WEEKEND LONG READ: Regular abuse online. Targeted campaigns of lies. Threats of violence, rape and even death. As Australia asks how it treats its politicians after the alleged attack on Helen Haines, local female politicians say they have been living the challenge, and agree we need to hold social media accountable – and find a way to disagree with civility.
Tenterfield Shire Council
No challengers as three councils return mayors and deputies unopposed
Three New England councils, six elections, not a single challenger. But in Glen Innes, a councillor who came last in 2024 wants the mayor’s chair, and he’s interviewed himself about it.
One down, 10 to go: Webb re-elected Mayor in Tamworth
Eleven New England councils choose their mayor within a month. Tamworth’s result is in — the 5-4 split that’s ruled council for two years just held again. A challenge is confirmed for Gunnedah. Who’s next?
Tenterfield theatre to be named after Peter Allen
Should the School of Arts theatre carry his name? Tenterfield wants your say on honouring hometown star Peter Allen, ahead of October’s festival celebrating his legacy.
ACCC mobile coverage inquiry welcomed
Dodgy mobile coverage isn’t just an inconvenience, it’s been life-threatening. Now the ACCC is finally investigating regional blackspots.
Tenterfield council defends secrecy around audit committee minutes
Tenterfield residents want to know why audit committee minutes were kept secret. Council says the answer comes down to guidelines, and the growing threat of cyber attacks.
$2.7 million disaster threshold plan an “insult” to small councils
Damage to your whole town, still miss out on funding: that’s the risk if Canberra’s disaster threshold triples to $2.7 million. Barwon MP Roy Butler says it’s “an insult” to small councils.
Torrington maps the gaps as telcos promise upgrades that won’t fix black spots
Telstra has confirmed upgrades to the Bolivia tower won’t fix Torrington’s black spots. Now the community is mapping exactly where coverage fails, and taking the evidence to the minister.
Tenterfield Shire Council to protect future of iconic Pin Oaks
Tenterfield Shire Council to remove 10 hazardous Pin Oaks after an independent arborist identified significant safety risks among 203 trees.
Can’t call Triple-0: lack of services drives fear in Torrington
The terrifying alleged home invasion at Torrington has exposed a deeper crisis simmering across many New England communities: many residents simply cannot call for help.
