Issuu

DRUG CHECKING SINCE 1986 The Byron Shire Echo • Volume 41 #13 • September 9, 2026 • www.echo.net.au

Ewingsdale Rd pedestrian crossing back on the agenda

Is there a better site for affordable housing than 57 Station Street?

Paul Bibby The developers behind the massive West Byron housing project are back for round two in their bid to install a pedestrian crossing on Ewingsdale Road, just weeks after councillors rejected a traffic-light version of the proposal. But this time there’s a twist. Rather than installing traffic lights immediately, developer Site R&D Pty Ltd is proposing a twostage approach: a zebra crossing and central pedestrian refuge would go in first, with the traffic lights returning later as the development fills with residents.

Stopping traffic on Byron’s busiest road? The proposal would again place a pedestrian crossing near Banksia Drive on Byron’s busiest and most congested road, where even relatively small changes have the potential to dramatically affect traffic flows. The original proposal came before Byron councillors earlier this year after Transport for NSW told the developer that Council needed to endorse the traffic signals before the state agency would progress its approval process. Council staff supported the crossing, saying it was the most suitable option for satisfying a condition imposed when the West ▶ Continued on page 6

Devastating Wallum judgment ▶ p2

Members of the MRA, Michael Williamson, Anando Hefley, David Brown (standing), Gerry Brown and Dale Emerson discuss alternative sites, like this one in the Byron Arts & Industry Estate, for affordable housing. Photo Jeff ‘Pic-a-nic Basket’ Dawson Aslan Shand The Mullumbimby Residents Association (MRA) is calling a public meeting to discuss an alternative site for Byron Shire Council’s (BSC) 57 Station Street affordable housing project on Monday, 28 September at 6pm at the Ex-Services Club in Mullumbimby. Working with Councillor David Warth the MRA has recently identified a Council-owned site in the Byron Arts & Industry Estate that they say will deliver affordable and public housing faster and cheaper

Arakwal and Byron Council partnership formalised ▶ p4

than the 57 Station Street site can achieve saving both BSC and the state and federal government significant money. This follows multiple suggestions of alterative sites in Mullumbimby that the Byron Council has rejected. Retired architect David Brown has put together a basic design on how to move the Station Street development to the Crows Ash Close site opposite the IGA supermarket. ‘It is a project with none of the constraints that 57 Station Street has, including a major sewer line,

The trust deficit ▶ p10

overhead electrical power lines, height and bulk issues, traffic and access issues, delivery access for the local IGA and grease trap and gas deliveries for local cafes, and the cost of a replacement carpark and toilets,’ explained MRA member Dale Emerson.

Faster, cheaper delivery ‘The key wins are the speed that the project can be delivered, the flexibility of the site, the significantly reduced costs to Council and developer that would offset what Council has already spent on

Lessons for the Richmond and other waterways ▶ p16

the 57 Station Street site, and that it is a fully serviced site with water, sewage, and electricity connected,’ Mr Brown told The Echo. Brown said that using prefabricated, modular, off site development or ‘modern methods of construction (MMC)’, like The Nest in Mullumbimby, rather than conventional construction methods such as concrete framing and conventional brick work that is currently being proposed to build the 57 Station Street site, the cost of development could be reduced ▶ Continued on page 6

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Wallum judgment – devastated, but not giving up!

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Members of the community gathered at Bayside Park in Brunswick Heads, on Monday to hear Her Honour Justice Perry bring her findings in the Save Wallum Inc vs Clarence Property Anor, and dismiss the community’s application for a permanent injunction against development of the site known locally as ‘Wallum’. Devastating, was the collective response from the more than 100 people who gathered to hear the decision, live-streamed on YouTube from the Federal Court in Sydney. Save Wallum Inc President, Luciana Bowen addressed the crowd after the announcement: ‘We lost the final judgment. Our application for permanent protection of the land has been dismissed. We don’t know why yet.’ ‘We do however have an undertaking from the developers that there will be

Around 100 people gathered in Bruns to hear the outcome of the Save Wallum court case. The mood dropped significantly as it became apparent that they had not won the case. Photo Jeff Dawson no slashing, nor any work on the artificial frog ponds, with a temporary extension of the injunction for one week.’ ‘It is an incredibly disappointing outcome considering what is at stake. Rainbow honey eaters are currently nesting on site, which they do in the sand, in ground hollows, right where they want to take the slasher next week.’ Bob Brown was dismayed

by the judgment. He said, ‘Wallum’s unique natural ecosystem has been betrayed by the system – big business, state and federal governments, bureaucrats and now a dismissive court which has dismissed the laws of nature.’ ‘Wallum deserves total protection and its defenders deserve an Order of Australia, but instead the profiteers get to do as they want with this

vital slice of Australia’s natural heritage. My heart goes out to the wise and good hearts of Save Wallum. This is a disgraceful outcome.’ ‘It’s not over,’ Bowen told those gathered, ‘We have a week to work through the findings and see if there are grounds for appeal. It’s heartbreaking to say the least, why should the community have to carry the burden of protecting a place that environmental laws are supposed to protect? If those laws cannot prevent the destruction of threatened habitat, they are not worth the paper they are written on.’ Local Bayside resident, Lisa Sandstrom then thanked those who attended, and everyone who couldn’t be there. Save Wallum is urging the community to stay engaged and informed via social media or by receiving updates by texting Save Wallum to 0475 446 993.

The Fox to open 20th Byron Bay International Film Festival

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The 20th Byron Bay International Film Festival (BBFF) opening night on Friday, 16 October will see the winner of the Sydney Film Festival Audience Award for Best Australian feature, The Fox launch the celebration. Dario Russo’s darkly comic Australian folktale, The Fox, features the voices of Sam Neill and Olivia Colman with Festival Director J’aimee Skippon-Volke saying The Fox is a fitting film with which to begin BBFF’s milestone year. ‘The Fox is a wonderfully unexpected film to open our 20th festival. It’s funny, strange, beautifully made and unmistakably Australian – exactly the kind of bold

more about its ‘What Animals Reveal About Us’ selection in the coming weeks.

Friends of BBFF

The Fox will open BBFF’s 20th year on Friday, 16 October. Photo supplied independent filmmaking we love bringing to BBFF audiences. ‘Opening night is always special, but there’s an added sense of celebration this year as we mark 20 editions of bringing filmmakers and audiences together in Byron

Bay and across the Northern Rivers.’ The Fox also introduces a fascinating thread running through this year’s program, with several films exploring what our relationships with animals can reveal about ourselves. BBFF will reveal

The festival will run for ten days and this year launches the Friends of BBFF, a new way for audiences and supporters to become more closely connected with the festival and help support its future. The program will invite film lovers to become Foundation Friends in its inaugural year, with opportunities to engage with BBFF beyond the ten days of the festival. Full details of the Friends program can be found on the festival’s website at: bbff.com.au.

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Following the cancellation of the 2026 Bluesfest, the two Bluesfest companies – Bluesfest Enterprises Pty Ltd which ran the ticket arm of the business, and Bluesfest Byron Bay Pty Ltd that ran the event – went into administration. Subsequently, the festival site has now been listed for sale. The 300 acre site has three main parcels across six titles at 30 Tanner Lane, Tyagarah. According to the listing by North Coast Commercial Real Estate – Lismore, ‘The property is available individually, in one line or in any combination via an Expressions of Interest campaign

Locals, businesses, and performers left out of pocket

The Bluesfest site is being sold as ‘vacant possession’. Image North Coast Commercial Real Estate – Lismore closing 8 October, unless sold prior’. The sire contains environmentally sensitive areas and must operate under the Koala Plan of Management (KPoM) created for the site

under the original approvals for the festival at that site. The site comes with three houses, each on its own title, along with a range of infrastructure including the Green Room and staff facilities.

The sale comes after Bluesfest went into administration in March 2026 with ‘debts exceeding $10 million’ and ‘of that, $7.4 million is owed to unsecured creditors, primarily ticketholders and suppliers, who are expected to recover only about 11 cents for every dollar they are owed,’ according to the ABC in June 2026. Questions have been sent to Bluesfest site owner Peter Noble. www.echo.net.au

Local News Celebrate 50 years of the Billi-Ocean Shores RFS

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Aslan Shand Billinudgel is celebrating with the Billinudgel and Ocean Shores Rural Fire Brigade turning 50. The brigade is inviting everyone to come and find out more about your local emergency volunteer organisations on Saturday, 19 September, 10am to 2pm. Then on Sunday 20 September celebrate their 50th Birthday by joining in the fun Bush Dance extravaganza at the Billinudgel Pub from 4pm to 7pm.

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Emergency Expo ‘South Golden Beach (SGB), New Brighton, Ocean Shores, and Billinudgel have around 7,000 people living there. That’s a lot of people to look after,’ Billinudgel Rural Fire Service (RFS) Senior Deputy Captain Murray ‘Muzz’ Dreschler told The Echo. ‘The Saturday Volunteer Emergency Community Expo will demonstrate what volunteering gives local communities both as a volunteer and as a member of the community.’ The RFS, SES, Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA), Marine Rescue, and the

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Local Billinudgel and Ocean Shores RFS volunteers are keen to let you know how you can get involved and keep you and your community safe in an emergency. Photo Jeff Dawson Community Resilience team from Ocean Shores, South Golden, and New Brighton will be on hand to chat with. ‘Burringbar and Main Arm brigades will also join us,’ said Billinudgel and Ocean Shores RFS President Kitty Crain. ‘This will be a great time to talk to the different services if you are thinking of volunteering in the future. The Expo will also include active demonstrations, fun

fire hose activity for kids, lucky door prizes, a cake stall and a free sausage sizzle. ‘I want to promote the RFS and volunteerism for emergencies,’ said Muzz. ‘Volunteering gives local communities the opportunity to look after themselves when there is an emergency and they need to be cared for.’

Kick up those heels! Everyone is welcome to celebrate 50 years of

the Billinudgel and Ocean Shores RFS on Sunday, 20 September by kicking up their heels and enjoying an energetic bush dance at the Billinudgel Pub from 4pm. ‘Bring your cowboy hat and learn a few dance steps to the music of the Playing Possum Bush Band. We have some great raffle prizes to win, and pink lemonade for those young at heart,’ said President Kitty.

Major plan calls for fresh rail trail funding bid Paul Bibby Councils should reapply to the state and federal governments for funds to complete the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, (NRRT) following the failure of a $42 million application earlier this year, according to a major new blueprint for the region’s economic future. The newly released ProspER Northern Rivers plan names completion of the 132km trail as one of 12 ‘catalyst projects’ for the region, saying the funding case should be rebuilt using lessons from the unsuccessful May bid. The report points to more than 300,000 visitors to the Tweed section since it opened as evidence of demand, and says completing the corridor

would boost small businesses and town centres while improving active transport, community connections, and visitor dispersal.

Missing links Large sections of the trail are already open through Tweed, Richmond Valley and Lismore, while Byron Shire Council (BSC) area remains the missing link. For years Byron Council lagged behind its neighbours while pursuing various versions of the increasingly elusive dream of getting trains back on the tracks alongside a trail. Consultant reports repeatedly found that retaining the railway would make a trail significantly more difficult and expensive. particularly

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around bridges, tunnels and embankments. The issue finally came to a head in February when BSC voted to abandon the rail-with-trail model and pursue an on-formation rail trail instead. ProspER now argues that the next step should be a renewed whole-of-corridor investment case, with funding advocacy between 2026 and 2029 and delivery from 2030 onwards. The project is identified as requiring seed money, grants, and major capital investment. The rail trail is just one part of a much broader plan containing 56 recommendations across ten ‘domains of action’, covering housing, health, workforce, transport, investment, environment,

and industry. One of the most concrete proposals is a network of housing demonstration precincts aimed at testing faster and more resilient ways of building homes, including modular and prefabricated construction, low-carbon housing, key-worker housing and co-housing. Another catalyst project is a Northern Rivers Regional Trade Training Centres. The plan also proposes health and innovation precincts, a regional energy and resilience pilot, a food and fibre hub, expanded film and content production and a 2032 Brisbane Olympics transformation initiative. ■ Read full story in The Echo

online: www.echo.net.au.

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September 9, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 3

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$80,000 raised by the Women’s Giving Circle Arakwal and Byron Council partnership formalised Four local charities received $80,000 raised through Northern Rivers Community Foundation Women’s Giving Circle (WGC) on 3 September at the Brunswick Picture House. They include the Strong Beginnings program, delivered by Evie Wood, the CEO of Coolamon Community. They will use the grant to ensure essential maternal and infant items reach 48 First Nations mothers across the Northern Rivers and further afield. The items will be distributed through Aboriginal Health Service partners. A pilot program of Workplace Wellbeing Dialogue Circles delivered by Janine Dunleavy, Project Worker at Northern Rivers Community Legal Centre, will give frontline domestic and family violence workers a structured way to process

Northern Rivers Legal Centre’s Janine Dunleavy; WGC’s Amy Coli; Evie Wood, from Coolamon Community; Agape Outreach’s Theresa Mitchel; WGC’s Stevey Arena; and Shift Project Founder Anne Goslett. Photo Jeff Dawson the trauma they absorb on the job. The SHIFT charity, led by co-founder Anne Goslett, will embed a qualified social worker across its residential, outreach and employment programs, including at the SHIFT linen service. Agape Outreach, led

by Founder and Psychologist Theresa Mitchell, will establish a women-only supported accommodation in Banora Point, furnishing three family rooms within a seven-bedroom group home for women and children escaping homelessness and domestic violence.

Byron’s ‘great walker’ takes out Wollumbin Art Award A much-loved Byron Shire character has helped carry artist Stephen Bird to the top prize in this year’s Wollumbin Art Award. Bird won the $15,000 biennial prize for Alfred, a glazed earthenware work paying tribute to a familiar local figure he describes as ‘the Shire’s great walker’. The work, presented on an oversized ceramic plate, has taken on added poignancy following Alfred’s death in October last year, after he was struck by a van while walking along Ewingsdale Road in Byron Bay. Guest judge Professor Lisa Slade said Bird, an established contemporary ceramic artist, had taken the

Stephen Bird, Alfred. Photo supplied storytelling in his work ‘to a whole new level of poignancy’ by focusing on Alfred, a ‘well-known and much-loved local figure’. Along with the cash, Bird receives a two-week residency at the Nancy Fairfax Artist In Residence Studio at Tweed Regional Gallery.

Lismore-based Gomeroi artist Penny Evans won the $10,000 Bundjalung Award for her textile work Dhurrubuu – Follow Me, which explores disinformation and old knowledge held on Country. The award also includes a solo exhibition at the gallery in 2027. Byron Shire artist Pascale Bardos picked up the $5,000 Emerging Artist Award for Holding Time, a pair of large, unfired stoneware vessels. Professor Slade described the work as ‘materially and conceptually brave’. The Wollumbin Art Award exhibition runs at Tweed Regional Gallery in South Murwillumbah until 15 November.

Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye and Arakwal Chairperson Cassandra Kelly signing the Statement of Commitment. Photo supplied Walgun Cape Byron was an impressive backdrop to the recent formalisation of a partnership between the Bundjalung of Byron Bay Arakwal People (Arakwal) and Byron Shire Council. The Chairperson of the Arakwal Corporation, Cassandra Kelly, and Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, signed the Arakwal Statement of Commitment, signalling Byron Council’s strong desire to support reconciliation and ensure Arakwal aspirations

are embedded in Council’s planning and reporting frameworks. The Statement of Commitment reflects the strong and long-running partnership between Arakwal and Council which was formalised through the 1998 Heads of Agreement, the 2012 Statement of Commitment and the 2013 Memorandum of Understanding. These agreements, and the 2026 Statement recognise the Arakwal People as the traditional owners and

custodians of the Byron Shire, and establish a framework for ongoing consultation, cultural heritage protection and mutual respect. ‘This statement is about striving to make sure the Arakwal People are considered thoughtfully and respectively in Council processes and planning,’ Cassandra Kelly, Chair of the Arakwal Corporation, said. ■ Read full story in The Echo

online: www.echo.net.au.

Janet Swain wins Labor preselection for seat of Ballina Labor branches in the seat of Ballina voted in their preselection over the weekend and it is understood that Janet Swain has comfortably won, though this won’t be confirmed until Thursday. Former NBN News cameraman, Lachlan Hall, from Alstonville had also put up his hand to run.

Branches who voted in the preselection were Ballina, Byron Bay, and Alstonville. However, many members of the Mullumbimby-Brunswick branch, which is the largest branch in the state seat of Ballina and federal seat of Richmond, were unable to vote in the preselction as

the branch is currently under review. Ocean Shores-based Swain had previously been a member of the Mullumbimby-Brunswick Labor branch and had subsequently moved to the Ballina branch while some others had moved to the Byron Bay branch.

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What are the best affordable housing sites? Northern Rivers Wildlife Hospital auction live ▶ Continued from page 1

fantastic to see MRA putting forward alternatives, and I am hopeful that our Council and community can work together on opportunities to deliver the housing we so desperately need.’

by more than 50 per cent. ‘The Station Street build cost is estimated at $16,500,000. This is a bit under $590,000 per dwelling for the 28 shop top apartments currently proposed. The Nest build cost, by way of comparison, is $8,202,200 and a bit over $164,000 per dwelling for 50 dwellings. There is no doubt this is more “bang for the buck”,’ said Brown. ‘I’m sure a number of very experienced and competent project managers would love to get involved if Landcom was not involved.’ Brown emphasised that the project manager must be well versed in the advantages and challenges, of MMC which unfortunately Council officers and Landcom managers are not.

Flood free land

MRA member Michael Williamson highlighted that, ‘this site is on flood-free land. There is the solar train just next door so people can get convenient, easy access to town for work, shopping, and entertainment while there are local shops, medical facilities, and entertainment within walking distance. This is perfect for key workers like hospital staff, police, emergency services etc.’ Brown even explained that the new site could facilitate slightly larger units so How can you get thatinvolved? ‘people can fit in a table, Time to listen to the and a double bed’. There are plenty of easy ways to take part ‘Councillors have procommunity — no matter your group posed size or style. 18m2 at Station Street. Mandy Nolan, who will On the new site we could be running for the Greens in give people a little more the seat of Ballina in 2027, space of between 22-24m2. told The Echo that, ‘I have You could arrange some twoheard the concerns of the bedroom units as well, but community, and I don’t that would be for a detailed support the DA for 57 Station assessment.’ St in its current form. It’s The balance of units Join The Long Run

versus car parks will be a key question for the site planning with fewer units providing more car parking and vice versa. ‘With two storeys, easy site access and a high level of urgency, the benefits of MMC can be realised on the Crows Ash Close site,’ said Brown. ‘In this, each dwelling is a prefabricated unit of the whole. Built in a building off site to a high standard of fabrication and complete with all internal finishes and fittings, MMC units of the size proposed are easily trucked to site, lifted into place, services connected and landscaping completed. It is a fast process that is not weather-dependent. ‘The cost and time advantages over the concrete-andbrick, access-challenged Station Street site proposal are obvious. I would not be surprised that under current conditions, and an immediate start, the cost per dwelling might be less than The Nest, the construction time significantly less, and the disruption to neighbouring properties minimal.’

LIGHT UP BLUE

■ The Echo is an affected

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Run, walk or ride 72km for men with prostate cancer this September. The Long Run is perfect for social groups or anyone who wants to get active for a good cause.

Local artists, restaurants, accommodation providers, businesses and supporters have generously donated an exceptional collection of over 100 items to the SAVE OUR WILDLIFE HOSPITAL Online Auction after hearing that the hospital is struggling to keep its doors open. Original artworks by Noel

Hart, Zoe Barber, Tanya Ogilvie-White, alongside dining experiences at some of the region’s most-loved restaurants, including Frida’s Field, Light Years, The Belongil Bistro and Balcony Bar & Oyster Co., and stays at Elements of Byron and Crystalbrook Byron have been donated towards the auction.

‘Every bid helps raise vital funds to keep Northern Rivers Wildlife Hospital open and caring for injured, sick and orphaned native wildlife across our region,’ said organisers. Make your bid now at: aus.givergy.com/saveourwildlifehospital or make a donation and help care for our local wildlife.

Traffic lights for Ewingsdale Rd, Byron? ▶ Continued from page 1

Byron subdivision was approved by the Land and Environment Court. Councillors were considerably less enthusiastic. They voted not to approve the lights, with the proposed location described during the debate as a crossing ‘from nowhere to nowhere’. The Echo reported at the time that councillors overwhelmingly rejected the proposal and instead called for a long-overdue masterplan for the increasingly congested Ewingsdale Road corridor.

No real change The developer has responded with a formal modification application. Under the revised plan,

Stage One would see a marked zebra crossing and refuge built near Banksia Drive. The applicant’s planning statement describes this as an ‘acceptable interim solution’ while West Byron remains relatively lightly populated. At Stage Two, that crossing would be removed and replaced in roughly the same location with the previouslyproposed signalised crossing. The developer says the staged approach responds to Council’s concerns, with the eventual lights added to coincide with a larger West Byron population. Alternatives above or below the road have effectively been ruled out.

A consultant’s report says an underpass would sit below the water table, encounter acid sulphate soils and require constant pumping. It says construction difficulties would be significant, costs ‘prohibitive’ and traffic disruption during the works ‘massive’. An overpass fared little better, with the report saying it would stand around ten metres high, require ramps roughly 100 metres long and be ‘unsightly’ on the flat landscape. The modification is now before Byron Council for assessment. ■ Read full story in The Echo

onlime: www.echo.net.au.

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Shine a light on prostate cancer by lighting up your local community blue! Reach out to ask your local Council if they can light up landmarks blue during September, or light up your local sheds, clubhouses, or businesses. It’s a great visual way to raise awareness and spark conversations.

If you register and raise just $50 by September 1, you’ll also score yourself a free Long Run t-shirt.

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GET ACTIVE IN THE FIGHT AGAINST PROSTATE CANCER Provide regular updates and engagement in the lead up to the campaigns Access to social media tiles,

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Prostate Cancer Awareness community groups for a free Life Force Month is held every September to presentation this September to help raise promote early detection, support vital awareness of prostate cancer. individuals affected by prostate cancer, and fund vital research.

Have your say on the draft Water Sharing Plan for the Brunswick Unregulated and Alluvial Water Sources The NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water is inviting local communities, interest groups and businesses to have their say on the draft Water Sharing Plan for the Brunswick Unregulated and Alluvial Water Sources 2027 from Monday 31 August to 5 pm Monday 26 October 2026. The draft water sharing plan sets limits on how much water can be taken from the Brunswick Unregulated and Alluvial Water Sources. It allows for water to be protected for the environment, basic landholder rights and cultural needs and provides secure, legal and tradeable water access rights. The public exhibition period is an opportunity for water users, stakeholders and other interested parties to provide feedback on proposed changes in the draft Brunswick water sharing plan. To have your say: •

Attend a webinar on Tuesday 15 September from 1 pm to 2 pm. Scan the QR code or visit the website to register.

It’s a chance to stand shoulder • Attend a face-to-face appointment at Mullumbimby Civic Memorial Hall Need help planning your event or spreading the word? to shoulder with the nearly on Thursday 24 September 2026. Scan the QR code or visit the website Contactmen us atdiagnosed fundraising@pcfa.org.au or 1800 22 00 99 29,000 each year to register. – and make a real difference in • Make an online or written submission via the website. their lives.

