North Coast renters could benefit from cheaper power under solar reform proposal
Renters across the Mid North Coast and North Coast could gain access to cheaper, cleaner energy under new proposals that would give tenants the right to use portable solar panels and batteries.
Missingham Bridge guardrail works to improve community safety
Essential guardrail works will be carried out on Missingham Bridge from Monday with work expected to continue for approximately four days, weather permitting.
Man arrested, firearm seized in Tweed Heads
A man has been charged after police allegedly found him in possession of a firearm in the state’s north this week.
Troy Cassar-Daley encourages mob to get vaccinated ahead of winter
Country music star Troy Cassar-Daley is urging First Nations Australians to get vaccinated before winter respiratory illnesses increase.
Local News
10-hour journeys for blood tests expose the toll of rural healthcare gaps
A New England mother drives 10 hours for blood tests, exposing the emotional and financial toll of rural fertility care.
$5m boost to deliver safe housing for vulnerable older women in South Grafton
A $5 million NSW Government boost will help deliver 32 affordable homes for older women in South Grafton.
Healthcare Helper volunteer program arrives at Byron Central Hospital
Byron Central Hospital is seeking volunteers for a new Healthcare Helper program supporting patients, families and nursing staff locally.
Whether you are a traditional tradie, like a mechanic, builder, plumber, or electrician, a trade that doesn’t always come immediately to mind like hairdresser, counsellor, or graphic designer, a service business like a cleaner, book keeper, or personal trainer, or perhaps a professional service, like accountant, lawyer, or consultant, we want to highlight your great work.
New England Business Technology: the local team behind smarter business systems
New England Business Technology (NEBT) is focused on helping organisations “do business better” through tailored technology and communication solutions designed specifically for regional conditions.
Tow World trusted for honest service and practical know-how
Helping people tow, travel and explore with confidence is what drives the Tow World team every day – and they’re expanding their service capacity with a move to new premises.
Local plastering legend lives on
A new Inverell business is carrying on the legacy of a well-known local tradesman, with a team determined to continue the standards and workmanship he became known for.
Nationals launch “Flick the Tick” petition
Nationals MPs have launched a “Flick the Tick” petition at Primex today, demanding stronger action and more funding to tackle the growing cattle tick threat across regional NSW.
Taree clubs hailed for flood recovery efforts one year on
Two of Taree’s best-known clubs are being recognised for their extraordinary efforts during last year’s devastating floods, with both Club Taree and Taree Aquatic Club (Sailo’s) named finalists in the Emergency Response category of the prestigious ClubsNSW Clubs & Community Awards.
What's On
Nationals launch “Flick the Tick” petition
Nationals MPs have launched a “Flick the Tick” petition at Primex today, demanding stronger action and more funding to tackle the growing cattle tick threat across regional NSW.
Taree clubs hailed for flood recovery efforts one year on
Two of Taree’s best-known clubs are being recognised for their extraordinary efforts during last year’s devastating floods, with both Club Taree and Taree Aquatic Club (Sailo’s) named finalists in the Emergency Response category of the prestigious ClubsNSW Clubs & Community Awards.
The Echo celebrates 40 years of independent voice, community and connection
The Byron Echo is preparing to celebrate a major milestone this June, marking 40 years of independent community journalism with a special anniversary event that editor Aslan Shand says is both a reflection on its roots and a commitment to the future of local media.
Nominate now! We are looking for local trades and services businesses – from micro-businesses to major companies – to feature in our “Trades you can Trust” series.
Lifestyle
North Coast to host world’s largest women’s surfing festival
Thousands of surfers and visitors will descend on Kingscliff next month for the world’s largest women’s surfing festival.
Community urged to recognise local volunteers during National Volunteer Week
Myall Lakes communities are being encouraged to recognise volunteers supporting neighbours, recovery efforts and emergency responses during National Volunteer Week.
New England Business Technology: the local team behind smarter business systems
New England Business Technology (NEBT) is focused on helping organisations “do business better” through tailored technology and communication solutions designed specifically for regional conditions.
Local plastering legend lives on
A new Inverell business is carrying on the legacy of a well-known local tradesman, with a team determined to continue the standards and workmanship he became known for.
Environment
State government expands support for communities affected by GKNP timber moratorium
Expanded NSW support aims to help North Coast businesses, workers and communities transition through Koala National Park changes
Film screening to spark dingo debate in the Northern Rivers
A community conversation around one of Australia’s most misunderstood animals is set to take centre stage in the Northern Rivers this month, with Defend the Wild hosting a special screening event at the Brunswick Picture House on May 17.
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT
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…
Unleash epic adventures with the X Series RV Toy Hauler X Terra from Tow World
Whether you’re chasing rugged trails, beachside sunsets, or mountainside campfires, the Tow World X Series RV Toy Hauler X Terra is your ticket to a life lived outside the ordinary. Designed for…
HEALTH
Men’s Table brings safe space for connection to Grafton
A growing national movement focused on men’s wellbeing and connection is coming to Grafton this month, with locals invited to attend a free introductory “Entree” night hosted by The Men’s Table.
EDUCATION
Community focus at centre of funding boost for Mudyala hub
The Clarence Valley community will benefit from major upgrades to the Mudyala Children & Youth Hub after the organisation secured nearly $188,000 in NSW Government funding.
POLITICS
Penfold says timing of gender bill and Giggle v Tickle ruling ‘a coincidence’
EXCLUSIVE: Lyne MP Alison Penfold says her biological sex bill was months in the making and not triggered by the Giggle v Tickle ruling, arguing it seeks to “give women choice back” while retaining protections for transgender Australians.
INDIGENOUS
Final call for nominations in Coffs Harbour First Nations awards
Nominations are closing soon for the 2026 Yandaarra Aunty Grace Roberts Awards celebrating First Nations leaders across the Coffs Harbour region.
CRIME
Vandalism rampage shuts Sapphire Beach toilets indefinitely
Sapphire Beach residents and visitors are without access to public toilets after a wave of vandalism and arson attacks forced the indefinite closure of the local amenities block.
Engage is our hub for opinion, letters, comments and ideas.
On North Coast Times engage now
- Letter: Not interested in trans hate
Simone writes the tiny, tiny number of people who are trans are nothing to fear. They're different, not scary. And Alison Penfold should get over it. The post Letter: Not interested in trans hate appeared first on North Coast Times Engage.
Good News
Lost World War I Medal returns home to Kempsey after remarkable discovery
A World War I medal belonging to a Mid North Coast soldier has finally been returned to his family after a remarkable chain of events that began with a chance discovery in a Coffs Harbour garden.
Local woman smashes military glass ceiling
Kyogle born and former 12/16 Hunter River Lancers reservist Lieutenant General Susan Coyle will be the first ever female Chief of Army.
Sydney to Grafton XPT to return after year off the rails
The Sydney to Grafton XPT is back, with services resuming later this month after a year of upgrades.
Local clubs raise $70,000 to support flood-affected farmers
More than $70,000 has been raised by Mid North Coast clubs to support farmers still recovering from last year’s floods.