Community Connect | Ballina Shire Council | Issue 40 | September 2020 by Ballina Shire Council

ISSUE

40 SEPT 2020

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Coastal Shared Path is ready for you to explore these School Holidays See page 3 for details.

featured stories... Looking back 2010-2020

Cleaning Crusaders

Alstonville Pool Upgrade Open

from the mayor's desk

From the Mayor's Desk

prosperous economy Coastal Paths Project Update

Most residents are feeling very frustrated by the lack of flexibility with the Queensland Border closure. However, there is some help available.

Lennox Head Cultural Centre

Ballina Visitor Information Centre

I thank all the local, Federal and State politicians who have worked hard to make connections for many people, particularly those who have family health issues. However, because of strict guidelines in place, there are serious concerns for many.

Wollongbar District Park

Realising the Lennox Village Vision

Rural Road Safety Campaign`

Lights, Camera, Action

There have been serious consequences for our local building industry, with $150 million worth of projects at risk. I applaud the efforts of all those trying to overcome this issue. Many businesses are also really hurting so please do what you can to buy local.

Ballina Byron Gateway Airport Road Projects

6 7–9

engaged leadership Looking Back – 2010-2020

12 – 15

To all those experiencing hardship through these difficult times, there are many government and volunteer groups that can assist. Please seek help if you need it.

Council Meetings at a Glance

A Gateway to Council

Boosting Business Events

On a positive side, Council has continued to deliver and make progress on major projects. Those nearing completion are the Coastal Shared Path, Lennox Head Cultural Centre and Alstonville Aquatic Centre new amenities that are colourful and provide high standard facilities.

DAs Online

The Cleaning Crusaders

Council working with Eateries during COVID

Stay Safe and Keep Your Distance

Community engagement on public art projects is underway for the Wollongbar District Park and Lennox Head Village Vision town centre upgrade. These two areas will really enhance family experiences for residents and visitors alike. At our airport, Fly Pelican has grabbed an opportunity to secure seasonal flights to Dubbo, with strong demand for their Canberra flights continuing. This means our community has the benefit of having an airport at their doorstep to provide a gateway to the central west and Canberra. Inbound passengers are bringing new money into our regional economy to enjoy the benefits of seaside living. Thanks for the positive comments on the first edition of Community Connect – ‘Extra’. There were some problems with delivery so staff have listened to feedback from residents. They have looked at available options to implement and these will include increasing bulk drops to locations across the shire and delivering the Community Connect direct to urban letterboxes, where available. If you are a local retailer or organisation who would be happy to take a bulk delivery of Community Connect for your clients and customers please contact the communications team at council@ballina.nsw.gov.au or telephone 1300 864 444. Council wants to keep our community up to date, and 74%* of our residents tell us they keep informed on council news through the Community Connect and our eNews via Council’s website. Enjoy reading this 10th Anniversary Edition of Community Connect!

connected community Alstonville Aquatic Centre amenities upgrade

Patrols for 2020/2021 Swimming Season

Market Calendar

Ballina Indoor Sports Centre 1st Birthday Volleyball – growing sport

22 – 23 23

Lord Taverners Northern NSW

Australian Red Cross – Lifeblood

Pickleball – new local sport

Australia Day Nominations 2021

Northern Rivers Community Gallery

26 – 27

healthy environment Water Talk

28 – 29

Waste Watch

30 – 31

Healthy Waterways – Shaws Bay

Bush Fire Danger

Harm of Helium Balloons

Rock Fishing Safety is no joke

Community Satisfaction Survey

Ballina Business Connect

Cr David Wright * Community Priorities and Satisfaction Survey (Micromex) 2018. For the full report visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ CommunityPriorities

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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

Photos included in this issue of Community Connect may have been taken before Covid-19 social distancing requirements and safety measures were introduced.

Coastal Paths Project Update

Pat Morton Lookout LENNOX POINT

LENNOX HEAD

AST

COASTAL SHARED PATH

The Coastal Shared Path from Skennars Head to Lennox Point will soon be unveiled.

THE

SHAG ROCK

It is the final section of the shared path that will allow pedestrians and cyclists to travel safely between Lennox Head and Ballina. Whether you like to walk, bike ride, skateboard or scooter, this path will be a welcome addition for the community when it opens.

BOULDER BEACH

COASTAL RECREATIONAL WALK

SKENN

IRON PEG

ARS H

EAD RD

SKENNARS HEAD

The new boardwalk at Boulder Beach is underway and Council is working to complete the Coastal Recreational Walk from Sharpes Beach to Pat Morton lookout by the end of the year. The Ballina coast is a unique natural landscape encompassing white sandy beaches, unique tidal platforms, littoral rainforest and striking clifftop views. What better way to immerse yourself in such coastal beauty than exploring it on foot. The completion of this project will deliver a world class coastal walk stretching from Ballina to Lennox Head.

SKENNARS HEAD

Sharpes Beach Carpark

Coastal Shared Path: Skennars Head to Pat Morton Lookout SHARPES BEACH

THE

CO AST R

Coastal Recreational Walk: Sharpes Beach to Pat Morton Lookout

JOINTLY FUNDED BY THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT, NSW GOVERNMENT AND BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL. ANGEL

Sharpes Creek

supporting

Flat Rock Carpark a growing

community FLAT ROCK

Flat Rock Tent Park

S BEAC

H DR THE COAST RD

#supportingagrowingcommunity

prosperouseconomy

SKENNARS HEAD

ANGELS S EBEACH PTEMBER 2020 ISSUE 40

PROJECT WORKS New roof and increase solar PV system from 40 to 80 kilowatts.

Replacement of water damaged wall and

The Lennox Head Cultural Centre is set to reopen with a new name, new look and enhanced facilities. The first thing you will notice is the new look turrets that are now covered in zinc. The zinc will be ideal for keeping away corrosion and will last over 100 years. Their appearance will also change over time, as it ages, the zinc will develop a patina finish and throw blue and green tones. The Lennox Head Cultural Centre also has a brand new roof with an 80 kilowatt solar system that will help to run the new air-conditioning system. This addition will be really appreciated by patrons during our sub-tropical months and increase the venue's capacity to cater for larger crowds.

ceiling linings in the main theatre hall.

New carpet and improved stage area curtaining in the theatre hall.

Installation of a new digital laser projector and 6 metre retractable projector screen in the theatre hall.

Installation of air conditioning to the theatre and the central foyer.

The new black ceiling in the theatre will add a dramatic atmosphere for live shows and the improved insulation and wall linings will enhance the acoustics. These enhancements will attract more shows, larger crowds and provide additional income to operate and maintain the facility. Broader than that, it will also bring income into businesses across the community and create an enhanced cultural hub in the Northern Rivers. This $2.3million project is thanks to the investment from the NSW Regional Cultural Fund $1.8 million and Ballina Shire Council $500,000.

#supportingagrowingcommunity

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JOINTLY FUNDED BY THE NSW GOVERNMENT AND BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL.

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

supporting a growing community

Photos: Mark Davis â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Real Property Photography AGS Commercial Pty Ltd

communityconnect

Lennox Head Cultural Centre

Top three reasons

prosperouseconomy

ballinacoast & hinterland to visit the Ballina Visitors Centre this SPRING!

1 BOOK A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE Find out what’s on, what’s happening, and where you can go across the Northern Rivers. From land to sea we have you covered.

BALLINA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

A parents saviour this Spring School Holidays Look no further than the Ballina Visitor Information Centre and discoverballina.com.au for your guide throughout the spring holidays to keep the kids busy, happy and entertained. Guides can be collected from the visitor centre or printed from the Discover Ballina website after Friday 25 September. Be a tourist in your own backyard, the Northern Rivers has far more to offer than you may realise! The team at the centre can assist with sharing their knowledge of the region to get you out and about doing things you’ve never done before or didn’t know existed. Our region is blessed by Mother Nature, it’s a region where tourists love to flock too, and in these uncertain times, we largely have it to ourselves. Take the opportunity to holiday here this spring and share the love locally.

BALLINA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

2 GIVE A UNIQUE LOCAL GIFT We have gift giving all wrapped up. Support local and give a local hamper to your loved ones.

3 SOLVE YOUR PROBLEMS Ever stuck for where to go, what to do, where to take the family on the weekend, and what to do with the kids!!! If this is a common problem, like sitting in the car not knowing where to drive – then you need our help. The team at the Ballina Visitor Information Centre just love telling people where to go, with a smile and excellent service of course!

6 River Street Ballina | 1800 777 666 | discoverballina.com.au |

ballinacoastandhinterland

S E P T E MJBUELY R 2020 ISSUE 4 30 9

communityconnect

LATEST NEWS FROM

ballina byron gateway airport Opening up new air routes in NSW

Ballina Shire Council, Dubbo Regional Council (DRC), and Fly Pelican have joined together to deliver a new air route to regional New South Wales, at a time when domestic travel is becoming increasingly popular. The new Dubbo – Ballina route took off in early August, with dozens of passengers choosing to spend the weekend in either Dubbo or the Northern Rivers. For Northern Rivers' locals it will be easier than ever to visit family and friends in Dubbo and the Central West's many attractions, including the award-winning Taronga Western Plains Zoo, the natural beauty of Wellington Caves, the Dish in Parkes, and the wineries of Mudgee. The Central West has plenty of unique experiences on offer. Dubbo region residents will be able to experience the beautiful Northern Rivers with our pristine beaches, laidback lifestyle and flourishing food scene. Exploring hinterland villages and lush rainforests will make their visit so worthwhile. Assisting DRC and Ballina Shire Council and their associated airports is Fly Pelican – the small, yet mighty, airline offering the service. After seeing great success with routes such as Dubbo – Newcastle, and Ballina – Canberra, Managing Director of Fly Pelican, Marty Hawley, says it’s about time two of the most popular tourist destinations in regional NSW are connected via air.

