sunday 6 march 4pm ss

48 Pages·2016·15.77 MB·English

THE BYRON SHIRE
Northern
Volume 30 #38
Rivers
Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Women in
www.echo.net.au
Business
Phone [phone]
[email protected]
[email protected] pages 16-17
23,200 copies every week
TURNBULL INNOVATES LIKE IT’S 1959
CAB
AUDIT
These are the Local, regional What’s all the fuss Health & Online in netdaily
Bruns housing estate
days of our newspapers up about with micro Healing
‘swallows up’ habitat
Council – p9 for sale – p7, p10 party prefs? – p14 – p18–21
www.echo.net.au/152339
Belongil residents
One big, sick swell
threaten Council
Supreme Court ruling expected soon
Hans Lovejoy ‘The dune at Belongil is about
6,000 years old and protects the
A member of a committee oversee- freshwater estuary and wetlands
ing the development of the shire’s behind it from the ocean. Reports
coastal zone management plan endorsed by Council conclude that
(CZMP) has warned councillors he removal of the existing protection
and his fellow residents are ‘deter- at Belongil would cause the dune to
mined to protect their rights’ and fail and the Belongil Estuary and Be-
claim that the ‘planned retreat’ poli- longil Wetlands (that are home to a
cy is not lawful or enforceable. variety of bird and water life) would
Furthermore, lawyers acting on be destroyed. Other Council papers
the behalf of residents say that if record that a failure of these dunes
‘planned retreat’ is part of Council’s would also destroy tens of millions
new draft CZMP, ‘then our clients of dollars of public infrastructure
The Eastern seaboard was hit by cyclone Winston last week after it ravaged Fiji. Experienced surfers made the will be pursuing the council for fur- which this community has no finan-
most of overhead waves. Pictured is a brave surfer taking on Main Beach. Photo Jeff Dawson ther damages… and challenge the cial means to relocate or replace.
legal power on the part of the coun- ‘Overarching these issues is the
Round two bypass DA now public cil to make such a decision.’ now accepted fact that the man-
:
Coastal management practices are made structure to protect the town
generally categorised into either pro- centre has caused the erosion at Be-
Byron Shire Council’s Butler Street were inaccuracies and issues within to the width of the lanes running be- tection works, such as rock walls, or longil. Council has accepted and en-
bypass development application the first application. A significant tween both buildings. ‘planned retreat’. Protection works are dorsed a report which says the effect
(DA) is again up for public scrutiny component called a BioBanking As for the option of using the dis- known to erode beaches over time. of the Jonson Street structure extends
after the first was withdrawn last year. Statement failed to meet state gov- used rail corridor – which is proposed John James, a Brisbane-based de- beyond the Belongil Creek entrance.
Public submissions close April 1, ernment requirements. by Butler Street residents – it says, veloper with a Belongil property, told Mr James believes ‘Council has
2016 and the DA will be on display The idea of a BioBanking State- ‘Use of the rail corridor is subject to councillors in a letter on February ignored our claims’ over planned
for a total of 37 days. ment is to commodify vegetation resolution of complex issues such as 4: ‘Some of the legal impediments retreat as an option within the ongo-
And all that time may be required and wildlife by offsetting the direct land purchase and competing objec- arise from Council’s construction ing preparation of the draft coastal
to assess it, given the document and indirect impacts of removal with tives for the available area (including and maintenance of the Jonson Street zone management plan (CZMP).
comes in 12 parts and totals 963 pages. ‘credits’. And in this case, the site is providing for the proposed rail trail structure which is the subject of the Such a policy, he says, could not be
The plans are to widen Butler considered a ‘red flag’, owing to 74 and retaining rail line infrastructure Supreme Court proceedings.’ ‘legally implemented or would give
Street from Byron’s police station ecosystem credits being needed for for possible future use).’ The Echo asked Mr James to clar- rise to a massive liability in damages.’
south, running west of the railway the offset. It reads: ‘Council has And it appears that the state gov- ify how many residents he repre-
Argument based on
line. After passing the market site commenced investigations into ernment and former Nationals MP sents and their names; however, he
and houses, it will continue through properties in their ownership that Don Page’s preference for the route did not answer the question within Jonson St structure
wetlands, turn left and emerge at the may satisfy the BioBanking credit also played a part in the decision: The his extensive reply.
Mitre 10 corner on Jonson Street. requirements of the proposal.’ report reads: ‘… the preferred route He did say that it was irrelev- A four page letter from global law
Why did the first get rejected? The plans around Mitre 10 and By- was supported by the longstanding ent how many residents bought firm King & Wood Mallesons ac-
According to the new Environmen- ron Music still propose reduced park- local state member.’ post 1988, when Council stipulated companies Mr James’s letter and says
tal Impact Statement (EIS), there ing – and no compensation – owing continued on page 2 homes had to be relocatable. continued on page 3
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Raffael Loremann opened his new Lumen Gallery in the Byron Arts and Industry Estate
Save
last Friday to the sounds of musician Cye Wood and others. The gallery is located in the old
Up To
$600 Colin Heaney glass blowing studio on Acacia Street. Photo Jeff Dawson
Butler Street bypass DA back on display
continued from page 1 ‘A road in this location is not the Joint Regional Planning
Additionally, the report likely to be supported by OEH Panel (JRPP). The JRPP will
argues that the Grab The Rail unless it can be demonstrated it determine the bypass DA. For
option of ‘constructing a road is in keeping with the manage- more information, visit www.
through the nature reserve ment plan for the reserve.’ byron.nsw.gov.au/projects/
would require additional ap- Council staff say that at the byron-bay-bypass.
proval from the office of envi- end of the public exhibition The Echo sought comment
ronment and heritage (OEH) period for the bypass, sub- from the Grab The Rail group
as they own the land.’ missions will be forwarded to for this story.
Spirit Fest set to materialise April 17
The Byron Spirit Festival re-
turns to Mullumbimby from
April 15 till 17.
Co-organiser Alison Pearl
says, ‘The full weekend pro-
gram is created to get you
into your heart, your con-
sciousness, your body, your
mind and your immediate
and broader community. It’s
a big task. With our first state
grant received, and the suc-
cess of the inaugural Hamp-
ton Spirit Festival in New
York last year, we’re excitedly Photo taken from previous Spirit Fest. Photo supplied
preparing an absolute feast
of depth experiences for our indigenous insight, along with awaken in the most connec-
fifth anniversary.’ guided meditations, sound tive means available.’
