traffic arrangement option should be explored for street upgrade works 68% of the 500 respondents supported further investigation, 23% were against further investigation and 9% were unsure.
RAYNER
Beautification projects focus on reconstructing the road and stormwater infrastructure, resulting in enhanced environmental outcomes, wider footpaths that enable new street furniture and expanded street landscaping opportunities.
Council undertook community engagement and LENNOX PARK completed Phase 1 of the Lennox Head Village Vision RESERVE LENNOX HEAD in 2018. COMMUNITY This provided Council with an understanding of PUBLIC CENTRE the community’s priorities for streetscape renewal works TOILET in the Lennox Head village centre.
STR E
Council has allocated a preliminary estimate of $5.5 million in its long term financial plan, to renew and beautify the Lennox Head village centre. The objective is to complete this project prior to the Lennox Head Centenary in 2022.
Council is committed to regularly renewing town centre infrastructure to enhance public amenity and help deliver 2 improved economic outcomes for our local business 1 community. Council has allocated a preliminary estimate of $5.5 million in the long term financial plan to renew RFS and beautify the Lennox Head village centre. The MACKN EY LANEis to complete this upgrade prior to the Lennox objective Head Centenary in 2022.
LINA
During the last ten years we have renewed Main Street, Alstonville, parts of the Wardell town centre including a new wharf and boardwalk, and undertaken ongoing improvements to River Street, Ballina. The final stage of the River Street beautification program, being the Moon to Grant Street segment, is planned to occur this calendar year (see page 5 for details).
HOTEL
BAL
Council is committed to renewing our town centres as this enhances the public amenity and helps to deliver improved economic outcomes for our local business community.
REET
E
Both two-way and one-way streetscape concept designs were included in the engagement material. When asked if a one-way traffic flow option should be explored for the Lennox Head village centre, 68% of the 500 respondents supported an investigation.
RON ST
LAN
To better understand the community’s priorities for streetscape renewal works in the Lennox Head village centre, Council started an engagement process titled “Lennox Village Vision: The Future of the Lennox Head Village Centre" in 2018.
Phase 1 Consultation BY
PAR K
MARCH 2019 – JULY 2019
LENNOX VILLAGE VISION CONSULTATION
PACIFIC PARADE
LENNOX HEAD VILLAGE
Trial outcomes and community feedback will be reviewed in June 2019. Depending on trial outcomes, temporary infrastructure will be removed, retained or modified in July 2019.
COUNCIL’S COMMITMENT TO ENHANCING OUR TOWN CENTRES
6
Lenn Open fox Busine or ss
One Way Traffic Trial
proposed trial period: traffic plan for trial period background
communityconnect
lennox VILLAGE vision
Temporary infrastructure will facilitiate the one-way traffic This will involve removing existing line marking and creat newTRAFFIC roadDIRECTION markings as well as installing sandbag blisters TEMPORARY CONCRETE BARRIERS concrete barriers and new signage. This arrangement is TEMPORARY SAND BAG BLISTERS inexpensive to implement and remove if the one-way tra EXISTING PARALLEL PARKING arrangement proves unsuccessful. TRIAL PARALLEL PARKING ZONE
TheTRIAL one-way trial will operate for a minimum period of th ANGLE PARKING ZONE months and include the 2019 Easter school holiday perio BALLINA STREET FOOTPATH / VERGE Running the trialSPACES for this length of time and over a busy p ACCESSIBLE PARKING willINFORMATION help Council DISPLAY gather important traffic data for the asse process. It is expected that this trial, together with traffic survey data, will provide valuable information to inform th selection of future traffic management options within the centre.
LANE 1 Council will be conducting an online community survey during the one-way traffic trial. This LENNOX HEAD survey will be important in providing Council PROFESSIONAL CENTRE with information on the community’s views on the one-way traffic arrangement for the Lennox The traffic trial will be monitored by Council’s traffic engin BALLINA STREETcentre. The survey LANE RAYNER LANE BALLINA STREET LANE LANE 2 isPARK 3RAYNER Head village expected 2 PARK 3 be Council will able to review the outcomes of the trial in One-waytraffic traffic southbound One-waytraffic traffic northbound from thefrom the One-waytraffic traffic northbound One-way southbound One-way northbound One-way northbound to be launched in April after the trial has been between Byron Street and Park southern boundary of Williams Reserve to2019 and make further decisions regarding the conclusio between Byron Street and southern boundary of Williams Reserve Lane theaccess T-intersection with Byron Street operational for a period of time. To the continuation of the one-way traffic arrangement. There is Park Lane to the T-intersection with Byron Street survey visit the project webpage on Council’s end date set for the trial. Council recognises that this ma website ballina.nsw.gov.au disruptive to some business owners and residents, howe
key aspect of the trial is to determine the extent of benefi impact to the community more broadly.
ballina byron gateway airport Terminal Project Update The terminal expansion project is on schedule and humming along with the terminal now boasting a new café, bar and extra toilet facilities for the arrivals hall. The expanded departures is open and work to the arrivals concourse and security screening is well underway. We are on track to complete the upgraded terminal by mid-2019. The growth in passenger numbers and the expansion of the airport is critical to increasing tourism, employment and business opportunities within the Northern Rivers. This project has been allocated $4.5 million from the NSW Government’s Regional Tourism Infrastructure Program, and $2.4 million in loan funding from Ballina Shire Council.
Help Conquer Cystic Fibrosis For the past 23-years Ballina’s Alan and Jenny Tunks have been raffling guitars to raise much needed funds for Cystic Fibrosis research. In that time they have raised a whopping $600,000. They were inspired to raise money for cystic fibrosis research as their son has the genetic condition that affects the lungs, digestive system and sweat glands. One in 25 Australians is a carrier of the gene (one-million Australians) and there are over 4,000 sufferers in Australia. Cystic Fibrosis is a major Charity at Bluesfest. This year's guitar raffle prizes are: 1st Prize Fender Electric Stratocaster 2nd Prize Maton semi Acoustic 3rd Prize Yamaha Electric Revstar. All guitars will be signed by some of the major acts at this year’s Bluesfest. While raffle tickets will be sold at Bluesfest and drawn on Easter Monday, residents can buy tickets locally at LJ Hooker Real Estate Ballina, Penny Lane Café Lennox Head, the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport on 12 April from 8am to 3pm, and The Point Restaurant Ballina on 12 April between 4pm and 8pm. Tickets are drawn on the main stage at Bluesfest on Easter Monday. Tickets are $5 each or 3 for $10.
prosperouseconomy
LATEST NEWS FROM
Help find a cure visit cysticfibrosis.org.au For further information or donations please contact Alan and Jenny Tunks 0401 275 543.
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BALLINA SHIRE
Population and Development Activity ANNUAL REPORT FY2017/18
Ballina Shire Council has released its annual report on ‘Population and Development Activity’ for the financial year 2017/2018. This report provides a summary of key statistics relating to development activity in Ballina Shire including population growth, dwelling approvals, residential subdivision and value of building work.
POPULATION UPDATE Interestingly, for the quarter ending June 2018 unemployment in Ballina Shire was 3.56%. This figure is significantly better than the regional rate of 5.61%, NSW 4.8% and national rate of 5.4%. Ballina Shire grew at a faster rate than the Northern Rivers region between 2011 and 2016. Annual average growth was 1.3%, with our population at 39,272 in 2011 growing to 41,790 in 2016.
DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY The annual value of building work in Ballina Shire between FY2013/14 and FY2017/18 across the categories of commercial, industrial, rural, residential and subdivisions has increased from $80,646,939 to $112,618,458. For the past two years the value of development is at the $12 million mark. This figure can be attributed to subdivision projects such as Ferngrove Estate, North Ballina, ongoing subdivision and dwelling construction in the Wollongbar Urban Expansion Area, and release of additional residential lots in the Epiq Estate, Lennox Head. As well as significant increases in commercial development such as the Highway Service Centre and Ballina Indoors Sports Centre, and new seniors living development.
Value of approved building work by category, Ballina Shire FY2013/14 – FY2017/18 DEVELOPMENT CATEGORY
2013-14
2015-16
2016-17
2017-18
Commercial
$26,738,000
$1,232,000
$12,001,107
$11,318,596
$43,174,335
$0
$2,229,000
$715,000
$2,714,192
$60,000
$747,110
$300,000
$280,000
$609,585
$1,733,001
$52,105,829
$86,547,355
$71,176,428
$89,466,703
$65,023,481
$1,000
$0
$10,000
$7,781,552
$868,191
$1,055,000
$2,763,000
$1,240,000
$452,318
$1,759,450
$80,646,939
$93,071,355
$85,422,535
$112,342,946
$112,618,458
Industrial Rural Residential Subdivision* Other**
TOTAL
2014-15
Source: Ballina Shire Council *Includes civil works associated with private subdivision **Includes civil works associated with public works projects
Subscribe to the annual ‘Population and Development Activity’ newsletter by registering on Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au (search ‘Economic Development’).
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THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL
Our Draft Delivery Program and Operational Plan 2019/2020 - 2022/2023 will be on exhibition soon and we are seeking your feedback. This key document outlines Council’s major activities and capital projects planned for the next four years. As a Council, we are the closest level of government to the community. Many of the services we provide such as water, wastewater, waste, open spaces, footpaths and drainage are all critical components of our day-to-day lives. It is therefore essential we provide the services our community desires. The next four years promise to remain challenging as our shire continues to grow and we strive to maintain our essential infrastructure and provide new infrastructure, as and when required.
delivery program and operational p lan
201 7–2 021
ADOP TED 23 JUNE 2016
Please take the time to look at the document and provide feedback when it is published in May 2019. For more information visit Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au (search IPR).
Rolling out the red carpet for filmmakers visiting Ballina Shire Our lifestyle, natural assets and accessibility to major centres makes the Ballina Coast and Hinterland the perfect backdrop for filmmaking. In support of a flourishing film and media industry, Ballina Shire Council signed up as a funding partner of Screenworks’ recent seminar ‘The Business of Producing’. In March the seminar welcomed over 150 visitors to Ballina for three days of networking and hearing from industry experts. “It’s encouraging to have Ballina Shire Council as a financial supporter and demonstrates their confidence in what we are trying to achieve for the local film industry,” said Screenworks CEO Ken Crouch. Mayor David Wright said, “Often economic development is focused on the more conventional industries such as construction and tourism. Yet there
is untapped potential in the creative industries that can contribute significantly to our local economy and social fabric.” Screenworks is a not-for-profit charity providing support, leadership and vision for regional screen industries in Australia. Screenworks’ programs and initiatives support aspiring filmmakers across Australia. For more information visit screenworks. com.au
Ballina Council strategies and services are designed to deliver an outstanding lifestyle for residents, workers and visitors. The Ballina Shire Economic Development Strategy identifies ‘entertainment’ and ‘creative industries’ as key industry sectors. A study by the Regional Australia Institute identified the region as having a greater prevalence of creative occupations such as media and arts.
prosperouseconomy
our community our future
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Skennars Head sports field expansion Council will be starting works to expand the Skennars Head Sports Fields this financial year. The $2.2 million project was identified as a key priority in the Ballina Shire Open Space Strategy to help cater for our community's growing population and participation demands. The improvement works will include: • new senior playing field area • new junior playing field area • sportfield lighting and irrigation • improved drainage • additional parking with new site entry This project is possible due to $1,285,000 in Council funding and $990,000 in funding from the State Government Stronger Country Communities Fund. For further information and to view plans visit ballina.nsw. gov.au (search Skennars Head).