Ballina B y Airport c ron Gateway ontinues work wit to h the NSW the airlines and G ensure thovernment to passeng e safety of ers the com , staff and munity.

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“We know that more people are choosing to fly if they can, because they want to get to their destination faster in order to spend more time with friends and family at the other end. Our flights leave either Ballina Byron Gateway Airport or Dubbo City Regional Airport on Fridays and return on Monday morning. It means that passengers can have a nice long weekend, and not have to worry about how they’ll get back home,” said Mr Hawley. Flights between the two destinations are on sale now, and can be booked via flypelican.com.au. The trial fare of $149 one-way is only available for a limited time, so travellers are urged to get in quickly! Ballina Byron Gateway Airport provides a range of safety measures outlined in their COVID Safety Plan. Measures include additional cleaning and sanitisation, temperature checks of all departing and arriving passengers, as well as restricting terminal access to passengers and airport staff to maintain social distancing. Visit ballinabyronairport.com.au BallinaByronGatewayAirport

ROAD RESEALS + RECONSTRUCTIONS Council has reconstructed more than 8km of unsealed roads as part of a strategy to improve the water quality of Emigrant Creek. Runoff from unsealed gravel roads contributes to the pollution of waterways. It is estimated that 1,310 tonnes of road material will be prevented from entering the Emigrant Creek Catchment every year thanks to this recent road sealing project. The $1.1 million project was funded through a Marine Estate Management Strategy (MEMS) grant of $859,698 from North Coast Local Land Services, as well as an in kind contribution of $250,116 from Ballina Shire Council through plant and labour costs. Roads sealed through the project include sections of Cumbulam Road, Emigrant Creek Road, Grays Lane, Houghlahans Creek Road, Howards Road, Ingrams Road, Sandy Flat Road, Wellers Road, and Whites Lane. The original scope for works was 7.85km, however Council was able to extend this by 800m using recycled material from the recent Pacific Highway upgrade. The road sealing works, which were carried out over the past 18 months, are in addition to Council’s normal annual unsealed road maintenance program.

8km road reseals

COMPLETED PROJECTS THE COAST ROAD RECONSTRUCTION AT SKENNARS HEAD WINTON LANE, BALLINA BYRON STREET TURNING LANE, LENNOX HEAD PIMLICO ROAD, PIMLICO

CURRENT PROJECTS FOX STREET AND CHERRY STREET ROUNDABOUT BURNET STREET, BALLINA URALBA ROAD, URALBA

FUTURE PROJECTS

prosperouseconomy

ROAD PROJECTS

MARTIN STREET/REGATTA AVENUE, BALLINA CARRS BRIDGE – RIVER DRIVE, EMPIRE VALE RIVER STREET DUPLICATION AIRPORT BOULEVARD CONSTRUCTION (STAGE 2) TEVEN ROAD, TEVEN

For updates on road closures visit myroadinfo.com.au

SEPTEMBER 2020 ISSUE 40

communityconnect

FUTURE ROAD NETWORK Council provides and maintains an extensive road network. We are committed to planning ahead to complete road and traffic upgrades to support a growing community. BALLINA

RIVER STREET DUPLICATION

Four-lane roadway from Pacific Highway, West Ballina to Kerr Street, Ballina River Street, West Ballina is earmarked for a major upgrade from the Pacific Highway to Kerr Street. It is part of Council’s plan to address traffic congestion during peak periods and prepare for future population and traffic volumes growth. Once complete, the four-lane roadway will double the road’s current capacity and cater for traffic up until 2036. This arterial road project, will include the construction of a new bridge over Fishery Creek, and is a major investment of over $25 million over a four-year delivery program. Construction will be delivered in four stages, with the section from Burns Point Ferry Road to Barlows Road, West Ballina, to start in 2021.

West Ballina, Burns Point Ferry Road to Barlows Road Ballina Island, Henry Philp Avenue to Tweed Street Fishery Creek Bridge, Brampton Avenue to Henry Philp Avenue Pacific Highway Connection, Smith Drive to Burns Point Ferry Road The concept design plans can be viewed on Council’s website at ballina.nsw.gov.au/riverstreetduplication. They provide an overview of the project, including roadworks, footpaths and other structures. The project plans were on public exhibition in November and December 2019 and endorsed by Council in January 2020. To keep informed, subscribe to Councils Enews for updates, visit ballina.nsw.gov.au

FUNDED BY BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL.

#supportingagrowingcommunity

BALLINA

communityconnect |

supporting a growing community

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

AIRPORT BOULEVARD

Impressive gateway and welcome to the region Council is getting ready to deliver for the next stage of the Airport Boulevard project. This will include the construction of the roadway, a gateway road to the airport, roundabouts, landscaping and underground utility services. Once complete, the arterial road will provide an impressive entrance to the airport and provide connectively for the future expansion of the Southern Cross Industrial Estate. The total cost of the project is $10 million, and is made possible thanks to $3 million in Australian Government funding under the Community Development Grants Programme. Council will contribute $7 million to meet the balance of the project. It is anticipated the entire project will be finalised by April 2021 (weather permitting).

JOINTLY FUNDED BY THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT AND BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL.

#supportingagrowingcommunity

supporting a growing community

REGATTA AVENUE AND MARTIN STREET UPGRADE Design plans have been prepared for the reconfiguration of Martin Street Ballina, south of River Street, and Regatta Avenue. The project will upgrade the parking, provide more car spaces, and include mobility and motorcycle spaces. Martin Street will see the relocation of kerb ramps and construction of a pedestrian refuge to improve safety. The riverfront pathway will also be extended, to provide a dedicated shared path along Regatta Avenue to improve pedestrian access and safety. This will tie in with the introduction of a one way section at the western end of Regatta Avenue. This project will commence mid October. It is anticipated it will be completed by the end of the year (weather permitting). Visit the project page on Council’s website ballina. nsw.gov.au/regattaavenue

BALLINA

prosperouseconomy

BALLINA

LONGING FOR A BREAK?

FOX AND CHERRY STREET ROUNDABOUT

ESCAPE TO OUR BEACHSIDE OASIS

The new roundabout construction at the intersection of Fox and Cherry Streets is well underway. The traffic redirections have been running smoothly for some weeks with onelane open for South bound traffic only and diversions in place for North bound traffic along Bentinck and Moon Streets. The roundabout is expected to be completed in November 2020.

...our best kept local secret CALL NOW OR BOOK ONLINE 02 6686 4848 • flatrocktentpark.com.au

SEPTEMBER 2020 ISSUE 40

Wollongbar District Park With the final touches being made to design plans, the construction of the new Wollongbar District Park is set to commence this financial year 2020/21.

exercise equipment playground equipment including climbing net BBQs and park furniture landscaping, shade trees and rainforest walk.

The park will be a quality recreational space to cater to a growing population and appeal to broad community needs

The park will be located on the corner of Plateau Drive and Rifle Range Road in Wollongbar.

The park will include:

The project will cater to so many in the community and is great WOLLONGBAR DISTRICT PARKLAND: FUN AND FITNESS FOR ALL news for anyone who loves to keep active and being outdoors!

public amenities and carparking FUTURE CHILDcourt, table tennis skate park, half basketball CARE CENTRE multi-purpose circuit path with distance markers

CHALLENGING _ LEARNING _ CONNECTING : EMPOWERING BODIES _ MAKING MEMORIES

FUTURE RESIDENTIAL

To view the concept plans visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ wollongbardistrictpark

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GENERAL FEATURES 1. Car parking - 24 spaces (22 + 2 accessible) 2. Main parkland entrance - Recycled brick paving, seating, gardens and artwork 3. Main street footpath (2m wide) 4. Park interpretative footpath (1.5m wide) with pavement etchings providing historical information about the drive-in theatre or other related themes (solar navigational smart-lighting at night) 5. Site of former drive-in theatre screen. New collaborative art interpretative pillars (drive-in theatre theme) 6. Toilet Building - one male, one female and one unisex accessible toilet

PICNIC 10. Central BBQ (2 DDA BBQ cooking plates plus bench) and picnic tables 11. Informal picnic area with table settings (2 with shelters) and large shade trees

RAINFOREST MINI-ARBORETUM 7. Area 1- Subtropical rainforest species with a narrow walking trail and species information signage 8. Area 2 - Subtropical rainforest species with information signage along the pathway edge 9. Street and park trees including species tags

SKATE AND RIDE 16. Small skate park facility suitable for skate boards, scooters and park bikes with shaded seating area at western end (day use only with low level solar smart-security lighting at night) (Skatepark design by Enlocus) 17. Acoustic and observation mound.

D E ROA RANG RIFLE

lennoxVILLAGEvision GROUP FITNESS AREA 12. Fitness equipment (street workout and cross training) suitable for teenagers, adults and seniors 13. Climbing net (children and adults) 14. Juniors playground activity fort with slide and swing area (ages 3+) 15. Multi-purpose circuit pathway (250m long) with distance markers

design team ink : landscape architecture + urban design

www.designteamink.com We are now a step closer to this vision with Council endorsing the concept design plans at its August meeting. The concept designs are the result of extensive community engagement and a community led design workshop and review process.