She says the local and inter- baths, gourmet organic food, Tickets are selling swiftly,
national event embraces yoga, ‘and unforgettable celebra- Ms Pearl says, and are available
music, dance, tantra, healing, tions so all can commune and at www.spiritfestival.com.au.
Art classic extends registration
Byron Arts Classic, the Support Initiative.’ night will be held Wednesday
Shire’s biggest art exhibition, There are cash prizes on March 23 from 6pm, and the
has extended the registration offer and the exhibition runs theme is David Bowie.
(a) Pricing available during the month printed on the front page of the (d) Products in this catalogue should be used only as directed.
catalogue only, unless otherwise stated. Always read the label, and if symptoms persist see your pharmacist, closing date until Monday March 24 till March 30 at the For more visit www.
(b) Comparison prices are current at time of compilation but subject doctor, or other healthcare professional.
to change without notice. (e) ^ Your pharmacist’s advice is required for this medication. March 7 at 4pm.  Byron Community Centre. byroncentre.com.au/whats-
(c) Recommended Retail Prices were obtained either direct from the (f) # Incorrect use could be harmful. Organisers say artwork The gala award opening on/arts-classic.
manufacturer, or by calculation based on regular wholesale prices
(g) Vitamin supplementation should not replace a balanced diet.
ainnddic mataedrk -buyp tsh.e A flol lsloawviinnggs: are based on these prices unless otherwise (h) We reserve the right to correct any pricing errors. delivery date is Saturday Echo
(i) † Competitor Recommended Retail Prices; (i) ^^ Available in selected pharmacies while stocks last. March 19 from 10am till 4pm. apology: trigger warning
(ii) †1 Coles Online Shop Prices; (j) Generic brand available at each pharmacy may vary.
(iii) †2 Woolworths Homeshop Prices; (k) **Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist, ‘We have also waived the
(iv) * The value of the product. consult your healthcare professional.
fee to enter our new divi- The Echo wishes to apologise to those people of Australian
sion, Indigenous art, to en- Indigenous background or African American heritage who
courage more entries into were unfavourably triggered by the publication of the term
MULLUM CHEMSAVE PHARMACY
this exciting new category ‘nigger huts’ in the letters pages last week.
which is proudly supported The term was not used in an abusive or racist manner but
107 Dalley St, Mullumbimby 6684 6226 www.mullumchemsave.com
by Arts Northern Rivers in order to give historical perspective to an injustice in some
Professional Development rental arrangements on the north coast.
2 March 2, 2016 The Byron Shire Echo Byron Shire Echo archives: www.echo.net.au/byron-echo
Local News
Missing person End of an era for Byron
Police are seeking informa-
tion on the whereabouts of
36-year-old Canadian nation-
al Natalie Perkins, who was
last seen on Fletcher Street,
Byron Bay around 4pm on TV CLEARANCE
February 15.
S A L E !
Inquiries have revealed
that she has not accessed
her bank account or used
her phone since the time she
went missing.
$649
The public are urged to After 23 years of tattooing in Byron Bay, Creative Tattoo have called it a day. Owner Pete
contact police with any infor- Davidson says the closure is owing to the high cost of running a business in Byron Bay
mation: Byron Bay Police on adding, ‘Paid parking was the straw that broke the camel’s back.’ Pete’s other ink business is
6685 9499 or Crime Stoppers located at 111 Union Street, South Lismore. Pictured is Tom Denholm, who will now work at
on 1800 333 000. Innocent Ink Tattoo in South Tweed Heads. Photo Jeff ‘All About The Ink’ Dawson Panasonic 40” Full HD LED TV
Belongil residents threaten Council
3 year
continued from page 1 ‘The residents say that the rock walls structure has caused at least 20 metres
warranty!
that as maintenance of the Jonson Street were placed with the express knowledge of recession. Council has not given any
structure has been determined, it must be and/or acquiescence of the council. In warning to purchasers before 2009 of $299
included within the CZMP. those circumstances, Council has no any plan to remove all existing protec-
Additionally, they claim that within power to enter into people’s properties tion works along Belongil Beach.’
the Byron Shire Coastal Hazard As- and take down the rock walls. Ms Coleman says a ruling on some
sessment Update report, ‘the impact of ‘That position is further underscored aspects of their pleading, ‘is awaiting in Changhong 32” HD TV
the structure extends beyond the creek, by the discriminating approach of pro- the Supreme Court action… At the time
causing recession of at least 20 metres.’ tecting one part of the town, thereby of writing a judgment is awaited.’
Law partner Karen Coleman claims endangering another part, and then
No comment from staff
that Council is not, ‘as a matter of law, exacerbating the danger by removing
entitled or able to impose planned re- existing protection.’ Council’s legal services co-ordinator
treat on the property owners of Belongil Ms Coleman continued, ‘Council has Ralph James told The Echo the letter was
Beach either at all, or, without a liability sought to impose a condition requiring sent to external solicitors engaged by
$394
in damages to compensate…’ retreat on some property owners by way Council’s insurers. He said, ‘It is not ap-
of a development consent condition. propriate for Council to comment.’
Creating the danger
If the resident property owners do not
Ms Coleman accuses Council of cre- make a development application, Coun- Don McLean postpones
ating the danger by accepting the Byron cil has no ability to impose such a condi- Samsung 32” HD TV
Shire Coastal Hazard Assessment Up- tion. [C]onditions requiring retreat have Don McLean has announced that his
date, which confirmed ‘the impact of the only been imposed on a small number upcoming Australian tour, including his
Jonson Street structure extends the whole of properties. Council has evidently not performance at Bluesfest, has been post-
way along Belongil and past the creek.’ undertaken any legal analysis of how it poned until 2017. A statement received
‘The law is clear that a council which could have the power to remove coastal from Don McLean’s representatives said,
has created a danger comes under a duty protection works and impose planned ‘Don McLean graciously accepts the
to protect from the danger. It cannot retreat… willingness of the promoter to postpone 106 STUART ST LOCALLY
take steps to do the opposite of that and ‘Furthermore, the trigger for enforc- the current tour to exactly the same time MULLUMBIMBY OWNED
take down protection, force people’s ing Part J is 20 metres and Council has in 2017 in order to allow Don McLean PH 6684 2511 SINCE 1908
houses back etc.’ reports advising that the Jonson Street and his family time to work at reuniting’. 
