May 12, 2026
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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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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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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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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Talking tactics for the winter ahead with Local Land Services Hunter LLS says it’s time for land managers to focus on practical strategies for managing a tough winter.
Local News

Talking tactics for the winter ahead with Local Land Services

RECORD-BREAKING saleyard numbers at Scone, Tamworth, and Dubbo signals that cattle producers are selling down, with Hunter Local Land Services (LLS) urging landholders to keep making these proactive decisions as conditions tighten moving into winter. Three key indicators point to increasing pressure on producers. Scone’s largest yarding on record, with more than 4,000 head, reflects […]

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Stargazing: Fishing by the moon phases
Local News

Stargazing: Fishing by the moon phases

EVERY fisherman dreams of catching the big one – the fish that turns an ordinary day on the water into a season-long bragging right. But what if I told you there’s a way to plan your fishing trips like a pro, know when the bite will be at its best, and head home feeling like […]

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Stinker’s Fishin’: Here they come! Mullet gather in huge schools and are netted by commercial fishermen for an eager market.
Local News

Stinker’s Fishin’: Here they come!

IT is that time of year for the mature mullet to leave the peacefulness of the NSW estuary systems and swim out into the open ocean with all its dangers – including fishermen. Anytime now, unless it has already happened, huge schools of sea mullet will pour out of the Swansea Channel and the Hunter […]

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Fire safety education opportunity as Gloucester Fire Station opens its doors Tea Gardens Fire and Rescue Station will be open from 10am to 2pm on Saturday 9 May. Photo: file.
Local News

Fire safety education opportunity as Gloucester Fire Station opens its doors

FIRE and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) will be throwing its doors open to the public again next month with important safety advice for adults and fun opportunities for the kids. Tea Gardens Fire and Rescue Station will be open from 10am to 2pm on Saturday 9 May, showcasing its fire trucks, equipment and highly-trained firefighters. There […]

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