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:
Joel 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.
Lucy 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
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.
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.
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.
Lennox 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.
Ballina 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.
The 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
Thursday, 07 Nov 2024
Ballina Shire Council is giving the community some extra time to nominate in this year's Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards.
Wednesday, 06 Nov 2024
The Burns Point Ferry will be closed for annual maintenance from Monday 11 November to Sunday 24 November 2024. The ferry service will stop at 12.30am on Monday 11 November and is scheduled to recommence at 5.30am on Monday 25 November 2024.
Monday, 04 Nov 2024
Ballina Shire Council will be reconstructing a section of The Coast Road, between Pat Morton Lookout and the North Creek Road/Byron Bay Road roundabout from Tuesday 19 November 2024.
Friday, 01 Nov 2024
Ballina Shire Council is urging residents not to put hazardous materials in any kerbside bin, following a fire at the Resource Recovery Centre last weekend.
Friday, 25 Oct 2024
A new kerbside charging station has been installed in Cherry Street Ballina.
Wednesday, 23 Oct 2024
There will be a temporary road closure on Byron St, Lennox Head, between Gibbon St and Park Lane on Thursday 24 October.
Monday, 21 Oct 2024
Ballina Shire Council is excited to announce the completion of the Lennox Village Vision, a $11.5m revitalisation project that has transformed the heart of Lennox Head, while preserving its coastal village charm.
Friday, 18 Oct 2024
The Wardell Bridge underpass has been brought to life with the installation of a striking new public artwork that celebrates the unique spirit of the river town.
Tuesday, 15 Oct 2024
Ballina Shire Council is preparing a streetscape master plan for Newrybar and the community is invited to get involved!
Friday, 11 Oct 2024
NRCG presents a treasure trove of contemporary art this November, celebrating four high calibre exhibitions from three emerging artists and captivating superhero portraits from the acclaimed Sprung Dance Theatre ensemble.
Thursday, 10 Oct 2024
Ballina Shire Council advise vehicle access to Camp Drewe Road in Lennox Head will be temporarily closed for The Ox Charity Fundraiser 24 hour running event on the weekend of 12 and 13 October.
Thursday, 10 Oct 2024
On 14 and 15 October Ballina Shire Council will be spotlighting safety on bikes.
Thursday, 10 Oct 2024
Ballina Shire Council will temporarily close a section of Bridge Drive, Wardell from Monday 14 to Wednesday 16 October 2024. The road will be closed between Cedar Street and Sinclair Street from 9am to 3pm, each day.
Thursday, 03 Oct 2024
Wednesday, 02 Oct 2024
Ballina Shire Council has identified a mature Eucalyptus tree to be urgently removed from the corner of Cherry St and Bentinck Street due to storm and wind damage causing unacceptable safety risks.
Tuesday, 01 Oct 2024
Ballina Shire Council wishes to advise that Ross Lane is now open in both directions. Motorists are advised to drive slowly through the Deadmans Creek section of Ross Lane.
Monday, 30 Sep 2024
Ballina Shire Council is asking all motorists to be vigilant during the heavy rainfall. Council staff check the road network and signpost flooded roads. Not all roads can be signposted so please be aware of changing conditions in your local area.
Monday, 30 Sep 2024
Tamarind Drive will be closed between the intersection of North Creek Road and Ballina Heights Drive for one hour between 10pm and 11pm on Tuesday 1 October.
Thursday, 26 Sep 2024
Reinforcing a commitment to a vibrant event schedule in our region, Ballina Shire Council has opened the Festival and Event Sponsorship Program for the 2025/2026 financial year.
Wednesday, 25 Sep 2024
We want to celebrate the individuals and groups who make a remarkable impact on our shire. But most importantly, we want to thank them for all that they do.
Thursday, 19 Sep 2024
This Saturday 21 September, be sure to add pre-loved treasure hunting to your weekend agenda, as the North Coast community roll up their garage doors for Second Hand Saturday.
Thursday, 19 Sep 2024
Ballina residents can now receive rebates of up to 50% of the purchase price on reusable nappies, period products and continence management items as part of Council's Reusable Products Rebate.