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North Coast news daily: www.echonetdaily.net.au The Byron Shire Echo March 2, 2016 3
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4 March 2, 2016 The Byron Shire Echo Byron Shire Echo archives: www.echo.net.au/byron-echo
Local News
Bluesfest set to expand
Mullumbimby Offi ce
p 02 6684 6111
f 02 6684 6122
Suite 6, 97 Stuart St,
Mullumbimby
NSW 2482
Family Law & Criminal Law
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p 02 6621 6116
Team Bluesfest celebrate the decision. Photo Jeff Dawson Residents are still keeping up the pressure. Photo Jeff Dawson Conveyancing Wills Probate f 02 6621 4117
With Integrity & Light
Hans Lovejoy 15-theatre production would who said she would be ‘land- DA being upheld?’
be a small event.’ locked’ during Bluesfest if At another point, resi-
Bluesfest was approved for Staff supported the DA, Grays Lane was blocked from dent Tony Baggio shut down
additional events and per- with major projects planner the highway. morning access after he re-
manent infrastructure at last Chris Larkin saying, ‘On bal- ‘I sleep with pillows fused to stop complaining
week’s Council meeting. ance, the proposal is assessed against my window when the that he didn’t have an oppor-
MATTRESS SALE
But it was met with resist- as being capable of operation festival is on,’ she added. tunity to speak. He later told
ance from neighbours – resi- without significant adverse John Bailey from the Tya- The Echo he has lived on Foxs
dents rallied to oppose the impacts.’ garah Sustainable Association Lane since 1997.
plans at morning access while The proposal also included also addressed the chamber ‘The sound impact report
Bluesfest director Peter Noble a Koala Plan of Management, and said his group are yet to is a fake,’ he said, referring
brought along employees to which has the approval of the get a response from Council to the GeoLink Events Site All sizes
support his case for expansion. Department of Planning and over their complaints. Statement of Environmental 40
%
So what has been approved? Environment (DPE). He said, ‘Our legal advice Effects. He pointed to within
Called a ‘Recreation Facility Within the report, the po- says we have a case against the report where there is no
(major)’, the approval means lice and NSW government Council and will take it to reading for night-time.
OFF
that a range of event types and agencies all had their say. land and environment court. ‘It states that lot 10 – my
sizes are now approved, but Notably, the Road & Ma- Historically, the Bluesfest has home – has the worst noise,
must meet conditions. ratime Services (RMS) said failed [with DA compliance]. which has been recorded
Small events are described that with completion of the We are being asked [to agree with well over 50 decibels –
as up to 2,000 people and 100 Tintenbar to Ewingsdale up- to] another 15 days. The cost is yet they blame it on insects!’
days per year have been ap- grade, they are ‘investigating on our community; we leave
Events unlikely
proved. Medium events are options to bring the motor- the area at Easter.
up to 15,000 people, and a way up to a motorway stand- Windows shake for some time
maximum of ten event days ard. That includes limiting
per annum were approved. side-road access… RMS has Resident Michael Gold- A press release by Blues-
Large events are defined undertaken public consulta- berg said he was also affected.  fest director said, ‘The fear
as up to 25,000 people, with a tion which includes the fu- ‘My windows shake [dur- from our neighbours that
maximum ten event days per ture closure of Grays Lane… ing the event] and I don’t get we may have wanted to do
year approved. Grays Lane will be closed… a free ticket. The noise goes another major festival on
The staff report said, and will not be available for over 50 decibels and there is the site was addressed by
‘Bluesfest is an example of a use for traffic management of no police or council checking Council in a manner that
‘large event’, while the Boo- events at Tyagarah.’ on anything. met our approval, and seem-
merang Festival is an example That concern was brought ‘So a lot of things aren’t ingly those in attendance at
of a medium event. Potential- up by resident Gwen Gould being complied with on this Council Chambers. It is not
ly a caravan show, wedding, a in morning public access, DA. Why isn’t the existing likely that there will be any
new events for some time to
Locally Owned
Clean Up Mullum ECO DENTISTRY come. First we will build the
Family Business
infrastructure so that there is
Sunday March 6
a functions centre on site as Cnr Brigantine & Wollongbar Sts
• Safe mercury
well as, in time, permanent Byron Arts & Industry Estate
Byron Shire Council and removal & disposal shower and toilet facilities 6685 5212 bedsrus.com.au BYRON BAY
Brunswick Valley Landcare •
• Biocompatible and food and beverage areas.’
will be celebrating Clean Up
BPA-free
Australia Day with a walk Choose TURSA as your jobactive organisation
white fillings
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The clean up will start at Eligible Patients Providing employment services
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hind the Mullumbimby Swim-
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ming Pool on Jubilee Avenue. QLD and Forster, NSW.
The clean-up aims to fin-
FIND OUT YOUR LEVELS OF...
ish at 11.30am in Heritage
vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, Tursa Employment & Training
Park (near the tennis courts)
fungus, virus and post virus,
with a well-earned morning
bacteria, chemicals, toxic
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For more info visit www. PHONE [phone] EMERGENCY 0412 120 002 connecting business and workers www.tursa.com.au
cleanupaustraliaday.org.au. www.bytesofbyron.com.au
North Coast news daily: www.echonetdaily.net.au The Byron Shire Echo March 2, 2016 5
Local News
netdaily
North Coast news daily: .net.au
An Introduction to the Mystery of Burma revealed Politics in
Life & Teaching of
Adi Da Samraj
the pub
Monday 7th March A personal photographic jour-
7.30pm till 9.00pm ney capturing the culture of
52 Armstrong Street packs out
Myanmar (formerly Burma)
Suff olk Park, 2481
and its people was launched
last Friday by Byron Bay resi-
The recently held politics in
dent Anna Swain.
the pub in Mullumbimby
TM BURMA Tiffins, Nuns and
“For those who would embrace a life based For more information please Turmeric is her first book, and was a great success, says co-
on heart-breaking Freedom —I am here.” phone Julie on 0417 683 696. organiser Richard Hil.
