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.
From India’s Biggest Gathering to a Daily Festival in Northern NSW
While the world watched millions gather in India for a rare event, a quiet farm in the Tweed Valley celebrates every single day. New Govardhana offers a spiritual sanctuary where visitors can experience a different pace of life.
Walcha grazier Sam Mackaway quietly spreads lifesaving message on Muster Dogs
Viewers of ABC TV’s Muster Dogs would have noticed Walcha grazier Sam Mackaway and his bright shirts, but they’re more than a fashion statement, and he’s hoping they’ll save lives after his own tragic losses.
North Coast women named finalists in 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards
Several women from NSW’s North Coast are among the 31 finalists announced for the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards, recognising leadership, resilience and community impact across the state.
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Local News
Barnaby wants people to drink more in pubs
As the Albanese government moved to freeze increases to the beer excise for the first time in 40 years, Barnaby Joyce argued that the excise should be scrapped completely to “save” regional pubs.
Junior surfers take on tough conditions at Rainbow Beach
Rainbow Beach at Bonny Hills played host to nearly 100 junior surfers over the weekend, with the Surf Reflections Junior Series delivering high-level competition and a tourism boost to the NSW Mid North Coast.
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.
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.
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.
What's On
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.
Australia Day Festival Celebrations on the North Coast
From lakeside concerts and historic sailing regattas to grassroots community breakfasts and citizenship ceremonies, the North Coast of New South Wales will come alive this Australia Day long weekend with a diverse program of celebrations stretching across the region.
Events
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Lifestyle
$4.2 million expansion to improve shark safety this summer
The NSW Government has announced a $4.2 million investment in expanded shark surveillance, research, and public safety initiatives to reduce the risk of shark encounters this summer.
Support for kids with autism delayed after pushback
Parents of Australian children living with autism have been left in limbo after state and federal leaders agreed to delay an early intervention program.
Clarence fishers demand answers as Minister remains silent on White Spot fallout
Angry Clarence River commercial fishers rally amid growing frustration on the future of the industry following the prolonged White Spot outbreak biosecurity restrictions.
Regional Australia Bank announces another merger
Regional Australia Bank and SWSbank have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore a potential merger that would focus on supporting regional communities.
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.
Blue-green algae Red Alert for Toonumbar Dam
WaterNSW has issued a Red Alert warning for high levels of potentially toxic blue-green algae for Toonumbar Dam, about 30 km west of Kyogle.
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
Nurturing your gut, supporting your mind
Naturopath Olivia Nivison says small changes in diet, lifestyle, and mindset can make a huge difference to your gut and your mental wellbeing
EDUCATION
New student accommodation eases housing pressure in Northern Rivers
Southern Cross University’s 27-unit Sirius Student Accommodation in Lismore is in the final stages of refurbishment after suffering extensive damage during the 2022 floods.
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.
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- Opinion: Can One Nation turn its polling hype into seats in parliament? History shows it will struggle
One Nation’s meteoric rise in the polls has sparked speculation about them becoming the official opposition. However, history shows the party often struggles to turn hype into seats due to internal dysfunction, scandals, and poor candidate vetting. The post Opinion: Can One Nation turn its polling hype into seats in parliament? History shows it will struggle 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.
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.
Richmond Valley teenager honoured with NSW Premier’s Award
Tatham’s Millie Trustum has been recognized for her extraordinary courage, leadership, and tireless advocacy and fundraising for childhood cancer research.