Change rarely arrives all at once. More often, it reveals itself in small but significant moments.

This month’s Herald is full of those moments.

Our stunning collection of colourised photographs, (an example of AI being used for creative good), reminds us that Bangalow has never stood still. The faces, buildings and streets of more than a century ago, previously only seen in black and white, are suddenly more familiar. These coloured images collapse time and the past seems more like a memory than history.

Byron Writers Festival, formerly a jewel in Bangalow’s festival crown, is embracing change too, celebrating its 30th anniversary this month with a bold new precinct that spreads events throughout Byron Bay. 

Not all change is planned. We hear how the closure of the Bangalow Bowlo has forced our netball club to adapt to training away from home – a reminder of just how important local sporting facilities are to community life. Their story is yet another thread in the complicated conversation about protecting community assets.

Byron Shire Council’s latest flood study is another reminder of change, as our landscape, climate and relationship with water and the land continue to evolve. Preparing for that future will require thoughtful planning, informed decisions and a willingness to adapt. As our understanding of the subtropics deepens, so too does the way we think about designing homes that work with our climate rather than against it.

Change is inevitable but how we respond to it is a choice. Keeping informed, having important conversations, sharing ideas and participating in planning, advocacy and action are the most powerful tools we each have.

As always, thank you for being part of this ever-changing community publication. Finally, we are thrilled to unveil a fresh new look for our website bangalowherald.com.au.  We’d love to hear what you think.

Sally Schofield