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Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe University of New England is dispelling online rumours of its new Tamworth campus building a car park on Peel Street on the site occupied by Hungry Jack's
Online speculation has been building regarding the fast-food restaurant's potential closure and was further amplified by news of a potential third location on just the other side of Scott Road
But a University of New England (UNE) spokesperson told the Leader the new campus will provide car parking on the repurposed velodrome site at 545 Peel Street
not the existing Hungry Jack's site at 561 Peel Street
Hungry Jack's has not yet provided comment
Plans for another new Hungry Jack's restaurant have been submitted to Tamworth Regional Council
even as its second Tamworth location is still under construction
Last month, the Leader reported the fast-food restaurant's second location is on track for a mid-2025 opening
a development application (DA) has been submitted on behalf of the company for another Hungry Jack's to be built on the corner of Goonoo Goonoo Road and Scott Road
View +3 PhotosPictures suppliedIf approved
The DA also seeks approval for the new fast-food restaurant to operate 24/7
It will require the demolition of an existing house on 254 Goonoo Goonoo Road
which was last sold in 2014 according to realestate.com.au
The Hungry Jack's DA recommends an asbestos inspection for the home as "there is a likelihood of the use of bonded asbestos products in building linings"
"Should asbestos material be identified onsite
all demolition and disposal of asbestos is to be undertaken in accordance with the requirements of the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017
The new location is on the other end of Scott Road from Hungry Jack's existing restaurant on Peel Street
File picture by Andrew Messenger The estimated cost of demolition and construction is $3.5 million
The new restaurant is expected to create around 50 jobs
a mix of part-time and full-time positions
The new location's proximity to Hungry Jack's existing location on Peel Street is fueling online speculation that the Peel Street site will be closed
Hungry Jack's has not made any public statements addressing the rumours of its Peel Street location's potential closure
The fast-food chain currently operates 435 stores nationwide
Originally from Austin, TX. "I wasn't born in Tamworth but I got here as soon as I could!" Jonathan covers a little bit of everything, but his main priorities are Tamworth Regional Council, Business, and Property. Send story tips to Jonathan via jonathan.hawes@austcommunitymedia.com.au
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All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueRichard Bruce Jeffrey is alleged to have fixed the secret recording listening device inside the Petra Avenue home as far back as 2023
Richard Bruce Jeffrey is charged with 10 offences stemming from an investigation in Petra Avenue in South Tamworth
allegedly knew people were inside the home and installed a device to record private conversations and intimate images
The Leader can reveal the 57-year-old's arrest now after his case was mentioned in Tamworth Local Court for the first time
Several people sat in the public gallery with the court told they wanted to watch "when the matter is dealt with"
He remains bail refused after he was arrested by Tamworth detectives on the morning of February 17 following an investigation
Detectives allege Jeffrey knew the occupants of the home and fixed the surveillance device inside the home in early 2023 before it was discovered in February this year
detectives claim Jeffrey entered the Petra Avenue home and knew people were inside during the two-year period
He then is alleged to have held onto conversations for an illegal use
or intentionally recorded the intimate images
detectives maintain Jeffrey was allegedly possessing or producing child abuse material dating back to last year
Jeffrey further stands accused of recruiting another male over a 15-day period in February this year to carry out or assist in criminal activity by using a carriage service to send sexual material without consent
Some of the offences are alleged to date back to early 2023
He's facing 10 charges but was not required to enter pleas to the allegations in Tamworth court
Magistrate Julie Soars was told the case was still with the police prosecution but had been referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to prosecute
which could ultimately see it head to the district court for trial or sentence
I would now make an eight-week brief service order," Ms Soars said
with detectives ordered to compile a brief of evidence and serve it on the defence beforehand
"He's not making an application for bail today," Ms Soars asked
Jeffrey faces charges of aggravated enter dwelling with intent to install
use or maintain a listening device; installing or using a listening device to record private conversation; two counts of intentionally recording intimate images of another person without consent; possessing conversation obtained by surveillance devices; possessing surveillance devices intending unlawful use; two counts of possessing child abuse material; producing child abuse material; and recruit another to assist in carrying out criminal activity
Northern Daily Leader Senior Crime and Court Reporter
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All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueMr Windred brings with him more than two decades of experience as a principal of several schools across the region
Lifelong educator Michael Windred is starting the year as the new principal of South Tamworth Public School
Picture by Peter Hardin After holding principal positions at schools in Wallabadah
Mr Windred brings a wealth of expertise to his new appointment
including experience as what he calls a "principal's principal"
so what I've been for the last three years is what's called a Principal School Leadership
I've looked after about 60 schools from Tamworth up to the border
Mr Windred spent much time showing new principals the ropes
and for more experienced principals he helped develop school improvement and excellence plans
the long-time principal was delighted to be offered the position at Tamworth South
especially as it meant he didn't have to move houses
This is the first time I haven't had to travel to take up a new job in about 25 years," Mr Windred said
Mr Windred brings more than two dozen years of experience with him as a principal
all from within the New England North West region
Picture by Peter HardinDespite his decades of experience
the new principal says he's coming into the role with caution
preferring to build on existing foundations rather than try to break the mould
"What I've noticed over the last four days is a really
so I don't want to come in here with any sort of arrogance or promises to change things," Mr Windred said
"They've had a very experienced principal here for the last seven years and a very experienced executive team."
The school's close-knit relationships between staff and students is something outgoing principal Leonie Byrne said was a major point of pride at the end of her seven years at the helm
Kids at Tamworth South Public went back to school on Thursday
Picture by Peter HardinAs for where to make improvements
Mr Windred says there's no secret to what makes a school successful
"The most important thing is having that engagement between the students and the teacher," he said
"I don't think that's ever changed in teaching and I can't see how it ever will
but I still think what worked in the classroom two decades ago still works now: teachers have to know the curriculum
and where they are on the learning continuum
"That formula is the winning formula if you ask me."
Mr Windred started teaching in Quirindi in 1990
From there he ran the special-ed program at Walcha Central School
then at Ross Hill Public School in Inverell before moving to Canada to further his own studies
Mr Windred says the students at Tamworth South seem engaged and eager to learn
something he hopes to build on in his new role as principal
Picture by Peter HardinAfter getting his doctorate
became the assistant principal at Kootingal Public School
A few years after that he gained his first principal position
the lifelong educator says he could see himself staying at Tamworth South for a long time
"You just don't know what you're going to walk into
but what I've walked into is a really positive environment
I still think I'd be here until retirement
I can't say it's definitely going to be my last rodeo
but my current feeling is I'm happy to stay here."
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A man has been charged with the murder of a toddler in Tamworth
Emergency services were called to a home in Hillvue Road
after a two-year-old child was found unconscious
NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the child at the scene before taking him to Tamworth Base Hospital where he later died
Detectives arrested a 23-year-old man at a home in Gunnedah about 6.45pm on Friday
'He was taken to Tamworth Police Station where he was charged with murder (domestic violence),' NSW Police said.
The man was refused bail overnight before appearing in Parramatta Bail Court on Saturday.
He was remanded in custody and will next appear in Tamworth Local Court on 16 April 2025.
