‘This is an Australian problem’: local Jewish voices respond to Bondi tragedy
Ballina’s Shai Chason and Vikki Bembridge say the Bondi attack has devastated their community, and call for stronger national action to stop rising hate.
Renovation Reality: Councillors back $17.7m Cultural Centre upgrade despite risks
Ballina Shire Councillors were forced to accept what many home owners know- renovations are risky and can end up costing more than new builds
‘Hatred must stop’: Ballina Mayor urges national leadership after Bondi attack
Ballina Mayor Sharon Cadwallader has called for national leadership, saying the Prime Minister should have acted sooner to confront rising hatred, following the deadly Bondi shooting.
Two New Officers Join Ballina as Former Cops Warn of Critical Policing Gaps
New Probationary Constables arrive this week, while former police officers say more needs to be done to address policing shortfall
Exclusive: Big Rob speaks out — ‘Sue Higginson has done me a huge favour’
Controversial Councillor Big Rob breaks his rule of silence, opening up about politics, floods, law, and media power
Introducing the 2026 Ballina Shire Australia Day Award nominees
Ballina Shire Council has announced the finalists for the 2026 Australia Day Awards, recognising volunteers, leaders and community champions.
Another nail in the coffin for Ballina’s prawning industry
Ballina fishermen say an extension of white spot restrictions is the worst news - wiping out chances of reviving the river prawn industry.
Ballina Tobacconist Shut Down For Illegal Sales
The Tamar Street store has been closed for 90 days after NSW Health alleged ongoing illegal tobacco and vape sales.
Council Unites Behind Rate Rise Despite Public Opposition
All councillors spoke, but none were willing to oppose the rate rise, saying the Shire had no choice if it wanted to keep services running into the future.
‘A community without a heart’ – Cumbalum residents call for long-delayed shopping centre
Cumbalum residents say 20 years of waiting for the North Ballina shopping centre has left the suburb without a true meeting place, as delays and contribution disputes continue.
UPDATED – Ochre Wood Arrested in West Ballina
Ochre Wood, the man widely spoken about as “Ballina’s most wanted,” is in custody after being arrested in West Ballina yesterday afternoon.
New social housing for Alstonville part of state construction boost
Sixteen new social homes have been completed in Alstonville, with more coming next year as the 2022 flood rebuild gathers pace