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6 The Byron Shire Echo September 9, 2026

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Scan the QR code

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Local News Byron’s beach playgrounds could get serious Sexual abuse counselling helping children heal Paul Bibby For generations of Byron kids, a trip to Main Beach has meant sand, waves, ice cream and, if they were lucky, a quick skip through the playground. Now Council has revealed its first detailed vision for what comes next. Draft concept plans for new playspaces at Apex and Dening parks show water jets, climbing boulders, trampolines, rope scrambles, timber towers, giant swings and an ‘under the sea’ play structure inspired by Nguthungulli, local marine life and Arakwal stories. The plans were unanimously endorsed by Byron Council’s Arts Advisory Committee on 27 August and are now on public exhibition until 14 September. Council says the two sites, about 350 metres apart and linked by a shared path, are designed to complement each other. Apex Park is aimed mainly at younger children and families, with a sculptural ocean canopy, suspended ‘fishing nets’ and buoy-style climbing equipment, swings, a slide and crawl tunnel, picnic lawn and a water-play

An artist’s impression of the proposed new Apex Park playspace at Byron Bay. Image provided zone featuring sandstone boulders, pebble channels and low-volume jets.

Older kids Dening Park, meanwhile, would be roughly double the size and pitched at older children and young teenagers, with junior and senior timber towers, a tall slide, boulder-and-net scramble, monkey and chin-up bars, log stacks, trampolines, an inclusive spinner, and a large single-point swing. The existing Apex playground was removed in 2023. What was initially expected to be a relatively straightforward replacement grew into something more ambitious after community consultation called for a bespoke playground. That redevelopment was

subsequently folded into the wider Byron Bay Foreshore Concept Plan, adopted unanimously by Council in May last year. Council says the new playgrounds will also provide opportunities for local artists to design bespoke elements. The report describes the spaces as both playgrounds and ‘creative spaces’, with detailed design scheduled for the first half of 2027. There is, however, one fairly substantial hurdle between the glossy renders and a horde of wet, sandy children putting them to the test: money. Community feedback on the designs closes 14 September, with the final concepts expected to return to Council before the end of the year.

A child sexual abuse counselling service has expanded to Northern Rivers NSW, ready to offer specialised support to children and families. The federally funded Act for Kids Sexual Abuse Counselling Service (SACS) works with kids aged five to 18 who have experienced sexual abuse, as well as children and young people who display concerning or harmful sexual behaviours. SACS also provides education and support to parents and carers. Since 1988, Act for Kids has delivered

evidence-led professional therapy and support services to children and families who have experienced or are at risk of harm. ‘Our sexual abuse therapist Mairead Mackle can travel to schools, homes, and other community settings from southern Gold Coast all the way down to Byron Bay,’ Act for Kids Director of Therapy & Specialist Services Miranda Bain said. ‘This work is about preventing harm, keeping kids safe and helping them recover from trauma.’

The service provides evidence-informed assessment and therapeutic support tailored to the needs of each child and family. This can include traumafocused therapy, protective behaviours education, expressive therapies, safety planning, group programs and psychoeducation Referrals can be received via self-referral, schools, health services and community organisations. For more information go to: www.actforkids.com.au/ services/sacs.

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Monday, 14 September 2026 starting at 1:30pm Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club 58 Dalley St, Mullumbimby NSW FREE afternoon tea provided Attend for a chance to win our rafﬂe!

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September 9, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 7

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Local Business Profile

Do you have a cough or shortness of breath? Have you been exposed to asbestos or silica dust? David Lowe

arter Hawkins is a law firm which specialises in representing individuals and families affected by asbestos, silica, and other dust exposure. On Monday, 14 September they will be hosting a free information seminar and afternoon tea at Mullumbimby, for people whose health has been impacted by dust-related health conditions. The Echo caught up with Isabella Nati from Carter Hawkins to find out more. Ms Nati said it was rewarding to pursue justice for those whose lives have been irrevocably changed. ‘We get to meet the most beautiful people and help them in a time that’s really tough, for them and their families.’ Ms Nati works at the firm with her colleague, principal lawyer Jacqueline Hughes, who will also be at the Mullumbimby event. Their firm is named after two former clients, Bob Carter and Paul

Hawkins, who were unknowingly exposed to asbestos during their working lives, and subsequently died of mesothelioma. She says that although James Hardie stopped manufacturing asbestos products decades ago, there are still many cases emerging. Impacts go well beyond individual workers, affecting families and whole communities in some cases, such as at Baryulgil and Wittenoom. As Ms Nati explains, ‘Mesothelioma gets quite a bit of press because it’s so shocking and can happen from one fibre, but there are also many older men who’ve worked as builders their whole lives, and have a cough, or shortness of breath. They just think, “Oh, I’m getting older,” but then they have a CT scan, and it shows an asbestos disease.’ ‘These conditions often go undiagnosed because older people can be a bit stoic.

Who’s most at risk? ‘We see a lot carpenters,

Isabella Nati and Jacqueline Hughes from Carter Hawkins. Photo supplied plumbers, electricians – pretty much anyone who did demolition or labouring work. We’ve also got stonemasons who worked with engineered stone bench tops, although fortunately the high silica content stone has been banned now. ‘The navy has been a huge source of asbestos exposure. There’s also the merchant navy. It’s pretty much

everywhere, unfortunately,’ said Ms Nati. ‘In terms of silicosis, we’re seeing people working on the new tunnels and metro stations in Sydney where there’s such a high silica content from the sandstone that they’re excavating. They’re inhaling incredible amounts of silica dust. Concrete, sand, and gravel also contain lots of silica.’

2024

Is it true that partners and families can get sick from handling asbestoscontaminated clothes or equipment? ‘Yes, we’ve had a few unfortunate cases where the wife has gone on to develop mesothelioma or other asbestos diseases from washing clothes. ‘We’ve also had cases where we’ve acted for school teachers who’ve been working at schools during holidays when there’s been construction work happening, and they’ve been exposed. Then there are people who did their own car brake work; they were asbestos-lined until the early 2000s.’

Raising awareness, getting help With millions of tonnes of toxic fibres remaining in the built environment, Australia is the highest per capita user of asbestos in the world, with many former workers across multiple dust-exposed

occupations suffering in silence. Carter Hawkins are able to assist with claims through the Dust Diseases Tribunal and the Dust Diseases Board (iCARE), guiding clients through what can be a complex and emotional process. ‘If you or a family member has had significant asbestos or dust exposure, then it’s definitely worthwhile checking it out,’ said Ms Nati. ‘You may have compensation and entitlements available. We’d love to help you access those.’

Free information The free information seminar and afternoon tea will be happening at the Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club at 58 Dalley Street on Monday, 14 September, from 1.30pm. There’s no need to RSVP for the event, which will include opportunities to share stories and get advice. You can ring Carter Hawkins on 1800 245 299 to learn more.

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Comment

North Coast news online

The Byron Shire Echo

Volume 41 #13 • September 9, 2026

Pill testing: just a small step

he NSW Minns Labor government has recognised that drug and pill testing is effective in reducing risks and harms associated with illicit drug use, including for festival attendees. ‘Over the course of the trial, more than 1,800 individuals visited the services and around 1,500 drug samples were tested,’ stated the Minns government in a recent press release. ‘The evaluation found the drug checking services had a strong uptake among festival attendees and was associated with a reduction in urgent drug-related hospital presentations and ICU admissions compared with previous years of the same music festivals.’ They have finally taken the somewhat limited step of committing to ‘continue drug checking services at selected NSW music festivals [15] from October this year, following a successful 12-month trial and independent evaluation’. This is not enough. They have finally recognised what they have been told again and again – that drug testing works; it saves lives. They were told that by the NSW State Coroner’s Court that examined the deaths of six young people at music festivals between December 2017 and January 2019. The Coroner stated in November 2019 that, ‘the evidence draws into clear focus the need for the NSW Government to look with fresh eyes at the potential dangers associated with drug use at music festivals. There is a need to reframe our main priority from reducing drug use to reducing drug death.’ Recommendations included medically supervised pill testing, decriminalisation of personal drug possession, and scrapping drug detection dogs altogether, among others. The 2020 Special Commission of Inquiry into ICE in NSW again

recommended pill testing, decriminalisation of personal possession, and limiting the use of drug detection dogs and ending police strip searches and sniffer dogs specifically at music festivals. The 2024 NSW Drug Summit again recommended drug and pill testing and ending the use of drug detection dogs at festivals. New analysis from this year’s Penington Institute’s Annual Overdose Report revealed 2,596 Australians died from druginduced causes in 2024, a 10.7 per cent increase from 2023. Most drug consumption takes place outside festivals, and pill testing should not just be available at 15 festivals in NSW – drug testing should be available at all festivals and to the general public at key locations throughout the state. In NSW there were 575 unintentional drug-induced deaths in 2024 (almost 70 per cent higher than the road toll of 340 deaths in 2024) with almost all of these occurring outside of festivals. That is why there have been ongoing recommendations to stop using drug detection dogs and strip searching (the landmark strip search class action judgment of Justice Yehia in October 2025 indicates that strip searches conducted on the mere suspicion of minor drug possession are unlawful) as it was identified as a cause of patrons ‘preloading’ or consuming all their drugs at once to avoid detection. The NSW government has taken an important step by facilitating pill testing at 15 festivals, but they need to take a leap of science and actually follow the evidence that will ensure that lives are saved. The evidence is clear that drug testing and removing strip searching and drug detection dogs at festivals makes people safer; it saves lives, and the NSW government have the power in their hands to make the difference. Aslan Shand, editor

How pissed off are you? T here is a crisis of trust in the world – trust in governments, institutions, media, science, and in each other, is plummeting. According to research, younger generations are losing trust fastest, and honestly who can blame them? The loss of trust is a serious problem since it is the invisible glue which creates social cohesion and keeps communities safe and relatively stable. The reason humans have been successful as a species is not down to competition or survival of the fittest as is often misunderstood, it’s because we cooperate and collaborate with each other based on trust. Stripped bare in a crisis, our human nature is to help each other and even risk our lives for one another. Global cooperation saved the day in the 1980s when governments and communities came together to address the human-induced hole in the ozone layer that seriously damaged our stratosphere and threatened planetary catastrophe from our use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). In the intervening years though, everything has gone horribly awry. Here we are at the existential precipice of systems collapse and planetary disaster and we don’t appear to be cooperating at all. Instead, we’re locked in competition to see who or what can spiral us to the bottom fastest.

The trust deficit There are many complex reasons why we have arrived at this point, including complexity itself, but the trust deficit is at the heart of it. Trust is built on truth telling and relationships, which in the atomised and digitised ‘post-truth’ world we’ve created, is in short supply. Objective facts are held hostage in echo chambers where truth is being choked to death in the digital equivalent of the Strait of Hormuz by media barons and tech bros with toxic algorithms and AI, deliberately designed to harm humans. A lack of truth and trust leads to all kinds of craziness, as we are experiencing. Wars, conspiracies

Increasing, uncertainty is pushing people towards leaders offering harsh simplistic ‘remedies’ for complex problems. – Jo Immig

about conspiracies, and resourcehungry data centres popping up like toadstools all over the countryside. Meanwhile, our attention is being weaponised, so we turn on each other rather than addressing the root causes of our predicament. Trust is also at the centre of our modern financial system. Money has no inherent value of its own, its value is derived from the trust we place in it. As trust collapses, will our financial system also go down? British philosopher Mark Fisher opened his 2009 book Capitalist Realism: Is There No Alternative? with the chilling quote: ‘It is easier to imagine the end of the world than the end of capitalism’. Let that sink in.

Remember the good old days? Increasing, uncertainty is pushing people towards leaders offering harsh simplistic ‘remedies’ for complex problems. They are like snake oil salesmen offering miracle cures and false comfort while manipulating the masses with nostalgia for the ‘good old days’. They blame everything on immigrants or Albo. We urgently need leaders who can embrace complexity and understand its nuances, who can work together in an atmosphere of trust and cooperation to create a human pathway towards a liveable future. If instead we turn away from each other towards the manipulated world of corporate AI and digital agents and relationships, we risk losing the most important aspect of being human – trust generated by healthy human-to-human relationships. As we farewell yet another giant of our times, with the passing of feminist, activist and writer Gloria Steinem, who truly made the world

a better place, I’m once more reminded of her great wisdom. Steinem understood the importance of human relationships and expressed it in her living room circles and public gatherings where she spoke of the importance of getting together to generate some oxytocin, the secret sauce in human relationships. When we have positive interactions with each other, the hormone oxytocin floods our system, reducing stress and promoting trust, empathy and social bonding. It’s a positive feedback loop between the brain’s hypothalamus which produces it and the pituitary gland that stores it. Oxytocin production relies on human physical presence, skin-toskin, eye contact and hugging. This doesn’t happen when we interact online, with robots or during AI simulated experiences of digital empathy. Another of Steinem’s wisdoms, and subsequent title of her book is: ‘The truth will set you free, but first it will piss you off’. I love the way this quote takes things from the pulpit to the living room by stitching together lofty ideas with the everyday realm of human emotions. Quick poll: in thinking about truth today, how pissed off are you on a scale from one to ten, with one being ‘yeah, nah’ and ten being ‘so incandescent with rage I could light up a dark alleyway’? Judging by the collective mood, I’d say we’re nudging the upper end of the scale but are edging closer to the truth and freedom? ■ Jo Immig is a former advisor to

the NSW Legislative Council and Coordinator of the National Toxics Network. She’s currently a freelance writer and researcher.

The Byron Shire Echo

Volume 41 #13 September 9, 2026 Established 1986 • 18,000 copies every week

www.echo.net.au Phone: 02 6684 1777

Nicholas Shand 1948–1996 Founding Editor

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 Photographer: Jeff Dawson Advertising Manager: Anna Coelho Production Manager: Ziggi Browning

David Lovejoy 1944–2024 Co-founder

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

‘The job of a newspaper is to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.’ – Finley Peter Dunne 1867–1936

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Letters to the Editor www.echo.net.au/letters Too much Minecraft? Byron Bay has always had a unique character with creative energy, a slightly rebellious streak, and buildings that, for the most part, feel like they belong in a relaxed Australian coastal town. Lately, as the big developers increasingly turn their attention our way, something curious is happening. Apparently, the curve has been abolished. Every new development seems to arrive as another collection of enormous cuboids: flat walls, square windows, hard edges, and all the architectural flair of a shipping container convention. Drive around town and you could be forgiven for wondering whether our architects have recently graduated from the Minecraft School of Design. Perhaps it’s time we started a GoFundMe to send them on a European holiday. A few weeks wandering the streets of Paris, Barcelona, Rome, or Prague might remind them that buildings are actually allowed to have curves, arches, ornamentation, and, dare I say it, personality. Development is inevitable, blandness isn’t. Stuart Cooke Byron Bay

Support for rail Support for rail in the Byron Shire is ideologically driven wishful thinking and sadly no amount of rational debate will reveal to these supporters the futility of their mission. All the evidence presented so far – from the parliamentary reports detailing the extent of deterioration in the century-old timber infrastructure and the cost of replacement or repair, to the decline in demand for rail services and the availability of alternative transport – means nothing to these rusted-on supporters. The rail infrastructure is so badly degraded it’s uneconomical to replace or repair, that’s the official position of experts and professionals in the field, and it’s the basis of decisions by bureaucrats and politicians who decided to end rail services here 22 years ago, for logical, rational reasons grounded in real

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Photo by Jeff ‘Time For A Selfie’ Dawson world evidence. Even today, if you want credible, verifiable, and irrefutable evidence about the demand, profitability, and viability of returning rail service to the Byron Shire, just ask the Byron Bay Railroad Company which operates the Byron Solar Train, an adorable and environmentally friendly service that has been running for several years now. They’d have a ton of data. Trains are a superior form of transport under several specific circumstances, none of which apply in our shire. Sadly, these rigid rail supporters will never understand or accept this fact, but will instead continue to belittle and obstruct the only feasible alternative use for the abandoned rail corridor. John Scrivener Main Arm

Education and Jonny O’Brien More reckless criticism of the education in schools. As an ex-teacher I find these extremist comments about teachers being all left-wing agitators and not teaching the curriculum up there in the world of la la land. Maybe Jonny O’Brien should revisit a school and see what’s going on, not repeat Murdoch press or the red-head’s fantasies. No evidence offered, maybe he should praise the students for critical thinking. As for his repeat of disproven political theory,

Letters to the Editor

he is also at least 50 years late – students of all ages were protesting against the Vietnam war despite the same criticisms, (‘too young to make a decision’). And then the cake – blaming the current federal Labor party. Wow, time to expand your news and current affairs sources rather than the Murdoch press decisions about what our news and political beliefs should be. Rod Conder Alstonville

Trains on tracks Why, Cate Coorey? (Letters, 27 August) ‘why the Northern Rivers community is expected to accept that it [rail] never can return?’. Is the Byron Shire Council being coerced/ manipulated by the Rail Trail organisation? I was also disappointed that The Echo promoted the Rail Trail; not good. ‘This community needs to speak up about our dire transport situation’. As Cate pointed out, light rail is a cost-effective way of improving our dire transport need. Roger Seccombe Ballina

Rates rise I I have been supporting Byron Shire Council’s (BSC) questionable spending behaviours for over 15 years now.

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Career Guidance

During this time I can honestly say that not one single dollar out of said contribution has come back my way in any form. Every Council service I use in my daily life I pay for on top of my rates, exactly like any non-resident or nonratepayer would. In fact, in my quarterly rates I even pay for services BSC has never provided! Up until now I have accepted this rather unfair vexation as some sort of charity I contribute to four times a year (minus the tax benefits mind you), but now I feel the time has come to say enough is enough. Housing affordability is already at breaking point in our Shire, and the harsh reality is that the rate hike will be passed onto tenants, which will see their weekly rent go up 35 per cent in the next three years. Not because of the landlords, but because of Byron Shire Council’s proposed rate increase. So, my suggestion to BSC is simple: manage our finances better and stop milking ratepayers out of every dollar just because that’s the easiest option. When times are tough households cut on unnecessary spending, and our Council should lead by example and do the same. Emiliano Cataldi Byron Bay

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Red Devils claim grand final glory

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2026 major premiership winners, the Byron Bay-Lennox Head Under-16 Red Devil Dolphins. Photo supplied The Byron Bay-Lennox Head U16 Red Devil Dolphins rugby league team has capped off a fantastic season with a memorable grand final victory over the Tweed Seagulls. In a thrilling and nerveracking contest at Tweed Seagulls on Saturday,

the young men held their composure to secure a hardfought 30–20 win and claim the premiership. Led by coach Nick Asser, the team has enjoyed an outstanding season, with the players’ determination and teamwork shining through when it mattered most.

Adding to the celebrations, Red Devil Dolphin star Jasiah Murgha was named Player of the Match for an impressive performance. The team now has another challenge ahead, taking on Ballina this Saturday at 1.30pm at Dave Burns Field at Tweed

Heads South in the Titans Challenge. The match will determine the best U-16 side in the Northern Rivers. Local supporters are encouraged to get behind the young Red Devils as they look to finish their remarkable season on another high.

How to value forests?

state election. No Jan, it’s not perfect… in my view INFM is a disaster. John R Corkill OAM PhD East Lismore

forests, then I despair. This is why I’m supporting the INFM for NSW and encourage others to contact Green senators. Jan Barham Broken Head

of every human being, without exception, it can be for a time so buried that it’s temporarily unreachable. But everything is in movement and one day, all those currently disconnected from their hearts will return and awaken to the true power, vulnerability and reality of love – love for all life. David Rainbow Mullumbimby

No Jan, the Integrated Native Forest Method (INFM) is a disaster... Labor has broken its promise on the Great Koala National Park (GKNP). Thirty-one (31) environment groups in NSW wrote to Greens senators asking them to disallow the INFM. Regardless of Jan Barham’s support for it in the last Echo (26 August). Signatories included me, Ashley Love, co-originator of the GKNPproposal, and Bellingen Environment Centre Inc, whose members have also worked to protect forests for many decades. Unlike Ms Barham we reject Premier Minns’ attempt to rewrite an election promise mid-term to make the GKNP now ‘depend’ on making carbon credits, when for 11 years that promise was unconditional. The forest movement’s grass roots are outraged at this bad faith and are in open revolt against these four groups’ sell-out of the GKNP, and their support for a carbon credits scam using the INFM that will lead to more coal mining and claiming a consensus on their position which just does not exist. We want The Greens to vote down the INFM and demand Minns honour Labor’s election commitment to ‘create a Great Koala National Park’ without carbon credits, as promised in 2015, 2019, and 2023, and to do so urgently. And if Minns keeps stalling, we want The Greens to prosecute this broken election promise all the way to the

Forest values beyond carbon I wish I was full of hope and believed that protecting forests and biodiversity is a responsibility that the NSW government will honour without the INFM incentives, but I don’t. There’s outrage on the carbon trading principle which I understand, but there’s points being overlooked. The proposed carbon credits are only for a quarter of the carbon saved during the 15 year crediting period and not available for coal and gas companies. There’s also safeguards to avoid the rorting of the system as Victoria has done. The benefits of protecting public forests for 100 years is significant for values other than carbon crediting. The Great Koala NP is 176,000 ha, the proposed Great Southern Forest NP is 1.2m ha and the proposal for the Richmond River Koala Parks is over 52,000 ha. The biodiversity within those areas includes the habitat of hundreds of threatened species. There’s also benefits for water quantity and quality as well as reducing the risk of fire by enhancing the creation of moist forests. There’s also commitments to Aboriginal management. These are priorities I care about and if the INFM incentives aren’t available for the NSW Government to commit to end logging in public

The brumbies Although the killing, the massacring of Australia’s brumbies in the Kosciuszko National Park is being done for presented environmental reasons, these reasons are completely false, a smoke screen, a diversion and a deception of a grand order. The killing of the brumbies, just as the ongoing war on the dingo and the killing of kangaroos, deer, wombats, foxes, ducks, and many other animals, is also done for false and deceptive reasons, whether by the individual or by the so-called authorities of the day. The reasons that people kill the innocent ones of this world are always false, are always deceptive. For the impulse to kill these innocent ones is as far from the heart and true self of a human being as an ant is from the moon. The ability to deceive oneself in order to have power over others, whether that be power over animals, other human beings, children, trees, forests, and the land itself, can only come from those powerless human beings who, for one reason or another have been stripped of their true power – the power of love. Which in the end, is the whole purpose of life on this planet. And although the ‘Source of All Life’ lives in the heart

Our dunes and beach Is our self-glorifying ‘green’ Council really serious about environmental guardianship? They strongly support the land we occupy, the forests and the estuaries, and much entertainment and tourist development. But when it comes to the coast and our once pristine beaches they are nowhere to be seen or heard. We are now into our third attempt at a coastal management plan (CMP) and all I can see is further development and gentrification of our foreshores – but nothing being done about sand loss and the increasing erosion of our beaches and dunes. The sand levels at Main Beach are metres below historical levels, but don’t listen to Council’s reasons for this. It has very little to do with rising sea levels and more cyclonic weather and everything to do with Council’s refusal to rehabilitate, strengthen, and maintain a healthy dune frontage. Meanwhile they continue to allow deadly seawalls to be constructed and encourage further development over our old dunes – e.g. the Belongil sand spit and www.echo.net.au

