Tiemens welcomes new chapter

DARRELL TIEMENS
Mayor, Narrabri Shire Council
One of the best pieces of news our community has received this year was the announcement that the Narrabri Courier and the Wee Waa News would continue publishing.

Like many residents, I was relieved and pleased to see these two important local institutions given a future.
I would like to thank Warick Brown and his team at Times News Group for the faith they have shown in our communities. Taking on regional newspapers in 2026 is not a decision made lightly. It requires commitment, hard work and a belief that local journalism still matters.

In the days before the announcement, Warick and I had several conversations. One thing that stood out to him was the genuine affection and respect that people across Narrabri Shire have for their local newspapers. In fact, he said it was one of the key reasons he ultimately decided to keep these important newspapers alive.
That should make us all proud.

I am also pleased that several local journalists have been re-employed. They know our towns, our villages, our people and our stories. Local journalism is always strongest when it is delivered by people who are part of the community itself.

Warick has been very open about the fact that these newspapers will be run leanly. The reality is that this is the only way local newspapers can survive in today’s world. The industry has changed dramatically, and regional publishers must adapt if they are to continue serving their communities.

The good news is that a lean operation is still a local operation.

Our newspapers play an important role. They celebrate local achievements, cover local sport, promote community events, support local businesses and report on the issues that affect our daily lives. They help connect our towns and villages and provide a permanent record of our community’s history as it unfolds.

I would also like to thank the many businesses, organisations and individuals who have flooded the new owners with messages of encouragement and support. The response has been overwhelming and demonstrates just how much these newspapers mean to our shire.

Now we all have a role to play. If we want the Narrabri Courier and the Wee Waa News to remain strong, we need to support them. Buy the paper. Visit the websites. Share local stories. Advertise your business.

The future of local journalism in Narrabri Shire depends not only on the commitment of the new owners, but on the support of the community they serve.

I believe our community is up to the task.