Friday, 26 Jan 2024
Today our community came together to honour our local heroes, welcome new Aussie citizens, and recognise all that is good about living in our beautiful Ballina Shire.
Ballina Shire Council hosted the official Australia Day ceremony at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre. The event featured a Welcome to Country from Aunty Julia Paden, captivating performances from the Ballina Players and the Lennox Beach Line Dancers, a heart-warming citizenship ceremony, and the announcement of the highly anticipated Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards.
Forty nominations were recognised across the award categories of Senior Citizen, Young Citizen, Volunteer of the Year, Community Event, Sports, Arts/Cultural and Environmental. Rex and Di Farrell, 2023 Citizens of the Year, passed the baton and announced the 2024 Citizen of the Year.
Mayor Sharon Cadwallader with Master of Ceremonies Sandra Jackson, a well-known and popular announcer on 101.9 Paradise FM, presented the awards.
Congratulations to the following award winners and nominees:
CITIZEN OF THE YEARJoel Taylor
Joel Taylor, a Lennox local since birth, has made a profound impact in the world of surfing and beyond. Originally a professional bodyboarder in his teens and twenties, Joel's career took an unexpected turn due to a spinal cord injury at the age of 21. However, his passion for the ocean never waned, leading him to embrace parasurfing after two decades.
Within just 12 months of his return to the water, Joel achieved remarkable success. He secured the Australian Para Surfing Title, earning him a spot in the ISA World Para Surfing Championships. His resilience and determination culminated in him being crowned the 2023 ISA World Para Surfing Champion in the Men’s Prone 1 Division. This achievement is not just a personal victory but an inspiration to many.
Joel's contributions extend beyond his personal achievements. As the founder of Unite Clothing in 2004, he has been actively supporting bodyboarding worldwide. His entrepreneurial spirit shines through this brand, which has thrived for nearly two decades. Joel's commitment to promoting bodyboarding associations fosters a deep love for the ocean within the community.
YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEARLucy Trease
As Alstonville High’s 2023 School Captain, Lucy Trease embodies leadership and dedication.
Alongside her studies, Lucy co-runs a sourdough bakery with her brothers, providing bread to evacuation centres during the 2022 floods.
An active volunteer, Lucy readily volunteers her time to support younger students in debating teams and the Model United Nations Assembly. She has also coached her brother’s soccer team for seven-years and was actively engaged in school sports, particularly swimming.
Recognised as an NSW Woman of the Year Candidate in 2023, her contributions as a coach, mentor, and leader highlight her remarkable impact on her peers and local community.
The other nominees for the Young Citizen of the Year Award were: Imani Hannaford, Tayla Kennedy
SENIOR CITIZEN OF THE YEAR (JOINT WINNERS)Dr. Colin MacDonald
Dr MacDonald’s distinguished medical career, spanning the Royal Australian Navy (1979-1986), general practice in Ballina (2016-2020), and a significant tenure as Visiting Medical Officer at Ballina District Hospital (1986-2016), showcases his steadfast commitment to healthcare.
As Medical Staff Council Chairman, he championed staff increases and equipment upgrades, enhancing patient care. His work with the Department of Veterans Affairs, providing unwavering support for veterans' welfare.
Beyond healthcare, Dr. MacDonald's extensive community involvement includes Southern Cross School, Ballina RSL Sub-Branch and the Ballina Naval Museum.
Recognised as a Life Member of the Ballina Seagulls Football Club for his dedicated care to players, his diverse contributions illustrate a deep community spirit. A true advocate for healthcare and community, continuously supporting individuals in adversity.
Yvonne Scarrabellotti
For over three decades, Yvonne Scarrabellotti has been a driving force in the Northern Rivers community, particularly through her significant involvement in the Ballina and Kyogle Country Women's Association (CWA).
