Tamworth MP pushes for return of mobile blackspot program
Residents in Werris Creek, Manilla and other centres across the region are still waiting for reliable mobile coverage. Now Kevin Anderson is pushing hard for the return of a program that once fixed exactly this problem.
Deepwater’s historic railway station gets new lease on life
After years of sitting vacant, the Deepwater Railway Station is set to come back to life, with the Deepwater Progress Association securing a formal licence to occupy the heritage-listed building.
NAIDOC basketball gala day returns to Armidale
An Olympic medallist, free basketball competitions and cultural celebrations — Armidale’s NAIDOC Deadly 3×3 Gala Day is back on 9 July and everyone is welcome.
Almost $15 million boost for Namoi Gwydir emergency services
A new $13.1 million fire control centre and six firefighting vehicles have boosted emergency response capabilities across the Namoi Gwydir District.
Local News
Do the work: Local MP leads call for evidence in Government decisions
Part two of our Bad Numbers investigation: one local MP’s push to require evidence and consultation before any bill passes NSW Parliament, to fix a problem they’ve known about for decades.
Glen Innes’ Sonia Lawson recognised at 2026 TAFE NSW Gili Awards
Glen Innes’ Sonia Lawson has been named Creative Cultural Experience Services Student of the Year at the 2026 TAFE NSW Gili Awards, recognising her contribution to cultural education and community events.
Increased enforcement at level crossings in Uralla
Transport for NSW and police will target five Northern Tablelands level crossings to improve safety and deter risky behaviour.
Bingara’s Orange Festival returns with army band and 90 years of the Roxy
Bingara’s beloved Orange Festival is set to light up Gwydir Shire on Saturday, 4 July, with this year’s event carrying extra significance as the community marks the 90th anniversary of the iconic Roxy Theatre.
Events
New England North West Future Tourism Forum 2026 | Hosted by Business NSWEnds: June 18, 2026
Circle of Security Parenting ProgramEnds: June 19, 2026
Sapphire City MarketsEnds: June 21, 2026- Circle of Security Parenting ProgramEnds: June 26, 2026
- Circle of Security Parenting ProgramEnds: July 3, 2026
Politics
Country mayors push back on Inland Rail decision
Narrabri and Moree are among those communities “devastated” by the axing of Inland Rail — but country mayors say there is still a path to completion, and they’re taking their case straight to the minister.
Women to be hardest-hit by sweeping NDIS changes
Cost-saving measures to target the National Disability Insurance Scheme are likely to put responsibility back on families.
Anti-abortion fight evolves into ‘noxious brew’
The pro-life movement is incorporating anti-immigrant sentiment in its latest fight against abortion and reproductive healthcare.
Glen Innes, Uralla rate rises approved
IPART has approved major rate rises for Glen Innes Severn and Uralla Shire councils, with both citing infrastructure costs, underfunding and long-term financial sustainability pressures.
Welcome Experience program expands to help regional councils tackle worker shortages
Regional councils across the New England and North West are set to receive extra support in attracting and retaining staff, following the expansion of the NSW Government’s Welcome Experience program into local government.
The fuel crunch is affecting daily life across our region, so we’re doing the one thing we can do, and helping people get the information they need so we can all make it through this together. Read more
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Call to cut red tape amid fuel cost pressures
Tamworth MP Kevin Anderson is calling for cuts to red tape to help small businesses and farmers facing rising fuel costs.
READ MORE FUEL CRUNCH STORIES >
New report calls for protection of farm diesel rebate and support for electric farm machinery
Farmers for Climate Action has released a roadmap proposing protection of farm diesel rebates while supporting a transition to electric machinery.
Five days left to enter George the Farmer book competition
Schools and early learning centres have just five days to enter a competition to win a collection of George the Farmer storybooks, as Rabobank and the agricultural education brand mark five years of their Children’s Book Week partnership. Rabobank’s Rabo Community Fund is teaming up with George the Farmer to award 100 educational institutions a…
Energy and Environment
New England fishers invited to help shape the future of local waterways
Fishers, community members and environmental groups across the New England are being invited to share their knowledge of local waterways.
Mount Kaputar’s pink wonder emerges after the rain
On a cold, grey day atop Mount Kaputar, a group of adults found themselves peering into the undergrowth with the excitement of children on a treasure hunt. The object of their search wasn’t rare gold or a hidden landmark, but a bright pink slug found nowhere else on Earth.
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT >
Is your IT structured? Or just functioning?
Many regional businesses only review their IT support when problems escalate. But more businesses are reassessing how their technology systems are managed, and the story of what happened to Acacia Medical tells…
Narrabri residents encouraged to take advantage of full fibre upgrade opportunity
The latest expansion of nbn full fibre technology is helping people in Narrabri keep pace with changing digital needs. Find out how you can upgrade now.
BUSINESS
Inverell businesses urged to have their say
Inverell Shire Council is urging local businesses to complete a survey helping shape future economic growth and support.
INDIGENOUS
Strong turnout for Armidale’s 15th Reconciliation Bridge Walk despite wet forecast
Around 300 people gathered in Armidale on Sunday, May 31, for the 15th Annual Reconciliation Bridge Walk, braving a forecast of “cold with intermittent rain” to take part in the community event marking National Reconciliation Week.
SPORT
Armidale to host 2026 George Cowie West Ham United football selection camp
Armidale will host the 2026 George Cowie West Ham United Football Selection Camp in July, giving young regional players the chance to train with coaches from the English Premier League club.
On engage now
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- Opinion: Kids on social media more than two hours a day at higher risk of mental illness
A new study found there is a significant risks from heavier use of social media by children. Read what the study found. The post Opinion: Kids on social media more than two hours a day at higher risk of mental illness appeared first on New England Times Engage.
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Good News
Return and Earn hits 16 billion containers and $100 million for charity
Sixteen billion bottles, cans and cartons — and counting. NSW’s Return and Earn scheme has now raised more than $100 million for charities, from koala hospitals to kids’ education.
$35 million transformation underway at Wests as iconic Tamworth club enters new era
One of Tamworth’s most recognisable venues is undergoing a major transformation, with a multi-stage redevelopment set to deliver a completely refreshed experience for members, guests and visitors.
