Digital water meters have already caught $364,000 worth of leaks across Armidale and Guyra. With Level 2 restrictions in place and warmer weather on the way, Council says the savings are only going to grow.
Environment
New environmental standards, guide, leave farmers with more questions than answers
Farmers are being asked to work under a new set of national environmental rules that the NFF says is too complex and uncertain to use with confidence
Construction begins on new $1.2m pest insects research lab
Construction has begun on a new $1.2 million pest insect research laboratory in Tamworth to help farmers combat destructive agricultural pests.
Armidale takes major step forward on long-term water security
Armidale’s water security fight moves from council chambers to the planning system. A scoping report is in, SEARS have been requested, the clock is ticking on the REZ standoff, and construction could start in 2028.
No water, no REZ: how Armidale is using the REZ as leverage to fix a decade-old problem
WEEKEND LONG READ: There’s an $800m price tag on getting water security for Armidale and Uralla, and ratepayers don’t have it Now the state wants a $24 billion energy zone built here, and Mayor Sam Coupland is using that need as leverage: no water, no REZ.
New project aims to give Southern New England’s farm dams a health check
Workshops at Kentucky and Uralla, demonstration sites and even carbon-monitoring floats, Southern New England Landcare wants your farm dam in better shape within 12 months.
Aerial applicator fined for overspray at Bendemeer
A helicopter spraying company has been fined more than $70,000 after herbicide drifted onto trees at Bendemeer. The pilot admitted to spraying “by eye”.
Armidale community invited to help shape future water services
Armidale Regional Council is inviting residents to help shape future water, wastewater and stormwater services through community consultation now.
Confusion surrounds new forest carbon credit method as opposition comes from all sides
Farmers say it’s unfair. Green groups call it a scam. The government calls it rigorous. A new forest carbon credit scheme has almost everyone disagreeing, just not about the same thing.
Bundarra returns to Level 2 water restrictions
Bundarra has returned to Level 2 water restrictions, effective immediately, following below-average rainfall and ongoing declines in local water supplies.