- Adi Da Samraj www.adidam.org is self-published. He told The Echo, ‘The
Anna says, ‘After falling in
Court House in Mullumbimby
love with Burma on a fam-
was packed to the rafters last
Top quality secondhand goods
ily holiday, I was inspired to
Wednesday as speakers pro-
return and take more photo-
Large selection of clothes, fessor Lyn Carson and Aidan
graphs which in the end led
shoes & books Rickets held forth on the fu-
to creating my first book.
ture of democracy, capitalism
The 254-page hardback
Op Shop and activism in Australia.’
features almost 300 full-col-
Cnr Tweed St ‘Organised by the Ngara In-
our photographs, with some
& Booyun St stitute, the event was the first
travel tales and a couple of
Brunswick Heads in a new politics in the pub
recipes.
series, entitled “Neoliberalism
(next to IGA supermarket)
The book is available local-
Mon-Fri 10am-4pm on Trial in the Court House”.
ly at Mary Ryan’s Book Shop
Byron Bay, Bangalow Music
www.cawi.org.au • Ph 6685 1444
and Books, and Red Ginger
Byron Bay.
It can also be purchased Anna Swain’s new book, BURMA Tiffins, Nuns and Turmeric,
online from www.shutter- was launched at her family home to around 100 guests last
books.com.au. Friday. Photo supplied
Cert IV in Permaculture on offer
Byron Community College is
now offering a Certificate IV
Speaker Aidan Rickets.
in Permaculture, adding to its
Photo Michael Balson
popular Cert III Horticulture.
Terry Gray, pictured right, ‘Audience members were
Join the with Byron Community Col- encouraged to think of ways
lege staffer Lance Hopson, they could help to dismantle
has just handed over his last global corporate capitalism
conversation
assessment for the Cert III through everyday actions.’
Horticulture and says he’s ex- He says the next event at
cited to undertake the new the Court House is on March
Don’t just be a passive reader
Cert IV in Permaculture.  23 from 6.30pm till 9pm and
College director Rich- features Australian Food Sov-
Comment on and share the stories Lance Hopson from Byron Community College with student
ard Vinycomb says the new ereignty Alliance advocate,
Terry Gray. Photo supplied
that matter to you, from these pages course ‘further reinforces activist and author of Fair
and across the region, online at the Byron region’s local and long, running over two days intensive Permaculture De- Food, Dr Nick Rose.
national position as a major a week in Mullum. Low-in- sign Course (PDC) starts on The title of his talk is ‘Be-
netdaily player in leading the perma- come earners may also be eli- March 12. To get involved yond stuffed and starved?
.net.au culture revolution.’ gible for Austudy allowance. visit www.byroncollege.org. Progressive agendas for food
The new course is a year Alternatively, an 11-day au or call 6684 3374. sovereignty’.
Federal government to fund
Byron Bay Town Centre Draft Masterplan
Public Exhibition
a ‘fossil-fuel’ research centre
Thursday 3 March – Thursday 7 April
The Byron Bay Town Centre Draft North coast Greens have work closely with researchers ment, ‘which comes just four
Masterplan provides a long term slammed the Australian gov- from universities, CSIRO and months after the similar Bjorn
framework for the future of the Bay. ernment’s announcement cooperative research centres Lomborg centre was canned
The vision for the Plan is to ‘connect that it would invest $15.4 mil- to build links with business after a public backlash’.
the Centre of Byron Bay with the Spirit lion over four years to fund and industry organisations,’ Ms Walker has called on
of its Community’. a fossil-fuel research centre. Mr Pyne said. the Turnbull government to
Greens candidate for ‘Importantly it will also invest in renewables instead.
How to be involved in the exhibition Visit the BSC stall at the Byron Bay
Richmond, Dawn Walker, promote industry-led re- ‘It’s hard to believe that
program: Farmers Markets on 17 March and
described the coalition as ‘cli- search in priority areas by four months after the Bjorn
Download the Draft Masterplan from 24 March
mate vandals’ after federal in- facilitating deeper engage- Lomborg research centre was
Council’s website Participate in a ‘Masterplan Conversation’
www.byron.nsw.gov.au or from the project at the library exhibition space between dustry minister Christopher ment between industry and canned by the Abbott govern-
website www.byronbayourplan.com.au Monday 21 March and Thursday 24 March. Pyne announced this week researchers.’ ment, here we have Turnbull
Attend a community presentation at the Submissions can be made by: that the body set up to pro- Federal energy minister trying to resurrect a similar
Byron Bay Community Centre Theatre on mote oil, gas and nuclear en- Josh Frydenberg said the idea,’ she said.
Email to: [email protected]
Friday 18 March at 2pm or 5.30pm or by post to: ergy, to be known as National Growth Centre would ‘help ‘It’s ludicrous that while
View the Draft Masterplan exhibition The General Manager, Energy Resources Australia position Australia’s energy the rest of the world moves
display at the Byron Bay Library Foyer, Cnr PO Box 219 Mullumbimby 2482 (NERA), would ‘promote and resources sector for the away from coal, the Turnbull
Lawson & Fletcher Street or Council offices All submissions will close on collaboration and innovation next wave of investment’. government is giving more
in Station Street Mullumbimby during the
Thursday 7 April 2016. across the energy resources But Ms Walker said she taxpayer money to the fossil
exhibition period
sector’. was ‘shocked’ by the Turn- fuel lobby by funding a “re-
Byron Shire Council 70-90 Station Street, Mullumbimby NSW 2482 T: 6626 7000 ‘The Growth Centre will bull government’s announce- search” centre.’
6 March 2, 2016 The Byron Shire Echo Byron Shire Echo archives: www.echo.net.au/byron-echo
Local News
APN’s regional newspapers to The endless benefits of
be sold after revenue decline
bamboo
Chris Dobney with AAP have commenced the process options for the business.
to divest the business.’ The company says it wants
The owner of The Northern According to industry to focus on growth in its
Star and other local newspa- publication TheNewspaper- more successful businesses,
pers including Byron Shire Works, APN was asked af- the Australian Radio Net-
News, Tweed Daily News, ter its results presentation, work and outdoor advertis-
Lismore Echo and The Bal- whether News Corp Australia ing group Adshel.
lina Advocate has put them was the only potential pur- Radio earnings rose 25 per
on the market, saying they are chaser of the mastheads and cent in 2015, as Kyle Sandilan-
dragging the company down. how APN would ensure it was ds and Jackie O drove ratings
APN News & Media own not disadvantaged in the sales success at KIIS, while its Pure
more than 100 regional news- process by News’s investment Gold network also rated well
papers and websites in QLD in the company. in Sydney and Melbourne.
