Local councils ready for further phase out of single use plastics
Local councils across the New England are preparing for the next phase of single use plastic phase outs, as the NSW Government moves to further reduce plastic waste under the NSW Plastics Plan 2.0.
New booths boost privacy and learning at Inverell library
Inverell Shire Public Library has expanded its services with the installation of three new private study and meeting booths, giving residents greater access to quiet, flexible and confidential spaces in the heart of town. The new facilities were delivered through $60,000 in funding under the 2024–25 Library Council of New South Wales Public Library Infrastructure…
Koala “misinformation” cry as population counts soar
Fresh data reveals Australia’s koala count could be much higher than previously thought, as a contentious park to protect the species is called into question.
One mum’s baby bundles become life-changing charity
A pack of newborn clothes posted online and a conversation with a social worker were the beginnings of a charity focused on Indigenous mums and their babies.
Local News
Give a rescue pet a home this Christmas
With Christmas fast approaching, families across New South Wales are being encouraged to consider adopting a pet from a council pound or animal shelter, giving rescue dogs and cats the chance at a loving “furever” home.
“Keeping the doors open”: NSW councils to push for more federal funding
It is a subject that many New England Mayors have campaigned hard for: restoration of the FAGs.
$209 million Armidale battery to help power peak demand
A large-scale battery near Armidale with the capacity to supply 60,000 homes during peak times has been given the green light for construction.
Funding secured for major solar upgrades at key community facilities
Narrabri Shire Council has welcomed $157,151.00 in funding to deliver new rooftop solar systems at two of the Shire’s highest energy-use facilities.
2025 Bad Santa Delivery Survey: New England residents not immune to dodgy Christmas gifting
Australia’s festive season is a minefield of unwanted gifts and last-minute panic buys, with the latest research revealing New England locals are just as likely to give – or receive – a dud Christmas present.
What's On
Santa can’t save small business, but consumers can
Consumers in New England North West are being urged to support local small businesses this festive season, with fresh data revealing that many enterprises are facing mounting financial pressure.
Events
Dusky Buzz 60’s NightEnds: December 19, 2025
Armidale FREE Community Christmas Day LunchEnds: December 25, 2025
UNI 101 STUDENT INFO SESSIONEnds: January 8, 2026
Oasis Community GardenEnds: January 15, 2026
Tenterfield Farmers & Producers MarketEnds: January 17, 2026
Politics
New road categorisation system a win for councils
Local councils across the New England can look forward to a smoother ride ahead, with the NSW Government unveiling a new, modern road recategorisation system
Nationals membership surges after Barnaby’s departure
Both the Nationals and One Nation are using the defection of Barnaby Joyce to boost membership, as the former Nationals MP defends his party leader’s history of inflammatory racial rhetoric.
Christmas reminders for pig owners
With Christmas just over two weeks away, many are planning the centrepiece of their festive feast. For pig owners eyeing a meat-heavy menu, it’s crucial to remember: disposing of meat-based scraps properly isn’t just important—it’s a matter of animal health and biosecurity.
MLA unveils top 10 market information industry trends for 2025
Australia’s red meat industry is demonstrating resilience, productivity gains and strong global demand in 2025, with record production, high prices and export performance forecast across beef, sheepmeat and goat sectors, according to Meat & Livestock Australia’s latest Top 10 trends of 2025 report.
Energy and Environment
AEMO releases draft roadmap for national energy transition for consultation
AEMO’s Draft 2026 ISP is open for consultation until 13 February 2026 and will be finalised by June 2026.
Powering up Armidale: The church helping locals cut their bills
At Armidale Uniting Church, the shift toward clean energy has become a practical, community-focused effort
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT
Tow World Tamworth puts people, service and adventure first
Tamworth’s much-loved Tow World is shifting up a gear under the leadership of new owners, Gayle and Troy Black, who have brought fresh energy, local passion, and a strong customer focus to…
Law Conveyancing Welcomes New Solicitor and Expands for the Future
There’s an exciting new chapter underway for Law Conveyancing and Legal Services, as the Inverell-based firm expands its team, grows its premises, and welcomes solicitor Gabrielle Robinson to the practice.
BUSINESS
Connection, creativity and curiosity: New grants bring seniors events to the New England
Seniors in the Glen Innes Highlands and Guyra will be front and centre this March as two regional councils receive funding to host inclusive, creative events as part of the NSW Seniors Festival 2026.
INDIGENOUS
Greg Inglis’ Goanna Academy brings mental health programs to Moree
Moree Plains Shire Council will welcome the Greg Inglis Goanna Academy to the region to deliver a series of engaging mental health initiatives.
SPORT
Powerhouse PBR teams announced for the Bledisloe of Bull Riding
It’s the Bledisloe of bull riding with Aussies from Walcha and Willow Tree to ride for the Cup. Read more here.
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Good News
Moree’s Kamala Wheeler honoured as NSW Adult Volunteer of the Year
Moree’s own Kamala Wheeler has been recognised on the state stage, receiving the 2025 NSW Adult Volunteer of the Year Award for her decades of service with the NSW State Emergency Service.
Inverell Youth Advisory Council plans huge 2026
The Inverell Youth Advisory Council (IYAC) has wrapped up a whirlwind year, presenting its annual report to Council and signalling that 2026 is shaping up to be even more exciting.