Letters Main Beach itself. Without a healthy dune frontage sand loss will continue at a greater and greater rate. The Gold Coast has learnt its lesson, but Byron Council apparently has not – if they even give it a thought that is. Hard surfaces (seawalls and rock barriers) reject and scour the sand from the beach. Dunes, if they are there and protected, absorb storm impacts and replenish the beach after. Any mention of this in Council’s consultant’s latest paid attempt at a CMP? I don’t think so. Instead, we see more plans for foreshore hardening and development such as the Arts Advisory Committees, Council-endorsed plans for more children’s playgrounds constructed over the old foreshore dunes at Main Beach. And I’ve heard (hopefully unendorsed rumours?) of Council’s preference for constructing an aquatic centre beside Fishheads. Not to mention the developers’ latest fight – to increase the height levels of seafront buildings. Ouch!! Care for our dunes and our beach? NOT! Silence instead. With these developments going ahead you can kiss goodbye to the old expectations of a trip to the beach being about SAND, dunes, waves, and ice cream. Over time, as the sand levels decrease and the sea bashes against seawalls, we’ll be left with no beach at all, just a marina for wealthy residents’ motor boats and yachts and a wall to fish from. Vale Main Beach. Vale Byron’s Bay. Who wants to play and run on the sand anyway? Jan Hackett Byron Bay

Mr/Ms Developer, The people in our community are a creative, intelligent bunch who understand Byron is about so much more than just making a living. It’s about making a difference. A positive difference to the space we call home and the people we share it with. Those of us from corporate backgrounds also understand the slick nature of the PR machine, a fact-finding mission, under the guise of community engagement. ‘Go out there, suss out the community, come back to me with the bottom line. Tell me how little I have to give, to get what I want, to get my development across.’ That’s why real community engagement can never be about, the bottom www.echo.net.au

line or a box-ticking exercise. To succeed it must to be based on right relationship built with honesty, integrity, and respect. In the same way, creative, intelligent design understands its right relationship with the landscape and existing built environment. The geology, water flow, floods, wind directions, acoustic impacts, solar access, bushfire threats, and the movements of the seasons. Nature as an integral part of the whole, not as a necessary afterthought to soften the ugliness of the built form. You only see the community in opposition to you, because you’re coming from the perspective of how little do I have to give, to get what I want. What you’ve missed is what we’ve been asking of you this whole time, which is to step up. To collaborate with the accumulated depth and breadth of the community’s wisdom and experience, freely offered in our feedback, to deliver something masterful, something which respects Byron Bay’s existing height limits, something built with sustainable materials, something we can all be proud of. We’ve been asking you to step beyond the selfish competitiveness and insatiable greed driven purely by profit. To step beyond delivering the same kind of high-density concrete buildings which, like a cancer, spread rapidly to destroy their host. We’ve been asking you to become more than just another developer who’s here to make a killing. We’ve been asking you to dare to become a developer who makes a difference. A positive difference. Because, at the end of the day, what the rest of us already humbly know is Byron Bay doesn’t owe a single one of us anything. It’s not just about making a killing Mr/Ms Developer. The real gift of First Light country is that it offers us an invitation to become a better human. Riley Reynolds Byron Bay

New poverty class If George Orwell was with us today he wouldn’t be mingling with Wigan miners and Parisian plongeurs for his understanding of the poverty class, he would be studying the plight of the new poverty class, aged pensioners trying to exist with the pension as their only source of income. Terry Hand Mullumbimby

Manufacture dissent An extract from the latest GetUp! mail-out about One Nation’s use and abuse of AI. ‘Earlier this month, The Guardian interviewed a woman in Indonesia who spends her days posting AI content into a Facebook group of 26,000 Pauline Hanson supporters. She can’t name Australia’s head of government and she doesn’t care (fair enough – she’s in Indonesia). She just knows this content pays well, under Meta’s engagement program that literally pays people to generate the most divisive, engaging content they can. ‘“The Pauline group has great dollars,” she said. Meta’s algorithm even recruited her – she posted something, Facebook suggested the Hanson group, and she followed the money.’ Michael Balson Upper Wilsons Creek

Rates rise II Is Byron Shire Council (BSC) actually serious about ‘affordable housing’? Looking at their rates policy, I have to say ‘no’. I’m not talking about the planned 35.03 per cent Special Rate Variation (SRV); that to me is only the final blow. My main problem starts way earlier: how our rates are set! Our Council has what is called a ‘minimum rate’, which is charged for each and every property with a land value (that doesn’t include structures!) of currently $861,526. Every property owner has to pay this, it doesn’t matter if it is for a big five-bedroom house, a studio, and a swimming pool on a generous block; or for a small two-bedroom duplex in a strata development. Where does this leave people who look for a cheap property because they are on a tight budget? People who buy or rent a small two- or three-bedroom duplex, because that is all they can afford? The ones, who really need ‘affordable housing’. (Earlier this week, I checked local real estate listings: there were 17 parcels of land available in the Shire, all priced below $861,526. So the threshold itself is set rather high.) Council has the opportunity to create a much fairer rate structure, which would take into account affordability of cheaper properties, at least strata units. The Local Government Act 1993, Section 529, gives councils the option to create subcategories. So why can’t we ▶ Continued on page 14

Boardwalk

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BOOK BEST SEATS HERE September 9, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 13

Letters / News ▶ Continued from page 13

have a sub-category ‘Residential/ Units’ with much lower and more realistically set rates? Maybe the big words about ‘affordable housing’ are only a lip service – until it affects Council’s own balance sheet! Juergen Klein Mullumbimby

Rates rise III As a local business owner and employer, I understand better than most that every dollar matters. That’s why a proposed 35 per cent increase in residential rates is so difficult to accept without first seeing clear evidence that our existing rates and Council services are being managed as efficiently as possible. I appreciate Byron Shire Council (BSC) is in a precarious financial position. But asking alreadystretched residents to simply find another 35 per cent laying around feels like an overreach. There is a perception that everyone who lives in Byron is wealthy, when the reality is that many local families are simply fortunate to have bought property at the right time. Should people in our community really have to sell their homes to ‘have the cash’ to pay a rate increase? Our community matters, and most people here work regular jobs, have mortgages, and families, or are retired or on a pension. Against this backdrop, I received a DA modification notice regarding the Cheeky Monkeys site (DA

10.2025.32.2), proposing to consolidate three commercial lots into one. This raises a very simple question: would consolidating these titles reduce the rates payable by one of the largest commercial developments in the area, at precisely the time Council is asking residential ratepayers for substantially more? If so, how is that fair? The approved development will bring significantly increased patronage, while providing no customer parking and placing additional pressure on local roads, infrastructure, and surrounding neighbourhoods. It seems difficult to justify asking struggling residential ratepayers to shoulder more of the financial burden while major commercial developments potentially contribute proportionally less. I have paid a ‘bed tax’ many times while travelling and never begrudged it. It was a small amount added to my accommodation bill. If Byron is struggling to fund the infrastructure that supports the enormous number of visitors who come here then surely asking visitors to contribute directly is worth considering? Our community is being asked to pay more. Before asking residents for another 35 per cent, I believe Council should demonstrate that everyone benefiting from Byron – including large commercial operators and visitors – are paying their fair share. R McLellan Byron Bay

North Coast news online

Rates rise IV Byron Shire Council (BSC) charge 29 per cent more in rates than Ballina Shire, collecting $30.7 million, despite having 10,000 less residents than Ballina who collect $29.6 million. Why is Byron Shire’s planned increase of 35 per cent over three years greater than all the surrounding shires? Revenue is only half the equation; how a council spends its baseline income dictates how much is left over for road renewals. Local financial comparisons highlight a heavy skew in Byron’s operational overheads: Firstly, the wage bill disparity: despite having thousands fewer residents to service, BSC spent virtually the exact same amount on employee costs as Ballina: $38.4 million compared to Ballina’s $38.5 million. Secondly per capita inefficiency: on a per-resident basis, BSC spends roughly 25 per cent more on staffing and administrative overheads Thirdly the capital drain: because salaried and administrative costs absorb such a large chunk of Byron’s general fund, it leaves a significantly smaller percentage of ‘free cash’ to allocate directly toward pavement renewal and engineering asset lifespans before relying on grants. While land valuations dictate that Byron can command higher rates per property, its ▶ Continued on page 16

Bringing generations together

Coco and Paul both enjoyed connecting and sweeping away preconceptions of generational barriers. Photo supplied Young and old came together in an eight-week program where Year-10 students from Byron Bay High School and 70+-year-olds from the nearby over-55s community got together for some fun and games. The Stronger Together program, developed by Healthy North Coast’s Community Wellbeing and Resilience Program, and in partnership with RSL Life Care, saw everyone engage in a range of activities from speed meeting, mini-Commonwealth Games, and collage building, to storytelling, bonding activities and lots more. While the older people said,

‘Who would have thought that we would have got so much out of it? Shared experiences were met with humour and a lot of laughter! It gave me faith in our young people, they are so smart and well informed.’ The younger participants also enjoyed themselves saying that it was ‘a memorable experience,’ and that ‘it gave me a wider understanding of people outside of my generation’. As one young person summed it up, ‘Age is just a number, no matter how young or old you are, there is no limit to a friendship.’

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14 The Byron Shire Echo September 9, 2026

www.echo.net.au

Articles

The life and wins of local sports legend Ric Light

ic Light’s influence on sport in Byron Bay started with his father who was the much-loved English master at Mullumbimby High. A quadriplegic at age 16 when he broke his neck in a Sydney playground accident he miraculously recovered. That experience made him value being able to move and play sport encouraging Ric, his brother Greg and sister Sue to all lead active, sporting lives. Over summer they all swam on Friday nights at the new Mullumbimby Memorial Pool built in 1966, surfed, did karate, and played sport at school. Greg and Ric played rugby for Byron Bay with Ric also coaching until offered a rugby coaching position in Japan in 1990. After starting karate in 1974 Ric quit his teaching job in Sydney to head for Hong Kong to train and be graded for his black belt in karate.

Coaching passion Returning to Byron Bay with a black belt, he set up the first martial arts club in Byron Bay and is still teaching Jin Wu Koon karate. He had great success himself in karate, full contact kung fu and kick boxing that includes becoming Hong Kong Free Fighting champion in 1981, but his coaching skill is more impressive.

smattering of serious competitors from out of the area. Ric competed in the 1986 event, coming third behind Peter Blumson and a local councillor over a gruelling course. With the usual swim across the bay around a buoy, the bike ride was from the Byron Surf Club to Lake Ainsworth, Lennox and back. The running course was from the surf club along the beaches to Wategos, up to the lighthouse, and back down over the bush track. After the tragic death of his brother Greg in the Simpson Desert in 1989, Ric took up professional rugby coaching in Japan, met his wife Chiho and spent six years training in Osaka with one of the last grand masters of karate.

Ric’s mother and father when very young at North Bondi Beach. Ric trained locals Peter Blumson and Darren Perris who became national kickboxing champions and Fairlie Beckner who became the first women’s Australian karate champion. He set up the first karate tournaments in Byron Shire including the long-running Far North Coast Karate Championships in the old Literary Institute. Introducing the first kickboxing fight card at the Byron Bay RSL club, Ric ran high-quality events in northern NSW and the Gold Coast with national and state champion bouts held in Byron Bay, Ballina, Lismore, and the Gold Coast. The biggest event was an outside event held during the Byron

The next stage

Greg Light (left) with Ric Light after he won the Hong Kong Free Fighting title in 1981 at Queen Elizabeth Stadium in Hong Kong. Photos supplied Bay SLSC’s hosting of the 1985 NSW championships. As a local, high-profile athlete and coach Ric was asked to train (not coach) the Byron Bay Devils Rugby League team. With no hamstring injuries over the season the Devils won their first top grade title,

winning the Group One first grade championship. While studying in Sydney Ric took up competing in triathlon. He enjoyed it so much that he promoted Byron Bay’s first triathlon in 1986 and then again in 1987. They were great local events with a

Ric returned to Australia to do a PhD at the University of Queensland and begin a career as an academic that has been no less impressive that his career competing in and coaching sport. He was promoted to full professor in only eight years and is now a professor emeritus working casually at The University of Sydney, travelling down and back from Byron Bay. For anyone interested in knowing more about Ric Light’s story, all the details are in his first non-fiction book, Grief and Growth: navigating the rough waters of life.

DOG ADOPTION

DAY

STONE & WOOD BREWERY th of September | 11am-2pm 19th th Come Come join join us us on on the the 19 19th of of September September with with our our friends friends from from Willow Willow Tree Tree Sanctuary Sanctuary for our Dog Adoption Day from 11am-2pm. for our Dog Adoption Day from 11am-2pm.

We We are are playing playing host host to to aa pack pack of of puppies puppies who who are are looking looking for for aa new new home home here. here. If If you’re you’re searching for a new best friend for your family, come on down and fall in love. searching for a new best friend for your family, come on down and fall in love.

Cold Cold beers beers & & puppies.. puppies.. what what more more could could you you ask ask for? for?

www.echo.net.au

September 9, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 15

Articles / Letters

North Coast news online

Lessons for the Richmond River and other waterways from Queensland Story & photo David Lowe

ollowing last week’s announcement by the NSW government of a new Richmond River Coordinator, a gathering at Swan Bay heard from Julie McLellan, CEO of Healthy Land & Water, southeast Queensland’s natural resource management organisation, about the practicalities of restoring rivers. Member for Lismore and Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin was also present. She told The Echo that the position of Richmond River Coordinator would be advertised ‘within a month or two – but don’t hold me to that,’ saying that the Richmond was in a very poor condition, while noting that the will to improve the river and other waterways across the region was clearly there. Ms Saffin suggested she’d pushed for the coordinator idea because she didn’t feel the region was ready for a full commissioner model. She said the first steps would be to work out where to start, which parts to tackle, and in what order. As she explained, the Richmond River system

involves around 30 different government and community agencies, and over 50 different pieces of legislation and regulatory instruments.

plants, you could see it in the data – a massive drop in nitrogen and the seagrass coming back. We proved that targeted intervention works.’

Coordination

Sedimentary runoff

She said the coordinator’s role would be to pull all these strands together around river recovery and provide ‘structured coordination’, sitting within the NSW government structure and reporting primarily to Water Minister Rose Jackson. Ms Saffin said the Richmond River Coordinator will have supporting staff, and be based in the local community, with the position funded until June 2028. Guest speaker Julie McLellan was asked what could realistically be achieved in two years. ‘Not much,’ she said, noting that anyone walking into such a job would have to be ready for a lot of evidence-gathering and trust-building with diverse stakeholders, which takes time, rather than coming in with pre-existing ideas. As the CEO of Healthy Land & Water, Ms McLellan outlined how decades of science, collaboration, and targeted investment have

Sadly, Ms McLellan said that water quality in Moreton Bay was now declining again, mostly due to sedimentary runoff from population growth and too much clearing on upper catchments for agriculture and housing developments, also a major problem in the Northern Rivers. Regarding the oftdismissed impact of natural solutions, when it comes to sediment, clearing and riparian zones, she said, ‘It’s not a “nice-to-have” – good riparian vegetation will trap seven times more sediment, sixteen times more phosphorus, and three times more nitrogen. Yet we’re still allowing clearing right up to the water’s edge.’ She said a major problem was local councils refusing to accept the cumulative effect of multiple instances of clearing across a large catchment, amounting to a big problem which no one is prepared to take responsibility for. Using the examples of the Logan, Lockyer,and Bremer rivers she said that 20 per cent of SEQ catchments contribute 80 per cent of the sediment entering Moreton Bay, making those areas obvious priorities to target first. Using before and after slides and scientific data, she then showed how large-scale riverbank restoration is both technically feasible and economically rational, with wins for everybody, including agricultural landholders, councils, and everyone downstream, and multiple flood events providing the

2024

Julie McLellan, CEO of Healthy Land & Water. improved waterway health in Moreton Bay and its catchments, and why those gains are now under threat. Her talk was both a case study and a strategic roadmap for saving rivers in a hostile political and economic environment. She said it was important to gather scientific evidence to target interventions, build political and community support for the necessary work, and then find creative funding models to scale restoration up to landscape level impacts.

CHINNY CHARGE

Data not politics Ms McLellan stressed that every major decision her organisation made

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16 The Byron Shire Echo September 9, 2026

was grounded in data, not politics. With 17,000 km of waterways across southeast Queensland (SEQ), nearly all degraded to some extent, she said there would never be the resources to fix everything, so the only rational approach was to use science to identify where interventions could deliver the biggest benefit (bang for buck), prioritising locations based on measurable impacts, such as nutrient reduction, sediment reduction, ecological recovery, and economic co-benefits. She said it was important for scientific experts to argue out the detail behind closed doors, but then find public consensus and clarity on the key issues, rather than bamboozling politicians with too many alternatives. As she put it, community pressure is important, but community pressure alone isn’t enough for people looking for good environmental outcomes. You need politicians prepared to expend political capital, but they will only move when the science is clear and unified. She then explained how this had worked in practice by reducing flows of unwanted nutrients into Moreton Bay. ‘When we upgraded the big sewage treatment

▶ Continued from page 14

infrastructure is subjected to severe wear and tear that a standard rate base cannot easily match. Infrastructure users vs payers: Byron’s infrastructure is funded by just 15,500 local ratepayers, but it is physically utilised by over two million tourists annually. The compounding backlog, for example, when a road is patched temporarily it creates ‘patches on top of patches’. Because Byron misses its optimal engineering asset maintenance cycles due to

high staff overheads, a road that required a $10k reseal quickly deteriorates into a $100k structural reconstruction backlog. Solutions? Greater efficiency with targets to meet re: objectives and time frames. Staffing hours to match population efficiency of neighbouring shires. Seek alternatives to ratepayers footing the bill re: tourism costs, recover funds for tourism through state and federal government, structured co-contributions and targeted advocacy for statuary changes like visitor

ultimate proof of concept. She explained that such investment is justified not just for environmental reasons but for asset protection and economic continuity. Ms McLellan then went through a number of vegetation, bank works, instream structures and fish passages across the Lockyer-Bremer system, leading to 65 per cent reductions in annual sediment load. She noted that one dairy farm in the area had earlier spent around $3 million trucking eroded soil back uphill after a flood when it ended up in the streets, illustrating the false economy of neglecting catchment health.

Urban interventions Illustrating her argument with cases from suburban Brisbane, Julie McLellan emphasised that small works in local creeks also mattered as part of the whole of catchment story, with the tree planting and management efforts of community and school groups leading to measurable, lasting improvements in urban run-off, along with better downstream water quality. She gave examples of wetland reactivations, such as reopening or modifying floodgates and changing drainage, to restore wetland and floodplain function, with benefits in terms of nutrient processing, wildlife habitat, and flood mitigation for downstream communities. The recurrent pattern was clear: slowing water, stabilising banks, and restoring floodplains keeps soil on farms, reduces downstream dredging, protects infrastructure, and improves ecological health. ■ Read full story in The Echo

online: www.echo.net.au.

accommodation levies. Could we recycle more of our waste and not pay for double trucks to take it somewhere else? How much does paid parking and fines contribute? Not sell assets for $1? Council should perform as well as neighbouring shires. Council’s Public Consultation re: proposed 35 per cent rate rise over three years is happening now. Have your say on the special rate variation by emailing: srv@byron.nsw. gov.au. Jennifer Hunt Myocum www.echo.net.au

Sport Regional tennis camp comes to Mullumbimby Mullum Public boys basketball team bounces their way to state championship

Mullumbimby Public School boys basketball team is heading to Sydney for the NSW state finals. Photo supplied

Building young women’s skills on and off the court. Photo Jeff Dawson

Aslan Shand

Mullumbimby Public School’s (MPS) Primary School Sports Association boys basketball team has made it to the NSW state finals. They headed to Sydney on Monday, 7 September. ‘This is the first MPS team, in at least 20 years, that has reached this level of competition, and we couldn’t be prouder of these boys,’ said their teacher and coach, Amy Austin.

Champions The team has won six consecutive games to become the North Coast Champions and to qualify for the state

finals held in Penrith on Monday. ‘This means the team has reached the top eight teams in NSW, an outstanding achievement in a public education system of 1,601 primary schools,’ MPS principal David Less told The Echo. Coach Austin has been working incredibly hard with the team, including before, and during school time training sessions. ‘I have never worked with such a skilful and respectful group of students,’ she told The Echo. ‘Their teamwork, sportsmanship, and work ethic are the reasons they have progressed this far. Their

adherence to our school values, underpinned by respect, have shone through.’ Baylee Sequoia, mother of player Hudson, told The Echo, ‘The boys have played with so much heart, last year they were knocked out in round two. They have improved so much. It is wonderful to see their hard work paying off.’

Helping hand A number of local businesses stepped up to a call last week to help the boys get to Sydney for the games including: Devines Butcher, Mullumbimby Newsagency, First National Byron, and Stewart’s Menswear as well as many local individuals.

Chris Graham recognised for his service to golf Chris Graham was presented with his ten-year service award by the North Coast Academy of Sport in recognition of his service in the area of golf to the academy. Chris mentors the junior squad each year as a coach of the NCAS programs. Chris is a certified PGA Professional and the head professional at Ocean

Shores Country Club. ‘I was both humbled and honoured to be presented with a ten-year service award for coaching,’ he said. ‘It is a privilege to coach for the academy and I will continue to mentor the next generation of golfers. ‘It was bitter sweet receiving this award without my assistant coach Steve Ryan by my side. RIP Gibbsy.’

Chris Graham receiving his award. Photo supplied

Young women and girls across regional NSW were recently given the opportunity to come together as part of a three-day tennis camp in Mullumbimby, combining on-court coaching with off-court confidence and leadership building. ‘The three-day program combines high-quality on-court coaching with leadership development, wellbeing, nutrition and personal growth, helping participants build the confidence and skills to thrive both on and off the court and build meaningful friendships with girls from across regional NSW,’ said organisers. The camp was held at the Mullumbimby Tennis Centre and has been created specifically for girls aged 12–16 years and is aimed at increasing participation, supporting player pathways,and creating positive experiences that encourage girls to remain involved in the sport. Charlotte Brigel, Northern Rivers Tennis Foundation (NRTF) Director, told The

Echo that ‘girls in regional areas don’t usually get access to these programs. Having had a career in sport and media, it meant so much to me to be involved and see girls connecting through tennis, and Tennis NSW lean in and trust Mullumbimby Tennis Club to host the first ever “Advantage – Girls Development Camp”.’

