The Byron Shire Echo – Issue 39.24 – November 20, 2024

Bangalow princess steed

Upgrades planned for Bruns Boat Harbour

Hans Lovejoy

There is finally some movement on improvements to the Brunswick Heads Boat Harbour, with Transport for NSW Maritime announcing on its website it will fund electrical upgrades to the existing boating facilities.

Yet the future of the Bruns Fish Co-Op building, which has sat vacant since 2017, is unknown.

An online statement by Transport for NSW Maritime says contractors are being sought to upgrade power that services the harbour berths, and that the waitlist for berths has closed ‘until after the project is completed’.

The statement continues, ‘As the result of recent flooding in the area [2022], we still have some critical site investigations to complete and will finalise these when conditions improve’.

With site investigations now complete, Transport for NSW Maritime says the Review of Environmental Factors (REF) ‘will be available soon’.

‘We will invite community feedback on the project proposal when the concept design and REF go on public display’.

Negotiations?

amid a myriad of other intriguing and exciting things on offer at the ever-popular Bangalow Show. Photo Jeff ‘Royale With Cheese’ Dawson

Disaster recovery funding of $52.5 million has been announced by the NSW Labor government, to help cash-strapped Byron Shire Council restore damaged rural road infrastructure.

Since the 2022 floods, many rural roads in the Byron Shire have received little, to no, maintenance, owing to Council being largely reliant on state and federal grants.

The NSW government media release says, ‘The funding, provided through the jointlyfunded Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, will go towards restoring slopes at multiple locations and repairing the culvert at Coopers Lane [in Main Arm]’.

Given the scope of the works, they say it is expected to take ‘a number of years’ to complete.

Which landslips?

‘Funding received will be used to repair landslips on: Coolamon Scenic Drive (two locations), Left Bank Road (two locations), Wilsons Creek Road (three locations), Coopers Creek Road (two locations), Goonengerry Road, Frasers Road, The Pocket Road (three locations), Tristran Parade, Huonbrook Road (five locations), Johnsons Road (four locations), Dry Creek Road, Main Arm Road, Monet Drive, St Helena Road, Wanganui Road, and Possum Shoot Road.’

Build back better

Council’s Director of Infrastructure Services, Phil Holloway, confirmed that the funds announced are not attached to the Build Back Better program, whereby roads are not just rebuilt, but improved to withstand future extreme natural weather events.

While grateful that the state and federal governments ‘are finally coming through with the money for these essential repairs’, former councillor and spokesperson for the Coopers Lane Residents Association, Duncan Dey, told The Echo, ‘We don’t want it repaired, we want it made flood-ready’.

A diagram shows the existing electrical line passing through the former Bruns Fish Co-Op building, and a new electrical connection proposed to be placed around the property. The electrical work is expected to begin in early 2025, and take about two months.

The statement adds, ‘At this stage, the number of berths that will become available will not be known until construction is complete’.

The last ‘community update’ around the harbour was October 2021, and it appears Echo inquiries have prompted the department into action.

Transport for NSW Maritime says the ‘project is in the early stages of development’, despite releasing the Brunswick Heads Boat Harbour Master Plan in October 2021.

The Echo asked Transport for NSW Maritime, ‘Have there been any negotiations with the former Bruns Fish Co-Op owner, William Silverman, around the harbour’s future?’.

A Transport for NSW (TfNSW) spokesperson replied, ‘As described in our recent community update, TfNSW will upgrade the utilities at Brunswick Heads Boat Harbour in preparation for a possible future harbour upgrade’.

‘This includes an upgrade to the electrical supply that will provide TfNSW as harbour manager with a dedicated supply to harbour infrastructure as a source of power for licensed berth holders.

‘TfNSW will keep the community updated as the project development progresses’.

That masterplan appears to have been abandoned, and rebranded as the ‘Brunswick Heads Boat Harbour upgrade project’.

Prior to closure in 2017, Mr Silverman accused Crown Lands, who manage surrounding lands, of not being responsive to his vision for the site, which was for ‘a simple working port with food hospitality jobs, and

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Princess Layla and her royal steed won the hearts and minds of her subjects at last weekend’s Bangalow Show. The fancy dress section was just one of the scores of horse events,

Kids dodge falling tree

Young school children at Main Arm Upper Public School were lucky to escape serious injuries after dodging a large, old fig tree which split and fell on the school grounds.

The roof of the covered walkway was damaged.

Four students were transported to the hospital for further assessment, but were later released, school principal, Virginia Pavlovich, told The Echo. ‘Counselling has been offered to all students, including those who witnessed the incident but were not physically affected’.

Service attended Main Arm Upper Public School last week after a large tree split and fell on school grounds.

Meet Destination Byron’s new team

A new team and board members have been announced for visitor advocacy organisation, Destination Byron.

In a statement they said, ‘Wendy Bithell, owner of Vision Walks Eco Tours is President, supported by Vice President, Sam Leo of Alloggio Group, Secretary Jeanie Wylie of Frida’s Field, and Treasurer Rick Slater publisher of ByronBay.com’.

New board members representing Destination Byron’s 681 members include Kevin Hunt, an investor in Loft Byron Bay, Petrina Maxwell, owner of Agent 86 Experiences and Sarah Anderson, owner of marketing agency GTI Tourism. Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye also has a seat on the board, and Destination North Coast’s Jacquie Burnside observes board meetings.

President Wendy Bithell says their 2025 strategic priorities include attracting much-needed funding or team resources to develop a Destination Management Plan for the Byron Shire, creative marketing to tell the Byron story in a way that is authentic to the Byron community, as well as providing educational and networking events for its members.

The organisation reports that visitor numbers are down to 2014 levels and businesses are facing extremely challenging conditions.

For more info, visit www. destinationbyron.com.au.

‘Adopt a family’ Christmas hamper appeal launched

The Byron Community Centre says it is excited to launch its annual ‘adopt a family’ Christmas hamper appeal as the holidays approach.

The Centre’s Katie Love told The Echo it is ‘a heartwarming initiative dedicated to spreading joy and support to families in financial hardship across the Byron Shire. This program invites individuals and businesses to make a difference by providing custom hampers containing quality food, meaningful gifts and vouchers valued at $100 per family’.

She says families in need are identified through trusted partnerships with Fletcher Street Cottage and Liberation Larder.

To participate, contact the centre on 6685 6807 to be matched with a family in

need. Then, prepare a festive hamper with non-perishable food, gifts and vouchers, valued at approximately $100, and drop it off at the centre’s reception on December 11 to ensure it reaches the families in time for the holidays.

Ms Love adds you can also help by donating to the ‘Be Kind’ Fletcher Street Cottage Christmas appeal at www. fletcherstreetcottage.com.au.

Finding Queer Family Inc a home

Paul Bibby

For five years local community service organisation Queer Family Inc has been providing vital support for local members of the LGTBQIA+ community in and around the Byron Shire.

While this community represents around 11 per cent of our local population, it receives a disturbingly small piece of the funding pie – just 5 cents for every $100 given to the community sector.

This glaring structural inequity has meant that, despite repeated attempts to secure stable and suitable premises, Queer Family Inc has effectively been homeless for the past two-and-ahalf years.

Last week, the organisation came before Byron Council to once again plead its case for support, asking councillors to explore what buildings or land it has that might be used for a permanent home.

After some resistance from Council staff, Councillors eventually voted to take some action – agreeing to convene a meeting between staff, Queer Family representatives and interested councillors and to provide a report on potential Councilowned sites that could be used by Queer Family and other community service organisations.

‘We’re thrilled to have an outcome,’ the organisation’s Managing Director, Aiden Gentle, said after the meeting.

‘It’s been a long journey to get to this point.’

During an address to the meeting, Aiden said that the inequalities in funding, land allocation and other support for the Shire’s LGTBQIA+ community amounted to ‘structural oppression’.

‘The response we get from government is always the

same: “We think you’re doing a wonderful job, but we can’t help you”,’ Aiden told last week’s Council meeting.

‘How many men’s sheds and other sheds are there in the Shire?

‘How many showgrounds, how many sporting buildings, how many community gardens, how many scout halls, neighbourhood centres?

‘Eleven per cent of your constituents deserve to have at least one queer space.

Worst mental health stats

‘That the work of Queer Family Inc deserves funding and support is glaringly obvious when you look at the statistics in relation to mental health outcomes for the LGTBQIA+ community, and their disproportionately small slice of the funding pie.

‘We have the worst mental health stats in the country,’ Aiden told the meeting.

‘One in two trans people will try and kill themselves and 75 per cent experience suicidal ideation’.

A recent survey conducted by Health North Coast of 6,000 primary and

high school students found that five per cent of the respondents did not identify with the sex registered for them at birth.

‘If you put those stats together, you’re looking at 150 local children who will try and kill themselves,’ Aiden said.

‘That’s a lot, and we’re the only queer and trans-led organisation who service under-18s.’

Under last week’s motion, moved by newly-elected Greens councillor Elia Hague, councillors agreed that, if no Council-owned or managed property for Queer Family Inc could be identified, Council would support the organisation to find an alternative home to ensure the service could remain in the Shire.

‘I can’t overstate the importance of the work that Queer Family Inc does in our community,’ Cr Hague said.

‘They’ve served over 2,000 members of our community in only five years’.

‘The fact that they can’t run vital programs that support our community because of the space that they’re in is really sad and disappointing, and a loss for our community.’

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From left Nina Hurr (he/she/they), Alexandor (he/him), and Aiden Gentle (they/them). Photo supplied

Wendy Bithell from Vision Walks Eco Tours.

Photo Jeff Dawson

The Rural Fire

Photo Main Arm Valley Facebook

Big funds promised, but is it enough for roads?

▶ Continued from page 1

‘The additional cost to make it flood-ready is minor compared to the cost of this repair. And each future repair will cost the same as this repair because the culvert will still not be flood-ready.’

Phil Holloway, Director of Infrastructure Services, told The Echo, ‘The jointly-funded Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (NSW and federal government) guidelines indicate that eligible items can only be repaired to the same state they were prior to the flood event’.

He added, ‘While we don’t have the funds to complete the work they are proposing… Council will consult with the association further to investigate other funding options’.

Betterment projects

Mr Holloway added, ‘The only Betterment-funded projects Council currently planned are on Mullumbimby Road and some sections of Wilsons Creek Road’.

The Echo also asked Mr Holloway, ‘Given the road at Upper Main Arm is no longer recognised by Google Maps, when will Council be undertaking these essential roadworks?’

Upper Main Arm residents past Kohinhur Hall no longer have a road recognised by Google Maps. Senior Council staff say there was a ‘misinterpretation’ and they are trying to rectify the issue. Road works in the area will begin shortly, say staff. Photo supplied

He replied, ‘Council received enquiries from concerned community members about increased road usage on this section of road, which is in poor condition’.

Misinterpretation

‘Owing to these concerns, Council requested assistance from Transport for NSW to contact Google and request that a note be put on this section of road for people to use caution. Unfortunately,

there has been a misinterpretation somewhere and Google Maps is showing the road as closed. Council is working with Transport for NSW/Google to investigate and get this information corrected’.

Mr Holloway said, ‘The road is still open to local traffic, but road users should drive to conditions, and through traffic should avoid the area if possible’.

‘Work is due to begin

shortly on Main Arm Road between Motts Road and Dry Creek Road to improve the road there. Maintenance work is also due to occur in late November/early December.

‘Signage has been placed in the area to recommend that the road only be used by local traffic in the interim’.

A full list of flood repair work is available at Byron Shire Council’s website: https://tinyurl.com/ mw4uwu3p.

Lawson Street reopens ahead of schedule

Council contractors have finished upgrading a section of Lawson Street in Byron’s CBD, between Fletcher Street and Middleton Street.

As previously reported, local businesses located around the Byron Bay Drainage Upgrade project say they were adversely affected by the works, resulting in financial losses.

Council staff say the works included reconstructing the road, renewing the water

supply, a major upgrade of the drainage system and other improvements.

Christopher Soulsby, Byron Shire Council’s Manager Assets and Major Projects said, ‘We are glad to see the road reopened ahead of schedule and thank business owners and road users for their patience, while we completed this essential work’.

‘The upgraded stormwater drainage on Lawson

Street will improve the flow of water, and the road is looking nice and smooth,’ Mr Soulsby said.

‘Get down to Lawson Street now to see the improvements for yourself, do some Christmas shopping or enjoy a meal,’ he said.

Next stage

Construction of the next stages of the Byron Bay Drainage Upgrade, is due to start in the town centre in early to mid-2025.

‘We are all one. Only ego, belief, and fear separate us’

Mon 2nd December

Mullum Community Gardens 11am–4pm (11–12 AGM)

Entry FREE for members, suggested donation for non-members of $10

Community protectors needed

Murray

‘Muzz’ Drechsler

A strong and safe community relies mostly on volunteers – from wildlife carers, meals on wheels, op shops, the SES, the Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA) – and the Rural Fire Service (RFS).

The RFS are always looking for more dedicated and passionate recruits to join – particularly the Billinudgel, Main Arm, and Burringbar brigades.

We do not only attend to bush fires, but also house fires, car accidents, evacuations and disaster recovery. We also assist ambulance medics where needed.

Volunteer fire fighter, Carol Donnelly, says she decided to be a volunteer at Billinudgel/Ocean Shores RFS back in May 2024. She says, ‘My husband has been a crew member for around four years, and I have personally got to know what he and the

team do to protect our community. It is really fantastic’.

‘However, my role is not in fighting fires, I chose to be part of our brigade’s support crew, as there are lots of roles apart from fighting actual fires.

‘This is still an important role, which includes transporting food and water to fire fighters’, Carol adds.

Muzz is from the Billinudgel brigade

Learn Bundjalung culture, Nov 23

Coorabell Hall is hosting an special Indigenous cultural event on Saturday, November 23 at Coorabell Hall from 2pm.

Hall secretary, Adele Smout, says that Many Rivers – Bundjalung Culture and History – Understanding and Remembrance will feature Bundjalung author and historian, Dr Shauna Bostock.

‘[She is] winner of the 2024 NSW Premier’s Community and Regional History prize, with her book Reaching Through Time. Historical photos that form part of the event will be on display from 2pm, and Wahlubal Elder, Uncle Lewis Walker,

will conduct a Welcome and Smoking ceremony at 5pm.

‘This will be followed by truth-telling for

understanding and remembrance of First Nations people in the region.’ Entry is by donation.

Upgrades planned for Bruns Boat Harbour

▶ Continued from page 1

training for young people, and a community centre. A place for people to come and enjoy simple things like boating, fishing, kayaking and a showcase of local produce for locals and tourists.’

The Echo asked Mr Silverman why the co-op has remained closed for so long, and what vision he has for the site, post the 2022 flood.

‘Also, why do you believe this electrical work is being

Advice for every stage of life

undertaken? It appears to circumvent your property’.

He described the former harbour masterplan and promises made to community as ending in a ‘scam’.

‘There was a commission of inquiry into Crown Lands. So they moved responsibility to Transport NSW, wasting five years of effort and money’.

‘Then they came up with the upgrade of the marina.

Consultations produced massive differences between what

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was proposed, with community underlining the first priority is toilets and changing rooms. This proposal to upgrade the power to circumvent the cables running under private land. It’s a waste of money because power and water has been supplied to the port in this way for 20 years. The community is being taken for a long ride’, Mr Silverman added.  For more info visit https:// tinyurl.com/ye4ss82f.

Crew from the Billinudgel/Ocean Shores RFS. Photo Jeff ‘Hose Me Down I’m On Fire!’ Dawson

Wahlubal Elder, Uncle Lewis Walker. Photo Jeff Dawson

Versace Boys drop Get Rich or Cry Trying

Photo & story Jeff Dawson

Byron Shire-based misfit duo, Versace Boys, dropped their latest debut album last weekend.

Who are they? Members Will Henderson and Alex ‘Coastie’ Johnson were born rich and famous.

But things went downhill pretty quickly after that.

Now they need to make some filthy lucre and foolishly believe the music industry is the answer.

The Versace Boys are described as all style and no substance. Well, there’s plenty of style, but they are nearly out of substances.

Faced with a need to make some serious cash, the boys launched their newest debut album, Get Rich or Cry Trying last weekend.

Henderson said, ‘We were

Paul Bibby

Plans for a 24-unit residential development on Bangalow Road, Byron Bay, have been unanimously approved by Byron Shire councillors.

The development, located at 56–60 Bangalow Road, will see two older houses demolished and replaced with two blocks of units.

The units will be made up of one- and two-bedroom dwellings, with three designated as ‘affordable’ under state legislation, and three adapted to meet the needs of people with disabilities.

The dwellings will be

frothin’ when our publicity team said they had arranged for our album launch to be at a Brunswick Hotel. But the penny dropped as we realised it’s “a hotel” in the suburb of Brunswick in Melbourne. It’s not “our” Bruns Pub. Fuck! Our jet was still in

serviced by parking for 30 cars, intersection upgrades to Bangalow Road, and a recently constructed, as-yetunnamed, new Council road.

The developer has been granted permission to remove 40 native trees to facilitate their plans, a loss which they have promised to offset through compensatory planting and ongoing weed management within the adjacent coastal wetlands.

While a number of those living next to or near the site objected to its size, scale and the impact on traffic and

the panel beaters.’

