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on i t i d E y r e v o c e R d Floo
Ballina Shire residents can access face-to-face support at the Ballina Flood Recovery Centre See page 3 for details.
S P E C I A L
T R I B U T E
Scan QR code to hear Jimmy Barnes' special tribute "You'll Never Walk Alone" to the Northern Rivers.
from the mayor's desk
From the Mayor
There is no doubt that the past month has been one of the most difficult periods in our community’s history. No-one expected that the Richmond River would ever break its banks, causing the biggest flood in living memory then to follow that with another flood event in late March.
Ballina Recovery Centre
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Distribution Hub
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Wardell Community Hub
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Flood Support Services
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Donations
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The Ballina SES unit, with support from Fire and Rescue NSW and Surf Life Saving NSW, rescued hundreds of residents throughout the peak of the flood. On behalf of our Ballina Shire community, I thank and applaud our emergency responders for their outstanding efforts.
Waste Collection and Asbestos
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Flood Data Collection
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It’s hard to fathom the enormity of the recovery task ahead. Yet I’ve been so impressed by how everyone has rolled up their sleeves to help each other. It’s not just family and friends banding together. It’s neighbours helping neighbours and strangers helping strangers. Everyone has contributed in some way. It’s incredible just how resilient our community is.
Assessing Flood Damaged Buildings
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Beach and River Water Quality
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Draft Community Strategic Plan
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This extends across local government areas too. Our hearts ache for our neighbouring shires where there has been tragic loss of life and a huge loss of property; for the communities that have endured flooding, landslips, long commutes and those who have been isolated for extended periods.
Library News
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Northern Rivers Community Gallery
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Meet your new Councillors
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So many people have experienced tremendous loss. But together, with compassion and grit, we will get through this. In Ballina Shire alone more than 600 businesses and homes were impacted. Community volunteers have banded together to help homeowners and businesses get flood waste to the kerbside for collection. Thank you to these wonderful volunteers who have given up their time to organise, mobilise, and action support for our flood affected residents – you are the backbone of our community. The Australian Defence Force has had boots on the ground for weeks helping residents with waste removal, and a raft of agencies have aided recovery efforts through clean-up assistance, delivery of essential supplies, and even temporary accommodation in the form of motor homes. An enormous thank you to the ADF, NSW Rural Fire Service, NSW Fire and Rescue, SES, and NSW Police for your amazing support. Ballina Shire Council’s crews have been working around the clock to clear flood waste from kerbsides. This has been a massive task and will go a long way towards helping our community to recover. While clearing flood waste is a very visible role, it’s the tip of the iceberg.
Community Spirit in Action
Council Project Updates
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Council support At Council's Ordinary Meeting on 24 March, a range of measures were adopted to help support our flood-affected community. Waiver of interest on overdue rates until 30 June 2022 Council will pause interest on overdue rates and charges for ratepayers (directly or indirectly) affected by the recent flooding from 1 March to 30 June 2022. Rebates for high consumption water Property owners who use higher than usual water as part of their flood recovery will be provided an account rebate based on their historical water usage patterns. Burns Point Ferry refunds
Please remember this is our home too. Council staff, and your councillors, are feeling the impact of this disaster. We have all been touched in some way by this event, but we will do everything we can to help our beautiful shire recover. Rest assured we are here for the long haul.
Application and eligibility
Please note: Information printed in this issue of Community Connect is correct at the time of printing Monday 4 April 2022. For up to date details, please refer | THE MAGAZINE OF THE BALLINA SHIRE COUNCIL communityconnect to relevant websites.
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ISSN: 2652-7243 (PRINT)
Behind the scenes Ballina Shire Council has a longer-term role in community recovery by connecting service providers with people in need of help. This includes Council working hand-in-hand with Resilience NSW and a range of other agencies, such as St Vincent de Paul Society, Services Australia and Red Cross, to operate the Ballina Recovery Centre.
Sharon Cadwallader Mayor
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contents
Refunds will be provided to Burns Point Ferry ticket holders, on a pro-rata basis, for the period the ferry was not operating and being repaired due to flood damage.
Support is provided to residents who are flood impacted or who have been financially impacted as a result of the recent floods. For more information and to apply telephone 1300 864 444 or complete the online application form on Council's website at floodhardship.paperform.co
We’re here to help Sometimes there is just nothing that can replace a friendly face and a listening ear. If you’ve been impacted by the floods, a raft of agencies are standing by to help you at the Ballina Recovery Centre.
BALLINA
flood recovery
Ballina Recovery Centre
They can help you navigate the range of financial assistance available, provide accommodation advice, assist with insurance and legal issues, link you with clean-up support, and access mental health services. Located at the Ballina Surf Club, Lighthouse Parade, East Ballina, the centre is open seven days a week. Agencies onsite include:
Services Australia (Centrelink) Service NSW Red Cross Salvation Army Australian Defence Force Legal Aid Insurers Department of Communities and Justice – Housing Ballina Shire Council.
