No fuel, no clue: Government blames panic buying as local suppliers run empty
If you see a Transwest truck on the road in the next couple of days, it’s likely to be empty. But the federal government says you’re the problem.
NarraBRIGHT to feature national lighting artists in expanded program
NarraBRIGHT will return in 2026 with its most ambitious program yet, featuring large-scale light installations and projections by nationally recognised artists Mandylights and Illuminart.
Taste Tamworth celebrates region’s unique strengths
Tamworth is known as Australia’s country music capital, but the region is also teeming with fresh produce and the Taste Tamworth Festival is ready to celebrate both.
No connection between campsite murders
Two fatal incidents at campsites across the New England in the past week are not connected, police say, despite a number of striking similarities between the cases.
Local News
Telstra to upgrade 4G and 5G services in Glen Innes
Telstra will upgrade its mobile base station at Martins Lookout, which services Glen Innes, to improve 4G and 5G connectivity for customers in the area.
Seasons of New England Expo returns with expanded two-day celebration
The much-loved Seasons of New England Expo is set to return this year bigger than ever, with organisers expanding the event to a full two-day program celebrating the region’s makers, producers and artisans.
Treasure hunters invited to three-day antique showcase
The Armidale Antique Fair is set to return this March with a new partnership that promises to make it one of the standout events on the region’s cultural calendar.
Bellingen gets Disaster Declaration for Waterfall Way
The Bellingen Shire has scored a Natural Disaster Declaration that will provide some relief to businesses in Dorrigo, Thora and Bellingen affected by the Waterfall Way closure.
What's On
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Events
Old-time Music Jam @ Welder’s Dog BreweryEnds: March 12, 2026
ArtsNational Lecture: “The Brilliance of Brunel:…”Ends: March 12, 2026
Maria River Cattle Co. Armidale CupEnds: March 13, 2026
The Maria River Cattle Co Armidale CupEnds: March 13, 2026
35th ANNUAL GEM AND CRAFT SHOWEnds: March 14, 2026
Politics
Littleproud quits as Nationals leader
Nationals leader David Littleproud has announced he is stepping down in a surprise decision, saying he’s ‘buggered.’
Hanson dismisses Senate rebuke
Pauline Hanson has dismissed a censure against her by the Senate as an attack on One Nation following her rise in the polls.
A third council vacancy with Brown departing Narrabri Shire
A third councillor in the region has stepped down, with Narrabri Shire Councillor Amanda Brown formally resigning from Council effective Friday, 27 February 2026, after being diagnosed with cancer.
Birds, mould, and fungus found throughout hospitals
After two patients died as a result of a fungal outbreak, a review of hospital maintenance has revealed disturbing infestations embedded in multiple facilities – including a major hospital in New England.
Council tests trigger train advocate alarm
Studies by Armidale Regional Council to progress the New England Rail Trail have triggered alarm in campaigners opposed to the project, while Glen Innes Severn have asked the NSW Government for certainty.
Farmers warn of conservation “land grab”
A controversial proposal from an anti-farming environmental group risks handing control of private land to government under the guise of conservation.
Nominations open for 2026 Australian Cotton Industry Awards
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Australian Cotton Industry Awards, recognising excellence across the sector
Energy and Environment
Narrabri drops to level 3 water restrictions tonight
Narrabri Shire Council says that they have reached Drought Management Plan trigger to drop from Level 4 water restrictions to Level 3.
New England set to rally for Clean Up Australia Day
Clean Up Australia Day returns on Sunday 1 March 2026, with Armidale Regional Council once again encouraging locals to roll up their sleeves and take part in the nation’s largest community environmental event.
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT >
Restoring the past, reimagining the future at Jolly Good Emporium
Behind the doors of 168–170 Beardy Street, a 150-year-old building is being lovingly restored and reimagined, not simply as an antiques store, but as a heritage-inspired space where history, craftsmanship and community…
“People deserve health”: local gastroenterologist looks at the bigger picture
For local gastroenterologist Dr Pran Yoganathan, better health is at the intersection of clinical science, lived experience, and a deep curiosity about the systems shaping modern health.
BUSINESS
New England towns share in $2m boost for regional night-time economy
Tamworth will share in a $2 million NSW Government pilot aimed at boosting regional night-time economies.
INDIGENOUS
New toolkit to help New England councils strengthen Closing the Gap partnerships
Tamworth’s landmark Aboriginal partnership is being highlighted as NSW launches a new Closing the Gap toolkit for local councils.
SPORT
Regional Academy Games launched in Tamworth
Regional sporting talent took centre stage in Tamworth with the official launch of the 2026 Your Local Club Regional Academy Games.
On engage now
Engage is our hub for opinion, letters, comments and ideas.
- Opinion: Is democracy the worst form of government – apart from all the others?
James Ley asks five experts about the strengths and weaknesses of democracy, the face evidence that trust in democratic institutions is declining. The post Opinion: Is democracy the worst form of government – apart from all the others? appeared first on New England Times Engage.
> Submit your own opinion, letter or comment to New England Times Engage
Good News
Tamworth takes centre stage at inaugural MTA NSW Automotive Excellence Awards
Tamworth has emerged as one of the big winners at the inaugural Motor Traders’ Association of New South Wales (MTA NSW) Automotive Excellence Awards 2026, with a local apprentice and business both taking home honours on the night.
New England students medal at NSW Rowing Championships
The Armidale School has won gold and bronze at the NSW State Rowing Championships despite storm disruptions.
