Captain Henry Rous of the HMS'Rainbow' discovered the Richmond
River in 1828 when between 400 and 500 aborigines lived along its banks. They called this place 'Bullenah' meaning 'Place where oysters are plentiful'.

The original settlement, however, was called "Debtford" at first, but was
later renamed "Ballina".

Today we have a population in the Shire of approx 39,000, with a
flourishing tourism and fishing industry, supported by a thriving industrial and commercial centre with modern shopping complexes. Our region also has vast agricultural areas for sugar, macadamia nuts, avocado and stone fruit, beef
and dairy.

Alstonville, Wardell and Lennox Head are part of our Shire, which is the fastest growing area in the Northern Rivers Visit the many attractions and enjoy our hospitality.

The 'Maritime Museum with the 'La Balsa Raft Exhibition' (situated behind the Tourism Information Centre) will give you an exciting glimpse of the seafaring pioneers that opened up this northern region.

Enjoy our 32km of beautiful white sandy beaches and many patrolled areas. Our surf has a worldwide reputation as being one of the best along the Australian coastline. We are only 2.5 hours away from Brisbane, 9 hours from Sydney (or 1.5 hours vby plane).

For more information contact our Tourist Information Centre: