News

Local Gov election results Tamworth Regional Enrolment - 44,550, 9 Councillors to elect 29,667 formal votes, 1,728 informal (5.5%), total votes at 70.5% of enrolment Progressive Quota = 2,967 Candidate Votes % Quotas 3,906 13.2 1.32 MEARS Step ... read more

Lions club presents Santa’s Helpers getting ready for present deliveries Lions club of Barraba’s members wrapping present for the school kids of Barraba. As Covid restrictions were still in place during the planning stages of what is normally the annual Christmas tree, the club again ... read more

Barraba pool ⭐️ POOL NEWS ⭐️ The hydrotherapy pool is back up and functioning again! Our opening hours for the rest of the summer! DecemberMONDAY -ClosedTUESDAY-FRIDAY 6-8am, 2-6pmSATURDAY-SUNDAY 12-6pmClosed on Christmas Day ☺️January MONDAY - ClosedTUESDAY-FRIDAY 6-8am 12-6pmSATURDAY- ... read more

History Notes This week we have the markets to look forward to – our first markets for a while so do call in and see what is on offer and perhaps sit at the tables and chairs on the patio and have a chat.  Hopefully we will have enough members to be able to open the museum from about 10 ... read more

TRC School holiday prog Summer School Holiday program announced No need to be a couch potato these school holidays, there is plenty to do outside of the country music festival following the announcement of the Summer School Holiday program. Tamworth Regional Council Team Leader Inclusive Communit ... read more

$250 MILLION AVAILABLE FOR PROJECTS IN NEW ENGLAND   The Liberal and Nationals Government is continuing to invest in the future of New England with a further $250 million in funding available under the Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF).   Applications for Round 6 of the program are n ... read more

Parents in New England encouraged to have their say in big tech inquiry   Submissions are now open for Australians to have their say in a Select House Committee putting big tech under the microscope as it examines toxic material on social media platforms and the dangers this poses to the well ... read more

DISASTER ASSISTANCE FOR NEW ENGLAND AFTER SEVERE WEATHER AND FLOODING Disaster assistance is now available to help local councils, residents, primary producers, small businesses, and charities recover from the severe weather event and flooding that occurred across parts of New England from Tuesday ... read more

DISASTER ASSISTANCE FOR NEW ENGLAND AFTER SEVERE WEATHER AND FLOODING Disaster assistance is now available to help local councils, residents, primary producers, small businesses, and charities recover from the severe weather event and flooding that occurred across parts of New England from Tuesday ... read more

Combatting online trolls and strengthening defamation laws Deputy Prime Minister and Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce has welcomed the Coalition Government’s world-leading reforms to Australia’s defamation laws that will protect Australians and Australian businesses from online tro ... read more

Suicide prevention grants to double, focus on at-risk groups   The Morrison-Joyce Government is increasing suicide prevention grants to organisations across the country to help reduce Australia’s suicide rate towards zero.    Organisations in New England can now apply for f ... read more

History Notes To Begin with there is a reminder that the Museum Christmas Markets are taking place on Saturday 18th December – the advertisement appears elsewhere.  Please stall holders make contact with Jenny Botha to book your stall, email is best, as you could miss out by just arrivin ... read more

Kevin Anderson diaries FREE DIARY TO INFORM SENIORS OF THEIR RIGHTS   Consumer rights, scams and legal help are all included in ‘Legal topics for older people diary 2022’, now available for free from the office of Kevin Anderson.   Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson has we ... read more

INTERMODAL DRIVING ROADS AND RAIL INVESTMENT FOR REGION With the opening of the intermodal at Tamworth Global Gateway Park coming next year, Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson has expressed his desire to continue driving road investment in the region, better connecting the produce to the rail line ... read more

Kevin Anderson Kids learn to swim   Another Christmas stocking filler is on its way thanks to the return of the NSW Government’s Active Kids and First Lap learn to swim vouchers.   This year’s Active Kids $100 vouchers are available until 31 December with the NSW Government ... read more

New Way Ahead for Ag Workforce AgUP grants to support initiatives to develop and retain agricultural workers Industry invited to bring forward initiatives that meet their labour needs Program aims to improve sustainability of our primary industries workforce. A round of grant funding will be ... read more

DISASTER ASSISTANCE FOR PARTS OF NEW ENGLAND AFTER SEVERE WEATHER AND FLOODING Disaster assistance is now available to help local councils, residents, primary producers, small businesses, and charities recover from the severe weather event and flooding that occurred across Upper Hunter and Gwydir L ... read more

NEW ERA FOR INFRASTRUCTURE AUSTRALIA The Liberal and Nationals Government has made a number of new appointments to the Board of Infrastructure Australia as it embarks on a new era. In the coming weeks, the Government will also issue a revised Statement of Expectations (SoE) to guide the future dir ... read more

Supporting Local Government in New England Local governments in New England have received their second 2021-22 quarterly payment through the Federal Government’s Financial Assistance Grant program.   Deputy Prime Minister and Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce said the funding is unt ... read more

