The Byron Shire Echo Issue 40.29 – December 23, 2025

The Byron Shire Echo • Volume 40 #29 • December 23, 2025 • www.echo.net.au

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MULLUMBIMBY

Christmas Mass Times 2025 Christmas Eve 5.30pm: Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Brunswick Heads 7pm: St John’s Church, Mullumbimby

Christmas Day 8am: St John’s Church, Mullumbimby Enquiries: 02 6684 2106

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Local students excel in HSC results Local Byron Shire high schools all celebrated their students achievements in the Higher School Certificate (HSC) results. Mullumbimby High School had seven HSC Top Achievers recognised for their outstanding performances across a range of subjects, making their mark on the HSC landscape. ‘We congratulate all students for their hard work and application to their studies, and our HSC Top Achievers have truly set a standard of excellence,’ Principal Bree Harvey-Bice told The Echo. Byron High School also had seven students recognised in the 2025 Distinguished Achievers list, displaying exceptional talent across a range of subjects. The Distinguished Achievers list recognises students who achieved the highest band possible for one or more HSC courses or optional exams. ‘We are very proud and truly amazed by the outstanding achievements of each and every student,’ said the school in a press release. Shearwater, Mullumbimby Steiner School had

Front (L-R): Mullumbimby High School students Monet Shortland, Matilda Langtry, Bonnie Martin, Luna Delaney, Griffin Bradbury, Torin Forsyth, Charlie Mayall. Middle: Honey Mowbray, Amasra King-Fletcher, Amy Sena, Olivia Butler. Back: Bree Harvey-Bice (Principal), Leanne Clarkson, and Brodee Jeffery (year advisers). Photo Jeff Dawson 60 per cent of the cohort achieve one or more results in the top two bands available across both creative and academic subjects, including English Advanced, Mathematics Advanced, Mathematics Extension 1 and 2, Music 1, Visual Arts, Society and Culture, Chemistry, Business Studies, Design and Technology, Legal Studies, PDHPE, and Textiles and Design.

‘We are proud to acknowledge the achievements of our year 12 class of 2025 and to celebrate the commitment and growth shown by all students throughout their final senior years,’ the school told The Echo. Cape Byron Rudolf Steiner School had one Year 11 student placing first in the state for Modern Hebrew Continuers.

‘Our students excelled in performance and major works subjects, including Drama, Visual Arts, Music, Society and Culture, English Extension 2, and Design & Technology. Students also performed at a high level in French Beginners, Legal Studies, Physics and English Extension 1, and Mathematics Extension 1,’ said Senior School Coordinator, Jess Smyth.

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ĶŔşŕ ĈĕōĕćſëƐĕĎ ëƆ IJĕ IJĕëĎƆ şǔ şŕ IJĶƆ ŕĕƶƐ ëĎưĕŕƐƖſĕ Aslan Shand This week Simon Ulyatt says goodbye to Byron. A place where he has thrived and that has thrived because of him and his enthusiasm, commitment, and humour. He is heading to Ipswich to be closer to his family. Moving from Melbourne in 1977 Simon has spent most of his life here and during the last 38 of those he was one of the original workers and active employees of the Byron Bay Herb Nursery (BBHN), a not-for-profit disability service charity. Simon attended Biala School in Ballina before starting work at the BBHN, then called Katia and located at the Mullumbimby Hospital site, when he was 16, with his parents Buzz and Annie cheering him on and being very involved.

`şƷşƖƆ ëŕĎ ōşưĕĎ ‘I remember Simon used to catch the train to work from Byron and I would pick him up at the station at Mullumbimby,’ Lesley Bayliss, the nursery’s founding manager (1988 – 2007), told The Echo.

Zion on stage with Simon in his final performance with the all abilities group Drama All Sorts, in It’s a Long Way to the Top show last Wednesday in Brunswick Heads. Photo Aslan Shand ‘Out of all the people who were there at the start, Simon is the one who has kept going.’ Local comedian Mandy Nolan remembers working with Simon at the nursery, telling The Echo, ‘I had the pleasure of working with Simon at Katia Herb Nursery and then at Byron Herb Nursery when we were both in our early 20s. Simon has the most joyously vibrant personality – he is a real people person and always had this very powerful

way of making people feel important and included. I know he is very loved in our local community. Ipswich is a lucky city to have him.’ Following his parents’ deaths in 2018 Simon went on to live independently with increased support from REDinc. ‘With support from his family, Simon has lived a full life in his own home, full of joy and a group of support staff who are like family,’ said his Accommodation Manager, Madaline Denney.

Simon says goodbye to Byron Bay Herb Nursery after 38 years of fun, adventure, and laughter. Photo Jeff Dawson ‘Simon loves social events and engages in as many as possible, often seen scouting at art shows, out for social coffee dates, and performing on stage with his Brunswick drama group, Drama All Sorts. He has a love of all things music and is a genius at music trivia.’

Bay FM presenter Always involved and engaged Simon spent time as the BBHN first aid officer, was actively involved in the business, promoting it,

demonstrating its values, and fostering a culture of shared success and accountability. He was chair of the workers committee for many years, was very involved in the marketing and promotion of the business, always attending community events and even having his own Bay FM show called ‘Potting On’ with his dear friend and work colleague, Greg Lowe. ‘Simon is an OG,’ said Nick Thom, nursery manager for the last 18 years in his speech at Simon’s farewell.

‘It was Simon, his mum Annie, Lesley and a few other OGs, some of whom are still on our committee, and his colleagues Greg, Matt, Jenny, Scott, and Kelvin who collectively had this amazing vision and energy to create a business that allows people of all abilities to contribute and connect to their community, supplying them with food, medicine, and joy via the plants they propagate. ‘I wanted to thank Simon for all his hard work, commitment, and above all, his leadership, mentoring new workers and helping grow the business. A business that is inclusive, environmentally sustainable, and provides for its community, nourishing them and connecting them with each other and their environment. ‘We will miss you Simon, especially your greetings. I don’t know another person on the planet who has a better greeting than Simon Ulyatt. The way you call out people‘s names from afar, with your happy, warm smiling face, with such enthusiasm, igniting joy and positivity in them – lifting them up.’

Byron All Shorts 2026 entries open Tallow Creek footbridge open again Celebrating 21 years of short films in the Northern Rivers, the Byron All Shorts, a dedicated local Northern Rivers short film competition, is now calling talented Northern Rivers Filmmakers of all ages to submit their short films. ‘Byron All Shorts is an

opportunity to celebrate our incredible Northern Rivers filmmaking talent, alongside the best of Flickerfest short films on tour to our region annually from Australia and the world,’ said a spokesperson. The Byron All Shorts 2026 finalists screening and

awards will be held on Saturday, 28 February. A local jury of film industry experts will be awarding over $3,000 in prizes that recognise and encourage excellence in short filmmaking. Entries close Wednesday, 28 January. For more info see: www.iQ.org.au.

While new pedestrian and cycling bridge plans are underway, Byron Council have taken the initiative and strengthened the Tallow Creek footbridge following its closure in August. ‘The footbridge, which was built in 1987, is extremely important to

locals and an important pedestrian connection between Suffolk Park and Byron Bay,’ Christopher Soulsby, Acting Director Infrastructure Services, said. ‘We will have to build a new bridge and while planning is underway, approval for a new bridge and

construction is more than 12 months away so we had to come up with an interim solution for the community,’ he said. This week Council contractors strengthened the piers and installed a new girder to make the bridge safe for pedestrians.

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Local News ˃˅ʸ˃ʴ˅ʸ ʹ˂˅ ˆˈˀˀʸ˅ ˇ˘˦˧ ˌˢ˨˥ ʴ˜˥ ʶˢˡ˗˜˧˜ˢˡ˘˥ ˂ˡ ˧˛˘ ˡ˘˫˧ ˛ˢ˧ ˗˔ˬʟ ˚˜˩˘ ˬˢ˨˥ ˔˜˥ ˖ˢˡ˗˜˧˜ˢˡ˘˥ ˔ ˧˘˦˧ ˥˨ˡ ˧ˢ ˠ˔˞˘ ˦˨˥˘ ˜˧Ϡ˦ ˜ˡ ˚ˢˢ˗ ˪ˢ˥˞˜ˡ˚ ˢ˥˗˘˥ʡ ʻ˘˥˘Ϡ˦ ˛ˢ˪ʭ ˆ˘˧ ˧ˢ ˖ˢˢ˟˜ˡ˚ ˠˢ˗˘ ʛ˟ˢˢ˞ ˙ˢ˥ ˧˛˘ ˦ˡˢ˪˙˟˔˞˘ ˢˡ ˬˢ˨˥ ˥˘ˠˢ˧˘ʜ ʿ˘˧ ˜˧ ˥˨ˡ ˙ˢ˥ ˔˧ ˟˘˔˦˧ ʤʨ ˠ˜ˡ˨˧˘˦ ˪˛˜˟˘ ˜˧ʚ˦ ˪˔˥ˠ ˢ˨˧˦˜˗˘ ʿ˜˦˧˘ˡ ˔ˡ˗ ˢ˕˦˘˥˩˘ʭ ʼ˦ ˜˧ ˡˢ˜˦ˬʲ ˁˢ˧ ˖ˢˢ˟˜ˡ˚ ˘˙˙˜˖˜˘ˡ˧˟ˬʲ ˆˠ˘˟˟ˬʲ ʼ˙ ˬ˘˦ ˧ˢ ˔ˡˬ ˢ˙ ˧˛˘˦˘ ʠ ˚˜˩˘ ˨˦ ˔ ˖˔˟˟ ˧ˢ ˕ˢˢ˞ ˜ˡ ˔ ˗˜˔˚ˡˢ˦˜˦

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Old Bangalow Road a death trap Paul Bibby Old Bangalow Road was once a quiet, leafy backwater – the kind of place where the arrival of a car was greeted with mild surprise. These days the road is, to use a local phrase, ‘like flamin’ Pitt Street’. Significant increases in traffic have seen the narrow, winding, pock-marked thoroughfare become a rat run for motorists travelling between Bangalow, Coopers Shoot, and Byron. With late model Range Rovers and Teslas rocketing around the corners, the pedestrians, cyclists, horse-riders, and echidnas who once used the road for recreation are now doing so at their own peril. ‘We’ve all just been horrified by the danger to life and limb of human residents, but there’s now also been increasing carnage to wild life that’s happening on a regular basis,’ long-time resident, John Hertzberg, told a recent Council meeting. ‘We’re now seeing possums, carpet snakes, wallabies, echidnas.. . And they’re all being victims on that road because people

Old Bangalow Road is being used as a rat run to avoid traffic queues. Photo supplied are increasingly using it as a dodge… trying to cut the line of traffic during the morning peak.’

Action needed Some action is afoot to at least slow and possibly divert the stream of Beamers. Byron Council’s Transport Forum (previously the traffic advisory committee) has voted to install ‘Local Traffic Only’ signs. But Mr Hertzberg and dozens of others who live on the road say this is not enough. ‘If people had obeyed the signs that are there now we wouldn’t have all the carnage,’ he said. ‘There actually needs to be something constructed. There needs to be physical barriers in place to stop the traffic.’

They are also calling for a significant reduction in the speed limit on the road. It is not deemed to be appropriate for speed bumps, but there is talk of making the road one way and cutting it off at one end. ‘What I’d like to ask is if you could facilitate for us… a meeting with the residents of the traffic committee and any other councillors who are interested on site,’ Mr Hertzberg told the Council. His call appeared to reach the empathetic ears of Greens Councillors Michelle Lowe and Delta Kay. They successfully moved a motion at the meeting which will see Council staff hold an on-site meeting with community representatives to discuss their concerns. A safety audit will also be conducted to identify any ‘additional possible solutions to community concerns,’ with the results to be reported to Council’s February meeting. It seems unlikely that Old Bangalow Road will ever be returned to its former quietude. But perhaps one day John Hertzberg will be able to get back on his bicycle and ride down his street safely.

Safe Havens funded till June Healthy North Coast have told The Echo that they have had funding extended for Safe Haven sites to operate until 30 June 2026 following concerns over the closure of Mullumbimby’s facility that provides free, drop-in mental health support. ‘Between July 2022 and April 2025, 18,500+ hours of counselling was provided and almost 19,000 people supported through on-site clinicians in Safe Haven centres,’ said Healthy North Coast. ‘There was also a significant increase in access to the services between July and September 2025.’ Safe Havens were originally commissioned for three years through the NSW government’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Flood Recovery Package, following the devastating 2022 floods. The three Safe Havens are located at: Lismore, 46 Magellan Street (next to Lismore Regional Gallery); Mullumbimby, 15 Tincogan Street (behind Mullumbimby & District Neighbourhood Centre); and Murwillumbah, Shop 10-12/4145 Murwillumbah Street. For more information visit safehavennc.org.au.

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Local News Time to hop on down to Bruns for a little drama Paul Bibby Brunswick River at dead low tide is usually a fairly subdued place. With swimmers and paddle boarders temporarily consigned to the shore, the river becomes a sandy sun bed for cormorants and seagulls. But where some see a desert, Kelly O’Meara sees a stage. The local producer is using the river bed as the canvas for a cheeky pop up theatre piece called ‘Hoppers’ which will run on January 3, 4, and 18, at 5pm. Inspired by the simple joy and frivolity of childhood, Hoppers features a group of colourfully-clad bouncing performers mimicking the

Lots of joy and fun to be had as ‘hoppers’ celebrate life. Photo supplied experiences of river life in the summertime.

Fun in the river ‘We play with yabby pumps and buckets at low tide, we paddle and swim,’

says Ms O’Meara. ‘We play cricket and games on the sand. We mimic the cormorants that air their wings on the sand bar. ‘It’s all about exploring our culture with joy and

nostalgia… Exploring happy, carefree, retro Aussie childhood memories.’ Ms O’Meara says she was inspired to create the piece by the natural amphitheatre of the river. ‘This spot between the bridges, provides a perfect “theatre in the round”,’ she says. ‘People can enjoy it from all sides – the footbridge, the traffic bridge, and both the river banks. The low tide provides an interesting stage as we perform on the exposed sand bar.’ ‘We’re inviting the whole community to come and hang out by the river. Bring a picnic and be entertained.’ Hoppers is supported by a Creative Public Spaces grant from Byron Shire Council.

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Call for people to join Byron Council’s SEP working group Are you interested in joining a Byron Shire Council-run Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP) Working Group for Byron Bay? Byron Shire Council is inviting expressions of interest (EOI) from community members and stakeholders to join the new working group that will include: up

to four business owners currently running a business based within the SEP boundary (who are not a current member of Byron Bay Chamber of Commerce); up to four residents living within or adjacent to the SEP boundary; and up to four creatives representing a creative industry such

as music, art, public space activation, entertainment, and organisers. ‘The working group will also include representatives from Council, staff, representatives from the Byron Bay Chamber of Commerce, Liquor Accord, NSW Police and NSW Health, Destination Byron, Music NSW and

other creative agencies,’ said Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye. Meetings start in March 2026, with members expected to commit to quarterly meetings until June 30, 2027. Expressions of interest close 31 January 2026. Apply now via: https://yoursay. byron.nsw.gov.au/SEP.

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Local pickleballers outgrow their home

Liz donates hair for kids’ wigs

Paul Bibby Byron Bay Pickleball Club has outgrown its digs at the Cavanbah Centre and is looking for a larger, permanent venue to call home. Local participation in pickleball has exploded over the past two years, following a broader trend which has seen it become the fastest growing sport on the planet. But with 600 regulars now playing locally, the courts at The Cav are no longer fit for purpose. The club has made an application to Byron Shire Council (BSC) seeking an upgrade of the existing courts, and also support in finding a new home. ‘In just over 14 months our club has grown from a handful of locals to a massive, large community,’ club president Lee Ungaro told last month’s BSC meeting. ‘We’ve got 160 local members, we’ve got 600 regular players that come down to play with us and we’ve got people ranging from teenagers right up to 70 and 80-years-olds. ‘The reason is that it’s easy, it’s low impact, it’s

affordable, accessible and it’s accessible for people of all abilities. You’re all on their playing together.’

Community connection Ms Ungaro said that the benefits that flowed for local participants were profound. ‘For many of our members it’s become a vital pathway for fitness – a vital pathway to recovery from long-term injuries. ‘But the biggest one that we keep hearing about is the connection to others in the community and the improved mental wellbeing.’ But Ms Ungaro said the club’s current courts were

no longer fit for purpose and were impeding the club’s growth. ‘We’ve got limited access to the inside courts, and outside ones we play on are cracked, they’re unfenced, we’re exposed to high winds in that area, we’ve got poor lighting, we’ve got no shade when it does get warm… [and] there’s no storage or seating for our older members. ‘These conditions really restrict our participation, and compromise the safety for some of our members.’ The club has already begun exploring options for new digs, with Red Devils Park and the courts at the Byron Recreation Grounds

both being earmarked as possible locations. ‘We’re not expecting Council to go it alone on this, we’re prepared to financially contribute to the design and get involved if we can secure some long-term lease,’ Ms Ungaro said. ‘Please, if you can help support us in principle… help us to investigate the feasibility of those sites that I mentioned before, and maybe work with us to create a stage for a dedicated facility that we can proudly call home, we would be extremely grateful. ‘Please help us bring this plan to fruition.’ The club has social games on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, and Saturday mornings. Graded sessions are held on Monday and Wednesday evenings, Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons. The club also offers coaching sessions with its club coach, and offers the option of being graded to qualify for graded sessions. For more information or to get involved with the local pickleball community visit https://opensports.net/ Byron-Bay-Pickleball-Club.

Aslan Shand ‘Some kids do it so tough and they never complain,’ Liz McIver told The Echo when she had her hair cut to donate to the Wigs4Kids, which provides bespoke wigs for kids with cancer. Liz grew her hair for three years and had six plaits, each 30cm long, so that she could donate it to Wigs4Kids so they can make a bespoke wig for a child with cancer. ‘Hair loss during cancer treatment can be one of the hardest parts for children,’ say Wigs4Kids. ‘It often starts just a week after treatment begins and

can be a visible reminder of everything they’re going through. For many kids, losing their hair can feel like losing a part of who they are.’ ‘I put a call out to the hairdressers of Mullumbimby and Haircuts By Sammy was the first to respond. Sammy donated her time and cut my hair for free,’ said Liz. ‘I hope this will help some little person put a smile on their face with new hair! I am growing my hair again so I can do this again.’ You can find out more about donating hair for kids wigs at: www.kidswithcancer. org.au/donate-hair.

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Liz McIver has donated her hair to make wigs for kids with cancer. Photo supplied

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Union launches campaign to stop AI theft

All I want for Christmas is…

Mia Armitage

Alison Drover

Members of Australia’s main union for arts workers and journalists say they will continue to campaign for stronger copyright protection associated with the use of artificial intelligence (AI). The Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA) held an online meeting last week as part of its Stop Creative Theft campaign. Union leaders have launched a campaign called Stop AI Theft and told meeting participants they would lobby parliamentarians in the new year to ensure tech companies don’t get the right to take original work without fair compensation. Protection of First Nations culture was a key concern, in particular Australia’s many Indigenous languages, against AI distortion and copyright abuse. Members also heard particular calls for greater copyright protection for musicians, session musicians, and actors, and voice actors. They also heard that AI contract clauses are ‘not enough’ to protect original gig workers. One MEAA member said he was a voice actor and that a YouTube channel operator

had converted his voice into seven languages without any consent or compensation despite him having full copyright.

Fight for gig workers Members heard suggestions of negotiating licence fees for their work in such instances. However it was recognised that many workers wouldn’t have the resources and individual pressure wasn’t a sustainable solution. The union said the current Labor-led federal government appeared relatively progressive on workers’ rights so far, citing regulations brought in for the so-called ‘gig economy’, referring to drivers and food couriers for on-demand service apps. But campaign organisers said they would continue to fight for workers in ‘the original gig economy’. ‘We have been reasonably successful here and there,’ MEAA CEO Erin Madeley told the meeting, when it came to the introduction of AI clauses into worker agreements. ‘But negotiating through employment contracts is not enough,’ she said. Ms Madeley said support from other unions was also

important. An open letter to AI companies written by the union had attracted more than 1,100 signatures by end of day Monday. ‘We are calling out the business practices of your companies as theft,’ the letter read. ‘Millions of images, songs, articles, and films have been scraped without the knowledge, consent, or compensation of creative workers. Without this theft, your AI models would have been obsolete. We demand to be paid when our work is used by your company, and we demand compensation for the work you have stolen.’ Other campaign information referred to a recent survey of MEAA members in the creative and media industries showing 71 per cent were ‘extremely concerned about the loss of human-led creativity’. MEAA said accuracy and ethics were also at risk owing to AI. ‘AI-generated content can spread misinformation and erode public trust,’ the union said. Q Mia Armitage is a member of MEAA.

A

local leans into the Bangalow pharmacy counter speaking emphatically. ‘Time, that’s what we need for Christmas, it’s what we are all short of’. I call into a florist. She proclaims, wrapping Christmas Bush, ‘I want to get off socials I want more real time less reels and influencers!’ Vehicles bully their way through traffic mounting the Bay Grocer roundabout trying to shave off a second. No time for niceties as others wolf down a sandwich after #posting it and friends on WhatsApp try to cram in more Christmas drinks. Time and ritual are evaporating, yet content is exploding. John Maynard Keynes said technology and a reduced work week would create more time. Yet we are continually sold more devices and pushed more content that devours our time. Post, follow, comment, repost, share, make reels, add to reels in a looping pattern. With app after app we are unable to perform basics tasks without a bot or a login. ‘I don’t want a QR code for a menu!’ We are being forced into systems that are

Image: Rebecca Davis

designed to cut business expenditure and increase revenue rather than enhance our experiences. It’s gobble gobble – like a Christmas turkey as our minutes are devoured. I am full up this Christmas and it’s only 17 December. If we are serious about living the life we are being sold – one of higher consciousness, wellness, authenticity, peace, kindness, and collaboration – consider some technology disruption. I hear all of you out there saying we need to promote and hashtag # to survive. I challenge you to switch from ‘followers’ to tuning inwards and savouring your time.

We all have inner wisdom, yet we can’t receive as we constantly tune in to multiple frequencies, even some that aren’t real. We are witnessing the atrocities of war, climate destruction, lies and hate – yet we perpetuate this by commenting and adding to them creating more fear algorithms. We are losing the time to process, reflect, feel, and be present for one another. No wonder we are searching for medicinal mushrooms, cold plunges, retreats, and cacao ceremonies – our nervous systems are overloaded. When I was waiting for Cyclone Alfred to arrive earlier this year, after preparations were complete, I lay down on the floor with a book and read. The power was off, it was quiet outside, everyone was in. I realised it had taken a cyclone to calm me and grant me some time. All I want for this Christmas is time to lie on the grass, read one of the multiple books stacked by my bedside table, drink cups of tea out of a real cup, and eat homemade Christmas cake after a swim. It’s pretty simple. No # or posting please!

Byron Bay Public School takes action to protect students online and IRL Byron Bay Public School (BBPS) has taken proactive steps to protect their students both in the classroom and in the digital world as the new social media ban for Australians under 16 years takes effect. ‘Recognising that simply

enforcing age restrictions is not enough, the school has adopted a comprehensive and forward-thinking cybersafety strategy,’ says the school leadership. ‘We believe restrictions must be paired with concrete actions to protect our

students. Our approach involves the whole school community – students, staff, parents, and carers – to create a truly safe environment.’ This commitment comes in response to alarming trends, including a 450 per

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cent increase in online bullying over the past five years and emerging threats such as AI-generated abuse and deepfake content, they told The Echo. ‘BBPS is determined not merely to react to these dangers, but to prevent harm before it occurs.’

Deleting Facebook As part of their key measures, they are deleting the school’s Facebook page and updating its website to remove

identifying student photos. ‘Instead, parents and carers will receive newsletters celebrating student achievements via secure, private platforms – not accessible to the general public. Public updates will be maintained on the school’s website in a way that keeps the broader community informed while safeguarding children’s privacy,’ they explained. Other key initiatives include ongoing education programs for staff, students,

and families about best practices in digital safety. The school has also begun hosting parent workshops, encouraging strong community engagement and shared responsibility. These sessions will continue to expand throughout 2026. ‘This is an important, ongoing effort,’ the school states. ‘Together, we can ensure BBPS remains a secure place where every child feels safe and supported – online and offline.’

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News from across the North Coast online

www.echo.net.au Kyogle Council votes down land transition to Great Koala National Park At its meeting on 8 December, Kyogle Council passed a motion formally opposing the transition of 176,000 hectares of State Forest into the NSW Government’s proposed Great Koala National Park.

Blue Knob crash claims life Police say a man died following a crash at Blue Knob, about 30km north of Lismore. The statement reads, ‘About 7pm yesterday (Thursday 18 December 2025), emergency services were called to Blue Knob Road following reports of a crash’.

Boaters warned of holiday risks on coastal bars Marine Rescue NSW Northern Rivers Inspector John Murray is urging local and visiting boaters to think twice before crossing coastal bars this holiday season.

North Coast politicians speak on Bondi massacre As the dust settles on the horrific Bondi massacre last Sunday, various north coast politicians have released statements.

Tweed Council wrap for 2025 In its last meeting for 2025 on December 10, Tweed Council adopted a range of motions including: development of flood-liable land; stinky, overflowing and unsightly public bins; Tweed Shire’s graffiti scourge; and illegal beach camping. ‘Depoliticisation of the role of the General Manager’ was also voted upon.

Have your say on future of Casino CBD Richmond Valley Council is undertaking a community conversation and engagement on the future of the Casino town centre, including nearby streets and the South Casino shopping precinct.

Big Rob referred to OLG over conduct Lismore councillor Big Rob looks likely to be referred twice to the Office of Local Government (OLG) for investigation around his conduct.

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he completion of a new pump track at Kingsford Smith Reserve in the heart of Ballina is now open, says Ballina Shire Council. In a media release, they said, ‘Designed to national competition standards, the impressive new facility will provide a dynamic space for riders and visitors from across the region to enjoy’. ‘The southern area of the reserve has been transformed into an exciting precinct featuring a competition-quality main track, junior track, and new amenities for riders and spectators. ‘The development of the project was supported by the NSW government through $733,345 in funding’. Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said the project will add to Ballina’s

The newly opened Ballina Pump Track. Photos supplied already strong reputation as great place to enjoy outdoor activities. ‘It will be fantastic to see riders take to the new, national standard pump track to showcase and grow their skills,’ she said. Minister for the North Coast, Janelle Saffin said the project shows what can be achieved when state and local government

work together for regional communities. ‘Facilities like this help young riders on the North Coast build confidence, stay active and feel connected’. Ballina Shire Mayor, Sharon Cadwallader, said the new facility is already generating excitement across the community. ‘This precinct is an incredible addition to

our Shire, offering a vibrant space for riders of all ages to come together, stay active and have fun,’ Cr Cadwallader said. ‘Built to national qualifier event standards it also features the Vorld Timing System, which is an innovative, interactive timing technology that allows riders to track, time, and count laps

using their smartphones. ‘Ballina Shire Council has further upgrades planned for the site, including a new dedicated carpark and improved site access. These works are scheduled for completion later this financial year’. For more information or to view images of the new facility, visit ballina.nsw.gov. au/Ballina-pump-track.

