Draft Hampton Park Reserve Master Plan Open for Public Feedback

By Robert Heyward

Ballina Shire Council is inviting community members to provide feedback on the Draft Master Plan for Hampton Park Reserve, which is now on public exhibition.

The draft plan outlines a vision for the future of Hampton Park, aiming to balance open space, community green areas, and active recreation while building on existing infrastructure for tennis and other uses.

Early in 2024, Council conducted extensive community consultation to gather insights from key user groups about how the reserve is used and what improvements residents would like to see.

Community Feedback Highlights

Some of the key themes identified during consultation include:

• Protecting the iconic fig trees and planting additional shade trees
• Addressing drainage and flooding concerns
• Improving car parking and footpath connections
• Preserving community green spaces for informal activities
• Supporting sporting groups’ aspirations to expand court capacity

Proposed Improvements

Following consultation, a Draft Master Planning Report was presented at the 28 November 2024 Ordinary Council Meeting, where it was resolved to prepare an amended draft for public exhibition.

The proposed design includes several significant changes:

• Formalised on-street car parking
• A new vehicle access point off Moon Street
• Closure of Burnet Street driveway access upon construction

The plan aims to balance the competing demands for space, ensuring a functional and attractive environment for general community use while meeting the needs of active sports and recreation groups.

Have Your Say

Council is seeking input from the community to help shape the final version of the Hampton Park Reserve Master Plan.

• Do you agree with the vision?
• Are the priorities right?

Residents are invited to complete an online feedback form after reading the Draft Master Plan in full.

Submissions close Friday, 28 February 2025.

Future Planning and Implementation

While no funding has yet been allocated for the implementation of works, the finalised Master Plan will serve as a key management framework for the reserve. It will also guide future investment and planning to ensure that community needs and aspirations are met.

For more information, visit the Ballina Shire Council website.

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Labor Commits $3 Million for North Coast Crime Prevention

By Robert Heyward

Local MP Justine Elliot has welcomed Prime Minister Anthony Albanese back to the North Coast to announce a $3 million investment in crime prevention infrastructure for the region. The funding will be delivered under a North Coast Crime Prevention Infrastructure Action Plan if the Albanese Government is re-elected.

The $3 million commitment will allocate $1 million each to Tweed Shire Council, Ballina Shire Council, and Byron Shire Council to support initiatives aimed at improving community safety.

Justine Elliot, a former frontline police officer, emphasized the importance of investing in crime prevention measures.

“As someone who’s worked on the front line, I know how vital it is to have the right resources, including CCTV, to combat crime and protect our community,” Ms. Elliot said.

“This funding will allow local councils to implement CCTV systems, improved lighting, bollards, fencing, and landscaping to enhance community safety, reduce crime risks, and improve the vibrancy of shared public spaces.”

Delivering for the North Coast

Ms. Elliot praised the Prime Minister’s long-standing commitment to the North Coast and described the funding announcement as a major win for the community.

“The Prime Minister has always been a great friend of the North Coast—he understands our region well, and this announcement reflects that,” she said. “Labor listens and Labor acts. This $3 million investment is a result of the tireless advocacy from locals who care deeply about improving safety in our communities.”

Building Safer Communities

The Crime Prevention Infrastructure Action Plan is designed to help local councils deliver targeted improvements in community spaces, increasing safety while enhancing the usability of these areas.

“Only a re-elected Albanese Labor Government can be trusted to invest in the infrastructure our community needs to keep the North Coast a safe place to live, work, and raise a family,” Ms. Elliot said.

The funding announcement is expected to provide significant support for community safety projects across the North Coast, with local councils now set to outline priority areas for implementation.

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Ballina Council Set to Enhance Beach Access at Lighthouse Beach

By Jeff Gibbs

Ballina Shire Council is set to commence a significant upgrade to the beach access at Lighthouse Beach, East Ballina, aimed at improving accessibility for all and enhancing emergency response capabilities.

