Community Connect EXTRA November 2021

a r t ex

Supplement to the Quarterly Community Connect Magazine

NOVEMBER 2021

Use your vouc Dine & now v hers ali 30 Ju d until Discover ne 20 22 vouchers and support local businesses The scheme is expanding soon to 6 x $25 vouchers.

No need to reapply to receive the additional two vouchers.

Download vouchers and find participating businesses at service.nsw.gov.au/campaign/ dine-discover-nsw

GIVE A UNIQUE LOCAL GIFT THIS CHRISTMAS Enjoy the gift of giving this festive season and help a small home-grown producer when you shop locally at the Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) and Ballina Visitor Information Centre.

You will find a range of handcrafted, small batch unique products and locally made gift lines. Treat your friends and family to candles, tea, jewellery, zinc, t-shirts, undies, pottery, notebooks, prints, artworks, coffee, chocolate, nuts, chutneys, playing cards, and much much more.

Ask staff at the Ballina Visitor Information Centre about curating hampers from the items displayed or maybe purchase a gift certificate. In lieu of a party, why not gift your staff or clients a hamper this Christmas?

Take the stress out of Christmas shopping with opening hours right through until Christmas Eve, we have Christmas all wrapped up so you can spend more time with those who matter most.

Visit us in person or give our friendly staff a call.

See page 10 for details

Australia Day Nominations close soon Monday 15 November 2021 see page 15 for details

Ballina Shire Council elections take place on 4 December 2021. NSW Electoral Commission is 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.

To find out more visit elections.nsw.gov.au

UPDATE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER

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from the general manager

NOVEMBER 2021

Council meetings at a glance

While it’s still early days, it is pleasing to reach the 80% double vaccination target in NSW* and be on the Roadmap to Reopening.

I want to thank our local community for their efforts over the past 18 months. Overall the community has consistently followed public health orders, continued to support local business, and has rolled up their sleeves to help protect themselves and others.

As General Manager, I am introducing this edition of Community Connect instead of the Mayor as Council has now entered a caretaker period before the Local Government Elections that will be held on Saturday 4 December 2021.

A great number of items and issues get discussed at Council meetings. Here are some items discussed at the Ordinary Council meeting on 28 October 2021.

DELIVERY PROGRAM AND OPERATIONAL PLAN (DPOP)

KINGSFORD SMITH RESERVE MASTER PLAN

A quarterly update provided an overview of how Council is tracking on implementing the DPOP actions and indicators.

Council considered the new Master Plan for Kingsford Smith Reserve following extensive community feedback.

ALSTONVILLE LEP AMENDMENTS

BALLINA HEIGHTS COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT

Council considered a planning proposal to rezone certain lots in Alstonville from R2 Low Density Residential to R3 Medium Density Residential zone.

Council considered in-principle support to move the location of the Cumbalum commercial precinct to the corner of Power Drive and Ballina Heights Drive.

Thank you to our councillors for doing such a fantastic job during very challenging times. We encourage residents to engage in these Local Government Elections, get to know the issues that matter to our community, and make sure you turn up to vote on Saturday 4 December!

Even though we are in caretaker mode, there is plenty of important work happening across the shire, such as the Lennox Village Vision project.

This project has involved years of community consultation and planning, so it’s exciting to see works underway. I hope the community enjoys the new amenities and improved services it will bring, while keeping the coastal village atmosphere that we all know and love in Lennox Head.

Visit the project page at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ LennoxVillageVision for all the details.

To view the full agenda and minutes visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/agendasandminutes

Policies on Exhibition

Paul Hickey General Manager * as at 25 October 2021, source health.gov.au

Council develops policies when there is a legal obligation to fulfill, an issue that require consistent guidelines, or where there is a requirement to set a standard to carry out a function.

We review all policies on a regular basis and any changes are reported to Council. Community consultation is a key element when reviewing and developing policies. The following policies will be on exhibition soon for public comment: SPORTSFIELDS MANAGEMENT MONUMENTS AND MEMORIALS ON

PUBLIC LAND DONATIONS - CAPITAL WORKS

ASSISTANCE SPORTING GROUPS

You can find the complete list of Council policies on our website

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

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RECOVERY Subscribe to Council’s enews and keep up to date with policies and documents on exhibition at ballina.nsw.gov.au/eNews

subscribe to council’s eNews COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

ballina.nsw.gov.au/eNews

The Coastal Management Program (CMP) Process A Coastal Management Program is prepared through a five stage process and includes extensive engagement with the local community and user groups, and relevant government agencies.

STAGE 1 identify the scope of the CMP

STAGE 2 determine risks, vulnerabilities and opportunities

DOCUMENTS ON EXHIBITION

STAGE 3 identify and evaluate options

New Ballina Coastal Management Program The Ballina Shire coastline provides us with a stunning natural environment, a wide range of recreational opportunities, and is a cornerstone of the coastal lifestyle that is highly valued by the local community and visitors alike.

However, the coastline is facing increasing pressures from population growth, coastal erosion, and climate change.

