YOUNG, bright and curious minds from across the region were buzzing with excitement at the 2026 National Science and Engineering Challenge, held at The Crossing Theatre last week.
The popular annual event aims to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders and address the skills shortage in science and engineering.

Engaging hundreds of North West primary and high school students, from Gunnedah to Moree, Narrabri to Burren Junction, the three-day event offers students hands-on, competitive science and engineering activities.

Plans for a new community space in Wee Waa are beginning to take shape.

Locals, collaborating with council to design a memorial precinct paying tribute to ANZAC soldiers – in the heart of town.

Member for Barwon, Roy Butler, has tried to amend and delay the NSW government’s rushed laws in the wake of the Bondi terror attack, saying they don’t address the circumstances behind the attack while unfairly penalising regional people.  

The NSW government recalled parliament to rush through laws that can prevent protests, restrict firearm ownership and move firearms licence appeal hearings to the Supreme Court. 

A NSW parliament e-petition opposing the laws that was sponsored by Mr Butler has broken records for becoming the fastest to ever gather so many signatures. 

The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has declined to investigate concerns raised by the Member for Barwon, Roy Butler MP, and the Australian Floodplain
Association regarding the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder’s (CEWH) unmetered water diversions and new water entitlements on the Warrego River at Toorale
Station.
ICAC advised that:

Governments relied, in part, on telecommunication companies to provide coverage maps. Now the maps have changed - and the NFF wants black spot funding reassessed.

An outstanding irrigation property has sold soon after auction.