COMMUNITY INVITED TO HELP SHAPE FUTURE OF NEW ENGLAND NORTH WEST Communities across the New England and North West now have the opportunity to provide feedback on the NSW Government’s draft plan for the region. The plan provides a strategic blueprint for the future of housing, investment and ... read more

     Barraba Central School       World's Biggest Debate We were very excited to be a part of the World’s Biggest Debating Challenge on Tuesday 9 November 2021. Sienna Hain and Jasmine Coombes were amazing representatives for our School Debating ... read more

Girl’s Day Out Saturday 4th December 9am - 2pm Bring a friend & have a day of discount shopping, lucky door prizes, food & fun. Participating businesses: Polkadot, Universal Catering Equipment, Frocks & Locks, Babes in the Bush, Barraba Pharmacy, A Little Twisted, Tiny 2Toddler, ... read more

Barraba Show Girl 2021 If you are a young lady aged between 15 to 17 years or 18 to 24 years,’ please contact Kelly Brown or Bindy Abell to enter into the 2021 Barraba Showgirl competition. The Showgirl Competition aims to find a young female between 18-24 years of age to be an ‘Ambass ... read more

History Notes The historical society has been rather quiet this week – no new enquiries.  We remind those members who have not paid their membership for 2021/22 to please do so. As most members would know we were proposing to have a Christmas gathering over a finger food lunch on 22nd D ... read more

A representative of News attended the ‘Meet the Candidates’ Forum’ on Wednesday 24th November. The report of the meeting follows; LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS – “Meet the Candidates” Forum Last Wednesday evening the Barraba Bowling Club was the venue for a “ ... read more

GUIDELINES NOW AVAILABLE FOR LOCAL GRANTSAS PART OF THE PREPARING AUSTRALIA PROGRAM   A key component of the Australian Government’s $600 million Preparing Australia Program has been launched, with the guidelines for the first stream of the program now available for communities.   ... read more

CHRISTMAS COMES EARLY FOR COUNCILS IN NEW ENGLAND WITH CASH BOOST   Local governments across New England will soon get their share of $1 billion flowing to councils nationwide to improve their local road networks and deliver priority community infrastructure projects. Made possible under ... read more

Celebrating people with disability in New England Local schools, community groups and workplaces across New England are being encouraged to celebrate International Day of People with Disability on 3 December this year. Deputy Prime Minister and Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce said it was mor ... read more

More scholarships for students in regional Australia   Deputy Prime Minister and Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce has welcomed funding to support tertiary students to move to the local area next year through the Australian Government’s Destination Australia program.   The D ... read more

2022 Barraba Australia Day Awards Honouring Commitment to our Community in 2021 Nominate Now! “CITIZEN”, “FRANK DARLINGTON YOUNG ACHIEVER” and “COMMUNITY EVENT” AWARDS CONDITIONS All residents of Barraba and district are eligible to be nominated, as are events ... read more

PREPOLL for the Local Government election               Tamworth Regional Council 29/11/2021 - 03/12/2021 Pre poll for the Local Government election will be held in the Barraba Council Office Mon - Fri: 8:30am - 4:00pm Pre-po ... read more

  CHAIRMANS REPORT Barraba & District Retirement Homes Inc. 2021 We take this opportunity to reflect on the events of the past year. Once again the impacts of COVID-19 were unexpected, unprecedented and presented a challenge not only to our business but also to each of us individually. ... read more

ST JOEY'S NEWS Our Intensive Swimming program started last week. The pool water is a comfortable 25 degrees and the students have been enjoying getting in the water. We are grateful to have the expertise of trained swimming instructors Miss Shani Marshall and Miss Amie Middlemiss to work with the n ... read more

History Notes The meeting this week went off well with lots of discussion on a variety of subjects including some family history.  Next on our agenda will be the markets in a few weeks’ time and then members and friends of the historical may have a small gathering at the museum for Chris ... read more

From Queensland Dept of Health Website NSW RESIDENTS MAY NOW TRAVEL TO QUEENSLAND UNDER STRICT CONDITIONS As of Monday 15 November, 70% of the eligible population is fully vaccinated: Arriving from a hotspot If you have been in a declared hotspot in the past 14 days you may travel to Queensland ... read more

VOLUNTARY ASSISTED DYING BILL 2021 UPDATE This week, the debate regarding the Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill 2021 will conclude and a vote will be held in the NSW Parliament. I want to thank the 4877 people right across the Tamworth Electorate who have let me know their thoughts on the bill. My vot ... read more

Entrance Strategy We need your help to design town signage and entrances   How to get involved Are you interested in helping shape the plans for future town signage and entrances across the region? We are seeking invested community members to take part in our focus groups. Join in a com ... read more

BARRABA COVID-19 vACCINATION CLINIC Barraba Hospital Walk in Pfizer Vaccinations Monday 22nd November 10am to 3:30pm Open to those aged 12 years and over (including 60 years and over) Children aged 12 to 15 years MUST be accompanied by a parent/guardian aged over 18 years Wear a mask and bri ... read more