and northern NSW, and re- ‘In response, APN said it Mr Davis said the Aus-
cently Rupert Murdoch’s was talking to a number of tralian radio market was up
News Corp acquired around parties, and it was too early five per cent in January, with
15 per cent. for a price guide,’ TheNews- ARN continuing to take mar-
Saturday’s Byron Youth Service fundraiser at Byron Bay Bamboo in Myocum attracted
Known as Australian Re- paperWorks reported. ket share. The network wants
hundreds who enjoyed displays by artisans, horticulturists and even ‘bio-charists’. Pictured
gional Media (ARM), the to grow its younger audience,
$10 million loss is property owner Kaye Wood with Lance Seadon, who created the boat. Photo Jeff Dawson
APN subsidiary reaches an with investment in mobile,
audience of more than 1.5 A $51 million cut to the video and social platforms, Mullum2Bruns set for May 22
million between Mackay and value of APN’s regional news- such as the iHeartRadio app.
Coffs Harbour. paper mastheads dragged the Adshel’s earnings rose four
But ARM’s earnings company to a loss of $10 mil- per cent in 2015 as it launched Earlybird registrations are and over $30,000 was raised There will be more of the
dropped 27 per cent in cal- lion for 2015. digital billboards at bus stops. now open for the 10km Mul- for the three groups from the magnificent Dragon Boats this
endar 2015, despite millions APN may also end up sell- At the time of going to lum2Bruns Paddle down the entries, raffles and barbecues. year with a dash between the
in cost cuts and growth in ing its New Zealand news- press, APN shares were up 2.5 magical Brunswick River, to The Hotel Brunswick two Bruns bridges, providing a
digital subscriptions begin- paper, radio and magazine cents at 52.5 cents and its rev- be held Sunday May 22. Paddle Challenge and the great spectacle for those enjoy-
ning to replace the declining business, NZME, which is its enue remains flat at $850m. With the tide running out Print Rescue Stand Up Pad- ing the free entertainment and
newspaper audience. second biggest earner. for the 9am start at Mullum’s dle Challenge numbers are community food stalls in The
(cid:81) The Byron Shire Echo and
APN’s chief executive Ci- Plans to list NZME on Heritage Park, the journey building each year, so these Terrace Park at the finish.
Echonetdaily are proudly in-
aran Davis said, ‘Further in- the share market have been downstream should be an easy competitive events have been Earlybird registrations are
dependent and wholly locally
vestment in this business is scrapped because of falling ad- one. Co-organiser Kim Rosen moved to the start of the pro- available online now at www.
owned.
now inconsistent with APN’s vertising spending, and APN says that last year more than gram, with 8am and 8.15am mullum2brunspaddle.com to
long-term ambitions and we said it is now considering its (cid:81) Editorial, page 10 1,000 paddlers participated starts respectively. go into the draw for prizes.
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North Coast news daily: www.echonetdaily.net.au The Byron Shire Echo March 2, 2016 7
Local News
netdaily
North Coast news daily: .net.au
MIGRATION ASSISTANCE Councillor slapped with censure
Would you like to live or work
in Australia? over code of conduct breach
LINDSAY WOOTTEN
Solicitor MARN 0213118 Hans Lovejoy the Office of Local Govern- better to be on the safe side.’ half of the community, that
Your local migration consultant for ment, which reported that During morning public ac- the community should re-
assistance with all migration and visa matters. A state government investiga- Ms Wanchap ‘may have had cess, mayor Simon Richard- spect the law in terms of what
tion into a complaint against a non-pecuniary conflict of son insisted councillors treat can and can’t be made public?’
Phone [phone] or 0427 210993
Cr Rose Wanchap was tabled interest’ when she voted on a the matter as confidential, and Mr Beattie replied it was
email: [email protected]
at last week’s Council meet- DA approval. attempted to limit discussion. a good question. ‘In this in-
ing, resulting in her being The Echo understands that But it was largely to no stance, the issue has been in-
censured by her fellow coun- the code of conduct complaint avail; a testy Crs Di Woods vestigated and a report has
Surf Happenings
cillors for breaching the Code relates to a possible conflict and Chris Cubis accused Mr been presented to Council.
of Conduct policy. of interest with Cr Wanchap’s Beattie of getting ‘coaching’ ‘Had they been just allega-
IT’S DONE. WE’VE FINALLY GOT THE DOORS OPEN! Held in confidential ses- potential investment in a com- over the complaint, and ques- tions, I think confidentiality
sion in the afternoon, the peting health centre. tioned why he would pursue should apply. [But] in this
We’ve got a bunch of ex-team, ex-demos and prototypes from mayor used his casting vote At the October 1, 2015 the issue given he was award- instance it is [more than al-
Channel Islands, Simon Anderson, Haydn Lewis and a whole lot more… to support a motion which council meeting, Cr Wanc- ed the DA for his treatment legations].
says she failed to ‘acknowl- hap abstained on voting on a centre anyway. So how legally binding are
3 BANKSIA DRIVE, BYRON BAY | 02 6680 9635 edge and declare a signifi- DA for Nungkari Treatment confidential report?
Call for the report
cant non-pecuniary conflict Centre owing to a potential The Echo asked council’s
of interests… thereby failing pecuniary interest. to be made public legal services co-ordinator
to manage the conflict in ac- Yet when the original Ralph James if there is there
@onboardstorebyronbay
cordance with the Code of DA was approved on May Mr Beattie told the cham- a ‘law’ that would be broken
Conduct.’ 1, 2014, Cr Wanchap voted ber he wanted the confiden- by releasing the confidential
The motion also says the against the motion, which tial report made public. report, or is it simply a policy.
matter will ‘be referred to the subsequently sparked the ‘If this council wants to be He replied, ‘The report of
division for further action complaint by Mr Beattie. held in esteem by the com- the Code of Conduct review-
under the misconduct provi- The Echo asked Cr Wan- munity, and have its integrity er was received and consid-
sions of the Act.’ chap last year whether she maintained, then they will ered by Council in confiden-
The Echo understands the operated a health facility as make this matter public. And tial session.’
