The Northern Rivers: Why Our Beloved Hometown is Popular Tourist Destination

By Liam Jennings

Let me take you on a personal journey to the Northern Rivers of New South Wales, our cherished hometown, and a beloved tourist destination. Nestled between the lush green hills and pristine beaches of Australia’s east coast, this region is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. From our beaches to inland rainforest, to rolling hills and everything in between, it’s no wonder why we call the Northern Rivers home, and why so many people from around Australia, and across the globe, travel far and wide to share our experiences in this beautiful region.

One of the most compelling reasons why the Northern Rivers is a sought-after tourist destination is its unique natural beauty. From the rugged cliffs of the coastline to the rolling hills of the hinterland, this region offers a diverse landscape that captivates the soul. Picture-perfect beaches in Byron Bay, Lennox Head, Ballina (and let’s be real, all our beaches) draw surfers, sun seekers, and nature enthusiasts alike. Inland, the fertile valleys are dotted with macadamia farms, subtropical rainforests, and serene rivers, making it an idyllic setting for relaxation and adventure. Heading out west towards Casino and the Richmond Valley, you come to a huge land mass of rolling hills stretching as far as the eye can see.

Evans Head

And then we come to Byron Bay, the most famous part of our area, is a name known to travellers worldwide. It’s known for its relaxing vibe, Hippy roots, laid-back atmosphere, and stunning beaches make it a magnet for tourists seeking the perfect coastal getaway. The iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse stands as a sentinel over the easternmost point of Australia, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and a prime spot for whale watching during migration season.

For surfers, the Northern Rivers is nothing short of paradise. The region boasts an abundance of world-class surf breaks, catering to riders of all skill levels. The Point at Lennox Head, The Pass at Byron Bay, and Yamba are some of the renowned surf spots that lure wave-riders from across the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice eager to learn, the Northern Rivers waves beckon with open arms.

Beyond its natural allure, the Northern Rivers is a thriving cultural and artistic hub. Byron Bay is home to a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, music festivals, and cultural events throughout the year. But it’s not just Byron that has this culture. With any direction you travel, you’ll find something amazing. Lismore, the home of the community arts, holds an array of different events and festivals, such as the Lantern Parade and many more.

Nightcap National Park

Foodies and gastronomes will find their heaven in the Northern Rivers. The region’s rich volcanic soil and subtropical climate nurture a bounty of fresh produce. From macadamia nuts and avocados to tropical fruits and freshly caught seafood, the local cuisine is a delight for the taste buds. The farm-to-table dining experience is alive and well here, with a plethora of farmers’ markets and gourmet restaurants offering delectable dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

The Northern Rivers is a gateway to several World Heritage-listed national parks, including the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia. Exploring these pristine rainforests is like stepping back in time, with ancient trees, rare wildlife, and cascading waterfalls creating an enchanting setting for bush walks and eco-adventures. The Border Ranges National Park and Nightcap National Park are must-visit destinations for nature lovers. But remember, with our community working hard to protect and conserve this rainforest over the years, it is important to leave no trace and respect the land in which it is on.

What truly sets the Northern Rivers apart is its strong sense of community and the countless festivals that celebrate life, music, and art. Events like the Byron Bay Bluesfest, Splendour in the Grass, Falls Festival, and the Mullum Music Festival draw visitors from all corners of the globe. These festivals showcase the region’s spirit of inclusion, creativity, and appreciation for the arts. With some huge international headliners, to some of our smaller opening acts, it is a great representation of our regions artistic culture.

Nimbin

The Northern Rivers is dotted with charming small towns, each with its unique character and history. Places like Bangalow, Nimbin, and Mullumbimby offer a glimpse into the region’s past and a taste of its distinct culture. Out west, you have towns such as Casino, Tenterfield and Bentley, then down south we have the beautiful coastal towns of Evans Head, Yamba, Iluka and so many more. Whatever direction you follow, you’ll find a small town or village with true beauty and unique local people.

