North West News

For those battling the big dry, sometimes the biggest problem is not the paddocks, it’s the mind. Local community group Mind Matters put on a fundraiser today, as a way to help out those struggling with mental health issues during the drought. The aim of today’s event to let those on the land know their mind is their biggest asset. “I think for too long we’ve really talked about physical health, and mental health’s been neglected, but everyone needs to have good mental health and if we have good mental health then we have a more productive society.”

It’s good for your health, the environment, and the hip pocket – riding your trusty bike certainly has its perks. A group of passionate riders gathered in Tamworth today as part of New South Wales Bike Week, to get more people out of the driver’s seat.

One man is dead, and three others have been seriously injured after the car they were travelling in crashed and rolled east of Armidale. Emergency services were called to Castle Doyle Road at Castle Doyle just after 5 o’clock last night. The driver of the car, an 18-year-old man, was rushed to Armidale Hospital where he later died. His three passengers, aged 17, 14 and 12 were trapped for several hours before being freed. They were taken to Armidale Hospital with serious injuries.

It may be with the best of intentions, but bulk donations of food for struggling farmers could be doing more harm than good. The Local Land Services is warning farmers of the potential health problems unusual feeds can have, as traditional sources of hay and grain run dry.

Despite the chorus of voices calling for more transport options, the regional coach trials have received mixed support. Three different routes have been trialed over a six-month period, with two out of the three journeys showing promise, according to Member for Tamworth, Kevin Anderson. “The east and west trials between Port Macquarie, Dubbo and Tamworth have worked well, the one between Tamworth and Newcastle, not as much interest as we would’ve liked.” While the uptake for the Tamworth to Newcastle route has been minimal, the MP believes departure and arrival times need to be looked at. “I would also still like to explore options down the track about timing, in terms on when it leaves, because at the moment, the bus leaves very early.” PLEASE NOTE: SOME AUDIO UNAVAILABLE.  

It’s a charity drive by the Liverpool Ranges Harness Club, a fundraiser that’s seen the organisation clock-up almost 180-kilometres. Its members have been riding around on horse and sulky in recent weeks, raising funds for the oldest charity in New South Wales.  

A fleet of 30 aircraft took to the sky over Tamworth today, as BAE Systems celebrated 27-years of service. The talented pilots showing off with an aerobatic display above the city. In almost three decades, BAE Flight Training has clocked up more than 320,000 hours in the air. The School training more than 5000 pilots in that time. NOTE: VISION ONLY

A team of keen – and caring – cyclists took off from Tamworth today, all in support of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter. As they went on their way – a reminder of why the lifesaving service is so vital.

It will soon be easier and safer for pedestrians and cyclists to get around the southern part of Tamworth. Today, the state government announced a $900,000 project to construct a shared footpath from Calala Lane out to Greg Norman Drive. “I’ve just been talking to Tamworth Regional Council, they’re ready to go now so as soon as that money is released – which we’re hoping is will be ASAP they’ll be able to get on with the job,” Member for Tamworth, Kevin Anderson. It’s been warmly welcomed by local lycra-lovers, who are eagerly awaiting the completion of new cycling facilities. “Particularly with the new velodrome and criterium track which we hope will be used by all riders in Tamworth, so it’s just going to give us safe access from town out to those new facilities,” Rob Wright, Tamworth Cycle Club. NOTE: …

The University of New England will soon begin the search for a new Vice Chancellor, after Professor Annabelle Duncan announced today she would step down from the role. Professor Duncan will resign after five and a half years when her contract expires in August 2019. UNE’s Chancellor James Harris says she’s played a key role in improving the university’s research standing. Professor Duncan says while she is looking forward to her next adventure, she’ll continue to promote regional Australia. NOTE: FILE VISION ONLY