Byron and Northen Rivers NSW Accommodation Guide 2023

Eat, Drink, Discover

Tucked away from the choas of the town centre is our hidden gem - a garden style oasis filled with local food, live music and ales as golden as the afternoon sun. Relax & enjoy locally sourced produce, a cocktail on the lawn or bring your mates to listen to some of Byron Bay’s best undiscovered musicians.

61 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay, NSW 2481

BAY STREET BYRON BAY NSW 2481

Peter Wotton

30 EVENTS

12 MAPS

WE WILL TAKE YOU THERE

Distribution Australia: VIC, NSW, TAS, QLD to Visitor Information Centres, Rent A Car Companies, Airports, Travel Agents, Tourism Expo’s, Trade Shows and many strategically selected outlets.

Distribution International: USA, Canada, New Zealand, UK, and to many strategically selected outlets.. Online: www.byronandbeyond.com

Contributors: Peter Wotton, Liz Rathborne, Maria Artigas, Alicia Ferreira, G. Morgan, Cape Byron Headland Trust, Keith Christie, David Young, Tweed Tourism, John Natoli, Gold Coast Airport. Some photographs and artwork are provided by the advertisers. Stock photos: Where editorial photographs are not authorised by the publishers, credits are included. Distribution: What’s on The Byron and Beyond Visitors Guide is available online and distributed to over 500 outlets. It is available locally at Visitor Centres, newsagents, service stations, rent-a-car agencies, tourism attractions and at the regional airports in the Northern Rivers. Is distributed to travel agents and many selected venues

throughout New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, South Australia & Tasmania all year round, strategically distributed for maximum exposure for our customers. Copyright: The Byron Bay and Northern Rivers NSW Accommodation Guide is copyright. The contents of this magazine, including editorials, photographs and artwork, are strictly not to be reproduced without the express permission of the publisher, Paramount Publication House. The Advertisers warrant that any advertising material published in The Byron Bay and Northern Rivers NSW Accommodation Guide is in no way an infringement to the copyright or other such acts, is not unlawful, defamatory or libellous and does not infringe the

Trade Practices Act or other regulations, laws or statutes. Advertisers agree to indemnify Paramount Publication House and Peter Wotton of any claims, damages or costs, including legal expenses or otherwise, resulting from any breaches of the above warranties. Orders: Single copies of our magazines can be obtained by posting a self-addressed and stamped ($8.50) envelope. Organisations, please forward their request via email; sales@byronandbeyond. com Please note: Information in this publication is by way of a guide only and believed to be correct at the time of printing. Prices and services are provided by the operators. They are subject to change or withdraw without notice at

any time and therefore should be verified directly with the operator. Paramount Publication House expressly disclaims liability to any entity for any loss, cost or damage of any nature arising out of or connected with its reliance on the contents of this publication. Properties bearing the star symbols HHH (the ‘Stars’) are independently assessed by AAA Tourism, the national tourism body of the Australian motoring organisations. The STARS are trademarks of AAA Tourism Pty Ltd. For more information www. aaatourism. com/stars.

WELCOME TO BYRON

*Please let our advertisers know you found them in this wonderful magazine

WELCOME TO COUNTRY

Our sister magazine is a yearly publication distributed throughout the Northern Rivers of NSW all year round.

We respectfully acknowledge the Bundjalung People and the wider Bundjalung Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land we work on and acknowledge the ongoing living culture of the Aboriginal People.

“TAKE only photos and LEAVE only footprints”

Gregory Ferguson

Aboriginal Bundjalung Nation Elder

Peter Wotton - Managing Editor - Photographer - Sales

P.O. Box 1042 Byron Bay, NSW 2481 Australia

For advertising enquiries or to order magazines please email or call:

sales@byronandbeyond.com

+61 (0) 428 655 806

Facebook.com/byronandbeyondd

Instagram: @ByronAndBeyond

Cover photo: Peter Wotton

Images by Peter Wotton available for sale.

GETTING HERE GOLD COAST AIRPORT

Flying direct into the Gold Coast is the most convenient way to explore the natural beauty of Northern New South Wales. With direct flights from destinations within Australia, New Zealand, and Asia, you can enjoy a relaxed and stress-free travelling experience. The airport is a short drive to the Northern Rivers and Byron Bay region, making it easier than ever to see the iconic local beaches and hinterlands.

Gold Coast Airport’s new international terminal is now open. The terminal expansion offers a modern three-level, 30,000sq metre expansion, doubling the airport’s size. Passengers will enjoy state-of-the-art facilities, four glass aerobridges, and new dining and shopping retailers.

Go further with car rentals and public transport, all easily accessible at Gold Coast Airport Arrivals.

For more information, visit: goldcoastairport.com.au

ECONOMY RENTAL CARS

Gold Coast Airport

(07) 5536 8104

www.economyrentalcars.com.au

BYRON BAY TAXIS

(02) 66855008

www.byronbaytaxis.com

BYRON CAR HIRE

(02) 6685 6638

www.simmonsbyronbay.com.au

www.byroncarhire.com

BYRON BAY KOMBIS

0421 135 477

www.ByronBayKombis.com.au

BALLINA AIRPORT

Welcome to the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, the heart of the Northern Rivers region.

Welcome to the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, the heart of the Northern Rivers region. The Airport is only 5 minutes from Ballina CBD and under 30 minutes to Byron Bay and Lismore, helping you get to your destination whether it’s for a holiday or business, faster. We are proud to be the gateway to this stunning region of rich natural beauty and cultural diversity. The Northern Rivers is a destination for everyone and boasts some of Australia’s best beaches and great surfing, picturesque rivers and estuaries, rainforests and natural attractions.

There is always a festival or market going on and an abundance of activities to choose from such as hot air ballooning, skydiving, whale watching, scuba diving and snorkelling, sea kayaking or horse riding on the beach. The region is renowned for award winning, major music festivals, arts and cultural events that are held annually and for the eclectic array of cuisines and restaurants dotting the region’s landscape. The airport is a natural gateway to the region. It has recently tripled in size with a new departure lounge, a new café, sports bar, three new shops and more seating and amenities. Hire an electric & nostalgic kombi for sightseeing trips around Byron Bay (see below).

BYRON BAY

A coastal town in the north-east of New South Wales. Byron Bay has become a very popular holiday destination, known for its relaxing lifestyle white sandy beaches, great swimming and surfing beaches, fantastic scuba diving sites and diverse walking tracks. Cape Byron State Conservation Area is on a headland with the brightest lighthouse in Australia, Cape Byron Lighthouse. Between May and November, humpback whales and our local pod of dolphins can be spotted from headland viewpoints such as the Captain Cook Lookout, the lighthouse walking track, The Pass Lookout, and at the lighthouse courtyard.

A DAY IN BYRON

EAT DAY & NIGHT - The Beachy- Beach Hotel and resort.Brunch in style – overlooking the main beach, best views in Town. It is a great position to experience lovely sunsets, with cool evening ocean breezes. Fish Heads Restaurant – relaxed atmosphere right on main beach, enjoying fresh local seafood, and cocktails.

EAT EVENING - Loft Byron Bay - Great views overlooking Jonson Street down to the beach with a relaxing atmosphere on the beach front, whilst enjoying a cocktail in very relaxing beautifully decorated decor. The chef from one of Sydney’s best venues, blends seasonality with where food comes from to create a contemporary Australian all-day casual dining menu. Its specialty is share style food and amazing desserts.

SHOP - Byron Photo Magic, get all your photographic needs in just the one shop.

Byron has many new upmarket shops offering locally made brands and many famous iconic surf wear, like Golden Breed, Girl Overboard with this years new swim wear with the BAKU range, and Quick Silver has the latest range of surf wear and surf accessories.

The Arnhem aesthetic is characterised by distinctive, signature prints of vintage inspired floral and earthy designs, vibrant colours, and summer nostalgia. Sustainability is in our Arnhem DNA. With a beautiful boutique in the heart of Byron Bay, come and meet our amazing team.

EXPLORE - Cape Byron Lighthouse - Is an active lighthouse located at Cape Byron. It is Australia’s most powerful lighthouse, with a light intensity of 2,200,000 cd. Cape Byron, the easternmost point of the mainland of Australia, is about 3 kilometres northeast of the town of Byron, where the first sun rays hit the Australian mainland. There are many diverse walks around the Cape Headland precinct, down to The Pass and on to main Beach.

