Walcha Coffee takes out top honours at State Business Awards
Walcha Coffee has been crowned the 2025 Business of the Year at the Business NSW State Business Awards, adding to its win for Outstanding Micro Business in a night of major recognition for business excellence in the New England North West region. The awards, held in Sydney on 29 October, saw two local champions take…
Armidale wins $100k on birthday scratchie bought in Guyra
An Armidale woman has been left stunned and jumping with joy after she unwrapped a winning Instant Scratch-Its ticket worth a dazzling $100,000 as a birthday present from her daughter.
Nioka Palliative Care to double in size as Gunnedah Hospital prepares to open new facility
Palliative care services in Tamworth are set to double and there’s an open day for the new Gunnedah Hospital next month.
66 essential workers welcomed to Moree Plains
NSW Health, NSW Ambulance and the NSW Police Force are the leading categories of skilled workers who have relocated to the Moree Plains LGA in the first 12 months of The Welcome Experience.
Local News
Makeover for popular Dangars Gorge
Dangars Gorge is closed until Easter for a $1m upgrade to facilities.
Local access to cancer clinical trials gives hope to local patients
Cancer patients across the New England will have greater access to potentially life-saving treatments, with the North West Cancer Centre in Tamworth receiving a major funding boost to expand clinical trials
From clinics to competition: riders ready for the 2025 TSPH Campdraft
Tamworth is gearing up for three days of skill, horsemanship, and community spirit as the countdown begins for the 2025 TSPH Clinic Participant’s Campdraft, set to take place from 21–23 November at the picturesque Koobah Performance Horses property in Tamworth, NSW.
SBM25: Good bones and better company
Today for Small Business Month we have three locals putting care into every detail – a craftsman repairing homes with pride, a trainer helping dogs and owners build stronger bonds, and a shopkeeper keeping music, movies and memories alive.
Have your say on youth strategy for Inverell
Inverell Shire Council is calling on residents to have their say on the Draft 2025–2030 Inverell Youth Strategy and Action Plan, now on public exhibition.
What's On
SBM25: Creative corners of the country
Today for Small Business Month we’re celebrating creativity in all its forms – from bold design and heartfelt hospitality to a one-of-a-kind emporium where every corner tells a story. Proof that passion is the real engine of regional business.
Events
Halloween Skate Fun NightEnds: November 1, 2025
NEGS Twilight FairEnds: November 7, 2025
Black Gully Festival ’25Ends: November 8, 2025
Armidale Farmers MarketEnds: November 9, 2025
Armidale Dumaresq Creek RegenerationEnds: November 9, 2025
Politics
Airlines to be probed over pricey regional fares
The Productivity Commission will examine pricing practices and competition in regional air travel as the future of a country carrier remains in the balance.
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
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.
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
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT
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…
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.
BUSINESS
SBM25: Specially good
Today for Small Business Month we three businesses who make special things for good reasons – specialty cakes, organic clothes, and social good.
INDIGENOUS
New study reveals sharp increase in Aboriginal road trauma
A new study reveals the scale of road trauma among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in NSW, highlights factors that help keep travellers safe, and urges greater investment in community-led road safety initiatives.
SPORT
Tamworth football refs get wired with funding boost
Tamworth Football Referees Association will receive a $2,000 boost after being named the latest winner of the Greater Bank’s New England Community Funding Program.
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On engage now
- Letter: Alarm Bells Over Armidale Council’s Rail Trail Decision
Siri Gamage writer the rail trail should be built along side the existing rail corridor. The post Letter: Alarm Bells Over Armidale Council’s Rail Trail Decision appeared first on New England Times Engage.
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Good News
Sounds of the Season: a magical Christmas concert in Quirindi
The festive spirit will shine brightly in Quirindi this November, as the community gathers for an evening of music, joy, and candlelit magic at Sounds of the Season – a special Christmas concert presented by Quirindi Rotary and Pursehouse Rural.
Narrabri young leader shines in national competition
Caitlin Evans of Narrabri will join five other winners from other Australian states and territories at Country to Canberra’s Power Trip
