Three swimmers are dead after a tragic start to 2026 as emergency crews desperately look for other people missing in waters off the NSW coast
AAP
Posted inBusiness, Health, Local News
New year brings cheaper medicines, higher energy bills
A cut to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme co-payment will slash the cost of medicines but Australians face higher power bills in 2026.
Posted inEnvironment, Local News
Koala ‘misinformation’ cry as population counts soar
Fresh data reveals Australia’s koala count could be much higher than previously thought, as a contentious park to protect the species is called into question.
Posted inByron Bay, Good News, Parenting and kids
One mum’s baby bundles become life-changing charity
Evie Wood was giving away the newborn clothes her baby had outgrown when a local social worker said the women she worked with could benefit from bundles like the one […]
Posted inNSW Politics, Parenting and kids, Technology
NSW joins High Court battle to protect kids online
NSW has joined South Australia to defend Australia’s world-first social media ban for under-16s against a High Court challenge brought by several plaintiffs.
Posted inHealth, Local News
More care for utes than health: rural men’s harsh truth
Long distances are not the only thing stopping young rural men seeing their doctor, with social stigma and loneliness also hindering care.
Posted inEnergy, Federal Politics
Liberals promise more coal and gas under climate policy
More taxpayer money would be poured into coal and gas power plants under a plan to dump Australia’s climate targets put forward by the federal opposition.
Posted inAgriculture, Awards, Good News
Australia makes mince meat of beef industry at awards
Australia has taken out several top categories and the most gold medals at the prestigious World Steak Challenge, presented in London on Monday.
Posted inByron Bay, Entertainment, Local festivals and shows
Blues fans to see red when Split Enz headline festival
The pioneering Kiwi band Split Enz will take centre stage as the iconic Byron Bay Bluesfest is resurrected for Easter 2026.
Posted inBusiness, Money, North Coast Surrounds
Westpac admits dropping the ball on regional customers
Westpac is promising to better support its regional bank brands after losing customers because of overpriced mortgage products for home owners.