INDULGE - Eléme Day Spa at Crystalbrook Byron - Eléme Day Spa has been designed for the ever-evolving, everchanging, magnificent you. Forever inspired by the healing powers of Byron Bay, our menu is designed to flex, so our therapists can personalise each treatment to best suit you… your body, your skin, your mood on the day of your visit.

AUSSIE PUBS - The Beach Hotel - Overlooking the white sands and sparkling waters of Byron Bay’s Main Beach is a unique and iconic destination and Byron’s most famous pub. From excellent coffee to aftersurf pub lunches, family dinners, cocktails with friends. With private holiday accommodation, our comfortable and expansive venue has it all... just metres from the iconic main beach. www.beachhotel.com.au@beachhotelbyronbay

• The Rails – is where all the local meet after work, for fun and a cold beer. The Northern Hotel – is in the centre of Byron, good people watching spots.

The North Byron Hotel – catch the solar train from Byron Beach Station, byronbaytrain.com.au

WITH THE KIDS - The Farm - Perfect for a kid’s day out with many activities to keep them occupied. “The Farm is principally a working farm; we house a collection of micro-businesses all sharing in a common goal. We invite you to come and visit us and see for yourself how a farm operates, supports the environment and contributes to a healthier lifestyle. Our motto - Grow, Feed, Educate - inspires all that we do here and for the community at large. We believe that it’s the first-hand experience of seeing how food is grown and produced, that makes the eating so much more pleasurable. From this simple pleasure sprouts a curiosity and desire to learn more.

‘Main Beach Byron’ by Peter Wotton

Wake up pre-dawn, grab a coffee, do the lighthouse walk (approx. 2 klms), to see the sunrise over the ocean (very popular) and on the way back down, go for a beach swim, the ocean temperature is refreshing, all before you start your day exploring Byron shops, galleries, pubs and restaurants.

MARKETS

- 1ST Sunday Community 8am-3pm

- Thursday Farmers 7-11am

- Twilight Markets 4-9pm (Oct-April)

- Beachside Artisan Market 8am-3pm

DID YOU KNOW

Byron Bay is one of the most visited destinations in Australia, with our natural beauty on display and with a relaxing vibe. When visiting Byron simply cheer up unwind and chill out, this is our motto. Byron is offering great surfing beaches for swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, beach horse riding, diverse bush walking tracks, dolphin & whale watching activities. Check out our historic lighthouse museum. The lighthouse was built in 1901 at the most easterly point on the Australian mainland to warn ships, that this is Byron Bay the most Easterly point of the Australian mainland!

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Old Stationmaster’s Cottage 80 Jonson Street, Byron Bay www.visitbyronbay.com

The local Bundjalung Aboriginal people’s name for the area is Cavanbah, meaning ‘meeting place’. Captain James Cook named Cape Byron after Royal Navy officer John Byron, circumnavigator of the world and grandfather of the poet Lord Byron. According to the 2016 census of Population, there were 9,246 people in Byron Bay. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people made up 1.6% of the population. 64.0% of people were born in Australia. The next most common countries of birth were England 4.9% and New Zealand 2.5%. 76.3% of people spoke only English at home.

Longboard surfers arrived in the 1960s and used natural breaks at The Pass, Wategos, and Cosy Corner, this is when surfing in Byron Bay really took off. This was the beginning of Byron Bay as a travellers’ destination, and by 1973, when the Aquarius Festival was held in nearby Nimbin, its reputation as a hippy, happy, alternative town was established, although tourism facilities remained minimal. From the 1980s, tourism began to develop in earnest, with the cash-poor surfers and hippies supplemented, and to a degree supplanted, by cashed-up conspicuous consumers. This in turn stimulated the development of retail precincts and accommodation, whilst many still enjoyed a surfers’ lifestyle with all year-round good surfing conditions.

Today, Byron Bay is one of the most up-market residential areas on the Australian east coast with the growth in multi-million-dollar mansions now pushing the median value of house sales up beyond AU$2.5 million in 2019, over a 100% increase since 2013, based on 2018 data from realestate.com.au and more recently since Covid 19 lockdowns, many people can work from home and live where they like, increasing values even more with 30% growth in property values in just 3 months in 2020 .

As at 2019, the town is cited as having around 9,000 permanent residents, while being visited by over 2.4 million visitors each year spending almost $800M in Byron Shire.

At the same time, the town has not lost its attraction to a diverse range of visitors including surfers, backpackers and visitors interested in the natural attractions of the area and relaxed lifestyle. Byron also supports a healthy cross section of creative artists, craftspeople and musicians, while its more recent hippy/ new age past is reflected to a degree in a prevalence of alternative “newage” shops, “spiritual” services such as meditation and yoga classes, and holistic healing/’wellness’ retreats.

Byron Bay Kombis

Peter Wotton

Peter Wotton

Peter Wotton

BYRO N BAY PROPERT Y S ALES

BYRON BAY BEACHFRONT APARTMENTS ARE LOCATED

IN ICONIC BYRON BAY, THE MOST EASTERN POINT OF AUSTRALIA.

YOU CAN DO IT ALL AT BYRON

Discovery Parks have accommodation options that make it easy.

Gorgeous beaches, lush green forest and a relaxed pace of life, this is what Byron is all about.

Starting at Wategos surf beach and working your way through local markets, you can discover the unique charm of Byron Bay from the comfort of a private cabin, glamping tent or powered site just minutes away.

Ideal for Families

Discovery Parks - Byron Bay is only a ten-minute walk from Byron’s village centre and has everything you need for a relaxing stay.

Reserve lakeside living inside the park in Superior 2 bedroom cabins, go glamping with the family in large Safari Tents or feel your feet in the grass on your favourite powered site.

The Fun Factor

Full of fun facilities like swimming pools, water parks, tennis courts and jumping pillows, you really can do it all at Discovery Parks - Byron Bay.

SUPERIOR 2 BEDROOM CABIN

THE TOP 10 MUST DO

Byron Corner Store

Byron’s best coffee! Using local organic Moonshine Roasters coffee and made with love with all your favourite milks. Conveniently located in the middle of Jonson St, Byron Corner Store is your must see Caffeine destination!

pg 40

Byron Bay Kombi Tours

Byron Bay Kombis offers chauffeured sightseeing tours in and beyond Byron Bay in beautifully restored, nostalgic kombis or if you prefer a self driven kombi or beetle have a look at Retro campervans.

pg 7

Scuba Diving

Situated within the Cape Byron Marine Park and just 2.8km from shore, Julian Rocks was named one of Australia’s top snorkeling destinations by Australian Geographic and rated as one the best dive sites throughout Australia.

Brunswick Picture House

The Picture House prides itself on presenting a diverse program of shows and events that span the generational divide, with comedy, live music, film events, family entertainment and the smash hit monthly cabaret, CHEEKY

pg 44

Kayaking

Experience all the fun and adventure of a Cape Byron Kayaks guided tour. Feel the exhilaration as you paddle with the dolphins, the turtles and the migrating whales that frequent the enticing waters of Byron Bay.

pg 20

Horse Riding

Zephyr Horses offer small personalized horse tours, on the beach, in the beautiful sub tropical woodlands, and at ‘The Farm’. In addition, they do mounted archery and trick riding clinics, horseback pub tours, mustering camps, private lessons.

pg 15

Byron Solar Train

Byron Bay Railroad Company has restored an out of action heritage train service which runs on solar power and is open to all, warmly welcoming the local community and visitors to ride

www.byronsolartrain.com.au

Whale Watching

Whale watching boat expeditions are offered in Tweed Heads, Byron Bay, Brunswick Heads and Ballina. The dramatic coastline has numerous vantage points which offer excellent viewing opportunities between May and November.

pg 26

Hot Air Ballooning

Watch the sunrise over Byron Bay from a hot air balloon. Adventures Daily with Australia’s most Experienced Balloon Company. Book Online Today. Daily Flights. Flexible Flight Locations. 40 Years’ Experience. Championship Pilots. pg 15

North Byron Hotel

Step away from the centre of town & into a shimmering oasis away from the crowds. Like a tucked away treasure, the North Byron Hotel is a thriving mecca of good food, great music, laughter and the “Byron Bay chill seeker” vibe.

pg 39

The adventures to be enjoyed around Byron are as wide as the imagination

Peter Wotton

CAPE BYRON LIGHTHOUSE

Meander through rainforest and world class beaches to the lighthouse.

Peter Wotton Photography

Meander through rainforest and world class beaches to the lighthouse.

