Giving the gift of inclusion: Sporting Wheelies launches Christmas appeal to support disability education in schools
This Christmas, help Sporting Wheelies bring disability education to more schools across New England and the country. Read more here.
Farm businesses start to recover confidence
Farm businesses are showing cautious signs of recovery while continuing to grapple with climate and cost pressures, according to the biannual NSW Farmers Business Sentiment Survey.
Brew Shed Inverell Finds New Home at Inverell H Hardware
A familiar and much-loved name in Inverell’s home brewing scene is entering a new chapter, with The Brew Shed Inverell now finding a new home inside Inverell H Hardware & Paint Place.
Community groups share in Narrabri Council funding
Five community groups have received funding for local projects, community events and facility upgrades through Narrabri Shire Council’s Community Financial Assistance Program.
Local News
Local councils ready for further phase out of single use plastics
Local councils across the New England are preparing for the next phase of single use plastic phase outs, as the NSW Government moves to further reduce plastic waste under the NSW Plastics Plan 2.0.
New booths boost privacy and learning at Inverell library
Inverell Shire Public Library has expanded its services with the installation of three new private study and meeting booths, giving residents greater access to quiet, flexible, and confidential spaces in the heart of town.
Koala “misinformation” cry as population counts soar
Fresh data reveals Australia’s koala count could be much higher than previously thought, as a contentious park to protect the species is called into question.
One mum’s baby bundles become life-changing charity
A pack of newborn clothes posted online and a conversation with a social worker were the beginnings of a charity focused on Indigenous mums and their babies.
Give a rescue pet a home this Christmas
With Christmas fast approaching, families across New South Wales are being encouraged to consider adopting a pet from a council pound or animal shelter, giving rescue dogs and cats the chance at a loving “furever” home.
What's On
Santa can’t save small business, but consumers can
Consumers in New England North West are being urged to support local small businesses this festive season, with fresh data revealing that many enterprises are facing mounting financial pressure.
Events
Dusky Buzz 60’s NightEnds: December 19, 2025
Armidale FREE Community Christmas Day LunchEnds: December 25, 2025
UNI 101 STUDENT INFO SESSIONEnds: January 8, 2026
Oasis Community GardenEnds: January 15, 2026
Tenterfield Farmers & Producers MarketEnds: January 17, 2026
Politics
NSW RFS ‘red fleet’ ownership delayed by bureacracy
NSW councils hoping for a swift resolution to long running ownership issues surrounding the Rural Fire Service Red Fleet have been left disappointed with the NSW Government’s response to a parliamentary inquiry.
Christmas comes early for safe drivers
Safe drivers and motorcyclists across New South Wales are set to receive an early Christmas present, with the NSW Government announcing the Demerit Point Reward Program will be made permanent.
Farmers celebrate victory on virtual fencing
Farmers have celebrated news virtual fencing has been legalised for cattle in NSW. Read more here.
Christmas reminders for pig owners
With Christmas just over two weeks away, many are planning the centrepiece of their festive feast. For pig owners eyeing a meat-heavy menu, it’s crucial to remember: disposing of meat-based scraps properly isn’t just important—it’s a matter of animal health and biosecurity.
Energy and Environment
AEMO releases draft roadmap for national energy transition for consultation
AEMO’s Draft 2026 ISP is open for consultation until 13 February 2026 and will be finalised by June 2026.
Powering up Armidale: The church helping locals cut their bills
At Armidale Uniting Church, the shift toward clean energy has become a practical, community-focused effort
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
Connection, creativity and curiosity: New grants bring seniors events to the New England
Seniors in the Glen Innes Highlands and Guyra will be front and centre this March as two regional councils receive funding to host inclusive, creative events as part of the NSW Seniors Festival 2026.
INDIGENOUS
Greg Inglis’ Goanna Academy brings mental health programs to Moree
Moree Plains Shire Council will welcome the Greg Inglis Goanna Academy to the region to deliver a series of engaging mental health initiatives.
SPORT
Powerhouse PBR teams announced for the Bledisloe of Bull Riding
It’s the Bledisloe of bull riding with Aussies from Walcha and Willow Tree to ride for the Cup. Read more here.
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- QW: Bondi massacre
Josephine from Glen Innes says: As a woman of Irish/Cornish heritage, I am deeply aware of the shadows of generational ambiguous grief, and how this act will impact the future for our next generations. To the brave Jewish people and others I know as friends: I bend my knees and ask, from the heart of my soul, to know how I can help. The post QW: Bondi massacre appeared first on New England Times Engage.
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Good News
UNE Giving Tree returns to support local families across Armidale and Tamworth
The University of New England’s Giving Tree returns this December, expanding its reach to support local charities in Armidale and Tamworth.
Lyāmbay Dancers Shine Bright on Local and National Stages
Armidale’s Lyāmbay Aboriginal Dance Group has capped off an extraordinary year, dazzling audiences from Armidale to Sydney with their passion, commitment, and cultural pride.