BALLINA RECOVERY CENTRE Ballina Surf Club Lighthouse Parade, East Ballina Open Seven Days a Week
A return shuttle bus service is operating daily to the Ballina Recovery Centre. Download the shuttle bus timetable at ballina.nsw.gov.au/bus-timetable
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FLOOD RECOVERY DISTRIBUTION HUB
BALLINA
Ballina Shire Council has established a central Flood Recovery Distribution Hub to distribute donated items received in one convenient location, making it easier for those in need to collect personal goods and pantry items. This Hub is to support any resident affected in the Northern Rivers. Free items available for collection by flood-affected residents (subject to availability):
Non-perishable foods
Bedding
Clothing
Mattresses
Shoes
Hygiene products
Cleaning products
Toys
Small household goods Vouchers
The Distribution Hub has a surplus of donations to meet our community’s needs, so we ask that no more items be delivered. If you want to donate items and funds please visit givit.org.au or see page 8 for the #AMomentAway program being run by the Ballina Visitor Information Centre. GIVIT is an easy, quick and efficient way of donating directly to people in need without overwhelming charities on the ground.
FLOOD RECOVERY DISTRIBUTION HUB 57 Gallans Road, Ballina (formerly Thursday Plantation café) Open Seven Days a Week – 10am to 2pm
If you would like to volunteer at the Distribution Hub, please call 0460 947 439.
Help support people impacted by the floods GIVIT is managing donations for QLD & NSW flood recovery 100% of publicly donated funds will be used to purchase essential items and services
Donate now at givit.org.au 4
communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L
Service NSW is coordinating a wide range of support for people impacted by the recent floods and storms. Individuals and households Disaster Recovery Payment
A one-off payment of $1,000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child if your home has been severely damaged or destroyed, or you've been seriously injured. An additional two disaster payments for Lismore, Richmond Valley, Clarence Valley, Ballina, Kyogle and Tweed Local Government Areas.
Disaster Relief Grant for Individuals
To help low-income earners with limited financial resources whose home or essential household contents were damaged or destroyed.
Disaster Recovery Allowance
Short-term income assistance of up to 13 weeks to help employees, small businesses and farmer who’ve lost income.
Housing support
Temporary emergency accommodation options include: 16 weeks rental support; temporary housing pods; mobile motor homes; recreation clubs; Red Cross housing brokerage service. If you're currently staying with family or friends and need longer term support call Service NSW on 13 77 88 or submit your details at service.nsw. gov.au/register-interest-floods-temporary-housing-support-package
Clean-up
Help to remove damaged household contents and other debris in and around the home by a dedicated clean-up task force.
Tarpaulin maintenance
Help to tighten and maintain tarpaulins that have been installed by the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) on damaged roofs.
Stamp duty relief for private vehicles
Stamp duty relief on the replacement of privately owned, insured motor vehicles that have been written off.
Call the Service NSW Hotline on 13 77 88, visit service.nsw.gov.au or visit the Ballina Recovery Centre where Service NSW staff are onsite to help.
flood recovery
Flood Support Services
Small Business Disaster Recovery Grants for Small Business up to $50,000
To clear damaged goods, repair the premises, replace stock to reopen. nsw.gov.au/floods/financial-support-for-businesses
Concessional Interest rate loans up to $130,000
For small businesses who suffered direct damage to help resume normal trade to replace and repair any damage not covered by insurance.
Stamp duty relief for commercial vehicles
Stamp duty relief on the replacement of insured, commercial motor vehicles that have been written off.
Disaster Recovery Allowance
Income assistance of up to 13 weeks to help employees, small businesses and farmers who’ve lost income.
Call the Service NSW Hotline on 13 77 88, visit service.nsw.gov.au or visit the Ballina Recovery Centre where Service NSW staff are onsite to help.
Farmers Primary Producer Grants
Primary producers impacted by NSW storms and floods may be eligible for special disaster grants to help them return to business as soon as possible. Primary producers affected by floods from February 2022 can apply for grants of up to $75,000. Contact the NSW Rural Assistance Authority for more details on 1800 678 593 or visit raa.nsw.gov.au
Disaster Recovery Allowance
Income assistance of up to 13 weeks to help employees, small businesses and farmers who’ve lost income.
Animal and Live Stock Safety
Landholders can request emergency fodder for livestock, animal assessment, veterinary advice and if required, euthanasia and burial, by calling the Agricultural and Animal Services Hotline, 1800 814 647.
For more detailed information about support available to farmers visit nsw.gov.au/floods/ support-for-farmersand-primary-producers
To find out what payments you may be eligible for visit disasterassistance.servicensw.gov.au * Correct at time of printing Monday 4 April 2022
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Red Cross Grants The Australian Red Cross will provide support through two types of cash grants:
Relief Grant – $500 cash assistance for people who are experiencing financial hardship as a result of flood impact to their primary place of residence. Bereavement Grant – $20,000 cash assistance to support senior next-of-kin of those who died as a direct result of the floods with immediate needs (funeral and other related expenses). Visit redcross.org.au/grants. If you do not have an email address, internet access or a device to connect with, please call Red Cross on 1800 733 276 or visit a local recovery centre for assistance.
