A 2,000 hectare hazard reduction burn is planned for Guy Fawkes River National Park this week. Here’s what locals need to know about closures and smoke.
New England
Posted inFeature, New England, What's on
New rules to shake up Tamworth’s Boulevard of Dreams
The free-for-all on Tamworth’s Boulevard of Dreams is over. Here’s how buskers will be allocated their spots for the 2027 Country Music Festival, and the new sound rules they’ll need to follow.
Posted inCrime, New England, Phones and internet, Social issues and services
Terrifying home invasion detail prompts phone action for Torrington
She has survived a terrifying home invasion, including watching her husband shoot their attacker to save their lives. Now 72 year old Di Blessing has turned to activist, with a previously unknown and terrifying detail making the connectivity issue even more real.
Posted inHealth, New England
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.
Posted inCoffs Harbour, Crime, New England
Coffs men face multiple charges after hunting illegally at Yarrowyck
Two men are facing court and have had their home raided after police investigating alleged illegal hunting near Armidale laid a string of firearms charges.
Posted inDisability, Local News, New England
NDIS overhaul to kick 160,000 people off, hit regions hardest
Up to 160,000 people could lose NDIS support under sweeping reforms — with regional communities expected to feel the impact most.
Posted inNew England
Walcha Motorcycle Rally paused as Council steps back following 2025 crash
The much-loved Walcha Motorcycle Rally will not go ahead in 2026, with Walcha Council confirming it will step back from its role as organiser and financial backer following last year’s serious demolition derby accident.
Posted inBusiness, Money, New England
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.
Posted inArts, Awards, Environment, General News, New England
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”
Posted inEducation, Good News, Health, New England
UNE secures 10 medical places in national push for more GPs
The University of New England has been selected as one of 10 universities nationwide to receive additional Commonwealth-supported medical places, in a major win for regional health workforce education.