The Byron Shire Echo – Issue 37.33 – January 25, 2023

Fiesta hall vibes

Unapproved cabin stop order upheld

Paul Bibby

The NSW Land & Environment Court has upheld Byron Council’s decision to order a local landowner to stop renting out a 40-year-old rural cabin in Middle Pocket because it was an unapproved dwelling.

In a decision with potential implications for the owners of other ‘unauthorised’ dwellings in the Shire, the court found that Council’s Stop Use Order issued in relation to the ‘Kioda Hut’ in Middle Pocket last year was lawful, and should remain in place.

The landowner, represented in the proceedings by the tenant who had

been living in the cabin for a number of years, had appealed the decision.

Acting Commissioner, Maureen Peatman, said in her reasons for the decision, ‘The [landowner] submitted that I should exercise my discretion and permit the cabin to remain as a dwelling, because of the shortage of accommodation in the North Coast of NSW as a direct result of the extreme flooding of that area over the last 12 to 18 months, and the bushfires in 2019.’

had plic t’ I cannot ign

‘While I sympathise with the applicant’s view in this regard, I cannot ignore the risk under

Planning for Bushfire Protection 2019 – of ember strike, bushfire, and the limited road access to, and from, the cabin.’

The court heard that the cabin was in a ‘high risk’ area, under Council’s bushfire mapping, and fire safety was a ‘crucial issue’ for the site, which had not been cleared in accordance with bushfire protection regulations.

There was also evidence of limited road access to the cabin. ‘Historically, vehicular access to the cabin has been occurring via Middle Pocket Road through a neighbour’s land,’ Acting Commissioner ▶ Continued on page 3

Land values are up

Paul Bibby

Large parts of the North Coast may have gone under during the 2022 floods, but they appear to have done little to dampen land values for much of the region.

In somewhat surprising figures that could herald land tax and Council rate increases over the next 12 months, the NSW Valuer General said that the total land value for the region increased by 35.9 per cent in the 12 months to July last year.

Land value is the value of the land only and does not include the value of a home or other structure.

The significant increase was driven, according to the Valuer General, by residential values, which climbed by 36.8 per cent over the period.

‘Demand for rural villages, hinterland and beachside locations continue as sea- and tree-changers relocate to work remotely,’ the Valuer General said.

‘This trend was particularly evident in Coffs Harbour (46.7 per cent), Port Macquarie (38 per cent) and Clarence Valley (46.5 per cent).’

Byron up by 18.2 per cent

The Byron Shire experienced a smaller than average increase of 18.2 per cent, according to the report.

There were significant decreases in flood-affected Ocean Shores and South Golden Beach, but these were offset by increases in Brunswick Heads, Suffolk Park and elevated parts of Byron Bay.

Lismore saw increased demand (31.5 per cent) in flood-free areas such as Goonellabah, Lismore Heights and Richmond Hill, while

flood-affected locations such as north south and central Lismore fell.

Commercial land values also increased 24.1 per cent across the north coast.

The Ballina Shire saw a moderate increase of 14.9 per cent in the value of commercial land, with the flood-impacted CBD experiencing moderate to slight increases.

Lennox Head and Wollongbar both increased strongly owing to tight supply.

An increase in Byron’s commercial land values reflected continued strength in the Byron tourism sector and investor demand, but Lismore’s had decreased 23.9 per cent following the floods.

Rural land values increased 37.4 per cent across the region.

Byron Shire’s rural land recorded a 26.1 per cent increase, with values remaining steady in flood-impacted localities including Main Arm and Mullumbimby.

There was a strong demand for rural homes and hobby farms in areas like Myocum and Bangalow.

Land values are one factor used by councils to calculate rates.

Revenue NSW also uses them to calculate land tax for the 2023 land tax year. From this month on, landholders will receive a notice of valuation showing their land value before it is used by Council for rating. The latest land values for all properties are also available on the Valuer General NSW website, along with information on trends, medians and typical land values for each LGA.

A garden fiesta, put on by Bruns-based business Mahico, drew a large local crowd last weekend at Durrumbul Hall. There were plenty of beats and eats, all with a Columbian or Mexican flavour. Pictured are Valentina and Shi. Photo Jeff ‘Feeling It’ Dawson

‘An

increase in Byron’s commercial

Drawing on rivers’ stories

Network Video in Bruns to close

The team at Network Video Brunswick Heads say they will close their business in the coming months as they ‘can no longer afford to sustain the business’.

In a statement on social media, the team of Ken, Rae, Kristin and Chris wrote, ‘In the next few months we will close our doors for the last time’.

‘We opened in Brunswick Heads at the beginning of 1994, and in that time have enjoyed a great relationship with our community and surrounding areas.

‘We’ve seen your families grow, we’ve watched your babies have babies, we’ve laughed and we’ve cried together.

‘We’ve become friends.

Survival/Australia Day celebrated, Jan 26

There are events being held across the Shire on January 26 to celebrate both Survival and Australia Day.

Those wishing to celebrate the survival of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and culture are invited to join local mob on January 26 at Main Beach Park in Byron Bay (opposite the Beach Hotel).

Organisers say a Welcome to Country will be held at 11am, and following will be ‘live music, speakers, information and goodies for sale’ until 2.30pm.

The event is brought to you by the Arakwal Bundjalung People of Byron Bay, Sisters for Reconciliation and the Cavanbah Reconciliation Group and sponsored by Byron Shire Council.

Mullum event

Rotary Mullumbimby will hold a free community day at the Mullum Pool, from 10am to 3pm.

Free entry to the pool includes prizes, a sausage sizzle, and more.

An ‘invitation only’ citizenship ceremony will

be held at Byron Bay’s Cavanbah Centre from 11am till 1pm to welcome and celebrate new Australian citizens.

Ocean Shores

In Ocean Shores, its Community Association will host a Mullet Throwing Championship at the Ocean Shores Public School from 3pm till 5pm.

There will be a free sausage sizzle, giant lamington, Aussie singalong, and prizes.  Information sourced from www.byron.nsw.gov.au.

Tavern asks patrons are you OK2PLAY?

Managers from the Ocean Shores Tavern say they have implemented new technology to ask their patrons if they are ‘OK2PLAY?’

Tavern co-owner, Adam Berger, says prompts are placed at various points around the venue, and that patrons are given multiple opportunities to ask for support if they feel they require it.

He says, ‘Ocean Shores Tavern has a fun and relaxed vibe, but we don’t want our patrons to think that means they have to always have on their happy face’.

‘If someone is struggling, we want them to say so, we want to normalise the conversation around all areas of mental health within our venue.

‘Be it gaming-related issues or other mental health issues our patrons may need help with, the OK2PLAY? system allows Ocean Shores Tavern patrons a way to reach out to us that is discreet and potentially less confronting than approaching staff’.

Berger says that when asked the question, ‘Are

you OK2PLAY?’ patrons can respond with a simple yes or no, by scanning a QR code, or pressing a button.

‘For those who respond “yes”, nothing changes, and for those patrons responding “no”, the OK2PLAY? system triggers a discreet response with senior Ocean Shores Tavern staff, who can reach out to the patron in a matter of moments’.

‘Management can then use the appropriate channels to assist the patron in gaining access to the relevant assistance’.

‘We were given the opportunity by national and local media (and of course social media) to ask the locals if they still had a desire to keep this valuable resource of film here in Brunswick Heads.

‘While we had a great response, and many wellwishes, the actual demand of

folks coming in and renting films hasn’t been overwhelming, and we can no longer afford to sustain the business.

29 years in biz

‘We would dearly love to thank each and every person who has come in to rent a film over the last 29 years and a very special thank you to those who stepped up in the last six months to support us.

‘Now it’s our turn to say goodbye, and say thank you for allowing us to be a part of your lives, [we would] love to

write more, but no one reads past the first few lines and it’s all a little bit emotional

‘PS. We will be operating as normal renting out movies for at least the next month or so but stay tuned for updates.

‘PPS: If you wish to buy any particular films from the library come and see us asap before we open up the library for sale to the general public.

‘PPPS: If you have any great memories of visiting our store here in Brunswick Heads please share them in the comments’.

Drowning at Seven Mile Beach

Paul Bibby

A local father drowned last week while attempting to rescue his daughter from the surf at Lennox Head.

Police say a couple and their three children were in shallow water at Seven Mile Beach at around 6.30pm on January 18, when their 11-yearold daughter was swept out to sea on a body board.

Her father, aged 45, swam out to her but was unable to bring her back to shore.

His wife also swam out and she and the girl were able to reach the beach but the father was not.

‘The 45-year-old male was hanging onto the board and then he’s let go of the board and was caught in the rip,’ Inspector Nigel Howard of the Richmond Police Distict said.

Two police officers, who were first on the scene, entered the surf in an attempt to find the man but were unsuccessful.

A group of trainee lifesavers had just finished training nearby when they learned of the incident.

They found the man and brought him back to shore where NSW Ambulance paramedics performed CPR.

However, they were unable to revive the man and he died at the scene.

The victim is from Ireland, but lived in Lennox Head with his family.

Surf Life Saving NSW Chief Executive, Steve Pearce, told ABC News it was the third drowning this summer involving a parent going to the aid of their child.

‘It’s completely

understandable that, as parents, we would go to the aid of our kids in trouble, without question,’ Mr Pearce said.

‘Sadly though, it so often ends in tragedies like this.’

‘Our message all summer has been that if you’re visiting the coastline, swim at a patrolled location between the red and yellow flags.’

Unpatrolled beach

Seven Mile Beach was not patrolled at the time.

A GoFund Me campaign to help Paul Doran’s family through this difficult time is at www.gofundme.com/f/ qpgyk-paul-doran-hero-dadfundraiser.

Paraglider lands in tree, unhurt

Police and emergency services responded to a paraglider who was stuck about 30 metres up a pine tree on Main Arm Road last Tuesday afternoon.

Detective Chief Inspector,

Matt Kehoe, told The Echo, ‘With the assistance of a local arborist, the 48 year old man from Mullumbimby Creek was lowered to the ground without incident and [was] uninjured’.

A special workshop on the bank of Ballina’s Fishery Creek last Friday was held by Sprung!! Dance Theatre. The Rivers’ Stories was led by two talented and highly respected First Nations interdisciplinary artists, Jade Dewi Tyas Tunggal, and Mitch King. The original movement workshop was inspired by interviews with Bundjalung Elder, Julia Paden, and aims to deepen understanding and forge connections to Country. Photo Jeff Dawson

The Network Video family. Photo supplied

SES crew recognised for long service

Three members from Mullumbimby SES have been awarded medals for their ten-year, 15-year and 20-year service to the community as Mullum SES members.

Deputy unit commander for the Mullumbimby SES unit, Eco Tsadik, told The Echo, ‘We would like to acknowledge Billy Giossi (pictured left), Roger Fuller (pictured right) and Kerry Gray (not pictured) for their amazing contribution and service over the years’.

‘Their dedication and

commitment to helping the community as part of the Mullumbimby SES unit is very much appreciated.

‘We have been honoured to have them as friends and fellow emergency service volunteers, and look forward to many more years of service together’.

Resources and information specific to Byron Shire’s flood and fire risks can be found at www.ses.nsw.gov. au. To volunteer, visit www. ses.nsw.gov.au/get-involved/ volunteer.

Council’s push to stop unapproved cabin habitation upheld

Peatman said in her summary of the evidence.

‘There is no registered right-of-way, and the neighbour has withdrawn consent for access to the cabin over his land.’

The other key factor in the decision was the inability of the landowner to prove that the cabin was built before 1968, when planning laws requiring development consent were put in place in the Shire.

He was also unable to

prove that the cabin had been continuously used as a residence since then.

The former owner of the property and his wife gave sworn evidence that they had built the cabin in 1984 without development consent, and that there had been nothing there before this.

‘The applicant has not discharged the onus of proof to prove the cabin was permissible, pursuant to the “Country dwelling” provisions of IDO 1968,’ Acting Commissioner Peatman said.

‘The continuous use provisions do not apply to the cabin, as development consent was necessary for its lawful use when it was built in 1984, and Council has no record of granting development consent, and nor has any application been made for such a consent,’ she said.

Plumbing, kitchen, to be removed

Peatman AC upheld the Stop Use Order, which requires that the landowner

and tenant stop using the cabin for the purposes of habitation and that it remove the kitchen and plumbing from the cabin, so no one else can live there.

She noted that the order did not require that the cabin be demolished.

‘I recommend that the applicant [landowner] lodge with the respondent [Council] a Building Information Certificate for the cabin as built and a development application for its use,’ she said.

William (Billy) Giossi with Roger Fuller. Kerry Gray was also awarded for her community contribution. Photo supplied

Federal Drive landslip update

Council staff have updated the status of the hinterland Federal landslip that cut access at Federal Drive, north of Federal village on February 28, 2022. The road that connects Federal to Goonengerry has been closed a year this week.

In response to resident Val Hodgson contacting The Echo as to its status, Council’s media spokesperson said, ‘The repair and reconstruction of the landslip and roadway on Federal Drive went to tender in early December 2022. The tender closes on Friday January 27.  ‘Council’s Recovery team will then assess the tender submissions, and provided there is a suitable tender submission, a tender award recommendation report will be presented to the February Council meeting.

‘All going well, and allowing for material procurement and contractor establishment on site, works should start in late March/early April. At this stage, we expect the work to take at least four to six months’.

Hodgson told The Echo, Council’s webpage on the Federal landslip mentions that a detour is available along Kings Road, yet ‘fails to mention that Kings Road terminates at Whian Road’.

‘Whian Road is in a serious state of

disrepair, and to get anywhere from this intersection, one needs to travel along it. One needs a vehicle with high clearance to negotiate the many and large potholes. We advise people to take the longer detour via Montecollum and Coolamon Scenic Drive to get from Goonengerry to Federal or Byron Bay’.

Council staff replied that they are aware of the community’s concerns with Whian Road, ‘and are looking at the cost of repairs and availability of contractors to improve the road’.

‘In the meantime, there are also detours via Montecollum and Coolamon Scenic Drive. While these detours are longer, the road surfaces are in better condition than Whian Road.

‘Council acknowledges that the community is frustrated by what some would perceive as a lack of progress on the landslip, but Council staff have been working on this project since early March 2022. It is a complex landslip, and there are no easy and quick fixes’.

It’s nearly NSW election time! The political persuasions begin…

Hans Lovejoy

With the countdown to the March 25 NSW election underway, Nationals MPs are ramping up their presence in the region.

They believe they have a chance to win back the

Ballina electorate (comprising Ballina and Byron Shires) from Greens MP, Tamara Smith.

This week, one announcement was that the Brunswick Heads Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Station has been provided with a $530,000 multi-purpose tanker/truck.

Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience, Steph Cooke, says the vehicle is specifically designed to respond to bushfire threats, with a water spray system to protect the crew, a compressed air foam system to extinguish blazes and a

3,500-litre water tank’. Other announcements include Minister for Lands and Water, Kevin Anderson, announcing funding to upgrade Mullumbimby Showground (on Wednesday) and funding for flood-damaged Crown Land in Ballina.

Local MP mute over PM diary secrecy

Hans Lovejoy

Local federal Labor MP, Justine Elliot, has declined to comment on why her government are refusing to provide the diary of Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, as a public document.

Diaries of public officials are often made public – in the public interest – and record who they meet with and why.

The public diaries of NSW ministers have been available at www.dpc.nsw.gov.au since 2014. The move by then Liberal Premier, Mike Baird, was in response to allegations of hidden political donations, heard at the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) hearings.

Locally, there is no requirement for councillors or the mayor to disclose who they meet with, and why.

Ms Elliot’s refusal to comment was in response to attempts by former federal senator, Rex Patrick, who says he was initially told it would cost $1,344 for the freedom of information request.

He tweeted last week

that the PM’s department ‘backflipped on the cost, despite paying a deposit, and are now refusing to process the request’.

He said, ‘In the United States, the White House posts visitor log records, enabling public scrutiny of President Biden’s meetings, and those of his staff’.

‘The Chief Minister of the ACT proactively publishes his diary on the internet, and those of his ministers.

‘So what exactly is wrong with our PM? Why the lack of transparency? What is he hiding from you?’

The Echo asked Ms Elliot, ‘Do you support the PM’s stance on (allegedly) zero transparency on who he meets with and where? How does such secrecy engender trust with the community?’

She replied, ‘As the Member for Richmond, I can’t comment on the diary of the prime minister or any other Member of Parliament’.

‘I encourage you to direct your question to the prime minister at media@ pm.gov.au’.

Vale Peter Parker

The environmental, conservation, and planning professions of the Northern Rivers are mourning the loss of a greatly loved and celebrated ecologist, conservation researcher, friend and father, Peter Parker. He died on Monday 16 January at the age of 71 after a sudden deterioration in his health

Peter graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Macquarie University in 1974 with a double major in the ecology of plant and animal communities and a Diploma in Education. In 1995 he obtained a Master of Philosophy degree from Griffith University, Queensland. His research work for that degree related to the structure of reef fish assemblages at Julian Rocks. Peter was one of the early practitioners accredited as a Biobanking Assessor by the Office of Environment and Heritage pursuant to the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 and later was accredited as a Biodiversity

Offset Scheme Accredited Assessor under the Biodiversity Conservation Act

Peter was a member of a number of Professional Associations including the Australian Marine Conservation Society, Royal Zoological Society and the Coast and Wetlands Society. He won several awards from the Australian Planning Institute; one National, five State and one Regional. The awards covered diverse scopes including Lord Howe Island Marine Reserve, Plan of Management; Marine and estuarine conservation of coastal waters; Cape Byron Headland Reserve Plan of Management; and urban design for the Master Plan for North Sapphire Beach.

Peter was actively committed to nature conservation in Byron being a founding member of BEACON (Byron Environment and Conservation) and the Broken Head Protection Committee.