Document Revision C: Date 10 January 2020

To celebrate what makes Lennox Head Village special, Council will soon be engaging with the community to look at the public art aspects of the project. Some identified cultural components will include murals, playground sculptures, a storyline and community art pavers. The first stage of construction works will commence in Ross Park. Construction will see the upgrade of the playground and revitalisation of the open spaces in this central precinct. Council has also successfully secured grant funding as part of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Streets as Shared Spacesâ&#x20AC;? program to trial some of the aspirations of the Lennox Village Vision for Park Lane. This funding will include temporary works such as raised crossing points, landscaping and a bike hub near the Lennox Head Cultural Centre. The total investment for the Lennox Village Vision is currently estimated at $10.4 millon. The project will be staged over several financial years as funding and grant opportunities become available.

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

Possibility to explore traffic calming options and pedestrian connections to Killarney Park and Wollongbar Sports Grounds

MULTI-FUNCTIONAL OPEN SPACE 18. Multi-functional open space for general use (painting, outdoor learning, ball games etc) 19. Multi-court (15m x 10m) with basketball ring and backboard 20. Outdoor table tennis on hardstand (6.25m x 4.5m)

We have been talking to the Lennox Head community since 2018 about the vision for renewal of the village centre.

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communityconnect

WOLLONGBAR

L E N N OX H E A D

CONCEPT DESIGN PLAN 04 of 08

Lights, Camera, Action RURAL ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN While country residents make up only one-third of the NSW population, two-thirds of all fatalities occur on country roads. Here is a reminder that whether you’re a local or a visitor, you need to take extra care on country roads. FATIGUE – Last year almost 1 in 4 fatalities on country roads involved a fatigued driver or rider. Please don’t drive when you’re tired and watch out for the early warning signs of fatigue.

SPEED – Last year, speeding was a factor in 41% of fatalities on country roads. The faster you travel, the less time you have to react to the unexpected and avoid a crash. So remember to stay under the speed limit and drive to the conditions.

SEATBELTS – 1 in 6 drivers killed on a country road between 2015 and 2019 were not wearing a seatbelt. Wearing a seatbelt nearly doubles your chance of surviving a serious crash. So make sure everyone in the car is buckled up before you hit the road.

DRINK DRIVING – Last year, at least 49 people lost their lives in alcohol related crashes on country roads. If you've been drinking, don't drive.

HOW WE BENEFIT FROM FILMMAKING Ballina Shire is attracting more and more filmmakers and producers to the area and apart from the thrill of seeing the local sights on the screen, there are considerable benefits the film industry brings to our community. You might have seen film crews at key locations across the shire, or have new neighbours near your place of business. At times we might feel a little inconvenienced if filming is taking place at our favourite beach, or parking is a little more difficult at our place of work, but there is so much our community gains.

prosperouseconomy

safe stayroads on

Film making brings many local employment opportunities and gives our young people the opportunity to work in the film industry. They employ local trades, health services, traffic control and security services. They purchase props, wardrobe items and hire equipment and lease commercial spaces. They also boost trade for local businesses, the crew all need to eat, have somewhere to stay and things to see and do when they are not working. The NSW Filming Protocol 2009, was developed to make NSW more film friendly to attract and maintain film, TV and TV commercial production. Council is also restricted to charge the fees set by the NSW Government under this protocol. All photography and filming on public spaces must be approved through Council’s Open Spaces Team before production can commence. Council also has a filming policy to assist film production companies achieve their vision, but at the same time safeguard the day-to-day activities of our community and protect the environment.

We’re all pedestrians at some point in our day. Unlike people in cars, pedestrians aren’t protected by seatbelts, airbags and metal. So always remember to keep an eye out for pedestrians – anytime of the day or night.

After the impacts to our region from the bushfires and COVID, the film industry brings a welcome economic benefit to the Ballina Shire. We appeal to our local residents to see it for the value that it brings. For more information, applications or to read the full policy, visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/filming

SEPTEMBER 2020 ISSUE 40

communityconnect

LOOKING BACK 2010 – 2020 MARCH 2010 • Community Connect launched with Mayor Phillip Silver

• New Stairs at Lennox Point – the “surfers’ stairs” named in memory of Ron “Shorty” Connors

MAY 2010 • Earth friendly fuel for Council vehicles • Affordable Housing Strategy for Ballina Shire

• Youth Week celebrates Battle of the Bands

• Ballina Shire Population is 40,571 SEPTEMBER 2010 • Development of the new community garden in Ballina

• Jetstar introduced self-service checkin at Ballina Airport

• Announced $5.8m for new Ballina Surf Club at Lighthouse Beach, Ballina

DECEMBER 2010 • 4WD permits for Seven Mile Beach introduced

• Council adopts $50,000 Community Events program

• The construction of the shared path from Lennox Head to Pat Morton commenced

• Lennox Head tornado was one of the biggest community challenges in 2010

2010

Surfers Stairs, Le nnox

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APRIL 2011 • Council awards $45 million contract for major upgrade of the wastewater treatment plants that service Ballina and Lennox Head

• Alstonville Village streetscape upgrades completed

• Urban 3-Bin Waste Service introduced July 2011

• Plans proceed for Aboriginal Family Centre in Porter Park, West Ballina

SEPTEMBER 2011 • Troy Cassar-Daley performs at the inaugural Ballina Country Music Festival

• Completion of the Home Maker Centre in the Southern Cross Industrial Estate

• Completed construction of the Lennox Head Cultural Centre and Skate Park

• Installation of traffic lights at Kerr and Fox Street intersection

NOVEMBER 2011 • Regional Express (REX) commenced daily service between Ballina and Newcastle

• Local Rewards Tourism Campaign launched

• Scores on Doors is launched to recognise business with a good food safety records

2011

Head

Lennox Head Cu ltural

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

APRIL 2012 • Volunteer Airport Tourism Ambassadors launched to meet and greet airport arrivals

• Ballina Byron Gateway Airport welcomed 300,000 passengers in one year

• The Ballina Bypass opened, making the town a lot quieter with heavy vehicles absent from our streets

• Ballina Shire’s street lights retrofitted with new energy efficient fittings, halving the shire's energy consumption.

OCTOBER 2012 • Following the 2012 Local Government Elections we farewell Mayor Phillip Silver and welcome new Mayor David Wright

• We farewell retiring Councillors Alan Brown, Peter Moore and Phil Silver and welcome Paul Worth, Ken Johnston and Keith Williams.

DECEMBER 2012 • Wollongbar land release to benefit lower income earners. Council receives a grant of $4.5 million and offers residents $30,000 rebates on the purchase of residential lots.

2012

Centre

Wollongbar Land Release

O M

B R ATI N L E G

I T Y U N

• Final designs prepared for Marine Rescue Tower

JUNE 2013 • Council resolves to remodel the Wigmore Arcade

• River Street receives upgrade and beautification in the Ballina Town Centre

• Solar power LED lights installed in our parks

DECEMBER 2013 • George Negus announced as special guest for Australia Day 2014

• Ballina’s historic waterfront trail receives interpretive signage to showcase our European history

2013

Ballina Surf Club

inaugural Ballina Prawn Festival and celebrate the 40th anniversary of Las Balsas

APRIL 2015 • Cumbalum Ridge Urban Release Area is

unveiled

• We look forward to the

C O

SEPTEMBER 2013 • Ballina Surf Club completed • The new look ‘Big Prawn’ is APRIL 2014 • The new Animal Shelter opens, making it the most modern in NSW.

• Rocky Creek Dam is at 65% capacity

JULY 2014 • Construction commences on aviation fire station

SEPTEMBER 2014 • Close to 400,000 people now using the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport each year

DECEMBER 2014 • Leigh Sales announced special guest for 2015 Australia Day ceremony

• Shoppers enjoy the new Wigmore Arcade

finalised, anticipating some 10,000 people to populate the area over the next 20-30 years

JUNE 2015 • Alstonville celebrates 150 years in a main street fun day festival

• Love Lennox Festival kicks off • Skullcandy Oz Grom Open in Lennox Head is a sell out

SEPTEMBER 2015 • Our community works together to keep our waters safe following shark attacks that see our local beaches broadcast across the country and the world. Our hearts go out to the victims and rescuers from our local community.

DECEMBER 2015 • Max Walker announced special guest for 2016 Australia Day ceremony.

• Council completes the viewing platform at Killen Falls

• Ballina Shire Council is

• Ballina Byron Gateway Airport celebrates its

named 2014 Novaskill Employer of the Year.

highest ever passenger numbers, recording 450,000 passengers.

