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March 2026

Daylight saving ends on Sunday

31st March 2026
This Sunday, 5th April, Daylight Saving ends. Remember to put your clocks back 1 hour ... read more

Some Crow Mountain history

31st March 2026
History Notes - Crow Mountain(Written August, 1979) Barraba’s first mining boom was over 80yrs ago with the gold discovery at Crow Mountain, 12 miles from Barraba.Crowley and Hagan found gold for the first time in “The Dodger”.  The vein they found was very hard to keep track ... read more

Easter message from the Catholic Church, Barraba

31st March 2026
Christ has risen – Alleluia! An Easter message by Father Damien Locke, Administrator of the Catholic Parish of Saint John, Barraba.   Easter is one of the great moments of the Christian year. At its heart is a simple but powerful message: that life is stronger than death, that hope can ... read more

Easter message from the Anglican Church, Barraba

31st March 2026
A Politically Incorrect Easter Death is one of those topics that we’re not meant to talk about, isn’t it? It’s ‘politically incorrect’ because it makes us feel uncomfortable. Yet in the Bible, it says that death is the destiny of everyone. But not only that, it says t ... read more

Tamworth Regional Council meeting 24th March 2026

31st March 2026
Here is an overview of outcomes from the ordinary meeting of Tamworth Regional Council held on Tuesday 24th March 2026. Councillors considered a report about the future of Ray Walsh House and possible associated costs for further investigations. The report followed a Mayoral Minute in September 2 ... read more

Tamworth Skywalk work on schedule

31st March 2026
Skywalk project climbs towards completion The Skywalk project has reached a significant construction milestone, with the installation of the bridge across Scenic Road and the stairs up to Scenic Road from the boardwalk below taking place over the past two weeks. The bridge represents a key step in ... read more

Waste collection report on reduction progress

31st March 2026
WASTE COLLECTION Our current weekly average is 10.89 kg per household in the red-lid garbage bin - just under the state average of 11 kg per week. A good result, but there’s still room to improve. Audits show some recyclable items are ending up in general waste. Small changes can make a big ... read more

What's on at the Tamworth Gallery?

31st March 2026
TAMWORTH REGIONAL GALLERY Autumn School Holiday Workshops. Tuesday 7 April - Thursday 16 April. Esther Halliday Studio Session 1: 10am - 11:20am: most suitable for infants & lower primary aged students - $25Session 2: 12pm - 2pm: most suitable for upper primary & high school aged students ... read more

Private health insurance update

31st March 2026
Private health reform ‘gap’ leaves patients paying the price The cost-of-living pain for Australians is about to get worse, with private health insurance premiums rising on Wednesday — many of them well above the 4.41 per cent increase approved by the government. With fuel prices ... read more

Whitehaven Coal ecological burn notice

24th March 2026
Ecological Burn Notice Please be advised that Whitehaven Coal will be undertaking burn preparation and cool season Ecological Burns on the following Biodiversity Properties “Nindethana”, “Rosevale”, “Wirradale”, and “Yarrawonga” between 30th March and ... read more

Street Stall Thursday 2nd April

24th March 2026
Senior Citz Street Stall Thursday 2nd April 9am till sold out Outside the Chemist All donations gratefully accepted ... read more

Medical Centre new website launched

24th March 2026
Barraba Family Doctor - Now Online We're pleased to launch our new website for the Barraba community. You can now easily find information about our services, clinic hours, and helpful information. Visit us online at: www.barrabamedical.com.au Caring for our community, every step of the way. ... read more

Helen Best at Barraba Creek School

24th March 2026
Helen Best, Barraba, New South Wales(Submitted by Gillian Unwin – Helen’s daughter) The first school in our district – in the 1930s – was in the wool room of a woolshed, where the bales were stored at shearing time.  One wall was a tarpaulin covered with pictures cut fr ... read more

Judy Conway talks about Gulf Creek and Macintyre schools

24th March 2026
My time at Gulf Creek and Macintyre Schools – Judy ConwayI went to Gulf Creek from first class (no kindergarten then) until fourth class and fifth and sixth class at Macintyre School. My father was a stickler for education, so we went to school in whatever kind of weather.  The only time ... read more

Join the 2026 blood drive

24th March 2026
Join the 2026 Local Government Blood Drive It’s that time again, well a little earlier this year, but time to roll up our sleeves and help save lives! From 1 April to 30 June 2026, we are again taking part in the 2026 Local Government Blood Drive, and we’re inviting our community to be ... read more