On stage, these guys dance like Versace models on Ritalin, and sing like strangled spangled drongos.

The boys say their musical and lifestyle influences range

parking, others have argued that it will provide muchneeded housing which, while not affordable by any objective measure, will be cheaper than most other housing in the Bay.

Councillors unanimously approved the development when the application came before last week’s planning meeting.

However, Cr Jack Dods (Independent) recused himself from the debate and the vote because of his close

from Frank Zappa, TISM, Ian Drury, Pee Diddy through to Mullum IGA’s own Amyl and the Sniffers. Their lyrics are inspired by the words and wisdom of Homer, and display all the grace and poignance of Bart. Their beats reflect their worldly experiences.

Alex aka ‘Coastie’ said, Get Rich or Cry Trying will be our sixth record, if you count the Beatles’ White Album as two records. Most of ‘em are at Will’s place, coz he’s got a record player’.

Will added, ‘We now regret not allowing DJTrump to use our song, “Cash from Dad”, at his biggest most beautifulest rallies.’

Get Rich or Cry Trying, features tunes like ‘Vegan’, ‘2 Rich 2 Cry’, ‘Wategos’ and the off the hook banger, ‘Nails’. Get it from a Spotify near you. The Verscae Boys are the duck’s nuts.

of Christmas in the bay

Stephanie Rake

As Christmas approaches, a hopeful buzz returns to Byron Bay, promising a season that supports our hard-working community.

Last year, the Christmas Community Initiative rekindled joy in Railway Park, with a beautiful Christmas tree, lights on the Byron Bay Visitor Centre cottage, and a festive concert. It brought cheer to families, children, all our community and visitors.

While some may dismiss these efforts as frivolous, we believe balancing work with community celebrations is vital to preserving Byron’s unique warmth and spirit.

Byron’s challenges are real: economic strains, high rents, a housing crisis, and dwindling volunteer numbers.

The past few years have reshaped our lives, pressuring resources across small towns like ours.

Yet, Byron’s caring and supportive core endures.

business relationship with Ardill Payne & Partners, a local planning consultancy which was hired by the developer to provide traffic and civil reports as part of the application.

Councillors did not impose any significant conditions on the development in terms of its size or scale.

Pet restrictions

However, Greens councillor, Michelle Lowe, successfully moved a motion restricting and regulating the keeping of cats and dogs in the new units in order to limit their impact on local wildlife.

The Byron All Shorts short film competition is now calling for talented local filmmakers of all ages to submit their films and showcase their talent in this annual celebration of local creatives.

Organisers say it’s an ‘opportunity to celebrate our incredible Northern Rivers filmmaking talent, alongside the best of Flickerfest short films on tour to our region annually from Australia and the world’.

‘The Byron All Shorts

It’s disheartening to hear that ‘Byron is gone’, especially when so many in our community are dedicated to positive change.

Now more than ever, we need to unite, lend a hand, and celebrate the town that draws us all in.

So let’s tidy up, and pop up those decorations and get ready to put Christmas cheer back into the bay this year.

Please support the Christmas Community Initiative’s GoFundMe campaign for 2024, which will bring back the Christmas tree, lights in the park, and festive banners created by school students. Visit https://tinyurl.com/ mujnzzc6 before November 30. Every contribution helps – thank you!

Stephanie Rake is a volunteer from the Christmas Community Initiative.

2025 finalists screening and awards will be held on Saturday March 1, alongside the Flickerfest International Short Film Festival tour at the Mullumbimby Civic Hall. $3,000 in prizes

‘A local jury of film industry experts will award more than $3,000 in prizes that recognise and encourage excellence in short filmmaking’. Entries close January 10, 2025. Visit www.iQ.org.au for more details.

Versace Boys Alex ‘Coastie’ Johnson and Will Henderson.

Paul Bibby

ould the plan for Byron Council to take over the old stationmaster’s cottage and the train station building in Mullumbimby be cruelled by contamination issues on both sites?

This was the concern raised at last week’s Council meeting, bringing renewed questions about the future of the historic structures.

For years, members of the community have lobbied Council and the NSW government over the future of the two buildings, arguing that they should be retained for their heritage value, and potentially made available for use by local charities and community organisations.

Led by the Mullumbimby Chamber of Commerce and the Brunswick Valley Historical Society, the campaign submitted a large petition to Council last week, calling for them to retain and restore the two buildings.

The favoured option is for the NSW government to gift the two properties to Byron Council, which would then be responsible for their

management, upkeep and the provision of leases into the future.

But last Thursday’s meeting heard that a thorough, independent investigation into contamination issues at both sites was needed before Council would agree to any takeover of the sites.

This was required because the stationmaster’s cottage was contaminated with lead, and the station buildings contained asbestos and may also lie on soil that contains large quantities of degraded coal tailings.

‘The levels of lead far exceed what is supposed to be in a living environment,’

Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said of the stationmaster’s cottage.

‘We need to make sure that it’s safe before any community groups are housed there.’

It became apparent during the meeting that Council’s experience with contamination at the former Mullumbimby Hospital site has made it particularly wary of taking over such sites without doing its own due diligence.

‘We can’t afford to find ourselves in a similar situation

as we did with Mullum Hospital, where the contamination report that we received [from NSW Health] said remediation would cost between $300,000 and $400,000, and it ended up costing us between five and six million.

‘I’m very cautious to leap into something without having all the details, because it’s incumbent on us when we’re making these decisions that, as a cash-strapped council, we’re not creating more problems for ourselves.

‘It may be that we end up with an answer that we don’t necessarily want.’

Nevertheless, Council reiterated its earlier support for taking control of both sites at last week’s meeting.

A unanimous motion by councillors states that Council would do ‘everything in its power to retain, control and restore’ the stationmaster’s house and the train station building. Discussion is now in full swing regarding how this area of rail corridor, which does not include the heritage buildings, might be used.

Current uses being considered include up to 150 parking spaces and accessible open space.

Following the interception of fire ant infested turf at Clunes on November 13, a temporary suspension has been placed on turf movements from fire ant-infested areas of South East Qld.

A NSW Labor government media release says a new Biosecurity Emergency Order (No. 15) includes the immediate temporary suspension on turf, and is ‘designed to

mitigate the risk of fire ant movements into NSW’.

It reads, ‘Queensland residents who handle materials like soil, hay, turf and potted plants, sourced from within the Queensland-defined fire ant biosecurity zones are legally required to follow measures to reduce the risk of spreading fire ants, as outlined in the Biosecurity Regulation 2016 (QLD) as

well as any other requirements of the receiving state or territory’.

‘While fire ants continue to pose a serious threat across Australia, the NSW Fire Ant Program represents a significant step forward in the government’s fight to keep the state fire ant free’.

For more info visit www.fireants.org.au/stop/ outlier-detections/nsw

You can’t tell if materials contain asbestos just by looking at them. Asbestos is dangerous if damaged, disturbed or deteriorating so you shouldn’t remove it by yourself.

Planning ahead will avoid delays and cost blow outs.

Federal Greens candidate, Mandy Nolan, launched her political campaign for the seat of Richmond last Saturday to a packed crowd at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre. Her chat show featured a live band, along with guests Paul McDermott, Rhoda Roberts AO, Angus McDonald and 13-year-old environmental activist, Spencer Hitchen. Her Wednesday Twin Towns gig, featuring Kitty Flanagan, Dave Hughes and Akmal, also sold out. Photo Jeff ‘Hot Pants’ Dawson

North Coast News

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

A lifeline for mums with new babies across the Northern Rivers

The journey into motherhood is a transformative and joyous experience, yet it can also be daunting, especially for new mums without the support of nearby family. This is where Support for New Mums steps in.

Second inquest into Lismore murder of Simone Strobel

A second inquest into the 2005 murder of Simone Strobel in Lismore is scheduled to hear evidence until the end of the week.

South Ballina horseriding accident

A woman in her 40s was thrown from her horse on Sunday, November 10 in South Ballina.

How prepared are you for the next disaster? Lismore takes the lead

Two recent reports, the Lismore Flood Zone Survey and Outreach Report and the the Resilient Lismore Social Impact Report, have highlighted the need for ongoing community disaster recovery support in Lismore and the wider Northern Rivers region.

Two rescued from sinking boat off Lennox

Marine Rescue NSW says a local volunteer crew rescued two people from a sinking boat off the Lennox Head coast on Sunday.

Missing woman alert: Susan Connors

Police on Saturday issued a geo-targeting alert to smart devices in the Richmond District for missing 59-yearold woman Susan Connors.

The politics of life at the M-Arts Centre

The first in a series of public talks called ‘This Stuff Matters – Politics of Life’ takes place at the M-Arts Centre, Murwillumbah on November 21. The evening kicks-off with bar and food starting at 5.30pm, with the main event starting at 7pm. The conversationalists are Juliane Schultz (The Idea of Australia: A Search for the Soul of a Nation) and Judith White (Culture Heist: Art vs Money).

www.echo.net.au

Appeal over arson, and ram raids, at Tweed and Ballina tobacconists

Financial Crime Squad detectives have released CCTV footage as they appeal for information following ram raids and arson, at tobacconists located in Tweed and Ballina.

Tweed

About 4.30am on Sunday, 22 September, 2024, police were called to a tobacconist on Minjungbal Drive, Tweed Heads South, following reports of a crash.

Officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District arrived to find a Toyota Corolla sedan, believed to have been stolen from Queensland, driven into a tobacconist, before two unknown males entered the business destroying several displays and stealing a large number of cigarettes.

A crime scene was established, and police commenced an investigation into the incident.

A month later, about 2.40am on Tuesday, 22 October, police were called to the same tobacconist, following reports a car had driven into a neighbouring business.

Police arrived to find a MG SUV had driven into the store – as bollards had been placed in front of the tobacconist – before two unknown men poured fuel inside the business and fled without setting it alight.

A crime scene was established, and police commenced an investigation into the incident.

Ballina

About 3.30am the next day (Wednesday, 23 October, 2024), emergency services were called to River Street in

Ballina, following reports of a building fire.

On arrival, officers attached to Richmond Police District located a silver Mercedes sedan inside the shopfront of a tobacconist, well alight.

Police were told the sedan drove into the business before the vehicle caught fire, with the occupants of the vehicle leaving the scene prior to police arrival.

Fire and Rescue NSW attended and extinguished the blaze; however, the building was extensively damaged.

Surrounding units were evacuated and two other vehicles were damaged by the blaze.

No injuries have been reported as a result of the incident.

A crime scene has been established and an investigation into the incident has commenced.

Following initial investigations linking all three incidents, detectives attached to State Crime Command’s Financial Crime Squad’s Arson Unit commenced Strike Force Albany to investigate the incidents.

As part of investigations, strike force detectives have released CCTV of the two ram raids at the Tweed Heads South tobacconist.

Detectives are also hoping to speak to the driver and passengers of a dark coloured sedan seen leaving the scene of the second ram raid.

Ocean Shores

There was also a fire at the Ocean Shores tobacconist at about 12.45am on Tuesday, 6 August. Police have told The Echo that, ‘our understanding is that there is no connection’ between the three fires and the Ocean Shores fire.

Anyone with information about any of the incidents are urged to contact police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Anyone with information that may assist investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers. com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Turtle nest at Evans Head relocated

Aslan Shand

Last week saw the first turtle nest for the season in Evans Head with excited locals quickly contacting the TurtleWatch program to ensure the eggs remained protected.

‘This nest was from a loggerhead turtle,’ NSW TurtleWatch’s Project Officer, Merryn Dunleavy, told The Echo

‘Early detection is key for these nests in ensuring their protection. This nest was laid very low on the beach and was at risk of being washed away by high tides. Relocations are authorised by NSW NPWS and done only by permit holders.’

Relocation

Merryn was able to carefully excavate the nest and relocate it to a new nest site close by, that perfectly replicated the original, above the king tide mark.

NSW TurtleWatch’s Project Officer, Merryn Dunleavy, relocating the nest. Photo NSW TurtleWatch

‘This nest would have been inundated by the high tide,’ said Merryn.

The nest will be monitored closely by NSW TurtleWatch volunteers and NSW NPWS staff while it continues to incubate. Turtle eggs are highly vulnerable to predation, high tides and erosion.

If you see turtle tracks in the sand or a turtle laying a nest call the 24-hour TurtleWatch hotline: 0447 877 149 to report sightings.

Ivy wins at Ballina’s recycled art competition

Ivy Hickson took out both the U12 and People’s Choice award at Ballina Salvage Shed’s annual recycled art competition. Photo supplied

The Coast Road to be closed near Lennox

Part of The Coast Road in the Ballina Shire is to be closed from Tuesday, 19 November.

The Ballina Shire Council says it’s reconstructing a section of The Coast Road, from Pat Morton Lookout to the North Creek Road/Byron Bay Road roundabout.

Detours are to be in place via Skennars Head Road and North Creek Road, with access to the Lennox Head town centre to stay open via the North Creek Road roundabout.

The council says the project should take four weeks, weather permitting.

A landscaper’s vigilance in Clunes led to the interception of several live queen fire ants and worker ants – but not nests – in a turf delivery originating in South East Queensland.

This is classified as an interception rather than a detection, as the ants were contained within the delivered turf. Since this is an interception, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD) will lead the response, with support from the National Fire Ant Eradication Program (NFAEP).

Compliance blitz needed

‘This latest detection confirms our concerns

around the growing build up of fire ant numbers within suppression zones,’ Invasive Species Council Advocacy Manager, Reece Pianta said.

‘We call on the state government to urgently conduct a suppression and compliance blitz to prevent the spread of these tiny killers. I’ve been to fields with hundreds of fire ant nests less than 50 metres from turf farm production areas. This is a recipe for a national fire ant disaster. Fire ants are one of the world’s worst super pests, and their unchecked spread will result in economic damage greater than that caused by cane toads, rabbits, feral cats, and foxes combined.’

Fire at Ballina tobacconist. Photo NSW Police

The Byron Shire Echo

Volume 39 #24 • November 20, 2024

Shock, horror, the NSW Labor govt ignores public!

It’s been a busy week of ignoring the public for the NSW Labor government.

Firstly, a Transport for NSW statutory review of anti-protest laws was released last week, and it appears all the submissions from legal and human rights institutions were ignored.

Back in 2022, the then Liberal-National NSW government amended the Roads Act 1993 and the Crimes Act 1900 and created a new one, so they could punish climate activists who caused damage or disruption to major roads or major public facilities.

It is called the Roads and Crimes Legislation Amendment Act 2022

Fines of $22,000 and two year jail terms were rushed in for those pesky activists. There was a lot of humbug and yabber yabber about it at the time.

Despite submissions against the law from the Human Rights Law Centre, the Law Society of NSW, Young Labor Left NSW and NSW Council for Civil Liberties – to name a few – the unnamed Transport for NSW review authors said the policy objectives ‘remain valid and its provisions remain appropriate’.

One imagines they were relying on the one submission that said it was all tickety-boo.

On page 10 it reads, ‘Of the [1,462] submissions that were received, all but one called on the government to repeal or make changes to the legislation to reduce the penalties’.

It’s a tricky balance to strike between the right to protest and the public’s right to move freely, yet this looks just lazy and not in the spirit of building a more robust democracy.

Australia is the only liberal democracy in the world without a national act or charter of rights that comprehensively protects people’s basic rights, says www. humanrightswatch.gov.au.

While the ACT, Victoria and Qld have a bill of rights, NSW does not.

New planning body to bypass local councils

Meanwhile The Echo is yet to hear back from the office of NSW Planning Minister, Paul Scully, around claims by the body representing local government, LGNSW.

LGNSW said in a statement last week they condemn the announcement by the Minns Labor government that a new planning body will bypass local councils and communities on large housing developments.

LGNSW President Cr Darriea Turley AM says ‘a three-person planning authority [will be] given responsibility for housing developments over $60 million in the Sydney region and over $30 million in rural and regional areas.’

‘Removing councils from the spot rezoning process means removing the community’s voice. It will give developers a clear run to propose their own height limits, density and green space settings – it means that developers will now run our communities, not residents,’ said Cr Turley.

So there you have it – there is little difference between major parties when it comes to favouring developers and persecuting activists.

Hans Lovejoy, editor

Can Albo avoid losing the election?

Make no mistake, Peter Dutton and the far right will use the Trump coup as a template for this upcoming federal election.

Gina Rinehart, Australia’s richest person and one of Donald Trump’s buddies, flew over for the victory celebrations, declaring it to be ‘the best night of my life’.

There was a photograph of her in The Wall Street Journal, wearing a ‘DRILL BABY DRILL’ placard at a celebration. She says Australia will take its cues from America following Trump’s victory and reduce taxes and government regulation.

Peter Dutton and Gina are on the best of terms. He has flown on her private jet several times, once to attend her birthday party in Perth for just one hour. He subsequently billed taxpayers nearly $6,000 for staff and security.

Gina will likely ask Elon Musk to reprise the role he performed in Trump’s victory.

Musk used X ruthlessly to target vulnerable voters and spread disinformation to convince people the Democrats didn’t really care about average Americans, just fringe groups.

In a mass eXit, X users are so disgusted they are closing their accounts in the millions and moving over to Bluesky, described as ‘like Twitter before Musk’. It is gaining a million new subscribers every day.

Nevertheless, Musk can still have a similar impact on our election as he did in the now Disunited States of America (DSA).

