The annual fire station open day still went ahead, despite crews spending much of the night controlling an explosive house fire.

Six years after Purple Friday began in Ballina, confronting domestic violence figures show the crisis remains severe — but the movement born here is now spreading hope and change across NSW.

Ballina Mayor Sharon Cadwallader used a long-awaited meeting with Premier Chris Minns to press for action on hospital redevelopment, river dredging and housing projects.

Ballina’s banking sector has officially entered a new era, with National Australia Bank unveiling its completely rebuilt River Street branch following a multi-million-dollar transformation.

A Ballina man accused of sexually assaulting a vulnerable woman had previously been jailed after threatening Ballina bank staff with a toy gun.

Police have launched Operation RAID targeting drink and drug driving with the goal of getting impaired drivers off the road.

The question of whether Ballina should become a city emerged during community strategy talks that also heard repeated calls for less red tape and stronger promotion of the region.

New Ballina workshops aim to give people with disability the tools to manage their own health, with a strong focus on self-advocacy and women’s wellbeing.

Geoff Hutchinson is recovering in hospital, thanking the community for its support as calls grow for action on the river and bar.

A 36-year-old Tweed Heads man has been refused bail after police allege they found illegal firearms and child abuse material during a Bilambil Heights raid.

Ballina will get a replacement Marine Rescue vessel and a review of dredging at the river mouth after Monday night’s tragedy that claimed the lives of two volunteers.

Marine Rescue ‘heroes’ who died in the Ballina tragedy have been named, as police prepare to examine the sunken yacht for answers.

Ballina is in mourning as tributes grow at the Marine Rescue tower, with the tragedy described as the organisation’s darkest day.

Mayor Sharon Cadwallader says Ballina will stand together as Cherry Street Sports Group launches a $25,000 appeal to replace the lost rescue vessel.

Two members of Marine Rescue NSW’s Ballina unit are confirmed to be among three people killed in last night’s boating tragedy off Ballina.

Drivers were left scratching their heads after finding themselves caught up in an M1 police pursuit that seemed more like a Sunday drive.

Normally you pay to change flights - but now Ballina passengers are being offered $20 vouchers to switch between Jetstar and Qantas flights in a bid to keep planes flying full.

Nearly three decades on, Marion Barter’s disappearance continues to raise questions, with financial activity and a Wollongbar connection under scrutiny.

A big crowd marked 21 years of Our Kids Day Out in Ballina, with a powerful bravery award reminding families why the charity the annual event celebrates matters so much.

Two 21-year-olds returned to custody after fresh alleged offences while on strict bail, joining their older brother already serving time.

Exclusive: Sharon Cadwallader and Sarah Ndiaye emerge as early contenders to replace outgoing Greens MP

Long-standing concerns over local police shortages could now be addressed after a record graduation from the Goulburn Police Academy.

Tamara Smith has confirmed she will not contest the 2027 NSW election, ending a 12-year run as Ballina’s Greens MP.

Tamara Smith has confirmed she will not contest the 2027 NSW election, ending a 12-year run as Ballina’s Greens MP.