Building confidence The girls learnt from former Australian professional tennis player, Olympian and Tennis NSW Women & Girls Lead Casey Dellacqua, alongside experienced regional coaches, mentors and industry professionals. Dellacqua said positive women role models and supportive environments play an important role in retaining teenage girls in sport. ‘Tennis has given me opportunities that have shaped my life, and I’m passionate about helping more girls discover what’s possible through the sport. ‘This camp is a chance for girls to build confidence, make connections and learn from women who have taken

many different pathways through tennis.’ Leading tennis coach Helen Magill said, ‘For many girls, sport becomes about much more than competition. It’s about belonging, building confidence and discovering what you’re capable of.’ ‘The Advantage Girls Development Camp has been intentionally designed to create an environment where girls can develop their tennis while also growing as young people. We want every participant to leave with greater confidence, stronger connections and a renewed belief in what they can achieve, both on and off the court,’ she said. Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, was among the guests, and later posted publicly about the impact of the day. ‘Their energy, curiosity and love of the game said everything about why events like this matter,’ she wrote, describing the panel as ‘an extraordinary group of women’ and calling the initiative proof that “there’s a place for [young women] in sport, on court and off it.’

CALLING ALL

SPORTS The Echo wants to support you.

Please send stories, pics, match reports, upcoming events, tall tales (not too tall mind you), results and anecdotes to sport@echo.net.au. www.echo.net.au

September 9, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 17

The

Good Life Good Taste Dining Guide

Check the vital details of some of the region’s finest foodies. BRUNSWICK HEADS

PACIFIC BISTRO AT BRUNSWICK HEADS BOWLING CLUB

BAYSIDE YAKINIKU CLUB BY YUKO

Fresh, affordable meals. Relaxed, family-friendly setting. Classic pub favourites, premium steaks, burgers and specials, including our popular Saturday Curry Night. Open: Tuesday to Sunday for lunch 12pm–2pm and dinner 5pm–8pm Address: 107 Tweed St, Brunswick Heads brunswickbowlingclub.com/

Authentic Japanese Charcoal Restaurant Premium Australian Wagyu, homemade sauces, fermented food, rice bowls and deli salads. Open: Wednesday to Sunday Lunch 12pm–3pm Dinner 5.30pm–8.30pm Address: 1/14 Bay Street, Byron Bay Contact: 0493 565 508 @bayside_yakiniku _club

BYRON BAY

THREE BLUE DUCKS

ROCA BYRON BAY Latin fusion restaurant blending deeply rooted Latin American traditions, with innovative techniques and a flair for presentation. Open: every day except Wednesday 6.30am to late Address: 14 Lawson Street, Byron Bay www.rocabyronbay.com.au

FOREST BYRON BAY

At The Farm enjoy a wander in the fields, meet the animals, and picnic in the sun… there really is something for everyone. Open: Monday – Friday 8am–4pm Saturday 8am– 6.30pm Sunday 8am–8pm Address: The Farm, 11 Ewingsdale Rd, Ewingsdale www.threeblueducks.com/byron

NO BONES BYRON BAY

Rainforest views, farm-to-table dining, and a menu showcasing the best of Northern Rivers produce. Open: 7 days: Breakfast 7.30–10.30am Lunch on verandah from 12–3pm Dinner 5.30–9pm Address: 77-97 Broken Head Road, Byron Bay crystalbrookcollection.com/byron/forest

Vegan Kitchen + Bar $20 Carbonara Mondays – every Monday until sold out Happy Hour – $14 cocktails from 5-6pm every night Live Jazz – First Friday of every month from 6.30pm Open: 7 nights from 5pm Address: 11 Fletcher Street, Byron Bay @nobonesrestaurants

BOMBAY TO BYRON AUTHENTIC INDIAN FOOD

WILSONS CREEK

Serving Indian food to Byron Bay for last 12 years. Open: Monday 4.30pm–9.30pm Tuesday to Sunday 12 noon–3pm and 4.30pm–9.30pm Address : 3/93 Jonson Street Byron Bay Contact: 02 6680 7437 bombaytobyron@gmail.com

MANNA HAVEN 100% whole food, plant-based, house-made meals that are delicious and full of love. Celebrating 20 years in Byron! Open: Mon to Fri 11am–3pm Address: 97 Jonson Street, Byron Bay mannahaven.com.au

THREEWAYS OF THE VALLEY Nestled in the lush Wilsons Creek rainforest, Threeways is a vibrant, family-friendly cafe where nature, nourishment, and community meet. Open: Wednesday – Sunday 8am–3pm and Saturday night. Address: 10 Huonbrook Rd, Wilsons Creek Contact: 0421 054 804 www.threeways.store @threeways_of_the_valley

www.echo.net.au/good-taste Photo: Bovia-co-photography

18 The Byron Shire Echo September 9, 2026

www.echo.net.au

The

Good Life

Young growers shine at Mullum Farmers Market’s ‘Grow Your Own Lunchbox Challenge’

The next generation of growers and cookers took on the Grow Your Own Lunchbox Challenge at Mullum Farmers Market.

Allie Godfrey Local school kids proved just how exciting growing and cooking your own food can be at the annual Grow Your Own Lunchbox Challenge, held at Mullumbimby Farmers Market on Friday. Six local schools showcased what they’ve been growing in their school gardens before transforming their harvests into colourful, and very tasty, lunchboxes. Each school creates a lunchbox featuring a main, two snacks and a drink, as well as a value-added or preserved product using garden produce. Food journalist and presenter Magdalena Roze

COFFEE SH

Eureka Public School received Best New Sustainable Addition for its vertical garden, seedbank, worm farm, composting and recipe book. Their fruit wraps took out Best Snack. Mullumbimby Public School was named Most Resourceful Garden for its paddock-to-plate philosophy, while their beetroot brownies won the second Best Snack prize. Ocean Shores Public School won Most Diverse Garden, while their fruit smoothie took out Best Drink. Shearwater won Best Garden for its integration of garden, nursery, orchard and farm, along with Best Value-Added Product for its sauerkraut and bread.

Every school walked away with prize money from Mullumbimby Farmers Market to put back into their gardens for next year. A hugely successful day – and if these young growers and cooks are anything to go by, the future is looking very bright indeed.

Quality catering for all events www.thelarder.com.au catering@thelarder.com.au

■ Mullumbimby Farmers

Market is on every Friday from 7am to 11am at Mullumbimby Showground.

Open 6am – 12pm Monday – Saturday Shop 6/108 Stuart Street Mullumbimby. @bimbi_coffee_shop ALLPRESS ESPRESSSO www.echo.net.au

kept the day buzzing as MC, while three Mullumbimby Farmers Market stallholder farmers had the difficult job of judging the gardens and food. Goonengerry Public School took out Best Native Garden & Innovation, with their wicking bed demonstration a standout. They also claimed Best Lunchbox, making brilliant use of native ingredients in an omelette kebab, potato and beetroot cake and Bundjalung cordial made with lilly pilly, rosella and bush mint. Brunswick Heads Public School won Best Pest Management, while its noodle salad – with noodles made completely from scratch – earned Best Main.

CELEBRATIONS Cakes by Liz Jackson

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

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20a Jonson Street Byron Bay September 9, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 19

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As a thank you to the community that has supported them from the beginning, Byron locals receive 20% off when shopping in store.

Premium Mobile Hair Artistry with Colin (Mr Bond)

Unwind in the luxurious, intimate salon designed to help you escape the daily routine. Local founder Alicia has crafted a lush space where coastal calm meets Tulum-inspired vacation vibes. At Holiday Hair Space, they know the importance of cultivating lowmaintenance, high-quality hair that lets you achieve an effortless holiday glow.

Come in, meet the team and experience EOH for yourself. They’d love to welcome you. 5 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay eyeofhoruscosmetics.com

Why battle salon noise and chaotic schedules? Skip the salon rush for a curated, premium hair experience built on great conversation, refreshments, and absolute sophistication in the privacy of your own space. This exclusive Northern Rivers service caters to discerning clients, bringing 35 years of elite expertise, including time as an Art Director for Toni & Guy London. Colin specialises in custom dry haircuts for all hair textures, creating effortless, lived-in styles. Enjoy expert balayage, precision foils, and keratin treatments using clean, chemical-free colours and a product-free philosophy. Haircuts: From $100 Colours: From $180 Elevate your hair journey. Book your exclusive experience today. 0415 141 980 mrbondhair.com.au

Stewart’s Menswear Mullumbimby Spring has arrived, and Stewart’s Menswear in Mullumbimby is filling the racks with fresh short-sleeve shirts for the warmer months ahead. The family-owned store has new arrivals landing daily as the season changes and the mornings warm up. There is plenty to choose from, with something for every taste. Silent Theory, Kingston Grange, Bridgeport and Cochin Blue bring easy, modern styles for weekends, travel and relaxed afternoons around the coast. Pilbara and Bisley add classic check shirts, a little more casual and always comfortable, the kind of shirt worn again and again, season after season. Whatever your plans, warmer days call for lighter, easyto-wear shirts that feel as good as they look. Call in and see Gerard and Sue for friendly advice at Stewart’s Menswear in Mullumbimby. 52 Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby 02 6684 2148 stewartsmenswear.com.au

20 The Byron Shire Echo September 9, 2026

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2026–2027 CAPE BYRON STEINER

What happens when you put the human at the centre of learning Human-centred education is at the core of Cape Byron Rudolf Steiner School. Inner growth and development is an intentional process guiding learning, and the school’s vision rests on the growth and becoming of all students. Teachers seek to know and understand the whole child. This curiosity to know students, to help foster their own sense of curiosity for the world, develops character and ultimately the students’ capacity to think freely and morally for themselves. In a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence such an approach ensures the development of deep knowledge, real understanding and ultimately wisdom. It cannot be automated or outsourced. Curiosity can only be grown from within.

FINDING THE RIGHT SCHOOL FOR YOUR CHILD Choosing a school is about finding the right fit for your child, your family and your hopes for their future. Across the Northern Rivers, families are fortunate to have a diverse range of educational choices, from preschool and early learning through primary and secondary education. Whether a school is state, public, independent, religious or guided by a humanist philosophy, many share the values that make the Northern Rivers such a special place to live. Community, inclusiveness, diversity, connection to nature and a commitment to sustainability are woven into the culture of schools throughout the region. Each school, however, brings its own character, educational philosophy and approach to learning. Some place a strong emphasis on academic achievement, others on creativity, outdoor learning, wellbeing, spirituality, environmental responsibility or nurturing the individual child and many combine several of these.

Inner growth needs the right conditions. Community is another central pillar upholding the philosophy of the school. At Cape Byron, young people are nurtured by belonging to something bigger than themselves, surrounded by peers, teachers and families who know them, care for them and who are committed to educating them. Cape Byron Rudolf Steiner School offers all children from Kindergarten to Class 12 a thriving human community where individual growth flourishes.

02 6639 9300 www.capebyronsteiner.nsw.edu.au

VISTARA PRIMARY SCHOOL Education with Heart and Purpose

At Vistara Primary School, learning is more than academics. It’s about nurturing wisdom, compassion and a lifelong love of discovery. Guided by Neo-Humanist principles, we foster respect for self, others and the natural world, weaving creativity, values and academic excellence into every day. Our small classes mean every child is known, celebrated and encouraged to grow with confidence. Surrounded by nature, supported by a caring community, students flourish not only in their studies but in their sense of belonging and purpose. Enrolments are now open. Come and see how education at Vistara inspires children to think deeply, act kindly and embrace the world with heart and purpose.

www.vistara.nsw.edu.au 02 6624 4127

CAPE BYRON Rudolf STEINER SCHOOL

For families considering their options, this feature provides an insight into some of the schools across the area.

Our outdoor education program brings human centred learning to life. From Class 3 onwards, students step outside the classroom and into the world. They paddle, hike, cook and sleep under the stars.

Vistara Primary School

“The school with a beautiful view to education.” Enrolling Now For 2027 Small classes, Big opportunities

Our School tours happen regularly.

Join us at our Open Day and Teddy Bears Picnic

Learn what makes us unique Come to our Information Sessions

Saturday the 19th of September 9.30 to 11am

Tuesday the 22nd of September 4.30 to 5.30pm

Enrolments now open! www.echo.net.au

Embodied learning does not come at the cost of academic results. It enhances engagement and enables a student to understand the “why” of their time at school. Come and see what a human centred education looks like in practice. Meet our teachers, walk our grounds, hear about our music, creative arts and academic programs.

Nestled in the treetops of Richmond Hill, Vistara has nurtured young hearts and minds for over 30 years. We offer a whole-child approach to learning; blending academic, emotional, social and creative growth.

www.vistara.nsw.edu.au

Students move through environments all around the diversity of Australia, learning to rely on each other and on themselves building resilience and trust.

41 Richmond Hill Road Near Goonellabah 2480

Further information: Call 02 6639 9300 or visit our website www.capebyronsteiner.nsw.edu.au September 9, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 21

2026-2027 EMMANUEL ANGLICAN COLLEGE Learning, Living, Leading

Choosing the right school is a defining decision for a child’s future. Emmanuel Anglican College offers a seamless, holistic education from Preschool through to Year 12. Ranked the number 1 school in the Northern Rivers for the 2025 HSC, the college combines academic excellence with a deep commitment to pastoral care. The coeducational campus in Ballina provides a safe, inclusive environment where every student is known and valued. From the play-based discovery of the Early Learning Centre to the innovative, future-focused curriculum of the Secondary School, students are empowered to become people of character. Guided by the core values of Compassion, Creativity, Courage and Citizenship, Emmanuel students graduate as confident, resilient and independent lifelong learners. Join a community that inspires excellence and adaptability, where your child’s potential meets opportunity.

62 Horizon Drive, West Ballina www.eac.nsw.edu.au enrolments@eac.nsw.edu.au 02 6681 5054

BYRON COMMUNITY PRIMARY SCHOOL Students a Byron Community Primary School (BCPS), are part of a vibrant, nurturing community where they are known, supported, valued and encouraged. The school’s program thrives on an amazing team of classroom teachers and specialist educators who bring expertise and passion across many areas of the curriculum. Students benefit from progressive programs such as Beach School, Skate School, Rock and Water, Becoming a Teenager, and Rock Bands, as well as specialist teaching in Visual Arts, Music, Sport, Drama, and Science and Technology. Rich, inquirybased learning gives students opportunities to discover their strengths, challenge themselves and connect their learning to the world around them. What makes BCPS particularly special, though, is the community that surrounds it. The students develop genuine connections with their teachers, peers and the wider community - connections that often continue long after they leave. Past students regularly drop in to say hello, help out or complete their high school work experience, and some have even returned years later to undertake university teaching placements with us. We think that says something special about the kind of place this is. We want our students to leave us not only well prepared for high-school, but as confident, thoughtful young people who understand the importance of looking after one another, contributing to their community, and continuing to learn and thrive in the world beyond. Come and experience the school for yourself. Book a tour with the principal, Tony, today.

admin@bcps.org.au 02 6685 8208 53 Tennyson St, Byron Bay

BYRON BAY PUBLIC SCHOOL

Curious, Creative, Connected and Committed Unlocking Individual Potential

Discover our exceptional academic curriculum, vibrant arts programs, and commitment to nurturing remarkable individuals. Contact us today to learn more.

Byron Bay Public School is a vibrant, comprehensive Kindergarten to Year 6 primary school located in the heart of the local community. As a proud member of the public education system, they welcome students from all backgrounds and cultures. The school community reflects a rich blend of socio-economic and cultural diversity. This diversity strengthens identity and supports the school’s longstanding ethos of unity within diversity. At Byron Bay Public School, their vision is to provide a learning environment valued by students, parents, staff, and the wider community. The school is committed to creating an inclusive, supportive and inspiring environment where every child feels safe and encouraged to achieve their personal best. Enrolments are open now if your family would like to join the Byron Bay Pubic School community. Families are welcome to make an appointment with the principal to have a tour of the school.

02 6685 6557 www.byronbay-p.schools.nsw.edu.au byronbay-p.shcool@det.nsw.edu.au

02 6685 8208 53 Tennyson St, Byron Bay admin@bcps.org.au | www.bcps.org.au

Enrol now for Kindergarten 2027! Discov er a comm uni t y w her e y o ur c hi l d ’s po tential meets o p p o r t uni t y . 6 2 H o r i zo n Dr i ve We st B al l i n a 02 66 8 1 5054 e n rol m e n ts @ e a c . n sw.edu. a u

Scan for more information

A unique learning environment

At Upper Coopers Creek Primary School, learning comes to life through exploration, discovery, and hands-on fun. We know that every child is an individual, with their own unique talents and personalities and we tailor learning to be personal, engaging, and memorable. Our students learn with and through nature and our weekly timetable incorporates mindfulness, bush school, cooking, gardening and cultural learning, with traditional academic areas. Our teachers are committed to developing each child’s academic, creative, social, and sporting potential, sharing the responsibility to nurture, guide, inspire, and challenge every learner. We pay our respects to the people of the Bundjalung nation upon whose country we learn and teach, and we acknowledge that this place is, was and always will be traditional Aboriginal land. 02 6688 2128 Cooperscrk-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au Cooperscrk-p.schools.nsw.gov.au

AETAOMAH SCHOOL K to 8

Aetaomah School is nestled in the foothills of Wollumbin, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Tweed Valley. Their education, based on the principles of Rudolf Steiner, supports learning through music, singing, painting, craft, movement, practical work, outdoor activities and gardening, which all form part of school life, encouraging children to learn, create and connect with the world around them. Uniting imagination with the sciences through the visual and performing arts, our education creatively inspires the inquiring mind, delicately fosters the child’s emerging thinking, cares for their physical and emotional health, while nurturing social and leadership skills. At its heart, Aetaomah is a warm and connected school community, where learning is brought to life through meaningful experience and a healthy childhood is valued. Enrolments are now open for 2027. Aetaomah is serviced by school bus routes, including from Murwillumbah and Uki.

2486 Kyogle Road, Terragon via Uki 02 6679 7255 contact@aetaomah.nsw.edu.au aetaomah.nsw.edu.au

EN OPE ROLM N F ENT OR S 202 7

Creative Education based on the work of Rudolf Steiner

Kindergarten orientation commencing term four byronbay-p.schoools.nsw.edu.au Byron Bay Public School 17 Kingsley Street Byron Bay. 6685 6557

Respectful Responsible Fair 22 The Byron Shire Echo September 9, 2026

UPPER COOPERS CREEK

KINDERGARTEN TO YEAR 8 2486 Kyogle Road, Terragon via Uki • 02 6679 7255 contact@aetaomah.nsw.edu.au • aetaomah.nsw.edu.au

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2026–2027

AT HINTERLAND CHRISTIAN COLLEGE More than a school - a place to belong

We believe children flourish when they are known, valued and inspired. Set in the beautiful Byron hinterland, our college offers something increasingly special: a genuine village community where relationships matter, curiosity is encouraged, character is shaped, and every student has the opportunity to discover who they are becoming. From Sparks (K–2), where wonder and curiosity take root, through Ignite (Years 3-4) and Blaze (Years 5-6), where confidence, independence and friendships grow, our students are encouraged to think deeply, create boldly and develop a genuine love of learning. As they move into secondary, that foundation grows into greater challenge, responsibility and purpose as we equip young people for the world beyond school. With small class sizes and dedicated teachers who truly know their students, learning at Hinterland is personal. We intentionally nurture the whole child; academically, socially, creatively and spiritually, within a community shaped by Christian faith and the values of grace, compassion, courage and service. Our faith is not simply something we teach; it shapes how we learn, lead, serve and care for one another. We want our students to leave Hinterland Christian College with more than knowledge. We want them to have character, courage, compassion and the confidence to use their gifts with purpose. Because choosing a school is about more than where your child will learn. It’s about where they will belong.

Limited enrolment places available for 2027 02 6684 1559 www.hinterland.nsw.edu.au

ST JOHN‘S PRIMARY MULLUMBIMBY A small school with a big heart

Nestled in the beautiful natural surrounds of Mullumbimby, St John’s Primary is a warm and caring school community where children and families are known, valued and welcomed. Passionate teachers, creative learning and strong relationships come together to support each child’s wellbeing, individual growth and potential. There’s also an exciting new chapter underway, with new facilities being developed to enhance the learning environment for current and future students. 2027 enrolments are now open. Come and meet the St John’s family, explore the school and experience the difference for yourself.

Book a tour: 02 6684 2386 www.mbyplism.catholic.edu.au

ENROL NOW Discover a world of learning at Eureka Public School!

FEDERAL COMMUNITY CHILDRENS CENTRE Nestled in the Byron Hinterland, Federal Community Children’s Centre is a Preschool and Long Day Care service catering for children aged 2 to 5 years. Children can experience diverse social, cultural and educational experiences in the context of learning through play in a safe, nurturing environment. The centre consists of a dedicated toddler and preschool room with an impressive shared outdoor play area, including the famous Bush Tucker Living Classroom. Their educational program includes a daily transition to school program. Federal Community Children’s Centre acknowledge the value and importance of the original custodians of the area, the Widjabul people. Enrolments can be completed via the website and tours booked via their email.

02 6688 4371 federalccc.com.au

If you want your children to flourish academically, socially, and emotionally, Hinterland Christian College is the best school for you. Within our safe and environmentallysustainable facilities you will find a dedicated team of high-performance teachers that are passionate and committed to growing socially-responsible and well-educated human beings.

Book a tour of our school by visiting our website at hinterland.nsw.edu.au or call 02 6684 1559

EUREKA PUBLIC SCHOOL At Eureka Public School, they take great pride in offering a warm, friendly and supportive environment where every child is genuinely known and cared for. The dedicated staff work closely with students, encouraging them to ‘Strive to Achieve’, supporting every child to grow in confidence and independence to achieve their personal best. The small size of the school allows families, students and teachers to form strong, meaningful connections, creating a true sense of belonging. Student voice is valued and encouraged through the Student Representative Council and leadership opportunities. The school community is fortunate to learn and grow in beautiful, well-equipped surroundings – from spacious sports fields and outdoor classrooms to thriving vegetable gardens and rich extracurricular opportunities. The generous classroom spaces allow for flexible learning groups tailored to meet student needs. Skills and abilities are extended through S.T.E.M., sports, agriculture and creative avenues such as visual arts, choir and film making.

02 6688 4272 eureka-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au Follow us on Facebook and Instagram

2027 ENROLMENTS PreSchool & Long Day Care for 2 - 5 year olds

www.federalccc.com.au f the Bush T Home o g Classro ucker om n i v i L

Big opportunities in the Heart of the Valley Upper Coopers Creek Public School

Be part of our welcoming community where every student is inspired to reach their full potential. We offer a safe, inclusive and engaging environment for Kindergarten to Year 6.

Why Choose Eureka Public School? Caring and dedicated teachers Strong academic programs Creative arts and STEM opportunities Wide range of extra-curricular activities Support for all learners

CONTACT THE OFFICE 02 6688 4272 https://eureka-p.schools.nsw.gov.au/

eureka-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au Join us and begin your learning journey today!

www.echo.net.au

Taking enrolments now for 2027 02 6688 2128 cooperscrk-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au cooperscrk-p.schools.nsw.gov.au September 9, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 23

GLOBAL RIPPLE OP SHOP RICHARDSON MURRAY FAMILY LAWYERS Richardson Murray Family Lawyers is a leading family law firm based in Byron Bay, renowned for its exceptional legal services and commitment to supporting clients through challenging family matters.

What is Global Ripple Op Shop? A local, heart-based, community-driven, notfor-profit op shop here to help support the community. Authentic op shop prices, good vibes and a commitment to community. What will I find? A wonderland of recycled treasures waiting to be re-homed and loved. They have all of your needs met! Clothing & accessories, household, linen, sport, camping, electrical, art, craft & stationary and of course weird whacky and wonderful!

