After almost six months of publishing — during which more than 70,000 readers viewed over 160,000 pages of our stories — Ballina News Daily is taking a short pause from daily publishing.

But let us be clear: we’re not going away. We’re using this time to build and launch a brand-new website, designed to make your reading experience smoother while also giving local businesses powerful new marketing tools.

Our goal is simple: to keep more advertising dollars right here in Ballina Shire, supporting independent coverage of the news and events that matter most to you.

Looking Back

We’re proud of what we’ve achieved in a short time. Together, we’ve kept the community up to date on important issues, from the campaign for a new hospital to breaking stories that weren’t being covered anywhere else.

What has stood out most is your response to our human interest stories — stories that celebrate community achievements or share the challenges local people face. These have been the most-read on our site and remain the heart of what we do.

Our ‘Next Century News Project’

Looking ahead, we’re excited to be part of a new initiative supported by the NSW Government, which will give two young journalists their first chance to publish stories focused on the diversity of our community.

We’re also commissioning major features from experienced local journalists and contributors, bringing you deeper coverage on the issues that shape Ballina Shire.

All of this is part of what we’re calling the Next Century News Project — building a platform that will serve Ballina with the same community connection and commitment that newspapers offered throughout the last century, but with tools and storytelling for the next one.

I’m also pleased to welcome Connor Benfield to our team to help as our Marketing and Partnerships manager, to help deliver this project. If you’re interested in advertising or marketing opportunities, please reach out: connor@ballinanewsdaily.com.au.

Back in November

We’ll be back in November with fresh features, stronger community connections, and the same commitment to telling local stories that you’ve come to expect from Ballina News Daily.

Thank you for your ongoing support, encouragement, and feedback — it’s what makes this journey possible.

— Rod Bruem, Editor/Publisher