Sport and Recreation Facility Plan Council is developing a new Sport and Recreation Facility Plan to help guide the future development of sport and recreation in the shire. The Plan is a community document and is being developed in conjunction with ROSS Planning, who have been engaged to complete community consultation and analysis of existing facilities. The consultation so far has included community surveys and workshops run by Ross Planning to gather important feedback from the community and sporting clubs that will help guide development of the plan. We received a good response during consultation and would like to thank all of those that have provided feedback by attending the workshops or completing the surveys. All of the data collected is now being analysed to develop a draft plan that will be presented for review before the plan is finalised. Visit ballina.nsw.gov.au (search Sports and Recreation).
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THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE
LAND USE PLANNING RESPONSE
FAR NORTH COAST REGIONAL STRATEGY
Planning for future housing and economic growth in the Ballina Shire is guided by a series of plans. The key planning documents that guide Council’s decision making are:
State Government Planning Policy
FAR NORTH COAST REGIONAL STRATEGY: The Far North Coast Regional Strategy (FNCRS) is the State Government’s plan for the Far North Coast. It sets out a vision for the region and identifies outcomes and actions relating to settlement and housing, the environment and employment. The NSW Government is currently preparing a new Regional Growth Plan to replace the FNCRS.
BALLINA SHIRE LOCAL GROWTH MANAGEMENT STRATEGY: The Local
LOCAL GROWTH MANAGEMENT STRATEGY Local Planning Policy
Growth Management Strategy (LGMS) is Council’s local strategic planning policy for residential, commercial and industrial land use activity in the Ballina Shire. The LGMS sets out how Council will manage growth over 20 years. Council’s LGMS includes specific consideration of the character and special qualities of each urban locality and identifies a series of strategic actions to support long-term planning decisions in the Shire.
PLACE BASED PLANS: Council has been preparing strategic plans at a local level throughout the
PLACE BASED PLANNING Local Community Based Strategic Plans
shire. Plans are in place for Wardell, Alstonville with the Wollongbar Strategic Plan 2037 to be reported to the April Council Meeting. A comprehensive plan for Ballina (including East and West Ballina) was adopted in 2015 and is called the Ballina Major Regional Centre Strategy. The development of the Lennox Head plan will commence before the village centenary in 2022. These plans identify key local characteristics of each location and are developed with considerable input from the community.
LEPs AND DCP
LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL PLAN AND DEVELOPMENT CONTROL PLAN:
Regulatory Controls
D . P . 7 7 9 1
The Local Environmental Plans (LEPs) and the Development Control Plan (DCP) direct and guide the way in which development occurs. The LEPs and DCP set out the local ‘rules’ for development. That is, these plans identify types of development that can occur and how such development can be undertaken.
Industrial Land Public Auction
prosperouseconomy
It's all in the planning...
DE-HAVILLAND CRESCENT, SOUTHERN CROSS INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, BALLINA
E
30.4 72.5 A c o u s t i c
41.7 E N o i s e
W a l l
R e s e r v e
W a l l
2606m²
N o i s e
28.9
33.4
3131m²
6
62
5
LOT 5 – AREA 3,131m² LOT 6 – AREA 2,606m² Fully serviced industrial lots
E
59.4
986.4m²
16.3
D r a i n a g e
P U M P S E W E R ( N F S ) S T A T I O N
E
E
53.6
19.9
34.5
E
29.2
38.8
C R E S C E N T
A c o u s t i c
N D D E - H A V I L L A
Vehicular and pedestrian access off De-Havilland Crescent only.
E
Easement for services
Auction: Tuesday 16 April 2019 5.30PM FOR 6.00PM Venue: Ballina Surf Club Lighthouse Parade, East Ballina
Paul Tsikleas Manager Commercial Services | 1300 864 444 | paul.tsikleas@ballina.nsw.gov.au | or any local real estate agent.
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ballina coast & hinterland
recor numbe d r visitors of !
For the first time ever
Ballina welcomes over 1 million visitors
Building Tourism the smarter way! Did you notice a lot of ‘no vacancy’ signs this summer? That’s because our beautiful beaches and pristine hinterland attracted more Ballina Shire visitor numbers than the previous summer. Now with the 2018/19 summer period over, the Ballina’s Tourism Team have their sights set on continuing this growth into the future. The team has developed the 2019 Marketing Prospectus offering new initiatives to drive visitation to the region and position Ballina as the gateway. “With the expansion and growth of the Ballina-Byron Gateway Airport and construction of a new service centre on the Pacific Highway, Ballina is ideally located to disperse visitors across the region. This creates an opportunity to market Ballina as a gateway for visitors wanting to explore all that’s on offer across the Northern Rivers,” said Alicia Wallace, Coordinator Visitor Services for Ballina Shire Council.
The Ballina Tourism Team is now busy producing material available within the marketing prospectus. For the first time, the region will have an all-encompassing guide revealing where to shop, eat, drink, stay and play. Part of the bundle includes a new lifestyle blog #ballinabyronlife.com.au. Check out the blog or sign up to receive articles straight to your inbox at ballinabyronlife. com.au If you are a business and would like to take advantage of the marketing opportunities, contact the Ballina Tourism Team at discover@ballina.nsw.gov.au or call 1800 777 666.
The Ballina Tourism Team is ecstatic that for the first time ever, Ballina has welcomed over one-million visitors. The news that 1,028,000 people visited the Ballina Shire in the 2017/2018 year was confirmed by Tourism Research Australia.
Last year, the team held a series of industry workshops to share ideas and opinions about the future and marketing
Visitors spent $311 million over this period in the Ballina Shire. Overnight visitors injected $253 million into the local economy and this was boosted by a further $58 million from domestic day visitors.
What’s on in the next School Holidays?
This new record is due to strategic planning and the collaboration between Ballina Shire Council, private industry and other levels of government, to sustainably grow the sector. It’s important the Ballina Tourism Team continues to work with local businesses and service providers on marketing initiatives to continually attract higher yielding visitors who respectfully enjoy our destination and leave a significant financial contribution to the local community. If you would like to find how your business can benefit, contact the Ballina Tourism Team on 1800 777 666.
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of tourism in our region. One key theme that came out of the consultation was the need to work collaboratively as a region, as opposed to individual towns and villages promoting themselves in isolation. They also looked at how we attract respectful visitors, share the business around and grow the visitor economy without spoiling what makes the area so appealing in the first place.
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If your business is running activities or holiday specials the kids and families will enjoy, let us know so we can promote them through the School Holiday Activity Program. The School Holiday Activity Program is produced by and promoted through the Visitor Information Centre, distributed to local schools, accommodation providers and available on the Discover Ballina website. Take advantage of this free service, and submit your details by Wednesday 10 April 2019. Email discover@ballina.nsw.gov.au or call 1800 777 666.
lo discovceal ries
FAMILY FUN WITH A FRESH NEW SPORT FOOTGOLF The kids ask what are we doing this weekend? In a bid to try something new and fun, we headed to the new Wardell FootGolf course with two teenagers and two kids under eight. The rules were simple for everyone to understand. Simply kick the ball along a nine-hole course into larger holes and complete the course using the fewest possible kicks – too easy! FootGolf is a sport anyone can play. The course took only 45-minutes to complete and is perfect for a short activity with friends and family. Everyone had fun spending time together and getting some exercise in the great outdoors. Open 7 days a week, Monday through Saturday from 9am. Sundays from 12 noon. Adults $15, under 16s, $10. Bookings required. Wardell FootGolf in Bath Street | 0402 783 521 or 0435 711 341 | facebook.com/wardellfootgolf
SPICE UP YOUR LOOK AND GET EXPERT BEAUTY TIPS You’ve seen the women in department stores having their makeup done, looking relaxed and feeling glamorous. We recently discovered this service is now available locally through Priceline Pharmacy Ballina. The new-look Ballina store now has a dedicated beauty bar where customers can receive oneon-one consultations with a trained beauty expert. And the best part is the service is available at no cost - yes you read correctly. Their express beauty services are free, but you do need to book in advance through the store. Have a special occasion coming up? Priceline’s fully-trained beauty advisors will make you look a million dollars with their professional makeup services, from just $40. Priceline Pharmacy has the biggest range of skin care and cosmetics at great prices. Shop 2, Ballina Central Shopping Centre, 44 Bangalow Road, Ballina 02 6681 5733 | manager@pricelineballina.com.au | Instagram: @pricelinepharmacyballina
prosperouseconomy
Unique Experiences
MORE THAN A BARREL OF LAUGHS TOUR Boutique breweries and distilleries have been popping up around the region in recent years, each offering unique products and experiences. Lennox local, Jarryd Rodger offers a behind the scenes look at the craft brewery and distillery industry with Behind the Barrel tours. He picks up guests from Ballina, Lennox and Byron Bay travelling along the scenic coast and hinterland route to meet local brewers and distillers. Behind the scenes you will hear inspiring stories, see their operation and, of course, enjoy their craft with beer and spirit tastings! A six-hour tour includes three breweries, a distillery and lunch plus all the tastings. It is the perfect day out for couples, a few friends or for a special occasion. The tours operate Saturday and Sunday. Private group tours are also available. Behind the Barrel | 0498 463 919 | behindthebarrel.com.au
Connect with us and discover a unique experience or what’s on: Web: Discoverballina.com |
ballinacoastandhinterland |
discoverballina | Blog: ballinabyronlife.com.au
This is paid advertising part of the Unique Experiences marketing program.
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LAKE AINSWORTH COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM Love it or Lose it
57%
LENNOX HEAD RESIDENTS
3%
28%
bird
ELSEWHERE IN BALLINA SHIRE
OTHER PARTS OF AUSTRALIA RIVERS
13%
WIDER NORTHERN RIVERS
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INTERNATIONAL RESPONDENT
Council would like to thank the community for the excellent response we received to the Lake Ainsworth Coastal Management Program community survey. This response rate gives us a high level of confidence that the results will be statistically valid. Our project team is now analysing the data and these results will be available on the project website soon. The Lake Ainsworth Coastal Management Program Stage 2 report is on track to be available by June 2019.