‘division’ is the office of lo- of her voting on May 1, 2015.  they will take relevant action ‘Council’s resolution, as
cal government, while a first- Cr Wanchap replied at the to redress these matters. In per the minutes, is public.
time ‘censure’ has no ramifi- time, ‘It is a grey area since it our society today, we don’t Confidentiality is applied as
cations or consequences. is not my facility. It is owned have enough of that…’ per Council’s Code of Con-
The original complaint, by a member of my family Cr Sol Ibrahim then at- duct and Procedures for the
which is said to be 150 pag- and they only purchased it tempted to wedge Mr Beattie Administration of Council’s
es long, is by David Beattie a few months ago so there over ‘following the law’ ow- Code of Conduct – both of
from the Nungkari Treatment was no pecuniary interest at ing to Mr Beattie wanting the which are policies.
Psychedelics are illegal not because a loving government is Centre, based in Myocum. that time.’ document to be made public. ‘[It] is a matter for any
concerned that you may jump out of a third-storey window. It was taken seriously ‘Nor is there probably an Cr Ibrahim said, ‘Do you person who is not subject to
Psychedelics are illegal because they dissolve opinion enough to be reviewed by interest now, but I felt it was believe personally, and on be- Council’s Code of Conduct.’
structures and culturally laid-down models of behaviour and
information processing. They open you up to the possibility
Bums on bikes to the ready COREM raises over $1,700
that everything you know is wrong. – Terence McKenna
COREM (Community on Coal, brought news from
Owned Renewable Energy Whitehaven’s coalface, or
Mullumbimby) had an ex- rather massive pit.’
citing and successful launch ‘The Corem Cafe was
of their crowdfunding cam- sponsored by Mullum busi-
paign, attracting more than nesses including Kombucha
$1,700 at their event in the Mama, HariHar Chai, San-
Drill Hall Theatre last Friday. tos Trading, The Source, and
Deborah Lilley told The Eden’s Landing. Donations for
Echo organisers would like to the raffle came from The Mul-
‘thank everybody who helped lum Farmers Market: Grumpy
on the night, especially may- Grandma’s Olives, The Honey
or Simon Richardson whose Wagon, The Spice Palace, Sau-
The World Naked Bike Ride Byron Bay is all set to take place enthusiasm as MC warmed erkraut, Nashua Coffee and
FRIEND OVER from 3pm on Sunday March 13. Meet on the platform of the the audience. And Murray Puremelt Chocolate.
old Byron Bay Railway Station. Pictured from left are Sherrie Muzz Drechsler, long-time ‘The first prize was a vouch-
Yeomans (Lennox Head), Mijimberi (Lismore) and Malcolm protector of the Leard For- er from the very supportive
FOR DRINKS?
Buchanan (Mt Tambourine). Photo Jeff Dawson est from Front Line Action Crystal Castle.’
New hospital complete but staffing issues continue
Chris Dobney Echo, ‘I’m expecting to learn this week which is significant change from original
that one of the maintenance men will plan of July 1. Management has not gone
While construction of Byron Shire’s new not be offered a job unless he’s prepared through proper consultation – they’re
hospital has finished almost a month to work as a part time cleaner.’ making changes on the fly and our
ahead of schedule, Health Services Un- ‘In the admin area there are currently members very upset,’ he said.
ion (HSU) northern NSW has rebuked more staff working in the existing hospi- Mr Milman added that the process
claims by acting Northern NSW Lo- tals than there are positions to apply for. had been ‘managed atrociously’ and ‘in
Make sure your bathroom tiles match the
cal Health District CEO Annette Symes ‘Yet the hospital hasn’t released plans breach of government’s own policy’.
mood with our expert tileologists in the
that ‘Every permanent staff member will on how they expect them to cope with He said local MP Tamara Smith
SERVICE DIRECTORY have a permanent position within the the increased workload. (Greens) has been invited to tour the
local health district.’ ‘We’re now told that the hospital hospital today ‘so she can hear firsthand
See pages 37–41
HSU’s Jonathan Milman told The could be open as soon as “late April”, of the significant issues.’
8 March 2, 2016 The Byron Shire Echo Byron Shire Echo archives: www.echo.net.au/byron-echo
Local News
These are the days of our Council
24/7
VET ON
DUTY
Hans Lovejoy Byron masterplan
Ah, the triumphs and trag- The draft Byron Bay Town MyVet Byron Bay
edies of local government. Centre Masterplan will go on 6685 6899
Much like a long-running exhibition from this Thurs-
MyVet Billinudgel
soap opera, local council of- day, and comes with some
6680 3480
fers the same formula: drama! disgruntled voices on social
Anyway what transpired at media regarding rumours the ALWAYS FREE myvetoz.com.au
last Thursday’s meeting? plans are to remove the Main DENTAL CHECKS facebook.com.myvetoz
Beach carpark.
Conduct code still Council’s economic devel-
YOU DON’T PAY ME…
opment & tourism officer Jane
confusing
Laverty told The Echo that the THE LENDER DOES
It appears our locally elect- suggestion for the foreshore is
Janice Ryan
ed representitives are in need a redesign and not to remove
The days turn into months, the months turn into years,
of some moral guidance, or at parking entirely. Mortgage Broker
and all the while policy formulation and execution grinds
the very least, ethical clarity. She said, ‘I am comfort- Diploma of Financial Services
Why? All councillors vot- onwards. Image from lochgarry.wordpress.com able and confident in saying 27 years’ lending experience
E: janice@wpff .com.au
ed to write to the NSW min- nificantly less than what was assess the viability of Park and that this plan is a direct re-
ister for local government the proposition or prediction Ride in the future as part of flection of the community M: 0400 364 723
asking for a review of the and I think it perhaps will be any reviews relating to paid input provided throughout
state’s model Code of Con- that the old highway is very parking and Byron Bay Town the consultation and devel-
duct procedures. lightly trafficked. Centre Masterplan (access opment phases – and there
The request to Nation- ‘At that point we can sug- and movement) programs.’ were some things that had
als MP Paul Toole includes gest to have more signage or the opinion (individual wants
reviewing ‘the alignment of not, but we’re certainly not at Decrepit bridge: and needs) divided.  