2014

Wigmore Arcade

connectedcommunity engagedleadership

A R S Y E

2015

Oz Grom Open SEPTEMBER 2020 ISSUE 40

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APRIL 2017 • The Aboriginal Cultural Ways

APRIL 2016 • Ballina Shire honors the 101st

interpretive signage along the Coastal Recreational Path is opened

anniversary of the Anzac landings at Gallipoli

• Passenger numbers at the Ballina

JUNE 2016 • Recycled water is introduced to

Byron Gateway Airport push towards 500,000

Ballina Shire

• Drone flights taking place as part of the Shark Management Strategy

• We celebrate festival fever with Ballina Food and Wine Festival, NAIDOC Week, Skullcandy Oz Grom and Love Lennox Festival

JUNE 2017 • New sporting complex is completed in Wollongbar

• Ballina Shire Population is 42,993

• Ballina and Alstonville swimming

OCTOBER 2016 • Marine Rescue Tower in Ballina is

pools begin their simultaneous redevelopment

complete

• Wardell boardwalk is completed • New terminal planned for the Ballina

• Angels Beach Drive upgrade and roundabout is complete

Byron Gateway Airport

• Councillor David Wright is

• Ballina Shire attracts more

returned as popularly elected Mayor at the Local Government Elections.

filmmakers to the area with Pirates of the Caribbean 5

SEPTEMBER 2017 • The Ballina Coast & Hinterland video

• We farewell retiring Councillors Keith Johnson, Robyn Hordern, Paul Worth, Sue Meehan and Ken Johnston and welcome newly elected Councillors Stephen McCarthy, Nathan Willis, Sharon Parry, Eoin Johnson and Phillip Meehan.

premieres and Sydney Weekender films two episodes featuring Ballina

• Council advocates for banning plastic bags in the shire

DECEMBER 2017 • Ballina Marina Master Plan is

DECEMBER 2016 • Shark Nets are trialled at Ballina

adopted for the redevelopment of the trawler harbour site in West Ballina

Shire beaches.

• Council wins awards for engineering

• Council provided 96 land buyer subsidies in Wollongbar and 120 in Ballina Heights.

excellence – Coastal Pathways and Marine Rescue Tower

2016

2017 communityconnec t the magazine of ballina shir e council jun e 2017 issue 27

MARCH 2018 • New tennis facilities open at the new Wollongbar Sports Fields

• Five new pontoons are installed throughout the Ballina Shire

• Roundabout goes in at Ross Lane and Byron Bay Road

• We see the designs for the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre

JULY 2018 • The new Ballina and Alstonville pools have their grand opening

• Captain Cook Memorial Park is upgraded • Sharpes Beach receives an observation tower

• New playground for Fawcett Park and Porter Park

• Shaws Bay receives many upgrades and looks better than ever

• Ignite Studios grand opening, converting the old Ballina fire station into a beautiful art space

SEPTEMBER 2018 • New terminal opens at the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport

DECEMBER 2018 • Foreshore improvements are underway at Lake Ainsworth and it is looking great

• We trial one-way traffic in Lennox Head • Passenger numbers soar to 536,000 through the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport

• Shaws Bay and Fenwick Drive become even more beautiful with new upgrades

2018 communityconnec t

THE MAGAZIN E OF BALLIN A SHIRE COU N C I L J U LY 2 018 ISSUE 3 1

Waste Satchel

Pools are opening

Wollongbar Sportfields

New playground for Fawcett Park

Pool on Time Lapse

Our local heroes

Park Lane Theatre Ahn Do

Ignite studios

Skullcandy Oz Grom Open

Lennox Head local Nyxie Ryan celebrates her second place win with friends at the 2016 Skullcandy Oz Grom Open in the 14 and girls' division. under

Winning Teamwork

Josh and Paul may be rivals on the rugby field but when it comes to working for Ballina Shire Council they both agree it's a great place to be. Find out why on

page 13.

There's a host of great events in Ballina Shire over the coming months, see pages 8 and 9 for details.

Cover image: Yvette

Issue 22 – April 20 16

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Avard

Issue 27 – June 20 17

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

Issue 31 – July 20 18

APRIL 2019 • Ballina welcomes over 1 million visitors to the shire

• Council is a finalist in the Safe Work NSW Awards.

JULY 2019 • River Street, between Moon and Grant Streets, upgrade begins

• Our water reservoirs get a splash of paint with attractive new artworks

• New regional visitor guide is launched

MARCH 2020 • Ballina Shire Population estimated at 44,628 • Council launches its new website and provides 24/7 access through its Community Portal

• Unemployment in Ballina Shire sits at 3.6% (ending June 2018)

• Northern Rivers showcased with Digital Visitor Hub at new

SEPTEMBER 2019 • Lake Ainsworth foreshore improvements are nearing completion

• New roundabout for Sharpes Beach announced

• Construction of Airport Boulevard commences

NOVEMBER 2019 • Liz Ellis to be guest speaker at 2020 Australia Day official ceremony

• New Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC) Opens

• Upgraded Ballina Byron Gateway Airport terminal opens

2019

BP Highway Service Centre

• River Street Upgrade is completed in the CBD JULY 2020 • The new Northern Rivers Motorcycle Touring Guide is launched

• Hutley Drive northern extension road opens • Plans are unveiled for the Wollongbar District Park • Sports fields receive lighting upgrades in time for winter sport AUGUST 2020 – extra edition is launched • Our tourism future is on exhibition with the Draft Destination Management Plan

• Solar panel installation at Council Chambers • Ballina’s first Fitness Park gets installed at Commemoration Park

• Fox Street roundabout commences to improve motorist safety

2020 ISSUE

ISSUE

NOV 2019

T H E

Q U A R T E R L Y

M A G A Z I N E

J U LY 2 0 2 0

T H E O F

connectedcommunity engagedleadership

LOOKING BACK 2010 – 2020

T H E

B A L L I N A

S H I R E

M A G A Z I N E

O F

T H E

B A L L I N A

C O U N C I L

S H I R E

C O U N C I L

Australia Day nominations close 2 December 2019. See page 3 for

details.

AUSTRALIA DAY CELEBRATIONS 2020

SUNDAY 26 JANUARY 2020 Former Australian Diamonds Netball Captain, sports commentat or and Ballina Shire resident, Liz Ellis will be our special guest at the Australia Day Celebrations in the newly opened Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC). See page 3 for details...

featured stories... Nominate your local hero Australia Day Awards

CONTRACTORS AT OUR COMMUNITY POOLS Meet the husband who have been -and-wife teams than 20 years. at the helm for more

featured stories... River Street Duplication

Draft Concept Plan for Lennox Village

Shop Local this Christmas

Issue 37 – Novemb er

2019

See page 4 and

Gateway to Council

5 for details.

Waste Factsheet and Calendar Inside

Issue 39 – July 20 20 SEPTEMBER 2020 ISSUE 40

communityconnect

Council meetings at a glance A great number of items and issues get to discussed at Council meetings. Here is some of what will be discussed at the next Ordinary Council meeting on 24 September 2020.

LENNOX HEAD COMMUNITY MARKET

PLANNING PROPOSAL WARDELL

To look at options to relocate the markets to the Lake Ainsworth Precinct. The report will assess the condition of the Lake's improvement works and the outcomes of the Coastal Management Program.

Amend the Ballina Local Environmental Plan 2012 to rezone land in Fitzroy Street from Rural Landscape to Medium Density Residential.

4WDS SEVEN MILE BEACH

DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS

Consider submissions received during the exhibition period and finalise the policy for 4WD access at Seven Mile Beach, Lennox Head.

Major development applications under assessment.

To view the fu ll agenda and m inutes visit ballina.nsw .gov.au/ agenda-and-m inutes

STREAMING OF COUNCIL MEETINGS Have you ever wondered what goes on in a council meeting but are unable to attend due to other commitments? You can watch our meetings from the comfort of your home, or work, via our online livestream. No need to worry if you miss the livestream as the recording is uploaded to Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website. To join a livestreamed meeting or view a previous meeting visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/AgendasAndMinutes

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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

A gateway to Council Council’s Community Portal is live and waiting for you to visit.

Want to keep up to date with Development Applications in your area?

The online platform is our community’s onestop-shop and allows you to register, login and interact with Council online 24/7. The portal has been popular and now has over 600 registered users, including residents, businesses and real estate agents.

The DAs Online section on Council’s homepage of the website is your portal to keeping up to date.

Using the portal you can:

REPORT POTHOLES SUBMIT REQUESTS PAY YOUR RATES AND CHARGES APPLY FOR CERTIFICATES AND MORE! Visit and start exploring the Community Portal at ballina.nsw.gov. au/communityportal

Hot tip!

Registering gives you a more personalised experience that will continue to improve as we increase our online services.

STEP 1 STEP 2

Go to da.ballina.nsw.gov.au Read and agree to the Terms and Conditions for use

STEP 3

Click on the ‘Applications on Exhibition’ on the applications menu on the left side of the page. Specific applications can also be found via the ‘search’ function on this page. You can search by applications submitted this week or this month. You can also go into the search function and fill in the fields to find a particular street or application type.

FAMILY FUN HOLIDAYS

Boosting Business Events

connectedcommunity engagedleadership

DAS ONLINE KEEPING YOU IN THE KNOW

SAND, SUN, SURF AND TOASTED MARSHMALLOWS

Destination North Coast, the region's tourism agency, is campaigning to attract business events to Ballina. The 'Cheers to Recovery' campaign lets businesses know Ballina offers a wide range of venues, facilities and suppliers that are ready to welcome events. You can watch the campaign video at https://bit.ly/35F5l9g

...our best kept local secret CALL NOW OR BOOK ONLINE 02 6686 4848 • flatrocktentpark.com.au

SEPTEMBER 2020 ISSUE 40

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The Cleaning Crusaders

Many of their stories are too confronting to tell. Needless to say, they regularly face dirty and dangerous conditions to keep us safe. Yet every day they get on with the job, with a smile to boot. Art, Larry, Scott, and Jeremy clean the public amenities across our shire, including toilets, seating, barbecues, and drinking fountains. Every morning before the break of dawn they are up and hard at work. Each team member covers one of four zones. Zones one to three covers public amenities across the shire, while zone four takes care of Council’s depot, waste management centre, and animal shelter. Art has more than 40 years’ experience in the cleaning industry and has been working with Council for 17 years now. He says the first two hours of his shift in Ballina CBD are often spent removing rubbish from the streets, while his colleague Larry does the same in Alstonville CBD. “I think many people never give a thought to cleaners, but we work in an environment that very few would want to work in,” says Art. “We have everyone’s safety in mind, every day, every week and we’re working hard to keep our public assets clean and fresh.”