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Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe two-year-old boy passed away in Tamworth hospital
Oxley detectives are investigating the boy's death for the coroner
Picture from fileThe young boy was found unconscious and "unresponsive" about 3.45pm on January 24 at a home in South Tamworth
Police had rushed to the house with reports "a child was not breathing"
A spokesperson for NSW Police told the Leader officers tried to save the boy at the home before help arrived
"Police commenced CPR on the child before he was taken to Tamworth hospital by ambulance," the spokesperson said
"The child could not be revived and died a short time later."
Police have launched an investigation into the death which will be led by Oxley detectives
Detectives will then prepare a brief for the coroner, which is standard procedure.
"Police are investigating the circumstances around the incident," the spokesperson confirmed
"Police will prepare a report for the information of the coroner."
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueCurrent Situation
Stay up to date with the latest information on fires burning across the region via the Hazards Near Me app, the RFS website
or by calling the RFS Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737
A fire is burning in bushland north of Ogunbil Road between Dungowan and Echo Hills Road
Picture by NSW Rural Fire Service Fire activity has increased this afternoon
The fire is burning in an easterly direction towards Echo Hills Road under westerly winds
Residents in the vicinity of Echo Hills Road are being told to prepare now
The fire has now burnt out over 95 hectares
NSW Rural Fire Service If you are threatened by fire
Waterbombing aircraft fighting the Attunga fire
from FacebookThere are currently 57 bush and grass fires burning across the state
A fire is actively burning within Attunga State Forest
Since igniting yesterday afternoon (Saturday)
residents in the vicinity of Moore Creek and Upper Moore Creek Rd
are advised to stay alert and monitor conditions closely
This will likely push the fire in a north-to-north-easterly direction
Stay informed and follow any instructions from firefighters on the ground
Fire authorities are appealing for anyone with information about a series of grass fires across West Tamworth on Saturday
The Rural Fire Service (RFS) was kept busy with several blazes
There are no reports of any properties being damaged
A Total Fire Ban was in place across Saturday
The fire danger rating for Sunday is 'High'
Anyone with information about the fires can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
Fire crews were kept busy on Saturday with a series of deliberately lit blazes
Picture by Fire and Rescue NSW Station 448 South Tamworth
the RFS also responded to a blaze in bushland north of Ogunbil Road between Dungowan and Echo Hills Road
The fire has already burnt out more than 64 hectares and is in the process of being controlled
used heavy machinery to put in control lines behind properties along Ogunbil and Echo Hill Road
which crews worked to strengthen overnight
The RFS says the forecast for Sunday is for light winds
which will push the fire deeper into bushland behind homes on Ogunbil and Echo Hills Roads
"Crews will continue work to establish control lines with assistance from heavy machinery and extinguish the fire as it comes out of bushland into grassy areas."
A fire in West Tamworth also came close to property
from FacebookA fire at River Rd Bowling Alley Point has now been contained and a fire in Attunga State Forest
which has so far burnt out more than 24 hectares
Conditions for the upcoming week are expected to ease with Moderate fire danger ratings forecast for the coming days
Stay up to date with the latest information on fires burning across the region via Hazards Near Me or the RFS website
Unattended fires should be reported to Triple Zero (000)
there were 55 bush and grass fires burning across the state
I work for the Northern Daily Leader across the Peel Valley. We cover local news, community stories and rural issues that impact the New England, North West and Northern Tablelands regions.
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The little boy died in Tamworth hospital late on January 24 after he was found unresponsive at a South Tamworth home earlier that afternoon
Oxley detectives and police travelled to Gunnedah to arrest the man
Picture from fileThe Leader can confirm detectives will allege in court the boy suffered significant injuries
Oxley detectives had been investigating the death
and the circumstances surrounding the nature of the boy's injuries
On Thursday, senior officers said the investigation was "a priority" to find answers for the family.
Investigators had been waiting for the results of a post-mortem
detectives travelled to Gunnedah where the man
He was taken to Tamworth Police Station for questioning before he was charged with domestic violence-related murder
Police will allege he was known to the young boy
was refused bail by police and spent the night in custody in the police cells in Tamworth
He will front Parramatta Local Court in Sydney on Saturday
The investigation was sparked after police and Ambulance paramedics were called to a South Tamworth home about 3.45pm on January 24
Officers were called to a report a two-year-old boy was not breathing and arrived to find the toddler "unresponsive"
Police performed CPR in a desperate bid to save the little boy before he was rushed to Tamworth hospital in an ambulance in a critical condition
He died in hospital shortly after from his injuries
Oxley detectives are continuing to probe the circumstances surrounding the boy's death and have confirmed investigations are continuing
It's understood the state's homicide squad is assisting with the investigation
A report will also be prepared for the coroner
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinue"I'm a family man and that kind of rules and guides my life and I'm very happy and proud of that," the new South Tamworth Bowling Club CEO said when asked what people might be surprised to learn about him
A passion that started with his grandfather and has been passed down through his father to him
he likes the sense of "creating something and watching it flourish"
Matt Hill has moved up from Sydney to take on the role of the South Tamworth Bowling Club CEO
Picture by Peter HardinHe also likes that it's one of those things where the more effort you put in the more you get out
and that "it's kind of the unseen work that matters"
he sees a lot of parallels to the industry he has dedicated his working life to - hospitality
"A lot of people might not understand the level of work that goes in
"They're just meant to enjoy the product and I like that."
Signing up for a hospitality traineeship when he was 18
his career has covered many different spectrums of hospitality from hotels to restaurants
racing clubs and even concert venues such as Qudos Bank Arena
The corporate hospitality manager described his time working at Qudos as "so exhilarating"
a new client and you really get that anticipation
like your heart thumps just before the doors open," he said
He was also lucky enough to see some of the biggest names in music perform such as Pink
The latter have probably been his favourite
"I'm not the biggest fan of their music but they can work a crowd," he said
The South Tamworth greens are a long way from a heaving stadium but the role has perks in other ways
One of the big appeals of the job was the opportunity to move his young family out of Sydney
Mr Hill said they had been thinking about relocating for "quite some time"
it was just a matter of waiting for the right opportunity
"We kind of packed up like the Beverley Hillbillies and off we went," he joked
He said one of the things that most attracted him to the role was "the strong sense of community atmosphere and customer service" within the club
Another appeal - and one of the things he is really keen to capitalise on - is the Southside Kitchen
"Our chef Aakash is really quite inspiring
and I think it's definitely going to be an exciting six to 12 months as we really put hospitality in the front of people's minds and show our members and our bowlers
but also the community what we can really do," he said
It's something through his various experiences he has learnt the value of
"Food is such an emotionally driving factor
and there is a lot of potential and growth when it comes to meeting and exceeding people's expectations around food and cuisine
and we're in a good position to do that," he said
"I'm really excited to see the direction we can take
I'm really excited to install a family focus and to really get people excited and salivating with our food."