Key Features of the Project

The upcoming works will include:

• Universal Beach Access Ramp: A newly constructed concrete ramp equipped with stainless steel handrails and tactile surface indicators to ensure accessibility for individuals of all abilities.
• Emergency Vehicle Access Extension: An extension of the current emergency vehicle concrete ramp to facilitate improved access for emergency services.
• Enhanced Amenities: A concrete block retaining wall with integrated stairs leading directly to the beach showers, improving convenience for beachgoers.

Cheyne Willebrands, Manager of Open Spaces at Ballina Shire Council, expressed enthusiasm about the project: “This project aims to ensure people of all abilities can enjoy our beautiful coastline. The improved beach access ramp has been a long-term goal for Council, and we are excited to deliver this important infrastructure for the community.”

Construction Timeline and Community Impact

Construction is scheduled to begin on 10 February 2025, with an anticipated completion time of approximately two months, subject to weather conditions. During this period:

• Alternative Beach Access: Temporary access will be available via the front of the Lighthouse Beach Surf Life Saving Club slab.
• Uninterrupted Services: Lifeguard operations and the kiosk beneath the Surf Club building will remain open throughout the construction phase.

Funding and Community Support

This vital project is jointly funded by the Australian Government and the New South Wales Government under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. Ballina Shire Council extends its gratitude to the community for their patience and support during the construction period.

For further updates and detailed information about the project, visit ballina.nsw.gov.au.

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Mikayla Memorial at Melanoma March

By Samantha Elley

Twenty four-year-old Mikayla Green had everything to live for.

The Ballina resident and her partner, Ryan Clarke, who was studying to be a doctor, had made their lives in Canberra.

“She was loveable,” said grandmother, Pauline Dorey, “Amongst the grandkids, she was the glue as she kept all the kids together.”

Then in 2018, Mikayla noticed a mark on her head that didn’t seem to go away.

“The specialist said he wanted more detail, so she was booked to have an MRI,” said Pauline.

“He said it was a haematoma and to come back in 12 months.”

Mikayla & Ryan

In October 2019, it was found to be a stage four melanoma.

It was believed the haematoma had covered the growing tumour.

Mikayla was sent straight to Sydney where more tests were done and the cancer was found to be in her liver.

Treatment seemed to be working at first and the young couple moved to Armidale so Ryan could continue his studies.

During this time Ryan proposed to his beloved girlfriend and they planned a wedding in Byron Bay for April 16, 2022.

“By February 2022, just before the floods, it was the last time she came home,” said Pauline.

“I thought she looked really good but she ended up in Armidale hospital and was then sent to Sydney where she was told she only had 4-6 weeks to live.

“They flew her back to Ballina and she lasted not even a week.”

Mikayla passed away on April 8 and her funeral was held on her wedding day.

Mikayla

Pauline and her daughter, Sharyn Dorey, Mikayla’s mother, had dressed her in her wedding dress after she died.

The Dorey family are determined that no other family should suffer what they have been through, especially when something as simple as wearing a hat, putting on sunscreen or wearing long sleeves out in the sun, could save a life.

The Melanoma March is now in its third year and will be held on Sunday, March 9 starting from Missingham Park, near the amphitheatre.

People are to gather at 7.30am where speeches will be held at 8am and the walk will commence at 8.30am where the path will go across the bridge and out to the breakwall.

Ballina-on-Richmond Rotary will be holding a barbeque and there will also be a coffee van.

“It still is raw,’ said Pauline. “One of Mikayla’s wishes was that Ryan finished his medical studies, which he did.

“He is now known as Dr Ryan Clarke.”

To make a donation to the Melanoma Institute Australia or to find out more about the march, visit here.

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Your 2025 Ballina Australia Day Award Winners Announced

By Jeff Gibbs

Today, the Ballina Shire community gathered to celebrate local heroes, welcome new Australian citizens, and recognise all the great things about living in this beautiful region. The official Australia Day Ceremony, hosted by Ballina Shire Council at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre, highlighted the achievements of individuals and groups who have made an extraordinary impact on the community.

The event opened with a Welcome to Country from Uncle Ricky Cook and featured lively performances by Katie Rutledge, Narelle Harris, Ian Davis, and Ray Arnott. The ceremony also included a heartwarming citizenship ceremony, where 12 new Australian citizens from countries including Argentina, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Africa, and the United Kingdom were officially welcomed.

