Coffs to go bananas with world record bid at Jetty Beach
Coffs Harbour is set to lean into its most famous icon in a big way next month, with locals invited to head to Jetty Beach and help create what could become the world’s largest human banana formation.
Casino Greyhound Club marks 90 years with Friday celebrations
Casino Greyhound Club will celebrate its 90th anniversary on Friday, marking decades of racing history in the Northern Rivers region.
Hero officer rescues three surfers in dramatic Byron Bay incident
A police officer has rescued three surfers, including an unconscious man, in heavy surf off Byron Bay, with all expected to recover.
Homes snapped up for as little as $100 at Murwillumbah flood buyback auction
Dozens attend latest Northern Rivers sale as buyers eye relocation and tourism opportunities. Read more here.
Local News
North Coast schools recognised for lifting HSC results
Five public high schools across the NSW North Coast and Mid North Coast have been named among the state’s most improved for HSC results.
More space unlocked for Lismore Showground after flood buybacks
The Lismore Showground will gain new parking and event space after the NSW Government moved to repurpose nearby flood-affected properties.
Epiq Marketplace expansion delivers new services and jobs for Lennox Head community
A new retail and commercial building has opened at Epiq Marketplace in Lennox Head, expanding services for the region’s growing community.
Hospital trial aims to prevent delirium in older patients
An older adult admitted to hospital with a urinary tract infection suddenly becomes fearful, irritable, and fails to recognise their lifelong spouse. Their confusion and distress alarm loved ones and concern hospital staff. While this scenario may look like – and is often mistaken for – dementia, it may in fact be delirium, one of…
New Southern Cross University veterinary facilities to strengthen Northern Rivers workforce pipeline
Southern Cross University has unveiled new veterinary training facilities in the Northern Rivers to help address regional vet shortages
What's On
Coffs Coast seniors recognised for community service
Several long-serving community volunteers have been recognised for their dedication and leadership as part of the 2026 NSW Seniors Festival Local Senior of the Year Awards.
World-class piping talent to feature at 121st Maclean Highland Gathering
Celebrating its 121st year, the Maclean Highland Gathering 2026 will welcome internationally celebrated solo piper Willie McCallum for the first time when it opens its doors this coming Easter.
Rumble on the River skateboard spectacle in Lismore
Australia’s top skateboarders are set to converge on Lismore next month for Rumble on the River, a four-day competition that will showcase elite talent at the city’s newly opened skate park.
Lifestyle
Roadmap for a more walkable, rideable Coffs Harbour
Steps to make it easier for people to move around Coffs Harbour under their own steam are outlined in a comprehensive new 10-year plan.
Coffs Harbour runners lead charge at Washpool World Heritage Trails
Coffs Harbour runners will feature strongly when the Washpool World Heritage Trails returns to Washpool National Park next weekend.
Digital birth certificates rolled out for young people in NSW
Young people across NSW can now carry their birth certificate on their phone, with the state government launching a new Digital Birth Certificate in an Australian first.
Regional Australia Bank named most recommended customer-owned bank
The Port Macquarie headquartered Regional Australia Bank has won an award based on customer recommendations.
Environment
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.
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.
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
Minister reverses IVI decision in win for regional macular degeneration patients
Health Minister Mark Butler has reversed a planned change to eye injection classifications, easing fears for regional macular degeneration patients.
EDUCATION
Construction begins on major Lennox Head Public School and preschool upgrade
Construction has begun on a new Lennox Head Public School campus, set to triple classroom capacity and open in 2027.
POLITICS
Barnaby Joyce calls for fuel rations, says Hanson uneducated
Member for New England Barnaby Joyce has called for fuel rationing to ensure that trucks can get the fuel they need to keep the nation moving on the ABC’s Insider’s program this morning.
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
Shots fired at police during pursuit near Grafton
A woman has been refused bail after allegedly firing a pistol at police out the window of her car during a dramatic 20km pursuit south of Grafton overnight.
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- Begin Rant: We never dealt with COVID and it shows
RK Crosby writes that according to a One Nation fan, she is responsible for fuel prices, his unemployment, whatever was wrong with his car, a court decision denying him custody of his children, the lack of staff at the front desk, the war with Iran, the general state of the world, and some sprawling conspiracy that was apparently ruining his life. You're welcome. The post Begin Rant: We never dealt with COVID and it shows appeared first on North Coast Times Engage.
Good News
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.
Bonalbo serves up new flood resilient tennis courts
Bonalbo’s sporting community has scored a win with the official opening of the village’s new flood-resilient tennis courts.
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.
Fishing festival takes over Mylestom
The quiet village of Mylestom was bustling last weekend with more than 800 fishers of all ages casting a line for the 29th annual Putt Bennett Family Fishing Festival.