The light that shines by night over Cape Byron Marine Park emanates from a tower as famous as the town of Byron Bay itself. Built at the turn of the 19th century to protect ships passing along the coast, Cape Byron Lighthouse stands resolute on the most easterly point of the Australian mainland. Operated by resident keepers until 1989, it’s now automated light is clearly visible from the Byron Bay Township.

Peter Wotton

Take a guided tour of the lighthouse, learn more about this iconic white tower and find out about shipwrecks and stories from the sea in the Maritime Museum which is below the lighthouse and the artwork inside is ‘a must see’. You’ll enjoy some of the best views of the ocean and hinterland including regular sightings of turtles, dolphins. It is the most easterly point of Australia, and one of the best places to see humpback whales as they pass on their annual migration between May and November.

Please note:

• Remember to take your binoculars if you want to whale watch

• It can be a busy place on the weekend, so parking might be limited

• Parking fees apply

WALKING TRACK

Enjoy spectacular coastal views along the Cape Byron walking track that takes you on a hike through rainforest, beach, grassland and clifftops to the lighthouse.

STATE CONSERVATION AREA

• It’s a good idea to put sunscreen on before you set out and remember to take a hat and plenty of drinking water

• Keep on track, keep away from cliff edges

• Take your swimwear as you may like to have a swim on the way

You’ll need a good two hours to properly experience the walking track – but it’s so rich in delights, don’t be surprised if you reach the end and feel like doing it again. Unwind and enjoy the view as you walk. The 3.7km loop leads you on a hike through rainforest and across clifftops with stunning views of the ocean and hinterland. En route you’ll wander through the shade of bangalow palms and ancient burrawangs, across kangaroo grasslands, along picturesque beaches and up to Cape Byron Lighthouse.

ACCOMMODATION

The four Clarke’s Beach Cottages have direct access to Byron Bay’s main beach and are surrounded by National Park. Staying here is just magnificient, you can wake to ocean views and the sound of crashing surf. Alternatively the two lighthouse cottages where the former keepers used to live have been fully refurbished, heritage listed cottages (circa 1901) makes this a truly unique holiday experience. Be the first to see the sunrise on Australia’s mainland and enjoy watching dolphins, turtles and whales. To enquire about NPWS holiday accommodation in the lighthouse keeper’s cottages or the beach cottages go to: www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/bookings

Experience all the fun and adventure of a Cape Byron Kayaks guided tour. Feel the exhilaration as you paddle with the dolphins, the turtles and the whales that frequent the enticing waters of Byron Bay.

Whether you are a novice or experienced kayaker, your adventure will include paddling the gorgeous Marine Park, the waves, the wilderness and morning or afternoon tea with Tim Tams on a beautiful beach.

Cape Byron Kayaks is the original and the best kayaking tour in Byron Bay. Their professional guides share a wealth of local knowledge, taking care of all your needs and making your experience a safe and memorable one.

Peter Wotton

Having a go at surfing is at the top of the must do list when visiting Byron Bay.

Don’t just jump onto any surf school bus for your lessons, make sure your bus stops in town for surfing at the famous Clarkes or Belongil beaches that have made Byron Bay “the place” for the best lessons. Blackdog Surf School is a family run business that has been operating in Byron Bay since 2001. We are one a few privileged surf schools that are licensed to teach on the beautiful beaches of Byron Bay. At Blackdog Surfing your smile is our satisfaction, the feeling of riding your 1st wave will stay with you forever. We teach you to surf in a fun, safe environment. All of our instructors are fully qualified and have an extensive knowledge of the local conditions. Everything you need to go surfing is provided, all you need to bring are swimmers, towel + a smile!! We guarantee you will stand up on your 1st lesson or come again free! We believe the beaches of Byron Bay offer some of the best learning to surf waves in Australia. www.blackdogsurfing.com | Call 02 66 809 828

BYRON BAY LENNOX HEAD BRUNSWICK BALLINA

World Class Diving & Snorkelling at Julian Rocks Byron Bay

Julian Rocks has been protected for over 35 years and is one of the top 20 dives sites in the world according to National Geographic and one of the top 10 snorkelling spots in Australia. Julian Rocks offers an abundance of big marine life and dramatic seasonal changes that create a unique level of biodiversity all year round Julian Rocks is home to many different shark and ray species and is one of the few sites in the world where shark encounters can be guaranteed As the temperatures rise above 22 degrees from December until May, leopard sharks migrate to Julian Rocks forming, possibly, the world’s largest aggregation They are the stars of the summer diving, gracefully gliding between divers with their beautiful spotted patterns In this season manta rays also make guest star appearances coming to the rocks and middle reef for a clean and to check out the many divers, with two dive companies operating daily

Christian Johnsen

Joel Filipe

David Clode

John Natoli

John Natoli

John Natoli

THE BEACHES

01 Belongil to The Wreck

This beach starts at the western side of the Main Beach car park and heads west away from the Lighthouse. Another great wave in Byron Bay that was formed when ‘The Wollongbar’ was washed from the old Byron Bay jetty during the 1920s.

‘The Wollongbar’ was then used as the major transport for all the tourists coming from Sydney to visit The Bay. You can still see the ‘rudder’ and ‘the boilers’ sticking out of the sand. Here both Lefts and Rights break on sandbanks that are always there because of The Wreck.

From here, all the way along Belongil Beach gets its good share of waves. It is great for both the experienced surfer and the beginner. The waves vary from fast hollow dumping waves, to soft spilling waves, dependant on what the swell and sandbanks are doing. It will pick up most swells from the North to the south and likes a West to South West wind but also a South East is surfable. The sweep is here if the swell is here.

02 Main Beach

This beach runs from the end of The Pass back down to the carpark at the Byron Bay Surf Life Saving Club. This is Byron Bay’s main patrolled beach. The waves here are often fast and hollow but can often get small spilling waves depending on how big the swell is. There are both Lefts and Rights here, as long as the sandbanks are in good shape. There are often rocks along here that come and go with the sand flow. It likes the wind to be from the South East to South West, and will pick up most swells. The sweep often comes with the swell, so you have to look for an exit point before you get to the rocky car park, otherwise you will get back to the beach in front of The Wreck, past the rocks.

Peter Wotton

03 Clarkes and The Pass

The most famous wave in the Bay, where you have all extremes in one wave, from the point, which is hollow and fast breaking all the way past the rocks, and you must be experienced. Once past the rocks, it will break towards Clarks Beach, where the waves are more spilling and more suited for beginners.

04 Watego’s Beach

Wategos Beach is the most easterly beach in the Bay. It is very popular with long boarders and is a great family beach. The waves are mostly spilling and will break all the way to The Pass.

All swells will get there, except a strong south swell. There is often a sweep (side-shore current) along this beach that will carry you towards the rocks and 'The Pass'. You must always watch for an exit point to avoid being carried past the end of the sand, otherwise you must keep surfing to 'The Pass'.

05 Tallow Beach

Tallow Beach is the long open beach on the southern side of the lighthouse. It is an open beach that will pick up all swells. It should only be surfed by experienced surfers, unless it is very, very small. The waves are fast and hollow, but can sometimes be spilling waves. It likes all winds from the North East, North West to South West.

The waves will break, no matter how small the surf is … Lefts and Rights. The south swell should be avoided, as this will push you onto and around the rocks. There are always rips and currents along this beach.

Peter Wotton

Peter Wotton

Peter Wotton

Peter Wotton

Peter Wotton

WATCH THE WHALES

As Byron Bay is the most easterly point of Australia, it is here that whales pass by extremely close to the mainland on their journey to the warm, shallow waters of Queensland to give birth to their young and some species are accompanied by the males to mate. Humpback whales are the stars of the annual whale migration and are one of the most common whales you will see. The male humpback whale is famous for its extraordinarily long and complex songs which travel very far throughout the oceans. Get up close to some of the most awe-inspiring marine life on earth and go kayaking with dolphins and turtles on a guided sea kayak tour. Prepare to be amazed, as the whales may pass gracefully nearby.

It is important to stay 100 metres from the side of their path and 300 metres if a calf is present. However it is amazing how curious they are and like to come closer to investigate. What an amazing feeling it is to make eye contact with such a wonderful creature.