With the prospect of the emboldened right in Australia planning a similar coup, what can the Albanese government do to prevent it? It’s a vexed question. Albo has not only to contend with Gina and the Institute for Public Affairs (IPA) that she funds, but also the far-right Advance Australia and the Murdoch empire.

Albo lost personal credibility when the Voice referendum was crushed. There’s no way he will propose anything that bold before the upcoming election.

If he offers just more of the same, will voters buy it?

He and Jim Chalmers have

The Byron Shire Echo

Volume 39 #24 November 20, 2024

Established 1986 • 22,000 copies every week www.echo.net.au

Phone: 02 6684 1777

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Office: 64 McGoughans Lane, Mullumbimby NSW 2482

General Manager Simon Haslam

Editor Hans Lovejoy

Deputy Editor Aslan Shand

Photographer Jeff Dawson

Advertising Manager Anna Coelho Production Manager Ziggi Browning

The Echo acknowledges the people of the Bundjalung nation as the traditional custodians of this land and extends respect to elders past, present and future.

Disclaimer: The Echo is committed to providing a voice for our whole community. The views of advertisers, letter writers, and opinion writers are not necessarily those of the owners or staff of this publication.

‘The PM and Jim Chalmers have proved they can keep the budget in the black, but this just doesn’t wash with ordinary Australians’ – Richard Jones

proved they can keep the budget in the black, but this just doesn’t wash with ordinary Australians battling to pay rent and buy food.

It may impress a few economists, but will have no influence whatsoever on how the Murdoch media treat the government.

One of the big factors in the Trump win was the constantlyrepeated question: ‘Ask yourself: are you better off now than you were four years ago?’ It didn’t matter that the American economy is doing better than almost every other country, thanks to Biden.

It didn’t matter that he had created 334,00 new jobs in clean energy with the Inflation Reduction Act 2022 All that mattered was how individual Americans answered that question.

The answer was largely ‘No’ because of rising prices post-Covid, and mounting impacts of the climate crisis.

Misogyny, racism and outrageous xenophobia were major factors, as was Biden’s unquestioning support of the murderous Netanyahu.

Bread and butter issues though, were critical for those who would normally vote Democrat.

The Trump administration is planning to make swingeing cuts to the federal budget, throwing hundreds of thousands out of work.

Their high tariffs on imported goods will trigger a trade war that will further devastate the economy. Already Trump is telling the UK to choose between him or ‘socialist’ Europe. The answer to that same question for Americans in four years will almost certainly be an even louder ‘No!’

When Australians are inevitably asked during the upcoming campaign, ‘Are you better off now than you were three years ago?’, the majority will surely answer ‘No’.

How does the Albanese government convince average Australian voters that, as with Trump, they will be worse off if they elect the Coalition?

Bold, popular initiatives

He needs bold popular initiatives. It would be very popular with voters if he were to announce the abandonment of Scomo’s outrageous AUKUS deal, now that a bunch of crazies have taken over in Washington. Tell the people he will use the four hundred billion to build social housing and repair the health system.

He has shown Australia is finally prepared to part with the DSA on support for the Palestinian people, but we need to go further in distancing ourselves from the rogue Trump administration.

There is a logjam of legislation to get through parliament, including the Help to Buy housing bill.

For goodness sake, negotiate an outcome with the Greens, even if it means compromise.

One key thing Albo must do is to listen carefully to the Teals. They must be seen by their electorates to be effective. They’re Dutton’s number one obstacle to winning. Albo will need them to keep their seats if he wants to stay in government.

Also, stop wasting resources and energy attacking the Greens. His real enemy is the far right, not the left. The Greens will support Labor if there’s a hung parliament.

Labor needs to keep seats in their conservative electorates. The country will be much worse off if Gina Rinehart is successful in having her buddy elected as PM. We will all pay the price, as will the environment.

Richard Jones is a former NSW MLC and is now a ceramist.

‘The job of a newspaper is to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.’

– Finley Peter Dunne 1867–1936 Nicholas Shand 1948–1996

Foreshore masterplan

David Vargo’s vision for the foreshore published in The Echo, and all the Byron Shire Council options recently exhibited for public consultation, are all missing a once-in-a-generation opportunity.

The masterplan must include a new beach access at the western end of the pool, directly linking the existing carpark to the beach.

Council owns the First Sun Caravan Park – not including a small part of its land for a new beach access

and enlarging the existing on grade (street level) carpark at the rear of the pool is nearly ‘criminal’, and prevents a great urban design outcome.

Let’s hope the new Byron Council is far more visionary than the last in relation to design outcomes for this part of the foreshore.

Kevin Hunt Byron Bay

Byron Bay I very much enjoy visiting Byron Bay; it’s a beautiful area, the town is lively and full of interesting restaurants and cafes, and the local

residents are relaxed, friendly and kind.

However, there are a few things that would make it more enjoyable.

Clean and pleasant public lavatories would be really appreciated; the ones in the middle of town near the Commonwealth Bank are grubby and down at heel and need replacing.

The local shops are being swamped with ubiquitous brand shops from every shopping centre in Australia, making it dull and the same as everywhere else.

It used to be full of unique local shops which made shopping here a special experience.

Driving to Ballina from Byron is very enjoyable; beautiful scenery and a good road, however, for those from places outside the Byron area, trying to get to the Ballina airport is fraught ! The signs guiding you to the airport are few and unclear.

I suggest that more and clearer directions guiding drivers to the Ballina airport would make many visitors to Byron very happy.

Jacqueline French Manly

Upper Main Arm

The state of the roads in Upper Main Arm is an ongoing disgrace three years after the flood. I appreciate that Byron Council has done its best to restore its road network since the catastrophe, a mighty undertaking at the best of times with stretched resources. However, the situation up the valley has gone from bad to worse and will continue to worsen for all residents and stakeholders if some major redevelopment of the road,

▶ Continued on page 14

Send to Letters Editor Aslan Shand, email: editor@echo.net.au, fax: 6684 1719. Deadline:Noon, Friday. Letters longer than 200 words may be cut. Letters already published in other papers will not be considered. Please include your full name, address and phone number for verification purposes.

Pandora’s Box. The World of Reason will never be the same! Cartoon by Jamie Hoile

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‘If you employ an army, have money, bombard cyberspace with misinformation, innocent people tend to buy it.’

–

Kapil Sibal

The Trojan horse of misinformation

Chaiy Donati

The Misinformation Bill before the Australian Senate, introduced by Labor with the Greens’ support, threatens free speech. Masked as a remedy for falsehoods, it quietly lays the foundation for government control over online discourse.

On the surface, the bill claims to tackle misinformation on social media, citing the harm it causes. Yet, in its rush to regulate truth, the political left risks undermining the freedoms that define democracy. Beneath its protective facade, the bill threatens legitimate discourse.

What is harmful?

The bill labels certain forms of misinformation as ‘reasonably likely to cause or contribute to serious harm,’ including vilification, threats to public health, economic disruption, and electoral interference. Anything categorised as ‘harmful’ is subject to censorship, granting the unelected Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) the power to determine truth and falsehood – setting the stage for a society where only government-sanctioned narratives can endure.

This legislation isn’t a hallmark of a free society; it’s a confession that we no longer know how to navigate the dangers of free speech – the chaos, discomfort, and uncertainty. Instead of embracing the messiness of democracy, it seeks to tame it, to domesticate the very thing that makes democratic participation possible.

Safety v censorship

By granting ACMA the power to act as the arbiter of truth on social media, the bill reframes censorship as protection. It champions control while cloaking it in the language of safety.

The internet, once a symbol of unfettered

Image www.fairvote.uk

exchange and democratic hope, now threatens to be reduced to a space quietly governed by the state. In the 1990s, the political left hailed the internet as a tool for free speech, a realm beyond government control, where ideas could be challenged. Yet this bill would see free speech fade, yielding to the suffocating grip of governmentdefined truth.

Australia’s history is already etched with the marks of government misinformation – wars founded on lies, the White Australia policy, the forced removal of Aboriginal children during the Stolen Generations, and the prolonged denial of tobacco’s lethal embrace.

These are not distant wounds; they echo still in the present. Yet this bill – though it claims to fight falsehoods – remains curiously mute on the greater danger: the unchecked ability of governments to manipulate truth and call it reality.

History teaches us that governments embracing censorship are rarely on the right side of it. Inconvenient truths are often dismissed as misinformation by those in power. The right to speak freely is the delicate foundation of democracy, and once it’s undermined, authority expands unchecked. To silence one voice is to weaken all voices, for when the power to define truth is seized, the freedom to challenge it slips away.

A true democracy thrives on chaos, on the cacophony of competing voices – some awkward, uncomfortable, and even misinformed and offensive. It’s in this noisy fray that freedom and equality take shape, not in the quiet of consensus, but in the vibrant clash of ideas. A democracy that silences voices, no matter how discordant, is a democracy in decline.

Wake-up call

The Senate’s rejection of this bill could serve as a wake-up call for the political left, offering an opportunity to reconnect with its left-libertarian roots. If this chance is missed, the rise of rightwing governments – who often champion free speech but use it to justify divisive narratives – could syphon away a voter base that values freedom of expression more than they fear the shadow of misinformation.

I believe the Labor government’s intentions behind this legislation are sincere. Misinformation is a perennial problem in democracy – and it can weaken the democratic fabric. Yet, sincerity is a fragile shield against the unforeseen consequences this bill may set in motion.

What the government fails to grasp is the far greater danger it invites by allowing an unelected body to define truth. The possibility of such power being misused, of truth being shaped to suit the whims of those in

control, poses a greater threat to democracy than any misinformation could. For falsehoods – however persistent – can always be contested, corrected, and reformed through open debate. But who will contest the authority of those who claim to hold the final word on what is true? And once that authority is established, will it ever be relinquished? Government control over the narrative of misinformation is a Trojan horse – disguised as a safeguard, yet concealing within it the quiet seeds of concentrated power. If this bill passes, censorship will unfold gradually, like the slow erosion of a once vibrant shoreline. In surrendering this space to the government, we lose more than the freedom to speak – we lose the ability to engage in the critical debate over what is true. To silence that dialogue is to undermine the very foundation of a free society. Without it, we are left with only the illusion of truth and the silhouette of democracy.

If the Senate is truly committed to protecting free speech, it must reject this bill.

Chaiy Donati is a former President of Queensland Young Labor and previously served as the National Political Organiser for the Transport Workers Union. He is currently the President of the Mullumbimby Brunswick Valley branch of the ALP.

NSW foster carers urgently needed

More foster carers are urgently needed in NSW, the government says.

The first of five new safe homes for children and young people has opened in Western Sydney, prompting the public reminder.

The cottages are designed for vulnerable children who can’t be placed with relatives or into foster care.

child quoted as feeling like a ‘dog being moved from cage to cage’.

The Waratah Care Cottages are to feature accredited staff with expertise in looking after kids at risk, said a government media release on Sunday.

An August report by the Advocate for Children and Young People described vulnerable children living in so-called High-Cost Emergency Arrangements such as motels.

The report featured many young people saying they were left alone in extremely unsafe situations, with one

The government says it aims to scrap Alternative Care Arrangements for vulnerable children altogether and has recruited 207 emergency foster carers since coming to power in 2023.

Anyone interested in becoming a foster carer can find information via the NSW Department of Communities and Justice online.

Lighthouse track has ‘zero charm’

I finally took the new path to the lighthouse from Wategos and sorry, after all that expenditure of money, workmanship and time I was left underwhelmed and concerned that the outcome was the best we could manage on this most sacred and sublime location – Australia’s most easterly point, Cape Byron, Walgun. Whatever you name it, it does not get much better.

Steep and unrelentingly smooth concrete, the stair path is a rectilinear barrier, super strong, an extruded mat laid over and above ground as if by some sort of machine. When all else fails the staircase will remain! Apart from the relief of a few breakout spaces with beautiful rockwork we have no sense of earth, of water, of geology, of place, or even the craft of hand. The railings take their cue from the old but with no joy, zero charm and little craft. It is a chunky, heavy hardwood scaffold knocked up to do a job with some sensible mesh to keep the kids safe.

Oh it’s too easy to criticise, the outcome is functional, practical, and possibly economical although I expect the cost of construction

was still enormous. I do acknowledge the difficulty of the task and the care and effort expended to deliver a workable solution, but solid, practical, and functional are surely only the first hurdles in such an important location. I shudder to think nowadays at the number of visitors the cape can host. What do we offer, as custodians, to this place to reinforce that experience as meaningful and memorable? What do we offer as a conscious acknowledgement of the value and magnificence and sensitivity of place, of environment?

A practical unadorned smooth safe exercise track for me does not really reach the mark. National Parks has installed some excellent

visitor infrastructure in NSW, no doubt with the close involvement of talented architects and builders, engi neers, artist, craftspeople and landscape architects. Surely our extraordinary promontory deserves the best. The artistic use of stone, of timbers, of pavers and the irregular, of breaks and contrasting material, textures, method and weight, the integration of landscape planting and form, the allowance for ground water, flora and fauna, all these inputs are surely available to the creative design challenge of place. If your concrete path varies little from your closest fire escape you have no need to wonder where you are.

Only about a third of the track has been upgraded to the concrete monolith, I shudder to think if the remaining section was to be treated the same and perhaps topped out with a full concrete-encased lighthouse surround! True the old pavers and treated pine logs are ready for renewal but there are so many possible alternatives, we need more than just a heavy-handed practical response.

Paul Jones

Byron Bay

SCAN FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT

Lighthouse walk. Photo Jeff Dawson

its causeways and drainage isn’t undertaken.

Main Arm Road is a through road linking Byron and Tweed shires. On many maps it is highlighted as a scenic tourist drive, and thanks to the efforts of the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) to increase tourist facilities and visitations in Mt Jerusalem NP, a new multi-day hiking trail and camp grounds set to open next year will see its non-resident through traffic increase dramatically. Alas, NPWS doesn’t seem to be concerned that on both sides of the park the access roads (Main Arm Rd and Manns Rd) both flood very easily, with the consequence that day visitors and campers may be trapped in the park potentially for days on end.

The roads are still bad but also, since the flood the Main Arm Creek has become seriously silted up and my observation, after 30 years in the valley, is that flooding events are becoming more frequent and caused by less and less rain. Two options now present themselves. The road needs to be completely rebuilt with much higher causeways (dare I say actual bridges instead of roads that go down into the creek to cross them) or the creek needs a serious dredging because it is now full of road base and landslip debris.

I suggest that pressure is put on NPWS and the federal government to chip in, especially if they plan on using it as their access road in and want to avoid a potential human tragedy in the making.

Erik Adams Upper Main Arm

Why Trump gets away with it

In response to Sarah Seaward’s letter (November 6) entitled ‘What if’, here’s my ‘What if,’ before I take a stiff drink.

Richard Jones commented that Trump could barely string two words together. That I would boldly claim is a statement of fact, if you are paying attention. Regarding Trump’s ‘flawless speech record’, I guess that’s because The Donald doesn’t need to read the teleprompter as he simply babbles, raves on about unrelated rubbish, repeats himself, accuses immigrants of eating people’s pets, has no respect for science or accuracy (remember he doubted the moon landing?) and continues to massage his ego in a performance ritual appealing to the deluded, the narcissists and millions of misogynists.

Furthermore, the latest appointment to the ‘Environment Protection Agency’ (soon to become the Destruction Agency) is Lee Zelchin, a climate denier like his belligerent boss, who also does not support the Paris Climate Agreement –and what a surprise that is. Maybe that department will be renamed the ‘Drill Baby Drill’ Agency?

The Biden administration’s Inflation Reduction Act has pumped $1 trillion dollars into a new clean energy program, much of the money going to Republication states. Do ya think The Donald would be so generous? The global energy transition to renewables is inevitable economically and is gathering pace across our ailing planet, except not in the authoritarian regime once known as the USA.

In relation to Bobby Kennedy Jnr, his dear dad must be turning over in his grave. The Kennedy family have already put out a statement opposing Bobby’s shameful betrayal by moving to the right of politics. Referring to your question, Ms Seaward, why did so many vote for Trump, the man you are defending as a convicted

The night after the US election – a 15-year-old’s view

Tonight, each new thought brings a tear to my eye. Each thought comes with the image of broken hearts, shattered hopes, and dead dreams.

I think of the young woman, a victim of sexual abuse; it has just been proven that abusers do not face consequences.

I think of the activists of eras long past, watching their legacies crumble and their battles begin anew.

I think of the gay teen, the trans woman, the drag queen, bracing with fear for the next phase of the war on their existence to begin.

And I think of the little girl, shown for the first time in her life that, in the land of opportunity, some things are simply out of reach. That, no matter how hard she

rapist and felon with more court cases pending (but no longer). I have some ideas and I am one of few that thought Trump’s mad paranoia would convince millions.

The simple answer is, most people don’t listen to independent media in the US (approximately three per cent) and the rest get their ‘news’ from Fox Media/the Murdoch press /Trump’s podcasts and social media. These services have lied to the gullible and those that have no respect for facts. However, here’s the kicker... Trump appealed to those concerned with their own self-interest, but Kamala appealed to those more concerned for others and their communities, attempting to stop division. The Donald meant, ‘I am your retribution’ when he said it.

In relation to your final statement seeking responsible and ‘ethical’ journalism, you’re joking RIGHT?