East Ballina Fauna Habitat Project
What wildlife have you spotted in East Ballina? Council is continuing the bush regeneration project to enhance Prospect Lake and North Creek bushland at East Ballina. This work will complement weeding of the natural vegetation on North Creek and Prospect Lake, as well as infill planting at Angels Beach Drive. Native animals and birds use these areas and we want to help ensure populations remain strong and healthy into the future. Shortly we will distribute a survey to residents in the project area (Northumberland Drive, Eyles Drive, John Sharpe Street) in East Ballina. We are seeking feedback on local wildlife and opportunities that we can provide so wildlife can co-exist within the local area. Look out for these surveys, which can either be completed online or in writing and returned to Council. We have ten prize packs of native shrubs and groundcovers. Surprise us with your observations and if you have photos, even better. If you don’t receive a survey but are interested in this project please email council@ballina.nsw.gov.au. Keep an eye on future editions of Community Connect for updates on this project.
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477 RESPONSES IN TOTAL
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For further information contact Council’s Environmental Health Officer, Rachael Jenner on 1300 864 444 or visit the project website hydrosphere.com.au/lakeainsworth
Shaws Bay Beautification Locals and visitors are now enjoying new sandy beaches, shaded seating and picnic areas, landscaping, pathways, formalised carparking and better water quality through bank stabilisation works. To view how the project developed and activities now being enjoyed check out the footage by Synergy on Council's website ballina.nsw.gov.au (search Shaws Bay). Shaws Bay works are continuing which will see a new beach and recreational area off Pop Denison Park plus improved carparking, extension of pathways and amenities. Council is investigating dredging the bay and currently sourcing funding through external grants to enable this to happen.
Wondering why there are so many mosquitoes and what to do about it? NSW Health Pathologist and Medical Entomologist Dr Cameron Webb at University of Sydney was recently in Ballina and offered his expert mozzie advice on the recent influx.
PERFECT BREEDING CONDITIONS
Warm weather, recent rainfall, king tides and a long hot summer are the main reasons for the recent influx. The good news is mosquitoes do not live much more than a few weeks. So, depending on rainfall, we should not see these mosquitoes numbers increasing through April.
MONITORING AND MITIGATION
Council's Environmental Health Officers actively monitor mosquitoes to detect potentially harmful diseases. Unfortunately, with so many mosquitoes found in so many different places, it's very difficult to control mosquito populations. Many of these local environments are also ecologically sensitive and large scale spraying would not be considered appropriate. However, Council is looking at other sustainable approaches to help maintain the impact of mosquitoes.
PROTECT YOURSELF
If possible, avoid bushland and wetlands at dusk and dawn. Wear light-fitting and full length clothing and covered shoes. Use a repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Also don't let your backyard become a breeding area. Tip out, cover up, or throw away any containers that collect water – mosquitoes love these. More information about our monitoring program and tips can be found ballina.nsw.gov.au
Council hosted a two-day Q&A on its Facebook page inviting our page followers to post their mozzie questions for Dr Webb to answer. Below of are some of the questions and responses.
QUESTION FROM MERRILYN: Why can’t the council go around and spray the Mosquitoes ....
RESPONSE FROM DR CAMERON WEBB While there are some options for mosquito control, the extent of spraying required to keep numbers of mosquitoes down would be extensive and some of the areas where mosquitoes are flying out of are of high ecological importance and spraying may not be considered appropriate. Some types of spraying may also kill beneficial insects so careful consideration is required before these programs can commence. There are many challenges in
undertaking effective mosquito control, that is why there are very few mosquito control programs in NSW.
QUESTION FROM RIKI: Are there any specific plants that we can plant in the garden that help to deter mozzies?
engaged leadership healthy environment healthyenvironment
Mosquitoes fly in
MOZZIE EXPERT Q&A
RESPONSE FROM DR CAMERON WEBB Unfortunately not. While the concentrated extracts of some native plants provide protection when used in topical insect repellents, the plants themselves don't. In fact, tea tree oil can be a moderately effective insect repellent but the tea tree forests on the north coast can also be a major source of mosquitoes themselves! In your garden, try to avoid plants that trap water (especially bromeliads) as they can be a productive source of mosquitoes.
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F
D SAFETYchampions
Making it real so students are work ready…
3. ARE THE STUDENTS SCHOOL LEAVERS, OR A MIX OF MATURE AGE, CAREER CHANGERS? We have a mix of students across many age groups, cultures and career paths. Our youngest group is the EVET students who are undertaking vocational studies with us while still in school, then we have a large number of apprentices working in the industry, students reskilling, and some who just want to learn the basics. We have more mature students, and others who have been working in industry for a long time but are wanting qualifications, this group can bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to our classes.
this editionle's profi
4. HOW DO YOU FIND THE PROCESS OF WORKING WITH SUE ANDERSON FROM BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL? Support Staff Shirley Forster and Lori Brown ensure the training kitchens run smoothly.
Food Safety Champions pride themselves on their food handling techniques to ensure that they are providing safe and hygienic food for their customers. In this issue of Community Connect, we visit the Pathways Café at TAFE NSW Ballina Campus. TAFE NSW North Region is leading the way in regional NSW providing operational training cafés and kitchens where students gain practical and real-life customer experiences.
5. HOW IS TRAINING KITCHEN DIFFERENT FROM A COMMERCIAL KITCHEN?
1. TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE PROGRAM YOU PROVIDE?
It’s all about best practice. The first three months of student training sees significant changes in terms of reprogramming previously learnt habits and behaviours. We can’t afford anyone to get food poisoning, so our procedures are tight and they have to be followed by all the teachers and students. All our training complies with Training Services NSW requirements. This includes cleaning and hygiene so our kitchens are cleaned top to bottom by every class, sometimes a couple of times a day.
We offer a Certificate II and III in Hospitality to make the students work ready. The course is designed so that students are cooking and preparing meals that will be eaten by real customers.
6. WHAT MAKES THE PATHWAYS CAFÉ AND THE STUDENTS FOOD SAFETY CHAMPIONS?
Mary Allan, Head Teacher of Tourism, Events, Cookery and Hospitality and Shirley Forster, Café Manager give us an overview of the Pathways Café at TAFE NSW Ballina.
Classes are run by teachers but the Café is managed by our wonderful support staff. They make sure that the Café is open Monday to Friday to create a steady flow of customers and to assist the classes in being ready and food safe. We cater to all students and staff on campus but the public are welcome to visit us as well! The students cover all aspects of hospitality including marketing and retail and they need to cater to different customer requests. For example, the Ballina Pathways Café has a lighter meal target market while Wollongbar needs big hearty meals for the tradies.
2. TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE KITCHENS THAT THE STUDENTS OPERATE IN? Our kitchens are set up for training, not only do we have every piece of equipment we can fit in but often we’ll have 10 of everything so all students can have a go. Part of our training requirements for our students is to be operating in a real life environment so it's really important for us to be open to the public. We want to make the learning real!
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Sue is a fantastic wealth of knowledge and keeps us up to date with changes that may affect our operations and training. Since we teach the Food Safety training and we hold our standards very high, it can be a nervous time while Sue is in inspecting us! But she is always helpful and we've maintained our 5-star rating.
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It's about having well-qualified teachers who are industry based and fantastic support staff who ensure everything runs smoothly. We also provide training for "Food Safety Supervisors" which all food-related workplaces in NSW are required to have. We provide information and training to anyone working in industry and are called on by many businesses for advice. We also deliver food safety classes to the general public and can tailor design courses for local businesses. PATHWAYS CAFÉ | TAFE NSW Ballina Campus, Burnet Street Open to the general public | 8.30am to 1.30pm Monday to Friday NIGHTCAP RESTAURANT | TAFE NSW Wollongbar Campus, 61 Sneaths Road, Open to the general public | Tuesday and Thursday nights For further information about courses and classes contact: Mary Allan | Head Teacher - Tourism, Events, Cookery and Hospitality TAFE NSW North Region | 02 6620 4888
watch “I was quite surprised when I dropped off a mattress at the waste facility recently. I paid $19 which I thought was pretty reasonable”. GREG, CUSTOMER.
Waste Management Centre Upgrade In recent months, the Waste Management Centre’s Transfer Station has had a makeover. Here are some of the changes: Our bulky waste skips are now equipped with tipwells, which are simple bucket mechanisms that allow residents to place old furniture, treated timber, carpet and other larger items directly onto a ground level surface. The new mechanisms support easier disposal of bulky materials and support staff to recover more items that may be reused or reprocessed.
NEW SIGNAGE Transfer Station signs have been transformed so it is clearer to understand site directions as well as what goes where. New security cameras have also been installed.
EASIER ACCESS
“I had some greenwaste and broken furniture. The weighbridge officer explained that I could save money by dropping my branches in the greenwaste skip to reduce what would be charged at the higher mixed waste rate. Thanks for explaining!” ALAN, CUSTOMER.
healthyenvironment
waste
Poles have been removed from the front of the Community Recycling Centre (CRC), to allow residents to drive straight up to the CRC, allowing for safer traffic movements and easier access. Our CRC is where residents can drop off limited quantities of household hazardous materials for free (such as fluorescent lights, batteries, oils, paints, gas bottles and fire extinguishers).
FREE E-WASTE Eligible e-waste is accepted free of charge. To simplify transfer station use, we have relocated the e-waste drop off area next to the CRC so that all materials that can be dropped off for free are in the same area.
NEW WASTE GUIDE If you haven’t been to the site before or want to familiarise yourself more, a Waste Management Centre User Guide has been developed. The document includes a map, what services are available at the centre and tips to reduce costs. The guide can be collected from the Waste Management Centre weighbridge, Council offices, or downloaded from Council’s website. Please note that visitors should always follow instructions from our helpful site staff when on site.
“I disposed of 2 bikes and an old wheelbarrow and as it was all scrap metal, it only cost me 60 cents!” CHRISTINE, CUSTOMER.
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WASTE WISE QUIZ
watch test yo wasteur knowle dge
1
ARE TAKEAWAY SINGLE USE COFFEE CUPS RECYCLABLE?
2
IS BUBBLE WRAP A SOFT PLASTIC?
Join the war on food waste and save money!
3
CAN BIODEGRADABLE BAGS BE PLACED IN THE ORGANICS BIN?
Are you keen to create delicious meal plans the whole family will enjoy? Are you looking for inspiring leftover makeover recipe ideas to ensure your good food doesn’t go to waste? Great news as families across Ballina Shire can now join the war on food waste by becoming Food Smart champions.
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WHERE DO I GO TO CLARIFY WHAT ITEM GOES IN WHICH BIN?
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CAN I PLACE LARGE BRANCHES IN MY ORGANICS BIN?