Trip to NERAM at Armidale

24th March 2026
Bus Trip to NERAM, Armidale Two local artists, one shared vision: Tinted. The Potters and Craft Guild have organised a bus trip to visit the Exhibition detailed next column. Sunday 19th April. Depart Barraba at 9.30am, ETA back to Barraba 4.30pm Cost $65/person (based on min of 10 people) + dona ... read more

Two local artists, one shared vision: Tinted opens at NERAM

24th March 2026
Two local artists, one shared vision: Tinted opens at NERAM by Penelope Shaw, New England Times Hayes in her studio with Bert the duckling” 2026 Photo: © Pat Harris. Two Armidale artists whose creative journeys have grown side-by-side in the New England are preparing for a signifi ... read more

Carp Muster

24th March 2026
MORE INFORMATION: From Trent Hartwig or the Lion’s Club Marquee at the Glenriddle Reserve from Thursday afternoon. ... read more

Easterfish at Bingara

24th March 2026
The 2026 Bingara Anglers Club Easterfish is getting closer! Comp details: Where - Copeton Dam, Gwydir River (from Copeton Dam to Tareelaroi Weir) and the Horton River. When - Friday April 3 to Sunday 5, finishes 2pm Sunday Registration - Electronic registrations, will open the week before the co ... read more

Update on Tamworth Aquatic Centre

24th March 2026
Aquatics facility project gains momentum towards construction As the swimming season draws to a close, work is still progressing on a new Aquatic Centre to provide year-round swimming for our community and a centre of excellence for the sport of aquatics, education, and health. In August 2025 Counc ... read more

History of small schools around Barraba

18th March 2026
HISTORY NOTES by Margaret Currell Anyone who has read Carol’s “History of Country Schools” (Barraba Community News 28 January) will have enjoyed the stories of our schools of another era!  These notes may add some information as I attended Cobbabah School for one year before ... read more

Barraba does well at the Manilla Show

18th March 2026
Barraba Potters and Craft Guild members do well at the 2026 Manilla Show. Congratulations to Rosemary Orchard who is the very first recipient of the Jane Martin Memorial Trophy for the Most Successful Open Pavilion Exhibition. Rosemary's name will be the 1st on the perpetual trophy.  Congratu ... read more

Volunteer Grants EOI open

18th March 2026
The Hon. Barnaby Joyce MP. Member for New England 2026 Volunteer Grants $1000 to $5000 Expressions of Interest Open The Australian Government Volunteer Grants Program provides funding for organisations that increase participation in volunteering and focus on the inclusion of vulnerable people. The ... read more

World Down Syndrome Day

18th March 2026
World Down Syndrome Day March 21 A day to celebrate the lives of those with an extra chromosome. Wear your odd and colourful socks to create awareness. As many of you know, Guy, whose photo takes pride of place in the window of Frocks n Locks, was my little brother. He is missed greatly by our f ... read more

Cardiac Monitor installed at the hospital

18th March 2026
BARRABA COMMUNITY BENEFITS FROM CARDIAC MONITOR The Barraba Health Service, and therefore the Barraba community; will be better off thanks to the installation of a new state of the art cardiac monitor in the local emergency department.  Thanks to the generosity of present and past members of t ... read more

Make the most of the Local Land Services

18th March 2026

Seasons of NE Expo

18th March 2026
Seasons of New England Expo returns with expanded two-day celebration by Penelope Shaw. New England Times The much-loved Seasons of New England Expo is set to return this year bigger than ever, with organisers expanding the event to a full two-day program celebrating the region’s makers ... read more

TRC Meeting 10th March 2026

18th March 2026
Here is an overview of outcomes from the Ordinary Meeting of Tamworth Regional Council held on 10th March 2026. A Notice of Motion from Councillor Brooke was moved acknowledging the social and affordable housing issues Nationwide and in the Tamworth region. Councillors recognised the commendable ... read more

Let's talk libraries

18th March 2026
 Help shape the future of the Central Northern Regional Libraries! The CNRL Strategic Plan is due to be renewed and we’re looking for input from community members to help shape the future of the network. If you'd like to share your thoughts and ideas on the future of these important co ... read more