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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

The team recently received a Team Innovation Award (an internal staff recognition program) for their outstanding efforts since the COVID -19 pandemic started. Without hesitation, the team ramped up their schedule back in March to fit in additional touch point cleans throughout the day including additional cleans to our public amenities, Council’s work depot, animal shelter, waste management centre, and Burns Point Ferry. While a downside is dealing with messy situations, the flipside is that positive feedback really helps. Art says he has noticed an increase in compliments since the COVID pandemic started. “Our routine every day is to make sure the facilities are maintained to a high standard anyway, but I think because of COVID the public is more aware now and they see what we do,” he says. “The most rewarding part is getting that feedback. The end result is to make sure the public is happy and if they are happy, then our job is as easy as it gets.” Our cleaners are the unsung heroes keeping us safe each and every day. If you see one of our team members, give them a wave and show them your appreciation.

Stay Safe and Keep your Distance As the weather warms up, and holidays approach it is expected that more residents and visitors will be out and about.

COUNCIL WORKING WITH EATERIES DURING COVID Do the words ‘food surveillance’ and ‘food inspector’ make you think of hidden cameras or a hard-boiled detective? The terminology might seem intimidating, but rest assured Council’s food inspector isn’t up to any tricky business – she’s here to help our community. Sue Anderson has worked with Ballina Shire Council for 19 years and has become a familiar face while doing her rounds. There are currently 280 food outlets registered with Council, and 90 market food stalls. Every year Sue conducts inspections of these premises to ensure they are meeting current food regulations. She assesses cleaning and sanitising, pest control, food handling, and maintenance of premises and equipment. Sue says businesses are often grateful to have up to date information and appreciate having the opportunity to make changes when needed. “My aim is to be open and approachable. Certainly when there’s a problem there may need to be firmer follow up, but I prefer to work alongside businesses and if there’s a problem we talk about it and sort it out.”

The three business chambers of Alstonville/ Wollongbar, Ballina and Lennox Head have partnered with Ballina Shire Council to install social distancing footpath stickers in the town centres. The stickers are a visual reminder to locals and visitors to socially distance when out and about, and support the state and federal public health directives for COVID-19. Locations for the stickers were nominated by business chambers, and with consideration of key points of pedestrian activity in the town centres. You may also notice the social distancing stickers in key locations on the shared paths around Ballina and Lennox Head. The temporary pavement stickers have a public safety message to reinforce the importance of social distancing while staying active. Cycling and walking is a great way to stay fit and enjoy the spring weather. But we need to make sure that cyclists and pedestrians on shared paths are safe. Whether you’re on your bike or walking we all have a role to play in community safety.

While inspections are a big part of her role, Sue is also the go-to person for questions related to food hygiene and food safety. Requests can range from how to set up a new food shop, market stall or home-based business; to Development Application referrals for new food outlets; to questions about COVID-19. Over the past six months Sue has been working hard to keep businesses up to date with changing public health orders through regular communication and routine inspections. “I make sure businesses are aware that they need to have a COVID Safety Plan and need to register as COVID Safe with NSW Health. When I’m doing the inspections I make sure they’ve got the right information and appropriate procedures in place,” says Sue. “It’s been tough on businesses but for the most part I’m amazed at how people take it in their stride.” For Sue, the most rewarding part of her role is being out in the community, meeting people and truly making a difference to the way we live. While she never planned to specialise in food safety after completing her degree in Applied Science and Environmental Health, it’s turned out to be a fulfilling career. “I’m learning all the time and the longer you work with Council the more you realise you are never alone, which I love. There are lots of amazing projects happening and lots of hard work and innovation.”

GOT A FOOD SAFETY QUESTION? Email pehd@ballina.nsw.gov.au or call 1300 864 444 for more information.

HOLIDAY IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS

connectedcommunity engagedleadership

For Aus tr NSW g alian and overnm ent resourc Council es visit ballina 's website .nsw.g ov.au/ covid

JUST A HOP, SKIP AND A JUMP FROM HOME...YOU COULD EVEN POP HOME TO FEED THE DOG

...our best kept local secret CALL NOW OR BOOK ONLINE 02 6686 4848 • flatrocktentpark.com.au

Download Covid-19 Resources and Information at ballina.nsw.gov.au/covid

SEPTEMBER 2020 ISSUE 40

communityconnect

The community pools in Ballina and Alstonville are ideal places to cool down and catch up with friends and family.

into the Community Pools

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plenty of aquatic sports and activities at the pools; making them great locations to host a family BBQ or kid's birthday party.

Alstonville Aquatic Centre amenities upgrade The upgrades at the Alstonville Aquatic Centre are now complete and the pool is open for business, or should we say swimming. The community can now enjoy the new, modern facilities, change rooms and amenities. The kiosk has expanded to cater better for patrons' needs, making it more family friendly and convenient. The accessible change room has also been refurbished and fitted with a chair lift, making the Alstonville Aquatic Centre more suitable for the growing needs of its community. Pool Managers, Greg and Kelly are excited to be open and welcoming swimmers back to the pool. The $400,000 refurbishment now completes the upgrade to this facility, delivering a modern complex to cater for the needs of residents and visitors for many years to come.

Ballina War Memorial Pool & Waterslide

Alstonville Aquatic Centre

Lee and Vicki Fitzgerald | 02 6686 3771 Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 5.30am - 7pm Saturday 7am - 6pm Sunday 8am - 5pm

Greg and Kelly Fettell | 02 6628 0826 Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 5.30am - 7pm Saturday 8am - 6pm Sunday 10am - 5pm

Find them on Facebook

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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

Find them on Facebook

Patrols for 2020/2021 Swimming Season

Market Calendar 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 View the Northern Rivers Market Guide at discoverballina.com to see where the markets are this week! BEACH

PATROLS START

PATROLS FINISH

DETAILS

Seven Mile Beach, Lennox Head

28/09/2020

18/04/2021

9am – 5pm* Professional Lifeguards Mon-Fri (5 days) Volunteers on weekends and public holidays

Flat Rock, East Ballina (roving guard)

26/09/2020 19/12/2020 03/04/2021

11/10/2020 26/01/2021 18/04/2021

9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards 7 days a week

Sharpes Beach, Skennars Head

26/09/2020 19/12/2020 03/04/2021

11/10/2020 26/01/2021 18/04/2021

9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards 7 days a week

Shelly Beach, East Ballina

26/09/2020 19/12/2020 03/04/2021

11/10/2020 26/01/2021 18/04/2021

9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards 7 days a week

Lighthouse Beach, Ballina

28/09/2020 21/12/2020 06/04/2021

09/10/2020 25/01/2021 18/04/2021

9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards Mon-Fri (5 days) Volunteers on weekends and public holidays

NOTE: market dates are correct at time of printing 14 September 2020.

WANT LONGING A HAPPY FOR HOLIDAY? A BREAK?

connectedcommunity

Event d eta time of ils correct at subject printing and more d to change. Fo eta r discov ils please visit erballin a.com

AVOID ESCAPE THETO LONG OUR DRIVE BEACHSIDE WITH THE OASIS KIDS AND SPEND MORE TIME RELAXING

...our best kept local secret CALL NOW OR BOOK ONLINE

* Lennox Head is 9am - 6pm during NSW Summer school holiday period

02 6686 4848 • flatrocktentpark.com.au

SEPTEMBER 2020 ISSUE 40

communityconnect

e r a e W ING N R U T ! E N O

The BISC celebrates its first Birthday

basketball and futsal, our Australia Day Ceremony, and the Get Active Expo, which attracted more than 30 sporting groups and associations.” A number of international sporting stars have graced the courts, including our special guest for the 2020 Australia Day Ceremony, netball great Liz Ellis. More recently NRL legends Greg Alexander and Brad Fittler talked football tactics and life skills with students from Ballina Coast High School’s Targeted Sports Program.

We can hardly believe the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre has turned one! The BISC (as it has become affectionately known) opened to the public on 14 October 2019.

The BISC has also helped to develop new or growing sports in the region. Volleyball has experienced huge growth in the past few months, while pickle ball continues to gain popularity. “The BISC brings people together, whether it’s for fun and social interaction or to grow and develop their sporting skills. This has so many benefits for the community and our region,” added Craig. “We can’t wait to keep building on this success in the year ahead.”

Manager Facilities and Services, Craig Brown says so much has been achieved in just under 12 months, even with the challenges of COVID-19. “The centre has hosted a number of successful community and sporting events including North Coast Shield competitions for

kids parties

AT THE BISC

Looking for a kids party venue out of the rain, but still lots of fun for your child and their friends.

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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

Ballina Indoor Sports Centre BISC 63 Cherry Street, Ballina 6681 0599 communityspaces.com.au

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Volleyball a growing sport at the BISC Join Ballina Volleyball on Thursdays for two hours of coaching, drills and games. What started as a passion for a few high school mates getting together to play volleyball after school has quickly gained interest. These students recruited players, adults and coaches to help them set up the formalities to become an established club. In March the club incorporated as an official association and is now in the process of setting up a committee and establishing a membership structure. Up to 15 students and adults started playing regularly at the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC) late last year. When the centre reopened in July that number doubled. Players include young people aged from 12-16 from a variety of schools in the Ballina Shire as well as adults from the local community. People of all ages are encouraged to get involved to form youth and adult teams, and eventually tournaments.

