As communities across the North Coast prepare to recognise the people who respond in times of crisis, new figures reveal the lasting mental health impacts faced by Australia’s first responders long after emergency situations have ended.
What’s on
Love Lennox Festival set to draw thousands for coastal celebration
Lennox Head will come alive on Saturday, June 13, as the Love Lennox Festival returns with a packed program of live music, family entertainment, community activities and a major focus on sustainability.
Free exercise programs launched for Aboriginal community members in Tweed
Free Aquafit and Goorie Go-Getters programs are helping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members in the Tweed improve fitness, wellbeing and social connection.
Beyond Jazz Weekender returns to Bellingen in August
The Beyond Jazz Weekender lands in Bellingen on 14-15 August 2026, delivering two distinct nights that celebrate jazz as a living, evolving and joyfully physical artform.
Three new exhibitions to open at Manning Regional Art Gallery
Three new exhibitions are coming to Manning Regional Art Gallery this week, featuring major Australian artworks, reflections on motherhood and whimsical folk-inspired creations from regional artists.
Top female skateboarders to return to Lismore for Momentum festival
Australia’s leading female skateboarders will return to Lismore in July for Momentum, a festival promoting participation, skills and pathways statewide.
Lantern Parade to light up Lismore once again
The Lismore Lantern Parade will return this year for its 32nd staging, continuing a much-loved tradition that transforms the CBD into a glowing celebration of community, creativity and resilience.
Nationals launch “Flick the Tick” petition
Nationals MPs have launched a “Flick the Tick” petition at Primex today, demanding stronger action and more funding to tackle the growing cattle tick threat across regional NSW.
Taree clubs hailed for flood recovery efforts one year on
Two of Taree’s best-known clubs are being recognised for their extraordinary efforts during last year’s devastating floods, with both Club Taree and Taree Aquatic Club (Sailo’s) named finalists in the Emergency Response category of the prestigious ClubsNSW Clubs & Community Awards.
The Echo celebrates 40 years of independent voice, community and connection
The Byron Echo is preparing to celebrate a major milestone this June, marking 40 years of independent community journalism with a special anniversary event that editor Aslan Shand says is both a reflection on its roots and a commitment to the future of local media.