Information for tenants, landlords and homeowners You can call 13 32 20 for assistance, if you're:
a tenant or landlord whose rented property is affected by the floods a homeowner with a complaint about tradespeople and their flood remediation home building work impacted by flood related issues, such as cancelled accommodation, weddings and services. Visit fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/resource-library/floods-and-tenancy-rights
Telstra assistance package Assistance for those who have lost telecommunications services. Call 1800 888 888 or visit telstra.com.au
Mail redirection Free mail redirection for 12 months for people impacted by the recent storms and floods. Call 13 13 18 or visit auspost.com.au or call into your local Post Office.
Orange Sky Laundry Orange Sky Laundry has been providing free laundry services, and in some locations, warm showers, across the Northern Rivers. To find out where they’ll be operating, head to the 'Find a Shift' page and search 'CRS' (Community Recovery Support) at orangesky.org.au
BizRebuild Vouchers BizRebuild is a business-led initiative, developed by the Business Council of Australia, to provide practical and on the ground assistance to small and local businesses impacted by the floods. Available vouchers:
RETOOLING VOUCHER ($2,000 incl gst) to get the business back up and running. BUSINESS ADVISORY VOUCHER ($500 incl gst) for services such as legal, accounting, marketing/web development, IT, financial planning. Enquire and apply at bca.awardsplatform.com
* Correct at time of printing Monday 4 April 2022.
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communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L
Self care 1. Recognise that you’ve been through a distressing time. Don’t get angry with yourself for being upset. 2. Remember that there is no right or wrong way to feel. 3. Don’t suppress your feelings – share them with people you trust when you are ready to do so. 4. Rest if you’re tired. Physical exercise is also important.
Floods can affect everyone in the community, not only people directly dealing with loss of property or possessions. If you feel in need of mental health support, there are services ready to help you through the difficult times.
Help in a crisis If you require immediate 24/7 help contact:
Mental Health Line 1800 011 511 Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Lifeline 13 11 14
5. Let friends and family know of your needs – when you feel tired, need time out, want to talk or be with someone. Download self-care resources at beyondblue. com.au/the-facts/looking-after-yourselfafter-a-disaster
flood recovery
Mental health support
Rem Doing ember! t you en hings that joy in tim of stre es luxury ss is not a – it’ to man s essential age wellbe your ing.
MensLine 1300 78 99 78 Lifeline Text 0477 13 11 14 Kids Helpline 1800 551 800 (children under 12 years) Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467 In an emergency, please call 000 or go to your nearest hospital emergency department.
Mental health support Connect To Wellbeing North Coast 1300 160 339 Call Connect to Wellbeing and be directed to the right information or service that best suits your needs, including referral to telehealth services (up to 10 free telepsychology sessions). Service hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am – 5pm
24/7 GP telehealth Healthy North Coast GP Telehealth service 1800 931 158 Free GP consultations for flood-affected communities. Phone or video, 24 hours/7 days.
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Dona experi te an e those nce to a by the ffected N Rivers orthern flood.
Donate a moment away BLOOD DONORS NEEDED IN BALLINA With the Red Cross Lifeblood Donor Centre in Lismore closing its doors due to flooding, the Ballina community is stepping up to help. A mobile blood donation unit will be operating in the Richmond Room, 5 Regatta Avenue, Ballina for the next three months. If you are safe and able to give blood, you’ll be a real lifesaver. For more information call 13 14 95 or visit lifeblood.com.au
The Ballina Tourism Team are encouraging Australians, near and far, to donate an experience to those affected by the Northern Rivers flood. "We are asking people to purchase a gift voucher for a local activity or tour and gift it to someone impacted by the floods. The idea is for flood-affected locals to enjoy A Moment Away from the clean-up and stress of their current circumstances," said Ms Alicia Wallace Council's Team Leader Visitor Services. The bonus to this unique idea is the economic boost for local tourism operators, whose livelihoods have been disrupted once again by the floods. With limited accommodation available for visitors to stay, tour and activity operators are suffering flow on impacts. We want to ensure these businesses survive and are still here once visitors return to the region. Donors can select an experience or value of their choice and know that this will be donated to a flood affected person for A Moment Away. This will enable flood impacted families and individuals to take a break, even if just for a moment. Local tourism businesses are encouraged to use the hashtags #AMomentAway and #DonateAMomentAway in their social media posts for resharing. For more information or to find a local experience visit the destination website discoverballina.com.au
Session times at the Ballina Pop-up site are:
Monday – 12pm to 7pm Tuesday – 8pm to 2.30pm Wednesday – 12pm to 7pm Thursday – 12pm to 7pm Friday – 8am to 2.30pm Saturday – 8am to 2.30pm Every single blood donation counts!