Lindy Stacker Binna Burra

Trump

victory

Surely, there have been several sentiments expressed in the political victory of Donald Trump that Byron

works, the worst man will always be better.

I should have no fear, but still I mourn. I am protected by all the privilege the world can give, but still my faith dies on its knees, hopeless and abandoned.

As the tears pour harder, I struggle for the words of the obituary to my whole world. As the pillars of all I knew begin to crumble, I grapple with the sensation of a loss I couldn’t have begun to imagine.

As I feel the last traces of my youth and innocence die within me, I am left with two things for certain – what I know, and what I fear.

I know that our old world is gone.

I fear that it may never come back.

Patrick Jones

Lennox Head

Shire residents could relate to? For example, stop telling me what to do, stop telling me what to think, stop telling me what I can and can’t say and stop telling me I have to stand on one spot, mask up and take jabs. Stop poisoning the earth and let’s produce healthy food. Stop telling me my disagreement means I’m a conspiracy theorist. Finally, stop the endless wars that have nothing to do with us; UK elites will have to fight their own battles. Go Trump; stick it up ‘em!

Edward Kent Suffolk Park

Sunny daze

The average annual wind speed at the beach in Byron Bay is about 10km/h and one out of five days it rains. David Vargo’s vision of zero parking at the beach removes those cosy moments overlooking the windblown ocean and patter of rain in the comfort of your car.

We would forever be corralled to the sun-drenched days looking for a patch of dry soft grass. It’s a singleseason option design with more grass than a hippy’s back pocket.

Sapoty Brook Main Arm

Broken Hill planning

In correction to the letter by Dr Anne Stuart (November 6): the situation around the long-lasting power failure in Broken Hill was, in my opinion, solely down to incompetence of the grid-regulating authorities! Contrary to D. Stuart’s claim, Broken Hill actually has a large solar farm and a battery bank to store and supply electricity to the power grid.

But, and get the full extent of this idiocy!, this battery was disabled from ‘islanding’ capabilities, meaning supplying the ‘island’ of Broken Hill! All it could do at the time was to supply electricity into the national grid, something that was interrupted due to the downed lines near Broken Hill.

Why was the battery switched so that it couldn’t supply much-needed electricity to Broken Hill? Because it wasn’t supposed to compete with a second electricity storage planned for Broken Hill, some sort of compressed air storage. But this second facility hasn’t progressed beyond a planning approval as of now.

More detail under tinyurl. com/transgrid.

It makes one wonder who is responsible for such far-reaching decisions in this country. Are those people actually qualified?

Juergen Klein Mullumbimby

Petrol prices

I am writing to express my concern over the persistently high petrol prices in the Northern Rivers region of NSW. Despite a significant drop in crude oil prices by over 20 per cent and refining margins by over 50 per cent throughout 2024, we are still paying around $2 per litre at the pump.

The exchange rate between the Australian dollar (AUD) and the US dollar (USD) has remained relatively stable, eliminating currency fluctuations as a factor. The only plausible reason for the continued high prices seems to be the cost of delivering fuel to our region.

However, it is hard to believe that delivery costs alone can justify such high retail prices. It feels as though consumers are being unfairly burdened and are not receiving the benefits of reduced production costs. It feels like we’re being taken for a ride, and not the kind where we actually get somewhere. We deserve to know why the savings aren’t trickling down to us.

Could someone explain why, despite favourable market conditions, petrol prices remain exorbitantly high in our area? It is crucial for transparency and fairness that we understand what factors are driving these costs and why they aren’t reflected in the prices we pay.

I urge the relevant authorities and industry stakeholders to address this issue and provide the community with a detailed explanation.

Michael Sarpi Byron Bay

Frothing King wins Taiwan Open

Byron Bay local, Kyuss King, has won the 2024 Taiwan Open of Surfing World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) 5000 event in pumping surf at Jinzun Harbor.

WSL reports that, ‘With a typhoon sitting off the coast, the call was made to finish the event today as competitors enjoyed building super clean surf in the three-to-five foot range’.

Equal career-best

‘King claimed an equal career-best result with his win’.

‘The super-stylish natural footer was in great sync

with the long lefthanders at Jinzun Harbor, putting on a backhand surfing clinic to post a 12.07.

‘King was able to take down form surfers Keijiro Nishi (JPN), Bronson Meydi (INA), and Dakoda Walters (AUS), who finished the final in second, third and fourth, respectively’, says the WSL report.

‘After battling for the last two years with ongoing injuries, the win rockets King back up the regional rankings as he eyes a spot back on the Challenger Series for 2025.

‘This is pretty insane; I’m pretty lost for words, really,’ King told WSL.

‘I’m definitely frothing. It’s been a rough couple of years trying to get my body right, and it feels amazing to put myself back in a winning position, and know I can get the job done.

‘This has been my first trip to Taiwan, and I’ve loved it.

‘The waves are so fun, and it’s a super beautiful coastline. It will be a special place for me forever now, that’s for sure.’

Coolangatta-based surfer, Sierra Kerr, won the female division. The 2024 Taiwan Open of Surfing QS 5000 ran at Jinzun Harbor in Taitung County, Taiwan, from November 9 to 14.

Rainbow Dragons excel at Currumbin Regatta

Monica Wilcox

Rainbow Dragons, Lennox Head-Ballina, wrapped up 2024 with a remarkable three weeks of competition at the Currumbin Regatta and the Pan Pacific Masters Games (PanPacs) on the Gold Coast.

At Currumbin, 38 members raced, with nine making their regatta debut.

The team secured top placements: first in the Breast Cancer Survivors 200m, and third in both the Mixed and Men’s 20s 200m and Mixed 20s 1km turn races.

The next week, 11 Rainbow members joined five Port Macquarie ‘Maroro’ paddlers for their first-ever club outrigger competition, at PanPacs.

Choppy conditions

Amidst choppy conditions, the Rainbow Region team held their own, dodging outrigger canoes, and recreational watercraft, to achieve first in the Men’s OC2 9km relay, and second in the Women’s OC1 and OC2 relays.

The team also excelled in the OC6 category, posting competitive times.

Then Rainbow Dragons

returned to PanPacs for the dragon boat events, with 44 paddlers competing against teams from Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore.

Rainbows had fantastic results with first in the Men’s 55 plus 500m and 200m sprints, and third in the Women’s 40 plus 500m 10s boat.

The Mixed 55 plus crew also placed third in the 4.8km ‘Around the Island’ race,

Mullum Classic a resounding success

The Mullumbimby Tennis Club celebrated a major milestone over the weekend, with the successful completion of its inaugural Mullumbimby Classic JT 125 Tournament.

The event, which has been in the making for over nine months, was a significant achievement for the club and a testament to the hard work and dedication of its committee and volunteers.

The tournament was made possible through generous support from major sponsors, Chincogan Real Estate and The Mullumbimby Chocolate Shop, and with donations towards trophies from the Chamber of Commerce and the RSL.

An anonymous donation also helped bring the event to life.

The tournament attracted

an impressive 130 participants, including both junior and adult players, with some travelling from as far as Sydney.

130 players

Over three days, those players competed in 32 events, across two venues, showcasing the depth of local and state tennis talent.

The weekend’s success not only boosted the Tennis Club’s visibility, but also brought economic benefits to the town and local areas, many participants arrived with family and friends, taking the opportunity to explore local offerings, contributing to the community’s economy and spirit.

Club members and attendees were thrilled by the community’s engagement, and there is strong optimism that the

Mullumbimby Classic JT 125 Tournament will become an annual event.

With this fixture, local adults, children and families, who might not have the means to travel for tournaments, can now participate in, and enjoy a high-quality tennis competition, close to home.

At the closing ceremony, prizes were presented by Byron Mayor Sarah Ndiaye, rounding off an exceptional weekend.

Congratulations to all players, volunteers, and sponsors who helped make this first tournament an undeniable success.

For more information on joining in and playing tennis, visit www.mullumbimbytennisclub.com.au.

Mackenzie is from the

EPIC BREATH

WORKSHOP WITH WORLD RENOWNED BREATHWORK PRACTITIONER JOHN STAMOULOS

which presented a challenge to steerer’s as they navigated the course, collecting flags along the way.

Club President, Lu Cooney, said, ‘The club’s results are especially impressive, considering many of the other teams were combined clubs, while the Rainbows competed as a ‘stand alone club’.

Rainbow Dragons.

Discover how the simple act of breathing can unlock new dimensions of health, well-being and self-awareness. Explore the healing and transformative potential of your breath in a safe and supportive environment.

DATE: SUNDAY 24TH NOVEMBER 2024

LOCATION: SUN SHALA, BYRON YOGA CENTRE, 50 SKINNERS SHOOT RD, BYRON BAY

TIME: 10AM - 1PM

COST: $160

SCAN QR CODE FOR BOOKING LINK

Kyuss King after his win in Taiwan. Photo Surfing World Surf League (WSL)/Matt Dunbar

Monica Wilcox is from the

Felicity Mackenzie

Felicity

Mullumbimby Tennis Club.

Coach Steve Gort, Open Women’s winners Marie-Lou Baudouin and Sylvie Peart, with club vice president Bronwyn Leeson. Photo supplied

Nick Stevens and Amanda Mevissen wait for Mens 55 plus 10s to load. Photo supplied

Cryptic Clues

ACROSS

1.Officer dispatched around Peru being rough and mean (14)

10.Flower found in West Iberia and in Rome (5)

11.Extravagant behaviour at South Pole alternating with compulsion (9)

12.Officer types ‘Latin’ (7)

13.Seasoning from the Mediterranean, or Genoa perhaps (7)

14.Grotesquerie that’s central to Romanticism (5)

16.Important game meant to be abandoned as a tribute (9)

19.Stuff published widely at service made one upset (4,5)

20.Simple little song Yankee ignored gets old – it’s the same as before (5)

22.Officer in jail keeping fit with ‘Introduction to Isometrics’ (7)

25.Centre-left manoeuvring provides support in church (7)

27.Live dingo chopped to pieces –it’s wrong! (9)

28.Avoid Rex’s appearance in satirical piece (5)

29.Diversions via Ten Main Street –initially, nothing has changed (14) DOWN

2.City dwellers have bonds that include our central bank (9)

3.Monster not initially at fault (5)

4.Abused about Ugandan and Angolan leaders being cut off (9)

5.Vodafone perhaps allowed to be sent up to forty percent of costs (5)

6.Child minder with false surname and identity (9)

7.Shrub, like heather and rice developed by head of Agronomy (5)

8.Spooner’s gremlin and bear in a tower (7)

9.Greek character grasps rat’s tail, a symbol of shame (6)

15.Officer, given break in sentence, starts to negotiate deal about turning up (9)

17.Means of connecting principal with hired killer (6,3)

18.Radical to be espousing corrupt term (9)

19.Slasher is first person to accept pain that comes over time (7)

21.Fancy talk, at length about tango (6)

23.Put to bed with beer? That’s about right (5)

24.Nigerian money not available to freedom fighters (5)

26.Players echo class (5)

STARS BY LILITH

As Pluto makes a seismic shift into Aquarius on its 20-year course towa rds a radical planetary revamp, this week lets the convivial, congenial, can-do Sagittarian sunshine in ...

Quick Clues

ACROSS

1.Police officer rank above Ch Insp (14)

10.Main watercourse of Rome (5)

11.Splashing out (9)

12.Common; widespread (7)

13.Mediterranean aromatic herb (7)

14.Shenanigan; caper (5)

16.Evidence; last wishes (9)

19.Various organs used to spread news and opinions (4,5)

20.Aforesaid; see above (5)

22.Navy officer rank below commodore and above commander (7)

25.A reading-desk (esp one from which the lessons are read in a church) (7)

27.Sinful action (9)

28.A garment, or part of a garment, that hangs from the waist (5)

29.Leisure activities; pastimes (14) DOWN

2.People living in towns and cities (9)

3.Fallacy; miscalculation (5)

4.Protected (9)

5.A telecommunications company (5)

6.Someone employed to take care of children (9)

7.Plant of the heath genus (5)

8.Marine vessel that manoeuvres others by pushing or pulling them (7)

9.Small scar or mark, e.g. birthmark (6)

15.An officer in the navy next in rank under a captain (9)

17.Hand-held tool that applies U-shaped fastenings (6,3)

18.Diehard; zealot (9)

19.Heavy knife or cutlass used as a tool and a weapon (7)

21.Elaborately decorated (6)

23.Produce a paper copy (5)

24.Unit of currency of Nigeria (5)

26.A social class among Hindus in India (5)

Last week’s solution #29

ONCEUPON JACKAL A P R I A Y T BRAISE CHINCHIN

When Silence is Violence

We need to talk about child sexual abuse. And most importantly we need to listen. And then we need to act. There’s a kind of social paralysis that exists around this subject. It’s uncomfortable. It’s upsetting. It’s triggering. But the silence – from the system through to the family, continues to hurt people long after the assault has finished.

The Australian Child Maltreatment Study found that 28.5% of Australians have experienced child sexual abuse. Girls at double the rate. Much of this abuse is perpetrated by someone the child knows. Someone in their family.

Intra-familial child sexual abuse features the abuser not as a stranger or family friend. But closer in the circle of trust. Someone whose job it is to protect that child. A father, or mother, uncle, aunt or grandfather. Women can also be abusers, but it is fathers, and step-fathers, who are most commonly convicted of intra-familial abuse.

It’s people that children love. It’s the ultimate betrayal of innocence. A previously happy child, who is traumatised and plunged into ‘darkness’. The darkness is betrayal. The darkness is pain. The darkness is fear. The darkness is keeping secrets. The darkness is silence. The darkness is finally speaking, and then not being believed. The darkness is so very cold. It’s where shame lives. After speaking, and not being believed. The child, or the adult, will not speak again.

And because of the abuse, and the silence, there are long-lasting, serious consequences that many victims endure throughout their entire adult life. It can impact a person’s ability to form trusting relationships. It can lead to a life of depression and anxiety, and more serious mental health conditions. It can lead to adverse outcomes like suicidality.

A quote from a victim survivor who was part of the Truth Project in the UK really hit home: ‘Because when I talk about it I can see it, feel it, hear it and taste it … I try to say the words. I feel dirty inside. I feel more dirty telling you about it because it hurts me inside, it really hurts.’

That’s on us. That’s on family who don’t support kids who speak up. The

ARIES: If your boss planet Mars has you impatient with folk getting your goat and working your nerves, best cool your jets because you really don’t want to be burning bridges. Downplay dramatic reactions by not acting on them, since outbursts or temper flares aren’t going to serve you this week.

TAURUS: While this week hits the interpersonal refresh button, you might want to keep taking your flexibility pills, because right now giving a little could gain you a lot. With Venus at her most methodical, a disciplined ticking off the to-do list will be your most efficient and productive approach.

GEMINI: The travel bug tends to bite during the current astral cycle. If that happens, take extra care arranging holiday bookings, because Mercury’s about to reverse, which can disrupt the most carefully laid plans. If mailing gifts this week, it’s probably worth paying a little extra to insure and track packages.

It can impact a person’s ability to form trusting relationships. It can lead to a life of depression and anxiety, and more serious mental health conditions. It can lead to adverse outcomes like suicidality.

family who ostracises and blames the victim survivor. Who doesn’t believe them. That’s on the brutality of a legal system that retraumatises victim survivors. A legal system which through inaction, becomes an accomplice to the abuse.

Such A Resounding Silence is a French film that follows the stories of three women, one child, and a man, who experienced intra-familial child sexual abuse. It is profound. It centres on the victim survivors in the story – it is not gratuitous. It offers us a chance to listen to what it has been like for them. How their lives have been impacted by the abuse they experienced. How they are finding

CANCER: Mars wants to blast ahead with its agenda, but are there any niggling background concerns, some unknown factors? Try not to micromanage or project too far into the future – things are changing too fast for that. As this week turns up the heat, stay engaged but slow down.

LEO: The sun blazing into its most adventurous placement, is your annual cycle for moving beyond your familiar comfort zone to engage with diverse perspectives and unusual new experiences. While Mars in Leo has you speaking out loud and proud, don’t neglect the dance of diplomatic strategy.

VIRGO: The current shadow of Mercury retrograde, plus the moon in your thorough sign around 22 November, jointly advise checking special documents carefully, especially those concerning travel arrangements, giving important messages a final edit and trying not to put too much pressure on those around you.

LIBRA: Yes, constant renegotiation of what you’ve already negotiated a half dozen times already can get totes tiresome, but as this week finally says goodbye to emotional intensity and hello to free-ranging, breakaway season, now you can start thinking big again and go wide instead of deep.

SCORPIO: As this week’s sun and Mercury render general energetics less introspectively scorpionic, and more outwardly sagittaric, don’t be dragging tired, old, worn-out stories to the seasonal bonfire. Or if you must, throw them in quick to incinerate and step away. It’s time for a new way.

SAGITTARIUS: November bursts into bloom for you as this week’s sun ushers in your birthday season. Mercury about to reverse in your sign mightn’t seem like the ideal gift, but working with what it offers –cosmic cruise control – can actually make the leadup to the silly season far less frantic.

their resilience, their courage and their voice. It’s made with absolute compassion and gentleness. It is a documentary that waits for its subjects to be ready. It allows them space to feel and express, or not express, these vast feelings.