ƖżżşſƐ żſşīſëŔƆ Īşſ ōşĈëō ƷşƖƐIJƆ şŕ şǔĕſ A new one-on-one support program designed for young people aged 12 to 20 years who have disengaged from school, community or stable family life is now available. Run by RiverTracks, ‘CaseConnect,’ has been made possible through a recent $15,000 funding boost from philanthropic organisation, Northern Rivers Community Foundation (NRCF). Organisers says CaseConnect provides deeper, relationship-based support that many mainstream services can’t offer. In a media release they say, ‘While isolation and antisocial behaviour can be problematic aspects of youth disengagement, early results from this program

opportunity to work one-onone in a wholistic way with young people facing complex challenges. ‘Thanks to NRCF funding, we can now offer the kind of sustained, relational care that helps young people and their families stabilise, reconnect and rebuild their futures.

RiverTracks program participants in action. Photo supplied

ſşīſëŔ ŕĕĕĎƆ ĪƖſƐIJĕſ ĪƖŕĎĶŕī

already show improvements in routine-building, emotional regulation, school attendance and reduced high-risk behaviour for the young people involved’. ‘Since launching in November, four youth and their families have registered

‘We’ve seen what works. Now we’re committed to growing it – and we welcome the support of partners who want to help us create genuine, lasting change for young people in the region,’ Rowland said. To do this, RiverTracks is seeking $100,000–$150,000

with the local program based in Murwillumbah’. RiverTracks Program Manager, Christopher Rowland, says he is grateful for the funding which has enabled this vital program to get up and running. ‘CaseConnect gives us the

per year in multi-year funding, allowing the team to support up to 50 young people and their families. Additional funds would also create a small pool of funds for essential items like licences, uniforms and food during times of crisis. Rowland said, ‘While RiverTracks’ core Get On Track program that’s been running since 2021 offers routine, social and group support to youth, CaseConnect offers wrap-around individualised and tailored support’. One Murwillumbah mother whose child is involved in RiverTracks programs said that ‘it’s been life changing.’ For more information visit www.rivertracks.org.

ëōōĶŕë IJſĕ !şƖŕĈĶō ëżżſşưĕƆ ſëƐĕ ſĶƆĕ David Lowe Despite a vociferous social media campaign, there were no deputations or members of the public present in the gallery as Ballina Shire Council unanimously voted to proceed with a special rate variation (SRV) at its epic final meeting for the year. The motion acknowledged the feedback from the community consultation process (which was overwhelmingly opposed to the SRV), but argued the rate rise was necessary because: 1) Increasing rate income is

10 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

essential to adequately fund asset renewal and reduce the risk of infrastructure deterioration, along with maintaining essential services. 2) The additional rate income generated will improve Council’s overall financial position and longterm financial sustainability. As a result of the motion, Ballina Council has now authorised the General Manager to apply to IPART for a SRV based on six per cent per annum for the four year period from 2026-27 to 2029/30. Ballina Council says it

‘remains committed to ensuring that Council’s total rates and charges bill remains relatively affordable and comparatively lower than councils of similar scale and size, and every effort will be made to minimise increases in other annual charges…’

¨ĶŔĕƆ ëſĕ ƐşƖīIJ Cr Erin Karsten said, ‘It’s completely understandable that people question a rate rise when times are tough. I don’t think any of us are super excited about having to put this forward, but we appreciate that it’s necessary…’

‘One off injections like dipping into reserves or selling assets, sure it can cover short-term shortfalls, but they don’t fix the underlying mismatch between annual expenses and annual revenue,’ she said. ‘Cash reserves and property sales don’t generate recurring income, so they can’t solve a recurring problem without a stable recurring income stream. Council would face the same problem again within a few years, but with fewer assets and reserves remaining,’ said Cr Karsten.

‘The SRV spreads costs fairly and predictably over time, ensuring Council remains financially sustainable and able to support the community through future challenges.’ Mayor Sharon Cadwallader said, ‘Has it been a tough sell? Yes, it has,’ she said. ‘There’s only so many costs you can keep on absorbing when we’re constantly faced with the cost shifting. ‘I think this Council punches way above its weight, and I’m very proud of how we operate as a Council’. www.echo.net.au

Local News ĶōōĶŕƖĎīĕōȒwĈĕëŕ IJşſĕƆ D īĕƐƆ ƐſƖĈŊĶŕȜ

ÏşƖƐIJ ưşĶĈĕƆ ƆIJĶŕĕ Ķŕ ŕĕƱ ǕōŔ țÈşĶĈĕƆ Ķŕ dĶīIJƐ Pancho Symes Northern Rivers Community Gateway (NRCG) has launched Voices in Light, a new youth-led short film created in Bundjalung Country for the UN 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Filmed in the Northern Rivers with local young people, Voices in Light follows a group of young teenage girls as they create a large, shared mural together in nature, using colour, movement and storytelling to explore themes of safety, courage, connection and respect.

The project is a partnership between NRCG and creative production company Daughter Collective, and was developed to offer a consent-first, art-based space for young people to speak about their experiences, hopes, and boundaries in the context of gender-based violence and healthy relationships. ‘At Northern Rivers Community Gateway, we hold a gentle but firm belief that everyone deserves to live free from gender-based violence, and that nurturing and listening to young people is essential to building that future,’ said Northern Rivers

Community Gateway CEO Jenni Beetson-Mortimer. ‘Voices in Light gives local young people a creative, supported way to talk about safety, respect and what they want their futures to look like. It is about listening to them, not speaking for them.’ ‘It is a reminder that prevention work can be hopeful, creative and grounded in young people’s strengths.’ NRCG encourages anyone moved by the film who may need support to contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or local specialist services. Q Read full story at The Echo

online: www.echo.net.au.

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There’s been some action at the Billinudgel-Ocean Shores Rural Fire Service (RFS) station of late. ‘Local mural artist, Daniel Hend has painted our two trucks on the front roller doors, helping to identify us as a fire station. And there’s more to come!’ said a Billi RFS spokesperson. ‘We’re choosing a local artist to paint our eastern wall, which will raise awareness of who we are, and at the same time honour the contribution of Indigenous culture to the Billi region.’ Front: muralister, Daniel Hend, with Steph Smith, Jacob Staff, Capt Darren Cornalr, Muz Drechsler, Carol and Barry Donnelly, and Liam Spice. Photo Jeff ‘Paint your Wagon’ Dawson

lĕŕƐëō IJĕëōƐIJ ëƆ ĶŔżşſƐëŕƐ ëƆ ŊĕĕżĶŕī ǕƐ

If a couple of Christmas trees is barely enough, wait till you discover this! Famous for its Fairy Trail, Brunswick’s latest addition looks like the elves have taken time out from the busiest time of the year to surprise astute fairy hunters. Photo Jeff ‘Fairy Lite’ Doorso

Many men still adhere to traditional masculine expectations a recent study has found. Men are seven times more likely to frequently experience thoughts of suicide and less likely to seek help. The study tracked how easily social media algorithms can expose boys

to the ‘manosphere’ – a murky online space filled with hypermasculine selfhelp, misogyny, racism and conspiracy. Its influence and promotion of toxic behaviours is having an impact on men’s mental health. Over three-quarters (75 per cent) of those losing their lives to

suicide in Australia are male. The Mental Maintenance Manual: A Practical Guide to Men’s Mental Health Upkeep (someone.health/resources/ mental-maintenancemanual) is a free, easy-to-use guide designed to help men see psychological wellbeing as part of everyday fitness.

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Comment

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The Byron Shire Echo Volume 40 #29 • December 23, 2025

!şŔŔƖŕĶƐƷ ĕƶżſĕƆƆĶşŕ ưĶƐëō Ɛş ĎĕŔşĈſëĈƷ

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rotest and gathering together are ways for people to create unity, to highlight what they see as important, when they see a problem, when the government of the day is not living up to the expectations of its citizens, and when a system is failing and should be strengthened. Gathering together is a way we can shape our communities, bring people together, and show strength in the face of adversity. Our Australian Jewish community should be free from harassment and vilification by those trying to make a point about Israel, let alone being free to peacefully gather together to celebrate Hannukah without being massacred by haters. It’s understandable that, having recognised that the real danger of local religious and political passions has been underestimated, the government should act. However, the proposal by NSW Premier Nick Minns to create a terrorism designation, following the horrific deaths in Bondi last week, is not just a law that will restrict protest but will seek ‘to restrict any public gathering, and that includes vigils, that includes prayer meetings – and people getting together is actually about letting people express themselves to the wider community, whether it’s to mourn, to grieve, and call for reform,’ explained Senior Lawyer at the Human Rights Law Centre, David Mejia-Canales, on the ABC. The proposed laws, likely to pass on Monday and Tuesday in NSW parliament, will also ensure that the courts cannot overrule the determination that would be put in place by the police in agreement of the minister. The new power to ‘declare a specific area where the public assemblies are restricted for a period of time’ will not create better outcomes for our communities, he said. ‘We really caution the Minns government against jumping to misguided crackdowns on peaceful

gatherings,’ said Mr Mejia-Canales. He highlighted that there were no mass protests like the Harbour Bridge protest in the weeks prior to Bondi’s devastating violence, saying, ‘we really do think that the premier is seeking to conflate two things that are not the same thing. One of them is people expressing their views about the genocide in Gaza and the other people actually being horrified about antisemitism and racist violence. Australians are united against both of these things, against the genocide and against hate crimes, and we need to be acting carefully and deliberately.’ Mr Mejia-Canales made it clear that human rights law already provides a clear framework to restrict large gatherings that might place a significant strain on police resources, or gatherings with risks to the community. ‘Any restriction has to be lawful. It has to be necessary, and above all else, it has to be proportionate to the aim or the problem that it is trying to solve,’ he explained. ‘And governments then have an obligation to fully justify these restrictions, to ensure they meet these strict criteria. And the premier has not done this yet. The premier has started to conflate all these different points and try to force an outcome where really, these things actually need to be taken carefully and measured, particularly right now, when we are in a time of crisis and mourning.’ As we see fascist, authoritarian regimes find footholds worldwide and drive us towards conflict, this is not the time to restrict people’s opportunities to peacefully and constructively voice concerns, object to bad government policy, and decision making, or inaction. It is a time to bring people together in democracy, create connection and healing, and look to ways we can exist together, in peace, in this multicutltural country we call home. Aslan Shand, editor

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hese have been torrid times with many in deep mourning, reeling from the Bondi tragedy. It’s hard to be jolly and pretend nothing has happened, and we should not. One of the shocking aftermaths of the massacre is the appalling way some abused the acute suffering of the Jewish community by trying to score cheap political points. They may have taken lessons from Trump and his white supremacist mobsters. Pauline Hanson was recently a guest at Mar-a-Lago and has embraced MAGA. She is even mimicking Trump’s lack of compassion at this sad time. If those two terrorists succeed in dividing our community, turning us against each other, they effectively win. We must not, and will not, let that happen. Racist hatred has been drummed up in America and England against immigrants, especially non-whites, and non-Christians. This fear campaign, funded by wealthy elites, has led to a rise in support for Nigel Farage’s right wing populist Reform UK party to the extent he could even become the next UK prime minister. Here, Pauline Hanson has lassoed Barnaby Joyce into her dodgy party. She thinks she is on to a winner with her vicious xenophobia and sadly a substantial minority agrees with her. One Nation is moving up in the polls as Liberals slide into irrelevance. She exploited the tragedy with anti-migrant comments amongst mourners at Bondi who hadn’t even begun to recover from the initial shock. Hanson is a throwback to the fifties when nasty racist slurs such as dago, wog, reffo, pommy, and spic were used routinely. Australia has changed enormously since the White Australia policy days, when we regarded ourselves as a Christian nation. We are now a mini–United Nations with 270 ethnic groups and over 100 different religious affiliations. Four in ten Australians

We all just want to live peaceful lives and get along with everybody else with their diverse beliefs and backgrounds. – Richard Jones have ‘no religion’, about the same number who consider themselves Christians. Only about one in five Australians attends religious services regularly. Despite the paranoia of some fearful white Australians, there’s no going back to the old days. Multicultural Australia is here to stay. In the sixty plus years I have been here, arriving as a fresh-faced Ten Pound Pom on a Boeing 707, the changes have been profound. I was told to ‘go back where you came from’ a couple of times. I had no idea then about the border wars and the dispossession and massacres of First Nations people. I was on a steep learning curve. Some Australians try to cling to the past in a vain attempt to feel safer, but it’s not possible. The world is evolving around us and constantly changing. There are nearly a million Muslims living in Australia, from a diverse range of countries, and all but a tiny handful are peaceful lawabiding citizens, as are the nearly three quarters of a million Hindus who call Australia home. A couple of radicalised lunatics do not represent anyone but themselves. They do not represent the community. We cannot allow ourselves to be divided into warring groups. The archaic Westminster system of government where two major parties constantly battle it out trying to belittle the other side is not working in today’s Australia. That became glaringly evident with shockingly inappropriate comments by Sussan Ley and others. To address this, we need MPs who primarily represent their

communities not party ideologies. The rise of the Teals is an indication of a growing rejection of the outdated two-party duopoly. Media must also take responsibility for causing divisions in our society. The Murdoch media have been vicious with their unfounded attacks on Anthony Albanese, demanding he resign and blaming him for the tragedy because Australia officially recognised the state of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly last September. An intelligence failure by ASIO needs to be their target. How was it possible for a man whose son was a known radical to own six rifles legally? A Royal Commission may enlighten us. Here in our Shire, we too have a huge diversity of beliefs and opinions. People living side by side have vastly different views of the world and yet we can and do get on peacefully as friendly neighbours. Rather than point out our differences, let us just accept that no two people are the same. No two leaves are the same. No two atoms are identical. We are all different from each other yet part of one big family. People are so tired of bickering and nastiness, hate and anger. We all just want to live peaceful lives and get along with everybody else with their diverse beliefs and backgrounds. We can show the way here in our community by being extra kind to each other. Smile at strangers, stop to let cars in stuck by the stream of traffic, be generous with hugs. Let’s just be kind. Q Richard Jones is a former NSW MLC, and is now a ceramist.

The Byron Shire Echo Volume 40 #29 December 23, 2025 Established 1986 • 22,000 copies every week

www.echo.net.au Phone: 02 6684 1777 Editorial/news: editor@echo.net.au Advertising: adcopy@echo.net.au Office: 64 McGoughans Lane, Mullumbimby NSW 2482 General Manager: Simon Haslam Editor: Aslan Shand Deputy Editor: Hans Lovejoy Photographer: Jeff Dawson Advertising Manager: Anna Coelho Production Manager: Ziggi Browning

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The Echo acknowledges the people of the Bundjalung nation as the traditional custodians of this land and extends respect to elders past, present and future. Disclaimer: The Echo is committed to providing a voice for our whole community. The views of advertisers, letter writers, and opinion writers are not necessarily those of the owners or staff of this publication.

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Personal tech support for bamboozled bipeds

mĕƱ ƱşſōĎ şĎşƖſ Mandy Nolan is right that accusing local candidates or comedians of belonging to the ‘Illuminati’ is absurd. But dismissing public concern about elite control as mere conspiracy misses the deeper issue many people are struggling to articulate. History shows that populations are rarely controlled by secret handshakes or shadowy meetings. They are controlled through systems, including medicine, religion, science, finance and, increasingly, technology, often administered by wellmeaning people who believe they are ‘doing the right thing’. Most people who sustain powerful systems do so unknowingly, believing they are acting responsibly or ethically. This is not fringe speculation. Regulatory capture,

pharmaceutical influence over health policy, corporate funding of science, and the concentration of media and technology power are widely documented. The result is not democracy, but managed consent. What alarms many people today is not an imaginary Illuminati, but the acceleration of these systems into digital form with digital ID, centralised data, algorithmic decision making, all creating a cage that is harder to see and harder to exit. We don’t need secret societies to explain this trajectory. We need honesty about how power operates, and humility from those who assume they are immune simply because their intentions are good. Fiona Kaminski Ocean Shores

mëƐƖſĕ ſĕƆĕſưĕƆ Nature reserves offer the highest conservation possible and protect habitat for threatened and endangered flora and fauna. They do not exist for humans. How many more times will this message need to be repeated before the understanding sinks in and the pressure drops? Many of the nature reserves in our Shire have been actively fought for historically, so let’s protect them into the future and give nature the respect she deserves. In the middle of a global extinction crisis, with Australia leading the shameful charge, now is not the time to open any of our designated nature reserves to provide greater access for humans. The Byron Shire offers plenty of recreation opportunities that present no risk to wildlife, and humans are extremely well

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

catered for here, so please, let’s be grateful for the abundance we already have and stop the relentless pursuit of these fragile and vulnerable pockets for cycling transit routes. Grow the cycling highways elsewhere – there are many options. The jewel in the crown for this Shire is our rich and fantastic biodiversity that the rest of the globe envies, so let’s support that to thrive at every opportunity. Catherine Lane North Ocean Shores

PŕĪſëƆƐſƖĈƐƖſĕ ĪëĶōƖſĕƆ

Thanks to The Echo for continuing to publish my letters regarding the lack of responsibility taken by Byron Shire Council (BSC) and their continuing failure of maintaining important infrastructure, such as the stormwater pipes which collapsed in Bayside, Brunswick Heads. The consistent failure of Council to manage, maintain, repair and reconnect our stormwater pipes and ▶ Continued on next page

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proceeds. This is not calm, judicious law making, it’s knee-jerk administration. He might get away with it if he is very specific as to time or place but any attempt at prolonging restriction has to be challenged because it is a restraint on all of us. One could take the view that this manoeuvre is a ploy to attempt to calm things down and since the proposed ban is only going to last ‘for a few months’ he would achieve that aim before a successful court challenge to the law. He knows that no further demonstrations are planned in that time by the Palestinian Action Group because its leader, Josh Lees, has said as much. But if this is part of his strategy, it is a cynical abuse of parliamentary procedures. Frank Lynch Mullumbimby

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A state law which seeks to ban political protests would infringe a citizen’s right to demonstrate if that state law is disproportionate or lacks a legitimate purpose. That’s part of our civil liberties. The principle is one of the implied freedoms in the Australian Constitution. It results from the case Brown v Govt of Tasmania in 2017. In that case, Bob Brown was restrained from taking film of logging in a Tasmanian state forest, even though he was filming from land adjacent the forest. The Tasmanian law sought to impose substantial penalties on persons interrupting logging. As the penalties were extremely high, the court found them to be disproportionate to the presumed offence, and so could be seen as an attempt to stifle any protests. Overkill, in other words. The NSW premier plans to put in place a ban on protests in NSW soon, to ‘last for a few months’. At this stage such a ban presents as draconian, as there is no right of review by a NSW court. He might get away with passing it through the NSW legislature, given the present highly-charged atmosphere following the Bondi attack. But if such a law is seen as too prolonged or otherwise overreach it will (and must be) be appealed to the High Court. To my mind, the premier’s statements on this so far are ill-considered and he needs to be very well advised if he

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Again we have a visit from the J&J Rodeo on 3 January. It is a pity that some people of the Shire who have concern for the welfare of koalas do not extend that concern to livestock. In my opinion rodeos amount to livestock abuse. I notice that someone has voiced their opinion by spraying the signage with the words ‘Cruel’, which is encouraging, but where is the response from the local veterinarians and the RSPCA? I would urge all residents to boycott this event, and show respect for livestock. John OGrady Suffolk Park

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Gus’s journey comes full circle. After weeks of intensive care, this once tiny 2 gram Feathertail Glider has reached the moment he was always working towards. Strong, alert and ready, Gus was transferred to a secure pre-release enclosure at the site where he was found. There, surrounded by familiar sights, sounds and scents, he prepared for his return to the wild. On release day, watched quietly by his carer, the door to his log hollow nest box was gently opened. ly emerged. Against the odds, Gus paused, then slowly he has returned home,, to ongs. the wild, where he belongs. Help us create more Christmas miracles like e Gus. Scan the QR code e to help give all wildlife a $ŝœéƐijŝœƇɈŝưēƀɈ̒ǥǣǣ second chance at life. receive a FREE plushie!

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Letters ▶ Continued from page 11 to excavate the buildup of deposited sand from the failed system just reflects how poor our local government has become. For years now, this problem has been before councillors. A meeting with Phil Holloway resulted in just a few trees being felled from the end of the drain leading into Simpsons Creek. Two sink holes in our roads have become 22, with continuous back filling with road base. Time and time again, nothing has been done to address the major issues. For several years now I have emailed and written with no resulting repairs to reconnect this system to the functional legislated requirement. This must be done prior to any further allowance of more construction. The approval of further housing DAs just continues, and anyone that has the knowledge of this disastrous situation would ask how can this be allowed? The answer is back to management of our BSC. The big issue is sulphate soils and that councils knowingly allow construction on sulphate sites such as Bayside. From my knowledge of this issue, there should never

North Coast news online have been any construction allowed to occur on such sites. Annie Radermacher Bayside, Brunswick Heads

Targeted While we were having dinner in the Byron RSL, someone spraypainted the driver’s side of our car with swastikas on the driver’s window and on the tailgate. The police are investigating. On Wednesday, while we were parked in a disability parking space on River Street, Ballina, Rod Bruem, a Ballina News Daily journalist, repeatedly photographed my wife and myself and our vehicle, and accused us of monopolising the disabled parking space [For most of the day, near the Tel Aviv Yafo cafe], even though we are legitimate disabled pensioners with a valid parking permit. He published an article [saying allegations have been made of threatening and anti-Semitic commentary on local social media pages that ‘have not been tested’] and referring to ‘targeted intimidation and the misuse of public spaces’. As a result, a torrent of hatred has been unleashed against us, some of which is threatening us with violence. The police have been

informed, and a complaint has been made to the Australian Press Council. What is beyond dispute is that the terrible Bondi tragedy and the attacks on Jewish schools and synagogues is a consequence of Israel’s ongoing genocide against the people of Gaza. Gareth Smith Palestine Liberation Centre, Byron Bay

Antisemitism Jewish leaders and the wider community need to recognise the elephant in the room, being that the actions of the current Israeli government in Gaza , the West Bank and Lebanon is a cause of rising antisemitism across the world. This rising aggression is fuelled in both directions by hate and right-wing support dressed as religion, by social media algorithms which induce hate and division. Unless Israel starts acting as a true humane world partner, it will incubate hate and antisemitism. This won’t stop governments need to act on guns and on social media algorithms, kerb fake news, anonymity and hate speech, which is now the new daily news source for most. Without action things will

get worse not better. In the interim, call out the elephant in the room. Bruce Porter Brunswick Heads

Wake up to gun violence A total import ban needs to be placed upon the weapons, namely guns of any description from an overseas port unless an issued permit is given prior to the departure from the export country to Australia. The permit would be a required full background check with ASIO and state police of ‘all’ our states and territories prior to any local purchase or transfer of any form of weapon that propels a lethal projectile that will cause harm or death. The permit is to be renewed annually at the expense of the permit holder to ensure that there are no changes to the status of the permit holder. All weapons are to be deposited in a police or ASIO armoury and the weapons that include a breech-block and bolt are to be separated and safely locked within such armoury. If such weapon[s] are found to be in the hands without a permit, a minimum jail sentence of 20 years could be a good deterrent. Roger Graf Fingal Head

Heilpern’s editorial ãæO$ :

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14 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

In paragraph one of ‘Reflections on Bondi attack’ (David Heilpern’s editorial last week), you note that you are ‘reeling, overwhelmed with sorrow, and yet, by paragraph two, as you have done for over two years, you shut down the voices of Jews, Jews who have fearfully endured the rise and thrive of Jew hatred in this country, fuelled by both actions and inactions of the Albanese government, Greens, teals, local councils, universities, media, and by hate marches. If Jews’ voices had been headed by our government, this tragedy may have been prevented. You say, ‘It’s not time to blame Albanese for failing to do what the Jewish community and Israel’s PM demanded.’ What other minority group can you imagine would be denied appropriate measures to stop thousands of acts and words of hatred that have occurred over the last two years? Walk safely onto a uni campus? Too much to demand? Be able to wear a Jewish skullcap or Star of

David in public? Too much to demand? Maybe not have your business graffitied with Nazi symbols and hate speech? Too much to demand? All Jews knew this massacre was inevitable. If you talk to Jews you will know this. Their warnings were ignored over and over. Silenced. Dead Jews was the inevitable outcome of unchecked anti-semitism. You only have to know history to know this. You say ‘It is not time to stifle criticism of Israel under the guise of stopping anti-semitism.’It has become abundantly clear to Jews that much of the criticism towards Israel has indeed been anti-semitic, as AntiZionism is the now accepted and tolerated mutation. Just wondering if The Echo plans to do a ‘criticism piece’ on Iran or Qatar? I guess not. You say ‘It is not time to investigate the possible failures of our intelligence services.’ Wow. When would be an appropriate time to work out what went wrong and if there were failures in order to prevent future attacks. Let me be very clear. What happened in Bondi is part of a global jihadist war only possible in an environment of complicity and encouragement. Each and every person who has marched shouting ‘Globalise the Intifada’ or ‘From the River to the Sea’ is complicit, as Globalise the Intifada is now here. As it is in the UK, Europe, Canada and other countries where hatred, attacks and killings of Jews are daily occurrences. This has nothing to do with a Palestinian state as history in 1948, 1967 and 2001 clearly demonstrate . The goal is the destruction of the Jewish sate, the West and to create a global Islamic Caliphate. They have said it. Believe them. There are now ever-expanding no-go areas around the world. Christmas markets and New Year’s Eve celebrations in Europe have been cancelled. Israel is on the frontline facing this global peril. Ninety percent of the comments on the Ramallah Facebook news page have celebrated and supported the Bondi massacre, and many have called for the death of the Muslim hero who risked his life on that day. Celebrations have also occurred in Western Sydney? Labour, the Greens, left-leaning media including yourselves have promoted a reckless narrative that contributed to Australia’s

anti-semitism crisis. And now you all suddenly claim to care about Jews? And once again, your editorial attempts to silence the voices of Jews. Jews have been saying over and over that demonisation of Israel, perpetuating blood libels and denying Israel’s right to exist leads to increased attacks, including dead Jews. The fact that it took a massacre before the media and political elite show a skerrick of empathy towards Jews is deeply heartbreaking and a shameful indictment on the attitude of the left towards racism when it applies to Jews. I have read your editorials and letters to the editor over the last two years in horror. It is time for the left to reflect. And it is time to actually listen to Jews. And not just the few outliers who do not speak for the rest. Listen, learn, reflect, as there is blame and it is loud. It will not be silenced. Dr Nicole Phillips New Brighton

Russia The West’s war on Russia is rapidly approaching its inevitable, predictable and indeed predicted conclusion: the collapse of the Zelensky regime, a decisive victory for Russia and a humiliating defeat for the West. This outcome was obvious from the outset to any objective observer with a modicum of knowledge about the relative size and power of the two nations. With a population four times the size of its neighbour and the largest nuclear arsenal on earth, the Russian federation was always going to prevail over the Ukrainian regime. The geostrategists in Washington knew this, but they were willing to sacrifice Ukraine in order to harm and weaken Russia. Clearly their degenerate scheme has failed. Russia has not been weakened, on the contrary it’s emerged enlarged, empowered and emboldened, while Ukraine’s been wrecked and the West ends up divided, depleted and diminished. This outcome is a testament to the malign intent, delusional analyses and gross incompetence of political leadership in the West, especially in Washington. It represents just the latest in a litany of American military misadventures and foreign policy debacles. Australia would do well to learn an important lesson from this fiasco. John Scrivener Main Arm www.echo.net.au

Articles Councillor replies over Mullum car park deal

F

ormer mayor Michael Lyon has ‘taken issue’ with last week’s reporting of the terms of the nonbinding agreement between Council and NSW government development agency Landcom over a much used Mullum carpark. They plan to turn it into ‘affordable housing’ with shop fronts, and have faced fierce public opposition. The Echo published details last week around confidential documents surrounding the proposed $1 sale after a successful freedom of information request. Cr Lyon said, ‘Firstly, the terms of agreement are nonbinding. It is an agreement to negotiate the potential sale of the land to a community housing provider. ‘No agreement has been reached as of today, nor has any sale been agreed’. Hans Lovejoy: This information was included in The Echo article – it states: ‘On May 4, 2022, a non-binding proposal (Annexure B – Term Sheet) was signed between Landcom and Council.’ The Echo agrees that the non-binding agreement is the agreed, intended terms of sale. Mayor Sarah Ndiaye has stated the development will go ahead, no matter what. Cr Lyon said, ‘Secondly, should a sale be agreed, the consideration for the car park land is not $1, but would include the transfer of the freehold title of two of the units to Council. The headline and front page are deliberately misleading, with this very relevant detail not covered until the final paragraphs of the story on page 5’. HL: Those shocked by the low sale price can read details like that on pages 1 and 4.