Her leadership roles, including President and Vice-President, have been instrumental in shaping the CWA's impact in the Northern Rivers and across NSW. In 2023, Yvonne was recognised for her unwavering dedication with a State Vice Presidency and a prestigious Life Membership of CWA.
Yvonne's contributions extend to helping during natural disasters, particularly the 2022 floods. She has been pivotal in directing CWA's efforts to greatly benefit the community, contributing to Ballina SES, Marine Rescue, Mary’s Place, Hot Meal Centre, and initiatives like Education Grants, Riding for the Disabled, Biala, and Human Nature young mental health support.
Yvonne's community involvement is far-reaching and long-term, including work with Ballina Probus, Ballina Innerwheel, Ballina View Club, and St Vincent De Paul in Kyogle.
Yvonne’s legacy in the Northern Rivers is marked by extensive and long-standing community involvement, making her a symbol of dedicated leadership and service.
The other nominees for the Senior Citizen of the Year Award were: Brenda Zakaras, Colin Lee, Dianne Thompson, Dr Meng Yew Yeo, Jeffrey Gibbs, John Gordon, Veda Dorrough, Warwick Manning.
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD (JOINT WINNERS)Ivan Leahy
Ivan Leahy, a resident of Ballina Shire since 2000, has been a beacon of humanitarian service and community welfare. His commitment to helping those in need extends across local and international borders, showcasing his global perspective on aid and empathy. In the local community, Ivan has served as the chair of the Ballina Hope Haven Women’s Refuge, where he provided invaluable support to residents escaping domestic violence. His leadership and guidance over six years as chairperson and ongoing contributions as a committee member have been pivotal in the functioning and success of the refuge.
Ivan's role in community service doesn’t stop there. He has been a dedicated volunteer at the Five Loaves Mobile Soup Kitchen and the Ballina ADRA Op Shop. At these establishments, he demonstrates his commitment to providing for those less fortunate, whether it be through serving meals, coordinating volunteers, or ensuring efficient operations.
On an international scale, Ivan is the volunteer operations manager of Kenya Health, a charity that has been providing healthcare in Kenya since 2013. His work in managing the charity, overseeing operations, fundraising, and leading volunteer teams is a testament to his passion for global health and welfare.
Ivan's empathy and dedication are apparent in his response to local victims of flooding and refugees, where he has extended his support and services. His ability to empathise and act in times of need is a true reflection of his character and commitment to humanitarian causes.
Ken Delany
Ken Delany, a dedicated volunteer with Ballina Marine Rescue for over 15 years, has been a pillar of strength and reliability in the Ballina community. His journey in Marine Rescue started as a commitment to serve and protect, and over the years, he has risen through the ranks to hold various critical positions including Assistant Training Officer, Treasurer, Deputy Commander, Acting Commander, and ultimately, Commander.
Ken's expertise is not limited to his leadership roles. He is revered as one of the unit's best trainers, passing on his vast knowledge and experience to new volunteers. His ability to mentor and guide has been instrumental in maintaining high standards of operation and safety within the unit.
Ken has been a crucial liaison for the unit, maintaining robust connections with the Ballina Shire Council and all emergency services within the Ballina LGA. His communication skills and community relations have been key in fostering cooperation and coordination, especially during emergencies.
A familiar voice on Paradise FM, Ken keeps the community informed every Sunday morning with updates on bar and safety advice, weather reports, and sea condition updates. This service is invaluable to the community, especially to those who navigate the waters.
Ken’s commitment to fundraising and securing grants has been vital in keeping the unit operational. His efforts in organising events like the Ballina Boat Show have been significant in raising funds necessary for the unit's sustenance.
His dedication extends beyond his official roles. Ken is always available and on call, a testament to his devotion to the safety and well-being of the boating community. His enthusiasm and motivated leadership have earned him respect and admiration from his peers, volunteers, and the wider community. The other nominees for the Volunteer of the Year: Daryl Holmes, David and Robii Harmon, Mark Ross, Nikki Powell, Robyne McGlashan, and Wardell Core.
COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR AWARD (JOINT WINNERS)Purple Friday (Rotary Club of Ballina on Richmond and Cherry Street Sports)
'Purple Friday,' a collaborative initiative by Cherry St Sports Club and the Rotary Club of Ballina-on-Richmond, focuses on raising awareness about Domestic & Family Violence.
Participants, including over 85 businesses and organisations, wear purple shirts every Friday, symbolising their stand against Domestic & Family Violence and promoting Respectful Relationships.
This community-wide initiative has quickly gained traction in Ballina Shire and expanded to other regions, effectively conveying a strong message of collaboration against a significant social issue. Originating from the Rotary Club's existing DV campaign, 'Purple Friday' showcases innovation and the power of wearable advocacy.
The campaign's effectiveness is bolstered by the organisational excellence of both Cherry Street Sports Club and the Rotary Club. Their efforts highlight a deep commitment to enhancing community well-being and safety.
DV Walk (Rotary Club of Ballina on Richmond)
The Domestic Violence Walk, spearheaded by the Rotary Club of Ballina-on-Richmond, unites community members from all walks of life in a stand against Domestic and Family Violence.
The walk, stretching from the Visitor Information Centre to the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre, culminated with addresses from notable figures and entertainment by Ballina Coast High School students.
This event engages diverse community groups, raising awareness, challenging stereotypes, and empowering DV survivors. Participants come together as comrades with a common goal to combat DV.
This collaborative effort extends to educational programs in schools, focusing on long-term behavioral change. The event's influence has grown significantly, evolving into a Rotary-led campaign in 16 countries.
This expansion showcases innovative approaches to addressing this critical social issue; reinforcing the event's importance in fostering community unity and action against Domestic and Family Violence.
The other nominees for Community Event of the Year: A Night of Elegance James Bond - Tracey Everingham Armstrong, Flood Recovery Temporary Housing - Rotary Club of Ballina-on-Richmond, Future Fit our Dementia Community - Dementia Inclusive Ballina Alliance Inc, One Year On - Wardell Core.
SPORTING ACHIEVEMENT AWARDLennox Beach Line Dancing
Lennox Beach Line Dancing, which began in 2001 at Lennox Head Public School, has grown to become one of Australia's premier line dance clubs. This dynamic group achieved international recognition by winning several World Titles at the World Dance Masters Championship in 2023.
Their team, comprising 16 dancers aged 8 to 31, has shown remarkable talent and dedication, challenging traditional perceptions of line dancing. In May 2022, they were honoured as “Club of the Year” at the prestigious Australian Line Dance Championships. This success led to their representation of Team Australia at the World Dance Masters in Blackpool, England.
Nominated for this category last year as well, Lennox Beach Line Dancers' rise from a small school club to international acclaim showcases their journey of growth, passion, and community connection.
The other nominees for the Sporting Achievement Award were: John Hair, Ray Chapman, Rondah Stevenson, Scott Jenkins, Bailey Wilson, David Scott, Joel Taylor, and Naomi Doncaster.
ARTS/CULTURAL AWARDBallina Players
For nearly seven decades, Ballina Players has been a vital part of Ballina shire's arts and culture scene. As a community-owned theatre, it thrives on the passion and dedication of its volunteers, many of whom have gone on to achieve greater accomplishments in the arts.
Each year, Ballina Players attracts around 6,000 attendees, involving 150 cast members and 140 crew members. Ballina Players donates four performances from each production to local community groups for fundraising, showcasing their commitment to the community.
Their extensive training covers acting, singing, costume design, stage management, audio, lighting, and set construction. Notably, their 2023 productions, including Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Mamma Mia, Avenue Q," and Beautiful, quickly sold out, earning widespread acclaim as regional theatre at its best.
Ballina Players not only nurtures artistic talent but also significantly contributes to the cultural richness of the Ballina Shire.