STAGE 4 prepare, exhibit, finalise, certify and adopt the CMP

STAGE 5 implement, monitor and evaluate

In order to tackle this, Ballina Shire Council is developing a Coastal Management Program (CMP) to help protect and preserve the future of the Shire’s coastline.

Once complete, the CMP will set the long-term strategy for the coordinated management of the coastline. It will:

IDENTIFY COASTAL MANAGEMENT ISSUES AND THREATS TO THE COASTAL ENVIRONMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE

RECOMMEND ACTIONS REQUIRED TO ADDRESS THESE ISSUES IN A STRATEGIC WAY

DETAIL HOW AND WHEN THOSE ACTIONS ARE TO BE IMPLEMENTED.

This first stage of this project involves a review of the existing plans and information, a stocktake of community values and concerns, and setting a plan for the remaining stages.

We are now asking the community to tell us what you value about the coast, and what you think about the key issues affecting the coastline.

The community survey closes Sunday 5 December 2021. For more information and to complete the survey visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/BallinaCMP

subscribe to council’s eNews Keep up to date with policies and documents on exhibition.

ballina.nsw.gov.au/eNews

ballina.nsw.gov.au

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ROAD PROJECTS

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ROAD AND STORMWATER PROJECTS

NOVEMBER 2021

ROAD RENEWAL AND BITUMEN RESEAL PROGRAM 2021/22 COMPLETED PROJECTS TAMARIND DRIVE – TINTENBAR INTERSECTION RIVERBANK ROAD, PIMLICO

Ballina Shire Council is committed to safe and well-maintained roads that help create a more connected community. To maintain this standard, Council carries out a number of capital and upgrade works.

Segments of the following roads are scheduled for renewal this financial year:

CURRENT PROJECTS

AIRPORT BOULEVARD CONSTRUCTION CORKS LANE ROUNDABOUT

RIVER STREET DUPLICATION (STAGE 2)

ANGELS BEACH DRIVE AND BANGALOW ROAD ROUNDABOUT - LANE EXTENSIONS

LENNOX VILLAGE VISION, ROSS PARK UPGRADE, STORMWATER UPGRADES, UNDERGROUNDING OF POWER STORMWATER RELINING PROJECT

RIVER DRIVE, EAST WARDELL

FUTURE PROJECTS

PEARCES CREEK BRIDGE, PEARCES CREEK

Segments of the following rural roads are scheduled for bitumen reseal this financial year:

CRANE STREET, BALLINA FAWCETT STREET, BALLINA

For updates on road closures visit myroadinfo.com.au

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BURNET STREET, BALLINA CRANE STREET, BALLINA FAWCETT STREET, BALLINA GIBBON STREET, LENNOX HEAD NORTH CREEK ROAD, SKENNARS HEAD NORTHUMBERLAND DRIVE, EAST BALLINA RIVER DRIVE, EAST WARDELL RIVERBANK ROAD, PIMLICO SIMMONS STREET, BALLINA STEWART STREET, LENNOX HEAD TEVEN ROAD, TEVEN TEVEN ROAD, WEST BALLINA WARDELL ROAD, LYNWOOD & DALWOOD WILSON STREET, WARDELL

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ELTHAM ROAD, PEARCES CREEK BYRNES LANE, TUCKOMBIL PAPERBARK CLOSE, TEVEN JORGENSENS LANE, BROOKLET LEADBEATTERS LANE, TUCKOMBIL OLD BYRON BAY ROAD, NEWRYBAR WATSONS LANE, NEWRYBAR PEARCES CREEK ROAD, ALSTONVALE SANDY FLAT ROAD, TINTENBAR SCANLAN LANE, KNOCKROW

SNEATHS ROAD, ALSTONVALE WARDELL ROAD, MEERSCHAUM VALE DUFFICYS LANE, KNOCKROW WARDELL ROAD, LYNWOOD FRIDAY HUT ROAD, BROOKLET THE COAST ROAD, SKENNARS HEAD BATH STREET, WARDELL

Segments of the following urban roads are scheduled for bitumen reseal this financial year:

BOND LANE, BALLINA CHERRY STREET, BALLINA CRANE STREET, BALLINA FOX STREET, BALLINA HUNTER STREET, BALLINA MARTIN STREET, BALLINA NORFOLK AVENUE, EAST BALLINA DIAMOND LANE, BALLINA NORTH CREEK ROAD, BALLINA SKENNARS HEAD ROAD, SKENNARS HEAD DEEGAN DRIVE, ALSTONVILLE MCGILL PLACE, ALSTONVILLE WHIPPS AVENUE, ALSTONVILLE ARROWSMITH AVENUE, ALSTONVILLE TANAMERA DRIVE, ALSTONVILLE SOUTH STREET, ALSTONVILLE KARDELLA AVENUE, EAST BALLINA MCDOUGALL STREET, EAST BALLINA WYUNA CRESCENT, EAST BALLINA

For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/RoadsandFootpaths

subscribe to council’s eNews

CURRENT PROJECT UPDATES

PROJECT UPDATES

ballina.nsw.gov.au/eNews

FOOTPATH PROJECTS

AIRPORT BOULEVARD Work on the third roundabout linking Airport Boulevard with North Creek Road is underway with crews now constructing the road pavement. North Creek Road, at the intersection with Corks Lane, is reduced to one lane and temporary traffic lights are in place. This project is expected to be completed by December 2021 (weather and site conditions permitting).

