Defending The Shire's Natural Environment Since 1983
The Ballina Environment Society (BES) is Ballina Shire’s volunteer organisation dedicated solely to promoting improvements in environmental policies, protecting the natural environment, and defending environmental values shire-wide.
Born out of community concern over the first Local Environmental Plan, BES was established in 1983 and has been fighting major environmental battles across the Shire and the wider Northern Rivers Region ever since. We are an autonomous Incorporated Association, respected and recognized by both Local and State Governments
For over 40 years, the Ballina Environment Society (BES) has been a voice for our community and the environment — advocating for sustainable planning, protecting our unique ecosystems, and ensuring future growth respects both people and place.
Core Principles
Our Constitution requires us to uphold these four core principles:
Protect Special Sites
Work to protect the Shire's natural environment, special ecological sites, and features.
Promote Biodiversity
Encourage habitat maintenance and expansion for native flora and fauna to flourish, and work to eradicate environmentally harmful invasive species.
Ensure Harmony
Work for environmental harmony in major land and building development proposals.
Advocate Policy
Promote public policies that recognize the intrinsic value of local fauna and flora and support environmentally sustainable, low-impact economic public works.
Meet the BES Committee
Sarah King - President
Jason Shrieves - Treasurer
Susan Fitzpatrick - Secretary
Len Gazzard - Committee Member
Justine Rowe - Committee Member
A Community Voice For The Future
The Ballina Environment Society is an independent, non-partisan organisation, recognised and respected by all levels of government for its informed and constructive advocacy. Our success has always come from community collaboration — people like you who care about the future of Ballina’s natural and built environment.
Whether you can contribute your skills, time, or ideas, your participation helps shape a greener, safer, and more sustainable Shire for future generations.
