Northern Rivers Community Gallery

Byron Bay & Northern NSW


An excellent regional gallery representing the strong creative community that is an essential part of this region. Housed in the historic former Ballina Municipal Council Chambers, built in 1927, it hosts a rota of shows that showcase local artists and craftspeople, and also includes edgy, contemporary works and interesting events. There's a terrific cafe too.

The Gallery has expanded next door to include artist space Ignite Studios.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Byron Bay & Northern NSW attractions

1. Ballina Naval & Maritime Museum

0.34 MILES

In the 19th century Ballina was the third-largest port in NSW, and following WWII many ex-navy personnel took jobs in the shipyards here. One of the most…

2. Big Prawn

1.84 MILES

Ballina's big prawn was nearly thrown on the BBQ in 2009, but no one had the stomach to dispatch it. After a $400,000 restoration in 2013 by hardware…

3. Reconciliation Tunnel Murals

2.32 MILES

Murals painted inside the tunnel here by Aboriginal artists depict the creation story of the Three Brothers who were ancestral founders of the Bundjalung…

4. Pat Morton Lookout

4.9 MILES

This lookout on Lennox Head itself, immediately south of the turn-off to the town, is a great spot for whale watching in winter.

5. Seven Mile Beach

5.57 MILES

Long Seven Mile Beach starts at the township and stretches north. It's accessible to 4WDs, but you need a permit from the automated kiosk on Camp Drewe Rd…

6. Lake Ainsworth

6.15 MILES

Lying just in-shore from the beach, this freshwater lake is tinged brown by tannins leeching from the tea trees along its banks. Don't fret: it's…

7. Kings Beach

11.44 MILES

South of Suffolk Park, this popular clothing-optional, gay-friendly beach is just off Seven Mile Beach Rd past the Broken Head Holiday Park.

8. Cape Byron Distillery

14.75 MILES

Set on the Brook family's scenic farm in Byron's hinterland is the Cape Byron Distillery, home to a much-lauded Brookie's dry gin. It's created with 26…