With extensive experience in divorce, child custody, property settlements, and domestic violence cases, the firm’s team of dedicated professionals ensures clients receive personalised and empathetic legal advice.

Can I donate? Moving house, style revamp, deceased estate, cleanse? We accept just about everything in good condition. We offer a pick up service! Reach out via 0457 192 225.

Known for their expertise, integrity, and results-driven approach, Richardson Murray offers tailored solutions to resolve disputes efficiently, whether through negotiation or litigation. Their deep understanding of the complexities of family law, combined with a compassionate approach, has earned them a stellar reputation in the region.

They say teamwork makes the dream work and together we ripple out change! One donation or thrift find at a time. Monday–Saturday 9am-4.30pm 268 Ewingsdale Road, Byron Bay www.theglobalripple.org @globalripplehcharity

Richardson Murray Family Lawyers is the go-to choice for those seeking trusted legal counsel in Northern NSW. 42 Parkes Avenue, Byron Bay info@richardson-murray.law www.richardson-murray.law

VIRIDIAN ADVISORY BUILDING STRONG FINANCIAL FOUNDATIONS Most of us know what we earn, but do we really know what’s left at the end of each month? Understanding your cash flow is one of the foundations of a good financial plan. Before deciding how much to save, invest, put towards debt or prepare for retirement, it’s important to understand what’s coming in, what’s going out and what you realistically have available. Getting these foundations right can help you make more informed decisions and create a stronger base for achieving your longer-term goals. A conversation with Alana Pincombe, your local Byron Bay financial adviser at Viridian Advisory, can help you better understand your financial position and build a strategy around what matters to you. 0491 204 142 viridianadvisory.com.au apincombe@viridianadvisory.com.au

24 The Byron Shire Echo September 9, 2026

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT JUST METRES FROM THE HEART OF BYRON BAY Be part of Byron CoLab on Arakwal Country, metres from the heart of town. Social Futures is seeking professional services, employment services, allied health providers and mission-driven organisations for tenancies. Byron CoLab on Arakwal Country offers both long-term and short-term leasing opportunities for a range of tenancy options, suitable for solo practitioners and consultants through to larger teams. The precinct amenities include: • On-site management and shared reception services • Bookable meeting spaces with video conferencing equipment • End of trip facilities • Visitor parking • A 5-star rated café • A gallery featuring rotating exhibition of local artists 0407 787 595 Pop in and see us at 2 Wordsworth Street, Byron Bay or visit socialfutures.org.au/byroncolab to learn more

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PERSONAL LEGAL SUPPORT NOW IN BYRON BAY, LISMORE AND THE NORTHERN RIVERS REGION With a strong regional firm behind him and a dedicated local team, Josh McKay combines legal expertise with compassion and clear communication. He is particularly experienced in supporting trauma survivors and is known for building trust through empathy and straightforward advice. The Byron Bay office emphasises person-to-person service: clients meet an experienced local lawyer rather than using an automated claims portal or dealing with a city-based lawyer they may never meet.

JIN WU KOON KARATE BYRON BAY Jin Wu Koon (JWK) Karate was established in Byron Bay in 1977 by Sensei Light. The club produced champions at regional, state, national, and international levels in karate, kickboxing, and kung fu, while positively shaping generations of Byron Bay locals. When taught well, karate supports strong personal development, building concentration, confidence, self-discipline, resilience, and self-awareness. Training also helps students manage stress, find purpose, and live by clear values.

Josh can arrange home or hospital visits so clients can learn their legal entitlements without delay.

JWK Karate supports both children and adults to achieve goals on, and off, the mat through commitment, perseverance, and striving to be their best.

Don Cameron & Associates 1/19–21 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay 02 5643 9240 www.dcalaw.com.au

Their code of conduct follows Bushido principles: loyalty, honour, courage, honesty, respect, and humility in daily life. Ewingsdale Hall 0490 849 295 jinwukoonkarate.com.au jinwukoonkarate@gmail.com

SPRING HAS SPRUNG AT BETTER BY BIKE

LEARN SOMETHING NEW THIS SEPTEMBER AT BYRON COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Tucked into Byron’s Arts & Industry Estate, and another location at Murwillumbah Railway Station, Better by Bike is gearing up for spring with specials designed to get more locals out on their bikes. Founded by Campbell Shepherd, the family-run business offers e-bike hire, retail and repairs.

There’s plenty happening at Byron Community College this September, with courses to get creative, learn practical skills and try something completely different. Explore Tetra Pak Printing and discover how everyday materials can be transformed into unique prints, or step into the fascinating world of Beekeeping with Kelvin Scandrett.

This spring, e-bikes start from just $1,930, below online prices, while new customers can enjoy 15% off all bike servicing, excluding parts.

Love good food? Learn to make delicious Healthy Ramen & Gyoza with Keita Kujiura, with plenty of hands-on tips and techniques to take home.

Whether it’s a first e-bike, a trailready hire, or a spring tune-up before the warmer months arrive, the friendly local team is on hand to help. Better by Bike is open seven days in Murwillumbah and Monday to Friday in Byron Bay, drop in and see what’s new this season. Better by Bike Murwillumbah Railway Station and also 2/14-16 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay 02 6639 7700 betterbybike.com.au

Looking to boost your work skills? Get job-ready with Barista, First Aid and CPR training and add practical, valuable skills to your toolkit. Learn, create and upskill at Byron Community College this September 02 6684 3374 www.byroncollege.org.au

ORD MINNETT BUILD AND PROTECT YOUR WEALTH AT EVERY STAGE OF LIFE Your financial needs come first. Whether you’re building wealth, supporting a growing family, advancing your career, or preparing for retirement, Jake and Sam focus on helping you make confident, informed financial decisions. As private wealth advisers at Ord Minnett, servicing people in your local area, they guide clients through every stage of life, backed by 150 years of research and investment expertise. Their tailored advice is designed to protect and grow your wealth so you can achieve your goals with clarity and peace of mind. Start a conversation today Jake Blumberg on 0412 285 029 jblumberg@ords.com.au Sam La Cava on 0413 717 528 slacava@ords.com.au

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September 9, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 25

Mungo from the Bardo Soapbox www.echo.net.au/soap-box

Crossword by Mungo MacCallum 1

Rage in the Machine

#25

Cryptic Clues

Quick Clues

ACROSS

1. Surprisingly unhostile anchorite – a great be-bopper in fact! (9,4)* 8. Medusa not on, back for the turps (4) 9. Gegs! What a dreadful smell! (6,4) 10. Adolescent at 12, for a baker (8) 11. Senility – act to label the drug (6) 13. Part timers have reliefs around service without the church (10) 16. Ancient letter reports bankruptcy (4) 17. Worthless cycle of dance music (4) 18. I could have sworn fuels come from vegetable oil producers! (10) 20. Army marks time and backtracks (6) 22. Crowd in 1.6km can’t move (8) 24. Dilapidated, had hesitation and lost blood in the city (10) 26. EEE! Relax! (4) 27. Singe, fib, stop with the queen – that’s the bird who played with 1 across! (7,6)

DOWN

1. Bringer of enlightenment or one searching for a lost love? (11) 2. Composer lost of regal music (5) 3. Wrecked vessel beneath old, old city – that’s for us! (9) 4. Sings one time in the 3pm service (7) 5. Mount sow, over time (5) 6. Knock down and run – one given away by fieldsman (9) 7. A thousand, for instance; it holds a lot of 8 across! (3) 12. Senior officer over the islands – a monarch. Anyway, he makes sweeping statements (11) 14. Can be succulent, and if not born, can produce real elation (9) 15. Place in Hobart or city in Spain (9) 19. Sound about mantra, but characteristic of 9 across (7) 21. Let’s go up about a bargain (5) 23. Cheerless artist? (5) 25. Abbreviated rellie dirty but not thin (3)

■ *Apologies for a typo in the answer

to 1 across which should be (10,4)!

■ Crossword circa 2008

STARS BY LILITH This week unpredictable Uranus backtracks into communication sign Gemini to make five planets in retrograde, intensifying world events …

VIRGO THE VIRGIN

1. Jazz pianist, bebop founder (9,4)* 8. Booze (4) 9. Smelly things traditionally thrown at bad performers (6,4) 10. Unlucky number (8) 11. Senility, particularly senile affection (6) 13. Part time soldiers (10) 16. Old symbol, often supposed to be magic (4) 17. Rubbish, nonsense (4) 18. Large yellow blooms (10) 20. Foot soldiers (6) 22. Stalled, motionless (8) 24. Ramshackle, dilapidated (10) 26. Rest, relaxation (4) 27. Alto sax player ‘The Bird’ (7,6)

DOWN

1. Bringer of enlightenment or one craving a lost lover (11) 2. English composer of Pomp and Circumstance (5) 3. Us, just you and me (9) 4. Speaks in a sing song voice, usually with reverence (7) 5. Horse, mount (5) 6. Conquer, bring down (9) 7. Large container of beer or wine (3) 12. One who makes broad assertions (11) 14. Genus of plants including succulents and bushes such as poinsettia (9) 15. Province and its capital city in western Spain (9) 19. Stinking, putrid (7) 21. Pinch, nick (5) 23. Desolate, cheerless (5) 25. Abbreviation for father’s brother Last week’s solution #24 L A P L A P U

P A R S D

F A L U

T E A C H E R S P E T

L O G

E V E N N O W

A F R N

I I

C A N V

E A L S

A P O S T

L E

N O H

U N

O L E T S

N H A B

S T M A S B E L

C H R F

M P A S S E

O N M E M B E R

S O R C E R E R

R I

I have always been afraid of male rage. Growing up with a violent, alcoholic dad I got to witness that rage first hand. I saw the legs of a chair go through a door, a fist in a wall, hands on my mother. I saw from a child’s view, the face that looked at me, earlier with love, suddenly twisted with rage. Red-faced, ugly, spitting rage. It’s the stuff of monsters. They’re not imagined, they are often family members. They’re unleashed usually by something small. Something imagined. Something inconsequential. And of course, there’s always alcohol. The kerosene on the flame, turning what was a small spark into a raging inferno. It’s scary. Unchecked male rage is terrifying. It feels dangerous. Like something bad is about to happen. Yesterday I got to witness a man in his rage cage. It was a bloke in a ute. I don’t know why, but when I witness these random outbursts in public, it’s often a bloke in a ute. Apologies to the gentle men and women who use this as a vehicle of choice. It’s never just a ute. It’s a big, big ute. With four doors and giant wheels. One of those massive things that look like its owner – the car has been on steroids too. At the gym at 5am working on it’s chassis. I’m at the airport carpark. And I will acknowledge, it’s one of the places where a person may feel the most disconnected from humanity. Paying more for your parking than your flight might have something to do with it. They’re strange and unsettling places. Liminal places – in between where you are going and where you have been, and home. The soon to be angry dude was at the exit, having some issue at the boom gate. I don’t know what was happening, because fortunately I wasn’t in his car. I was just walking to my car. But I hear this explosion of rage, he screams ‘fuck off’ and then drives his big muscle bro machine through the boom. He literally blows it off its hinges. The barrier goes flying, and the ute dude speeds off, almost going head on into a concrete barrier just 10 metres in front of him. It was intense. It felt dangerous. I’m walking next to a dad and his two small boys. The kids look on in amazement. It was quite the mantrum (that’s what I call men throwing tanties). I smile at the kids and comment, ‘I think that bloke needs some time in his room to think about his

N O LA N

’S

Unchecked male rage is terrifying. It feels dangerous. Like something bad is about to happen. behaviour!’ They laugh. I hate little boys witnessing a man behaving that way. It’s not okay. It normalises a kind of violent rage. And to a woman and two children, it’s scary. I think it scares other men too. I try to imagine what, realistically, could have set off that kind of behaviour, that would have justified that level of aggression. Maybe the intercom said, ‘I have your family hostage and if you aren’t home in ten minutes you’ll never see them again.’ That is justification to blast through a boom gate. Or he just got a call from a doctor telling him he had a rare blood cancer and he needed to get to a hospital immediately, or maybe he got his cock stuck in the seatbelt clip and he didn’t speed through in rage, but in a state of insane penis pain. What is most likely, is that a bloke had to deal with a stupid system that wasn’t working properly. Maybe he had to wait. It’s frustrating, but it’s not worthy of that catastrophic level of rage. If you lose it at the boom gate, what’s it like for his family waiting at home? Does he have a little girl that loves him but quakes in fear when something goes wrong? Does she watch his face in fear

and trepidation as the fury passes over like a sudden wild storm? And let’s look at the consequences. There’s cameras everywhere. So he’s already caught. You can face criminal charges for property damage, and potentially federal airspace security violations because major airports sit on Commonwealth land, and damage to the metal barrier can soar to over $10,000. Angry dude could also be liable for operational losses and call out fees. Whatever made that dude angry, his reaction just made things a whole lot worse. I hope whatever happens, in the shitshow that is about to rain down on this bloke who I witnessed at his worst, that he gets some help with his rage. Because property damage is nothing, compared to the damage you can do to people. ■ Mandy Nolan’s column has

appeared in The Echo for almost 25 years. She is a writer, comedian and artist, is the preselected Greens candidate for Ballina and was the Greens candidate at the past two federal elections.

S L A N D

ARIES: As Venus strides into relentlessly honest mode, this week asks you to resist snap judgements and work with the balance of Mercury in the sign of diplomacy, so you can advocate for yourself with courage and clarity, and without burning those bridges that still need to be crossed. TAURUS: With Venus sashaying into the magnetic sign of passion and power plays, interpersonal chemistry can quickly get volatile, so enjoy the buzz, but be alert for any signs of covert manipulation. This transit asks you to get radically honest about what you want – and what you’re no longer willing to tolerate. GEMINI: If Uranus backtracking in Gemini has you feeling like you’re accelerating while the universe hits the emergency brake, skipping the tricky bits and fastforwarding isn’t recommended, because due diligence and attention to red flags could reveal a missing puzzle piece that’s waiting there in plain sight.

26 The Byron Shire Echo September 9, 2026

MANDY

CANCER: This week’s industrious, practical energy supports all kinds of mundane chores like shopping, cleaning, paying bills, decluttering and making health appointments. Service-oriented new moon on 11 September offers you lunar beings a heartwarming opportunity to use your personal skills to benefit someone in need. LEO: No question, majesties, that this is a bit of a critical, nitpicky, hair-splitting time. But then on the upside, spring has sprung, life’s looking lighter and brighter, so do you really care if your brand of entertaining flair and pizzaz isn’t to everyone’s taste. Your mantra this week? Hakuna Matata. VIRGO: The combination of sun and annual new moon in your sign is Virgo’s personal portal for setting your intentions for the coming year. And with your ruler Mercury moving into the peacemaking sign of diplomatic negotiators, your mediation skills could make a valuable contribution to this week’s interactions.

LIBRA: With communications planet Mercury moving into your peacemaking sign clashing with Saturn this week, part of you knows the right thing to do while another part just wants to take the easy way. Use this cosmic checkpoint to assess potential damage control down the track before you decide. SCORPIO: September really starts lighting up bright for Scorpios when vixen Venus vamps into your sizzling sign this week, sending intensity levels soaring. And while you’re topping the charm charts, using your magnetic drawing power to benefit everyone involved is guaranteed to show the most satisfying results. SAGITTARIUS: Archers are big picture people, this week is up close and personal, all about the details. About working smarter, not harder. So if you’re pitching an idea, limit conversational fluff and cut to the chase. Forget the hard sell. Stay flexible, playful and responsive to questions: all Sagittarian skills.

CAPRICORN: Larger life goals may be shifting as asteroid Lilith’s influence in Capricorn questions the legitimacy of society’s rules, and your planet ruler Saturn in the sign of rebels and pioneers rewrites your personal manifesto. Meanwhile, let this week’s down-to-earth vibes ease your transition with practical pleasures. AQUARIUS: Your guiding planet Uranus is now backtracking for the rest of the year in the sign of communications. And with Mercury moving into the sign of reconciling opposites, a ‘black/white, either/or’ mindset won’t serve you, because this week’s answer lies in the more nuanced, intermediate areas. PISCES: There’s an ancient popular saying that ‘the devil’s in the detail’, but on the other hand so is the divine. And while Pisceans are inclined to a more inclusive overview, this week calls for precision and meticulous attention to the fine print, which you’ll find to be well worth your while.

www.echo.net.au

Seven

Volume 41 #13 9–15 September, 2026 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 days of entertainment

The big 1-2-0

Charlie is fresh

For 120 years, the Billinudgel Hotel has stood at the heart of a small Northern Rivers village with a very big story. This year, the Billinudgel Hotel celebrates its 120th birthday. A milestone that is about much more than the age of a building. It is a celebration of the generations of locals, travellers, workers, musicians, publicans and characters who have walked through its doors and helped make the pub what it is today. Billinudgel itself grew during a remarkable period of change for the region. The arrival of the railway in the late 19th century brought workers, families and new activity to the area, helping shape the village that would follow. From those early days, the local hotel became an important meeting place. Somewhere to share news, find a meal, catch up with neighbours, and of course, have a drink after a long day’s work. Over the following 120 years, the world around it changed enormously. Trains came and went. Roads replaced old transport routes. Businesses opened and closed. Generations grew up, moved away and returned. The Northern Rivers endured storms, floods, economic changes and more than a few wild nights. Through it all, the Billinudgel Hotel remained.

35–43 JONSON ST BYRON BAY 6685 6454 THENORTHERN.COM.AU @thenorthernbyronbay www.echo.net.au

Country pubs occupy a special place in Australian towns. They are more than somewhere to buy a beer. They’re meeting places, music venues, dining rooms, and community noticeboards. Somewhere you might bump into someone you haven’t seen for ten years. Or someone you saw yesterday.

Despite being a relatively fresh face on the Australian scene, Charlie Shell’s rise over the past year has been nothing short of meteoric. His single ‘Hitz 4 The Hood’, peaked at number 1 on Beatport’s UKG chart in 2025, with support from frontrunners like DJ Seinfeld, Groove Armada, and even a co-sign from John Summit.

Its walls have witnessed countless birthdays, Christmas parties, Sunday sessions, first dates, reunions, fundraisers, live shows and ordinary afternoons that later became great stories.

Admired for his experimentation across genres, his sets, and releases, deliver an eclectic fusion of UKG, house and tech.

And while much has changed around Billinudgel over the past 120 years, the pub itself has remained the same. A place to gather, share a drink, tell a yarn, listen to music and enjoy each other’s company. So this birthday isn’t only about looking backwards. It’s about raising a glass to everything that has happened here and to everything still to come. The official celebration starts at 10.30am on Saturday with Chev and Tay, and flows throughout the day with Dream Thieves, Flukes of Sendington, Tube Warmers, Leaving Jordan, Round Mountain Girls, Letters to Lions, Miniskirt, Adam Newling and finishes up the evening with Tijuana Cartel. You can buy tickets over the bar or at oztix.com.au.

Recent touring highlights include main support for frontrunners Interplanetary Criminal, Silva Bumpa and 33 Below. Extensive radio support for his releases includes airtime on BBC Radio 1, Triple J, KISS FM and Rinse FM. Charlie’s rare ability to pair vocal-driven anthems with heavier club sensibilities is making him a hard one to ignore in both Eora and the global scene, and his momentum is set to continue in 2026 with extensive touring and release schedules. He is particularly excited by the emerging sound of ‘AUKG’ and the thriving club scene at home right now. Charlie Shell featuring Tori Pepper is at The Northern on Saturday, 19 September, from 8pm.

THUR 10 SEP

Felecity Lawless 6pm | DJ Quendo Duelling Piano Bar 9pm

FRI 11 SEP

Z-Star Trinity 7pm | DJ Zac Ewing 10.15pm Duelling Piano Bar 8pm

SAT 12 SEP

Greg Nunan and The General Jacksons 7pm Marshall 3 Piece 10.15pm | NO CIGAR 8pm

SUN 13 SEP

Dan Hannaford 5pm Vinyl Sundays ft. Scott Plant 8.15pm

MON 14 SEP

Jerome Williams 6pm

TUES 15 SEP

Marshall Okell 6pm

WED 16 SEP

Matt Armitage 6pm

NO CIGAR SAT 12TH

LIVE MUSIC EVERY NIGHT

NORTHERN BOTTLESHOP

September 9, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 27

A new Sunday tradition The Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club is excited to announce the launch of its new Sunday Open Mic Jam Sessions starting this Sunday and continuing every Sunday from 3pm to 6pm. Featuring local favourites The Swamp Cats band, the weekly sessions are led by John Fog (vocals and guitar) and feature Chris Strangecat (vocals and guitar), Geoff Jones (bass) and Marcelo Bonin (drums). Together, the band brings a wealth of musical experience and a strong local following, providing a welcoming stage for local musicians, singers and performers while offering audiences an afternoon of quality live entertainment. After many years of hosting popular Sunday sessions in Mullumbimby, John Fog and The Swamp Cats have found a new home at the Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club, and are delighted to continue this much-loved local tradition for the community to enjoy each week. The Sunday Open Mic Jam Session is designed to celebrate the incredible musical talent that exists throughout the Byron Shire. Musicians of all abilities are encouraged to bring their instruments, join the band on stage and become part of the experience. Whether you’re an experienced performer, an aspiring musician or simply someone who enjoys great live music, these sessions promise a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. General Manager Andrew Spice said the Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club was proud to provide a new venue for a longstanding community favourite.

ADMIN SPIDER SKILLS WANTED VOLLIE BayFM’s website some TLC Put your face needs to our name

Good on the web? Skilled in a BayFM community radio needs Wordpress? Do you have an hour so capable, organised volunteer foror our a week inand yoursome work light schedule? front desk admin. You’ll greet guests, manage We need your help to make our payments, answer phones and keep website look and work better. things ticking. We’ll provide training, We have folks here who can write, but you need to know your way but we need to get those words in the around email and Google and have a right place at the right time to make love of words. our online experience sing. If you can spare 10am-2pm one day a week to help your localcontact community, If that’s you, please please email gaylecue@bayfm.org studiomanager@bayfm.org

‘Live music has always played an important role in bringing people together, and we’re excited to see these Sunday sessions continue at the club,’ said Mr Spice. ‘It’s a fantastic opportunity for local musicians to showcase their talent and for the community to come together for an enjoyable Sunday afternoon.’ The launch of the new Sunday sessions coincides with several positive changes at Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club designed to make the venue more accessible and welcoming. Recent amendments to registered club regulations now allow residents living within a five kilometre radius of the club to enter without needing to be members, or signed in as guests. The club has also modernised its dress regulations, with standards now focused on neat and tidy attire while allowing hats, headwear, singlets and tank tops. These practical changes help create a more relaxed and inclusive environment for locals and visitors alike. While visitors can sign themselves in with suitable identification, locals are encouraged to join the club. Membership remains exceptional value at just $6 per year, providing discounts on food and drinks, exclusive promotions, members-only happy hours and access to the club’s rewards program. So, mark your calendar for Sunday – gather your friends, bring your instruments and be part of what promises to become one of Mullumbimby’s favourite new Sunday traditions. The Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club, Open Mic Jam Sessions – Sundays from 3pm to 6pm.