I have not experienced intra-familial child sexual abuse. But many many people I love have. This film really helped me navigate their story. It showed me how to show up. How to listen. How to love. And most importantly how to believe.

Such A Resounding Silence is screening at Brunswick Picture House on Monday.

Afterwards I will be hosting a conversation with Grace Tame, Anne Lambert, Melissa Holmes and Fay Jackson. I really hope you can come. The film is an example of how documentaries can change lives. It is full of compassion and truth. Please come and sit with us. Be someone who will break the silence. Be someone who will listen. Someone who believes. More info at brunswickpicturehouse.com

Mandy Nolan’s Soapbox column has appeared in The Echo for almost 23 years. The personal and the political often meet here; she’s also been the Greens federal candidate since before the last federal election. The Echo’s coverage of political issues will remain as comprehensive and fair as it has ever been, outside this opinion column which, as always, contains Mandy’s personal opinions only.

CAPRICORN: As planetary heavyweight Pluto finally exits Capricorn for this lifetime after a momentous 15-year stay, even better news is vivacious Venus making her executive entrance into your sign this week, inviting you to fill your party glass with light-hearted fun, bubbles and congenial company.

AQUARIUS: Aquarians thrive on charismatic conversations, so Mercury in the sign of have-a-chat turns you into a whirling dervish of information exchange. As this week kicks off a season of meetings galore, parties and more, give that agile mind an occasional break and your organs of listening a little more exercise.

PISCES: As Mercury flutters his winged booties and takes off for projects new, options unexplored and a whole lot of shopping, it’s still a bit soon to succumb totally to holiday hedonism. But not to combine business with pleasure at end-ofyear events by keeping alert for interesting new opportunities.

MANDY NOLAN’S

M u l l u m S h o p L o c a l

Mullum Shop Local

With Christmas and festive season parties already underway, it is a great reminder that now is the time to think about what you might want to give to your nearest and dearest in the upcoming gift-giving bonanza.

There is no better place to come up with a unique present or thoughtful gift than the diverse and eclectic Mullumbimby with its great range of shopping options. From clothing that ranges from alternative to conservative, to mushroom boxes, and artists’ creations of every kind, there is no shortage of ideas to explore.

Studies suggest every $100 spent at locally-owned businesses contributes an additional $58 to the local economy. By comparison, $100 spent at a big chain store out of town yields just $33 in local economic impact*.

So take the chance to shop local, support the diversity of great businesses in Mullumbimby and explore all the wondrous and interesting options that are available.

The Mullumbimby Chamber of Commerce has been supporting local businesses throughout the town and surrounding areas, and encourages everyone to shop local and support the local community and economy.

*Study conducted by Maine Centre for Economic Policy.

2 0 x 20x $ 1 0 0 100 vouchers to be won!

GET YOUR ENTRIES IN TO WIN: Spend $20 or more during the Mullum Shop

Local campaign for your chance to win one of 20 $100 shopping vouchers*

*Voucher must be redeemed before March 31, 2025. Licence type: Lottery-Trade Promotion-Single Promotion.

PARTICIPATING STORES:

AUTO, TYRE & MECHANICAL

B-Line Auto

Liberty Mullumbimby

Main Arm Mechanical

Tyrepower Mullumbimby

BOOKSTORES

The Bookshop Mullumbimby

BICYCLES

True Wheel Cycles

EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES

Mullumbimby Hire & Sales

Mullumbimby Rural Co-op

FOOD & BEVERAGES

Byron Bay Pork

The Court House Hotel Mullumbimby

Devine Quality Meats

Dino’s IGA Mullumbimby

Heaps Good

Main Arm Store & Bottlo

Mullumbimby Bowling Club

The Mullumbimby Chocolate Shop

Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club

The Paddock Project Paséyo

O R E S :

Santos Organics

The Source

Spice it Up Thai Restaurant

Wandana Brewing Co

GIFTS & CLOTHING

Bodypeace Bamboo Clothing

Cactus Hill

Madame Butterfly Made In Mullum

Mockingbird Vintage

Mullum Instyle Living

Portobello Vintage Wares

Stewart’s Menswear

HARDWARE

James Hardware Mitre 10 Mullumbimby

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Craig Watson Soul

Pattinson Chemist

JCS Skin Boutique

Mullum Advantage Pharmacy

Mullumbimby

Comprehensive Health Centre

HOMEWARES & ELECTRICAL

Bridglands Betta

L o o k o u t Look out fo r th e m a p of for the map of M

Mullum Shop

MUSIC Son of Drum

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Mullum Mac

Mullumbimby Optometrist

Mullumbimby Pet Shop

Mullumbimby Vet Clinic

STATIONERS

Mullumbimby

Newsagency

Eateries Guide Good Taste

BYRON BAY

Horizon Rooftop

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC 7 DAYS

Horizon Rooftop, Hotel Marvell

4 Marvell Street, Byron Bay

Open Daily | 3pm – 9pm

NO BOOKINGS REQUIRED Call: 6685 7385 @horizonbyronbay

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

Oyster Bar

4 Marvell St, Byron Bay  DAILY

Breakfast 7–11:30am

Lunch 12–4pm  TUESDAY TO SATURDAY

Dinner 5–10pm Book byronbayoysterbar.com.au

The Rocks

Open daily 7am - 1pm 14–16 Lawson St 5642 0149 therocksbyronbay.com.au @therocksbyronbay

North Byron Liquor Merchants 61 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay 6685 6500 liquor@northbyronhotel.com.au

Open 10am–8pm daily and 10am-9pm through Summer

Sefa Kitchen

Wed to Sat 11.30am-late 1 Porter St, Byron Bay @nourishing.habitat  www.nourishinghabitat.com

Three Blue Ducks

The Farm, 11 Ewingsdale Rd. 6190 8966 enquiries@threeblueducks.com threeblueducks.com/byron

Open 7 days from 7am. Mon-Thurs: breakfast & lunch Fri-Sun: breakfast, lunch & dinner

Main Street

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

Welcome to Horizon, Byron’s newest rooftop bar.

Enjoy hinterland views, stunning sunsets and signature cocktails showcasing local distilleries and breweries.

All your favourites, every lunch and dinner. Experienced Thai chefs cooking fresh, delicious Thai food for you. BYO only.

Welcome for lunch, dinner and takeaway.

Menus available on Facebook.

Hotel Marvell’s Newest Seafood Destination

OYSTER HOUR

Tuesday to Saturday 5–6pm  Serving $3 oysters

Locally sourced ingredients amazing coffee dog friendly delicious smoothies fresh juices outdoor seating in the sun

‘Byron’s boutique bottle shop’

Lennox Head

Pizza & Pasta

4/74 Ballina St, Lennox Head

Open 7 days Lunch: 12–2pm Pizza & drinks only: 2–5pm Dinner from 5pm

The Empire 20 Burringbar

Views, Brews, Cocktails, Beats, and Eats! Live Music Friday, Saturday, Sunday. Bookings essential. Head to lennoxpizza.com Follow on Insta: @lennoxpizza

Rustic yet refined Middle Eastern cuisine. Generous share platters. Wood-fire oven and open-flame grill.

Delicious new winter dinner menu, live jazz every Sunday arvo, happy hour 3–5pm Friday to Sunday & our famous Sunday roast.

Enjoy a wander in the fields, meet the pigs, and picnic in the sun… there really is something for everyone.

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.

The seasonal menu features classic and modern dishes with innovative twists. Find something for all tastes, from epic burgers to vegan delights. Enjoy delectable treats and good vibes at this Mullum icon.

lizzijjackson@gmail.com

Micro-brewery tasting and feast at Frida’s Field

On Saturday, December 7, Byron Bay hinterland farm-to-table restaurant Frida’s Field will host its inaugural Cheers to Beers Northern Rivers Micro-Brewery Tasting & BBQ Feast event. A collaboration with seven of the region’s best micro-breweries, including: Common People Brewing Co from Bangalow

Seven Mile Brewing Co from Ballina Two Mates Brewing from Lismore Earth Beer Company from Cudgen Spangled Drongo Brewing from Murwillumbah

Friday Hut Brewing from Murwillumbah Caldera Brewing & Blending Co from Murwillumbah.

Guests will arrive at 1pm and sample 13 different beers created by the seven local micro-breweries, with a representative from each brewery guiding guests through the tasting experience – from bouquet, aroma, palette, and minerality to undertone, tannins, mouthfeel, and finish. An amazing array of flavours will be experienced – like the tropical and citrus notes of Two Mates Brewing’s Lovemore Hazy Pale to the toffee and dark chocolate of Earth Beer’s Dark Moon Brown Ale. Interesting techniques and ingredients will also be on show – such as the esteemed dry hop with RH01 from Ryefield Hops used in Caldera Brewing’s Saison which is also barrel-aged in a mixture of French oak puncheons and barriques. Common People Brewing is even creating a completely new Frida’s Field beer made with ingredients harvested from Frida’s Field, including galangal, mint, lemon myrtle, and Atherton raspberries.

Once the beer tasting is finished, guests will join long communal tables and enjoy a shared American-style BBQ

feast (with a Frida’s twist!). Woodfired pork ribs with a Davidson’s Plum BBQ glaze and smoked beef brisket pastrami with kraut and pickles will take centre stage; accompanied by smoky baked beans; cabbage slaw with chipotle aioli, woodfired sweetcorn with jalapeño butter; and cos lettuce with ranch dressing.

Co-founder, Jeanie Wylie, explained, ‘We have always been really passionate about supporting local, and showcasing the incredible produce of the Northern Rivers region, and thought there couldn’t be a better time to create something really special. To be able to try so many different beers from so many different local microbreweries all at the same time; and to have a representative from each brewery on-site is so exciting.’

Cans of beer will also be available to purchase on the day and tickets, which include the beer tasting and lunch, are $50 per person and available via the events tab on the Frida’s Field website: www.fridasfield.com.

LENNOX HEAD

Woodfiredpork

galow h

st (wit w th a Frida’s

The Good Life

Bangalow Farmers Market has a new home!

Getting more organic – one apple at a time

The benefits of eating organic foods are now quite well known. Eating organic food supports gut health and can provide a higher level of nutrition including vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

Eating organic food reduces our exposure to harmful agricultural chemicals including pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides. These chemicals can contaminate land and waterways, and bioaccumulate in our bodies, contributing to disease. Babies, children, pregnant women, older adults, people with compromised health, farm workers and residents of agricultural areas are most susceptible to agricultural chemical bioaccumulation.

Bangalow Farmers Market is on the move! From Saturday, December 7, you’ll find the farmers’ market in a new setting at Piccabeen Park, near Heritage House in Bangalow, along with a number of new stalls.

For the past 20 years, the farmers’ market has operated from the Bangalow Hotel carpark every Saturday morning, but now it is set to relocate and signal a new era for the much-loved weekly market.

Bangalow Farmers Market manager, Kylie McGregor, says there were a few factors that prompted the market to find a new home.

‘We knew that the hotel would be renovating at some stage and it would require us moving out of the carpark,’ Kylie says. ‘There has also been talk in the community about the benefits of the farmers’ market moving down to the Bangalow Parklands area for a while now.’

‘It holds a number of benefits, including more parking along with shaded and grassed areas more conducive to people staying and spending time. It also helps free up parking in the main street of Bangalow and gives the market a little more space so we can expand our offering.’

From December 7, the market will include new

breakfast food and drink stalls along with seating so people can sit and have breakfast while listening to the live music.

The area, which was recently named ‘Piccabeen Park’ after the indigenous name for the Bangalow Palm tree, is accessed via Deacon Street and is also a dog-friendly space so dogs on leads will be welcome.

Kylie says the relocation marks a new era for the market as it enters its 21st year next year.

‘Notching up 20 years is pretty impressive,’ she says. ‘And we hope the community will be happy with our new home. So far the response has been incredibly positive. It’s such as pretty location and it’s still easy walking distance from the town’s main street so we think it will work well for everyone.’

‘However, it is also touched with a little sadness, saying goodbye to our old home. We have been in the hotel carpark, as guests of Cathryn and Tom Mooney, for two decades. So, we are incredibly thankful to them for their support for such a long time.’

Bangalow Farmers Market is held every Saturday from 7am to 11am. The market is currently held in the Bangalow Hotel carpark and will be at Piccabeen Park from December 7.

While it might be near impossible to go completely organic all of the time, the good news is, incorporating more organic foods into your diet can be simple and affordable.

Starting small by swapping daily essentials can be a good place to start. For instance, if you eat bread or drink milk daily try switching to an organic option.

Another general guide to minimise chemical exposure is to prioritise organic for foods with edible skins (such as apples, grapes, berries, celery, capsicum, cucumber and leafy greens and herbs); and when buying nonorganic produce, choose foods that need to be peeled (such as sweet corn, onion, avocado, mango, papaya, melons, and citrus).

When buying organic, choose local, seasonal fruit and vegetables to ensure you are getting the best price and maximum nutrition.

Buying locally-grown food also reduces food miles and supports our organic and

regenerative growers caring for the land and protecting biodiversity.

To check whether produce is certified organic, look for an official logo or ask for verification at the farmers’ markets or independent grocer. If you don’t want to do the hard work checking, shop at Santos Organics where 100% of the fresh produce is certified organic and the vast majority of shelf and fridge products are either certified organic or contain certified organic ingredients.

Enjoy your organic journey (one apple at a time!), knowing that each additional food you chose to be organic may be one small change, but with significant positive impact on your personal health and on the health of the planet.

James Jablonka works in the Santos Organics store in Mullumbimby.

angalowFarmersMarket is br stalls sope

Bangalow Farmers Market

ACAP University College

ACAP University College is helping shape a better future in regional mental health, right here in Byron Bay, with their renowned counselling courses.

They are helping communities deal with increasing challenges around mental health by equipping graduates with workthey live.

By studying their Bachelor of Counselling or Diploma of Counselling Skills, students experienced educators, all without leaving the region.

health h & healing health h & healing

With more than 40 years’ expertise, ACAP’s practical, supportive approach and small class sizes produce graduates empowered to create positive, lasting change.

An ACAP student becomes more than a graduate of their chosen profession. They

acap.edu.au/byronbay

Bower Camp Co

The folk at Bower Camp Co know the value of real time spent in nature. They also know how good it feels to sleep well in a comfortable bed after a day outdoors. Bower Camp Co do comfortable camping, in quality tents with real mattresses, real sheets and really great food. Let them tailor a comfortable camp for your group or event, at one of their stunning sites or at a location of

wild swimming, walks and creative activities, or simply take some time for rest and connection.

Connect to nature. Connect to your people. Connect to yourself. 0424 468 777 www.bowercampco.com.au

Byron Bay Denture Clinic

Looking for new dentures before Christmas? Your Denture Clinic, is here to help! Most people are not aware that over time, your oral structure changes, discomfort and many other issues. That’s why it’s for optimal comfort and function. Byron Bay Denture Clinic specialise in providing highest quality, custom day repairs with no appointment necessary. Act

With expert care and fast service, they’ll ensure

Dental Implants & Aesthetics

Dr. Sergi Miralles, an expert in advanced aesthetic years of experience to Dental Implants & Aesthetics. With advanced knowledge in complex restorative treatments, Dr. Miralles is now extending his services to the Northern Rivers community, providing locals with access to high-quality care that previously required

cutting-edge procedures like All-on-X implants and Page, who handles the surgical aspects, Dr. Miralles is committed to improving oral health and quality of life for patients at Byron Bay and surroundings.

02 5643 9213.

Northern Rivers Podiatry

Northern Rivers Podiatry, located on Marvell Street in the heart of Byron Bay, is a premier clinic dedicated to exceptional foot care. Known for its commitment to patient podiatric services that range from general foot health to advanced treatments for sports care. Northern Rivers Podiatry prides itself on using the latest technology and evidencebased practices, ensuring tailored solutions for every patient. Led by a team of highlystrong emphasis on personalised care, aiming to enhance mobility, comfort, and overall quality of life. With a welcoming atmosphere and a reputation for excellence, Northern Rivers Podiatry is a trusted choice for foot health in Byron Bay and the surrounding communities. 02 6619 2939

Epic Breath Workshop

John Stamoulos is a passionate breathwork practitioner who has dedicated his life to sharing across the globe the transformative months each year working internationally, John has introduced breathwork to Iran and leading a record-setting session with 600 participants in Malaysia. His vision is to create a worldwide community rooted in love, self-discovery, and spiritual connection. Through his work, John strives to help people reconnect with their essence and unlock new dimensions of health.

a unique opportunity to tap into the power of conscious breathing, reconnect with inner

Sunday, 24 November, 10am–1pm Byron Yoga Centre

$160

sebastian

Byron Community College

Byron Community College has two hands-on healing courses that will have you relieving stress, easing pain, and bringing comfort to others.

acupressure points in the feet can release tension in various corresponding parts of the body, bringing relief to many common ailments.

Their 3-day Myofascial Release Massage (Part II) course delves into the lower body’s tension points, learning ways to help relieve chronic tension, enhance movement, and improve posture through releasing constricted fascia.

wellbeing.

Learn more at www.byroncollege.org.au or call 02 6684 337

*for eligible students, this course is funded by the NSW Government

O’Meara Dental

health h & healing health h & healing

As the gateway to the rest of your body, overall systemic health.

Protecting and rejuvenating your mouth can promote overall health and prevent disease.

