Community Connect February 2026 Issue 61 Online

MARINE RESCUE HERO EARNS TOP AWARD

Dedicated Marine Rescue Ballina volunteer, Geoff Hutchinson, was awarded 2026 Citizen of the Year at the Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards Ceremony.

Renowned for his calm professionalism and deep maritime expertise, Geoff consistently steps up, day or night, to protect lives on local waterways. His integrity, reliability and selfless dedication have earned him widespread respect across Marine Rescue NSW.

In the past year, Geoff has taken part in 37 rescues, including major life saving missions such as rescuing two fishermen from a sinking trawler and leading a four day search for a missing person. Alongside his frontline efforts, he devotes extensive time to mentoring new volunteers, improving procedures and

Sharpes Beach carpark now open!

page 6

helping raise funds for a new rescue vessel, demonstrating courage, leadership and unwavering commitment to community safety.

Featuring a moving performance of I Am Australian by Ballina Players, The Australia Day ceremony recognised more than 65 award nominees, welcomed new Australian citizens and celebrated everything that makes life in the Ballina Shire so special.

See page 2 for the full list of winners.

from the mayor

Welcome back to Community Connect for 2026!

It was a full house at Lennox Head Cultural Centre, where we presented the 45th Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards. We honoured those who go above and beyond for our community and welcomed our newest citizens. It was a day to celebrate the freedoms we share, our diversity, our resilience and our generosity and it was an honour to host such a wonderful event.

This year we celebrated a record-breaking 65 nominees across seven categories, with the calibre, diversity and dedication of nominees truly inspiring. We also formally welcomed 21 new Australian citizens who have chosen Ballina Shire as their home. I would like to thank Sandy Jackson for her excellent work as MC, Aunty Julia Paden for her generous words of Welcome, the Australian Air Force Cadets for their role in the flag-raising ceremony, and the Ballina Players for their incredibly moving rendition of I Am Australian.

We have a big year ahead, with several important projects already underway. Work has commenced on the Ballina Bridges Duplication project, construction is well underway on the new SES building and Emergency Services Operations Centre, and the upgraded Sharpes Beach car park is now open! In addition, a new shared path is being built in Lennox Head to improve connections to town and make roads safer for all users, while planning is well advanced for construction to begin on the Alstonville Cultural Centre mid this year. We continue to celebrate summer with events that are sure to bring the community together, including the North Coast Show and Shine, the fun-filled Ballina Duck Fest, plenty of live music across venues throughout the Ballina Shire, and a range of imaginative exhibitions and public programs at the Northern Rivers Community Gallery.

We are incredibly fortunate to call Ballina Shire home and I’m excited for another year of delivering an outstanding lifestyle for our residents, workers and visitors.

Cr Sharon Cadwallader Mayor

Ballina Shire Council acknowledges that we are here on the land of the Bundjalung people. The Bundjalung are the traditional owners of this land and are part of the oldest surviving continuous culture in the world.

Ballina Shire Australia Day Award Winners

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Geoff Hutchinson

YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Tyler Causley-James

SENIOR CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Kenneth Brown

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD (JOINT WINNERS)

John Smith

Marine Rescue Ballina

ARTS AND CULTURAL AWARD

Jim Hawkins

ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD

Lennox Head Landcare and Partners

SPORTING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Sam Miller

COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR AWARD

North Coast Show and Shine

For award winner bios and photos, visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/2026awards

WHAT’S ON?

BALLINA DUCK FEST

SUNDAY 8 MARCH 2026, 11am - 3pm

Captain Cook Park (next to Ballina RSL) rotaryclubofballinaonrichmond.org.au

Ballina Duck Fest returns in 2026! Presented by the Rotary Club of Ballinaon-Richmond, this free community festival promises a quacking good time. Enjoy the Community Duck Race, live entertainment, food stalls, community organisations and the colourful Best Dressed Duck competition. Activities include a jumping castle, obstacle course, bubble fairies, face painting and candle making. Racing Duck tickets and Corporate Duck entries are available, with funds raised supporting Rotary projects and local community organisations.

WHARF RIVER CLUB

SUNDAY 1 MARCH 2026, 3pm - 6pm 12-24 Fawcett Street, Ballina www.discoverballina.com.au/events

The Wharf River Club brings live music, great vibes and community spirit to the banks of the Richmond River in Ballina on the first Sunday of each month. Hosted by Wharf Bar and Restaurant, this relaxed afternoon event features a live band performing on the wharf, with the sounds of local talent drifting across the river. Bring a picnic blanket, grab a drink from the bar and dance the afternoon away.

MELANOMA MARCH

SUNDAY 15 MARCH 2026

Missingham Park, Kingsford Smith Drive, Ballina

melanomamarch.org.au

Melanoma Institute Australia (MIA) is proudly celebrating 15 years of Melanoma March in 2026 and is calling on Ballina locals to take steps to help save lives from melanoma. This family-friendly walking event brings together communities to raise funds for melanoma research. Less than a decade ago, advanced melanoma was an almost certain death sentence, with patients rarely surviving more than a few months. Thanks to MIA’s world-class research, close to 60% of advanced melanoma patients are now essentially cured.

ROAD PROJECTS

COMPLETED PROJECTS

TEMPLE STREET, BALLINA SHARPES BEACH CARPARK

EMPIRE VALE ROAD, EMPIRE VALE

REEDY CREEK ROAD, EMPIRE VALE

KIRKLANDS LANE, FERNLEIGH

HERMANS LANE, PIMLICO

RIVERBANK ROAD, PIMLICO

CURRENT PROJECTS

MARY STREET, BALLINA

BYRON STREET, LENNOX HEAD

FUTURE PROJECTS

RIFLE RANGE ROAD, ALSTONVILLE

TEVEN ROAD, TEVEN

LIVE TRAFFIC NSW keeps you informed

Live Traffic NSW provides real-time information about traffic conditions across all New South Wales roads. For the latest traffic information download the Live Traffic NSW app or visit livetraffic.com.au

PROJECT UPDATES

WORK BEGINS ON THE BALLINA BRIDGES PROJECT

Construction began this month on building more bridges and wider roads leading in and out of Ballina, improving access, safety and resilience for the community.

