Ballina Greens MP Tamara Smith to exit politics after three terms
Tamara Smith has confirmed she will not contest the 2027 NSW election, ending a 12-year run as Ballina’s Greens MP.
Regional meth use exposed as communities face the costs
New analysis of wastewater shows regional communities continue to record higher per-person use of methylamphetamine, cannabis and oxycodone, exposing the challenges facing police and health authorities.
Coroner Refers Byron Backpacker’s Death to Homicide Squad
A NSW coroner has recommended the 2021 death of Jackson Stacker near Byron Bay be referred to the NSW Police Unsolved Homicide Squad after finding the case could not be conclusively ruled a suicide.
$450,000 in community grants up for grabs across Ballina electorate
Community groups and councils have until May 8 to apply for a share of $450,000 in funding for local infrastructure, equipment and vehicle projects.
Ballina Gets Three New Police as Eleven Head to Richmond District
Long-standing concerns over local police shortages could now be addressed after a record graduation from the Goulburn Police Academy.
Tamara Smith’s statement in full
Tamara Smith has confirmed she will not contest the 2027 NSW election, ending a 12-year run as Ballina’s Greens MP.
Big ideas wanted as Ballina launches first major economic talks in 20 years
Mayor calls for bold ideas to shape the shire's economic future, as neighbouring Lismore plans a population comeback, while avoiding Ballina's 'mistakes'.
Built by apprentices, sold for lives: $40K+ boost for Rescue Helicopter
Restored by Wollongbar TAFE apprentices over 15 years, the iconic Holden Commodore caps off a major community fundraising effort
Big day out for Ballina families as Our Kids returns Sunday
A full day of free entertainment and a moving bravery award will headline this Sunday’s Our Kids Day Out in Ballina, supporting sick children across the Northern Rivers.
Game on: Ballina’s squash revival eyes Olympic spotlight
Finishing touches are underway on state-of-the-art glass courts built by locals determined to bring the sport back after losing their home base
Tradition and quiet protest meet at Alstonville Anzac Day service
Olive ribbons and applause for a Roberts-Smith reference added a subtle edge to a well-attended community commemoration.
“The cost of freedom remembered”: Ballina marks Anzac Day at dawn
A powerful address and large crowd combined for a solemn tribute at the RSL Memorial Park as rain cleared just in time for the dawn service.
Gav falls on his feet after NBN News axing — now he’s Lord Mayor
Northern Rivers viewers who watched his shock TV exit now see the familiar weather face sweep into City Hall
Anger as Ferngrove Park Targeted for Archery Move
Another row over sporting space is brewing in Ballina, with Ferngrove residents questioning a proposed archery move.
Ballina solicitor accused of sexual relationships with jail inmates granted bail
A Ballina solicitor accused of inappropriate relationships with inmates and accessing confidential files has been granted bail after five months in custody, as suppression orders are lifted.
Baby turtles smashed just days before hatching
Volunteers who spent months protecting a nest have been left devastated after it was destroyed just ahead of their expected hatching.
From Lennox to disaster zone: Matilda crosses the country to answer cyclone crisis
Australia’s only mobile wildlife hospital has crossed the continent to help sick and injured wildlife in the wake of Tropical Cyclone Narelle.
Farmers celebrate long-awaited drainage fix as Minister flags action on river cars
Farmers celebrate a long-awaited drainage clearing program as the Minister backs action on river cars and responds to calls for a Richmond River Commissioner.
COMMENT: The moral case for action on the Richmond River
A call for a single authority to manage the Richmond River, as new research highlights upstream sediment as a major driver of its declining health.
Jali jets off to New York: If they can make it there — can they fix it here?
COMMENT: Eight Jali leaders head to New York for a two-week United Nations forum — but how will that sit with locals still sleeping rough?
COMMENT: Top Tourist Town? For Ballina right now, it’s probably just a dream
Visitors do not come to a coastal town expecting to feel like they have wandered into some sort of bad episode of the The Benny Hill Show.
COMMENT: Ballina Shire shows exactly why the state is sidelining local councils on housing decisions
The Greens-led push to block the construction of 300 new homes near Tintenbar shows Premier Chris Minns is on the right track in taking planning decisions away from local councils.
Honouring the lives and legacies of loved ones from Ballina and the Northern Rivers.
A Celebration of a Life Well Lived – David Foster Brown
Ballina locals gathered to honour David Brown, remembered for his quiet kindness, love of music and deep connection to community and nature.
Ballina escapes Qantas cuts for now as Mayor backs airport growth
Ballina has avoided Qantas flight cuts affecting regional Australia, with new routes still planned and council backing airport expansion despite rising fuel costs.
Meet the rising entrepreneur unafraid of being called an ‘Airhead’
At a time when many businesses are cutting back, one Northern Rivers family company is doing the opposite — investing heavily in jumping good fun.
AGAINST THE TIDE: $6 schooners return in Ballina
A Ballina club has cut schooner prices to $6, bucking inflation and boosting sales as locals chase rare cost-of-living relief.
How the Feddy is changing the face of Alstonville
A major upgrade to Alstonville’s Federal Hotel highlights a broader shift, as Northern Rivers pubs evolve to meet changing expectations from locals and visitors.
Drive-thru clothing drop-off day coming to Ballina
Clear out your wardrobe without leaving your car, while helping local causes and keeping textiles out of landfill.
From Ballina to the big stage: Max’s inspiring showbiz journey is pure joy
A Northern Rivers performer is captivating audiences with a bold, joyful stage show, turning personal challenges into powerful entertainment as he prepares for a highly anticipated hometown performance.
Headliners hit the high notes ahead of Hobart showdown
Ballina’s Headliners Chorus is preparing for a major national competition, while continuing to perform across the local community.
Paddle power: Ballina dragon boaters bring home national medals
A seven-year return to the national stage has paid off for the Rainbow Region Dragon Boat team, with a strong medal haul in challenging conditions.
‘A place to belong’: How Rainbow Roos is redefining kids soccer
A Northern Rivers parent’s idea is now helping up to 500 children a week experience sport without pressure, competition or exclusion.