the treatment of members of logger heads in any sense.’ please explain ‘Given that this is a high
Council Committees more The mayor continued, ‘We level framework I believe the
with that afforded Council- are also meeting Bob Higgins Staff are under pressure consultants have not deter-
lors such as, but not limited of RMS next week I think. We to respond to hard questions mined to make far reaching
to (Code of Conduct Proce- chose a spot in Clunes at The from Cr Chris Cubis over decisions, but rather guide us
dures clause 5.18), explana- General Store Café. the state of O’Meara Bridge, with projects and strategies
tion, counselling, training, ‘Hopefully we can find located in the Binna Burra/ that will lead to the best out-
mediation, informal discus- a way forward, but what I Federal area. comes – such as a redesign
sion, negotiation or apology.’ wanted to get a sense of was He tabled questions – of the car park and a review
Put forward by Cr Duncan that I must admit I haven’t which the staff took on notice of the swimming pool that
Dey, the issue was sparked by really received either con- – over why the bridge was al- as projects in themselves will
a code of conduct inquiry demnation or acylation from lowed to reach this state and require more in-depth con-
into community volunteer, people in Bangalow at all. who is responsible. sultation with the commu-
Angela Dunlop, after she ‘Apart from the general Cr Cubis said, ‘We don’t be- nity before any specifics are
contacted building contrac- manager, I haven’t had one lieve the current infrastructure determined.’
tors tasked with renovating comment from people in this asset management and process Suffolk Park traffic
the South Golden Beach hall. Shire to whether they support is adequate. Where is the sink-
lights: no go
The rest of the motion be- me at least acknowledging ing fund? The proactive for-
stowed platitudes upon Ms that the Bangalow commu- ward planning? What steps are
A staff recommendation
Dunlop and her team, ‘rec- nity want less traffic. So I’m you putting in place to ensure
for traffic lights on the corner
ognising the success of the curious to get feedback.’ this doesn’t happen again to
of Clifford Street and Broken
South Golden Beach Com- other assets that are critical to
Head Road, Suffolk Park, was
Park and ride trial
munity Hall and its renova- the continued progress and
rejected by councillors.
tion and refurbishment…’ sets off into sunset development of the shire?’ Instead, councillors voted
In reply, Council’s director
Mayoral rebuke that ‘Council present all op-
It appears the days are infrastructure services, Phillip
tions contained in the report
Mayor Simon Richardson over – under the current Holloway, said staff were pre-
for consultation including safe
used Council time last Thurs- council at least – for one of paring a response to the ques-
pedestrian crossing arrange-
day to accuse local press of the mayor’s pet projects: the tions and propose a meeting
ments with the community.’
inaccurate and sensationalist NYE park and ride. soon with the community in
reporting. A double decker bus was relation to O’Meara’s Bridge. (cid:81) For more council fun visit
Within his speech about commissioned to run from A date is yet to be confirmed. byron.nsw.gov.au/meetings.
a recent Northern Rivers Re- the Cavanbah Centre in Ew-
gional Organisation of Coun- ingsdale into Byron on NYE
cils (NOROC) meeting, he in an effort to ease traffic and UNIVERSAL MEDICINE
referred to a recent Northern offer a tourist atttraction.
Star (APN) front page splash The plan, called NYE shut- LEADER SERGE BENHAYON
that featured Lismore mayor tle, was cautiously accepted a
Jenny Dowell and Cr Richard- few years ago, however coun- defamation claim
son ‘apparently at logger heads cillors such as Cr Chris Cubis
over signage on the highway.’ were critical of its effective-
The story was speculative ness and cost.
AGAINST BYRON SHIRE BLOGGER
and highly inflammatory, But last year, general man-
the mayor said. ‘We certainly ager Ken Gainger defended
ESTHER ROCKETT
aren’t at logger heads at all, the trial’s expense, telling the
we have talked about it and chamber that many unex-
sort of agreed that we would pected events led to having to
Donate to
wait for a traffic count review increase the budget to cover
to be completed which has costs in that year. Esther’s defence
been scheduled in a couple During the last meeting,
of months. So we truly get the five controlling councillors For more information
to know what the traffic is voted down an amendment by [email protected]
around Bangalow, if it’s sig- the mayor that said, ‘Council 0403 358 092
North Coast news daily: www.echonetdaily.net.au The Byron Shire Echo March 2, 2016 9
Comment
netdaily
North Coast news daily: .net.au
The orcs have their day in the sun
A
ndrew Bolt, Alan Jones that in the age of terrorism (now, policy ever devised by an opposi- share market? And for that mat-
and their armies of orcs and presumably for a long time tion, a wrecking ball through the ter, why should the punters on
have won. to come), human rights are sim- entire economy. We waited agog the nation’s racetracks be left
Volume 30 #38 March 2, 2016
For months, years even, they ply not relevant. He lambasted for news of the Whyalla wipe-out out? I’m sure Bolt and Jones
inveighed against Malcolm the ASIO head, Duncan Lewis, and the $100 lamb roast. would approve – their listeners
Turnbull, vowing to destroy for daring to advise Nicolic’s If there actually was a mes- certainly would.
A shrinking window
him, swearing mighty oaths that predecessor, Dan Tehan (now sage it appeared to be that limit- Turnbull, if not always Ab-
he must never become prime promoted to the ministry), over ing negative gearing to the pur- bott, is supposed to be a seri-
minister. policy matters. chase of new homes after July ous free marketeer. The whole
The news that Australian Provincial Newspapers (APN) They formed barricades Unsurprisingly, Labor re- 1 2017 would depress existing point of negative gearing is that
intends to divest itself of its publications in Australia is around their hero, Tony Abbott, gards Nicolic as something of a house prices – or, perhaps, raise it distorts and interferes with
not a good thing for media diversity (diversity being assuring their devotees that his loose cannon and yet another them in the case of new houses; the market.
reign would endure forever – sop by Turnbull to his ultra-con- it was not quite clear. Every This is why most genuine
the principle that the more windows you have, the
the hordes of the moderates and servative rump – the Abbottistas. home-owner would be at risk economists, especially the eco-
better the view).
their reviled leader were van- Then there was the Safe of insolvency, if not outright nomic rationalists, regard it as
The owners of APN are not for the most part quished, destroyed, razed from Schools kerfuffle, an opt-in pro- poverty: the new old slogan was a rort, a boondoggle. Of course,
ideological. The group’s newspapers hold to generic the surface of the earth. gram run successfully by many Vote Labor and be poorer. And within sections of the party room,
And even when he was it is popular; partly because many
capitalist positions but they don’t hold them strongly.
treacherously, sacrilegiously, Nicolic is on record as saying that Liberals indulge in the practice
Development is always good, but local opinion
overthrown by his own fallen (one is reported to have no fewer
counts when a developer trashes the environment. angels and the Antichrist was in the age of terrorism, human than 32 properties in his invest-
Fossil fuels produce jobs and export income, but installed, Tony Abbott re- rights are simply not relevant. ment package) but others want
mained, in the eyes of his fol- Turnbull to abandon any attempt
their climate-warming effects are not denied. The
lowers, immortal: not only to reform it purely on the basis
shareholders are concerned with the bottom line by Mungo MacCallum
would his works and memory that the already confused voters
rather than the power to persuade – hence the deci- endure forever, but he would would see any change as an ad-
sion to jettison a sinking business. eventually be resurrected. He schools for many years. not only that; the entire prop- mission that Shorten just might
was their rex quondam futurus Suddenly its anti-bullying erty market would collapse as be just a little bit right.
