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44 SEPT 2021
D miss Bon't a fashiollina's must-h n aves!
Get your skates on and head to the Visitor Information Centre for their new range of socks and t-shirts! See Page 3 for details
from the mayor's desk
From the Mayor's Desk
As this is the last Mayoral Column for this term of Council, I wish to thank a large group of people who have helped Ballina Shire during this time. I am sure that at the last Council elections, candidates didn’t know that the term would be the longest ever – five years and three months. Councillors have adapted over the last eighteen months with Covid forcing the use of Zoom and other technologies but they have still worked hard to make decisions that will benefit the future of the shire in a very positive manner. Our entire staff has remained on task during the incredible building and population growth of the last few years. I am proud to say that all staff were kept employed during the epidemic, even though some had their job descriptions temporarily changed.
Ballina's Prawn Socks lighten the mood
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Beach wheelchairs available for hire
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Road and stormwater projects
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Angels Beach Drive / Bangalow Road Lane improvements 4 Wollongbar District Park
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Wollongbar Stage 3 Residential Estate
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River Street Duplication progress
6
Footpath works in East Ballina
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Business nbn™ Enterprise Ethernet
7
Ballina Byron Gateway Airport News
8–9
Lennox Village Vision Project Update
10 – 11
connected community Tracey's Fundraising brings Ross Park Carousel to life
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Pop Denison Park Upgrade
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Elizabeth Ann Brown Park
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Kingsford Smith Reserve
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It is worthy to note and say thank you to those who have helped others survive tough times. The work of the Ballina on Richmond Rotary Club and the Cherry Street Sport Clubs has been exceptional.
Splash into the Community Pools
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Probus is about fun and friendship
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I also wish to thank the entire population of the shire who have worked through difficult Covid protocols to ensure that our goals of being a ‘family friendly’ paradise have been achieved.
Australia Day Nominations are open
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Northern Rivers Community Gallery
18 – 19
I have been on Council for over 34 years and I’ve never seen a more harmonious, compassionate and dedicated group of staff, who have worked tirelessly to ensure the delivery of Council projects and worked with community groups and businesses to make a difference during a very difficult time.
I am proud to have been associated with our job employment opportunities created with the proposed opening up of a large land area near the airport. Hopefully, new industries will provide jobs for many of our youth who presently have to move away to capital cities.
Australia Day Award Winner Profile – Paradise FM 16
engaged leadership BISC – Ballina Indoor Sports Centre
20 – 21
Dine & Discover Vouchers have been extended
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I urge residents to use our picturesque pathways to walk or ride on and please participate in the Kingsford Smith Master Plan to ensure that this unique area is developed into its full potential.
Patrols for 2021/22 Swimming Season
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Local Government Elections
23
With holidays on the horizon, please listen to the lifeguards and surf lifesaving members in their endeavours to keep our beaches safe, drive safely and spare time for those who are less fortunate.
Population and Development Activitiy 2021/22
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Supporting a Growing Community
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Snapshot of Achievements 2021/22
24 – 25
healthy environment
I urge all residents and visitors to respect the NSW Government protocols and please make an earnest endeavour to vaccinate as soon as possible as this is the only way out of the mess the world is in.
Extreme Weather Information
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Please be safe, take care and remember to ‘Slip, Slop and Slap’.
Dog agility equipment at off-leash area
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Exercising your dog
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David Wright MAYOR
Details within this issue of Community Connect are correct at the time of publication. Please refer to relevant websites for current information.
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prosperous economy
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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL
Water Talk
30 – 33
Waste Watch
34 – 37
Slow down to save our Koalas
38
Warmer weather brings active wildlife
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ISSN: 2652-7243 (PRINT)
D
Y
ure rn
ballinacoast & hinterland Back i stock!n
Use your Beach Dine & wheelchairs Discover for hire available
vouc now v hers alid 31 Au until gust
vouchers and support local businesses
Everyone should be able to experience the joy of getting sand between their toes on the Ballina Coast. Did you know the Ballina Tourism Team manages two Aussie Beach Wheelchairs All NSW residents agedavailable 18 and to hireover for free? can apply for 4 vouchers The beach wheelchair provides everyone with the worth $100 in total. opportunity to experience our beautiful beach environment and is experience those with limited mobility. 2 axunique $25 Dine NSWfor vouchers
dining in restaurants, cafes, bars,to visit in the With for more accessible pathways and locations Ballina Shire, thepubs beachand wheelchair wineries, clubs. is a great way to include everyone in daily experiences and provides the ability to 2 xour $25 Discover NSW vouchers explore beautiful waterways. for entertainment and recreation,
BALLINA’S PRAWN SOCKS LIGHTEN THE MOOD At a time when many of us are missing family and friends, Ballina prawn socks are spreading cheer Once complete, the road will provide an impressive across the globe. entrance to the airport and connect future proposed
One beach wheelchair is easily accessible from the Ballina including cinemas, cultural institutions, Surf Club, which is the perfect spot to roll on down to live music, arts Beach. venues. Lighthouse Beachand or Shelly The other is located at the Ballina Visitor Information Centre and can be used along Download vouchers andorfind the Richmond River towards the Spit, transported to other locations.participating businesses at
service.nsw.gov.au/campaign/ The beach wheelchairs are free to hire for up to a week. dine-discover-nsw To make a booking or for more information please contact the Ballina Visitor Information Centre on 1800 777 666 or visit discoverballina.com.au to download a booking form.
The funky footwearofhas a popular gift amongst Ballina Shire expansion thebeen Southern Cross Industrial Estate. residents who want to send a present to friends and family overseas. Theso, Airport Boulevard project includes the out of the vibrant So much the Ballina Visitor Information Centre sold socksconstruction in just six days!of three roundabouts. The first
New Date
to Southern Cross Drive Sinceroundabout then the teamconnects has loved seeing photos of people around the world Ballina ByrontoGateway Airport.themselves Works are – fromand France to Canada Kenya – tagging on social media progressing to plan with asphalt laying and sporting the prawn socks.
2021 NSW Local Government elections
landscaping underway.
The good news is they are due back in stock at the Ballina Visitor Information Theremain Centre in also has aatwide of other clothing, TrafficCentre. detours place therange airport. Existing local products and souvenirs that make perfect gifts.
carpark entries/exits are temporarily closed and traffic is your being detoured via Southern Cross Drive, To secure pair of this season’s most sought-after footwear call the team 777 666Brewing. or visit them at taxi 6 River Street turning left on at 1800 Seven Mile The rank andfrom Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm and Sunday 10am-2pm. bus stop remain in the same location, with changed direction to access. See Page 4 for details on the next stage of works
prosperouseconomy
a r t ex Saturday 4 December 2021 elections.nsw.gov.au/lge21 1300 135 736
SEPTEMBER 2021 ISSUE 44
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communityconnect
ROAD AND STORMWATER PROJECTS
ANGELS BEACH DRIVE AND BANGALOW ROAD LANE IMPROVEMENTS Service relocation works have commenced as part of the Angels Beach Drive and Bangalow Road Lane Improvement project. Early works will involve the relocation of street lighting, water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure at the roundabout.
COMPLETED PROJECTS LIGHTHOUSE PARADE UPGRADE, EAST BALLINA KAYS LANE, ALSTONVILLE FERNLEIGH ROAD, FERNLEIGH ELVERY LANE, ALSTONVILLE LINDENDALE ROAD AND BRUXNER HIGHWAY INTERSECTION ELTHAM ROAD, TEVEN TAMARIND DRIVE - TINTENBAR ROAD INTERSECTION
CURRENT PROJECTS AIRPORT BOULEVARD CONSTRUCTION – COMMENCING CORKS LANE ROUNDABOUT RIVER STREET DUPLICATION – STAGE 2 ANGELS BEACH DRIVE AND BANGALOW ROAD ROUNDABOUT - LANE EXTENSIONS
These works are expected to be completed by the end of September 2021 (weather and site conditions permitting), with intersection widening works to commence early in 2022. Once complete this project will improve safety, congestion and traffic flow through the roundabout at Angels Beach Drive and Bangalow Road. The concept plan for this project was placed on public exhibition in May 2020, inviting submissions from members of the public and property owners. Council adopted the plans in June 2020. Residents and businesses should expect the following during construction:
Traffic impacts – During these works traffic management will be in place reducing the intersection to one lane where required. Motorists should expect delays and plan to leave earlier than they normally would.
Pedestrian access – Temporary pedestrian and cyclist detours will be in place around work zones. Please follow the signage.
Planned outages – Power and water outages may be necessary during these works. Council and/or Essential Energy will notify affected businesses and residents in advance before any outages occur. Council thanks the community for their patience and understanding as these works are carried out. To register for project updates please visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ BangalowRoadRoundabout
LENNOX HEAD VILLAGE VISION – ROSS PARK UPGRADE, STORMWATER UPGRADES, UNDERGROUNDING OF POWER RIVERBANK ROAD, PIMLICO STORMWATER RELINING PROJECT (currently on hold due to Covid restrictions)
FUTURE PROJECTS PEARCES CREEK BRIDGE, PEARCES CREEK CRANE STREET (SEGMENT 30), BALLINA FAWCETT STREET (SEGMENT 10), BALLINA RIVER DRIVE (SEGMENT 70), EAST WARDELL
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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL
BALLINA
prosperouseconomy
WOLLONGBAR
WOLLONGBAR RESIDENTIAL ESTATE
WOLLONGBAR STAGE 3 RESIDENTIAL ESTATE Wollongbar could be the place to build your new home.
Wollongbar District Park As residential development continues in Wollongbar, so does the need for a quality recreational open space for all the community to enjoy, Wollongbar District Park will fill that need! The concept plans were endorsed by Council in 2019. Construction of the park has now commenced and will continue through to November 2021. The park will include:
public amenities and carparking skate park, half-size basketball court, table tennis multi-purpose circuit path with distance markers exercise equipment playground equipment including climbing net BBQs and park furniture landscaping, shade trees and native species gardens.