Barraba Show pavilion results

18th March 2026
Pavilion results Barraba Show 2026 Section 15 Farm and Garden Most Successful Exhibitor Denise Brodbeck Most Successful Junior Exhibitor  Barraba Central School Section 17 Cooking Champion Classes 1-17 Gillian Unwin - chocolate cake Most Successful Exhibitor Classes 1-17 Anna McMurtrie C ... read more

Pet Show winners

11th March 2026
BARRABA SHOW 2026 – THE JUNIOR PET SHOW It was raining at dawn on Sunday, but fortunately the weather cleared just in time for our 2026 new format Dog and Pet Show at its new time of 10.30 am. There were dogs of all sizes and colours (and energy levels!) – our judge, Rebecca, our local ... read more

SSO in Armidale

11th March 2026
Sydney Symphony Orchestra to perform in Armidale by New England Times News Desk The Sydney Symphony Orchestra will add Armidale to its 2026 Regional Tour, bringing a dance-inspired orchestral program and a series of young musician workshops to the New England. The Orchestra will perform at L ... read more

Show Secretary says "Thank you"

11th March 2026
A NOTE FROM THE BARRABA SHOW SECRETARY. Sunday 8th March 2026 This morning the grounds look a little quieter and the dust has settled (with the help of some much-needed rain over the weekend). We would like to say a big thank you to everyone that attended the 2026 Barraba Show! We are blown away ... read more

Peter Squires recognised for his Show Soc work

11th March 2026
BARRABA SHOW SOCIETY - PETER SQUIRE LIFE MEMBERSHIP PRESENTATION On Friday evening we proudly recognised Mr Peter Squire as a Life Member of the Barraba Show Society. Peter has dedicated 15+ years to supporting the Show, giving his time, energy and passion to help keep this community event going ... read more

Lib Croll recognised for 40 years Show work

11th March 2026
A massive thank you to Lib Croll. Total dedication to the Barraba Show for the last 40 years. ... read more

History Notes by Julie W

11th March 2026
HISTORY NOTES BY JULIE WILLIAMS Please don’t be alarmed, readers of History Notes in the Barraba Community News and the Barraba Historical Museum Facebook page! Margaret Currell is only briefly out of action and plans to be on the job again soon and back to writing History Notes.  Howeve ... read more

Show - knitting and crochet

11th March 2026
KNITTING AND CROCHET EXHIBITS It was great to see the Knitting & Crochet section so well supported at the 2026 Barraba Show.  Champion knitted article went to Penny Blomfield with her Stephen West designed Mystery Musikal shawl and the Champion Crocheted article to Jennifer Copelin with he ... read more

Show - Poultry winners

11th March 2026
POULTRY SECTION What a great day in the poultry pavilion here at Barraba Show! Thank you to all exhibitors and a huge congratulations to all placegetters! Bird of show : Nicole Smith Res bird of show : Nicole Smith Hard Feather large: Nicole Smith Hard Feather bantam: Nicole Smith Soft Feather ... read more

Claypan does well at the Show

11th March 2026
The Barraba Potters and Craft Guild Show News The Barraba Show Pavilion looked fantastic! Well done to everyone involved. Thank you to all Guild members for your entries and congratulations to those who were awarded prizes. Thank you also to everyone who helped in, or donated food for the catering ... read more

Clay Target Club AGM

3rd March 2026
Barraba Clay Target Club AGM. Sunday 15th March at 12pm Barraba Gun Range, All welcome. For further information contact Ben, 0428 500 367 ... read more

Flowers, Pets, Chooks and motor bikes at the Show

3rd March 2026
2026 Barraba Show ARE YOU ENTERING CUT FLOWERS OR FARM PRODUCE IN THE SHOW? NOTE: These fresh items can only be entered on Friday 6 March Cut Flowers: entries to be made to the luncheon pavilion from 2pm-4:30pm on Friday 6th March. Farm Produce: entries should be delivered to the luncheon pavili ... read more

Local Land Services support for farmers

3rd March 2026

Snake Season

3rd March 2026
SNAKE SEASON With the hot weather continuing we encourage the community to please take extra care and watch out for snakes in your local area. To discourage snakes from entering your property, ensure your garden is well maintained, clear of rubbish, and keep your grass short! If you see a snake: ... read more