The Bridges Duplication will result in four lanes on both Fishery Creek Bridge (on River Street) and Canal Bridge (on Tamarind Drive), plus wider roads approaching each bridge.

These improvements will support the region’s ongoing growth by reducing daily congestion. Tamarind Drive and River Street are among Ballina Shire’s busiest routes in and out of town, therefore, this project will improve traffic flow for residents, workers and visitors alike.

This project is also critical to providing Ballina residents, businesses and visitors with a resilient road network for safe evacuation during extreme weather events. Recent flood events across the Northern Rivers highlighted the importance of reliable evacuation routes remaining open and accessible during emergencies.

Duplicating the Fishery Creek and Canal bridges and raising key road approaches will make it easier and safer for people to get in and out of Ballina Island when it matters most.

This $85 million project is supported by $40 million in funding from the Australian Government’s Emergency Response Fund, delivered through the NSW Reconstruction Authority’s Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program, in partnership with Ballina Shire Council.

Funded by the Australian Government.

Council encourages residents, businesses and road users to stay informed and sign up for email updates at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ballina-bridges-duplication

NEW BALLINA SES BUILDING TAKES SHAPE

Construction of the new Ballina SES Unit and Emergency Operations Centre is well underway and the building is taking shape. You will see cladding, brickwork and landscaping being undertaken at the site over the next few months. The project includes a six-bay vehicle shed, new administration and operations facilities, upgraded parking and lighting, improved footpaths and stormwater infrastructure, and landscaping.

The new building will provide modern amenities and improve efficiency, enabling the SES Unit to continue its vital work responding to emergencies. Once the new building is finished, the existing building will be demolished and a carpark for the facility will take its place. Construction is expected to be completed by August 2026.

This project is jointly funded by the NSW Government and Ballina Shire Council.

To find out more visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ses-headquarters

ROSS LANE BETTERMENT PROJECT

In December 2025, Ballina Shire Council resolved to proceed with the detailed design, planning approvals and construction of a 10m-wide bridge on Ross Lane, Lennox Head.

The bridge design will improve flood immunity while minimising impacts to the local community. Parts of Ross Lane will also be raised to cater for a one-in-fiveyear flood event. Construction is expected to commence in early 2027.

This project is funded through the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Program (RRTRP), which aims to strengthen the regional transport network’s capacity to withstand natural disasters.

For more information, visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ross-lane-betterment-project

FOOTPATH PROJECTS

COMPLETED PROJECTS

STEWART STREET, LENNOX HEAD

HORIZON DRIVE, WEST BALLINA

CURRENT PROJECTS

PARK LANE TO COOPER CLOSE, LENNOX HEAD

LENNOX HEAD SHARED PATH PROGRESS

Ballina Shire Council is building a new shared path between Park Lane and Cooper Close, Lennox Head, improving links to the town centre and enhancing safety for cyclists and pedestrians.

A section along Cooper Close is complete, and crews are now upgrading the Byron Street path. Contractors have also commenced works along Byron Bay Road. These works will continue until April 2026, weather permitting. Some footpath sections will close during construction, with pedestrian detours in place. Traffic control will occur as needed, and short delays are possible on Byron Street.

This $3.55 million project is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Road Safety Program

For information,visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/lennox-shared-path

YOUR SAY BALLINA

ENGAGEMENT UNDER REVIEW

PROPOSED SPECIAL RATE VARIATION WITH IPART

UPCOMING ENGAGEMENT

ALSTONVILLE TO WEST BALLINA

SHARED PATH PROJECT, ROUTE OPTIONS ASSESSMENT AND CONCEPT DESIGN

Better access at Sharpes Beach

The new and improved Sharpes Beach carpark is now open!

Supported by $1.05 million in NSW Government funding, and a contribution of $1.3 million from Ballina Shire Council, the upgrade is a major improvement to one of Ballina Shire’s most iconic beachfront locations.

The works are an exciting development for the community, ensuring that Sharpes Beach is now more inclusive for people of all ages and abilities. With safer access, better facilities and new features to support active lifestyles, the improvements will enhance the experience for surfers, swimmers, walkers, cyclists, families and visitors. Plus, the new storage area and facilities help our volunteer surf lifesavers continue their vital work keeping our beaches safe.

register for your say ballina

It’s quick and easy, and ensures your voice is heard on the issues that matter most to you. By signing up, you’ll get updates on new projects and be first to know when consultations open, giving you a direct say in shaping our community.

yoursayballina.com.au

WHAT’S NEW AT SHARPES BEACH?

Asphalt carpark (including formalised and accessible parking)

Accessible toilet and shower facilities

Beach showers

Accessible viewing platform

Storage for Surf Lifesaving equipment

Connecting paths, bicycle racks, drinking fountains and seats

Shade trees, landscaping, and drainage improvements

Enhanced natural areas with restored native vegetation

This project is jointly funded by Ballina Shire Council and the NSW Government.

Keep an eye on Council’s website for updates ballina.nsw.gov.au/sharpes-beach-carpark-upgrade

subscribe to council’s eNews

ballina.nsw.gov.au/eNews

Sharing stories of Country and community Ferry maintenance schedule

Ballina Shire Council has unveiled Water Stories and Soundtrail, renewing the Richmond River interpretive trail with contemporary signage and a geo-located audio walk.