Nominations now open for Australia Day Awards Tamworth Regional Council is calling on the community to nominate residents who are making a positive difference locally, with nominations now open for the 2022 Australia Day Awards. The Awards recognise the efforts of individuals and groups who make a ... read more

Letter to the Editor Barraba has a secure water supply and still we endure restrictions.  Manilla also has a secure water supply. This could be at RISK! A “Draft Regional Water Strategy” has been completed by the NSW Government and the “Draft Review” is in its final s ... read more

Year 1/2 Science with Mr Sweatman For their Science lesson in Week 5, Year 1/2 observed how water moves through a landscape, running off and pooling to form natural features. They created their own landscape and used paper cups perforated in the base to model 'rainfall'. ... read more

Year 12 HSC Exams commenced this week on Tuesday 9 November with English being the first exam. Our 6 HSC students were eager to complete their first exam although some were a little nervous. Jack consumed 2 cans of 'mother' stating he needed it as an energy boost. From all the staff; we ask you to c ... read more

Year 3 STEM Challenge In the Year 3 STEM lesson, students were given an open-ended challenge to make weight bearing bridge or structure using a maximum of 25 index cards and scissors in 25 minutes. They quickly discovered some strong shapes that lead them to success. But what a variety!! ... read more

Tamworth Regional Council Candidates for Election on the 4th December 2021                                      &n ... read more

There is not a lot happening with the society at present but we are hoping to have a Christmas Market in December.  We just hope that there are not too many restrictions to contend with!  There should be more information after this week’s meeting. Although life seems quiet the resea ... read more

JOEY'S NEWS The big events at Joey's last week were the performances of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" by the students of Year 5/6. The class has been working on the performance for some time starting with auditions last term. Nicholas Fletcher played Willy Wonka with style and panac ... read more

Gwydir Shire Council Candidates for Election on the 4th December 2021 Candidates have been finalised for the upcoming Local Government elections to be held on Saturday 4 December. Candidates are displayed in order of receipt of nomination. Christopher MATTHEWS James MOORE Catherine EGAN Geof ... read more

Claypan Corner The raffle for our beautiful Patchwork Quilt, made and donated by Robyn Brown, will be drawn after our Christmas meeting on December 10th. Followed by a light finger food lunch. So buy those tickets now. Got to be ‘in it to win it’. Our last meeting was held 15th October ... read more

A quiet week on the historical this week – no new enquiries to send everyone off to the books and computers.  Next week is meeting week as usual and we welcome all members and intending members. This week I want to make mention of one of our past members who, in the short few years he li ... read more

ROTARY CLUB OF BARRABA (Inc) CAMPDRAFT - 29/30th October 2021 The Campdraft was run over two days due to the large number of entries and what a great Campdraft we had.   Friday commenced at 10am with the Encourage Draft followed by the Maiden and fortunately the weather was most kind to u ... read more

Additional support for Australian men battling prostate cancer From November, Australian men with prostate cancer will have access to a new medication at an affordable price, thanks to the Morrison Joyce Government. Deputy Prime Minister and Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce said the announcem ... read more

Congratulations to Joshua Anderson who celebrated his First Holy Communion recently at mass at St John's Catholic church in Barraba. The mass was celebrated by Fr John Curran and marks a significant milestone in Joshua's faith journey. Joshua's class acknowledged the occasion with a small ... read more

To begin I must apologise for missing the result of the raffle last week.  The society is very grateful for the support you have given to this competition over the last six months.  The winning ticket was drawn by our President at the Annual General Meeting and Ally Denyer is the lucky win ... read more

Council seeks volunteers for Barraba Australia Day Advisory Panel Tamworth Regional Council is seeking Expressions of Interest for volunteers to join the Barraba Australia Day Advisory Panel. Panel members will play an active role in reviewing the Barraba Australia Day Award nominations, alongside ... read more

Liberty Foodcare Barraba Pastor James Ardill of Liberty Tamworth has been running a community food pantry in Tamworth since 2017. We have recently opened up a food store in Barraba to help provide good quality food at great prices to stretch the food budgets of Barraba residents. There is no limit ... read more

TRC Meeting report Council meeting update - 26 October 2021  After a debate of about an hour, Councillors refused consent for a proposed 999-head feedlot at Loomberah. The reasons for refusal include: the adequacy of the information in the Statement of Environmental Effects; the potential for ... read more

GOFUNDME FUND FOR THE TWINS – HELP SANDRA HELP THEM.  At home, on a quiet Barraba Sunday afternoon, Sandra Collins saw and heard (it’s a bit hard not to hear) the Rescue Helicopter. “Someone has been seriously injured in a horse accident,” a neighbour told her. She lat ... read more

AGM NOTICE The Annual General Meeting of the Barraba P A & H Association (Show Committee) will be held at 7 pm on THURSDAY 4 NOVEMBER 2021 at the Barraba Bowling Club. General Meeting will follow. All Welcome. ... read more

POSITION VACANT Marketing & Livestock Administration Officer At Hart Rural Agencies you can explore the many roles and activities of an industry leader in Australian agribusiness, and enjoy the benefits of a fun and flexible working environment. We have a vacancy for the role of Marketin ... read more