Peter was the first person to photograph the “mythical” Ballina Angelfish in its natural habitat with a rare sighting of this species

in the waters around Ball’s Pyramid near Lord Howe Island while diving with his good friend, John Gribble. Peter’s article “Rediscovering the Ballina Angelfish”, published in the American magazine, Freshwater and Marine Aquarium in August 1994, recounts his and John’s very close encounter with a large white pointer during that dive, “...within seconds of pushing the camera shutter I felt John tugging vigorously on my fin. On turning, I noticed a large white pointer shark, Carcharodon carcharias, about 15 metres away turning aggressively and approaching. Dashing to the anchor line, we ascended as fast as possible and, without thoughts of a safety stop, called our companions to haul us aboard ”

His extensive knowledge of marine biology and his passion for the environment resulted in him serving for six years on Byron Shire Council’s Coastline Management Committee and representing the Nature Conservation Council on the NSW Fisheries Management Advisory Council into the Estuary Haul Fishery where he was appointed by the Minister for Fisheries. Peter is a past member of the Cape Byron Trust, where he was appointed by the Minister for Planning and served for four years.

Some of his volunteer contributions that are enjoyed by many today include; the pandanus at Wategos, planted with a previous Byronite, Craig McGregor, his efforts while on the Cape Byron Trust for the transformation of the older cottages at the Pass into accommodation; and preserving the biodiversity and the beauty of the Broken Head environs by opposing the expansion of the Broken Head quarry.

For more than 35 years, through his work with his environmental consultancy clients, Peter has helped shape Byron Shire including projects such as Byron Hills, Baywood Chase, Tuckeroo Estate, Linnaeus, Tallowood Estate, Elements of Byron and Chrystalbrook Byron (as well as the original “Byron@Byron”).

Peter’s contribution to wildlife conservation and environmental planning has been made by linking nature conservation with practical solutions. Those who worked closely with him at the coal face fondly remember the skill (some might say brute determination) he had at convincing initially reluctant proponents to extensively revegetate and rehabilitate their land.

Peter was an incredibly generous ecologist and friend who always made time to share his wisdom and vast knowledge. He provided many with work experience opportunities, and mentored students and young professionals alike. His unfailing kindness and warmth inspired those who had the priviledge to share time with him. Peter was a dear friend to countless individuals throughout the conservation and planning industry, with colleagues recalling his wit, warmth, gentle spirit and practical input

Peter is survived by four sons Ben, Micah, Finley, Oscar and Liz Rankin, his wife of 19 years and partner for many more.

Federal Drive. Photo Facebook

New platform connects surfers and photographers

Ocean Shores couple, Lucas and Pia, have just launched online platform, www.surfphotosmate.com.au, to help surf photographers connect with surfers, and vice versa.

Pia told The Echo, ‘Our goal is to create a frequently visited community platform all around Australia, updated and checked daily by photographers and surfers after their session’.

She says, ‘All the surfer has to do is look up their surf spot, the date and time’.

‘Surf photography is a hard business. One reason for that is that

photographers struggle to get in touch with their customers, because surfing is a spontaneous business

with constantly changing conditions’.

Pia says, ‘After working one year on the design,

concept and development of the platform we finally launched one month ago just in time for summer, to give the surf photographers the opportunity to try something new and help them find the surfers for their surf shots’.

‘Lucas and I met in 2017 in Byron Bay, got married in 2019, and our little daughter Yani was born during the pandemic in 2020.

‘Lucas is a surfer and photographer, and I work as digital marketing manager and artist’.

Visit www.surfphotosmate.com.au for more.

Bangalow Bowlo amalgamation update

Managers of The Bangalow Bowlo say the community witnessed a ‘nail-biting cliffhanger moment’ late last year, when a 66 per cent ‘Yes’ vote among members ‘paved the way for a life-saving amalgamation between our much loved, financially challenged Bangalow Bowlo, and soon-to-be new parent club group, Norths Collective’.

Atosha Clancy, Bangalow Bowlo Board President, said, ‘Anyone who doubted how

desperate our situation had become should know about the assistance Norths has already given us just to stay afloat in the short time since post-vote formalities’.

‘Once our members told us they were in favour of amalgamation, a Deed of Service was implemented through which Norths were legally able to give us immediate help, in advance of the formal amalgamation process. And if it wasn’t for that

help, we would have had to call in the administrators and close the doors by now.’

She adds ‘Norths have started the wheels turning towards a much brighter future for the Bowlo, with the application to NSW Liquor & Gaming already underway’.

Enhancements

Service enhancements and infrastructure redevelopments are scheduled, and include upgrades

to computer systems, and safety and security enhancements.

By mid 2023, managers expect a Bowlo smartphone app and website to launch, and by late 2023 or early 2024, they will, ‘lodge a Development Application (DA) for major master planning work and renovations’.

Ms Clancy adds she welcomes all enquiries – her email is atosha@bangalowbolwo.com.au.

Tamara Smith MP Presents

BOB

Dr Claire Parsons

CoastalDental Care would like to welcome our new dedicated and caring dentist, DrClaireParsons.

Throughout her 30 years of dentistry, Claire has enjoyed honing her skills in all aspects of dental surgery and building strong and lasting relationships with her patients. Claire treatments are gent and sooth even the most nervous or young patient. 02 6685 7026 | Suite 9/9 Fletcher Street, Byron Bay

www.coastaldentalcare.com.au

Celebration of the Life of Peter Parker

19 July 1951 - 16 January 2023

Liz Rankin invites you to a gathering of friends and colleagues to honour and celebrate Peter’s life.

To be held at St Finbarr’s Primary School on Sunday 5 February from 10:30 am–12 pm.

RSVPs andany photos of Peter you’d like to share are appreciated. Please email to  FinleyandOscar2481@gmail.com

BROWN: TALES FROM THE TARKINE

Join Tamara for an evening of conversation with Bob Brown as he shares stories about the ongoing struggle to protect our environment and how the Bob Brown Foundation supports action campaigns across Australia. With climate change here, now more than ever, Bob’s story reinforces the power of community to protect our future. The Greens are powered by community, not corporate donations. All funds raised will support Tamara Smith’s campaign for the 2023 NSW State Election.

Lucas and Pia with daughter Yani. Photo supplied

BYRON BAY

Calls for govt agency, NRRC, to act

News from across the North Coast online www.echo.net.au

Community frustration with the Northern Rivers Reconstruction Corporation’s (NRRC) approach to communication and information distribution was clear from the outset; but now Lismore MP Janelle Saffin is calling for clearer communication from them.

Ballina community legends to be recognised

Ballina will recognise members of the local community who have stepped up in the last twelve months, with their Australia Day Awards.

What’s next for Ballina? Mayor Sharon Cadwallader’s view

This is part two of an in-depth interview with Ballina’s Mayor, Sharon Cadwallader. The first part examined what’s happened since she was elected in 2022.

Soft Circus in Lismore’s Quad

The Soft Circus project is coming to the Lismore Quad next week and organisers SEEDArts are very excited.

The best and biggest Tweed Seniors Festival

Seniors have reason to celebrate with this year’s Tweed Seniors Festival being the best and biggest yet, with a full program of more than 40 exciting events.

Celebrating regeneration on March 4

Planting trees to restore ecosystems is one of the most positive stories of our time, and perhaps the best antidote to climate despair

North Coast farmers come together for newest branch of NSW Farmers

NSW Farmers have a new branch for their organisation and it is based here on the north coast ‘heralding a new era for agriculture in Byron Shire and the Tweed Valley’.

Young person arrested after spate of alleged vehicle thefts – Kingscliff

A teenager has been charged with 26 offences after an investigation by the Tweed/ Byron Police.

Photo & story Aslan Shand

Around 50 people gathered outside the Northern Rivers Reconstruction Corporation’s (NRRC) office in Lismore on Monday morning to call for action for flood victims.

‘We are reclaiming your recovery eleven months on from the flood,’ said organiser, Miriam Torzillo.

‘This is a gathering of people who are bringing our frustration to the NRRC. We are calling for transparency, and socially just intervention by the NRRC’.

‘Homes hang in the balance, and the NRRC have not provided the basic answers so that we can move on with our lives.’

Speakers called for transparency and clarity around who was eligible for house buybacks, publication of the maps that identified the red zones, and for the NRRC to engage in constructive consultation with the community.

Multiple speakers also called for intervention into the housing market by the NRRC and government, to ensure fair and equitable outcomes for residents,

Flood-affected

landowners and renters impacted by the floods.

‘Many people are living back in their flood-affected homes,’ explained local, Harper Dalton. ‘The most cost-effective way forward, and to keep communities together, is to relocate Lismore homes,’ said Harper.

Lismore Councillor, and Greens candidate for the state election, Adam Guise, told the gathering, ‘We are fighting for a community-led recovery. We don’t want an autocratic regime that’s top down. We don’t want Sydney

bureaucrats telling us what we should do’.

‘We need safe, affordable land and relocation,’ he said.

Guise said, ‘It can’t be left to an open free market recovery. The free market has not delivered social or affordable housing for decades.

‘We need the government to purchase land and facilitate land swaps, relocation [to] and affordable and social housing that is out of the flood areas.’

Full story online at www.echo.net.au.

EPA releases Climate Change Policy and Action Plan

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has released a Climate Change Policy and Action Plan 2023–26, ‘outlining a bold set of actions that will help NSW reach net-zero emissions by 2050’.

NSW EPA Chief Executive Officer, Tony Chappel, said the plan ‘provides a roadmap for how the state’s environmental regulator will address the causes and consequences of climate change.’

On page 14 of the EPA’s Climate Change Policy, a breakdown of NSW greenhouse gas emissions (2018–19) – and description of coverage by the EPA’s regulatory remit

– is provided.

Emissions from the combustion of fossil fuels for electricity generation are the most significant of emissions, accounting for 52Mt, or 38 per cent. Fossil fuel combustion emissions used in transport (road, rail, aviation and shipping) make up 28Mt, or 20 per cent.

Agriculture is 16Mt, or 12 per cent (methane emission etc). Emissions from fossil fuel combustion used in manufacturing is 15Mt, or 11 per cent, while emissions from the extraction and distribution of coal and natural gas is also 13Mt. Emissions owing to waste disposal,

treatment and processing, including domestic and industrial wastewater, is 5Mt, or four per cent.

The 71-page Action Plan outlines what the NSW government is already doing with regards to addressing climate change, and proposes new actions to undertake over the next three years.

These actions are informing and planning, mitigation, adaption.

One action cited is ‘Requiring net-zero emissions from new electricity infrastructure’.

Both PDF documents are available via www.epa.nsw. gov.au.

Lismore hospital works completed

The final stage of the Lismore Base Hospital redevelopment is now complete, says the NSW Liberals and Nationals government.

Minister for Regional Health, Bronnie Taylor, and ‘Duty MLC for Lismore’, Ben Franklin, officially opened the new buildings last week saying it completes ‘almost a decade of construction throughout the many stages of the $312 million project’.

Stage 3C

Mrs Taylor said the new health facilities ‘will allow for contemporary models of care that clinicians and staff are excited to deliver in their local community’.

Stage 3C of the Lismore Base Hospital redevelopment includes: ‘A refurbished medical ward with stroke, acute delirium beds and general medical beds with a gym and an activities of daily life kitchen; new outpatients department; a new cardiology unit, with co-located coronary care beds and step-down cardiology beds in the one unit, making it easier for staff to provide ongoing care to these patients; community health facilities on the main hospital campus; an auditorium; a new front entrance and reception area; and a new library, education centre, meeting and training rooms’.

NSW Police say a ‘critical incident investigation’ is underway after Tenterfield police shot an armed man who entered the police station.

At around 5.45pm on Thursday January 19, police say the 48-year-old man entered Tenterfield Police Station and pointed a firearm at officers from New England Police District, before he was shot.

They say, ‘Despite the

efforts of responding police and NSW Ambulance paramedics, the man died at the scene’.

‘A critical incident team comprised of officers from State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad will now investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the discharge of a police firearm.

‘That investigation will be subject to independent review’.

for councils from state and feds

Additional federal and NSW government funding is now available to help councils repair community infrastructure damaged by the floods in February and June last year.

In a rare bipartisan press release, local Labor MP Justine Elliot joined NSW MP for Tweed, Geoff Provest, in announcing $70 million has been allocated to the Community Assets Program, under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

She says impacted councils can apply for funding to ‘repair parks, playgrounds, walkways, places of cultural heritage, and other

community assets like libraries, pedestrian bridges, and community-based preschools’.

She says, ‘While all NSW disaster declared LGAs from the February and June 2022 events are eligible, funding would be targeted to those councils that had experienced the greatest damage’.

‘The floods last year were devastating for our region, and nearly a year on, we know there is still so much work to be done’.

State Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin, also welcomed the additional funding.

NSW Blue Zone declaration frees up bees across nation

The NSW Varroa Mite General Emergency (Blue) Zone has now been declared Varroa mite-free, with all states and territories across Australia reaching a unanimous agreement.

Minister for Agriculture, Dugald Saunders, said in a statement the agreement means states will reopen their borders in the coming weeks

for the movement of bees and hives for pollination.

‘This is a significant step in the fight to eradicate the mite, and for our beekeepers and pollination-reliant industries that have done it tough over the past seven months,’ said Mr Saunders.

Mr Saunders said people still need to be aware. ‘This is not the time for complacency;

now more than ever, we need beekeepers to make sure they continue to do the right thing and maintain their alcohol wash surveillance so we continue to move in the right direction.’

The Consultative Committee on Emergency Plant Pests (CCEPP) recently endorsed a paper presented by NSW providing epidemiological

data supporting the proof of freedom requirements.

NSW will now work with South Australia, Victoria, and Queensland to develop a set of conditions to facilitate interstate movement.

Australian Honey Bee Industry Council CEO, Danny Le Feuvre, said this is a major milestone for the response and the

beekeeping industry. ‘While the industry will continue to be impacted by the Varroa mite’s incursion, endorsement of this paper is a critical step forward in achieving business continuity, as best we can, for the industry,’ said Mr Le Feuvre.

For more information visit: www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/ varroa.

Saffin calls on NRCC to improve flood recovery communication

residents in Lismore say the government corporation tasked with reconstruction, the NRRC, is not doing enough to help them. Floods and landslides hit the north coast almost a year ago on February 28, 2022.

What does the current federal government solar discount mean for you?

The federal government provides a solar discount to home owners and businesses in Australia that install a small scale renewable energy system (solar, wind or hydro) under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) to help with the purchase cost. Installing an eligible system allows the creation of Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). Thenumber of STCs created is based on:

•The amount of renewable electricity the system produces or the amount of electricity consumption it reduces.

•The climate region where it’s installed.

Under the package, the federal government will pay around $300 per kilowatt towards the cost of a solar system.

Let’s break it down

Maxine and Daniel are considering a 5.81kW solar system, supplied and installed by ProSolar for $8170. The federal government discount for this system is $2432 (at time of publishing). This brings their system cost down to $5738 saving them $1750 per year enabling them to pay back their investment in 3.13 years!

ProSolar provides advice and guidance in a simple and easy way, to ensure you select the optimal solution for your home and budget. This is the best opportunity Northern Rivers families and business owners have ever had to generate our own power. For more information, call ProSolar on 0418 240 282.

ProSolar has designed three great packages to help you take advantage of the federal government discount.

4.15kW Solar System

• 10 x Canadian 415W panels with a 25-year product and 25-year performance warranty

• 1 x GoodWe 4.2kW inverter with a 10-year premium warranty

• Cost $5,995

• Less federal government discount of $1,710

• Total cost after discount = $4,285

6.64kW Solar System

• 16 x Canadian 415W panels with a 25-year product and 25-year performance warranty

• 1 x GoodWe 5kW inverter with a 10-year premium warranty

• Cost $9,300

• Less federal government discount of $2,774

• Total cost after discount = $6,526

8.71kW Solar System

• 21 x Canadian 415W panels with a 25-year product and 25-year performance warranty

• 1 x GoodWe 8.5kW inverter with a 10-year premium warranty

• Cost $12,454

• Less federal government discount of $3,648

• Total cost after discount = $8,806

The above prices include supply, installation (standard installation on a tin roof) and GST. The federal government discount is subject to change at anytime.

Cheshire brings home a Golden Guitar

Eve Jeffery

At a country star-studded event on Saturday evening in Tamworth, local artist, Kim Cheshire, ascended the stairs of the Tamworth Regional Entertainment Centre to take the Golden Guitar for Alt Country Album of the Year –Looks Like Heaven

Presenting the award was Henry Wagons. Cheshire was up against some pretty tough competition to take home the win – also recognised for his work on the album was producer, Rod McCormack.

As Cheshire strode across the front of the stage it was announced that this is Kim’s first album in ten years, and his first Golden Guitar as a solo artist.

Cheshire started his speech by saying he hadn’t been on the Golden Guitar stage for 25 years. ‘It’s nice to be here, and like Keith Richards says, “at my age, it’s nice to be anywhere”.’

Cheshire thanked the awards organisers, his fellow nominees and the people who voted for him. ‘I should tell you my first band was when I was 12 years old in 1964. And I had my 71st birthday just about four days ago. So don’t throw in the towel anyone. Hang in there.’

With an auditorium chockfull of thousands of people, Cheshire started his ‘thank

yous’ with his family.

‘I’d like to thank my lovely wife and my best friend Anna, my gorgeous daughter Polly and my boy Johnny, for putting up with me all these years – because it’s a challenge living with someone as singleminded and as philosophically uncompromising as I am. Thank you, guys’.

‘Now, next, the main person I want to thank for

making this record is this guy standing next to me. [Rod McCormack] I’ve been in two bands with this guy. We’ve been friends for 35 years.’

Rod McCormack said that he and Cheshire had made beautiful music together for several decades.

‘It’s always a treat’.

‘We’re really really grateful to everybody involved and the musicians. We’ve had some incredible players contribute.’

Win dedicated to Sara Tindley

Cheshire finished his speech by thanking everyone who contributed to the win and then with a short tribute to another local muso.

‘Lastly, I would like to thank and dedicate this award to my fellow Northern Rivers singer-songwriter, and precious friend, Sara [Tindley], who we lost last week.’

Local MP defends cuts in mental health

Local federal Labor MP, Justine Elliot, has defended her government’s recent cuts to Medicare-supported mental health sessions.

Federal Member for Page, Kevin Hogan called for the cuts to be reversed, and said, ‘Under the previous Coalition government, you could get 20 Medicare-subsidised psychology sessions. Now the Labor government have slashed it to ten’.