Construction of Stage 3 of Council’s Wollongbar Estate has commenced with lots due to come on the market in early 2022. Wollongbar provides the best of country and coast, with its beautiful rural vistas, open spaces and only a short drive to our beaches and waterways. Wollongbar Stage 3 features 30 lots ranging from 600m2. Need more space to get outdoors or kick the ball with the kids? This new estate is ideally located next to the Wollongbar District Park which is currently under construction. Please visit Council’s website periodically for updates on the progress of the project and when lots may come on the market, visit ballina. nsw.gov.au/WollongbarResidentialEstate
WOLLONGBAR
The park is located on the corner of Plateau Drive and Rifle Range Road in Wollongbar. Some members of our community may remember this site as the old drive-in movie theatre. The park will cater to many in the community and is great news for anyone who loves to keep active and being outdoors! A shire-wide Community Facilities and Open Space Needs Analysis report was prepared in 2004 which identified the need for a district park within the Wollongbar Urban Expansion Area. The district park for the Wollongbar area was proposed at the former Wollongbar Drive-in site on Plateau Drive in the Ballina Shire Open Space Strategy 2008 and the Ballina Shire Contributions Plan 2008 (BSCP). The BSCP also nominated the inclusion of a skate park at the site. Council considered skate park facilities on the Alstonville Plateau in various locations; more specifically in Wollongbar, including at the Plateau Drive site.
SEPTEMBER 2021 ISSUE 44
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river street duplication
STAGE 2 – PHASES 8 - 9
Following the opening of the dual inbound lanes in early September 2021, construction duplicating the outbound lanes is progressing well with crews about to move into Phase 9. Dig out and construction of Phase 9 (from Trevan Ford to the Chaparral Motel) is expected to commence the week of 21 September 2021. The following traffic conditions are in place on the outbound lanes:
Speed limit is reduced to 40kmph in construction zones Street parking is reduced and at times unavailable. This is necessary to maintain the travel lane during construction. Some businesses will be required to use Kalinga Street for access. Keep an eye out for signage. Traffic control or detours will be necessary at certain times.
There may be delays, so plan to leave earlier than you normally would. The right hand turn into Ronan Place is permanently closed. Ronan Place is now left in/left out only. The removal of the right hand turn from River Street into Ronan Place is a necessary safety measure to prevent vehicles crossing two lanes of traffic. Vehicles can access Ronan Place from the inbound lane, this may require motorists to detour via the Quays Drive (Bunnings) roundabout or Barlows Road. Landscaping of the median and approaches will commence in October and continue into early 2022. Temporary lane/road closures and associated detours will be required when landscaping is underway. Ballina Shire Council thanks the community for their continued patience during this important upgrade. To learn more and register for emailed project updates visit ballina. nsw.gov.au/RiverStreetDuplication ws rlo Ba Rd
Sunset Ave
WEST BALLINA
PHASE 8 PHASE 9 Keppel St
Footpath works in East Ballina Ballina Shire Council has recently completed footpath works along the southeastern section of Suvla Street in East Ballina. The new 1.2m-wide footpath, parking lane and improved road linemarking will provide a safer environment for pedestrians and a better connection to Shelly Beach. This includes changes to the intersection of Suvla Street and Shelly Beach Road, with the addition of a concrete median and guardrail, as well as a link to the Shelly Beach Café carpark. Council has also commenced work on a new section of footpath along the western side of Grandview Street, East Ballina. This project will include the extension of the footpath beyond Grandview Street and along Beach Road to Compton Drive, as well as a link to the lookout carpark. Both the Suvla Street and Grandview Street footpath works have been identified in Council’s Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan (PAMP) 2018/19 to 2028/29. The PAMP is a strategic plan to improve pedestrian access, mobility and safety in the community. The projects included in the PAMP are a result of broad community consultation and focus on new and upgraded footpaths, kerb ramps, pedestrian fencing, and pedestrian refuges. To learn more about Council’s Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ pedestrian-access-and-mobility-plan
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RIVER STREET DUPLICATION PROGRESS UPDATE
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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL
EAST BALLINA
Nbn has announced Ballina as a Business Fibre Zone. The initiative aims to advance the digital capability of businesses across Australia. Enterprise Ethernet is nbn’s premium wholesale business product, built upon a robust fibre network that’s designed to help businesses of any size, now and into the future. With wholesale symmetrical speed options of close to 1Gbps^, dedicated 24x7 service support to providers, and a wide choice of service providersm nbn™ is evolving Australia’s digital backbone. To find out more and see what your location is eligible for head to the website nbn.com.au/explore-ee
prosperouseconomy
BUSINESS NBN™ ENTERPRISE ETHERNET
Find the right solution for your business needs No two businesses are the same. The nbn™ business solution finder will look at the types of applications you use, your voice and data needs, and the levels of support you require. You’ll then receive a wholesale product recommendation that is designed to help you select the right retail solution from a service provider. Use the solution finder to learn more about the needs of each of your business sites and our business nbn™ wholesale products and services by visiting nbnco.com.au/business/solution-finder
SEPTEMBER 2021 ISSUE 44
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communityconnect
LATEST NEWS FROM
ballina byron gateway airport AIRPORT BOULEVARD WORKS REACH FINAL STAGE
The Airport Boulevard project is progressing well, with construction of the third roundabout at the intersection of North Creek Road and Corks Lane now underway. During construction the following changes are in place:
Corks Lane is temporarily closed for the duration of the works. Arrangements are in place for Corks Lane residents to access their properties. Entry to Palm Lake Resort and Bupa Aged Care Ballina will be via North Creek Road only (Magnolia Drive and Forest Oak Boulevard). At times, North Creek Road (near the Corks Lane intersection) may be reduced to one lane with traffic control. Residents and visitors should expect minor delays. Residents should expect increased noise due to construction works from 7am to 6pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 1pm Saturdays.
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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL
fin stageal projecof t
The Airport Boulevard project includes the construction of three roundabouts. The first roundabout connects to Southern Cross Drive and Ballina Byron Gateway Airport. Works are progressing to plan with line marking and landscaping almost complete. The construction of a roundabout connecting Airport Boulevard with Boeing Avenue and the Ballina Homemaker Centre is also progressing to plan with electrical and landscaping underway. The project is estimated to cost $12 million and is made possible thanks to $3 million in Australian Government funding under the Community Development Grants Programme. Council will spend $7 million to meet the balance of the cost of the project. It is anticipated that the entire Airport Boulevard project will be completed by November 2021 (weather and site conditions permitting), with a phased opening of the road as works are complete. For project information and to subscribe to email updates visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/AirportBoulevard
Funded by Ballina Shire Council and the Australian Government.
An additional 100 carparking spaces will be provided at the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport as part of a signficant carpark upgrade project.
NGANGBUL CREATIVES SOUGHT FOR AIRPORT PUBLIC ART PROJECT
The Airport Boulevard project has included realignment of Southern Cross Drive, which will enable more carparking spaces to be constructed at the airport. Other features of the carpark upgrade include dedicated ground transport and rental carparking areas, installation of solar PV system over part of the long term carpark to support the energy needs of the airport, a new simplified carpark management system including boom gates, and landscaping. The airport carpark upgrade is expected to be completed in December 2021 (weather and site conditions permitting). Council is urging the community to arrive at the airport earlier to avoid being inconvenienced by traffic delays and parking changes. The following traffic and parking arrangements are now in place:
The short term carpark is now closed to the public. Public parking is temporarily located in the long term carpark. The passenger drop-off zone has been moved to the shuttle bus parking area. All taxis, buses and ride share vehicles need to use the area currently marked ‘Taxi Rank’ to drop off and pick up passengers. For project information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ airport-carpark-upgrade
prosperouseconomy
Airport carpark upgrade underway
Ballina Shire Council is seeking Expressions of Interest from Northern Rivers Ngangbul artists to design and develop a series of public artworks within the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport precinct, including the new Airport Boulevard entrance. Ballina is the traditional land of the Ngangbul people of the Bundjalung nation. This public art, which will welcome people arriving at the airport, will visually represent the local indigenous landscape values, Country and distinctive landscape character of Ballina Shire. There are two options available to the artist or artist team:
a) Create a painting or graphic that Ballina Shire Council purchases and uses for a range of art projects co-ordinated by council in liaison with the artist. For example, the artist may produce a painting as the primary artwork and council would have the rights to reproduce the painting in full or in part in other art formats such as a background for signage, a pattern to carve into timber, or as a graphic to be painted or etched onto pavement. b) Create, fabricate and install a full suite of art interventions. The artist or artist team may produce a combination of elements such as: large size paintings or murals; metal art panels; steel art templates for etching/sandblasting/painting onto the pavement; free-standing or hanging sculptural elements. Proposed locations for the public art include the medians or road verges of the new Southern Cross Drive and Airport Boulevard roundabout, the airport terminal entrance, and pavement areas within the airport precinct. The budget for the commission is up to $15,000 (excluding GST) for the production of a single artwork that can be used by Council for a variety of purposes, or up to $92,000 (excluding GST) for the production of a suite of artworks including design, fabrication and installation. Installation of the artwork is proposed to be completed by 1 January 2022, however this will be subject to change depending on the artist/s program and timeframes. Interested artists can download the Expression of Interest document and complete an online application at ballina.nsw.gov.au/documents-onexhibition Expressions of Interest close: Thursday 30 September 2021.