he isn't ashamed to admit he has a bit to learn
But he's looking forward to spending a bit more time on the green and brushing up on his game
Mr Hill has taken over as CEO from Phil O'Reilly
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinuePolice inquiries are continuing after a teenage boy was struck by a car and transported to hospital in a serious condition
Officers from the Oxley Police District breath-tested the driver of the car
after arriving on the scene on Vera Street
South Tamworth soon after the collision at about 4pm on Thursday
A 14-year-old boy was taken to hospital in a serious condition on Thursday
after being struck by a car on Vera Street
Picture by Gareth GardnerThe breath test was negative and no arrests have yet been made
Hunter New England Health has been contacted for an update on the 14-year-old boy's condition
He was taken to Tamworth hospital after paramedics treated him for head injuries at the scene
Police are appealing for any witnesses to the collision to contact Tamworth Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
A teenage boy is in hospital in a serious condition after being hit by a car in Tamworth on Thursday afternoon
Emergency services rushed to the scene on Edward Street near the corner of Vera Street just before 4pm on Thursday
following reports of an accident involving a white sedan and a pedestrian
Paramedics were called to the scene at about 3:50pm on Thursday afternoon
File picture by Peter HardinA spokesperson for NSW Ambulance told the Leader paramedics treated a teenage boy at the scene for head injuries
He was stabilised at the scene before being taken to Tamworth hospital in a serious condition
Police closed the road to all traffic for about an hour as crews worked to help the boy
Oxley police are investigating the circumstances leading up to the crash
The accident scene has now been cleared and police have left the area
A spokesperson for NSW Police confirmed investigations into the incident are continuing and urge any witnesses to come forward
A big-box store is a physically large retail building
usually occupied by a national chain of stores
An artist impression of the four big box stores across two buildings
Picture suppliedThe DA details the construction of two large buildings to house a mix of "specialised retail and shopfront tenancies," though the stores' identities are being kept under wraps for now
One of the shops is expected to employ up to 20 people
Job figures for the other three are unknown
The total cost of the project is estimated to be $25,190,000
The approval narrowly beats a looming state government deadline
some of the proposed uses for two of the stores would no longer be allowed
according to a report sent to councillors on Thursday
"The subject development is also affected by a State Government imposed transitional period that expires on the 26 April 2025," the report says
"The two year transitional period followed the government's employment zone reforms in 2023
which has the effect of making the proposed shop uses in Tenancies 3 and 4
prohibited uses within the subject zone after 26 April 2025."
The council held an extra meeting so the DA could be passed before the deadline
View +5 PhotosPictures suppliedThe size of the project required council to also provide a special exemption to current zoning laws which restrict retail shops' gross floor area (GFA) to 2500 square metres
the newly approved development exceeds this limit by more than 45 per cent
The project was approved despite also having a parking shortfall of 10 car spaces (312 instead of the 322 required for the project's size)
Councillors agreed the exceptions were worthwhile considering the development's potential economic impact for South Tamworth
who prepared the DA on behalf of local developer John Oehlers
described the scale of that impact in a presentation to councillors at the start of their Thursday meeting
He said another 30 DAs are expected to come through for the large commercial precinct
representing a total investment of more than $400 million for Tamworth
"The subdivision will need to be finished before any of these new buildings can be created
which is why there's so much work on the site now to allow the future development to continue," Mr Barr told the council
He also asked councillors to be open to further discussions on how future infrastructure could be delivered on the site without "burdening and undermining" developers
Tamworth council has set a condition requiring a $251,900 developer contribution to be paid to council before construction begins
The development application was approved unanimously by all councillors
View +19 PhotosPictures by Peter HardinEmergency services rushed to the vicious attack on Saturday afternoon to find the victim critically injured in a pool of blood and suffering "significant head injuries" before the 55-year-old male barricaded himself in the Anne Street unit
He then triggered a three-hour stand off with police, fleeing onto the roof.
Police claim the 55-year-old man allegedly turned the weapon on himself on the roof about 7.30pm on Saturday
"We have an obligation to protect life and property
he started self-harming himself with a weapon and we had to take appropriate action to make sure that he was put into custody," Oxley Detective Inspector Tom Aylett said on Sunday
The suspect tried to flee as police surrounded him and fell from the roof
he was flown under police guard to another larger hospital for emergency treatment after suffering self-inflicted stab wounds
and he's in a serious but stable condition
His injuries are not considered to be life-threatening
The victim died on arrival at Tamworth hospital
What police believe is the murder weapon has been seized
but senior police have rejected rumours gunshots were heard
a taser was deployed to apprehend that male and some bean bag rounds from our tactical operation response team based here in the region," Detective Aylett said
"They were utilised along with police negotiators and other methods to try and get that male to come down
once that information was that he was observed to be harming himself
our non-lethal options were utilised to apprehend that male."
Detective Aylett backed the police actions
a male that was on that roof that started inflicting injuries to himself and we had to take action
non-lethal methods were used to deploy to prevent that male from injuring himself further and put him into custody."
but now Strike Force Elsner detectives are trying to work out why
and Detective Aylett said they were "simply acquaintances" with charges expected in the coming days
we're looking at that and the inquiries from the detectives will go into the victimology further of that around their relationship
but we understand that they were known to each other for a number of years
there's no domestic relationship," he said
"We know that the two men were in the house and something has led to one of those males attacking that male attacking the 47-year-old male causing those significant injuries."
NSW Ambulance Inspector Tim Troon said it was a "very confronting" scene for emergency responders
and after transporting the victim to hospital in a bid to save his life
the same crews returned to help the suspect
But the growing crowds and dramatic arrest meant they moved him to a nearby location to treat him
"We just needed to get out of that active scene at the time," he said
"So we made a transport decision to move the patient into a more secure location
"From there we were able to stabilise the patient prior to transporting him to Tamworth hospital."
Two officers suffered minor injuries in the incident and were taken to Tamworth hospital but have since been released
Forensic officers combed the crime scene for much of Sunday
Homicide police are backing local detectives as they try to get to the bottom of what led to the deadly confrontation
and whether alcohol or drugs played a part
Detective Aylett said there was no threat to community safety after the arrest
"The sadness of this is that a male has lost his life
The person that is in custody is in custody for that man's injuries
We don't believe there's any other risk of the community," he said
"We're speaking with a number of witnesses at the time and we're satisfied that the person that was involved in causing those injuries is in police custody
"We believe it all occurred inside the house and the male that had those injuries was located by police in the house."
Detective Aylett said rumours were circulating
but he urged anyone with information that could assist investigators to contact Tamworth police or Crime Stoppers
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Tamworth house is to be her
son Noah and daughter Aurora's 'home away from home' for the next week or so following Noah's long-awaited surgery
there wasn't a lot of time to organise things once they were told he was going to be operated on
The smiling faces said it all as South Tamworth firies Karl Jones, Katlin Nielsen, Megan Shanahan and Steve McWhirter made a very special delivery to Ronald McDonald House on Wednesday. Picture by Peter Hardin.Being 200km away, Jessie said being able to stay at RMH alleviated some of the stress
"I'm just so grateful that there was a room here," she said
"Everyone's told me lovely things about Ronald McDonald House, but seeing it now and being here now
it was such a weight lifted off my shoulder."
"And then when I went through and looked at the room..
