Six weeks without trains at Tamworth, Armidale, Uralla, Kootingal, and Walcha Road. Coaches take over from Wednesday, 21 October, and Kevin Anderson MP says any delay would be unacceptable.
Politics
Koala park bill hits Parliament
The Great Koala National Park has moved from promise to Parliament, with legislation to create the giant Mid North Coast reserve introduced this week.
Butler bill would return firearms appeals to NCAT
A firearms owner fighting a minor confiscation must find $20,000 to appeal in the Supreme Court. Roy Butler’s new bill would send those cases back to NCAT, which he says is faster and affordable.
New offences for dangerous drivers
Film a crash victim and share it online, and you could face jail. New NSW laws also target dangerous driving, hit-and-runs and street racing. Here is what the legislation seeks to introduce.
Tamworth Labor honours its long-timers
Twenty members, 10 to 30 years of loyalty, and one pointed question: why do you stay? Tamworth Labor’s long-timers share what keeps them turning up, and how they fared in the trivia contest.
It’s out: the 889 page New England REZ transmission line EIS
The New England transmission line EIS is 889 pages long. You don’t have to read it all – here’s where to find the maps, summaries, and sessions throughout the region before submissions close on Thursday, 12 November.
The High Court coal win that may close the door it opened
WEEKEND LONG READ: Much has been said about a High Court judgement this week relating to what climate impacts should be included in planning decisions. The backlash and election timing could shut Scope 3 emissions out of planning permanently and give workers and communities the confidence they desperately seek.
Gunnedah petition calls for 24-hour police station
Gunnedah is petitioning for a 24-hour police station, but a council voice says the town already has 24-hour policing. Is a staffed station the best use of police?
Chaffey backs migration cut as refugee group warns of cost
Parkes MP Jamie Chaffey says the Coalition’s migration cuts would take pressure off local housing, roads, and schools. Refugee group SSI says halving the humanitarian intake would shut out thousands in need.
Tamworth’s Jeff Bacon joins One Nation upper house ticket
Shooters, then Nationals, now One Nation. Third time lucky, Tamworth gun maker Jeff Bacon has landed second on an upper house ticket promising to repeal NSW’s new firearm laws.