The project replaces the former Historic Ballina Waterfront signs, with 23 updated signs designed to improve accessibility, storytelling and visual appeal along the riverfront.

The Soundtrail adds an immersive layer to the experience, guiding listeners from the Marine Rescue Tower to Pioneer Park in East Ballina. Stories are shared by Nyangbal cultural knowledge holders, alongside contributions from local historians and community voices, revealing deep connections to Country and the river’s role in shaping Ballina’s history. The Soundtrails app uses location settings to trigger each story along the trail.

The project strengthens Ballina’s cultural and visitor offering, providing a meaningful, place-based experience for locals and visitors alike.

For more information, visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/water-stories-soundtrail

The Burns Point Ferry closes for scheduled maintenance each month.

Regular maintenance is important to ensure a reliable ferry service for visitors and locals. Scheduled maintenance will occur from 9am to 1pm on:

10 March 2026

14 April 2026

12 May 2026

9 June 2026

Please travel via the M1 Pacific Motorway and River Drive, Wardell, when the ferry is closed.

The Burns Point Ferry operates continuously from 5.30am to 12.30am daily.

For updates on the ferry status and road closure information visit livetraffic.com

For ticket information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/burns-point-ferry

PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS

COMPLETED PROJECTS

PUMP TRACK, BALLINA

UPCOMING PROJECTS

MELDRUM PARK, BALLINA

BASKETBALL COURT, LENNOX HEAD

CALOOLA PARK, LENNOX HEAD

CAMPBELL PARK, WOLLONGBAR

PROSPECT PARK, EAST BALLINA

WESTLAND PARK, WEST BALLINA

MISSINGHAM PARK, BALLINA

ELIZABETH ANN BROWN PARK, ALSTONVILLE

Community spaces, parks and playgrounds help bring people together and support healthy, active lifestyles. Ballina Shire Council is committed to creating safe, welcoming places for everyone to connect and enjoy the outdoors.

Playgrounds in Ballina Shire are renewed in accordance with the Playground Upgrade and Management Plan. Our budget for playground upgrades over the next four years can be found in Council’s Delivery Program and Operational Plan.

To find a playground near you visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/playgrounds

CAPITAL WORKS AND BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS

CURRENT PROJECTS:

New Ballina SES Headquarters*

Ballina Bridge Duplication*

Lennox Head to Coopers Close Shared Path*

UPCOMING PROJECTS:

Ross Lane Flood Resilience Project

Alstonville Cultural Centre

Wardell Village Centre Revitalisation Stage 2

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE BUDGETS

FOR 2025/26:

$64.7 million – Roads and Bridges

$3.8 million – Open Spaces

$4.1 million – Footpaths and Shared Paths

$1.5 million – Carparks

$2.4 million – Sports Fields

$2 million – Stormwater

$3.5 million – Water Infrastructure

$11 million – Wastewater Infrastructure

$2.7 million – Emergency Services (SES Headquarters)

$5.4 million – Ballina Byron Gateway Airport

$8.6 million – Facilities Management

* With the assistance of funding from the Australian and NSW Governments

The Council budget and works program was adopted at the 26 June Council meeting alongside a suite of key strategic documents forming the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework. These include the Community Strategic Plan 2025-2035, Delivery Program and Operational Plan 2025-2029, Long Term Financial Plan and Budget, Workforce Management Plan, Asset Management Strategy and Schedule of Fees and Charges.

You can view the documents here ballina.nsw.gov.au/council/forms-and-documents/ integrated-planning-and-reporting

Using the airport Drop off and Pick up Zone

Our Ballina Byron Gateway Airport team and airline partners are here to ensure you travel through the airport with ease and comfort. To keep things running smoothly and safely on your next visit:

TO MINIMISE CONGESTION PASSENGERS MUST BE READY

You can stay in your car in the Drop Off/ Pick Up Zone for up to two minutes while unloading or collecting passengers. To minimise congestion, only enter the zone when all arriving passengers are kerbside with their luggage and ready to depart. You can use the four-hour parking zone along Southern Cross Drive until your passengers are ready for collection.

15 MINUTES IN THE GENERAL CARPARK

If the Drop Off/ Pick Up Zone at the front of the terminal is full, you can enter the General Carpark (turn right after the second pedestrian crossing). You have 15 minutes to exit without a fee.

STAY WITH YOUR VEHICLE

For aviation security reasons vehicles must not be unattended at any time in the Drop Off/ Pick Up Zone. If you leave your vehicle, you may receive an infringement notice and be subjected to security screening processes.

DISABILITY PARKING

There is a disability parking bay located in the Drop Off/ Pick Up Zone. To use this bay, you must stay with your vehicle, clearly display a valid permit on the passenger side of the vehicle and abide by the five-minute time limit.

Free parking is also available in the general and premium car parks if you have a current disability parking permit. There is no time limit on these disability bays.

RESPECT FOR AIRPORT STAFF

Please respect our Airport Facilities Officers. They will, at times, direct traffic further down the Drop Off Pick Up Zone when there are spots not in use. Their aim is to keep traffic flowing smoothly so that passengers can reach their destination on time, while keeping everyone safe in the process.

HELP IS AT HAND

If you need help getting through the terminal, please email our Airport Facilities team before you travel at airportcarparking@ballina.nsw.gov.au

For more information, visit ballinabyronairport.com.au/getting-around

From engineering and environmental science to arts administration and aviation, the opportunities with Council are extremely diverse!

