Guyra Lamb & Potato Festival celebrates 40 years
The much-loved Guyra Lamb & Potato Festival is once again set to bring food, fun and community pride to the New England region this January. Running from 14–26 January 2026, the festival has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated summer events, drawing visitors from across New South Wales and beyond to celebrate two…
Moylan promoted, McDonald dropped in NSW shadow cabinet reshuffle
The NSW Liberals and Nationals have unveiled a refreshed shadow ministry they say is ready to govern, with Northern Tablelands MP Brendan Moylan picking up his first portfolio.
Giving little learners a Star Start to school at Your Tutor Armidale
Families across Armidale are being invited to give their children a confident and positive start to school through the Star Starter School Readiness Program, launching at Your Tutor in Armidale in January 2026.
Why homelessness is rising so fast in New England
New national data has confirmed what frontline services in the New England region have been warning for months. Homelessness is rising rapidly, people are seeking help later, and the system no longer has the capacity to respond.
Local News
New Englanders leaving $5m unclaimed
Almost $5.05 million in unclaimed money is sitting in accounts linked to New England and North West addresses, with thousands of locals potentially unaware they are owed anything at all.
Subsidy to help local students visit parliament
Primary and secondary schools in the New England are being encouraged to include a visit to the NSW Parliament as part of their 2026 excursion calendar.
Moree woman finds $100k under the Chrissie tree
A Moree woman had a Christmas she’ll never forget, unwrapping a $100,000 Lucky Lotteries prize on a ticket given to her by her parents.
Celebrate 160 years of the Deepwater Races
One of Australia’s oldest racing traditions returns in 2026 as the Deepwater Races mark 160 years of country racing history.
Local beef producers to be impacted by China’s mega tariff
Local producers across the New England are likely to feel the impact of China’s sudden decision to impose tariffs of up to 55 per cent on beef imports
What's On
Brekkie on the Bridge marks farewell to Narrabri landmark
Narrabri residents will have the chance to farewell one of the town’s most recognisable pieces of infrastructure before it disappears from the landscape
Events
UNI 101 STUDENT INFO SESSIONEnds: January 8, 2026
Dion Bayman @ the BowloEnds: January 9, 2026
Backgammon @ BoobooksEnds: January 10, 2026
Oasis Community GardenEnds: January 15, 2026
Politics
New year brings cheaper medicines, higher energy bills
A cut to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme co-payment will slash the cost of medicines but Australians face higher power bills in 2026.
AI poster advertising Joyce at Tamworth rally fake
Anonymous posts in local Facebook groups promoting an appearance by Member for New England Barnaby Joyce at an unauthorised political rally, this time in Tamworth, have been quickly deleted.
The Summer Lamb ad takes on the World Happiness Index through the power of lamb
Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) has unveiled its annual Summer Lamb Campaign, celebrating lamb as the dish that brings Australians together.
Tasman and Corinya Station acquisitions spark community concerns
Two newly acquired properties in western NSW have been added to the national park estate without local consultation, prompting criticism from Member for Barwon Roy Butler
Energy and Environment
NSW recyclers return record 15 billion containers
NSW residents have returned a record 15 billion bottles, cans and cartons through the Return and Earn scheme, delivering $1.5 billion in refunds, but access in the New England remains limited.
Northern Tablelands communities dig deep to preserve wetlands
More than 2,640 native seedlings have now been planted at the Little Llangothlin Nature Reserve near Guyra as part of revegetation works being carried out by the NSW Government’s Local Land Services alongside local Aboriginal organisations and community members. The only site of its kind in the Northern Tablelands, the Reserve is Ramsar-listed and provides…
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT
Tow World Tamworth puts people, service and adventure first
Tamworth’s much-loved Tow World is shifting up a gear under the leadership of new owners, Gayle and Troy Black, who have brought fresh energy, local passion, and a strong customer focus to…
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.
BUSINESS
Keep an eye out for fireworks spooked wildlife this New Years
As we welcome in 2026, WIRES is asking the public to please report any displaced native wildlife following NYE fireworks displays.
INDIGENOUS
NSW Aboriginal Languages Educational Scholarships Open for 2025–26
Aboriginal people across New South Wales are being encouraged to apply for the latest round of funding under the NSW Aboriginal Languages Educational Scholarship Program, with applications opening in December.
SPORT
Bigger bucks and a bigger Year ahead: PBR Australia sets ambitious 2026 schedule
Professional Bull Riders Australia has unveiled a blockbuster calendar for 2026, promising a record-setting season with more events and new tour stops.
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- Denise’s Desk: A Profound Betrayal of New England
Denise McHugh writes that Barnaby Joyce has profoundly betrayed the trust of New Englanders. The post Denise’s Desk: A Profound Betrayal of New England appeared first on New England Times Engage.
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Good News
A milestone year: Black Mountain Nursery reflects on 40 years of growth
As 2025 draws to a close, Black Mountain Nursery is looking back on a year marked by reflection, celebration and community appreciation.
Tamworth community comes together for Murray Cod release
Government officials, locals and fishing enthusiasts will gather at Split Rock Dam this Saturday, 20 December, for a meaningful boost to the region’s recreational fishery as Tamworth Fishing Tackle & the Great Outdoors release approximately 15,000 Murray Cod fingerlings into the water between 3 and 4 pm.