SEPTEMBER 2021 ISSUE 44
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lennox VILLAGEvision WILLIAMS RESERVE
Park serv
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Byron Str eet
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L E N N OX H E A D
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central hub
stage 4
Ballina Street
Lane
ROSS PARK stage 1
© NSW Spatial Services 2021. This map is illustrative and not to scale.
Project stages The $7 million Lennox Village Vision project will be completed in four stages as illustrated above and summarised below.
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CONSTRUCTION
2021/22
COST
$7m
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PROJECT DELIVERY
Relocation of Services
Ross Park Reconstruction September 2021 - January 2022
Construction is expected to commence by the end of September 2021 and continue until early 2022 (subject to approvals, weather and site conditions).
The Ross Park concept has been developed after years of engagement from the local community. This included a Community Stakeholder Design Charette with representatives from local businesses, community groups and educational providers, as well as community feedback received during public exhibition of the concept designs.
This first stage includes: • pot holing to locate services • undergrounding of overhead electrical lines, including connections to properties • relocation of water services, including connections to properties • installation of stormwater pollution mitigation devices in Ross Park and Lennox Park.
The new play space will include an all-ability carousel*, group nest swing, timber fort with slide and natural play elements including a wobbly bridge, balancing poles and a turtle sandpit maze created by local artists. The park also features an accessible toilet, covered picnic areas, shade trees, seating, and ‘art pavers’ designed by the community in association with the Lennox Arts Board.
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Ross Park will be closed while these works are being completed. This will ensure the safety of our community and construction crew while also reducing the overall construction time. To find another park or playground near you, visit ballina.nsw.gov. au/playgrounds. * The accessible carousel is kindly donated through the fundraising efforts of Tracey Everingham-Armstrong with the local community.
THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL
FAQs During construction the following measures will be undertaken to limit the impact to businesses and pedestrians:
be scheduled to minimise impacts where possible, and council will provide notification via email updates.
reduced around construction zones. Council encourages people to park and walk to increase pedestrian traffic to local businesses.
Dust Some dust may be present during construction. Water spraying trucks will be used to help minimise dust.
Car Parking and Vehicle Access Parking will be reduced during the active phase of construction and may, at times, be unavailable in front of businesses. Council will encourage people to use alternative parking areas and walk to Ballina Street. Temporary signage will inform customers of any changes to property/business access.
Through traffic will be encouraged to use Park Lane and Byron Street.
Noise and Timing of Works There will be noise present during construction, this will include concrete saw cutting of existing surfaces. Construction will be Monday to Friday 7am-6pm, and at times Saturday 8am1pm. Works may be required out of hours. Stage 1 Utility Upgrades and Outages The project provides a good opportunity to upgrade our stormwater, water and electricity services. Power services will be relocated underground. Business operators and residents may experience power and water outages during these works. Outages will
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Park Lane to the Central Hub Road kerbing, drainage and pavement reconstruction, raised intersection treatment, custom footpath paving, pedestrian crossing, installation of street furniture, street trees and planting.
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Footpath Works and Pedestrian Access During construction pedestrian access will be maintained, however at times there will be temporary detours around construction zones. Travel Delays Every attempt will be made to keep a travel lane open throughout the project. At times Ballina Street will be partially closed with traffic control in place. The speed limit will be
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Central Hub Road kerbing, drainage and pavement reconstruction, central hub shared zone paving, custom and natural stone footpath paving, installation of street furniture, street trees and planting.
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For project updates subscribe at ballina.nsw.gov.au/LennoxVillageVision
Please expect delays and plan to leave earlier than you would. We ask that everyone remains patient and courteous, especially when there are delays. Bus Shelter The bus shelter in Lennox Park will be temporarily relocated to the nearby Lennox Park picnic shelter. Access to Businesses Council’s project team will liaise with businesses to maintain customer and delivery access where possible or provide alternative access points. Council staff will make contact prior to each phase.
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Central Hub to Byron Street Road kerbing, drainage and pavement reconstruction, raised intersection treatment, custom footpath paving and pathways, traffic slow point, installation of street furniture, street trees and planting. extract from adopted Ross Park concept plan illustrative only
Order of costs are outlined as Capital Expenditure in the Delivery Program Operational Plan for 2021-2025. SEPTEMBER 2021 ISSUE 44
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L E N N OX H E A D
TRACEY’S FUNDRAISING BRINGS ROSS PARK CAROUSEL TO LIFE A key feature of the upcoming Ross Park redevelopment will be the new all-ability, wheelchair accessible carousel in the playground. Lennox Head resident Tracey Everingham Armstrong has been the incredible driving force behind including this piece of equipment in the design for Ross Park. A former Ballina Shire Citizen of the Year (three times nominated), Tracey has been fundraising for our community for more than two decades. She’s raised close to $480,000 to date, which has been donated to a variety of community groups and disability organisations. Some of Tracey’s bigger projects have included raising $68,000 towards purchasing a bus for Southern Cross School disability unit and $64,000 towards a bus for Biala Support Services, with Variety the Children’s Charity providing the rest of the funds. She’s also raised $19,600 to provide mobility matting for Northcott Disability Services (housed at the Ballina Surf Club) and $35,000 for the Liberty Swing at Missingham Park. Tracey raised the $30,000 needed to purchase the all-ability carousel for Ross Park through two Melbourne Cup fundraisers (2018 and 2019) and a 100s Club raffle, where the prize was a surfboard signed by every surfer who attended the World Surf League. Tracey says she could not have achieved any of this without the amazing support of the Lennox Head community. “The community has been outstanding in always supporting me and my functions. I’ve always said that the community are the cogs in the wheels that run my engine room,” she says. “I’ve always known that there was a need in the community to help people with a disability. I first heard that Southern Cross High School needed a bus when I was on a Variety the Children’s Charity Bash.” The new Ross Park playground will be constructed during Stage 1 of the Lennox Village Vision project. The first stage of works will begin by the end of September 2021. Tracey has worked in a local Lennox Head business for the past 17 years, and she can see Ross Park from her workplace. She is certain the carousel will be a popular feature in the new playground. “I purchased the carousel in March this year so it’s ready to go. I can’t tell you how excited I am, I can’t wait to see it go in. I hope this brings much joy to everyone in the community, not just those with a disability.”
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Keep up to date with policies and documents on exhibition.
ballina.nsw.gov.au/eNews
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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL
ELIZABETH ANN BROWN (EAB) PARK
Serving a community
Alstonville has a rich history and is home to range of local historical landmarks including the Elizabeth Ann Brown Park. Elizabeth Anne Brown was the daughter of Charles Bullwinkel who was an early pioneer of Alstonville.
POP DENISON PARK UPGRADE Work has started on a new junior playground at Pop Denison Park. This upgrade will bring to life the junior playground area of the Pop Denison Park Master Plan. The master plan aims to transform this park into a recreational area of regional standing. The new playground will be inclusive as well as nature and adventure playbased to challenge and entertain children with:
New play equipment and shade sails to include swing sets, hammocks, mound slide, monkey bars, 4x4 rocker, play forts, fairytale ship and a spinning orb. Adventure pathways integrated through existing vegetation and around landscaped gardens and across a dry creek bed feature with balance logs, stepping stones and scavenger hunt features.
Since 1984 the park has been home to a local war memorial that recognises the sacrifice of those who gave their lives in war. This monument has recently been rejuvenated and new tablets have been installed. These tablets list several heroic names which is a chilling reminder of what war cost Alstonville and surrounds. Locals and visitors are welcomed to visit the park, read the names, and reflect on their contribution to our country. Ballina Shire Council would like to thank the Alstonville RSL sub-Branch for their work rejuvenating the memorial at Elizabeth Ann Brown Park. Over the years, Ballina Shire Council has consulted with the local community on what other features and amenities they would like to see at Elizabeth Ann Brown Park. This consultation resulted in a management and works plan. Council is now continuing with these upgrade works which include additional grass areas, seating and wheelchair access to the memorials.
ALSTONVILLE
A concrete loop path meandering around the outside and rubber surfacing to provide easy access. Picnic shelters, seats, landscaping and shade trees. The junior playground works are anticipated to cost $1.3 million. This includes grant funding of $252,000 through the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund.
connectedcommunity
BALLINA
The existing playground will be closed for the duration of the works. Please visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/playgrounds to find another playground near you. A small section of the carpark off Compton Drive (near the toilet block) will also be closed off to allow construction crews to access the site. Early works include pruning vegetation in preparation for the new nature trail, demolition and removal of the old play equipment, followed by excavation and drainage works. The junior playground construction is expected to be completed in late December 2021 (weather and site conditions permitting). For project information please visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/pop-denisonpark-master-plan
Jointly funded with NSW Government
SEPTEMBER 2021 ISSUE 44
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BALLINA
Kingsford Smith Reserve Council is considering submissions received during the public exhibition period of the Draft Kingsford Smith Reserve Master Plan and will present the results at a future Council meeting. The Draft Master Plan outlines a long-term vision for Kingsford Smith Reserve, which consists of Kingsford Smith Park, Commemoration Park, and Missingham Park. Council has received funding of $3.6 million for the first stage of works as part of an election commitment from The Hon. Ben Franklin and the NSW Office of Sport. This investment is specifically to upgrade certain sporting facilities in Kingsford Smith Park including lighting, rugby league amenities, netball facilities, playing surfaces, and carparking. Future stages of work identified in the Draft Master Plan are currently unfunded. However when the plan is finalised it will support Council to work with community groups and government to attract additional funding for other projects identified. The Draft Master Plan was developed in consultation with the community, explained Ballina Shire Council’s Manager of Strategic Planning, Tara McGready. “We engaged with stakeholders from sporting, environmental and recreation groups, as well as adjoining residents and the wider community,” said Ms McGready. “The final master plan will not only be an important tool to guide future planning – it will help Council to secure the funding and resources we need to bring future stages of this vision to life.” For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ Kingsford-Smith-Reserve-Master-Plan
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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL
The community pools in Ballina and Alstonville are ideal places to cool down and catch up with friends and family.There’s plenty of aquatic sports and activities at the pools; making them great locations to host a family BBQ or kid's birthday party.
