Barraba to join New England Rugby competition in 2026
Barraba Rugby Union will join the New England Rugby competition in 2026, expanding both the First Grade and women’s competitions.
Last chance to sign petition for 24 hour policing in Gunnedah
A last push is underway to bolster support for a petition calling for 24-hour policing in Gunnedah, with just weeks remaining before it closes.
Don’t wait to access support and protect your mental health
Local mental health practitioners say many people are still waiting too long before accessing counselling or psychological support.
New England students medal at NSW Rowing Championships
The Armidale School has won gold and bronze at the NSW State Rowing Championships despite storm disruptions.
Local News
Veterans take issues to RSL NSW on Listening Tour in region
Veterans in the New England and North West will take important issues to RSL NSW when the Listening Tour visits Tamworth and Inverell on Wednesday and Thursday, respectively.
Tamworth’s Mechanics Institute set for sale
Tamworth Regional Council has voted to sell the historic Mechanics Institute building in Tamworth’s CBD, which Mayor Russell Webb said was about ensuring the building was properly maintained.
Regional perspective to shape Healthy Harold’s future under new CEO
The new Chief Executive Officer of Life Ed NSW says living outside metropolitan Sydney has given her a deeper appreciation of just how vital preventive health education is for rural and remote students.
Tamworth hosts transferred Quirindi Cup meeting
Tamworth Jockey Club hosted the relocated Elders Killara Feedlot Quirindi Cup meeting yesterday, delivering a strong day of local success after Racing NSW transferred the fixture from Quirindi due to track concerns.
Events
No Lights No LycraEnds: February 26, 2026
All You Can Eat Pizza & Games @ Welder’s Dog BreweryEnds: February 26, 2026
“Fovndlings” @ Welder’s Dog BarEnds: February 26, 2026
Saintly Devil DancersEnds: February 27, 2026
The Complete PackageEnds: February 27, 2026
Politics
Barwon leads the state in rooftop solar
Regional NSW is dominating rooftop solar adoption across the state, with nine of the top 10 electorates for installations located outside metropolitan Sydney
Calls for urgent action on community preschool pay after Fair Work recommendation
The NSW Government is facing renewed pressure to lift funding for community preschools after the Fair Work Commission backed a union push to increase wages
Cumberland tragedy raises questions about security at Banksia
The escape of two patients from a Sydney mental health facility has prompted NSW upper house member Mark Banasiak to demand urgent answers from the Government about staffing and security at Tamworth’s Banksia Mental Health Unit
Australian-first crime fighting drone trial takes flight in Moree
An Australian-first drone trial underway in Moree is helping frontline police prevent, disrupt and respond to crime in the community.
Taylor stacks new Liberal front bench with allies
Prominent conservatives will return to the front bench as Opposition Leader Angus Taylor unveils his first shadow cabinet.
Beef spared from latest Trump tariff tantie
Australian beef exports appear set to dodge the latest twist in United States President Donald Trump’s escalating tariff saga, with industry leaders confirming reports that local producers will retain zero tariff access.
Patchy mobile services an ongoing concern
Fed up farmers and families facing poor regional, rural and remote mobile services are being encouraged to keep complaining.
Energy and Environment
Renewable manufacturing boost for Moree fertiliser project
Hiringa Energy has been awarded $9.4m to further green ammonia production near Moree.
NSW Farmers takes “weird” move on Narrabri gas project
In what has been described as a ‘weird’ and ‘dumb’ move by some former NSW Farmers Board members, President Xavier Martin is backing a resolution seeking support from Members to invest $1m in a court case against the Narrabri Gas Project.
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT >
“People deserve health”: local gastroenterologist looks at the bigger picture
For local gastroenterologist Dr Pran Yoganathan, better health is at the intersection of clinical science, lived experience, and a deep curiosity about the systems shaping modern health.
Unleash epic adventures with the X Series RV Toy Hauler X Terra from Tow World
Whether you’re chasing rugged trails, beachside sunsets, or mountainside campfires, the Tow World X Series RV Toy Hauler X Terra is your ticket to a life lived outside the ordinary.
BUSINESS
Announcing the launch of North Coast Times
Today, as New England Times marks three years of independent regional journalism, we are proud to announce the launch of a new sister publication: North Coast Times.
INDIGENOUS
New plan to address violence against Indigenous women and children
Australia’s first standalone national plan to end violence against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and children has been launched
SPORT
NSW Country Championships to return to Tamworth in 2026
Tamworth will host the NSW Country Senior Championships again in 2026, with the three-day tournament expected to draw about 1,500 players and supporters to the region.
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Good News
Glen Innes approves Mayoral community impact fund and school leadership awards
Glen Innes Severn Council has approved a Mayoral Community Impact Fund, creating a new program to support community-led initiatives, recognise volunteers, and respond to urgent local needs.
Barraba Show saddles up for its 115th ride into town
The Barraba Show turns 115 this year, and while many cherished traditions remain in 2026, new events are set to thrill crowds.