We currently have opportunities for: Traineeship and Apprenticeship opportunities

Airport Reporting Officer

Supervisor Concrete Construction and Drainage

Supervisor Road Construction

You can receive opportunities straight to your inbox, simply subscribe to Council’s Job Alerts at ballina.nsw.gov.au/careers

WATER AND WASTEWATER PROJECTS

COMPLETED PROJECTS

SOUTHERN CROSS DRIVE, BALLINA

Recycled Water Main

ANGELS BEACH DRIVE

Recycled Water Main Replacement

LENNOX HEAD WWTP

Belt Press Upgrade

KINGS COURT, LENNOX HEAD

Water Main Replacement

FERNGROVE TO BALLINA WWTP

Recycled Water Main Upgrade

SUNRISE CRESCENT, LENNOX HEAD

Sewer Main Upgrade

CURRENT PROJECTS

SEWERAGE PUMP STATION RENEWALS

HYDRANT REPAIRS, ALSTONVILLE

Sewer Manhole Relining

Wastewater Mains Relining

FOX STREET, BALLINA

Water Main Replacement

NORTON STREET, BALLINA

Water Main Replacement

FUTURE PROJECTS

STONEHENGE PLACE, LENNOX HEAD

Water Main Replacement

THE COAST ROAD, LENNOX HEAD

Water Main Replacement

FERNGROVE TO TAMARIND DRIVE, BALLINA

Recycled Water Main Upgrade

ALSTONVILLE HIGH SCHOOL

Sewer Main Upgrade

HOGAN STREET

Recycled Water Main Upgrade

WATER TALK

Restoring essential services on Cabbage Tree Island

Council is working as part of a team with the NSW Reconstruction Authority to help rebuild Cabbage Tree Island after the 2022 flood event. Council recently completed an assessment of the water and sewer services on the island to determine what is required to make it all operational again, ready for residents to move back later this year.

The water and sewer networks on the island are owned by the Jali Aboriginal Land Council and maintained by Ballina Shire Council under an agreement with the NSW Government.

The water network is in good shape given what happened in 2022, with minimal work required to bring it up to scratch. Some works to the sewer network will be required and are currently being further assessed to determine funding requirements and develop a scope of works for the repair contracts.

If your water pressure is low or your water isn’t running, please check our website to see if there’s a known water outage in your area.

Both planned and unplanned water interruptions are published on our website at ballina.nsw.gov.au/water-outages

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

subscribe to council’s eNews ballina.nsw.gov.au/eNews

WASTE WATCH

FOGO bins

Last year, Ballina residents recycled nearly 8,000 tonnes of food and garden materials through our Food Organics Garden Organics (FOGO) bins. Processing food and garden material into compost reduces emissions by 96% compared to landfilling – that’s a huge saving!

FOGO bins are our weekly collection for all food scraps and garden prunings for residents living in the urban areas of the shire. FOGO bin contents go to an industrial composting facility in Tweed Shire where the organic material is turned into nutrient-rich compost which improves soil health, grows better food and makes our land more drought and disease resilient.

Here’s a refresher to keep our FOGO clean and green:

Embedded battery trial

In September 2025, Ballina Shire Council joined a NSW EPA trial to collect products with embedded batteries for FREE at the Ballina Community Recycling Centre.

Embedded batteries are permanently built into a device and cannot be easily or safely removed. They are found in many electronic or rechargeable items like smart watches, Bluetooth speakers, cordless vacuum cleaners, vapes and e-scooters.

With more devices in our homes, safe battery disposal is essential. By using drop-off points instead of bins, we can prevent fires, reduce pollution and keep valuable materials in circulation.

and veggie scraps (even citrus and onion)

cooked food

Meat, bones, seafood, eggshells

KEEP THESE OUT!

Coffee grounds and tea leaves (tea bags or coffee pods need to go in the landfill bin)

Garden clippings, leaves, grass, flowers, weeds, small branches

Plastic & plastic bags (including biodegradable, degradable or part plant-based)

Cardboard & paper

Nappies or wet wipes

Food packaging or wrappers (even if it says ‘compostable’)

Animal waste or kitty litter

Glass, metal or ceramics

Unlined kitchen caddies are the preferred way to collect food scraps. If you prefer to wrap, use scraps of newspaper or Australian standard compostable liners only (look for the seedling logo).

As a community, we’re making a big difference. Keep putting all your food scraps in your FOGO bin – your local farmers will thank you!

Find out more ballina.nsw.gov.au/kerbsidebins

HOW TO RECYCLE OTHER BATTERIES FOR FREE

Ballina Community Recycling Centre and Community Recycling Stations

B-cycle drop-off point – located at most major grocery and hardware stores. Visit bcycle.com.au/drop-off

For a full list of items and more details, see ballina.nsw.gov.au/ embeddedbatteries

Waste Educator spruik

Are you a school, community group or business looking to improve your waste management?

Council’s Resource Recovery Educator can offer specialised support tailored to your needs – including help with your bin system, hands on activities or engagement to minimise waste.

Contact the resource recovery team at waste@ballina.nsw.gov.au with the subject ‘Let’s get it sorted’ to organise a call.

Will you love it or lose it?

Our gutters and drains form an important part of the stormwater system. When it rains, water running off our streets and homes can carry dirt, litter and other pollutants straight into local waterways.

Because stormwater is usually not treated, anything that enters gutters and drains flows directly into creeks, rivers and oceans where fish, frogs and other aquatic plants and animals live.

By working together to prevent pollution from entering gutters and drains in the first place, we can help keep our waterways clean, healthy and thriving.

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

Don’t park your car on the road if it’s leaking oil.

Mow your lawn with a catcher to keep grass out of the gutter.

Sweep gutters, footpaths and driveways.

When cleaning your roof, keep water out of the roadside gutter.