AIRPORT CARPARK UPGRADE Construction works are progressing well and are expected to be completed in December 2021 (weather permitting). A boom gate access system will be installed in the carpark early next year to provide a more efficient payment system for travellers.

AIRPORT TERMINAL UPGRADE Construction works are due to commence in late October to expand the Airport Terminal to accommodate new security screening equipment and improve processing of passengers entering the departure lounge.

ANGELS BEACH DR / BANGALOW RD LANE IMPROVEMENTS Early works for the Angels Beach Road/Bangalow Road Roundabout Lane Improvements are now complete. This includes the relocation of street lighting, water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure. Intersection widening works are expected to commence in February 2022.

LENNOX VILLAGE VISION PROJECT Cultural heritage investigations in Ross Park, Lennox Park and Ballina Street are now complete. A Gross Pollutant Trap has been installed in Ross Park and related stormwater works are underway. Our crews have commenced underboring of the water main in Ballina Street. These works require lane closures and traffic control is in place.

COMPLETED PROJECTS SUVLA STREET, EAST BALLINA GRANDVIEW STREET, EAST BALLINA

CURRENT PROJECTS CANAL ROAD, BALLINA

FUTURE PROJECTS RIFLE RANGE ROAD, WOLLONGBAR

PLAYGROUND UPGRADES

POP DENISON PARK New paths and picnic shelter slabs have been completed. Our crews and contractors are now preparing the playground areas and have constructed trails, installed sandstone block edging, a dry creek bed, timber bridge and balance beams. The playground is expected to be completed in December 2021 (weather and site conditions permitting).

RIVER STREET DUPLICATION Stage 1 of the River Street Duplication project is progressing well, with our crews now in the final phases of work between Burns Point Ferry Road and Barlows Road. Landscaping of the median and approaches will occur over the next couple of months. Temporary lane closures will be required while landscaping is underway.

WOLLONGBAR DISTRICT PARK Works are progressing well with installation of the playground, vegetation and brick paving now underway. It is anticipated this project will be completed by December 2021 (weather and site conditions permitting).

WOLLONGBAR RESIDENTIAL ESTATE – STAGE 3 Construction works are complete on 30 residential lots from 600m2 and a larger lot designated for a childcare centre. A plan of subdivision has been lodged for registration.

For project updates visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/MajorProjects

Council has commenced upgrades to the following playgrounds: POP DENISON PARK Compton Drive, East Ballina

RIVERVIEW PARK Brunswick Street, Ballina To find a playground in Ballina Shire visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/playgrounds

ballina.nsw.gov.au

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COUNCIL NOTICES

extra Shark mitigation in Ballina Shire NSW Department of Fisheries recently announced $21.4 million in funding towards the continuation and expansion of the Shark Management Program.

Statewide, this includes: Scaling up Surf Life Saving NSW’s drone surveillance program to provide more beach coverage in more Local Government Areas.

Increasing coastal surveillance using VR4G listening stations to ensure at least one in every Local Government Area.

Expanding the rollout of SMART (Shark Management Alert in Real Time) drumlines technology.

Continuation of beach meshing in some locations.

Boosting shark tagging, research and community education programs.

For Ballina Shire this means a continuation of the existing services we have had in recent years, including SMART drum lines, the SLS NSW Drone surveillance program and the shark tagging/VR4G listening station program.

An additional VR4G listening station is planned to be installed at Seven Mile Beach (Lennox Surf Club) this financial year.

For more information visit sharksmart.nsw. gov.au

community connect

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On-street parking improves safety The way you park your car can influence car speeds in your street.

A recent analysis of crash statistics in Ballina Shire showed that we have relatively high numbers of vehicles exceeding the speed limits on urban streets where the default speed limit is 50km/h.

One factor that contributes to higher speeds in urban 50k/h streets is footpath parking.

Parking over the kerb, on the verge or footpath has the effect of making the road seem wider. When roads appear wider, drivers tend to increase their speeds. Vehicles parked on footpaths can also be a hazard for people walking, or using mobility devices, prams or riding bikes, and can create blind zones for people reversing out of private properties.

Parking a vehicle on a footpath or nature strip (the area between the road and property boundary) is also illegal under the NSW Road Rules, and can attract a fine of $272 or more.

When roads appear narrower, drivers tend to slow down and are more cautious. On-street parking is one way neighbours can help to create the perception of a narrower road that has a traffic calming effect and encourages drivers to adhere to the 50km/h speed limit. Onstreet parking also makes footpaths safer for people walking.

So next time you park, park on-street for safer speeds and footpaths in our neighbourhoods.

For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/parking

COUNCIL NOTICES Festival and Event Sponsorship Program

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Council’s Festival and Event Sponsorship Program for the financial year 2022/23 is now open. All local Event Organisers are invited to express an interest for access to funding. There is approximately $100,000 available for distribution for event sponsorship.

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Applications close: Friday 4 December 2021.