"There's a play area right outside the door
She said she "couldn't ask for anything more"
Due to potential complications from the surgery
they were told Noah would need to stay within an hour of the hospital for 10 days to two weeks
It means they will be spending Easter at RMH
Noah Delaney and Glenn Roberts will be able to spend Easter together
Picture by Peter HardinThankfully at least they will be able to be together
I've got two older children back at home still," Jessie said
but the little ones can get to enjoy it with us still so that's the main thing."
It is "the only day of the year" they're allowed chocolate for breakfast
with South Tamworth Fire and Rescue crew members helping the Easter bunny deliver bags of eggs generously donated by Woolworths Eastpoint
Big W and Calala IGA to the families staying at RMH
Tamworth house manager Leisa Woodley said thanked all those involved in making the egg donation possible
Picture by Peter HardinThere were plenty of excited faces as the big red truck pulled up and more than a few chocolate-tinged ones as the goodies were quickly devoured
"[Aurora] was straight into her Easter bunny
She demolished his ears within the first five seconds," Jessie joked
Tamworth house manager Leisa Woodley said it's a special event for the families that are in the house over what can be "a really difficult time"
so to have something like that (the firies) come and make their day
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French energy company TotalEnergies is seeking Australian government approval to develop a 320 MW solar farm and 320 MW / 780 MWh battery energy storage system in the New England region of New South Wales
The Middlebrook Solar Farm and battery energy storage project
being developed by TotalEnergies near Tamworth in the state’s northeast
has joined the queue for assessment under the federal government’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act
The project, which has already secured approval from the New South Wales (NSW) Independent Planning Commission (IPC)
is proposed for a 515-hectare site about 20 kilometres south Tamworth
TotalEnergies plans to build a 320 MW solar farm featuring approximately 750,000 PV modules mounted on a single-axis tracking system
A battery energy storage system sized at 320 MW and 780 MWh would be established in conjunction with the solar farm to regulate the supply of electricity to the grid
The facility would connect to the National Electricity Market (NEM) via Transgrid’s existing 330 kV transmission line that traverses the site
the IPC said that the project site is “suitable for renewable energy development given its location close to existing electricity transmission networks
avoidance of major environmental constraints … and potential for continued use of the land for grazing.”
The Middlebrook Solar Farm and battery project had however been referred to the EPBC for federal approval due to potential impacts on koala and bird habitats and native trees and grasslands which are listed as endangered under the EPBC Act
TotalEnergies says in documents submitted to the EPBC portal that a “significant impact is unlikely” and that “most of the direct impacts affect non-native vegetation.”
“The project area has been significantly cleared of native vegetation for stock grazing and cropping,” the developer said
noting that grazing is likely to continue within the operational areas of the solar farm
“The options agreement with the landowners includes grazing principles to manage this activity,” it said
construction of the Middlebrook Solar Farm and battery project is anticipated to start later this year
with TotalEnergies eyeing a commissioning date in 2027
More articles from David Carroll
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but he believes it is an opportunity he cannot pass up
Trent Weir's brief captaincy tenure with South Tamworth will draw to an end
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueWhile speaking to the Leader on Tuesday
Weir confirmed that a change in his professional circumstances necessitated a move back to his native Sydney
I've had some really good mentors and some really good support here which has helped me along the way."
Weir had been asked to shoulder a mountainous responsibility by the club this year
is in just his second year of cricket with Souths
broke a hiatus in which he hadn't picked up a bat since moving north
But those at the club could clearly see the talent the former Penrith first grader had
but as a leader and teacher (Weir had also taken on a role as club coach)
So, when veterans the likes of Tom Groth and Chris Skilton stepped aside at the end of the season
and the club's overseas imports finished their stints
Souths turned to Weir to take on the captaincy
"We've lost a number of our more experienced players
whether that be through retirement or work," he said
"So there was a number of people that left
and of course it was something I was happy to do for the club."
The opportunity to start his own business came up suddenly
and Weir only made the decision over the last week or so
there was some trepidation prior to telling the club of his plans
his announcement was met with nothing but support from his teammates and the committee
The only question that remains is who will replace him
it will likely be one of the other senior members of the team
but Weir is yet to have any official discussions with potential successors
which have been formidable this year with a competition-leading tally of 246 runs at 61.5
but I think it was the right decision," Weir said
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe man
cannot be identified to protect the identity of the young boy
The man's bid for bail was denied in a Sydney court on Saturday morning. Picture from fileOn Saturday, the Leader revealed the man had been arrested in Gunnedah on Friday
His name and some of the details of the case cannot be reported for legal reasons but Oxley detectives allege the accused was known to the two-year-old
The toddler died in Tamworth hospital on the night of January 24 after being found unresponsive at a South Tamworth home earlier that afternoon
Detectives will allege the boy had significant injuries
The accused appeared via video link in Parramatta Local Court on Saturday morning from the police cells in Tamworth
He is facing one lone count of domestic violence-related murder
He was not required to enter a plea to the allegation but lodged an application for bail
The release bid was rejected by magistrate Michael Stoddart who ultimately found the accused had not shown cause why he should be released
the accused was on three Community Correction Orders (CCO) - or good behaviour bonds - at the time of the alleged offence
Mr Stoddart ordered the accused to stay in custody
and adjourned the matter to Tamworth Local Court in April
Detectives have been ordered to compile the brief of evidence into the case and serve it on the solicitor for the man before he returns to court in two months
On Thursday, senior officers told the Leader the investigation was "a priority" to find answers for the family.
Investigators had been waiting for the results of a post mortem
He was taken to Tamworth Police Station for questioning before he was charged
with the backing of the state's homicide squad
have launched a dedicated operation - code named Strike Force Agriel - and are continuing to probe the circumstances surrounding the boy's death
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A 23-year-old man has been charged with murder after the death of a two-year-old boy in Tamworth in northern NSW last month
Police said the toddler was found unconscious at a home in Hillvue Road in South Tamworth on January 18
NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the child at the home before taking him to Tamworth Base Hospital
Detectives from the homicide squad and the Oxley police district launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child’s death and established Strike Force Agriel
police arrested a 23-year-old man at a home in Gunnedah and took him to Tamworth police station
The man was charged with murder (domestic violence) and was refused bail overnight and appeared before Parramatta Bail Court on Saturday
The 23-year-old was remanded in custody and will next appear in Tamworth Local Court on April 16
Our Breaking News Alert will notify you of significant breaking news when it happens. Get it here.
A 23-year-old man has been charged with murder after the death of a two-year-old boy in Tamworth in northern NSW last month.
Police said the toddler was found unconscious at a home in Hillvue Road in South Tamworth on January 18.
NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the child at the home before taking him to Tamworth Base Hospital, where he later died.
Detectives from the homicide squad and the Oxley police district launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child\\u2019s death and established Strike Force Agriel.
About 6.45pm on Friday, police arrested a 23-year-old man at a home in Gunnedah and took him to Tamworth police station. The man was charged with murder (domestic violence) and was refused bail overnight and appeared before Parramatta Bail Court on Saturday.
The 23-year-old was remanded in custody and will next appear in Tamworth Local Court on April 16.