1. Are takeaway single use coffee cups recyclable? No. Single use coffee cups cannot be recycled due to their fused plastic lining. They must all go to landfill. This includes ‘biodegradable’ coffee cups as the necessary requirements to compost them aren’t available at the Lismore Compost Facility where our kerbside recycling and organics is transported to. We support the use of reusable cups. 2. Is bubble wrap a soft plastic? Yes. Bubble wrap is defined as a soft plastic and can be recycled at participating supermarkets through the REDcycle program. Go to www. redcycle.net.au for more details on soft plastics recycling.
“The average NSW household throws away $70 of edible food every week! Collectively in NSW, householders throw away $10 billion worth of good food every year,” said Education Coordinator for NE Waste, Linda Tohver. "It's important we all try and do our bit to reduce our food waste in our own homes, and Ballina Shire Council is giving all residents the opportunity to be actively involved through the Food Smart program." “By participating in the Food Smart Program, families will learn valuable shopping tips, time saving meal planning hints, leftover makeover recipe ideas and clever storage methods designed to make your food last longer – and get eaten by your family!” Sign up at newaste.org.au/foodsmart or contact foodsmart@ newaste.org.au All participating households who sign up and complete the first survey can collect a free tool kit from Council with items such as a tea towel, tips to reduce food waste, plus bag clips and food huggers to help keep food fresher for longer.
3. Can biodegradable bags be placed in the organics bin? No. Only green-coloured compostable bags can be placed in the organics bin. To ensure you have suitable bags, look for the compostable seedling logo, the term ‘compostable’ and the Australian Standard (AS4736). All biodegradable and degradable bags must go to landfill only. To find a downloadable list of compostable bin liners, go to the waste section of Council’s website. Alternatively, newspaper can also make a satisfactory bin liner for food scraps. 4. Where do I go to clarify what item goes in which bin? Council has a range of resources to assist residents to understand what goes where. Resources can be collected from our Cherry Street Council offices or downloaded from the waste section on Council’s website. It’s important to understand how to use our 3-bin kerbside collection service as Council will soon be conducting random audits to gauge levels of compliance. 5. Can I place large branches in my organics bin? Branches and large palm fronds can be placed into the organics bin (light green coloured lid), however they must be cut up into pieces so that your bin lid will close. The total weight of the bin must not exceed 60 kg.
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Food Smart is coordinated by NE Waste in partnership with Ballina Shire Council, and developed by Love Food Hate Waste and the NSW EPA under the Waste Less Recycle More initiative funded from the waste levy.
Reduce Single Use Challenge Council has partnered up with Waste Warriors and Barefruit Marketing to run a Reduce Single Use Challenge, a new pilot business waste reduction campaign in May. The campaign will promote the use of reusable cups and containers at food premises and aims to support a culture of reuse and waste minimisation in our region. By reducing reliance on single use items, businesses can save money, reduce waste and build a loyal following. The project is based on an initiative originally created by Barefruit Marketing who transformed the way their office viewed single use items and sought ways to spread the message. In the lead up to the challenge, Ballina CBD’s cafés and restaurants can expect a visit to explain the campaign, provide tips and clarify any legislative, health and safety concerns. Interested residents and businesses can find factsheets on using reusable cups and containers from the waste section of Council’s website.
Did you know?
Our waste education officer is available to talk at your next community group meeting or come and visit your school. Please contact Council on 1300 864 444 for more details.
Return and Earn: Litter, App and Bin Etiquette IS RETURN AND EARN MAKING A DIFFERENCE TO LITTERING? Return and Earn was originally approved by the NSW Government to assist in reducing litter in our parks, waterways and ocean. In the first year of the Return and Earn scheme, the statistics speak for themselves: not only are 26 million drink containers processed through Return and Earn collection points each week, but drink containers that are now eligible for Return and Earn have been reduced by 44 per cent in the litter stream (source: NSW EPA).
DID YOU KNOW THERE’S AN APP TO HELP YOU MANAGE YOUR RETURN AND EARN CONTAINERS?
We are a RETURN & EARN household
engaged leadership healthy environment healthyenvironment
WASTE MANAGEMENT CENTRE CLOSED OVER EASTER (Friday 19 April – Monday 22 April) AND ANZAC DAY (Thursday 25 April)
Tech-savvy residents can download the MyTOMRA app for smooth management of Return and Earn drop offs at collection points. In the app, residents can find their nearest recycling collection point and ascertain in real time whether there is anything to prevent depositing containers at the collection point. The app also allows users to keep track of personal and local recycling statistics and claim refunds digitally. Visit mytomra.com.au for more details.
KERBSIDE BIN RUMMAGING While the scheme has been successful in terms of litter reduction, Council has been advised of instances where people are going through resident’s kerbside wheelie bins. Many people perhaps don’t realise that the contents of a kerbside bin are the legal possession of the property owner when on private land and the property of Council when the bins are placed on the kerbside for collection. It is unlawful to enter a private property and Council requests that people collecting containers respect the law and the rights of private landholders.
No returnable containers inside this bin.
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TIPS FOR GETTING RID OF
UNWANTED ITEMS
We are strong advocates for waste avoidance and resource recovery over landfilling materials wherever possible. Many people don’t know where to start when they no longer need an item, particularly when the item is large or bulky. Check out our handy flowchart to support residents to seek the best solution for disposal of unwanted items.
IS THE ITEM CLEAN, IN GOOD CONDITION AND OPERATIONAL? (a good rule of thumb is: would you give it to a friend?)
YES
NO
SELL
GIVE AWAY
UPCYCLE
LOCAL PRINT MEDIA such as The Ballina Shire Advocate and Northern Star.
GIVE TO A FRIEND, NEIGHBOUR OR DONATE TO A CHARITY SHOP
If you’re creative, give it a makeover and re-purpose the item.
TRADING POST, GUMTREE, EBAY LOCAL FACEBOOK SITES such as Facebook marketplace, Buy Swap Sell, Online Bargains, Online Jumble Sale. HOLD A GARAGE SALE (start planning for Second Hand Saturday our biggest garage sale on the north coast, held every September and we pay for the advertising!).
THERE ARE MORE THAN 13 CHARITY STORES IN THE SHIRE and at least three of these in Ballina alone will come and pick up larger items such as furniture (it is up to the discretion of the driver to determine if the goods will be suitable for sale). GIVE ITEMS AWAY FOR FREE Simple avenues for advertising include: GUMTREE, FACEBOOK MARKETPLACE Look for groups such as ‘Ballina and Lismore area Buy/Swap/Sell and Giveaway Anything’ or non-profit network based websites such as FreeCycle “an entirely non-profit movement of people who are giving (and getting) stuff for free in their own towns and keeping good stuff out of landfills”.
Check out some of the wonderful local artists that can turn old furniture and wares into something amazing and sustainable.
Is the item broken, dirty/ stained and past its use by date?
TAKE THE ITEM TO THE WASTE MANAGEMENT CENTRE There are a number of maintenance services and transport contractors who will take these items to the landfill if you can’t transport them yourself. Our friendly weighbridge staff can accept credit card payment over the phone if someone else is transporting the goods for you.
Why doesn’t Ballina Shire Council have a resident tip voucher system?
reduce reuse recycle
While some residents would like a tip voucher service, we ask ratepayers if they would be prepared to pay for it on an ongoing basis regardless of whether the voucher is used. Let’s look at some of the key points to consider.
WE HAVE TO TRANSPORT ALL WASTE TO OTHER FACILITIES The Ballina Waste Management Centre does not have an operating landfill, therefore all waste from our council area must be transported and buried at another landfill facility. Our waste centre gate fees are used to pay the compulsory NSW EPA waste levy ($81.30/tonne of landfill waste received) and the handling, processing, transportation and disposal costs for the waste received. We provide a kerbside collection service for 16,574 households and the current waste charges cover the cost to operate this service. We lift and empty 1.9 million kerbside bins a year! If each household was provided with a voucher to dispose of 150 kg of waste annually, up to 2,486 tonnes of waste could be generated. Not including the initial set up cost for items such as a computer software program, hardware and print media, the annual cost to implement a tip drop off voucher service for up to 2,486 tonnes of waste is $612,720. The cost of operating and managing a landfill facility is significant. There is no bucket of money that can pay for the cost of managing waste generated under a voucher system.
IT’S NEVER BEEN CHEAPER TO BRING SMALL AMOUNTS OF WASTE TO THE LANDFILL Council reviewed our fees and charges for the 2018/19 financial year and removed the minimum fee charge at the Waste Management Centre. Many customers have been pleasantly surprised by the price to dispose of small volumes of material. It typically costs less than $25 to dispose of an item such as a lounge or a mattress. Sorting your waste by stream (for example scrap metal, cardboard and mixed waste in separate piles) will also help to reduce costs.
WE OPERATE ON A USER PAYS BASIS Council operates under a user pays system. This means we avoid penalising residents who wouldn’t use a tip voucher service in order to subsidise those that would. As well as being equitable, the existing arrangements represent the most efficient expenditure and least cost to the wider community.
ARE CHEAP GOODS REALLY CHEAP? Considering the whole lifecycle of a product at the time of purchase is an important step towards sustainability. Cheaper goods often don’t last as long as more quality items so the cost and inconvenience of disposal should be considered when purchasing an item. Stores that specialise in large items such as mattresses and fridges often offer to remove and recycle the old item for a small fee.
WHY DON’T WE HAVE BULK KERBSIDE COLLECTION? Introducing kerbside collection would have a significant financial impact and would result in increased waste charges between $40-$60 per property, per year. This would not be a user-pay service, all residents would have to pay this annual additional charge regardless of whether they use the service or not. Kerbside collection is inconsistent with Council’s objectives for waste recovery and landfill diversion as very little of this material can be sorted and recycled. It also doesn’t encourage residents to consider recycling, resale and other waste diversion activities. There are also significant risks associated with environmental pollution, public safety, residential amenity and illegal dumping.
Reasons a tip voucher service is requested The answer is usually convenience, but some believe that as they pay rates, they are entitled to this service. The reality is a tip voucher service is not “free” and Council would need to generate the income to pay for the transportation and disposal of this material. We would likely have to charge every household approximately $40 per year to cover the costs of this additional service. Regardless of whether a household uses the service or not. Council’s current waste collection rates cover the costs to operate our kerbside collection service. We lift and empty 1.9 million kerbside bins a year! * based on 2018/2019 financial year.
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SAVE WATER AND WIN 9 THE 160 LITRE CHALLENGE COMPETITION! Terms and Conditions
neat ways to save
Dusk or Dawn
Rous County Council has launched a regional campaign to encourage the community to reduce their water use. The challenge is on to come up with an innovative idea on how to use less than 160 litres of water per person per day. Kids under 18 years old can win double yearly passes to Wet ’n’ Wild by submitting their most creative photo or video on how to reduce water use. Northern Rivers residents can win a water efficient dishwasher or washing machine up to the value of $1,500 as the major prize in the competition. In a region with a rapidly growing population and increasing extreme weather conditions, being water wise is more important than ever.