A 3D rendering of Landcom and Council’s proposal for the entrance of Mullumbimby at 57 Station Street. Image by resident Luis Cristia Cr Lyon said, ‘Thirdly, the potential sale would not be to another government agency, but to an accredited Community Housing Provider(CHP)’. HL: In the first paragraph it states this: ‘…Byron Shire Council (BSC) agreed with government development agency Landcom to sell the much-used Mullumbimby carpark at 57 Station Street to a yet-to-be confirmed community housing provider (CHP) for $1’. ‘Fourthly, as also outlined in the both the 2022 and 2023 term sheets, and in accordance with Council resolution, the land would have a requirement placed on title that ensures it is used for the purposes of affordable housing in perpetuity. So to claim that this is at odds with something I said, as you do in the article, betrays a complete lack of understanding of what is going on. Whether there was to be a lease, or if the land was to be sold, the use of the site must be for affordable housing in perpetuity’. HL: It is correct that initially the first term sheet says, ‘housing is to be retained for affordability over the long-term through either a long-term (50-year+) lease or transfer of title to a CHP to manage’. The second

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term sheet from August 3, 2023 says, ‘Freehold will be transferred to the CHP. The transaction documents will include an appropriate mechanism to secure the use of the property for affordable housing in perpetuity.’ This is only what the public have knowledge of after those documents were released, and The Echo has sought the release of others which remain confidential. ‘Finally, the 2022 term sheet talks about either a lease or sale to a CHP, however Council’s position at the time, all debated in open session and on the public record, was to offer a 50-year lease when it made the decision to proceed with the development. ‘A period of time followed where the market was tested, and it was determined that even a 99-year lease was not feasible due to CHP equity requirements, and so Council resolved to sell the land as part of the realisation of the project. ‘While this decision was made during confidential session, due to commercial in-confidence information relating to the tenderers, the decision on the development itself had been made in open session at the end of a public debate over a two-year period leading up to the first

vote on this site in 2022. ‘To say therefore that there has been ‘closed-door’ meetings ‘throughout the process’ is untrue and unfair, because the first meeting held in confidential session was over three years down the road of the process, after several Council resolutions that were held in open session. The decision on the development itself, at that site, was taken in open session with full transparency’. HL: To insist that Council have provided open and transparent governance does not accord with many motions passed which tabled confidential reports, along with multiple closed door workshops. From 2022, here are a few: Motion 22-413 from 25 August 2022 says Council will ‘assure the community that there will be regular consultation at relevant stages in the project (Balson/Ndiaye)’. At the 27 April 2023 meeting, Council tabled a ‘Confidential Evaluation Report’. At the 22 June 2023 meeting, Council resolved (24-252) to update the agreement with Landcom and to proceed with a revised request for tender. The agenda and minutes report were confidential. At the 23 May, 2024 meeting, Council resolved to sell the land to the project’s preferred CHP. This was a confidential agenda item. There is also no information available around its financial feasibility. And as the public now knows, The DA was conducted without any input from Council, hence the project had to be withdrawn owing to a multitude of issues, one of which is the discovery of sewer mains beneath the subject site.

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Sport Supported by Newy Store

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LƖīĕ ſĕƆƖōƐƆ Īşſ Ʒſşŕ ëƷ şëſĎſĶĎĕſƆ ëƐ ŔëŇşſ ŇƖŕĶşſ ƆƖſǕŕī ĕưĕŕƐ Marc Smith Byron Bay Boardriders is celebrating an outstanding showing at the 2025 Cooee Grommet Pro, held on the Sunshine Coast from 13 to 15 December. A large and enthusiastic group of our junior members made the trip north to compete, and they returned home with some truly impressive results that the entire Byron Bay surfing community can be proud of. The Cooee Grommet Pro is one of the biggest and most competitive junior surfing events in Australia, attracting the country’s best young surfers across multiple age divisions. This year’s event was blessed with powerful, high-quality waves at Coolum Beach, providing

a challenging but exciting stage for the next generation of surfing talent to test themselves against the best.

her way through the field, defeating the boys to claim first place in the U8 mixed division, and then backed it up with an impressive fourth place finish in the U10 girls.

Fun and ĈşŔżĕƐĶƐĶưĕ Byron Bay Boardriders has worked hard in recent years to create an environment that encourages young surfers to push themselves, build confidence, and compete at an elite level while still having fun and supporting each other. That approach was on full display throughout the weekend, with our groms rising to the occasion and delivering standout performances in demanding conditions. One of the highlights of the event was a breakout performance from 7-year-old

Great results all round

(L-R) Rosie Barron, Coco Spierings, Tymen Spierings, Lakey Rae Bell, and Jaya Suhendra were just some the Byron Bay Boardriders who showed off their talent and composure at this year’s Cooee Grommet Pro. Photo supplied Lakey Rae Bell. In waves that were, at times, triple overhead for her, Lakey showed

dşĈëōƆ ƱĶŕ ëĈĈşōëĎĕƆ ëƐ ƐIJĕ ǟǝǟǢ ƖƆ ƆƖſǕŕī ëƱëſĎƆ ‘Mono’ Stewart was named honouree of the Greater Good Lennox Head surfer Award presented Joel Taylor won the by Kennards Hire. Para Surfer of the Stewart reflected Year (Male) Award on his experience while Byron Bay’s captaining the Leihani Kaloha Irukandji Para Team Zoric claimed the at the 2025 ISA Para Stephanie Gilmore Surfing ChampionRising Star Award at Surfing Australia’s ships and expressed awards night held how humbled he Joel Taylor in action at the World Para Surfing is to receive such a on the Gold Coast Championship. Photo supplied earlier this month. prestigious honour. Joel’s highlights ‘I was extremely of his year included a perfect Kaloha Zoric claimed the proud to captain the Australten point ride in Hawaii and a Stephanie Gilmore Rising Star ian team at the ISA World Award, presented by the AIS: second world title at the ISA Para Championships this ‘It feels incredible. I can’t World Para Surfing Champiyear. We finished fourth believe I even got nominated, overall, but the whole team— onship with another perfect ten point ride and the second let alone won! The other especially the women—truly girls are so good,’ she said. highest heat total (19.83) in excelled and did an incred‘I’ve had such an unbelievpara surfing history. ible job,’ Mono said. able year, from the 9.97 at A feature documentary ‘To receive the Greater the Australian Boardriders on Joel ‘screened to rave Good Award is such an reviews at film festivals across Battle Grand Final, to getting honour. I’m humbled to be second at Stab High Japan, Australia and the was named recognised alongside so and now winning this award.’ many inspiring nominees, the Best Surf Film at Byron Recent NSW Hall of Bay Film Festival,’ he said. and proud to be part of the Champions inductee Mark Byron Bay prodigy Leihani adaptive surf community.’ Ross Kendall

incredible courage, composure and skill well beyond her years. She powered

It was an exceptional achievement and a performance that turned plenty of heads. Eight-year-old Coco Spierings also delivered a memorable performance while competing in her first major surf competition. Coco led her U10 girls final right until the closing seconds, only to be narrowly beaten by a last-second buzzer-beater wave. Her second-place finish was an outstanding result and a

clear sign of big things to come for this determined and talented young surfer. The strong results continued across the age groups, with Jaya Suhendra finishing an excellent second place in the U12 boys, Rosie Barron claiming fourth place in the U12 girls, and Tymen Spierings finishing fourth in the highly competitive U14 boys division. Beyond the podium finishes, the club was incredibly proud of the sportsmanship, resilience and support shown by all our competitors throughout the event. Representing Byron Bay Boardriders on a national stage is no small achievement, and every surfer who paddled out did so with courage and commitment.

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One of the winning high school teams with Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye. Photo supplied Ross Kendall

Shoot out highlight

Byron Bay Basketball hosted a ‘finals frenzy’ that included all grand finals and thirdplace playoffs, in every junior division, all played on the one day, 29 November at the Cavanbah Centre. Every game was played in great competitive spirit and true Beez style, culminating in an intense high school boys A-grade; and then primary school A-grade finals.

The atmosphere was electric – supported by the brand new PA system pumping sounds throughout the day. A highlight of the day was the 3-point shoot out. The sharpest of sharp shooters from our high school boys A & B divisions (plus some wildcards) were invited to take part. Gem Eden heated up during his round, taking the competition by racking

up 13 out of a possible 18 points, taking out the $200 cash prize.

Send us your sport stories! We would love to run all kinds of local sport on these pages so please send your photos and stories to sport@echo.net.au.

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Good Taste

Eateries Guide LENNOX HEAD

BILLINUDGEL Rosefina’s Mexican MEXICAN

Thursday/Friday open from 4pm to late Happy Hour 4pm to 5.30pm Saturday 12 to 2.30pm, 5pm to late Sunday 12.30 to 8pm 8/10 Wilfred St, Billinudgel www.rosefinas.place

Lennox Pizza

Rosefina’s is going street-style with BBQ tacos for Sunday lunch

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

MULLUMBIMBY Bangalow Tuckshop Open: Tue for dinner Wed to Sat for lunch and dinner 43 Byron Street, Bangalow bangalowtuckshop.com hello@bangalowtuckshop.com.au @Bangalowtuckshop

Where good food and good times bump into each other and decide to stay for a drink. They’ve taken modern Aussie cuisine, given it a cheeky spin, and packed it with the best locally sourced produce the Northern Rivers has to offer. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Tuckshop offers a dining experience that feels both special and familiar at the same time.

Bacco Wine Bar Opening Hours: Wednesday – Sunday Opening times: 3pm – late Happy Hour: 3 – 5pm Email: bacco.mullumbimby@gmail.com Phone: 0434 450 415 Instagram: @bacco.mullumbimby

BYRON BAY

Bar Henri Latin fusion all-day dining Come and try our new summer menu. Savour our Open: chargrilled anticuchos, indulge in fresh ceviche & Every day (except Wednesday) oysters, or elevate your night with the Roca dining from 6:30am to late experience. Pair it all with a classic Pisco Sour or our best-selling Hot Like Papi cocktail. 14 Lawson St, Byron Bay JUST OPENED: Roca Cabana – our brand new (02) 5642 0149 pool bar in the heart of Byron Bay. @rocabyronbay Follow us to find out more: @roca.cabana www.rocabyronbay.com.au

Roca Byron Bay

Forest Byron Bay Open 7 days Breakfast: 7.30 to 10.30am Lunch on Verandah from 12 to 3pm Dinner: 5.30 to 9pm crystalbrookcollection.com/ byron/forest

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Olivewood Bistro Located at Murwillumbah Golf Club Open Lunch Monday – Sunday

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Threeways of the Valley

Wednesday – Sunday 8am – 3pm (kitchen closes at 2pm, drinks & treats till 3pm) Saturday Evenings Pizza Nights 4:30pm – 7:30pm Friday Specials 4:30 – 9pm See website for upcoming events. 10 Huonbrook Rd, Wilsons Creek 0421 054 484 | www.threeways.store @ threeways_of_the_valley

Lord Byron Distillery We have something for everyone...

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Main Street Open for takeaway daily, 12 midday until dinner. Menu, more details – @mainstreet_burgerbar 18 Jonson Street (02) 6680 8832

Three Blue Ducks

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We warmly welcome Olivewood Bistro to Murwillumbah Golf Club. Locals know Le Ping and Simone from their time running ’White Olive’ where they built a strong reputation for excellent food and warm hospitality.

Nestled in the lush Wilsons Creek rainforest, Threeways is a vibrant, familyfriendly cafe where nature, nourishment, and community meet. Enjoy seasonal, seed-oil free food, all-day breakfast, woodfired pizza nights, and upcoming Friday events. With Wi-Fi, gluten-free options, and space to relax or play, there’s something for everyone.

CATERING

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Enjoy live music and entertainment in the heart of Mullumbimby.

WILSONS CREEK

Book via our website and celebrate the season. www.nobones.co/whats-on

Distillery & Tiki Bar Open 10am- 5pm Tuesday to Saturday. 4 Banksia Drive, Byron Bay lordbyrondistillery.com.au (02) 8646 4901

About Us: Family-owned and Frenchinspired menu, we serve locally-sourced produce alongside a selection of natural, minimal-intervention wines and carefully curated cocktails.

MURWILLUMBAH

Rainforest views, farm-to-table dining, and a menu showcasing the best of Northern Rivers produce. Forest Byron Bay offers fresh, seasonal dishes and crafted cocktails. Join the Crystalbrook Crowd (it’s free) and save 10% on all food and drinks. From Tuesday to Saturday, indulge in Golden Hour from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Celebrate Christmas at No Bones! Enjoy a vibrant five-course holiday banquet filled with festive flavours and indulgent dishes. Gather your loved ones and let us make your holiday one to remember.

Opening Hours: Wednesday to Friday & Monday: 3pm – late. Tuesday: closed. Saturday & Sunday: 8am – late 20 Burringbar St, Mullumbimby (02) 6684 2306

Your favourite new wine and charcuterie board bar in Mullumbimby. Italian aperitivo in true enoteca style. Buon cibo. Buon vino. Buon amici.

CELEBRATIONS BY LIZ JACKSON

Celebrations Cakes by Liz Jackson

lizzijjackson@gmail.com 0414 895 441 Gluten free and special dietary needs catered for.

‘Make a meal of it’ Add chips and a drink, just $5.

Located at The Farm 11 Ewingsdale Rd. (02) 6190 8966

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

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

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

Good Taste Deal of the Week

Bar Henri, Mullumbiimby LIVE MUSIC THURSDAY’S Happy hour 4–6 $15 Cocktails $10 Schooners $10 House wines 20 Burringbar St, Mullumbimby

18 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

www.echo.net.au

The

Good Life

Christmas is ‘shop-like-a-local’ time at the Mullumbimby Farmers Market With Christmas Day falling on a Thursday, Mullum Farmers Market will have a one-week date change, opening Christmas Eve, Wednesday, 24 December (7am to 11am), and closing Friday, 26 December, for Boxing Day. It’s a chance to shop the way locals do – strolling through 75 stalls of fresh produce and artisan products, with live music in the background and people catching up over breakfast and drinks as they ease into the festive break. A natural starting point is cheese. At Cheeses Loves You, Burringbar cheesemaker Deb Allard crafts an extensive range of cheeses using milk from the Jersey cows she and her husband, Jim, raise. Her offering includes hard cheeses, brie- and camembert-style wheels, plus fresh favourites like mozzarella and stracchino, alongside haloumi, ricotta, mascarpone, feta and quark. Cultured butter, yoghurt, buttermilk and crème fraîche round out the stall. Kefir remains the best seller, and for Christmas, Deb is producing pepper Romano wheels and mixed cheese packs. Just along the aisle, Nimbin Valley Dairy delivers beautifully made goat’s cheeses that let the milk speak for itself. Standouts include St Billie, a surface-ripened lactic goat cheese inspired by crottin; and the Washed Goat, lightly brined for 7 to 10 days to develop deeper, savoury, umami flavours.

From there, it’s easy to build the rest of the table. A red, white or even a festive brandy from Jilly Wines sets the tone for long afternoons, followed by award-winning smoked fish, rillettes and a new smoked fish salad from The Bay Smokehouse. JJ Seafood provides fresh prawns and fish, with oysters from Brunswick Valley Oysters adding classic coastal flavour. For a more traditional Christmas lunch, choose pastureraised chicken from Misty Creek Farm as the main event. Finish on a sweet note with Christmas mince pies from Sequel Bakery, topped with fresh summer berries, and Christmas lunch is all but sorted. You’ll also find locally-grown vegetables and all the festive essentials: fresh fruit, nuts, sourdough, fresh pasta, mushrooms, rice, flours, legumes, jams, relishes, sauces, fresh and dried pasta, olives, pastries, baked goods, sprouts and just about anything else you could possibly need for a Christmas feast.

Mullum Farmers Market: Wednesday 24 Dec, not Friday 26 Dec

Mullum Farmers Market is open on Wednesday, 24 December from 7am to 11am for one week only. Mullum Farmers will be closed on Friday, 26 December, Boxing Day, and return to every Friday from 2 January.

Holiday mode starts at The Tav Stone & Wood supporting disabled surfers

The gin garden at the Ocean Shores Tavern hits the spot this summer! If you’re sliding into Christmas with full ‘I’m not cooking another damn thing’ energy, The Tav is ready for you. Summer at Ocean Shores Tavern is built for keeping life easy. No prep, no dishes, no hosting panic. Just breezy afternoons, cold drinks and food that hits the spot every single time. Out back, our big sunny deck looks straight over the green and somehow always catches the perfect sea breeze. Inside, the air con is humming, the beers are frosty, the cocktails are dangerously drinkable and the whole place has that relaxed holiday vibe where shoulders drop and time slows down. Feeding the herd? Our Meat + Mingle Burger Bar & Smokehouse is your summer

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lifesaver, serving lunch and dinner seven days a week. Expect stacked burgers, slow-smoked meats, and crunchy fried snacks you’ll end up guarding with your life, fresh salads for when you’re trying to be good and kids’ meals even the fussiest small humans will demolish. It is the ultimate fix for anyone refusing to turn the oven on until February. Parents, this is your moment. Our fully-fenced playground means the kids run wild while you enjoy something cold and delicious. And if you feel like stirring up some friendly rivalry, the pool tables are always ready for a showdown. Got family in town and absolutely no desire to host again? Our BBQ packs are your

cheat code. We prep all the marinated meats and sides so it feels like a backyard party minus the work. Grill together in the riverside beer garden or hire one of our chefs to cook the whole feast while you entertain and take the credit. And when New Year’s Eve wraps and you wake up needing shade, greasy food and a strong Bloody Mary, our New Year’s Day Come Down Backyard Bash is your reset. Sunshine, rugs on the grass, bangin’ tunes, smash burgers, lawn games and maybe a cheeky water pistol fight. Q This summer, take the easy

road – start holiday mode at The Tav. Ocean Shores Tavern, 84 Rajah Road, Ocean Shores. oceanshorestavern.com.au

The Ingrained Foundation was established in 2018 receiving $1 for every hectolitre of Stone & Wood beer produced, it has donated more than $2.8 million across Australia through grants, fundraising, emergency relief and direct support. During the 2025 Ingrained Foundation grants round, the Disabled Surfers Association (DSA) Far North Coast Branch applied for funding to purchase a custom-fitted trailer essential for transporting specialised surf equipment and adapted wheelchairs. While the application was unsuccessful, the need remained critical to ensuring people with disability across the Far North Coast of NSW could

continue to experience the joy and freedom of surfing. At the same time, Stone & Wood was announced as the official beer partner for all major World Surf League (WSL) events in Australia. With a deep connection to surf culture and a shared commitment to community, the Stone & Wood team were inspired to find another way to support the Disabled Surfers Association. That spark led to the creation of the ‘Win a Twin Fin 2025’ raffle – offering surf fans the chance to win one of five iconic twin-fin surfboards. Each board has been handshaped by renowned Australian shapers and ridden by professional surfers at recent

WSL events, making them a true piece of surfing history. Importantly, every dollar raised through the raffle will go directly to the Disabled Surfers Association Far North Coast Branch to fund the purchase of the much-needed custom trailer. Q Grab your tickets today for

a chance to win a legendary surf board and give the gift of an unforgettable wave! https://www.raffletix.com.au/ winatwinfin2025

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ The Byron Shire Echo 19

BYRON ARTS & INDUSTRY ESTATE Creative, small-batch, hand-made, state-of-the-art, artisan, innovative, ethical, imaginative, hyper-local, leading-edge, quality, EXPLORE premium, master, handcrafted, accomplished, cutting edge, organic, designer, eclectic DISCOVER ingenious, beautiful, unique, sensational, avant-garde, original, visionary, inspirational, expert, brilliant, gifted, ahead of the curve. YOU wonderful, compelling, THERE experiencing, witnessing, engaging. NOW.

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TEMPLE OF THE SUN

Temple of the Sun is a modern expression of ancient craft - jewellery inspired by history, shaped by nature, and made to last. Each piece gathers meaning as it is worn, evolving into an heirloom that holds deep connection while honouring sentiment and beauty.

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Temple of the Sun designs are crafted with care and intention, using ethically-sourced materials.

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3 Ti-Tree Place templeofthesun.com.au @templeofthesunjewellery

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ANTICO EMPORIO

The well-known and loved Antico Emporio in Eltham has recently opened up a second location in the Byron Arts & Industry Estate. A great little space now stocking a wide range of art, curios, antiques and collectables.

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Opening hours 10am to 4pm, Monday to Saturday, or by appointment.

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12 Tasman Way 0420 926 409 anticoemporio.com.au @antico_emporio anticoemporio@outlook.com

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EYE OF HORUS

Step into the award-winning Eye of Horus concept store and discover clean, conscious beauty, perfect for Christmas gifting.

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4/4 Banksia Drive @ourplacebyron

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STEW

Stew is a creative community hub bringing together good people doing good things. We offer spaces for artist-run workshops and a thoughtfully curated store showcasing work by local artists, designers and brands. A home for creativity and connection, STEW is a new focal point for the community to discover, make and celebrate local talent. Check out our Insta for late-night shopping, events, weekend market info and upcoming workshops. 18 Acacia Street Instagram: @stew__bb www.stew-bb.com Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10-3pm

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SOLE BROS, BYRON BAY

Call now and they can post in time for Christmas delivery.

Monday–Friday, 9.30am–4pm 4/1 Boronia Place eyeofhoruscosmetics.com @eyeofhoruscosmetics

1/20 Brigantine Street 02 6685 5420 @solebrosbyronbay

BYRON BAY CAMPING & DISPOSALS

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Summer’s well and truly here and the temperature is perfect for all those outdoor activities. Byron Bay Camping and Disposals have most of your bait and tackle needs, with brands in store like Okuma, Zman, Halco, Platypus and Jaz lures.

1/1 Tasman Way www.byron-camping.com.au 0439 212 153

20 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

Are you a local creative? Let them showcase your art for free.

Mention the ECHO ad in-store to receive a 15% local discount (T&Cs apply).

They also have a huge range of snorkelling and spearfishing gear for those who prefer spending their time in the water.

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Our Place is Byron's retail, events and creative hub. They host vintage clothing markets with local vendors, wellness sessions, and creative workshops. They stock Salty Dagger, Jim Banks surfboards, garments, surf essentials and more. A space for connection and discovering local brands in Byron’s arts precinct.

Refill or recycle your beauty essentials and explore our curated range of cosmetics and skincare.

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OUR PLACE BYRON

The best shoe shop in Australia is right here in Byron A&I estate and Christmas bargains abound. Now 10 to 60% off, Birkenstocks make great gifts. Get the size and wrap them up or call the store for help. At these prices the whole family can get a pair or two!

Book a personalised festive makeup lesson, perfect for events and parties. Gift cards are available in-store.

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BODHI LIVING

Bodhi Living showcases a carefully-curated collection of furniture, homewares, rugs and lighting, sourced both locally and globally. They have introduced a range of collections designed in-house, including sofas, dining tables and seating using natural and sustainable materials such as rattan and wood. The brand encapsulates the freedom of spirit, and the soul of the individual, as represented through their home. Shop 1/18 Centennial Circuit bodhiliving.com.au @bodhi.living

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www.echo.net.au

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+ HABITAT PRECINCT

THE LARDER BYRON BAY

The Larder Byron Bay has been serving the Byron Shire and surrounding areas since 1998. They make entertaining easy, with options for drop-off, buffet, or full service for weddings, festivals, birthdays, wakes, workshops and corporate events. Their menus cater to all tastes.

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Byron Bay’s home for dynamic, musicdriven movement. They blend hot pilates, strength training, reformer and grounding yoga to build power, mobility and confidence. The warm, welcoming studio and expert instructors create an uplifting atmosphere for every level. Feel energised, challenged and fully reset—every class, every time, in a space designed to make you feel amazing.

Get ready for Christmas with their festive feast menu. 1/12 Bayshore Drive www.thelarder.com.au catering@thelarder.com.au 02 6680 8644

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NIMBUS CO BYRON

Nimbus Co is a sanctuary dedicated to your well-being, where modern wellness meets natural harmony. New clients can enjoy their state-of-the-art wellness studio in Byron Bay with their 'New to Nimbus offering': 50-minute standard sauna session $35. 50-minute, private large sauna session $39. 50-minute private hold cold contrast session $45. Towels, filtered water and refreshments are provided.

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8 Grevillea Street heatbyronbay.com.au

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THE SALVOS STORE 17

The Salvos Store in Byron Bay is located at 5 Banksia Drive in the Arts & industry Estate. This great store has an amazing selection of women’s, men’s and kids' clothing, including a vibrant boutique clothing section. The store also stocks mattresses and smaller furniture items.

