Tamworth takes centre stage at inaugural MTA NSW Automotive Excellence Awards
Tamworth has emerged as one of the big winners at the inaugural Motor Traders’ Association of New South Wales (MTA NSW) Automotive Excellence Awards 2026, with a local apprentice and business both taking home honours on the night.
Fuel prices surge in major cities as NRMA urges action, with New England motorists watching closely
Fuel prices in Australia’s major cities have surged above expected levels, with the NRMA warning regional motorists — including in the New England — could soon feel the impact.
Nominations open for 2026 Australian Cotton Industry Awards
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Australian Cotton Industry Awards, recognising excellence across the sector
Engines ready: 2026 Weeks of Speed Festival set to take off
Weeks of Speed will return to Gunnedah in March, bringing a packed program of motorsport events and an anticipated economic boost to the Shire.
Local News
Farmers reject “dumpster fire” plans
NSW Farmers says a proposal to send Sydney’s waste to rural and regional communities should be rejected.
Festival favourites Haystack Mountain Hermits to play at Tenterfield
Award-winning family band Haystack Mountain Hermits will perform at Tenterfield School of Arts on Saturday, 14 March.
Postal vote applications open for Uralla Shire Council Ward A by-election
Postal voting has opened for the Uralla Shire Council Ward A by-election, to be held on Saturday, 18 April.
Accused Little Styx axe murderer denied bail
The man accused of murder at the Little Styx River campsite has been refused bail, as police allege he killed a fellow camper with an axe during a violent altercation at the remote spot on Point Lookout Road.
What's On
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Events
Musica Viva Concert – “ARCO – First Light:…”Ends: March 5, 2026
Chilli Jam @ Welder’s Dog BarEnds: March 5, 2026
SportUNE Golf DayEnds: March 6, 2026
Chamber Philharmonia Cologne ConcertEnds: March 6, 2026
150th Armidale ShowEnds: March 6, 2026
Politics
Hanson dismisses Senate rebuke
Pauline Hanson has dismissed a censure against her by the Senate as an attack on One Nation following her rise in the polls.
A third council vacancy with Brown departing Narrabri Shire
A third councillor in the region has stepped down, with Narrabri Shire Councillor Amanda Brown formally resigning from Council effective Friday, 27 February 2026, after being diagnosed with cancer.
Birds, mould, and fungus found throughout hospitals
After two patients died as a result of a fungal outbreak, a review of hospital maintenance has revealed disturbing infestations embedded in multiple facilities – including a major hospital in New England.
Council tests trigger train advocate alarm
Studies by Armidale Regional Council to progress the New England Rail Trail have triggered alarm in campaigners opposed to the project, while Glen Innes Severn have asked the NSW Government for certainty.
Council strategic cooperation raises the A word
A new Northern Tablelands regional organisation plus a strategic working group on regional water security has prompted one councillor to raise the A word: do we need to start talking about amalgamation?
Farm production forecast to top $100 billion ahead of target
Australia’s farm gate production value is forecast to exceed $100 billion this financial year, four years ahead of the National Farmers Federation’s 2030 target.
Practical sheep and cattle skills for women in agriculture
Northern Tablelands women in agriculture are set to benefit from a series of hands-on livestock handling workshops this March, delivered by Northern Tablelands Local Land Services in collaboration with Land to Table.
Energy and Environment
New England set to rally for Clean Up Australia Day
Clean Up Australia Day returns on Sunday 1 March 2026, with Armidale Regional Council once again encouraging locals to roll up their sleeves and take part in the nation’s largest community environmental event.
Renewable manufacturing boost for Moree fertiliser project
Hiringa Energy has been awarded $9.4m to further green ammonia production near Moree.
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT >
Restoring the past, reimagining the future at Jolly Good Emporium
Behind the doors of 168–170 Beardy Street, a 150-year-old building is being lovingly restored and reimagined, not simply as an antiques store, but as a heritage-inspired space where history, craftsmanship and community…
“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.
BUSINESS
Regional Australia Bank extends AFL North West NSW partnership with naming rights deal
Regional Australia Bank will take naming rights of the AFL North West NSW Senior Men’s competition in 2026.
INDIGENOUS
New toolkit to help New England councils strengthen Closing the Gap partnerships
Tamworth’s landmark Aboriginal partnership is being highlighted as NSW launches a new Closing the Gap toolkit for local councils.
SPORT
Cycling Classic’s 65th year to shine international spotlight on Glen Innes and Inverell
In what promises to be a landmark weekend for Australian cycling, the 65th anniversary edition of the Squadron Energy Grafton to Inverell will deliver high-speed action through Glen Innes before culminating at the finish line in Inverell.
On engage now
Engage is our hub for opinion, letters, comments and ideas.
- Opinion: Will the social media ban impact NAPLAN results?
Sally Larsen from the University of New England questions the use of NAPLAN results to evaluate Australia’s social media ban, arguing that the standardized test is a poor metric for a policy that does not involve school curriculum or teaching. The post Opinion: Will the social media ban impact NAPLAN results? appeared first on New England Times Engage.
> Submit your own opinion, letter or comment to New England Times Engage
Good News
New hub to boost women-owned businesses in NSW
The NSW Government has invested more than $190,000 to support the launch of what is being described as Australia’s first database dedicated to showcasing women-owned businesses.
Armidale Ute Show gets set to celebrate 10 years
Utes are being washed and polished to help celebrate The Armidale Ute Show’s 10th birthday on March 7, as part of the annual Armidale Show.