         Richardson House Board Members Wanted Richardson House has provided Aged Care for the elderly of our community, and employment opportunities for the people of Barraba since 1983. We need motivated and caring individuals to join our Board to ensu ... read more

BARRABA COVID-19 VACCINATION CLINIC Barraba Hospital Walk in Pfizer Vaccinations Thursday 28th October 10am to 3:30pm Monday 22nd November 10am to 3:30pm Open to those aged 12 years and over (including 60 years and over) Children aged 12 to 15 years MUST be accompanied by a parent/guardian a ... read more

WALK WITH SOUNDTRAILS AND UNEARTH THE SIGNIFICANT STORIES OF THE LANDSCAPE, CULTURE AND HISTORY OF NEW ENGLAND HIGH COUNTRY’S NATIONAL PARKS. The New England High Country (NEHC) tourism group continue to strengthen the destination’s nature-based tourism offering with the launch of four ... read more

I am making you aware that I will be again nominating for a position on Tamworth Regional Council. Together we have achieved a lot and there is still more to be done. I believe it is important that we have representation out of Tamworth.  I have endeavoured to represent not only the smaller co ... read more

JOEY'S NEWSRecently our school community has participated in a survey about life and learning at St Joseph's. Parents, students and staff each completed their own questionnaire. The survey results help us identify goals for improvement. Shortly we will develop our Annual Improvement Plan to gui ... read more

History Notes Well so much for last week’s advertisement for the street stall – it has now been cancelled due to Covid regulations.  We will have another attempt next year. There has been much discussion about the markets at the meeting and the November Markets will not be taking ... read more

The mobile NSW Breast-Screen will be in Barraba from the 11 to 17 November. Book now 132050 ... read more

History Notes This and next week are busy times for historical society members and those who may wish to join and those who can help us raise some money.  Note the advertisement re the approaching street stall next week.  Unfortunately, the Annual Meeting will be over by the time you read ... read more

Across the Desk from the Relieving Principal Kirsty Ebzery I trust our families enjoyed the benefits of being out of lockdown during the school holidays and were able to enjoy some of the freedoms that brought with it. While restrictions continue to affect our daily lives, and how we operate at sch ... read more

TAMWORTH ELECTORATE CONSULTATION CONTINUES ON VOLUNTARY ASSISTED DYING BILL A Bill that will allow voluntary assisted dying in NSW has been introduced into the NSW Parliament by the Independent Member for Sydney Alex Greenwich. Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said that this deeply personal issue ... read more

YOUR SHORTCUT TO... VOLUNTARY ASSISTED DYING LAWS Just a few weeks ago, Queensland joined Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, and Tasmania in passing voluntary assisted dying laws, which makes NSW the only state not to have them. That could change soon with a bill introduced ... read more

PROOF OF VACCINATION ESSENTIAL FOR TAMWORTH COUNCIL FACILITIES Adults who wish to visit any Tamworth Regional Council facility in Barraba (ie Council Office, Swimming Pool, Library) MUST have proof of vaccination. This notice has been published by Tamworth Council – In line with the NSW Pub ... read more

Let’s celebrate all things water The Tamworth region has been enjoying the rain that 2021 has brought and what better way to continue to celebrate all things water, than with a whole week dedicated to it? National Water Week kicks off on Monday 18 October and this year brings us the theme Ca ... read more

JOEY'S NEWS  This week Miss Eleisha Outridge made a shop for her Year 2/3/4 class in the school hall. The students have been learning about money in class. Each student had an amount to spend. They had to work out what to buy within their budgets and how to calculate change. Year 5/6 have been ... read more

Information session for potential new councillors With the postponement of the 2021 NSW Local Government Elections until December 4 this year, Tamworth Regional Council is running a second information session for anyone considering running as a candidate. Tamworth Regional Mayor Col Murray, who is ... read more

JOEY'S NEWS  It was great to start Term 4 with the children learning at school. There has been a very positive atmosphere in the playground and classrooms. The children have a renewed appreciation of school!  We have a great term planned. Later on when the weather warms up we will take a ... read more

History Notes What wonderful weekend Barraba had with lovely fine warm weather for the markets.  There were lots of stalls and quite a good attendance considering all the rules and regulations that we all have to live under.  The Annual General Meeting is next week and is open to anyone i ... read more

TAMWORTH ANNOUNCED AS A PILOT LOCATION FOR COVID-19 DIGITAL CERTIFICATES Tamworth customers will be among the first to display their COVID-19 digital vaccination certificate on the Service NSW app, with the State Government pilot of the technology commencing tomorrow. Member for Tamworth Kevin And ... read more

COVID Roadmap – How the changes effect you. Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall has summarised the Roadmap changes for us in Regional NSW. NO CHANGES FROM MONDAY 11 OCTOBER 2021 There are NO CHANGES in COVID requirements for the following critical retail premises. All the same requirement ... read more

A FAMILY MYSTERY – WHO WAS TRACY KIMBER’S GREAT-GREAT GRANDFATHER? Bellingen resident, Tracy Kimber, visited Barraba last Thursday on her to quest to identify her great-great grandfather. Months ago Tracy had contacted Julie Williams through the Nandewar Historical Society Facebook page ... read more