The other nominees for the Arts/Cultural Award were: Ballina Contemporary Art Market and Ballina Shire Concert Band.
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARDThe Wildlife Twins – Bridget and Sophie Thompson
Bridget and Sophie Thompson, affectionately known as The Wildlife Twins, are fervently committed to wildlife conservation in the Northern Rivers region.
Renowned for their wit and engaging presence, Bridget and Sophie Thompson captivate audiences at the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, community events, and schools. They skillfully emphasize the importance of native fauna and boost wildlife awareness.
With Bridget's expertise in snake-catching and Sophie's proficiency in dog training, they offer a comprehensive approach to animal education. The Twins also work to dispel myths and fears about reptiles and snakes, educating the community about the value of all creatures, whether great, small, or slithery.
Their efforts underscore the message that every species is worth protecting.
The other nominees for the Environmental Award were: Wardell Core and Annual Lennox Community Tree Planting Day.
As part of the ceremony we welcomed 17 new Australian Citizens from USA, Bolivia, UK, Italy, Thailand, Denmark, Brazil, Philippines, and Vietnam.
Award winner bios and photos from the event can be viewed on Ballina Shire Council’s website ballina.nsw.gov.au/AustraliaDay
Tuesday, 06 Feb 2024
Ballina Shire Council has prepared a Draft Housing Strategy to help meet housing demand over the next 20 years in Ballina Shire.
Thursday, 01 Feb 2024
Council will be carrying out essential maintenance and repairs to sections of the Coastal Shared Path and Coastal Recreational Walk from Monday 5 February.
Friday, 26 Jan 2024
Ballina Shire Council hosted the official ceremony at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre, which featured a Welcome to Country, citizenship ceremony and the announcement of the highly anticipated Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards.
Wednesday, 24 Jan 2024
Ballina Shire Council is preparing a Draft Master Plan for part of Hampton Park Reserve and is seeking the community's insights.
Thursday, 18 Jan 2024
The Ballina Tourism Team is thrilled to unveil the new Ballina Coast and Hinterland Visitor Guide, a comprehensive A4 publication showcasing the region's unmissable experiences through captivating imagery, insightful editorials, and essential visitor information.
Tuesday, 09 Jan 2024
Whether you're a long-time local, new to the shire, or visiting our patch of paradise, everyone is welcome to join us for this year's Ballina Shire Australia Day Ceremony at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre on Friday 26 January 2024, from 9am.
Tuesday, 09 Jan 2024
Ballina Shire Council is encouraging motorists to drive safely over the coming days with king tides leading to minor flooding of some local roads.
Tuesday, 02 Jan 2024
Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) launches its 2024 annual exhibition program, presenting four exhibitions this January.
Tuesday, 19 Dec 2023
There are no changes to bin collection days over the Christmas period, even if bin collection falls on a public holiday.
Wednesday, 13 Dec 2023
This year, Ballina Shire Council supported participating schools to wage their own 'war on waste' through the Let's Get It Sorted School Challenge.
Monday, 11 Dec 2023
Ballina Shire Council is asking the community to provide feedback on plans to upgrade Sharpes Beach Carpark.
Tuesday, 05 Dec 2023
Ballina Shire Council will temporarily close sections of Fawcett Street and Fawcett Park on Thursday 7 December 2023, to reinstall steel sculptures within the park.
Tuesday, 05 Dec 2023
Stage two of the Pop Denison Park playground is now complete, and the playground is open just in time for Christmas!
Thursday, 30 Nov 2023
Ballina Shire Council wishes to advise that a section of Airport Boulevard will be temporarily closed on Monday 4 December and Tuesday 5 December 2023.
Wednesday, 29 Nov 2023
A number of Council facilities and services will change over the Christmas period.
Wednesday, 29 Nov 2023
A flood-damaged pontoon at Lance Ferris Wharf in Fawcett Park, Ballina is being replaced.