Tuesday, 17 Sep 2024
Are you ready to let your imagination run wild? The Salvage Shed is again running their Recycled Art Competition alongside Ballina Shire Council, offering a fun way to keep 'trash' out of landfill while supporting a local not-for-profit business.
Tuesday, 10 Sep 2024
Ballina Shire Council will be running two free bike safety workshops during the school holidays on Wednesday 2 October and Wednesday 9 October 2024.
Monday, 02 Sep 2024
Ballina Shire Council is about to begin the first stage of the Wardell Village Centre Revitalisation project, focused on creating a community green space at the end of Richmond Street.
Tuesday, 27 Aug 2024
Worried about the cost of living? Join the reuse revolution on Saturday 21 September 2024 as we welcome the North Coast's largest day of garage sales - Second Hand Saturday!
Monday, 26 Aug 2024
A brand-new take on an original surf classic will hit the screens at Lennox Head Cultural Centre this Friday 30 August 2024.
Friday, 16 Aug 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.
Monday, 12 Aug 2024
Ballina Shire Council is asking all motorists to be vigilant during the heavy rainfall. Council staff check the road network and signpost flooded roads. Not all roads can be signposted so please be aware of changing conditions in your local area.
Saturday, 10 Aug 2024
Ballina Shire Council has made Alstonville's furry residents very happy this morning with the official opening of a new dog off-leash exercise area on Gap Road in Alstonville
Friday, 09 Aug 2024
Northern Rivers Community Gallery presents four exciting new exhibitions this September addressing a range of diverse themes including culture, time, memory, and our natural environments.
Tuesday, 06 Aug 2024
Ballina Byron Gateway Airport is thrilled to celebrate the 20-year anniversary of its partnership with airline partner Virgin Australia, marking a significant milestone in regional aviation history and for the Northern Rivers NSW region.
Friday, 02 Aug 2024
Ballina Shire Council is thrilled to celebrate the remarkable achievements of local tourism businesses and initiatives at the 2024 North Coast Tourism Awards.
Tuesday, 30 Jul 2024
Council is excited to announce that it has been awarded $198,376 to upgrade Ballina Library facilities.
Wednesday, 24 Jul 2024
Ballina Shire Council is inviting the community to celebrate the opening of the new dog off-leash park on Gap Road, Alstonville. Dog owners and their pooches are invited to unleash the fun and come along between 9.30am and 12.30pm on Saturday 10 August 2024 to try out the new agility park.
Friday, 19 Jul 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, 09 Jul 2024
Ballina Shire Council has once again signed up for Plastic Free July and we are encouraging our community to join us!
Wednesday, 03 Jul 2024
Changes to 4WD access at Lennox Head's Seven Mile Beach came into effect on Monday 1 July 2024. The changes promote safe beach access and seek to minimise impacts on key environmental attributes of the beach, dunes, and surrounding areas.
Tuesday, 02 Jul 2024
Ballina Shire Council will commence the next stage of the Main Street and The Avenue Intersection Upgrade in Alstonville from Monday 8 July 2024.
Tuesday, 02 Jul 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.
Thursday, 27 Jun 2024
Wonderful Wardell is a fun one day event on Sunday 30 June 2024, offering the community an opportunity to get creative, catch some tunes and share time with family and friends.
Thursday, 27 Jun 2024
Although Council elections are in September this year, its business as usual as Ballina Shire Council adopts a $78 million capital expenditure budget for 2024/2025, featuring investment for the Alstonville Cultural Centre, Fishery Creek and Canal Bridge Duplication, Sharpes Beach and Kingsford Smith Pump track.
Wednesday, 26 Jun 2024
Ballina Shire Council will close the Alstonville Aquatic Centre for the month of July for essential annual maintenance.
Wednesday, 26 Jun 2024
Ballina Shire Council wishes to inform residents and visitors that Pacific Parade in Lennox Head will be temporarily closed to motorists from Thursday 4 July to Sunday 7 July 2024, between 7am - 4.30pm daily
Friday, 21 Jun 2024
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.
Friday, 21 Jun 2024
Council is upgrading a section of footpath on Compton Drive at East Ballina commencing Monday 24 June 2024 and continuing to Friday 5 July 2024. During these works a section of Compton Drive will be reduced to one lane from 7am to 3.30pm on weekdays.