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For more information contact Sandra Jackson, Events Support Officer on 1300 864 444 or visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/Festivals-and-Events-Funding

subscribe to council’s eNews OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

ballina.nsw.gov.au/eNews

COASTAL RECREATIONAL PATH ETIQUETTE The Coastal Recreational Path (eastern track from Sharpes Beach to Pat Morton Lookout) is open for the enjoyment of people walking and riding bikes.

The path provides fantastic scenery, leisure, and exercise. Lots of locals and visitors love using this path and experiencing the Ballina coastline.

To keep the path safe and enjoyable for all, we need to share the path and be considerate of other people.

People riding bikes should:

GIVE WAY TO PEOPLE WALKING, THIS MEANS SLOWING DOWN AND EVEN COMING TO A STOP IF NECESSARY KEEP LEFT UNLESS OVERTAKING RIDE AT LOW SPEEDS IN BUSY AREAS, WHEN APPROACHING CORNERS AND CRESTS BE CAREFUL ON STEEP DESCENTS RING YOUR BELL AND SLOW DOWN WHEN APPROACHING OTHER PEOPLE ON THE PATH ALLOW ONE-METRE SPACE FOR PEOPLE WALKING, WHERE POSSIBLE MOVE OFF THE PATH IF STOPPED

Have you visited the new dog agility park?

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. 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.

Dogs need to be under effective control of their owner at all times in the off-leash area and always be respectful of others and their dogs.

For more information about off-leash dog parks across Ballina Shire visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ ExercisingYourDog

People walking should:

KEEP TO THE LEFT TRAVEL IN A PREDICTABLE MANNER LISTEN FOR THE SOUND OF A BELL AND AVOID MOVING INTO THE PATH OF PEOPLE RIDING SUPERVISE YOUNG CHILDREN AT ALL TIMES KEEP DOGS ON SHORT LEASHES MOVE OFF THE PATH IF STOPPED We all love our paths. Following these etiquette rules keeps everyone safer.

Download the map of Cycleways and Shared Paths of Ballina Shire at ballina.nsw.gov.au/cycling-and-walking

There’s no such thing as the Dog Poo Fairy!

You own a dog, you own its poo!

Bag the poo, bin it or take it with you.

Penalties apply for non-compliance.

Keep Ballina Shire Beautiful!

ballina.nsw.gov.au

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NOVEMBER 2021

current exhibitions Exhibition Dates: 3 November - 24 December 2021 Launch Event: online screening

Playing House | Amy Meng

Breaking Through: Transition to Transformation Group Exhibition Local artists Belle Budden, Dhinawan Baker, Anne Leon and Potts present a crosscultural artistic exploration of the processes of healing through fire, flood and COVID-19, documenting and reflecting on their journeys from isolation to connection.

Image: Dhinawan Baker, Night Falls,

MARC H

A continuation on from the series, I Have A Voice, containing the now infamous bra-cup face mask portraits.

Gala now opens up a dialogue with the viewer, looking at how sexism and the gender imbalance is prevalent in society. Recipient of NRCG’s Southern Cross University (SCU) 2020 Graduate Art Prize.

Exhibition Dates: 12 January - 6 March 2022 Launch Event: online screening

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DE C E MBE R

This is Nothing New | Gala Jane

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Image: Amy Meng, Yours Truly, 2020

N OV E MBE R

Drawing influences from manga, anime and video games, in Playing House Amy Meng situates the bishoujo (beautiful young girl) within the context of kawaii (cute) culture and the domestic landscape, and investigates how our fascination with her escalates the infantilisation and pornification of society.

upcoming exhibitions J AN UARY

NORTHERN RIVERS COMMUNITY GALLERY

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2019

In Absentia Jill Runciman, Katie Alleva + Rebecca Tapscott A collection of works by three Northern Rivers artists, ‘In Absentia’ looks at the impact absence has on the physical, environmental and emotional landscape.

Image: Jill Runciman, Coasting, 2020

Image: Gala Jane, Are You Angry Yet?, 2021

My Hands Hold Everything | Portia Sarris

BAM Art Prize 2021 | Finalist Exhibition

My Hands Hold Everything is a body of work that aims to reduce the disparity of what is felt and what is communicated.

Presented by Byron Arts Magazine, in partnership with NRCG. The BAM Art Prize promotes awareness of the arts in the Northern Rivers by presenting a national art prize within the region.

Open to all mediums and artists, the BAM Art Prize Finalist Exhibition showcases shortlisted works in the 2021 prize.

Image: Portia Sarris, Untitled, 2020.

Image: BAM Art Prize 2020 Finalist Exhibition (installation view), Ben Wyeth Photography

3 | Jodi Woodward, Katrina Hill + Eliza McIness

join our volunteer program Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) is calling for expressions of interest for volunteers to support the gallery through assisting with front-ofhouse operations, customer service and sales. We currently have shifts available for Wednesdays (morning and afternoon); Thursday and Friday afternoons and Sundays.

3 is an investigation into colour and pigment – three artists, three colours, three works each -creating a cohesive installation bound together, yet individually considered - combining the known and unknown.

Image: Eliza McIness, Untitled, 2020

For more information visit nrcgballina.com.au

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

subscribe to council’s eNews COMMUNITY SPACES

ballina.nsw.gov.au/eNews

What’s on at the

SPRUNG!!