Wash your car on the grass or at the car wash.

Pick up your dog poo and put it in the bin.

To learn more about how you can protect our waterways visit

“Let’s do our bit by using the catcher on our mowers to stop grass clippings going down the drain.”

Bitou bush under control at Skennars Head

Rous County Council’s project to control Bitou bush and other invasive weeds at Skennars Head is now complete, helping protect one of the region’s most valuable coastal environments.

Funded by the NSW State Government through the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund, this project focused on the targeted control of Bitou bush and other invasive weeds. The initiative was coordinated by Rous and delivered in partnership with Forest Rehabilitation Ecology (FRE).

Over several months, specialist crews from FRE worked across the headland, including abseiling down steep coastal cliffs, to access and treat hard-to-reach infestations. In total, approximately 18,000 square metres were treated for Bitou bush, as well as other invasive species such as coastal morning glory, milk thistle and blackberry nightshade.

The project plays an important role in protecting native biodiversity by reducing competition from invasive weeds and allowing native vegetation to recover. In particular, it supports the survival of rare coastal plant species such as Coleus cremnus.

This work also builds on previous Bitou bush control efforts across the broader Bitou Bush Biosecurity Zone, strengthening long-term weed management outcomes across the Northern Rivers.

For more information about weed biosecurity visit rous.nsw.gov.au/weed-biosecurity

ballina.nsw.gov.au/eNews

Leading by example

Our coastal walkways and reserves are stunning locations to walk your dog, but it’s important to remember that on-leash rules are there for a reason. Of course, the first thing you should do is check whether dogs are prohibited in the area you are visiting. On-site signs provide a clear guide to what is allowed.

In most public areas you must keep your dog on a leash at all times. You risk a fine of up to $330 for having your dog off-leash in an on-leash and/or dog prohibited area.

Regardless of how well behaved or trained your dog is, there are a few key points to remember:

OTHER PEOPLE MAY BE SCARED – They don’t know your dog and may have had adverse encounters before.

DOG ATTACKS – Other dogs may not be trained or could be aggressive. They may not like your dog approaching them and may react by biting, or worse. If your dog and another dog are off-leash, a serious dog fight could occur.

EASIER POO PICK UP – When you have control of your dog you know where it does its ‘business’ and you can pick up after your pet.

DOGS CAN BE UNPREDICTABLE – Your dog may react to their environment and become spooked. If you have control, you can protect your pet.

PROTECT WILDLIFE – This includes protecting your pet from injury, such as a snake bite.

LOSE YOUR PET – Keeping your dog on-leash will prevent it from running away. When a pet goes missing it is very emotional for the owner and distressing for the pet.

ACCIDENTS CAN HAPPEN – When walking your dog there are often others walking, running and cycling, which can lead to accidents if a dog is not properly controlled. Road traffic is also a big concern. Having your dog on-leash is the best way to keep it safe from being hit or injured by a vehicle.

For more information about dog ‘No Go’ zones and off-leash areas, visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/exercising-your-dog

Orange Sky provides free laundry and shower services for people experiencing homelessness or hardship, along with genuine connection and conversation.

By volunteering you will help provide a supportive, welcoming and inclusive space for anyone experiencing loneliness or disconnection from the community, with a focus on improving hygiene, health and quality of life.

Just a few hours of your time can help us run more Orange Sky shifts and support more people in Ballina.

Volunteer today

Please email northernrivers.sl1@orangeskyvol.org

For further information and how you can help, visit orangesky.org.au/volunteer/

Time to get poolside

The Alstonville Aquatic Centre and the Ballina War Memorial Pool are ideal places to exercise and catch up with friends and family.

For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/ community-swimmingpools

Clayton and Kendall Fettell 02 6686 3771

Opening Hours:

Monday - Friday 5.30am - 7pm

Saturday 7am - 6pm

Sunday 8am - 5pm

Find them on Facebook

Greg and Kelly Fettell 02 6628 0826

Opening Hours:

Monday - Friday 5.30am - 7pm

Saturday 7am - 5pm

Sunday 10am - 5pm

Find them on Facebook

2026

More

than a

thousand rally against domestic violence

More than 1,200 community members took part in the sixth annual Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Walk late last year, marching from River Street to the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC) to take a united stand against domestic and family violence.

NSW Police addressed the crowd as guest speakers and students from Ballina Coast High School delivered a powerful performance that reinforced the event’s message. With the 2025 theme of Young People – The Innocent Bystanders of Domestic and Family Violence, students also stepped into leadership roles as MCs and speakers, giving youth a strong voice in the conversation and serving as a reminder that even when violence is not directed at them, young people feel its effects deeply.

Organised by the Rotary Club of Ballina-on-Richmond, the event brought together schools, local businesses, community organisations and residents. The walk highlighted that meaningful and lasting change begins within the community — and that every step counts.

FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SUPPORT:

Report an incident

Ballina Police Station

24 hours a day, seven days a week 02 6681 8699

Help and support

NSW Domestic Violence Line 24 hours a day, seven days a week 1800 656 463 and 1800 671 442 (TTY)

Phone counselling and advice 1800 RESPECT

National Sexual Assault, Family & Domestic Violence Counselling helpline 24 hours a day, seven days a week 1800 737 732

For more support service contacts visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/support-services

Partnership agreement paves the way forward

Monday 1 December 2025 marked an important milestone as Ballina Shire Council and Jali Local Aboriginal Land Council (JLALC) signed a Partnership Agreement.

The agreement acknowledges the cultural knowledge of Aboriginal people; outlines the roles and responsibilities of Ballina Shire Council and the JLALC; and provides an Action Plan with 21 key actions, including:

Improve employment outcomes within Council.