He added, ‘This is not okay, especially in our region for people who are still feeling the trauma experienced from the biggest natural disaster in Australia’s history. This leaves those and many other members of our community without crucial access to accessible mental

health support’.

Mrs Elliot’s office replied, ‘In December 2022, the Australian government released the independent evaluation of the Better Access Initiative, which showed that while the scheme has broadened access to mental health services, it is not delivering for all Australians equally’.

‘The independent evaluation by the University of Melbourne has concluded that Better Access has had positive outcomes for those accessing the scheme, however it is serving some groups better than others, and these gaps are widening.

‘People from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, those living in regional, rural, and

remote areas and aged care residents, are missing out.

‘In light of these findings, the Australian government will not be extending the temporary additional ten sessions beyond the former government’s expiration date of December 31, 2022.

‘Gap fees are at an alltime high. People are paying more for their care, and when they can’t afford those fees, they go without.

GP shortage

‘On the north coast, we have a struggling health workforce, a GP shortage and escalating health costs, which have been ignored by a decade of LiberalNationals state and federal governments.

‘This report is more evidence that we need appropriately targeted mechanisms to address this growing problem.

‘At the end of this month, the government will convene a forum of key experts and people with lived experience of mental illness to provide advice on how to improve Better Access, so all Australians have access to the same level of evidence-based care, so it doesn’t leave disadvantaged people behind.

‘In the first half of 2023, the government will strengthen the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) to facilitate family and carer involvement in Better Access treatment and fund mental health case conferencing’.

Photo from www.kimcheshire.com.

at brunswick valley funerals

Oxfam delivered a stark message in its current annual report, Survival of the Richest, which focuses on global wealth distribution and inequality.

For example, the authors claim, ‘Since 2020, the richest one per cent have captured almost two-thirds of all new wealth – nearly twice as much money as the bottom 99 per cent of the world’s population’.

Who would have thought that most of the world’s problems lie in wealth concentration and a gamed system that enables it?

Capital in the Twenty-First Century was published in 2014 by French economist, Thomas Piketty. He outlined a sound case for wealth distribution.

But it’s a big, weighty book, so most of us who were attending to our hobbies or addictions in 2014 probably missed its central thesis.

But those who study such things – in academia and economic circles – thought it was a terrific book.

Piketty proposes that when the rate of return on capital (r) is greater than the rate of economic growth (g) over the long term, the result is concentration of wealth, and this unequal distribution of wealth causes social and economic instability.

Anyway, Oxfam’s assessment of billionaires is not all that flattering, stating ‘Every billionaire is a policy failure’.

The authors write, ‘Extreme concentrations of wealth undermine economic growth, corrupt politics and the media,

corrode democracy, and propel political polarisation. New Oxfam research also shows that the richest are key contributors to climate breakdown: a billionaire emits a million times more carbon than the average person, and billionaires are twice as likely as the average investor to invest in polluting industries like fossil fuels’.

The answer? Oxfam says, ‘Greater taxation of rich people’.

Sounds great, except there is no appetite from federal Labor.

Presumably they are spooked by Murdoch Newscorpse ghouls and still timid of the electorate after being bold with reform under previous leader, Bill Shorten.

Labor supports the former Liberal-Nationals government’s stage-three tax cuts, which are due to come into effect in July 2024.

According to www. theguardian.com, ‘Stage three abolishes the 37 per cent marginal tax bracket completely, and lowers the 32.5 per cent marginal tax rate to 30 per cent. It also raises the threshold for the 45 per cent marginal tax rate, meaning everyone earning between $45,000 and $200,000 will pay the same 30 per cent tax rate’.

Will this address the growing inequality in Australia, given around 90 per cent of Australian taxpayers earn less than $120,000?

Tax. The. Super. Wealthy. Hans Lovejoy, editor News tips are welcome: editor@echo.net.au

US militarisation increases under Labor

Foreign Minister Penny Wong’s end-of-year trip to Beijing to meet with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi was hailed as an indication that the recently fraught relationship between the two nations was stabilising, especially in terms of the potential to ease sanctions that have long impeded trade.

However, a fortnight earlier, Wong had been in Washington DC to attend the December 6 AUSMIN conference, where her nation and the US noted their joint determination to ‘counter destabilising military activities by the People’s Republic of China’.

The annual Australia US Ministerial Consultation additionally saw the two nations deepen their defence cooperation in a number of ways, which include the United States increasing the number of troops it rotates through Australian military bases in the north of the country.

In a further sign that Wong’s trip to China, the first such visit by an Australian foreign minister since 2018, wasn’t such a sincere extension of the olive branch, last month’s AUSMIN participants also announced that they’ve invited Japan to integrate into US military operations in Australia.

So, while the Albanese government has pulled back on the overt China rhetoric of its predecessor, and is repairing the COVID-era trade breakdown with Beijing, it continues to provide the US with unfettered access to bases, with all the associations that carries regarding regional military build-up.

The AUSMIN consultations began in 1985. Last year’s instalment saw Wong and Defence Minister, Richard Marles, meet with US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, and Defence Secretary, Lloyd Austin.

During the AUSMIN press conference, Austin stated that an invitation was being extended to Japan, a QUAD partner, to join in the US Force Posture Initiatives (USFPI) on Australian soil, which comprises the Marine Rotational Force-Darwin (MRF-D) and the Enhanced Air Cooperation (EAC).

The MRF-D initially saw 200 US military personnel rotated through northern Australia during the dry season in 2012. And that number had risen to 2,500 by 2019. And with

the commencement of the EAC in 2017, efforts are being made to enhance Australian and US air force’s interoperability.

‘Based upon today’s talks, we will increase rotational presence of US forces in Australia,’ Austin explained in relation to the USFPI. ‘That includes rotations of bomber task forces, fighters, and future rotations of US navy and US army capabilities.’

Nuclear-capable US B-52

The AUSMIN commitments came just a month after it came to light that the US upgrade of the RAAF Base Tindal, located south of Darwin, will include a parking apron to accommodate six nuclear-capable US B-52 fighters, which are being strategically positioned in relation to China.

Blinken opened the recent AUSMIN press conference by citing the ANZUS treaty of seventy years ago. He asserted that this kicked off the work that his nation and ours have been carrying out in relation to strengthening ‘the fabric of peace in the Pacific’ ever since.

However, as veteran journalist Brian Toohey outlines in 2019’s Secret, while the 1951 Australia New Zealand US Security (ANZUS) treaty does commit us to nonaggression, it doesn’t bind any party to support another in entering a conflict, nor does it make allowances for local US deployments.

Rather, it was an agreement made between the Gillard government and the Obama administration in 2012 that led to the US Force Posture Initiatives that were then formalised under the 2014 Force Posture Agreement (the FPA) between this country and the United States, which lasts for 25 years.

The FPA establishes a number of agreed facilities and areas in Australia that US forces and contractors are permitted unimpeded access to, along with the ability to take operational control of such facilities in the

circumstances of upgrading them.

Activities US troops can engage with at such facilities include: training, support, the stationing and maintenance of vehicles, vessels and aircraft, temporary accommodation, communications, equipment storage and deployment of forces.

As Independent and Peaceful Australia Network (IPAN) spokesperson, Dr Vince Scappatura, explained in a recent press release, the Australian government committed the nation to being used as a US base in the Indo-Pacific region at a time of rising tensions, with no consultation with the public.

‘Australia has bent over backwards to accommodate greater rotations of all types of US military forces’, he added.

Indeed, as opposed to ANZUS, which has long been wrongly understood to require the US to support Australia if attacked, and the widely spruiked AUKUS pact the Morrison government embroiled us in two years back, the FPA has continued to operate under the radar since 2014.

The Morrison government announced in mid-September 2021, that the nation had entered into the AUKUS (Australia, UK and US) pact, which involves our country acquiring eight nuclear-powered submarines that pose a direct threat to China.

There was, again, no consultation with the Australian public, despite the nuclear implications, and the details of the agreement remain sketchy at best.

Richard Marles raised the AUKUS pact at the recent AUSMIN conference, outlining that the most important capability that our nation is currently focused on obtaining is the nuclearpowered submarine, which will ‘transform Australia’s strategic posture’.

Yet Australia might experience a capabilities gap, as those submarines aren’t likely to come online until the 2030s.

First published on www.sydneycriminallawyers.com.au.

‘Australia entered the AUKUS (Australia, UK

– Paul Gregoire

Bird magnet

You might wonder why I’m getting an overall feeling of dismay while sitting back hearing the ever-diversifying sound of different birds fighting for branches in the reserve behind our home.

Five years ago, it was lovely listening to maggies and butcher birds, plus the occasional kooka or plover. Now I can’t help but wonder why more and more bird species are flying into our area. I’d like to think that these birds are flourishing and expanding their habitats. But really, I’m concerned that it may be because of mass regional habitat destruction; that these birds are being forced to settle elsewhere.

I call on any experts to pass comments on this matter. Do we sit oblivious in our suburbs, unaware of the rural decimation?

John Bradley Byron Bay

Irish mist

Patrick Morrisey writes (50 days in Ireland, 11 January) of American tourists complaining of wind turbines spoiling the Irish landscape, adding that these turbines provide up to 40 per cent of Ireland’s energy needs.

A quick look at the Irish government renewable energy website (SEAI: Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland) reveals that renewable energy (all forms) only contributes 12.5 per cent of Ireland’s energy needs. Of this 12.5 per cent, wind contributes 58 per cent. Therefore, the wind turbines that are spoiling the Irish landscape provide 7.2 per cent of Ireland’s energy needs, and not 40 per cent.

Mark May Ballina

‘The greater good’ I write regarding the proposed development at 6–10 Station Street in Bangalow.

Having attended the movie ‘\The Hidden Life of Trees during the Bangalow Film Festival, a relevant point caught my attention.

I’m sure Peter Wohlleben articulated this more clearly than I will here, but basically I’m wondering… where is the current demarcation between the ‘rights’ of a person to make a profit in the present, and the ‘rights’ of future generations to benefit from a particular site?

In Peter’s case, his concern is the logging of natural forests, but here in the Byron Shire, quaint, historic architecture is under threat. It comes under the heading of ‘the greater good’, does it not? (Noun: Greater good. For the benefit of the public, of more people than oneself.)

It’s perfectly reasonable to build new architecture on vacant blocks of land in town, or within subdivisions on the outskirts of town. But to me, it just doesn’t make sense to demolish successfully functioning, historic architecture when these other two options exist.

I hope the developers reconsider. I have intel that the property is viable as an income-producing investment as it stands (not to mention capital appreciation).

Sandy Loyall Bangalow

Coastal dystopia

Proto-existentialist philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer wrote ‘Money is human happiness in the abstract, and so the man who is no longer capable of enjoying such happiness in the concrete sets his whole heart on money’.

Forgive me for quoting philosophy in the letters section of a local newspaper; for better or worse, being exposed to the knowledge of our ancestors in the form of bite-sized maxims is usually the closest most people will get to them.

Has Byron Bay lost its ability to enjoy happiness in the concrete? Is money now the town’s sole God?

An abstract cheerfulness hanging over the town like a fog, clouding the minds of those who believe the experience of the area is an experience of natural beauty. An endless sea of boutique clothing stores, spreading out further and further like the tendrils of a half-dead octopus, only its suckers left alive, poised and ready. An ocean of developments turning once beloved market squares and empty spaces into coastal dystopian monstrosities, worshipping nothing but the dollar, no thought for community, with giant billboards covered in groaninducing buzzwords that no honest person could really take seriously.

In the wise words of Chuck Berry, ‘Meanwhile, I was still thinking…’.

Paul James Hall Byron Bay

Greyhound nightmare

Has the greyhound racing industry no shame?

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) has condemned an invasive and painful greyhound breeding technique used on about 80 per cent of greyhound mothers. The procedure involves cutting into the dog’s abdomen, removing her uterus, introducing semen and then sewing up the surgical incision. The AVA and the RSPCA have declared this invasive and causing unnecessary pain.

Research commissioned by the Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds and the world’s largest greyhound protection agency, GREY2K USA

Worldwide, shows that most Australians want greyhound racing banned, as it is in 49 US states. The survey found that almost 60 per cent wanted the industry phased out or banned, while 70 per cent wanted to stop government subsidies, and would be less likely to vote for a political party that supported these subsidies.

For anyone who loves dogs, the greyhound industry is a nightmare. Last year, 213 dogs were killed on Australian tracks and there were more than 10,000 injuries. Causing unnecessary pain in order to breed more victims for this vile business is ethically bankrupt.

With a NSW election coming up in March, now would be a good time to phone or write to your local candidates and ask them to commit to banning this cruel industry.

Desmond Bellamy PETA Australia

Cartoon by Antoinette Ensbey

Agreement on

The Echo reports Paul Toole, Minister for Regional NSW, stating that we must stop development on floodplains, stop making the mistakes of the past, as inevitably floods will occur. PM Albanese said it 13/7/22. Premier Perrottet said it 12/7/22. The O’Kane Inquiry said it. Byron Council Floodplain Management Plan said it. Unanimous.

They were all fully aware of the recommendations made by numerous inquiries, commissions, studies and expert opinion and many resident taxpayers informed them of flooding covering this Mullumbimby rail corridor to a depth of one metre in February 2022, including supplying photographic evidence. They had all visited the devastated Northern Rivers and surrounding area, with Mr Perrottet visiting Mullumbimby.

So, could we have the name of the person with the authority who is signing off for John Lyng to fill our floodplain and is paying this multimillion-dollar company with OUR money to construct this disastrous development that will result in many of our homes being damaged or destroyed again by the next flood event?

We will need names of those responsible to submit in our class action for future damages.

This irresponsible, reckless action is not what we voted them in for, it’s not what we pay them for. We will hold them accountable.

Marlene Crompton Mullumbimby

The old ANZ Bank building on Burringbar Street in Mullum is now a bathhouse; such yuppy city indulgence to far removed from being authentic in a small laidback country town.

A lovely long-time local lady told me to have a closer look at the logo painted across the facade of the building, and when I did I felt a rush of anger. The logo painted on the front of the building states ‘EST. Bunya Bathhouse 2022’. This bathhouse renovation might have been completed in 2022 but the true identity of this substantive federation building has been usurped. This is an insult to a lovely old building and to our local history. The actual building was established in 1921.

I think about the lady on the corner of Stuart and Tincogan Streets who dared, shock and horror, to paint her federation house lilac and got hounded by Council because of it.

How about the Council harass the bathhouse developers to put the correct establishment date back up? Or, unlike the lilac house lady, can the wealthy do exactly what they want? Seems like it!

Hannah Grace Ocean Shores

What have they done to our Vinnies here in Mullum? They’ve killed it!

It has reopened and it is bland, soulless and devoid of the character that it had before the flood – in spades.

Corporate Vinnies has taken over. Such a shame and heaven forbid if you take your Target or Kmart goods there – not acceptable!

Not happy Jan. Marie Sherd Mullumbimby

‘DISASTER’

Government ‘DISASTER’ signs promoting fear of floods are affecting property sales.

We are trying to sell our beautiful family home in Mullumbimby, which was above the flood last year and sales are very slow. Our agent says

people are worried about more floods, as well as the interest rate increases etc.

Surely having massive signs around the pod village at the entrance to town saying ‘DISASTER –DISASTER – DISASTER’ is not helping and might be increasing fear of flooding for potential buyers?

Thanks a lot NSW government! Not. Please replace these huge signs with something more positive and calming.

Elayne Mitchell Mullumbimby

The Nationals MP for Clarence, Mr Gulaptis, is soon to retire and I can hear the koalas clapping. As the Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture and Forestry, he was the prime instigator of the NSW ‘Koala Wars’ and in the cheer squad for the deputy premier, bolstering the forestry industry at a shameful cost to NSW taxpayers.

Senate inquiry after senate inquiry, and hearing after hearing clearly established that koalas are in serious decline. Forest management expert, Dr Andrew Smith, stated that the recovery time for koalas is 45 years and much longer for gliders. However, regardless of the mountains of evidence, the Nationals were never going to act to protect koalas. Deputy Premier and Nationals leader, Barilaro, kept lobbying to remove national park status for the Murray Valley National Park to allow logging of river red gums… what a ‘genius’ idea.

I wrote to Mr Gulaptis in 2020, and in his response he naturally validated his unscientific position, and stated that it was not (unsustainable) farming or forestry that was the threat but dogs and urban development, bushfires (wonder why they have increased?), and chlamydia (which came from introduced cows) – all of which are owing to loss of habitat. Caused by – guess what? – logging of native forests and clearing on private property where most koalas now live.

It is impossible to save koalas while you are hellbent on cutting down native forests and permitting farmers to do whatever they want under the new SEPP legislation that the Nationals have demanded.

Some three billion native animals were killed or seriously injured in the 2019–20 bushfires. This statistic breaks my heart as a koala

rescuer. But the deputy premier, working for the Devil (Blinky Bill told me this) overruled the Environment Protection Agency to allow industrial-scale logging, and directed funds from the bushfire recovery grants to the timber industry. Some $38 million of the $177 million went into forestry ‘projects’. But wait, there’s more; then there was a further $46 million Mr Barilaro awarded to the forestry corporation for ‘bushfire recovery measures’… koalas got a big fat nothing.

Wake up NSW taxpayers, koalas are more important than your wasted tax dollars. Remember back in 2016 the Australia Institute report stated that only 600 direct jobs were in forestry and that taxpayers lost $79 million over seven years [supporting the industry]. Good riddance, Mr Gulaptis – I’m wondering what your legacy will be for the next generation?

Lindy Stacker Binna Burra

Byron Council has ratified the International Charter of Human Rights, complete with fine legal minds that developed a Charter of Rights. This was initiated by the Ngara Institute, Mullumbimby. A very progressive stance by Council and the Institute.

This charter articulates the right of every person to be housed. But housing was later hindered by the 2022 floods. Climate change has asserted itself. The NSW premier visited Lismore and surrounds and announced, ‘There will be no more development on floodplains’.

Was he aware that the West Byron development, which is on a floodplain, was in progress – with development consent granted under the most spurious circumstances by the NSW Land and Environment Court and hired Council lawyers?

I rang Minister Anthony Roberts at the NSW Department of Planning office. I spoke to his secretary.

‘What was Roberts going to do about developments granted [consent] on floodplains, such as West Byron, prior to the devastating floods?’ I asked.

