Beef spared from latest Trump tariff tantie
Australian beef exports appear set to dodge the latest twist in United States President Donald Trump’s escalating tariff saga, with industry leaders confirming reports that local producers will retain zero tariff access.
Looking forward, looking back: Armidale Show celebrates 150 years
Taking place from 6-7 March the 150th Armidale Show will maintain a balance between ‘tradition and contemporary entertainment’.
“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.
Grant-backed programs deliver practical support for Ashford families
A community donation is helping Ashford families access free school holiday activities and practical health support, easing pressure on households across Inverell Shire.
Local News
Fatal crash involving cattle truck closes New England Highway
The New England Highway was closed in both directions at Moonbi following a serious crash involving a truck and a car, with NSW Police confirming that the male driver of the car died at the scene.
Call for entries: 2026 National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards
Heritage groups, councils and community organisations across the New England region are being urged to showcase their work, with entries now open for the 2026 National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards.
Groovin back after two year break
Groovin The Moo is set to return in 2026 with a one-off show in Lismore, marking a carefully staged comeback
Glen Innes approves Mayoral community impact fund and school leadership awards
Glen Innes Severn Council has approved a Mayoral Community Impact Fund, creating a new program to support community-led initiatives, recognise volunteers, and respond to urgent local needs.
Events
Art Exhibition @ Aboriginal Cultural Centre & Keeping PlaceEnds: February 24, 2026
Armidale AmblersEnds: February 25, 2026
No Lights No LycraEnds: February 26, 2026
All You Can Eat Pizza & Games @ Welder’s Dog BreweryEnds: February 26, 2026
“Fovndlings” @ Welder’s Dog BarEnds: February 26, 2026
Politics
Cumberland tragedy raises questions about security at Banksia
The escape of two patients from a Sydney mental health facility has prompted NSW upper house member Mark Banasiak to demand urgent answers from the Government about staffing and security at Tamworth’s Banksia Mental Health Unit
Australian-first crime fighting drone trial takes flight in Moree
An Australian-first drone trial underway in Moree is helping frontline police prevent, disrupt and respond to crime in the community.
Taylor stacks new Liberal front bench with allies
Prominent conservatives will return to the front bench as Opposition Leader Angus Taylor unveils his first shadow cabinet.
Joyce party switch triggers resurgence of Voices
A renewed community movement is taking shape across the New England electorate, with Voices of New England officially regrouping and committing to strengthening active democracy in the lead up to the 2028 Federal Election.
Women leaders get up-close look at large scale renewables
A delegation of women in local government from across New South Wales has visited the Sapphire Wind Farm near Inverell, getting an up-close look at how large-scale renewable energy projects operate.
Patchy mobile services an ongoing concern
Fed up farmers and families facing poor regional, rural and remote mobile services are being encouraged to keep complaining.
Renewable manufacturing boost for Moree fertiliser project
Hiringa Energy has been awarded $9.4m to further green ammonia production near Moree.
Energy and Environment
NSW Farmers takes “weird” move on Narrabri gas project
In what has been described as a ‘weird’ and ‘dumb’ move by some former NSW Farmers Board members, President Xavier Martin is backing a resolution seeking support from Members to invest $1m in a court case against the Narrabri Gas Project.
Armidale activates Level 1 water restrictions
After weeks of hot weather and little rain, Armidale Regional Council has moved to impose Level 1 water restrictions across the region.
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT >
Unleash epic adventures with the X Series RV Toy Hauler X Terra from Tow World
Whether you’re chasing rugged trails, beachside sunsets, or mountainside campfires, the Tow World X Series RV Toy Hauler X Terra is your ticket to a life lived outside the ordinary.
Take a break from the heat and upgrade to an X Series Signature
It has been another uncomfortably hot Tamworth Country Music Festival, and with another heat wave on the way, it is worth asking yourself: is it time to get out of the heat?
BUSINESS
Calls for better communication and transparency around McLean Care
The shock and concern following the announcement that Inverell based McLean Care would be exiting the aged care business continue to ripple through the community, with calls for greater transparency and more information.
INDIGENOUS
New plan to address violence against Indigenous women and children
Australia’s first standalone national plan to end violence against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and children has been launched
SPORT
NSW Country Championships to return to Tamworth in 2026
Tamworth will host the NSW Country Senior Championships again in 2026, with the three-day tournament expected to draw about 1,500 players and supporters to the region.
On engage now
Engage is our hub for opinion, letters, comments and ideas.
- Denise’s Desk: Discomfort, debate and why engagement matters in New England
Denise says in a region like New England, where politics is often shaped by personality and protest rather than policy, engagement matters. The post Denise’s Desk: Discomfort, debate and why engagement matters in New England appeared first on New England Times Engage.
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Good News
Walcha Coffee claims three bronzes at World Series
Walcha Coffee has claimed three bronze medals at the 2026 Golden Bean World Series, placing in every category it entered against a strong international field.
Former UNE SRI boss to take helm of Country Universities Centre
University of New England SMART Region Incubator founding director Dr Lou Conway has been announced as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Country Universities Centre