Our Breaking News Alert will notify you of significant breaking news when it happens. .
Picture SuppliedA police investigation has been launched after a suspicious overnight housefire
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAt about 9:40pm on Sunday April 21
When Fire and Rescue NSW crews from the South Tamworth station arrived at the scene
Firefighters worked to extinguish the blaze but the home was "extensively damaged"
Officers attached to the Oxley Police District also attended the housefire and cordoned off the area
The Leader understands police have launched an investigation into the fire
As investigations continue anyone with information
or dashcam footage from the area is urged to contact Tamworth Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
Tess Kelly is a journalist at The Advocate. Story tips and goss can be sent to tess.kelly@austcommunitymedia.com.au
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Almost half the results have been returned overnight
with the remaining 32 seats declaring later today
The Reform UK Party is leading in the Staffordshire County Council election
Ballots cast on 1 May have already been counted overnight in four districts and boroughs
while the remaining results will be declared later today
All the Council’s 62 divisions are being contested and with each returning one councillor
The four district and borough areas returning results overnight were Lichfield
Ballots will be counted today for the remaining 32 seats in the Cannock Chase
Stafford and Staffordshire Moorlands areas
The Conservatives have controlled the county council since winning in 2009
and entered this election holding 53 seats
with five for Labour and four for independent councillors
More detail about the results is available here
These contact details are for journalists and members of the media only:
Email: pressoffice@staffordshire.gov.ukCall: 01785 895050
If you are not a journalist or member of the media and have a general enquiry please:
Email: contactus@staffordshire.gov.ukCall: 0300 111 8000
For information directly relating to bushfires please call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737 or visit the NSW Rural Fire Service Website here. [external link]
We responded to over 150,000 incidents in 2023-24
The incidents displayed below are note-worthy incidents that have been published as media releases or tweets
Details about incidents may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice
North Parramatta | The fire at Dunlop Street, North Parramatta has been contained but is expected to smoulder through the morning. Because there may be smoke in the area, residents and businesses in the vicinity are advised to keep doors, windows, and vents closed. View on X [external link]
Fire and Rescue NSW acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Custodians of the land and acknowledges and pays respect to their Elders, past, present and emerging.
Picture supplied by The LottA TAMWORTH man has won half-a-million dollars on a scratchie
admitting he had to check the ticket several times to make sure it wasn't a dream
is aged in his 20s and is still in shock after winning the top prize
He said he couldn't stop shaking after he realised he had won $1000-a-week for the next 10 years with the instant scratchie
I was going to have a heart attack," he told Lott officials after the win was confirmed
"I was close to driving five hours to Sydney to claim the prize in person."
He said the "life-changing" amount was "wonderful" and was going to go towards a house deposit
"I'll be accruing the prize weekly to eventually put down a house deposit for my first family home!" the man said
"We've wanted to buy a property for so long now
The man said when he scratched the ticket he had to check it a couple of times
before running to his sister for a second set of eyes
The man plans to celebrate the windfall on the weekend after telling his parents and siblings and a couple of friends
'I was going to have a heart attack': Tamworth man wins half-a-million dollarsHe bought the winning $10 Live the Life Scratch-Its ticket from the CTC South Tamworth tobacconist and gift shop in Southgate Shopping Centre
It's the first time the shop has sold a top prize ticket since it started offering lotto and scratchies
CTC South Tamworth manager Stephen Briggs said
"We only started lotteries at our outlet a couple of years ago
and we're so glad we did because it feels amazing to give back to the community when we sell a major prize," he said
He said the man was a "regular customer" and he and staff were over the moon about the win
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A young family has been left devastated after a fire tore through their home in South Tamworth this morning.
Police believe it was deliberately lit and are urging any witnesses to come forward.
We now know which restaurants at clubs and RSLs across the state are home to the best meals
Read on to see all winners of the 2024 Your Local Club Perfect Plate Awards
For a daily dose of 9honey, subscribe to our newsletter here
Mounties' Jumbo Seafood came equal first for Best Large Club dish with its Sweet & Sour Pork with Lychee & Green Apple
which also came second in the best Western Metro dish category
It costs $24.80 for members and $26.80 for non-members to eat
The restaurant also came second in the Best Dessert category with its Mango Pancake
Cabra-Vale Diggers' Horizon Asian Dining tied as equal first for Best Large Club dish with its Live Lobster with Salted Egg Yolk
which also came third in the best Western Metro dish category
The Ary Toukley's ZIVA Eats & Pizza is the proud home of Best Medium Club dish with its Queensland King Prawn Ravioli with Saffron Beurre Blanc
This dish also topped the Best Central Coast dish category.
The Ary Toukley's ZIVA Eats & Pizza also took out the inaugural Best Dessert dish title with its Belgium Chocolate Fondant with Creme Anglaise
Vanilla Ice Cream & Vanilla Fairy Floss
Read the full story here.
Club York's Primi Italian won Best Eastern Metro dish for its PRIMIum MARINARA Pizza, which came in third place in the Best Medium Club dish category.
The venue's Zabou Bar and Grill came second in that same category with its Greek Beef Moussaka with Whipped Hot Honey.
Currarong Bowling & Recreation Club's The Peninsula Brasserie won Best Small Club dish with its Lamb Backstrap & Beets with Goats Cheese Jus.
It also took out the best Illawarra & Shoalhaven dish.
Sharks at Kareela's Cove Bar & Grill's Pork Rib-Eye with Peach & Bourbon Glaze was crowned Best Southern Metro dish.
It also came second in the Best Medium Club dish category.
Coro 88's Dining @ Coro 88 won Best Western Metro dish for its Seafood Kataifi (Seafood Mousse with Celeriac Cream).
It also came second in the Best Small Club dish category.
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueA man who was seriously injured when his scooter was hit by a stolen car overnight in Tamworth
has been airlifted to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle
The Leader has been told the 31-year-old remains in a serious but stable condition
after he was transferred from Tamworth hospital
A man has been seriously injured after he was hit by a stolen car in in South Tamworth
the man had been riding an electric scooter when it was involved in a crash with a stolen ute
View +9 PhotosPictures by Peter HardinOfficers from Oxley Police District attended the scene where they found a 31-year-old man with serious injuries to his head and leg
His scooter had been significantly damaged
had been reported stolen earlier from a home in Gunnedah
Police spoke with neighbours and have seized CCTV which shows the crash
was taken to Tamworth hospital in a stable condition
A crime scene has been established and police
with the assistance of the Crash Investigation Unit
are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash
Police are urging anyone with dashcam footage or information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
File picture by Peter HardinSouth Tamworth residents are one step closer to an easier weekly shop as plans for a new supermarket are going ahead
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueA development application (DA) for a commercial centre on Goonoo Goonoo road was given the green light at Tamworth Regional Council's final meeting of the year
Councillors were unanimous in their support for the project and many spoke on the project's expected benefits to the rapidly-growing southern part of town
"This development is going to support our existing and proposed growth in the South Tamworth area
"There's only one supermarket in Calala and it's continuing to expand
The new commercial centre and supermarket will be built on 406-424 Goonoo Goonoo Road
Picture by Figgis and Jefferson Tepa Architects The identity of the company set to occupy the new premises is not detailed in the plans
the DA says the occupier will have to wait for the completion of construction of the roundabout currently being built at the intersection of Craigends Lane and Goonoo Goonoo Road
The commercial centre will depend on the roundabout for access into the new 339-space car park which will service the shopping centre
Council's general manager Paul Bennett said the development could mean good news for motorists as it will encourage the state government put the pedal to the metal on road works currently set to finish in 2027
"We're working closely with Transport for NSW around the early works program and finalisation of design for Goonoo Goonoo Road," Mr Bennett said
"We're having detailed discussions even right now around the first stages of that and trying to accelerate the roundabout construction."