Burns Point Ferry The Ferry has undergone repairs to get it back up and running. Council thanks the community for their patience during this time. Customers are asked to take care when boarding and alighting the ferry, as repair works continue to the boom gates, street lighting and bankside areas. Ferry ticket holders who would like to apply for a refund, for the time the ferry was offline, can call Council's Customer Service Team on 1300 864 444. Follow us on Facebook or visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/burnspointferry
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communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L
Did you know asbestos is found in 1 in 3 homes across Australia? Council is urging flood impacted property owners, residents, and volunteers to be wary of potential dangers posed by damaged asbestos containing materials. Asbestos is still found in many brick, weatherboard, clad and fibro structures built or renovated prior to 1990. Asbestos may be found in flat or corrugated sheeting (fibro) used for walls and ceilings, fences, storage sheds, chook sheds, out houses and stock sheds. Asbestos was also used in the construction of commercial and non-residential properties such as shops or public buildings until December 2003. If you're unsure whether a material contains asbestos, free test kits are available from Ballina Shire Council's Customer Service Centre or the Waste Management Centre. Minimum personal protection equipment includes sturdy footwear, P2 disposable mask, disposable overalls and disposable heavy-duty gloves. For more information on safe removal and separation of asbestos, head to ballina.nsw.gov.au/asbestos
Register Asbestos collection Please register flood-damaged asbestos at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ bin-collection-days so that it can be collected separately for safety reasons.
Flood waste collection Council’s clean-up crews have been moving through all major flood affected areas. If you have flood waste that has yet to be collected, please contact Council’s Waste Management Centre on 02 6686 1287 to organise collection. Flood waste has been collected and taken to the Regional Waste Transfer Stations at Tuckombil Quarry, Alstonville, and a second facility near Coraki.
flood recovery
REPORT ASBESTOS TO STAY SAFE
These two temporary facilities are an important part of an overarching waste strategy to remove flood waste from the kerbside and streets as quickly as possible and help get the community back on its feet. The Public Works Advisory branch of the NSW Government is the overarching agency responsible for the clean-up and recovery of the region after the flood. They are responsible for the temporary transfer facilities and have engaged SUEZ, an experienced disaster waste recovery contractor, to operate the facilities on their behalf. The sites are temporary and will only be in place for the period required to facilitate the clean-up after the devastating flood event. Flood waste is received at the facilities and sorted to recover as much recyclable material as possible. The waste is then transported off-site to various recycling facilities or if not recyclable, it is sent to the Ti Tree bioreactor, a landfill in south-east Queensland where methane from the decomposing landfill is collected and converted into energy to power the local community.
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RECYCLIN
Missing bins Council staff have delivered replacement bins to all known flood-affected properties. If you are in need of a bin replacement, please log a request via the Community Portal on ballina.nsw.gov.au/CommunityPortal or call 1300 864 444 for our team to log your request.
reduce, reuse, recycle Ballina Shire Council is keen to support the community to reduce, reuse and recycle wherever possible. Please check out the waste and recycling guide that is being delivered to letterboxes and available for download at ballina.nsw. gov.au
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We thank the emergency responders, government agencies, not-for-profit organisations, and community volunteers who have helped our community throughout this disaster.
communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L
flood recovery Thank you
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Assessment of Flood Damaged Buildings Rapid damage assessments of flood impacted buildings have been undertaken by emergency services. These assessments provide an initial guide to building condition and further assessment may be required for damaged buildings. Where there is a concern regarding structural adequacy of buildings, residents and building owners should seek the services of a registered structural engineer or a licensed builder to review the structural suitability of the premises to be occupied. Additionally, electrical wiring and any associated services should be checked by a qualified electrician. If you have insurance, contact your insurance provider to see if they can arrange a building condition inspection and structural assessment for you under your policy. Unfortunately, Council is not able to undertake structural assessments of buildings as Council does not provide structural engineering or electrical services.
COLLECTING FLOOD HEIGHT DATA Ballina Shire Council understands that the past few weeks have been a very traumatic time for many families affected by the flood, but with recovery efforts underway we are asking impacted residents to share flood level information they may have noted.
Property Assessment and Demolition (PAD) Program Services NSW provide the Property Assessment and Demolition (PAD) program to support property owners impacted by the recent floods. The program provides free structural assessments of eligible flood impacted properties. For properties found to be beyond economic repair and uninhabitable, demolition and removal of waste will be undertaken at no cost. The program is available to insured and uninsured owners of property that has been assessed as being damaged (slight, moderate or severe) or destroyed. The program will be open to owners of properties used for residential, small business or primary production purposes. To get notified about the flood recovery PAD program fill in your details at service. nsw.gov.au/floods/get-notified-about-flood-recovery-property-assessment-anddemolition-pad-program
We are seeking information about flood heights, including time and date if possible along with photos. Please submit information at ballina.nsw.gov.au/FloodRecovery along with a brief note about the mark or record you may have noted, and our team will make contact. If you have already been visited by a Council survey team then there is no need to respond again. Council is assisting government agencies, Department of Planning & Environment and Public Works Advisory, who are gathering flood height information from across the region for this significant event. Council thanks the community for their help.