Get out of town! Visit Habitat where you can shop, eat, drink, and recharge, all in one place. They’ve carefully curated every flagship store, independent boutique and fashion label, so you can find the iconic style you’d expect from Byron, hassle-free. Plus, they’ve got all your favourite health and wellness studios and good food galore.

The store is open Monday to Saturday. Pop in and see the friendly team.

4/17 Tasman Way www.nimbusco.com.au

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HEAT PILATES & YOGA

5 Banksia Drive

EBIYA – JAPANESE EATERY

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Nourishing Japanese food for your everyday life, Ebiya brings authentic yet approachable Japanese flavours to Byron Bay. A bright and relaxed dining space inspired by the everyday charm of Japanese shokudo culture, serving nourishing bento, sushi rolls and deli salads made with local ingredients.

MR VINTAGE

How you dress is representative of your personality. You are unique, one in seven billion, born out of the death of a star.

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Life’s too short to wear boring clothes. Recycled and vintage clothing sourced from around the world.

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OiTO HEAD SPA

Discover the new flagship OiTO Head Spa at Habitat, Byron Bay.

3/6 Centennial Circuit 02 6680 8640 @mrvintageaustralia

A serene, Brazilian-inspired spa dedicated to scalp health and beautiful hair. Enjoy double-cleanse rituals, steam therapy, the calming Water Halo and soothing massage techniques, all powered by OiTO’s nutrientrich Brazilian formulas. Strengthen roots, reduce hair fall and restore shine.

Shop 1 / 6 Tasman Way @ebiyakitchen ebiyakitchen@gmail.com

BYRON ARTS & INDUSTRY ESTATE

Healthy scalp. Stronger hair. Byron’s new sanctuary. Shop 11/ 1 Porter Street Bookings www.oitoheadspa.com.au

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Practicing exclusively in family law, Richardson Murray offers legal advice and guidance in matters of separation, divorce, parenting arrangements and property settlements. With considerable experience in all matters of relationship breakdown, including domestic and family violence, Richardson Murray are known for their compassionate approach and commitment. Their dedicated team aims to deliver the best possible outcomes for clients. 42 Parkes Avenue www.richardson-murray.law

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HABITAT PRECINCT

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RICHARDSON MURRAY LAW

BYRON FAMILY LAW

Byron Family Law is a boutique family law firm established in Byron Bay. Through collaborative and resolution-focused practices, they support clients to separate more kindly and to rebuild following divorce or separation. They work in collaboration with local counsellors, conveyancers, accountants, mediators, and health and wellness professionals to support you and your family to not only survive, but thrive following a separation. 18 Parkes Avenue 02 6687 2774 byronfamilylaw.com.au

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'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ The Byron Shire Echo 21

Ma ng SPACES

Kоpak Live in a Konpak home, built for the changing seasons of life. Based in Murwillumbah, Konpak designs and builds compact, architecturally considered tiny homes made for modern living. Whether you’re seeking a backyard rental, multi-generational living solution, or just a simpler lifestyle, Konpak offers functional, beautiful dwellings that don’t compromise on quality. Each home is locally built and delivered ready to live in which means no on-site construction stress. Our team works closely with you to customise your space and make the most of every square metre. Big on lifestyle, small in size, Konpak is about building smarter, not bigger. 300 Lundberg Dr, South Murwillumbah (by appointment only) Call Cody: 0434 272 353 konpak.com.au @konpak_homes

When y r

Great fts at Eden at Byrо

r-cо f ls, make

With families gathering for the Christmas break in the Northern Rivers, the last thing anyone wants is air-conditioning failure in the summer heat. Artisan Air has built its reputation on being the repair specialists who keep homes comfortable when it matters most.

Eden at Byron is full of great gifts for all the special people in your life.

The company’s expertise lies in understanding that most airconditioning issues are repairable. From refrigerant leaks to compressor failures, their experienced technicians respond quickly with precision diagnostics, restoring cool comfort so families can focus on quality time together rather than sweltering indoors.

There are beautiful plants for all positions, including bonsai, bromeliads, orchids, water lilies, Venus Flytraps and other carnivorous plants.

This repair-focused approach saves customers significant money while reducing environmental impact. When air-conditioning troubles threaten holiday gatherings this summer, savvy Northern Rivers homeowners know exactly who to call — the repair experts at Artisan Air.

There’s the best range of fruit trees on the north coast, including lychees, blueberries, grapes, citrus, mangoes, feijoas, avocadoes, chillis, and tropical stone fruit and apples.

(02) 6680 9394 hello@artisanair.com.au www.artisanair.com.au

And there are gorgeous living Christmas trees, as well as red poinsettias, the classic Christmas flower. The great selection of plants is complemented by a fabulous range of pots and premium hand tools, watering cans, secateurs and gloves, making it easy to find the perfect gift. With complimentary gift wrapping, and gift vouchers available, there’s no better place to do your Christmas shopping. 140 Bangalow Rd, Byron Bay shop@edenatbyron.com.au Phone: (02) 6685 6874

Swap a Bo le As we head into the festive season, the Swap a Bottle team extends warmest wishes for a safe, joyful, and prosperous holiday period.

service, reliable delivery, and a team that genuinely cares.

This time of year is a perfect erfect reminder of the power of supporting local businesses esses and making the switch has never been easier. By choosing local suppliers for your gas needs, you’re not only investing in your community, but also ensuring faster

Y r local window legends * Christmas e tiо *

LLet’s celebrate the season by keeping it local and keeping it simple. 10 Kite Street, South Murwillumbah Free call 1300 727 013 swapabottlegas.com

Did you know all the mattresses at Beds R Us are made right here in Australia?

Working Windows specialise in repairing and replacing windows, doors, fly screens and security screens, helping homeowners stay cool, comfortable and bug-free throughout the long Northern Rivers summer. Whether you’re dealing with sticky timber windows, worn rollers, torn fly screens or doors that no longer close properly, Working Windows restore them so they work smoothly again. With over ten years’ experience across timber, aluminium and uPVC, they deliver high-quality, long-lasting and ecofriendly results for local homes. They’re a small business built on reliable workmanship, friendly service and keeping our community’s homes working at their best.

With S Swap a Bottle, changing to a tru trusted local gas company is as ssimple as a phone call, just friendly, frie dependable support right rig around the corner!

Sl p er w h Beds R Us Byrо Bay

Jake and Toby at Working Windows are flat-out for the season with January bookings now open.

22 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

e right call

When you shop at Beds R Us Byron Bay, you’re not just buying a mattress, you’re investing in Australian craftsmanship, local jobs, and your best night’s sleep. Their Sleepmaker and Sleepyhead mattresses are proudly made in Australia using innovative comfort technologies designed to keep you cool, supported, and well-rested.

Book for January with Jake or Toby Toby: 0405 793 994 Jake: 0435 506 465 workingwindows1@gmail.com www.workingwindows.com.au

By choosing local, you’re helping our community thrive. You’re supporting Aussie families, reducing environmental impact, and getting premium quality that’s built to last. Visit them at 16 Brigantine Street — their friendly team is here to help you find your perfect mattress. Let them help you sleep better. 16 Brigantine Street, Arts & Industry Estate (02) 6685 5212

www.echo.net.au

Crossword by Stephen Clarke

Soapbox www.echo.net.au/soap-box

#87

Survival of the Shameless

MANDY

N O LA N

Gratitude and thanks to readers for their continuing appreciation, with warm wishes for a lush and loving, fabulous and funny, safe and stimulating seasonal smorgasbord…

CAPRICORN THE GOAT www.echo.net.au

‘S

STARS BY LILITH

’S

Mandy Nolan

urvival of the shameless’. I heard that term this morning in a BBC podcast I was listening to with Dutch historian Rutger Bregman, who is calling for a ‘moral revolution’. It was one of those simple phrases that landed in my body. My sense of the world, of my morality has always been instinctual rather than strictly intellectual. When something hits me as a ‘truth bomb’ I feel it. My throat tightens, I get goosebumps, I have this sense of ‘Aha!’. I felt the need to think deeply about the statement. This subversion of the Darwinian theory clearly articulates the future trajectory of a humanity that copies itself not by outrunning predators, but by becoming a predator, someone not averse to opportunism and corruption. It’s sociopathy in action. Survival of the shameless. Is compassion about to become extinct? It was 5.15am on my way to the gym. The words stuck in my brain like a prickle. Later that morning a story flashed on my newsfeed. The Facebook post by the Daily Mail used an unrelated photo of Chris Hemsworth and Eva Pataky superimposed over an image of Byron Bay. This is clickbait. So I clicked. The story had nothing to do with the Hemsworths, it was about real estate. The header for the article was ‘The “Golden Grid”: Is Byron’s property market taking off again?’ Oh FFS, not that again. It made me feel sick. That is shameless. Flagrant speculation. This is not a thing. It’s not news. This is a story ABOUT money, to other people WITH money, hoping to make MORE money. This is shamelessness in action. And it completely omits the other boom industry here. Homelessness. More and more people are living in rental stress. More and more people are spending nearly all their income to rent substandard accommodation. $400pw for a garage. $800

In Bethlehem, where the property market was taking off, Mary, Joseph and Jesus were rough sleepers.

for a studio. Oh, and can you move out for summer? We’re renting it for $10k a week… Survival of the shameless. Yuck. Sometimes the story in the story is the story that’s NOT being told. The absence of the shadow narrative. Like, there’s more people who have to use Link to Home - staying in 2-star hotels that now enjoy full occupancy, but there is no way forward for these people in crisis. Except for more crises. That story doesn’t look good in a real estate ad. No one wants blood on their hands when they’ve shelled out millions. But it’s not the Hemsworth Effect. It’s crazy and unkind to make one couple the poster image for something they never caused. Let’s call it what it is. The Capitalism Effect. The Real Estate Effect. The Using Housing as Investment Effect. The Short Term Holiday Letting Effect, the Greed Effect. The Bad Government Policy Effect – via a tax system with a Favour The Wealthy and Send Ordinary People to the Street Effect

That in a nutshell is ‘survival of the shameless’. Because these stories of multi-million dollar property booms aren’t something to celebrate. They are something we should be ashamed of. Because the higher the needle on the ‘dollarometer’ goes, the higher the number of people sleeping in their cars. The more people feel they don’t belong because there is no longer a place for them. In a wealthy society, full of empty houses, empty rooms and what can only be empty hearts, that is shameless. And it’s Christmas. A time to reflect on the Christian story that forms the dominant cornerstone of our cultural beliefs. In Bethlehem, where the property market was taking off, Mary, Joseph and Jesus were rough sleepers.

Q The Echo’s coverage of political issues will remain as comprehensive and fair as it has ever been, outside this opinion column which, as always, contains Mandy’s personal opinions only.

Cryptic Clues

Quick Clues

ACROSS

ACROSS

1. Marksman finds medical waste on nose (12) 10. Go around with false lover, nabbing a Tesla perhaps (7) 11,27. Islanders check out novelist (7,7) 12. Beginnings of acute psychotic/ neurotic episodes associated with sleep disorder (5) 13. Sort of ideal pick-me-up after lap dancing (8) 15. Disappointing outcome of caper at large – really large! – screen venue (10) 16. Reflection in pools outside capital city (4) 18. Senior policeman at married quarter has little money (4) 20. While randomly hoarding Echoes, Brian regularly ignored means of disposal (7,3) 22. Essentially agreed to representative perhaps getting recall (8) 24. Lady with a song (5) 26. Crooks expose veteran broadcaster (7) 27. See 11 across 28. Cleaner stacks blubber (7,5)

1. Expert user of guns (12) 10. Spin around a central point (7) 11. His Majesty (7) 12. Temporary cessation of breathing (5) 13. Non-romantic in nature (8) 15. Disappointing end after build-up (10) 16. Capital of Norway (4) 18. Ten-cent American coin (4) 20. Mobile refuse container (7,3) 22. Keep in mind (8) 24. Festive song (5) 26. Banishes or forbids (7) 27. Author of David Copperfield (7) 28. Flue cleaner (7,5)

DOWN 2. Pauper in retreat to reform (4-3) 3. Cleaner, one in violation of trust (8) 4. Large number butchered (4) 5. Old soldier at front, getting crook after cocaine with dodgy date, wavered (10) 6. Times provides cover for IRA revolutionary, which is characteristic (5) 7. Decisions on steps to overcome first signs of legal impediments (7) 8. Random sort of inquiry into criminal organisation computer network infiltrates by mistake (5-3-5) 9. ‘Scary movie’, historian said to mind-reader! (13) 14. Geishas assembled outside hotel, working at peak visiting time (4,6) 17. Bishop, not participating in climb over church, gets lower guaranteed source of income (5,3) 19. Microclimate disaster dodged by 24 (me-too!) (7) 21. Southeast Asian blood group serum, originally experimental, being distributed (7) 23. I’m setting up friend from France somewhere in Florida (5) 25. Bear heading off to whirlpool (4)

DOWN 2. Financially embarrassed person (4-3) 3. Dependence (8) 4. Large number (4) 5. Swung back and forth (10) 6. Distinguishing characteristic (5) 7. Judicial decisions (7) 8. Experimental method (5-3-5) 9. Freudian therapist (13) 14. Peak tourist period (4,6) 17. Reliable source of income (5,3) 19. Imitative in nature (7) 21. From Myanmar (7) 23. Florida coastal city (5) 25. Circular water current (4)

Last week’s solution #86 P A C S M S P S T O A S T R I S T R E T T O W O A U A N A O S T R U D E L V I E W I N G L S D S E E A I S M U G D E L U S I O N A L E A K S I D E F I N I T E A R T I C L E R T A O L E X T R A M U R A L N O E L E G A H A E I O U N C L A M P B Y H E A R T A M I M H G S O O B B L I G A T I D U N C E D Y N A C N S Y

■ If you would like to provide any feedback to Stephen Clarke about his crosswords please email: crosswordfeedback@echo.net.au

ARIES: If festive frictions send you straying towards the frayed-temper zone, go easy on the stimulants and choose cruise control rather than arguing. There’ll be differences of opinion, but as Aries Maya Angelou advises: If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, then change your attitude.

CANCER: Take life’s little surprises more objectively, less personally this week; don’t let someone else’s mood affect your attitude. Balance ferocious socialising with time in or near the ocean, which always revives water signs. Consider taking a mini-breakation to do the things you used to enjoy before life got so busy.

LIBRA: If this week brings unruly attitudes, wayward behaviour or radical variations of your celebratory expectations, understanding works better than outrage and humour than hurt feelings. Try channelling Libran spokesperson Yogi Amrit Desai’s advice: Do everything with so much love that you never want to do it any other way.

CAPRICORN: With the planetary trinity of sun, Venus and Mars in your sign singing Happy Birthday Capricorn, this is your week. If others, whose week it isn’t, make waves, you might want to consider relinquishing micro-managing and letting them do it their way - which after all means less work for you.

TAURUS: Moderation’s not your favourite virtue, but do balance this week’s rich festive fare with the occasional leafy green, because digestive stress stimulates liverish (read irritable) behaviour and this week needs peacemakers, not agitators. If situations heat up well, you’re an earth sign - go cool down in the great outdoors.

LEO: Overheating on any level’s your biggest no-no this week, because you fabulous fixers need a cool head, calm heart and advanced leadership skills to oversee the rejigging of plans that may go haywire. If this season’s celebrations differ from your usual traditions, make that a good thing by creating new rituals.

SCORPIO: Your starmap suggests Scorpio’s humanitarian assignment for this week is assisting everyone, including your good self, to enjoy whatever state of divine disorder happens to be occurring. To seek out niches of goodwill and peace on earth. To minimise stress, maximise pleasure and celebrate midsummer’s rich and fruitful bounty.

AQUARIUS: With a week of merrymaking ahead, safe driving and the dedicated practise of kindness are essential. Don’t triple book. Keep your mind on what you’re doing rather than a dozen other things. The moon’s in your quirky sign of surprises for the leadup to the x-event, so allow for the unexpected.

GEMINI: The forecast for this year’s festivities isn’t without the usual surprises. You’re an air sign, so soothe frayed neurons by getting plenty of the fresh variety. As Gemini artist Michael Leunig observed: Love one another and you will be happy. It’s as simple and as difficult as that.

VIRGO: It’s time to start thinking about kicking back and celebrating what you’ve achieved. And what you’re not going to. Aim for divine carelessness this week. Use your brilliant ability to simplify by adopting a truly radical approach: Do as little as possible and enjoy as much as you can.

SAGITTARIUS: Besides overextension, your perennial nemesis, this week’s biggest challenge is refraining from offering unsolicited opinions. Next biggest is not getting cranky with people who do offer them. That said, with Mercury sending your happy-go-lucky social life into orbit you’ll be wired, fired, inspired, and quite frequently desired.

PISCES: After two and a half years of taskmaster Saturn in your sign maturing you like fine vintage wine, you’ll easily blitz this week’s odd squabble, seasonal inconvenience or relational hiccup by remembering that blessed are the flexible, for they shall go with the flow – especially during the Christmas Pisces moon.

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ The Byron Shire Echo 23

Festive S son

The perfect gift... Wattlebee Baby Beautiful essentials for bump, baby and beyond Wattlebee Baby is the Northern Rivers only boutique baby store with everything in one place. Families can explore a curated range of maternity wear, postpartum care, baby clothing, feeding essentials, prams, cots, car seats, toys and gifts. As a local family-owned business, they proudly support Australian and Northern Rivers makers and choose products that are practical, beautiful and future focused. Wattlebee Baby was created to give local families a trusted place to find the essentials they need close to home. Shop 8, Ballina Central, 44 Bangalow Road, Ballina 0412 061 002 @wattlebeebaby www.wattlebeebaby.com.au

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From Bump to Baby and Beyond

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Uppababy Stroller Offer Up Purc Purchase any Uppababy stroller before ʍʋʨ ÚÐÚĕÏÚĹʧ·ĖÖʧðÚŅʧ·ʧïĹÚÚʧ ĶĶ·Ï·ÏťʧÏÚŞŞťʧ Ðĝĝď ÐĝĝďÚĹʭʧ}ÚĹïÚÐŅʧïĝĹʧĽŊĕĕÚĹʧï·ĕûďťʧ·ÖŞÚĖŅŊĹÚĽʭ

Christmas Give Giveaway ĶÚĖÖʧ˳ʌʋʋʧûĖʧĽŅĝĹÚʧÏÚïĝĹÚʧ ʍʋʨ ÚÐÚĕÏÚĹʧ·ĖÖʧðĝʧûĖʧŅ÷ÚʧÖĹ·şʧ ŅĝʧşûĖʧĝŊĹʧ ÷ĹûĽŅĕ·ĽʧðûŞÚ·ş·ťʭʧ ¥ûĖĖÚĹĽʨÖĹ·şĖʧʍʍʧ ÚÐÚĕÏÚĹʭ

1st Prize: Mother’s Choice ÖĝĹÚʨ ·Ĺʧ Ú·Ņ 2nd & 3rd Prizes: :ûïŅʧ÷·ĕĶÚĹĽ

Gift Vouchers ÷ÚʧĶÚĹïÚÐŅʧðûïŅʧş÷ÚĖʧťĝŊʧÖĝĖ˔ŅʧČĖĝşʧş÷·ŅʧŅĝʧðûŞÚʲ

ş·ŅŅďÚÏÚÚÏ·ÏťʭÐĝĕʭ·Ŋʧʧʧ˞ş·ŅŅďÚÏÚÚÏ·Ïť ÷ĝĶʧʓʧ ·ďďûĖ·ʧ ÚĖŅĹÚʧ ÷ĝĶĶûĖðʧ ÚĖŅĹÚʧʷʧʧʏʏʧ ·Ėð·ďĝşʧ ĝ·Öʮʧ ·ďďûĖ·ʧʧ 24 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

www.balloonaloft.com | @balloonaloftbyronbay www.balloonaloft.com @balloonaloftbyronbay

www.echo.net.au

Christmas Services... Anglican Parish of Byron Anglicans are supporting a growing movement promoting peace throughout our communities. The Anglican churches of All Soul’s Bangalow, St Martin’s Mullumbimby and St Paul’s Byron Bay will be displaying banners promoting ‘Peace on Earth’. Luke Chapter 2, tells of an angel announcing to shepherds the birth of a Saviour, then a crowd of angels proclaim the coming peace on earth. Problems can some times seem so huge that we don’t know what we can do. Seeking ways to know peace in ourselves is a good start. This creates potential for peace to flow through our families, communities and beyond. Our prayer is that we may share a sense of hope which fosters peace and love for all peoples. With every blessing, Byron Anglicans

The Christmas season brings news of great joy, a joy to be shared by the whole people. Only with the JOY-filled HOPE offered by Jesus Christ, is there truly Christmas!

other destabilising aspects of social and economic affairs, His peace and His harmony can be heartfelt in our communities. May that joy-filled hope remain with you forever,

Yet, as we experience the world with all its extraordinary-beauty, its challenges and opportunities, joy-filled hope may not be so soon recognised in our hearts.

And may the New Year 2026 bring many exciting opportunities to serve one another. Happy birthday Jesus, you show us your Light!, Fr David Gilbey, Pastor.

‘Family Christmas Extravaganza’ All Souls’ 1 Ashton Street, Bangalow

7.30am St Thomas’ 21 Fingal Street, Brunswick Heads 9am St Martin’s 38 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby 9am All Souls’ 1 Ashton Street, Bangalow 9am St Paul’s 14 Kingsley Street, Byron Bayy

Holy Spirit Catholic Parish: St Finbarr’s, Byron Bay and St Kevin’s Bangalow.

CHRISTMAS MASS TIMES HOLY SPIRIT CATHOLIC PARISH BANGALOW/BYRON BAY

Christmas Eve 24th December

Christmas Eve 24th December 6pm

Christmas Day 25th December

Holy Spirit and St John’s Catholic Parishes

Christmas reassures us that even in the midst of personal and many

Celebrate C e Christmas wit with th The Anglican Parish of Byron

Christmas Day 25th December

St Kevin’s 5.30pm Catholic Church, Deacon St, BANGALOW

7.30am St Finbarr’s Catholic Church, 50 Tennyson St, BYRON BAY

St Finbarr’s 8pm Catholic Church, 50 Tennyson St, BYRON BAY

9.30am St Kevin’s Catholic Church, Deacon St, BANGALOW

ST FRANCIS XAVIER CATHOLIC PARISH BALLINA CHRISTMAS 2025 MASS TIMES All Welcome Christmas Eve Vigil Mass Times 5.30pm – St Francis Xavier Church, Ballina 7.30pm – St Francis Xavier Church, Ballina

Christmas Day Mass Times 7.30am – Holy Family Church, Lennox Head 9.00am – St Francis Xavier Church, Ballina 11.00am – St Francis Xavier Church, Ballina

Byron Bay Parish Office: 6685 6260 www.echo.net.au

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ The Byron Shire Echo 25

Let’s Go Surfing

Festive S son

Join the Let’s Go Surfing team for an awesome time surfing or stand-up paddle-boarding (SUP) this school holidays. They offer private and group lessons and tours for all ages, as well as a two-hour kids only lesson. Their lessons include all equipment and expert instruction in really small groups. These lessons provide education, maximum fun, and safety, for your kids. They cover the basics from warm-up, to paddling, catching waves and standing, while also catering to intermediate and advanced students (technique refinement and style improvement). Your kids will also learn important surf and safety rules including info on rips, tides, sandbanks and waves. They offer lessons in Byron, Ballina, Lennox and SUP tours on flat water in the Brunswick River and Lake Ainsworth. Open 7 days 8.30am–4.30pm Shop 5, 11 Fletcher St, Byron Bay @letsgosurfingaustralia (02) 6680 9443 letsgosurfing.com.au

The Island Luxe Family A family that shares a passion for travel… for the road less travelled, seeking beauty and inspiration in nature’s artistry and architecture.

Arcaa Store Arcaa’s Byron Bay store is the place to find something truly special for her. Alongside their signature ready-to-wear, the store is home to gifts designed for summer living; towels, hats, jewellery, bags, shoes, sunglasses, incense and more. Each piece chosen for its quality, and timeless appeal, making it effortless to find a gift she’ll love anytime. If you’re not quite sure what to choose, Arcaa’s friendly retail team is there to help curate the perfect piece. And for the woman who prefers to choose for herself, their Gift Cards are an easy, thoughtful option. Located in the heart of the Byron Arts and Industry Estate, Arcaa offers a relaxed shopping experience and a beautiful selection of gifts for the season. Your go-to destination for considered, elevated gifting. 4B/11 Banksia Drive, Byron Bay arcaamovement.co @arcaa_movement

A love of finding old and antique objects characterised by their imperfections; fabrics and textiles that stand the test of time; art and curiosities that tell a story. An aesthetic rooted in a timeless simplicity and a belief that we can experience a holistic sense of the world, and ourselves, through restraint and making considered choices for the way we curate our lives. The Island Luxe ethos redefines luxury, reminding us that space with imperfections shows that nothing furnishes more beautifully and luxuriously than the spirit and the soul, and creating an immersive and transportive experience that mirrors our emotions when we travel. Island Luxe 62 Byron Street, Bangalow info@islandluxe.com.au Island Luxe Tribe 1/11 Marvell Street, Byron Bay tribe@islandluxe.com.au

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26 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

www.echo.net.au

Byron Photo Magic Visit Byron Photo Magic for all your photography needs, including instore or online printing, large-format, canvas printing, photo books and calendars. They have full 35mm/120mm film Colour & BW processing and printing services, batteries, memory cards, camera bags, Fujifilm Instax & Polaroid Cameras, along with the full range of GoPro and accessories. They handle old video tapes to USB. They stock frames, photo albums and an extensive range of Promaster photographic accessories, tripods, filters, binoculars, telescopes and the largest range of 35mm film on the north coast, as well as pre-owned 35mm film cameras. Passport photos are covered professionally instore; call in and see Stephen, Karen, Kristen ,Isabella, Jemma and Bruna. Open Mon-Fri 10am–5pm, Sat (school holidays) 10am–2pm, Sunday/Public Holidays closed www.photomagic.com.au Shop 20, Mercato on Byron, 108-114 4 Jonson Jons Jo nson on St, St, B Byron yron yr on B Bay ay y 02 6685 58 5877 77

WIldBilly Books & BrunsBooks The seaside bookshops WildBilly Books in Byron and BrunsBooks in Brunswick Heads are two vintage-style coastal book havens, where magic becomes something you can hold in your hands. Both stores offer a beautifully created blend of mostly recycled, but also a selection of the latest literature. Believing books deserve more than one life, both stores welcome your pre-loved favourites in return for credit toward the recycled collection. Whether you’re a devoted collector, or a leisurely beach-day browser, BrunsBooks and WildBilly Books invite you to linger, wander, and discover stories as timeless as the tide. Visit instore for Christmas mystery gifts, beautiful gift wrapping and lovely accessories that are the perfect accompaniment to a good book. WildBilly Books: 11 Fletcher Street, Byron Bay BrunsBooks: On Fingal Street, opposite the school 0493 355 719

Beachside Book Havens for Summer reading needs.

