October 24, 2026
Revitalised regional coach network unveiled The majority of services will be operated by modern coaches featuring wheelchair accessibility, improved seating and seatbelts, mobile phone charging points, onboard defibrillators and toilets.
Regional

Revitalised regional coach network unveiled

NEW routes and modernised coaches have been unveiled as part of a major upgrade to NSW TrainLink coach services. A 36 percent funding increase across the NSW TrainLink coach network will lift total funding to $290 million over the next nine years. From 1 July, 14 coach operators will run 49 routes across the NSW […]

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Global eyes on the Upper Hunter as Mt Pleasant mine case hits the High Court MACH Energy sought to double the mine's output to 21 million tonnes per year and extend its life to 2048. Photo: MACH Energy.
Local News

Global eyes on the Upper Hunter as Mt Pleasant mine case hits the High Court

THE first ever climate change case to reach the High Court of Australia will be heard on Wednesday, 13 May. The landmark moment will set a national precedent on whether Australian planning authorities are legally required to consider the local climate impacts of fossil fuel project approvals. The case, MACH Energy Australia Pty Ltd v […]

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Change to opening hours at Stroud Customer Service Point Stroud Customer Service Point and Library.
Government

Change to opening hours at Stroud Customer Service Point

REDUCED operating hours at the Stroud Customer Service Point and Library were adopted at MidCoast Council’s 29 April meeting. The facility will now operate from Tuesday to Thursday, 9am to 12pm. The move comes after a three month trial and a community feedback period open from Tuesday 27 January to Monday 2 March 2026. The […]

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Less than 100 Days to Census: Regional Australia encouraged to be counted Data from the 2021 Census showed a significant shift in where people live, with more than 184,000 people moving to regional areas over the previous five years. Photo: supplied.
Local News

Less than 100 Days to Census: Regional Australia encouraged to be counted

THE 2026 Census is less than 100 days away, with Census night to be held on Tuesday 11 August 2026. The Census is an important tool for regional and rural communities, as it shows what local areas need to help them grow, including transport, schools, healthcare, roads and buildings. Emily Walter, Census National Spokesperson, said […]

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NSW moves to avert landfill crisis with new food recycling laws Pat Burrows explains the Community Garden’s composting method.
Business, Community, Government

NSW moves to avert landfill crisis with new food recycling laws

NEW Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) recycling requirements are coming into force. From 1 July, most large food businesses will have to recycle their food waste, with the aim of diverting it from landfill. The changes will also require all councils to provide household food waste recycling services from 2030. “Without action, NSW is […]

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Historic Tamboi Queen returns to Port Stephens Owner and operator Kerrie Jeffreys all-smiles onboard the Tamboi Queen.
Local News

Historic Tamboi Queen returns to Port Stephens

Owner and operator Kerrie Jeffreys all-smiles onboard the Tamboi Queen. The Tamboi Queen returns to Port Stephens. The Tamboi Queen returns to Port Stephens. THE Original Tea Gardens Ferry has announced the addition of a new vessel to its fleet, with the purchase of the historic Tamboi Queen – a vessel deeply connected to the […]

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Have your say on Sanderling Avenue development
Community

Have your say on Sanderling Avenue development

Concept planning images of the Sanderling Avenue development. Source: EJE Architecture. Concept planning images of the Sanderling Avenue development. Source: EJE Architecture. Concept planning images of the Sanderling Avenue development. Source: EJE Architecture. The site of the proposed development. THE public submissions period for a controversial residential development on Sanderling Avenue, Hawks Nest is closing […]

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Stroud Butchery’s Mathew Thompson named Apprentice of the Year
Local News

Stroud Butchery’s Mathew Thompson named Apprentice of the Year

RISING talent Mathew Thompson has been crowned Apprentice of the Year at the prestigious 2026 World Butcher Wars, following an outstanding performance at Sydney Meatstock over the weekend. Competing in front of massive, energetic crowds at the Sydney Showgrounds, Mat demonstrated exceptional skill, precision and creativity in the butchery arena while proudly representing Stroud Butchery. […]

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Bootlegger boom: big excise fuels black market booze Nationals MP Pat Conaghan wants a review of the alcohol excise. Photo: Pat Conaghan MP.
Local News

Bootlegger boom: big excise fuels black market booze

A SPATE of fire bombings could be just the beginning as concerns mount the tax system is driving a burgeoning alcohol black market putting lives and the budget bottom line at risk. Police have not confirmed whether illicit alcohol was behind 15 incidents at hospitality venues across inner Melbourne since 14 April, but the industry […]

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Budget won’t be war between generations: treasurer Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Finance Minister Katy Gallagher are facing questions about the budget. Photo: Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS.
Local News

Budget won’t be war between generations: treasurer

POTENTIAL changes to negative gearing or capital gains tax in the federal budget would not be breaking the trust of voters, the treasurer says. As Jim Chalmers prepares to hand down his fifth budget, the government faces accusations it is coming after “mum and dad” investors as family trusts join capital gains tax discounts and […]

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