Increase and improve understanding, value and recognition of Nyangbul culture.

Plan for a cultural centre in Ballina Shire.

Prepare a Management Plan for the East Ballina Aboriginal Place.

Develop a protocol for cultural naming of sites and infrastructure.

The signing of this partnership represents an essential step in strengthening Council’s working relationship with JLALC. View the agreement on Council’s website at ballina.nsw.gov.au/council-documents

The Partnership Agreement also supports outcomes under the Closing the Gap Framework and associated targets. For more information visit www.closingthegap.gov.au/national-agreement/targets

Keeping our kids safe around schools

Keeping children safe is something we all care about, and that’s why our Council Rangers regularly check in on school zones. Little ones can be unpredictable, and because they’re still learning to judge speed and distance, they need a bit of extra help staying safe.

It’s recommended that children under eight hold an adult’s hand when crossing the road and walking through carparks, or even along busy footpaths. A small reminder like this can make a big difference.

School zones have specific laws to help keep everyone safe. These include not:

STOPPING OR PARKING IN BUS ZONES OR ‘NO STOPPING’ ZONES

DOUBLE PARKING

STAYING LONGER THAN TWO MINUTES IN A ‘NO PARKING’ ZONE

STOPPING ON OR WITHIN 20 METRES OF A PEDESTRIAN CROSSING

These rules come with heavy fines and demerit points, but their goal is simple: protecting kids during the busiest times of the day.

Our Rangers work hard to make school areas safer, and sometimes they receive a bit of backlash when people get frustrated about being fined. But they’re just doing their job—helping create safer spaces for families.

If you want to avoid a fine, the best approach is easy: follow the signs, park safely, and help us look out for our community’s children.

Observing the Macro and Micro: Mixed Media Workshop with Eliza Adam

Saturday 14 March 2026

Time: 10am - 2pm

Where: Ignite Studios, 60 Crane Street, Ballina

Cost: $140

Instant Zines! Self-Publish Your Ideas with Darren Bryant

Saturday 18 April 2026

Time: 10am - 2pm

Where: Ignite Studios, 60 Crane Street, Ballina

Cost: $65

Creative Space for Hire

Available for creatives and organisations to use for workshops, meetings, project developments and special events.

For more information, visit nrcgballina.com.au

upcoming exhibitions

Exhibition Dates: 5 March – 26 April 2026

Exhibition Launch: 5.30pm Thursday 5 March 2026

How water Flows

Laila Page

In this body of work, artist Laila Page explores the idea of painting light and water as it flows onto and through the landscape. The paintings, and works on paper, are semi-abstract, with each mark reflecting nature’s forces and rays of light.

Image Credit: Laila Page, Raining landscape (detail), 2024

The Time Travellers’ Manual

Darren Bryant

This exhibition showcases the merging of old and new print technologies to interrogate ideas surrounding ‘the aura of the original’. Bryant is interested in how souvenirs and collections can mediate an experience connected to time and space and his practice is concerned with the language of the matrix and how it connects to pressure, memory and loss.

Image Credit: Darren Bryant, memory + image, 2024

TRANS/FORM

Dean Stewart

In TRANS/FORM, Dean Stewart extends his practice of working with found objects and discarded materials, with a focus on metamorphosis. Each work begins with everyday remnants that dismantled, layered and reimagined. The finished works occupy a space between destruction and renewal, inviting reflection on how transformation is both unsettling and liberating.

Image Credit: Dean Stewart, Reform (detail), 2026

SheMossLed

Sam McPherson, Sigrid Macdonald & Tyler Solleder

SheMossLed seeks to inspire and engage by reimagining how art, nature and human connection intersect. The exhibition challenges traditional ideas of accessibility, offering a transformative experience that resonates across multiple senses. By foregrounding diverse perspectives and experimental design, SheMossLed expands the conversation about art’s role in fostering empathy, understanding and deeper human connection.

Image Credit: Sam McPherson, Moss Wall (detail), 2025

community spaces

Stunning events by the sea

There’s truly nowhere quite like the Ballina Surf Club. Whether you’re planning workshops, conferences, corporate retreats or even an intimate family celebration, this venue brings versatility and coastal charm together in one stunning location.

The spacious, light-filled function rooms cater to a range of styles and capacities, featuring an inbuilt audiovisual system and floor to ceiling windows with sweeping views of Lighthouse Beach and North Wall — an unforgettable setting for any occasion.

Catering is made easy with Capiche Restaurant, located onsite and offering a range of menu options tailored to your event. And if you need assistance with celebrants, florists or entertainment, our team can connect you with trusted local suppliers to help bring your vision to life.

Venue features at a glance

Breathtaking views of Lighthouse Beach

Natural light from scenic windows

Comprehensive AV system

Kitchenette (Jullum and Dirrawong Rooms)

Carpeted floor

Air conditioning

Balcony access (Jullum and Gawandii Rooms)

For more information, call 02 6681 0500 or visit communityspaces.com.au

Ballina Shire Council offers a range of modern, versatile spaces for your next workshop, class or special occasion planning an event in 2026? call 0 2 6 6 81 0 5 0 0 or visit communityspaces.com.au

CHILD SAFE SPORT WORKSHOP IN BALLINA

The NSW Office of Sport is holding free Child Safe workshops across the North and Mid-North Coast, focused on the needs of community sport and the volunteers who make it happen. This Child Safe Sport Roadshow is coming to the Ballina Surf Club in March.

CHILD SAFE SPORT

This workshop helps clubs strengthen existing practices to keep children safe in sport. It covers applying Child Safe Standards, meeting Working with Children Check requirements and managing child safe risks.