Thank you Andrew, and go well

3rd March 2026
Next Act for Andrew! The last day of February 2026 marked a significant milestone for Andrew Sharp and the Barraba community.  For the last twenty three years, Andrew and the Playhouse Hotel have been a central landmark in Barraba, putting the hotel on the map in Barraba and Barraba itself on ... read more

What's on at the craft guild

3rd March 2026
The Barraba Potters and Craft Guild News The AGM held on the 13th February saw the following people elected to committee positions for 2026. Congratulations to all position holders and a BIG thank you to Annette Brittain for your dedication and guidance to the Barraba Potters and Craft Guild as Pre ... read more

Some early Crowley family history

3rd March 2026
History Notes This week, a little early Crowley history. I have found a newspaper cutting commenting on the Eathers of Narrabri. The Eathers were very early settlers in the Richmond area of N.S.W. and it is known Thomas Eather the 2nd had land and stock on the Liverpool Plains in 1829. He had also ... read more

Don't miss the motor bike barrel racing at the Show

3rd March 2026
Motorbike Barrel Race 2026 (Friday 6th March – Barraba Show) It’s on again, this Friday night entertainment at the show, the Motorbike Barrel Race (Section 0) kicking off at 6pm Last year we had 25 racers, with the mini’s (Class 1 7-12 years) being the largest.  This year a ... read more

Native Bees and Biodiversity

3rd March 2026
Clancy Lester – The Bee Man Native Bees & Biodiversity Native Bees, Birds & Biodiversity 17 March @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Learn about Australia’s native bees, pollinators and native plants with The Bee Man, and discover how we can support biodiversity. Join Tamworth Regional Land ... read more

TRC Meeting outcomes 24th Feb 2026

3rd March 2026
Here is an overview of outcomes from the Ordinary Meeting of Tamworth Regional Council held on Tuesday 24 February 2026: Councillors have agreed to allow Energy Co entry to Council Owned Properties behind Council’s Dungowan Dam to carry out preliminary investigations on a proposed route for ... read more

WASHING MACHINE EXCHANGE PROGRAM

3rd March 2026
WASHING MACHINE EXCHANGE PROGRAM Subsidising eligible low-income households to upgrade their inefficient top-loading washing machine to a water and energy efficient front-loading model. About the program The NSW Government’s Washing Machine Exchange Program is subsidising eligible low-inco ... read more

Essential Energy Grants Program

3rd March 2026
THE ESSENTIAL GRANTS PROGRAM IS NOW OPEN It only takes one idea to create something truly incredible that has a long-lasting impact in your community.  Essential Grants empowers regional communities across our network area to “spark change” and deliver initiati ... read more

2026 Barraba Show program

3rd March 2026

February 2026

Golf Day for Prostate Cancer

25th February 2026

Photography Comp at the Barraba Show

25th February 2026
ARE YOU ENTERING PHOTOS IN THE PHOTOGRAPHY SECTION AT THE SHOW? Remember: Entries must be submitted to Show Office at the Showground. Entries close 3.30pm, Tuesday 3rd March 2026. All exhibits must be with the Show Secretary at that time. All mail entries to PO Box 108, BARRABA must arrive by ... read more

Motor Bike Barrel Race at the Barraba Show

25th February 2026
MOTORBIKE BARREL RACE – 6 pm Friday 6 March On Friday night the entertainment in the Rodeo Ring starts with Motorbikes, before the horses and bulls of the Junior Rodeo - the spectacular Barrel Racing on bikes. Competitors are timed racing around fixed barrels in the arena; the fastest to comp ... read more

Annabel success for Starlight Foundation

25th February 2026
Annabel Kanno – she’s a winner! Annabel’s lap count was 32.2kms on Monday night with plans to continue swimming this week. The amount raised for sick kids, supported by the Starlight Foundation, is over $3000. Congratulations to Annabel for a win/win: laps and funds raised both ex ... read more

A Barraba reunion for old school mates

25th February 2026
WELCOME HOME NANCY! By Geoff Hagan Last Saturday 21st February saw twelve former classmates of Barraba Central School welcome home a fellow classmate, Nancy Brambley-More. Nancy hasn’t been back to Barraba since October 1988 – that is going on for thirty-eight years. When Nancy arrive ... read more

Some 'Simpson' family history

25th February 2026
History Notes  Our Society has had a request for a photo of Fritz Simpson.  He was descended from the more southern Simpson family – a grandson of Lewis Simpson who was born in Norway in 1836. Lewis came to Australia on board the “Scotia” in 1856.  Six years later ... read more