A hidden gem, tucked away at 11 Fletcher Street, 50m down from Byron Surf Club and down the paved pathway.

Fingal Street, Brunswick Heads.

www.echo.net.au

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ The Byron Shire Echo 27

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summer THINGS TO DO 0XOOXPELPE\ 3RROV LQ 0XOOXP DQG %DQJDORZ Beyond d Byron B E Bikes Looking for an unforgettable adventure this school holiday break? Beyond Byron E Bikes, located in Mooball - closest to the Byron Bay end of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, offers a fantastic way to explore, with rides designed for ultimate comfort and fun. Their Germanmade e-bikes feature gel seats and puncture-proof tyres, ensuring a smooth journey as you take in stunning natural scenery. Families are well catered for with kids’ e-bikes, tag-a-longs, baby seats, and even dog trailers for furry companions. Riders can enjoy leisurely breaks and plenty of delicious options along the way. Easy online booking at www.beyondbyronebikes.com.au

) )UHVK ƏODYRXUV JRRG YLEHV K ƏO DQG D VSODVK RI VXQVKLQH ORYH HYHU\ GD\ Enjoy the holidays or any day with everyone’s favourite… Yoflo! Byron Bay’s iconic frozen yoghurt and dessert bar. Their self-serve experience is all about creativity, quality ingredients and celebrating our vibrant local community. Independently-created-and-operated in Byron Bay since 2011, Yoflo starts with 100% real natural yoghurt. Treat yourself to local toppings like Brookfarm granola and muesli, honey-roasted locally-grown macadamias, and delicious gluten-free ByronBrownies. Choose from a great selection of fresh cut fruit and finish with a wide range of hot sauces, including local Byron Bay Peanut Butter and macadamia cream. Build your perfect treat, sip on something refreshing or settle in and enjoy a moment that feels as good as it tastes. Lawson Street, Byron Bay Holiday trading hours: Open every day 8am to 9.30pm

RAIL TRAIL E BIKE HIRE

Looking for an unforgettable adventure this school holiday break? Welcome to Mullumbimby Pools, a family-owned and operated business led by the dynamic duo, Jake and Natalie O’Brien. With over three decades of combined experience in the industry, they take pride in being a local establishment that has successfully delivered some of the largest and most intricate pool projects across the region. At Mullumbimby Pools they are not only award-winning pool builders and technicians, they are your partners in creating aquatic havens. Their pool technicians are ready to visit your property throughout the Byron Shire. Whether it’s maintenance, leak detection, repairs, or renovations, our skilled team is dedicated to ensuring the longevity and vitality of your pool. Or, you can visit their shops in Mullumbimby and Bangalow, providing convenient destinations for supplies and parts. MULLUMBIMBY 12 Smith St 02 6684 4846 Mon to Fri: 8.30am to 5pm Saturday: 8:30am to 12pm

BANGALOW Shop 1, 5 Lismore Road 02 6683 4494 Mon to Fri: 8.30am to 5pm Saturday: 8.30am to 12pm

info@mullumpools.com

Go on... treat yourself

COME RIDE WITH THE BEST! • Starting from Mooball (onsite parking) • Puncture proof tyres & gel seats • Most 5-star reviews • $99 for up to 6 hrs hire

Yoflo, Byron’s iconic frozen yoghurt and dessert bar, since 2011.

beyondbyronebikes.com.au 28 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

Located in Lawson Street, just moments from the beach. www.echo.net.au

Hello summer

Summer family fun: Magical Quest at Crystal Castle

t a C l i a st r T a This summer, Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens unveils The Magical Quest – a brand-new crystal adventure for families, running from now until Easter. Children follow a playful map through the Shambhala Gardens, meeting crystal friends, solving riddles and discovering two secret magic words to claim a prize. From now to 26 January, a special Holiday Program offers a daily 11am Guided Tour, 1pm all-ages Crystal Singing Bowls session, 2pm Crystal Meditation and Crystal Singing Bowls at 12pm and 3pm. All included in your entry pass.

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Family Day Passes (2 adults & 2 children) offer a 30% saving Don’t miss an unforgettable day out! Book now: crystalcastle.com.au

Matt the Vinyl Junkie is back with another other five-day five e-day mega record sale in Brunswick Heads. After er a sweatsweattsoaked mid-summer visit to Tokyo, The he Vinyl Junkie has added tonnes of fresh stock ock to the almost 30,000 pieces of vinyl covering ng most genres.There will also be a stack of recently added $5 specials.

tl e

as

The Brunswick Head Heads ds Record Fair

DJs will be on the decks most days so come and have a dig and have a listen. The fairr starts on Saturday, 27 December and runs till Wednesday, 31 December. Open 10am to 6pm every ery day. wick Heads Memorial Hall Fingal Street, Brunswick 10am to 6pm everyday Saturday, 27 December till Wednesday, sday, 31 December @ozvinyljunkie

We build exquisite award-winning swimming pools

Mullumbimby 12 Smith St, Mullum Industrial Estate (02) 6684 4846

Bangalow Shop 1, 5 Lismore Road (02) 6683 4494 M-F: 8:30am–5pm, Sat: 8:30am–12pm info@mullumpools.com

www.echo.net.au

mullumbimbypools.com.au

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summer Stonekin Store is now here in Byron Stonekin’s first store is officially open. Discover their full collection of organic cotton underwear, now available to explore in person. Try on the pieces, feel the fabrics, and explore the fits that have shaped our brand. Visit in store for 10% off your first purchase. The space reflects their ethos: thoughtful design, natural materials, and comfort without compromise. Stonekin Store is open and the team looks forward to welcoming you in store soon. Mon to Fri:10am to 4pm Sat:10am to 1pm 2/97 Centennial Circuit, Arts & Industry Estate 02 6680 7667

Cactus Hill Christmas has arrived at Cactus Hill,ll, the first in their new home, the Bridglands Building uilding in Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby Cactus Hill is fully stocked with the usual gems as well as a few other exciting brands exclusive to Cactus Hill. Pop in to grab some thoughtfully curated table decorations. Or, perhaps it’s time for a tableware restock or a cushion shuffle up? As always, they have what you know and love, such as the Perfume Oils, the Izipizi and home candles for ambiance and fragrance. If your house doesn’t need anything else then spoil yourself, your family or friends. If nothing else then call in just to say and say hi to Saffron, Bianca and Ann for a chat or styling advice. Bridglands Building 69 Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby @cactushillproject

Byron Bay Camping & Disposals Your one-stop shop for Christmas and your next outdoor adventure. If you need sleeping bags, tents, workboots, knives, lighting, kitchenware, stoves, mattresses, rainwear, snorkelling and fishing gear – they have it! Byron Bay Camping & Disposals is a locally-owned-and-operated family business of over 40 years. Located in the Byron Bay Arts and Industry Estate, with plenty of parking available. Come in and meet the team. Their staff will give you friendly, expert advice, no matter whether your next adventure is a campout, bush school, fishing trip, multi-day hike, or you need Christmas present inspiration. 1/1 Tasman Way, Byron Bay 0439 212 153 www.byron-camping.com.au theteam@byron-camping.com.au

• DESIGNER FURNITURE • • CHRISTMAS GIFTS • • DECORATIVE OBJECTS • TEXTILES, ACCESSORIES AND ART Curated in collaboration with local and international artisans.

Visit us at our new location Bridglands Building 69 Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby

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02 5643 9333 home@cactushill.com.au cactushillproject.com @cactushillproject 30 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

www.echo.net.au

Hello summer

Vae Medical Aesthetics

UNWRAP EPIC ADVENTURE THIS CHRISTMAS!

This festive season get event-ready with Vae Medical Aesthetics in Newrybar. Vae offers Broad-Band Light and Moxi Laser, cosmetic injectables, bioremodelling/biostimulating treatments, Rejuran (salmon facial), SkinPen Microneedling, PRP treatments, and Healite LED packages. Vae is a doctor-led-and-owned clinic offering considered and evidence-based skin treatments and rejuvenation in the beautiful ull Byron Bay hinterland. Book in today with one of their lovely female GPs; Dr Jemma Buultjens, Dr Kate Allan and RN Emma Walker. www.vaemedicalaesthetics.com @vaemedicalaesthetics 16 Old Pacific Highway, Newrybar 0422 639 013

Better by Bike Making family adventures easy and fun! Located right at Murwillumbah Railway Station, it's the perfect spott to start your rail trail ride. Recently awarded GOLD at the NSW Tourism Awards for Best Retail, Hire and Service, you're in great hands! The fleet includes premium e-bikes, fat-tyre e-bikes, and awesome family options with tow-behind bikes, child seats, and chariots. Every hire comes with comfy gel seats, puncture-proof tyres, helmets, tunnel lights, locks, and waterproof panniers, everything you need to soak up the scenery ry and enjoy. With full trail support if you need to call us, plus us genuine local insider tips, your rides will be safe, fun, and completely mpletely stressfree! Families have left hundreds of glowing 5-star reviews. views.

$400 off Fatboy e-bikes, offer ends Dec 30. Plus Giant bikes for the whole crew. Fatboy, Ampd Bros & DiroDi fat-tyre e-bikes Snag a used Ampd Bros for $1,995

only 4 left!

Giant & Moustache bikes for kids & weekend warriors Gift vouchers for e-bike hire - a taste of adventure! CHECK OUR RANGE:

Murwillumbah Railway Station Bikes can even be delivered to Byron Bay or the Tweed ed Coast Open seven days

BETTERBYBIKE.COM.AU

BIKE SERVICE & REPAIR SPECIALISTS All bikes serviced by riders who know their stuff. 30+ years & fat-tyre experts. Bookings essential.

‫זדז גגג ז׎ג׎‬ xɖȸɯǣǼǼɖȅƫƏǝ «ƏǣǼɯƏɵ ³ɎƏɎǣȒȇ ȵƺȇ ‫ ו‬ƳƏɵɀ

BYRON BYRON BAY BAY

CAMPING CAMPING & & DISPOSALS DISPOSALS We stock everything you need for your next adventure outdoors

A doctor led and owned skin, laser and cosmetic clinic

theteam@byron-camping.com.au www.echo.net.au

byron bay camping & disposals

N McTavish Surf Shop

Centennial Cct Stone & Wood

We offer Broad Band Light and Moxi Laser, cosmetic injectables including volume, bio-remodelling / bio-stimulating, anti-wrinkle, PRP treatments, hydrafacial, chemical peels and Healite LED packages. We are offering complimentary skin consultations for the month of December! Book in today with one of our lovely female practitioners; Dr Jemma Buultjens, Dr Kate Allan and Emma Walker RN.

Centennial Cct

Ozi Go BP

Ewingdale Rd

Bayshore Dr

phone: shop 1/1 Tasman Way, Byron Bay NSW 2481 www.byron-camping.com.au

Tasman Way

Get your skin summer ready with our team

To Byron >

0422 639 013 • info@vaemedicalaesthetics.com vaemedicalaesthetics www.vaemedicalaesthetics.com The Harvest Precinct, 16 Old Pacific Highway, Newrybar. 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǧǩǬ The Byron Shire Echo 31

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summer January is big at the Brunswick Picture House 2025 was officially the busiest year for Brunswick Picture House and they’re already looking forward to another jam-packed January, all in air-conditioned comfort! They’re flying straight out of the gate from 2 January with the smash hit show Bruns Does Burlesque, which returns dripping with pure glamour for an all-new bumper 3-week summer run, Friday 2 to Sunday 18 January, 2026. As the official home of comedy in the Shire, the lineup will leave you rollicking in the aisles as the superstars of Australian comedy descend in Bruns with all new shows, including Dave Hughes, Tommy Little, Celia Pacquola, Geraldine Hickey, Lloyd Langford and Josh Thomas! You’ll be the first in Australia to hear these jokes before they take their shows on the road. Remember, Friday, 9 to Saturday 31 January, 2026. Tickets for all shows at brunswickpicturehouse.com

Astra Lumina at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Forget everything you know about light shows. Astra Lumina Gold Coast is no ordinary walk in the park - it’s an otherworldly journey where families can explore the magic of the stars and nature intertwined in a symphony of light and sound. Astra Lumina has transformed the beauty of Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary into a cosmic wonderland to explore by night. Created by Moment Factory, the internationally-acclaimed studio behind spectacular productions for Billie Eilish, Madonna, and Disney, this immersive experience marks the first and only Lumina Enchanted Night Walk in the Southern Hemisphere. Proceeds from Astra Lumina directly support Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary’s vital conservation programs and the operation of Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, fostering a deeper connection with nature to inspire wildlife protection for future generations. currumbinsanctuary.com.au 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin, Queensland

a cosmic light and sound experience

THE GOLD COAST’S #1 AFTER-DARK ADVENTURE

THE EXPERIENCE

As the sun sets, head just 10 minutes north of the border into a world of wonder. Gather your friends and family and stroll through an enchanted, multisensory journey that feels worlds away. This world-class night-time experience is one not to miss. 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin (inside Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary)

(07) 5534 1266

BOOK NOW

Bus station nearby Free car parking Ubers available

@AstraLuminaGoldCoast

32 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

@astralumina_gc

www.echo.net.au

www.echo.net.au

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ The Byron Shire Echo 33

Miss Renee Simone and The Byron Bay n Bay Experience are taking over the Byron d intrigue Golf Club for a night of opulence and with a Masquerade Ball. There will be a live jazz trio and 3-course-dinner for or $150 pp or the option of general admission on $95 ormers to experience DJ’s and roving performers as the night culminates on the deck. k. Burlesque show, fire dancers, Tarot readers, photobooth. Dress in black and gold. d.

“AULD LANG SYNE” (SCOTS PRONUNCIATION): IS A SCOTTISH SONG.

IN THE ENGLISH-SPEAKING WORLD IT IS TRADITIONALLY SUNG TO BID FAREWELL TO THE OLD YEAR AT THE STROKE OF MIDNIGHT ON HOGMANAY /NEW YEAR’S EVE.

MASQUERADE BALL AT THE BYRON BAY GOLF CLUB

A NEW YEAR’S YE DAY GATHERING SET TO GATHERIN UPLIFT, INSPIRE IN AND CONNECT: RHYTHMS OF RESOLUTION Byron Shire will welcome the new year with a vibrant celebration of music, culture and community as Sensory Blender: Rhythms of Resolution takes over the North Byron Hotel on New Year’s Day. Running from 2pm to 10pm, the event gathers eight standout DJs – including Phil Perry (Full Circle UK), Iain Ha Yes, XUJA, Monsieur Diop, Afrodisea, Lord Sut, Mr Nice and Taz Miller, alongside Ghanaian artist Gabriel Otu performing live African percussion. A share of profits will go to Fletcher Street Cottage, supporting people experiencing homelessness in Byron Bay. With diverse global sounds and a warm community atmosphere, it’s set to be a defining start to 2026. Thursday, 1 January, 2026. North Byron Hotel 2pm to 10pm + free after-party at Paradiso.

ckets.at/ Tickets selling fast: https://buytickets.at/ byronbaygolfclub/1904721 or see QR code ies email in our ad. For market stall enquiries u events@byronbaygolfclub.com.au

Tickets via Eventbrite which includes the free afterparty at Paradiso. Venue, courtesy bus from 6pm.

34 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

www.echo.net.au

www.eventbrite.com.au/e/sensory-blender-presentsrhythms-of-resolution-nyd-tickets-1912738565539

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT THE BEACHY The Beachy is set to ring in 2026 with a high-energy New Year’s Eve celebration that captures the spirit of summer in Byron Bay. From 6pm, a stacked live-music lineup will bring the party to life, led by Jam Hot Live — a five-piece powerhouse blending DJ-driven beats, soulful vocals, saxophone, and percussion into a non-stop dancefloor groove. They’ll be joined by local favourites Animal Ventura, the Erin Shay Band, and DJ Charles Oliver, taking revellers from sunset sessions through to the midnight countdown and beyond. For those after an elevated experience, the House of Friends x The Beachy VIP package offers exclusive access, premium perks, and Casamigos specials throughout the night. General admission or VIP tickets on sale now via Moshtix.

FARM FEST NEW YEAR’S EVE: THREE BLUE DUCKS If you love the idea of celebrating New Year’s Eve without the crowds, Three Blue Ducks’ Farm Fest offers a relaxed way to welcome the year ahead. Set at The Farm, this festival-style evening is all about good food, great company and easy summer vibes. Guests can enjoy a generous roving feast, live music as the sun sets, and plenty of space to spread out and unwind. Kids are well catered for too, with Shorty Brown the Clown bringing balloons, bubbles and plenty of entertainment so parents can relax and enjoy the night. Whether you come with friends, family or both, Farm Fest is about slowing down and enjoying the moment. Tickets are limited and expected to sell out. Wednesday, 31 December, 5pm to 10pm. Book now at threeblueducks.com.

GREAT VIBES AND GOOD TIMES IN BYRON BAY THIS NYE Bring your friends, and family and come into the heart of Byron Bay this New Year’s Eve, commencing at 4pm in Jonson Street with live music, outdoor dining and face-painting. Jonson Street will be closed to cars from 4pm, creating a fun and safe environment for the kids to run and play. Around 6pm the focus moves to the foreshore near the surf club, for the popular silent disco, lighting installations, circus workshops, kids entertainment and live music. Soul Street is an alcohol-free event and there are no fireworks at midnight. Refer to the Council’s website for road closure information. Soul Street is a creative initiative of Byron Shire Council to promote positive and safe activity in public spaces.

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Volume 40 #29 23 – 31 December, 2025 Editor: Eve Jeffery Editorial/gigs: gigs@echo.net.au Copy deadline: 5pm each Thursday Gig Guide deadline: 5pm each Friday Advertising: adcopy@echo.net.au P: 02 6684 1777 W: echo.net.au/entertainment

Seven seven days of entertainment

A standout stan talent in dance music CamrinWatsin, a 22-year-old 2 fro Ireland, has producer and DJ from quickly emerged as a standout talent in dance music. After dominating dom the SoundCloud dance cha charts in 2023 with multiple hits, includin including a standout edit of Jorja Smith’s ‘Blue ‘ Lights’, he made his breakthro breakthrough in 2024 with ‘Kisses’, a collaboration collaborat with BL3SS and bbyclose. y t The track became a

earning him support from KISS, Capital, and Radio 1.

summer anthem, amassing over 250 million streams and landing in the UK and Irish Top 5, now officially UK Platinum – an incredible feat for an Irish producer.

With over 220 million streams to date, Camrin is also selling out venues across the UK and Ireland and electrifying crowds in Ibiza. His rapid rise solidifies him as one of dance music’s most exciting new stars.

Camrin’s success continued with ‘Blew My Life Up’, which boosted his monthly listeners to over 10 million, and ‘Touching Heaven’, a collaboration with Jazzy. ‘Kisses’ alone gained 313 million impressions in the UK,

You can catch his show on Saturday from 8pm at The Northern, Byron Bay.

Floating luxury on the Bruns Welcome aboard the pearl of the Northern Rivers – the M.V. Jasmine is the first luxury floating venue in the Byron Bay region, offering a Mediterranean-inspired on-river dining experience that curates, collaborates and celebrates our region – set against the backdrop of the iconic Brunswick River. The crew are currently welcoming their summer series, featuring Maria’s, Flo Records and their seasonal collaborators, The Hut and Light Years, across lunch, afternoon and sunset events. Why not join the as they sail down the Brunswick River, and enjoy the best the region has to offer. Once the Brunswick Eco cruise, the M.V Jasmine is the newest venture from Out of the Blue Adventures and has been custombuilt from the hull up and curated down to the last detail. It has been re-imagined as an 18-metre, multi-level luxury vessel – an adults-only floating dining and cocktail bar on the Brunswick River in Byron Bay. It features a top-level, open-air deck with 360-degree views and a retractable canvas rooftop, providing spectacular sunset vistas. Designed for both public events and private charters, the vessel accommodates up to 60 passengers. The afternoon/sunset series are 3-hour cruises starting at $119, and their long lunch series features eight courses by a feature chef, or their resident chefs from Maria’s at $220. See their socials for all upcoming events @jasminebyronbay. Discover weekly Sunset, Lunch, or Brunch Cruises, Exclusive ticketed events, or book as a private charter at www.mvjasmine.com. Gift cards also available for purchase. ‘We can’t wait to welcome you aboard for a truely unique experience,’ they say.

WED

Front Bar: Kane Muir Band 6pm DJ Davi Bangma 9pm Duelling Piano Bar 9pm BACKROOM: ORPHANS XMAS

FRI

Front Bar: Record Breakers 6pm + Jamie Lowe 9pm Duelling Piano Bar 8pm BACKROOM: HYPNOTIZE

SAT

Front Bar: Matty Rogers Duo 6pm + Erin Shay Band 10pm Duelling Piano Bar 8pm BACKROOM: CAMRIN WATSIN (IRELAND)

SUN

Front Bar: Lachy Dwyer Duo 5pm + VINYL SUNDAYS 9pm Duelling Piano Bar 9pm – $15 MARGIS & SPRITZERS ALL DAY BACKROOM: HAUS OF NOIZE VOL.2

MON

Front Bar: Brook Chivell Duo 6pm + Dj Oren Selecta 9pm Duelling Piano Bar 8pm BACKROOM: DANCE REPUBLIC

24 DEC 26 DEC 27 DEC

35–43 JONSON ST BYRON BAY 6685 6454 THENORTHERN.COM.AU @thenorthernbyronbay

36 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

28 DEC 29 DEC

TUES

30 DEC

Front Bar: Marshall Okell + Billy Bailey 9pm Duelling Piano Bar 9pm BACKROOM: COUNTRY NIGHT WITH DON ROGERS BAND

WED

31 DEC

SUN: $15 MARGIS & SPRITZERS ALL DAY

NEW YEARS EVE

All Areas Tickets on the doors from 5pm

www.echo.net.au

AUSTEN TAYSHUS seven days of entertainment

Tell me about the film festival ? ‘Well, I’ve just made another film for Tropfest. Did you know that I made a film for Tropfest in ’98 and I won? Did you know that?

Austen Tayshus is on his way up north and he wants you to know it! But what he really wants you to know is that in 1998 he won the world’s largest shortfilm festival, well, that’s part of what he wants you to know. What he really, actually REALLY wants you to know, is that he has made another film for the same festival and the deadline is in 15 days!

www.echo.net.au

I know about Tropfest. I didn’t know that you won one. What was the signature item this year? It’s an hourglass. I’ve made a prop. I won in ’98 (the signature item was ‘a kiss’ which he blew to a certain Ms Hanson) – I wrote it, and it was about a Jewish guy, a Jewish comedian, getting into a taxi with a German who was a Nazi. I was pretending to be a Nazi and then turning into an Israeli secret service agent – I won the top prize, and I won best actor. Then we also entered it in the name of a feminist filmmaker who didn’t exist called Laura Feinstein. John Polson (festival founder) went crazy and said, ‘you know, it’s the first time it’s ever been won by a woman’. And then we got up and said it, ‘you know, there’s no Laura Feinstein’. So, he got very shitty… But anyway, this one’s about me saying that winning Tropfest was the worst thing. I’ve written the whole thing – we got me in prison – it’s about how my whole life went crazy. I don’t think John Polson is going to let it through because it’s actually pretty funny, but I don’t think it’ll get through because it’s sort of taking the piss out of Tropfest – I’m playing Laura Feinstein (the fictitious

feminist filmmaker) with the wig and all this stuff. I’m saying the worst thing that ever happened in my life was winning Tropfest. It would be a great film to go into the festival, this would be very funny. But obviously, all these people are very straight… Austen, you are a Jew living in Sydney – how do find the strength, in these times, to be funny? Because I love it so much. I really enjoy it, and it’s good for me. It’s a diversion from getting older. I mean, I’m nearly 72 and, you know, getting into my underwear is not too easy anymore. It’s good to get on the road. You know, most of time I’m in my house, but the last two days I flew to Perth, I did a show – I flew to Launceston, I did a show, I flew back to Sydney, and so that was my weekend. Aren’t you ‘too old’ to be flying around everywhere like that? Well I probably am. But what else am I gonna do exactly? I enjoy it. It keeps me buoyant and fluent. Do you have a time where you think, ‘Okay, I’m going to have six weeks off and write new material? Or do you just ad lib the whole way along? I ad lib. I’ve never written material. I write it when I’m on the stage. I come up with ideas, and then I build on a particular notion, and turn it into whatever.

You can get ad libbed at by Austen Tayshus on Friday, 2 January, at the Lennox Head Hotel, and if you’re down that way, the Lennox Head Hotel is giving away three double passes. Simply email: gigs@echo.net.au by 5pm Friday, 26 December, and tell us Austen’s real name, to go into the draw. Winners will be announced in The Echo’s Saturday’s entertainment newsletter. He can get at you again on Sunday, 4 January, at Club Iluka. Fore more info, visit: austentayshus.com.

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ The Byron Shire Echo 37

Seven seven days of entertainment

Eclectic Selection

What’s on this week A

The beginning of the end 2025 is almost done with us, and what better way to start off your New Year’s Eve shennanigans with former lawyer turned award-winning comedian, Chris Radburn. Radburn is undoubtedly one of Australia’s best, and most sought after, comedians. With 25-years experience on stage, TV and radio, Chris has become a trusted name in comedy – known for his sharp wit, relatable observational humour, charismatic presence, and rare ability to tailor material with intelligence and insight to suit any audience or event.

Lemon Chicken have a bunch of new songs, and all the favourite bangers are still on their set list – everything from The Eagles to Rage Against the Machine, with a little Lenny Kravitz, INXS and the Oils in between. Bring your friends, your neighbours or even bring your parents because it’s going to be a lot of awesome tunes and a great atmosphere. Friday at The Rails, Byron Bay. Free show.

Bill Jacobi’s songs emanate a strong sense of the groove, and are laden with a down-to-earth honesty and humour. Songs that are an eclectic amalgamation of swamp/roots, alt county and hillbilly funk; that somehow manage to look back at a wealth of musical tradition, have a good poke around, and then turn it into something new.

It’s the perfect way to warm up for your NYE celebrations. Wednesday, December 31 at 7pm at the Ballina RSL. Book now for the best seats – ballinarsl.com.au.

Sunday from 8pm at The Northern, Byron Bay. Free show.

Saturday from 5pm at the Kingscliff Beach Bowlo. Free show.

Ginger Lane is a soul-folk singersongwriter and busker based in Mullumbimby. Her music blends raw honesty with smooth, easy grooves, carried by a warm, distinct voice.

Radburn is coming to Ballina to start your New Year’s Eve celebrations off with a bloody good laugh as part of The Big Giggle event. Ellen Briggs who is more fun than a basket full of puppies, is MC for the night and award-winning comedian, MC and radio presenter, Ben Stevenson, will be first up to perform as support for the show.