His secretary assured me that, ‘Minister Roberts was already working on this issue and that this information would be forthcoming to the public in a short time’.

No media has reported a response from Minister Roberts.

Jo Faith Newtown

School holiday tours to Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue

David Lowe

With 349 turtles, 1,349 birds and 81 sea snakes being rescued over the past three years, Ballina’s iconic Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue (ASTR) is modernising and expanding. Assistant Manager, Amanda Philp, said ASTR are offering tours each weekday at 10am, the perfect thing for anyone interested in local wildlife.

Ms Philp said the tour covers everything that happens at ASTR, with a number of new displays.

Visitors also learn a lot about turtles, which are nesting on beaches across the north coast now. After meeting the always-popular resident freshwater turtle, Frankie, visitors go into the Sea Turtle Hospital and learn about the issues that carers are seeing with the species that come into care.

While there aren’t as many turtles in care as in recent years (at one stage there were 32!), there are still malnourished turtles appearing in the area, and some with floating syndrome, which is caused by a build-up of gas internally.

Don’t cut the line!

Ms Philp said there were also lots of birds with fishingrelated injuries, which started accelerating during COVID, with people getting outside more and a corresponding build-up of fishing-related rubbish in the environment.

For fisherpeople she says the message is, ‘Do not cut the line!’

‘We don’t have an issue with fishing in general; go out and have fun. But if for any reason you do catch a bird, give us a call. We’ve always got rescuers available.

‘Don’t leave hooks and lines and whatever you go there with. Take it away with you.’

Floating syndrome

‘With that floating syndrome, with the gas, we just work with them to try and remove that,’ Ms Philp explains. ‘So we get them to dive for their food. And that will start to expel it.

‘The floating can be caused by parasites, lung issues, sometimes toxins in their food from the floods or other different things that are contributing out there.’

When people come across a distressed turtle, what should they do?

‘If you’re on a boat and they’re in the water, just give us a call. We’ve got someone on our rescue phone 24/7.’

Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue operates all the way from Sandon River (south of Brooms Head) to Tweed Heads. ‘We’ll just come down and grab them,’ says Ms Philp.

Nesting is also being affected by 4WDs on beaches, with hatchlings particularly vulnerable if their path to the ocean is blocked by deep tyre tracks.

Sea snakes

ASTR also cares for sea snakes, which get injured from boats and trawler nets and wash-up in severe storms.

‘Yes, they’re incredible animals. We released a yellow-bellied sea snake back into the ocean off Julian Rocks, about a month ago. And then a couple of other elegant ones have come into care too; they often have spinal injuries and broken ribs.’

For a tour call (02) 6686 2852 to book. To report a seabird or turtle in distress, please ring the 24/7 emergency hotline on 0428 862 852.

Read full story online at: https://bit.ly/3kABZ5C.

Ballina’s iconic Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue’s Assistant Manager, Amanda Philp with one of the rescued turtles. Photo David Lowe

of

Mirembe Campbell

For the first time ever, I am living my truths and no one is trying to hurt me because of it. This is a much better way.

It hasn’t always been like this.

I’ve been having continual hospitalisations, mostly owing to suicide attempts, since the age of 14. And a few years ago, I stopped speaking for a while as a result of being re-traumatised by various medical ‘professionals’.

Thankfully, I have finally found something that not only helps me, but has also given me a new lease of life.

At 45 I am the happiest and most well I have ever been. And prescribed medicinal cannabis is a major contributing factor for my recovery.

For example, I’ve been diagnosed with an array of mental health disorders, ranging from bi-polar disorder, depression, anxiety and Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD).

These mental health problems are exacerbated by my physical illness, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS). This is a connective tissue disorder causing chronic pain. The pain can be immobilising and completely debilitating. And this pain in turn aggravates my numerous mental health disorders. It is quite a cycle.

But now, all of these problems are efficaciously treate,d predominately with prescribed medicinal cannabis.

However, my journey has not been an easy one. I am a woman of colour, which puts me at an immediate disadvantage. Unsurprisingly, my experiences of the hospital

system and the medical model have mostly been far from positive.

Repeatedly I was not believed. And while some medical professionals have helped me, sometimes to great effect, most have not.

For example, under the medical model, I’ve encountered a lack of genuine compassion and care, overt disrespect, unprofessionalism, unhelpful moral biases and a stark absence of kindness.

These experiences, at times, made me want to end my life. And I did try. However, I survived.

My condition deteriorated because no one believed my truths. But I persisted.

For decades I used pharmaceutical medications, adhering exclusively to the medical model. But it wasn’t working, and by 2019 I was engulfed in an overwhelmingly deep and dark crisis.

This dark time was not helped by the fact I was repeatedly labelled a ‘drugseeker’ by many doctors, some of whom refused to provide me with any pain relief at all.

Being in chronic pain means zero sleep, which

impacts general wellbeing. So, I was regressing badly. And I was in so much pain. For example, on the pain scale I was always a ten.

During this time, I was admitted to several psychiatric facilities. A few times I was even sectioned.

For months I suffered from unrelenting pain, until finally a doctor believed me. He conducted numerous examinations, including MRI and a CT scans. He observed that I ‘lit up like a Christmas tree’ in terms of where the painful areas were. I finally felt heard.

In order to help with my recovery, I was prescribed what one of my doctors later dubbed ‘the party pack’. This included: Endone, Oxycontin, Ketamine and Valium. At different times I’ve also been prescribed Lyrica, Tramadol, Codeine and Morphine.

Additionally, I had several ‘nerve blocker’ injections, some of which went into my neck and spine. A deeply painful process.

Yet, in spite of all these medications and nerve blocker injections, I remained in excruciating pain. Often, I couldn’t walk, couldn’t sleep,

and sometimes I couldn’t talk. It was a living hell.

Today my pain is successfully managed, predominantly through the use of medicinal cannabis. I do not use any of the prescription medications described earlier, nor do I require nerve blockers.

So why did it take me so long?

My unwavering loyalty to the medical model was a barrier. I’d read that having an underlying genetic predisposition towards mental disorders meant I was not a suitable candidate for medicinal cannabis, because I would likely trigger my underlying mental health problems, and could induce a psychosis. So, I persisted with the medical model. But it was not working.

In desperation I went to see my pain specialist. He suggested I try medicinal cannabis to treat not only my physical pain, but to also help with my mental health.

I was extremely wary, so I spoke with one of my GPs – who agreed with my pain specialist!

And now, I’ve been successfully using medicinal cannabis for over two years. This decision saved my life and has been life-changing.

Alongside other medications, medicinal cannabis helps to stabilise me, while also alleviating the majority of my physical ailments.

This means I am no longer in immobilising physical pain. Instead, I am progressively getting better and better.

I am evidence there is hope for a better way. And I am yet more evidence that it’s time to change the fucking laws.

Legalise cannabis. It’s a much better way.

In 2018-2020, Magnus Carlsen racked up a streak of 125 classical games without defeat. In doing so he broke Ding Liren’s record of 100, established only a few years earlier.

Carlsen’s figure was still well short of the record for a Grandmaster: 155 FIDE rated games, set by Croatia’s Bogdan Lalic in 2010/11. (Lalic certainly faced weaker overall opposition than Carlsen but, unlike the Norwegian, sometimes had to play against higher rated opponents!)

Nonetheless, the fair conclusion to be drawn is that the World Champion loses very rarely, which is why his defeat this week was such a shock –he had not even managed a classical streak of 10 between his controversial loss to Hans Niemann at September’s Sinquefield Cup, and this week’s defeat by Dutch number one Anish Giri in the 85th edition of the annual Wijk aan Zee supertournament.

Despite rising as high as world number three, Giri had beaten Carlsen only once previously, exactly twelve years earlier, as a 16-year-old. ‘I’d beaten him once,’ said Giri, ‘but everybody knows it was a little bit lame. He blundered something and I was so small. I was a different person back then. Now it was fair and square.’

Giri’s score since then against Carlsen has been awful – a factor Giri used to give himself some self-belief: ‘It was clearly going to happen sooner

to

that there

It

be a

Mirembe Campbell has found a ‘better way’ to live her life with the assistance of medicinal cannabis. Photo Jeff Dawson

Ian Cohen

Bob Brown is a legend, an inspirational activist who has devoted his life to protecting and preserving our precious environment and defending human rights. He will be in our region soon and I encourage residents to have that rare experience of being in the presence of someone who has proven the difference one person can make by being brave and committed.

Local activists formed the Nightcap Action Group (NAG) and were committed to direct nonviolent action to protect north coast forests. We decided to travel to Tasmania to join the campaign to stop the damming of the Franklin River. We ended up maintaining a camp in the upriver wilderness for many months.

This is when I first met Bob Brown; a young doctor who was leading the campaign. My commitment to a life of activism was encouraged by his support of the radical activist movement that embodied song, theatre and art. His example of grace and calmness in situations of intense violence such as Farmhouse Creek set the culture for nonviolent resistance.

In 1978 Bob Brown was appointed director of the Tasmanian Wilderness Society and

led the campaign to prevent the construction of the Franklin Dam.

He spent 19 days in prison and on the day of his release in 1983, he became a member of Tasmania’s parliament.

In 1990 he was the founder of the Australian Bush Heritage Fund, now Bush Heritage Australia which has protected hundreds of thousands of hectares of significant environment.

Bob led the Australian Greens from its foundation in 1992 until April 2012 when he resigned as leader and then from the Australian Senate in June.

He had been elected to the Australian Senate in 1996. In his

inaugural speech he warned of the dangers of climate change and was ridiculed for being alarmist. From 2002 to 2004, when minor parties held the balance of power in the Senate, he became a well-recognised and respected politician. He was re-elected in 2001 and 2007. Bob Brown was also the first openly gay member of the Parliament of Australia and the first openly gay leader of an Australian political party.

Bob lives with his partner Paul Thomas in Tasmania and travels widely, supporting campaigns.

He has published a number of books including a memoir as well

as photography and poetry. He has also won many awards, including recognition from the United Nations.

Criminal protest

Bob and Paul established the Bob Brown Foundation to promote environmental awareness, and these days continue the campaign to preserve Tasmania’s forest despite the laws that criminalise protest. The current focus of governments across the country is to deter people who are willing to take a stand and risk imprisonment. Bob is taking governments to court to protect our constitutional right to protest. The legal actions are made possible by the support of community donations to the Bob Brown Foundation. The legal wins clarify that it’s unconstitutional to disallow peaceful protest.

Bob has made many visits to the north coast. He was first here for a Greens gathering 30 years ago, just after we formed our local group in 1993, the Tweed Byron Greens. He travelled around NSW supporting the 1995 election that resulted in my being elected as the first Greens MP in the NSW Parliament. He has always delighted in our area’s successes, including the election of Australia’s first popularly elected Greens mMayor, Jan Barham in 2004. In 2015, another first, Tamara

Smith decisively took the long-held National Party seat of Ballina, on the back of the successful Bentley campaign. She became Australia’s first Green regional local MP.

Now Bob is back to share his stories of the ongoing campaigns; the potential destruction of the Tarkine forests, the dangers to the marine environment from commercial fish production and the risks posed to Antarctica by tourism and the proposed airport.

He has many tales of the value of activism and the success of people showing up to defend what our governments are willing to destroy.

Bob’s here to support our local member, Tamara Smith, in the lead-up to the NSW state election in March for her third defence of our local electorate.

He is speaking at a fundraiser in Lennox Head on Saturday 28 January before he heads off on another campaign.

If you have never had the opportunity to hear Bob speak and be inspired, then don’t miss the event. If you’ve previously been uplifted by Bob, there’s always the joy of being reinvigorated by a legend who invites us all to join him in defending our precious environments.

Bob Brown event – Saturday 28 January 6.30pm, Lennox Cultural Centre. Book at: www.greensforballina.com/bob-brown-event.

Paul Thomas, Jan Barham, Tamara Smith and Bob Brown during Tamara’s 2015 election campaign. Photo supplied

American

sports

Eatery & Bar 1 Porter Street, North Byron Mon–Tues: 7am–3pm Wed–Sat: 7am–10pm www.barriobyronbay.com.au @barriobyronbay 0411 323 165

American style burger restaurant & sports bar Upstairs at Mercato on Byron, Jonson Street. www.Wahlburgers.com.au Supernatural 9 Bay Lane, Byron Bay 0477 629 271 @supernaturalbyronbay A Slice of Paris

North Byron

Come find us down the laneway for delicious share plates, natural wines, cocktails and potions. Open from 5pm Tuesday to Saturday.

No Bones

Vegan Kitchen & Bar. 11 Fletcher Street 0481 148 007

Open 7 nights from 5pm

Loft Byron Bay

4 Jonson Street, Byron Bay 6680 9183

Book online: www.loftbyronbay.com.au

The Italian Byron Bay

21, 108 Jonson St, Byron Bay

Open Monday to Saturday 5.30pm to late 5633 1216 www.theitalianbyronbay.com

Legend Pizza

Serving Byron Bay for 30 years. Open 7 days and nights. Delivery from Suffolk to Ewingsdale. 90–96 Jonson Street 6685 5700 www.legendpizza.com.au

Main Street

Open for takeaway daily, 12 midday until dinner. Menu, more details –@mainstreet_burgerbar 18 Jonson Street 6680 8832

Success Thai

Open Lunch Wed–Fri 12–2.30pm. Dinner Mon–Sat 5–8pm. Closed Sunday 3/31 Lawson St, Byron Bay www.facebook.com/ pages/Success-ThaiFood/237359826303469

HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY 5–6PM

Local DJ – Friday & Saturday nights, from 6pm

$12 Margarita / Lychee Martini $8 Tap Beers / $7 Natural Wines Book online via website nobonesbyronbay.com.au

#BRUSSELSNOTBEEF

Signature cocktails, and casual dining with ocean views.

Happy Hour | Daily from 4–6pm $6 Loft beer or wine, $10 Aperol Spritz, $14 Margarita & $2.50 fresh oysters Espresso Martini Nights | Every day 9pm – close 2 for $25 Classic Espresso Martini. Open weekdays from 4pm and weekends from noon.

The Italian Byron Bay provides a bustling, atmospheric restaurant, dishing up contemporary inspired Italian cuisine and some of Byron’s finest cocktails and wines.

OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY. BOOKINGS CAN BE MADE BY PHONE OR THROUGH OUR WEBSITE. WALK-INS VERY WELCOME.

Byron’s Freshest Pizza

Order online and join our loyalty program.

Catering for up to 100 people lunch and dinner. BYO

Locally owned and operated. Scan code for menu.

Open for takeaway daily, 12 midday until dinner.

Menu and more details @mainstreet_burgerbar ‘Make a meal of it’ Add chips and a drink, just $5.

BYO only.

Welcome for lunch, dinner and takeaway. Menus available on Facebook.

The

Rocks Brunch 6.30am–2pm, every day 16 Lawson St, Byron Bay 6685 7663 Menus at therocksbyronbay.com.au @therocksbyronbay

The Rocks

We have a range of freshly sourced dishes, Reverence coffee, and hand-made juices and smoothies at locals prices. Fully licensed, all-day brunch and happy hour from 11am. Check out our new dishes on Instagram!

61 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay Ph 6685 6500 www.northbyronhotel.com.au Open 10am–8pm daily ‘Byron’s boutique bottle shop’ Natural wine Craft Beer Local Spirits Specialty Tequila for the ages Wedding & event liquor catering KURA is an authentic Japanese restaurant serving yakitori, sushi and ramen located in the heart of Byron Bay, Bay Lane. We take pride in providing fresh local produce from the Byron Shire and the Byron Farmer’s Market. There are also a variety of vegetarian options available. The restaurant features an open kitchen concept where you can watch the chefs at work. Come dine with us in a relaxing and friendly atmosphere today. KURA Byron Bay 8/4 Bay Lane, Byron Bay 02 6685 6136 Open at 12–3pm bookings@kurabyronbay.com Online orders: www.kurabyronbay.com Instagram @gallery_kura Facebook : Izakaya Gallery Kura

KARKALLA

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Food with history, story & connection DINNER, THURSDAY–MONDAY

Early sitting from 5pm | Second sitting from 7.30pm Bookings highly recommended, via our website www.karkalla.com.au | @karkallabyronbay

Happy new Yulli’s

S Haslam

Yulli’s Byron Bay and its sister eatery Wok This Way will soon be merging in a move designed to consolidate staffing and give the owners a chance to further enhance the Yulli’s offering in the Northern Rivers.

The latest incarnation of Yulli’s will bring plant-based modern Asian and Mediterranean dishes alongside a wide-ranging vegan wine list, cocktails and Yulli’s own kombucha, cider and beer.

Karl Cooney, Yulli’s co-founder explains: ‘While we’ve loved operating Wok This Way we’re now keen to put all our focus on just the one venue in Byron so we can really take it to the next level. The space where Wok is currently, is larger and better equipped for advancement, so it makes sense to operate from there – which we’ll be doing as Yulli’s Byron Bay from the end of February.’

Regulars from both venues need not be disappointed however as the two menus will be combined to offer locals a fusion of East Asian and Mediterranean cooking, similar to their famous Sydney restaurant. They may well have the largest plant-based menu in the area: favourites include edamame and coconut moneybags; san choy bow with crispy rice, tofu, fresh herbs, bamboo, chilli, peanuts and fried shallots; harissa eggplant with Persian rice;

Shroom Bros

Victoria Cosford

as well as a choice of desserts such as sweet potato doughnuts with coconut custard, matcha crumble and watermelon sorbet.

‘With the new merged venue, in addition to dinner we’ll also be aiming to open more regularly for lunch, which we’re sure our customers will love. We’re also going to look at expanding our Yulli’s At Home takehome meals in Byron and the surrounding areas, which have been really popular to date. We’re super excited about all these new changes coming,’ says Karl.

Yulli’s Byron Bay will commence operating from the 1 Carlyle St location from the end of February. Fans of the full Wok This Way menu will have until then to dine-in for all their favourites, but don’t worry as several dishes will be making their way onto the new menu.

For all the updates follow @yullisbyronbay on Instagram.