WHERE

Ballina Surf Club, Lighthouse Parade, East Ballina WHEN

Thursday 26 March 2026 6pm - 8pm COST Free

There are also two workshops available in Lismore on Wednesday 25 March 2026: DE-ESCALATION IN SPORT

This workshop builds practical skills to safely manage and de-escalate challenging behaviour on the sidelines and around sport.

MEMBER PROTECTION INFORMATION OFFICER (MPIO)

This workshop explains the MPIO role, covering member protection, complaint options, key policies and practical skills in listening and trauma informed support to help clubs manage concerns effectively.

• Lennox Head Cultural Centre

• Ballina Indoor Sports Centre

• Ballina Surf Club

For more information and to register sport.nsw.gov.au/events/ sportintegritytraining

SOCIAL CIRCLE

The Social Circle is a group for seniors which meets at Ballina Library every Monday from 10am to 11.30am. The group hosts a different guest speaker each week including authors, musicians, community-group representatives, aged-care specialists and enthusiastic hobbyists. This is followed by free tea and coffee and the chance for participants to chat and make new friends. This activity is free of charge and open to all seniors.

LEGO IN THE LIBRARY

Ballina Library hosts this self-directed program every Thursday from 3.30pm to 4.30pm throughout February and March. Primary school-aged children will enjoy making their own LEGO masterpieces. No bookings required.

CHESS, SCRABBLE AND BOARD GAMES

Alstonville Library hosts a Scrabble group every Tuesday from 1.30pm to 4pm and Board Games every Saturday from 9am to 12noon. Ballina Library hosts a Scrabble group every Monday from 2pm to 4pm and a Chess Club every Friday from 1pm to 4pm. These sessions are free of charge and open to everybody, with sets provided.

Calling all Ballina bookworms

Book clubs are a great way to meet new people and engage in stimulating conversations.

They also help to broaden your literary horizons by encouraging you to read books you might not necessarily choose for yourself. They are a great way to find out what other people have been reading and to learn about new authors.

Ballina Library is looking for new members to join its book clubs. These clubs meet in the library each month from 2pm to 3.30pm. Currently, vacancies are available on the following days: the first and second Tuesday of the month and the third Wednesday of the month. These book clubs are open to anyone over the age of 18 and are limited to 10 people per group.

You can pick up a new book at each meeting for two dollars, then return the book at the next meeting. Titles are chosen either by library staff or by a designated person in the group, based on availability. Titles may include popular new releases, books of literary merit, classics, biographies and works of non-fiction. At each meeting, participants discuss the book in question including whether they liked the book, the writing style, and how it affected them. Discussions are friendly, informal and as much social as they are literary.

Lennox Head and Alstonville Libraries also host book clubs. For session times, vacancies and further information, please contact your nearest branch.

Ballina Library 6686 2831

Alstonville Libary 6628 5527

Lennox Head Library 6687 6398

To find out more about what’s on at the library, visit rtrl.nsw.gov.au

subscribe to council’s eNews

ballina.nsw.gov.au/eNews

Welcome TO OUR NEW AUSSIE CITIZENS

Say hello to our newest Aussie citizens!

Citizenship ceremonies are always such joyous occasions that represent a very special day in people’s lives.

At our Ballina Shire Australia Day Ceremony we proudly welcomed 21 new Aussies to our nation and shire.

Our newest Aussie citizens come from many nations including England, Germany, Philippines, Spain, Uruguay, India, Scotland, Italy, United Kingdom, Nepal, New Zealand, Sweden and United States of America.

Congratulations and welcome! Thank you for choosing Ballina Shire as your new home.

Follow us on facebook for more images facebook.com/ballinashirecouncil

Share your event with the shire

Are you looking to promote a local event with some eye-catching street signs?

Council has allocated specific locations across the Ballina Shire for community event signage. To use these sites, you can apply for council approval based on the Community Event Signage Policy and Guidelines. Applications should be submitted at least four weeks before and up to four months prior to your event.

Eligible signage must:

Promote an upcoming event within Ballina Shire.

Relate to cultural, social or recreational activities that encourage broad community participation and deliver significant community benefit.

Comply with design standards to ensure signs are visually consistent and easy for motorists to spot and understand.

For more information, or to apply visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/festivals-andevents-promotion

extreme weather conditions

where to get info

KEY CONTACT NUMBERS

SES 132 500

cut out and keep!

Ballina Shire Council 1300 864 444 or emergency after hours 02 6626 6954

Emergency Services, Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade, Triple zero 000

LOCAL ROAD CLOSURES AND CONDITIONS

LIVE TRAFFIC NSW livetraffic.com.au or download the LIVE TRAFFIC NSW app

Download the HAZARDS NEAR ME app Follow SES BALLINA on Facebook

RADIO STATIONS

ABC North Coast 94.5 (National Emergency Broadcaster) Paradise FM 101.9

ZZZ FM 100.9

SPORTS FIELD CLOSURES

Contact your sporting club

WEATHER CONDITIONS

Bureau of Meteorology bom.gov.au

BALLINA BYRON GATEWAY

AIRPORT

Your local airline for flights to and from Ballina:

Jetstar 13 15 38 jetstar.com

Virgin Australia 13 67 89 virginaustralia.com.au

Qantas 13 13 13 qantas.com

EMERGENCY DASHBOARD

Stay informed and get real-time updates all in one place.

Visit emergency.ballina.nsw.gov.au

GET INVOLVED IN COUNCIL MEETINGS

View council meeting dates at ballina.nsw. gov.au/councilmeetings

Ordinary Council meetings are held on the fourth Thursday of every month at 9am in the Council Chambers, 40 Cherry Street, Ballina.