KEEN TO GET INVOLVED? Where: Ballina Indoor Sports Centre When: Every Thursday Time: 3.30pm – 5.30pm Cost: $10 per person Contact: ballinavolleyball@gmail.com or call the BISC on 6681 0599.

MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE NOW!

You can also check out the association’s social media pages facebook.com/ ballinavolley2478/ and Instagram Ballinavolleyball2478

Ballina Indoor Sports Centre BISC 63 Cherry Street, Ballina 6681 0599 communityspaces.com.au

Keep up to date

ask our staff

$65 3 MONTHS UNLIMITED

connectedcommunity

new to BISC

with what’s happening at the BISC Visit communityspaces.com.au to sign up to the Community Spaces E-news.

Terms and conditions apply.

SEPTEMBER 2020 ISSUE 40

communityconnect

Lord’s Taverners Northern NSW

A local charity m sport ea aking sie people tr for access o

Knockrow

Wollongbar

Alstonville

Australian Red Cross has safeguarded Australia’s blood supply for more than 90 years. During Covid-19 restrictions blood donations are more vital than ever. Red Cross will be in the Richmond Room on the following dates for Ballina Shire residents to donate blood and plasma.

MONDAY 19 OCTOBER A local charity is giving young people with disabilities the chance to play a range of sports including basketball and soccer. Lord’s Taverners Northern NSW is a charity with a rich history focused on helping the young, disadvantaged or disabled people to participate in sport. The organisation goes back to a time when cricket-loving spectators used to congregate at the Tavern at the Lord’s Cricket Ground in England. Lord’s Taverners Australia was formed in 1982, with branches established in all states and territories.

come along to oversee the activities and sometimes they provide coaching if they have that expertise.”

Where: Richmond Room, Ballina Time: 1.30pm - 7pm

The All-Abilities Sports program is currently running at Alstonville Cultural Centre, where a group of young adults with autism or special needs meet on Monday afternoon to play basketball.

Where: Richmond Room, Ballina Time: 9.30am - 2.30pm

The charity also works with Biala Special School in Ballina. John organises basketball and soccer sessions for Biala students at the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre.

Together, we’re Australia’s Lifeblood.

He says he always receives positive feedback from the schools that he works with and he loves seeing the outcomes for participants.

While the organisation was borne out of a love for cricket, its All-Abilities Sports Program is certainly not limited to one sport. Participants get to experience a wide range of activities including basketball, soccer, golf, lawn bowls, softball and swimming.

“For me it’s so great to see them growing up, I’ve known some of the participants for around six years now. Sometimes we’re in a position to help them after they leave school, which is important as sport helps maintain those social networks.”

Chairman of the All-Abilities Sports Program for Northern NSW, John McCaffery, says it’s all about making sport easier for people to access.

Lord’s Taverners Northern NSW also offers TAFE NSW grants, sporting grants, university scholarships, sporting camps and more.

“We run programs on school grounds, or if they don’t have space for that we hire a venue. We find out what it is they need and what sports the students want to play,” he says. “We pay for venue hire, supply the equipment and set it all up. We have volunteers who

communityconnect |

Anyone who is interested in the All-Abilities Sports program is welcome to contact John for more information on 0427 934 806. If you would like to support Lord’s Taverners Northern NSW head to their website to learn more lordstavernersnorthernnsw.com.au

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL COUNCIL

Lennox Head

Tintenbar

Wardell

.nsw.gov.au

AUSTRALIAN RED CROSS

TUESDAY 20 OCTOBER If you would like to become a donor telephone 13 14 95 or visit lifeblood.com.au

Ballina South Ballina

Australia Day NOMINATIONS 26 JANUARY 2021

NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN! Do you know someone who makes a significant contribution to the Ballina Shire through their involvement in community based activities, sport or the arts? Even in these challenging times, people are going to extraordinary lengths to help others in need and overcome obstacles to pursue their passions.

Pickleball You can play a wide range of sports at Ballina Indoor Sports Centre: netball, basketball, volleyball, futsal and walking football. But have you heard of pickleball? Pickleball is a paddle sport that originated in Washington State in the USA in the 1960’s. Described as a cross between badminton, table tennis and ping pong, it is a low impact sport that is easy to learn and play at almost any age. The sport has grown significantly in Australia since being introduced by a small group of enthusiasts in 2017. Not only will it keep you active, but it is a great social sport too. Pickleball has been played at the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre since opening in 2019, and interest continues to grow.

Now is the time to starting thinking about nominations for the 2021 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards. The format of the awards ceremony is yet to be decided, depending on public health restrictions, but rest assured participants will be acknowledged for their accomplishments, generosity and contributions to the community. Nominate someone, or a group, who showcases, promotes or acts as an ambassador for Ballina Shire.

1. YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR (30 YEARS OF AGE OR UNDER) A young resident who has made a significant contribution to the Ballina Shire.

2. SENIOR CITIZEN OF THE YEAR (60 YEARS OF AGE OR OVER) A senior resident who has made a significant contribution to the Ballina Shire.

3. VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR An individual who has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to support an organisation’s activities.

4. SPORTING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD A team or individual who has excelled and represented their chosen sport at a local, regional, state, national or international level. Nominations can also be sports administrators and coaches who have made a significant contribution to sport.

5. ARTS AND CULTURE AWARD

connectedcommunity

ballina shire

An individual who has made a significant contribution to the creative arts.

6. COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR An individual or group who has hosted an outstanding community event in Ballina Shire.

7. ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD KEEN TO GET INVOLVED? Where: When: Time: Cost: Contact:

Ballina Indoor Sports Centre Every Monday 10.30am $6 per person The BISC on 6681 0599

An individual or group contributing to our environmental preservation or advancing environmental awareness. The Citizen of the Year Award will be selected by the Australia Day Committee from all of the nominees across the seven categories. To nominate visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/australiaday, or telephone Tracy Lister, Coordinator Communications, on 1300 864 444.

Nominations close Monday 30 November 2020.

SEPTEMBER 2020 ISSUE 40

gallery opening ho urs

Wed – Fri 1 0am – 4pm Temporarily red opening ho uced urs on weekends due to COVID-19

current exhibitions Exhibition Dates: 12 August – 18 October 2020

Unconditional Stories | Ballina Hospital + TAFE NSW Lismore

Boundlessness | Bruno Kortenhorst Kortenhorst’s photographs explore the boundaries between inner and outer worlds and are informed by his lifelong interest in meditation. Kortenhorst uses an analogue pinhole camera which does not have a viewfinder. The process is intuitive and experimental, and the results have a dreamlike quality. Image: Bruno Kortenhorst, P-013-08, 2019

Eco-Land | Geoff Tolchard Artist and art history lecturer Geoff Tolchard presents a series of drawings completed during lockdown. Tolchard uses animals as a metaphor for tolerance and hope. His drawings can be seen as ‘single frame stories’. Image: Geoff Tolchard, The Interview, 2020

On Orchard | Michael Stiegler Stiegler’s unconventional mixed media works comment on excess in contemporary culture, portraying vulnerability, desire, anxiety and lust for consumption. Ugliness and beauty coexist in his work, as they do in reality. His works combine art, fashion and photography with an energetic street appeal. Image: Michael Stiegler Roman, 2019

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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

O C T O B E R

Image: Juliette Rengel, In Sickness and In Health, 2020

Students from TAFE NSW Lismore Creative Design and Ideation Faculty collaborated with Ballina Hospital patients to produce a range of artwork that reflects unique and personal stories of sickness and healing.

S E P T E M B E R

Join us on this journey of health, illness and life experiences transformed into art.

workshops

Exhibition Dates: 21 October– 13 December 2020 | Launch: Thursday 22 October

Workshop Dates: Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 October 2020

WEAVING CIRCLE IV

Graduate SCU Art Prize | Elizabeth Russ N OV EM B ER

Russ explores the deciduous and gravitational nature of contemporary spirituality in the era of the 6th Mass Extinction.

Elizabeth Russ is the recipient of the 2019 Southern Cross University (SCU) Graduate Award.

D EC EM B ER

Image: Betty Russ Crystal, 2019

No Mud, No Lotus | Aesha Kennedy No Mud, No Lotus responds to the teachings of Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hahn. Kennedy’s abstract paintings explore his teachings and that nothing exists without it’s opposite.