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 7am - 5pm Sunday 10am - 5pm
Find them on Facebook
Find them on Facebook
PROBUS IS ABOUT FUN & friendship Friday 1 October 2021 is Probus Day, but do you know what Probus is? Probus helps older Australians stay engaged and active. Creating social connections, in whatever way you can, has never been more important. Probus club membership offers retirees and semi-retirees the opportunity to make new friends, experience new hobbies, participate in a wide variety of activities and enjoy listening to interesting guest speakers.
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into the Community Pools
Probus plan to celebrate throughout the month of October with a range of activities. While some areas are currently experiencing increased restrictions or lockdowns Probus are reminding older Australians that there are brighter days ahead. We need to plan for those brighter days - Probus members are inviting all retirees to consider joining their local Probus Club to have some much-needed fun and friendship. For more information, please contact Probus South Pacific 1300 630 488 or visit probussouthpacific.org to find your nearest Probus Club.
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AUSTRALIA DAY AWARD WINNER PROFILE In Community Connect we have been profiling our 2021 Ballina Shire Australia Day award winners to learn more about their outstanding contributions to our community. In this edition we profile Paradise FM who was awarded the Community Event of the Year Award with Ballina RSL Sub Branch.
Paradise FM keeping us connected Paradise FM has been a voice for the Ballina Shire community for 20 years, and while its contributions have been appreciated in the past, the COVID pandemic has been a timely reminder of just how important community radio is to our residents. Paradise FM was awarded Community Event of the Year in the 2021 Australia Day Awards for its ANZAC Day coverage during the April 2020 COVID lockdown – and more generally for the station’s role in keeping people connected. Station Manager Jenny Ellenbroek explains that ANZAC Day has always been an important event on the station’s broadcasting calendar. “Since the beginning Paradise FM has run a specialised ANZAC Day program based around music over the eras, along with traditional Anzac Day elements, so it’s in our culture,” says Jenny. “We recognised immediately [during the 2020 Covid lockdown] that a lot of people were isolated and alone, and ANZAC Day is such an important day to recognise. The 2020 coverage was a joint initiative between Paradise FM and the Ballina RSL Sub Branch to enable the entire community to participate. Our Paradise Production Team and the Sub Branch put it together so beautifully. Sub Branch President Dick
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Wills organised the traditional Anzac elements (the Service Introduction and the Ode of Remembrance, which he read), Ballina Shire Mayor recited the Australian Defence Veterans Covenant, and Sub Branch Chaplain Father Richard Brown the traditional Anzac Prayers.” That year residents across Ballina Shire stood in their driveways listening to their local Dawn Service via Paradise FM, and this tradition was repeated again this year. But Paradise FM’s Australia Day Award goes beyond ANZAC Day, it recognises the team’s tireless efforts to support the community. “We were nominated for the award by a listener who was one of those people that was by herself,” says Jenny. “This listener recognised overall the role that Paradise FM was playing to keep people feeling safe and comforted.” “It’s the immediacy [of radio] that’s so valuable and it is local. Yes, we can give people information about Covid case numbers and testing clinics and so on, but that is available in detail from mainstream media. We aim to give our listeners local news and events that are happening right here and now.” This is done with so much support and input from the community. Paradise FM operates with a team of four staff and around 12 community volunteers who perform various tasks including office admin and reception, on-air presenting, production, speciality interviews and technical support. There are many regular guests for segments like Marine Rescue, the Stock Market, Fishing Report, and Wellbeing. Then there’s the Management Committee, external to the operational set up and comprised of local community members with relevant expertise, who provide guidance and governance.
When the pandemic took hold last year, Paradise FM felt the impacts like any other community organisation. “In the beginning because of the sudden onset of the pandemic restrictions, a lot of sponsorship went on hold and there was a fairly significant financial impact. Thankfully we qualified for the first round of the Government’s business support packages,” says Jenny. “But we didn’t qualify for the second round, which is actually great for us.” As businesses reopened following that first lockdown, sponsors were keen to come back on board and, if anything, local businesses were even more supportive of their local station. “I think local businesses recognise what we do as a not-for-profit organisation, and that by supporting us they’re supporting the whole community,” says Jenny. “Membership is also important for us. We have actually gained a lot of new members since Covid with so many people now working from home. We’ve even had new interstate members who stream our service online.” If the past two years have taught organisations across the globe anything it’s that constantly adapting is crucial. Paradise FM has, and is, responding to the changing times to continue delivering quality radio.
ar
2022 AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS
Do you know someone who makes a significant contribution to the Ballina Shire through their involvement in community based activities, sport or the arts? Now is the time to starting thinking about nominations for the 2022 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards. 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 An individual who has made a significant contribution to the creative arts.
The station has invested in the technology needed for the production team to work from home. Although this option has been critical during lockdown, it has the added benefit of giving the team greater flexibility to respond quickly if urgent news arises out of hours or there’s a technical glitch. It also provides the station a simple portable system to increase its live presence out in the community.
6. COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR
Looking to the future, Paradise FM plans to invest in further upgrades. The station has been awarded a $20,000 grant through the Community Broadcasting Foundation which will be used to benchmark existing technology, make improvements and upgrades as necessary, refresh the station’s website, and invest in an auto start generator for the transmission site that will ensure continuation of broadcast should power outages occur.
The Citizen of the Year Award will be selected by the Australia Day Committee from all of the nominees across the seven categories.
Whether in lockdown or not, through good times and bad, one thing is certain: Paradise FM will be there – a friendly, reassuring and reliable voice and companion to listeners. Find out more about our worthy Australia Day nominees at ballina.nsw.gov.au/AustraliaDay
An individual or group who has hosted an outstanding community event in Ballina Shire.
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Nom for the inations 202 Shire A 2 Ballina u Day Aw stralia close M ards Novem onday 15 ber 20 21.
Nominatieonnsow open!
7. ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD An individual or group contributing to our environmental preservation or advancing environmental awareness.
To nominate visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ australiaday, or telephone Tracy Lister, Coordinator Communications, on 1300 864 444.
Nominations close: Monday 15 November 2021.
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current exhibitions Exhibition Dates: 25 August - 31 October 2021
Oriel | Zen Staff Staff is an emerging local artist and recipient of the Byron School of Art 2020 Graduate Award. Drawing on his experience within the building and construction industry, he makes textural works with industrial materials that reference the natural and man-made world.
SE PT E MBE R
Credit: Zen Staff, Quartered 4, 2021
–
DaRosa explores the impact of slow light on an object… the way the ambient light is constantly changing its effect on a work. The slow light proposition is also an antidote to the ‘fast’ light increasingly seeking attention. Slow light is an opportunity to experience the nuances of light.
O C T O BE R
Slow Light Surfaces | Colleen DaRosa
Credit: Colleen DaRosa, Surfaces. Pink Lake Reflection (detail), 2020
Vitality | Jolene Maleficent + Kelly-Ann Oosterbeek Vitality is the coming together of two distinct bodies of work developed under the premise of collaboration in isolation by artists, Jolene Maleficent and Kelly-Ann Oosterbeek. The final works are an unveiled flow of the narrative of positivity and harmony in uncertain times. Credit: Jolene Maleficent, Harmony of Vitality (detail), 2020
Awakenings: The Making of ‘Things Impossible’ | SPRUNG!! + Andrew Christie This exhibition documents the history of an ongoing collaboration between SPRUNG!! Integrated Dance Theatre and Sydney artist Andrew Christie. Works include digital renders and video footage of virtual reality experiences, the dancers costumes and displays providing insight into the making of the sellout 2020 NORPA production ‘Things Impossible’. Credit: SPRUNG!! + Andrew Christie, Bloom 2020
44 cherry street, ballina nsw 2478 | ph 02 6681 0530 open wed – fri 10am – 4pm | weekends 9.30am – 1pm (closed public holidays)
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Exhibition Dates: 3 November – 24 December 2021
Gala Jane is the recipient of NRCG’s 2020 Southern Cross University, Graduate Exhibition Award. In this exhibition Jane looks at how sexism and the gender imbalance is prevalent in society, focusing on statistics around how Australian’s see this imbalance and poses the question, Are you angry yet? Image: Gala Jane Are you angry yet, 2021
N OV E MBE R
This is Nothing New | Gala Jane
Playing House | Amy Meng Playing House situates the bishoujo (beautiful young girl) within the world of kawaii and domestic labour. Synthesizing elements of manga, video games and craft, the exhibition scrutinizes assigned female roles consequent of the accelerating infantilisation and pornification of society. Image: Amy Meng Yours Truly (detail) 2020
BAM Art Prize 2021 Finalist Exhibition Presented by Byron Arts Magazine, The BAM Art Prize promotes awareness of the arts in the Northern Rivers by presenting a national art prize within the region. The Finalist Exhibition showcases shortlisted artworks of the 2021 prize. Image: BAM Art Prize 2020 Finalist Exhibition installation view (photo: Ben Wyeth Photography)
thanks to our sponsors The Ballina Shire Council and Northern Rivers Community Gallery gratefully acknowledge our exhibition sponsors: Stone & Wood Brewing and The Cellar.
online exhibition showcase Our September group of exhibitions are available now to view online from the comfort of your lounge room! Enjoy hearing from and meeting the artists along with a selection of works from their exhibitions and a teaser of the full-length digital film collaboration between local performance group Sprung!! Integrated Dance Theatre and Sydney-based artist Andrew Christie. Image: SPRUNG!! + Andrew Christie, Awakenings (video still) 2021
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upcoming exhibitions
THE
subscribe to news 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
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communityconnect
NOTE: A depend ctivities are health o ent on public to date rders. Keep up w commu ith what's on at nityspa c es au or b y calling .com. 02 6681 05 99.