Friday, 21 Jun 2024
Water will be temporarily unavailable from 9am to 3pm Wednesday 26 June 2024 to all properties within Ballina Heights. Residents have been advised of this outage via VMS boards on entrance to Ballina Heights. During this time no water will be available via residents' internal or external water outlets.
Wednesday, 19 Jun 2024
Ballina Shire Council is upgrading two popular local dog off-leash exercise areas.
Tuesday, 18 Jun 2024
Ballina Shire Council is looking to improve diversity in the residential housing market and has commenced the design process for medium density housing options on Council-owned land on Dundee and Elsa Avenues in Wollongbar.
Friday, 14 Jun 2024
Play school live is coming to the Lennox Head Cultural Centre this August!
Friday, 14 Jun 2024
Are you a local builder, plumber, landscaper, contractor or earthmover? Ballina Shire Council is inviting the local construction industry to a FREE erosion and sediment control training workshop on Tuesday 2 July to help protect our environment and beautiful waterways.
Thursday, 13 Jun 2024
Ballina Shire Council will be carrying out essential maintenance and repairs to a section of the Coastal Recreation Path near Angels Beach commencing Monday 17 June and continuing to Wednesday 19 June 2024.
Friday, 07 Jun 2024
Ballina Shire Council is delighted to announce that several local tourism businesses and initiatives have been named finalists in the prestigious 2024 North Coast Tourism Awards.
Friday, 07 Jun 2024
Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) presents four new exhibitions this July 2024 - Celebrating community, culture, and the environment.
Monday, 03 Jun 2024
Wonderful Wardell is a fun one-day event on Sunday 30 June 2024, offering the community an opportunity to get creative, catch some tunes and share time with family and friends.
Monday, 03 Jun 2024
Ballina Shire Council is seeking feedback on the concept design for the Martin Street Boat Harbour Upgrade.
Friday, 31 May 2024
Ballina Shire Council wishes to advise that the upgrade of Tamar Street Bus Interchange in Ballina's CBD will be starting from Monday 3 June 2024.
Thursday, 30 May 2024
The Ballina Tourism Team is thrilled that Ballina has been awarded silver at the prestigious NSW Top Tourism Town Awards, hosted by Business NSW and the NSW Tourism Industry Council.
Wednesday, 22 May 2024
Drop in and chat to the fire ant eradication team to find out how you can play an active role in our fight against fire ants on Thursday 23 May and Friday 24 May 2024 at the Wardell & District War Memorial Hall
Tuesday, 21 May 2024
Monday, 20 May 2024
The Ballina War Memorial Pool will be closed for the month of June and the Alstonville Aquatic Centre for the month of July for essential annual maintenance.
Wednesday, 15 May 2024
Ballina Shire Council's Mayor Sharon Cadwallader shared her reflections on the Federal Budget 2024/25, highlighting the implications for Ballina Shire. The commitment of $27.7 billion is a significant allocation towards various projects aimed at improving the quality of life for Australians, Mayor Cadwallader acknowledges the budget's emphasis on cost-of-living relief, education, and healthcare as crucial pillars for community well-being.
Thursday, 09 May 2024
Ballina Shire Council wishes to advise that one lane of Tamarind Drive (across Canal Bridge) will be temporarily closed overnight on Friday 10 May and Saturday 11 May 2024.
Monday, 06 May 2024
Ballina Shire Council is seeking the community’s feedback on our draft plans for the years ahead. The Draft Delivery Program and Operational Plan 2024 - 2028 is now on exhibition until Wednesday 5 June 2024.
Monday, 06 May 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.
Friday, 03 May 2024
The annual Lennox Head Community Tree Planting Day is occurring again Friday 10 May 2024.
Thursday, 02 May 2024
Ballina Shire Council issues an urgent call to our community members and leaders to take a stand against domestic violence. 4pm Sunday 5 May 2024 at the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (63 Cherry Street, Ballina)
Wednesday, 01 May 2024
The Ballina Tourism team is thrilled to announce that Ballina has been selected as a finalist in the prestigious NSW Top Tourism Town Awards, which is hosted by Business NSW and the NSW Tourism Industry Council. This notable nomination places Ballina among the top nine contenders in the category for towns with a population over 5,000 residents.
