Camp Creative comes alive for 40th year in Bellingen
Bellingen bellowed with creativity and inspiration last week as more than 1200 ‘campers’ immersed themselves in the arts at the 40th annual Camp Creative.
Sawtell pool’s future sparks community concern as council floats long-term aquatic strategy
The future of Sawtell Pool has come under scrutiny as locals push back against a draft council strategy that could see the much-loved facility transformed into a water-play park.
Have your say on the next stage of the Manning Hospital Redevelopment
The next stage of the Manning Hospital Redevelopment is moving ahead, with the community invited to have their say on plans now on public exhibition.
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.
Local News
First Nations voices take centre stage in Tamworth
A powerful celebration of First Nations music, art, and community, Yaama Guduu, Greetings Murray Cod will land in the heart of Tamworth from 28 to 30 November.
Former Forth Street residents experiencing homelessness supported through joint agency collaboration
Residents who were previously experiencing homelessness on Forth Street in Kempsey are no longer residing on public land. Read more here.
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.
New Probationary Constables welcomed to Clarence and Richmond Valleys
Four new Probationary Constables will join the ranks of the Clarence and Richmond Valleys. Read more here.
Added prizemoney for country Greyhound racing kicks in
With the start of the New Year an additional $350,000 in prizemoney has commenced to flow through to country greyhound participants throughout NSW.
What's On
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.
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.
Finalists announced for 2025 Environmental Music Prize
Thirty songs have been named finalists for the 2025 Environmental Music Prize, a $20,000 award that recognises Australian artists using music to connect audiences with nature and inspire climate action, including bushfire tribute “Up Armidale Road”
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Lifestyle
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.
New year brings cheaper medicines, higher energy bills
A cut to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme co-payment will slash the cost of medicines but Australians face higher power bills in 2026.
New national park campgrounds open for summer holidays
Summer holiday makers can enjoy new and improved campgrounds across NSW following a $43 million government investment. Acting Minister Steve Whan says upgrades at sites like Kosciuszko and Trial Bay Gaol will boost regional tourism.
Environment
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.
Finalists announced for 2025 Environmental Music Prize
Thirty songs have been named finalists for the 2025 Environmental Music Prize, a $20,000 award that recognises Australian artists using music to connect audiences with nature and inspire climate action, including bushfire tribute “Up Armidale Road”
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT
North Hill Veterinary Clinic opens doors to state-of-the-art Bundarra Road facility
North Hill Veterinary Clinic have opened the doors to their brand-new, purpose-built facility on Bundarra Road, bring the best and latest in vet care to Armidale.
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
More voices added to call for better rural health
Calls for urgent, practical reform of rural healthcare have intensified this past week, with the Country Mayor’s Association formally backing the Better Care, Closer to Home Alliance push for a new Rural Health Action Plan
EDUCATION
NSW unveils landmark anti-bullying reforms
Schools across New South Wales, including those in the North Coast region, will soon be required to triage and respond to bullying incidents more quickly and consistently, under a landmark framework.
POLITICS
NSW RFS ‘red fleet’ ownership delayed by bureaucracy
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.
MONEY
Westpac admits dropping the ball on regional customers
Westpac is promising to better support its regional bank brands after losing customers because of overpriced mortgage products for home owners.
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- Denise’s Desk: Is This Really What New England Voted For?
Denise questions whether One Nation and Barnaby Joyce truly represent New England, criticizing their voting records on worker rights and their divisive use of recent tragedies for political gain. The post Denise’s Desk: Is This Really What New England Voted For? appeared first on New England Times Engage.
Good News
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.