Monday, 27 Nov 2023
Ballina Shire Council advises the Rotary Club of Ballina on Richmond is holding a community awareness walk against Domestic and Family Violence on Friday 1 December 2023.
Friday, 24 Nov 2023
Ballina Shire Council wishes to advise that Ross Lane in Lennox Head will be reduced to one lane from Monday 27 November for approximately two weeks.
Thursday, 23 Nov 2023
Eltham Road has reopened to traffic following a month-long closure for the Pearces Creek Bridge replacement project.
Wednesday, 22 Nov 2023
Don't miss the opportunity to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes in our community. Nominations for the 2024 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards will close Monday 27 November 2023.
Friday, 17 Nov 2023
The recent release of the federal government's infrastructure spending review brings with it a disheartening revelation for the Ballina Shire and the Northern Rivers region. In particular, the significant funding loss for the crucial Bruxner Highway - Wollongbar to Goonellabah project, which initially held a federal commitment of $6.8 million.
Thursday, 16 Nov 2023
Water supply is temporarily unavailable to some properties in Lennox Head village due to a water main break that occurred this afternoon.
Tuesday, 24 Oct 2023
Sprung Integrated Dance Theatre's new annual disability community ball, Dis-Co Ball, will light up the Lennox Head Cultural Centre on Sunday 12 November 2023.
Wednesday, 18 Oct 2023
Mark Friday 10 November 2023 in your diary as that's when Steve Banks and The Sidemen are coming together for one night only at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre.
Wednesday, 11 Oct 2023
Flood-damaged pontoons at Lance Ferris Wharf in Fawcett Park, Ballina and at Keith Hall are being replaced.
Tuesday, 10 Oct 2023
Ballina Shire Council wishes to advise that vehicle access to Camp Drewe Road in Lennox Head will be temporarily closed for The Ox Charity Fundraiser 24 hour running event.
Monday, 09 Oct 2023
Following extensive community consultation, Ballina Shire Council has developed a Draft Master Plan to help revitalise Wardell village centre.
Friday, 06 Oct 2023
The inaugural Ballina Contemporary Art Market (BCAM) is a free, one-day, fun-filled arts and cultural event taking place on Saturday 14 October from 10am-7pm at the Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) & Ignite Studios creative precinct in Ballina, showcasing the creative talent of the region.
Thursday, 05 Oct 2023
Ballina Shire Council wishes to advise the community of two temporary closures of the North Wall shared path in East Ballina.
Wednesday, 27 Sep 2023
Ballina Shire Council wishes to advise that Stage 7 of the Lennox Village Vision project, the Lennox Park Upgrade, will commence on Monday 9 October 2023.
Wednesday, 27 Sep 2023
Ballina Shire Council wishes to advise residents and motorists that Eltham Road, at Pearces Creek Bridge, will be temporarily closed for one month from Monday 23 October 2023.
Wednesday, 27 Sep 2023
Friday, 22 Sep 2023
The NSW Budget 2023-24, released on Tuesday 19 September, has outlined several key projects and funding for Ballina Shire and the Northern Rivers region.
Friday, 22 Sep 2023
Ballina Shire Council's water team will be carrying out repairs to a water main in Skennars Head on Friday 22 September 2023, from 9.30am to 3pm.
Wednesday, 20 Sep 2023
Prepare to embark on a shopping adventure with the much-anticipated 'Lennox Head Golden Ticket: Shop to Win Campaign!'
Wednesday, 20 Sep 2023
Monday, 18 Sep 2023
Ballina Shire Council is pleased to announce the Festival and Event Sponsorship Program is now open.
Wednesday, 13 Sep 2023
Arts, crafts, creatures and a laneway party!
Monday, 11 Sep 2023
An emergency exercise will be held at Ballina Byron Gateway Airport on Wednesday 13 September 2023 from 8.30am to 12noon.
Monday, 11 Sep 2023
Two new sets of traffic lights have been switched on, marking the completion of two major intersection upgrades.
