Shop, stroll, shine: Christmas in the Highlands returns with lights and local finds
Glen Innes is set to shine this festive season with Christmas in the Highlands – Illuminations, a vibrant afternoon bringing art, light and community spirit.
Narrabri’s Patrick O’Hanlon recognised in 2025 RFS Youth Awards
Narrabri’s Patrick O’Hanlon has been named Young Volunteer of the Year at the 2025 NSW RFS Youth Awards. Read more here.
PCYC to do more to support local young people
The Police Citizens Youth Club will expand its work across the regions, with the Minns Government announcing a major funding boost to support programs that are already changing young lives across New South Wales.
EWON to hold drop-in sessions in New England region 19-20 November
The Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW (EWON) will visit Invergowrie, Walcha and Guyra on 19-20 November to speak with landholders and community members about renewable energy infrastructure concerns.
Local News
Stars set to bring sparkle to Baiada Carols in the Park
An all-star lineup is set to sparkle brighter than ever at this year’s Baiada Carols in the Park, Tamworth Region’s biggest free Christmas celebration.
Tamworth’s Lane Pittman among Golden Guitar nominees announced today
Former Tamworth-based artist Lane Pittman is among the Golden Guitar nominees announced today, November 18, at an industry event in Sydney.
Coffs Harbour MP new NSW Nationals Leader, Tamworth’s Kevin Anderson deputy
Tamworth MP Kevin Anderson has been elected unopposed as the new deputy leader of the NSW Nationals, joining newly installed leader and Coffs Harbour MP Gurmesh Singh at the helm of the state party.
Herrick seals second national title as Dunker dominates Gunnedah TT round
A huge crowd returned to Gunnedah’s Balcary Park on Sunday for the final day of the Yamaha BLU CRU Aussie Flat Track Nationals, where Thomas Herrick claimed his second Pro 450 championship
Building beautiful spaces, one tile at a time with BH Wall and Floor Tiling
BH Wall & Floor Tiling is a small, family-run business headed by local tiler Brock Hobday, who has built a reputation for precision, reliability, and genuine pride in his work.

What's On
Empowerment and self-care shine at Skin & Body Sculpt Studio
When Armidale local Stephanie Colling opened Skin & Body Sculpt Studio earlier this year, she wanted to create more than just another beauty business, she wanted to build a space where people could relax, recharge, and rediscover their confidence.
Events
PLC Armidale Signature Summer FairEnds: November 29, 2025
PLC Armidale Signature Summer FairEnds: November 29, 2025
Markets in the mallEnds: November 30, 2025
Save the date for Rising TideEnds: December 3, 2025
Armidale Farmers MarketEnds: December 14, 2025
Politics
Albo, fund our Councils!
The Coalition has attacked the lack of urgency in addressing financial sustainability for Australia’s 537 local governments, as the Albanese Labor Government quietly reinstated a sustainability inquiry – something the Coalition has been calling for since early June.
Trump lifts tariffs on Australian beef
Just days after New England beef producers dominated at the World Steak Challenge, US President Donald Trump has announced he will lift tariffs on Australian beef.
NSW residents encouraged to be alert to signs of avian influenza in poultry
Residents are being encouraged to be alert to signs of avian influenza in commercial and domestic poultry, and wildlife.
Energy and Environment
Armidale’s Bryan Johnston named recipient of 2025 John Winter-Irving Bequest
Southern New England Landcare Ltd has announced Bryan Johnston of Armidale as the recipient of the 2025 John Winter-Irving Bequest.
$4 million boost to bolster Narrabri’s water security
Narrabri’s water supply is set for a significant upgrade, with the NSW Government committing $4 million to deliver a portable water treatment plant and develop new production bores for the town.
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT
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.
Granny Fi’s Toy Cupboard: handmade magic and a growing online adventure
From hand-crafted dragons and whimsical dolls to enchanted accessories, this family-run business has become a beloved name for anyone who believes in the magic of make-believe. But wait… there’s more…
BUSINESS
Future of Walcha Motorcycle Rally to be “reassessed”
The future of the popular Walcha Motorcyle Rally may be in doubt following a “freak accident” that saw a demolition derby car drive into spectators, injuring 13 people.
INDIGENOUS
First Nations voices take centre stage in Tamworth
A powerful celebration of First Nations music, art, and community, Yaama Guduu, Greetings Murray Cod will land in the heart of Tamworth from 28 to 30 November.
SPORT
Herrick takes the lead after Armstrong crashes in Gunnedah
A dramatic day of racing at Gunnedah’s Balcary Park has seen Thomas Herrick surge to the top of the Yamaha BLU CRU Aussie Flat Track Nationals leaderboard, after points leader Tom Armstrong crashed heavily in the opening race and was ruled out for the remainder of the weekend.

Engage is our hub for opinion, letters, comments and ideas.
On engage now
- Between Nation Building and Commercial Project
Siri Gamage says the debate over restoring the Armidale–Queensland rail line is trapped between nation-building ideals and commercial realities, urging governments to see it as vital regional infrastructure rather than a costly local project. The post Between Nation Building and Commercial Project appeared first on New England Times Engage.
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Good News
Local manufacturer fills tiny home gap with regulatory confidence
A New England business is carving out a niche in Australia’s fast-growing tiny home market with a design that does something most competitors can’t promise: confidence.
New owners for Linmac Co brings new energy to Walcha’s engineering scene
Walcha’s industrial heart has a fresh energy with Linmac Co, a locally owned engineering and steel fabrication business, now under new ownership.