A new chapter for NORPA From 1 to 3 October, NORPA will welcome audiences into its new creative home in The Joinery for the very first time, for a strictly limited, four-performance season of POV by the acclaimed Re:group Performance Collective. It’s a fitting production to mark the occasion. POV is theatre that thrives on curiosity, connection and the unpredictable magic of being in a room together. At the heart of the story is Bub, an 11-year-old girl with a passion for documentary filmmaking. When her family begins to fall apart, she turns to dramatised reenactments to try to understand what has happened. But Bub doesn’t have all the answers – and neither do the adults around her. That’s where things get interesting. At every performance, two locally cast adult actors step onto the stage having never rehearsed the play. Guided by Bub, they discover the story in real time, alongside the audience. Among the performers stepping into the unknown are Mandy Nolan, Madeleine West, Damon Gameau, Phil Blackman, Vanessa Larry Mitchell, Melia Naughton and Tom Davies. Which two will take the stage at your performance? That’s part of the fun. The result is funny, playful and sometimes surprisingly moving, as POV explores family, memory, mental health and the big questions children ask when the adults in their lives can’t quite explain what’s going on. The production has already captivated audiences around Australia, earning four-star reviews from Time Out Sydney and four-and-a-half stars from ArtsHub. For NORPA, bringing POV to The Joinery is about more than presenting a show. It’s the first chance for audiences to step inside a place that has been years in the making, a new creative home shaped by the resilience and imagination of the Northern Rivers. So come through the doors, take a seat and see what happens. With two unrehearsed local actors, an 11-yearold filmmaker, and a story being discovered live in front of you, there’s no telling exactly what you’ll see. But that’s the point. POV plays at The Joinery, Lismore, from 1 to 3 October. Tickets are on sale now at norpa.org.au.

DRILL HALL THEATRE MULLUMBIMBY

bayfm.org Made locally, played globally Listen like a local 28 The Byron Shire Echo September 9, 2026

www.echo.net.au

Seven days of entertainment

Pints and pats Good news for dog lovers and beer lovers alike: the pups are heading back to Stone & Wood on Saturday, 19 September for a special Dog Adoption Day, Spring Edition! The Byron Bay brewery is once again teaming up with Willow Tree Sanctuary for a wholesome Saturday filled with paws, pints, pats and possibly your new best mate.

Motown magic Get ready to sing along, dance in your seat and relive the soundtrack of a generation when The Big Chillout: Motown Spectacular comes to Ballina RSL next month. Inspired by the legendary soundtrack from the 1983 film The Big Chill, the show is far more than a concert. It’s a celebration of the unforgettable songs that defined an era, performed live by an outstanding tenpiece band, led by The Voice Australia winner Judah Kelly, acclaimed performer Asabi Goodman and powerhouse vocalist Bec Muino. Audiences across Australia have been attending theatres on their feet, clapping, singing and dancing through the encore, as hit after hit fills the room with nostalgia and infectious energy. The production features classics including ‘I Heard It Through the Grapevine’, ‘Signed, Sealed, Delivered’, ‘Dancing in the Street’, ‘Natural Woman’, ‘When a Man Loves a Woman’, ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’ and ‘Higher and Higher’, alongside favourites from Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Rolling Stones, The Band, Procol Harum, and more. Released in 1983, The Big Chill became a box-office success, while its soundtrack spent 161 weeks on the Billboard charts and achieved six-times platinum status, introducing a new generation to the timeless music of Motown. ‘I grew up listening to a lot of the music coming out of Motown Records’ Judah said. ‘When I was 12, I fell in love with country music, and that’s what I mostly perform now. But when the opportunity came to sing the songs I grew up with, I had to be part of it.’ Although he hadn’t seen the film before joining the production, Judah quickly discovered why it has become such a cultural touchstone. ‘When they told me this was the soundtrack that helped save Motown Records, I loved that. The songs already stood on their own, but the movie introduced them to a whole new generation.’

For Asabi Goodman, the music has always been part of family life. ‘I was too young to see The Big Chill when it came out, but I remember my parents loving the movie and singing these songs,’ she said. ‘Then they started appearing in commercials and other films, and my friends and I fell in love with them too.’ A veteran of productions including Chicago and Hairspray, Asabi says Motown remains one of her favourite styles to perform. ‘I love the smoothness, the emotion, the nostalgia – they’re just fantastic songs to sing. I love seeing audiences smiling, singing along and leaving with so much joy.’ Presented in two acts, the first celebrates the iconic original soundtrack, while the second expands into the deluxe edition with more Motown favourites. Whether you remember these songs from the first time around or you’re discovering them for the first time, The Big Chillout: Motown Spectacular promises an uplifting night filled with timeless music, world-class performances and the kind of feel-good energy that has audiences dancing long after the final encore. The Big Chillout: Motown Spectacular, Saturday, 10 October, at 8pm at the Ballina RSL

From 11am the Stone & Wood Tasting Room will be taken over by a pack of very good doggos on the lookout for their forever homes. Visitors will have the chance to meet a gorgeous crew of canines including Rupert, Luigi, Lizzy, Jemima and Mango. Whether you’re already looking to adopt, thinking about fostering or just keen for some pats and interested to learn more about animal rescue, everyone’s welcome. The Willow Tree Sanctuary team will be on hand throughout the day to chat through the adoption process and help match dogs with the right homes. Stone & Wood’s Venue Manager, Kurtis Day, said the brewery is excited to once again team up with Willow Tree Sanctuary for another Dog Adoption Day. ‘We love having the hounds in the house and are always up for assisting Willow Tree with the incredible work they do for animals in our community.’ Co-Founder of Willow Tree Sanctuary, Kate Morris, says if you have been thinking of adding a new member to your family, the Stone & Wood Dog Adoption Day is a great opportunity to meet some of the wonderful dogs that are currently looking for homes. ‘If you’re interested in fostering, you can also chat to some of our Willow Tree Sanctuary foster parents for a first-hand account of what’s involved.’ Petcare Byron Bay will also be at the brewery, supporting Stone & Wood Dog Adoption Day with raffle prizes and gifts for dog lovers who sign up to foster or adopt. So head on down, enjoy a beer, meet some adorable pups and maybe even find your new best mate. They can’t wait to see you there! The Dog Adoption Day is in the Stone & Wood Tasting Room, Byron Bay, on Saturday, September 19 from 11am until 2pm. For more info on Willow Tree Sanctuary visit willowtreesanctuary.com.au.

★★★★

“Hilarious and profoundˮ TIMEOUT SYDNEY

POV NORPA presents a re:group performance collective production

1 - 3 Oct | The Joinery, Lismore

Be among the first to experience theatre at The Joinery, NORPAʼs new creative home.

BOOK NOW

norpa.org.au www.echo.net.au

September 9, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 29

Seven days of entertainment

GIG GUIDE CINEMA

WEDNESDAY 9

■ BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 7PM MICHAEL HING

■ BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM TAHLIA MATHESON

■ WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 3.30PM ROOTS RECYCLED SOUND SYSTEM

■ BYRON THEATRE 7PM BOMBSHELLS ■ THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM SARAH GRANT + DUELING PIANO BAR ■ BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 6.30PM THE PLASTIC COUNTRY ■ THE PADDOCK PROJECT, MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM JAM AND CURRY OPEN MIC ■ OTTILIES, MULLUMBIMBY, 6PM MONDO HUM JAZZ ENSEMBLE ■ ELTHAM HOTEL 5PM IRISH FOLK JAM

THURSDAY 10 ■ BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM JAFFER BAND + FERGO BAND ■ BYRON THEATRE 7PM COMMON WEALTH ■ THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM FELECITY LAWLESS + DJ QUENDO + DUELING PIANO BAR ■ GARDEN BAR, BYRON BAY, 7.30PM TEMPLE OF FIRE

■ BYRON SCHOOL OF ART, MULLUMBIMBY, 5.30PM ALISON KUBLER IN CONVERSATION WITH GLENN BARKLEY ■ MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 5.30PM BALCONY BEATS + KRAPPYOKEE WITH JESS

■ RIVERVIEW HOTEL, MURWILLUMBAH, 8PM THE FUNNY GOATS BAND ■ REGENT CINEMA, MURWILLUMBAH, 5.30PM PHANTOM LIMBZ ■ MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES CLUB 6PM WOLFIE ■ THE CITADEL, MURWILLUMBAH, 7PM SHAUN KIRK ■ CLUB TWEED 7.30PM SMOOTH ODYSSEY

The estranged sons of a reclusive novelist are called to meet him after he becomes convinced he is about to die – is he?

■ SAINT MARIES, BRUNSWICK HEADS, 6PM MONDO HUM JAZZ ENSEMBLE

SATURDAY 12

& Sons is a sweeping yet deeply intimate portrait of family, inheritance, and the fragile ties that shape identity.

■ FOXY LUU’S @ COORABELL HALL 5.30PM PAPILLION

Anchored by Nighy’s elegant and layered performance, the film is elevated by a remarkable ensemble: George MacKay, Noah Jupe, and Johnny Flynn embody the fractured sons with unflinching vulnerability, capturing the raw ache of rivalry and reconciliation. Imelda Staunton brings depth and warmth as Isabel Platt, a figure who threads together past and present, while Dominic West delivers a quietly riveting turn that hints at hidden truths within the Dyer family. With luminous cinematography and a score that resonates long after the final frame, & Sons is a stirring meditation on the stories we inherit –and the ones we choose to write anew. & Sons ia screening at the Palace Cinemas in Byron Bay: palacecinemas.com.au.

■ BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 5PM TITI, 8PM DECADES NIGHT ■ BYRON THEATRE 7PM THE VICTORIAN STATE BALLET – ‘BEAUTY & THE BEAST’ ■ NORTH BYRON HOTEL 5PM DJ DANI QUAYLE ■ ARTS FACTORY BAR, BYRON BAY, 6PM BOOTLEG RASCAL, THIRST TRAP, NANA’S PIE, BUTTERKNIFE BOTTLEBUG, SUN WILDE, LOCAL SAFARI & LUNE TO THE MOON ■ HAVEN, BYRON BAY, 7PM HER HOUSE JESSIE BELTERS, RAKI, CAKKOU AND LIZA ■ THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 7PM Z-STAR TRINITY + DJ ZAC EWING + DUELING PIANO BAR

FAMILY FILMS Daily: 10:45AM, 2:00PM, 4:00PM

(PG) NFT

ALL FILMS BY ANY MEANS Daily: 3:15PM

DROP DEAD FRED (PG)

Daily: 8:30PM

Daily: 12:50PM, 8:20PM

Daily except Thurs, Mon: 1:00PM, 6:00PM, 8:30PM. Thurs, Mon: 1:00PM, 8:30PM

PRACTICAL MAGIC 2 (M) NFT

THE INVITE (MA15+)

RUNNER (M) NFT

Daily except Sat, Sun: 11:15AM

Daily except Sat: 10:50AM. Sat: 1:00PM

PALESTINE 36 (M)

Daily: 11:00AM, 12:40PM, 1:40PM, 3:20PM, 6:00PM, 7:00PM

Daily except Sat: 1:00PM, 8:20PM. Sat: 10:30AM, 8:20PM

THE ODYSSEY (M)

Daily: 10:45AM, 3:20PM, 6:45PM

Daily except Thurs, Mon: 1:50PM, 4:00PM, 6:15PM, TONY (MA15+) 8:30PM. Thurs: 1:50PM, 4:00PM, 6:15PM. Mon: 1:50PM, Daily: 10:45AM, 1:30PM, 3:45PM, 6:15PM 4:00PM, 6:15PM, 8:40PM

FOR BOOKINGS AND SESSION TIMES PALACECINEMAS.COM.AU

30 The Byron Shire Echo September 9, 2026

■ HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4PM SUB-TRIBE ■ MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, MATTHEW ARMITAGE ■ MULLUMBIMBY EX-SERVICES CLUB 3PM OPEN MIC WITH THE SWAMP CATS ■ PEARCES CREEK HALL 2PM RODRIGO SANTIAGO ■ DUNOON SPORTS CLUB 4PM PLUCKERS AND POETS OPEN MIC ■ RIVERVIEW HOTEL, MURWILLUMBAH, VENUS ENVY ■ CLUB TWEED 1PM DAVID BARRY, 2PM GREG BERRIMAN

■ THE PARK HOTEL, SUFFOLK PARK, 6PM BURNING HANDS

MONDAY 14

■ WILLIAMS STREET KITCHEN & BAR, LENNOX HEAD, 5.30PM GUY & CHARLIE

■ BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM LEIGH JAMES

■ LENNOX HOTEL 9PM DJ BEATDUSTA

■ BYRON THEATRE 4.30PM JUNKYARD BEATS

■ ST MARY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH, BALLINA, 7.30PM LISMORE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

■ MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 6PM JOHN HILL PIANO BAR ■ OCEAN SHORES TAVERN 8PM FAT ALBERT

OASIS: DON'T LOOK BACK IN ANGER (CTC) NFT

Thurs, Mon, Tues: 1:20PM, 3:45PM, 6:15PM. Fri, Wed: 1:30PM, 4:15PM, 7:00PM. Sat, Sun: 12:50PM, 4:15PM, 7:00PM

■ THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM JEROME WILLIAMS

■ BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 12.30PM & 5.30PM BRUNSWICK HEADS PUBLIC SCHOOL – BEACHSIDE BOOGIE

to post your gig in the Echo Gig Guide

PAW PATROL - THE DINO MOVIE (G) NFT

Thurs, Mon, Tues: 9:30AM, 11:30AM. Fri, Sat, Sun, Wed: 9:45AM, 11:40AM

PRACTICAL MAGIC 2 (M) NFT

Thurs, Mon, Tues: 9:40AM, 12:50PM, 3:30PM, 6:10PM. Fri, Wed: 10:00AM, 1:40PM, 4:00PM, 6:45PM. Sat, Sun: 10:00AM, 1:40PM, 3:30PM, 6:45PM

SPIDER-MAN: BRAND NEW DAY (M)

Thurs, Mon, Tues: 12:20PM, 5:45PM. Fri, Wed: 12:40PM, 6:15PM. Sat, Sun: 12:15PM, 6:15PM

THE DOG STARS (MA15+)

Thurs, Mon, Tues: 3:20PM. Fri, Wed: 3:40PM

THE LAST WHALE SINGER (PG) NFT

Sat, Sun: 9:50AM – Sneak Previews

THE ODYSSEY (M)

Thurs, Mon, Tues: 9:30AM. Fri, Wed: 10:10AM. Sat, Sun: 3:20PM

Mon: 6:30PM

SCAN TO BOOK ONLINE

■ SHAWS BAY HOTEL, BALLINA, 3PM PINK ZINC

■ THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 6PM MARSHALL OKELL

SPIDER-MAN: BRAND NEW OASIS: DON'T LOOK BACK DAY (M) Daily: 11:10AM, 3:30PM, 5:30PM IN ANGER (CTC) NFT Daily: 11:00AM, 4:20PM, THE DOG STARS (MA15+) 6:00PM, 8:30PM

Daily: 11:00AM, 4:20PM, 6:30PM

■ ST MARY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH, BALLINA, 3PM LISMORE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

■ WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 3.30PM DJ VINYL DAN

■ LENNOX HOTEL 9PM JB’S BLUES BREAKERS

SPA WEEKEND (M)

Daily: 2:10PM, 8:30PM

■ BALLINA RSL 2.30PM BALLINA BLUES CLUB FEAT KEEPING NORTH

■ RHEA, LENNOX HEAD, 6PM JOE CONROY

MAIGRET AND THE DEAD LOVER (PG)

(MA15+)

■ THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 7PM GREG NUNAN AND THE GENERAL JACKSONS + MARSHALL + NO CIGAR

■ SEVEN MILE BREWING CO., BALLINA, JOE CONROY

■ BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 6PM HAYLEY GRACE

Thurs: 6:30PM Italian FF Preview

LIFE IS LIFE (CTC)

& SONS (M)

■ HOWL & MOAN, BYRON BAY, 7PM BAYSOUNDS YOUTH SHOWCASE FEAT. WILD ROCKET

BALLINA FAIR CINEMAS

Sat, Sun: 11:15AM Sneak Preview NOW SHOWING

■ HAVEN, BYRON BAY, 7PM JASON LEWIS AND PHIL SMART

■ LENNOX HOTEL 4PM ISAAC FRANKHAM

■ BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 7PM RAY O’LEARY

SILENCED (M)

THE LAST WHALE SINGER

■ NORTH BYRON HOTEL 5PM JASON MCGREGOR

■ THE PARK HOTEL, SUFFOLK PARK, 5.30PM JOCK BARNES

TUESDAY 15

FALL 2: DEADPOINT (M)

PAW PATROL - THE DINO MOVIE (G) NFT COMING SOON

■ BYRON THEATRE 1.30PM & 7PM THE VICTORIAN STATE BALLET – ‘BEAUTY & THE BEAST’

■ THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, 5PM DAN HANNAFORD + VINYL SUNDAYS FT. SCOTT PLANT

■ THE PARK HOTEL, SUFFOLK PARK, 6PM AMIE STUART DUO

PALACE BYRON BAY

SESSION TIMES THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 10 TO WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 16

■ BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 4PM RED BULL BEACH SHACK, JORDAN BRANDO B2B WILLIAM KISS, MAD.DAY, LIZA, SOOKI + SAM ATLAST

■ BYRON THEATRE 1.30PM THE VICTORIAN STATE BALLET – ‘BEAUTY & THE BEAST’

■ HOTEL BRUNSWICK 4.30PM WEAR THE FOX HAT

■ HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM THE INXS TRIBUTE SHOW

SPECIAL SCREENINGS

■ CLUB TWEED 7.30PM ETERNAL SUNSHINE

■ BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 4.30PM THE FILTHY ANIMALS

■ HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM YAZMINDI

FRIDAY 11

■ KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS 1PM GRAEME TOWNSEND

■ ST JOHN’S SCHOOL HALL, MULLUMBIMBY, 7.30PM ECSTATIC DANCE MULLUM WITH DJ ISHWARA

& Sons

When world-renowned, but reclusive novelist Andrew Dyer (Bill Nighy) summons his estranged children to New York, the reunion sparks a collision of grief, memory, and long-buried secrets. As the brothers navigate their father’s towering shadow, questions of legacy, love, and belonging rise to the surface with piercing urgency.

■ BILLINUDGEL HOTEL, 11AM BILLINUDGEL HOTEL’S 120TH FT. CHEV AND TAY, DREAM THIEVES, FLUKES OF SENDINGTON, TUBE WARMERS, LEAVING JORDAN, ROUND MOUNTAIN GIRLS, LETTERS TO LIONS, MINISKIRT, ADAM NEWLING AND TIJUANA CARTEL

SUNDAY 13

■ MO’S DESERT CLUBHOUSE, GOLD COAST, 7PM DEAR SUNDAY

■ MO’S DESERT CLUBHOUSE, GOLD COAST, 7PM DEAR SEATTLE

e: gigs@echo.net.au w: echo.net.au/gig-guide. DEADLINE 5PM ON FRIDAYS

■ THE TOP PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 7PM KANE MUIR DUO

■ PACIFIC HOTEL, YAMBA, 8.30PM JOE CONROY

■ LISMORE CITY BOWLO 7PM THE SUPPER CLUB SOUL BAND

IT’S FREE TO LIST YOUR GIGS IN THE GIG GUIDE

It will appear in the paper, the online gig guide and on Bay FM 6686 9600 BALLINA FAIR • 6680 8555 BYRON BAY

email gigs@echo.net.au with the details www.echo.net.au

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

HEALTH

KINESIOLOGY

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

RATES & PAYMENT

AT THE ECHO HEAD OFFICE Ads can be lodged in person at the Mullum Echo office:

LINE ADS:

.00 Village Way, Stuart St, Mullumbimby $17 for the ﬁrst two lines

EMAIL ADS

$5 .00 for each extra line

$17 for two lines is the minimum charge.

Display (box ads) and line classifieds, email:

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

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.

These prices include GST.

classiﬁeds@echo.net.au

Cash, cheque, Mastercard or Visa Prepayment is required for all ads.

PUBLIC NOTICES

DEATH NOTICES

WHERE TO GET THE ECHO

MICHAEL KYPRIADIS

If you live in NEWRYBAR, LENNOX HEAD, BALLINA MAIN ARM, BILLINUDGEL, LISMORE but outside our current home delivery area, you can pick up an Echo from many locations. For example: LISMORE: Dragonfly Cafe NEWRYBAR: Newrybar Providore BALLINA: Richies IGA Ballina, Ballina RSL, One Stop Shop Ballina, Ballina Golf Club East Ballina, Brighton St Takeaway near The Shawsy LENNOX HEAD: IGA Lennox Head, Seagrass Lennox, Lennox pub drivethrough, Station St Grocer Lennox, Epiq Marketplace Hutley Dr Lennox MULLUMBIMBY: Mullumbimby IGA; Mullumbimby Newsagent; Liberty and Carsburgs servos, Echo office stand. BYRON BAY: Byron Bay Newsagent, Community Centre, supermarkets, cafes, servos etc ALSO: Federal Store, Main Arm Store, Billinudgel Newsagent, store & pub CRABBES CREEK Store NEW BRIGHTON Store OCEAN SHORES Country Club

SPRING GALA ROARING 20s’ 6pm 24 October

Lismore Workers Club Volunteers and sponsors needed – email Jill

26/11 1932

Spencer Jones 31/08 2026

PATEMAN, Maureen Formerly of Byron Bay. Late of Maclean. Dearly loved Wife of Ray. Loving Mother of Matthew. Dear Sister and Sister-in-law of Brian and Rosie (both decd), Ron (decd), Denis and Helen. Beloved Aunt to many. Passed away peacefully 23 July 2026.

Maxwell ‘Max’ Davidson

Masti Adler

GEORGIA MADELEINE ENTER

Now available again in private practice Individual and Relationship Therapy 0403 730 304 awarecounselling.com.au

22/06/1994–13/09/2013 My Darling Georgia,

Family and friends are warmly invited to celebrate Max’s life at Mullumbimby Cemetery at 11.00am Monday 14th September 2026. Brunswick Valley FUNERALS 6684 6232

Raymond Clive

It seems an eternity since you were here Supporting humans of all ages but in truth, you have never left. You are to thrive. in me, around me – inspiring me, Stress, sleep, learning, behaviour, lighting the path and carried in my every posture, muscles, healthy emotions, heartbeat. I look to the night sky and trauma release & more... still see you dancing in the stars and 0413 003 301 shooting across in the comets – here www.katemessengerkinesiology.com.au too briefly, left too quickly. Your fire and grace indelible. Burned into my soul, etched across my heart, cellular to my Body Based being – you remain with me always. One Somatic Pr actice day my darling, I will hold you again and Body Based Psyc hotherapy never let you go. Until then, ‘tutto Somatic Practice chiede salvezza’. And one foot in Julie Wells front of another. Dip. Som. Psych. Love Always, Your Mum. Clinical PACFA Reg.

Psychotherapy

Julie Wells Anne Goslett

EFFIE KORIALOS

Facilitations

Pty

(nee Mannix)

. Ltd. Ph: 02 66 *** 85 5185 Dip.Som.Psych, Clinical PACFA Reg. 6 August 1927 – 6 September 2022 Mo

bil

e: 0401 27 7 688 Individual and Couple Therapy Supervision and Coaching

In accordance with section 152D of the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given of the proposed sale of the Crown public roads listed in Schedule 1. If a sale proceeds, the road(s) will cease to be a public road upon transfer of the road to freehold land in accordance with section 152H of the Act.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.