Wednesday, 01 May 2024
Ballina Shire Council is preparing to construct a new permanent roundabout at the intersection of Ballina Street and Allens Parade, Lennox Head, from Monday 13 May 2024.
Wednesday, 17 Apr 2024
Ballina Shire Council has started preliminary investigation works at Fishery Creek Bridge, on River Street, and Canal Bridge, on Tamarind Drive, as part of their plan to duplicate both bridges. The project also involves raising portions of the roadway on sections of River Street and Tamarind Drive.
Friday, 12 Apr 2024
Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) presents four new exhibitions this May that showcase explorations of place and identity in a variety of forms
Friday, 12 Apr 2024
On Saturday 11 May the Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) is teaming up with artist and educator Claudie Frock and the Ballina Shire Council Community Recovery Team to deliver TOGETHER Arts and Community Wellbeing Day - a free, fun-filled arts and cultural event in the heart of Ballina
Tuesday, 09 Apr 2024
Road status information during wet weather conditions.
Monday, 08 Apr 2024
Road status information during wet weather conditions.
Sunday, 07 Apr 2024
Road status information during wet weather conditions.
Friday, 05 Apr 2024
Road status information during wet weather conditions.
Thursday, 04 Apr 2024
Ballina Byron Gateway Airport has continued its longstanding commitment to Byron Bay Bluesfest after expanding its partnership with its highly innovative VIP Lounge concept at the 2024 festival.
Wednesday, 27 Mar 2024
The Lennox Park upgrade is now complete, and the park fully reopened following a major overhaul.
Tuesday, 26 Mar 2024
Ballina Shire Council and Lismore City Council have officially opened the new Pearces Creek Bridge. The aging wooden bridge has been replaced with a two-lane, concrete structure that meets the needs of today's road users.
Thursday, 21 Mar 2024
Ballina Shire Council has rolled out a new Beach Safety Program to improve the safety and first aid infrastructure available along the shire's beaches
Monday, 18 Mar 2024
Ballina Shire Council wishes to advise that essential water main works will be carried out in a section of Alstonville overnight on Thursday 21 March 2024.
Friday, 15 Mar 2024
The Northern Rivers community will have an opportunity to learn from leading burnout experts across March and April in a series of free workshops presented by Ballina Shire Council
Thursday, 07 Mar 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.
Thursday, 07 Mar 2024
Ballina Byron Gateway Airport's runway has been upgraded to meet future aviation demands
Friday, 01 Mar 2024
Ballina Shire Council wishes to advise that the next stage of safety upgrades to Ross Lane will commence from Monday 11 March 2024 and continue until the end of June 2024, weather and site conditions permitting.
Friday, 01 Mar 2024
Ballina Shire Council will be upgrading the Tamar Street Bus Interchange in Ballina's CBD from Monday 11 March 2024.
Tuesday, 27 Feb 2024
The Yabby Trap Roundup is collecting all old, illegal and unwanted Opera House style yabby traps to protect the future of fishing and the health of our waterways.
Tuesday, 27 Feb 2024
Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) presents four new exhibitions this March that showcase explorations of place and identity in a variety of forms
Monday, 26 Feb 2024
New green bin rules mean it's easier than ever for Northern Rivers residents to sort out their waste.
Wednesday, 07 Feb 2024
Repairs to the flood-damaged Wardell Wharf will commence Thursday 15 February 2024. Council has engaged contractor, Hunter Wharf and Barge, to carry out the remediation works, which will include: Repairs to the damaged wharf and boardwalk piles and Installation of armouring along the riverbank near Wardell Wharf.
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.
Monday, 18 Sep 2023
Ballina Shire Council is pleased to announce the Festival and Event Sponsorship Program is now open.
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.
Wednesday, 01 Feb 2023
The General Manager
Ballina Shire Council
PO Box 450
Ballina NSW 2478
40 Cherry Street
Ballina NSW 2478
Opening Hours
8:15am - 4:30pm
Monday to Friday
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