Thirst Trap is an electrifying fivepiece, boasting a distinctive sound that sets them apart. With a genredefying approach, they seamlessly blend hip-hop rhythms, heavy rock, and reggae infusions, showcasing their versatile musical palette. Thirst Trap’s live performances are a mustsee, delivering an unforgettable experience with the energy and dynamism of their unique sound.

Monday from 1pm at the Billinudgel Hotel. Free show. Northern Rivers’ own supergroup storms Boxing Day with a highenergy, sing-along show that keeps the dance floor pumping. For over a decade The Feramones have honed a powerhouse set of the greatest, most sophisticated rock songs of the ‘60s to the ‘80s – timeless anthems delivered with rare craftsmanship. If there’s a dance floor, they’ll keep it busy. Friday from 8pm at Ballina RSL. Free show.

Jessie Rose and Matt Day are Broadwaters – expect interesting covers, beautiful vocals from Jess, masterful guitar work from Matt, and magnificent harmonies. They often bring in friends to spice things up, making a delicious melting pot of musical wonder. Saturday from 6pm at the Boardwalk, Ballina RSL. Free show.

The Vybez is an electrifying live band that delivers high-energy performances across R&B, hiphop, dance, and EDM genres. With a dynamic stage presence and seamless musicality, The Vybez transforms every show into an unforgettable experience, blending classic anthems with modern hits to keep you moving all night long. Tuesday from 6pm at the Beach Hotel, Byron Bay. Free show.

Palace Presents...

On Sale Now!

There’s no ‘same old, same old’ at BayFM. Our wide range of music shows are diverse and dangerous (and a couple are deadly). Jump onto 99.9FM for the best in dance, pop, rock, blues, reggae, soul, folk, punk, Americana and vintage, plus hot local acts and music from around the world in our foreign language shows. Check our online Program Guide for details.

More at bayfm.org 38 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH

SENTIMENTAL VALUE

THE HOUSEMAID

RENTAL FAMILY

ANACONDA

MY BROTHER’S BAND

NOW SHOWING

DEC 26

DEC 25

DEC 26

DEC 26

DEC 26

ore! + many m

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www.echo.net.au

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ The Byron Shire Echo 39

GIG GUIDE

Seven seven days of entertainment

It’s FREE to list your gigs in the gig guide. gigs@echo.net.au w: echo.net.au/gig-guide WEDNESDAY 24 Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, HARRY NICHOLS

Q BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK 6PM DAN HANNAFORD, LEVEL ONE 7.30PM THE FERAMONES

Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM THE GIN BUGGS

Q SHAWS BAY HOTEL, BALLINA, 6PM RAW ORDIO

Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM DJ WHO’S WHO

Q AUSTRALIAN HOTEL, BALLINA, 8PM JESSE WITNEY TRIO

Q BRUNSWICK PICTURE HOUSE 4PM CHRISTMAS CAROLS HOSTED BY JOEL SALOM AND ERIK THE DOG

Q SALTBAR, KINGSCLIFF, 5PM NATHAN LINDSAY

Q THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM KANE MUIR BAND, 9PM DJ DAVI BANGMA, 7PM DUELLING PIANOS – SAM WHEAT & MICK BUCKLEY

Q CLUB TWEED 7.30PM RIVERSHED

Q THE PADDOCK PROJECT, MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM CURRY JAM Q LENNOX HOTEL 5PM NATHAN KAYE Q COOLANGATTA HOTEL 6PM BULLETPROOF

THURSDAY 25 Q NO SHOWS TODAY!!!

FRIDAY 26 Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, LEMON CHICKEN Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 3PM JOSH LEE HAMILTON + LISA HUNT Q NORTH BYRON HOTEL 5PM DJ AFRODESIA

Q KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 5PM MALIA STRILING

SATURDAY 27

Q THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 5PM LACHY DWYER DUO, 9PM DUELLING PIANOS – TIM MITCHELL & SHANE PARRY, 9PM VINYL SUNDAYS, HOUZE OF NOIZE VOL.2 FEATURING THIRST TRAP, THIRST TRAP + WAIST + LUCY’S HOUSE HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4PM LATE FOR WOODSTOCK

Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 3PM PAT TIERNEY + JEROME WILLIAMS BAND

Q BILLINUDGEL HOTEL 1PM ARCADIA

Q BYRON THEATRE 6.30PM THE ROAD TO PATAGONIA Q NORTH BYRON HOTEL 1.30PM DJ ALICE Q + DJ MONSIEUR DIOP

Q CLUB TWEED 1PM RHYDIAN LEWIS + ROSE POWELL Q LENNOX HOTEL 4PM ANIMAL VENTURA Q AUSTRALIAN HOTEL, BALLINA, 3PM JOE CONROY BAND

Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM THE VYBEZ BAND Q THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM MARSHALL OKELL, 8PM DUELLING PIANOS – TIM MITCHELL & JOHN HILL + BODHI ACTON & JIMMY GOODWIN, 9PM BILLY BAILEY + COUNTRY NIGHT WITH DON ROGERS BAND Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM HARRY NICHOLS Q BILLINUDGEL HOTEL 1PM KATIE BROOKE Q LENNOX HOTEL 5PM INO PIO

WEDNESDAY 31 Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, PAPERLANE Q BYRON BAY GOLF CLUB 12PM RENEE SIMONE + DJ FREDDY FLYFINGAZ Q THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 8PM DUELLING PIANOS – BODHI ACTON & MICK BUCKLEY + JIMMY GOODWIN & JON SHORTER

CINEMA Boxing Day’s a blast in Ballina and Byron

Let’s talk about what to do with the kids once they have opened all their prezzies, eaten all their sugar and are looking for more Christmas fun – I can’t think of a better way to spend a few hours on Boxing Day than relaxing in the air-con at Palace Byron or Ballina Fair Cinemas and watching some fun new movies!

Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, BULLETPROOF

Q LENNOX HOTEL 3PM OLE FALCOR & PISTOL WHIP

Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM 42 BAND

Q CLUB LENNOX 6PM LUKE YEAMAN + SURVEY STREET Q BALLINA RSL LEVEL ONE 7PM THE BIG GIGGLE

Q CHERRY STREET SPORTS CLUB, BALLINA, 8PM FAT ALBERT

Q THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM BROOK CHIVEL DUO, 8PM DUELLING PIANOS – JOHN HILL & BODHI ACTON, 9PM DJ OREN SELECTRA + DANCE REPUBLIC

December 26 will see Grand Prix of Europe (G), where Edda, a young mouse with big dreams of becoming a race car driver, lives in the vibrant world of a fairground operated by her father, Erwin. As the 50th anniversary of the European Grand Prix approaches, Edda sees a golden opportunity to turn her dreams into reality; Pets on a Train (PG), when a train unexpectedly starts up, taking only pets with it, the animals discover that Hans, a badger with a grudge, is behind it all; The SpongeBob Movie: Search for Squarepants (PG) as SpongeBob and his Bikini Bottom friends set sail in their biggest, all-new, can’t miss cinematic event ever; and Zootopia 2 – nearly a decade after the Oscar-winning, box office sensation, Walt Disney Animation Studios returns to the beloved animal metropolis with a hilarious, feel-good adventure through a bustling city that’s bigger, bolder, and wilder than ever before.

Q CHERRY STREET SPORTS CLUB, BALLINA, 9PM PINK ZINC

But is there IS something for the grown-ups as well…

Q MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES CLUB 6PM LEIGH JAMES

Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM CALLUM CREELMAN

Q KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 5PM BILL JACOBI

Q BILLINUDGEL HOTEL 1PM GINGER LANE

Q THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM MATTY ROGERS DUO, 8PM DUELLING PIANOS – TIM MITCHELL & JON SHORTER + BODHI ACTON & JIMMY GOODWIN, 8PM CAMRIN WATSIN, 10PM ERIN SHAY BAND Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4.30PM WEAR THE FOX HAT W/ LUKE HAYWARD

Q THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM RECORD BREAKERS, 8PM DUELLING PIANOS – MICK BUCKLEY & SHANE PARRY + JIMMY GOODWIN & JON SHORTER, 9PM JAMIE LOWE, HYPNOTIZE

Q CLUB LENNOX 7PM INO PIO

Q MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 8PM KRAPPYOKEE WITH JESS

Q BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 3PM SARAH GRANT DUO + POLY & CO

Q OCEAN SHORES COUNTRY CLUB 3PM OPEN MIC

Q LENNOX HOTEL 4PM MICKA SCENE & PANDAMONIUM DJS

Q OCEAN SHORES TAVERN 5.30PM OPEN MIC NIGHT

Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, PINK ZINC

Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, RAGGA JUMP

Q ELEMENTS OF BYRON 7.30PM BLACK RABBIT GEORGE

Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4.30PM LIVING IN THE 70S

SUNDAY 28

Q BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK 6PM BROADWATERS, LEVEL ONE 7PM THE BIG GIG COMEDY NIGHT

Q SALTBAR, KINGSCLIFF, 6PM HARRY NICHOLS

Q LENNOX HOTEL 4PM LILLI ROSE SHEEN & EPIC

Q KINGSCLIFF BEACH HOTEL 6PM KYLIE FISHER

Q CLUB LENNOX 7PM NATHAN KAYE DUO

Q CLUB TWEED 7.30PM OFF THE GRID

Q SHAWS BAY HOTEL, BALLINA, 3PM LIVING IN THE 70S Q BALLINA RSL LEVEL ONE 7.30PM THIRSTY MERC Q KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 1PM MR TROY

Q HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM TIJUANA CARTEL + ANDY V, XUJA & JORDAN MAC

Q SALTBAR, KINGSCLIFF, 3PM RAMJET

Q MULLUMBIMBY EX-SERVICES CLUB 8.30PM THE RECORD BREAKERS

MONDAY 29

Q SHAWS BAY HOTEL, BALLINA, 5PM PUSH + DJ DANNY B

Q LENNOX HOTEL 5PM OLE FALCOR

TUESDAY 30 Q RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, ALEX TILLEY

Q SALTBAR, KINGSCLIFF, 9PM JON J BRADLEY DUO Q SEAGULLS, TWEED HEADS, 7.30PM HIGH VOLTAGE – THE AC/DC EXPERIENCE + BONGO BOYS Q CLUB TWEED 7.30PM LIVING IN THE 70S Q CHINDERAH TAVERN 9PM THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINDERAH

Anaconda, and Avatar: Fire and Ash (2D) – sure to be a hit with most moviegoers. For those who like something softer there’s My Brother’s Band, Kokuho, Wicked: For Good, Rental Family and Sentimental Value and if you like hardcore, scary or just full on, there’s Five Nights at Freddy’s 2, Nuremberg, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery. There really is something for everyone in Byron and Ballina on Boxing Day – treat the whole family! For. more visit: www.palacecinemas.com.au.

to post your gig in the Echo Gig Guide

HOLIDAY FILM SELECTION

It will appear in the paper, the online gig guide and on Bay FM

email gigs@echo.net.au with the details

40 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

SCAN TO BOOK ONLINE FOR BOOKINGS AND SESSION TIMES PALACECINEMAS.COM.AU

6686 9600 BALLINA FAIR • 6680 8555 BYRON BAY

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Classifieds

ECHO CLASSIFIEDS – 6684 1777 CLASSIFIED AD BOOKINGS

DEADLINE TUES 12PM

PHONE ADS

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

Ads may be taken by phone on 6684 1777

RATES & PAYMENT

AT THE ECHO HEAD OFFICE

Ads can be lodged in person at the Mullum Echo office:

Village Way, Stuart St, Mullumbimby

EMAIL ADS

LINE ADS: $17.00 for the first two lines $5 .00 for each extra line

www.echo.net.au/classified-ads

These prices include GST.

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

DISCLAIMER

Prepayment is required for all ads.

delivery area, you can pick up an Echo from many locations, including: Newrybar Providore Newrybar; Richies IGA Ballina, Ballina RSL, One Stop Shop Ballina, Ballina Golf Club East Ballina, Brighton St Takeaway near the Shawsy, Seagrass Lennox, Lennox pub drivethrough, Station St Grocer Lennox

PUBLIC NOTICES WHERE TO GET THE ECHO If you live in Newrybar, Lennox Head or Ballina, but outside our current home

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FUNERAL NOTICES

BRUNSWICK HEADS CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL BANNER PARK

MILLS, BILL 4 December 1952 – 17 December 2025 Aged 73

BUY 1 RIDE GET 1 FREE

UNCONSCIOUS ART WORKSHOP #1 . Create nothing out of meaning. . Show up! it’s all about you. . Hold space for more clutter . Free activated milo, donation 50 cents. . Leave the session with a fully completed.

LOCALS SPECIAL!

Any Sunday until 25th Jan 2026 from 6.30pm

DEATH NOTICES WERNER JOSEF PERGER (SNOWY) 91 years old, passed away 17th December 2025. Dearly loved husband of Colleen, father of Gina and Michael, grandfather of Daniel and Micah, greatgrandfather of Isla and Mila. Lived a full and wonderful life, now at peace. Private cremation.

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Passed peacefully at home, surrounded by love. Bill was the cherished father of Liam and Phoebe, beloved older brother to Therese, Lorraine, Anthony and Paul, grandfather to Jeremy, Harry and Goldie. He was known to many and liked by all. Family and friends are invited to honour him on Monday December 29th at 11:30 am at Mullumbimby Cemetery, followed by a celebration of his life at his home in Tintenbar. (address to be provided by emailing phoebina@hotmail.com)

CORNELL, CHARMIAN

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GARAGE SALES

Tip Runs & Rubbish Removal

Brunswick Valley FUNERALS 6684 6232

HEALTH

CARAVANS We buy, sell & consign. All makes & models. 0408 758 688

HOUSES FOR SALE 2 FREE STANDING HOUSES ON ONE BLOCK IN GOONELLABAH. https://www. domain.com.au/8a-8b-jennifer-placegoonellabah-nsw-2480-2019800564 OR mobile 0429023402

PROPERTY WANTED

LOCAL FAMILY SEEKING TO BUY ACREAGE TO LET

LOCAL REMOVAL & backloads to Brisbane. Friendly, with 10 years local exp. 0409917646

TREE SERVICES

BALLINA SELF-STORAGE UNITS Secure. From $22p/w. Ranging from 10–44 m3. Across 3 locations. 66867011

LEAF IT TO US - Tree Care Specialists Local, qualified, insured, free quotes.

TO LEASE

Big to small we enjoy it all - 0402487213 OFFICE/WORKSPACE 42sqm $350pw Billinudgel. Ph Lifestyle Group 66851206

POSITIONS VACANT

Byron Bay & Surrounding Areas Much loved wife of Tony (dec.) Loved mother of Katie, and grandmother of Luna. Charmian passed peacefully and will be missed by all who knew her. A small service will be held on 02/01/26 1pm at White Dove Chapel, Billinudgel.

CARAVANS

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• Arborist • 15” Wood Chipper • Stump Grinder • Fully Insured

! " #$## % & " ' " ( ) ' ) ' ' )' ! * + ! , - & . ! ' , / ( ) ' ' ! * ! ' , ! ' )' " ! * ! ' ) 0 1 #$2$ 3 44 #$2$ " ! ' ' )' 5 ') 1

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

with home and useable land. Less than 10mins to Mullum Ph 0424234350

24 June 1945 – 14 December 2025

( ) " ; / </= 2$2 #>?8 @A -7 $# ::B: >C6> 4 7 D

Over 30 years of experience WendyPurdey.com. Ph 0497 090 233

Bring greater focus, clarity and calm into your workplace.

FUNERALS 6684 6232

ZÖËäÝ Ù ¾¬Ä¬ä ƨ Ä ¬¾ ¾ƣ¸ ÖÝËÅǐÖ £Ä¾ƣËÙ¤ƣ é ËÙ ¾¾ ;é û ËÅ ǫĚĕ ĘěĚ ĘĔė ĚĖĝ äË ûƣ

HYPNOSIS & NLP

Mindfulness @ Work

Brunswick Valley

r Ù © Ù äË © ¾Ö ûËé õ¬ä©ƥ V¬ô Ù Å» Ù ÝäËÙ ä¬ËÅ r Å ¬Åô ݬô ô ¤ ä ä¬ËÅ ËÅäÙ˾ r¬¾ ¾¬£ © ¬ä ä ¬ÅÝä ¾¾ ä¬ËÅ V ÝËéÙ Ý £ËÙ Ä Å ¤¬Å¤ ûËéÙ ¾ Å

TREE FERNS Any shape, size. Royalties paid. Ongoing supply needed. 0414904396

0408 210 772

Cash, cheque, Mastercard or Visa

BUY 1 RIDE GET 1 FREE

Advertisements placed in The Byron Shire Echo do not reflect the views or opinions of the editorial staff. The Byron Shire Echo does not make any representations as to the accuracy or suitability of any content or information contained in advertising material nor does publication constitute in any way an endorsement by The Byron Shire Echo of the content or representations contained therein. The Byron Shire Echo does not accept any liability for the representations or promises made in paid advertisements or for any loss or damage arising from reliance on such content, representations or promises.

www.echo.net.au

Echo Classies also appear online:

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

classifieds@echo.net.au

0

CLASSIFIEDS THAT WORK ALL WEEK!

$17 for two lines is the minimum charge.

Display (box ads) and line classifieds, email:

WANTED

6681 3140 Mobile 0417 698 227

20 years local experience • 19 inch chipper • Stump grinding • Cherry picker • Crane truck • Bob Cat

Fully insured • Free quotes

0427 347 380

PART-TIME SUPPORT WORKER required for 88-year-old woman for two hours in the morning and one hour in afternoon every Friday and Sat. Duties are: dog walking, light house work, light assistance around house and garden and occasional errands, but she can manage cooking and personal care herself without assistance. Call 0410540592 SCT LOGISTICS TRUCK WASHERS Temporary opportunity. We’re looking for truck washers at our SCT Logistics depot, 117 Baraang Drive Broadwater NSW 2472 (sugar mill site). Mon to Fri, 38-hour week, weather dependant. Starts in December and runs through to the end of January. Full training provided..Please send brief resume to Wendy.Keel@sctlogistics.com.au or during office hours call 0409568795

MULLUMBIMBY KINESIOLOGY with Elizabeth Ph 0478959007

TRADEWORK

KINESIOLOGY

3EPTIC 7ASTE 2EMOVAL

LADIES WANTED, MUST BE 18+ Work available in busy adult parlour. Travellers welcome. 66816038 for details.

4HE ,IQUID 7ASTE 3PECIALISTS

TAXI DRIVERS WANTED Flexible work hours – perfect 2nd income Email operations@byronbaytaxis.com

Clear subconscious sabotages. Reprogram patterns and beliefs. Restore vibrancy and physical health. De-stress. 0403125506 SANDRA DAVEY, Reg. Pract.

HYPNOSIS & EFT

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

3UMMERLAND %NVIRONMENTAL s 3EPTIC TANK CLEANING s 'REASE TRAP SERVICING s /ILY ,IQUIDS s 0ORTABLE TOILET HIRE s HOUR SERVICE

THE OTHER JOINT is seeking a front of house allrounder. mullum@otherjoint.com

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ The Byron Shire Echo 41

Classifieds / Community at Work POSITIONS VACANT

LOST AND FOUND

MISSING VOUCHERS

Need proper erotic relaxation? Tantric Massage Men, Women, Couples. Ph 0480779325

TUITION

BALLINA EXCLUSIVE 34 Piper Dr. Open 7 days 10am till late. In & Out Calls. 66816038. Ladies wanted Find us on Facebook and Twitter!

The coupons snipped out of my Echo from last week!

Adobe Tutoring

! " #$ % &

Experienced Professional Trainer

• Photoshop • Indesign • Illustrator contact@thinkblinkdesign.com www.thinkblinkdesign.com

PETS

Nurse Practitioner Grafton, Coffs Harbour & North Coast NSW Nursing - General Medical & Surgical (Healthcare & Medical)

PET SITTER AVAILABLE Kind, confident animal carer available for your four-legged fur baby. References available. Call Pawla on 0415340744

And take the next step in your career as a Nurse Practitioner with Tier One Recruitment

WORK WANTED

TURBO

Full time $100,000 – $150,000 per year Apply now with : kelly.onley@t1recruitment.com.au 0411 641 919

VOLUNTEERS WANTED

Turbo is a 6 month old, Collie/Kelpie X. This lovely boy is smart and very energetic. He would suit an active family on property with a job to do. #991003002442489 Location: Murwillumbah For more information contact Yvette on 0421 831 128. Please complete an Expression of Interest at:https://friendsofthepound.com/ adoption-expression-of-interest/

Byron Bay Hospital Auxiliary

Visit friendsofthepound.com to view other dogs and cats looking for a home.

1 or 2 MEN + UTE Furniture and rubbish removals Over 15 years exp. Jarrod 0415 139 308

is a volunteer community service that helps raise funds for our local hospital.

ABN 83 126 970 338

Members meet on the third Monday of each month from 1.00 pm. Contact Maureen Weir 0266 853 162 for more information.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: YOUTH RECREATION, FOOD HUB SHOP ASSISTANT, COMMUNITY MEALS ASSISTANT PLEASE, CONTACT US ON 02 6672 3003 IF INTERESTED

BIRTHDAYS

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS!

CURIOUS ABOUT PEGGING? ivso.me/venus-knox KRYSTAL ADULT SHOP Large variety of toys and lingerie 6/6 Tasman Way, A&I Est, Byron Bay 66856330

SOCIAL ESCORTS LOTS OF GORGEOUS LADIES available for your pleasure nearby. Spoil yourself. In-house & outcalls. 7 days. 0266816038.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS AMBULANCE, FIRE, POLICE.............................................000

AMBULANCE Mullumbimby & Byron Bay................................131 233 POLICE Brunswick Heads..........................................................6629 7510 Mullumbimby ................................................................6629 7570 Byron Bay.........................................................................6685 9499 Bangalow .........................................................................6629 7500 STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE Storm & tempest damage, flooding...132 500 BRUNSWICK VALLEY RESCUE Primary rescue...........................6685 1999 BRUNSWICK MARINE RADIO TOWER....................................6685 0148 BYRON CENTRAL HOSPITAL......................................................6639 9400 BYRON COUNCIL: EMERGENCY AFTER HOURS.............6622 7022 NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE (Mullumbimby) ...........................6684 1286 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 24 hour crisis line.................................1800 656 463 LIFELINE...................................................................................................131 114 MENSLINE....................................................................................1300 789 978 ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS 24 hours .................................1800 423 431 AL-ANON Help for family and friends of alcoholics .......................1300 252 666 NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS Meets daily ......................................6680 7280 NORTHERN RIVERS GAMBLING SERVICE............................6687 2520 HIV/AIDS – ACON Confidential testing & information .....................6622 1555 ANIMAL RESCUE (DOGS & CATS)............................................6622 1881 NORTHERN RIVERS WILDLIFE CARERS..............................6628 1866 KOALA HOTLINE .............................................................................6622 1233 WIRES – NSW Wildlife Information & Rescue Service...6628 1898

The Echo’s Market Guide Find it online: www.echo.net.au/market-guide

Volunteers welcomed!

MONTHLY MARKETS:

MISHKA

1st SAT: 1st SUN:

Olivia Katz photography

Help with cake and plant stalls, selling raffle tickets or at the farmers markets, there’s always something you can do to assist the team in their good work.

ONLY ADULTS

North Coast news online

Meet dear Mishka, a beautiful, affectionate tabby girl. It’s often a struggle for the adult cats to find a home as quickly as the kittens, which is sad as we have some adorable adult cats at present! Mishka is a fine figure of a feline lady with the most soft and healthy plush coat, you won’t be able to stop stroking her! Sadly she was bullied by her other furry housemate so had to be surrendered in the hope of finding a more peaceful home. Desexed and vaccinated. Microchip 982000402202115 D.O.B 14/12/25 To make an appointment 0403 533 589 • Billinudgel petsforlifeanimalshelter.net

SUN, MOON & TIDES – TIMES FOR NEXT 2 WEEKS DAY, SUN MOON HIGH LOW DATE MOON RISE / RISE / TIDES, TIDES, (Dec/Jan) PHASE SET SET height (m) height (m)

24 W

5:46 9:09 19:44 22:50

1203 1.66

0458 0.33; 1838 0.38

25 TH

5:46 10:09 19:44 23:21

0014 1.11; 1242 1.62

0543 0.38; 1919 0.38

26

5:47 11:07 19:45 23:51

0105 1.12; 1323 1.56

0633 0.45; 2003 0.37

F

5:48 12:06 0204 1.16; 0733 0.52; 27 SA 19:45 1409 1.48 2050 0.35 5:48 13:07 0311 1.23; 0845 0.58; 28 S SU 19:45 0:21 1502 1.38 2141 0.33

29 M

5:49 14:10 19:46 0:53

0420 1.34; 1604 1.29

1007 0.60; 2232 0.30

5:50 15:17 0527 1.47; 1132 0.57; 30 TU 19:46 1:28 1713 1.21 2327 0.26

31 W

5:50 16:29 19:46 2:09

0629 1.62; 1824 1.16

1 TH

5:51 17:41 07:28 1.76 00:21 0.22 19:47 2:57 19:31 1.15 14:01 0.40

2

F

5:52 18:52 08:22 1.86 01:15 0.17 19:47 3:55 20:30 1.16 15:00 0.31

3

5:52 19:55 09:15 1.94 02:06 0.14 SA 19:47 5:01 21:24 1.17 15:51 0.25

1252 0.49

5:53 20:48 10:04 1.96 02:58 0.13 4 SU 19:47 6:12 22:15 1.19 16:38 0.23

5

M

5:54 21:33 10:51 1.94 03:46 0.14 19:47 7:24 23:02 1.20 17:23 0.24

5:55 22:10 11:34 1.87 04:35 0.19 6 TU 19:48 8:32 23:49 1.20 18:05 0.27

7

W

5:55 22:43 05:23 0.28 12:15 1.76 19:48 9:36 18:45 0.32

Data sourced from Bureau of Meteorology. Times adjusted for Daylight Savings when applicable.