RETURNS TO THE STAGE Sprung!! is springing into action to delight and entertain audiences once again.

Sprung!! dancers have been working hard to perfect their performances for the 2021 Gala being held at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre at 6pm on Sunday 14 November 2021.

This event promises to be a joyful evening of dance, theatre and celebration of diversity for one night only.

For further information or tickets, visit communityspaces.com.au Image: The gift that keeps on giving from Sprung!! Gala 2019 L to R: Julie Allen, Max McAuley, Simone O’Brien, Jordan Bilson

Community Sport

is coming back!

The BISC is excited to be welcoming community sport back at the centre from 1 December 2021, according to the NSW COVID-Roadmap.

Check with your sporting association for details on registrations and season kick off dates!

Dancing in the Dark is back!

Dance like nobody is watching and enjoy an hour of good vibes in the dark!

Dancing in the Dark is held in the Meeting Rooms at Lennox Head Cultural Centre every Tuesday evening from 7pm - 8pm.

For details, check What’s On at communityspaces.com.au

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

Making a mark at the BISC

Has the new signage at the BISC caught your attention?

Ballina Shire’s home of futsal, volleyball, basketball, netball and pickleball.

Enquire about BISC memberships, venue and meeting room hire today.

Open 7 days.

Visit communityspaces.com.au or call 02 6681 0599

ballina.nsw.gov.au

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BALLINA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

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now order d to sen fore e eas b overs stmas Chri

Give a unique local gift Available from:

Ballina Visitor Information Centre 6 River Street Ballina NSW 2478 1800 777 666 discover@ballina.nsw.gov.au Open: Monday - Saturday 9am - 7pm Sundays and public holidays 10am - 2pm Open until 4pm Christmas Eve discoverballina.com.au

NOVEMBER 2021

WHAT’S ON IN BALLINA SHIRE? With newspaper publishers going out of print or placing publications on pause you may be wondering where to turn for information on festivals and events as they start returning to the social calendar?

Ensure you keep an eye on the destination website discoverballina.com.au where you will find the latest information on what’s happening across the region.

From family fun activities to community events to exhibitions, comedy shows and happy hour gigs view the calendar at discoverballina.com.au and searching what’s on in the main menu.

Search What’s On at discoverballina.com.au Follow on instagram @discoverballina or facebook BallinaCoastandHinterland

BallinaCoastandHinterland

Northern Rivers Community Gallery 44 Cherry Street Ballina NSW 2478 02 6681 0530 contact@nrcgballina.com.au Open: Wednesday - Friday 10am - 4pm Weekends 9.30am - 1pm Closed public holidays Open until 4pm Christmas Eve NorthernRiversCommunityGallery

Beach Patrols BEACH

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)

18/12/2021 09/04/2022

27/01/2022 22/04/2022

9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards 7 days a week

Sharpes Beach Skennars Head

18/12/2021 09/04/2022

27/01/2022 22/04/2022

9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards 7 days a week

Shelly Beach East Ballina

18/12/2021 09/04/2022

27/01/2022 22/04/2022

9am – 5pm Professional Lifeguards 7 days a week

Lighthouse Beach East Ballina

18/12/2021 09/04/2022

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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subscribe to council’s eNews COMMUNITY INFORMATION

ballina.nsw.gov.au/eNews

SPLASH!

Northern Rivers Councils Tackling Mosquitoes Together Following its successful launch earlier this year, Northern Rivers councils and the North Coast Public Health Unit are once again running Tackling Mosquitoes Together, a behaviour change program to reduce the disease risks and nuisance of mosquitoes in homes and local communities.

Tackling Mosquitoes Together encourages households to take action by reducing backyard mosquito breeding habitats, and through personal protection.

into the Community Pools

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

There’s splenty of aquatic sports and activities at the pools, making them great locations to host a family BBQ or kid’s birthday party.

For more information please visit ballina.nsw. gov.au/community-swimming-pools

Residents who sign up to the free SMS program will receive helpful tips and reminders to protect themselves and their family from mosquitoes. The text messages include videos, images and common mozzie myth busters.

The SMS program commenced in October and runs for six weeks, concluding on Saturday 27 November 2021.

Ballina Memorial Pool & Waterslide

Tackling Mosquitoes Together has been co-designed with community, councils and other key stakeholders. Tackling Mosquitoes Together was proudly funded by the NSW Government in association with Local Government NSW.

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

Residents who sign up will receive a free education pack and mozzie repellent.

Find them on Facebook

To join the program visit tacklingmosquitoestogether.com.au

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

Find them on Facebook

ballina.nsw.gov.au

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WATER TALK

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WATER AND WASTEWATER PROJECTS

NOVEMBER 2021

CHECK ONLINE for water service interruptions water meter

stop tap

Have you experienced a water outage and wondered where to find more information? Ballina Shire Council has a new Water Service Interruptions webpage.

For small-scale planned interruptions, our water team hand delivers water outage notification cards to letterboxes. For larger planned events Council will post a letter to impacted properties, issue a community announcement and social media posts. For unplanned events we issue regular updates via local media and social media.

