July 15, 2026
Native bird flu case sparks ‘nightmare’ wildlife fears Australian Agriculture Minister Julie Collins speaks during a press conference at Parliament House in Canberra. Photo: Lukas Coch, AAP,
Health, National

Native bird flu case sparks ‘nightmare’ wildlife fears

A KILLER  bird flu strain has been discovered in an Australian native seabird for the first time, sparking fears it could trigger a wildlife emergency. Testing detected the H5N1 strain in a greater crested tern discovered at Robe in South Australia. The case marked a major escalation in the crisis, Invasive Species Council policy director […]

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Barrington Brahmas owner Melissa shares the joys and challenges of raising free-range heritage chickens The kids also thrive when they’re out in the paddock with the chooks. Photo: Supplied.
Community

Barrington Brahmas owner Melissa shares the joys and challenges of raising free-range heritage chickens

The kids also thrive when they’re out in the paddock with the chooks. Photo: Supplied. Healthy chooks at Barrington Brahmas free-ranging in the sunshine. Photo: Supplied. FREE-ranging heritage chickens are more than a hobby for Barrington Brahmas owner Melissa Hunt, who says every bird has its own personality and an important role in the flock. […]

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UTS Students make a big difference in Paterson and Gresford Mayor Digby Raywood at the Paterson Hub and Harvest community gardens with UTS students.
Regional, School

UTS Students make a big difference in Paterson and Gresford

Kings Wharf Park UTS student plantings. UTS Big Lift 2026 students in Paterson with locals. Mayor Digby Raywood at the Paterson Hub and Harvest community gardens with UTS students. MORE than 80 student volunteers from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) rolled up their sleeves over the weekend as part of The Big Lift, delivering […]

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Mobile Service NSW Centres hit the road The new fleet of Service NSW vehicles offers “branch in a box” technology. Photo: Supplied by Service NSW.
Government, Regional

Mobile Service NSW Centres hit the road

REGIONAL and remote communities across NSW are set to benefit from a major boost in access to government services, with new Service NSW Mobile Service Centres hitting the road this month. Four tough new four-wheel-drive single-cab utes will replace the existing Mobile Service Centres, which have reached their end of life after covering more than […]

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Penfold seeks community feedback on gambling advertising
Dungog Shire

Penfold seeks community feedback on gambling advertising

FEDERAL Member for Lyne Alison Penfold is calling on local Lyne residents to have their say on proposed gambling advertising reforms with legislation now before the Federal Parliament. “Many Australians enjoy a punt on the races, a bet on the footy or a flutter with friends. For most people, gambling is a form of entertainment […]

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Dungog Shire Council opens Community Small Grants Program applications
Dungog Shire

Dungog Shire Council opens Community Small Grants Program applications

COMMUNITY groups, sporting clubs and local organisations are being encouraged to apply for funding through Dungog Shire Council’s Community Small Grants Program. The program offers grants of up to $2,500 to support projects, events and initiatives that strengthen the local community. Deputy Mayor Liam Ley said the funding was available to help community organisations turn […]

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NSW Government introduces legislation for drivers using prescribed medicinal cannabis
Dungog Shire

NSW Government introduces legislation for drivers using prescribed medicinal cannabis

THE NSW Government has introduced legislation aimed at creating a fairer approach for drivers who legally use prescribed medicinal cannabis while maintaining strong road safety protections. The proposed Road Transport Amendment (Medical Cannabis and Driving Offences) Bill 2026 would allow eligible medicinal cannabis patients to avoid automatic penalties for the presence of THC in their […]

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WIRES is urging Australians to care for Country during NAIDOC Week People are encouraged to care for Country. Photo: @WIRES.wildlife.rescue.
Local News

WIRES is urging Australians to care for Country during NAIDOC Week

People are encouraged to care for Country. Photo: @WIRES.wildlife.rescue. Every animal rescue reflects broader environmental challenges. Photo: @WIRES.wildlife.rescue.. WIRES volunteers care for injured and orphaned wildlife. Photo: @WIRES.wildlife.rescue. WIRES is using NAIDOC Week to encourage people to care for Country, highlighting the link between healthy environments and the survival of Australia’s native wildlife.  The wildlife […]

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