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Free asbestosdisposal trial aims tocurb illegal dumping

HOUSEHOLDS will soon be able to have asbestos waste collected and disposed of for free under a major state government initiative designed to tackle illegal dumping and improve community safety. The NSW government has announced a $16m NSW Asbestos Plan of Action, including a $9m, two-year household collection trial that will begin next year. The program will allow households to arrange free collection and disposal of asbestos waste, removing one of the biggest barriers to proper disposal. The reforms are part of the government’s response to the Chief Scientist’s report into asbestos in the waste stream and are intended to […]

Jul 20, 2026

Australia Post plan sparks concern for regional post offices

A Leaked Australia Post business case has prompted concern about the future of rural post offices and sparked a Senate inquiry into proposed changes to the national postal network. The Post Office Network & Licensed Post Office Reimagined plan includes the closure of some metropolitan outlets and could also encourage regional operators to shift away from perpetual licences to alternative operating models. Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey said the proposals highlighted the importance of protecting regional post office networks. In addition to Australia Post-operated Post Shops in Narrabri and Gunnedah, the region has 14 licensed post offices and community postal […]

Jul 20, 2026

Plans underway to keep seniors close to home

PLANS to expand Karinga Village have taken another step forward, with two new self-contained units due to arrive in December as Wee Waa & District Aged Care Inc. seeks community support to help fund the project. “The goal of Wee Waa & District Aged Care Inc. is to provide safe and affordable housing within the local community,” committee member Pat Kiem said. Mrs Kiem highlighted the importance of having aged care options in Wee Waa so residents can stay close to family, friends and a familiar environment. “Without facilities such as Weeronga (Whiddon) and Karinga Village, aged residents would not […]

Jul 19, 2026

Rotary celebrates year of giving back to community

THE Rotary Club of Narrabri has celebrated a year of giving back to the community at its annual changeover dinner, where outgoing president Chris Cole was recognised for his leadership and named Rotarian of the Year. The Rotary year started with a bang, with the club’s annual book sale again proving a fundraising success. The event raised $26,000, enabling the club to make significant contributions to local organisations and causes. Rotary also successfully hosted the Clarence Valley Orchestra, featuring Mirusia, at The Crossing Theatre. About 250 people attended the performance, which Mr Cole described as a highlight of the […]

Jul 19, 2026