The NSW Police Organised Crime Squad, together with NSW Health and the Australian Border Force, have charged four people and seized more than 18,000 vapes, 1.9 million illicit cigarettes, 74kg of loose-leaf tobacco and five unregistered firearms
News Desk
Nominations extended for 2026 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards
BALLINA SHIRE: There is still time to recognise the local legends who make the community shine, with nominations for the 2026 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards now extended until Friday 7 November.
Community invited to have their say on Ballina’s future growth
Ballina Shire Council is calling for community feedback on its Draft Local Strategic Planning Statement, which will shape how the region grows over the next 20 years, addressing housing diversity, ageing demographics and employment opportunities.
Funding boost helps Maclean Show Society maintain grounds
The Maclean Show Society has received $17,250 through the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership program to purchase a new mower, helping volunteers maintain the popular showground and keep it safe for community use.
Red alert issued for Lake Ainsworth
A red alert has been issued for Lake Ainsworth in Lennox Head after tests detected high levels of potentially toxic blue-green algae, with WaterNSW urging people to avoid swimming and other recreational activities until the warning is lifted.
Williamson backs community preschools in fight for fair pay
Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson has joined educators in a state-wide push for pay parity, calling on the NSW Government to deliver fair funding for community-based preschools and address what he says is a “crisis” in the sector.
Richmond Valley solar farm approved to power 175,000 homes
A $1.2 billion solar farm near Rappville has been approved, set to power 175,000 homes, create more than 300 construction jobs and deliver $11 million in community infrastructure funding for the Richmond Valley.
Nationals say koala park plan will hit North Coast industries hard
The NSW Nationals say the Minns Labor Government has failed to protect North Coast workers and industries affected by the creation of the Great Koala National Park.
Lismore buyback home auctions ramp up across the Northern Rivers
Another 42 homes will go under the hammer by Christmas as part of the Resilient Homes Program, with the Minns Labor Government aiming to expand buyback auctions and give Northern Rivers families affordable housing opportunities.
Roundabout confirmed for Valla Beach Road and Giinagay Way intersection
After more than a year of community pressure, a roundabout will be built at the Valla Beach Road and Giinagay Way intersection to address ongoing safety concerns and reduce the risk of further crashes.
