NRJO welcomes its new board

The new board of the Northern Rivers Joint Organisation (NRJO) met for the first time today, 8 November 2024, following the Local Government elections in New South Wales.

At the meeting, Tweed Shire Council Mayor, Cr Chris Cherry, was elected as Chair, and Ballina Shire Council Mayor, Cr Sharon Cadwallader, as Deputy Chair of the NRJO for a two-year term.

Cr Chris Cherry said they are looking forward to seeing what the joint organisation can achieve for the region this term.

“I am proud to have been elected as Chair of the NRJO by the fellow mayors,” Cr Cherry said.

“Our purposeful collaboration through the NRJO is important now more than ever.

“While we were recovering from waves of covid-19, lockdowns and border closures, our region faced the biggest flood in modern Australian history – the impacts have been devastating.

“Through the NRJO, we aim to access the programs and incentives on offer by the government that will provide our community in the Northern Rivers with the best possible opportunities to thrive.

“The Northern Rivers is our home. I know that, collectively, we will do all that we can to advocate for our community as we overcome adversity while continuing to develop a long-term shared vision for our region.”

The NRJO board membership is the mayors of the seven Local Government Areas of Ballina, Byron, Clarence Valley, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed in the Northern Rivers region of Northern NSW.

They are Cr Sharon Cadwallader, Cr Sarah Ndiaye, Cr Ray Smith, Cr Danielle Mulholland, Cr Steve Krieg, Cr Robert Mustow and Cr Chris Cherry.

The role of the NRJO is to facilitate and lead advocacy, political representation and cooperative action on matters of regional significance.

“Through our strategic partnership, we can continue to focus on what matters for our Northern Rivers community as a whole,” Cr Cherry said.

The NRJO has five priorities identified for the Northern Rivers.

They are:

• biodiverse natural environments
• improved community wellbeing
• a connected region
• sustainable energy, water and waste
• a diverse regional economy

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Nominate Lismore’s Unsung Heroes for the 2025 Australia Day Awards

By Ian Rogers

Nominations are now open for Lismore City Council’s 2025 Australia Day Awards, honouring community members who make a positive impact through volunteering, community service, or excellence in sports, arts, and other fields.

2024 Lismore Citizen of the Year, Mieke Bell, received the award for her 33 years of dedicated service at The Winsome and Lismore Soup Kitchen. Reflecting on the recognition, Ms. Bell shared, “The award was a wonderful surprise that highlighted the work of our volunteers at the Soup Kitchen. We serve up to 100 meals daily and provide holistic support to those in need. Seeing the community rally behind us has been incredible.”

Mayor Steve Krieg emphasised the importance of acknowledging Lismore’s unsung heroes: “Our community is filled with individuals who give tirelessly, without seeking recognition. The Australia Day Awards are a meaningful way to celebrate those who strengthen our community through their selflessness and dedication.”

He encouraged everyone to consider nominating a friend, neighbour, or community member who stands out. “If you know someone who contributes to our community, nominate them. The process takes just a few minutes, but the impact of this recognition is immense.”

Ms. Bell echoed this sentiment, urging the community to submit nominations: “These awards celebrate the achievements of individuals and groups who often go unrecognized but do extraordinary things. Make a nomination in any category—you’ll be honouring their hard work and inspiring others.”

Award Categories:

• Citizen of the Year
• Young Citizen of the Year
• Aboriginal Citizen of the Year
• Volunteer of the Year
• Services in the Community (Individual)
• Services in the Community (Group)
• Sportsperson/Team (Junior)
• Sportsperson/Team (Senior)
• Environment
• Arts/Culture

To nominate, visit the Lismore City Council website.

Nominations close on Friday, 13 December 2024. Take a few minutes to recognise those who make Lismore a better place to live, work, and thrive.

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Join the Byron Bay Masterplan Guidance Group: Expressions of Interest Open

By Jeff Gibbs

The Byron Shire Council is seeking passionate individuals to join the Byron Masterplan Guidance Group, a team of 22 community representatives working closely with the Council to shape the future of Byron Bay’s town centre.

This is your chance to influence what Byron Bay will look and feel like in 5, 10, and 20 years’ time.

What is the Guidance Group?

The Guidance Group represents the diverse voices of Byron Bay, contributing directly to projects that define the town’s character and community. From concept to execution, members provide valuable input on a range of initiatives aimed at preserving Byron Bay’s unique identity.

Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye described the group as a vital part of ensuring Byron Bay remains a community-focused destination.
“Despite its global recognition, Byron Bay’s heart is its people. The Guidance Group plays a key role in keeping the community at the core of every decision,” Mayor Ndiaye said.

Achievements of the Guidance Group

• Railway Park and Rail Corridor: Contributing to design and activation.
• New Byron Skate Park: Providing input to create a vibrant space for local youth.
• Old Hospital Redevelopment: Shaping plans for its transformation.
• Town Centre Enhancements: Including tree planting and additional seating.

Upcoming Projects

The group will play an integral role in delivering key projects over the next 12 months, including:

• Implementing adopted concept plans for the Byron Bay foreshore.
• Completing the Sandhills wetlands and boardwalks.
• Overseeing drainage upgrades and related traffic changes in Byron Bay.

Why Join?

“Being part of the Guidance Group is a hands-on way to make a meaningful contribution to the future of Byron Bay,” said Mayor Ndiaye. “Your voice will directly shape projects that impact the heart of our town.”

How to Apply

Expressions of Interest close on 29 November 2024. To learn more about the group or to submit your application, visit the Byron Shire Council website.

Help shape the future of Byron Bay—join the Guidance Group today!

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