Join Tania Marlowe and Deb Cole, from Jugan Dandii to learn how to construct containers such as water carriers (traditional Bundjalung style) or various boxed baskets with Bangalow palm leaf butt. All materials are provided for this workshop. Day: Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 October.2020 Time: 9.30am – 12.30pm Cost: $235 (includes all materials) Ages: Adults (15+) BOOK ONLINE @ www.nrcgballina.com.au Bookings essential to secure a place. Image: Weaving Circle with Tania Marlow and Deb Cole

ART STATION

Image: Aesha kennedy #18 RISE, 2019

BAM Art prize | 2020 Finalist Exhibition The BAM Art Prize promotes awareness of the arts in the Northern Rivers. The Finalist Exhibition showcases shortlisted artworks in the 2020 prize. Image: BAM Art Prize 2018, visitors viewing winning art work by Helle Jorgensen (photo Michelle Eabry)

Join two exciting days of creative arts workshops for kids. On Wednesday make wild creatures and build sculptural worlds to tell stories about our precious environment with facilitator Cara MacLeod. On Thursday join artist Karma Barnes for a creative and fun session creating mixed-media collage artworks of your visions of the worlds in the future. Day: Wednesday 7 or Thursday 8 October 2020 Time: 10am – 1pm Cost: $35 (includes all materials) Ages: 8+ BOOK ONLINE @ www.nrcgballina.com.au Bookings essential to secure a place.

connectedcommunity

upcoming exhibitions

Image: Future Collage with Karma Barnes

thanks to our sponsors The Ballina Shire Council and Northern Rivers Community Gallery gratefully acknowledge our exhibition sponsors: Stone & Wood Brewing and The Cellar.

stay up to date THE

Be sure to sign-up to our E-News or follow us on Facebook or Instagram to be kept in the loop! For more Information go to nrcgballina.com.au

44 cherry street, ballina nsw 2478 | ph 02 6681 0530 open wed – fri 10am – 4pm | weekends 9.30am – 1pm (closed public holidays)

backflow prevention device

Council receiv es a wide variety of enq uiries about water m eters, so in this edition of Water Talk we’re shed ding some light on the most common que stions.

water meter

stop tap

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ON PUBLIC PROPERTY

ON PRIVATE PROPERTY

council's responsibility

your responsibility

→

water meter

stop tap

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR REPAIRS?

ON PUBLIC PROPERTY

Repairs to water meters are Council's responsibility if they are on the Council side of the council's responsibility meter assembly, as depicted in our Water Meter Diagram. However, if the damage is caused by the property owner, contractor, or individual, Council may invoice you for the cost to repair or replace the meter. If you are unsure if the issue with your meter is Council’s responsibility or yours, it is best to check with our Water Team before engaging a plumber as we are unable to reimburse costs incurred when Council has not been contacted to inspect.

WHAT CHECKS SHOULD I DO ON MY WATER METER? ON PRIVATE PROPERTY

yourYOUR responsibility 1. MAKE SURE METER IS VISIBLE. Try putting a stake in the ground or tying a red ribbon to clearly mark its location in your yard. Water meters can easily be run over by lawn mowers, damaged during a property’s construction or from landscaping earthworks. Our water meter readers also need to access your meter. If our staff can’t locate a meter they will contact the resident and return to the property to try again. Unfortunately, this has an impact on Council resources.

2. LEARN HOW TO READ YOUR METER The below reading indicates 12,345 kilolitres and 678 litres of water have passed through the water meter since it was connected (some older metres may have four dials for kilolitres and four dials representing fractions of kilolitres). For billing purposes Council will only read the dials representing whole kilolitres. Water Meter Serial Numbe r

14W12345 6 1

Kilolitres (kl) 1 kl =1000 lit res

communityconnect |

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

7 Litres

CAN I INSTALL ADDITIONAL METERS?

Each quarter, Council issues water charge notices which include your meter reading. To check your meter you can compare your current meter’s reading with the reading on your notice. Your current meter reading should be proportionally greater than the reading on your notice by the number of days since the notice date.

Owners corporations may wish to install separate meters so that each unit’s water consumption can be accurately measured and billed.

4. CHECK THE WATER METER SERIAL NUMBER The serial number stamped on the body of the water meter should be the same as the serial number listed on your quarterly water based charges notice.

For each tenancy to be separately metered, additional water services from Council’s water main can be installed, or the existing meter will remain at the property boundary as the master meter, and each tenancy can be individually metered via subtract meters.

Turn off all taps at the property.

The owners corporation needs to engage a plumber to determine if it is feasible to install the separate meters. Council requires a Water Service Application with a hydraulic plan completed by a qualified plumber or hydraulic engineer. A signed letter from all members of the owners corporation stating that they consent to the works being undertaken is also needed.

Record your water meter reading, paying particular attention to

The hydraulic plan should:

5. CHECK FOR WATER LEAKS

the red dials on the right which record litres.

Wait one hour without using any water at the property (all day or overnight would provide a better result).

Record the water meter reading again. If the second reading is greater than the first reading, this

Clearly confirm that there are no unmetered connections between the master meter and any subtract meters.

Show the current configuration and any proposed alterations on the privately owned component of the properties’ water service to demonstrate that these alterations are able to be carried out.

would indicate a water leak, which should be investigated immediately. You may need to contact a plumber for further assistance.

Your plumber will supply and install the subtract meters and they will need to be compatible with Council’s Smart Metering Device, which will need to be fitted to all meters (including the master meter).

Once water has passed through the water meter into the property it is the owner’s responsibility. Property owners will need to pay for water consumption even if it is caused by a leak.

The works need to be in accordance with Council’s Metering Policy and Backflow Prevention Policy. Visit ballinawater.com.au or call 1300 864 444 to find out more.

6. CHECK THE WATER METER ACCURACY Record the meter reading, paying particular attention to the dials on the right that record litres.

Fill a bucket with 10 litres of water. Read the water meter again. The meter dial indicating litres should have advanced by ten. All other dials should have remained the same. If they have not contact Council to arrange for accurate testing of the water meter.

engaged leadership healthy environment healthyenvironment

3. CHECK YOUR WATER METER READING

CAN’T LOCATE YOUR WATER METER?

and our Give Council a call able to Water Team will be lephone help you find it, te 1300 864 444.

You will be required to pay a deposit for the testing of the water meter (see Council’s website for current fees and charges). If Council finds the water meter is faulty, the testing deposit will be refunded and your water charges will be adjusted. However, if the water meter is found to be accurate, the testing deposit will be retained by Council.

For more information visit ballinawater.com.au or call our Water and Wastewater Team on 1300 864 444.

S E P T E MJBUELY R 2020 ISSUE 4 30 9

WASTE

WATCH

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WASTE TIPS FOR

Waste Wise: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE SOLUTIONS

A collaborative exhibition on resource recovery

1. SPRUCING UP YOUR GARDEN Use your organics bin for garden waste and weeds (as well as all food scraps). Cut larger items like palm fronds and branches into smaller pieces to ensure your bin lid can close for collection.

2. CLEARING OUT THE SHED Drop off household quantities of common problem wastes for FREE at our CRC (Community Recycling Centre) located at the Waste Management Centre. Items accepted are cooking and engine oils, fluorescent and light bulbs and tubes, all sized batteries, paint, gas bottles, fire extinguishers and smoke detectors. Household quantities only are accepted for quantities of 20kg or 20 litres. E-waste can also be dropped off for FREE, including TVs, computers, printers and electrical cables. If you have a number of paint tins with small volumes, simply pour them into the same tin ensuring oil-based and water-based paints remain separated. Empty paint tins can be recycled in your kerbside recycling bin.

Waste Wise is an exhibition curated by Ballina Shire Council, Alstonville Plateau Historical Society and North East Waste. The exhibition targets waste and resource recovery as key global challenges of our time and will be on display until Sunday 27 September.

WASTE WISE!

3. DECLUTTERING YOUR HOME If the item is clean and in good condition, try giving the item another life:

donate to a friend, neighbour, or charity sell through local online or print avenues get creative and upcycle or repurpose into something new If the item is not operational, in poor condition or past it use by date, take the item to the Waste Management Centre for recycling or disposal. There are a number of local maintenance and transport service providers who can assist if you are unable to transport them yourself.

4. SORT YOUR LOAD AND SAVE Most items that do not fit or cannot be placed in your existing bin system can be taken to the Waste Management Centre. Ensure youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re charged the cheapest rates by sorting your items into waste, recyclable materials and FREE drop off items prior to your arrival. Check councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website or call customer service for more details.

Past, Present & Future Solutions a collaborative exhibition Waste and resource recovery are key global challenges of our time. What can we learn from the past, how are we tackling waste today and what innovations may our future hold? Get educated, informed and excited as we share solutions from the past to the future. Where: Crawford House Museum, 10 Wardell Road Alstonville

Open: Fridays 10am - 4pm, Sundays 1pm - 4pm Other times by appointment Phone 6628 1829

Crawford House Museum

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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

e for good.

CIRCULAR CAFES

DID YOU KNOW?

Circular Cafes is a new food business program that's launching in our shire. The initiative aims to support food premises move towards a circular economy by together, sotowe will provide your reducing waste to landfill and finding viable port to help make positive change to alternatives for single use plastics. It offers tailored on the ground support, an insightful

Aluminium is the most widespread element on earth. It can be recycled endlessly without losing its strength.

toolkit plus some brilliant opportunities that are free of , and so much saving. charge for eligible businesses including:

a free commercial organics service and 240 litre organics bin for one year

Research suggests approximately 75% of all the aluminium ever mined is still in use today through recycling programs.

option to join the fabulous Green Caffeen cup swap program. No sign up or ongoing costs! bin signage

Recycling aluminium saves 95% of the energy it takes to extract and process new aluminium metal – how fantastic is that!

6/7/20 pm compost caddies and liners for the3:30 kitchen

private Facebook group access for peer to peer support invitation and promotion at the local launch event. The program has the capacity to support 30 food businesses only, so register today! Join a growing sector of sustainable cafes in our region. For more information check out circularcafes.com.au

While aluminium cans and tins are accepted in the kerbside recycling system, other aluminium items such as tools or machinery must be taken to the Waste Management Centre and placed in scrap metal for reprocessing. This is because a scrap metal specialist has the capacity to separate all the various metals for recycling with dedicated equipment, whereas items accepted in your kerbside recycling bin head to Polytrade’s Materials Recovery Facility at Chinderah where real people and various machines sort the wider range of materials as they move through a conveyor system.

engaged leadership healthy environment healthyenvironment

Aluminium

RECYCLING ALUMINIUM 1

COLLECTING SCRAP

SORTING SCRAP

3 CRUSHING

4 REMELTING

5 SECONDARY CASTING

Harnessing business as as a a force for good. arnessing business force for good. Hey fabulous foodie,

We know that you are super busy right now, but we wanted to touch base and let you know of a brilliant new opportunity for businesses like yours.