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communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L
The Our Community Our Future Strategic Plan has guided our actions since 2017. It identified the community’s priorities which then provided the framework for Balllina Shire Council’s goals, strategies and targets.
THEME CONNECTED COMMUNITY "A caring community is what matters because this makes a difference to people’s lives" "Conscious inclusion of local Indigenous peoples and their lore within the Ballina community" "We respect each other’s values and lifestyle choices" "As safe and easy place to live as a family" "Urban centres are small enough to encourage a sense of community and shared pride"
THEME HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT "Enabling communities to take action on climate change" "Liveability is subjective. For me it has nothing to do with more tourists, shops and businesses but with a respected and preserved natural environment"
It is time, however, to revisit this plan and check in with the community about their aspirations and priorities. In reviewing this plan we asked people of all ages and from a wide range of backgrounds what they wanted the Ballina Shire to look like in 10 years’ time, and what issues are important to them both now and in the future. We spoke to community groups and individuals through surveys, information sessions and workshops, and these conversations shape this renewed Community Strategic Plan.
"A healthy environment with lots of outdoor spaces and facilities that encourage health, well-being and social connectedness"
In our conversations with many people from across the shire the recurring themes were safety, health and happiness, the protection of the environment and finding the balance with economic growth and development so that our lifestyle is not compromised.
"No more development. People live here for the quiet relaxed lifestyle, not traffic jams and diminished natural habitat or farmland"
Our Community Our Future 2032 is Council’s commitment to work in partnership with our residents, community groups and the State and Federal Governments to realise your vision – the Ballina Shire is safe with a strong connected community, a healthy environment that is treasured and protected with a thriving economy. The Draft Community Our Future Strategic Plan 2032 will be published in May 2022 at ballina.nsw.gov.au
community participation + draft plans/ proposals = better planning outcomes for our community
"Improve condition of waterways, increase resilience of waterways to development and land use impacts and climate change"
flood recovery
DRAFT COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN
What you said... M AY
our community our future
"Clean air, clean water, nature and public parks. Free access to the riverfront and beaches"
THEME THRIVING ECONOMY "Ensuring that those who work locally can live locally, or very close to local, would be a good first step" "The town caters for people who live here, not just tourist trade" "We need more shopping villages with restaurants and shops that match the coastal lifestyle" "Housing affordability for locals to service local businesses"
THEME ENGAGED LEADERSHIP "The community needs to feel included and consulted around larger, more impactful decisions" "Leadership that works cooperatively with state, federal and other councils to further the interests of our shire" "Good infrastructure – airport, parks, roads, libraries"
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PROJECT UPDATE
Counc il airport thanks for th patrons during eir patience th airport e important upgrad es.
Airport Carpark Upgrade The Ballina Byron Gateway Airport Carpark Upgrade is nearing completion with the new dedicated taxi/shuttle bus/rideshare zone and rental carparking areas in place. New shade sails and solar PV system are due to be completed in April 2022. Once these works are completed two tiers of parking will be available, Premium and General. The new Premium shaded parking area will cater for short-term and overnight/long-term parking. New boom gates and the final landscaping will soon be carried out, which will complete the airport carpark project. Overall this project will provide an additional 100 carparking spaces at Ballina Byron Gateway Airport while also improving transport connections, simplifying and modernising paid parking arrangements, and improving energy efficiency at the airport. Once the boom gate system is installed paying for parking will become even easier, with customers able to pay on their phones via QR code. Paid parking stations will still be available throughout the carpark and outside the terminal building. Access to the airport will remain via the new slip road entrance, turning left off Southern Cross Drive, or left from the new airport Boulevard roundabout. Vehicles exit the airport via the new Airport Boulevard roundabout. For project information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/airportcarpark-upgrade
Support from above Aircraft play a vital role during emergency situations, and the recent Northern Rivers floods was no exception. As the rain continued and flood waters rose, Ballina Byron Gateway Airport’s tarmac was a hive of activity with emergency service aircraft taking on tough conditions to support those in need. Aircraft from Careflight, Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, Life Flight, Rural Fire Service and the Australian Defence Force used BBGA as a base to travel across the Northern Rivers to rescue and drop supplies to those in need. Thank you to all the emergency service personnel, on the ground or in the air, for their ongoing efforts to support our community!
PROJECT UPDATE
Airport Terminal Upgrade New security screening equipment is now operational at the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport. Body scanning equipment, which has been installed as part of the Airport Terminal Upgrade, will significantly improve security for travellers, airport staff and airline crews. The entire upgrade is expected to be completed by August 2022.
BEACHES AND RIVER WATER QUALITY The water quality of our beaches and river has been significantly impacted by the flood. It could take several weeks before harmful bacteria and debris is flushed and will depend on further rainfall in the region. Debris continues to move down the river and wash up throughout the system and on the beaches. The debris presents health and safety risks as it can include large items, submerged matter, animal carcasses, chemical drums among other items. Flood waters can also contain hydrocarbons (oil and petrol) and other pollutants that can cause physical harm. Neighbouring council's wastewater treatment plants have also been significantly damaged and untreated effluent is currently discharging into the Wilson River, which connects to the Richmond River. Council will continue to monitor the situation, remove debris where possible and monitor the water quality. While there is still evidence of pollution and poor water quality, Council recommends no swimming or water recreation.
