Greens-led planning revolt puts brakes on Ballina Shire growth
The Greens have exercised their muscle on Ballina Shire Council, winning key independent support to severely limit future development of housing, industry and business.
Long wait for North Ballina shopping centre hits another roadblock
Cumbalum residents waiting years for local shops may face another delay as the developer launches a Land and Environment Court appeal over Ballina Council’s proposed road levy.
UPDATE: Missing woman Emma found
Police held welfare concerns for Emma Davis who disappeared from her East Ballina home last weekend.
No Minister: Washington comes to Ballina, ducking questions on frontline staffing numbers
Social services department moves to smaller offices, but Minister can't confirm whether staff numbers have been reduced.
Fly direct to Adelaide? New flights breathe life into Ballina’s convention centre bid
Potential new direct flights to Melbourne and Adelaide could strengthen Ballina’s case to host a major North Coast convention centre worth up to $284 million.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Ballina on the path to Aussie gold at Brisbane 2032 Olympics
Cherry St Sports Club will host part of a national “Long Roll” event pushing for lawn bowls to be included in the Brisbane 2032 Olympics.
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.
COMMENT: Transparency matters when ministers visit the regions
Ballina deserves answers on frontline services and Minister Kate Washington should have come prepared with real details
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.