42 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

Brunswick Heads Markets – 8am–2pm Byron Community Market – 8am–3pm Pottsville Beach Markets – 7am–1pm 2nd SUN: The Channon Craft Market – 9am–3pm Chillingham Markets – 8am–1pm Coolangatta Arts & Craft Markets – 8am–2pm Tabulam Community Market – 9am–1pm 3rd SAT: Mullumbimby Community Market – 8am–2pm Murwillumbah Makers & Finders Market – 9am–2pm Salt Beach Markets, South Kingscliff/Casuarina – 8am–1pm 3rd SUN: Federal Village Market – 8am–2pm Uki Buttery Bazaar Market – 8am–2pm Pottsville Beach Markets – 7am–1pm Lismore City Bowlo Markets – 9am–1pm 3rd SUN (Dec & Jan): Byron Community Market – 8am–3pm 4th SAT: Kyogle Bazaar – 9am–2pm Last SAT: Evans Head Rotary Market – 8am–1pm 4th SUN: Bangalow Market – 8am–2.30pm Nimbin Markets – 9am–3pm Murwillumbah Showground Market – 8am–1pm 4th SUN (in a 5-Sunday month): Coolangatta Arts & Crafts – 8am–2pm 5th SUN: Nimbin Markets – 8.30am–3pm Seasonal: Byron Beachside Market – four times a year: Wed 7th Jan 2026, Easter, July and Sept

FARMERS/WEEKLY MARKETS: Each TUE: New Brighton Farmers Market – 8am–11am Lismore Organic Market – 7.30am–10.30am Each WED: Murwillumbah Farmers Market – 7am–11am Nimbin Farmers Market – 3pm–6pm Newrybar Hall Twilight Market – 3pm–7.30pm Each THU: Byron Bay Farmers Market – 7am–11am Lismore Produce Market – 3pm–6pm Each FRI: Mullumbimby Farmers Market – 7am–11am Evans Head Farmers Market – 2.30pm–6.30pm Each SAT: Bangalow Farmers Market – 7am–11am Duranbah Road Farmers Market (Tropical Fruit World) 8am–11am Uki Farmers Market – 8am–1pm Lismore Farmers Market – 7.30am–11.30am Byron Twilight Market (October to April) 4pm–9pm Each SUN: Ballina Farmers & Producers Market – 7am–11am The Echo updates this guide regularly, however sometimes markets change their routine without letting us know. Please get in touch if you want to advise us of a change.

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

Lismore Rainforest Botanic Garden walk The next Guided Walk in the Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens will be at 9.30am on Sunday, 28 December with Tracey. This walk will be focussing on the development and history of the gardens, as you ramble throughout the rainforest rooms, useful plants garden and the sensory garden. Local native plants suitable for the home garden will be featured. Bookings are essential by emailing publicity@friendslrbg.com.au. Adults $5, children free. Please wear sturdy shoes and hat. Meet at the Visitor’s Centre at the Gardens (313 Wyrallah Road, East Lismore) at 9.15am for the one-hour walk. Join the Friends for morning tea after the walk (gold coin donation appreciated).

Skyline Roads intersection – Google ‘Gidjuum Gulganyi Walk Carpark’). The event is run by Together She Thrives, a not-for-profit charity that creates free events for women and teen girls. For more visit www. togethershethrives.org.au.

Free Trivia Night Join us for a fun and relaxed night of trivia! No need to worry if you’re not a trivia expert — it’s all about having fun, connecting, and enjoying a night out with the girls. When: Tuesday, January 6, 2026 from 6pm till 8pm. Where: Brunswick Heads Bowling Club, 107 Tweed Street, Brunswick Heads. The event is run by Together She Thrives. For more visit www. togethershethrives.org.au.

Free bushwalk to Unicorn Falls

Free Macrame Workshop – Make a Plant Hanger

Join us for a relaxing bushwalk down to the beautiful Unicorn Falls! This Grade 3 walk, approximately 5km return, takes you through scenic bushland to the falls, where you can enjoy the views and the tranquil surroundings. Swimming is optional, so bring your swimmers. A morning tea will be provided at the falls. Call Di on 0427 026 935 to carpool. When: Saturday January 3, 2026 from 9am – 12pm. Where: Start at Manns Road Carpark (approx. 3.5km from Rowlands Creek Road or Main Arm/

Get creative at our hands-on macrame workshop! You’ll learn to make your own plant hanger, guided step by step — no experience needed and everything is provided. When: Wednesday, January 14, 2026 from 1.30pmtill 4pm. Where: Mullumbimby RSL This workshop is open to everyone, but spaces are limited, so we’ll have a waiting list once spots are filled. Email jyotiwindshuttle60@ gmail.com. The event is run by Together She Thrives. For more visit www.togethershethrives.org.au.

Regular As Clockwork DEADLINE NOON FRIDAY Please note that, owing to space restrictions, not all entries may be included each week. Email copy marked ked ‘Regular As Clockwork’ to editor@echo.net.au.

Tech-savvy seniors Free, fun tech lessons are on at Byron Bay Library. Join our friendly training sessions where library staff help you to get online and build your digital skills. The 40-minute Friday sessions offer a broad range of topics to choose from that will help you gain confidence and stay connected. Bookings essential at: www.rtrl.nsw. gov.au or phone the Byron Bay branch 6685 8540.

Bruns backgammon The Bruns Backgammon Club meets on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at the CWA Hall in Brunswick Heads, from 5.30pm till 7pm. It’s a relaxed, social evening open to all skill levels – newcomers are always welcome!

Sing and play along Free weekly sing along sessions for over 70s in Mullumbimby, on Wednesdays from 10.30 to 11.30am. Feel free to bring your ukulele and/or guitar and enjoy singing the songs of your youth. Limited spaces. Contact Magenta on 0447 844 215.

Free baby clothes Free baby clothes are available each Friday morning (during school terms) from 10-12am at Mullumbimby CWA Hall, corner of Tincogan and Gordon sts. And if you like hanging out with mums and bubs and have a penchant for folding tiny clothes, we’re always keen for more volunteers to join our happy team! More info: www. pbbmedia.org/outreachhub. Contact: hello@pbbmedia.org.

Mullumbimby District Neighbourhood Centre Mullumbimby & District Neighbourhood Centre is open Monday–Friday 9am–4pm (closed 12.30–1.30pm for lunch). We offer a variety of services. Everyone is

welcome. Call reception on 6684 1286. Some of our services include: Flood recovery support service: personalised, long-term support for those impacted by the floods. Community support: food parcels, meals, showers, assistance with electricity bills. Work Development Orders. Listening Space: free counselling. More Than A Meal: free community lunch Tuesday–Thursday 12.30–1.30pm. Financial counselling Staying Home, Leaving Violence program: Information, referral, and advocacy. Gulganii affordable pantry shop: located at 3 Bridgeland Lane. Orange Sky: free laundry service Mon morning & Wed afternoon. To enquire about accessing any of these services call reception 6684 1286, check our website www.mdnc.org.au, or follow us on Facebook or Instagram. @ mullumbimbyneighbourhoodcentre.

Byron Community The Byron Community Centre provides community services and programs including meals, advocacy and counselling for locals in need. Fletcher Street Cottage: A welcoming, safe and respectful space where people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness can come to enjoy practical relief opportunities, find connections and access broader support. Fletcher Street Cottage services are open Tuesday–Friday; breakfast 7am–9am; showers and laundry 7am–12pm; office support 9am–12pm. Individual support appointments with community workers and specialist services available please book on (02) 6685 7830. Fletcher Street Cottage, 18 Fletcher St, Byron Bay. More info: www.fletcherstreetcottage.com.au. Byron Seniors Club: www. byronseniors.com.au. More info on Community Services: www.byroncentre.com.au Phone: (02) 6685 6807.

www.echo.net.au

Service Directory ECHO SERVICE DIRECTORY RATES, PAYMENT & DEADLINE Deadline: For additions and changes is 12pm Friday Line ads: $99 for 3 months or $340 for 1 year prepaid Display ads: $70 per week for colour display ad. Minimum 8 week booking 4 weeks prepaid. Please supply display ads 85mm wide, 38mm high. New ads will be placed at end of section. Contact: 6684 1777 or adcopy@echo.net.au

AUTOMOTIVE

WE PAY FOR

UNWANTED CARS $50–$1500

Free metal drop off Locally ally owned

6684 5296

ABSOLUTELY FREE CAR BODY REMOVAL AL

CHIMNEY SWEEPING BLACKS CHIMNEY SWEEPING & REPAIRS AHHA member, insured. 3rd generation .....66771905

CLEANING Services List Locally owned and Operated (Low Pressure Softwashing) Residential and Commercial Houses, Gutters, Roofs, Awnings, No job too big or small Solar panels, Retaining walls Obligation free quote Driveways, Paths, Pavers, Fully insured Fences, Decks, Patios, AQUA PRESSURE CLEANING Pool areas.

0426 119 550 info@nraquapressurecleaning.com.au

CASH ON THE SPOT GUARANTEE

$50 – $1000

SERVICE DIRECTORY INDEX

WE BUY UNWANTED CARS, UTES & VANS

PHONE 0466 113 333 24/7

Byron Bay

ABN: 47576013867

5 Stars

CLEANING SERVICE Accountants & Bookkeepers 43 Handypersons.................... 44 CLEANS: Holiday, Residential, Bond, Commercial, Spring. Acupuncture ...................... 43 Health ............................... 44 BARBER SHOPS Phone Mick 0409 009 024 Hire ................................... 44 Air Conditioning & Email: mickbhl@gmail.com Refrigeration ..................... 43 Hypnotherapy.................... 44 PENSIONERS/KIDS FROM $25 – ADULTS FROM $30: 6 Brunswick Tce Mullum.....0421 679015 Architects .......................... 43 Landscaping ...................... 44 BLINDS, AWNINGS, CURTAINS, SHUTTERS ROOFS Automotive........................ 43 Locksmith .......................... 44 SOLAR PANELS Barber Shops ..................... 43 Pest Control ....................... 44 GUTTERS Photography...................... 44 Blinds, Awnings, Curtains, HOUSE WASH Shutters............................. 43 Physiotherapy.................... 44 DRIVEWAYS & PATHS Bricklaying......................... 43 Picture Framing ................. 44 BLINDS SHUTTERS AWNINGS CURTAINS Andy 0406 641 919 Building Trades .................. 43 Plastering .......................... 44 Fully insured | Servicing the Northern Rivers & Gold Coast SUNSCREENS LOCAL Bush Regeneration & Weed Plumbers ........................... 44 SHOWCASE DEALER SHOWROOM BETTY’S CLEANING & HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES.............................................. Text 0476 984649 Control............................... 43 Removalists ....................... 45 PRESSURE WASH IT WASHING !!! ................................................... Text YOKO 0475040733 Carpentry & Joinery ........... 43 Rendering.......................... 45 CURTAINS Chimney Sweeping............. 43 Roofing.............................. 45 FREE E MEASURE E QUOTE E COMPUTER SERVICES ˘˗ ˘˞˛MEASURE ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˘ˏ FREE QUOTE Cleaning ............................ 43 Rubbish Removal ............... 45 ˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ˘˗ FREE ˘˞˛ ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˘ˏ MEASURE QUOTE Computer Services ............. 43 Self Storage ....................... 45 ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜ PLANTATION SHUTTERS ˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ˘˗ ˘˞˛ ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˘ˏ One-on-one, patient, experienced Concreting & Paving........... 43 Septic Systems ................... 45 ˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜ 1/84 ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ Centennial Circuit Byron Bay [LHJOLY VɈLYPUN KPNP[HS Z\WWVY[ MVY ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜ Decks, Patios & Extensions.. 43 Solar Installation ............... 45 SPECIALISTS IN HOME AUTOMATION ZLUPVYZ ULLKPUN OLSW ^P[O WOVULZ AWNINGS ZZZ EOLQGGHVLJQE\URQED\ FRP DX Design & Drafting .............. 43 Television Services ............. 45 ROLL BLINDS SHW[VWZ HUK JVTW\[LYZ FREE MEASURE QUOTE FREE MEASURE QUOTE Driveway Maintenance....... 44 Tiling................................. 45 ˘˗ ˘˞˛ ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˘ˏ ˘˗ ˘˞˛ ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˘ˏ FREE MEASURE QUOTE ˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ Phone or email: 0420 235 624 45 BRICKLAYING Earthmoving & Excavation.. 44 Tree Services ...................... ˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ϻ ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ˘˗ ˘˞˛ ˌ˘˖˙˕ˎ˝ˎ ˘ˏ ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ ˛ˊ˗ːˎ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜ contact@thinkblinkdesign.com Electricians ........................ 44 Transportation Services...... 45 ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜ ˒˗˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ ϻLAYING ˎˡ˝ˎ˛˒˘˛ BRICK/BLOCK Contractors. Lic 291958C. Phone Mark ........................................0409 444268 Fencing.............................. 44 Upholstery......................... 45 ˠ˒˗ˍ˘ˠ ˝˛ˎˊ˝˖ˎ˗˝˜ FLASH COMPUTERS Mac & PC. Affordable & helpful. 77 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby..02 66844124 BUILDING TRADES Floor Sanding & Polishing... 44 Valuers .............................. 45 Veterinary Surgeons........... 45 • DEPT OF FAIR TRADING:A licence is required for all residential building work where the reasonable CONCRETING & PAVING Garden & Property Maintenance...................... 44 Water Filters ...................... 45 market cost of the work to be done (labour and materials) exceeds $5000 (including GST). Welding............................. 45 Gas Fitters, Suppliers & Servicing............................ 44 Window Cleaning & Repairs 45 Guttering........................... 44 Window Tinting ................. 45 EMAIL: enquires@adrians.com.au

66 680 0 8862 6680 8862 6680 8862

6680 6680 8862 8862 6680 8862

66867911

ACCOUNTANTS & BOOKKEEPERS BYRON BOOKKEEPING BAS, Payroll, AR/AP, Xero, QB, MYOB......................................0415 639548 BOOKKEEPER Reg BAS provider, payroll, A/P, A/R. Xero & MYOB. Local, reliable. ........0410 206627 BLOOMING BOOKKEEPING and BAS Agent.................................................. Ph Leah 0434 121077

ACUPUNCTURE ACUPUNCTURE CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE M Collis.............................................0490 022183

AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION

110 Teven Road, Ballina New logo - Same quality & service Structural – Landscaping Fencing – Composite Decking Hardwood – Pine – Hardware

sales@bbtimbers.com.au

Mullumbimby Refrigeration & Airconditioning Services

45 Manns Road, Mullumbimby Lic: 299433C ARC: AU40492

COOLMAN AIR CONDITIONING 23 yrs exp. Lic. 178464C AU30147............................0422 291433 ARTISAN AIR Airconditioning and refrigeration. ..............................................................66809394

ARCHITECTS

DARYL 0418 234 302 Over 30 yrs’ local experience. All forms of concreting. Residential • Civil • Industrial

SHAKA CONCRETING Driveways, sheds, slabs, p/ways, patios. Insured & Lic#391742C....0402 728207 BUILDER – JOHN MCGAURAN Personalised Service. 20 yrs exp. Lic 170208C .......... 0415 793242 HAVEN BUILDING All aspects of building. Lic 326616C...............................................0432 565060 FABRICA JOINERY Quality kitchens/timber doors/windows. Lic 244652C .........................66808162

MIRO HALFORD BUILDING DESIGN mirohalforddesign.com ......................................0402 613638

DECKS, PATIOS & EXTENSIONS

CARPENTER / JOINER 30 years experience. Prompt efficient service. Fully insured. Other licensed trades easily sand over nail/screw heads!

BUILDER Extensions, maintenance, new homes, insurance, landscaping Lic19953Q....... 0403 458177 SEA LION BUILDERS: All Building Works / Maintenance Lic #243734C ....................Ph 0407 351720 VIDLER BUILT decks, extensions, bathrooms, kitchens, timber fencing Lic 304237c.......0413 502281

BUSH REGENERATION & WEED CONTROL THE GREEN WAVE: native reforestation and weed management....................... (John) 0491 117656

6684 2783

CONCRETING

www.bbtimbers.com.au

avail, incl plastering/painting etc. 24/7 Emergency 4WD call-out avail. Lic 43794C ........0423 500693 – Sales – Installation – Repairs – All Commercial Refrigeration – Residential & Commercial Airconditioning – Coolroom Design & Construction – Freezer Rooms

SALISBURY

Lic.136717c

B&B Timbers

CARPENTRY & JOINERY

QUALITY DECK RestoratioN free quote: 0455 573 554

FULLCIRCLEREFINISHING.COM

BYRON BAY FLOOR SANDING by Chris Wallace. Quality assured. Best prices...............0408 536565

LOCAL CARPENTER small, medium or large jobs. Lic 207899c...............................Ph 0431 048856 DECK REFINISHING EVANS HEAD Customer satisfaction guaranteed .........................0413 786879 ALL CARPENTRY Doors & stairs, all repairs. Reliable. 20 years exp. .............................0437 202050 BENNETT CARPENTRY Construction & maintenance. bennettcarpentry.com.au .......0448 031221

DESIGN & DRAFTING

OCEANARC ARCHITECTS Reg. 6042 www.oceanarc.com.au.........................................0412 251392 BYRON BAY CARPENTRY & CONSTR. Decks, kitchen, bath, laundry. Lic 337421c.......0432 549082 MIRO HALFORD BUILDING DESIGN mirohalforddesign.com ......................................0402 613638

www.echo.net.au

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ The Byron Shire Echo 43

Service Directory

North Coast news online

DRIVEWAY MAINTENANCE

FLOOR SANDING & POLISHING

ALL ASPECTS OF ASPHALT & BITUMEN SERVICES

oast Asph alt st C Ea

6677 1859

admin@ecasphalt.com.au

THE FLOOR SANDER New & old floors, decks, non-toxic finishes, special effects, free quotes..0407 821690 ACUPUNCTURE & COSMETIC MEDICINE Dr Adam Osborne ...........................................66857366 MULLUMBIMBY HERBALS Naturopathic and herbal dispensary, consultations..............66843002 AYURVEDA, NATUROPATH, Herbs, Jacinta McEwen – Om Healing..............................0422 387370 THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE. Sports, remedial, Swedish. Discount rates. ................Mark 0448 441194

GARDEN & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

All aspects of gardening and mowing Enhancive garden makeovers

SERVICING THE EAST COAST OF THE NSW NORTHERN RIVERS Burringbar

Est. 2010

MC2 RURAL Earthmoving, mulching, camphor/weeds, property maintenance ........... 0427 900701

EARTHMOVING & EXCAVATION

HEALTH

0430 297 101

livingearthgardens.com.au

HIRE MULLUM HIRE Marquees & all event equipment. Tools & machinery. Pool supplies & service 66843003

HYPNOTHERAPY MOONLIGHT HYPNOTHERAPY QHHT, RTT for clarity, healing, insight, purpose. Teresa 0422 179941

LANDSCAPING

TINY EARTHWOR Philip Toovey

Swim Ponds, Landscaping, Water Features, Earth Moving

0409 799 909

0448 401 638

various implements available for limited access projects MULLUM.MOWING@gmail.com. Ride-on, large lawns & acreage. Ph Peter................0423 756394 GUTTERS CLEANED Solar panel cleaning, all areas, free quotes, fully insured .66841778 or 0405 922839 A-Z Garden maintenance, acreage, gutters, rubbish removal, tip runs, top jobs ..................0405 625697 LEAF IT TO US Tree care specialists & acreage mowing..................................................0402 487213

CONSCIOUS EARTHWORKS

• DRAINAGE DESIGN • DRIVEWAYS • PADS • WATERWAYS • ALL ASPECTS OF EARTHMOVING Phone Zac: 0468 344 939 www.360earth.com.au $ " % & %%

%% ,) - #

GREEN DINGO for all your mowing and gardening needs. Ph Michael .........................0497 842442

• General Landscaping • Vegetation Control • Excavations & Civil Residential

BLADE RUNNER ACREAGE MOWING Local, reliable....................................................0428 856687

Call Paul 0403 316 711 gracewoodlandscapes.com.au Lic 474317C

BRUSH–CUTTING Whipersnip, clearing saw, light chain saw................................Rob 0455 587425 NORTHERN RIVERS SLASHING & LANDCARE......................................... Call Keni on 0417 509299

LEMONTREELANDSCAPES.COM.AU Liam. Lic 277154C ..............................................0423 700853

LOCKSMITH

GW MOWING Ride-on /acreage. Tip runs..............................................Call George on 0408 244820

GROWING WELL gardens residential lawns, hedging and design. 20 years experience .0413 459545 Brendan Duggan Locksmith. Automotive car keys and lock installation/repair .......0412 764148 THE GREEN WAVE: Eco property and garden care .............................................. (John) 0491 117656

! " #

COAST & COUNTRY Acreage mowing, prop. maintenance, prof. reliable service... Mike 0413 812582

) %% %

Landscaping, Vegetation Control & Earthworks

' & %% %( * % + #

TIP RUNS & RUBBISH REMOVALS 4m3 trailer..............................................................0408 210772 RICK’S PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Mowing, brushcutting, gardening, hedging.........0424 805660

PEST CONTROL

GAS FITTERS, SUPPLIERS & SERVICING

NORTHERN RIVERS TRENCHING 65hp chain trencher, excavator, cable locating & tpr.0402 716857

ELECTRICIANS

Free Delivery No Rental Reliable

Book our Termite Inspection & Pest Control package this winter and receive 10% off. Protect your home and save money with this limitedtime offer! Contact us today to schedule your appointment. Phone 02 6685 4490 • Email: service@sanctuarypest.com.au

0439 624 945 AH 02 6680 4173 DOMESTIC ALL JOBS: SMALL COMMERCIAL OR LARGE 24 HOUR SERVICE Lic: 154293c

LEVEL 2 ASP ELECTRICIAN

DOMESTIC • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL

www.brunswickvalleygas.com • 0408 760 609

Locally Owned wne ned No Rental Fees Feees es Servicing your aarea rea re Free Call: 1300 7277 013 01133 Email: swapabottle@bigpond.com com

SERVICING: • Tweed • Byron • Lismore • Kyogle • Mains installs / alterations • Switchboard upgrades • Meter queries • Tree maintenance near services Matthew Rutland matt.positivelectrical@gmail.com

0439 733 703 NSW Lic# 312117 ASP Lic# 5547 AUTHORISATION# 503808

JP ELECTRICAL All electrical. Level 2 ASP. Solar, data, TV, TV Antennas. Lic 133082C ....0432 289705 BEN FORSYTH, Electrician. Lic:240691C. Ocean Shores & surrounds. No job too small...0422 136408 JIM LABELLE ELECTRICAL O.Shores, Mullum, Byron, Bruns. Lic 176417C.......................0415 126028 ATLEE ELECTRICAL Lennox/Ballina/Byron. All jobs Lic125138C.......................................0499 456558 TOPAZ ELECTRICAL. All electrical work. Reliable. Lic No. 461605C............................ Ph 0421 707380

FENCING BYRON & BEYOND FENCING. Any fence, any time, prompt quotes .....0439 162 069 or 66802393 EDL FENCING Installations & repairs. Prompt service. ..................................................0432 107262 FLOW FENCING Pool fencing, timber/colourbond, local, professional and reliable.......0416 424256 TOM’S FARM MAINTENANCE Fencing, orchards, cattle work. Experienced & reliable. 0412 860132

44 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

BRUNSWICK BYRON PEST CONTROL................................................................................66842018

PHOTOGRAPHY

Tree Faerie Fotos Professional • Commercial • Personal 30+ years experience in commercial photography and photojournalism

www.treefaeriefotos.com • 0417 427 518

GUTTERING

PHYSIOTHERAPY Gutter guard Gutter cleaning Locally owned Fully insured Free quotes

Call Junior for friendly, genuine advice and service.

www.spotlessgutters.com.au

OCEAN SHORES PHYSIOTHERAPY Manual therapies, dry needling, custom orthotics, shock wave therapy, real time ultrasound. Nigel Pitman.....................................................66803499 EWINGSDALE PHYSIO Matrix Therapy, all ages, massage, home visit. Renata.............0437 647137 PELVIC FLOOR PHYSIOTHERAPY Bangalow Mon & Wed. Lisa Fitzpatrick ...................0422 993141

PICTURE FRAMING MULLUM PICTURE FRAMERS Studio located in Ocean Shores ..................................0403 734791

0405 922 839 or AH 6684 1778 ABN 94 239 089 086

PLASTERING

HANDYPERSONS

PLASTERER, TRADE QUALIFIED repairs, renovations, cornices, quality assured. Kurt 0431 015414 CAPE BYRON PLASTERING. Gyprock/Venetian. 27 yrs exp, free quotes, lic + insured.0402 538155

HANDY ANDY Carpentry, plastering, welding......................................... 66884324 or 0476 600956

PLUMBERS

AWESOME REPAIRS Professional, commercial & domestic. Wayne...............................0423 218417 ABSOLUTE HANDYMAN Repairs, renovation, maintenance, painting. Call Mark..........0402 281638 A HANDY GUY All trades & small construction. Bruns, Ocean, SGB & Mullum...............0411 858201 PFM HANDYWORKS Repairs, pressure cleaning, maintenance ......................Call Aari 0484 729139 HOME MAINTENANCE Carpentry, painting, repairs, gardens, jet washing. Insured .....0434 705506 HIGHPOINT Repairs & handyman services. Painting, plastering & tiling ........ Michael 0421 896796 ALL CARPENTRY Doors & stairs, all repairs. Friendly, reliable. 20 years exp..................0437 202050 AW WOODWORK Furniture, kitchens, carpentry, handyman services. Call Adam........0455 813965 HANDYMAN 40 years experience in the building game. Call Paul.................................0422 017072

Ben The Plumber

Servicing Mullumbimby, Ocean Shores, Brunswick Heads, Byron Bay & Surrounds 30 years’ experience Lic: 321191C

Taking on work NOW! 0427 528 108 | benwilton74@icloud.com

THF SERVICES home maintenance, repairs, garden work.............................................0402 019625

www.echo.net.au

ࠠ CCTV camera and locators ࠠ High pressure jet rodder ࠠ Electric eel Drain clearing, inspections and repairs. Reliable family owned and operated local business with 30 years plumbing experience and the latest technology.

Phone James 0429 888 683

ࠠ 1.7t and 3m tipper truck

SEPTIC SYSTEMS

Say Goodbye to Septic Woes Q Q Q Q

ࠠ Blocked drain specialist ࠠ 12 month guarantee on most jobs ࠠ Fully insured

Lic 378040C

Born & Bred Locals Qualified Plumbers Fully Insured FREE septic evaluation with EVERY pump-out

Scotty’sPro Plumbing Service

Contact Daniel and the Team 24/7 for ALL your Septic System needs 02 6672 1644 or 0418 751 765

2NWODKPI s &TCKPCIG s .2 )CU ƂVVKPI 4QQƂPI TGRCKTU tile and metal

ࠠ Servicing and repairs ࠠ New installations ࠠ Pre-purchase inspections ࠠ Free quotes and honest advice ࠠ Quality products ࠠ Highly experienced local plumbers ࠠ Fully insured

Reliable and experienced p d

Working in Byron Shire for over 20 years Phone Scotty anytime 0419 443 196 scottypro27@gmail.com – NSW Licence Number L13549 MARK STRATTON All plumbing & emergency. Sewer drain camera/locator. Lic 57803C ....0419 019035 BRAD EVELEIGH PLUMBING based in Ocean Shores, no job too small. Lic 257153C........0438 140075

Servicing the Byron Shire & Surrounds Phone James 0429 888 683

Lic 378040C

PRUNING ~ REMOVALS ~ STUMP GRINDING • 20 years local knowledge and experience • Fully insured / free quotes • 19 inch chipper • Bobcat • Cherry picker • Crane truck

www.harttreeservices.com.au

0427 347 380

! "#$ % &#$' ( ) * +#!", "#"- ,(%. / !"0!") 1 0 2 ", $ 3 ! , . ,!") 2 " ($,#"-* 1 24 * !-5 ! +($-4!") / " 1# , ( % ) "-* 2#$$6 (, ! "#$' $!#3$ &!-

REMOVALISTS

TRINE SOLUTIONS Local sewerage specialists. Plumbers, drainers & gas fitters. Lic 138031C. 0407 439805 APPROVED COMPOST TOILETS, council reports, septics etc. www.poohsolutions.com..........0427 897496

Martino TREE SERVICES

SHIRE REMOVALS & FREIGHT CO

SOLAR INSTALLATION

Byron Bay & Beyond

DAVE SPARKES Plumber Byron based, call out $110 incl. first hour. Lic209669C.............0418 167074

From Middle Pocket to Middle Earth Just give us a ring

• Freight services to Brisbane weekly • Carriers of fine art • Furniture removal • E-bay pick up & delivery

0409 917 646

!"#$%# &$' ()* +$$,-$&, .