Trigger Up
Duration The Competition commences from 9.00am (AEST) on 1 April 2019 and closes 5.00pm (AEST) 31 July 2019. Winning entries will be announced on Monday 12 August 2019.
$ water efficient showerhead. Water your garden before 10am and after 3pm
Fit a trigger nozzle to all hand-held hoses
Install a rainwater tank. Rebates can save you $
Judging and Prizes The judging panel will be made up one representative from Rous County Council and at least one representative from a Participating Council. The competition is a game of skill. Entries are judged on the following set criteria: Innovation of Water Saving (how creative the entry is), Water Saving Potential (how effective the entry is and how easily it may be implemented). Prizes include first prize for each category. Consolation prizes may be awarded for commended entries at the judging panel’s discretion. Prizes are not transferable, refundable or exchangeable and cannot be taken as cash. Prizes may be subject to conditions imposed by third party suppliers. Rous County Council reserves the right to offer substitute prizes to equal value if any prize is unavailable for any reason.
Simple changes to everyday behaviour, such as turningWash the tapsTaps off off, while brushing your teeth, can Fix the Drip make Wisely an impactPlug on in water use in the home.
Disqualification Rous County Council has the right to disqualify any entrants or entries at its discretion for any reason, including but not limited to, infringing a third party’s intellectual property rights, breaching the Terms and Conditions, or providing a non-genuine, inappropriate, incomplete or late entry.
Winner Notification Prize winners will be notified on the platform through which the entry was received (Instagram or email) on Monday 12 August 2019. To claim a prize, winners will be asked to provide suitable identification. Winners’ names will be published on the Rous County Council and Participating Council websites, as well as the official 160 Litre Challenge Instagram page on Monday 12 August 2019
By limiting water use to 160 litres per person per day you’ll be saving money on your water and electricity bills as well as helping preserve our precious water Recycle, Line up resources in thisShower region.
Winners Prize winners consent to being photographed and those images published in promotional materials regarding the 160 Challenge or other Rous County Council and Participating Councils’ activities relating to watersaving initiatives.
Fix dripping taps. Check toilet leaks with food dye in the cistern
Wash vehicles on the lawn. Use a bucket
When brushing your teeth or rinsing dishes and food
Re-use
the Stars
Smart
Unclaimed Prizes If a prize is unclaimed within 30 days of the winner/s being notified, it will be awarded to the entrant who submitted the next best entry in the relevant category (as determined by Rous County Council).
Costs and Expenses Entrants are responsible for all expenses incurred in entering the competition. Any costs and expenses incurred by the entrant in creating and submitting an entry will not be reimbursed under any circumstances.
Intellectual Property Rous County Council reserves the right to reproduce names, photographs, material, comments and feedback provided by entrants in promotional material, including but not limited to its website, brochures and other online channels. All entrants provide Rous County Council a non-exclusive, irrevocable licence to use, copy, store, distribute and edit all entry materials and/or any other materials provided in conjunction with the Competition. By submitting an entry to Rous County Council for the Competition, each entrant warrants that all elements contained in the entry or other material: i. are original to the entrant and fully cleared for use as stated in these Terms and Conditions; ii. do not and will not, in any way, violate or breach any of the terms of any other agreement the entrant may be a party to; iii. do not contain defamatory, unlawful, untrue or inaccurate information, infringe or violate any copyright or other right; or contain any matter which the publication of will violate any law; iv. are not obscene or likely to cause offence; v. are not in any way harmful, intimidating or abusive; vi. will not require Rous County Council to pay or incur any sums to any person or entity as a result of Rous County Council use; vii. where the entry contains the image, likeness or any identifying characteristic of another person, the entrant has received express consent from those other people to be included in the entry. The entrant indemnifies Rous County Council for any breach of this warranty and for any breach of privacy legislation.
16 0 REE LLIITTR
CHALLENGE
TO SAVE WATER
COMPETITION Prove you’re a water saver and WIN!
Are you up for the 160 Litre Challenge? Reduce your water use. Prove you’re a water saver and win! For more information on how to enter visit rous. nsw.gov.au/160litrechallenge. Follow on Instagram Download your Water Score Card @160LitreChallenge. to record your daily water use at: $
Connect to recycled water for garden, toilets and laundry use
$
Choose water efficient appliances. More stars = more savings
Install a water saving shower head. Short showers, 1–4 minutes
www.rous.nsw.gov.au/160LitreChallenge
On average, Northern Rivers residents use 194 litres of water per person per day. A four-minute shower alone can use between 24 to 36 litres, even with a
Privacy Any personal information collected in the administration of the competition will be handled in accordance the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 and Rous County Council’s Privacy Policy which is available on Council’s website.
Disclaimer Except for any liability that cannot be excluded by law, Rous County Council and the Promoting Councils (including their employees) exclude all liability for any loss (including any damage, claim, injury, cost or expense) which is suffered or incurred by any entrant (including a winner) in connection with the Competition, including, without limitation: (i) any indirect, economic or consequential loss; (ii) any loss arising from the negligence of Rous County Council and associated councils (and any of their personnel); and (iii) any liability for personal injury or death. No responsibility will be taken by Rous County Council or the Promoting Councils for entries ineligible due to technical reasons or any other reason. Rous County Council as the organiser of the Competition is not in any way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Instagram or any social media platform. You agree to release Instagram and associated social media platforms from any and all claims and demands arising out of, or in connection with, your participation in the Competition or with any of the prizes offered. You further agree to any rules or guidelines stipulated by the social media platforms relating to the use of the platforms and your participation in the Competition.
Instagram The 160@160litrechallenge Litre Challenge is an initiative by Rous County Council in conjunction with Ballina Shire, Byron Shire, Lismore City and Richmond Valley councils.
Wet’n’Wild passes, washing machine or dishwasher to be won!
General The Competition and these Terms and Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of NSW. In the event of any dispute regarding the administration, rules, results and all other matters relating to the Competition, all decisions of the judging panel and Rous County Council shall be final and no correspondence or discussion shall be entered into.
Designed locally. Printed locally by Lismore City Printery.
RECYCLED WATER FLOWS DURING DRY MONTHS This year’s summer was hot and unusually dry. In fact, figures released from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology show Ballina had the lowest recorded summer rainfall in 25 years (just 109.2mm).
Ballina Shire Council’s Treatment Engineer, Mr Thomas Lees says this summer’s results might not be a one off. “Unfortunately, long term climate trends indicate it’s likely we will experience more long and dry summers. The good news is recycled water can be reused multiple times, which reduces demand on our precious drinking water sources.” Council’s recycled water scheme is drought proof which means it’s not impacted by water restrictions. It’s also crystal clear, cheaper to use and, as our shire continues to grow, key to meeting future water demands. For more information visit ballinawater.com.au
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Eligibility Entry is limited to residents who currently reside within the Ballina Shire, Byron Shire, Lismore City or Richmond Valley Council areas of NSW, Australia. Employees and immediate family members of employees of Rous County Council and Participating Councils are ineligible to enter the Competition. If a participant is under the age of 18 years, they are deemed to have obtained the permission of their parent or guardian to enter the Competition in accordance with the Terms and Conditions. Rous County Council may cancel the Competition at any time for any reason. Entry is limited to one per person, community group or school.
Entries Entry to the Competition can be submitted by uploading a photo or video to the entrant’s Instagram page with the accompanying hashtag #160litrechallenge AND tag @160LitreChallenge; or emailing a link to a photo or video to savewater@rous.nsw.gov.au and providing contact details; or posting a photo or video on a USB stick to 160 Litre Challenge Competition, PO Box 230, LISMORE, NSW 2480 and providing contact details.
But there is a silver lining to this year’s scorching summer. Ballina Shire’s recycled water was in high demand and proved its value and capability as a drought-proof water source. But don’t take our word for it, the results show it is a reliable and environmentally friendly water source.
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Raining? Tank it
By entering the Competition (the 160 Litre Challenge), you agree to these Terms and Conditions. Rous County Council is the organiser of the Competition. Ballina Shire Council, Byron Shire Council, Lismore City Council and Richmond Valley Council will promote the competition on behalf of Rous County Council (as ‘Participating Councils’).
THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE
Organiser information Rous County Council, A: 218-232 Molesworth Street LISMORE NSW 2480, T: (02) 6623 3800, E: council@rous.nsw.gov.au
The summer in stats Almost 100% of Alstonville and Wardell’s wastewater was treated and reused to irrigate local nurseries and farms.
62% of Lennox Head’s wastewater was treated and reused by our dual reticulated recycled water residents in Lennox Head and Ballina.
The demand for dual reticulated recycled water has been so great that since 1 December 2018 180 million litres has been prevented from being discharged to the ocean.
engaged leadership healthy environment healthyenvironment
Boost for Wardell, Meerschaum Vale and Cabbage Tree Island water Ballina Shire Council has secured over $1.1 million towards the upgrade of the Marom Creek Treatment Plant under the NSW Government’s $1 billion Safe and Secure Water Program. The state funding will be used to upgrade the existing treatment plant which was constructed in the early 80s. This important investment will secure high quality drinking water for Wardell and Meerschaum Vale and Cabbage Tree Island residents now and into the future. The treatment upgrades will equip the plant with new technology whilst ensuring it continues to meet current drinking water standards and also provide additional capacity to handle future population growth. The upgrades will ensure the high standards of water quality provided to the area are maintained to give our community peace of mind when they turn on the tap. The four-stage plant upgrade will improve chemical dosing, control and monitoring systems, which will provide more consistent drinking water quality for residents. The preliminary design process for the first stage is underway and Council hopes to begin construction by mid-year. The NSW Government’s $1 billion Safe & Secure Water Program has been established to address key risks to regional water safety and security in NSW, to provide safe, secure and sustainable water and wastewater services to regional NSW towns. It ensures regional NSW communities have access to high quality, reliable and affordable water that meets modern environmental and health standards.
APRIL 2019 ISSUE 34
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VE LI
Get Active Expo a Great Success
IC US M
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park lane theatre
To find out w hat is happenin g in your local comm unity space visit communitys pac or Like us o es.com.au n Facebook .
The Get Active Expo held at the Alstonville Leisure and Entertainment Centre in February saw over onethousand people through the doors to find out more about the sports and other activities available in Ballina Shire. Event Ambassador and Pararoo Vice Captain, Benny Roche was in attendance, judging competitions, refereeing matches and sharing some of his elite skills. Benny shared his inspiring story of how he overcame prejudices associated with having cerebral palsy and wanting to play junior football, eventually playing for Australia. The success of the day means planning will soon begin for the 2020 Get Active Expo. If you are a sporting club or activity provider and would like to be involved register your interest by emailing communityspaces@ballina.nsw.gov.au.