At O’Meara Dental they use technology to improve treatment and patient outcomes, making the process more comfortable while lessening the impact on the environment. They use the best, and most bio-compatible material appropriate for your teeth and gums.

breath is clean and pure.

With a balanced, practical and holistic approach, O’Meara Dental’s caring, compassionate

www.omearadental.com.au

Easy

Byron Healing is a go-to website featuring informative and entertaining articles on health and wellbeing. It features a host of practitioners and across the Northern Rivers.

A WORD FROM THE CHAMBER

Mullumbimby Chamber of Commerce is more than just a group of businesses. We are... community gardens, Spaghetti Circus, farmers' markets and much more. We're a vibrant network of humans that care about anything Mullumbimby.

Mullumbimby is a special place. You just have to walk down the street, and someone will always say, 'hi'.

Grab a coffee from one of our great coffee shops or discover beautiful and unique items from the many wonderful businesses around town, such as clothing, giftware, hardware or books – or just have a friendly chat with the local business owners.

Our annual shop local promotion is about to start as well, so make sure you shop where the posters are in the windows for your chance to win. mullumbimby.org.au

1. BYRON BAY PORK

A local, family-owned business that sources premium quality pork, beef, lamb, and goat from their family farms.

Call in and see their friendly team. Open Mon to Sat. 02 6684 2137

2. THE WELLNESS POD

A hands-on, holistic, healing space with specialised care programs and a focus on neuro-musculoskeletal conditions and corrective protocols. Services include chiropractic, lomi lomi massage, remedial massage, kinesiology and digital x-ray. 0431 063 027 thewellnesspodchiro.com.au

3. SON OF DRUM

Australia's most original and eclectic music shop! Loved by locals, no visit to Mullum is complete without stopping by this little gem. Acoustic musical instruments, records and electronic gear. Everything music. 02 6684 1742 sonofdrum.com.au

4. HEMP CULTURE

Discover Hemp Culture, your destination for ecoconscious living. Their sustainable hemp products span nutrition, cosmetics, clothing, self-care, and more, ensuring your daily routine is natural and green. hempculture.com.au @hempculture_au

5. LINEN HOUSE OUTLET

Give the gift of elegance this Christmas with pure linen. Enjoy 30–70% off napery, quilt covers, loungewear and more. Visit the Mullumbimby outlet for beautiful home essentials today!

02 4334 4876

6. STEWART’S MENSWEAR

The Christmas countdown has begun! Find unique gifts for everyone on your list with the Stewart’s Menswear 2024 Christmas Gift Guide - featuring Australian-made, sustainable, and budget-friendly options. New stock arriving weekly!

02 6684 2148 stewartsmenswear.com.au

7. ROSETTA DELI & BISTRO

Rosetta Deli & Bistro invites guests to experience nostalgic Italian charm with Gabriel coffee, classic focaccia deli sandwiches and rich natural gelato. Visit Tues to Sat for a taste of tradition. 0461 435 150 www.rosettadeliandbistro.com.au

8. THE PADDOCK PROJECT

The Paddock's amazing new cafe serves up fantastic coffee and a menu featuring produce straight from their garden. They proudly train NDIS participants, providing hands-on experience in a warm, welcoming setting. 0400 348 209 paddockproject.com

9. OPEN SKY WELLBEING

Open Sky is Mullumbimby’s newest wellbeing space, with studios and clinic. They offer tea ceremony, breath + sound, meditation, qi-gong, functional movement, vinyasa, hatha, ashtanga, yin and kundalini yoga. openskywellbeing.com.au @openskywellbeing

10. MULLUMBIMBY NEWSAGENCY

Looking for different gift ideas this Christmas? Browse Mullum Newsagency's huge range of gift ideas, from Scratchie gift packs to all sorts of educational toys and everything in between!

02 6684 2127

11. BABA EMMA’S

Traditional Russian recipes passed down from the family in Russia, all made fresh daily and served with love. GF, vegan options. Licensed. Indoor or outdoor dining and takeaway. Open Mon to Fri, 4pm to 7pm. 0432 195 545

Volume 39 #24

20–26 November, 2024

Editor: Eve Jeffery

Editorial/gigs: gigs@echo.net.au

Copy deadline: 5pm each Thursday

Gig Guide deadline: 5pm each Friday

Advertising: adcopy@echo.net.au

P: 02 6684 1777

W: echo.net.au/entertainment

Once upon a time ...

Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods is the latest and highlyanticipated production by local theatre group, Bangalow Theatre Company (BTC). The production opens on Friday, 22 November and runs for two weeks at the Byron Theatre The show brings together recognisable fairytale characters – Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, Jack, of ‘the beanstalk’ and his mother, Rapunzel, two Prince Charming’s, a witch, wolf, an evil stepmother and stepsisters, a mysterious man, a baker and his wife, a grandmother, and more! Into the Woods weaves comedy, tragedy and conflict together with wit, sophisticated musicality and an adventurous narrative. With over 40 locals involved in the production, including a six-piece band, BTC is growing into one of the region’s most well-respected and highly-anticipated theatre organisations. Taking out the Best Theatre Production of 2023 award at last year’s Gold Palm Theatre Awards, along with Best Direction, Best Leading Actor, Best Leading Actress, Best Choreographer and Best Technical Achievement, in 2023 alone. BTC is proudly local, and proudly volunteer-based. Everyone from director, to vocal coach, to set designer, to cast of Into the Woods all volunteering their time to bring great theatre to our region. With over six months of rehearsals, meetings, organising and commitment, it is set to be a fabulous theatre experience, and one for the whole family to enjoy.

Director Amy Skene’s creative vision for the work is eclectic, heartfelt and humorous: ‘Our version of Into the Woods is like nothing you have ever seen before. Think Met Gala meets Saltburn – it’s colourful, playful and thought provoking.’ Into the Woods is a fractured fairytale musical, where the characters all find themselves pulled into the woods on their own adventure, crossing paths, becoming lost and navigating their way towards their hopeful happy ending. But, be careful what you wish for ...

The clever narrative weaves enchantment and fleeting encounters with life lessons of sobering reality.

With music and lyrics by the great Stephen Sondheim, who sadly passed away at 91 in 2021, and book by James Lapine, Into the Woods is one of the most admired and highly complex musical works of our time. Sondheim was passionate about life and the nature of life being unknown and untidy. The clever use of known character and story is played with, tickling the audience with a sense of security through humour, however the musical has deep undertones which pull at both the heart and the head.

‘Sondheim is known for his complex and daring musicality, and Into the Woods is just that,’ says Musical Director Margaret Curtis. ‘There are musical themes throughout that become almost a character of their own, with such careful crafting of lyrics and tone, this show is famously known to be one of most acclaimed musicals of all time.’

Artistic Director of BTC, Anouska Gammon, says Into the Woods is a musical adventure of bravery and bravado. Gammon will also step onto the stage for her first BTC role as stepmother. ‘We have had such a fantastic time bringing this epic tale to life! It is a crowd-pleaser, and audiences will be delighted. There is so much within the work, it has challenged us and I am so proud of the

seven days of entertainment

formidable team of creatives, producers and performers we have at BTC. I can’t wait to share it with our local audiences.

‘You go into the woods, where nothing’s clear, where witches, ghosts, and wolves appear. Into the woods and through the fear, you have to take the journey.’

Tickets can be purchased through ByronTheatre. www.byroncentre.com.au/theatre-events/into-the-woods.

Eclectic Selection

What’s on this week

Growing up in the small town of Molong, Donny spent her time learning guitar and singing along to every single one of her mum’s records. The gigs started rolling in when she turned 15 and she has never looked back. Through her original music she writes about personal experiences, and other things that matter, in an amalgamation of folk, blues, jazz, roots and rock styles.

Donny Shades Duo, Thursday at The Rails, Byron Bay. Free show.

The British Film Festival at Palace Cinemas in Byron Bay until December 8 – The 2024 Russell Hobbs British Film Festival returns with a star-studded line up. The specially curated program features tender dramas, action-packed thrillers, comedy, documentaries and retrospectives, starring some of Britain’s most well-known faces including Saoirse Ronan, Andrew Garfield, Florence Pugh, Ralph Fiennes, Jude Law and Tim Roth Palace Cinemas until December 8. Tickets: palacecinemas.com.au.

Stand Up For Mandy is on!

On Wednesday join Mandy and her mates Kitty Flanagan, Dave Hughes, Akmal Saleh, Jackie Loeb, Ting Lim and Ellen Briggs

Wednesday 7pm Twin Towns Showroom – Tweed Heads. Tickets: twintowns.com.au.

Kookaburras, koalas, pelicans, spangled drongos, galahs, pademelons; these are some of our wild creatures that bring us joy and make us laugh with their curious calls and comic antics. They also need our help – Wild Aid 2024 #standupforthewildlife showcases the comedy of Jimeoin, Lehmo and Mandy Nolan Wild Aid 2024, Thursday from 6pm at the Beach Hotel, Byron Bay. Tickets $70 at moshtix.com.au.

Singer songwriter Hayley Grace has that something special. Her soulful, unmistakable sound and her energetic live shows looping guitar, vocals, beat boxing and percussion are an explosion of funk, reggae, soul, RnB and trip hop.

Saturday 6pm at the Ballina RSL. Free show.

Making fun of life, the Versace Boys create satirical pop-hop that hits home every time. Lacing their shows with freestyle litness, synchronised dance moves, anthemic bangers and insight into the struggles of being incredibly rich, famous, gorgeous, and humble. Friday from 7pm at The Channon Tavern. Free show.

Essentially a cover band, now branching out into original music that feels right to play, Fat Albert is coming straight from the balls and soul of rock’n’roll. In the past few years they have notched up over a thousand live shows – they have also done supports, played alongside, and shared the stage with many local and international acts.

Fat Albert on Saturday night at the Railway Hotel, Byron Bay. Free show.

seven days of entertainment

Students win for Trinket

SAE University College has been delivering industryfocused education since 1976, with courses that are responsive to the real world and embrace the digital revolution. Across six campuses in Australia, students can study nine disciplines: animation, audio, computer science, creative industries, design, film, games, music, and VFX & virtual production.

In the NSW Northern Rivers, creativity thrives at SAE’s regional campus in Byron Bay. The campus has long been renowned for the remarkable achievements of its students and alumni, and this year they hit new heights.

Four Byron Bay students were recognised for two projects at the SAE International Awards in Frankfurt, Germany

Jarmila Sustrova, Crystal Wilkes and Alisha DohertyHough won two categories at the awards for their project ‘Trinket’, a conceptual game trailer. The accolade saw the trio board a plane all the way from Byron Bay to Frankfurt for the occasion.

Jarmila studies a Bachelor of Audio, Crystal a Bachelor of Songwriting and Music Production, while Alisha has graduated with a Bachelor of Animation.

The awards recognise the best alumni and student work from SAE’s 48 campuses around the world.

Winners received an SAE international awards crystal trophy alongside the honour of being celebrated by a distinguished global network of creatives.

‘It’s truly amazing and an incredible honour to be recognised for both the animation and audio aspects of Trinket in two distinct categories,’ said Crystal, speaking on behalf of the Trinket team.

‘Initially, we thought it might be impossible for all of us to travel over to Germany together on short notice. However, the SAE community at the Byron Bay campus were incredibly supportive and encouraged us to attend.’ Their trailer follows the titular character Trinket’s adventures on the back of an ancient huntsman spider. Crystal said Trinket poses the question, ‘When we are gone, what will take our place?’

‘Trinket explores an apocalyptic Australian landscape through the eyes of a tiny protagonist who encounters warped and nightmarish creatures,’ she said. ‘Standing just two-and-a-half centimetres tall, Trinket must travel across the abandoned habitat of an extinct species and evade the augmented nightmares that have formed in their absence, all from the back of an ancient huntsman spider.’

The trailer’s visuals were an obvious win for Alisha, but the moody and haunting soundscapes which earned Jarmila and Crystal the Best Audio Project category are a testament to the power of audio and music in the creative industries.

An intense audio process resulted in the eerie, impactful final product.

‘The team connected musically over dark and haunting soundtracks,’ said Crystal. ‘For the audible atmospheres, Jarmila built an instrument that we used as the foundation for all the underlying atmospheres, FX and music. We pitchshifted and distorted recordings from the “horror box” to create a variety of audio textures, from crackling cockroach scuttling to phantom sirens, layered with a tinnitus-like pseudo synth for the music.’

The team were supported throughout the process by their teachers and staff at SAE. SAE Acting General Manager Radovan Klusacek said Australian students’ success at the awards illustrates how industry-ready our students are when they graduate from SAE.

‘The awards recognise the best alumni and student projects from across the world, and having our students win in four categories altogether this year is confirmation of the talent, diversity and opportunities we have at our Australian campuses,’ he said.

Interested in studying music or audio with SAE? Explore your options at: Creative Media Courses – Earn Your Degree in Creative Media, SAE.

Rainbow Creatives Gala Night

This is it folks – the ultimate queer celebration of the year. Queer Family is going all out for this extraordinary edition of Rainbow Creatives, promising an evening of art, glamour, and community magic.

There will be an art exhibition showcasing some of the phenomenal talent from across our region, and a stellar lineup of performances. This is an adults only event – expect raucousness and maybe a bit of raunchiness.

Rainbow Creatives Gala Night is an opportunity to come together as a community, to celebrate the ups and downs of the year, and to have ridiculous amounts of fun watching some amazing acts. Get ready for saucy tales, deep belly laughs, and maybe even a tear or two as we celebrate the diverse voices in our community. Our lineup of local talent and exciting prominent queer artists will guide us through an emotional rollercoaster of humour, heartbreak, and powerful self-expression. It’s storytelling like you’ve never seen before.

This isn’t just a celebration; it’s a vital fundraiser to keep Queer Family’s mission alive. Queer Family supports our local community by providing a lifeline of social connections, skill-sharing workshops, and mental health support across the Northern Rivers. By attending, you’re not only enjoying a spectacular night, but directly helping your community thrive.

Want to be part of the magic? We’re looking for volunteers to help make this unforgettable night happen. From bar staff to greeters, decorators, and support crew, we need your energy to bring this night to life. Email queerfamilynorthernrivers@gmail.com if you’re keen to join the action and be part of the most fabulous event of the year.

Want to come but the cost of living is hitting you hard? Reach out to Queer Family and we’ll get you on the door. Dress to impress and bring your friends. This is going to be one to remember.

Tickets via Queer Family’s: humantix.com.

FRIDAY 29TH NOVEVBER FROM 5:30PM MULLUM CIVIC HALL A night of community & storytelling Art exhibition, performances, bar 18+

Festival of the Rosé

On Saturday the North Byron Hotel is set to transcend into a delightful French provincial playground with partner Maison AIX-en-Provence, as they host two events for Festival of the Rosé, in appreciation of all things rosé. Rounding off a month-long rosé celebration, the sundrenched garden of North Byron Hotel will set the stage for a delectable cocktail style lunch by celebrated native food chef and Bundjalung woman Mindy Woods, followed by an afternoon of rosé wine tastings and more delicious food.

The Festival of the Rosé VIP Preview Lunch starts at 12pm

For the foodie enthusiasts, a limited number of VIP preview tickets are available to try Mindy’s menu in full, with two glasses of AIX-en-Provence Rosé for just $60.

Guest chef Mindy will be serving up some of her signature dishes and seafood snacks in collaboration with local supplier Australian Bay Lobster, and also highlighting cooking over fire with the hotel’s impressive Ember BBQ.

Mindy Wood’s Festival of the Rosé menu – served cocktail style: local rock oysters dressed with pepperberry mignonette; betel leaf paperbark smoked fish; native nước chấm; chargrilled prawns with macadamia satay; kangaroo tartare, sea herbs and Ooray crisps; and seared scallops, Warrigal green emulsion native red curry.

The Festival of the Rosé general admission and wine tasting starts at 1.30pm

The rosé celebration continues for $25, where guests will have the opportunity to meet the makers and sample a carefully curated line up of blushes from regionally and internationally respected producers.

Wine producers include AIX-en-Provence, Delinquente, Source of the Nile, Das Juice, Ricca Terra, MEREDITH, Natural Order Wine and Lo-Fi.

Mindy’s menu will also be available to purchase a la carte, alongside the usual North Byron Hotel menu. Meanwhile, locally-loved DJs and live musicians will gently build the afternoon atmosphere into a haven of pink-fuelled buzz. Festival of the Rosé at North Byron Hotel, on Saturday at 61 Bayside Drive, Byron Bay. Visit: northbyronhotel.com.au/whats-on.