Upcoming local Shows

25th February 2026
2026 LOCAL SHOWS COMING SOON! Barraba Show: 6,7, 8 March Manilla Show: 13, 14, 15 March Bingara Show: 21, 22 March ... read more

'A' rating for Richardson House in Food audit

25th February 2026
At Richardson House we are proud to announce that we have once again received an A rating in our recent Food Safety Audit. A round of applause for all the staff involved in achieving this fantastic result. ... read more

Shop window display for the Barraba Show

17th February 2026
Shop Window Display – Barraba Show 6, 7 and 8 March The 2026 Barraba Show is fast approaching, only 3 weeks to go! The Show Society is once again asking all businesses to promote the show with a window display. Do you think you have this year’s winning window display? The pavilion theme ... read more

Popular Pet Show is on again

17th February 2026
The Junior Dog and Pet Show has had a facelift! FIRSTLY – a new time. Start time on Sunday is now 10.30 am Same place (behind the Grandstand), entries from 9.30. SECONDLY – new classes. Dog classes simplified to four – separate classes for other pets. More novelty classes. &n ... read more

Road show for cattle breeders

17th February 2026
‘Feed and breed’ North West roadshow for cattle producers on this February Getting the balance right between genetic selection and nutrition in a beef operation is a challenge even for the most experienced beef producers. To help local producers find more certainty in their decision mak ... read more

2026 Barraba Show - something for everyone

17th February 2026

Kevin Anderson - pushing for local tradies

17th February 2026
LOCAL TRADIES MUST BUILD TAMWORTH’S UNI Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson has called for a strong commitment to local jobs and local businesses as work progresses on the UNE Tamworth project. Mr Anderson said the project is a game-changing investment in the region’s tertiary education ... read more

AMA backs star rating for food labels

17th February 2026
Mandatory health star ratings a welcome step — now more action is needed to tackle obesity The Australian Medical Association welcomes today’s decision by food regulation ministers to move towards mandatory health star ratings on packaged foods, a long overdue reform that will help Aust ... read more

Some history of the Barraba Show

17th February 2026
History Notes Our annual Show is fast approaching – 122 years since the first one was opened by the Governor in 1904.  The Governor’s visit was very special with a parade down Queen Street before he made his way to the Showground. There are very few details of that first Show in t ... read more

TRC meeting outcomes 10th Feb 2026

17th February 2026
Here is an overview of outcomes the Ordinary Meeting of Tamworth Regional Council 10 February 2026: Council tonight consented to the sale of the “Mechanics Institute”, 87-93 Brisbane Street, Tamworth. Council had previously considered the sale of the building in April 2021, however th ... read more

Need to raise an issue with the local councillors?

17th February 2026
HOW TO RAISE AN ISSUE WITH OUR ELECTED COUNCIL As Council meetings are now underway for 2026, a key change from the newly adopted Code of Meeting Practice, is the way you can formally engage with Councillors at meetings. Locals have two options: Public Forum or Community Strategic Sessions, depend ... read more

TRC gets new Events Manager

17th February 2026
Tamworth Regional Council Welcomes New Events Manager Tamworth Regional Council is pleased to officially announce the appointment of Joel Ulbricht as the new Manager, Events. Mr Ulbricht will replace Barry Harley, who has worked for Tamworth Regional Council for 11 years, leaving an incredible lega ... read more

Cr Marilyn Dixon resigns from Gwydir Council

17th February 2026
CR MARILYN “MASH” DIXON OAM RESIGNS FROM GWYDIR SHIRE COUNCIL Gwydir Shire Council has received the formal resignation of Cr Marilyn Dixon OAM, effective Tuesday 3 February 2026. Cr Dixon has resigned due to medical reasons, and the resignation has been formally notified to the NSW Ele ... read more

Ageing Australia input to Federal Budget

17th February 2026
Ageing Australia makes recommendations ahead of federal budget Ageing Australia has made a series of recommendations ahead of the federal budget to build a sustainable and investable aged care sector, supported by a workforce to match, that will grow with our ageing population. “Action is ne ... read more

