Memorials and funerals as the community begins to heal
The funerals for the 15 lives lost at Bondi Beach last Sunday have begun, while memorials and gatherings are held across the world, including a public gathering in Armidale this Saturday, and the community begins to heal.
Ben Lomond school will go into recess to start 2026
Ben Lomond Public School will temporarily close at the end of term 4 after a recent consultation with parents, carers and the local community.
Tamworth community comes together for Murray Cod release
Government officials, locals and fishing enthusiasts will gather at Split Rock Dam this Saturday, 20 December, for a meaningful boost to the region’s recreational fishery as Tamworth Fishing Tackle & the Great Outdoors release approximately 15,000 Murray Cod fingerlings into the water between 3 and 4 pm.
Tails to wag over new Autumn Festival event in Armidale
The Armidale Autumn Festival will showcase an exciting new attraction in 2026 – working stock dog demonstrations presented by the Armidale Working Stock Dog Club.
Local News
Narrabri welcomes Government’s response to Select Committee on PFAS, confirms ongoing proactive approach
Narrabri Shire Council has welcomed the NSW Government’s response to a parliamentary inquiry into PFAS contamination in the state’s waterways and drinking water.
Giving the gift of inclusion: Sporting Wheelies launches Christmas appeal to support disability education in schools
This Christmas, help Sporting Wheelies bring disability education to more schools across New England and the country.
Farm businesses start to recover confidence
Farm businesses are showing cautious signs of recovery while continuing to grapple with climate and cost pressures, according to the biannual NSW Farmers Business Sentiment Survey.
Brew Shed Inverell Finds New Home at Inverell H Hardware
A familiar and much-loved name in Inverell’s home brewing scene is entering a new chapter, with The Brew Shed Inverell now finding a new home inside Inverell H Hardware & Paint Place.
Community groups share in Narrabri Council funding
Five community groups have received funding for local projects, community events and facility upgrades through Narrabri Shire Council’s Community Financial Assistance Program.
What's On
Events
Dusky Buzz 60’s NightEnds: December 19, 2025
Armidale FREE Community Christmas Day LunchEnds: December 25, 2025
Tamworth New Years Eve – Bright Futures 2025Ends: December 31, 2025
UNI 101 STUDENT INFO SESSIONEnds: January 8, 2026
Politics
NSW RFS ‘red fleet’ ownership delayed by bureacracy
NSW councils hoping for a swift resolution to long running ownership issues surrounding the Rural Fire Service Red Fleet have been left disappointed with the NSW Government’s response to a parliamentary inquiry.
Local councils ready for further phase out of single use plastics
Local councils across the New England are preparing for the next phase of single use plastic phase outs, as the NSW Government moves to further reduce plastic waste under the NSW Plastics Plan 2.0.
Farmers celebrate victory on virtual fencing
Farmers have celebrated news virtual fencing has been legalised for cattle in NSW. Read more here.
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.
Energy and Environment
AEMO releases draft roadmap for national energy transition for consultation
AEMO’s Draft 2026 ISP is open for consultation until 13 February 2026 and will be finalised by June 2026.
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.
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
Santa can’t save small business, but consumers can
Consumers in New England North West are being urged to support local small businesses this festive season, with fresh data revealing that many enterprises are facing mounting financial pressure.
INDIGENOUS
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.
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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- Tougher gun laws will be written in Sydney – but they will land here
Dean Foley says we need to be sure tighter gun laws don't just mean more red tape for people who were never the threat. The post Tougher gun laws will be written in Sydney – but they will land here appeared first on New England Times Engage.
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Good News
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.
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
