Armidale airport has put in a bid for the Qantas Pilot Training Academy. However after failing to meet some of the criteria, some worry it could hit turbulence.

Running a small regional business can be tough, especially with an increase to the minimum wage on the horizon. But thanks to the new state budget, a tax break is on the way.

A 47-year-old man who died in a single vehicle crash in Uralla last night has been identified as local school teacher Malcolm Boyd. Emergency services were called to Kingstown Road, near Wallaby Rocks Lane after the vehicle he was driving crashed into a rockface. Sadly, he died at the scene. Any witnesses are asked to come forward.

A group of local kids ditched the school books, and hit the road for a different kind of education today. They’re part of Pathfinders’ annual Pumpkin Run, making its way from Armidale on a mission to feed homeless people.

A 47-year-old man has died in a single vehicle accident in Uralla at 10 pm last night. Emergency services were called to Kingstown Road near the intersection of Wallaby Rocks Lane after the vehicle he was driving crashed into a rockface. He died at the scene. Police say he was a local and are asking any witnesses to come forward.

The smiles of thousands in the Liverpool Plains may soon be a lot brighter, with council considering adding flouride to the water supply. But it’s a decision yet to be embraced by the community.

As the season’s temperatures continue to plumet, the Red Cross is feeling the cool pinch. Blood donations are decreasing across the country…with the service urging people to roll up their sleeve and donate for a good cause.

A local jockey is sweeping the stakes on the racetrack with 12-wins in seven months. Regional trainers are taking a punt on Wendy Peel – who is fast making a name for herself as a stayer.

Excitement was at its peak last night for a nail biting finish to the Open Futurity Finals. Lynda MacCallum just pipped at the post – but it was still a dream run for the Scone trainer, coming just a fortnight after a serious health diagnosis.

Tamworth country music mainstay Eric Scott was one of eight people around the region to receive one of the Queen’s Birthday Honours. After a career dedicated to country music, he is being recognised for his service to the genre. The other recipients around the region were: The late Dorothy Lockwood- Tamworth- OAM His Honour Magistrate Michael North Holmes- Armidale- OAM Robyn Bradley- Armidale- OAM Maria Hitchcock- Armidale- OAM Desmond Latham- Armidale- OAM Dr Robert Mensah- Narrabri- OAM Ross McLean Hamilton- Inverell- OAM