ABSOLUTELY 80S
22 JUNE 2019
DOORS: 6PM // SHOW: 7.30PM Brian Mannix (Uncanny X-Men) Scott Cairns (Kids in the Kitchen) and Dale Ryder (Boom Crash Opera) bring the Absolutely 80s to Lennox Head. So bring out those bubble gum jeans, jelly bean shoes and big hair styles, 'cause you're dead set in for a treat. Tickets on sale at communityspaces.com.au
Community Centre Upgrade Council is set to raise the roof with improvements to Lennox Community Centre, after securing a $1.8 million investment from the NSW Regional Cultural Fund. Audiences will benefit with the Centre and Park Lane Theatre being enhanced to accommodate bigger audience numbers in airconditioned comfort all year round.
Find your perfect venue.... wedding receptions, conferences and meeting space and physical space for hire. For information on event spaces across the shire visit community.spaces.com.au
The improvements will resolve current roofing and internal lining issues in the main building and see the installation of a new airconditioning and ventilation system in the Park Lane Theatre as well as solar to operate this. Once completed, seating capacity will increase from 480 to 580 and allow for up to 1,000 patrons for standing room performances and activities. The improvement program is expected to commence in late July 2019 with completion scheduled prior to February 2020 (subject to weather). For more information on this project visit ballina.nsw.gov.au
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APRIL 2019 ISSUE 34
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Market Calendar
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connectedcommunity
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There’s a craft market, a carboot market or a farmers market, somewhere in the Northern Rivers, every weekend. Discover original artworks, handicrafts, fashion, jewellery, secondhand goods, as well as fresh local produce…or just sit back, relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of your local market.
BALLINA FARMERS MARKET (Weekly)
Every Sunday morning 7am – 11am Commemoration Park, Bentinck Street, Ballina
EAST BALLINA LIONS CLUB COMMUNITY MARKET (Monthly) Every third Sunday of the month 7am – 1pm Canal Road (between Saunders Oval and Ballina RSL Bowling Club), Ballina
LENNOX HEAD COMMUNITY MARKET (Monthly)
Every second and fifth Sunday of the month 8am – 2pm Williams Reserve, Lennox Head
View the Northern Rivers Market Guide at discoverballina.com to see where the markets are this week!
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What’s on? COMMUNITY EVENTS THE FABULOUS FIFTIES UNTIL 31 MAY
aphsmuseum.org.au
CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUM | 10 WARDELL ROAD ALSTONVILLE NSW 2477 See what life was like in the 1950s, when home ownership soared, labour-saving appliances were readily available and television and rock and roll arrived, at the latest exhibition at Crawford House Museum. The museum is open Fridays 10am-4pm and Sundays 1pm-4pm. Enquiries (02) 6628 1829 or email info@ aphsmuseum.org.au
BLADE BATTLE 3 SATURDAY 4 MAY MISSINGHAM SKATE PARK, BALLINA
Brunz Blade Battle
The NSW Titles of Blade Battle 3 will be hosted in Ballina this year. The Bowl and Park competition will offer a host of prizes including Best Trick of the Day. Divisions include under18s, Bladies, Opens and OG (over 35). Come on down and support the Australian Inline Scene.
BALLINA RELAY 4 LIFE SATURDAY 4 AND SUNDAY 5 MAY ALSTONVILLE SHOWGROUNDS
relayforlife.org.au/ballina
Ballina Shire, from Newrybar to Empire Vale to Wardell and everywhere in between! Come and join the 2019 Ballina Shire Relay for Life! Relay For Life is a fun and moving experience that raises vital funds for the Cancer Council’s research, prevention, information and support services. You can stay overnight, or just for the day. The relay is not a race you can take a break whenever you need, not all team members need to be on the track at all times. It’s the perfect event for all ages and families. Support your community and recognise and celebrate local cancer survivors, patients and their carers, honour and remember loved ones lost to cancer and raise money to help save more lives.
OUR KIDS DAY OUT SUNDAY 5 MAY MISSINGHAM AMPHITHEATRE, KINGSFORD SMITH DRIVE, BALLINA
ourkids.org.au
A FREE event that’s all about the kids. Held annually this event is packed with fun and includes clowns, rides, entertainment and great food and treats. The event focuses on children, especially those who have received medical treatment in the Children’s Ward and Special Care Nursery at Lismore Base Hospital. It allows parents to reconnect and kids to smile.
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BALLINA TO BYRON COASTAL CHARITY WALK SUNDAY 26 MAY START: MISSINGHAM PARK AMPHITHEATRE, BALLINA
coastalcharitywalk.com.au
This great social event takes on a mixed-terrain route with stunning scenery. The walk starts at Missingham Park in Ballina and follows the coastline north to Lennox Head (13km), Broken Head (25km), Tallows Beach to Cape Byron Lighthouse finishing at Denning Park in Byron Bay (37km). The dates of the Coastal Charity Walks are set to coincide with the coastal tide exposing the beauty of the landscape and provide access to walkers not offered all year round. This event is the major fundraiser for the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter.
LOVE LENNOX SATURDAY 1 JUNE LENNOX VILLAGE
lovelennox.com.au
Lennox Head is having a party in the main street and you're invited! The Love Lennox Festival is a celebration of everything you love about Lennox Head as a quality cultural destination - beautiful beaches, family ambience, superb quality food and drinks, chic boutiques, great music and exciting entertainment for all, with special events for the kids. This is proving to be a very popular annual event in Lennox Head with a festival atmosphere, markets, arts and crafts, and entertainment. A free family friendly day celebrating life in the village. The event starts at 9am. Winner of the Ballina Shire Community Event of the Year, the Love Lennox Festival will be even better this year.
MHERV is coming to town MEN’S HEALTH EDUCATIONAL RURAL VAN WEDNESDAY 10 - THURSDAY 11 APRIL
connectedcommunity
Events liste correct at time d are of p Visit discoverb ublication. a or telephone 1 llina.com 800 777 666 for event deta ils.
RICHMOND RIVER END OF MOON STREET IN FAWCETT PARK The Men’s Health Education Rural Van is a Rotary project aimed at saving men’s lives in rural Australia. The purpose built caravan with two consulting rooms is currently touring NSW and will visit Ballina on Wednesday 10 and Thursday 11 April 2019. The van will set up on the banks of the Richmond River in Fawcett Park, where you can drop in for a confidential health check. The community nurses will provide noninvasive checks such as blood pressure, blood sugar levels, cholesterol and weight. Consultations take about 10 minutes with results provided immediately, with advice to make a follow-up appointment with your doctor if needed. Getting tested can only be good news. If all is well….there’s peace of mind. If there’s a problem it can be seen to before it is too late. For further information contact Rotary Club of Ballina-on-Richmond, Col Lee telephone 0417 862 602.
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current exhibitions Exhibition Dates: 13 March – 5 May 2019 Launch Event: 14 March
Coastal Living: A New Perspective | Sheree Nelson
/ A P R I L
Image: Sheree Nelson, Sands of the Serpentine, 2018
M A R C H
Sheree Nelson was born and raised in the North Coast, but spent 20-something years away from her home town. Sheree has recently returned and rediscovered the beauty in the coastline. The photos in her exhibition are a representation of the North Coast, with the intention of guiding the viewer to take a deeper look and discover the content from a new perspective.
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Ions | Ben Bugden Ben Bugden’s work is a somewhat abstract and deeply personal exploration of the infinite moods, beauty and healing power of the ocean. Image: Ben Bugden, Hope, 2018
To Be Seen | Karryn Argus At a time when the ‘selfie’ dominates personal photography and portrays the self as always happy, confident and adventurous, even if the subject feels otherwise. To Be Seen investigates vulnerability, loss and sadness as captured in the selfie portrait format. Image: Karryn Argus, Self Portrait, 2018
Beyond the Image | Richard Tabaka Beyond the Image presents four transformations of one original artifact. A digitally registered image is presented as the original graphic, hexadecimal computer code exposed in printed formon large panels, audio of hexadecimal code as well as in 10 volumes of printed books. These four transformations are the manifestation of “invisible”, inherent “neglected” site of digital registration. Image: Richard Tabaka, Visibility of the Image, 2016
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workshops
Exhibition Dates: 8 May – 30 June 2019 | Launch Event: 9 May 2019
Term 2: Commences Wednesday 8 May 2019
After School Art Program
Small Moments | Narelle Bretherton
/ J U N E 2019
Image: Narelle Bretherton, Bianco con Palmas, 2019
M AY
A new series of paintings about the small moments in life, Narelle Bretherton’s intimate paintings capture her every day, documenting time and place evoking the nostalgic and familiar.
BRIGHTsparks After School Program Ignite Studios @NRCG is pleased to announce our BRIGHTSparks after school art program.
Abstract Botanica | Deborah White Deborah White presents a minimalistic design sensibility by capturing organic natural forms on recycled materials, as well as exploring the microscopic aspects of design in nature, juxtaposing these with materials produced for human use. Image: Deborah White, Abstract Molecular Burst, 2019
Flora | Karyn Fendley Landscape artist Karyn Fendley’s fascination with silhouettes and shadows continues indoors in this exhibition of still life paintings that explore extremes of lightness and darkness, and the transient liminal spaces created by shadows. Image: Karyn Fendley, King Protea, 2018
This exciting term based art program aims to develop budding artists’ creative skills and nourish young imaginations through exploring different themes, art materials and techniques. Students’ class activities will cover different aspects of art and creativity exploring a range of methods including drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, printmaking, art processes, collaborations, recycled art, big art, messy art, nature art, crafting and more. Our program provides a nurturing environment where students are encouraged to interact and develop ideas collaboratively and independently to cultivate a deeper understanding of art practices and their own unique style. At the end of each term students will be able to invite parents, care givers, friends and family to a pop-up exhibition of their work at Ignite Studios @NRCG. Ages:
8 - 15 years
Full Term:
$220 (9 x classes)
Casual Bundle: $130 (5 x classes) Trial Class:
$30 per class
Where:
Ignite Studios @ NRCG 60 Crane Street, Ballina
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upcoming exhibitions
Book Online or phone the Gallery on 02 6681 6167
The Ninth Annual Grace Cruice Memorial Exhibition | BACCI The Ninth Annual Grace Cruice Memorial Exhibition features new work by members of Ballina Arts and Craft Centre Inc. (BACCI). The exhibition showcases the diverse talents of the group and celebrates its members’ shared passion for creativity. Image: Deb McFarlane, Weaving, 2019
Visit the What's On section of our website for upcoming workshops Image: Design-a-Deck Workshop with Jeremy Austin
thanks to our sponsors The Ballina Shire Council and Northern Rivers Community Gallery gratefully acknowledge our exhibition sponsors: Stone & Wood Brewing and The Cellar.