GoFundMe raises over $20,000. A GoFundMe has been created to assist local teenage twins after a tragic horse riding accident took the life of their loving mother Nicole. The money raised will go into a trust fund to support them until they can get on their feet, the township of Barraba has shown th ... read more

The Rotary Club of Barraba (Inc) will hold their Burindi Campdraft on Friday 29th and Saturday 30th October 2021,  (subject to cattle availability and Covid regulations).   Entries will open Friday 8th October (entries not accepted prior) and close Friday 22nd October 2021. In line w ... read more

Notice of Annual General Meeting Community College Northern Inland Inc. AGM will be held on Friday, 15th October from 5pm at the College Campus, 47 Fitzroy Street, Barraba. Nominations for vacant Board positions are welcome and must be received prior to the meeting. To obtain a EOI form, please co ... read more

Barraba Landcare Community                  Meeting Was held on Wednesday 9th Sept 2021 Via Zoom - 5.30pm Discussion included: Group Representative Penny Kelly recommended that a group representative ... read more

Network maintenance for Barraba and Manilla A planned power outage has been scheduled overnight from 10.00pm on Saturday, 16 October until 8.00am on Sunday, 17 October 2021.   Full details page 10. ... read more

Barraba’s Rotary Park toilet block demolished to prepare for new facilities The upgrade of the public amenities at Rotary Park Barraba, which has been delayed due to COVID-19 restrictions, is now in progress again with the existing facilities demolished on the 4 October. Installation of new t ... read more

All six public pools to open All six public pools operated by Council will open on Tuesday 5 October. All pools will be following the current Public Health Orders in place for our region meaning there is a capacity limit of one person per two square metres at each pool and all patrons are required ... read more

AGRICULTURE VISA WILL BE A BOON FOR NEW ENGLAND Farmers and primary producers in New England are a step closer to benefitting from the Liberal and National Government’s new Australian Agriculture Worker Visa. The Government amended the Migration Regulations on 30 September 2021 to create the ... read more

History Notes Several of our members joined one of our contact researchers and her family for a tour of the Shed of Knowledge.  She is a descendant of the Rumsby family with contacts to the Legg family and was most impressed with the huge collection.  Later she visited the 1890s – s ... read more

The Barraba Community is well known for its generosity in supporting a worthy cause and Sunday’s Breast Cancer Research Golf Day again showed what a wonderful town we live in. Close to $5000 was raised for research as 4 person golf teams, many wearing something pink, battled it out over 9 hole ... read more

Across the Desk from the Relieving Principal Kirsty Ebzery The announcement by the NSW State Government to lift the Tamworth LGA Stay-at-Home-Orders transpired into enormous smiles and laughter at Barraba Central School on Monday. It was truly inspiring to witness the sheer joy of our students retu ... read more

OctoberFrost postponed The Frost Over Barraba have with great reluctance made the decision to postpone the planned OctoberFrost Arts Fair planned for next month. Frost Over Barraba, the well-known regional arts event of almost 50 years standing, had planned a springtime one-day Arts Fair event thi ... read more

History Notes The historical society’s annual general meeting will be held with the October ordinary meeting on the third Wednesday next month – the advertisement will appear next week.  There is also a street stall coming up after that, so do watch out for that date as well. Seve ... read more

FINAL DRAFT OF VOLUNTARY ASSISTED DYING BILL TRIGGERS COMMUNITY CONSULTATION   Community consultation has begun on the Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill 2021 after Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson received the final draft from Independent Member for Sydney Alex Greenwich. “The Voluntary ... read more

Tamworth snake expert warns that mice-fed snakes are bigger, more venomous than ever. By Andrew Messenger   Snakes are already waking up and they're more venomous than ever, according to a local conservationist. Chair of the local WIRES and trained snake relocator, David McKinnon, said Tamwo ... read more

Claypan Corner We’re pleased to announce the Claypan and Fuller Gallery are now open for sales, regular weekly activities and workshops now lockdown is lifted. Come in and browse the new display in preparation for our Spring Festival.  Whilst the doors have been closed work on renovatio ... read more

History Notes This week the society has had a chance to have a small meeting.  There was not a lot to discuss but it is always great to have a gathering, however small.  The markets might be on in October – we just hope there are no more lock-downs.  The date will be the 9th an ... read more

Barraba Landcare Update I am pleased to announce that last week’s meeting was successful and a group has been formed and we are working together to start on a project at the Bicentennial Park. If you know of any members in the community that would like to be involved, please forward this info ... read more

The Royal Flying Doctor Service is running a Pfizer vaccination Clinic for everyone aged 12 years and above at Upper Horton Sports Club on MONDAY 27 SEPTEMBER FROM 10.30 am TO 2.30 pm. NO BOOKING NEEDED! ... read more

Joey's News It's wonderful that staff and children have returned to learning together at the school campus this week. We started the week with an extra-long morning play time so students could catch up and enjoy each other's company. A month of home learning has been challenging in l ... read more