SPECIAL SCREENINGS

JAWS (1975) (CTC) CINEVAULT Mon: 6:30PM ROYAL BALLET: ALICE'S

GIG GUIDE

WEDNESDAY 20

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, ISAAC FRANKHAM

PALACE CINEMAS, BYRON BAY, BRITISH FILM FESTIVAL

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM INO PIO

BANGALOW BOWLO 7.30PM

BANGALOW BRACKETS’ OPEN

MIC

TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE SHOWROOM 7PM STAND UP FOR MANDY FEAT. KITTY FLANAGAN, DAVE HUGHES, AKMAL, JACKIE

LOEB, TING LIM, ELLEN BRIGGS AND MANDY NOLAN

COOLANGATTA HOTEL 5PM DIZZY J

THURSDAY 21

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, DONNY SHADES DUO

ST JOHN’S SCHOOL HALL, MULLUMBIMBY, 7.30PM ECSTATIC

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM WILD AID 2024

#STANDUPFORTHEWILDLIFE COMEDY BY JIMEOIN, LEHMO & MANDY NOLAN

PALACE CINEMAS, BYRON BAY, BRITISH FILM FESTIVAL

NORTH BYRON HOTEL 5.30PM

OPEN MIC

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM DAN HANNAFORD

HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM OOZ

BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE

HOUSE 7PM WILD WOMEN 2

DRILL HALL THEATRE, MULLUMBIMBY, 7.30PM HOT SHORTS

THE LEVEE, LISMORE, 5PM THE LONESOME BOATMEN

LISMORE CITY BOWLO 7PM THE SUPPER CLUB SOUL BAND

FRIDAY 22

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, THE WHISKEYS

DANCE MULLUM WITH DJ

PEACH

MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 8PM

KRAPPYOKEE WITH JESS

CLUB LENNOX 7PM ADAM

BROWN

CHERRY STREET SPORTS CLUB, BALLINA, 7PM FAT ALBERT DUO

MARY G’S, LISMORE, 5.30PM LUKE

VASSELLA

ELEVATOR ARI, LISMORE, 6PM

LEONA DEBOLT & MICHAEL

DONNELLY ART EXHIBITION WITH HOWL & MOAN DJS

THE LEVEE, LISMORE, 7.30PM DJ ORTHENTIX

LISMORE WORKERS CLUB 9PM

THE ITALIAN TENORS

THE CHANNON TAVERN 7PM THE VERSACE BOYS

MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES CLUB

6.30PM MR TROY

CITADEL, MURWILLUMBAH, 7PM

BARRY MORGAN-ALL KEY’D UP!

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM

NANA’S PIE

BYRON THEATRE 7PM INTO THE WOODS, PRESENTED BY BANGALOW THEATRE COMPANY

PALACE CINEMAS, BYRON BAY, BRITISH FILM FESTIVAL

HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM

JAMES REYNE WITH SUPPORT DISGRACELAND AND DAN HANNAFORD

WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM DJ XUJA

MULLUMBIMBY EX-SERVICES CLUB 7.30PM MAMBO DE MULLUM NO 1 FEAT. KWASI BRUNI

DRILL HALL THEATRE, MULLUMBIMBY, 7.30PM HOT SHORTS

KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 6PM

MARK CROTTI

SALTBAR, KINGSCLIFF, 6PM ALEX MCLEOD

COOLANGATTA HOTEL 4PM GUS 9PM NO RIGHT TURN

SATURDAY 23

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, FAT ALBERT

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 7PM

BYRON SCHOOLIES 2024 | MARKET MEMORIES

BYRON THEATRE 1PM & 7PM INTO THE WOODS, PRESENTED BY BANGALOW THEATRE COMPANY

PALACE CINEMAS, BYRON BAY, BRITISH FILM FESTIVAL

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM KANE MUIR

BANGALOW HOTEL 6PM LOKI

HOUGH

BRUNWICK SOUNDSHELL 12PM

ALAN JONES COURT DEFENCE FUND CONCERT WITH SUPPORT BY THE RWNJS

HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4.30PM IS MAN KINDWITH SUPPORT FROM OLLIE TWOHILL AND DJ SELECTA PICKLE

BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 4PM LIVED EXPERIENCE FUNDRAISER WITHJK-47, DOOZ, ESKY, EMPH N TREATS, 01.EKKA, VAYE-K, NATMAN C WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM DJ JASON DIGBY

MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 7PM THE SWAMP CATS

DRILL HALL THEATRE, MULLUMBIMBY, 7.30PM HOT SHORTS

BILLINUDGEL HOTEL 7PM PISTOL WHIP

CLUB LENNOX 7PM JABIRU

BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK 6PM HAYLEY GRACE

CHERRY STREET SPORTS CLUB, BALLINA, 8PM CHILDREN OF BOB

ELTHAM HOTEL 6.30PM FOLK

BITCH TRIO

MARY G’S, LISMORE, 9.30PM PISTOL WHIP

MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES CLUB 6PM OLLIE TWOHILL

KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 6PM BACKTRACKIN’ + TAHLIA MATHESON

SALTBAR, KINGSCLIFF, 6PM TRILLA

TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE STAGE 8PM THE OFFICIAL BLUES BROTHERS REVUE

COOLANGATTA HOTEL 4PM THE DANNIES, 8PM THE SYDNEY HOTSHOTS, 9PM REMEDY LIVE

ELTHAM HOTEL 2.30PM & 5.30PM

MATT ARMITAGE

LISMORE CITY BOWLO 3PM

WINSOME SOUP KITCHEN FUNDRAISER WITH TIMBUKTU AND ORKLIZ THE CHANNON TAVERN 3PM OPEN MIC THE CITADEL, MURWILLUMBAH, 7PM MOVIE “STOP MAKING SENSE” TALKING

MONDAY 25

SUNDAY 24

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, MAJESTIC KNIGHTS

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, BYRON SCHOOLIES 2024 | LEVI

YULLI’S BYRON BAY, 3PM OPEN MIC

BYRON THEATRE 7PM INTO THE WOODS, PRESENTED BY BANGALOW THEATRE COMPANY

BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 4PM SCREENING ‘THE KOALAS’ FOLLOWED BY A Q&A WITH THE DIRECTORS AND KOALA EXPERTS.

PALACE CINEMAS, BYRON BAY, BRITISH FILM FESTIVAL

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM JASON DELPHIN

BANGALOW MARKET 10AM

GLITTERATI RIOT

BANGALOW HOTEL 4PM

CINNAMON SUN HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4PM LUKE

MORRIS & THE HEAVY HITTERS AND GLENN MOSSIP

OCEAN SHORES COUNTRY CLUB 3PM OPEN MIC

MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 3PM OPEN-MIC WITH THE SWAMP CATS

WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 3.30PM DJ AFRODESIA

DRILL HALL THEATRE, MULLUMBIMBY, 5PM HOT SHORTS

BILLINUDGEL HOTEL 4PM TIM STOKES

BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK 2.30PM SUNDAY BLUES CLUB SESSIONS FEAT IMPERIAL BLUES REVIEW

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND (CTC) Sun: 1:00PM. Wed: 11:00AM

FAMILY FILMS

RED ONE(PG) Thurs, Tues: 10:45AM, 1:50PM, 3:40PM, 6:00PM.Fri, Sat, Sun: 10:45AM, 1:50PM, 3:15PM, 6:00PM. Mon: 10:45AM, 1:50PM, 3:15PM, 8:10PM.Wed: 10:45AM, 1:50PM, 3:10PM, 8:10PM

RUNT (PG) Daily except Thurs, Tues: 10:50AM. Thurs, Tues: 11:10AM THE WILD ROBOT (PG) Daily except Sun: 11:15AM. Sun: 10:50AM

WICKED (PG) NFT Thurs, Tues, Wed: 10:45AM, 11:30AM, 2:45PM, 3:40PM, 5:00PM, 6:00PM, 7:00PM. Fri, Sat, Sun, Mon: 10:45AM, 11:30AM, 2:45PM, 3:40PM, 6:00PM, 7:00PM, 7:45PM ALL FILMS GLADIATOR II (M) NFT Thurs, Tues, Wed: 10:50AM, 2:00PM, 4:15PM, 6:15PM, 7:15PM. Fri, Sat, Sun, Mon: 10:50AM, 2:00PM, 4:15PM, 5:00PM,6:15PM, 7:15PM

GOODRICH (M) NFT Thurs, Tues: 1:15PM, 3:45PM, 6:10PM. Fri, Sat, Mon, Wed: 12:50PM, 3:45PM, 6:10PM.Sun: 12:50PM, 3:45PM, 7:30PM LEE (M) Thurs, Tues: 10:45AM, 3:30PM, 8:10PM. Fri, Sat: 10:45AM, 3:30PM, 8:30PM. Sun: 10:45AM, 8:30PM. Mon: 10:45AM, 3:30PM. Wed: 3:30PM, 8:20PM

SATURDAY NIGHT (MA15+) Thurs, Tues: 1:10PM, 8:30PM. Fri, Sat, Mon: 1:10PM. Wed: 8:30PM SMILE 2 (MA15+) Thurs: 1:30PM, 8:20PM. Fri: 1:30PM, 8:30PM. Sat, Sun: 1:30PM, 8:00PM. Mon, Tues, Wed: 1:30PM THE SUBSTANCE (R18+) Daily: 12:50PM VENOM: THE LAST DANCE(M) Daily except Sun: 1:20PM, 8:30PM. Sun: 1:20PM YOU SHOULD HAVE BEEN HERE YESTERDAY (M) NFT Thurs, Tues: 11:00AM, 4:20PM, 6:15PM.Fri, Sat, Mon: 11:00AM, 4:20PM, 5:50PM. Sun: 11:00AM, 5:50PM. Wed: 11:00AM, 4:20PM, 6:00PM

MINDY WOODS

ECHO CLASSIFIEDS – 6684 1777

CLASSIFIED AD BOOKINGS

PHONE ADS

Ads may be taken by phone on 6684 1777 AT THE ECHO HEAD OFFICE

Ads can be lodged in person at the Mullum Echo office: Village Way, Stuart St, Mullumbimby EMAIL ADS

Display (box ads) and line classifieds, email: classifieds@echo.net.au

Ad bookings only taken during business hours: Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm. Ads can’t be taken on the weekend. Account enquiries phone 6684 1777.

AGMs

DEADLINE TUES 12PM

Publication day is Wednesday, booking deadlines are the day before publication.

RATES & PAYMENT

LINE ADS:

$17.00 for the first two lines

$5 .00 for each extra line

$17 for two lines is the minimum charge.

DISPLAY ADS (with a border): $14 per column centimetre

These prices include GST. Cash, cheque, Mastercard or Visa Prepayment is required for all ads.

THE BYRON ENVIRONMENT CENTRE is holding its AGM and general meeting on Saturday 30 November at 11am in Byron Bay at the RSL Club on Jonson St. For more info please email Renee renee8@aapt.net.au. All members are invited to attend.

PUBLIC NOTICES

Notice Of Praecipe Tacit Acceptance & Reconveyance

Lynette Carr© and Kenneth Mossman© of Tweed Shire, New South Wales, state, are not voluntary transactors in commerce, and are the irrefutable holders in due course of their properties/chattels and all associated copyright protected rrade names Lynette Carr© and Kenneth Mossman©, LYNETTE CARR©, and KENNETH MOSSMAN© have lawfully reconveyed all relevant variations of naming conventions since their unrebutted reconveyance to the land and soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis, commonly known as the Commonwealth of Australia, Public record numbers RPP44 63900 05100 28069 30602, Proclamation date 27th March 2024, and RPP44 63900 05100 28069 29606.  Proclamation date 28th March 2024. Thus, severing usufruct subjugation ties with the occupying Australia corporation, in entirety. The corporate Australian kakistocracy and its affiliates, are instructed to immediately cease and desist any further infringement upon these copyright protected financial instruments and are required to cease and desist misaddressing Lynette Carr© and Kenneth Mossman© in fraudulent debased dog-Latin, glossa.

WHERE TO GET THE ECHO

If you live in Lennox Head or Ballina, but outside our current home delivery area, you can pick up an Echo from many locations, including: Richies IGA Ballina, Ballina RSL, One Stop Shop Ballina, Ballina Golf Club East Ballina, Brighton St Takeaway near the Shawsy, Seagrass Lennox, Lennox pub drive-through, Station St Grocer Lennox

COMMUNITY HOT BRUNCH FREE

FIRST SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH

• Sausage sizzle • Hot dogs • Sandwiches

• Coffee & tea • Fruit Salad EVERYONE WELCOME

Come one come all and join us in a meal or just a chat. Takeaway most welcome: COVID safe rules apply. Frozen takeaway meals now available. 10am to 12pm In the Ballina Presbyterian Hall

All skill sets welcome. Contact SylviaVolunteer Coordinator Mon-Fri 6684 1286

PROF. SERVICES

DENTURES

consultation. SANDRO 66805002

HEALTH

HAWAIIAN MASSAGE

Shores, Michaela, 0416332886

and

& EFT

& Trauma. Maureen Bracken 0402205352

Classifieds

WORK WANTED

HANDYMAN/CARPENTER: renovations, decks, pool fencing, landscaping, odd jobs. Reliable, honest, hardworking local, 20 years exp in construction $60ph or free quote. Call Red 0433547162

DELIVERIES: after hours and weekends.

4-tonne load on 6m flatbed + 2.5-tonne load on 3.6m tiptruck. Ph 0419425491

WORDPRESS WEBSITE CREATION Fair rates info@wordpressit.com.au

HANDYMAN SERVICES No job too big or too small. Call for quote. $60ph. Insured. 0439735817.

Healing Chef & Nurturing Carer

If you’re seeking a dedicated creative professional who brings a healing presence through extraordinary cuisine, attentive care and intuitive understanding, I may be the person you are looking for.

Working privately, with 25 years of experience both in Australia and Internationally, in health and wellbeing, caring for patients either in recovery from surgery, or a long illness, I am committed to working closely with clients, leaving them feeling genuinely seen, deeply cared for and hopeful.

Areas considered: Northern Rivers, Tweed and South East Queensland.

Contact: Rangi M Jackson rangijackson@gmail.com 0420 311 200

MUSICAL NOTES

GUITARS, RECORDS, HI-FI

BUY AND SELL 66851005 THE BYRON BAY BAGPIPER

bagpipe Byron area: Weddings, functions, funerals, tutoring. 0473174033

THOMPSON

Dawn Colleen

12th November 2024, peacefully at Woolgoolga Retirement Village. Late of Woolgoolga, formerly of Brunswick Heads. Much loved mother and motherin-law of Mark, Scott & Shannon and Kylie & Saro. Cherished nan of Mya, Emerson, Ella, Seanna and Jayde. Caring sister of Les and Jill.  Aged 80 Years

Forever In Our Hearts

A private cremation was held for Dawn at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.

Sari is a gorgeous, dark tortie girl who has the sweetest nature. Sari, inexplicably has been in the shelter for too long & really deserves a home. She would love to be an indoor/outdoor cat as she loves to arrange the shelter’s outside garden stones!

SARI

To meet Sari & our other cats & kittens, please visit the Cat Adopt Centre at 124 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby.

OPEN: Tues 2.30-5.30pm | Thurs 3-5pm | Sat 10am-12 noon | Call AWL on 0436 845 542 |

Like us on Facebook! AWL NSW Rehoming Organisation Number: R251000222

10-month-old desexed female Irish Wolfhound x Kelpie Luna needs a new home. Only weighing 23.5kgs, Luna is tall but very petite. She is great with children and other dogs and LOVES to play. She has the sweetest, most adorable temperament. She will need ongoing training and an active companion or family with a decent-sized fenced yard. Please contact Shell on 0458461935. MC: 978142000105470

28TH 5:40

3:26 16:46 0730 1.47 1917 1.22 0044 0.29 1340 0.49

29F 5:40 19:28 3:55 17:42 0806 1.56 1958 1.19 0115 0.26 1424 0.44

30SA 5:40 19:28 4:29 18:40 0843 1.63 2036 1.17 0145 0.23 1506 0.40

1SU 5:40 19:29 5:07 19:39 0919 1.68 2115 1.14 0216 0.22 1546 0.38

2M 5:40 19:30 5:53 20:38 0958 1.70 2154 1.11 0250 0.22 1628 0.37

3TU 5:40 19:31 6:45 21:35 1037 1.71 2234 1.08 0326 0.24 1711 0.36

4W 5:40 19:32 7:44 22:26 1118 1.70 2319 1.06 0404 0.26 1756 0.37

5TH 5:40 19:32 8:46 23:11 1202 1.68 0447 0.30 1844 0.38

6F 5:40 19:33 9:51 23:51 0010 1.04 1248 1.64 0537 0.36 1935 0.38

7SA 5:40 19:34 10:550109 1.04 1339 1.60 0634 0.42 2029 0.37

8SU 5:40 19:35 11:59 0:27 0216 1.07 1432 1.55 0741 0.47 2122 0.34

9M 5:40 19:35 13:02 1:00 0329 1.15 1530 1.49 0856 0.51 2215 0.30

10TU 5:41 19:36 14:05 1:32 0437 1.28 1631 1.42 1015 0.52 2303 0.25

11W 5:41 19:37 15:10 2:04 0540 1.43 1732 1.35 1132 0.50 2351 0.20

12TH 5:41 19:37 16:18 2:39 0637 1.58 1833 1.29 1245 0.45

13F 5:41 19:38 17:28 3:18 0730 1.71 1930 1.23 0036 0.16 1351 0.38

14SA 5:42 19:39 18:39 4:03 0821 1.81 2025 1.18 0121 0.14 1450 0.32

5:42

DEATH NOTICES

ONLY ADULTS

and Niamh. *

An independent spirit she carried with her to the end.