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communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L
Stage 2 Henry Philp Ave to Tweed Street
ROAD AND STORMWATER PROJECTS
Ballina Shire Council is planning to commence works on Stage 2 of the River Street Duplication project from Henry Philp Avenue to Tweed Street, Ballina in the middle of this year. This follows the completion of Stage 1 works from Burns Point Ferry Road to Barlows Road in December 2021. River Street Duplication project will be delivered across four stages using a mixture of private contractors and council crews. Once all stages are complete, this project will provide a four-lane road from West Ballina into Ballina Island, doubling the road’s capacity to comfortably cater for traffic into the future.
COMPLETED PROJECTS
This stage of the project will see:
Westbound and eastbound lane duplication Installation of traffic lights at the intersection of River Street and Brunswick Street
TAMARIND DRIVE – TINTENBAR INTERSECTION
Installation of protected right-hand turns into Brunswick Street
RIVERBANK ROAD, PIMLICO
Upgrade of stormwater services
SERPENTINE CARPARK
Modification of pedestrian footpaths and shared paths
RIVER DRIVE, EAST WARDELL
For more information and to register for emailed project updates please visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/RiverStreetDuplication
NORTH CREEK ROAD BOAT RAMP, LENNOX HEAD
BALLINA ISL AND
flood recovery
RIVER STREET DUPLICATION
MOON STREET, FLOODGATE STEWART STREET, LENNOX HEAD TEVEN ROAD, TEVEN
CURRENT PROJECTS RIVER STREET DUPLICATION (STAGE 2) ANGELS BEACH DRIVE AND BANGALOW ROAD ROUNDABOUT - LANE EXTENSIONS LENNOX VILLAGE VISION, ROSS PARK UPGRADE, STORMWATER UPGRADES, UNDERGROUNDING OF POWER STORMWATER RELINING PROJECT BURNET STREET, BALLINA
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SAFER ROADS PROJECT BYRON BAY RD AND ROSS LANE
FUTURE PROJECTS
Keep up to date with policies and documents on exhibition.
PEARCES CREEK BRIDGE, PEARCES CREEK
ballina.nsw.gov.au/eNews
ROCKY POINT RD CARPARK, SKENNARS HEAD
GIBBON STREET, LENNOX HEAD
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BALLINA
Angels Beach Dr/ Bangalow Rd Lane Improvements
KERR/BENTINCK ST INTERSECTION UPGRADE Ballina Shire Council has received $807,000 in funding through the NSW Government’s Safer Roads program to upgrade the intersection of Kerr and Bentinck Streets in Ballina. The NSW Safer Roads Program targets sections of roads or intersections with a high casualty accident record. Kerr Street is an arterial road with an average daily traffic volume of almost 18,000 vehicles per day, while Bentinck Street connects urban areas of Ballina to the CBD and The Coast Road. With high traffic volumes on Kerr Street, it is difficult for road users using the intersection to find safe gaps in the traffic. This has resulted in a number of crashes at the intersection and injuries to motorists. Traffic lights are considered the best option to improve safety for road users while minimising disruption to the traffic flows in Kerr Street. The upgrade will improve motorist and pedestrian safety through the following works:
Installation of protected right-turn lanes from Kerr Street into Bentinck Street Upgrade Kerr Street from two lanes to four, between Russell Street and Bentinck Street Installation of traffic lights at the intersection of Kerr and Bentinck Streets, including signalised pedestrian crossings. Works are expected to commence in the middle of the year and continue until December 2022. The following traffic conditions are expected during construction:
Speed limit reduced to 40kmph through construction zones. Single lane of traffic will remain open in both directions for the majority of the works. Detours may be required for sections of the work, particularly during the installation of traffic signals. Council will update the community when more information is available. Footpath closures and changes to property access may be necessary. This will be communicated closer to construction. To view the design plans and register for emailed project updates please visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/KerrBentinckStreetUpgrade
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EAST BALLINA
communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L
The Angels Beach Drive and Bangalow Road Lane Improvement project is progressing well, with works currently underway to extend Sheather Street and connect it with Angels Beach Drive. Intersection widening works are also continuing on Bangalow Road between Kerr Street and the roundabout, where twoway traffic is being maintained. Ballina Shire Council’s contractors will soon commence intersection widening works on Bangalow Road, between Moon Street and the Angels Beach Drive/Bangalow Road roundabout. This section of Bangalow Road will be temporarily closed while these works are underway. The following traffic controls will be in place (weather and site conditions permitting):
To Ballina CBD from Angels Beach Drive Right turn at the roundabout and left onto Kerr Street. Access to Ballina Central Shopping Centre will remain unchanged.