STAY-AT-HOME ORDERS LIFT FOR BARRABA! Tamworth, Gwydir, Armidale and others out of lockdown, but not Narrabri! Parts of regional NSW currently deemed low risk and which have seen zero COVID cases for at least 14 days emerged from lockdown at 12:01am Saturday 11 September, but will continue to oper ... read more

Shutter Bug News Members of our club occasionally enter various photography competitions and shows.  Several members have achieved remarkable results over the past few years. Our latest “proud moment” is for member Paula McIver claiming two “Commended” prizes in the pr ... read more

           History Notes Sitting down to write some history notes this morning with a blank mind and then remembered the 1960 Chronicles that I haven’t had time to look into for the rebuilding of the Barraba Bowling Club. The Barraba Shire Co ... read more

COLLEGE CHAT  Hi, I am Tanya and I am the Community College Coordinator for Barraba. What a challenging time we have had with the whole of NSW in lockdown.  Community College has had to adapt to this challenge with some of our classes being delivered by remote learning. With lockdown re ... read more

Book Week 2021 Week 7 was to be a week of celebrating our love of books alongside the CBCA Book Week celebrations. Sadly, due to COVID we were unable to celebrate as we normally do – with a parade of some very creative costumes, from some of our most favourite books! Instead we went virtual ... read more

SHUTTER BUG’S STILL CLICKING DURING LOCK-DOWN How amazing is the latest public art project in Barraba - “Beyond the Walls” by Jenny McCracken! Two local photographers; Brenda McColl and Paula McIver, would like to extend a special thank you to the Barraba Public Art committee for ... read more

   History Notes 8th Sept 21 Nothing to report from the historical society with everything closed.  The Annual General Meeting date is fast approaching but nothing can be done about it at the present moment. Since last week’s notes I have been able to search through some Barra ... read more

Singles Bubble Rule & Compassionate Care Visits Explained Singles bubble If you live alone – which means there are no other adults who live in the same home – you can have a nominated visitor. In regional areas, you do NOT need to register your nominated visitor. A nominated vis ... read more

THE SEARCH FOR OUR LOCAL WOMAN OF THE YEAR BEGINS The hunt begins to identify the regions outstanding and influential women with nominations now open for the 2022 NSW Women of the Year Awards. Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said the NSW Women of the Year Awards is a great opportunity to highli ... read more

Making Rural and Regional Road Safety Everyone’s Business Australians are being urged to put safety first on regional and rural roads as Rural Road Safety Month gets underway. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said “ ... read more

STAY-AT-HOME ORDERS LIFT FOR BARRABA! Tamworth, Gwydir, Armidale and others out of lockdown, but not Narrabri! Parts of regional NSW currently deemed low risk and which have seen zero COVID cases for at least 14 days will emerge from lockdown at 12:01am Saturday 11 September, but will continue to ... read more

Applications for the Heritage Assistance Fund have been extended to Thursday 16 September. Each year, Council provides partial funding to renovations or restoration works across the region. Steps to apply for the Heritage Assistance Fund Background research to support works. Determine work to ... read more

Joey’s News  As lockdown is continued at Joey's we are concentrating on taking care of each other's well-being over the next few weeks. Home-learning can be a wonderful experience, but it can also be very challenging. Sometimes if things aren’t going well then it’s best to le ... read more

PERMANENT WATER RESTRICTIONS IN BARRABA Just a friendly reminder that under Permanent Water Conservation Measures (which all town water supplies in the Tamworth Regional Council area are on at the moment), you should only be using a sprinkler, spray, microspray, or fixed hose between 4pm and 9am. ... read more

Empowering Rural Women Northern Slopes Landcare Association have received funding from the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal with their successful Tackling Tough Times Together, $16975 grant application for The Rural Women’s Catch-Up. “This could not be possible without fundi ... read more

Property Manager - Manilla At Hart Rural Agencies you can explore the many roles and activities of an industry leader in Australian agribusiness. We have a vacancy for the role of Property Manager at our Manilla branch. The successful candidate will be in charge of a portfolio of 80 - 100 re ... read more

History Notes Well the lockdown drags on and we get inquiries about the Markets, Meeting, etc. and there are no answers!  This week I have had an enquiry re the Bowling Club which I will need help with from an older member of the club – one who remembers the first rebuilding of the club ... read more

Here is an overview of outcomes from the Ordinary Meeting of Tamworth Regional Council on Tuesday 24th August 2021:                 Tamworth Regional Councillors tonight decided to delay making a decision about funding a stu ... read more

THE NATIONALS CREATE HISTORY WITH AGRICULTURE VISA  The Nationals have delivered a vital agriculture visa to help secure the future of rural and regional Australia. The Agricultural Worker Visa will provide a long-term, reliable workforce for our critical industries while solving one of regio ... read more

COVID-19 SEWERAGE DETECTION IN TAMWORTH Due to a detection of COVID-19 in the Tamworth sewerage network, we are encouraging anyone in Tamworth to come forward and get tested at one of the following COVID-19 testing clinics even if you do not have symptoms: Tamworth Minor League Park - Plain Street ... read more