The shopping complex will include 339 car parks, 12 accessible parking spots, and 18 bicycle parks. Picture by Figgis and Jefferson Tepa Architects Residents have been calling for the roundabout and overall road upgrade for more than a decade
Cr Steve Mears said he hoped the new shopping centre would alleviate anxieties he'd heard from residents about council playing favourites when it came to developing inside the city centre versus the surrounding areas
He said in the two years he'd been on Tamworth's council he'd seen "no evidence" to suggest the local government engaged in "protectionism for businesses in the CBD"
Plans for the new supermarket received unanimous support from councillors
a rare event for a development of this scale and impact
Picture by Figgis and Jefferson Tepa Architects Cr Mears did
express concern over how the development would increase traffic on Rodeo Drive
Council's traffic impact assessment of the development says there is "adequate capacity in the surrounding road network to cater for the traffic generated by the proposed development."
Aside from a few concerns on storm water drainage
councillors had nothing else but good things to say about the new commercial centre
"As the city and the region grows, this development will be a good thing for that area alongside our sporting precinct and equine centre," Cr Brooke Southwell said
Cr Phil Betts described it as the new "lynch pin for that entire southern area"
Robert Eckersley always dreamt of being a firefighter
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueBut fast forward several years
he never would have believed that would be his job for 50 years
and that's what I did," Mr Eckersley told the Leader
he was honoured for 50 years of service to the fire brigade in Tamworth as a retained Fire and Rescue NSW firefighter
after hanging up his uniform and marching out of the station for the final time
"I'll be taking off my helmet for the last time," Mr Eckersley said
From a young age Mr Eckersley had always seemed destined to join the fire brigade ranks
He said he remembered starting fires in the back paddock of his parents' house
"When I was young I had a big backyard at home and I got sick of mowing it
His aspirations would in time lead him to the old West Tamworth fire station
where he'd spend 47 years of his career and become the station's longest serving member
Mr Eckersley has been on the frontline of many fierce fires and natural disasters
including the devastating Black Summer bushfire in 2020 and the Lismore floods last year
He said the most memorable moment of his career was receiving the Australian Fire Service Medal for distinguished service
It's one of the highest honours a firefighter can receive
"At the time I was the second retained firefighter in the state to receive the medal
He's one of the most highly-regarded members of the Tamworth fire brigade
and Mr Eckersley is also a beloved member of the community
Each year he'd participate in the Australasian Firefighting Championships, and helped Tamworth to secure the hosting rights for the international event in 2019
"I think I attended every championship," Mr Eckersley said
"I was heavily involved in organising those events here in Tamworth."
"I'll miss the comradery between the blokes and the service to the community," he said
Rachel is a former Northern Daily Leader reporter who covered education, Liverpool Plains and Gunnedah council, renewable energy, and country music. Recently, she transitioned into digital journalism as a national audience engagement producer. Be sure to say g'day: rachel.clark@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Police have charged a man with murder following a fatal stabbing in Tamworth.
A 37-year-old male died at a unit complex late on Sunday. A 28-year-old, arrested last night, will face Tamworth Local Court on Tuesday.
Picture by Gareth GardnerUpdate:A man has been taken to hospital and a woman has been treated for injuries after a two-car crash in South Tamworth on the morning of April 6
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinue An Ambulance NSW spokesperson said a man in his 30s was taken to Tamworth Hospital from the crash site in stable condition
A woman was also treated on-site for minor injuries
The crash occurred near the intersection of Goonoo Goonoo Road and Scott Road about 9:45am
Police and firefighters were also called as part of the emergency response
Police and firefighters were seen interviewing witnesses and helping to clear debris and divert traffic on Goonoo Goonoo Road into one lane
Picture by Gareth GardnerEarlier:Two people have been treated for injuries after a two-car crash in South Tamworth on Thursday morning
Emergency services rushed to the scene north of the intersection of Goonoo Goonoo Road and Scott Road after reports of a collision about 9:45am
Ambulance paramedics treated a man and a woman at the scene
and helped clear debris and divert northbound and southbound traffic on Goonoo Goonoo Road into one lane
An Ambulance NSW spokesperson could not confirm details of the patients
or the condition they were in earlier this morning
but they were expected to be take to Tamworth hospital for further treatment
Picture supplied by Figgis and Jefferson Tepa ArchitectsTamworth is putting the pedal to the metal on south-side development but the state government may force the city to hit the brakes
Plans for the supermarket depend on the state government building a new roundabout for access into its car park
"It gives us a bit of an opportunity to put pressure on the government to get that Goonoo Goonoo Road going, and also get that roundabout on Craigends Lane underway," Tamworth mayor Russell Webb said after council approved the commercial development at its latest meeting
now we have the impetus to make it happen."
But a response to enquiries sent by the Leader suggests the state government isn't bowing under pressure
When asked whether the roundabout planned for the intersection of Craigends Lane and Goonoo Goonoo Road might be brought forward to allow the new supermarket to open sooner than 2027
the state's road authority didn't provide a definitive response
"Transport for NSW (TfNSW) is prioritising projects along the New England Highway based on the recent release of the Federal Infrastructure review," a TfNSW spokesperson said
"TfNSW will continue to work collaboratively with Tamworth Regional Council to deliver the Goonoo Goonoo Road project as quickly as possible and in line with NSW and Federal Government funding requirements that go with a project of this size."
The new supermarket will be accessed from Goonoo Goonoo Road via the construction of a new roundabout at the intersection with Craigends Lane.The response provided no information on how newly-approved plans for the South Tamworth supermarket and commercial centre will affect the timeline of road upgrades
A request for an update on current works didn't turn up greater detail
"The Commonwealth and NSW Governments announced the start of early work in January 2023
which involved building a new footpath on the north-western part of the project," the TfNSW spokesperson said
"Transport is working towards obtaining the required state and federal business case approvals to enable the project to move into detailed design before calling for tenders for main construction."
The roads authority did not provide any indication as to when the main works might begin
View +4 PhotosPictures supplied by Conzept Landscape ArchitectsThe proponent of the new supermarket
Picture by Figgis and Jefferson Tepa Architects SOUTH siders could be waltzing down the aisles of a brand new supermarket if the plans are given the green light
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueA report is set to go before Tamworth Regional Council at its final meeting for 2023 on Tuesday
recommending councillors tick off on a new shopping complex on Goonoo Goonoo Road
which is located near the Transgrid substation
has been touted as a means to make shopping more convenient and accessible for locals and visitors
"The proposed development is expected to have a positive social impact through the provision of retail services to the locality," the report states
"The proposal is also likely to create jobs during construction and operational phases."
