J&K Auto Repairs comes to you to keep you moving
A new mobile mechanic business is bringing convenience, reliability and a friendly local touch to drivers right across the New England
RAB members greenlight merger with Summerland Bank
Members of Regional Australia Bank and Summerland Bank have overwhelmingly voted in favour of a proposed merger between the two customer-owned institutions.
Rotary Club of Armidale Central to host special Children’s Christmas Book Sale
The Rotary Club of Armidale Central is setting the scene for a festive season of reading, learning, and bargain-hunting, announcing a special pre-Christmas Children’s Christmas Book Sale to be held on Saturday 13 December.
Hands-on support to secure reliable town drinking water
The NSW Government is injecting an extra $2 million into helping 18 regional councils manage critical water infrastructure, securing high quality, reliable water supply for communities across the state.
Local News
‘Spend in Glen’ continues to promote buying local this festive season
Glen Innes Severn Council will once again support Spend in Glen, a long-running ‘buy local’ initiative that encourages the community to shop locally in the lead-up to Christmas.
Westpac’s regional banking plan slammed as “Tokenistic” by Banking Alliance
Westpac is facing sharp criticism over its newly announced regional banking initiative, with a coalition of regional banks labelling the move a “tokenistic and cosmetic”.
NSW Government responds to Bushfire Inquiry reforms
The NSW Government has now responded to all 76 recommendations from the NSW Bushfire Inquiry, transforming the state’s ability to prepare, respond and recover when bushfire strikes.
UNE experts to guide Tamworth parents through Australia’s Social Media Ban
As Australia prepares to implement a world-first ban on social media for children under 16, the University of New England (UNE) is bringing together experts to help local parents navigate this significant change.
World’s best climate-smart farmers under threat from science cuts
Australian farmers have been confirmed as the world’s leading climate-smart producers in the same week the Government moves to cut the CSIRO scientists that help them do it.
What's On
Homestead Road Bridal Co brings designer elegance to Uralla
Uralla’s newest boutique, Homestead Road Bridal Co, is bringing a touch of designer glamour to country weddings, offering luxurious made-to-order and preloved gowns in a warm and welcoming rural setting.
Events
PLC Armidale Signature Summer FairEnds: November 29, 2025
Markets in the mallEnds: November 30, 2025
Save the date for Rising TideEnds: December 3, 2025
Armidale Farmers MarketEnds: December 14, 2025
Armidale Dumaresq Creek RegenerationEnds: December 14, 2025
Politics
Barnaby, it’s time to go
The latest New England Times Engage Poll has found that Barnaby Joyce has chosen the right time to move on, with New Englanders grateful for his service, but not wanting him to change his mind and contest the next election. Nor join One Nation.
Another younger woman to take over as NSW Liberal leader quits
Kellie Sloane is set to take the reins of the NSW Liberal Party as a second state party leader departs their post in three days.
Local growers asked to join NSW Action Research Network
Local grain and cotton growers are being invited to take part in a major new initiative aimed at reducing emissions while supporting profitable, productive farming across New South Wales
Plan to protect livestock during bushfire season
Local Land Services is urging farmers and animal owners to include livestock and pets in their bushfire planning.
Energy and Environment
Citizen scientists act to prevent destruction of endangered Glider Habitat
A citizen scientist has taken direct action in an effort to protect habitat critical to the endangered Greater Glider, amid growing tensions over native forest logging east of Armidale.
EWON to hold drop-in sessions in New England region 19-20 November
The Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW (EWON) will visit Invergowrie, Walcha and Guyra on 19-20 November to speak with landholders and community members about renewable energy infrastructure concerns.
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT
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.
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…
BUSINESS
More seats, more movies, more fun at the Crossing Theatre
Movie lovers have another reason to grab the popcorn, with Cinema 2 at The Crossing Theatre officially reopening today following a major technology upgrade.
INDIGENOUS
Cultural Grants open to celebrate Aboriginal cultures and connection
Aboriginal community organisations and groups across NSW are invited to apply for grants to support events and activities that celebrate and strengthen Aboriginal cultures.
SPORT
Herrick seals second national title as Dunker dominates Gunnedah TT round
A huge crowd returned to Gunnedah’s Balcary Park on Sunday for the final day of the Yamaha BLU CRU Aussie Flat Track Nationals, where Thomas Herrick claimed his second Pro 450 championship
Engage is our hub for opinion, letters, comments and ideas.
On engage now
- Why is Canberra hogging the Indigenous Procurement pie?
Dean Foley writes there is something really odd going on in Indigenous procurement, and our communities are missing out. The post Why is Canberra hogging the Indigenous Procurement pie? appeared first on New England Times Engage.
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Good News
Christmas in the Mall brings magic to Armidale
Armidale locals and visitors alike are invited to join in a magical evening filled with festive cheer as Armidale’s Christmas in the Mall takes place again this year.
Local manufacturer fills tiny home gap with regulatory confidence
A New England business is carving out a niche in Australia’s fast-growing tiny home market with a design that does something most competitors can’t promise: confidence.
