Death toll up to 12 as Jews targeted by shooters at Chanukah festival
At least 12 people are dead and many others injured after gunmen opened fire at a crowd at Bondi Beach, in scenes of terror and disbelief.
Koala ‘misinformation’ cry as population counts soar
Fresh data reveals Australia’s koala count could be much higher than previously thought, as a contentious park to protect the species is called into question.
One mum’s baby bundles become life-changing charity
A pack of newborn clothes posted online and a conversation with a social worker were the beginnings of a charity focused on Indigenous mums and their babies.
Give a rescue pet a home this Christmas
With Christmas fast approaching, families across New South Wales are being encouraged to consider adopting a pet from a council pound or animal shelter, giving rescue dogs and cats the chance at a loving “furever” home.
Local News
Funding secured for major solar upgrades at key community facilities
Narrabri Shire Council has welcomed $157,151.00 in funding to deliver new rooftop solar systems at two of the Shire’s highest energy-use facilities.
2025 Bad Santa Delivery Survey: New England residents not immune to dodgy Christmas gifting
Australia’s festive season is a minefield of unwanted gifts and last-minute panic buys, with the latest research revealing New England locals are just as likely to give – or receive – a dud Christmas present.
UNE Giving Tree returns to support local families across Armidale and Tamworth
The University of New England’s Giving Tree returns this December, expanding its reach to support local charities in Armidale and Tamworth.
Hunter Health Precinct reaches major milestone, promising boost for New England residents
Residents in New England are set to benefit from faster, closer access to world-class care, as the $835 million John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct reaches a major construction milestone.
Farmers celebrate victory on virtual fencing
Farmers have celebrated news virtual fencing has been legalised for cattle in NSW. Read more here.
What's On
Events
Armidale FREE Community Christmas Day LunchEnds: December 25, 2025
Sydney Hotshots Live at Moonshiners TamworthEnds: January 20, 2026
Hardanger Embroidery Beginners Workshop with Yvette StantonEnds: February 22, 2026
Frisian Whitework Embroidery Workshop with Yvette StantonEnds: March 22, 2026
Warbirds Over SconeEnds: March 29, 2026
Politics
Nationals membership surges after Barnaby’s departure
Both the Nationals and One Nation are using the defection of Barnaby Joyce to boost membership, as the former Nationals MP defends his party leader’s history of inflammatory racial rhetoric.
‘Some hurt in this’: Joyce won’t be Hanson’s deputy
Former deputy prime minister Barnaby Joyce has formalised his defection from the Nationals to One Nation, but he won’t serve as Pauline Hanson’s deputy.
Christmas reminders for pig owners
With Christmas just over two weeks away, many are planning the centrepiece of their festive feast. For pig owners eyeing a meat-heavy menu, it’s crucial to remember: disposing of meat-based scraps properly isn’t just important—it’s a matter of animal health and biosecurity.
MLA unveils top 10 market information industry trends for 2025
Australia’s red meat industry is demonstrating resilience, productivity gains and strong global demand in 2025, with record production, high prices and export performance forecast across beef, sheepmeat and goat sectors, according to Meat & Livestock Australia’s latest Top 10 trends of 2025 report.
Energy and Environment
Powering up Armidale: The church helping locals cut their bills
At Armidale Uniting Church, the shift toward clean energy has become a practical, community-focused effort
Armidale leaders celebrate Creekland Restoration achievements
Armidale Urban Rivercare Group hosted a Creeklands Bus Tour this week to showcase more than two decades of ecological restoration along Dumaresq Creek.
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
Connection, creativity and curiosity: New grants bring seniors events to the New England
Seniors in the Glen Innes Highlands and Guyra will be front and centre this March as two regional councils receive funding to host inclusive, creative events as part of the NSW Seniors Festival 2026.
INDIGENOUS
Greg Inglis’ Goanna Academy brings mental health programs to Moree
Moree Plains Shire Council will welcome the Greg Inglis Goanna Academy to the region to deliver a series of engaging mental health initiatives.
SPORT
Powerhouse PBR teams announced for the Bledisloe of Bull Riding
It’s the Bledisloe of bull riding with Aussies from Walcha and Willow Tree to ride for the Cup. Read more here.
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- DIY Done Right: Upgrading Your Entertaining Areas Without Breaking Your Back
Toa Fereti says too many renovation projects fall off the rails due to a lack of a clear plan, or right tools, turning a labour of love into back-breaking exercise. The post DIY Done Right: Upgrading Your Entertaining Areas Without Breaking Your Back appeared first on New England Times Engage.
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Good News
A Taste of Christmas for the Inverell community
Food for the Soul is once again hosting its annual A Taste of Christmas event, offering a free takeaway Christmas meal for anyone in the community who may need a little extra support or simply appreciates the gesture during what can be a difficult time of year.
Library wins gong for innovative, intergenerational program
Gunnedah Shire Library’s creativity and ingenuity has captured the spotlight at the NSW Public Libraries Association’s annual conference.