If approved the site will be cleared to make may for a new building and car park
It's proposed the supermarket will be housed in one part of the building
and the fit-out of future retail stores will be subject to separate approvals
What the supermarket will be has not been included in the plans
The proposed shopping complex will include 339 car parks
Picture by Figgis and Jefferson Tepa Architects Three hundred and thirty nine onsite parking spots will be available
Four electric vehicle charging stations will also be included
the developer was forced to carry out an 'Economic Impact Assessment' to ensure the new supermarket would not impinge on the existing retail hierarchy
The assessment found the new supermarket would fill a shortfall in shopping locations on the south side of Tamworth
with the only other full scale supermarket being an IGA in Calala
The assessment also found other supermarkets in Tamworth
will experience a loss of about 4.7 per cent in the 2025/26 financial year once the new supermarket opens
South side supermarket developer to learn fate as plans go to council meeting"None-the-less the centres are expected to recover quickly due to population and retail expenditure growth," the report says
Access to the proposed supermarket is reliant on a new roundabout being built at the intersection of Craigends Lane and Goonoo Goonoo Road
The roundabout is part of the NSW Government's $40 million Goonoo Goonoo Road upgrade
which the report notes has no official timeline
"As the developer has not proposed any interim access arrangement for the proposal
the construction of the roundabout on Goonoo Goonoo Road will need to be completed prior to the issue of an Occupation Certificate," the report says
the new development is expected to generate an additional 350 trips on a weekday morning
"The Traffic Impact Assessment found that there is adequate capacity in the surrounding road network to cater for the traffic generated by the proposed development," the report says
Internal roads will also be constructed and will be connected to the existing roundabout at the intersection of Goonoo Goonoo Road and Jack Smyth Drive
Councillors will vote on whether to grant development consent on Tuesday
Picture supplied.South Tamworth captain Chris Skilton says their drought-breaking Twenty20 triumph is a reflection on the "culture change" and "great spirit" around the club
and hopes it can serve as a catapult to more success in just over a month's time
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThey haven't held the Wombramurra Rose Bowl Trophy since the 2017-18 season
the last time they won any first grade silverware
Pipping finals opponents Bective-East for top spot on quotients, Souths controlled things pretty much from the outset after club coach Trent Weir let loose
"We've been planning and thinking about our cricket for a fair while and [Friday] night some of the plans that we put in place came off really well," Skilton said
He spoke about wanting to win the first six overs with the bat and likewise the ball
Weir quickly made them regret that decision as he plundered 54 from 29 balls
It was exactly the "proactive" start they were after
conscious that as the ball softened the Bulls had "some good spin bowlers" that could "bog it down through the middle" and it would get harder to score
That was part of the thinking in elevating Weir to open
knowing that he has the ability to hit the ball hard
He's also played a lot of cricket and has "great game awareness"
It was the former Sydneysider's first real opportunity to show what he's got
batting down the order in his only three other bats for them
he hasn't really been batting much in the nets," Skilton said
Coach Trent Weir laid the foundation for South Tamworth to claim their first silverware for around four seasons
Picture by Peter Hardin"But he's got very good hand-eye and can hit the ball really well."
"I think they probably missed a trick in terms of how they bowled
"They probably bowled a bit too short to him and a bit too wide and gave him a bit of width and he just put his hands through the ball and it came off."
Fellow opener Josh Richards also made 35, George Wilson an unbeaten 30 and the skipper a quick-fire 16 to propel Souths to 6-152 from their 20 overs
The Bulls were then always pretty well behind the eight ball and bundled out for 80 as Wilson again demonstrated his allround capabilities with 4-17
"He's not an express bowler but he's very smart," Skilton said
"He's got a variety of different change ups and he always bowls attackingly at the stumps."
The other five bowlers shared the rest of the wickets
Adam Jones (23) was the Bulls' top-scorer and Ben Taylor (3-23) their best performer with the ball
Skilton said it was nice to have a "dominant win" after winning a couple of games in the last couple of overs
Picture suppliedWHAT firefighters colloquially refer to as their "toolbox on wheels" has been out of action from South Tamworth Fire Station for more than 24 hours
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinue"Without our tools
we're useless," Fire Brigade Employees Union representative Luc Eddy said
which takes water from ground hydrants and increases pressure for effective firefighting
It is carried by a truck and runs using the vehicle's engine
"The pump is the most significant bit of kit we have," he said
"We firefighters rely on that appliance to do every single job we're tasked with."
The truck that carries the pump cannot be used while it is being repaired at a truck repair shop
"We're missing the capability to have more firefighters on the scene," Mr Eddy said
"We've lost a massive capability for the town
It's a significant loss for firefighting capabilities
There's still a big gaping hole at the station where it should be."
Fire and Rescue NSW deputy commissioner of field operations Jeremy Fewtrell told the Leader
It is expected to arrive at the station on Wednesday
Tamworth still has two appliances available and operating at South Tamworth and one appliance available in East Tamworth
there is the bravo pump with a smaller capacity
which is normally used by on-call firefighters
An ongoing campaign by fire brigades warn people to stay alert this winter fire season
yet a significant appliance was left to fail
"It's an ongoing issue of our trucks not being fit for purpose and allowed to be put in decline," he said
being vulnerable to house fires and other emergency events by not having the facilities that the public pays for available to them is just disgusting
Eva is a Northern Daily Leader journalist based in Tamworth. She covers health, politics, energy, arts & entertainment, business, community, and a bit of everything else.
Picture by Gareth GardnerSouth Tamworth McDonald's is preparing to undergo a bit of a makeover
All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe family restaurant franchisee, Adrian Sippel
has lodged a development application (DA) with Tamworth Regional Council (TRC) to complete a full renovation of the Hillvue location on Goonoo Goonoo Road
the remodel is estimated to cost $2,928,397
A McDonald's spokesperson said the renovation of the South Tamworth restaurant is part of the corporation's grander plan for Australia
"McDonald's national commitment [is] to open 100 new restaurants and remodel half of the existing restaurants by the end of 2025," the spokesperson said
The restaurant layout would also be updated
to include a newly positioned front counter and McCafe
View +2 PhotosSouth Tamworth McDonald's 3D renderings of remodel | Supplied"[This would] enhance the customer experience and operational efficiencies," the Macca's spokesperson said
They said the remodel would provide mass economic benefits to the Tamworth community
"The project would create more than 50 jobs for local construction workers and an additional 50 new jobs for restaurant employees in crew
Out of the 332 McDonald's restaurants located in NSW
with each of the golden arches found in North
The most recent location in North Tamworth opened its doors to the community in 2021.
"We employ more than 500 members of the Tamworth community and play a key role in the training and development of young people in the region," the spokesperson said
"McDonald's restaurants across Tamworth have supported a range of local community and sporting groups for more than 40 years."