Tasty Jams, Pickles &Relishes: timeless

Simon Haslam

The preserving room in my grandparents’ house was a mysterious chamber, entered once as a small child, that I could never again find the entrance to. Entry was forbidden, in any case, owing to the risk of ‘glass explosion’, an explanation I found plausible. As Methodists, I doubt they had a secret wine cellar, and the preserves seemed to be treasured, much like the fruit trees in their backyard – after 50 years my memory of their fruit still sets a standard that’s hardly ever met.

For Renee Cunningham of Ballina, her own fond childhood memories of home-made preserves shared between neighbours have inspired her to not only recreate timeless favourites from her youth, but also to try out new flavours and ingredients to share with others.

‘As a child, we had a constant supply of home-made preserves in our pantry,’ she says, ‘and I grew up watching jars that we made being shared with neighbours and friends. It was a delight to receive jars in return, beautifully labelled and delicious. Each family had their own variations of favourite flavours and tastes.

‘For me, preserves have always been made from the heart – a family tradition passed down over generations. For this reason, I have always loved food and cooking. And it’s true what they say; timeless recipes never go out of fashion’.

One of the joys of visiting our regional towns is taking a punt on the preserves at the local markets. I bought something so good at the Tenterfield Railway Station market one day that I tried to hunt the person up online (a pointless exercise), and now I’ve forgotten what it was. I’ll have to return to some future market to spark my memory. But, if you live

‘Choko pickles have always been my long-time favourite,’ she says, proving her commitment to old-style recipes, as let’s face it who values chokos these days?, ‘paired with corn silverside sandwiches, absolutely scrumptious! It was the first preserve I ever made.’

You can find this at her market stall, along with many other jams, marmalades, relishes and chutneys. Her range changes all the time, so you can always find something new to try.

But some favourites are always there. ‘For taste, you can’t go past mulberry jam,’ she says, ‘It’s sourced from a local tree. We were up at dawn and spent many early mornings picking

One of the most requested jars Renee makes is her beloved beetroot relish. ‘It’s a little bit fancy,’ she says, ‘and a great accompaniment for grilled salmon or a summer barbeque. Also, my tri-citrus marmalade has been a showstopper this festive season, it’s citrusy and tart, just like grandma’s!’

So, for a refreshing alternative to sweet grandmas, seek out Tasty Jams, Pickles & Relishes. They can be found at the Lennox Head Markets or purchased directly from Renee’s homebased business (by prior arrangement).

Email blue_wren99@icloud.com.

Two pieces of delightful trivia about Shroom Brothers’ Andrew Mohanu: the Romanian town where he was born was about 20km away from Dracula’s Castle. As a young boy he tried growing mushrooms in his parent’s closet, an experiment they were not impressed by. That act, however, was but a precursor to the career Andrew now enjoys.

‘I love growing mushrooms!’ he exclaims to me. ‘Possibly too much.’

Based at Stoker’s Siding, this onetime radiation therapist (third bit of trivia) has been operating since 2015, together with his ‘little’ brother Abel, all 6 ft 4” of him. Andrew tells me that the research began two years before that – ‘mostly from American YouTube channels.’ They cultivate the type of mushroom commonly regarded as ‘specialty’: oyster and king oyster, shiitake and lion’s mane, mushrooms

loved by chefs and gourmet cooks. Spray-free and glamorous.

Harvesting them, Andrew tells me, is a daily necessity. ‘However’, he

adds, ‘we observe the Sabbath, which basically means that we consider Saturday as a day of rest and we do not work from sunset time on Fridays to sunset time on Saturdays.’ All very civilised – except it does mean Saturday nights see them frantically harvesting, other family members roped in to help as well. They have a special misting system for the mushrooms that creates ‘ultra-fine water particles’, required for dry days. ‘When our misting system is activated you can’t even see up to a metre in front of you’, says Andrew.

We both agree that optimal cooking for mushrooms is quickly, on a high heat, ‘definitely with olive oil or butter’, he adds. Or both. And garlic. Those king oysters, fat creamy stems and brown hats, thickly sliced, are sensational fried, tossed till golden and fragrant, tumbled onto sourdough toast.

Shroom Bros are at Mullumbimby Farmers Market on Fridays from 7–11am.

near here, I’d try Renee’s stall at the Lennox Head markets.

the plump berries – it’s a perfect topper for toast, scones and pancakes and can be a special touch to a cheese platter or glaze for meats.’

Much to their parents’ relief the Shroom Brothers no longer grow in their bedroom closet.

NEW BLOOD RUNNING AGAIN

A I N

If you missed out on tickets to October’s sold-out season of the award-winning local musical New Blood be thrilled to know that it’s back by popular demand for a second season in February. The musical that got the whole region talking is back, for two nights only, at the Byron Theatre, 8–9 February. This new musical, created by local musicians and performers, is an absolute ‘must see’ – it’s funny, deeply moving and resonate loudly with local audiences.

Set in a small town undergoing enormous change, New Blood explores the ebbs and flows of relationships, showcasing the humanity and the hilarity of small towns and the quirks that are instantly recognisable.

Sally Schofield said ‘New Blood fires arrows right into the heartland of regional Australia, revealing irksome details and inconvenient truths of tree-change life.’

s sold-out season w , you will ular demand for cal that got the ghts w created n absolute ‘must onate loudly with us of ty isable. rows into aling irksome change life.’

SPACE IS THE PLACE

ughton, Joel owe and Mikey upportedby

Co-written by talented locals Melia Naughton Cooper, Anouska Gammon, Elodie Crowe Bryant, this clever ensemble of five is supported by live violinist Sue Simpson and an intimate piano score. With initial seed funding from NORPA, New Blood was crowned ‘Most Outstanding New Work’ at the Gold Palm Theatre Awards in December. New Blood will be making its national debut later in February at Australia’s largest international arts festival – the Adelaide Fringe Festival. Tickets have once again nearly all sold out, so jump to it and head to the Byron Theatre website or the New Blood Instagram to secure your seat.

Space is the Place is committed to bringing some of the world’s most forward-thinking electronic artists and DJs to an accessible space for all to celebrate this summer. Ma Presents, who previously brought Floating Points, Patrice Baumel, Helena Hauf and a very secret exclusive with Jamie XX and Peggy Gou to our beloved Shire, have now transformed the Beach Hotel on Saturdays and the odd Friday night into something reminiscent of a super club in the UK and Europe. Experience quality dance music on a quality sound system with a constellation of mirror balls and world-class lighting. January has already seen DJ Boring, Shanti Celeste, CC:DISCO!, DJ Seinfeld, and Pachyman blow minds.

Coming up this Friday night, 27 January, they present Australian-born, UK-based HAAi, supported by First Nations Meeanjin-based artist Dameeeela. Friday, 3 February, UK-based Ross From Friends will be performing live before he joins Fred Again for the Laneway lineup.

Upcoming dates include: Saturday 18 February, Saturday 3 March, and Friday 17 March. They still have Four Tet, Ben UFO and some very special guests yet to come, including support from locals Central Sonics, Jai Piccone and Jono Ma

Sets start at 7pm. Note: the Beach Hotel has a 20 per cent discount on all drinks for local residents. Just show ID with a local postcode.

HAAi, Ross From Friends, Four Set, Ben UFO – and more secret internationals at the Beach Hotel, Byron Bay. For more info, dates and times, and to RSVP go to www.mapresents.com.au, or scan the QR code in their ad.

7 DAYS OF ENTERTAINMENT

FOR TONY BARRY

The Drill Hall Theatre Company’s season of Andrew Bovell’s When the Rain Stops Falling is dedicated to the memory of actor Tony Barry. Tony was a patron and a great friend to our local theatre company. He also cherished Australian stories. Bovell’s play weaves around the silence of a violent act. Tony appreciated the irony that When the Rain Stops Falling specifically opens on the day that honours the Great Australian Silence around the violence of 26 January. The opening night has sold out.

When the Rain Stops Falling is an epic family saga that spans 80 years; from 1959 London to the Coorong in South Australia, and to Alice Springs

in 2039. The play is an awardwinning modern Australian classic that has been performed around the globe. According to the director of the play, Gregory Aitken, there is something sacred about When the Rain Stops Falling; it is ‘A work of magic realism that is enhanced by superb performances, seance lighting and transcendent music.’

Original music by Andy Bambach is performed live by a three-piece band. ‘I am privileged to work with such a company of stunning actors, musicians and creatives. Tony would have loved our Rain. This one is for you mate,’ says Aitken.

There is a special preview on Wednesday 25 January at 7.30pm

FUNDRAISER TO SUPPORT WOMEN

for the Actors Benevolent Fund in honour of Tony Barry.

When the Rain Stops Falling plays 12 performances from 26 January to 12 February – Thursday to Sunday. Tickets are available at drillhalltheatre.org.au.

THIS IS THE VERY LAST

The Very Last List of Vivian Walker is performed by brilliant local talent and is on soon in Murwillumbah before taking off on a tour of Australia and the UK. It’s not something we like to think about, but if you had three months to live would lists of domestic tasks feature high on your ‘bucket list’?

That’s the way the heroine from Megan Albany’s Banjo Prize shortlisted novel, The Very Last List of Vivian Walker chose to go. The result is a hilarious and heart-wrenching journey through the everyday ‘stuff’ of life.

This is a great live theatre and music production featuring AACTA award-winning actor and podcaster, Madeleine West (Neighbours, Underbelly et al), with the author Megan Albany on vocals and master musician Marc Mittag on guitar.

You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll think of life’s big issues in a totally different way.  And you’ll have a truly memorable experience.

You can see it locally at 7pm on Friday, 3 February at the Regent Cinema, Murwillumbah before it heads off to the Adelaide Fringe Festival, Glen St Sydney, Gasworks Melbourne and venues in the UK in August.

There may be tickets at the door, but don’t take your chances – you don’t want to be the one hearing everyone else rave about it.

For tickets go to meganalbany.com/events.

Local teacher, Farah Rowhani is organising a fundraiser called ‘We Say Her Name’ to give financial and emotional support to women in the Northern Rivers. Farah was inspired by her childhood experiences and the recent events in Iran. As she says, with love and compassion, ‘I am Persian by birth but Australian by nature. My firm desire is to empower and assist the women in our community impacted by physical, financial or emotional abuse.’

The evening is to be a mixture of music, singing, comedy and a call for affirmative action. Local identities David Heilpern and Mandy Nolan are the guest speakers, with Mandy as MC. Welcome to Country will be facilitated by Aunty Delta Kay. Entertainment will include comedy by Mandy and music by singers Áine Tyrrell, Luke Vassella, Simon Chate, Tapestry Road, Parissa Bouas and Jasmine Soraya. All entertainers have generously donated their time and talent free of charge. An evening meal will be available for purchase on arrival.

Recent events in Farah’s country of birth, after witnessing and experiencing the suppression of women as a child and teenager, have strengthened her resolve to support and empower women. ‘In Australia, one woman is killed every week by her partner or former partner. This was highlighted as the very first murder in Australia in 2023 was a local lady. This statistic alone is not only a blight on our community but also indicates the level of support needed for those escaping abuse.’

Farah sees this fundraiser as the first of many. ‘My goal is to reach out to all men and women in our community to support and empower each and every one of us.’

The fundraiser is to be held on Saturday evening, 18 February at the Marvell Hall, Byron Bay. The evening will commence with meet and greet from 6pm and the show begins at 7pm. Tickets are $47 – the proceeds go to ‘Women Up North’, which is a local organisation that assists women and children who are experiencing domestic violence and abuse.

To purchase your tickets please go to events.humanitix.com/phoenix-of-gaia, or visit Facebook @ the phoenix of gaia. Further enquiries and information ring 0402 595 275.

SCENES WITH SPAGHETTI CIRCUS

Spaghetti Circus Inc. is one of Australia’s leading youth circuses and has been an energetic, vibrant and colourful part of the Byron Shire for 30 years from when it was founded by Leonie Mills OAM in 1992. Every week, Spaghetti’s diverse team of coaches train more than 220 children and adults from their Mullumbimby Showground home.

The Echo sat down with Spaghetti Circus’ General Manager, Alice Cadwell, to find out more about the philosophy behind the organisation and how it operates.

Alice, did you run off to join the circus?

Yes, I did run away to join the circus when I was 21. I went straight from uni to Circus Monoxide and then to Circus Oz. I had my first child on the road touring full time with Circus Oz as their stage manager and production manager of their Big Top tent. We were doing Adelaide Fringe Festival and living in a caravan out the back of the circus. When I was pregnant with my second child I decided to run away from the circus and move back up to the Byron Shire where I’d grown up.

In 2011 I applied to be General Manager of Spaghetti Circus and got the job! I was really excited to join Spaghetti because I was a teenager when Spaghetti was founded, so I grew up alongside all the Spaghetti performers who were doing circus. The job at Spaghetti

perfectly married my circus and Northern Rivers worlds. Spaghetti Circus has a unique culture and leadership style – could you tell us more about that?

Leonie Mills, who is the founder of Spaghetti Circus, is an inspiring, strong matriarch and she instilled in the company a matriarchal ethos. It’s a different kind of leadership – it’s slower, consultatory and inclusive. Family, however that may present, is at the centre of everything. It’s about nurturing everyone and making sure that all abilities, but also all ages, including our elders, are celebrated and respected. It’s about honouring our past and nurturing our children, our future. As an organisation it also means ensuring people are fed; placing people first in every decision. During covid, our regular adage was ‘cancel early, cancel often’. This was really about placing people and community health above money-making decisions.

We have a saying: ‘Once a Spaghetti, always a Spaghetti’. This underpins our culture; you’re never an ex-Spaghetti, you are always part of the Spaghetti family. This was very much on display when we got hit by the floods and everyone helped out, and it’s why the National

Circus Festival, that we put on every two years, attracts incredible performers from around the world. They all want to come back and look after Spaghetti and see themselves as being part of the Spaghetti family.

Are Spaghetti Circus classes mainly for kids?

Spaghetti Circus is for everyone. We have classes that cater for all age ranges and abilities. Most of our enrolments are school-aged children, but we also have fantastic classes for Noodles and Macaronis (children aged under five years). They are parent-and-child classes so it’s a really beautiful chance for parents and children to spend time together learning to move with confidence while having a lot of fun. Then, we have the adult classes, which are very popular and a great way to get fit while being social. The classes cater for all levels so total beginners are welcome to learn how to spin their first hula hoop up while more experienced participants can learn advanced skills such as acrobatics and using aerial equipment like the trapeze, silks and lyra.

How do you think circus connects with wellbeing? Is it just circus skills that students develop at Spaghetti? Spaghetti is all about empowering creative, confident, healthy kids (and adults!).

Put yourself at the heart of BayFM Community Radio – Australia’s most awarded station in 2022. You’ll need experience in broadcast radio management and strong tech skills. This permanent part-time role is twenty hours a week and is as

Pay rates are in line with the responsibilities involved. Email president@bayfm.org today for a full job description.

In a risk-averse world, circus offers us the possibility to dream, play, imagine, aspire and connect. While the demands of circus are mighty, through risk taking, physical effort and teamwork, its rewards are many. We learn to fly, to fall and to fail – safely. We discover our inner resources to master a skill and to hone a performance. We find a community that encourages and supports us to become more than we thought possible. Many of our teenagers say they love circus because they get applauded for taking risks. They are rewarded with an enormous sense of achievement as well as an adrenaline rush. We teach them how to take risks safely and the importance of trust, communication and teamwork. We also promote the significance of failure and perseverance – you have to drop a lot of balls to become a good juggler!

On a practical level, our Performance Troupe also get to learn all aspects of putting on a show. One of the shows we put on every year features performances by all the Spaghetti classes and the Performance Troupe looks after all the behind-the-scenes work including lighting, sound, stage management, ticketing, front of house, cafe, make-up, costume and kid wrangling.

Enrolments for Spaghetti Circus classes are now open. Head to www.spaghetticircus.com. Term One classes commence Monday, 30 January.

CINEMA

WEDNESDAY 25

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, MARSHALL OKELL

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 3.30PM BEN WHITING, 6.30PM BACKBEAT

MARVELL HALL GARDENS, BYRON BAY, 7:30PM

MACBETH

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, TAY OSKEE

DRILL HALL THEATRE, MULLUMBIMBY, 7.30PM WHEN THE RAIN STOPS FALLING

MIDDLE PUB , MULLUM, HIT THAT HIT - MUSICAL BINGO WITH SANDPIT DANNY

LISMORE CITY BOWLO 7PM WAX LYRICAL SONGWRITER SHOWCASE

SHEOAK SHACK, FINGAL HEAD, 7PM KINGY COMEDY: FEAT. MICK MEREDITH, SUPPORT SHAYNE HUNTER – MC: MANDY NOLAN

THURSDAY 26

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, DONNY SHADES DUO

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 12.30PM TIM STOKES, 3PM DJ REFLEX, 4.30PM

THE FERAMONES, 7PM DJ LORDY WARDY, 9PM DJ TAI DANIELS

VILLAGE, BYRON BAY, VILLAGE – VENUE GRAND OPENING

NORTH BYRON HOTEL 1PM TONY & THE THIEF

MARVELL ST HALL, BYRON BAY, 2PM A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM

HOTEL BRUNSWICK 7.30PM DAN HANNAFORD

DRILL HALL THEATRE, MULLUMBIMBY, 7.30PM WHEN THE RAIN STOPS FALLING

SEAGULLS, TWEED HEADS, 10PM BEARDED DRAGONS

FRIDAY 27

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, PHIL & TILLEY, 8PM BACKBEAT

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, HAAI + DAMEEEELA, 2.30PM KALAKARI, 5PM SPACE IS THE PLACE

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, THE GOOD LOVE

LOVERS LANE, BYRON BAY, 7PM DUNE RATS X BIRDS OF CONDOR

NORTH BYRON HOTEL 7PM DJ YASMIN

MARVELL HALL GARDENS, BYRON BAY, 7.30PM MACBETH

HOTEL BRUNSWICK 7.30PM THE SWAMPS

OCEAN SHORES COUNTRY CLUB 4PM LEIGH JAMES YUM YUM TREE CAFE, NEW BRIGHTON, 6PM ROD MURRAY – A TRIBUTE TO JAZZ

WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4.30PM DJ PAPA BITCHO

MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 5PM BALCONY BEATS WITH DJ LESHI, 8PM KRAPEOKE –HOSTED BY JESS

ST JOHN’S SCHOOL HALL, MULLUMBIMBY,

SUNDAY 29

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, THE HILLBILLY SKANK BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 2.30PM DJ WAX ADDICTS, 4.30PM GOODRICH NORTH BYRON HOTEL 1.30PM OLE FALCO, 5PM DJ ABEL TORO

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 4PM TY SEGALL

HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4PM MASON RACK BAND

BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 6PM A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM

OCEAN SHORES COUNTRY CLUB 4PM THE GIN BUGGS

MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 3PM SWAMP CATS WITH OPEN-MIC JAM WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM BEN WHITING

DRILL HALL THEATRE, MULLUMBIMBY, 5PM WHEN THE RAIN STOPS FALLING

LENNOX COMMUNITY MARKET 9AM STEAM CLUB LENNOX 3PM TIM STOKES

BALLINA RSL LEVEL ONE 10.30AM STRUM-ALONG WITH STUKULELE, BOARDWALK 2.30PM

SUNDAY BLUES SESSION – SOREN CARLBERGG QUARTET WITH GUESTS IMPERIAL BLUES REVIEW SHAWS BAY HOTEL, BALLINA, 2PM SHAWS BAY SUNDAY SESSIONS FT THE FERAMONES

SEAGULLS, TWEED HEADS, 12PM JOCK BARNES

MONDAY 30

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, CHRIS FISHER BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 3.30PM SHENOA, 5PM SOUTHWALL DUO

TUESDAY 31

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, JOCK BARNES DUO

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 5PM AKOVA, 6.30PM JASON DELPHIN

BANGALOW BOWLO 7.30PM BANGALOW BRACKETS OPEN MIC

WEDNESDAY 1

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, JAMIE ASHFORTH BYRON THEATRE 11AM THE SEAGULL STARRING EMILIA CLARKE – NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE SCREENING, BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 7PM CHEEKY CABARET

MIDDLE PUB , MULLUM, HIT THAT HIT - MUSICAL BINGO WITH SANDPIT DANNY

BABYLON

It’s a long way from Neighbours to Babylon for Australian Actress Margot Robbie, who once again stars alongside Brad Pitt in a tale of outsized ambition and outrageous excess –tracing the rise and fall of multiple characters during an era of unbridled decadence and depravity in early Hollywood.