Best spots for viewing: Byron: Lighthouse / Ballina: Lighthouse Hill, Angels Beach, Flat Rock, Skennars Head / Lennox: Rocky Point, Pat Morton Lookout

Keith Christie Photography

MARKETS

1st Saturday

Brunswick Riverside 8am–2pm

Tweed Farmers + Artisans 8am-1pm

1st Sunday

Byron Community 8am–3pm

Lismore Car Boot 8am–2pm

Pottsville Beach from 7.30am

Iluka 8am-12pm

2nd Saturday

Maclean 7am-12pm

Bangalow Flea 8am–1pm

Kingscliff Beachside 8am–1pm

2nd Sunday

The Channon Craft 9am–3pm

Chillingham Community 8am–1pm

Lennox Head Community 8am – 2pm

3rd Saturday

Mullumbimby Community 8am–2pm

Murwillumbah Makers & Finders 9-2pm

Salt Village 8am–2pm

3rd Sunday

Ballina Community 7 – 1pm

Lismore Car Boot 8am–2pm

Pottsville Beach from 7.30am

Uki Butter Bazaar

4th Saturday

Evans Head Riverside

Kingscliff Beachside 8am–1pm

Kyogle Bazaar 9 – 2pm

Tyalgum Village 9am–3pm

4th Sunday

Bangalow Village 9am–3pm

Casino Riverside 9am–2.30pm

Nimbin 9am–2.30pm

Murwillumbah Showground

5th Sunday

Lennox Community 8 - 2pm

Nimbin 8am–3pm

Northern Rivers MARKETS

One of the unique joys of the Northern Rivers is the consistent access to a diverse range of local markets. Each one has its own distinctive charm and Weekly farmer’s markets which are the highlight of the week for fresh locally grown produce. Buy freshly picked produce that is full of nutrients gleaned from our rich volcanic soils and get back in step with what nature intended. Procure products ranging in variety from tasty fruit and vegetables to home cured meats, freerange organic eggs, baked goods and nutrient packed raw foods, with very relaxed friendly atmosphere. Indigenous arts and crafts and other beautiful things made by local people

using unusual natural materials are joined by unique jewellery stalls, funky one-of-a-kind clothes and colourful imports from Africa and Asia. You can pamper yourself with a massage to soothe away your aches and pains and choose from a wonderful range of natural skin and hair care products, when you need a break, you can try some freshly squeezed sugar cane juice or perhaps a steaming cup of chai. The kids can have their faces painted and delight in the original toys, games and fun fairy outfits. A perfect day out and a perfect place to find that original gift to take back home.

Photos above by: Natalie Grono / Lennox Markets

SPECIAL BYRON MARKETS

Soul Street Market

TBA New Year’s Eve 4pm-12am

Byron Artisan Beachside Market

Along main Beach foreshore East of Surf Club

8-3pm Wed 5 Jan, Fri 15th April, Sat July 9, Sat Sept 24

Byron Twilight Markets

Railway Park Jonson St

4-9pm Saturdays from Oct to April

Byron Community Market

Now in the Town centre

Railway Park

1st Sunday of month, 8-3pm

Taste, see and feel the difference when visiting our local markets

FARMERS

WEEKLY MARKETS

Tuesday

New Brighton: 8-11am 0266845390

Lismore Organic Market: Showground 8-11am

Wednesday

Newrybar 4-7pm Nimbin: 3-6pm, Murwillumbah Showground: 7-11am

Thursday

Byron Bay: 8-11am Ballina Twilight: 4-8pm Lismore Produce: 3:30 -6pm

Friday

Mullumbimby: 7-11am

Tweed: 4-8pm, 2nd & 4th Friday Evans Head: 3pm-6pm

Saturday

Blue Knob Café and Gallery: 8.30am – 12pm

Bangalow: 8-11am

Kingscliff: 8-1pm Kyogle: 8am-12pm Lismore Showground: 8.30-11.30

Sunday Ballina 7-11am

Tweed Community Markets 7-12pm

For more information: - bigvolcano.com.au/active/markets - echo.net.au

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JANUARY

Falls Festival - Music and Arts

31 Dec - 2 Jan Byron Bay byron.fallsfestival.com.au

First Sun

1st Jan, Cape Byron Lighthouse 5.30am

Starlight Festival

5-8 Jan, Bangalow starlightfestival.com.au

Festival & Fish of Chips

12 - 14 Jan, Brunswick Heads www.bhwoodchop.com

Ballina Cup 13 Jan, Ballina Ballinajockeyclub.com.au

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks & Fireworks

14 Jan, Lismore www.lismorespeedway.com.au

Cinema Under the Stars

20 Jan, Lismore Nesbit Pk 5:30pm

Australia Day Breakfast in the park

16 Jan, see Visitor Centres for info

FEBRUARY

V-DAY 14 Feb, Byron Bay

Tweed Coast Enduro

18 Feb, Tweed Tweedenduro.org | surfingnsw. com.au

Northern Rivers Rail Trail Social Gravel Ride

19 Feb northernriversrailtrail.com

Big Scrub Rainforest Day 24 Feb, Alstonville www.eventbrite.com.au

Nor’Easter Weekend of Live Music

24-26 Feb, Lennox Head events.humanitix.com

MARCH

Lismore Samson Fitness Challenge

3-4 Feb, Lismore runningcalendar.com.au/event

Kingscliff Triathlon

19-23 Feb, Kingscliff kingsclifftri.org/

APRIL Byron Bluesfest

6-10 Apr, Byron Bay www.bluesfest.com.au

Maclean Highland Gathering 7-8 Apr, Maclean clarence.nsw.gov.au

Maclean Agricultural Show 25-26 Apr, Maclean macleanshow.org

Grafton Show 28-29 Apr, Grafton graftonshow.com.au

Anzac Day 25 VisitorAprilInformation Centres

Cow Country Music Muster 25-29 Apr, Casino richmondvalley.nsw.gov.au

Byron Coastal Charity Walk 29 Apr, Byron Bay Rescuehelicopter.com.au/events

MAY

Nimbin Mardi Grass May 5-7, Nimbin nimbinmardigrass.com

Byron Ocean Swim Classic 7 May, Byron Bay byronbayoceanswimclassic.com. au

Casino Primex & Sustainable Farming Expo 11-13 May, Casino primex.net.au

Gemfest at Showground 13 May, Lismore gemclublismore.org.au

Byron Bay Lighthouse Run 13 May, Byron Bay runcalendar.com.au/nsw

Beef Week Cup and Rodeo 20-30 May, Casino discoverrichmondvalley.com

Mullum2Bruns Paddle 21 May, Mullum | Brunswick mullum2brunspaddle.com.au

Lions Club Billycart Derby TBA, Bangalow bangalowbillycart.com.au

JUNE

Brunswick Heads Old ‘n’ Gold 3 June, Brunswick www.brunswickheads.org.au

Love Lennox Festival 5 June, Lennox lovelennox.com.au

LisAmore 17 June, Lismore visitnsw.com/destinations/ north-coast/lismore-area/ lismore/events