To Ballina CBD from Tamarind Drive Right turn at Kerr Street.
To North Ballina/Airport from Bangalow Road towards Tamarind Drive Detour via Fox and Kerr Streets.
To Lennox Head Detour via Fox and Kerr Streets, or use The Coast Road via East Ballina.
Access to the Kentwell Community Centre via the Moon Street entrance only. Traffic will still be able to turn left in and right out of Moon Street during these works. To alleviate congestion please allow extra travel time and avoid nonessential travel during peak morning and afternoon periods. Speed limits will be reduced to 40kmph in construction zones and temporary pedestrian and cyclist detours will be in place around work zones. Ballina Shire Council thanks the community for their patience and understanding during this essential upgrade. Businesses and residents are strongly encouraged to register for emailed project updates at ballina.nsw.gov. au/BangalowRoadRoundabout
Installation of the new drinking water network and undergrounding of the electrical network is continuing in the Lennox Head village centre. The Ross Park Upgrade is also underway, with new playground equipment and landscaping works occurring until mid 2022 (subject to weather and site conditions). The playground upgrade will include a new play space with all-ability carousel, timber fort and nest swing, accessible toilet, interactive sculpture, covered picnic areas, shade trees and seating. Adjoining carparks in Lennox Head's Rayner Lane and Ballina Street will be unavailable during this temporary closure. Beach access will be maintained through Ross Park.
Temporary one-way traffic in Ballina Street To enable road reconstruction works to be completed as quickly as possible, Ballina Street will temporarily reduce to one way traffic heading south from April to November 2022. The road reconstruction will start in Ballina Street near Park Lane and move north. During these works there will be delays and impacts to street parking and pedestrian access. Please detour via Park Lane and The Coast Road where possible. To register for project updates and for more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/LennoxVillageVision
L E N N OX H E A D
Wollongbar District Park Even Ballina Shire councillors couldn’t help playing on the new equipment at Wollongbar District Park when it officially opened at the end of February. “This park has it all!” said Ballina Shire Mayor, Sharon Cadwallader. “It features a range of spaces for young and old. Young families can enjoy the half basketball court, playground, climbing net and skate park. Older residents may like to try the multi-purpose circuit path and exercise equipment. While the shade trees, BBQ and picnic areas provide the perfect place to refuel, socialise and relax.” The park features a range of multi-use spaces, including public amenities, skate park, half-size basketball court, table tennis, exercise equipment, multi-purpose circuit path, playground, climbing net, BBQs and park furniture, landscaping, shade trees, native species garden and public art including totem poles. “This project has faced some challenges and delays, however, Council appreciates the community’s ongoing patience and support,” said Mayor Cadwallader.
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LENNOX VILLAGE VISION
“We look forward to seeing the community enjoy this valuable community asset for many years to come.” The new community park is located on the corner of Rifle Range Road and Plateau Drive, Wollongbar. For more information, including photos of the new park visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/WollongbarDistrictPark
WOLLONGBAR
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entertained. This is a free activity which is funded through Ageing Well NSW. Everyone is welcome to come along for the whole morning, or just some of the time.
Technology help If you need help with modern technology, make an appointment for a free one-on-one tech lesson at Ballina library. Staff can assist with things like navigating the internet, emailing, texting, photos, and downloading apps.
s w e n y r a r b i L Library hours extended
We have some good news for Ballina and Alstonville library lovers–Richmond Tweed Regional Library has extended their opening hours! Alstonville Library will now open every Saturday morning from 9am to 12noon and Ballina Library will stay open late on Wednesday, until 7pm!
School holiday events and activities Snakes, lizards, and dingoes will be in the mix at Ballina Area libraries during the April holidays. The Wildlife Twins are coming to Ballina, Lennox Head, and Alstonville libraries to showcase our amazing Australian wildlife and they will be bringing a few scaley and hairy friends along with them.
Preschool activities Animals aren’t the only things on the library’s holiday menus. Children can get involved in a scavenger hunt, try their hand at augmented reality with Quiver, or sign up for a range of in-house experiences. Preschool activities continue to run in Ballina and Alstonville branches right across the holiday period.
Seniors Social Circle If you’re retired or have reduced your working hours, you will finally find yourself with time to get out and get involved in your community. If you’re looking for a relaxing morning with a variety of activities, light refreshments, and some great company, Ballina library’s Social Circle could be for you. Every Monday from 9.30am until 12noon we have things like games, guest speakers, tech help, and a variety of craft activities to keep everyone
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communityconnect | T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B A L L I N A S H I R E C O U N C I L
Libraries continue to demonstrate their position as great community hubs. ‘Libraries are for everybody’, says Ballina Area Librarian Taryn Kelly. “We run a range of activities across all our branches and are always interested to hear suggestions from the community about how we can further improve our services.” If your interests are more specific you can become involved in fabric crafts, chess, or scrabble. There’s always a chess board set up with a continuous community game, for anyone who would like to just make one move…or maybe two!