Thursday, 07 Sep 2023
Burns Point Ferry will recommence services from 5.30am Saturday 9 September 2023. The ferry has been in a dry dock slipyard for its annual major maintenance works program.
Thursday, 07 Sep 2023
Get ready for an extraordinary shopping experience as Lennox Head village prepares to launch the much-awaited 'Lennox Head Golden Ticket: Shop to Win Campaign.'
Tuesday, 05 Sep 2023
Ballina Shire Council will be hosting two free safety workshops on Saturday 7 October 2023 for motorcycle riders.
Tuesday, 05 Sep 2023
Ballina Shire Council's crews will be upgrading a section of footpath along Pearces Creek Road, Alstonville, with work expected to commence from Monday 11 September 2023.
Tuesday, 05 Sep 2023
The Salvage Shed is hosting a Recycled Art Competition, offering a fun and inclusive way for community members to redesign and repurpose materials that may otherwise be sent to landfill or left hidden in a shed.
Thursday, 31 Aug 2023
Flood-damaged pontoons at Fishery Creek, West Ballina and in Wardell will be replaced next week.
Thursday, 31 Aug 2023
The Ballina Street and Park Lane intersection upgrade in Lennox Head is nearing completion and Ballina Street has reopened to traffic in both directions.
Tuesday, 29 Aug 2023
Ballina Shire Council's crews will be conducting tree replacement planting on Main Street, Alstonville from 7am -10am on Thursday 31 August 2023.
Friday, 25 Aug 2023
From Monday 28 August 2023, Ballina Shire Council and Lismore City Council will introduce a reduced load limit for Pearces Creek Bridge on Eltham Road, Pearces Creek. The new load limit will be 4.5 tonnes
Thursday, 17 Aug 2023
From 21 to 23 August 2023 Ballina Shire Council will be spotlighting safety on bikes.
Wednesday, 16 Aug 2023
Ballina Shire Council is on a mission to dive deep into our community and celebrate both individuals and groups who quietly make an extraordinary impact on our shire. Nominations are invited for those outstanding community members who may otherwise go unnoticed, individuals and groups who dedicate themselves to community-based activities, sports, the environment, or the arts.
Wednesday, 16 Aug 2023
Learn professional secrets of watercolour painting in a one-day immersive workshop with local artist Karena Wynn-Moylan on Saturday 26 August from 10am-4pm.
Tuesday, 15 Aug 2023
The Burns Point Ferry will be taken to a dry dock slip yard for maintenance works from Friday 18 August to Saturday 9 September 2023.
Monday, 14 Aug 2023
Following extensive community consultation, Ballina Shire Council has developed the Draft Lennox Head Strategic Plan 2023-2043.
Friday, 11 Aug 2023
Ballina Shire Council's crews are attending to a water main break that has occurred at Fig Tree Hill Drive in Lennox Head this morning.
Thursday, 10 Aug 2023
On Thursday 17 August from 5-7pm at the Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) in Ballina, acclaimed author, journalist, and photographer Mark Isaacs will join award-winning writer, director, and paramedic Benjamin Gilmour in conversation.
Tuesday, 08 Aug 2023
Ballina Shire Council is inviting residents to have their say on the preferred route for a new Shared Path between Park Lane and Cooper Close, Lennox Head.
Tuesday, 08 Aug 2023
Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) presents four exhibitions this August drawing on themes of beauty and resilience found in our environment and communities as well as our personal relationships with our place in the world.
Monday, 07 Aug 2023
Individuals, community groups and organisations are invited to apply for a new community grant that will support resource recovery initiatives within Ballina Shire.
Thursday, 03 Aug 2023
Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) & Ignite Studios is delivering a one-day contemporary art market in the heart of Ballina on Saturday 14 October 2023.
Tuesday, 01 Aug 2023
Ballina Shire Council and the Northern Rivers Community Gallery want to hear from artists who would like to participate in a public street art project.
