Farmers warn of conservation ‘land grab’
A controversial proposal from an anti-farming environmental group risks handing control of private land to government under the guise of conservation.
Regional Academy Games launched in Tamworth
Regional sporting talent took centre stage in Tamworth with the official launch of the 2026 Your Local Club Regional Academy Games.
90-year future secured for Tenterfield Aerodrome
The future of the Tenterfield Aerodrome has been secured for generations, with council extending the lease to the Friends of Tenterfield Aerodrome through to 2113.
Young players invited to Nomads AFL Come and Try day
The New England Nomads Juniors are inviting young players to pull on the boots, with the club hosting a Come and Try Day later this month ahead of the 2026 AFL season
Local News
Regional rail fleet moves forward as State Government accelerates delivery after delays
New trains for NSW’s long-delayed Regional Rail Fleet are now arriving and being tested on lines serving the New England.
Telstra to upgrade 4G and 5G services in Taminda
Telstra will temporarily switch off its Taminda mobile site this week to upgrade 4G capacity and prepare for faster 5G.
New England towns share in $2m boost for regional night-time economy
Tamworth will share in a $2 million NSW Government pilot aimed at boosting regional night-time economies.
International Women’s Day event brings Tamworth together for heart health
Tamworth locals are invited to get moving, meet others and support heart health at a community fundraiser being held for International Women’s Day this Sunday.
What's On
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Events
ARC Official & Closed Restricted Dressage CompetitionEnds: March 8, 2026
Inverell Antique Motor Club Inc – Swap MeetEnds: March 8, 2026
Old-time Music Jam @ Welder’s Dog BreweryEnds: March 12, 2026
ArtsNational Lecture: “The Brilliance of Brunel:…”Ends: March 12, 2026
Maria River Cattle Co. Armidale CupEnds: March 13, 2026
Politics
Hanson dismisses Senate rebuke
Pauline Hanson has dismissed a censure against her by the Senate as an attack on One Nation following her rise in the polls.
A third council vacancy with Brown departing Narrabri Shire
A third councillor in the region has stepped down, with Narrabri Shire Councillor Amanda Brown formally resigning from Council effective Friday, 27 February 2026, after being diagnosed with cancer.
Birds, mould, and fungus found throughout hospitals
After two patients died as a result of a fungal outbreak, a review of hospital maintenance has revealed disturbing infestations embedded in multiple facilities – including a major hospital in New England.
Council tests trigger train advocate alarm
Studies by Armidale Regional Council to progress the New England Rail Trail have triggered alarm in campaigners opposed to the project, while Glen Innes Severn have asked the NSW Government for certainty.
Council strategic cooperation raises the A word
A new Northern Tablelands regional organisation plus a strategic working group on regional water security has prompted one councillor to raise the A word: do we need to start talking about amalgamation?
Nominations open for 2026 Australian Cotton Industry Awards
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Australian Cotton Industry Awards, recognising excellence across the sector
Farmers reject “dumpster fire” plans
NSW Farmers says a proposal to send Sydney’s waste to rural and regional communities should be rejected.
Energy and Environment
New England set to rally for Clean Up Australia Day
Clean Up Australia Day returns on Sunday 1 March 2026, with Armidale Regional Council once again encouraging locals to roll up their sleeves and take part in the nation’s largest community environmental event.
Renewable manufacturing boost for Moree fertiliser project
Hiringa Energy has been awarded $9.4m to further green ammonia production near Moree.
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT >
Restoring the past, reimagining the future at Jolly Good Emporium
Behind the doors of 168–170 Beardy Street, a 150-year-old building is being lovingly restored and reimagined, not simply as an antiques store, but as a heritage-inspired space where history, craftsmanship and community…
“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.
BUSINESS
Hillgrove mine project on track to ramp up mid-year
Larvotto Resources says development at the antimony-gold operation east of Armidale is advancing rapidly, with local jobs, regional spending, and long-term economic benefits already flowing.
INDIGENOUS
New toolkit to help New England councils strengthen Closing the Gap partnerships
Tamworth’s landmark Aboriginal partnership is being highlighted as NSW launches a new Closing the Gap toolkit for local councils.
SPORT
Regional Australia Bank extends AFL North West NSW partnership with naming rights deal
Regional Australia Bank will take naming rights of the AFL North West NSW Senior Men’s competition in 2026.
On engage now
Engage is our hub for opinion, letters, comments and ideas.
- Macca’s Weeds: The resilience of Lucerne and the aphid threat
Paul McIntosh reflects on the evolution of Lucerne in Australia, from the devastating aphid outbreaks of the 1970s to the importance of choosing the right crown height for modern paddocks. The post Macca’s Weeds: The resilience of Lucerne and the aphid threat appeared first on New England Times Engage.
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Good News
Tamworth takes centre stage at inaugural MTA NSW Automotive Excellence Awards
Tamworth has emerged as one of the big winners at the inaugural Motor Traders’ Association of New South Wales (MTA NSW) Automotive Excellence Awards 2026, with a local apprentice and business both taking home honours on the night.
New England students medal at NSW Rowing Championships
The Armidale School has won gold and bronze at the NSW State Rowing Championships despite storm disruptions.