If you just want to read Then of course there are the books. Available in large or regular print, with pictures and without, fiction and nonfiction, as CDs, or downloaded onto your phone or device. If you’re unable to come into the library, you can request a book delivery through the Home Library Service. If you haven’t been to the library for a while, you may be surprised at how these purveyors of books and learning have established themselves as the nerve centre of your community. Now’s a great time to step back through the door and see what the library has for you! Check out the Richmond Tweed Regional Library website at rtrl. nsw.gov.au or contact your local library to see what’s on offer.
Flood recovery donations Your library needs your help. Now that the sun's out, it's time to think about rebuilding and restocking library shelves! Tax deductible financial, and new or near-new book donations are being accepted–conditions apply. Physical donations of library items can be made 9.30am to 3pm Monday to Thursday at the RTRL's Support Services, 6 Centenary Drive Goonellabah. You may also be able to drop items off to your local library branch but please call ahead to make sure the items you’re donating are suitable, and to find out the best time to drop in. For ways you can help visit telephone 02 6625 5100 or visit rtrl. nsw.gov.au/flood-recovery-donations
Exhibition Dates: 9 March – 1 May 2022 | Launch Event: Online Screening
Inspired by the North Yorkshire stormy skies from where the artist is from, this exhibition of landscape paintings reflects Judith Leuenberger’s fascination with nature’s changing moods.
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Image: Judith Leuenberger, Evening Shimmer, 2021
MARC H
Verringern | Judith Leuenberger
APRIL
Dressed for Desire | Lauren McCartney Dressed for Desire explores the guilt associated with the stillness of the female body during lockdown periods and the pressure put on women to not only survive COVID-19 but to ‘refine’ our bodies as we do so. Image: Lauren McCartney, Bloom, 2021
flood recovery
current exhibitions
12 Gauge | Rae Saheli Rae Saheli’s work is defined by a process in which she uses a 12-gauge shot gun aimed at various supports to create explosive and gestural artworks. Image: Rae Saheli, Blue Shattered, 2020
Wun-ga-li Ngurrambaa Winanga-li (Return to Birthplace to listen, hear, know, remember) | Debbie Taylor-Worley Returning to Gamilaraay country, Taylor-Worley has sat in Winanga-li, the principle of sitting meditatively on Country. The work incorporates weaving and embroidery techniques, drawing attention to the cultural practices of the artist’s female ancestors. Image: Debbie Taylor-Worley, When the creeks flow, 2020
44 cherry street, ballina nsw 2478 | ph 02 6681 0530 open wed – fri 10am – 4pm | weekends 9.30am – 1pm (closed public holidays)
APRIL 2022 ISSUE 46
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MAYOR
p 0428 339 023 e sharon.cadwallader@ballina.nsw.gov.au
what ward are you in?
Cr Phillip Meehan p 0408 349 833 e phil.meehan@ballina.nsw.gov.au
NEWRYBAR KNOCKROW
WARD A
Cr Rod Bruem
WARD B
p 0419 508 753 e rod.bruem@ballina.nsw.gov.au
TINTENBAR LENNOX HEAD WOLLONGBAR
Cr Stephen McCarthy p 0419 620 833 e stephen.mccarthy@ballina.nsw.gov.au
CUMBALUM
ALSTONVILLE
BALLINA
WARD C
Cr Jeff Johnson
MEERSCHAUM VALE
p 0438 677 202 e jeff.johnson@ballina.nsw.gov.au
WARD A PIMLICO
KEITH HALL
EMPIRE VALE
WARDELL
WARD B
Cr Eva Ramsey p 0419 542 905 e eva.ramsey@ballina.nsw.gov.au
EAST WARDELL
Don’t dispose of me yet
Use this issue of Community Connect to wrap kitchen waste and dispose in the green organics bin.
Cr Kiri Dicker
DEPUTY MAYOR
p 0419 493 898 e kiri.dicker@ballina.nsw.gov.au
Cr Eoin Johnston p 0407 416 149 e eoin.johnston@ballina.nsw.gov.au
Cr Simon Chate p 0419 593 233 e simon.chate@ballina.nsw.gov.au
Cr Nigel Buchanan
council contact information Ph: 1300 864 444 Email: council@ballina.nsw.gov.au Web: ballina.nsw.gov.au Street Address: 40 Cherry Street, Ballina Postal Address: PO Box 450, Ballina 2478 Office Hours: 8.15am to 4.30pm Mon-Fri (excluding public holidays) After hours contact: 02 6626 6954 Meeting agendas and documents on exhibition can be viewed at Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au
p 0419 590 661 e nigel.buchanan@ballina.nsw.gov.au Councillors are here to represent your views. Councillors are elected in Wards, however each Councillor represents the entire community and can be contacted on any matter. You can contact Councillors in person, by phone or email. All councillors can be emailed at councillors@ballina.nsw.gov.au
Read Co un profiles a cillor t ballina. nsw.gov .au/your councillo rs
SKENNARS HEAD EAST BALLINA
DALWOOD
WARD C
meet your new councillors
Cr Sharon Cadwallader
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