What's on at the
NEW BASKETBALL MENTOR PROGRAM FOR LOCAL GIRLS Thursday afternoons at the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre are the place to be with the new ‘One Hour of Girl Power’ basketball program, encouraging teenage girls to give the game a go! Ballina Basketball has launched the program teaching basketball skills and game sessions, to motivate teenage girls to pick up a basketball, learn new skills and fall in love with the game.
Futsal is back at the BISC
The popular summer Ballina Futsal Comp is back at the BISC for 2021/2022. Futsal is a dynamic, modified version of soccer played indoors with five players per team on a basketball sized court. It provides a fast speed of play for players of all abilities with lots of ball touches that will develop player's skills, speed, precision and vision as well as technical and tactical awareness. If you or your child aged 6 years or older loves a fun challenge, and is free Wednesday afternoons from 4pm, contact simon@ballinafutsal.com.au or visit justfutsalnsw.com/ballina-futsal-league
Participants are mentored by one of the nation’s best, Ms Lauren King. Ms King has played over 250 games in the Women’s National Basketball League and is the Regional Development Officer with Basketball NSW. “The program aims to give girls a taste of the different aspects of basketball in a safe, fun and pressure-free environment,” explained Ms King. “With the Women’s Basketball World Cup in Sydney next year, it’s an exciting time to grow basketball at a grassroots level. As the girls become more confident with the rules and skills they can compete in the mixed junior competition held on Tuesday afternoons at the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre. We are hoping that with increasing interest, we can establish a female competition in the future.”
ONE HOUR OF GIRL POWER Who:
Girls aged 10 – 17 years
When: Thursdays 4.15pm – 5.45pm (Oct – Dec) Cost:
$5 cash each week (sign up at the session)
Contact: Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC) on 6681 0599
3 month
Pro Training Machine Hire at the BISC!
Learn to shoot like a basketball pro at the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre. Visit communityspaces.com.au or call 02 6681 0599
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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL
63 Cherry Street, Ballina Call 6681 0599 communityspaces.com.au Please check communityspaces.com. au for details during COVID restrictions. We welcome fitness passport holders!
unlimited membership
only $72
Ballina Shire Council thanks all the community organisations for their ongoing work to make our shire a better place. A number of organisations host their regular meetings and activities at Council venues. Let’s take a look at a few of the groups and the great work taking place.
COUNTRY WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION, LENNOX HEAD BRANCH The Lennox Head branch have been operating for 75 years! They meet every Monday, from 9.30am to 12pm at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre. The ladies enjoy craft activities over a cuppa and morning tea. They make trauma teddies, and clothing for premature babies that they donate to hospitals. Come along for a chat or to learn new handicraft skills. New members and visitors welcome, contact Jan on 6681 6150.
LENNOX HEAD VIEW CLUB The VIEW Club provides a voice, interest and education for women! The group meet on the first Monday of every month at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre to help women find fun and friendship. They also raise funds for The Smith Family to sponsor three Learning for Life students. Contact Enid on 0407 187 511. New members welcome.
BOSSUM BUDDIES YOGA IN BALLINA A breast cancer support group that meets every Tuesday at the Northlakes Community Centre. Classes provide gentle restorative yoga, breathing techniques and relaxation with a strong focus on meditation to calm body and mind. The class taught by yoga teacher Ailsa, facilitator for over 20 years, aims to assist breast cancer survivors on a road to recovery on a physical, mental, spiritual and emotional path within a safe and supportive environment. Contact Debbie Jones on 0401 301 413 for further information.
Looking for what’s on near you or interested in hiring a venue? Council offers a 50% discount to not-for-profit, charitable and Government organisations. Regular hirers may also be eligible for a discount. Visit communityspaces.com.au or call 02 6687 6291.
Free business transformation sessions Join @sourdoughbusinesspathways and Business Australia’s Entrepreneurship Facilitator, on a journey to transform business, society and yourself. 'ULab: Leading from the Emerging Future' will deliver as a series of workshops, over eleven weeks in Ballina. Participants will be introduced to a method called Theory U, developed by Melbourne Institute of Technology.
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A caring community
These free sessions will provide a welcoming and supportive space for individuals, startup entrepreneurs or business owners to build personal and professional capacity. You will learn transformative tools to generate change and deliver positive impact within your businesses, communities or for yourself. These workshops will be held in accordance with Covidsafe guidelines, from 27 September to 13 December 2021 at the Ballina Surf Club and via Zoom. To find out more, visit sbp.org.au/events
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Patrols for 2021/2022
DINE AND DISCOVER VOUCHERS EXTENDED UNTIL JUNE 2022
Swimming Season
The NSW Dine and Discover program has been extended and vouchers can now be used until 30 June 2022 to support local businesses. All NSW residents aged 18 and over can apply for 4 vouchers worth $100 in total.
2 x $25 Dine NSW vouchers for dining at restaurants, cafes, bars, wineries, pubs and clubs 2 x $25 Discover NSW vouchers for entertainment and recreation including cinemas, cultural institutions, live music and arts venues The recent NSW regional lockdown has been tough on local businesses, but these vouchers are a great way to support the small business owners in our community. Several cafes, restaurants and bars are ready to welcome you through their doors as are many of our local tour and attraction operators. There are some fantastic unique experiences on offer including whale watching, fishing charters, brewery tours, wildlife tours and surfing adventures to name a few. BEACH
With so many great dining options and unique experiences available make sure you tell your friends and family to get on board and support local. If they haven’t already done so, encourage them to apply for the vouchers and use them to explore our beautiful region. Download vouchers and find participating businesses at service.nsw.gov.au/campaign/dine-discover-nsw
PATROLS START
PATROLS FINISH
DETAILS
Seven Mile Beach, Lennox Head
20/09/2021
22/04/2022
9am – 5pm* Professional Lifeguards Mon-Fri (5 days) Volunteers on weekends and public holidays
Flat Rock, East Ballina (roving guard)
18/09/2021 18/12/2021 09/04/2022
04/10/2021 27/01/2022 22/04/2022
9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards 7 days a week
Sharpes Beach, Skennars Head
18/09/2021 18/12/2021 09/04/2022
04/10/2021 27/01/2022 22/04/2022
9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards 7 days a week
Shelly Beach, East Ballina
18/09/2021 18/12/2021 09/04/2022
04/10/2021 27/01/2022 22/04/2022
9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards 7 days a week
Lighthouse Beach, Ballina
20/09/2021 18/12/2021 09/04/2022
04/10/2021 27/01/2022 22/04/2022
9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards Mon-Fri (5 days) Volunteers on weekends and public holidays
* Seven Mile Beach, Lennox Head is 9am - 6pm during the NSW Summer school holiday period
For further information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/beach-recreation
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PLANNING PORTAL
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2021 local government elections Saturday 4 December 2021
Are you ready to make a difference and stand for your community? The next election for the Ballina Shire Council will be held on Saturday 4 December 2021. Local government elections in NSW are held every 4 years. Due to the 2020 election being postponed by a year, the current Council will serve for a 5-year term and the new Council that is elected at the 2021 election will serve a 3-year term.
What qualities do i need to be a successful councillor? You don’t need any formal qualifications to be a councillor. However, you do need to be ethical, open and honest. The following attributes are also helpful:
• Keen to learn • Communication skills • Time management and organisational skills • Problem solving skills • Teamwork skills. It’s also important to talk to your family and friends about how you would balance your work and personal commitments. Councillors are required to read council business papers, attend meetings and represent their council at events.
Check if you can vote If you’re a resident in the Ballina Shire you can check if your enrolment details are up to date by visiting check.aec.gov.au Note: Ballina Shire does not hold electoral information for local residents.
Election workers wanted Apply to work at your local council election Local council elections take place on 4 December 2021. We are looking for people to work at these elections. Working at the election is a good way to earn some money, learn new skills and help your community have their say.
The NSW Electoral Commission manages the Local Government election for Ballina Shire Council. For further information and key election dates or candidate information contact the NSW Electoral Commission office:
elections.nsw.gov.au
To find out more visit elections.nsw.gov.au LG.185_EL_3581_JuL21_V4
elections.nsw.gov.au
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snapshot of achievements 2020/21
JULY 2020
24
connected community Hutley Drive northern extension road opens Coastal Shared Path and Recreational Walk providing pedestrian and cycling connectively between Ballina and Lennox Head Lennox Head Cultural Centre $2.3million upgrade
Wollongbar District Park commenced Commemoration Park fitness equipment was installed Donated almost $100,000 to community and sporting groups
engaged leadership Tapping into the visitor economy with the development of the 2021-2030 Destination Management Plan Community Connect magazine 10-year Anniversary Community Connect – Extra was launched to supplement the quarterly magazine Live streaming of Council Meetings
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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL
Shaws Bay Dredging and Foreshore
Improvements
Solar panel installation at Council Chambers Implementing Council’s Climate Action Strategy and Environmental Action Plan.
prosperous economy Fox Street roundabout completed
Opened direct air routes to Canberra and Dubbo River Street Duplication (Stage 2) construction commenced Airport Boulevard construction commenced Regatta Avenue and Martin Street upgrade
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healthy environment
JUNE 2021
Business Connect established to connect self-isolating community members with local businesses Wardell Amenities upgraded New Northern Rivers Motorcycle Touring Guide is launched
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BALLINA SHIRE
Population and Development Activity ANNUAL REPORT FY2020/21
Ballina Shire Council has released its annual report on ‘Population and Development Activity’ for the financial year 2020/21. This report provides a summary of key statistics relating to development activity in Ballina Shire including population growth, dwelling approvals, residential subdivision and the value of building work.