The highlight of the day was the announcement of the 2025 Ballina Shire Australia Day Award Winners, presented by Mayor Sharon Cadwallader alongside Master of Ceremonies Sandra Jackson, a popular announcer from 101.9 Paradise FM. Mayor Cadwallader praised the nominees and winners, saying:

“I am deeply impressed by the calibre of this year’s nominees and the diversity of their achievements. From rescue volunteers to wildlife carers and mental health advocates, all have shown exceptional dedication to our community. Their contributions inspire us to work together to build a stronger, more vibrant Ballina Shire.”

2025 Award Winners

Citizen of the Year: Ezekiel (Zeke) Knight

Zeke Knight, a member of the Ballina SES Unit for eight years, was honoured for his incredible contributions as the Co-Section Head of Flood Rescue and Senior Road Crash Rescue Operator. At just 21 years old, Zeke received the NSW SES Commissioner’s Commendation for Courage for rescuing two people from floodwaters during the 2022 floods.

Zeke has also revitalised the SES flood rescue team, growing it from two in-water operators to eight, and has been a driving force behind the Young Volunteers Program (YETI’s), mentoring youth to develop skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose. His leadership and dedication have made a lasting impact on the Ballina community.

Ezekiel Knight

Local Hero: Jodie Shelly

Jodie Shelly’s tireless efforts with the Rotary Club of Ballina-on-Richmond earned her this prestigious title. As Club Service Director, Jodie has organised major events such as the Duck Race, Purple Shirt Domestic Violence Awareness Campaign, and Rotary District 9640 Conference.

Jodie also contributes through her role as Secretary for The Hot Meal Centre in Ballina, managing social media, IT support, and producing Rotary’s weekly newsletter, The Beacon. Her humble, behind-the-scenes efforts have been invaluable to the community.

Young Citizen of the Year: Lachlan Trease

Lachlan Trease, a member of the Alstonville Swimming Club and co-founder of an artisan bakery, was recognized for his commitment to both sport and community. Lachlan’s bakery supported flood evacuation centres in the Northern Rivers during the 2022 floods, and he has been an active leader at Emmanuel Anglican College, serving as House Captain and a member of the Student Representative Council.

Senior Citizen of the Year: Rik Dillon

A founding member of Ballina Region for Refugees, Rik Dillon has made significant contributions as a fundraiser, website developer, and advocate for refugee support. Rik is also the inaugural president of the Northern Rivers Pickleball Club, guiding its growth to over 300 members and promoting the sport across NSW.

Volunteer of the Year: Diane Parker

Diane Parker’s extensive service with Quota Alstonville over the past three decades has left an indelible mark on the community. From organising the annual Quota Craft and Garden Fair to supporting charities like Our Kids, Orange Sky, and local fire brigades, Diane’s leadership and dedication have improved countless lives.

Sporting Achievement Award: Denise Cooper

Denise Cooper was recognized for her work as an outrigger paddling coach and mentor. Over two decades, Denise has developed local talent through the Northern Rivers Outrigger Club, introduced a national curriculum for coach training, and raised funds for the Heart Foundation through motivational clinics.

Arts and Cultural Award: Mariah Cavnaugh-Roberts

Mariah’s dedication to Aboriginal education and cultural preservation has had a profound impact. As a teacher’s aide at Ballina Coast High School, she mentors Goori students in traditional and contemporary dance and organizes performances for NAIDOC Week and other events.

Environmental Award (Joint Winners):

1. Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue: Recognized for their decades-long efforts in rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife, raising awareness about conservation, and educating the community.
2. The Late Shirley White: Honoured posthumously for founding Ballina Coastcare and her groundbreaking work in regenerating Ballina’s coastal reserves.

Community Event of the Year: Ballina ANZAC Day 2024 Commemorations

The 2024 ANZAC Day events drew record crowds and included a Dawn Service, March, and Commemorative Service. Featuring initiatives like the Youth Ambassador Program and a RAAF flypast, the event united generations in honouring Australia’s servicemen and women.

For more information and photos from the 2025 Ballina Australia Day Awards ceremony, visit Ballina Shire Council’s website.

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