While Council makes every effort to inform residents and businesses of both planned and unplanned water service interruptions, sometimes these messages can be missed.

If you’re ever experiencing low water pressure, or a water interruption, it’s always best to check the Water Service Interruptions page on our website to see if there’s an outage near you.

COMPLETED PROJECTS

You’ll also find information on how to report a water leak and helpful water outage tips.

MEMBRANE REPLACEMENT AT LENNOX HEAD WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT BANGALOW RD ROUNDABOUT WATER MAIN REALIGNMENT

MARSH AVE, BALLINA WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT

CURRENT PROJECTS ACCESS UPGRADE AT BASALT COURT DRINKING WATER RESERVOIR

For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/WaterOutages.

Business benefits from water saving program Discovery Parks Ballina is looking forward to significant water and cost savings after teaming up with Rous County Council through the Sustainable Water Partner Program.

LENNOX HEAD WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT OCEAN OUTFALL SWITCHBOARD AND PUMPS REPLACEMENT

As part of the program a comprehensive Water Saving Plan was developed for the park. The plan identified priority activities and water saving projects that the park and Rous agreed were feasible (both in the short and long-term), cost effective, and provided water saving benefits that would reduce future costs.

ACACIA PLACE, BALLINA WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT

One of the most significant and beneficial measures has been the installation of smart metering on the park’s main water meters. Smart water meters now record hourly water usage, enabling the park to be more aware of water consumption, trends, triggers and to detect leaks more rapidly, rather than waiting for the quarterly water bill.

GIBBON STREET, LENNOX HEAD WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT

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

As well as installing smart meters, the park has focused on upgrading 66 individual taps on the caravan and tent sites, and is investigating installation of a rainwater tank for pool top-ups.

Smart-metering, monitoring and leak detection is expected to result in significant potential water savings. This work alone could result in a potential 69% reduction in water use and over $80,000 saved per year in water charges.

Rous County Council is the regional water supply authority providing bulk water to the Council areas of Ballina, Byron, Lismore Shires and the Evans Head area. Rous County Council works closely with constituent councils, including Ballina Shire Council, to deliver the Sustainable Water Partner Program in partnership with local businesses.

Through the Sustainable Water Partner Program, Rous County Council can offer businesses with an annual water consumption of more than 5,000 kilolitres a fully funded Water Saving Plan as well as rebates of up to $25,000 annually to implement water saving projects.

For more information about the Sustainable Water Partner program contact Rous County Council on 02 6623 3800 or visit rous.nsw.gov.au/sustainable-water-partner-program

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community connect

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| NOVEMBER 2021

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National Recycling Week

WASTE WATCH

WASTE WATCH SATURDAY 20 NOVEMBER 2021 9AM-3.30PM COUNCIL WORKS DEPOT CARPARK 95 SOUTHERN CROSS DRIVE, BALLINA

8 - 14 November

Many chemicals cause harm to our health and the environment if not disposed of responsibly.

Spring is the perfect time to clean out old or unused chemicals lurking in or around the home and dispose of them safely.

This National Recycling Week, get ready to ‘lift the lid’ on your recycling!

National Recycling Week is a time to celebrate our #RecycleRight achievements and brush up on recycling knowledge and skills.

Ever wondered what happens to recycling once it leaves the kerb? It’s transported to Polytrade’s Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) at Chinderah who sort the materials and bale them up. Each material is then sent on for further processing or recycled into new items. For example, plastic bottles and containers head to Kangaroo Plastics in Melbourne where they are reprocessed into their different plastic polymers to be made into a wide range of goods.

Other recycling opportunities exist beyond your yellow lid bin too. REDcycle is a soft plastics recycling program, encouraging residents to collect soft plastics packaging like rice, pasta and

National Recycling Week

bread packets and drop off at designated bins outside every Coles and Woolworths store. The plastics are then reprocessed into items such as the bollards installed at Lake Ainsworth and sections of the shire’s pathways. Simply use an existing soft plastic bag for recycling and start collecting today!

Recycling allows our community to participate in recovering valuable resources and ensures less goes to landfill.

Download the A-Z waste guide and #RecycleRight guidelines at ballina.nsw.gov.au/recycle-right

activities

ONLINE TRIVIA NIGHT

FOOD SMART COMPETITION

If you love a challenge, join this free online trivia night hosted on zoom by Wipe Out Waste expert Reece Orse (pronounced ‘resource’).

Whether you go solo or get a team of family and friends together, be prepared for laughs and an opportunity to win some great sustainable prizes. Dress up in your favourite recycled outfit to truly be part of the fun!

It’s on again! Want the chance to win a 254L upright freezer and reduce your home’s food waste at the same time? Simply sign up and complete the FREE Food Smart Program for automatic entry plus receive handy tips on food storage, meal planning and how to recycle uneaten food into delicious ‘leftover makeover’ recipes.

To register, head to trivia_night_recycleright. eventbrite.com.au

Sign up and view entry conditions at newaste.org.au/foodsmart

WEDNESDAY 10 NOVEMBER 6.30 - 7.30PM

CLOSES FRIDAY 3 DECEMBER

Accepted household chemicals (limit of 20kg or 20L) include:

SOLVENTS AND CLEANERS PESTICIDES AND HERBICIDES POISONS POOL CHEMICALS MOTOR FUELS Store and transport chemicals securely and never mix them.

