Ashford and Casino star in week of Aboriginal Language pride
NSW Aboriginal Languages Week has wrapped after a statewide celebration from 19 to 26 October under the theme Let Our Voices Fly, including starring performances from locals.
Seven charged in two day police operation in Tamworth
Seven people have been charged during a high-visibility police operation in Tamworth.
SBM25: Built with Intention
Today for Small Business Month we have a visionary redefining what home can be through thoughtful design, a bridal boutique offering a personal and elegant experience, and a creative hub where local makers and collectors bring colour and connection to the community.
150 jobs and helping to lower electricity prices – Wongalea BESS seeks local feedback
Up to 150 jobs could be created during construction of a major new renewable energy project proposed for Armidale, with residents invited to have their say.
Local News
Default rural speed limit could drop to 80km/h under new road safety proposal
A proposal to reduce the default speed limit on roads outside built-up areas to 80 kilometres per hour has sparked debate across regional Australia, with local leaders calling for investment in safer roads rather than slower travel.
Inverell’s Got Talent launches Sapphire City Festival with packed Town Hall
Inverell East Rotary Club has kicked off the Sapphire City Festival with a full house for the annual Inverell’s Got Talent concert at the Town Hall last weekend.
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…
Road closures for festivals this weekend
There’s some road closures in Inverell and Uralla for this weekend’s festivals
SBM25: Made of Something Real
Today for Small Business Month we have three local makers who each bring precision and personality to their craft, from custom framing and steel fabrication to country fashion made with heart and style.

What's On
SBM25: Built with Intention
Today for Small Business Month we have a visionary redefining what home can be through thoughtful design, a bridal boutique offering a personal and elegant experience, and a creative hub where local makers and collectors bring colour and connection to the community.
Events
Regional Pathways to PossibilityEnds: October 28, 2025
Halloween Skate Fun NightEnds: November 1, 2025
New England Spring Garden TrailEnds: November 3, 2025
NEGS Twilight FairEnds: November 7, 2025
Black Gully Festival ’25Ends: November 8, 2025
Politics
‘No throwing plates around the kitchen’ – Barnaby Joyce plans peaceful political exit
Member for New England Barnaby Joyce says his decision to step away from politics in the New England at the next federal election was about finishing on his own terms.
Future leaders wanted for Australia’s cotton industry
Applications are now open for the 2026 intake of the Australian Future Cotton Leaders Program (AFCLP) — the cotton industry’s flagship leadership development initiative.
Cool climate permaculture workshops in Guyra invite hands-on learning
Gardeners, foragers and curious learners alike are being invited to roll up their sleeves this November for Cool Climate Permaculture 2025, a series of hands-on workshops at the Guyra Neighbourhood Centre Community Garden.
Energy and Environment
It’s the week to learn how water works (literally)
New Englanders are being urged to rethink how they use water and to uncover the hidden ways it flows through everyday life as part of National Water Week 2025
Tackling feral animals: workshop offers solutions for landholders
Local landholders and residents will have the chance to gain hands-on advice on managing feral animals at a special workshop in Loomerah on Saturday, 1 November.
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT
Your Tutor Armidale: Restoring confidence and inspiring a love of learning
Determined to bridge the gap between city and regional education, Your Tutor Armidale is dedicated to helping students of all ages rediscover their confidence and love of learning.
North Hill Veterinary Clinic opens doors to state-of-the-art Bundarra Road facility
North Hill Veterinary Clinic have opened the doors to their brand-new, purpose-built facility on Bundarra Road, bring the best and latest in vet care to Armidale.
BUSINESS
SBM25: Shaping Better Lives
Today for Small Business Month we have a creative metalwork studio transforming steel into art, a trusted medical supplier supporting healthcare professionals across the region, and a compassionate physiotherapist helping people regain strength and independence.
INDIGENOUS
Not a fad: billions spent with Indigenous businesses
Indigenous businesses are continuing to grow as their goods and services are in high demand from government, corporate, and non-profit organisations.
SPORT
Full throttle fun at Walcha Motorcycle Rally
The Walcha Motorcycle Rally is set to roar back into town this November, bringing together riders, spectators, and the local community for a revved up weekend.

Engage is our hub for opinion, letters, comments and ideas.
On engage now
- We need to stop over-reacting to rumours and nonsense
RK Crosby writes that the reaction and over-reaction to a made up story about Barnaby and Hanson is not worthy of the New England. The post We need to stop over-reacting to rumours and nonsense appeared first on New England Times Engage.
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Good News
PLC’s next group of leaders begin their work
Young women of character from across the region have been inducted to begin their leadership roles at PLC Armidale’s commencement assembly last week.
Westpac reopens its doors in Moree with new regional service centre
Moree has celebrated the return of face-to-face banking services this week, with Westpac officially opening its brand new Regional Service Centre at 84 Balo Street on Monday.








