Michelle Cowan named Clarence Electorate Local Woman of the Year
Grafton counsellor Michelle Cowan has been named the 2026 Clarence Electorate Local Woman of the Year for her work supporting the Clarence Valley community.
Accused Little Styx axe murderer denied bail
The man accused of murder at the Little Styx River campsite has been refused bail, as police allege he killed a fellow camper with an axe during a violent altercation at the remote spot on Point Lookout Road.
New hub to boost women-owned businesses in NSW
The NSW Government has invested more than $190,000 to support the launch of what is being described as Australia’s first database dedicated to showcasing women-owned businesses.
Councils versus polytunnels
The North Coast region is at the centre of a debate over whether Development Applications should be required for agricultural polytunnels, with a new bill introduced to give councils more power to regulate berry farms.
Local News
Imagine Yamba 2030 forum generates community buzz
The ‘Imagine Yamba 2030’ forum has gathered residents and business owners to discuss the town’s future, proposing ideas like a seafood festival and fishing competition to boost the local tourism economy.
Man dead after assault at campground near Ebor
A man has been arrested following the death of another man after an alleged assault at a campground near Ebor in the early hours of Monday morning.
Restoring the Past, Reimagining the Future at Jolly Good Emporium
Behind the doors of 168–170 Beardy Street, a 150-year-old building is being lovingly restored and reimagined, not simply as an antiques store, but as a heritage-inspired space where history, craftsmanship and community come together.
International Women’s Day 2026: giving, gathering and balancing the scales
Across the North Coast, International Women’s Day is being marked with events that turn “Give to Gain” and “Balance the Scales” into action.
Face-to-face scam support rolled out for NSW seniors during festival
NSW seniors will receive free face-to-face help to combat rising scam losses during the Seniors Festival.
What's On
Michelle Cowan named Clarence Electorate Local Woman of the Year
Grafton counsellor Michelle Cowan has been named the 2026 Clarence Electorate Local Woman of the Year for her work supporting the Clarence Valley community.
Volunteer awards nominations open as state celebrates 1.3b volunteer hours
Nominations have opened for the 2026 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, marking 20 years of recognising the quiet achievers who underpin communities across the state.
Go walking this Women’s Week
Women across the North Coast are being invited to lace up their boots and hit the trails this NSW Women’s Week, with a series of guided bushwalks designed to build confidence, connection and community.
Restored Holden to raise funds for Westpac Rescue Helicopter
A rare 1986 Holden VL Commodore restored by TAFE NSW students is set to go under the hammer, with proceeds to support the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.
Lifestyle
Volunteer awards nominations open as state celebrates 1.3b volunteer hours
Nominations have opened for the 2026 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, marking 20 years of recognising the quiet achievers who underpin communities across the state.
Seniors Week 2026: the North Coast celebrates “Live Life in Colour”
Across the North Coast, communities will celebrate the 2026 NSW Seniors Festival from 2–15 March, embracing this year’s vibrant theme, “Live Life in Colour.”
Grants to back community-led digital initiatives in rural Australia
Rural and regional community groups can apply for grants of up to $10,000 to strengthen digital inclusion and resilience under Telstra’s Connected Communities Grant Program.
Local beef spared from latest Trump tariff tantie, but others not so lucky
Australian beef exports appear set to dodge the latest twist in United States President Donald Trump’s escalating tariff saga, with industry leaders confirming reports that local producers will retain zero tariff access.
Environment
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.
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.
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
Birds, mould and fungus found throughout hospitals
After two patients died as a result of a fungal outbreak, a review of hospital maintenance has revealed disturbing infestations embedded in multiple facilities – including on the North Coast.
EDUCATION
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.
POLITICS
Caravans for better flood recovery
Communities across the North Coast stand to benefit from faster access to temporary housing after disasters
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
Coffs cop charged after being caught drink driving twice
A Coffs Harbour police officer has been charged with drink driving, and may lose his job, after being caught twice driving under the influence in the one day.
Engage is our hub for opinion, letters, comments and ideas.
Our dedicated Engage site will launch soon, in the meantime, you can join the discussion on New England Times Engage
On New England Times engage now
- QW: The next best thing is Rail Trails
Sally Hawxwell from Bithramere says: Much as I love trains and would support their reestablishment everywhere, It’s just NOT going to happen. SO The next best thing is “Rail Trails” Your beautiful towns will really benefit, They provide safe riding and walking in a world dominated by cars and trucks. The post QW: The next best thing is Rail Trails appeared first on New England Times Engage.
Good 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.
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.
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.