THE
44 cherry street, ballina nsw 2478 | ph 02 6681 6167 open wed – fri 10am – 4pm | weekends 9.30am – 2.30pm (closed public holidays)
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2019 Australia Day Award Winners The Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards were announced at the official celebrations in Lennox Head on Saturday 26 January 2019. A record number of 41 nominations were received across the categories of Sports, Young Citizen, Senior Citizen, Community Event, Arts/Cultural and Local Hero. The Awards program celebrates the achievements and contributions that our unsung heroes make to our community. Mayor David Wright with special guest, Matthew Burke OAM, former Australian Rugby Union representative and face of international rugby coverage for Network 10, presented awards to all the nominees, category winners and the Ballina Shire Citizen of the Year.
Congratulations to our Award Recipients:
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR – MARIE CALDWELL Pictured above. Marie is a much-loved and respected member of our community who has shared her musical talents with the community for over half a century. Tickling the ivories at community events and developing the musical talents of our youth and adults alike. Marie has been involved in the development of early childhood music and fostered the musical talents of local thespians as a musical director and 50-year member of the Ballina Players Theatre. She’s also dedicated 40 years volunteering with Meals on Wheels and has been a Quota member for 15 years. Marie continues to bring joy to older residents by regularly playing at retirement homes and we hope she continues to share these musical talents for many years to come.
SPORTSPERSON OF THE YEAR (TWO AWARDS) 1. SAMANTHA BROPHY Samantha has been playing ice hockey since the age of six and she’s now playing on the global stage. Earlier she was chosen to represent Australia in the U18 World Championships in Spain.
2. KYLE UNDERWOOD From the age of 12 Kyle has followed his dream to be a professional golfer on the US PGA tour while also achieving academic excellence. Kyle is now enjoying a four-year athletic and academic scholarship at the Long Island University in New York.
ARTS CULTURAL AWARD – BRIAN PAMPHILON Brian has played lead roles in nearly 30 local musical productions and tutors in trumpet, piano and voice. He continues to make an outstanding contribution to the cultural life of the Ballina Shire.
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Thank y groups a ou to the nd who took individuals the nominate time to these deservin g winner s.
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THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE
LOCAL HERO OF THE YEAR – ROBERT SWORD Bob is a tireless worker for several local charities, our community and the environment. Always finding some way to serve our community, both up front and behind the scenes Bob is a true local hero.
YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR – FINN BALL Community involvement, education, sport and the arts – he does it all! He has been deeply involved in voluntary work with a variety of community organisations, most notably the Alstonville Plateau Historical Society.
SENIOR CITIZEN OF THE YEAR – LLOYD JANSSON Lloyd is a talented musician who began learning the trumpet at the age of ten. Now 91, Lloyd is still involved in the Ballina Shire Concert Band as the Deputy Musical Director. For many years he has shared his musical prowess playing many local community events including ANZAC Day.
COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR – LOVE LENNOX FESTIVAL (LENNOX CHAMBER OF COMMERCE) The Love Lennox Festival, hosted by the Lennox Head Chamber of Commerce, continues to grow and is now Lennox Head’s biggest community event attracting over 10,000 people each year.
POSTHUMOUS TRIBUTES Tribute was made to two posthumous nominees in honour of the many years of service they have made to the Ballina Shire community. A special floral arrangement was presented to the families of the late Bonnie Donnelly and the late Jane Hunt.
Ballina Shire also welcomed sixteen new Australia Citizens to our shire. We warmly welcomed new residents from across the globe including the United Kingdom, United States, Thailand, Belgium, Guatemala, India, Canada, Azerbaijan, New Zealand and Brazil.
anzac day commemoration services Thursday 25 April 2019 BALLINA RSL SUB-BRANCH 5.00am
Ballina Fire Brigade to sound the fire siren calling the public to the Dawn Service
5.30am
Dawn Service at the Ballina RSL Memorial
10.00am March Assembly for the Anzac March at the Ballina Court House 10.30am March commences and proceeds down River Street to the Ballina RSL Memorial 10.55am Service of Commemoration
ALSTONVILLE RSL SUB-BRANCH 5.30am
Dawn Service at the Cenotaph, Elizabeth Ann Brown Park
9.20am
Civic Service at the Paddy Bugden VC Memorial
9.30am
March will step off via Main Street to Elizabeth Ann Brown Park
10.00am Civic Service at Elizabeth Ann Brown Park
APRIL 2019 ISSUE 34
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Welcoming our new Aussies
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WIN $1000 off your
RATES! Each year we print over 113,000 pieces of paper for Ballina Shire rates and charges notices. You can help us reduce paper and go in the draw to WIN $1,000 off your rates by signing up to receive your notice by email. REGISTER ONLINE TO GO IN THE DRAW
SAVING BALLINA SHIRE ONE SHEET OF PAPER AT A TIME
WIN $1,000 off your rates with eRates Council has launched a competition to help reduce paper use and give one lucky ratepayer a chance to WIN $1,000 off their 2019/20 rates and charges. Each quarter, Council issues over 16,000 rates and charges notices which equates to about 113,000 sheets of paper every year. We want to reduce these numbers, but we need ratepayers help. To enter the draw, you need to be subscribed to Council’s eRates service before Monday 1 July 2019. eRates subscribers receive their rates and charges notice direct to their nominated email inbox each quarter – no paper necessary! One lucky eRates subscriber will be randomly drawn on 3 July 2019 and will receive a $1,000 discount off their rates and charges notice. To sign up or to read our competition terms and conditions, visit ballina. nsw.gov.au (search eRates competition).
Online services
Improving our service and customer experience Ballina Shire Council is continuing to provide more services online to improve customer experience and our service delivery. Some of the online services we provide are:
ONLINE CERTIFICATES Council issued Planning and Rating certificates can now be ordered and paid for via our online services portal. This service reduces paper, streamlines the application process and allows the applicant to lodge and pay for certificates and documents 24/7.
CHECK YOUR RATES AND CHARGES BALANCE Checking your current rates and charges balance just got easier, thanks to our online services portal. Through this portal you can easily check your balance with just a few clicks. All you need is your assessment number which you can find on your rates notice.
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS ONLINE (DAS ONLINE) Wanting to know development applications lodged in your area, or the progress of a DA you have lodged? Look to DAs Online. Search by street address, DA number or suburb to view documentation and the progress of a DA.
INTERACTIVE MAPPING With IntraMaps you can search for properties in the Ballina Shire. Take a look at the Local Environmental Plan LEP and environmental information. Find out what DAs have been lodged on specific properties. Search for parks, open spaces, community facilities and download aerial imagery; similar to Google Maps but better. You can find these services and more on Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov. au (look under Online Services on the homepage).
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communityconnect |
THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE
NRCG SUSTAINABLE LIGHTING UPGRADE
coming soon
EasyPark for 4WD permits Purchasing Seven Mile Beach 4WD access permits will be easier with the availability of EasyPark Pay in Ballina Shire. Customers will be able to purchase permits online from early April rather than visiting the permit kiosk at Lennox Head. To access EasyPark download the app http://app.easypark.net Paying for beach access by phone is quick and simple, saving time and hassle. Before accessing the beach, users just need to enter the code for the location they are visiting (The code for Seven Mile Beach is 40201).
Last month the Northern Rivers Community Gallery saw the exciting upgrade from halogen exhibition lighting to energy efficient LED lamps. The move to LED lights is expected to achieve energy consumption and cost savings of up to 98% when compared with the previous halogen lighting system. The reduction in heat emitted in the new LED lighting system, opposed to halogen lamps, will also provide significant reductions in energy consumption costs to maintain temperature control in the Gallery environment and is better for the artworks on display. The lighting upgrade will achieve significant operational savings, which will be reinvested back into arts and cultural activities for the community. The previous halogen exhibition track lighting infrastructure was fitted in 2007 as part of the initial Gallery upgrades. Halogen technology is being phased out in Europe and the UK due to lack of energy efficiency and being replaced by LED technology. It was anticipated that by the end of 2018 the halogen globes for the existing system would no longer be manufactured making the system redundant. If funding wasn’t secured to upgrade the lighting, the Gallery faced the very real risk of being without lights in 2019. As well as being more energy efficient, the new museum grade Erco lighting system allows for greater flexibility and more dynamic lighting capabilities enhancing the overall design of the gallery space. To ensure the ongoing enjoyment and access to this important heritage listed building gallery staff worked toward securing funding for the upgrade over a two year period resulting in a combined $95,000 funding contribution from the NSW Government through the Create NSW Regional Capital Grant and the Regional Cultural Fund. This project is proudly funded by the NSW Government through the Create NSW Regional Capital Grant and the Regional Cultural Fund. Image: Lee Mathers (Gallery Coordinator) and Jessica Olding (Gallery Services Officer) installing new Erco Lighting. Exhibition artworks by Kerry Elias Moore. Photograph by Ben Wyeth
engagedleadership
Let there be light
Users enter their vehicle registration number, choose permit option and payment details.
COSTS FOR PERMITS ARE CURRENTLY 1 DAY PERMIT $12 30 DAY PERMIT $36 6 MONTH PERMIT $54 ANNUAL PERMIT $90. For further information visit the EasyPark website easypark.com.au or telephone 1300 734 070. * fees current for 2018/2019. Subject to change.
APRIL 2019 ISSUE 34
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communityconnect
Pooches in public places to be on a lead Dogs in public places must be on a lead that is controlled and held by a competent person over 16 years of age. Dogs are not allowed in areas termed 'prohibited' such as playgrounds, The Serpentine, Shelly Beach, Lighthouse Beach, Flatrock Platform and the southern end of Seven Mile Beach, Lennox Head. Dogs are allowed on Angels Beach, Sharpes Beach and Flat Rock Beach but they must be on a lead. It’s a good idea to check the signs in public places to see if dogs are allowed in that location.
Patrols for 2018/2019 Swimming Season BEACH
PATROLS FINISH
DETAILS
Seven Mile Beach Lennox Head
29/09/2018
28/04/2019
9am – 5pm* Professional Lifeguards Mon-Fri (5 days) Volunteers on weekends and public holidays
Flat Rock East Ballina (roving guard)
13/04/2019
28/04/2019
9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguard 7 days a week
Sharpes Beach Skennars Head
13/04/2019
28/04/2019
9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards 7 days a week
Shelly Beach East Ballina
13/04/2019
28/04/2019
9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards 7 days a week
28/04/2019
9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards Mon-Fri (5 days in school holidays.) Volunteers on weekends and public holidays
Lighthouse Beach Ballina
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PATROLS START
29/09/2018
communityconnect |
THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE
There’s no such thing as the Dog Poo Fairy! You own a dog, you own its poo! Bag the poo, bin it or take it with you. Penalties apply for non-compliance. Keep Ballina Shire Beautiful!
protect your pet
extreme weather conditions ROAD CLOSURES myroadinfo.com.au for Ballina Shire rural road info
RADIO STATIONS • Paradise FM 101.9 • ABC North Coast 94.5 • 2LM 104.3 • ZZZ FM 100.9
FIELD CLOSURES Contact your sporting club.