Lismore Lantern Parade 24 June, Lismore www.lanternparade.com

JULY

Fishing Classic behind RSL Evans Head 31-7 July discoverrichmondvalley.com.au

Splendour in the Grass

1-4 July, Byron Bay splendourinthegrass.com/

NAIDOC Week, March & Fun Day

1-9 July www.naidoc.org.au/

Skullcandy Gromfest TBA, Lennox Head skullcandyozgromopen.com.au

Back to Brunswick Hot Rod Event

14-16 July, Brunswick

AUGUST

Byron Bay Writers Festival 26-28 Aug, Byron Bay byronbaywritersfestival.com.au

Casino Truck Show

5-6 Aug, Casino

FB: Casino Truck Show

Bangalow Chamber Music Festival 17-20, Bangalow southernxsoloists.com/bangalow

Simple Pleasures

Photographic Comp TBA, Brunswick Heads brunswickheads.org.au

Casino Craft Beer Festival 26 Aug, Casino lydesdale Motel & Steakhouse

Fruitopia Fair Day TBA tropicalfruits.org.au

Eat the Street Lismore TBA, Lismore #eatthesstreet

SEPTEMBER

Sample Food Festival

2 Sep, Bangalow samplensw.com

Lismore Cup 21 Sep, Lismore

Nimbin Show 23 Sep, Nimbin agshowsnsw.org.au

Malibu Surf Classic 29 Sep, Evans Head

Byron Bay Surf Festival TBA, Byron Bay byronbaysurffestival.com

Tyalgum Festival of Classical Music

29-1 Oct Tyalgum southernxsoloist.com

OCTOBER

Byron Bay Film Festival 20-29 Oct, Byron Bay www.bbff.com.au

Kyogle Agricultural Show 8-9 Oct, Kyogle Kyogleshow.com

Casino Agricultural Show

13-15 Oct, Casino casinoshowsociety.com

Nimbin Roots Festival 14-15 Oct, Nimbin Nrfest.com

Lismore Show

19-21 Oct, Lismore northcoastnational.com.au

Tweed Artisan Food Festival

TBA Oct, Tweed tweedartisancollective.com.au

Alstonville Agricultural Show 27-28 Oct, Alstonville alstonvilleshow.net

NOVEMBER

Melbourne Cup Celebrations

7 Nov, Most Hotels, Clubs or Restaurants

Murwillumbah Agricultural Show

3-4 Nov, Murwillumbah www.murwillumbahshow.com.au

Mullumbimby Agricultural Show 10-11 Nov, Mullumbimby www.mullumbimbyshow.org.au

Bangalow Agricultural Show

17-18 Nov, Bangalow agshowsnsw.org.au

DECEMBER

McGregor’s Family Carnival

14 Dec - 15 Jan, Brunswick Heads brunswickheads.org.au

Caper Byron Bay Food & Culture Festival 22 Dec, Byron Bay caperbyronbay.com.au

Tropical Fruits NYE Party 31 Dec tropicalfruits.com.au

Falls Festival - Music and Arts

31 Dec - 2 Jan, Byron Bay byron.fallsfestival.com.au

Splendour In The Grass

Splendour In the Grass is an annual music and Arts Festival. As well as the latest and best in music from Australia and overseas, the festival also features local arts, crafts and cuisine.

It is held at North Byron Parklands in Yelgun, New South Wales. North of Brunswick Heads.

www.splendourinthegrass.com

FESTIVALS

Byron Bay Bluesfest

Byron Bay Bluesfest is Australia’s Premier Contemporary multiaward winning Blues & Roots Music Festival.

It showcases music from around the world annually on the Easter long weekend on 120 hectares at Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm, just north of Byron Bay, NSW.

www.bluesfest.com.au

Falls Festival Byron Bay

Every summer since 1993, The Falls Music & Arts Festival has been at the forefront of the east coast Australian festival scene, defining the real different between a mere music festival and a true festival experience.

Capturing the essence of the Australian summer spirit, Falls embraces diversity, sustainability and community within a contemporary music event like no other. It is held at North Byron Parklands.

www.fallsfestival.com/byron-bay

Brunswick Heads Fish & Chip Festival

Established as a community based ‘not for profit’ organisation the Brunswick Valley Woodchop & Entertainment Committee Inc. hosts the Festival Of The Fish ‘n’ Chips each year as a lead up to their Woodchop Carnival which draws international contestants from New Zealand, the US and Canada. The Brunswick Woodchop Carnival is currently regarded as the biggest woodchopping event outside the Sydney and Brisbane shows. Fireworks held on the river give an amazing display.

www.bhwoodchop.com

Byron Writers Festival

The annual Byron Writers Festival is Australia’s largest and leading regional celebration of storytelling, literature and ideas.

Each year they present more than 150 sessions during Festival Week and attract an audience of approximately 12,000 people (or 70,000 individual attendances) in the stunning surrounds of Byron Bay.

www.byronwritersfestival.com

Byron Bay Film Festival

A favourite of Filmmakers and Film lovers, Byron Bay Film Festival fuses artistry, education and innovation, enhancing our worldview and collective social dialogue through the power and storytelling of film.

www.bbff.com.au

Old and Gold Festival in Brunswick Heads

The old and gold is a must see event held in Brunswick Heads, on Saturday the 10th of June 2023. The whole town becomes a 2nd hand garage sale, with up to 100 stalls to check out. Face paintings, horse and cart rides for the kids, second hand stalls offering treasures from days gone by, also an assortment of locally produced produce, and that hard to find item, food trucks and BBQ on offer. This is a great day out for the whole family.

5 COLDSTREAM STREET

PAINTING WOOD GLASS BRONZE POTTERY JEWELLERY GIFTS ACCOMMODATION

Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre is a Tweed Shire Council Community Facility. Image: Justin Ealand

0411750452 | FB: GailyRussell

Byron Bay is one of the most popular wedding destinations in Australia

It is such a joy to have your wedding in Byron, this is THE place, as there is a creative freedom that is liberating from the confines of the ordinary that allows for the extra-ordinary, as only Byron can. A stunning ocean back drop can make your beautiful day as glorious as a Byron sunset. A memory to cherish forever. For the couple whose dream, is a tropical beach ceremony, there are seven gorgeous beaches which range from small secluded coves, to long open beaches, some with venues that overlook iconic beaches as dolphins and whales frolic in the warm waters here. The coast and surrounding countryside are home to many magical places to have your special day. Venues with that special something extra, such as Byron Bay’s Surf Club. It’s easy to see why Byron and the Northern Rivers are one of the most popular wedding destinations in Australia by far. Byron has all the facilities you will need for that perfect wedding.

OUR TOP WEDDING PICKS Summerland Farm

A FARM WITH HEART Surrounded by rolling hills and orchards and with a relaxed country vibe, our farm is the picture-perfect venue for your next event. From a romantic countryside wedding, to a special birthday celebration, to an engaging corporate function – we’ll make it an event to remember.

summerlandfarm.com.au

FOOD

Dining out is part of the culture and lifestyle of Byron and is well known for its special creative flair. Choose your surroundings from stunning beach and ocean vistas, funky, alfresco dining or intimate indoor settings.

The South end of Jonson street has a new range of exquisite Wine Bars and Restaurants to be explored in Jonson Lane.

You are invited to a visually sumptuous space of the vibrant and eclectic streets of Byron and coastal villages, as well as the unique tastes of our famous hinterland beef and locally grown produce. The Byron area boasts many international cuisines ranging from fine dining in 5 Star restaurants specialising in Seafood; internationally famous Angus beef from Kyogle and Casino (the beef capital of Australia); freshly made pasta creating your favourite Italian dishes; Indonesian and Thai restaurants serving delicious creations and Asian teas, the best tofu burgers in Australia or just good old-fashioned fish and chips with views of the beach and live music, at many venues Friday and Saturday nights. Elements of Byron has a stunning restaurant “Graze”. Savour the moment as you dine in style, overlooking their spectacular, luxurious, infinity pool as a backdrop.

Certainly, one of the must dos in the region if you are a food lover is the Sample Food Festival held in early September at the Bangalow Showgrounds. Exhibitors from all corners of the region come to share their wares, their passion and their knowledge, and is a great experience for the discerning food lover. It is a “must for the culinary calendar”, drawing in the best chefs in Australia for the taste of local cuisine. Our Coffee is also a local passion, Byron Bay coffee, grown up in the fertile hills above Byron. From our intrinsically sweet and rich locally grown expresso and whole beans, sun dried or smoothly roasted, rainforest and exotic flavours, delicately blended and served to you in the best cafes by the finest baristas, or grab a take away to enjoy in your favourite place.

The Beachy - Beach Hotel offers both local and Australian produce to toss, flip, sauté and grill up fresh and flavourful meals with the best view in Byron. Whether you come in for afternoon lunch or sunset drinks, you’ll leave knowing you’ve experienced the true Byron vibe; locals’ style.