Items such as paint, oils and gas bottles are not accepted at this location but can be dropped off at the Waste Management Centre CRC free of charge.

Find out more at cleanout.com.au This project is a NSW Environment Protection Authority, Waste Less, Recycle More initiative funded from the waste levy.

free e-waste drop off Did you know there are over 25 million unused mobile phones in Australian homes?

Why not have a clean out and drop off your unwanted TVs, mobile phones, tablets, computer monitors, printers, mice, keyboards, scanners and gaming equipment to the waste management centre.

For large quantities, please call ahead on 6686 1287

ballina.nsw.gov.au

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NOVEMBER 2021

2043

LENNOX HEAD STRATEGIC PLAN

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2023-2043

NATIONAL ASBESTOS AWARENESS WEEK 22 - 28 NOVEMBER Asbestos is still in 1 in 3 homes across Australia.

If your home was built before 1990, asbestos can still be found anywhere inside or outside the house.

It was used in thousands of building materials at the time and becomes dangerous if damaged, disturbed or deteriorated.

Because asbestos causes cancer, National Asbestos Awareness Week (22-28 November 2021) reminds home renovators that the danger of asbestos is far from over.

To protect yourself, your family, friends, and community – we’re asking you to Think Twice About Asbestos when doing home renovations or maintenance.

FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS TO STAY SAFE FIXING UP YOUR PLACE: 1

2

3

Get in the know.

Find out whether your home was built or renovated before 1990. Asbestos was used in thousands of building materials at the time.

Take it slow.

Don’t damage or disturb asbestos materials.

This can release dangerous asbestos fibres into the air.

Get a pro.

Know your limits. Contact a licensed asbestos professional for advice on where it’s located, and on how to manage or remove it.

Every year in Australia, there are an estimated 4,000 deaths from asbestos-related diseases. This includes lung cancer and mesothelioma due to past exposure to asbestos.

By preventing exposure to asbestos fibres, asbestos-related diseases can be eliminated

NEW STRATEGIC PLAN for Lennox Head Lennox Head has undergone great change over the last decade. The new suburbs we see today were planned for in the Lennox Head Community Aspirations Strategic Plan 2002 and Lennox Head Structure Plan 2004. Most of the Plans have now been delivered.

Ballina Shire Council has resolved to make a new Strategic Plan for the Lennox Head area covering Lennox Village, Ross Lane, Epiq Estate and surrounding communities, and Skennars Head down to North Creek.

The new Lennox Head Strategic Plan 2023-2043 is a plan with a 20-year horizon.

The community will be invited to identify what they love about Lennox and share their aspirations for the future, particularly in the areas of: ACTIVE TRAVEL GREENFIELD DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL (IDENTIFIED IN PREVIOUS PLAN BUT NOT YET DELIVERED) BIODIVERSITY PROTECTION CULTURAL HERITAGE AND LOCAL CHARACTER ACCESS TO COMMUNITY SERVICES AND FACILITIES EMPLOYMENT LAND INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDS The timeframe for the project will be:

PHASE 1

PHASE 2

PHASE 3

PHASE 4

Technical Research Nov 2021 – May 2022

Initial Community Consultation Jun – Aug 2022

Plan Drafting Sep 2022 – Jan 2023

Public Exhibition Feb – May 2023

Community members will be encouraged to get involved during the community consultation phases of this project.

Find out more at asbestossafety.gov.au

To register your interest and receive updates visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ LennoxHeadStrategicPlan

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community connect

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| NOVEMBER 2021

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Nominations

AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS

AUSTRALIA DAY AWARD WINNER PROFILE

close soon!

2022 AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS

Rotary Club of Ballina-on-Richmond campaign to end domestic violence The Rotary Club of Ballina-on-Richmond was named Volunteer Organisation of the Year in the 2021 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards and when you learn about the important work they do, it’s easy to understand why.

For the past three years the club has been at the forefront of a powerful campaign to stamp out domestic violence. Vice-President Dave Harmon and Vocational Service Director Robyn Harmon have been a driving force behind this project, supported by the club’s dedicated members.

“In November 2019 we held our first ‘Say NO to Domestic Violence’ walk along the main street of Ballina. Hundreds of community members, including many youth, walked to raise awareness,” explains Dave.

The campaign soon gained support from other Rotary clubs in the district. In March 2020 – to celebrate 100 Years of Rotary in Australia – 56 clubs held walks to ‘Say NO to Domestic Violence’.

Education is a vital part of the project. The Ballina-on-Richmond club partners with social service agencies, police, health and education departments to deliver the Love Bites program in local high schools. This program educates young people about healthy relationships.

“We feel the best way to bring about long-term change is to educate youth about domestic violence, to bring about generational change,” says Dave.

While the Love Bites program is aimed at Year 10 students, Robyn is also delivering a junior program to Years 7, 8 and 9 students in high schools across the Northern Rivers, and a trial program for Years 5 and 6 students is underway in Ballina.

