Well this looks like the lastest thread about this run.
I will probably be leaving Brissy in just enough time to get to Byron by 1pm (not sure I can make it earlier) and catch the end of the cruise to Lismore. I will leave Brissy northside ~10-10:30am at the latest if anyone wants to join in.
As for staying overnight, in the past I have just driven out of town and camped in a side lane (don't think this is a recommended option), but the best is a short drive into Nightcap NP, a great place to sleep and check out the next morning. I have only once just parked in town by the side of the road, very crowded.
Just a word of warning about camping in some of the open paddocks, I have no idea how much rain they've had recently, but this is a wet time of year and in the past plenty have gotten stuck in the mud. Just watch where you drive in the dark!!
Some info again:
http://www.nimbinmardigrass.com/2005/kombi.html