Friday, 28 Jul 2023
Ballina Shire Council is encouraging motorists to drive safely over the coming days with king tides leading to minor flooding of some local roads.
Thursday, 13 Jul 2023
With the Byron Street/Ballina Street intersection now complete and fully reopened, Ballina Shire Council's crews will focus on Stage 5 of the Lennox Village Vision project at the Ballina Street and Park Lane intersection from Monday 17 July 2023.
Friday, 07 Jul 2023
Ballina Shire Council wishes to advise that our Water team will be renewing the recycled water main along Angels Beach Drive, Ballina from Tuesday 11 July 2023.
Wednesday, 05 Jul 2023
Lismore-based printmaker, artist, and educator Christine Porter will run a two-day immersive drypoint etching workshop at Ignite Studios in Ballina.
Monday, 03 Jul 2023
Ballina Shire Council wishes to advise that vehicle access to part of Pacific Parade in Lennox Head will be closed for the annual Skullcandy Oz Grom Open surfing competition.
Friday, 30 Jun 2023
Ballina Shire Council is encouraging motorists to drive safely over the coming days with king tides leading to minor flooding of some local roads.
Friday, 30 Jun 2023
NAIDOC Week is a special time to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and achievements and is an opportunity to recognise the contributions Indigenous Australians make to our country and society.
Tuesday, 27 Jun 2023
As part of the Lennox Village Vision project, Ballina Shire Council is continuing rejuvenation works in surrounding areas of the Lennox Head town centre.
Tuesday, 27 Jun 2023
Monday, 26 Jun 2023
Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) presents four diverse exhibitions this July from local and interstate artists. The exhibitions include a photographic journey through Afghanistan, explorations upon the essence of landscape, traditional textile art and cultural practices of Iran and a collection of artworks celebrating the 12th Annual Grace Cruice Memorial Exhibition.
Friday, 23 Jun 2023
Ballina Shire Council's crews will be reconstructing a section of Moon Street in Ballina, between Bangalow Road and Fox Street, from Monday 26 June 2023.
Wednesday, 21 Jun 2023
The member councils of the Richmond Tweed Regional Library service have recently established a new Deed of Agreement to uphold the provision of public library services throughout the Lismore, Tweed, Ballina, and Byron local government areas by leveraging a regional library model.
Tuesday, 20 Jun 2023
The Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) & Ignite Studios invites the community to celebrate the opening of the Commemorative Flood Recovery Community Art Exhibition
Friday, 16 Jun 2023
Are you a parent, carer, teacher, or youth worker? Or maybe you have another support role in a young person's life? Come along to the E-Safety and Young People Community Forum at Lennox Head Cultural Centre next Thursday 22 June 2023 from 6pm.
Friday, 09 Jun 2023
The Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) & Ignite Studios is pleased to announce a special artist talk with local exhibiting artists Michelle Walker and Jude White, in conversation with visual artist and educator Virginia Reid, as part of their exhibition Ash, Mud & Tears, currently on show at NRCG until 25 June 2023.
Friday, 09 Jun 2023
Local artist and filmmaker Angus McDonald is bringing his first feature film, Freedom is Beautiful, to Lennox Head Cultural Centre, fresh from its Sydney Film Festival premiere.
Friday, 09 Jun 2023
Ballina Shire Council wishes to advise that roadworks will commence at the intersection of Rous Road and Wardell Road, Lynwood, from Tuesday 13 June 2023 and continue for approximately two weeks (weather permitting).
Friday, 02 Jun 2023
Ballina Shire Council is encouraging motorists to drive safely over the coming days with king tides leading to minor flooding of some local roads.
Tuesday, 30 May 2023
Friday, 26 May 2023
Ballina Shire Council will close the Ballina War Memorial Pool for the month of June and the Alstonville Aquatic Centre for the month of July for essential annual maintenance.
Friday, 26 May 2023
Ballina Byron Gateway Airport's runway will soon be overlayed as part of an essential maintenance program.
Wednesday, 24 May 2023
Ballina Shire Council is inviting the community to provide feedback on the future management of Shaws Bay in East Ballina.
Tuesday, 23 May 2023
As part of the ongoing flood recovery efforts across our region, the NSW Government has provided funding to Ballina Shire Council to support Commemorative Flood Recovery projects until June 2023.
Tuesday, 16 May 2023
Several roads across the shire are closed due to flooding, with cautions in place for others.
Monday, 15 May 2023
After a four-year hiatus, the annual Lennox Head Community Tree Planting Day will return Friday 9 June 2023.
Thursday, 11 May 2023
Ballina Shire Council wishes to advise that essential water main renewal works will be carried out in West Ballina on Tuesday 16 May 2023.
Tuesday, 09 May 2023
Essential recycled water main repairs will be carried out in the Aureus Estate, Skennars Head on Wednesday 10 May 2023.
Friday, 05 May 2023
Thursday, 04 May 2023
The Ballina Tourism Team is excited to announce the arrival of its newest merchandise line - Ballina Fishing Shirts!
Tuesday, 02 May 2023
Ballina Shire Council is partnering with various agencies and community groups to provide mobile flood recovery services in Wardell and West Ballina in May.
Friday, 28 Apr 2023
Ballina Shire Council's crews are attending to a water main break that has occurred on Richmond Avenue, Ballina this morning.
Friday, 21 Apr 2023
As part of the Lennox Village Vision project, Stage 6 works at the Byron and Ballina Street intersection will commence on Wednesday 26 April 2023.
Thursday, 20 Apr 2023
ANZAC Day services will be held in Ballina and Alstonville on Tuesday 25 April 2023.
Friday, 14 Apr 2023
Council's crews are attending to a water main break that has occurred on Main Street, Alstonville this afternoon.
Friday, 14 Apr 2023
Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) presents four new exhibitions from local artists this May.
Friday, 14 Apr 2023
The world-famous Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour returns to Australia throughout May and June 2023, with a screening at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre on Friday 12 May, 7pm to 10pm.
Thursday, 06 Apr 2023
On Monday 17 April 2023 Ballina Shire Council will commence works to install a signalised pedestrian crossing near the Westower Tavern between Riverview Avenue and Quays Drive, West Ballina, to provide a safer crossing for cyclists and pedestrians.
Thursday, 06 Apr 2023
The Ballina Tourism Team is excited to announce the arrival of the new Ballina Coast and Hinterland Map. The map includes detailed town maps for Ballina, Lennox, Alstonville/Wollongbar and Wardell and a regional map overview.
Thursday, 06 Apr 2023
Ballina Shire Concert Band is turning 140 years old! To celebrate this impressive milestone, they are hosting a special anniversary concert for the community at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre on Saturday 6 May 2023.
Wednesday, 05 Apr 2023
The Ballina Visitor Information Centre is seeking enthusiastic and customer service focused people to join the friendly team of volunteers working at the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport and the Ballina Visitor Information Centre.
Tuesday, 04 Apr 2023
Ballina Shire Council will commence road reconstruction works at the intersection of Crane and Martin Streets, Ballina from Wednesday 12 April 2023.
Thursday, 23 Mar 2023
On Monday 27 March Ballina Shire Council will begin upgrading Kerr Street, between Swift and Russell Streets, Ballina.
Thursday, 23 Mar 2023
Various sections of footpath along River Street, Moon Street, Cherry Street, and Winton Lane in Ballina will be pressure washed over the coming week.
Wednesday, 15 Mar 2023
Council�s crews are attending to a water main break that has occurred overnight in the Allawah Bushland Reserve, East Ballina.
Friday, 03 Mar 2023
Ballina Shire Council wishes to advise that the next planned shutdown for maintenance on the Burns Point Ferry will be for an extended period, from 5.30am to 7pm on Tuesday 14 March 2023.