WEATHER CONDITIONS bom.gov.au Bureau of Meteorology
BALLINA BYRON GATEWAY AIRPORT Your local airline for flights to and from Ballina: Rex Airlines 13 17 13 rex.com.au Jetstar 13 15 38 jetstar.com Virgin Australia 13 67 89 virginaustralia.com.au FlyPelican 02 4965 0111 flypelican.com.au
engagedleadership
The three step process to
where to get info...
ACTIONS TO TAKE • Alerts are issued via Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au and via your local radio station. • Delay any unnecessary travel until conditions have cleared. • Look out for your neighbours • If water is overflowing street stormwater drains, refrain from using internal water eg: washing machines, dishwashers, baths, showers and flushing of toilets until the water has cleared. • Watch for Council, SES and other State Government agency updates.
Don’t forget the final step by registering your pet on the NSW pet registry: petregistry.nsw.gov.au
KEY CONTACT NUMBERS • SES 132 500 • Ballina Shire Council 1300 864 444 or emergency after hours 02 6626 6954 • Emergency Services Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade Triple zero 000
APRIL 2019 ISSUE 34
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staff matters
Women to the front
Last month women were celebrated across the world on International Women’s Day. Council also took the opportunity to highlight our female staff members and the contribution they make to our community each day. Council employs over 90 women across a range of traditional and non-traditional roles. Through our Equal Employment Opportunity Program we are committed to creating an inclusive environment, both within the workplace and the wider community, where equal opportunity for women is valued and celebrated. This ethos was reflected in this year’s International Women’s Day theme - #BalanceForBetter. Balance drives a better working world and is something we should strive for in our community year-round.
the ballina shire is safe with a connected community, a healthy environment and a thriving economy.
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Here’s a few of Council’s female staff members.
LUCY
KRISTY
Lucy is a Graduate Town Planner who assesses a range of projects including commercial, residential and industrial developments within our shire.
Kristy is an Environmental Health Officer who helps keep our local community and environment healthy!
AMY
BRIDGET
Amy is Council's Water and Trade Waste Technical Officer. She works with local businesses to help maintain our wastewater infrastructure.
Bridget is Council's Manager - Water and Wastewater. Her team looks after a range of important water and wastewater assets while making sure we receive our great quality drinking water!
staff profile
YOUR NAME: Vee Lethorn WHAT DO YOU DO? I’m a Maintenance Officer and Relief Plant Operator. I work across the shire fixing roads, spraying weeds and slashing roadsides to keep our roads safer. I also work as a traffic controller on a range of Council construction projects.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO? I love the variety of my work. No two days are the same and I get to enjoy the outdoors working in different locations on different jobs. I also have a great crew who accept me as I am – just one of the team.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN DOING IT? I’ve been at Ballina Council for 12 years in a variety of roles, including a cleaner, concreter, slasher operator and now in the maintenance crew.
WHAT DID YOU DO BEFORE? I’ve got two boys who have always kept me busy but before Ballina Shire Council I worked as a cleaner for Byron Council.
WHY DO YOU CHOOSE TO DO WHAT YOU DO HERE, IN THIS AREA? I’ve been in this area and enjoyed the coastal lifestyle since 1991 and I can’t see myself living anywhere else.
WHAT DO YOU HAVE PLANNED FOR THE FUTURE? Through Council’s educational assistance program I am currently studying my Certificate III in Civil Construction through TAFE. I am looking forward to completing this qualification and using it within my role at Council.
WHAT DO YOU USE FOR INSPIRATION WHEN CHALLENGES ARISE? I just get on and do it. I raised two boys as a single mum so that always kept me motivated.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG WOMEN STARTING IN YOUR CAREER/AREA OF BUSINESS? Get out and have a go or try something different – you might just like it. Also girls have options so don’t be afraid to try a non-traditional female role. I wanted to be a truck driver so I went out and got my truck licence. This led me to becoming the first female staff member in Council construction.
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communityconnect 38
ADDING SKILLS TO OUR TOOLKIT Koala Management Roadworks Toolbox
Ballina Shire Council is introducing a koala toolbox whilst undertaking road maintenance work in road corridors that have been identified as koala hotspots around the shire. Over the last month Council work crews have been trialing the toolbox during scheduled maintenance activities on Bagotville Road, Meerschaum Vale. The trial has involved providing induction to the road work crew on understanding the importance of koalas in the shire, identifying koala food trees and learning how to spot koalas or their traces in the wild. The toolbox identifies actions to take if a koala is spotted in or around a road site to minimise harm or stress to koalas. Actions include conducting daily site checks for the presence of koalas, providing buffer zones to reduce noise stress if a koala is spotted and requiring the presence of an independent koala spotter for any road side tree clearing.
Erosion and Sediment Control Training On 19 March the second cohort of Council staff attended erosion and sediment control training. This practical one day course provided specific information on the principals of erosion and sediment control along with hands on practical demonstrations, discussion and field based activities. The field activities included visiting a number of Council construction sites at which best practice erosion and sediment control measures were reviewed and installed by participants. This increased knowledge of erosion and sediment controls will help Council staff protect our waterways.
The koala management roadworks toolbox will be reviewed after the trial to ensure it is practical and effective in minimising harm or stress to koalas.
communityconnect |
THE MAGAZINE OF BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL
We recently received this history gem from the daughters of long-time Council employee, the late Harry Cummings. Harry worked for Council for 25 years and was street sweeper for many years. The images were a taken at the rear of the Wigmore Arcade and show how manual street sweeping used to be; not like the trucks we use today to sweep and clean the streets and lanes. We love seeing historical photos so if you have any that might be of interest to Council, send them through to council@ballina.nsw.gov.au
APRIL 2019 ISSUE 34
engagedleadership
Council archives
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phone 0415 965 403 david.wright@ballina.nsw. gov.au
Council services
Easter / Anzac Day Period 2019
Cr Phillip Meehan phone 0408 349 833 phil.meehan@ballina.nsw. gov.au
LOCATION EASTER
phone 0435 759 987 stephen.mccarthy@ballina. nsw.gov.au
phone 0434 154 782 nathan.willis@ballina.nsw. gov.au
WARD A
Cr Stephen McCarthy
Cr Nathan Willis
CLOSING
REOPENING
4.30pm Thurs 18 April
8.15am Tues 23 April
Customer Service Centre
DEPUTY MAYOR
your councillors
MAYOR
Cr David Wright
ANZAC DAY EASTER ANZAC DAY EASTER ANZAC DAY
Normal 4.30pm Thurs 18 April
EASTER ANZAC DAY
Waste Management Centre
(bins collected as usual on public holidays)
Cr Keith Williams phone 0418 504 644 keith.williams@ballina.nsw. gov.au
Swimming Pools – Ballina
Cr Jeff Johnson
Swimming Pools – Alstonville
phone 0438 677 202 jeff.johnson@ballina.nsw. gov.au
Closed Open 10am – 2pm Fri 19, Sat 20, Sun 21, Mon 22
EASTER
ANZAC DAY
EASTER ANZAC DAY EASTER ANZAC DAY EASTER
Open 10am – 2pm 4.00pm Thurs 18 April
ANZAC DAY
phone 0408 683 052 sharon.parry@ballina.nsw. gov.au
EASTER
Open 9am – 5pm Fri 19, Sat 20, Sun 21, Mon 22 Closed Open 10am – 6pm Fri 19, Sat 20, Sun 21, Mon 22 Closed 4.00pm Thurs 18 April
WARD C
Cr Eoin Johnston phone 0407 416 149 eoin.johnston@ballina.nsw. gov.au
EASTER
6.00pm Thurs 18 April
EASTER
5.00pm Thurs 18 April
9.30am Tues 23 April
Closed 5.00pm Thurs 18 April
Libraries – Lennox Head ANZAC DAY
9.00am Tues 23 April
Closed
Libraries – Alstonville ANZAC DAY
10.00am Wed 24 April
Closed
Libraries – Ballina ANZAC DAY
8.00am Tues 23 April
Closed
Northern Rivers Gallery
Cr Sharon Parry
9.00am Tues 23 April
Closed
Councillors are here to represent your views. Councillors are elected in Wards, however each Councillor represents the entire community and can be contacted on any matter. You can contact Councillors in person, by phone or email. All councillors can be emailed at councillors@ballina.nsw.gov.au
council contact information Ph: 1300 864 444 | Email: council@ballina.nsw.gov.au | Web: ballina.nsw.gov.au Street Address: 40 Cherry Street, Ballina | Postal Address: PO Box 450, Ballina 2478 Office Hours: 8.15am to 4.30pm Mon-Fri (excluding public holidays) | After hours contact: 02 6626 6954 Council’s Community Access Points: Meeting agendas and documents on exhibition can be viewed at Council’s Customer Service Centre; Alstonville, Ballina and Lennox Head Libraries and Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au Photo contributors: Ben Wyeth, Tony Partridge, Trevor Worden, Newaste, Richard Mason, Pandanus Productions, Screenworks, Bennetts Construction NSW Pty Ltd.
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8.30am Tues 23 April
Visitor Information Centre
phone 0413 091 440 sharon.cadwallader@ ballina.nsw.gov.au
phone 0415 482 412 ben.smith@ballina.nsw. gov.au
Usual hours of operation 5.30am – 12.30am daily
Burns Point Ferry
Community Spaces
Cr Sharon Cadwallader
Cr Benjamin Smith
Closed
Don’t dispose of me yet
COMMUNIT
connect The quarterly maga
zine of the Ballina
Use this issue of Community Connect to wrap kitchen waste and dispose in the green organics bin.
Y
Shire Council – Conne
BALLINA WELCOMES OVER 1 MILLION VISITORS
20 for details...
Getting rid of unwanted items
WIN
$1000 off your
RATES!
Each year we print over 113,000 pieces for Ballina Shire rates and charges of paper You can help us notices. reduce paper and go WIN $1,000 off your rates by signing in the draw to up to receive your notice by email. REGISTER O NLINE TO G O IN THE D RAW
SAVING BALLINA SHIRE ONE SHEET OF PAPER AT A TIME
Win $1000 off your rates
Mozzie Expert Q&A
APRIL 201 9
cting our community
The Ballina Tourism Team is ecstatic first time ever, Ballina has welcome that for the million visitors. T d over onehe news that 1,028,00 visited the Ballina Shire in the 2017/2010 people was confirmed 8 year by Tourism Research Australia. This breaking news revealed visitors spent million over this $311 period in the Ballina Shire. See page
featured stories.. .
ISSUE
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