Forest Byron Bay

BYRON BAY

Asian CuisineBang Bang

Bombay To Byron

Finn Poke

Kinoko Sushi

Light years

Orient Express

O-Sushi

Red Hot and Green

Success Thai Food

Taco Joes

Warung Bagus

Yellow Flower

Modern AustralianAzure Bar & Grill

Barrio

Bay Leaf

Beach Byron Bay

Betty’s Burgers

Byron Fresh Cafe

Combi

Folk Byron Bay

Forest Byron Bay

The Balcony Bar & Oyster Co

The Roadhouse

Three Blue Ducks at The Farm

Treehouse On Belongil

Bistro & Burgers-

Byron Corner Store

The North Byron Hotel

The Park Hotel

Main Street Burger Bar

Beach Hotel

The General Store

Byron Bay Deli

All Press Espresso

Otherside

The Pass café

Nat’s Coffee

Karkella

Espresso Head

Vegan - Vegetarian

No Bones

Elixiba

Legend Pizza

Trattoria Basiloco

Earth n Sea Pizza & Pasta

Yullis

RESTAURANTS

Manna Haven

Cardamom Pod

Lotus Cafe (Crystal Castle)

Italian - Mexican

Di Vino

Bali Bacus Cafe

Johnsons

Ginn Jinn

The Hum

Legend Pizza

Peppe Pizza

Pizza Paradiso

The Italian Byron Bay

The Italian Belongil Beach

Trattoria Basiloco

Chihuahua

Miss Margarita

Chupacabra

A Little Fancy-

Graze @ Elements

Raes @ Wategos

St Elmo

Ember Steak House

Loft Byron Bay

Cafes-

Love Byron Bay Creperie

The Pass Café

Twisted Sista Café

The Corner Store

The Rocks at Aquarius

The Hideout Byron Bay

Novella

Fels Kitchen

Dip cafe

Booth

Meditteranean-

Pixie Food and Wine

Bay Kebabs

La Cuisine Deli Shop

Luscious Cafe

St Elmo

The Mez Club

The Byron Bay Olive Co

Byron Gourmet Pasta

Nikau

Zaza Kebabs

BakeriesBruns Bakery

Sunday Sustainable Bakery

Suffolk Park Bakery

La Cuisine

Seafood-

Fish Heads

Fishmongers

Hunky Dory

BALLINA

Ballina RSL

Summerland House Farm

Northern Rivers Seafood

The Gallery Cafe

Fleurs Restaurant

Ché Bon

Lighthouse Beach Cafe

The Belle General

The Boardwalk at Ballina RSL

The Cove

Mezza @ Point Ballina

The Shawsy

Wharf Bar and Restaurant

Federal Hotel

BANGALOW

Bang Burger Bar

Bangalow Bowling Club

Bangalow Dining Room

Pantry 29

Red Ginger

The Italian Diner

BRUNSWICK HEADS

Bernardi’s Gelato & Sandwich Bar

Bruns Bakery

Bruns Bowling Club Pacific Bistro

Brunswick Heads Health Foods

Brunz Indian Curry & Kebabs

Brunswick Pizza and Thai

Cadeau Bar and Restaurant

Tom Tom Thai

Fleet Restaurant

Foot Bridge

Star Fish

Hoopers Burgers

The Salt Mill

Happy Dolphin Café

Honour Bar and Restaurant

Hotel Brunswick

Jones & Co

La Casita

Old Maids

Lello’s Pasta Bar

Sticky Fingers Pizzeria

Table View Café

Trouble San (wine bar)

Yamis Vegetarian

NORTH BYRON

Ocean Shores Tavern

No Bones

Yum Yum Tree Café

MULLUMBIMBY

Uncle Toms Pies

BROOMS HEAD

Snak Shak Brooms Head Bowls Club

YAMBA

Cunjevoi

ULMARRA

Little Local Café

Ulmarra Hotel

ILUKA

Club Iluka

Little Local Cafe

Peach Farm

TWEED VALLEY WAY

The Barn

Burringbar Gallery

Burringbar District Sports Club

The Post Shop Cafe

Tweed Regiional Gallery

- ‘Apex Dining’

Tweed Valley Whey Farm

Moo Moo Roadhouse

If you are in need of some serious R&R Byron is your mecca! Not only is the landscape conducive to relaxation, we are host to some worldclass health & beauty salons and magnificent Eleme day spa’s at Crystalbrook in Byron, and newly opened Banya Spa and Bar or Kiva Spa in Mullumbimby for pampering or to help you to relax with friends or prepare for any event.

Take a sophisticated approach to natural anti-ageing with HiFu. High Intensity Focused Ultrasound face lifting & body sculpting is TGA approved, effective & easy to receive. Rejuvenating spa & hydra facials, remedial massage, oxygen/ozone therapy, skin care, waxing, make up and more. Personalized professional service in a friendly relaxed environment. Online bookings and gift vouchers available at www.ozonebeautyspa.com.au

Bathhouse . Massage . Dining Open 7 days

Bookings via our website thebanya.com.au

@ thebanya_mullumbimby

BRUNSWICK HEADS EVENTS

• McGregor Family Carnival

• Jan 12-14 Festival of Fish & Chips

• TBA Woodchop Fireworks

• May 21 Mullum 2 Bruns Paddle

• June 3 Old n Gold Festival

• July 14-16 Bruns Hot Rod Event

More info at: brunswickheads.org.au/

MARKETS

- 1st Saturday: 7:30am - 3pm

- December: Twilight Market

Unspoiled by development, timber bridges link the colourful village to a safe, gentle river beach called Torakina Beach and the spectacular South Wall, great for fishing, the Brunswick surf beach to the South that spans the coastline all the way to Byron Bay.

Brunswick Surf Life Saving Club is manned during summer, all week. Remember to swim between the flags for safety, the surf can be unpredictable. This is foodie heaven! You’re spoiled with choice of 25 eateries, from hip cafes to award-winning restaurants, all serving inspired food and the freshest local produce. Enjoy a sun downer and live music at one of Australia’s best beer gardens at the iconic Hotel Brunswick. After 30 years the curtain is lifted on the Brunswick Picture House with family friendly movies and a monthly ‘Cheeky Cabaret’ for parents and grandparents to enjoy. A truly ‘all round’ holiday experience reminiscent of the simple family holidays we used to enjoy with a bit extra thrown in. The Brunswick Heads Fairy Trail is a delight for children and adults alike. Fairies love to holiday in Bruns too. Follow the clues, available from the Brunswick Heads Visitor Centre, to find more than 20 unique fairy houses hidden around town. Another favourite with the kids is Torakina Beach with its shady nooks that make swimming in the gentle and protected waters of Torakina, inside the river mouth, feel like a tropical haven as you enjoy the vibrant colours through the crystal clear waters in the Brunswick River.

EAT LUXE

FLEET - “Fleet is one of the most enchanting regional restaurants to have opened in Australia in recent years. Owners Astrid McCormack and Josh Lewis last worked together at the trail-blazing, two-hatted Loam restaurant in Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula where she was co-owner and he was sous chef to Aaron Turner. - goodfood.com.au

Fleet also operates the mexican “La Casita” and “Ethel Foodstore”. You will need to book in advance to secure a table at Fleet. - www. fleet-restaurant. com.au @fleetrestaurant

Tom Tom Thai - The newest restaurant to Brunswick Heads offering full menu of delicious traditional Thai, either eat in or order for takeaway. Trouble San – Wine Bar and Restaurant, enjoy a cocktail, or a glass of your favourite wine, with great food overlooking the magnificent Brunswick River, in the centre of Brunswick Heads.

PLAY

BRUNSWICK BUCCANEERS - Boat hire. Tinnies, canoes, stand up paddle boards, kayaks and other recreational watercraft (including 8 and 9 berth BBQ pontoon boats) can be hired from the pirate boat (Brunswick Buccaneers) moored opposite to the Brunswick Hotel and also at the Boat harbour.

BRUNSWICK PICTURE HOUSE

The Brunswick Picture House is your place for live entertainment!

In just 5 years, the Brunswick Picture House has cemented itself as the home of the best comedy, cabaret, circus, live music and all-ages shows in the region all year round. The diverse, eclectic program has placed this little showbiz gem at the centre of local community life. With its smash hit signature show, Cheeky Cabaret, the Picture House attracts some of the best international and touring artists around, and is increasingly used as a unique space for private events and film shoots.

Torakina Beach

BALLINA

The Ballina Byron Gateway Airport is located 30-minute drive south of Byron Bay with regular jet services provided to Sydney and Melbourne. The beaches of Ballina are magnificent surfing beaches. Lighthouse Beach and Shelley Beach are easily accessed. Entry to South Ballina beach is accessed via the car ferry and offers outstanding surfing and beach fishing. The newly renovated Ballina Memorial Olympic swimming complex and waterslides are located in the Ballina CBD next to the Richmond River. The whole family can be entertained with swimming, shopping and fishing within the same vicinity.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

6 River Street, Ballina, NSW https://www.discoverballina.com.au/

MARKETS

• Wednesday - Newrybar Eats & Produce Market 4-7

• Sunday - Ballina Farmers Market at Missingham Bridge by the sea

3rd Sunday - Ballina Markets East Ballina Lions Club Canal Rd

2nd and 5th Sunday - Lennox Head Community Market on Williams Reserve

EVENTS

Go to discoverballina.com.au/visit/whats-on/events

LISMORE

Nestled on the banks of the Wilsons River between the rainforest and the sea, Lismore has long been the commercial hub of the Northern Rivers area, and is often referred to as the heart of the region. Surrounding Lismore are majestic rainforests and water falls, walking tracks, and country drives through villages like Bexhill, Clunes, Goolmangar, Corndale, Federal and the Macadamia Nut capital of Australia, Dunoon.

