Calls for urgent action on community preschool pay after Fair Work recommendation
State Nationals MP for Clarence Richie Williamson said the independent industrial umpire had made its position clear, and a community preschool educators deserve their pay rise.
Changed traffic conditions on Gwydir Highway between Grafton and Glen Innes
Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions at multiple locations on the Gwydir Highway between Grafton and Glen Innes this week.
New mental health support teams hit the ground in Lismore
Lismore residents will have expanded access to crisis mental health care, with a new mobile suicide prevention team launched and a specialist clinician embedded with local police under the PACER program.
Have a say on the health of the Upper Richmond River catchment
Kyogle Council is calling on landowners, community groups, industry representatives and residents to have a say in safeguarding the health of the Upper Richmond River catchment.
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Local News
North Coast Times launches as New England Times marks three years of independent regional journalism
North Coast Times, a new digital news service covering the 13 local government areas of the NSW North Coast, is being officially launched today as sister masthead New England Times celebrates its third birthday.
Call for entries: 2026 National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards
Heritage groups, councils and community organisations across the North Coast region are being urged to showcase their work, with entries now open for the 2026 National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards.
All hands on deck: construction industry called to lead Northern Rivers final rebuild push
The Northern Rivers is entering its most critical phase of home rebuilding, with the NSW Government issuing a region-wide call for licensed builders and trades to help homeowners upgrade, raise, rebuild or relocate properties damaged in the 2022 floods.
Free caravan safety workshops in Ballina
Ballina Shire Council will hold two free Caravan Safety Workshops for caravan owners next month. Read more here.
Coffs Harbour tunnel vision for Roads Ministers
The Federal and NSW Government Ministers representing transport and roads called into Coffs Harbour to check out the Coffs Harbour Bypass 10 months ahead of a scheduled opening.
What's On
Call for entries: 2026 National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards
Heritage groups, councils and community organisations across the North Coast region are being urged to showcase their work, with entries now open for the 2026 National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards.
Classic Bikes to Roll into Ballina This May After Weather Postponement
The North Coast Classic Motorcycle Show and Swap Meet in Ballina has been postponed due to bad weather, but organisers have confirmed the popular event will now take place on Sunday, May 31.
Jetty Memorial Theatre’s cast call for comedy, Don Lane and Dolly
The City of Coffs Harbour’s renowned Jetty Memorial Theatre (JMT) has released a blockbuster 2026 program featuring an international comedy festival, a show biz tribute to the ‘lanky Yank’ Don Lane and Dolly Parton’s smash hit 9 to 5 musical.
Show ‘N’ Shine car show revs up in Ballina
For the third year running, Ballina will host the North Coast Show and Shine, a community motor show that celebrates some of the country’s finest classic cars, utes and motorbikes.
Lifestyle
Sharpes Beach Precinct upgrade now open to community
A $2.35 million upgrade to the Sharpes Beach precinct has improved access, safety and facilities at the popular coastal site.
Interest rate hike risks tipping regional businesses over the edge
Member for Page Kevin Hogan has raised concerns about the impact of last week’s rate rise on families, while the state’s peak business body and other leaders have raised concerns about what it will do to local small business.
Woolgoolga General Store to open in a bigger and better space
After the early success of Woolgoolga’s Finest General Store, a new and expanded shop will greet locals later this month.
Environment
Armidale: The story that doesn’t fit the stereotype
New England is often seen as sceptical of climate change, but Armidale has a rich history of caring for the environment dating back over half a century. Read part 1 of our special investigation.
Autism Swim’s Dippers Program returns with inclusive beach and ocean safety
Lighthouse Beach, Port Macquarie will once again host Autism Swim’s inclusive beach and ocean safety program. Read more here.
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT
Take a break from the heat and upgrade to an X Series Signature
It has been another uncomfortably hot Tamworth Country Music Festival, and with another heat wave on the way, it is worth asking yourself: is it time to get out of the heat?
The Grove Yamba: Coastal Living Elevated to a New Standard
Discover The Grove Yamba, a boutique collection of 14 luxury villas that blend timeless design with coastal serenity. Just a short stroll from town, it’s a rare chance to own in this…
HEALTH
Grafton hospital redevelopment hits early works milestone
The $263.8 million redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital has progressed to early works, with changed traffic conditions now in place on Arthur Street to allow for the construction of a new pedestrian crossing.
EDUCATION
Interim school bus services announced for Dorrigo students
Transport for NSW has announced alternative travel arrangements for students impacted by the Waterfall Way closure, with a phased introduction of minibus services beginning Monday, 9 February.
POLITICS
Victim relief as key sentencing test to be abolished
People convicted of a crime will no longer receive lesser sentences because they are of “good character” in a seismic change to deliver more justice to victims.
INDIGENOUS
First ever plan to deal with violence against Indigenous women and children
Minister for Social Services Tanya Plibersek has launched Australia’s first standalone national plan to end violence against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and children.
CRIME
Teenager charged over alleged break ins, pursuit in Kempsey
A teenage boy will face court following an investigation into armed break and enters in Kempsey, South West Rocks, Bonville, and Port Macquarie, as well as an alleged pursuit involving the ramming of a police vehicle.
Engage is our hub for opinion, letters, comments and ideas.
On engage now
- QW: As I see Barnaby’s defection
Christine Stiles says: It’s fairly simple. If I’d been gagged at the last election from campaigning by my party leader and encouraged by the Coalition leader to resign, I’d get the message that I was no longer wanted! The post QW: As I see Barnaby’s defection appeared first on New England Times Engage.
Good News
Mount Warning/Wollumbin finally set to reopen
The long-awaited reopening of Mount Warning/Wollumbin is finally a step closer, with the iconic track set to reopen in July 2027 after years of closure.
NSW recyclers return record 15 billion containers
NSW residents have returned a record 15 billion bottles, cans and cartons through the Return and Earn scheme, delivering $1.5 billion in refunds, but access on the North Coast remains uneven.
Track upgrade powers ahead for Clarence Valley BMX riders
Clarence Valley’s BMX community is gearing up for a faster, safer future thanks to $19,250 to resurface the track at the Clarence Valley BMX Club.
Creating new koala habitat in Coffs Harbour
Koala sightings could soon become much more common in the Coffs Harbour area thanks to an initiative that will provide a new home for the furry Aussie icon.