In 1926 Los Angeles, Mexican immigrant, Manuel ‘Manny’ Torres (Diego Calva), a film assistant who aspires to have a larger role within the film industry, helps transport an elephant to a debauched, drug-fuelled bacchanal at a Kinoscope Studios executive’s mansion. He quickly becomes smitten with Nellie LaRoy (Robbie), a brash, ambitious self-declared ‘star’ from New Jersey. Upon meeting her and snorting cocaine together, Manny reveals his wish to be part of something bigger. While the elephant walks through, distracting partygoers, Manny helps carry away young actress Jane Thornton, who has overdosed on drugs.

Also attending the party are Chinese-American lesbian cabaret singer Lady Fay Zhu (Li Jun Li), and African-American jazz trumpeter Sidney Palmer (Jovan Adepo); their music fuelling the flamboyantly-dancing Nellie who is spotted and swiftly recruited to replace Jane. During filming, she crudely upstages the star. Manny meets and befriends the drunken Jack Conrad (Brad Pitt), a benevolent but troubled, oft-married film star, and drives him home. Jack helps Manny secure an assistant job at Kinoscope and soon Manny climbs the studio system’s ranks.

Over 189 minutes (yes that’s right, 3 hours and 9 minutes) the ups and down of late 1920’s filmmaking decadence will take you on a ride you’ve probably – almost certainly –not been on before.

Babylon premiered in Los Angeles in mid December to very mixed reviews and is screening at Ballina Fair and Palace now.

E. W. Howe

When people hear good music, it makes them homesick for something they never had, and never will have.

BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 7PM CHEEKY CABARET

1 SOCIAL REMEDY

Located in Byron Bay, Social Remedy is Australia’s first Social Wellness Club that offers a fully equipped gym with yoga/ pilates and recovery space with finnish sauna, steam, ice baths, cryo & hyperbaric chamber, infrared saunas, iv injectable nutrients, oxygen & compression therapy as well as acupuncture and massage. All of their spaces are designed for optimal selfcare and connection.

23/1A Banksia Dr, Byron Bay socialremedy.com.au 0421 147 626

2 SUNRISE FRESH LAUNDRETTE

Sunrise Fresh Laundrette is open at Byron Bay Fair!

Fresh Laundrette gives you a clean, convenient, and efficient laundry experience with the option of letting the team do the washing for you!

Open 7 days, 7.30am–7.30pm.

Conveniently located at Byron Bay Fair–where the locals shop!

Facebook: @osfreshlaundrette 20 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay Fair

3 KIDO

The ultimate location for kids’ fashion in the Northern Rivers, with new stock from international brands Bobo Choses, Weekend House Kids, The Animals Observatory, and many more. They also stock all of your favourite local designers, so now is the perfect time to drop in, say ‘Hi’, and shop their newest selection.

Shop 7, 18 Centennial Cct, Byron Bay www.kidostore.com @kidostore

4 BODYPEACE BAMBOO CLOTHING

SAMPLE SALE & WAREHOUSE CLEARANCE

Men's & Women's XXS–XXL. Prices from $10. Every Wed/Thur/Fri 10am–3pm. Bodypeace Bamboo Clothing has been dressing locals and visitors for over a decade. Bamboo fibre is naturally breathable, moisture-wicking, thermoregulating and hypoallergenic. Their signature blend is a popular choice for underwear, activewear and everyday wear. Their warehouse shop is open every Wednesday to Friday!

www.bodypeacebamboo.com

2–4 Ti Tree Place, Byron A&I Estate Instagram: @bodypeacebamboo FB: @bodypeacebamboo

5 B SMOOTHIE BAR

Same Bare Blends products.

Same Bare Blends recipes.

Consistent hours: Monday–Friday, 8am–3pm. Saturday, 8am–2pm. Awesome happy team creating awesome fast smoothies for you.

Lot 44 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay (neighbours of Tigmi Trading) @bsmoothiebar

6 VAMPT VINTAGE DESIGN

If you are looking for unique, original, midcentury furniture then Vampt is your store. Sourcing from several Scandinavian countries for over 20 years and more recently from Italy, Holland and Brazil, Vampt has a diverse range of quality vintage furniture, lighting and collectibles. Also located in Surry Hills, Vampt has an extensive range and are able to bring anything up from their Sydney shop.

Open Tues to Thurs: 10am–4pm, Fri: 10am–3pm, Sat: 10am–2pm.

Cnr Bayshore Dr & Banksia Dr, Byron Bay Call Dave: 0414 806 549 www.vamptvintagedesign.com @vamptvintagedesign @eternity.design.collections

7 BUN COFFEE

A good coffee changes everything. Choose from ethically sourced, certified organic, Rainforest Alliance, Fair Trade, Australian grown blends or compostable coffee pods – all traceable to origin. Want to travel a bit further afield? Explore the Single Origin Bar and taste the world of coffee through their unique coffee collection from over 40 countries.

Monday–Friday, 6am–3pm. Unit 15–17, 1A Banksia Drive, Byron Bay 02 6680 9798 www.buncoffee.com.au

8 BODHI LIVING

Bodhi Living showcases a carefully curated collection of furniture, homewares, rugs and lighting, sourced both locally and globally. They have recently introduced a range of collections designed in-house, including sofas, dining tables and seating that uses natural and sustainable materials such as rattan and wood.

The brand encapsulates the freedom of spirit and the soul of the individual as represented through their home.  Shop 1/18 Centennial Circuit, Byron A&I Estate 0413 420 120 www.bodhiliving.com.au IG @bodhi.living

9 PAGING COMFORT!

Brightening the days of our amazing health workers who care for our families and community daily, Honey Hunt has created flattering feminine fit ART-scrubs in fun, vibrant colourful designs.

With wicking, light-weight, easy care recycled fabric, Microban®Anti-microbial anti-odour protection and pockets, plus tabs!

These are more than healthcare ware, they are supremely comfortable, gorgeous, proudly local and Australian made.

Shop 2, 1 Centennial Cct, Byron Arts & Industry 0408 766 546

www.honeyhunt.style

HABITAT PRECINCT

10 CROSSFIT BYRON BAY

If you are searching for the best hour of your day, look no further than CrossFit Byron Bay. Locals only 7-day trial for $30. Wanderluster? We have you covered with the best week of your year!

Sweat with our friendly locals under the guidance of our world-class coaching team. Weightlifting, personal training, retreats, yogility and good vibes available.

74 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay 0423 618 308

crossfitwanderlustbyronbay@gmail.com www.crossfitbyronbay.com

HABITAT PRECINCT

Habitat is a cleverly designed village in Byron Bay, where you can live, work and play, all in one place.

Over 20 years in the making, Habitat combines the best of old-school Byron (community, creativity, respect for the environment) with the latest in design and thinking (renewable energy, car sharing, hybrid live + work spaces) along with plenty of good times (bars, cafes, fitness, shopping) to create a little oasis within one of the most beautiful places on earth.

11 HIGHSPEC PROPERTIES BUYERS AGENTS

Your local Northern Rivers Buyers’ Agents HighSpec Properties – award-winning buyers’ agency dedicated to helping you own your own slice of Byron and the Northern Rivers.

Get in touch and watch your property dream come to life through refined strategy, expert negotiation, and unparalleled commitment.

Team HighSpec will be your secret agents, making one of life’s greatest stressors a breeze.

Ground floor, Habitat Building 20 Fullerton Lane, Byron Bay 1300 447 732 www.highspecproperties.com.au

12 MR SIMPLE

Clothing and accessories inspired by vintage workwear, military surplus and sportswear.

They also show their love of surf and skate culture with an eclectic collection of skateboards, hot sauces, books, eskies, clothes, and even a barbershop.

The Habitat Byron Bay Suites 39-41, Building C3 248 Bayshore Drive Call to Book: 8215 0723

Mon–Fri: 8.30am–4.00pm. Sun: 10.00am–2.00pm.

13 BARRIO EATERY & BAR

Barrio brings together the local community in a relaxed environment for all-day dining. The wood-fired oven and open-flame grill are the heart of the restaurant.

Wednesday is barbecue night, with monthly guest chef.

Keep an eye on socials for daily specials. 1 Porter Street, Byron Bay 0411 323 165

Mon–Tues: 7am–3pm. Wed–Sat: 7am–10pm. @barriobyronbay www.barriobyronbay.com.au

14 HABITAT RETAIL & LIFESTYLE PRECINCT

It’s no accident people love shopping at Habitat. They’ve carefully curated every homeware store, independent boutique and fashion label, so you can find the iconic style you’d expect from Byron without the hassle of going into town (including lots of free parking). We reckon it’s Byron’s most exciting neighbourhood, but go and take a look for yourself.

Habitat, 1 Porter Street, Byron Bay

15 VAGABOND

BYRON BAY

Plant-based goodness cafe • Awesome coffee • All milks available • Smoothies to dream about • Delicious in-house baked cakes and treats • Yummy food • No bookings required.

Outside seating for 50 patrons, or lay on the lawn under the shady poinciana in the centre courtyard.

Open Monday to Saturday: 6.30am–3pm. Sunday: 8am–2pm.

Habitat, Shop 33–34, 1 Porter Street, Byron Bay @vagabondbyronbay

Cryptic Clues

ACROSS 1. Single boatman discovered in Canada’s north (8)

Attacks, reacts and boxes (6)

Chook’s daily duty – Put down directions to the viceroy (3,2,3)

Very fat, including grim smells (6) 12. Au&Ag – two of 20 (4,3,6)

Mad about A new grand right axis (5) 16. Choose and exam about polling (9) 17. English in the scrub after bad infirmity (3,6) 19. Also lines for utensils (5) 20. Platinum amulet – so price amazing (8,5)

Betting rages – right at the top (6) 23. Border collie is a reckless speed hog (5,3) 25. Present academic consumed (6) 26. French east includes ship’s lading… and in France it is very slow (8) DOWN 1. Distances the tennis cup from a great player (5,5) 2. No, said the nag (3) 3. Time to hide new number in lost year – hides to cure! (7) 4. Old ideas with 150 – target is where you find the ports! (7,5) 6. Communist firm at British soldier (7) 7. Time hot run away – could be a fatal strike! (11) 8. Small remnant of a band (4)

Wildly shout delight for unemployed notions (4,8)

Messy genital pool – a possible recourse to law (5,6)

American torches needed for really smart lands (10)

LE intended, they say – 12 are two examples! (7)

Moderate a method of painting (7)

American journalist employed (3)

500, 1, 10 – get it? (3)

STARS

BY LILITH

Welcome to the Chinese new year of the Water Rabbit, traditionally a restorative twelve months on the tail of the fiery Tiger, and a respite before the roar of the dramatic Dragon…

Quick Clues

Province whose capital is Winnipeg (8)

Packing cases (6)

a complete flop (3,2,3)

Invasion, Survival and Mourning Day

Special guest: Ella Noah Bancroft

Invasion, Survival and Mourning Day. Every year since I was born my bones and body have felt awkward on 26 January. In my youth I found refuge at Yabun, a Survival Day festival, which is held in Sydney City at Victoria Park. It provided a space for me to celebrate the continuation of our culture as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; to celebrate the blood that runs through my veins that binds me to the longest living culture on the entire planet. A place where I could be both sad and happy.

Why does 26 January create so much anger, sadness and frustration?

Because it’s a day that is not inclusive. It’s a day that celebrates inequality in this country. It’s a day that says 97 per cent of our population can celebrate the injustices done to thousands and thousands of innocent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the name of advancement and expansion of the British Empire.

Imagine they shoot your grandparents, they take your partner as a slave and now you stand outside of your home cold, hungry and alone.

continent. It’s not just a day of mourning for Indigenous people. It should be a day of mourning for all peoples; the day of mourning for what we have all lost – our birthright to live within a system of balance, reciprocity, connection, equity and harmony.

To celebrate this day is to say: ‘I celebrate discrimination, inequality, and climate change.

While all the other Sydney streets, shops or places were flying the Australian flag, here in the heart of the city, surrounded by trees, I was held by the community, our flag was flying and there was softness inside of me as I felt part of something and not excluded.

Why does 26 January create so much anger, sadness and frustration?

Because it’s a day that is not inclusive. It’s a day that celebrates inequality in this country. It’s a day that says 97 per cent of our population can celebrate the injustices done to thousands and thousands of innocent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the name of advancement and expansion of the British Empire. Through celebration the nation is condoning the continual attempt to destroy Indigenous culture, lands, waters and our more-thanhuman kin.

Ask any sociologist and they will tell you that inequality breeds hate, sadness and war. Imagine you’re at home about to eat dinner with your family, a group of uninvited people arrive at your house with alcohol in hand, invite themselves in, remove your children from the dinner table, remove you from the dinner table and take their own seats at your dinner table, announcing to you and your family that your house is now theirs and that your food is now theirs.

ARIES: The Rabbit hates arguments and avoids competitive situations, being a defensive player who always maintains more than one escape route. So don’t dismiss this year’s people as pushovers, and go easy on that upfront-ational Aries approach: this year favours persuasive communication and diplomatic negotiation. Honey rather than chili.

TAURUS: Your boss planet Venus is favoured in a Rabbit year; said to be excellent for arts grants. Also for improving domestic aesthetics, because self-indulgent Bunny likes to spend on home comforts. Personal growth this year will come through the balance of active compassion towards those less fortunate.

GEMINI: In the year of the Bucktoothed hustler, people tend to avoid dealing with difficult issues and prefer quantity to quality, hopping around lots of people without letting anyone too close. Sound like anyone you know? Whatever. This year adores and rewards your organisation, communication and management skills.

Imagine how you would feel? Then imagine every year that same house throws a big house party and you’re expected to show up and enjoy the combined smell of sunscreen, sweat, sausages, beer and the sounds of Triple J that now permeate what was once your balanced home.

The smells of colonisation, the smell of the culture known as Australia. A combination of VB and toxic masculine sweat.

I recently heard a great joke from a friend; what is the difference between modern day Australia and yoghurt? Yoghurt has culture!

And it’s true. We are asked, as all peoples, to celebrate the most immature culture on this planet and completely ignore the longest lasting, most advanced, complex, creative and sustainable culture in history on the entire planet.

‘Australians’ can do better

It’s not just us, the Indigenous population asking for change, it’s millions of allies too. We are all awakening to the true value of our Indigenous history, knowledge and culture that preserved and helped the natural world thrive pre British invasion.

26 January is a day of mourning and loss for so many people across this

CANCER: Sensitive, securityconscious Rabbit vibes place this year’s focus firmly on friends, family and home entertaining; on nurturing, nesting, cuddling and snuggling – could it get any more Cancerian? A sharp bargainer with a keen eye for a canny buy, the Rabbit is astute and prudent in money matters too.

LEO: Also mysteriously known as ‘the Cat’, convivial Bunny loves the material world’s toys, joys and goodies, so its year is traditionally one of taking it easy and shelving unpleasant realities. But all play and no work maketh a lazy Leo, and others do look to you for leadership, Majesty…

VIRGO: The year of the Long-eared Carrot Cruncher is considered a reasonably leisurely one for self-stressing Virgos. Your natural talents of style, refinement, diplomacy and discretion will be valued, but make a note-to-self: if others aren’t interested in addressing their problems, then why should you?

LIBRA: Rabbit avoids unpleasantness by withdrawing, and postpones disagreeable tasks as long as possible – sound familiar? Beauty loving, fashionable Bunnies love fluffing up, and this year prizes elegance, glamour and style, so if you need to look gorgeous on a budget – who knows how to do that better than you?

SCORPIO: Determined, sophisticated, inscrutable, ruthlessly charming, confident of its own abilities to get what it wants; Rabbit shares many Scorpionic qualities. Its year is about looking after your own and your loved ones’ interests, so what magic rabbit are you planning to produce out of this year’s existential hat?