KEY STATISTICS The Construction industry had the largest number of total registered businesses in Ballina Shire, comprising 18.0% of all total registered businesses, compared to 16.0% in New South Wales. In the 2020 September quarter, the unemployment rate in Ballina Shire was 3.5%. This figure is signnificantly lower than the regional rate of 5.7%, NSW 5.7% and national rate of 6.1%
GRP
Population
2.19 billion
Local jobs
44,840
17,429
year ending June 2020
NIEIR 2020
Largest industry
Local businesses
Health Care and Social Assistance
as at September 2020
(by employment)
Employed residents
4,442
21,677
DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY The annual value of building work in Ballina Shire between FY2016/17 and 2020/21 across the categories of commercial, industrial, rural, residential and subdivisions has increased from $112,342,946 to $210,731,672.
The value of approved building work by category for from FY2016/17 to 2020/21: DEVELOPMENT CATEGORY
2016-17
2017-18
2018-19
2019-20
2020-21
Commercial
$11,318,596
$43,174,335
$24,652,014
$9,114,938
$38,817,980
Industrial
$2,714,192
$60,000
$287,000
$1,317,995
$5,587,171
$609,585
$1,733,001
$1,355,372
$704,498
$946,407
Residential
$89,466,703
$65,023,481
$114,813,419
$134,327,988
$144,037,212
Subdivision*
$7,781,552
$868,191
$25,106,081
$796,835
$18,094,902
Other**
$452,318
$1,759,450
$5,556,443
$186,990
$3,248,000
TOTAL
$112,342,946
$112,618,458
$171,770,329
$146,449,244
$210,731,672
Rural
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Source: Ballina Shire Council
*Includes civil works associated with private subdivision
**Includes civil works associated with public works projects
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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL
Ballina shire is home to over 44,000 locals and we continue to attract new residents and visitors. The following chart shows the share of the value of total building work that occurred during FY2020/21 within the shire's development sub-regions. Share of value of approved building work within Ballina Shire development sub-regions FY2020/21.
As our population continues to grow, we need to make sure we have facilities that support our community. This involves upgrading current and constructing new facilities and infrastructure:
CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES HELP TO:
Boost the local economy Support jobs growth Improve connections between places Provide facilities that improve our lives
CURRENT PROJECTS:
Airport Boulevard Airport Carpark upgrade Angels Beach / Bangalow Road Roundabout Upgrade Pop Denison Park (Junior Playground) River Street Duplication (Stage 2) Wollongbar District Park Wollongbar Residential Estate (Stage 3) Lennox Village Vision Project (Ross Park)
OTHER PROJECTS PLANNED FOR 2021/22: River Street Duplication (Stage 3 – Fishery Creek Bridge to Kerr Street) Airport Apron and Runway Strengthening Airport Passenger Screening Southern Cross Estate Lots 2 and 3 Lennox Head Rural Fire Shed Lennox Village Vision Project Lennox Head and Skennars Head Ballina Cumbalum Rural (incl Wardell) Alstonville and Wollongbar
Source: Ballina Shire Council
Subscribe to the annual ‘Population and Development Activity’ newsletter by registering on Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au/ economic-development
COMPLETED PROJECTS FOR 2021/22: River Street Duplication – Inbound Dual Lanes (Stage 2) Lighthouse Parade
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SUPPORTING A GROWING COMMUNITY
CAPITAL EXPENDITURE PLANNED FOR 2021/22:
$8.8 million - Ballina Byron Gateway Airport $3.9 million – Commercial Property $21.9 million – Roads and Bridges $2.7 million – Open Spaces (Parks and Sports Fields) $0.82 million – Footpaths and Shared Paths $3.3 million – Water Infrastructure View the planned projects and capital expenditure in the Delivery Program/Operational Plan at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ planning-and-delivery
shire council
supporting a growing community
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get rea y for summerdin simple ste five ps
communityconnect
Get Ready for Summer:
where to get info...
extreme weather conditions
PREPARE AND PLAN EARLY FOR SEASONAL HAZARDS cut out and keep!
ROAD CLOSURES myroadinfo.com.au for Ballina Shire rural road info
TRAFFIC CONDITIONS Live Traffic NSW livetraffic.com
RADIO STATIONS
Ballina Shire Council is encouraging families, friends and neighbours to use the start of summer as the start of a conversation about being aware of and prepared for seasonal hazards. Aussie summers are iconic. They can also be tragic. Each year, communities across NSW experience bush fires, home fires, floods, storms, heatwaves, power outages and other emergencies. The start of summer should be the start of a conversation around being prepared for the multiple hazards communities across NSW face. Our emergency service organisations do an incredible job keeping us safe, but they can only do so much. Being aware and prepared is everyone’s responsibility, whether you’re at home, at work or away on holidays.
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 Qantas 13 13 13 qantas.com FlyPelican 02 4965 0111 flypelican.com.au
ACTIONS TO TAKE
We want everyone to have safe and happy holidays. This year, that also means adapting our usual summer rituals to include COVID-Safe practice. Avoid crowded environments. Maintain social distancing and where physical distancing cannot be maintained, wear a mask. If you feel unwell, get tested and self-isolate.
GET READY FOR SUMMER NOW IN FIVE SIMPLE STEPS: 1. Know your risk - think about the area you’re in and the types of disasters that could affect you;
2. Plan now for what you will do - sit down and talk with your family and plan for what you will do if a disaster affects your area;
3. Get your home ready - prepare your home by doing general home maintenance and checking your insurance coverage;
4. Be aware - find out how to prepare, what to do if there is a disaster in your
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, reduce internal water use 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.
area and connect with NSW emergency services to stay informed;
5. Look out for each other - share information with your family, friends, neighbours and those who may need assistance. Get Ready is a community preparedness program coordinated by Resilience NSW. Find out more at resilience.nsw.gov.au/prepare.html.
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
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Exercising you r dog A happy dog is a well exercised dog, and we are fortunate in the Ballina Shire to have several off-leash areas where dogs can roam freely and socialise with other pets and owners in a safe, shared and supervised space.
Dogs and their owners can enjoy the following off-leash exercise areas:
DOG AGILITY EQUIPMENT AT OFF LEASH AREA Does your pooch need some playtime? Bring your four-legged friend down to the Compton Drive Off-Leash Dog Park to check out the new agility course! The new course includes hurdles, weaving poles, a balance beam, tunnel, and bridge crossings. Agility training is a fun and creative way to involve physical and mental exercise in a daily routine for your pet. Dog agility is not only for competitions, it enhances a dog’s physical and mental health. The course is designed to test balance, coordination, strength, speed, and endurance through various obstacles. It also enhances communication and training, helping to build a strong bond between owner and pet. Owners may also find that their pet is more energetic, confident and relaxed thanks to agility training. The Compton Drive agility course has been funded by Ballina Shire Council. Council also plans to improve the entry and exit points to Compton Drive park in response to community feedback. For more information about off-leash dog parks across Ballina Shire visit ballina.nsw. gov.au/ExercisingYourDog
Bicentennial Gardens, the northern area of the reserve, Ballina Compton Drive, East Ballina Gap Road, Alstonville Seven Mile Beach, north of Lennox Head - Alstonville Surf Life Saving Club Ballina Heights Estate, eastern reserve area, Ballina Heights Headlands Drive Drainage Reserve, Skennars Head The Spit, Ballina Another great resource is the Cycleways and Shared Paths Map. It includes dog friendly areas where the whole family can enjoy walking the dog. Download a copy of the map on Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au/ exercisingyourdog or pick up a copy from Council’s Administration Centre at 40 Cherry Street or the Ballina Visitor Information Centre at 6 River Street, Ballina.
Dog ‘No-Go’ Areas With a choice of several dog friendly areas to safely exercise your dog, don’t risk a penalty infringement notice of $330 by taking your dog to ‘no-go’ area. The ‘no-go’ areas are in place because of the popularity of some beaches and the presence of migratory and shorebirds, so let’s make our Shire a safe place for everyone. Please do not take your dog to the following areas:
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EAST BALLINA
Shelly Beach Lighthouse Beach Seven Mile Beach, south of identified beach access track located just north of Lennox Head/Alstonville Surf Lifesaving Club Flat Rock reef The Serpentine Sharpes Beach, northern end of Sharpes Beach during surf patrols Shaws Bay Chickiba Lake, north/eastern corner surrounding the migratory and shorebirds roosting area Lake Ainsworth and surrounding foreshore/reserve Fire Trail end of Camp Drewe Road, Lennox Head
It is also important to keep your dog on a lead in public areas at all times. For further information on pet ownership, visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/dog-and-catownership
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IS YOUR WASTEWATER TESTED FOR COVID-19? 1 BALLINA 2
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
2 LENNOX HEAD 3
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WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
3 ALSTONVILLE
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
4 WARDELL
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Usually, when we flush the toilet or let the plug out we don’t think much more about our wastewater, where it goes or what happens to it. However, COVID-19 and the NSW Government’s Sewage surveillance program has changed all that. In 2020, NSW Health established the COVID-19 Sewage Surveillance Program. The program was set up to test untreated sewage for fragments of the COVID-19 (SARSCoV- 2). Testing sewage can help track infections in the community and provide early warning of an increase in infections. These tests provide data to support NSW Health’s response to COVID-19.
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLAN
Ballina Shire Council operates several wastewater treatment plants to treat our community’s wastewater. These include:
Ballina Wastewater Treatment Plant (services Ballina Island, North Ballina and West Ballina)
Lennox Head Wastewater Treatment Plant (services East Ballina, Skennars Head and Lennox Head)
Alstonville Wastewater Treatment Plant (services Alstonville and Wollongbar)
Wardell Wastewater Treatment Plant (services Wardell and Cabbage Tree Island)
FAQS Are COVID fragments linked to an infected COVID case?