Hospital Happenings Barraba Multi-Purpose Services Emergency Department open 24 Hours, 7 Days per week Disabled access to Hospital via driveway (Front Entrance) and Community Health. Community Health Child and Family Health – Tuesdays 9am till 4.30pm – Appointment Only Dressing Cli ... read more

Premier's Debating Challenge This year we had two teams of brave and talented debaters participating in the Premier's Debating Challenge. The competition involves four rounds of debates against other local schools. For most students this was their first year being involved in debating and I was ve ... read more

BARRABA MEDICAL CENTRE We would like to remind the community if you are experiencing ANY cold or flu-like symptoms, respiratory illness, fever, ear, nose, throat or chest symptoms, please inform medical staff BEFORE presenting to the Medical Centre or the Emergency Dept at Barraba Hospital. Thank y ... read more

Extended to 28th August 2021 Stay safe folks! STAY AT HOME RULES The Stay at Home Rules as we published last week remain in place until at least 28 August. Visiting other homes is not permitted. The exercise rules and face mask rules have been tightened; you MUST wear a face mask whenever you le ... read more

Do you know someone who struggles to use the QR Code check-in with a smartphone? Service NSW is offering a personalised “check-in card” to anyone who needs one. The card operates in the same way as a Dine & Discover NSW voucher but is used to check in when entering a shop or busine ... read more

On the history side of things there has been one request for information which is unusual, especially when so many people are at home. The poetry section with Beryl’s poems reminds me of all the poets in the Barraba district over the years – there was even a special group of people writ ... read more

From “The Barraba Chronicle”, Thursday, August 20, 1942 These lines came with the footnote: “Written at the request of A.I.F. men who have been left, as the writer is, in the Middle East.” A Message to Australia To guard their country in her hour of need And see her throu ... read more

OTHER WORLDS As I gaze into the night At the stars above all shining bright The planets whirling round in space In their allotted time and place I contemplate the beauty of The sparkling lights in the sky above Space and matter far away In their given place they stay Eternity is in our sigh ... read more

Winter Woes “My throat is sore, comes the plaintive cry, She fills the kettle, and gives a sigh. “I don’t feel well, I’ve got a headache,” “Have we got any medicine I can take?” She takes him a cup of coffee in bed, Puts her cooling hand on his fevered ... read more

Essential Energy working to strict Covid-19 protocols to ensure network reliability As stay-at-home orders impact the entire NSW footprint of the electricity distributor, Essential Energy is confirming that as an essential service, all employees are authorised workers and are abiding by comprehensi ... read more

‘Beyond the Walls’ in Barraba Barraba Public Art committee are pleased to announce that the latest public art project in Barraba is now complete. Beyond the Walls, by internationally acclaimed artist Jenny McCracken, is an explosion of colour and nature, featuring local landmark Horton ... read more

Regional NSW Covid-19 lockdown extended to 28th August and masks are mandatory outside unless exercising. ... read more

As a condition of funding received from the Foundation For Rural and Regional Renewal the college is now able to home deliver the Barraba Community News to rural roadside mail boxes in the Barraba region for one year. This week the post will send out the newsletter to Barraba rural mail boxes as una ... read more

Public toilet upgrade at Barraba’s Rotary Park delayed due to COVID-19 restrictions The planned refurbishment of the public amenities at Rotary Park Barraba, originally scheduled for September 2021, has been delayed due to current NSW Public Health Orders. The contractors employed to carry ou ... read more

UPPER HORTON, NORTH STAR, COOLATAI AND BOOMI SHARE DROUGHT RELIEF FUNDING The Australian Government is continuing to back drought-affected communities, with projects across the nation to receive a share of more than $1 million under the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s award-winn ... read more

Hi, I am Tanya and I am the Community College Coordinator for Barraba. Community College is closed for this week and hopefully we will come out of lockdown next week.  We will be back to normal face to face classes at the end of lockdown so please stay home, stay safe and we will get through t ... read more

Let's have some fun with poetry from our local Poets Poem Beryl Henshaw RAIN I wake to hear the drumming rain As it falls down from the sky And nourishes the earth below That once was brown and dry   The gutters soon are flowing They make a gurgling sound And puddles soon are forming ... read more

The Weather Forecaster Terry Threlfall 2015   The common theme for any group, In the pub, on the bus, on the train, On farm, in city, or the bush, "Tell me: is it going to rain?"   Many years ago I worked it out, As I travelled to different parts. I had studied meteorolog ... read more

From Barnaby Joyce COVID-19 Disaster Payments available for Tamworth and Armidale lockdowns The Liberal and Nationals Government has confirmed eligible workers in Commonwealth-declared pandemic hotspots of Tamworth and Armidale in New South Wales can apply for the COVID-19 Disaster Payment. Deput ... read more

Salvation Army Family Store It is with a thankful, sad heart I write for the last time as the Manager of the Salvation Army Family store. I wish to thank the team of volunteers who have worked so very hard in the last ten days we were open to clear out all we had for our customers to browse and bu ... read more