Schedule 1: • Crown road at Tyagarah, adjoining property at 6 Tanner Lane. (File ref: 25/02582, Cluster: 685644)

Family and friends are invited to attend a service to honour Ray’s life at Melaleuca Station Memorial Gardens, 9394 Tweed Valley Way Chinderah on Friday 11th September 2026 at 9am

All interested persons are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal via the email address below or to Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure - Crown Lands, PO Box 2215, DANGAR NSW 2309 within twenty-eight (28) days of the date of this advertisement.

(02) 6685 5185 9 Fletcher St, Byron Bay

TRADEWORK A kind, loving, dedicated Mother and wife. **** Remembering you every day, Remembering you always. *** With love, your family. REMEMBERING GRANT GEOFFREY COOK *** 10 years ago, your life was taken far too soon. We hope you are watching over your beautiful children from among the angels, seeing them learn, grow and become the wonderful people they are today. Forever loved, forever missed, never forgotten.

Septic Waste Removal

Summerland Environmental

The Liquid Waste Specialists! • Septic tank cleaning • Grease trap servicing • Oily Liquids • Portable toilet hire • 24 hour service

6687 2880

TREE SERVICES LEAF IT TO US - Tree Care Specialists Local, qualified, insured, free quotes. Big to small we enjoy it all 0402487213

LIFE CELEBRATIONS

EVE SINTON

20 years local experience

AG0565

• 19 inch chipper • Stump grinding • Cherry picker • Crane truck • Bob Cat

Fully insured • Free quotes

Eve’s memorial will be held at Torakina Park on Thursday 10th September at 1pm. All welcome. Dogs on lead welcome. Bring a chair and a flower.

0408 210 772 WANTED TREE FERNS Any shape, size. Royalties paid. Ongoing supply needed. 0414904396 LP RECORDS: good condition, no op shop crap! Matt 0401955052

TO LEASE STUDIO WITH AMENITIES Upstairs, Billinudgel $402pw Ph Lifestyle Group 66851206 BYRON IND 3x large rooms ideal for storage for expanding business needing more space for stock, + carspace $480pw. For more info txt 0424906036

POSITIONS VACANT ECHO SALES ACCOUNT MANAGER LADIES WANTED, MUST BE 18+ Work available in busy adult parlour. Travellers welcome. 66816038 for details.

Individual and Couple Ther Supervision and Coachin apy g

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Ray, (Mr Breck), late of Suffolk Park on 6 September 2026. Son of Clive & Frances (both deceased), reunited with his beloved wife Val and son David, much loved father of Mark, dearly loved brother of Brian & Trish, loved brotherin-law, and uncle, cherished Pa to his grandchildren, a proud great grandfather and a dear friend to many.

Tip Runs & Rubbish Removal

See the advert on the back page.

Loving father of Narelle & Bradley.

Breckenridge

Proposed Road Disposal Section 152D Roads Act 1993

www.echo.net.au

BEETU FULL BODY MASSAGE A divine experience. Nurturing, healing, regen. 28 yrs exp. Lucy 0427917960

IN MEMORIAM

www.wunh.org.au

For further enquiries please visit the website https://roads.crownland.nsw.gov.au/ or contact Tracey Ward by email at tracey.ward@crownland.nsw.gov.au or on T:02 4904 2576 quoting file references above.

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

Max passed away peacefully with family at Coolamon Villa.

online@wunh.org.au

For the Manager, Divestments

HYPNOSIS & NLP

13th February 1942 – 6th September 2026

As per Maureen’s wishes a Private Service has been held.

Any person is entitled to make submissions with respect to the sale or disposal of the road. Please note that submissions may be referred to third parties (such as council or the applicant) for consideration in accordance with the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009.

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

Spen passed peacefully at home on the last day of winter. A warm thank you to community, friends & the palliative care team that has lovingly cared for one of Byron Shires finest gentleman. Please mark your calendar for 2pm, Saturday 17th of October, 2026 Ocean Shores Country Club to honour & celebrate Mr Jones.

FUNERAL NOTICES Passed away peacefully on 26th August after a long illness. Loving husband of Glenda, father of Kristian and Gemma, grandpa of Angela and Saxon. Aged 79 years Remembered with much love Private cremation

HYPNOSIS & EFT

GARAGE SALES

AGMs

0427 347 380

WILSONS CREEK HALL AGM

ITEMS UNDER $100

Sunday 13th September 3pm All welcome - at the hall.

TOYOTA TMA cargo barrier under $100. Ph 0403569575

TAXI DRIVERS WANTED Flexible work hours – perfect 2nd income Email operations@byronbaytaxis.com CLEANER/CARETAKER perm. part-time for commercial property Mullumbimby. 3 hours pw at $40ph. Contact 0432 929108. EXPERIENCED KITCHENHAND NEEDED AT The Other Joint cafe Email mullum@otherjoint.com HIGH-END CLEANERS WANTED * Exceptional eye for detail essential. Reliable*Professional*Own vehicle*ABN * $45/hr | Training $35/hr Long-term applicants only. * EYE FOR DETAIL AUSTRALIA 0447 039 386

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

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

ONLY ADULTS BALLINA EXCLUSIVE 34 Piper Dr. Open 7 days 10am till late. In & Out Calls. 66816038. Ladies wanted Find us on Facebook and Twitter! KRYSTAL ADULT SHOP Large variety of toys and lingerie 6/6 Tasman Way, A&I Est, Byron Bay 0416 899 048

CONSCIOUS PLAY PARTY

Sat 19/9. Tickets: trybooking.com/ DOUYU Need proper erotic relaxation? TANTRIC MASSAGE Men, Women, Couples. Ph 0480779325 couplesempowerment.global

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

September 9, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 31

Service Directory

COASTAL RESTORATIO North Coast news online

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

MOULD KEEPS COMING BACK COASTAL RESTORATION COASTAL RESTORATION ARTISAN AIR Airconditioning and refrigeration. ...............................................................66809394 COASTAL RESTORATION COASTAL RESTORATION The problem may be underneath your h SKIP AIR: Airconditioning installation, servicing, repairs. Free quotes. 5-star rated......0406 485187 MOULD KEEPS COMING BACK? MOULD KEEPS COMING BACK? MOULD KEEPS BACK? Moisture &your Mould inspection MOULD KEEPS COMING COMING BACK? - $299 ARCHITECTS The problem be underneath home Themay problem may be underneath your home COOLMAN AIR CONDITIONING 36+ years exp. Lic 178464C AU30147.......................0422 291433

Cinzel home The The problem problem may may be be underneath underneath your your home Moisture & Mould inspection -inspection $299 Decorative Cinzel Moisture & Mould $299 Cinzel Mould Moisture inspection Cinzel Moisture & & Mould inspection -- $299 $299

AUTOMOTIVE

WE PAY FOR

UNWANTED CARS $50–$1500

Cinzel coastalrestoration.au Cinzel 0404Decorative 184 079 Cinzel Cinzel Decorative 0404 184 079 Cinzel Decorative 0404 184 079 Cinzel Decorative 0404 184 079 coastalrestoration.au

coastalrestoration.au BUILDER – JOHN MCGAURAN Personalised Service. 20 yrs exp. Lic 170208C........... 0415 793242 coastalrestoration.au coastalrestoration.au HAVEN BUILDING All aspects of building. Lic 326616C................................................0432 565060

CARPENTER / JOINER 30 years experience. Prompt efficient service. Fully insured. Other licensed trades avail, incl plastering/painting etc. 24/7 Emergency 4WD call-out avail. Lic 43794C.........0423 500693

6684 5296 BUILDER Extensions, maintenance, new homes, insurance, landscaping Lic19953Q........ 0403 458177

Free metal drop off Locally owned

SERVICE DIRECTORY INDEX

0404 184 079

OCEANARC ARCHITECTS Reg. 6042 www.oceanarc.com.au..........................................0412 251392

SEA LION BUILDERS: All Building Works / Maintenance Lic #243734C.....................Ph 0407 351720 VIDLER BUILT decks, extensions, bathrooms, kitchens, timber fencing Lic 304237c........0413 502281

Accountants & Bookkeepers.32 Health................................ 33 BUILDER very exp. All aspects: comm/residential + bthrm/ktchn renos Lic348357c.......0483 279644 Acupuncture....................... 32 Hypnotherapy..................... 33 BUILDER Asher Landini All aspects: building, renovations, extensions Lic498385c...........0488 150778 Air Conditioning & Landscaping ....................... 33 CAR BODY REMOVAL Refrigeration...................... 32 Painting.............................. 33 TRADIE DAN MULLUM - Building work/repairs under $5k.................................................0410 284550 CASH ON THE SPOT GUARANTEE Architects........................... 32 Pest Control........................ 33 $50 – $1000 BUSH REGENERATION & WEED CONTROL Automotive......................... 32 Photography....................... 33 WE BUY UNWANTED CARS, UTES & VANS Barber Shops...................... 32 PHONE 0466 113 333 24/7 Physiotherapy..................... 33 EMAIL: enquires@adrians.com.au Blinds, Awnings, Curtains, Shutters.............................. 32 Picture Framing.................. 34 reforestnow.org.au Bricklaying.......................... 32 Plastering........................... 34 BARBER SHOPS Bush Regen Building Trades................... 32 Plumbers............................ 34 PENSIONERS/KIDS FROM $25 – ADULTS FROM $30: 6 Brunswick Tce Mullum......0421 679015 Tree Planting Removalists........................ 34 Bush Regeneration & Weed Native Forest Nursery BICYCLE REPAIR Control............................... 32 Rendering........................... 34 Weed Management Bicycle Repair..................... 32 Roofing............................... 34 MOBILE BICYCLE REPAIRS & servicing. All bikes/e-bikes: twowheelstoday.com........0474 148450 0461 164 911 enquiry@reforestnow.org.au Carpentry & Joinery............ 32 Rubbish Removal................ 34 BLINDS, AWNINGS, CURTAINS, SHUTTERS Cleaning............................. 32 Self Storage........................ 34 THE GREEN WAVE: native reforestation and weed management........................ (John) 0491 117656 Computer Services.............. 32 Septic Systems.................... 34 Concreting & Paving............ 33 Solar Installation................ 34 CARPENTRY & JOINERY Decks, Patios & Extensions... 33 Television Services.............. 34 LOCAL SHOWCASE DEALER SHOWROOM SUNSCREENS ALL CARPENTRY Doors & stairs, all repairs. Reliable. 20 years exp...............................0437 202050 LOCAL SHOWCASE DEALER SHOWROOM SUNSCREENS Design & Drafting............... 33 Tiling.................................. 34 BYRON BAY CARPENTRY & CONSTR. Decks, kitchen, bath, laundry. Lic 337421c........0432 549082 Driveway Maintenance........ 33 Tree Services....................... 34 BLINDS SHUTTERS AWNINGS CURTAINS Earthmoving & Excavation.. 33 Transportation Services....... 34 PARRY’S CARPENTRY - Decks, Pergolas, Repairs, Renovations. Licence 491263C. ..Ph 0478 429767 LOCAL SHOWCASE DEALER SHOWROOM SUNSCREENS Electricians......................... 33 Upholstery.......................... 34 LOCAL SHOWCASE DEALER SHOWROOM SUNSCREENS CLEANING CURTAINS Fencing............................... 33 LOCAL 34 SHOWCASE DEALER SHOWROOM CURTAINS 1/84 Centennial Circuit Byron Bay Valuers............................... 1/84 Centennial Circuit Byron Bay SUNSCREENS Floor Sanding & Polishing... 33 Veterinary Surgeons............ 34 Services List Locally owned and Operated LOCAL SHOWCASE DEALER SHOWROOM Garden & Property CURTAINS SUNSCREENS Water Filters....................... 34 (Low Pressure Softwashing) Residential and Commercial 1/84 Centennial Circuit Byron Bay Maintenance....................... 33 FREE MEASURE QUOTE PLANTATION SHUTTERS Houses, Gutters, Roofs, Awnings, No job too big or small Web Design Services........... 34 o n o u r c o m p l e t e r a n g e o f FREE MEASURE QUOTE Gas Fitters, Suppliers & PLANTATION SHUTTERS Solar panels, Retaining walls Obligation free quote interior & exterior Servicing............................ 33 Welding.............................. 34 on F oR urEcM ompletR e rQ an g e of CURTAINS Driveways, Paths, Pavers, Fully insured wiE ndowEtArSeU atmEen tUsOTE PLANTATION SHUTTERS 1/84 Circuit Byron Bay in rmCentennial &pleex terr iogr Guttering............................ 33 Window Cleaning & Repairs.34 o n toeur rio co te an e of Fences, Decks, Patios, CURTAINS CURTAINS AWNINGS riotr & tByron ee rn iotrsBay w inindtoew r eaetxm AQUA PRESSURE CLEANING 1/84 Centennial Circuit Pool areas. 1/84 Centennial Circuit Byron Bay Handypersons..................... 33 Window Tinting.................. 34 www.blinddesignbyronbay.com.au window treatments ROLL BLINDS SPECIALISTS IN HOME AUTOMATION AWNINGS AWNINGS www.blinddesignbyronbay.com.au www.blinddesignbyronbay.com.au 0426 119 550 info@nraquapressurecleaning.com.au ABN: 47576013867 BLINDSBLINDS FREE MEASURE QUOTEROLL ROLL

ABSOLUTELY FREE

80 8862 66668 0 8862 6680 8862

SPECIALISTS IN HOME AUTOMATION

6 6 860 8862 6 6 8 0 8 8 2 6680 8862 SPECIALISTS IN HOM E AUTOM ATION

FREE MEASURE QUOTE PLANTATION SHUTTERS PLANTATION SHUTTERS n BLINDS ouU rR co oE mpo lQ e tU erIndoor r an eOutdoor o LUXURY BYRON BAY Blinds, Manual, n u c og&m pflet e rMotorised ang eor o f Shade Awnings, FREE M EoA S O T E PLANTATION SHUTTERS HOT WATER interBlinds. ior & exterioroResidential. r Zipscreen, Roman Commercial Free Quote & Measure................0480 304 755 BYRON BOOKKEEPING BAS, Payroll, AR/AP, Xero, QB, MYOB.......................................0415 ienn tm ee ritosfr & exterior on639548 our compwlinedtoew r tra atg eno PRESSURE CLEANING

ACCOUNTANTS & BOOKKEEPERS

BOOKKEEPER Reg BAS provider, payroll, A/P, A/R. Xero & MYOB. Local, reliable..........0410 206627 nr dow treatments interior & extew riio BLOOMING BOOKKEEPING and BAS Agent................................................... Ph Leah 0434 121077

BRICKLAYING AWNINGS

SPECIALISTS IN HOME AUTOMATION

www.blinddesignbyronbay.com.au window treatmSPECIALISTS ents ROLL AWNINGS BLINDS IN HOM E AUTOM ATION www.blinddesignbyronbay.com.au SPECIALISTS IN HOM E AUTOM ATION

www.blinddesignbyronbay.com.au

AWNINGS WALLFIX

REMEDIAL ROLL BLINDS

• 20 years’ experience in lintel replacement • Crack stitching installation • Repointing • Retaining walls and all damaged brickwork

0431 409 045 • margraf.com.au

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

AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION Mullumbimby Refrigeration & Airconditioning Services

– Sales – Installation – Repairs – All Commercial Refrigeration – Residential & Commercial Airconditioning – Coolroom Design & Construction – Freezer Rooms

45 Manns Road, Mullumbimby

6684 2783

Lic: 299433C ARC: AU40492

32 The Byron Shire Echo September 9, 2026

Call: 0403 141 760 • Email: wallﬁxremedial@gmail.com www.wallfixremedial.com.au Servicing the Northern Rivers Lic no. 292267C Master Builder No. 3029326

BRICK/BLOCK LAYING Contractors. Lic 291958C. Phone Mark.........................................0409 444268

BUILDING TRADES • DEPT OF FAIR TRADING: A licence is required for all residential building work where the reasonable market cost of the work to be done (labour and materials) exceeds $5000 (including GST).

B&B Timbers 66867911

110 Teven Road, Ballina New logo - Same quality & service Structural – Landscaping Fencing – Composite Decking Hardwood – Pine – Hardware sales@bbtimbers.com.au

ROLL BLINDS ROOF CLEANING & PAINTING • DECK RESTORATION

www.bbtimbers.com.au

Fr quote

Call or scan today

0455 573 554 FCRTEAM.AU

BETTY’S CLEANING & HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES............................................... Text 0476 984649 PRESSURE WASH IT WASHING !!! ....................................................Text YOKO 0475 040733 CLEAN AND GREEN BYRON residential cleaning. All areas.................................... 0494 823880

COMPUTER SERVICES One-on-one, patient, experienced teacher offering digital support for seniors needing help with phones, laptops and computers. Phone or email: 0420 235 624 contact@thinkblinkdesign.com FLASH COMPUTERS Mac/PC repairs, sales, call-outs 77 Stuart St, Mullumbimby.........02 66844124 THE COMPUTER THERAPIST home callouts, repairs, Wi-Fi, printers, new PC setup......0422 697586

www.echo.net.au

Service Directory CONCRETING & PAVING

HEALTH ACUPUNCTURE & COSMETIC MEDICINE Dr Adam Osborne............................................66857366

SALISBURY

AYURVEDA, NATUROPATH, Herbs, Jacinta McEwen – Om Healing...............................0422 387370

CONCRETING Over 30 yrs’ local experience. All forms of concreting. Residential • Civil • Industrial

Lic.136717c

DARYL 0418 234 302

MASSAGE THERAPIST Sports, remedial, Swedish, relaxation. ................Contact Mark 0448 441194

HYPNOTHERAPY MOONLIGHT HYPNOTHERAPY QHHT, RTT for clarity, healing, insight, purpose. Teresa.0422 179941 JP ELECTRICAL All electrical. Level 2 ASP. Solar, data, TV, TV Antennas. Lic 133082C.....0432 289705

LANDSCAPING

BEN FORSYTH, Electrician. Lic:240691C. Ocean Shores & surrounds. No job too small....0422 136408

SHAKA CONCRETING Driveways, sheds, slabs, p/ways, patios. Insured & Lic#391742C.....0402 728207 JIM LABELLE ELECTRICAL O.Shores, Mullum, Byron, Bruns. Lic 176417C........................0415 126028 MIRO HALFORD BUILDING DESIGN mirohalforddesign.com.......................................0402 613638 ATLEE ELECTRICAL Lennox/Ballina/Byron. All jobs Lic125138C........................................0499 456558

DECKS, PATIOS & EXTENSIONS

TOPAZ ELECTRICAL. All electrical work. Reliable. Lic No. 461605C............................. Ph 0421 707380

DECK REFINISHING EVANS HEAD Customer satisfaction guaranteed..........................0413 786879

FENCING

FCR DECK SANDING, OILING Local, 12 years exp. 190x5-star reviews. Free quotes ... 0419 789600

DESIGN & DRAFTING

EDL FENCING Installations & repairs. Prompt service. ...................................................0432 107262 FLOW FENCING Pool fencing, timber/colourbond, local, professional and reliable........0416 424256

MIRO HALFORD BUILDING DESIGN mirohalforddesign.com.......................................0402 613638 HOLM STUDIO architectural drafting & planning services. holmstudio.com.au............0488 216555

Swim Ponds, Landscaping, Water Features, Earth Moving

0448 401 638

TOM’S FARM MAINTENANCE Fencing, orchards, cattle work. Experienced & reliable..0412 860132

FLOOR SANDING & POLISHING

LIGHT SPACE DESIGN Interiors + building design. lightspacedesign.com.au...............0421 276996 THE FLOOR SANDER New & old floors, decks, non-toxic finishes, special effects, free quotes..0407 821690

DRIVEWAY MAINTENANCE oast Asph alt st C Ea

admin@ecasphalt.com.au

GARDEN & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

ALL ASPECTS OF ASPHALT & BITUMEN SERVICES

6677 1859

SERVICING THE EAST COAST OF THE NSW NORTHERN RIVERS Burringbar

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 LEAF IT TO US Tree care specialists & acreage mowing...................................................0402 487213

Landscaping, Vegetation Control & Earthworks

• General Landscaping • Vegetation Control • Excavations & Civil Residential

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

TIP RUNS & RUBBISH REMOVALS 4m3 trailer..............................................................0408 210772 RICK’S PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Mowing, brushcutting, gardening, hedging..........0424 805660 GREEN DINGO for all your mowing and gardening needs. Ph Michael..........................0497 842442 BLADE RUNNER ACREAGE MOWING Local, reliable.....................................................0428 856687

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

EARTHMOVING & EXCAVATION

BRUSH–CUTTING Whipersnip, clearing saw, light chain saw.................................Rob 0455 587425 NORTHERN RIVERS SLASHING & LANDCARE.......................................... Call Keni on 0417 509299 GW MOWING Ride-on /acreage. Tip runs...............................................Call George on 0408 244820

TINY EARTHWOR

GROWING WELL gardens residential lawns, hedging and design. 20 years experience ..0413 459545 THE GREEN WAVE: Eco property and garden care ............................................... (John) 0491 117656

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

PAINTING

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

GAS FITTERS, SUPPLIERS & SERVICING

Philip Toovey

0409 799 909 various implements available for limited access projects

CONSCIOUS EARTHWORKS

• DRAINAGE DESIGN • DRIVEWAYS • PADS • WATERWAYS • ALL ASPECTS OF EARTHMOVING

Locally Owned No Rental Fees Servicing your area Free Call: 1300 727 013 Email: swapabottle@bigpond.com

Professional Painter/Decorator •30+ Years Experience •Interior & Exterior •Reasonable Prices 0451 298 363

splosh painting/decorating

HOUSEHOLD PAINTING inside/out. Northern Rivers - 10 years exp..............................0488 278220

PEST CONTROL

GUTTERING

Phone Zac: 0468 344 939 www.360earth.com.au Drainage Consultation & Installation Landscaping Install & Supply Retaining & Rockwalls

5T Excavator & Skidsteer 8 Tonne Tipper Attachments:

Bulk & Green Waste Removal

Rock Grabber, Auger

All Earthworks Requirements

350/450, Compactor

✔ Gutter guard ✔ Gutter cleaning ✔ Locally owned ✔ Fully insured ✔ Free quotes Call Junior for friendly, genuine advice and service.

www.spotlessgutters.com.au

0405 922 839 or AH 6684 1778 ABN 94 239 089 086 BEN - 0499 985 555 License 479630C. Fully Insured.

