News

Gunnedah in spotlight as Commonwealth Bank extends regional branch commitment

Gunnedah has been put in the spotlight serving as the backdrop for a Commonwealth Bank announcement about regional bank branches. Last week, the nation’s largest bank extended its commitment to keep all of its regional bank branches open at least until the end of 2030. Commonwealth Bank staff from the region featured as part of an announcement as well as local faces. Gunnedah real estate agent Richard Gallen, business owner Mel Bartlett and chamber of commerce president Michael Broekman were included in the company’s video announcement. “Having a local branch as a rural community, in my opinion, is essential,” Mel […]

Oct 12, 2026

Nature writing masterclass with Sally Piper in Narrabri

Love writing about the places that shape your life? Join acclaimed Australian author Sally Piper at Narrabri Library for a free three-hour masterclass exploring the powerful role landscapes and the natural world can play in storytelling. This masterclass will help you find new and meaningful ways to write about the places that matter to you Through readings, discussion, writing exercises and creative prompts, you’ll discover how place can become more than a backdrop, helping to create mood, build tension, deepen meaning and shape character journeys. The masterclass is suitable for writers of all experience levels, whether you’re an experienced writer […]

Oct 11, 2026

Chaffey outlines Coalition plan to scrap net zero

Families and businesses in the Parkes electorate would be prioritised under a Liberals and Nationals plan to scrap Australia’s legislated net zero target and focus on cheaper and reliable energy. Federal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey said rising electricity costs were putting increasing pressure on household budgets. “Every extra dollar spent on your power bill is a dollar less for the family budget,” Mr Chaffey said. “Australia has abundant energy resources. So why are we paying so much? “The problem is Labor’s policies. Driven by its net zero obsession, Labor has turned its back on affordable and reliable energy. “The […]

Oct 11, 2026

‘All welcome. Always.’ Burren’s old church set to get a new lease on life with community’s help

Burren Junction community members have banded together to ensure one of the town’s oldest and most charming buildings remains for generations to come. “We’re raising funds to preserve, restore and maintain the church so it can continue to be a welcoming place for the whole community,” said Burren’s Genevieve Sendall. The former Anglican church might be close to 100 years old, but the community group believes there’s plenty of promise left in the historic landmark, unveiling a fresh vision to breathe new life into the building and open its weathered timber doors to all. “Our hope is that this historic […]

Oct 10, 2026