Light a candle tonight for Chanukah Massacre victims
All Australians are being encouraged to light a candle and put it in a front window of their home at 6.47pm tonight to show support for those affected by the terrorist attack at Bondi Beach last night.
Coffs Harbour to get expanded Government Workplace Hub
The State Government has secured an additional site in Coffs Harbour to expand its regional workplace hub, supporting local jobs and building a stronger community.
Give a rescue pet a home this Christmas
With Christmas fast approaching, families across New South Wales are being encouraged to consider adopting a pet from a council pound or animal shelter, giving rescue dogs and cats the chance at a loving “furever” home.
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.
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.
MP calls for ongoing dual ferry operation at Bluff Point
Long peak-hour queues and growing frustration for local commuters have prompted MP Richie Williamson to call on the NSW Labor Government to reinstate dual-ferry operations at the Bluff Point ferry service at Lawrence.
New Ballina pump track to officially open
Ballina Shire’s newest recreational facility, a national competition-standard pump track, will officially open next week, offering a dynamic new space for riders of all ages and skill levels.
Ballina Shire announces 2026 Australia Day Awards nominees
Ballina Shire Council has announced the nominees for the 2026 Australia Day Awards. Check out who made the list here.
Ocean Drive upgrade complete in major boost for Port Macquarie region
The long-awaited duplication of Ocean Drive in Port Macquarie has officially been completed, marking the largest road infrastructure investment ever undertaken by Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.
What's On
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”
Australia makes mince meat of beef industry at awards
Australia has taken out several top categories and the most gold medals at the prestigious World Steak Challenge, presented in London on Monday.
Events
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Lifestyle
NSW joins High Court battle to protect kids online
NSW has joined South Australia to defend Australia’s world-first social media ban for under-16s against a High Court challenge brought by several plaintiffs.
Producers plan ahead for a stress-free festive season
With the countdown on to Christmas, Local Land Services is reminding landholders that a bit of pre-Christmas planning could take a number of stresses away this festive season.
Low Methane Beef project delivers first genomic insights to help reduce emissions in beef cattle
The Low Methane Beef (LMB) project has reached a major milestone, releasing its first genomic Research Breeding Values (RBVs) for methane emissions in beef cattle.
Environment
New handbook helps regional communities shape their energy future
As regional communities again find themselves at the centre of debates over Australia’s net-zero future, a new handbook launched that will help them play a more active role in shaping how renewable energy projects are developed in their region.
Hands-on support to secure reliable town drinking water
The NSW Government is injecting an extra $2 million into helping 18 regional councils manage critical water infrastructure, securing high quality, reliable water supply for communities across the state.
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
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.
POLITICS
Boost to paediatric allied health workforce set to reduce wait times across NSW
Children and families across New South Wales are set to benefit from significantly improved access to essential health services, following the recruitment of 32 new paediatric allied health professionals under the Minns Labor Government’s $17.9 million investment.
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: Our Youth Are Leading the Way in Innovation and Compassion
Denise has been thinking about how inspiration comes from the most unexpected places. The post Denise’s Desk: Our Youth Are Leading the Way in Innovation and Compassion appeared first on New England Times Engage.
Good News
Grafton Rowing Club’s new clubhouse opens on the banks of the Clarence River
Clarence Nationals MP has congratulated the Grafton Rowing Club on the official opening of their stunning new clubhouse on the banks of the mighty Clarence River.
Ballina cadet becomes first graduate of NSW Government’s Fresh Start program
Young Ballina local William Black is the first person in New South Wales to graduate from the Minns Government’s $252 million Fresh Start Program, marking a major milestone for the initiative and for Ballina Shire Council.
Local manufacturer fills tiny home gap with regulatory confidence
A New England business is carving out a niche in Australia’s fast-growing tiny home market with a design that does something most competitors can’t promise: confidence.