“COVID has only increased the pressure on families and relationships,” says Dave. “We plan to have a community walk down River Street on Friday 19 November, COVID restrictions permitting. We also plan to hold a community Mental Health Seminar in March next year to address the increasing mental health related illness resulting from lockdowns and COVID restrictions.”

Action on domestic violence is a major focus for the club, but its members help our community in so many ways. For example, during COVID lockdowns members teamed up with local businesses and charities to serve thousands of hot meals to those in need.

In June this year the Rotary club of Ballina-on-Richmond became the second largest Rotary club in NSW, with 76 members ranging in age from their 20’s to 80’s. Members come from a wide variety of backgrounds including tradespeople, real estate, law, teaching, administration, retail and hospitality.

“Anyone who wants to be involved with a progressive, engaged service club should come along to one of our meetings,” says Dave.

To connect with the club visit rotaryclubofballinaonrichmond.org.au or email info@rotaryclubofballinaonrichmond.org.au

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 nominate them for the 2022 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards.

1. YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR A young resident (30 years of age or under) who has made a significant contribution to the Ballina Shire.

2. SENIOR CITIZEN OF THE YEAR A senior resident (60 years of age or over) 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 for sports administrators and coaches who have made a significant contribution to sport are also welcome.

5. ARTS AND CULTURE AWARD An individual who has made a significant contribution to the creative arts.

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

7. ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD An individual or group contributing to our environmental preservation or advancing environmental awareness.

The Citizen of the Year Award will be chosen from all of the nominees across the seven categories.

To nominate, visit ballina.nsw.gov. au/AustraliaDay or telephone Tracy Lister, Coordinator Communications on 1300 864 444.

Nominations close: Monday 15 November 2021

Pictured L-R: Dave Harmon, Liz Ellis (special guest), Robyn Harmon, James Bracey (special guest), Jodie Shelley.

ballina.nsw.gov.au

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where to get info...

extreme weather conditions ROAD CLOSURES myroadinfo.com.au for Ballina Shire rural road info MyRoadInfo is your one-stop app providing direct updates from the following sources: NSW LIVETRAFFIC.livetraffic.com QLD TRAFFIC qldtraffic.qld.gov.au VIC ROADS traffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au

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

FIELD CLOSURES Contact your sporting club.

WEATHER CONDITIONS bom.gov.au Bureau of Meteorology

BALLINA BYRON GATEWAY AIRPORT Your local airline for flights to and from Ballina: Rex Airlines 13 17 13 rex.com.au Jetstar 13 15 38 jetstar.com Virgin Australia 13 67 89 virginaustralia.com.au Qantaslink 13 13 13 qantas.com FlyPelican 02 4965 0111 flypelican.com.au

ACTIONS TO TAKE Alerts are issued via Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au and via your local radio station.

Delay any unnecessary travel until conditions have cleared.

Look out for your neighbours.

If water is overflowing street stormwater drains, refrain from using internal water eg: washing machines, dishwashers, baths, showers and flushing of toilets until the water has cleared.

Watch for Council, SES and other State Government agency updates.

council contact information

Don’t dispose of me yet

Ph: 1300 864 444 Email: council@ballina.nsw.gov.au Web: ballina.nsw.gov.au

Use this issue to wrap kitchen waste and dispose in the green organics bin.

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 Supplement

Meeting agendas and documents on exhibition can be viewed on Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au

KEY CONTACT NUMBERS SES 132 500 Ballina Shire Council 1300 864 444

extra

to the Quart erly Commun ity Connect Magazine NOVEMBER 2021

Use your Dine & vou now chers Discover valid 30 Jun unti e 2022 l vouchers and support local businesses

The scheme is expanding soon to 6 x $25 vouchers.

No need to reapply to receive the additional two vouchers.

Like us on Facebook

or emergency after hours 02 6626 6954

Download vouchers and find participating businesses at service.nsw.gov.au/campa ign/ dine-discover-nsw

GIVE A UNIQUE LOCAL GIFT THIS CHRISTMAS

Emergency Services Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade Triple zero 000

Enjoy the gift of giving this festive season and help a small home-grown producer when you shop locally at the Northern Rivers Communit y Gallery (NRCG) and Ballina Visitor Information Centre.

You will find a range of handcrafted, small batch unique products and locally made gift lines. Treat your friends and family to candles, tea, jewellery, zinc, t-shirts, undies, pottery, notebooks, prints, artworks, coffee, chocolate, nuts, chutneys, playing cards, and much much more.

Ask staff at the Ballina Visitor Information Centre about curating hampers from the items displayed or maybe purchase a gift certificate.

In lieu of a party, why not gift your staff or clients a hamper this Christmas?

Take the stress out of Christmas shopping with opening hours right through until Christmas Eve, we have Christmas all wrapped up so you can spend more time with those who matter most.

Visit us in person or give our friendly staff a call.

See page 10 for details

Australia Day Nominat Monday 15 Novemb ions close soon er 2021

see page 15 for

details

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Ballina Shire Council elections take place on 4 December 2021.

NSW Electoral Commission is 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.

To find out more visit elections.nsw.gov.au