Barraba Potters and Craft Guild have been nominated for the Tamworth Business Awards in the Outstanding Community Organisation category. “Thank you to the mystery person who sent in the nomination” said Karin Thurston, President of the Guild. “It was a very pleasant surprise to be ... read more

Barraba Hospital Auxiliary News The Auxiliary held the AGM last Friday and after much discussion, it was decided to continue in a recess mode for the next year.  Due to Covid restrictions, the Auxiliary is very limited in fund raising activities.  However, with the funds currently availab ... read more

At Hart Rural we are celebrating Tracy Kelly, who has been employed with us at our head office in Barraba for 25 years! What a fantastic milestone to reach – we thank Tracy for all her hard work and loyalty over the years, it definitely hasn’t gone unnoticed. She has been with us from ... read more

History Notes It seems that the C.W.A history and recipes went down a treat!  It is nice to know that people have treasured the old recipe books even if they do not always use them these days. There has been some discussion about the markets on Saturday.  At this stage they are on at the ... read more

LOCAL ORGANISATIONS AND COUNCILS INVITED TO TAKE PART IN 2022 SENIORS FESTIVAL Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson has encouraged local organisations and councils to apply for grant funding for activities for local seniors during the 2022 NSW Seniors Festival. Mr Anderson said the $200,000 NSW Seni ... read more

The back page photo last week started a search of both recipe books and history folders.  No I have not heard of anyone visiting the C.W.A. home in Glen Innes – it may have been more for those down on the coast.  However, I knew we did have a branch of the C.W.A. in Barraba. The Bar ... read more

COLLEGE CHAT Hi, I am Tanya and I am the Community College Coordinator for Barraba. Classes have started at the College for Term 3 with our Technology Skills Centre courses.  The Get Digital class was well attended with 10 new enrolments.  This class is aimed at helping with every aspec ... read more

Joey's News The Joey's annual Athletics Carnival was a great success even though it had to be a bit different this year. The Carnival couldn't be attended by parents this year, who normally provide great moral and practical support. There was perfect winter weather for the day which started with ru ... read more

Miss Marshall's year 5/6 class are busy preparing for their performances of the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory musical at the end of next term. Following auditions students have been cast in their parts. They are currently rehearsing the play with scripts. Next term students will start their visi ... read more

Come and learn about how your local show is organised and how yow may be able to help. We need lots of people to contribute in lots of ways if the show is to keep going! 6pm Tuesday 13th July Barraba Bowling Club Limits on numbers and other restrictions may be imposed at short notice in accordance ... read more

We will still have our Warm and = Woolly display on our walls for everyone to come and enjoy commencing tomorrow the 1st July. However, like everyone in NSW, we must comply with the new COVID restrictions so our soup lunches and Devonshire teas will NOT be available. Like all venues and shops we w ... read more

Due to the extension of COVID-19 restrictions across NSW, two shows scheduled for Tamworth’s Capitol Theatre this weekend and next Thursday 1 July, have been postponed. Performance of The Studio’s A Whole New World will now go ahead on 14 and 15 August, 2021. The other impacted Capitol ... read more

Last Thursday night, the Barraba Lions Club held their annual changeover when the club executives for the previous year are replaced by the incoming executives for the next year. Because of Covid restrictions last year, this could not be held in 2020, so those in office continued their positions for ... read more

Due to high traffic volumes Council has made some changes to the entrance and exit points of the drive through COVID testing centre at the Riverside sporting fields. Drivers will now be required to enter Carter Street off Bridge Street only. Plain Street will be used as an exit only. The Carter Stre ... read more

Are you enjoying our frosty mornings? There is a suggestion that our weekly service should move to 10am for winter. If you have a firm opinion one way or the other, please speak to Daniel. On Saturday, 3rd July there will be a working bee: roll along any time after 8am. There will be a service at ... read more

Church Service Times Barraba Anglican Parish 9am Sunday - St Laurence's Barraba 11:30am 2nd Sunday - St John's Woods Reef 11:30am 4th Sunday - St Mark's Bereen Catholic Church Barraba - 1st & 5th Sunday 5pm. 2nd, 3rd & 4th Sunday 9am Upper Horton - 3rd Sunday 11am Weekday Mass ... read more

This has been a quiet week for history with few queries but next week is leading up to the July Markets and sure to be busier. The Society will be represented at the Collections seminar in Tamworth next week and there are sure to bea few fresh ideas. As promised last week we continue with the Cobbad ... read more

Last Saturday was a fine winter’s day in Bingara. The crowds who came in great numbers for the annual orange picking festival had a great time. The main street was closed off for two blocks; it was lined with dozens of stalls selling all sorts of items and tasty food (as well as freshly squeez ... read more

WHAT: An orphan, Oliver Twist, is one of many young kids in the Parish Workhouse. There, the Beadle, Mr Bumbleand the Matron, Widow Corney, deal out a strict discipline, and a repetitive meal of gruel. Oliver is selected by hismates to ask for ‘MORE’. Mr Bumble decides to evict Oliver fr ... read more