Serving Northern NSW since 1998

Your local, qualified team

0428 320 262 sunbeamsolar.com.au

enquiries@sunbeamsolar.com.au

Elec Lic 353963C

TELEVISION SERVICES INSTALL SERVICE: TV, Wi-Fi, AV, special pensioner/concession rate. ........... Damian 0414 741233

TILING

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

BYRON BUS Co-

Metal Roofing & Guttering ering Experts Serving from Ballina to Gold Coast. ast. - A Lifetime Warranty on Workmanship ship - Double Satisfaction Checks - Spotless Work Sites, Every Time admin@oceanbluepr.com.au

0429 909 433

RUBBISH REMOVAL OCEAN SHORES SKIPS Mini skip specialists ......................................... 0412 161564 or 66841232 TIP RUNS & RUBBISH REMOVAL 4m3 trailer................................................................0408 210772 TIP RUNS & RUBBISH REMOVAL 7m3 trailer. Prompt, reliable service........................0413 289443

BYRON TREE SERVICES AQF Level 5 consulting arborist, insured...................... Call Alex 0402 364852 LEAF IT TO US 4x4 truck/chipper + crane truck. Local, qualified, insured. Free quotes .......0402 487213 LOCAL TREE GUYS 15m crane truck. 18 inch chipper. Bobcat..............................Jason 0488 489159 OUT ON A LIMB TREE SERVICES Lucas Holland qualified arborist .........................Luc 0402 191316

VALUERS VETERINARY SURGEONS

Get a Quick Quote Now Airport Transfers | Tours | Nights Out | Walks Events | Par ties | Weddings | Corporate | Festivals

TREE SERVICES

CHOPPY CHOP TREE SERVICES The Fully Insured Professionals

• Stump Grinding • Bobcat • Cherrypicker • Crane Truck • 18" Chipper

Mark Linder Qualified Arborist

0408 202 184

choppychoptrees@bigpond.com

www.oceanbluepr.com.au License # QBCC: 15327621 NSW: 381929C

Call Sam 0456 044602

BYRON BAY VALUERS NSW & QLD registerd. Chartered Valuers ............ 0431 245460 or 66857010

RENDERING / SOLID PLASTERING 25 years experience. Free quotes............ Ph John 0406 673176

FRC ROOF PAINTING – Local, 10 years in biz, 150 x 5-star reviews. Free quotes ..........0419 789600

Free Quotes |Insured |Amenity Tree Pruning Removals |Chipping |Block Clearing Council DA Assistance if required

BANGALOW UPHOLSTERY Now at Billinudgel. Re-covering specialists.............................66805255

Call Dan for a quote

ROOFING

17 Years Experience as an Arborist Experienced crew ready to go.

Call 0490 183 424 0435 565 964

RENDERING

0402 487 213

UPHOLSTERY

www.dansremovals.com

RYAN’S MINI MOVES ...................................................................................................0406 657 755

Local . Reliable . Insured

Door to Door Charter Services arrive@byronbuscompany.com.au

BENNY CAN MOVE IT! .................................................................................................0402 199999

leafittous.com.au kascha@leafittous.com.au

DIGITAL ELECTRONICS REPAIR & SERVICE TV. Audio. Antennas .......... 66843575 or 0414 922786

AJ’s TILING all aspects. Bathrooms, kitchens, walls, floors, waterproofing. Lic 239988C..0416 345202

02 6684 2198 queries@mullumbimbyremovals.com.au

TREE CCARE SPECIALISTS

Specialists in standalone and grid interact system designs

WALL & FLOOR TILER/WATERPROOFER/STONEMASON Lic 24418C. ...........Ph Karl 0439 232434

• Sydney • Gold Coast • Brisbane • Melbourne • North Qld • Country • Interstate • LOCAL

0435 019 524

MULLUM VET CLINIC: Richard Gregory, Bec Wills, Heidi Jenal. After hours avail..............66843818 NORTH COAST VETERINARY SERVICES Dr Lauren Archer.................................................66840735

WATER FILTERS

The Water Filter Experts for home, commercial and rural properties

6680 8200 or 0418 108 181

WELDING WELDING & FABRICATION Structural, General, Repairs: Steel, Aluminium & Stainless ..0408 410545

WINDOW CLEANING AND REPAIRS CLEAN VIEW Prompt, professional, insured. Phone David.............................................0421 906460

BYRON SHIRE Rubbish and furniture removals. ................................................ 0415 139308

WINDOW TINTING

SELF STORAGE

SURFWAGON - Car/Home/Office tint. Lifetime Warranty. W/sale price.........................0434 875009

BYRON BAY SELF STORAGE...............................................................................................66858349

SUNRISE window tinting, mobile Byron+ N. Rivers. Cars, homes, offices, etc ..............0412 158478

www.echo.net.au

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ The Byron Shire Echo 45

Property Insider

www.echo.net.au/echo–property

MARÉ – Timeless Coastal Luxury in the Heart of Byron Bay Cobild crafted and sold by Brad Rogan | Sotheby’s International Realty Opportunities of this calibre in Byron Bay are increasingly rare. MARÉ is an exclusive collection of just eight boutique residences at 9 Marvell Street, perfectly positioned between the beach and the town centre. With the majority of residences already secured, MARÉ presents a narrowing window to acquire a premium, off-the-plan home in one of Australia’s most tightly held coastal markets. Conceived as a timeless response to Byron Bay’s unique lifestyle, MARÉ is the culmination of a carefully considered design and development journey. Acclaimed local architects HGA Studio have crafted a building that is grounded, elegant and enduring, one that belongs to its setting rather than competing with it. A refined

palette of brick, stone, timber and concrete creates warmth, texture and longevity, while generous light wells, a central courtyard and landscaped rooftop spaces ensure every residence is bathed in light, air and privacy. Each apartment has been meticulously planned to deliver genuine livability, without compromise. Spacious three-bedroom layouts, expansive internal living areas, private outdoor spaces, secure basement parking and storage provide a level of scale and comfort rarely found in Byron Bay apartments. Above, a rooftop pool and garden offer a tranquil retreat, while curated ground-floor retail enhances both the streetscape and everyday convenience for residents. Quality and certainty

underpin the project. A highly regarded builder with decades of experience has been appointed, offering buyers confidence in craftsmanship, delivery and long-term value; an essential consideration in an off-the-plan purchase.

Delivering MARÉ is Cobild, one of Australia’s most respected premium residential builders, known for uncompromising standards and meticulous delivery. With a proud history spanning decades, Cobild has built a

reputation for craftsmanship, reliability and enduring quality across premium projects, giving buyers added assurance that MARÉ will be executed with the care and precision it deserves. What truly sets MARÉ apart

14 Short Street, Brunswick Heads

4 spacious bedrooms Open plan living and dining 1 Contemporary gourmet kitchen Generous outdoor entertaining areas Direct access to beach Positioned in the heart of Wooli village

Q Construction is underway.

Enquire now to secure one of the final remaining residences.

4

3

4

445m²

• Beautifully renovated, versatile family home in prime location. • Prized northerly aspect, landscaped gardens, rare 20m street frontage. ŵ *YPP] WIPJ GSRXEMRIH KVSYRH ƥSSV TIVJIGX JSV KVERR] ƥEX SV LSWXIH %MVFRF ŵ 1SHIVR WTEGMSYW OMXGLIR [MXL LMKL IRH Ƥ\XYVIW 0Y\YVMSYW FEXLVSSQW ŵ (EMOMR HYGXIH EMV GSRHMXMSRMRK WITEVEXI SJƤGI ERH WITEVEXI WXYHMS GVIEtive space. • Perfect for the large family, dual living set up or those wanting income potential.

Melanie Smith

0412 370 772 sales@solitaryislandre.com.au www.solitaryislandre.com.au

46 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

is its value proposition. In a market where premium Byron Bay property continues to outperform, MARÉ presents a limited opportunity to secure a brand-new, architectdesigned residence at a price point that is increasingly difficult to find, particularly within walking distance of the beach, Main Street, cafes, dining and wellness destinations. With only eight residences in total and limited availability remaining, MARÉ is more than a home. It is a considered lifestyle choice, a secure investment, and a rare chance to own something genuinely special in Byron Bay.

'SRXEGX %KIRX Nathan Donnelly 0421 942 630

nathan@nclp.com.au

02 6685 1839

nathan@nclp.com.au

www.nclp.com.au

www.echo.net.au

B Y R O N B AY

T H R E E B E D R O O M A PA R T M E N T S L I M I T E D AVA I L A B I L I T Y

BRAD ROGAN Ɠ ķĻĹķ ļŀĹ ĸĸĹ

SALES BY

www.echo.net.au

C U R AT E D & B U I LT B Y

DESIGNED BY

LANDSCAPE DESIGN BY

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ The Byron Shire Echo 47

48 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

www.echo.net.au

SELLING LIFESTYLES LIKE NO OTHER

17 DAN ANDALOO O WA AY OC OCEA EAN N SH SHOR ORES ES

17 DANDALOO WAY OCEAN SHORES 3

N=2

1

3

1,290m²*

SOLD FOR $1,369,000 ON THE MARKET FOR ONLY 14 DAYS

CHARLES MILBURN 0412 257 057 charles@amirprestige.com.au

59 COOPERS SHOOT ROAD COOPERS SHOO OOT OO T

‘HERCULES’ BYRON BAY’S ULTIMATE COASTAL ESTATE WITH PANORAMIC VIEWS 10

9

14

13.88 Acres*

FOR SALE CONTACT AGENT OLIVER HALLOCK K 0419 789 600 oliver@amirprestige.com.au COLLEEN BRUNT 0437 533 943

colleen@amirprestige.com.au

88 PHOENIX DRIVE TINTE TENB N AR NB AR

A SOLID, OPEN & GENEROUS HOME IN BEST LOCATION! 5

2

2

1.38 Acres*

FOR SALE CONTACT AGENT

OLIVER HALLOCK K 0419 789 600 oliver@amirprestige.com.au

141 BLISSETTS S RO ROAD A CAROOL

RICHMOND HILL LIFESTYLE HOME WITH POOL AND PANORAMIC VIEWS 4

2

2

25 Acres*

FOR SALE $2,995,000 - $3,290,000 COLLEEN BRUNT 0437 533 943 collee en@amirprestige.com.au e MAR RK K RONAN 0432 052 315 marrk..r@amirprestige.com.au Disclaimer *= approx.

www.echo.net.au

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ The Byron Shire Echo 49

Thank You! The team at First National Byron would like to sincerely thank our clients for trusting us with one of life’s biggest decisions, buying and selling your home. We also extend our thanks to our valued suppliers, dedicated trades, cleaners, gardeners, and all those behind the scenes who help us deliver exceptional service. Most of all, thank you to our incredible community for your continued support. From the First National Byron family to yours, we wish you a happy holidays and a safe, healthy and prosperous 2026.

7KH )LUVW 1DWLRQDO %\URQ RI͆FH ZLOO EH FORVHG from Monday the 22nd at 5pm and will re-open Monday the 5th at 9am.

your home, your life, your story. www.byronbayfn.com.au | sales@byronbayfn.com | 35 Fletcher St, Byron Bay NSW 2481 | 02 6685 8466 www.byronbayfn.com.au | sales@byronbayfn.com | 35 Fletcher St, Byron Bay NSW 2481 | 02 6685 8466

50 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

www.echo.net.au

2/122 LIGHTHOUSE ROAD, BYRON BAY

Location and Lifestyle, Mere Steps to the Beach! 2

2

1

1

• 6SDFLRXV JURXQG ͇RRU DSDUWPHQW ZLWK WKH LFRQLF lighthouse walk and Clarkes Beach at your door

Luke Elwin 0421 375 635

• The open-plan living area is light and airy, and seamlessly connects to a paved courtyard • %RWK EHGURRPV DUH JHQHURXVO\ VL]HG DQG LQFOXGH built-in robes and large windows • Within Byron Shires’ permitted Holiday Let area

Chris Byrne 0493 639 464 PRICE | Contact Agent OPEN | By Appointment

21 EXCELSIOR CIRCUIT, BRUNSWICK HEADS

Spacious, Well-Maintained Home with Separate Approved Self-Contained Granny Flat 5

3

3

772M

2

2

• Multiple living spaces • North-East aspect with spacious yard and covered outdoor entertaining area • 6HSDUDWH DSSURYHG VHOI FRQWDLQHG JUDQQ\ ͇DW with private entrance offering versatility and the potential for rental income

Sharon McInnes 0408 659 649

• Quiet, family-friendly street close to shops, schools, and beaches

PRICE | $1.69M - $1.85M OPEN | By Appointment

125 ALCORN STREET, SUFFOLK PARK

‘Sunday House’ - A Private Beachfront Oasis 6

4

4

1012M

2

2

• Prime Beachfront Location, steps from Tallow Beach with rainforest path access

Su Reynolds 0428 888 660

• 7KRXJKWIXO GHVLJQ HQKDQFLQJ ͇RZ OLJKW DQG VHDPOHVV connection to the outdoors • Blackbutt timber cladding, stone paving, eco-cork ͇RRUV ͇RRU WR FHLOLQJ JOD]LQJ DQG UDLQ VHQVRU URRI windows • Versatile studio with own generous courtyard and direct street access

Anna Gilham 0402 128 355

PRICE | Contact Agent OPEN | By Appointment

64A CARLYLE LANE, BYRON BAY

Byron Cottage with Approved DA for Designer Home 2 466M

1

1

1

2

• Prime Byron Bay ‘Golden Grid’ location – quiet lane, walk to town, beaches, cafés, and lighthouse track • Charming existing 2-bedroom cottage – high FHLOLQJV KDUGZRRG ͇RRUV ZUDSDURXQG YHUDQGD north-facing private backyard • DA-approved luxury development – future 4-bed, 3-bath home with pool and double lock-up parking

Helen Huntly-Barratt 0412 332 232

• Effortless lifestyle potential – enjoy the current home now or build your dream residence

RENDER

PRICE | $2.5M - $2.7M OPEN | By Appointment

www.byronbayfn.com.au | sales@byronbayfn.com | 35 Fletcher St, Byron Bay NSW 2481 | 02 6685 8466

www.echo.net.au

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ The Byron Shire Echo 51

Property

North Coast news online

Retirement Hobby Farm / Orchard at Newrybar Convenient Living and Income Producing Orchard • 13.6 ha farm on Hinterland Way near Newrybar. • Less than 20 minutes from Ballina and Byron Bay. • Single story house with 11 foot ceilings. • 2 master bedrooms at either end of house with private ensuites. • 3 additional double bedrooms. • The western end of the house has ducted a/c. • The eastern end has reverse cycle air-conditioners and can be considered as a separate retreat for guests. • Much of the power is provided by 6.6 kW solar panels and a 13.4 kWh Tesla battery. • Parking under house for several vehicles. • Larger shed is equipped with sorting/packing Price: $2.7M ONO racks, has a cool-room. For more information contact • The smaller shed just east of the house Phil Schmidt on 0410 456 495 has room for vehicles and a ride-on mower.

Nestled beneath the sweeping canopies of magnificent 120 year-old fig trees, this private 102 acre coastal retreat captures a rare sense of serenity, seclusion and timeless beauty. Here, the rhythm of rural life meets refined comfort. A place where gentle sea breezes drift through century-old branches, and every sunset over the rolling hills feels like a painting. Offering both lifestyle and lucrative income, the property features 4,500 established macadamia trees and fertile cattle-grazing paddocks, all set against picturesque rural and distant ocean views. The beautifully renovated 125 year-old farmhouse (three bedrooms, two bathrooms plus study) combines country character with modern amenity, while the fully self-contained Old Dairy Bails studio and separate studio annex provide versatility for guests, extended family or additional income. Just minutes from Newrybar, Tintenbar, Lennox Head and Ballina, this is a rare chance to own one of the Northern Rivers' most idyllic and productive lifestyle properties - where heritage, income and natural beauty live in perfect harmony.

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A MODERN BENCHMARK FOR LUXURY COASTAL LIVING

Limited Release: Just 4 homes remain A boutique collection of new 3-bedroom, freestanding homes, minutes to shops, school, beaches, Brunswick River and more. Each unique residence features light-filled, open plan spaces promoting indoor-outoor living, premium inclusions and finishes, energy-efficient appliances, high-speed broadband and solar power. Discover low-maintenance luxury living, now complete and ready to move in.

Byron Bay

DEVELOPED BY:

SCAN NOW TO VIEW PLANS & PRICES Or to arrange a private inspection. 52 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

www.echo.net.au

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Introducing the Assisi Apartments at Crowley Care. Independence celebrated. 26 unique apartments designed with care, built with purpose. Request your information pack today.

Nestled along the serene banks of Ballina’s North Creek, Crowley Care’s latest Independent Living development offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, comfort, and community. Designed for you, the Assisi Apartments provide an inspirational living experience, where every detail is considered for elegance and ease. AT A GLANCE

Number of Apartments: 26 self-contained residences Apartment Sizes: 1 and 2 bedroom configurations with 1 or 2 bathrooms. Secure undercover parking space with remote access.

Trusted since 1979

Phone us on 1300 139 099 or visit www.living.crowley.org.au

Expected Completion: February 2026 Accessible Location: 154 Cherry Street, Ballina NSW 2478 Community Features: Beautifully maintained landscaped gardens, plus shared activity and entertaining areas.

DISCOVER MORE:

Scan the QR code to visit our website at www.living.crowley.org.au or call us on 1300 139 099 to learn more about this exciting new development.

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Safety & Security: Enjoy peace of mind with our 24/7 emergency call system, nightly security patrols, and regular wellness checks by our Independent Living Coordinators.

SOLD SOLD

A rare coastal sanctuary in ťĹĝĖʡ ·ťˍĽʠĕĝĽŅʠÚŤÐďŊĽûŞÚʠÚĽŅ·ŅÚ 41 Bottlebrush Drive, Suffolk Park A chance to become part of a private and exclusive gated community in the heart of world-renowned wellness destination, Byron Bay. This is your opportunity to build your own beachside sanctuary. Enquire today to arrange a private viewing or to receive more information.

SOLD SOLD

41bottlebrush.com Contact: Karin Heller karin@kimjonesandco.com 0409 177 659 www.echo.net.au

SOLD

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ The Byron Shire Echo 53

Property / Property Business Directory

North Coast news online

ARCHITECTS

Kaldera

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kaldera.au

Kaldera Architects

Bangalow ˙ Passive House ĐěƌƙĽǔěĖ ˙ DBP Class 2 registered

Find current homes open for inspection at The Echo online: www.echo.net.au/ofi

hello@kaldera.au 0479051742 Katharine Turner NSW 11419

CONVEYANCING BUYING and SELLING REAL ESTATE? We are here to help

NP CONVEYANCING PHONE 6685 7436 FOR A QUOTE

NPC

PERSONALISED APPOINTMENTS IN BYRON BAY NOW NOW OPERATING OUT OF CENTRAL OFFICE IN POTTSVILLE Lic No 06000098

We would like to thank everyone for their support throughout 2025. Our office will close from 12.30pm on Thursday 18 December 2025 so we can regroup, refresh and recuperate to be back on deck at 9am on Monday 5 January 2026.

02 6680 8522

bvk

bvk.com.au

SOLICITORS ATTORNEYS

QUALITY LEGAL ADVICE

Have your property seen in The Echo and online! UNBEATAB ADVE RTISI LE NG PACK A G AVAIL ES AB NOW LE !

We would like to thank everyone for their support throughout 2025. Our offices will close from 12 noon on Thursday 18 December 2025 so we can regroup, refresh and recuperate to be back on deck at 9am Ballina Office 02 6681 4814 on Monday 5 January 2026.

Tweed Heads 07 5599 4456 Ocean Shores 02 6680 2888

vka

vkalaw.com.au

SOLICITORS ATTORNEYS

VA N KEMPEN N & ASSOCIATES

NSW & QLD Conveyancing, Leases, Business Sale & Purchase P: 02 6687 0548 | hello@bangalowconveyancing.com.au

Reach an engaged and affluent audience. Research shows that advertising is more effective placed within news content. 22,000 weekly Echo newspapers are distributed directly to homes and businesses across the Northern Rivers. Plus we have over 30,000 weekly readers online at www.echo.net.au. Contact us today for great advertising options in The Echo newspaper and on the website. adcopy@echo.net.au 02 6684 1777 www.echo.net.au

54 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

www.echo.net.au

Property Business Directory AGENTS

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

TARA TORKKOLA SALES

Boutique, family-owned and proudly serving Byron Bay & beyond.

0423 519 698 tara@byronbayfn.com

Where personalised service isn’t just a promise - it’s our way of life.

@taratorkkolafirstnational @taratorkkola_realestate

JANIS PERKINS

We project manage building, HIZIPSTQIRX ƤVI WEJIX] QIEWYVIW

02 6680 8588 | 0438 841 122 janis@reodbyron.com.au Shop 9/15-19 Fletcher St, Byron Bay www.reodbyron.com.au

www.byronbayfn.com.au

PAUL PRIOR

FINANCE

SALES

'VEMK %HEQW | Project Manager 0411 575 991 craig@cacm.net.au

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

0418 324 297 paulprior@byronbayfn.com Professional and results driven with extensive knowledge. Servicing the Byron Shire and beyond.

12 years local Real Estate experience

Call Paul for an appointment today.

Premium results & peace of mind

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WWW.BYRONBAYFN.COM.AU

Home Loans Investment Loans First Home Buyers Car Loans

SHARON McINNES

Debt Consolidation SMSF Lending Commercial Loans Development Funding

SALES

0408 659 649 sharon@byronbayfn.com

Effective, modern technology Friendly & Approachable agents you can trust Highly competitive fees & introductory offers

Property Management & Sales

Alyce Field & Kasey Williams Ph: 04‫׎בא חבג ו׏‬ E: admin@byronpropertyhub.com.au

PROPERTY STYLING

RãÙÙ ¼ɺUª ÷ Finance Broker russel@acceptancefinance.com.au 0412 833 280

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PROPERTY STAGING styling for sale call us for a free quote on 0432 574 321 cactushillproject.com.au home@cactushillproject.com.au

0411 757 425 tim@millerrealestate.com.au millerrealestate.com.au @timmiller_realestate

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SALES & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Contact the team today on 0412 057 672

www.echo.net.au

'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ The Byron Shire Echo 55

Backlash Echo Xmas closure The Great Pirate Ship Echo’s office will be closed from the 24 to 26 December (inclusive). Our next edition will come out on 31 December, 2025.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the Byron Homemade Pizza and Jimmy Chimichurri team. We can’t wait to cater more events and share more great food with you in 2026. Get in touch at sales@byronhomemadepizza.com or call 02 7201 7525 to book your next event!

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12 Month Warranty - Trade In’s Welcome! ome! 02 6685 5585

1/ 130 Jonson Street Byron Bay

devicetrader.com.au

PHONES ON N - REPAIRS - ACCESSORIES

What a scorcher! We’re feeling the heat putting this edition together, and so are all the doggos and wildlife out there. Please remember to top up water bowls in shady spots at cafes, backyards, etc. for our furry and feathered friends who also suffer in the heat. Thirsty critters may also seek relief in swimming pools so leave them an escape rope in case they fall in. What do you call an English cricketer with 100 beside his name? A bowler. Broadly speaking, ‘Australia’s worst team since 2010’, has left England in ashes. A big festive thanks to Stephen Axelsen who illustrated this week’s delightful cover art, ‘Old Mr Coal Goes Back To Bed’. ‘The whole problem with the world is that fools and fanatics are always so certain of themselves, and wiser people are so full of doubts.’ Bertrand Russell. A recent study has shown that male bottlenose dolphins with strong friendships age more slowly than their more solitary peers. Dolphins, like humans, experience age-related changes: reduced energy, wear to the skin, slower movement and fading eyesight. But UNSW scientists say they also have access to a powerful, natural

One of Santa’s helpers Derek has a side hustle, busking on Burringbar Street. Derek and his elven wife Trish have been collecting toys for local children whose families are struggling this Christmas, in memory of their friend Graham Evans who recently passed away. ‘Our message for Christmas is that the greatest power in the universe is unconditional love’, they said. Photo Jeff Dawson anti-ageing serum: their friends. So relax and remember to enjoy those family and friend connections, because they are your elixir of life! Long-time local, fashion designer, and gardener Sarah Lyshart long ago had a bikini label ‘Shark Bait’ which probably wouldn’t sell too well around town these days! There has been a death a day on NSW roads so remember to drive safely this silly season. Take regular breaks, stick to speed limits (no problem for Backlash who currently spends their life driven around by L-platers), and avoid distractions like mobile phones. Of course don’t drink and drive! Otherwise have a fabulous, rainbow-loving festive season!

WEEKLY SUNSET & LUNCH CRUISES, EXCLUSIVE EVENTS & PRIVATE CHARTERS

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BOXING DAY W/ FLO RECORDS & MARIA’S

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SUNSET W/ FLO RECORDS & MARIA’S

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ARVO’S W/ FLO RECORDS & MARIA’S

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ARVO’S W/ FLO RECORDS & MARIA’S

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LONG LUNCH W/ MARIA’S

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NEW YEARS EVE W/ CASA LUNA

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ARVO’S W/ FLO RECORDS & MARIA’S

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ON THE WATER SEE MORE AT WWW.MVJASMINE.COM

WWW.MVJASMINE.COM

@JASMINEBYRONBAY

WANTED

MULLUMBIMBY POOL STAFF

JUNIOR KIOSK STAFF (15 to18ish) for XMAS SCHOOL HOLIDAYS AND 2026 6684 2494 cdavidson2009@live.com

56 The Byron Shire Echo 'ĕĈĕŔćĕſ ǩǪǽ ǩǧǩǬ

www.echo.net.au