Agendas for meetings are available to view online at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ agenda-and-minutes on the Friday before the Council meeting and in hard copy at the Council Chambers on the Monday before. Members of the public can attend a council meeting in person or watch the livestream on our website. A wide range of items and issues are discussed at each Council meeting, and the minutes are published on Council’s website within a few days.

PUBLIC FORUM

Members of the public can get involved at Council meetings on matters included in the agenda. The public forum is limited to two speakers in the affirmative, and two speakers in opposition. Each speaker is given five minutes to address Council. Requests to speak must be lodged in writing or by phone with the General Manager by noon the day before the meeting.

PUBLIC QUESTION TIME

The public may ask questions of the Council on any topic during the Public Question Time held at 12.45pm at each Ordinary meeting.

To join a livestream or view a meeting recording visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/council-meeting-recordings

Read councillor profiles at ballina.nsw. gov.au

Cr Sharon Cadwallader p 0428 339 023

e sharon.cadwallader@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Cr Damian Loone p 0438 463 710

e damian.loone@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Cr Erin Karsten p 0427 723 880

e erin.karsten@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Cr Phillip Meehan p 0408 349 833

e phil.meehan@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Cr Michelle Bailey p 0429 279 482

e michelle.bailey@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Cr Kiri Dicker p 0419 493 898

e kiri.dicker@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Cr Eva Ramsey p 0419 542 905

e eva.ramsey@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Cr Simon Chate p 0419 593 233

e simon.chate@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Cr Therese Crollick p 0437 947 859

e therese.crollick@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Cr Simon Kinny p 0427 410 192

e simon.kinny@ballina.nsw.gov.au

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

what ward are you in?

Ballina Shire Council acknowledges that we are here on the land of the Bundjalung people. The Bundjalung are the traditional owners of this land and are part of the oldest surviving continuous culture in the world.

ISSN: 2652-7243 (PRINT)

Information, including dates and times, in this issue of Community Connect are correct at time of printing.

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 Normal operating hours will change over Christmas. Check Council’s website for details. After hours contact: 02 6626 6954

ballina.nsw.gov.au

We’ve mapped out the perfect route — complete with stops & must-see spots to make your day drive easy and unforgettable. Discover the full itinerary and plan your Hinterland adventure.

Ready to hit the road?

Plan Your Day Drive

The Hinterland Drive is proof that you don’t have to go far for a getaway. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday loop or a spontaneous midweek escape, this drive is all about slowing down, supporting local and soaking up the scenery that makes our region so special.

Why Locals Love It

Prairie Coffee House, Brooklet

Bottom of the Harbour Antiques, Rous Red Door Studio, Fernleigh Teven Valley Golf Course, Teven

Ballina District Museum, Pimlico

With plenty of sites and places to visit following the drive, take a few short detours and you will discover places you may not have visited before:

Off The Drive

Hidden Gems Just A Small Detour

Start your adventure in Wardell, where the Richmond River flows lazily by and history lingers in the timber town’s character. From there, cruise up to Alstonville, the heart of the plateau, with heritage buildings, great cafes and eateries and the perfect excuse to stretch your legs along the main CBD. Round off your day in Newrybar, a tiny village with a laid back personality.

Small Towns, Big Character

From Ballina to Wardell, through Alstonville and on to Newrybar, the Hinterland Drive is a local gem that feels worlds away yet is right on our doorstep. It’s an easy day trip that combines scenic beauty, good food and those “let’s pull over and take a photo” moments we all love.

There’s something special about taking the road less travelled, and just beyond Ballina’s coastline lies a hinterland waiting to be explored. Think winding country roads, quaint villages, rolling green hills and amazing cafes and places to eat.

A Scenic Escape from the Coast

Drive

Now elevating the entertainment even further, Virtual Golf also features two high-tech, top-of-the-line virtual car simulators. These cuttingedge racing pods bring Formula 1 action to life, giving visitors the chance to test their skills as an F1 driver and feel the rush of motorsport in a safe, immersive environment.

southern end of Kingsford Smith Reserve. Virtual Golf – Car Simulator

The Ballina Pump Track opened just in time for the school holidays. It is an exciting new recreational attraction for riders of all ages and abilities and has been ‘pumping’ all holidays! Designed for bikes, scooters and skateboards, the track allows riders to build and maintain speed using a smooth pumping motion – no pedalling or pushing required. Located

Ballina Pump Track

Discover what’s new or changed around the Ballina Coast & Hinterland, there’s plenty of fresh attractions and hidden gems to discover.

Looking for something new?

@discoverballina

E: discover@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Freecall: 1800 777 666

6 River Street, Ballina NSW 2478

BALLINA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Quirky, colourful and coastal, the design also features on matching tote bags. Shirts available in various colours are $45 and tote bags are $10. Pop into the Ballina Visitor Information Centre to buy wearable Ballina art.

We teamed up with local artist Kate Stroud to create a funky, modern-retro, surf-style shirt that’s already flying out the door.

New Arrival Alert!

The Ballina Destination & Economy Team

Warm regards,

Discover Ballina newsletter and plan your weekend with what’s happening across our region. Use the link or scan the QR code. And keep an eye out – our brand-new Visitor Guide is on its way and will be landing soon.

Looking for inspiration close to home? Our destination website, discoverballina.com.au, is packed with ideas for weekend adventures, local events or showing off the region when family and friends come to visit. Sign up for our weekly

Welcome to the first edition of 2026. We’re kicking things off by welcoming Jo Mackellar to the team as our new Industry Liaison Officer. Jo is already busy connecting with local operators and strengthening partnerships across the region, so expect to see her out and about.

Hello!

WHAT’S NEW around the shire

Turn over for the latest issue of Community Connect

WHAT’S ON straight to your inbox

A SCENIC DAY DRIVE through our villages