HOW IT WORKS At the request of NSW Health, Ballina Shire Council provides untreated wastewater sewage samples from the Ballina, Lennox Head, Alstonville, and Wardell wastewater treatment plants. NSW Health tests these samples for COVID-19 and publishes the results on their program website. Council is providing samples twice a week from our Ballina treatment plant and once a week from the Lennox Head, Alstonville and Wardell plants. The frequency and location of these samples can change depending on NSW Health’s areas of concern.
WANT TO SEE RECENT REPORTS? Results are regularly updated and available to the public on NSW Health's Covid-19 page. NSW Health is responsible for publishing testing results and their website has an interactive map showing recent COVID-19 sewage detection along with recent reports. To check it out visit health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/covid-19/Pages/ sewage-surveillance.aspx
An infected person can shed virus in their faeces even if they do not have any symptoms, and shedding can continue for several weeks after they are no longer infectious.
What if I have a septic tank? If your property has a septic tank then your wastewater is treated on site and will not be included in the current surveillance program.
How many cases does there need to be to show up in the testing? NSW Health is currently undertaking research to find out how many people shedding in a catchment area will cause a positive sewage result. See their website for more information about this research.
Why doesn’t NSW Health test my area's wastewater? NSW Health determines the locations and frequency for testing. This depends on a range of factors, including the current risk in the community.
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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL
This information has been provided by the NSW Health Department.
Water Night How many times a day do you reach for the tap? Together with Smart Approved WaterMark – the leading one-stop-shop for water efficiency– Ballina Shire Council alongside Rous County Council are asking residents to sign up to Water Night to practice ‘water mindfulness’. Water Night is an Australian-wide water awareness event, held on Thursday 21 October 2021, during National Water Week. The challenge is not to use taps, showers and running water from midday to midnight on Thursday 21st October. Use of water for drinking, hand hygiene, COVID-safety and religious reasons are of course exempt.
RESOURCES FOR SCHOOLS Water Night is a great learning initiative for school students. Schools that register for Water Night can access a fantastic range of water sustainability resources including:
Water sustainability facts and education tools to add to lessons and curriculum.
Colouring sheets and activities. Home water efficiency audits for students to complete. A chance to win water efficiency packs for your school.
10 TREES FOR EVERY REGISTRATION For every registration from across the Ballina, Byron, Lismore and Richmond Valley local government areas, Rous County Council has committed to planting 10 trees (during planting session) in its water supply catchment area to improve water quality.
A GREAT TIME TO CHECK METER Got what it takes to YOUR do the challenge?
If we all see how often we reach for our taps and how subconsciously we do it, we will have a whole new perspective on how we use and save water. Many people are joining the challenge including event ambassadors like Costa Georgiadis! Costa will be live on Facebook during the event to speak about the concept of ‘water mindfulness’ and why it is important for all of us.
Water Night provides households with the perfect opportunity to check for water leaks at home. To check for a water leak:
1. Turn off all taps at the property. 2. Record your water meter reading, paying particular attention to the red dials on the right which record litres.
Discover how often you use Got what it takes to do the challenge?water in just one night Discover how
To register for Water Night visit waternight.com.au
3. Wait one hour without using any water at the property (all day or overnight provides a better result so it’s a perfect activity to do during Water Night!) 4. Record the water meter reading again. If the second reading is greater than the first reading, this would indicate a water leak, which should be investigated immediately. You may need to contact a plumber for further assistance.
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'water mindfulness'
To check the accuracy of your water meter: 1. Record the meter reading, paying particular attention to the dials on the right that record litres.
often you use water in just one night
2. Fill a bucket with 10 litres of water. 3. 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.
Sign up at www.waternight.com.au
Sign up at www.waternight.com.au Thursday 21st October 2021
There are so many fantastic reasons to get involved in Water Night. To find out more or to sign up today visit waternight.com.au
Brought to you by
See if your household can avoid using taps and survive without running water from 12pm to 12am. Sign up at www.waternight.com.au to improve your water mindfulness
Thursday 21st October 2021
Brought to you by
See if your household can avoid using taps and survive without running water from 12pm to 12am. Sign up at www.waternight.com.au to improve your water mindfulness
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NATIONAL WATER WEEK Water Night coincides with the Australian Water Association’s (AWA) National Water Week 18 – 24 October. This year the AWA has partnered with Spirit Creative, a proudly majority Indigenous owned business, to launch the theme “Caring for water and Country”. Caring for water and Country means rebuilding a strong future by learning more from the cultural practices of Traditional Custodians, said AWA Chief Executive Corrine Cheesman. “Caring for water and Country recognises the importance water plays in our lives. It is an opportunity for Australians to reflect on how we can rebuild from our turbulent recent years of floods, drought and fires in the face of climate change and the COVID pandemic.” As part of the partnership, Spirit Creative artist Dennis Golding produced an artwork titled Our Waters. Dennis explains that the inspiration behind the artwork comes from his strong connection to Country, from the freshwater and saltwater regions of northern and north-west NSW. “The patterns flow through different water streams and continue the paths around the circular motifs that often reference meeting places and waterholes. The waters operate as a protector of these grounds to acknowledge First People’s connection to land and waters as they too care for Country now, and who have done so for thousands of years,” Mr Golding said. To get involved in National Water Week this year visit awa.asn.au
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THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL
Ballina Shire Council has started essential maintenance to the Basalt Court drinking water reservoir. These works include roof repairs and the installation of new external access stairs. Council’s contractor, Advance Concrete Engineering, will be completing these construction works between 7am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. There may be some minor construction noise during these hours. Nearby properties should not experience any drinking water outages during these works but may experience a slight decrease to their water pressure from 13 September. This will be temporary and should not impact on daily household water requirements.
Water and Wastewater Projects COMPLETED PROJECTS Lennox Head Wastewater Treatment Plant Ocean Outfall Switchboard and Pumps Replacement
CURRENT PROJECTS: Access Upgrade at Basalt Court Drinking Water Reservoir
Council anticipates these works to be completed by Friday 8 October 2021, weather permitting.
Membrane Replacement at Lennox Head Wastewater Treatment Plant
Council apologises for any inconvenience caused and thanks residents for their patience during this essential infrastructure upgrade.
Bangalow Rd Roundabout Water Main Realignment
FUTURE PROJECTS Upgrade to Marom Creek Water Treatment Plant Alstonville Wastewater Treatment Plant Inlet Works Upgrade West Ballina Recycled Water Main Ballina Wastewater Treatment Plant Rectification Works and Gantry Crane Installation
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BASALT COURT DRINKING WATER RESERVOIR
what 's that noise? Is there a loud banging noise coming from your pipes when you turn your tap on? This is called a water hammer. There could be air in your pipes or corrosion. If it continues contact a licensed plumber.
For more information visit ballinawater.com.au or call our Water and Wastewater Team on 1300 864 444.
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WASTE
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? w o n k u o y d i D There are 6 main bin collection routes across the shire, although an additional 3 half runs have been added recently due to the population and service growth. We have a fleet of 6 waste trucks with a team of 6 full time and 5 fill-in drivers. One truck empties up to 1,200 bins per day. Together they collect up to 4,000 bins a day or over 1 million bins per year! L-R: Serge Theakston, Neil Spencer, Richard Smith, Kendell Brazendale and Ezio Polese. Absent: Jeff Nicholson, Michael Wort
ON THE FRONTLINE:
Meet the waste truck drivers who keep our shire clean and tidy Remember when garbage trucks would have a driver and two ‘runners’ following behind, collecting bins and hooking them up to be emptied?
real blessing!) and fitted with GPS and surveillance cameras.
Thankfully our waste trucks are much more sophisticated these days, but some of our drivers have been in the job for more than 20 years so they REALLY appreciate the creature comforts of the modern trucks.
“For example, if there are a heap of plastic bags in a recycling bin we can record that footage and send a letter to the property owner,” explains Lloyd Isaacson, Manager Resource Recovery.
Jeff Nicholson has been a waste truck driver with Council for 29 years. He reckons “you used to go through 10 pairs of shoes a year” as a runner for the rear loader trucks – and don’t get him started on the wet weather!
While the trucks are snazzier than they’ve ever been, there’s still plenty of challenges for our drivers to contend with.
No more do waste collectors have to deal with dogs chasing them as they cling on to the back of a garbage truck. Instead, the current side loader trucks have just one driver, they are air conditioned (a
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WATCH
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Cameras inside the truck where bin contents are emptied and outside facing the kerb allow drivers to clearly see everything and to identify contamination.
Cul-de-sacs and vehicles parked along the kerb and blocking access to bins are the most frustrating obstacles. There are plenty of narrow or difficult spots to manoeuver around, which is why all of the drivers agree that the rural bin collection route is by far the most enjoyable!
THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL
The drivers start their shifts at 4.30am or 5am, depending on the route they are assigned to. The team has a roster that rotates every 4-6 months. On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays they start the day by emptying park bins, before moving on to household collections. Keeping to schedule is another challenge for drivers, with each truck emptying up to 1,200 bins per day. Then there’s the shire’s growing population, with one or two new properties being added to the collection routes every day. The drivers return to the waste management centre at around 12pm and finish off their busy days with an hour of truck maintenance to make sure they’re ready to roll bright and early the next morning.
If you would like a career in this area please contact our People and Culture team on 1300 864 444.