Sports Shear and Wool Handling Competition – in its fourth year

17th February 2026
BARRABA SHOW 2026 Sports Shear and Wool Handling Competition – in its fourth year In 2022, local shearer Jock Mallise decided to work to get Barraba on the national shearing and wool handling competition circuit. “Barraba has a long and proud history as a centre of the wool industry &n ... read more

NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards on again

17th February 2026
NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards Nominations for the 2026 Volunteer of the Year Awards are open. The awards celebrate the numerous people who contribute to our communities by selflessly offering their time. Although they don’t do it for recognition, the Volunteer of the Year Awards provide th ... read more

Generous donation to Annabel from the Freemasons

17th February 2026
On learning, by way of our Community News, of Annabel's endeavour to swim 32Kilometeres to raise money for the Starlight Foundation - the Freemasons of Lodge Saint Andrews, who meet in Manilla, invited Annabel and her mother, Fiona, to attend their St Valentine's meeting on Thursday 12.02.2026. The ... read more

New business opens in town

11th February 2026
Paul Hennessy and his partners have recently opened a new business in Barraba. This is the third location they have established and Paul is the manager of their Barraba site. Located at 68 Alice St, next door to Rural Traders, they will be servicing an area from Tamworth to Bingara with their mobil ... read more

The Barraba Show is on again 6-8 March

11th February 2026
115th BARRABA SHOW – coming soon! The 2026 Barraba Show will be held this year from Friday 6 March to Sunday 8 March. Barraba Show 2026 once again brings you family entertainment and fun with three days of Rodeo, Sports Shear, Wool Handling, Campdraft, Working Dogs, Motorbike Barrel Racing, P ... read more

Class 1972 to 1977 reunion

11th February 2026
Barraba Central School.                                             Class Reunion 19 ... read more

History Notes

11th February 2026
History Notes   This week I have finally changed the rain record chart – with barely 25mls so far this year perhaps a change of chart might help! While putting the old chart away I came across records of a heatwave at Cobbadah in 1939. There were ten days of readings ranging from 102 t ... read more

AGM for the Cancer Patients Fundraising

11th February 2026
BARRABA CANCER PATIENTS FUND RAISING GROUP INC. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING THURSDAY 26TH FEBRUARY 2026, 11am. Andy's Guesthouse All are welcome ... read more

AGM for the Potters and Craft this Friday

11th February 2026
Barraba Potters and Craft Guild Inc Annual General Meeting Friday 13th February 2026 commencing at 10am. An ordinary meeting will follow. All members welcome. If you are interested to join the Guild, enjoy a variety of craft activities and meet people please come along. Please phone Bronwyn 044 ... read more

Power out this Sunday

11th February 2026
Essential Energy crews will complete maintenance on the electricity network supplying power to Barraba, Upper Manilla and surrounds this weekend Sunday (15 February). Crews will install new network equipment on the main power line supplying Barraba to improve the reliability of the Upper Manilla zo ... read more

Annabel is swimming for sick kids

3rd February 2026
Annabel Kanno, swimming for the Starlight Foundation Annabel, a Year 6 student at Barraba Central School, has a goal is to swim 32Kms = 960 laps of the Barraba Pool between the 1st and 28th February and raise $1000 for sick kids. Please donate, support Annabel to help others. You can donate online ... read more

Update from the Senior Citz

3rd February 2026
Senior Citz News The meeting last Friday was well attended. President, Kim, welcomed everyone, especially the new members. If you would like to join our merry band, there is a warm welcome waiting. Great News! The Christmas Concert is back on again. More details as time goes on. The second piece ... read more

Barraba Rugby Sponsors night

3rd February 2026

History Notes - small schools in our area

3rd February 2026
HISTORY NOTES Anyone who has read Carol’s “History of Country Schools” will have enjoyed the stories of our schools of another era!  These notes may add some information as I attended Cobbabah School for one year before being sent to boarding school in Sydney. I can tell you ... read more

TRC Jobs this week

3rd February 2026
JOBS OF THE WEEK This week we’re recruiting for various roles, including: Specialist Operator – AELEC Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) Educational Team Leader Operators & Specialist Operators – Waste (Multiple) Strategy Engineer Development Assessment Planner (Various Pos ... read more

Essential Energy grants for 2026

3rd February 2026
Turning ideas into action: Essential Grants open for 2026. ​Grants of up to $15,000 available for projects that drive sustainability and resilience across New South Wales Essential Energy is calling on charities and not-for-profits within its network area to apply for the 2026 Essential Gra ... read more

