Burren Junction Progress Association member and farmer Steve Gardiner is calling on Walgett Shire Council to improve the management and maintenance of the town’s well-known bore baths, warning that their condition is affecting tourism, local businesses and community wellbeing.

“Not looking after the bore is hurting our community and tourism,” Mr Gardiner said.

Burren has been described as the ‘home of the bore baths’, which play a vital role in attracting tourists to the region.

For travellers following the popular Great Artesian Drive, the Burren bore baths and campground are marked as one of the places to stop along the way. The Great Artesian Drive is a road-trip route linking artesian bathing spots across North West NSW.

The naturally heated, mineral-rich waters offer travellers a relaxing soak after a day on the road, while the peaceful rural setting and open skies make it an inviting place to stop, unwind or have a chat with other visitors.

Locals also enjoy the benefits of the bore baths after a hard day at work or for a social catch-up.

They are located three kilometres from town, just off the Kamilaroy Highway.

It might not be quite as exciting as the Burren Junction Art Show, but there's certainly been something worth celebrating in town this week!

After years of waiting, the pedestrian crossing outside Burren Junction Public School has finally received some much-needed attention!

And this wasn't just a quick coat of white paint. The crossing has been renewed using thermoplastic road markings, a process where specially prepared white strips are laid onto the road and heated to bond them to the surface, providing a more durable and longer-lasting finish.

What a pleasant surprise to discover that the work crew consisted of three lovely women who were travelling home to Narrabri after working in Lightning Ridge.

Businesses across the New England North West are being encouraged to nominate for the 2026 New England North West Business Awards, with the official launch of the program taking place in Tamworth on Tuesday.

Hosted by Business NSW in partnership with Joblink Plus, the awards celebrate outstanding business achievement, innovation and leadership across the region.

The awards are open to businesses located throughout the New England North West, including Armidale, Boggabri, Glen Innes, Gunnedah, Guyra, Inverell, Liverpool Plains, Moree, Narrabri, Tamworth, Tenterfield, Walcha, Warialda and Wee Waa.

The official launch will be held at Connections Café in Tamworth, where media and invited guests will hear details of the 2026 awards program, including award categories, nomination processes and opportunities for regional businesses to showcase their success.

Stephanie Cameron, Regional Director – New England North West for Business NSW, will formally launch the awards and outline the importance of recognising excellence within regional business communities.