Shop, stroll, shine: Christmas in the Highlands returns with lights and local finds
Glen Innes is set to shine this festive season with Christmas in the Highlands – Illuminations, a vibrant afternoon bringing art, light and community spirit.
Local growers asked to join NSW Action Research Network
Local grain and cotton growers are being invited to take part in a major new initiative aimed at reducing emissions while supporting profitable, productive farming across New South Wales
Homestead Road Bridal Co brings designer elegance to Uralla
Uralla’s newest boutique, Homestead Road Bridal Co, is bringing a touch of designer glamour to country weddings, offering luxurious made-to-order and preloved gowns in a warm and welcoming rural setting. The specialist boutique was operating in Quirindi before Emily De Flippis and her husband purchased it and moved it to its new home on Bridge…
Christmas in the Mall brings magic to Armidale
Armidale locals and visitors alike are invited to join in a magical evening filled with festive cheer as Armidale’s Christmas in the Mall takes place again this year.
Local News
Stage set for new talent to rock Tamworth
On Wednesday, 21 January 2026 from 3-6pm at Tamworth Youth Centre, the Buddy Knox Talent Contest, to be hosted by the award-winning blues musician, will provide opportunities for emerging Aboriginal musicians and performers to put on a song and dance.
Home studio blossoms into business for Armidale artist
Armidale artist Robyn Markey has turned a lifetime of creativity into a full time business, building Robyn Markey Art from her home studio and a deep love of still life and flowers.
Virtual Health Pod launches in Tenterfield
A first-of-its-kind in NSW telehealth pod is now operational in Tenterfield, providing bulk-billed psychology appointments to local residents, without the need to travel.
Narrabri’s Patrick O’Hanlon recognised in 2025 RFS Youth Awards
Narrabri’s Patrick O’Hanlon has been named Young Volunteer of the Year at the 2025 NSW RFS Youth Awards. Read more here.
PCYC to do more to support local young people
The Police Citizens Youth Club will expand its work across the regions, with the Minns Government announcing a major funding boost to support programs that are already changing young lives across New South Wales.

What's On
Building beautiful spaces, one tile at a time with BH Wall and Floor Tiling
BH Wall & Floor Tiling is a small, family-run business headed by local tiler Brock Hobday, who has built a reputation for precision, reliability, and genuine pride in his work.
Events
PLC Armidale Signature Summer FairEnds: November 29, 2025
PLC Armidale Signature Summer FairEnds: November 29, 2025
Markets in the mallEnds: November 30, 2025
Save the date for Rising TideEnds: December 3, 2025
Armidale Farmers MarketEnds: December 14, 2025
Politics
Coffs Harbour MP new NSW Nationals Leader, Tamworth’s Kevin Anderson deputy
Tamworth MP Kevin Anderson has been elected unopposed as the new deputy leader of the NSW Nationals, joining newly installed leader and Coffs Harbour MP Gurmesh Singh at the helm of the state party.
Plan to protect livestock during bushfire season
Local Land Services is urging farmers and animal owners to include livestock and pets in their bushfire planning.
Trump lifts tariffs on Australian beef
Just days after New England beef producers dominated at the World Steak Challenge, US President Donald Trump has announced he will lift tariffs on Australian beef.
Energy and Environment
Armidale’s Bryan Johnston named recipient of 2025 John Winter-Irving Bequest
Southern New England Landcare Ltd has announced Bryan Johnston of Armidale as the recipient of the 2025 John Winter-Irving Bequest.
$4 million boost to bolster Narrabri’s water security
Narrabri’s water supply is set for a significant upgrade, with the NSW Government committing $4 million to deliver a portable water treatment plant and develop new production bores for the town.
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT
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.
Granny Fi’s Toy Cupboard: handmade magic and a growing online adventure
From hand-crafted dragons and whimsical dolls to enchanted accessories, this family-run business has become a beloved name for anyone who believes in the magic of make-believe. But wait… there’s more…
BUSINESS
Evergrow Productions expands with new Farm Hub Cafe in Inverell
Evergrow Productions has entered an exciting new chapter with the launch of its Farm Hub Cafe, a development that builds on years of work at the business’s demonstration farm and the success of its VERTI-POTS vertical growing system.
INDIGENOUS
First Nations voices take centre stage in Tamworth
A powerful celebration of First Nations music, art, and community, Yaama Guduu, Greetings Murray Cod will land in the heart of Tamworth from 28 to 30 November.
SPORT
Herrick seals second national title as Dunker dominates Gunnedah TT round
A huge crowd returned to Gunnedah’s Balcary Park on Sunday for the final day of the Yamaha BLU CRU Aussie Flat Track Nationals, where Thomas Herrick claimed his second Pro 450 championship

Engage is our hub for opinion, letters, comments and ideas.
On engage now
- QW: Mudgee stands with New England
Michael Sweeney from Mudgee says regional communities are united in the battle to restore their railways, after years of being dismissed by governments and TfNSW despite strong evidence and support. The post QW: Mudgee stands with New England appeared first on New England Times Engage.
> Submit your own opinion, letter or comment to New England Times Engage
Good News
Local manufacturer fills tiny home gap with regulatory confidence
A New England business is carving out a niche in Australia’s fast-growing tiny home market with a design that does something most competitors can’t promise: confidence.
Sparkle, share and celebrate Christmas spirit in Gunnedah and Guyra
The Christmas season is set to sparkle with festive celebrations kicking off across the New England – including the annual Christmas Lights competition in Gunnedah, and the Christmas Carnival in Guyra.