Rugged Rustlers this Sunday

3rd February 2026
Barraba High Country Music Musta Sunday 8th Feb 2026.    12 to 4pm.  FREE ENTRY. Walk-up artists welcome. Barraba Bowling Club. ... read more

January 2026

Australia Day Awards in Barraba

28th January 2026
Honours awarded at Barraba and Manilla Ceremonies Australia Day Award ceremonies in Barraba and Manilla recognised exceptional contributors to the community on Monday 26 January 2026. A good night, well attended by Barraba locals at the Golf Club The 2025 Barraba Citizen of the Year was Arlene We ... read more

Andrew Sharp moving on

28th January 2026
Dear Editor, After twenty-two years as owner of The Playhouse (formerly Central) Hotel, the time has come for me to pass it on to a new owner. I am delighted that Rachel Bennewitz is taking over. She is a warm and friendly person who is excited to join the Barraba community, and she brings the righ ... read more

Thanks to the Essential Energy crews

28th January 2026
Dear Editor In recent months Barraba has had some power outages – some planned and some unplanned.  Whilst inconvenient, the latest outage commenced at approx. 6pm and power was returned at approx. 4am next morning. During that time there was a severe electrical storm in Barraba and the ... read more

Thanks from the Irwin Family

28th January 2026
Thank you Gregory Irwin 25-2-1959 – 13-1 2026 We wish to say ‘Thank you’ to the nursing staff and in particular nurses Karen, Abbey, Natalie and Vicki at the Barraba Hospital, as well as Dr. Heinrich Strydom and Jon Gourlay from Tamworth Palliative Care for their kindness, care a ... read more

Estate of Wayne Paul Redding

28th January 2026
Form 114 (version4) Succession Act 2006 s.93, Probate and Administration Act 1898 s 92 and Trustee Act 1925 s 60. NOTICE OF INTENTED DISTRIBUTION. ESTATE OF WAYNE PAUL REDDING. NSW GRANT MADE 18TH DECEMBER 2025. Any person having any claim upon the estate of Wayne Paul Redding, late of Barraba w ... read more

Margaret Harris says "Thanks" to the Sunday Sewers.

28th January 2026
Well known Barraba local, Margaret Harris, recently moved home to Richardson House. That meant having to downsize so much from her home of many years in Barraba. Margaret donated a quantity of fabric to the Guild for use by the Sunday Sewers or for sale to shoppers. Amongst the donations were many ... read more

Historical Museum has a 'Former Barraba Schools' project

28th January 2026
Revisiting Former Barraba Schools This year the Nandewar Historical Museum is having a special focus on revisiting schools that existed in the past in our area. To do this we are calling on the local community who may have attended or  be  a member of a family who  attended school at ... read more

Goldthorpe and Simshauser families

28th January 2026
History Notes The holiday season is a great time for everyone to travel around to catch up with family, to explore their state or just to find time to research their family history.  Just lately there has been the Simshauser family asking about Slatey Gully and the Goldthorpe family trying to ... read more

Regional Australia Day Awards

28th January 2026
The Hon. Barnaby Joyce MP, Member for New England Australia Day Honours Federal Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, has congratulated and commended the region’s 2026 Australia Day Award recipients. Ten residents of New England and Upper Hunter have received the Medal of the Order of Aust ... read more

Gun Safety Alliance support firearms reform

28th January 2026
Australian Gun Safety Alliance Gun Safety Advocates Support a Ten-Point Plan for Firearm Reform Australia’s leading public-health, community-safety, and firearm-harm prevention organisations have issued a joint call for urgent reform of the nation’s firearm laws following the fatal att ... read more

PBS price cut delivers affordable medicines

28th January 2026
Historic PBS price cut delivers affordable medicines for Australians The cost of medicine for those without a concession card is reducing to $25. That’s the lowest amount since 2004 and only the second time in history that the price of medicine in Australia has been reduced Pharmacy Guild of ... read more

Australia Day Awards at the Golf Club

21st January 2026
Communities come together for Australia Day 2026 People right across the Tamworth Region will have a range of bumper events they can attend this Australia Day, from morning barbecues through to an evening concert. The concert, with a full lineup to be announced, along with fireworks will round out ... read more