Photo: Gareth GardnerThe world's largest pizza chain could return to Tamworth
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinuePizza Hut submitted plans for a new store in South Tamworth
The multinational pizza firm closed its Peel Street store in 2020 after suffering storm damage in late 2019
But the company issued a DA to Tamworth Regional Council on June 8 for sewerage work and shop fit out at 248
The Peel Street store wasn't the first Tamworth Pizza Hut to fall into disrepair
spent years abandoned before being demolished to make way for a medical facility
Abandoned since at least 2014
the eyesore was cleared away in early 2022
The $3.3 million upgrade will permit a neighbouring orthodontics business to migrate into better facilities
Tamworth businessman Nav Virk plans to open his first pizza restaurant, Bella Mozzarella
The multinational will also have to compete with Papa Luigi's
Want more local news? Subscribe to the Leader to read it here first
Luke and Joanna Vitalone converted what had been the Tamworth Town and Country into the traditional Italian restaurant during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Locals can also get a meal from Presto Gourmet Pizzeria, a locally-owned restaurant in South Tamworth.
Founded in Kansas in 1958, Pizza Hut operates franchises which are pure takeaway and which are dine-in restaurants.
It's unclear whether the new Tamworth store will be one or the other, or a hybrid.
Pizza Hut was contacted for comment on this story.
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Photo: Ben JaffreyTamworth's success at the 2021 Disability Lawn Bowls State Championship has led to the city hosting another major bowls event
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe 2021 Disability Lawn Bowls Singles Classic will be held at South Tamworth Bowling Club this week
It comes after West Tamworth's Aaron Kelly and South Tamworth's Des Cross won the state singles and reserve singles
at the state championships in Belmont earlier this year
"Because it was two Tamworth guys that won the open singles and reserve singles
they said 'how would you like it if we bought the three day tournament out west'," Cross recalled
not only Tamworth but also the bowls club that embraced him when he moved to town
It's got everything you need in it and [it's great] just to show off what we've got and the country spirit," Cross said
He added: "This club [South Tamworth] has been awesome
I can't fault this club in the way they've let me come in
join up and play out of a [wheelchair] on their green
"All the people here are so accommodating..
three years after he had a bad accident while working
"I have a T10 incomplete spinal cord injury and it's left me with Brown-Sequard syndrome," Cross said
Cross and his family made the move to be closer to relatives
After a few years away from lawn bowls following the injury
Cross found out wheelchair lawn bowls was a thing
Cross' now been playing for about three years and is glad he re-found the sport he first started playing some 15-odd years ago
"I had a couple years off away from bowls then got back into it again which has really helped headspace-wise," Cross said
There will be bowls galore this week with the 2021 Disability Lawn Bowls Singles Classic running from Monday to Wednesday at the South Tamworth Bowling Club
Ben is a print assistant for The Land. He has been with ACM since 2015 and first worked at The Area News and then at the Northern Daily Leader. Ben first joined ACM Agri as a digital journalist for all seven agricultural mastheads in 2022 before shifting to The Land full-time in 2023.
TAKING OVER: Milestones has purchased Poppins Playhouse in South Tamworth, adding it to centres in the CBD and Oxley Vale. Photo: Cody TsaousisSOUTH Tamworth childcare centre Poppins Playhouse has changed hands, with Milestones Early Learning taking over the business.
All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueStaff ready to roll.It has now been added to the suite of Milestones centres around the city, with some already set up in Oxley Vale and the CBD.
The Playhouse will now be called Milestones Early Learning South Tamworth, and area manager Krista Lynch said she was ecstatic with the acquisition.
"Milestones Early Learning were excited to welcome the team here at South Tamworth who will continue to provide highly qualified educators with a focus on quality and safety, and a genuine love of the children in their care under their new name," she said.
Ms Lynch was keen to assure the parents and carers of kids already going to the centre that the change would not impact them.
"Families who had already attended this centre during the years it was known as Poppins Playhouse, love the focus on outdoor play and learning including well-supervised 'outdoor risky play'," she said.
"We are delighted to continue to provide this quality of care and support their children to develop a lifelong love of learning."
As well as stability for families, workers will remain the same too in order to make the transition as smooth as possible.
Long-term Centre Manager Shelly Chester and Assistant Centre Manager Chantelle Trow have also made the transition to Milestones Early Learning along with their team of educators.
The 60-place centre has a nursery, as well as a section for early childhood care and learning.
There is also a preschool program for kids from three years old up to primary school age.
An 'exciting' new venture for local childcare centreMilestones is introducing a 'healthy beginnings' program which will target kids from 0 to 1 years of age
and will involve the likes of music and sensory play
career pathways to achieve the diploma in Early Education and Care
It also runs a sponsorship program which supports educators to attain their Bachelor of Early Childhood Education
I'm a news reporter who enjoys covering politics and energy, but I will write about anything for my community. I moved to the New England in 2021 after spending several years in the Upper Hunter.
Photo: Peter HardinIF DOCTOR Devika Kumari hadn't been swayed into changing her plan to move to Melbourne
Better Health South Tamworth would have been forced to close its doors
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe practice was only able to secure Dr Kumari for two years because of a $25,000 grant
she would be strutting down Flinders instead of Peel Street
and they are very supportive and they have provided me lots of other facilities as well
providing housing facilities and the allowances," she said
The practice has struggled "a thousand times" to secure a GP
practice coordinator Sue Pring told the Leader
Seven GPs like Dr Kumari have been snapped up by practices across the region thanks to an initiative by the Primary Health Network (PHN) to address shortages
A 'welcome ambassador' - a free service to immerse the doctors into their new regional communities - is being provided
It's hoped this will combat doctors failing to connect with communities
one of the things keeping health professionals away
It's all about the cost associated with relocating a family
"That's why we need doctors to relocate to the area
because you want that continuation of care," she said
"And that's what we want to be able to show GPs
Community is what binds people to these towns
manager for rural health access and development at the PHN
"Practices are going above and beyond to attract and retain GPs," she said
Dr Kumari previously worked at Bridge Medical Practice and Narrabri District Hospital
The proximity to Tamworth hospital and specialty doctors means a lot of the responsibilities she had in Narrabri are alleviated
She was attracted to Tamworth because of the multicultural population and good schools for her son
because my son is going to school here and I don't like to change his school very often
that's why I want to stay one place for at least five years," she said
The GPs are headed to practices in Quirindi
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe pump arrived at 7:30pm on Wednesday
Fire Brigade Employees Union representative Luc Eddy said
While Mr Eddy is glad the issue is resolved
he said it's a shame external pressure from media is required to get repairs done
"Really, if we didn't have a fleet that was declining and ageing
Fire and Rescue NSW deputy commissioner of field operations Jeremy Fewtrell said as per FRNSW procedures
the correct process was followed to make sure the vehicle was fixed
but in this instance the part needed to be delivered from Sydney
places stress on trucks and we move quickly to fix any issue that may occur
Our fire coverage was not compromised at all during this period," he said
A vehicle in Gunnedah will be replaced after an incident
a spokesperson for NSW emergency services minister Jihad Dib said
A firefighter was reported to have fallen back onto a brick wall and suffered pain when a handle used to get into the truck came away
similar vehicles is being undertaken as part of an overall upgrade of our fleet across the state," the spokesperson said