The laidback lifestyle, idyllic climate, and spectacular natural beauty of the region, attract and inspire many creative souls. After having resurrected from the devastating 2022 floods, you will savour the tastes and experiences of the Northern Rivers at the many festivals and events being held in the area.

NIMBIN

is notable for its environmental initiatives such as permaculture, sustainability, and self-sufficiency, as well as the cannabis counterculture. This internationally famous village is vibrant and colourful with its unique streetscape of indigenous, rainforest and waterfall murals. Drive through the lush, green hills of the hinterland, and discover macadamia, fruit and coffee plantations, pristine waterfalls in rainforests, friendly country pubs, cafes and postcard-perfect villages.

SHOP- THE NIMBIN HEMP EMBASSY - is a non-profit association incorporated under the name Nimbin Hemp and established in 1992. The Embassy’s objectives are cannabis law reform through educating the community about hemp products and cannabis, and promoting a more tolerant and compassionate attitude to people in general. They aim to support local hemp products, arts and crafts people by providing a retail outlet for local clothing designers, artists, candle makers, soap makers, potters and woodworkers. The Embassy does not sell any drugs. They are drug law reform advocates.

EXPLORE- MINYON FALLS - is a plunge waterfall which descends more than 100 metres. The Nightcap National Park provides a 50m boardwalk to the lookout which is wheelchair accessible, and picnic tables and barbecue facilities at the top of the falls

MARKETS

- Vintage & Handmade 10am-2pm

- Lismore Organic Market: Tuesdays

- Lismore Produce Market : Thursdays

- Lismore Farmers Market: Saturdays

- Lismore Car Boot: 1ST Sunday

- 4TH Sunday Nimbin 9am-2.30pm

- Nimbin Farmers: Wednesdays

- 5TH Sunday Nimbin 9am-3pm

EVENTS

May 5-7 Nimbin Mardi Grass – nimbinmardigrass.com

June 24 Lismore Lantern Parade - lanternparade.com.au

October 14-15 Nimbin Roots Festival – nrfest.com

October 19-21 Lismore North coast National Show – agshowsnsw.org.au

December Tropical Fruits NYE Party – tropicalfruits.com.au

See many more events on:

- visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/lismore-area/lismore/events

- visitnimbin.com.au

Peter Wotton

Peter Wotton

EVANS HEAD

Evans Head is a peaceful coastal village surrounded by National Parks and beautiful sandy beaches

MARKETS

FARMERS MARKET – Every Friday

EVANS HEAD RIVERSIDE – 4th Saturday

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Evans Head VIC - 02 66822032 Clarrie Kirkland Reserve

Woodburn - (02) 6660 0396 114 River St, Woodburn NSW 2472 EH

Bowling Club - 02 66824343 Beech St

EVENTS

Buckin by the Beach – Sat 7th January

Crankfest Youth Festival in July TBA

Evans Head Fishing Classic 31 June - & July

Hooked on Evans in August

Malibu Surf Classic - 29th Sep to 2nd Oct

Evans Head the “Jewel in the Crown of the Richmond Valley” is a beautiful village which boasts long, sweeping stretches of clean beaches and river estuaries perfect for peaceful coastal fishing and surrounded by National Parks and beautiful sandy beaches renowned for great surfing.

DID YOU KNOW?

During World War II the Evans Head Memorial Aerodrome was the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Station supporting RAAF No 1 Bombing and Gunnery School and subsequently the RAAF No 1 Air Observers School. At the height of operations there were three asphalt runways and one grass strip.

A DAY IN EVANS HEAD

EAT -EVANS HEAD FISHERMEN’s CO-OP located on the beautiful Evans River is serviced by a fleet of professional fishermen supplying fresh seafood such as prawns, crabs and a large variety of fish to the public 7 days a week for lunch and dinner with tables and chairs on the wharf to watch the boating activity and the incredible sunsets. Boat mooring facilities are available with access to the river and the Ocean.

WOODBURN -is a popular little stopover for weary travellers to have a break, grab a hearty meal from one of the welcoming cafes and stroll across the road to the family friendly park right on the banks of the majestic Richmond River.

EXERCISE - Follow the Richmond-Council-Active-Bike-Plan.pdf on richmondvalley.nsw.gov.au to find the bike paths around the town and on the river, many of them being flat and perfect for the family.

Peter Wotton

a north coast holiday

Discover heritage aviation

Discover our aviation heritage at the exciting new Evans Head Aviation Museum.

...where thousands of magnificent men and women called home while undergoing bombing training during World War

On the 25th August 2013, a brand new Aviation Museum was opened at the Evans Head Aerodrome featuring military and civilian aircraft and artefacts collected from across

Get up close to real, WWII link trailer military and civilian heritage aircraft: Canberra Bomber, Korean War MIG15, WWII Grumman Avenger or Westpac Rescue Helicopter

Take a personalised tour with passionate volunteers who remember the stories, the history, the tragedies and the triumphs of Northern Rivers aviation

Explore the museum, complete with interpretive signage, tour desk and

On display soon, our new Lockheed P-3C Orion

On August 2013, a brand new museum was opened at the Evans Head Memorial Aerodrome featuring military and civilian aircraft collected from across Australia.

• Marvel at the wonders of the F-111 strike bomber

• Examine iconic civilian and military heritage aircraft such as the WWII Link flight simulator, Australian Canberra Bomber, Korean War MIG15 and the famous Caribou transport.

COMING SOON: Take a wild ride in the F-111 Flight Simulator!

• Take a personalised tour with passionate volunteers who relate the stories, the history, the tragedies and the triumphs of aviation history in the Northern Rivers.

• Explore the museum, complete with video displays, interpretive signage and free parking.

• Pick up a souvenir of your visit in the museum gift shop or arrange a personalised photo session in the cockpit of the F-111 or the Caribou.

• Practice a bombing run from the bombardiers station in the nose of the British Electric B2 Canberra Bomber cockpit.

Evans Head Heritage Aviation Museum

Address: 61 Memorial Airport Drive, Evans Head / Email: info@ehham.org.au

Open 10am to 4pm weekends & Tuesdays 9am-12noon

Admission: $7.50 per person or $20 for a family. Please enquire about group bookings.

ehham.org.au 02 6682 6756

Facebook: Evans Head Heritage Aviation Museum

Evans Head Memorial Aerodrome

Heritage Aviation Association

61 Memorial Airport Drive, Evans Head info@ehmahaa.org.au

www.ehmahaa.org.au

Open 10am to 4pm weekends. Check the website for weekday tour times and cockpit open days

Admission $5 per person or $15 for a family. Enquire about special rates for group bookings.

Where thousands of magnificent men and women called home while completing initial bombing and gunnery training during World War II.

at an exciting new Evans Head museum...

Take a step-in nature’s wonderland and enjoy the coastal treasures, lush hinterland, and river life of the mighty Clarence Region.

Please acknowledge the Bundjalung Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl people past and present, showing respect when entering their lands.

The popular resort town of Yamba, known for its laidback beach lifestyle, river beaches, makes a great holiday for young and old. The Clarence is a food lover’s paradise; local produce and prawn and fish Farms feature strongly in many restaurants and cafés. The Clarence River, running through the heart of the region, is ideal for sailing and cruising with broad deep expanses of water and 100 chartered islands to explore from Yamba to Grafton, or across the River to Iluka at the mouth of the Clarence River, under the new Maclean Bridge to the Maclean wharf.

DID YOU KNOW?

The Clarence Valley has the city of Grafton and three large towns – Maclean, Iluka, and Yamba. The coastal stretch is hugely popular for its outdoor boating, camping, fishing, surfing and beautiful beaches - The area contains vast tracts of State Forest and National Parks and the rivers and waterways are the heart and soul of this wonderful area.