Cremated at a private ceremony in Orange. A celebration of her life will be held at Lennox Head on Thursday 19 December for family and friends. RSVP at https://bit.ly/LennoxRos

B R Y C E BRYCE

Bryce is a 7 month old, Cattle X. He has a loving nature and always aims to please, making him the perfect companion for an active family. He would thrive in a home with children and plenty of space to play and explore.   # 991003002702806. Location: Murwillumbah. For more information contact Yvette on 0421 831 128. Interested? Please complete our online adoption expression of interest: friendsofthepound. com/adoption-expression-of-interest/

Visit friendsofthepound.com to view other dogs and cats looking for a home. ABN 83 126 970 338

Boots

Boots is a 14 month old black and white, shy boy who pretends he doesn’t like people but likes to be stroked. He gets on well with other cats and feels more secure around them. He will need lots of patience until you earn his trust and if you have another young cat, he’d be happy. He came with his brother, Otter, who is very similar in personality but is ginger and white.

All cats are desexed, vaccinated and microchipped. No: 900164002267302.

MONTHLY MARKETS

Community at Work

On The Horizon

DEADLINE

NOON FRIDAY

Email copy marked ‘On The Horizon’ to editor@echo.net.au.

Carols under the Poinciana

‘Carols under the Poinciana’ hosted by The Anglican Parish of Byron. Tuesday, November 26 at 5pm, St Martin’s Church grounds, 38 Stuart St Mullumbimby. Free Community event, sausage sizzle and carol singing with a special performance by the RedInc signing choir.

Byron Toastmasters

Byron Cavanbah Toastmasters Club is a group for public speaking. It meets on the first and third Monday of the month 6.15pm – 8.30pm, Byron Services Club, 132 Jonson St Byron Bay. For more information email Tamra @ temcmahon15@outlook.com.

Free African Dance

Free African Dance classes for local seniors are being led by Angela McWhinney on Mondays in Byron Community Centre, 69 Jonson Street, Byron Bay. These classes are a joyful exploration of African rhythms and movement designed for all fitness levels. Each session includes a gentle warm-up, rhythmic sequences, body percussion, free expression, choreography and a relaxing cool-down. Spaces are limited and bookings are essential. Call (02) 6685 6807 (Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm); or book your ticket at https://events.humanitix.com/ african-dance-for-seniors.

Slow Fashion

Byron Bay Library presents Slow Fashion in a Digital World with Eve Constantinos. Join us for a sustainable fashion afternoon that covers content creation, small business motivation, and a clothing swap. This is a free youth event for 14-24 year olds. Thursday, 28 November 3.30 - 5.30pm. Bookings essential, online at www.rtrl.nsw.gov.au or phone (02) 6685 8540.

Free Japanese festival

The Matsuri Japan Festival in Byron Bay will take place in Dening Park on November 23 from 2 to 8pm. It is a free, family-friendly, community event that introduces unique Japanese cultural experiences. Bring your picnic mat, enjoy the beach breeze for an outdoor picnic dinner. YATAI Asian street foods will be served under the lantern, and live Japanese music and entertainment will be provided. Enjoy traditional performances, bon-dance, craft workshops, and kids’ games – all with a Japanese twist. To keep the festival free, every beer you drink will be a donation to the festival.

Byron Bay Hospital

Auxiliary

Byron Bay Hospital Auxiliary will be holding their Christmas Garage Sale on Saturday, November 30 from 8am to 12noon at 105 Beech Drive, Suffolk Park. Christmas cakes and puddings, pickles, bric a brac and plants. Contact Maureen on (02) 6685 3162 for further information.

CWA Christmas Market

The CWA Brunswick Heads annual Christmas Market is on Saturday, November 30 from 8am to 1pm. Christmas cakes, Jam, pickles, handmade christmas gifts of plants and flowers. At the corner Park and Booyun Streets, Brunswick Heads. Cash only. Contact Mary on 0431 908 063 for further information.

Louise Southerden

Byron Bay Library is pleased to be hosting award-winning travel writer

Louise Southerden, in conversation with Sarah Reid on Thursday, November 21 from 4pm to 5.30pm as they talk about Louise’s book TINY: a Memoir About Love, Letting Go and a Very Small House. Light refreshments provided. Bookings essentials 6685 8540 or online at www. rtrl.nsw.gov.au.

End-of-Life Choices

Voluntary Euthanasia End-of-Life Choices are discussed at Exit International meetings held quarterly. Last meetings for the year are being held shortly. Meetings are held at Robina, South Tweed and Ballina. Attendees must be Exit Members. For further Information www.exitinternational.net or phone Catherine 0435 228 443 (Robina & South Tweed) or Peter 0429 950 352 (Ballina) Death Cafe

A Death Cafe is being held on Saturday, December 7 at 10.30am. The location will be in Ballina – venue location on registration. A Death Cafe is basically an opportunity to have a discussion about death and dying in a safe and respectful space. The object is to increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their lives and to break down the taboos. A Death Cafe is not bereavement support or grief counselling and there are no agendas. Death Cafes will be held the first Saturday of each month in Ballina. For further information and/or to register attendance please email Kerry Johnston at: kerrymj@ymail.com.

NR Gateway

Free community lunch the first Friday each month. All are welcome to come and connect, enjoy a free barbecue with vegetarian options, cakes, snacks and coffees. Lunch runs 10.30am to 12pm at 76 Carrington Street, Lismore. Call Community Gateway for more details 6621 7397. Fresh bread and produce If you’re living on a low income and struggling to put food on the table, get to Community Gateway om Tuesdays after 11am to access their community pantry, with fresh bread, food and produce at 76 Carrington Street, Lismore. Call 6621 7397 to check your eligibility. Residents can receive community support in Goonellabah on Tuesdays from 1-4pm. Supports include energy bill assistance, chemist and retail vouchers, food boxes and access to a range of other support services. Bookings essential. Call Community Gateway on 6621 7397 for more information and to check eligibility. Mums and Bubs free inclusive playgroup for children aged 0-3 years, their parents and carers. Bookings are essential, call 0429 640 075 for more information. Adopt a family for Christmas and help a family that will be financially struggling through the holidays. If you want to donate any presents, gifts or food call Community Gateway on 6621 7397.

Banora Point Church Fete

One of Banora Point’s most popular community events is back again this year! The Banora Point Uniting Church Fete is taking place on Saturday, November 23 at the Uniting Church, 63 Darlington Drive, Banora Point, from 8am to 12 noon. All the popular favourites are back including a scrumptious BBQ breakfast, and lovely Devonshire teas. The award-winning Banora Point High School Concert Band are performing from 11am.

ShedFest 2024

Want to play with tools? Join ShedFest end of year celebration and open day on Sunday, December 8 as we bring together shedders, repairers, collaborators and guests in a free event for all people! A hands-on day of workshops, live music, food, drink and activities to discover our workshops for wellbeing, our creative community and a smorgasbord of skills! 10am to 3pm, 18 Prince Street. RSVP to 0458 134 551 or hello@shedding.com.au.

Saving Paterson Hill

The Saving Paterson Hill display continues at Byron Bay library throughout November in the Local History room. The Paterson Hill Action Group saved this precious coastal heathland between 1993 and 1997. Were you there? Can you name anyone in the photos?

LU NA LUNA

Byron Dog Rescue (CAWI)

Service Directory

Embrace an Endless Summer in an Absolute Beachfront Oasis

Epitomising laid-back luxury, this absolute beachfront oasis invites you to celebrate an endless summer – and your best life – in a Palm Springsinspired masterpiece. Nestled footsteps from Tallow Beach on a rare 1069m2 block, it’s a first-class residence befitting of this dress circle location.

Blissfully light, bright and breezy, with 3m ceilings and an emphasis on a fluid indoor-outdoor flow, full-height glass doors upstairs dissolve the barriers between the open-plan kitchen, living and dining space and the enviable al fresco deck. Acting as one seamless and expansive entertaining space, cook up a feast in the gourmet kitchen and host guests overlooking the lush National Park bushland. Alternatively, settle in and savour the sound of the waves lapping at the nearby shoreline.

In true beach-house style, a breezeway wraps around the deck to connect with four bedrooms, led by a spacious master suite. Gleaming Ironbark timber floors add to the charm, with a fifth bedroom, media room and games room downstairs. Three

bathrooms also service the home (including a luxe master ensuite), while outdoors, privacy prevails in your personal tropical paradise. Equipped with resort-style amenities, every day is a holiday with a solar-heated pool, custom Western Red Cedar sauna, firepit and gym. Level front and rear lawn areas are complemented by landscaped gardens, with a path to the beach beckoning direct from your backyard. Plus, take advantage of being walking distance to shops, eateries and public transport or drive approx. 10 minutes to the vibrant heart of Byron Bay.

Whether you use this as your dream home-sweethome or are eager to capitalise on its prized location and reap a healthy rental return, either way, the future looks bright. Secure this Suffolk Park trophy home before it’s snapped up – inspect today.

135 Alcorn St, Suffolk Park Contact Agent: Bryce Cameron 0412 057 672. Cape Byron Property

297 LEFT BANK ROAD, MULLUMBIMBY

AVOCADO CRESCENT, EWINGSDALE

7 SALIGNA COURT, MULLUMBIMBY

BEECH DRIVE, SUFFOLK PARK

ELECTRA CLOSE, BYRON BAY

36 ROBIN STREET, SOUTH GOLDEN BEACH 783 FERNLEIGH ROAD, BROOKLET

7/1-2 CAPE COURT, BYRON BAY

855 COOLAMON SCENIC DRIVE, COORABELL

17 WIRREE DRIVE, OCEAN SHORES

SUNRISE BOULEVARD, BYRON BAY

COOPER STREET, BYRON BAY

FRIDAY HUT ROAD, COORABELL

7/18-20 JACARANDA DRIVE, BYRON BAY 1/2-6 CEMETERY ROAD, BYRON BAY 1/6 FIREWHEEL PLACE, SUFFOLK PARK 6/37-39 BOTTLEBRUSH CR, SUFFOLK PARK

BANGALOW ROAD, BYRON BAY

26K COOMBURRA CRES, OCEAN SHORES 19 CANIABA CRESCENT, SUFFOLK PARK

28 COOLAMON SCENIC DR, MULLUMBIMBY 8 PECAN COURT, SUFFOLK PARK

371 WHIAN WHIAN ROAD, WHIAN WHIAN

Tastefully renovated two-bedroom home located on a corner block with nothing to

•Contemporary

Property Business Directory

Open For Inspection

• 160 Reardons Lane, Swan Bay. Thurs 11–11.30am

• 18/6 Firewheel Place, Suffolk Park. Thurs 11–11.30am

• 23 Prince Street, Mullumbimby. Fri 10–10.30am

• 23/24 Scott Street, Byron Bay. Fri 1–1.30pm

• 132 Lockton Road, Bexhill. Sat 9–9.30am

• 15/24 Scott Street, Byron Bay. Sat 9–9.30am

• 11 Lizray Road, Federal. Sat 9–9.30am

• 6 Coachwood Close, Byron Bay. Sat 9–9.30am

• 2/4 Corkwood Crescent, Suffolk Park. Sat 9–9.30am

• 2/27 Kalemajere Drive, Suffolk Park. Sat 9–9.30am

• 2/6 Firewheel Place, Suffolk Park. Sat 9.45–10.15am

• 65 Citriadora Drive, Ewingsdale. Sat 10–10.30am

• 23 Prince Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 10–10.30am

• 2/37 Childe Street, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30am

• 326 Booyong Road, Nashua. Sat 10–10.30am

• 5/75 Bangalow Road, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30am

• 2/8 Julian Rocks Drive, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30am

• 16 Bryce Street, Suffolk Park. Sat 10–10.30am

• 3/60 Lawson Street, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am

• 18/6 Firewheel Place, Suffolk Park. Sat 11–11.30am

• 14 Oakland Court, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am

• 24 Swell Avenue, Skennars Head. Sat 11–11.30am 84 Grant Street, Ballina. Sat 11–11.30am 10 Muli Court, Myocum. Sat 11.30am–12pm

5 Bombora Place, Lennox Head. Sat 11.30am–12pm

58 Ruskin Street, Byron Bay. Sat 12–12.30pm

147 Whian Whian Road, Whian Whian. Sat 12.15–12.45pm 1145 Friday Hut Road, Binna Burra. Sat 1–1.30pm

20 Ridgeland Close, Boat Harbour. Sat 1–1.30pm

50 Rocky Creek Dam Road, Dunoon. Sat 1–1.30pm

440 Dorroughby Road, Dorroughby. Sat 1.45–2.15pm

North Coast Lifestyle Properties

• 1 Gahwang Court, Ocean Shores . Wed 4–4.30pm

• 1 Gahwang Court, Ocean Shores . Sat 9–9.30am

• 284 The Pocket Road, The Pocket. Sat 9–9.30am

• 36 Kolora Way, Ocean Shores. Sat 10–10.30am

• 268 Burringbar Road, Burringbar. Sat 10–10.30am

• 150 Cabarita Road, Bogangar.  Sat 10–10.30am

• 18 Cockatoo Crescent, Mullumbimby. Sat 10–10.45am

• 45 Geles Road, Upper Burringbar. Sat 11–11.30am

• 5/20 Booyun Street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 11–11.30am

• 22 Mill Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 11–11.45am

• 162 Hulls Road, Crabbes Creek. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 577 Humpty Back Road, Pearces Creek. Sat 12.30–1pm Ray White Byron Bay

• 4 Tamarind Court, Suffolk Park. Thurs 10–10.30am

• 70 Charltons Road, Federal. Thurs 11.30–12pm

• 3/66 Lawson Street, Byron Bay. Thurs 1.30–2pm

• 7/68-70 Lawson Street, Byron Bay. Thurs 2–2.30pm

• 48 Tobin Close, Lennox Head. Fri 3–4pm

• 15 Little Burns Street, Byron Bay. Sat 9–9.30am

• 13/183-205 Broken Head Road, Suffolk Park. Sat 9.30–10am

• 19/183-205 Broken Head Road, Suffolk Park. Sat 9.30–10am

• 243 Broken Head Road, Suffolk Park. Sat 10–10.30am

• 4 Tamarind Court, Suffolk Park. Sat 10–10.30am

• 3/66 Lawson Street, Byron Bay. Sat 10.30–11am

1 Hayters Drive, Suffolk Park Sat. 11–11.30am

152 Alcorn Street, Suffolk Park. Sat 11–11.30am

1/24 Seaview Street, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am

7/68-70 Lawson Street, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am

16 Coral Court, Byron Bay. Sat 12–12.30pm

5/10 Sunrise Boulevard, Byron Bay. Sat 12–12.30pm

9 Bunjil Place, Byron Bay. Sat 1–1.30pm

47 Elizabeth Avenue, South Golden Beach. Sat 1.30–2pm

Ray White Rural Bangalow

• 400 Dorroughby Road, Dorroughby. Sat 10–10.30am

• 362 Coorabell Road, Coorabell. Sat 11.30am–12pm

Ruth Russell Realty

• 73 New City Road, Mullumbimby. Sat 11–11.45am

Tim Miller Real Estate

5 Walker Street, Clunes. Sat 9–9.30am

• 166 Emerson Road, Rosebank. Sat 10–10.30am

• 35 Riverside Drive, Mullumbimby. Sat 12.30–1pm

• 11 Booyong Road, Clunes. Sat 1.45–2.15pm

Backlash

BOWER CAMP CO.

Federal and Binna Burra appeared hardest hit after a big storm last Wednesday, though there were strong winds, rain and hail recorded throughout the region. Thanks to the SES, firies, police and Council crews who helped mop up and assist with the debris.

The Uniquely Byron Business Awards, hosted by the town’s chamber, will be held at Ember Byron Bay on Thursday, November 28 – grab your tickets now at https:// tinyurl.com/8nymjzm5

The Bangalow Farmers Market has a new home! From December 7, it will be held at Piccabeen Park, near Heritage House, every Saturday morning from 7–11am. See page 19 for more.

Various news outlets are reporting that Elon Musk’s AI machine, Grok, has labelled him as ‘one of the most significant spreaders of misinformation on [Musk’s social media platform] X’. A mass migration from X to competitor BlueSky is underway. The Echo has joined The Guardian in deleting its X accounts. In related news, nonpartisan US think tank, Pew Research Center, have released a study suggesting that about 20 per cent of Americans now regularly get their news from social media influencers.

Final tickets are on sale for Bangalow Theatre Company’s performance of Into The Woods at the Byron Theatre. The show runs until November 30. Tickets are available at the theatre’s website or see page 24.

Sad news for a family of bush stone-curlews living around

One of Byron Shire’s enduring creative geniuses, Ilona Harker, for quite a while was unable to find secure living conditions. She is now living, creating, and thriving in what was the Stoker’s Siding Pottery building. Ilona is seen here hard at work, repurposing what were high fashion garments into contemporary works of wearable, one-off, art pieces, often with a satirical, political bent. Photo Jeff ‘A Fashion Garment Since 1986’ Dawson

the Brunswick Bowlo – a resident told The Echo one of the adult parents was run over on Monday morning. They said, ‘It’s a tough gig for the surviving parent to raise the two growing chicks. Curlews don’t have the road smarts of crows or brush turkeys, as they [the curlews] move very methodically step by step across the road. Please consider slowing down heading past the club’.

Those interested in a Community High School for Byron are invited to contact committee leader, Charlotte Teague. Contact charlottelipman22@ hotmail.com for more info.

‘The underlying purpose of AI is to allow wealth to access skill, while removing from the skilled the ability to access wealth’ – Tweet by Church of Jeff.

Buy 2 Buxom Mascara for $62.95 and get $50 of crystal bracelets free.