Bottle shop backlash: Alstonville stops Liquorland
A proposed Liquorland at Alstonville Plaza has been rejected after overwhelming community opposition, with locals rallying behind existing small businesses.
Swimmer dies after being pulled from surf at Lighthouse Beach
Police say A 76-year-old man pulled unconscious from the surf at Lighthouse Beach passed away last night in Lismore Base Hospital.
From rubbish pile to gallery wall: Ballina artist’s bold transformation
Old puzzles, cigar boxes and even a broken rocking horse have been transformed into art by Ballina artist Dean Stewart
PANIC STATIONS: Servo staff cop abuse as drivers rush to fill up
Drivers are hunting for the cheapest fuel as prices surge — and our check shows it pays to shop around.
The hidden strength many women are told to suppress
Care and empathy are often seen as emotional traits, but learning to use them strategically can become a powerful advantage in leadership and business.
Ballina man charged after alleged assault of boy on canal walking path
Police allege a 12-year-old boy was approached and indecently touched along the Ferngrove Public Reserve path near the North Creek canal.
Ballina News Classics
Spoonbill Reserve housing push defeated as council backs recreation future
Council votes to retain green space at Skennars Head park despite promise of potential $20m housing windfall
Family behind Pat Morton lookout says no to name change
Ballina Shire's most iconic tourist stop is set to get a $1 million makeover, but is a new indigenous name is a step too far?
Richmond river rescue plan set to become state election issue
Ballina landholders could help end devastating Richmond River fish kills under a $70m restoration plan to be pushed ahead of the state election.
Vehicle recovered from Richmond River linked to missing woman
A vehicle has been recovered from the Richmond River in Ballina as police continue forensic examinations on remains found nearby
Council axes Wollongbar housing project in high-stakes property showdown
Ballina Shire Council has dumped its Wollongbar Medium Density Housing Project in a decision exposing deep divisions over debt, housing and the future of council-owned land.
Court clears GemLife development, rejects flood concerns
The Land and Environment Court has cleared the revised GemLife development in West Ballina, dismissing flood concerns and paving the way for more than 100 homes.
Treasure hunting pauses as Ballina’s Salvage Shed shuts its doors
Ballina’s tip shop prepares to close as operator enters administration, but council explores reopening under new management
Last loaves as Alstonville’s sourdough siblings begin their next chapter
After six years of baking from Alstonville, young entrepreneurs Lucy, Lachlan and Noah Trease prepare to take their next big step.
Intense fire destroys two businesses at Alstonville industrial estate
Workers arriving for duty this morning were shocked to find their Alstonville workplace destroyed after an intense overnight fire marked by extreme heat and small explosions.
Developer commits to Cumbalum shops as Council backs push for timeline
The Catholic Church confirms it will proceed with a supermarket and 11 shops at Cumbalum, while councillors – backed by all but one – seek firm construction dates after years of delays.
Remembrance
Honouring the lives and legacies of loved ones from Ballina and the Northern Rivers.
Glitter dims at Mardi Gras following loss of Ballina-born diva
Tributes are flowing after the death of Ballina-born drag performer Maxi Shield, a star remembered for her warmth and community advocacy.
Vale Mary Davis: Rainbow paddlers honour a life of generosity and grit
Rainbow dragon boaters gathered on the water to farewell Mary Davis, honouring a much-loved coach whose legacy of inclusion and excellence lives on.
Community recognises former Deputy Mayor Eoin Johnston
Ballina Shire and NSW Parliament have honoured former Deputy Mayor Eoin Johnston, remembering his remarkable life of service, sport and community leadership.
State Funeral in Lennox Head for Esteemed Rural Fire Leader David Cook
A state funeral will be held next Monday in Lennox Head to honour Superintendent David Cook, a much-loved and highly respected leader of the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Far North Coast Team. David “Cookie”
From rubbish pile to gallery wall: Ballina artist’s bold transformation
Old puzzles, cigar boxes and even a broken rocking horse have been transformed into art by Ballina artist Dean Stewart
Quackers! Hundreds flock to Ballina for Rotary’s annual duck race
Hundreds of people lined the Richmond River at Captain Cook Park on Sunday for one of Ballina’s most cheerful traditions — the annual Ballina on Richmond Rotary duck race.
The Story Behind the Car Taking Top Prize at Ballina Show and Shine
A rusted American panel van rebuilt over 14 years takes top honours as 10,000 visitors help push Ballina’s rescue helicopter fundraiser towards a record goal
Locals dominate the track as visitors lift the fashion stakes at Ballina Cup
The Ballina Cup mixed racing, fashion and colour, before an unexpected blackout briefly threw a spanner into proceedings.
Back on home greens, Indi Conlan claims Summerland doubles
The Summerland Series doubles have wrapped up at Cherry Street Sports, with Ballina-bred bowler Indi Conlan shining back on familiar turf
COMMENT: I won’t accept being called racist for telling someone’s story
From dual naming to name-calling — Rod Bruem comments on politics, language and why disagreement shouldn’t become denunciation.
COMMENT: I warned this would happen — and Ballina is paying the price
The court decision clearing the way for the GemLife confirms earlier warnings about the approach taken by Ballina Shire Council.

