SAGITTARIUS: Free-ranging Rabbit is quick-witted, articulate and resilient, so even if this year sets a trap, you’ll talk your way out of getting stewed with prunes. Overall, it’s a year for doing lots of what makes you happy, and everyone knows what these small furry fornicators are notorious for…

I celebrate politicians’ ever-growing wallets, big corporations who don’t pay taxes, capitalism, mining and extraction of resources, incarceration of children, the degradation of soils, land and waters and I celebrate attempted genocide and the continual theft of land, culture and children.’

So what will you celebrate on 26 January? An immature hybrid Australian culture that draws from the worst of American and British culture combined? To celebrate a culture that breeds addiction, extraction, greed and individualism? Or will you sit with us by the waters, meet us on the land at Main Beach, Byron Bay and commemorate the wars, the loss, the grief; and celebrate the continuation of one of the most important cultures to survive on this planet?

A note from Mandy Nolan: For 21 years I have written this opinion piece. I have never missed a week. Every year I write about why Australia Day needs to be moved to another date. But in writing that I am still a white woman occupying space. So this week I have invited Bundjalung woman and Director of The Returning Indigenous Corporation to write the Soapbox. Please don’t congratulate me. It’s the least I can do. This year I encourage those of us with platforms to step aside and demonstrate allyship by handing over to First Nations voices. It’s time for us to listen.

CAPRICORN: The water element brings extra flexibility to this year, which benefits from cautious, controlled, conservative handling of finances, with success more likely if offers are rigorously assessed, fine print thoroughly scrutinised and life’s glitches and bitches approached in your signature organised, orderly way. Your kind of year, Capricorn.

AQUARIUS: Clever Rabbit can talk itself into, or out of, most situations, intuitively avoiding harm to itself, something Aquarians naturally relate to. This year sees you popular as always, with a core group of family and friends to help you back to balance if – okay, let’s say when –you tilt off-centre.

PISCES: Beneath its endearing, cuddly exterior, wiley Rabbit’s a resourceful survivor. Like you, the Cunning Cottontail’s adept at getting its own way by negotiating and, if necessary, manipulating, and cleverly bending the rules. This imaginative Water Rabbit year helps you find creative ways around red tape and regulations.

Eden at Byr

Australia has over 24,000 species of native plants. Thanks to the many different climatic conditions and soil types, there is great diversity in the native flora. Plants have adapted to survive in environments ranging from coastal heath, through rainforest to the arid outback.

There’s lots of work being done by dedicated plant growers and breeders to learn more about this rich resource, improve the quality and performance of existing varieties, and cultivate new varieties for us to enjoy. So, wherever you are, there will be many native plants that will happily grow in your garden.

Native plants are beautiful and productive, and essential for the survival of native animals. Visit Eden at Byron to explore the great range of native plants suitable for our climate.

140 Bangalow Road, Byron Bay 02 6685 6874

m n k a ig SPACES

Plateau L dscaפ Supp es

For the utmost in outdoor style and luxury, Plateau Landscape Supplies are well worth the drive to Alstonville.

They are now stocking a range of stunning outdoor copper showers, designed to create the ultimate unique look for your garden. Each piece is handcrafted, and being copper, it changes and responds to the environment around it, so your shower will truly be a one of a kind.

Bring a touch of lux to your garden or create a resort style outdoor bathroom at your property. Why not complete the look with some contemporary outdoor brass lighting. Various styles are available and you are sure to find the show-stopping pieces you’ve been searching for.

14 Kays Lane Alstonville 02 6788 1234

Miss Tr Nursery

Miss Tree is a thriving plant nursery providing a vast array of quality native plants. A Miss Tree speciality and favourite are grevilleas. They are fast-growing botanical wonders with spectacular blooms that are bird magnets. They bring delight and beauty to any garden and many provide flowers all year round. Miss Tree offers over 60 varieties including vigorous groundcovers, delicate little bushes, medium to large shrubs, and trees. The passion for the grevillea species is on display at the extensive Miss Tree gardens, where you can see how they grow. They can sometimes require specific care and Stephanie is available to offer advice.

Open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9am to 3pm at 420 Rosebank Rd, Rosebank, 0448974421,  www.misstree.com.au.

BEDS R US - Byr Bay

Start your year in comfort and style with beds R Us, Byron Bay. Updating your bedroom furniture can have a significant impact on your overall wellbeing and quality of life. A comfortable and stylish bedroom can help you relax, unwind and get a good night’s sleep. A new bed, mattress, and pillows can provide improved support and comfort, helping you to get a better night’s sleep. New furniture can give your bedroom a fresh, updated look and feel and they have many different furniture options available to suit your personal taste. Some new furniture pieces, like a platform bed or a bed with built-in storage, can increase the functionality of your bedroom and allow you to make the most of your space.

Find them at 16 Brigantine St, Byron Industrial Estate.

PRESTIGE AGENT

BYRON BAY SPECIALIST

ABOUT OLIVER

ForOliver,thegreatestrewardinrealestate is theabilitytochangelivesviathepower of property.Seeingjoyousclientspursuetheir dreamsafter a successfulsaleis a privilege he doesn’t take lightly. Drawn to the industry after a careerthatincludesprofessionalyachting, runninghisownsuccessfulbusinessand workingforanextremelylargeUSAproperty developer,he’stransferredthesestrong customerserviceandsalesskillstorealestate intheNorthernRivers.This,combinedwithhis strongworkethicandfastidiousapproach, is whyclientscontinuetocomebacktoworkwith Oliver time and again and refer him on to others.

C U R R E NT L I S T I N GS

13 ELFRAN AVENUE, POTTSVILLE 12 NORTH HILL COURT, TANGLEWOOD 416 NIGHTCAP RANGE ROAD, WHIAN WHIA N 15 PIPECLAY ROAD, MYOCUM

Oliver Hallock

Helen is an absolute delight to work with. She has such a deep understanding of the market and the sales process and works hard to get the vendor the absolute best result possible. She exudes professionalism and is humble, approachable, kind and insightful. Helen is a fantasti c communicator and we felt that she was holding our hand through the entire sales process. We couldn’t be happier with the way our campaign was manag ed and the sale price that was achieved in a declining market.

Knowledgeable, professional, efficient and tenacious. I have bought and sold properties all over the world and Tara is as good as they come.

I couldn’t be happier with the process from beginning to end, selling 2 properties over this past year.

Tara Torkkola and her team have been exceptional. I recommend them highly.

Denzil was genuinely caring, patient and extremely professional in all stages of the process. He also took our feedback onboard, to reach the best result we could have hoped for. Denzil represented our property in the best light, and stands out from other agents through his openness and his genuine consideration. Communication with Denzil was easy, thanks to the support provided by Jane Johnston, who was always available an d doing her best to make this experience the smoothest one possible. VENDOR - BYRON BAY

From

For over 30 years, First National Byron has cemented its position as the region’s number one agency, servicing a footprint that extends across the entire area. Our agency has sold more than double the number of properties than our nearest competitor for more than a decade. We are proud to be recognised as an iconic local company employing the most highly trained and accomplished sales, marketing, photography and office management staff. Above all else, we live, work and play in the Northern Rivers. We know our patch, love our people, embrace our lifestyle and are actively involved in events and initiatives that shape our region.

Please get in touch if you are thinking of selling, would like a free appraisal, or advice on anything real estate related.

VENDOR - BRUNSWICK HEADS

VENDOR - MYOCUM

Su and her team provided us with exceptional service while managing the sale of our home, often times going above and beyond th eir remit. Su kept us informed every step of they way and her knowledge of the local market is second to none. I don’t think any other agent works ha rder for their clients than Su Reynolds and we wouldn’t hesitate in recommending Su to others selling a property. VENDOR - BRYON BAY

my first meeting with Oliver, I was impressed with his knowledge of the local market and his friendly professional manner. His honest opinion on value, based on current market conditions, was spot on. He kept me updated every step of the way to a ver y speedy and successful financial conclusion which exceeded my expectations. VENDOR - BYRON BAY

What a fantastic outcome! Paul Banister sold our house after only 5 weeks and in a very tough market. All communications were clear and transparent and we felt informed throughout the process. Great job Paul, thanks. VENDOR - SUFFOLK PARK

Paul Prior’s experience and expertise enabled us to get a sale quickly and at a price above what his competitors were seeking. Paul provided a comprehensive marketing plan and worked hard following up every lead. Paul was empathetic and reassuring during the stress of selling our family home in a difficult market. VENDOR - THE CHANNON

CHRIS HANLEY CEO | Licensee

SU REYNOLDS Director | Sales Chief Cultural Officer HELEN HUNTLY-BARRATT Director | Sales TARA TORKKOLA Sales | Sales Manager

DENZIL LLOYD Sales PAUL BANISTER Sales

LUKE ELWIN Sales

Team Su Reynolds

PAUL PRIOR Sales OLIVER ALDRIDGE Sales

LEE GRIMES Sales

OLIVIA COATES Sales

JASMIN McCLYMONT Sales Team Tara Torkkola

RENEE SCHOFIELD Sales Associate for Su Reynolds

JANE JOHNSTON Sales Associate for Denzil Lloyd

SALLY GREEN Sales Team Tara Torkkola

KATE STANFORD Client Care for Su Reynolds

Open For Inspection

Ruth Russell Realty

• 11 Quail Way, Mullumbimby. Sat 11–11.45am

• 76 Orana Road Ocean Shores. Sat 12.30–1pm

Jet Real Estate

• 1/34 Beryl Street, Tweed Heads. Sat 9–9.30am

Harcourts

• 6 Karalauren Court, Lennox Head. Sat 9–9.30am

• 7 Sweetlip Place, Ballina. Sat 9–9.30am

• 13 Richmond Street, Wardell. Sat 10–10.30am

• 36 Surf Avenue, Skennars Head. Sat 10–10.45am

• 3 Jabiru Place, East Ballina. Sat 10–10.30am

• 950 Pimlico Road, Pimlico. Sat 11–11.30am

• 20 Kookaburra Street, Ballina. Sat 11–11.30am

• 16 Hartigan Street, Cumbalum. Sat 11–11.30am

• 129 Ballina Road, East Lismore. Sat 12–12.30pm

20 Earls Court, Goonellabah. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 3/5 Henry Philp Avenue, Ballina. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 4 Eden Place, Girrards Hill. Sat 1–1.30pm

• 59 Dolphin Drive, West Ballina. Sat 1–1.30pm

• 2/79 Silver Gull Drive, East Ballina. Sat 1.15–1.45pm

• 59 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill. Sat 1.15–1.45pm

• 731 Teven Road, Teven. Sat 2–2.30pm

• 2/14 Patricia Parade, Lennox Head. Sat 2.15–2.45pm

• 30 Stanley Park Road, Wollongbar. Sat 3.15pm–3.45pm

First National Byron Bay

• 358 Binna Burra Road, Binna Burra. Fri 11–11.30am

• 19 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby. Fri 3–3.30pm

• 9 Newberry Parade, Brunswick Heads. Fri 4–4.30pm

• 8 Sallywattle Drive, Suffolk Park. Sat 9–9.30am

• 240 The Manse Road, Myocum. Sat 9–9.30am

• 2/10 Corkwood Crescent, Suffolk Park. Sat 9–9.30am

• 9 Newberry Parade, Brunswick Heads. Sat 9–9.30am

• 19 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 10–10.30am

• 61 Robinsons Road, Wilsons Creek. Sat 10–10.30am

• 65 Lilli Pilli Drive, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30am

• 5 Browning Street, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30am

• 26 Oakland Court, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30am

• 42 Brandon Street, Suffolk Park. Sat 10–10.30am

• 279 Huonbrook Road, Huonbrook. Sat 11–11.30am

• 7 Tristania Place, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am

• 129 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 11–11.30am

• 16 Omega Circuit, Brunswick Heads. Sat 11–11.30am

• 1/9 Sunrise Boulevard, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am

• 14 Brooklet Road, Newrybar. Sat 11–11.30am

• 891 Main Arm Road, Main Arm. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 10 Tahra Crescent, Ewingsdale. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 5 Oceanside Place, Suffolk Park. Sat 12.30–1pm

• 34 Parrot Tree Place, Bangalow. Sat 1–1.30pm

• 159 Shara Boulevard, Ocean Shores. Sat 1–1.30pm

Ray White Byron Bay

• 3/14 Sunrise Boulevard, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30am

• 20 Cavvanbah Street, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30am

• 126a Stuart Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 11–11.30am

• 65 Currawong Way, Ewingsdale. Sat 11–11.30am

• 18 Kiyung Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 13/146 Old Bangalow Road, Byron Bay. Sat 12.30–1pm

• 2/4 Hazelwood Close, Suffolk Park. Sat 1.15–1.45pm

• 109-111 Broken Head Road, Suffolk Park. Sat 1.30–2pm

Mana RE

• 4 Eloura Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 9.30–10.00am

• 1/3 Halyard Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 10–10.30am

• 9 Galleon Lane, Brunswick Heads. Sat 11–11.30am

• 9 Gaggin Street, New Brighton. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 5 Phillip Street, South Golden Beach. Sat 1–1.30pm

McGrath Estate Agents Byron Bay

• 3/37 Childe Street, Byron Bay. Tues 4.30–5pm

• 13 Brushbox Drive, Mullumbimby Creek. Wed 2.30–3pm

• 56 Parrot Tree Place, Bangalow. Sat 10–10.30am

• 20 New City Road, Mullumbimby. Sat 10–10.30am

• 13 Brushbox Drive, Mullumbimby Creek. Sat 11.45–12.15pm

Byron Shire Real Estate

• 3-7 Myokum Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 10–10.30am

• 14 Warina Place, Mullumbimby. Sat 10–10.30am

• 7A Tathra Glen, Ocean Shores. Sat 10–10.30am

• 11 Coolamon Avenue, Mullumbimby. Sat 11–11.30am

• 22 Kiah Close, Ocean Shores. Sat 11–11.30am

• 4 Yemlot Court, Brunswick Heads. Sat 11–11.30am

• 4B Goondooloo Drive, Ocean Shores. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 56 Tweed Street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 7 Yackatoon Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 12–12.30pm

Real Estate Of Distinction

• 454 Crabbes Creek Road, Crabbes Creek. Sat 10.30–11.15am

• 35-37 Edwards Lane, Kynnumboon. Sat 1–1.45pm

North Coast Lifestyle Properties Brunswick Heads

• 19 Grevillea Avenue, Mullumbimby. Sat 10–10.30am

• 20 Redgate Road, South Golden Beach. Sat 10–10.30am

• 26/2 Langi Place, Ocean Shores. Sat 10–10.30am

• 17 Robin Street, South Golden Beach. Sat 11–11.45am

• 70 Helen Street, South Golden Beach. Sat 11–11.30am

Elders Brunswick Valley

• 5/4 Bindaree Way, Ocean Shores. Sat 10–10.30am

• 27 Warrambool Road, Ocean Shores. Sat 11–11.30am

• 3/22 Fingal Street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 12–12.30pm

Development opportunities

3–7 Myokum Street, Mullumbimby Land size: 1,628m2Online

NASHUA DREAMING - 132 SCARRABELOTTIS ROAD, NASHUA

•Modern contemporary, country style home that truly is the embodiment of countrycoastal living.

•Beautifully renovated single-level four bedroom home exudes elegance, style and an inspiring charm of yesteryear.

•Set on 12 easy care north facing acres, only 5 minutes to Bangalow, a further 15 minutes to the world class beaches of Byron Bay and within an hour of the Gold Coast.

•Additional studio nestled between main home and 15 metre wet edge lap pool.

•This is an amazing lifestyle property that ticks so many boxes, inspections invited.

Tancred

746

Due to circumstance the price has been reduced on this charming 1950s-character timber home, which must be sold. Situated on one of the largest blocks in central Mullumbimby, the 2A zoning offers a variety of development options or create your own private family oasis right in the centre of town. Just a five-minute stroll to the vibrant town centre, the perfect private property is set back from the road on a corner block and has neighbours on just two boundaries.

There are three good-sized bedrooms, a study, a big open-plan lounge and kitchen plus a spacious family room that flows onto a covered deck overlooking a huge sunny, private swimming pool area. Stunning established gardens feature an array of native and tropical plants and citrus trees. Plenty of options for subdivision (STCA) –29m street frontage, 54m lane access.

Inspect: Saturday January 28, 10am–10.30am

Online Auction: Opening bid $1,200,000

Contact: Todd Buckland – 0408 966 421

Gary Brazenor – 0423 777 237

Byron Shire Real Estate

Retro Charm and Priced to Sell

14 Warina Place, Mullumbimby 3 1 2

Located in a quiet cul de sac, ten minutes walk to town and 2 minutes walk to the Farmer’s Markets at the showgrounds, this property is ready for new owners.  The many original retro features of the home are the polished timber floors, louvered doors, breeze blocks, groovy tiles and display cabinetry in the kitchen.Entry to the house is through the covered parking and brings you into the wide hall. The main living area is centrally located with polished timber floors. Open plan kitchen/dining area, with original cabinetry and retro display cupboards.

Features include:

•Quiet cul de sac location on a 567m2 lot on the edge of town

•3 bed, 1 bath, single garage plus carport with fully fenced flat yard

•This home is full of original retro features and charm

•Short stroll to the Mullum Farmer’s Markets and town centre

Inspect: Saturday January 28, 10am–10.30am

Contact: Todd Buckland – 0408 966 421

Gary Brazenor – 0423 777 237

Byron Shire Real Estate

FOR SALE

GUITAY WELLBOX as new. Stimulating machine, reduce cellulite, wrinkles, body exercise. Also includes rider exercise machine. $3,500, 0428305750.

BROMELIADS

Long established nursery is closing down and everything must go. Mixed lots like the old days. More info at ebrom.com.au  0412664526 FEDERAL

MIELE WASHERS

Dryers and dishwashers available at Bridglands Mullumbimby. 66842511

BAMBOO PLANTS: clumping, screening, hedging, flowering gingers, bromeliads. Close to Mullum. 0458535760

3-SEATER MODULAR CHAISE Black leather, $950. Timber dining table & 4 chairs. $250. All VGC. 0266849321

HEALTH

GUITAY WELLBOX as new. Stimulating machine, reduce cellulite, wrinkles, body exercise. Also includes rider exercise machine. $3,500, 0428305750.

KINESIOLOGY

Clear subconscious sabotages. Reprogram patterns and beliefs. Restore vibrancy and physical health. De-stress. Ph 0403125506

SANDRA DAVEY, Reg. Pract.