NORTHERN RIVERS TRENCHING 65hp chain trencher, excavator, cable locating & tpr..0402 716857 ANDREW FLANAGAN CONCRETING & EXCAVATION Lic 310498C................................0401 968173

ELECTRICIANS

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

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

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

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

PHOTOGRAPHY

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

www.treefaeriefotos.com • 0417 427 518

PHYSIOTHERAPY

HANDYMAN 40 years experience in the building game. Call Paul..................................0422 017072 OCEAN SHORES PHYSIOTHERAPY Manual therapies, dry needling, custom orthotics, ALL ASPECTS handyman and maintenance work. Free quotes......................................0413 289443 shock wave therapy, real time ultrasound. Nigel Pitman......................................................66803499

September 9, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 33

Service Directory

North Coast news online

PICTURE FRAMING

RUBBISH REMOVAL

Martino TREE SERVICES

MULLUM PICTURE FRAMERS Studio located in Ocean Shores...................................0403 734791 TIP RUNS & RUBBISH REMOVAL 4m3 trailer.................................................................0408 210772 TIP RUNS & RUBBISH REMOVAL 7m3 trailer. Prompt, reliable service.........................0413 289443

PLASTERING

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

PLASTERER, TRADE QUALIFIED repairs, renovations, cornices, quality assured. .Kurt 0431 015414

SELF STORAGE

CAPE BYRON PLASTERING. Gyprock/Venetian. 30 yrs exp, free quotes, lic + insured.. 0402 538155 PLASTERING cornices, partition walls, water damage repairs etc Guaranteed quality. 0413 338203

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

SEPTIC SYSTEMS

PLUMBERS

TRINE SOLUTIONS Local sewerage specialists. Plumbers, drainers & gas fitters. Lic 138031C.. 0407 439805

Ben The Plumber

SOLAR INSTALLATION

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

Serving Northern NSW since 1998

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

Your local, qualified team

• Local • Reliable • Insured

• 4×4 truck with 19” chipper • Qualified local arborists • 120 ★★★★★ Google reviews

0402 487 213 leafittous.com.au • kascha@leafittous.com.au

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

TELEVISION SERVICES

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

team@sunbeamsolar.com.au

 Electric eel  1.7t and 3m tipper truck  Blocked drain specialist

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

 12 month guarantee on most jobs

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

 Fully insured

TREE CARE SPECIALISTS

0428 320 262 sunbeamsolar.com.au

 High pressure jet rodder

Phone James 0429 888 683

0435 019 524

Specialists in standalone and grid interact system designs

 CCTV camera and locators

Drain clearing, inspections and repairs. Reliable family owned and operated local business with 30 years plumbing experience and the latest technology.

Byron Bay & Beyond

Call Sam 0456 044602

TILING

Lic 378040C

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

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

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

SHIRE REMOVALS & FREIGHT CO From Middle Pocket to Middle Earth Just give us a ring

arrive@ byronbuscompany.com.au

Door to Door Charter Services

0490 183 424

Get a Quick Quote Now

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

TREE SERVICES

LEAPFROG REMOVALS BYRON BAY’S LOCAL REMOVALIST MOVING THE SHIRE FOR OVER 10 YEARS

CHOPPY CHOP TREE SERVICES The Fully Insured Professionals

LOCAL TREE GUYS 15m crane truck. 18 inch chipper. Bobcat..............................Jason 0488 489159 THREE TREES AQF Level 8 Consulting Arborist. ................................... Call Lisa Barnes 0427 959835

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

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

Mark Linder Qualified Arborist

VETERINARY SURGEONS

choppychoptrees@bigpond.com

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

WATER FILTERS

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

The Water Filter Experts

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

ROOFING

LEAF IT TO US 4x4 truck/chipper + crane truck. Local, qualified, insured. Free quotes........0402 487213

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

0408 202 184

0432 334 200 02 6680 8170

RENDERING

BYRON TREE SERVICES AQF Level 5 consulting arborist, insured....................... Call Alex 0402 364852

OUT ON A LIMB TREE SERVICES Lucas Holland qualified arborist..........................Luc 0402 191316

0409 917 646

leapfrogremovals@yahoo.com.au

BYRON BUS Co88

REMOVALISTS

for home, commercial and rural properties

CMY

6680 8200 or 0418 108 181

FCR ROOF PAINTING Local, 12 yrs exp, best paints avail, 190x5-star reviews. Free quotes.0455 573554 K

Metal Roofing & Guttering Experts Serving from Ballina to Gold Coast.

- A Lifetime Warranty on Workmanship - Double Satisfaction Checks - Spotless Work Sites, Every Time admin@oceanbluepr.com.au

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

0429 909 433 www.oceanbluepr.com.au License # QBCC: 15327621 NSW: 381929C

0427 347 380

WEB DESIGN SERVICES NEED A WEBSITE? We build fast, affordable, tailored websites for your needs. Contact us today info@websitesbywednesday.com.au | www.websitesbywednesday.com.au.................0468 345742

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

BLUE SKY ROOFING NSW Roof repairs Replacements

Gutters Downpipes

0450 659 114

Lic No. 304784C

34 The Byron Shire Echo September 9, 2026

ALL AREAS OF THE NORTHERN RIVERS & SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND

0401 208 797

• Professional Tree Removal, Surgery & Maintenance • Stump Grinding • Weed Control • Arborist Reporting & Consultancy • EWP Cherry Picker Hire • Mulching of Green Waste • 24 Hour Emergency Call-Out • Professional, Reliable Service

WINDOW CLEANING AND REPAIRS CLEAN VIEW Prompt, professional, insured. Phone David..............................................0421 906460 NO STREAKS ATTACHED Local, experienced, friendly, insured.......................................0431 398358

WINDOW TINTING SURFWAGON - Car/Home/Office tint. Lifetime Warranty. W/sale price..........................0434 875009 SUNRISE window tinting, mobile Byron+ N. Rivers. Cars, homes, offices, etc...............0412 158478

www.echo.net.au

Property Insider

www.echo.net.au/echo–property

Explore Land Lease communities for a relaxed retirement lifestyle. Land lease communities offer a unique blend of financial advantages and lifestyle enhancements that appeal strongly to those seeking a comfortable and affordable retirement. Envisage downsizing, and looking for a budget-conscious lifestyle? One that embraces active retirees seeking an affordable, independent and social next chapter? Then a land lease community could be the answer. Land lease living is now estimated to represent a $12 billion market in Australia, with approximately 130,000 residents already living in these communities. There are more than 44,000 purpose-built homes currently in operation, and demand from the over-50s is expected to require an additional 200,000 homes over the next two decades. Thirty years ago, the land lease concept was closely associated with caravan parks and manufactured home estates. As these communities evolved, the developers incorporated luxurious shared amenities and landscaped environments. Currently it is not possible to purchase in a land lease community with a traditional home loan or mortgage due to not owning the land. This model of home ownership enables you

to own your home outright while leasing the land it’s built upon. This unique setup provides several compelling benefits including: • Enhanced affordability-no stamp duty payable when you purchase a home-this can free up more cash for your retirement • Possible lower overall housing costs-as you are not purchasing the land, the entry price point for homes in land lease communities is more affordable than traditional housing options • No council rates, further reducing your regular expenses • Possible eligibility for government rent assistance which is based on your weekly site fee

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

2 COLEMAN STREET, BEXHILL

that can vary between villages

• Financial flexibility as there are no exit fees

payable when you leave therefore freeing up extra funds • Lifestyle villages offer resort style amenities such as swimming pools, clubhouses, bowling greens, tennis courts, libraries and more; all within walking distance to your home-no car required • All villages have pet policies that stipulate size and number of pets permitted • Active social communities offering diverse interests that are ideal if you enjoy socialising and being part of a vibrant group • Sense of community and extra

security-many villages offer gated entry which provides peace of mind, knowing that you have friendly people nearby and an extra layer of security. If you wish to downsize and desire a low maintenance lifestyle, financial flexibility, with resort style amenities then a land lease community could be the answer. What was once considered a niche option is now attracting a wider audience of buyers who are actively planning the next chapter of their lives. Mr Property Services was established in 2008 and offers a professional and dedicated service to ‘buyers’ and ‘sellers’ if you are looking to downsize into a land lease community on the Tweed coast in northern New South Wales. Mr Property Services have a strong understanding of lifestyle villages and residential park living, regulatory and legal requirements, as well as current market trends and would love to be able to assist you on your journey to a new home. ■ For more information call Kelvin Price

0423 028 468 or Heike Wilson 0403 713 658 mrpropertyservices.com.au

No Sales Just Property Management Call our property management experts today for a free appraisal on (02) 6680 8111.

Open: Sat 12th Sept, 9:30am-10:00am

1360m² BYRONCOASTAL.COM.AU

A classic 1950s cottage surrounded by beautiful gardens

www.echo.net.au

(02) 6680 8111

BYRONBAYACCOM.NET

| 1/27 F L E TC H E R S T, BY R O N B AY September 9, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 35

36 The Byron Shire Echo September 9, 2026

www.echo.net.au

58 PACIFIC HEIGHTS DRIVE, CUMBALUM

Mediterranean Masterpiece, Grand Scale, Prestige & Panoramic Views 3

3.95AC • Landmark Mediterranean-inspired residence with breathtaking 270-degree hinterland and ocean views

Renee Schofield 0400 028 594

• Comprehensively rebuilt with grand proportions, luxury finishes, soaring tower and statement spiral staircase • Resort-style grounds with terraced gardens, 12m swimming pool, moat and irrigated vegetable gardens • Exceptional lifestyle infrastructure including twin wine cellars, 135,000L+ water storage and versatile office/ gym/workshop

Su Reynolds 02 6685 8466

PRICE | Contact Agent OPEN | By Appointment

6 MULI PLACE, SUFFOLK PARK

Versatile Living in a Peaceful Suffolk Park Setting 4

829M 2 • Craftsman-built split-level home in a quiet cul-de-sac • North-facing yard and expansive covered decks with leafy treetop outlooks • Flexible layout with two living zones plus self-contained guest/income space

Helen Huntly-Barratt 0412 332 232

• Ducted air conditioning and 24 solar panels for yearround comfort and efficiency

PRICE | Contact Agent OPEN | Sat 12th September 11 - 11:30am

13 KEATS STREET, BYRON BAY

A Bespoke Sanctuary, in the Heart of Byron Bay 3

333M 2 • Architectural timber home with soaring raked ceilings, Tasmanian Oak floors and timber detailing

Jasmin McClymont 0434 029 668

• Lush north-facing tropical gardens with covered entertaining deck, courtyard, fire pit and outdoor shower • Thoughtfully renovated throughout, including a bespoke 2025 kitchen, custom cabinetry and outdoor living • Peaceful cul-de-sac setting just 700m from Jonson Lane and an easy walk to Byron town centre and beaches

ON SITE AUCTION | Sat 10th Oct 3:30pm OPEN | Thurs 10th September 1 - 1:30pm Sat 12th September 11 - 11:30am

2/36 PATERSON STREET, BYRON BAY

Sally Green 0488 030 116

Elevated Byron Bay Living with Charm & Character 3

• Located at the beach end of a quiet no-through road, an easy walk to Clarkes Beach, the lighthouse walk and Byron Bay’s CBD

Su Reynolds 0428 888 660

• Spacious living and dining with high raked ceilings opening to two north-facing decks overlooking gardens • Updated kitchen with modern appliances and ample storage • Established gardens, leafy outlooks and plenty of space

Renee Schofield 0400 028 594

PRICE | Contact Agent OPEN | Sat 12th September 12 - 12:30pm

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

www.echo.net.au

September 9, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 37

Property

North Coast news online

Open for Inspection Mr Property Services Banksia Waters - Tweed Heads West

Call us on 0403 713 658

$630,000

Call us on 0403 713 658

Banksia Waters - Tweed Heads West

Call us on 0403 713 658

Banksia Waters - Tweed Heads West

$569,000

Banksia Waters - Tweed Heads West

$639,000

Call us on 0403 713 658

$675,000

View over 50 homes at www.mrpropertyservices.com.au Email: enquiries@mrpropertyservices.com.au Phone: 07 5523 3431 Mobile: Heike Wilson 0403 713 658 Kelvin Price 0423 028 468

First National

D J Stringer

13 Keats Street, Byron Bay. Thurs 1-1.30pm 6 / 1-5 Keats Street, Byron Bay. Thurs 1-1.30pm 39 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby. Fri 10-10.30am 17 McAuleys Lane, Myocum. Fri 11-11.30am 103 Paterson Street, Byron Bay. Fri 12-12.30pm 16C Azalea Street, Mullumbimby. Fri 12-12.30pm 10 Lorikeet Lane, Mullumbimby. Fri 1-1.30pm 134 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby. Fri 1.45-2.15pm 2/21 Beech Drive, Suffolk Park. Sat 9-9.30am 39 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 9-9.30am 3 Cudgerie Court, Mullumbimby. Sat 9-9.30am 25 / 88 Station Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 9.30-10am 124 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 9.30-10am 71 Broken Head Road, Newrybar. Sat 10-10.30am 3 / 40 Ruskin Street, Byron Bay. Sat 10-10.30am 44 / 11-19 Cooper Street, Byron Bay. Sat 10-10.30am 46 McAuleys Lane, Myocum. Sat 10-10.30am 16C Azalea Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 10-10.30am 68B Teak Circuit, Suffolk Park. Sat 10-10.30am 134 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 10.15-10.45am 17 McAuleys Lane, Myocum. Sat 10.45-11.15am 18 Heritage Court, Suffolk Park. Sat 11-11.30am 6 Muli Place, Suffolk Park. Sat 11-11.30am 53 Sunrise Boulevard, Byron Bay. Sat 11-11.30am 28/24 Scott Street, Byron Bay. Sat 11-11.30am 13 Keats Street, Byron Bay. Sat 11-11.30am 6 / 1-5 Keats Street, Byron Bay. Sat 11.30am-12pm 92 Sunrise Boulevard, Byron Bay. Sat 11.30am-12pm 17 Corella Crescent, Mullumbimby. Sat 11.30am-12pm 2 / 36 Paterson Street, Byron Bay. Sat 12-12.30pm 10 / 1-2 Cape Court, Byron Bay. Sat 12-12.30pm 10 Lorikeet Lane, Mullumbimby. Sat 12.15-12.45pm 15 Gardenia Court, Mullumbimby. Sat 12.30-1pm 1675 Dunoon Road, Dunoon. Sat 12.30-1pm 13A Byron Street, Brunswick Heads. Sat 1-1.30pm 28 Pacific Vista Drive, Byron Bay. Sat 1-1.30pm 106 Arkinstall Road, Tuntable Creek. Sat 1.30-2pm

33/5 Island Dr, Tweed Heads. Sat 9-9.30am 1035/20 Stuart St, Tweed Heads. Sat 10-10.30am 9/198 Kennedy Dr, Tweed Heads West. Sat 10-10.30am 25/22 Binya Ave, Tweed Heads. Sat 11-11.30am 10 Owenia Circuit, Bilambil Heights. Sat 11-11.30am

Raine & Horne Jet 63 Tyalgum Road, Byangum 9.30-10.00am 8 Hemlock Street, Murwillumbah 9.30-10.00am 46 Brisbane Street, Murwillumbah 10.30-11.00am 88 Rous River Way, Murwillumbah 10.30-11.00am 149 River Street, South Murwillumbah 11.30-12.00pm 16 George Street, Murwillumbah 11.30-12.00pm 34 Chevelle Place, Smiths Creek 12.30-1.00pm 1243 Kyogle Road, Uki. Sat 12.30-1pm 837 Nobbys Creek Road, Nobbys Creek. Sat 1.30-2.30pm 3 Panorama View, Kunghur. Sat 1.30-3pm 20 Panorama View, Kunghur. Sat 1.30-3pm 2981 Kyogle Road, Kunghur. Sat 1.30-3pm

Mana RE 16 Gloria Street, South Golden Beach. Sat 9-9.30am 4 Bagoo Avenue, Murwillumbah. Sat 9-9.30am 33 Robin Street, South Golden Beach. Sat 10-10.30am 2/420 Kyogle Road, Murwillumbah. Sat 10-10.30am 11 Philip Street, South Golden Beach. Sat 11-11.30am 19 Oakbank Terrace, Murwillumbah. Sat 11-11.30am 7 Bulgoon Crescent, Ocean Shores. Sat 12-12.30pm 10 Gin Gin Crescent, Ocean Shores. Sat 1-1.30pm

Real Estate of Distinction 6 Angus Kennedy Close, Lennox Head. Sat 10-10.30am 3/23 Poinciana Street, Mullumbimby. Sat 12-12.30pm 6 Angus Kennedy Close, Lennox Head. Sun 11-11.30am

Where Architecture, Soul & Landscape Meet Private 1,483m² north-facing sanctuary with sweeping Promised Land views, an easy stroll to the heart of Bellingen. 4 Bed | 3 Bath | 2 Car THE BELLINGEN HOUSE Light-filled, flexible living with loft retreat & studio Explore the Home DA-approved second dwelling + subdivision thebellingenhouse.com Established tropical gardens & productive fruit trees Flexible spaces for family, guests, work & multigenerational living

38 The Byron Shire Echo September 9, 2026

www.echo.net.au

Property Business Directory AGENTS

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

TARA TORKKOLA SALES

NP CONVEYANCING

0423 519 698 tara@byronbayfn.com

PHONE 6685 7436 FOR A QUOTE

@taratorkkolafirstnational

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

@taratorkkola_realestate www.byronbayfn.com.au

NPC

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

Call today for an obligation free chat 0418 123 393

PAUL PRIOR SALES

0418 324 297 paulprior@byronbayfn.com BYRON BAY AGENT OF THE YEAR Damien Smith Sales Director Ray White Byron Bay www.rwbyronbay.com

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

SHARON McINNES SALES

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

0408 659 649 sharon@byronbayfn.com

NSW & QLD Conveyancing, Leases, Business Sale & Purchase

JANIS PERKINS

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

P: 02 6687 0548 | hello@bangalowconveyancing.com.au

FINANCE

Your bank isn't on your side..

We are.

Scan to book a home loan consultation today

The Shire’s local finance expert Home Loans Investment Loans First Home Buyers Car Loans

Debt Consolidation SMSF Lending Commercial Loans Development Funding

LAUREN DONNELLON Russel Shaw Finance Broker

russel@acceptancefinance.com.au 0412 833 280

entourage.com.au | (02) 6678 1751 Oﬃce | 3/6 Jonson Street, Byron Bay NSW Australian Credit Licence 475676

Conveyancing & Property Law Business Transfers & Agreements Retail & Commercial Leases Estate Planning, Wills & Probate

CALL: 02 5602 5000

Acceptance Finance Australia Pty Ltd ABN 20 678 011 571 Australian Credit Licence Number 391715 Credit Representative Number 395628

View open for inspection listings online: www.echo.net.au/ofi www.echo.net.au

September 9, 2026 The Byron Shire Echo 39

Backlash It used to be you could put words like ‘fuck’ in your search terms and you wouldn’t get an AI response. Unfortunately, now you can no longer experiment with outrageous words that might offend some algorithm and if you want to avoid getting the AI slop when doing a Google search. Now you just put ‘[space]-ai’ after the search terms.

Native Plant Nursery & Gift Store Right in the heart of Mullumbimby!

Discover a beautiful range of Native Plants

Native Botanicals, Books, Candles, Bush Foods, Jewellery, Local Art, Oils, Incense, Gifts, Indoor Plants, Handmade Felt and much more

59A Burringbar St, Mullumbimby

Down the laneway next to Rock and Roll Cafe

misstree.com.au 0448974421

MINDFULNESS @ WORK Bring greater clarity, focus, and wellbeing into your organisation through the practices of mindfulness.

· Tailored group mindfulness sessions. · One-to-one coaching. · Resources to support ongoing wellbeing. · Live or online. Enquiries and bookings: 0401 926 090 YOUR FACILITATOR Paul Bibby is a qualified local mindfulness and meditation educator who has helped organisations across the country boost their performance and wellbeing through the practical tools and strategies of mindfulness.

TO YOUR DOOR

BYRON BUS Co-

Prime Minister Albanese said right-wing populist parties are peddling policies that are ‘dangerous, divisive and downright dishonest’ at a recent Qld Labor conference. He continued: ‘They’ll say anything, and do anything to win votes. Bend any facts. Peddle misinformation and disinformation...’. Senator Pauline Hanson’s measured response on Facebook was to call him a ‘clown’ and a ‘liar’, saying that ‘the answer is not giving a government like this the machinery [such as social media restrictions] to decide what is misinformation, what is dangerous and what Australians should be allowed to see, say and share’. The Echo wholeheartedly agrees – Mark Zuckerberg (FB, Insta) and Elon Musk (X/Twitter) are the only people rich enough to decide this for Australians. In an example of how this benevolent worldwide dictatorship can work in practice, in response to Canada’s Online News Act, Facebook (FB) has (quite fairly in our opinion) decided that you can’t view the FB posts of any news organisations (including The Echo) if you live in Canada. However, the degradation of Canadian

Somewhere in the Black Rock Desert in Northern Nevada. Daya McQuinn found this insightful aphorism on the interweb. Photo @CaliforniaActi2 / Twitter/X culture by misleading, extremist, racist and plain stupid Facebook posts by non-journalists can and should continue unchecked until Canadians have learned their lesson. In fact, we prefer scrolling through that sort of content to reading news stories. The fact that social media companies profit so heavily from ‘dangerous, divisive and downright dishonest’ content is proof that everyone finds it more interesting than actual news. There’s looksMaxxing, healthMaxxing, fibreMaxxing and now there is another one – PheroMaxxing – this is apparently when men stop washing and wearing deodorant in the belief that their natural scent will attract the ladies sooo much more. In a group co-counselling session in Mullumbimby dealing with the delusions that appear to be trending this season a new name was

SALES ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE – PRINT AND ONLINE Echo Publications publishes The Byron Shire Echo (a well-established and popular free weekly community newspaper), a daily news website (echo.net.au) and multiple subsidiary magazines throughout the year. The role involves selling advertising and creating multi-channel marketing campaigns for clients across the website, newspaper and individual magazines. Work in a friendly and supportive sales team of six, in our Mullumbimby office, handling advertising and publicity for our large local and small interstate client base.

Key requirements:

Book one of our buses today

40 The Byron Shire Echo September 9, 2026

‘Not all crazy ideas are great... But all great ideas are crazy.’ – Mike Posner

Are your windows and doors working?

Working Windows specialise in the repair and replacement of windows, doors, fly screens and security screens. With 10+ years experience in timber, aluminium and uPVC products, we deliver top-quality, eco-friendly results. Contact Toby or Jake today! Toby: 0405 793 994

Jake: 0435 506 465 workingwindows1@gmail.com workingwindows.com.au

IS YOUR POOL READY FOR SUMMER?

4 days per week, some flexibility and work-from-home hours available. Permanent part-time position paying a salary + super + commission.

byronbuscompany.com.au

created for the phenomenon – StenchMaxxing.

• Experience in marketing and/ or sales, including digital marketing and advertising • Computer literacy • Experience with databases and CRM systems • Friendly telephone manner

Pool chemicals. Cleaners. Equipment. Expert advice.

BOOK A SERVICE AND GET A FREE POOL HEALTH CHECK Use code: BYRONFREE Expires 30/9/26 Call us to book a service.

• People person • High level of organisation and time management • Ability to multitask • Must own a vehicle and maintain a current driver's licence.

Start date: Immediate

SWIMART BYRON BAY

Byron Industrial Estate 1/6 Centennial Cct, Byron Bay

0448 278 826

To apply for this role please email a cover letter and resume to the Sales Manager: positions@echo.net.au. For any questions call 6684 1777.