Chaffey, Joyce want gun laws and Islamic extremism in the Bondi Royal Commission
They are now in different parties, but our two local MPs are singing from the same hymn sheet when it comes to reviews of gun restrictions and Islamic extremism being needed in the federal Royal Commission into antisemitism and the Chanukah Massacre at Bondi Beach.
Visitors invited to explore the Liverpool Plains Sunflower Trail
The Liverpool Plains Sunflower Trail kicks off just in time for the weekend, with sunflowers at “Sandstone”, Big Jack’s Creek and “Wilgabah” at Wallabadah now flowering and ready to brighten visitors’ days.
Moree selected for NSW Police Drone Trial in crime reduction effort
NSW Police’s Aviation Command has launched a new drone surveillance trial in Moree, marking an Australian first in regional policing technology.
Level 1 Water Restrictions to begin in Gunnedah and Curlewis
Gunnedah Shire Council has announced that Level 1 Water Restrictions will come into effect for the townships of Gunnedah and Curlewis from 12am on Thursday, 8 January 2026, following a sustained increase in water consumption across the local supply system.
Local News
Guyra Lamb & Potato Festival celebrates 40 years
The much-loved Guyra Lamb & Potato Festival is once again set to bring food, fun and community pride to the New England region this January.
Moylan promoted, McDonald dropped in NSW shadow cabinet reshuffle
The NSW Liberals and Nationals have unveiled a refreshed shadow ministry they say is ready to govern, with Northern Tablelands MP Brendan Moylan picking up his first portfolio.
Giving little learners a Star Start to school at Your Tutor Armidale
Families across Armidale are being invited to give their children a confident and positive start to school through the Star Starter School Readiness Program, launching at Your Tutor in Armidale in January 2026.
Why homelessness is rising so fast in New England
New national data has confirmed what frontline services in the New England region have been warning for months. Homelessness is rising rapidly, people are seeking help later, and the system no longer has the capacity to respond.
New Englanders leaving $5m unclaimed
Almost $5.05 million in unclaimed money is sitting in accounts linked to New England and North West addresses, with thousands of locals potentially unaware they are owed anything at all.
What's On
Brekkie on the Bridge marks farewell to Narrabri landmark
Narrabri residents will have the chance to farewell one of the town’s most recognisable pieces of infrastructure before it disappears from the landscape
Events
Dion Bayman @ the BowloEnds: January 9, 2026
Backgammon @ BoobooksEnds: January 10, 2026
Oasis Community GardenEnds: January 15, 2026
Glen Price @ the BowloEnds: January 16, 2026
Starshine: Tribute to Fleetwood Mac @ Welder’s Dog BreweryEnds: January 16, 2026
Politics
Sustainability the key to ag workforce puzzle
The National Farmers’ Federation urges policymakers to prioritize workforce sustainability, stressing the need for unskilled, semi-skilled, and skilled labour for regional producers.
New year brings cheaper medicines, higher energy bills
A cut to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme co-payment will slash the cost of medicines but Australians face higher power bills in 2026.
AI poster advertising Joyce at Tamworth rally fake
Anonymous posts in local Facebook groups promoting an appearance by Member for New England Barnaby Joyce at an unauthorised political rally, this time in Tamworth, have been quickly deleted.
Coulda, shoulda, woulda stories of 2025
$400,000 for something that doesn’t exist, the secret NSW Health doesn’t want to tell you, and why new roads are falling apart faster than old ones… here’s three of the biggest stories we couldn’t tell you in 2025.
NSW Government issues urgent plea to motorists to drive safely throughout summer holidays: Double demerits in force
The State Government has issued an urgent plea for motorists to drive safely ahead of the busy holiday period, as traffic volumes increase across New South Wales and double demerits come into force.
NSW Farmers acting CEO appointed new NFF CEO
The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) is pleased to announce Michael Guerin as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 23 March 2026.
The Summer Lamb ad takes on the World Happiness Index through the power of lamb
Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) has unveiled its annual Summer Lamb Campaign, celebrating lamb as the dish that brings Australians together.
Energy and Environment
NSW recyclers return record 15 billion containers
NSW residents have returned a record 15 billion bottles, cans and cartons through the Return and Earn scheme, delivering $1.5 billion in refunds, but access in the New England remains limited.
Northern Tablelands communities dig deep to preserve wetlands
More than 2,640 native seedlings have now been planted at the Little Llangothlin Nature Reserve near Guyra as part of revegetation works
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
Local beef producers to be impacted by China’s mega tariff
Local producers across the New England are likely to feel the impact of China’s sudden decision to impose tariffs of up to 55 per cent on beef imports
INDIGENOUS
NSW Aboriginal Languages Educational Scholarships Open for 2025–26
Aboriginal people across New South Wales are being encouraged to apply for the latest round of funding under the NSW Aboriginal Languages Educational Scholarship Program, with applications opening in December.
SPORT
How Hazlewood family is still playing role in Pink Test
Josh Hazlewood’s injuries prevented him playing in the Ashes series, but his sister remains part of the Pink Test through the McGrath Foundation.
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On engage now
- Denise’s Desk: Why Flying to and from Tamworth and Armidale Is a Rip-Off
If you live in Tamworth or Armidale, you don’t need an economics degree to understand how broken regional air travel is. Flying isn’t a convenience; it’s a penalty. Routes are dominated by single airlines, limited schedules and virtually no competition. The post Denise’s Desk: Why Flying to and from Tamworth and Armidale Is a Rip-Off appeared first on New England Times Engage.
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Good News
A milestone year: Black Mountain Nursery reflects on 40 years of growth
As 2025 draws to a close, Black Mountain Nursery is looking back on a year marked by reflection, celebration and community appreciation.
Tails to wag over new Autumn Festival event in Armidale
The Armidale Autumn Festival will showcase an exciting new attraction in 2026 – working stock dog demonstrations presented by the Armidale Working Stock Dog Club.