VISITOR INFORMATION

158 Fitzroy St, Grafton NSW

MARKETS

Wed - Yamba Farmers & Producers Market

1st Sat - Yamba Artisan Food Market 8 - 12 Whiting Beach

2nd Sat - Maclean Community Market 8 - 12, Centenary Dr

3rd Sat - Grafton Showground Markets 9-3

4th Sun -Yamba River Market, Ford Pk 9am-2pm

EVENTS

26 March- 30 April Plunge Arts and Culture Festival

7 April - 118th Macleanhighlandgathering.com.au

28/29th - Grafton Agricultural Show graftonshow.com.au

TBA Oct - Wooli, Australian National Goanna Pulling Championships Fb

27 Oct - 5 Nov Grafton - Jacaranda Festival. com

VISIT - myclarencevalley.com/events as well as the Yearly “Plunge Art & Culture Festival” on clarence.nsw.gov/Community/Arts-and-culture

These events show the diversity and community spirit of the Clarence area. Music, dance and theatre performances, exhibitions, open studios, artist trails, workshops for all ages, art, craft, and food markets - you name it, it’s there. There really is something for everyone.

Peter Wotton

Peter Wotton

Ulmarra is a small town on the south bank of the Clarence River in Northern New South Wales, in the Clarence Valley district. At the 2006 census, Ulmarra had a population of 446 people. The Ulmarra Ferry is a vehicular cable ferry, which crosses the Clarence River from a point about 1 kilometre (0.62 mi) North of Ulmarra, to Southgate on the North bank. Visit the historic Ulmarra Hotel situated on the banks of the mighty Clarence River, which is one of the biggest river systems in NSW, with wonderful views up and down the river, to the newly erected boat jetty, relaxing on the river bank under shady trees, creating a very cosy atmosphere for lunch or dinner, also the kids can use the newly upgraded playground to keep the little ones occupied. Ulmarra’s name comes from an Aboriginal word meaning “Bend in the river”

Peter Wotton

The Idyllic Coastal Town. Sitting at the mouth of the famous Clarence River, Iluka has the coastal lifestyle most only dream about.

Please acknowledge the Bundjalung Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl people past and present showing respect when entering their lands.

Reminiscent of days gone by, Iluka retains the idyllic coastal lifestyle that so many towns have lost. A vibrant caring community who shares the same ideals of keeping the natural beauty on offer, safe for everyone. From the most beautiful beaches and unrivalled river access, to the abundant wildlife and lush bushland within the UNESCO World Heritage listed rainforest, there are natural wonders everywhere. Added to that we have mouth watering restaurants and local entertainment. The Iluka Golf Course offers 19 holes on an exhilarating course. Iluka is the hidden gem of the North Coast.

Iluka has a great little wine bar with waterfront views across to Yamba at the Bait and Tackle Boat shed, where you can catch the Clarence River Ferry.

The platform at Iluka Bluff lookout is perfectly positioned for an aerial view of the entire Bundjalung area, complete with a soundscape of waves crashing on to the rocky bluff walls below.

The mouth of one of the region’s largest

waterways, the Clarence River, lies just south and to the north you’ll see glorious beaches and Woody Head.

It’s great place to see dolphins cruising around near the mouth of the river and whales on the annual migration along the coast, so be sure to take your binoculars.

Stop for a quick look on your travels along the north coast or bring a picnic and stay for longer, there is an undercover picnic shelter a short walk from the lookout.

The Iluka boat harbour is home to a commercial trawler fleet and amazing fresh seafood can be purchased from the Clarence River Fishermen’s Cooperative shop alongside the harbour.

There are excellent surfing and swimming beaches around Iluka, including Iluka Bluff, Back Beach, Frazers Reef and Woody Head. One of the town’s best surfing beaches is at Iluka Bluff that can be reached by a short drive or via the

rainforest walking track. There is a splendid look out, whale watch platform and rainforest display here, views from the whale-watch platform include Yamba and the river mouth and extend north across many beaches and bays.

With-in the town there is a netted, family swimming area, playground with Gym equipment and picnic facilities in Charlie Ryan Park at the western tip of Iluka Bay.

The Iluka-Yamba ferry runs timetabled daily passenger services from the Iluka Boatshed offering visitors the opportunity to take advantage of this scenic crossing between the two major resort towns of the Clarence, with a newly renovated Wine Bar for a superb glass of wine or a cool beer waiting for the Ferry.

For a small-town Iluka boasts some excellent facilities including a nine-hole golf course, bowling greens, a rowing club and a sports oval with adjacent tennis courts. Iluka is well known as a top spot for recreational fishing.

DID YOU KNOW?

Iluka has the hill of knowledge, surrounded by beautiful beaches and lovely walking tracks. VISITOR INFORMATION

Iluka Emporium: 61 Charles St. Iluka. NSW 2466 0436 281 346

ilukaemporium@gmail.com

visitnsw.com

BROOMS HEAD

DID YOU KNOW?

The name Brooms Head was first used in 1870 when a broom thought to have come from the wreck of the schooner ‘Eureka’, was washed up on the beach These days many people affectionately refer to “The Broom” as their favourite holiday destination

Here you will find a spot of nostalgia nestled behind Yuraygir National Park Situated near Maclean, just over an hour’s drive south of Byron Bay. This quiet village is perfect for families and visitors of all ages with scenic walking tracks, a spectacular lookout, swimming & snorkelling in the lagoon with a boat ramp and great fishing spots. “Schnapper Rock” is one that the locals will point out to you and mud crabs abound in this watery haven.

EAT - BROOMS HEAD BOWLS AND RECREATION CLUB -

Open seven days a week, with their “So Yummy Chinese Restaurant” open five days a week, Wednesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner and opening seven days a week throughout the holiday periods.

Barefoot bowls every day at $10 per person. There is also a tennis court for hire at $10 per hour with bookings made through the Club. This quiet village is perfect for families and visitors of all ages, relaxing and enjoying the vast coastline, with some great whale watching spots

EXPLORE- YURAYGIR COASTAL WALK - Follow the footprints of the coastal emu on the 65km trail that stretches from Angourie in the North to Red Rock in the South. All your needs are catered for with an ocean front caravan park with cabins and a wide range of holiday units, a bowls club, local shops and facilities. Its best walked north to south with the sun at your back.

Take a 5-day guided walking tour of Yuragir Coast with homecomfortshiking. com staying the night at Yamba, Brooms Head & Wooli accommodation along the way and finishing at Red Rock. A bus will pick you up to make the connections needed.

Camp or rent accommodation along the way and carry your own gear and food as you complete your hike.

Check https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/ yuraygir-coastal-walk for river crossings or maintenance and closures.

This quiet village is perfect for families and visitors of all ages

The last Brooms Head Brumby Stallion, who roamed the Yuraygir National Park

CRESCENT HEAD

Is located approx. 4 hours South of Byron Bay on the Macleay Valley Coast on the coastal road between Kempsey and Port Macquarie. The population of this secluded little hideaway is only 1,531.

Crescent Head is especially captivating with many local Aboriginal Art Galleries, including Dunghutti – Ngaku Gallery which showcases and markets the works of prominent, established and emerging Aboriginal artists from the wider Mid North Coast of New South Wales. Relax with a morning coffee at Blackfish Coffee or a cold beer after a morning surf at the Crescent Head Tavern, for dinner you must visit the La Costa Cantina –a mouth-watering Mexican Restaurant. Early morning stroll down to Killick Creek or maybe throw a line to catch that big one. Take a relaxing walk up to the top of Crescent Head Lookout to see the spectacular views of the whole coastline, a great spot for whale watching in the season from May to October.

VISITOR INFORMATION

32 Clarence St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 1300 303 155

tourism@pmhc.nsw.gov.au

visitnsw.com

macleayvalleycoast.com.au

DID YOU KNOW?

The new Northern Rivers Rail Trail has just opened to the visiting public to enjoy, after many years of hard work by many organisations, now it is a reality. Joining the Rail Trail at the Murwillumbah Railway Station and Visitor Centre, heading South to Burringbar then on to Mooball and finishing at Crabbes Creek, with plenty of stops on the way to enjoy some local refreshments, for great coffee at Burringbar Teakwood Café and Gallery, visit Club Burringbar for that great pizza. The Tweed Valley Whey Cheeses is just down the road providing a licensed café, and locally made on site mouth-watering cheeses. The next stop is Mooball for a host of choices including great coffee at The Post Shop Café, or the MooMoo Roadhouse featuring great food with awesome coffee, the MooMoo also offers a great rang of Motorcycles from the past and memorabilia, this is must see. Then the last leg of your journey is on to Crabbes Creek General Store and Bottle Shop.

Mount Warning by Peter Wotton

BRAKES:

SUSPENSION:

Peter Wotton Photography

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