The Northern Rivers of New South Wales, our beloved hometown, is a popular tourist destination for good reason. Its unparalleled natural beauty, world-class surf breaks, vibrant arts scene, and strong sense of community create a tapestry of experiences that leave visitors enchanted. Whether you’re here to soak up the sun on pristine beaches, explore ancient rainforests, or immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, the Northern Rivers offers something for everyone. As locals, we are all continually grateful to call this incredible region home, and we invite anyone to discover its magic for yourself.

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Hold a garage sale this Second Hand Saturday!

ADVITORIAL

Second Hand Saturday – the North Coast’s biggest day of garage sales is back again and registrations to hold a garage sale are now open.

Over this month, Northern Rivers Council’s together with North East Waste, are hosting a series of free workshops for Buy Nothing New Month, to encourage reuse and repair over landfill. This year, Second Hand Saturday will conclude these celebrations and be held on one date only – Saturday 4 November.

Linda Tohver from North East Waste is inviting people to get involved in this year’s event, held across the Council areas of Tweed, Byron, Ballina, Kyogle, Richmond Valley, Lismore and the Clarence Valley.

“With millions of tonnes of waste being sent to landfill by Australian households every year, the humble garage sale is one of the easiest ways we can reduce the amount of ‘stuff’ ending up in landfill,” Linda said.

Selling pre-loved goods and buying second hand is a great way to keep items circulating within our community, especially when many of us are looking at options to reduce the cost of living.”

Second Hand Saturday Poster

Residents who register for Second Hand Saturday will once again have the option of holding their own garage sale, or to organise a joint sale with family and friends.

“We always encourage people to join forces with their local community to attract more attention – get your neighbours involved and hold a street sale, run a fundraiser or collate your efforts at your local club, school or church.  That’s just one of our tips for the day to get the crowds to your sale!” Linda said.

This year all registered garage sale addresses will appear in local newspapers, with full details listed on the Second Hand Saturday website. All you need to do is register online at www.secondhandsaturday.com.au before 25 October to ensure your address will be printed in your local newspaper. Alternatively, as listings go live after the registration process is complete, you can still register up until the 3 November, for a web-only listing.

For more information, visit the Second Hand Saturday website www.secondhandsaturday.com.au, follow the mysecondhandsaturday Facebook page or contact your local Council.

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Start of bridge work on Coffs Harbour bypass

The latest milestone in the construction of the Coffs Harbour bypass is boring – literally.

Two piling rigs are now onsite to start piling work as part of building the 17 bridges needed for the bypass. Work will start on bridges for the Englands Road Interchange, at North Boambee, and for the Korora Hill Interchange.

The project team will build 42 piles in the Englands Road area and 29 for the northern interchange.

Transport for NSW Director North Region Anna Zycki said the Coffs Harbour bypass construction team would build more than 300 bridge piles across the alignment, with each pile taking about eight hours to complete.

“Bored piling for the bridges at these interchanges will be carried out weekdays from 7am to 6pm and Saturdays from 8am to 1pm and will take about two months to complete, weather permitting,” Ms Zycki said.

The overall bridge piling work across the alignment is expected to continue into 2026.

Start of bridge work on Coffs Harbour bypass

“The work will include building pads on which the piling rigs will sit, drilling through soil and rock to form pile holes and installing steel reinforcement cages into the holes,” Ms Zycki said.

“We’ll then pour concrete into the holes to build the piles and, when the concrete is set, use jackhammers to remove any excess from the overpour.”

Ms Zycki said that to minimise noise and disruption, the bypass team would use a bored piling technique.

“Piling falls largely into two categories, bored and driven piles,” Ms Zycki said.

“Bored piling is much quieter and less disruptive than driven piles as they don’t require hammering, but there will still be moderate and consistent noise from the piling rig as it drills through the soil and rock.

“Towards the end of the digging operation there will be louder clangs when material is removed from the rig’s drill piece.

“Plant and equipment will be positioned as far as possible from neighbours and respite periods may be scheduled, where required.”

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