HYPNOSIS & EFT

Simple and effective solutions Anxiety, Cravings, Fears & Trauma. Maureen Bracken 0402205352

COUPLES THERAPY Online www.oztantra.com 1800 TANTRA

TREE SERVICES

ARCHIBALD’S CHEAP QUARRY PRODUCTS

Road base, gravel, blue metal and metal dust. ALL SIZE DELIVERIES. Phone 66845517, 0418481617

PINK HOUSE PICK AND COLLECT A great range of fresh organic tea herbs, salad mixes and seasonal veggies from our garden in Mullum Creek. Come take your pick by appointment. DM via Instagram @pink_ house_pickandcollect

GARAGE SALES

HERITAGE HOUSE, cnr Deacon/Ashton St, Bangalow. Sat 8am–2pm. Cafe items only. Sites avail $15ea. 0429882525 Trish

GARAGE ART SALE 101 Riverside Dr, Ballina. 8am start, 26 Jan. 0428185301

103 YAGERS LANE, SKINNERS SHOOT The Lakehouse Garage Sale. Homewares, plants, soft furnishings, vases  vintage mid-century dining room chairs, collectibles, vintage dresses Sat 28 & Sun 29, 8am–12pm.

57 TRISTANIA ST, BANGALOW Saturday 28 January, from 8am. Adult and children’s books and clothes, toys, fridge, surfboards, and other h/hold items.

UNIT 7, 9 GREVILLEA ST, BYRON A&I Every Saturday, 9.30am–2.30pm until end Feb. Shoes, clothes, h/hold, mostly new.

WANTED

LP RECORDS: good condition, no op shop crap! Ph Matt 0401955052

POSITIONS VACANT

GARDENER WANTED Reliable, Byron Bay. Call 0434121979

LADIES WANTED, MUST BE 18+ Casual or permanent work available in busy adult parlour. 66816038 for details.

SOCIAL MEDIA GURU for small local business. Please call Wayne 0423218417

SCT LOGISTICS

TRUCK WASHERS TEMPORARY OPPORTUNITY

Truck washers required from Monday to Friday 38 hour week, weather dependant. Good rate of pay with immediate start at Broadwater NSW sugar mill site. Full training provided. Please contact 0409 568 795 during office hours or  Wendy.Keel@sctlogistics.com.au

PUBLIC NOTICES

SINGING GROUPS FOR WOMEN CHIXONG

Tuesday $15, Wednesday $15 ($20 both)

Beginners welcome. Brunswick Heads 7pm. byronbaysinging.com facebook.com/ByronBaySinging

SINGING GROUP FOR Fun and Frivolity Wednesday 1pm, Brunswick Heads. Beginners welcome. $15 ($8 Con) byronbaysinging.com facebook.com/ByronBaySinging

MOTOR VEHICLES

CARAVANS

TO LET

Little KAREN is the spokesfurry for the “clowder” of kittens in the shelter, they keep arriving. All so sweet and playful, but Karen says to ask the lovely Echo readers to hurry to the shelter and adopt them. Kittens don’t stay kittens for ever, so now is the pawfect time to adopt a cuddly bundle that bring lots of joy, and become a loving companion for life.

All cats are desexed, vaccinated and microchipped. No:953010002741658

MUSICAL NOTES

LOCAL REMOVAL

SMALL HOUSE FOR RENT

WANTED TO RENT

“Smokey Joe”

Joseph Charles Farrugia 15.12.1962 – 30.12.2022

Joe passed away peacefully on Friday, 30th December 2022, aged 60 years.

Late of East Lismore, formerly of Rooty Hill and Federal.

Loved son of Colleen & Joseph (dec). Cherished brother and brother-in-law to Louise, Jeffery & Kate, Anthony, and Greg & Peta. Loving uncle to Jake, Grace, Brooke, and Samuel.

Forever in our hearts.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Joe’s funeral service, to be held at Parkview Funeral Home, 43 Holland Street Goonellabah, on Friday 3rd February, commencing at 12.00pm, followed by a burial at Lismore Memorial Gardens. Following the service, everyone is welcome to join family at the Goonellabah Sports Club for a celebration of Joe’s life.

Celebration of the Life of Peter Parker

19 July 1951–16 January 2023

Liz Rankin invites you to a gathering of friends and colleagues to honour and celebrate Peter’s life.

Regular As Clockwork

DEADLINE NOON FRIDAY

Mullumbimby District Neighbourhood Centre

Mullumbimby & District Neighbourhood Centre is open Monday–Thursday 9am–4pm and offers a range of services and activities. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy art, music, games, great food and more. Call reception on 6684 1286 and discover what is on offer.

MDNC services that are running include:

Community support/emergency relief: Food parcels, meals, assistance with electricity and Telstra bills.

ACA Adult Children of Alcoholic Parents and/or Dysfunctional Families (ACA) help & recovery group meets in Lismore every Friday 10–11.30am, Red Dove Centre, 80 Keen Street. Byron meetings are on Tuesdays at 7pm via Zoom – meeting ID 554 974 582 password byronbay.

Drug support groups

ONLY ADULTS

MALE

BALLINA

FULL BODY RESTORATION Healing Through Pleasure massagebyronbay.com or 0425347477

LICENSED TO THRILL Premium Massage & Play touchofjustine.com/byron-bay-outcalls

KRYSTAL ADULT SHOP Large variety of toys and lingerie 6/6 Tasman Way, A&I Est, Byron Bay Ph 66856330

BLISSFUL MASSAGE FOR WOMEN BY A WOMAN Gift your wife a sensual treat! Ph 0407013347

Listening Space: free counselling. Staying Home, Leaving Violence program

Integrated Domestic & Family Violence program

Financial Counselling: outreach available Thursdays & Fridays Financial Counselling: free service funded by the government, offering advocacy & assistance to find options to address debts.

Information, referral and advocacy. To enquire about accessing any of these services call 6684 1286 or fill out an online enquiry form.

Byron Community Centre

Byron Community Centre

The Byron Community Centre provides community services and programs including meals, advocacy and counselling for locals in need. Fletcher Street Cottage: A welcoming, safe and respectful space where people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness can come to get practical relief opportunities, find connections and access broader support. Fletcher Street Cottage services are open Monday–Friday.

Breakfast: Monday–Friday, 7am–9am. Showers and Laundry: Monday–Friday, 7am–12pm. Office Support: Monday–Friday, 9am - 12pm. Support Appointments: Individual support appointments with community workers or specialist services. For bookings please call 6685 6807.

Fletcher Street Cottage, 18 Fletcher St, Byron Bay. More info: www. fletcherstreetcottage.com.au.

SOCIAL ESCORTS

Byron Community Cabin: Seniors Computer Club (school term only), 9–11am, Friday, Carlyle Steet. More info: www.byroncentre.com.au Phone: 6685 6807

Low-cost or free food

Food Box Thursdays 9.30–11.30am at Uniting Church, Mullumbimby. You may purchase cheap food, obtain free veges, and enjoy a cuppa. Free Food Relief Bags for anyone doing it tough, every Wednesday 10–12noon at The Hub Ocean Shores, cnr Rajah Rd and Bindaree Way. No ID or Concession Card required. NILs referral service also available. Check Facebook page The Hub Baptist Ocean Shores for details. Liberation Larder Takeaway lunches and groceries Monday and Thursday 12 till 1pm. Fletcher Street end of the Byron Community Centre.

Respite Service

Call Alcoholics Anonymous 1800 423 431 or 0401 945 671 – 30 meetings a week in the Shire – www.aa.org.au. Are you experiencing difficulties and challenges because of the alcohol or drug use of someone close to you? Learn coping skills and gain support from others. Narcotics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women for whom drugs had become a major problem. We are recovering addicts who meet regularly to help each other stay clean. For information and meetings call 1300 652 820 or text your postcode to 0488 811 247. www. na.org.au. Are you concerned about somebody else’s drinking? Al-Anon Family Groups meetings held Fridays at 2pm by Zoom. 1300 252666 www. al-anon.org.au.

Support after suicide

StandBy provides support to people who have lost someone to suicide. They provide free face-to-face and telephone support and are accessible 24/7. Follow-up contact is available for up to one year. Find out more

at: www.standbysupport.com.au or call 13 11 14. If you, or someone you are with, are in need of immediate support please call an ambulance or police on 000.

Carers’ support

Mullumbimby Mental Health Carers’ Support Group for family members and friends who have a loved one with a mental health issue. Meeting on 4th Thursday of each month 9.30am at the Mullumbimby Neighbourhood Centre. Info: Susanne 0428 716 431.

Rainbow Dragons

Rainbow Dragons Abreast (RDA) welcomes breast cancer survivors for a paddle at Lake Ainsworth, Lennox Head (and sometimes at Ballina) on Sundays 7.30am for 8am start. Contact Marian 6688 4058, mazzerati2010@gmail.com.

Language exchange

Byron language exchange club runs every 2nd last Friday of the month from 6pm (alternating Ballina/ Byron). Practise other languages or help someone with your English! Find us on Facebook. Contact byronbaylanguages@gmail.com.

Brunswick Valley Historical Society Inc

The Museum is on the corner of Myocum and Stuart Sts Mullumbimby, open Tuesdays and Fridays 10am–12pm and market Saturdays 9am–1pm. Discover your local history, join our team – 6684 4367.

19:42 16:32 1:57 0644 1.51 1845 1.02 1329 0.60

2TH 6:17 19:41 17:26 2:43 0730 1.57 1937 1.06 0024 0.45 1413 0.53

3F 6:18 19:41 18:15 3:34 0812 1.62 2019 1.11 0112 0.41 1449 0.47

4SA 6:18 19:40 19:00 4:28 0849 1.67 2056 1.16 0154 0.36 1522 0.42

5SU 6:19 19:39 19:39 5:24 0925 1.70 2130 1.20 0231 0.32 1553 0.40

6M 6:20 19:39 20:14 6:20 0959 1.72 2202 1.23 0306 0.30 1622 0.38

7TU 6:21 19:38 20:45 7:16 1031 1.71 2236 1.26 0341 0.29 1651 0.37

8W 6:22 19:37 21:14 8:10 1102 1.69 2312 1.28 0415 0.31 1719 0.36

Byron Shire Respite Service Inc delivers high-quality respite care to a broad range of clients throughout the Byron, Ballina and Lismore shires. Donations welcome: Ph 6685 1921, email fundraiser@byronrespite.com. au, web: www.byronrespite.com.au.

Alateen meeting

Alateen meeting every Thursday at 5–6pm. Do you have a parent, close friend or relative with a drinking problem? Alateen can help. For 8–16-year-olds meet St Cuthbert’s Anglican Church Hall, 13 Powell Street, corner of Florence Street Tweed Heads. Al-Anon family groups for older members at the same time and place. 1300 ALANON 1300 252 666

Byron Dog Rescue (CAWI)

Big centuries scored across the region as cricket season builds

Alstonville has come off second best to Tintenbar East Ballina in their two-day match at Hill Park Oval in the Far North Coast LJ Hooker League, thanks to a century from Abe Crawford.

TEB chose to bowl and it didn’t take long for their first strike as Alstonville opener Ryan Pearce was trapped lbw for a third-ball duck.

Kyle Yager (25 runs) joined Fergus Campey (15) at the crease and the pair put on 30 before TEB’s first change bowler, Steven Leahy, had Kyle caught out.

Steven’s spell saw three more wickets fall including Danny O’Toole and Terry Murphy for ducks, and Alstonville slump from 2/30 to 6/83.

Mathew Job (33) and Jon Gallagher (66) got the innings back on track and the side was all out for 186 after 69.4 overs.

Steven Leahy was the best of TEB’s bowlers with 4/18 off 15 overs including eight maidens. Will Jenkins collected 2/29 from nine overs.

In reply TEB also lost their first wicket cheaply with Cameron Daniels falling for 2 after facing 18 deliveries.

But at the other end, Abe Crawford settled in to post an unbeaten 126 to take his team to victory.

Will Jenkins (37) joined him and together they put on a 134-run partnership.

The best bowlers for Alstonville included: Will

Barnes 2/56 off 16 overs and Terry Murphy 1/58 off 18.

The win puts TEB into second place on the ladder (20 points) behind Cudgen (26). Goonellabah Workers (20) are in third place while Tweed Banora (18) and Casino (15) each have three wins from six starts. Alstonville (13) are sixth.

More tons

Thomas Byrne also scored 111no for Tweed Banora on the weekend in their loss to Goonellabah at Dave Burns Field in the LJ Hooker League.

Byrne’s score helped Tweed Banora to 7/311 decalred, but it was surpassed by the visitors who reached the total with

3x3 basketball rocks far north NSW

three wickets to spare, care of Jack Cooper who scored 113.

Casino’s Tim Martin also hit 109 in a total of 4/292 declared, to set up a win against Ballina (197) in their first-grade fixture.

Dougy

But Byron Bay third grader, Doug Jarvis, top scored with a massive 156no, his maiden century.

He batted for the full 40 overs and carried his side to 7/276, which was too much for Mullumbimby Brunswick who were bowled out for 82 on Saturday at Stan Thompson Oval.

Best bowler on the day for Byron was Brendan Mitchell with 4/14 off three overs.

Good results for locals in Yamba criterion

Byron Bay Cycling Club members shook up C-grade at the criterion racing held in Yamba last Sunday.

Conditions made for a great morning of cycling despite the high humidity that made the road surface challenging. All riders were able to make their way around the course safely, according to the Yamba Cycling Club report.

In C-grade racing there was a mix of experienced riders and two juniors. In the field of nine, three were from the BBCC.

Basketball NSW (BNSW) has teamed up with the Office of Sport, Indigenous Basketball Australia and local communities to run basketball clinics and 3x3 tournaments in the far north of NSW to help grow the game in regional areas.

On Friday January 13 BNSW and IBA teamed up with Flow Projects to run a 3x3 day in Lismore that attracted more than 60

junior players.

‘Juniors didn’t have to come as part of a team, that all gets sorted on the day,’ Lauren King from BNSW said.

‘The grant means we can run these programs to the end of the year. Any clubs who want to be involved should get in touch with the community programs at BNSW,’ she said.

School holiday clinics were also held at Angourie,

Grafton and Murwillumbah last week.

‘We are also working closely with the local community to develop Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pathways for youth leaders, coaches, referees and technical officials,’ she said.

The BNSW website will provide information on more clinics and 3x3 days throughout the year (https://www. bnsw.com.au/indigenous/).

In race one, the prime lap and first place were taken by BBCC rider Gianluca Morini from Brian Elvery (YCC). The finale came down to a photo finish.

Lauren Ford (YCC) came third ahead of Gratian Punch (BBCC) in fourth.

Race two saw some different tactics used by the stronger riders. Lauren held after soloing away for first place. Brian took second

from Gianluca, with David Fleming holding off a late surge from Gratian.

Young BBCC member George Bloor had a great day on the bike. His attack, just before the prime lap, nearly saw him take some points from the adults.

Byron’s Gianluca took out overall first place on 20 points from Lauren (15) and Brian (14).

Eight starters took part in the combined A and B grade

racing including one from BBCC, Martin Bloor.

Race one was dominated by Yamba locals, with Dan Collard coming first, followed over the line by Derek Van Leest. Coffs Harbour’s Lauralee Moss snatched third.

Race two was again won by Dan, Scott Dinham (YCC) came second, and Derek took third. Lauralee finshed fourth, while Martin Bloor took fifth place.

Two grades of riders enjoyed plenty of tight racing at the Yamba criterion. Photo Sharon Mitchell Images

TEB’s Abe Crawford raises his bat to acknowledge the congratulations after he scored 126no. Photo supplied

Doug Jarvis blazed 156no on Saturday at Brunswick Heads including dozens of boundaries. Photos Laura Box

Chrissie

Ah, January 26 – it’s either snag-oi-oi-oi-flag day, or if you are mob, Survivial Day. Or maybe it’s just a day to reflect on how lucky this nation is, and that a significant way to improve our shared fortune is to adopt the Indigenous Voice to Parliament.

Independent publisher, Crikey, reports that controversial US private prison provider Management and Training Corporation (MTC) has been paid more than $74 million by the Albanese government to begin work on offshore processing on Nauru. Its work doesn’t involve detention, writes Denham Sadler, as all asylum seekers on Nauru live within the community. Greens Senator, Nick McKim, has referred its contract to the auditor-general because serious allegations have been levelled at the firm in the US.

How can Australia be the most prosperous country on Earth? Senior policy advisor for The New Liberals and barrister, Victor Kline, thinks he has the answer: ‘1. Make the rich pay tax. Not more tax, just what they owe. 2. Halve the tax of the working person.

3. Job guarantee scheme. 4. Robust and targeted government investment in smart private sector entrepreneurs.

5. Free education’.

FYI the Robodebt Royal Commission is still ongoing, offering insights into systemic breakdowns within bureaucracy, and how the wretched scheme under Morrison and his goons led to the misery and deaths of those wrongfully accused of having small government debts.

Tim Costello didn’t hold back in giving it to the gaming industry in a recent piece in The Guardian. While Norway is considered the gold standard in reform, he says, ‘NSW has half of the nation’s pokies and, incredibly, 35 per cent of the world’s pokies in its clubs and pubs’. Costello also claims that NSW Labor, under former premier, Bob Carr, originally allowed pokies into pubs, ‘drastically increasing the number of communities suffering from gambling harm’.

‘Clothes maketh the man. Naked people have little, or no influence in society.’ — Mark Twain (1835–1910)

Wategos Beach residents have formed a volunteer Community Fire Unit (CFU)! In the announcement this week, FRNSW Acting Commissioner, Megan Stiffler, says the unit ‘acts as a fire safety trip wire, alerting authorities when properties

are under threat’. Residents who would like to establish their own CFU can visit

www.fire.nsw.gov.au/page. php?id=133.

Chris Braat really, really digs Kombis. And he likes a beer and cocktails. Thus, the two loves in his life have merged as the Kombi Keg. Chris supplies the goods down at Byron Bay Reflections Holiday Park on Tuesdays (4–8pm) and at the Secret Garden on Wednesday and Friday nights. Photo Jeff ‘So Old School Byron, He’s A Fossil’ Dawson