October is Small Business Month! And to celebrate, we’re highlighting some of the great small businesses we have throughout the region.
Today we’re celebrating the locals who keep New England running — from precision mechanics and expert stylists to the outdoor specialists who know their gear and their customers inside out.
Sass & Co On Darling
Blonde, lived-in colour and luxury care
1B Darling St. Tamworth, NSW 2340
For more than eight years, Sass & Co On Darling has been one of Tamworth’s most trusted boutique salons – a place where clients of all ages feel welcomed, cared for, and confident. Specialising in blondes, lived-in colours, and hair extensions, the salon provides one-on-one service in a friendly, inclusive space that celebrates every guest’s individuality.
Owned and operated by Berneice, a passionate stylist and local barrel racer, Sass & Co blends city-level expertise with country warmth. Since taking over the business in 2017, Berneice has built a salon grounded in family values, sustainability, and genuine connection. Her dedication to ethical beauty shines through in the use of high-quality, vegan-friendly, Australian-owned products and her commitment to continuous professional training.
Clients choose Sass & Co On Darling for its artistry, integrity, and personal touch – a salon experience where care, craftsmanship, and community come together beautifully.
Khammo
Your local hub for hunting, fishing and outdoor gear
67 Ollera St. Guyra, NSW 2365
Locally owned and family-run since 2018, Khammo is Guyra’s one-stop shop for firearms, hunting, fishing and outdoor clothing. The store prides itself on offering a little bit of everything for everyone – from seasoned hunters and anglers to families who simply love the great outdoors.
With a strong focus on service and value, the team at Khammo combines expert advice with competitive pricing to make sure every customer gets exactly what they need. Whether you’re restocking supplies, upgrading your gear or picking up a gift, you’ll find trusted brands and friendly local help every step of the way.
Proudly supporting the local community, Khammo continues to grow as a go-to destination for outdoor enthusiasts across the New England region – where good gear, good prices and good people always go hand in hand.
Bandit Automotive
Reliable service, honest care and community trust
23 Crescent St. Armidale, NSW
Armidale’s Bandit Automotive has built a loyal following for its reliable service, fair pricing and good old-fashioned customer care. Led by local mechanic Chris Swilks, the workshop recently claimed the title of Best Mechanic in the 2025 Best in the New England awards – a testament to its trusted reputation and hands-on approach.
Since taking over the business and setting up on Crescent Street, Chris and his team have focused on keeping things simple: quality work, clear communication and genuine service. Customers praise Bandit Automotive for its honesty, professionalism and willingness to help, with many noting the welcoming atmosphere and “old-school” values that set it apart.
Whether it’s a quick repair or a major job, Bandit Automotive delivers the kind of dependable, down-to-earth service that keeps Armidale drivers coming back – and now, with a new title to their name, the Bandit has proven it’s the mechanic to beat.
Throughout October, we’ll run stories highlighting the great local businesses we have right here in our communities. This is a free service – the businesses highlighted have not paid for this story.
Want to highlight your business? Just fill in this form – places are limited.
Please share this story to help support New England businesses! See all our Small Business Month profiles here.