Farewell to Andrew after 23 years

21st January 2026

A chat with Rachel at The Playhouse

21st January 2026
‘Take 2’ at The Playhouse  The Barraba Community News team caught up with Rachel Bennewitz on her first day as the new owner of The Playhouse. In amongst guests, tradies and fire inspectors Rachel found a few minutes to talk to us. Welcome Rachel and congratulations on your purc ... read more

Thanking of Selling? Talk to Hart Rural

21st January 2026

'ACE' Nomination for Richardson House

21st January 2026
Message to Richardson House from Ageing Australia Dear Richardson House Aged Care BarrabaYou are ACE! Here is why [resident family member] thinks so:I would like to nominate my mum's facility for this award in recognition of its extraordinary care and excellent commitment on all levels of manageme ... read more

New garden area opened at Richardson House

21st January 2026
Kevin Anderson opens new courtyard at Richardson House Everyone loves a good courtyard! There’s a brand new one at Richardson House in Barraba thanks to a $30,000 grant from the Community Building Partnerships program! A great asset for residents and the community! ... read more

Orchard Family gift to the Health Service

21st January 2026
I would like to share a positive and heartfelt update. The Orchard family recently presented Barraba Multi-Purpose Service (MPS) with generously donated items in honour of their beloved Bob Orchard. The donation included a new refrigerator and a hamper for the palliative care room, intended to sup ... read more

Potters and Craft Guild AGM 13 Feb

21st January 2026
Barraba Potters and Craft Guild Inc Annual General Meeting Friday 13th February 2026 commencing at 10am. An ordinary meeting will follow. All members welcome. If you are interested to join the Guild, enjoy a variety of craft activities and meet people please come along. Please phone Bronwyn 044 ... read more

Wilkinson Family history

21st January 2026
History Notes Wilkinson is a well-known district name – it has been in the Barraba/Bingara district for more than a hundred years.  At this stage I do not know when or where George Wilkinson was born but it is thought he was about 27 years old when he married Mary Kelly at Wallabadah in ... read more

Senior Citz back for 2026

21st January 2026
Senior Citz Notes Hello Everyone, Hope everyone enjoyed their Christmas break.  There was a very good crowd for Bingo on Friday.  The bowl of fresh fruit was a great idea, good on you Kim. Great news – the $5 for handicraft has been dropped.  We are in a very sound financial ... read more

TRC meeting report 16th Dec 2025

21st January 2026
Council Meeting Update – 16 December 2025 Here is an overview of outcomes from the Ordinary Meeting of Tamworth Regional Council: Reports on the Draft Tamworth Region Structure Plans and the potential sale of the “Mechanics Institute’ on Brisbane Street were deferred until 2026 ... read more

Free entry to the pool

21st January 2026
Yes!! Free pool days are back in 2026. Following the success of our free days in last summer, we are pleased to announce the dates for our FREE pool days in 2026. Across the region all of our pools will have free entry on: Sunday 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th January Sunday 1st February For more ... read more

Waterwise Guidelines

21st January 2026
TRC WATERWISE GUIDELINES As we hit the height of summer, a little reminder about our Water Wise Guidelines: Only water your garden before 10am or after 4pm Trigger nozzles should be used on all handheld hoses to reduce water wastage Avoid hosing down hard surfaces like concrete paths and drivewa ... read more

TRC Water Rebates

21st January 2026
TAMWORTH REGIONAL COUNCIL WATER REBATE SCHEME Looking at a few projects to kick off the new year? We can help you save water and money at home or work with our Water Saver Rebate Scheme. Check our website for the full list and eligibility about initiatives including: Rainwater tanks Greywater s ... read more

TRC are hiring

21st January 2026
JOBS OF THE WEEK We’re hiring for various roles this week, including: Senior Venues Technician Distribution Operator Cyber Security Specialist Expression of Interest – Strategic Planning Opportunities Senior Leader Enterprise Applications Apprentice Operator – Transport Oper ... read more

Bingara Aust Day Awards

21st January 2026

Gwydir Careers

21st January 2026
ARE YOU LOOKING TO KICK START YOUR CAREER? Gwydir Shire Council has the perfect opportunity for you to develop valuable skills and obtain a nationally recognised qualification while working as a valued member of a diverse, multi-skilled workforce. Positions being offered are: Apprentice - Civil ... read more

Barraba Rugby gearing up for 2026

3rd January 2026