CHANGES TO BIN COLLECTIONS DAYS Cumbalum and some rural services Ballina Shire Council will be introducing changes to bin collection days in a number of urban and rural areas from early October 2021. These changes are necessary to balance the allocation of waste trucks across the shire and to keep up with the increasing demand for waste collection services. Not all properties within the suburbs listed below will be affected by the changes. Impacted properties will receive a letter in the mail to advise them of the changes. Service area maps will also be available on Council’s website at ballina.nsw.gov.au/bin-collection-days so that residents can check whether their property will be impacted. The following changes will come into effect from October 2021:
CUMBALUM
Urban 3-bin collection services will change from Tuesdays to Mondays, starting on Monday 4 October 2021.
ALSTONVILLE, BROOKLET, FERNLEIGH, PEARCES CREEK,
TEVEN, AND TUCKOMBIL The week that fortnightly recycle bins are collected for rural residential and rural commercial properties will change to the alternate Thursday, starting on Thursday 7 October 2021. Recycle bins within the service area will be collected on Thursday 30 September, on Thursday 7 October, and fortnightly thereafter to facilitate the changeover.
ALSTONVALE, TEAKWOOD DRIVE AND BLACKMORES
ROAD IN ALSTONVILLE; DALWOOD, ROUS, ROUS MILL, LYNWOOD, URALBA, AND WOLLONGBAR The week that fortnightly recycle bins are collected for rural residential and rural commercial properties will change to the alternate Friday, starting on Friday 8 October. Recycle bins within the service area will be collected on Friday 1 October, on Friday 8 October, and fortnightly thereafter to facilitate the changeover.
Council apologises for any inconvenience caused and thanks the community for their patience as these changes are implemented. Residents should refer to Council’s website at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ bin-collection-days for more information or call 1800 864 444 for enquiries that are not addressed by the information online.
Ballina’s Salvage Shed is a well organised tip shop that saves tonnes of reusable items from landfill, providing sustainable options for everyday materials and reducing the environmental impact of buying new.
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WASTE MANAGEMENT CENTRE Southern Cross Drive, Ballina ph 02 6686 1287 OPEN 8AM-4PM 7 DAYS A WEEK (excluding public holidays)
Operated by Momentum Collective in partnership with council, the store is located to the Waste Management Centre at 167 Southern Cross Drive.
Open 9.30am – 3.30pm daily (excluding public holidays). Contact directly on 0429 934 557
Do yourself a favour... Drop in to discover what its all about!
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Community Recycling Centre Turns 5! Thank you for helping to keep problem wastes out of landfill Are you one of the many households in Ballina Shire who is helping to keep problem waste out of landfill and bushland? The number of residents using the free drop-off service at the Community Recycling Centre (CRC) - located at the Waste Management Centre - has continued to increase every year since it opened in 2016. In the 2020-2021 financial year, Ballina’s CRC collected 35.5 tonnes of problem waste materials, 45% of which was waterbased paint! Council would like to say thank you to the community for all of your good work.
What can I drop off for FREE at the CRC? (When public health restrictions ease)
Gas bottles and fire extinguishers
Household batteries
Paint
Motor oils
Fluoro globes and tubes
Other oils
Car batteries
Smoke detectors
• Gas Bottles and fire extinguishers • Paint (small volumes in many paints tins can be poured into the same tin, ensuring oil-based and water-based paints remain separated) • Fluoro globes and tubes • Household and car batteries • Motor oils and other oils • Smoke detectors
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What’s the problem with problem wastes? The wastes accepted at the CRC are potentially hazardous and can cause harm to waste management workers and pollute our environment if not disposed of correctly. For example, batteries can cause fires in trucks and waste piles.
Are they recycled? Items dropped off at the CRC are recycled wherever possible. For example, the lead, acid and plastic in lead acid batteries are recovered and recycled. The glass, ceramic, plastic and mercury used to make fluorescent lights are also recycled. Graphic options: 1. Use anything relevant at https:// epa.metrographics.com.au/old/ crc/ •
User Name: NorthEastWaste
•
Password: NorthEastWasteCRC
2. Use graph info below (our CRC data from 20/21 financial year)
I only have a handful of batteries. Is there somewhere else I can drop these off? Our Community Recycling Stations are cabinets designed to accept small amounts of problem wastes. They are located across the shire at Council’s Customer Service Centre, Alstonville Cultural Centre, Ballina Library, Ballina Bunnings and Lennox Head Community Centre. If COVID restrictions still apply, simply reuse containers such as glass jars or yoghurt tubs to store your problem waste items until restrictions ease. For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/communityrecycling-centre-crc
The new transfer station at the Ballina Waste Management Centre is now complete. Ballina Shire Council would like to thank the community for their patience and understanding during these works.
WHAT IS A TRANSFER STATION? The waste transfer station is an open-air shed located within the Ballina Waste Management Centre. The station is the key drop-off location for residents disposing of household quantities of rubbish, recycling and electronic waste. The Community Recycling Centre is also located at the transfer station, which accepts a range of common household hazardous wastes for free, such as batteries, paint, oil, ink cartridges and smoke detectors. For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/wastemanagement-centre
Get your copy of the new Priority Weeds Booklet Interested in learning more about priority weeds in our region? Want to know more about what Rous County Council’s current priority weeds are? Curious about learning correct control methods for these weeds? Download your free copy of our most recent publication ‘Priority Weeds – Far North Coast NSW’ for answers to these questions and more. This booklet is a user-friendly guide to the priority weeds in our region and includes details on identification and control as well as preferred habitat and environmental effects of weeds. Together we can protect our region from the ongoing threat of new and emerging weeds. Your find matters!
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TRANSFER STATION ROOF COMPLETED
For a hard copy version of this booklet, please visit the Ballina Shire Council office, or email weeds@rous.nsw.gov.au to have a copy sent to you.
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Slow down to save our koalas
Motorists are urged to slow down on the road and watch out for koalas. Spring is breeding season, which means koalas are actively in search of a mate as well as their favourite food trees. Due to increasing pressure from human activities, koalas must now travel long distances along dangerous routes, including busy roads or through housing estates, when in search of new territory. This means they are at high risk of being struck by a vehicle or attacked by a dog.
the ballina shire is safe with a connected community, a healthy environment and a thriving economy.
In the last month several koalas have been treated by Friends of the Koala (FOK) in Ballina Shire and many more across the region. Community members can help koalas by:
Saving the Friends of the Koala 24-hour rescue hotline number into your phone – 6622 1233.
Reporting all koala sightings to the Friends of the Koala website at friendsofthekoala.org/report-a-koala-sighting “It is important that all koala sightings are passed onto regional koala carers at Friends of the Koala, regardless of whether the animal is dead, sick, injured or healthy,” said Council’s Environmental Scientist Jack Hastings. “Sometimes koalas are reported as dead on the side of the road when they are in fact alive. A mum may have a joey still alive in their pouch or hiding somewhere nearby. “If it’s safe, check the koala more closely or add a note to your record through the Friends of the Koala website so that a wildlife carer can attend the scene.” As part of the Saving our Species Iconic Koala Project, Ballina Shire Council is working with other Northern Rivers Councils, Friends of the Koala, and universities to develop strategies that will support the long-term survival of the species in the Northern Rivers. Council is investigating measures including:
Protecting and enhancing koala habitat in areas of highest regional priority
Installation of ‘koala zone’ signage and other road strike mitigation measures at priority locations
Improving koala rehabilitation outcomes through increased veterinary care. “We are currently working on a handbook for rural property owners on the best practices to protect koala habitats on their properties,” added Jack. For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/koalas
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WARMER WEATHER BRINGS ACTIVE WILDLIFE The warmer weather has arrived meaning more people are out and about using the parks, walking tracks and cycle ways. Local wildlife are also becoming more active so it’s important to remember some handy tips.
Snakes Snakes are not naturally aggressive and always prefer to retreat. They will only attack if hurt or provoked. Most bites occur when people try to capture or kill a snake. REMEMBER THESE TIPS:
If you come across a snake walk away calmly Wear long pants and boots Scan the ground ahead of you when bushwalking Keep yards clear of long grass and items that provide cover, such as timber stacks, rock or discarded household items
Aviaries also attract mice which attract snakes so try and keep rodent numbers down by keeping your bird enclosures clean
Avoid areas with dense ground cover to prevent accidently stepping on a snake
Walk your dog on a lead to help keep them safe. If you find a snake in your home, and would like it removed, contact Wildlife Carers on 6628 1866 or WIRES Northern Rivers 6628 1898.
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phone 0415 965 403 david.wright@ballina.nsw. gov.au
Cr Phillip Meehan phone 0408 349 833 phil.meehan@ballina.nsw. gov.au
WARD A
Cr Stephen McCarthy phone 0435 759 987 stephen.mccarthy@ballina. nsw.gov.au
Cr Nathan Willis nathan.willis@ballina.nsw. gov.au
Cr Sharon Cadwallader phone 0413 091 440 sharon.cadwallader@ ballina.nsw.gov.au
phone 0418 504 644 keith.williams@ballina.nsw. gov.au
WARD B
Cr Keith Williams
DEPUTY MAYOR
your councillors
MAYOR
Cr David Wright
Cr Jeff Johnson phone 0438 677 202 jeff.johnson@ballina.nsw. gov.au
Cr Sharon Parry phone 0408 683 052 sharon.parry@ballina.nsw. gov.au
phone 0415 482 412 ben.smith@ballina.nsw. gov.au
WARD C
Cr Benjamin Smith
Cr Eoin Johnston
subscribe to council’s eNews You’ll never miss important community news and updates again!
ballina.nsw.gov.au
phone 0407 416 149 eoin.johnston@ballina. nsw.gov.au
All councillors can be emailed at councillors@ballina.nsw.gov.au 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. Some of the images in this publication were taken prior to COVID social distancing directives.
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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
Get your skates on to the Visitor Information new range of socksCentre for the and t-shirts! See Page 3 for details
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Don’t dispose of me yet
Use this issue of Community Connect to wrap kitchen waste and dispose in the green organics bin.
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