However, there is one shareholder in APN who
– their once and future king. agenda drew the belated at- every investor withdrew. Teach- So Turnbull easily may toss
cares very much what message appears in his papers
And so it has come to pass. tention of some tabloid media ers, nurses, policemen, ordinary yet another idea off the table.
and who promotes an anti-environmental, extreme Malcolm Turnbull as we knew demagogues and the extrem- mums and dads would have That, after all, is what Abbott
right-wing ideology in everything he owns. him has all but vanished; in a po- ists of the Liberal party room their precious savings ripped would do: naked opportunism,
litical sense, it could be said that – Cory Bernardi, George Chris- from their piggy banks because politics above policy. Bolt and
Rupert Murdoch is best placed to buy up an armful
he has been destroyed. Instead, tensen and their coteries. So of Shorten’s reckless rampage. Jones would crack open yet an-
of media bargains from APN. Fairfax has mismanaged
we have a sort of Abbott avatar – Turnbull, rather than ignoring But hang on a moment. other bottle of champagne: it
itself into penury, and while it might eye up the online smoother, more articulate, even them, instituted a review. The logic of that is that prop- wasn’t quite the win they had
sites on offer, a company that is currently engaged in more plausible, but still undeni- The clear signal was that the erty prices must never, under planned, but hey, it will do until
preparing the market for the end of The Age in paper ably the essence of the previous LGBT children it was assisting any circumstances, fall, and it the real thing comes along.
prime minister. Not only have could, reluctantly, be tolerated is the responsibility of govern- Of course there is a down
form, and possibly the Sydney Morning Herald too, is
just about all the old Abbott poli- but that they must never be re- ment – well, the Turnbull/Ab- side: the more Malcolm Turn-
unlikely to take on more print headaches.
cies retained, but new ones – the garded as equal, or be encour- bott government, anyway – to bull impersonates Tony Ab-
But Murdoch is not the only possibility. The strug- sort that might have sprung, aged to be confident in their keep them rising forever. And bott, the further his lead in the
gle to overturn coastal environmental protection is fully formed, from the head of sexual identity: a totally Abbott moreover, the profits of inves- opinion polls declines. And the
the precursor – have emerged. approach to matters of so-called tors have to be guaranteed: any more Abbott (the original one)
fiercest in Byron Shire, where developers dream of a
The chairmanship of the ul- morality. losses are simply unacceptable. continues to shower advice from
mini Gold Coast from the Tweed border to Belongil.
tra-sensitive Intelligence and Se- But these were the sideshows The purpose of negative gear- the sidelines, the more the voters
As well as providing campaign contributions for the curity Committee has been gifted – mere harbingers of what was ing is not to regulate a competi- will remember how glad they
election of councillors attuned to this vision, as they did to the rightwing warrior Andrew to come. When it came to Bill tive housing market and expand were to get rid of him. Even if,
Nicolic. Nicolic is an ex-military Shorten’s policy on negative gear- home ownership and rentals, it it increasingly appears, that they
here in 2012, the white-shoe brigade might see gaining
man, and nothing wrong with ing, Turnbull morphed into the is, primarily, to feather the nests haven’t. The ultimate irony of the
control of a local paper like The Byron News as a use-
that, but he is hardly the leader full Abbott – implacably belliger- of property speculators. Bolt-Jones magical transforma-
ful counterweight to The Echo. Of course the project needed to head what is sup- ent, relentlessly negative, wildly And why stop there? If prop- tion is that it might, just might,
would lose money, but the glittering prize of open- posed to be a bi-partisan group hyperbolic and barely coherent. erty speculators are to be given not only turn demon king Mal-
balancing national security with Malcolm Turnbull’s negative iron-clad financial security and colm back into emperor Tony
slather development would more than compensate.
domestic concerns. gearing became Tony Abbott’s unlimited capital gains, what but also turn Bill the toad into
Unfortunately, the reality is that most of APN’s titles
Nicolic is on record as saying carbon tax: the most destructive about those who invest in the Shorten the prime minister.
will close, unable to find buyers. It may be some com-
fort that the least likely to disappear is The Byron News
Mullumbimby High School “I never want to
itself. Someone, somewhere will want to keep a media
presents
foothold in our most iconic town. have to cross the
David Lovejoy STEP UP street to avoid you.”
News tips are welcome: [email protected]
David Runciman
“The journey to high school”
The Byron Shire Echo
Since 1992
Established 1986 David’s company
has manufactured
blinds, security doors,
screens, awnings and
patio covers for homes and businesses
throughout Byron Shire. He never wants to
Nicholas Shand avoid a customer in the street, so he insists on
1948–1996
Founding Editor Join us for a night of: fi rst-class quality and backs up what he says.
Call Dave for a quote... he’ll see you’re right!
General Manager Simon Haslam • Information
Editor Hans Lovejoy • Entertainment BThroughout Byron ShirSe
Photographer Jeff Dawson • Questions and Answers RUNSWICK HEAD
Advertising Manager Angela Cornell
• Light Refreshments BLINDS & AWNINGS
Production Manager Ziggi Browning
‘The job of a newspaper is to comfort the afflicted and afflict the 14 Bonanza Drive Billinudgel 6680 4353
comfortable.’ – Finley Peter Dunne 1867–1936
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6 pm - Thursday 10th March
Mullumbimby: Village Way, Stuart St. Ph 02 6684 1777 Fax [phone]
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10 March 2, 2016 The Byron Shire Echo Byron Shire Echo archives: www.echo.net.au/byron-echo