We believe we are all in this together, so we will provide your business with a bunch of support to help make positive change to save money and the planet!

abulous foodie, We believe we areand allsoinmuch this together, so we will provide your So much business goodness, saving. business Circular Cafes is launching in your area, and with your help we are Please join us. with a bunch of support to help make positive change to now that you are super busy right now, but we wanted to touch going next level to get food waste out of landfill and kick single use save money and the planet! Circular Cafes team plastics to the kerb.opportunity for businesses and let you know of a brilliant new ours. So much business goodness, and so much saving. Circular Cafes Postcard 2.indd 1

ar Cafes is launching in your area, and with your help we are next level to get WASTE food wasteMANAGEMENT out of landfill and kickCENTRE single use cs to the kerb.

s Postcard 2.indd 1

6/7/20 3:30 pm

Please join us.

For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au

Circular Cafes team

OPEN 8AM-4PM 7 DAYS A WEEK (excluding public holidays) Southern Cross Drive, Ballina ph 02 6686 1287

6/7/20 3:30 pm

communityconnect

Love it or Lose it

SHAWS BAY FORESHORE IMPROVEMENTS Work continues at Shaws Bay as part of Council’s Coastal Zone Management Plan to improve the health of the ecosystem and provide new amenities for the community. You will start to see improved recreational amenities, including new picnic shelters and facilities, additional seating, new showers, and connecting pathways to the toilets and the carpark to improve accessibility. Other improvements currently underway include:

dredging of the bay placement of clean sand around the Shaws Bay foreshore for erosion control and beach improvement levelling and improvements to the foreshore at Pop Denison Park including restoration of grass areas creation of an ecological protection area at the north eastern end of Shaws Bay including creation of a saltmarsh basin, fencing and revegetation. The works in the Shaws Bay precinct will provide continued enjoyment of this wonderful asset for years to come. It is anticipated the majority of these works will be completed by early December 2020 in time for our community to enjoy throughout the warmer months.

Bush Fire Danger The Bush Fire Danger Period commenced in our shire on 1 September 2020. Any person wishing to light a fire will require a fire permit until the Bush Fire Danger period is revoked. Fire Permits help ensure fire is used safely and minimise the danger to you, your property and the community. There are circumstances when a fire permit is not required such as for cooking provided:

the fire is in a permanently constructed fireplace; at a site surrounded by ground that is cleared of all combustible materials for a distance of at least two metres all around; the fire is completely extinguished before leaving. It is important to contact NSW Rural Fire Service or Fire and Rescue to check if a fire permit is needed. Council’s Backyard Burning Policy also restricts fires in our towns and villages to prevent air pollution and unwanted smoke from backyard fires. The Policy also allows fires for cooking by only burning dry seasoned timber and be closely managed to minimise smoke and impacts on neighbours. For more information contact Council’s Planning and Environmental Health Division on 1300 864 444, pehd@ballina.nsw.gov.au or visit ballina.nsw.gov.au For permits, bushfire danger periods and total fire bans visit rfs.nsw. gov.au or fire.nsw.gov.au

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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL

Rock Fishers are now required by law to wear a life jacket when fishing on rocks between Lennox Headland and Ballina. On the spot fines of $100 now apply. Anyone fishing from rocks exposed to an ocean swell, including children, must wear a well fitted and appropriate size life jacket that meets Australian standards. Don’t have rocks in your head - never turn your back on the ocean or fish alone, wear non-slip footwear, light clothing and a life jacket! For more information visit watersafety.nsw.gov.au/ rockfishing

FISH SAFE

OFF THE ROCKS !

TIP

Instead of usin g helium balloons cons ider releasing bub bles, making pin-w heels or flying kites and ribbons.

HARM OF HELIUM BALLOONS Council is taking steps to stop the release of balloons within the shire and educate people about the environmental impacts. Balloons are among the top three most harmful pollutants threatening marine wildlife, along with plastic bags and bottles. Under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 it is an offence to release 20 or more balloons at or about the same time if the balloons are inflated with a lighter than air gas, such as helium. Ballina Shire Council is looking to follow the lead of other councils that have banned the release of helium-filled balloons at council events and on land, such as cemeteries, that are council-controlled.

A WEAR KET C LIFE JA

engaged leadership healthy environment healthyenvironment

Rock Fishing safety is no joke!

itab acket su .) 758 lifej st (An AS4 fishing is be for rock

YOU MUST BY LAW WEAR A LIFEJACKET WHEN ROCK FISHING IN BALLINA SHIRE. MORE INFO VISIT: watersafety.nsw.gov.au/rockfishing

subscribe to council’s eNews You’ll never miss important community news and updates again!

ballina.nsw.gov.au

SEPTEMBER 2020 ISSUE 40

How satisfied are you with councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s services? the ballina shire is safe with a connected community, a healthy environment and a thriving economy.

Every two years, council undertakes a community satisfaction survey to measure our performance on key facilities and services. In October 2020, Micromex Research will ask a series of questions about the service received from council. The information also benchmarks against other councils throughout NSW. To get a good cross-section of the community, the telephone survey will seek responses from 500 randomly selected residents. If you are phoned and invited to complete the survey, we hope to take about 10 to 15 minutes of your time. Your feedback will help council identify areas where we can improve our service levels and what the community priorities are. For more information on the survey, or to review previous survey results, visit ballina.nsw. gov.au/CommunityPriorities

Did you know?

We engage an independent researcher to randomly survey 500 residents. This sample of 500 residents provides a high 95% confidence level that if another 500 residents in our population were surveyed we can be 95% confident that the results would be similar.

access stap le household it e m s without lea ving home

Ballina Business Connect Staying at home doesn’t mean you have to go without. Ballina Business Connect lists over 100 local businesses delivering services and goods to your door. The initiative is also a great tool for the wider community, who might want a hot meal delivered to their door or a product from their favourite retailer. Once you’ve found the business or service you need, contact them direct and place your order. The business will then organise delivery, either through their own service or with Ballina Taxis. Council launched this initiative in March to help facilitate social distancing and allow locals to access staple household items without leaving home. The aim is to also help businesses who may be doing it tough and encourage locals to support local businesses. Business registration is free and can be done online at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ BusinessConnect or telephone Sandy Jackson on 1300 864 444. For participating services and businesses visit the Business Connect webpage at ballina. nsw.gov.au/businessconnect

New QR code check-in system for businesses The new COVID Safe Check-in makes COVID Safe record keeping easier for businesses and sign-in quick and contactless for customers. Customers use the Service NSW app to scan the QR code and the check-in automatically captures the date, time and location, and stores them securely on a NSW Government database for the sole purpose of COVID-19 contact tracing. After 28 days, the data is destroyed. Electronic record-keeping is encouraged for all businesses and is compulsory for many industries. COVID Safe Check-in provides a free, secure, accurate and easy way to meet the requirements for the collection and storage of customer details. For details visit nsw.gov.au/Covid

phone 0415 965 403 david.wright@ballina.nsw.gov.au

extreme weather conditions

Cr Phillip Meehan phone 0408 349 833 phil.meehan@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Cr Stephen McCarthy

myroadinfo.com.au for Ballina Shire rural road info MyRoadInfo is your one-stop app providing direct updates from the following sources:

phone 0435 759 987 stephen.mccarthy@ballina.nsw.gov.au

NSW LIVETRAFFIC www.livetraffic.com QLD TRAFFIC qldtraffic.qld.gov.au

Cr Nathan Willis nathan.willis@ballina.nsw.gov.au

VIC ROADS traffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au

RADIO STATIONS

WARD A

ROAD CLOSURES

Cr Sharon Cadwallader

Paradise FM 101.9 ABC North Coast 94.5 2LM 104.3 ZZZ FM 100.9

phone 0413 091 440 sharon.cadwallader@ballina.nsw.gov.au

phone 0418 504 644 keith.williams@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Contact your sporting club.

WARD B

Cr Keith Williams

FIELD CLOSURES

your councillors

Cr David Wright

MAYOR

where to get info...

WEATHER CONDITIONS bom.gov.au Bureau of Meteorology

Cr Jeff Johnson phone 0438 677 202 jeff.johnson@ballina.nsw.gov.au

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 Qantaslink 131 313 qantas.com FlyPelican 02 4965 0111 flypelican.com.au

Cr Sharon Parry

Cr Benjamin Smith phone 0415 482 412 ben.smith@ballina.nsw.gov.au

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.

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

Cr Eoin Johnston phone 0407 416 149 eoin.johnston@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 Meeting agendas and documents on exhibition can be viewed on Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au Photos included in this issue of Community Connect may have been taken before Covid-19 social distancing requirements and safety measures were introduced.

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WARD C

phone 0408 683 052 sharon.parry@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Don’t dispose of me yet

Use this issue to wrap kitchen waste and dispose in the green organics bin. If your Community Connect Extra is wrapped in plastic, please dispose of the plastic in your red landfill bin.

Community Connect | Ballina Shire Council | Issue 40 | September 2020

Articles inside

Council working with eateries during COVID

BISC to celebrate first birthday

School holiday activities

Coastal Paths Project Update

The Cleaning Crusaders