HUNTER region councils can now apply for a share of $10 million to plant trees, shrubs, and native vegetation in parks, plazas, and other public spaces. The funding comes due to an expansion of the “Greening Our City” program beyond Greater Sydney for the first time. “The program is designed to increase tree planting, which […]
MidCoast Council adopts walking and cycling strategy
A NEW Walking, Cycling and Trails-based Activity Strategy was adopted at MidCoast Council’s 23 July meeting. “Walking is the most popular activity undertaken in our region and there is a high level of community interest in this strategy,” said Council’s Executive Manager of Public Spaces, Liam Bulley. “We thank everyone who has provided ideas and […]
Solar energy handbook for landowners released
A NEW handbook guiding landowners and solar developers to “harness the benefits of combining agriculture with solar energy” is now available. EnergyCo will launch the Agrivoltaics Handbook, a guide to preserving productive agricultural practices while meeting the state’s growing renewable energy needs. It was developed by Farm Renewables Consulting and Progressive Agriculture, with support from […]
Government supports all 13 recommendations from post-mine land use inquiry
THE State Government has welcomed the Standing Committee on State Development’s report into beneficial and productive post-mining land use, supporting all of its 13 recommendations. In a statement last week, the Government stated it is “committed to supporting coal-producing communities as the demand for coal declines over time”. The Future Jobs and Investment Authority, in […]
Cooplacurripa search warrant leads to multiple charges
A MAN was charged with alleged sexual assault, firearm and drug-related offences during a search warrant north west of Taree last Friday. Officers from Manning/Great Lakes Police District commenced investigations following a report a 44-year-old woman was allegedly sexually assaulted in Cooplacurripa. Following ongoing investigations, about 6.30am on Thursday 24 July local detectives – with […]
Feedback sought on farm connectivity program
THE Australian Government is seeking input from community and industry stakeholders on the “On Farm Connectivity Program” to ensure it is delivering the best possible outcomes for primary producers through the upcoming third round. Through over $30 million in rebates provided over the first two rounds, the government says thousands of primary producers have been […]
The NOTA needs you! News Of The Area is seeking quality writers to join the team
TELLING the incredible stories of Gloucester is what News Of The Area (NOTA) is all about. The independently-owned NOTA is proud to keep locals up to date with the happenings of the area. Now, NOTA is seeking more enthusiastic locals with a background in writing to join the team in Gloucester. “If you have a […]
Mayor: More funding required for flood recovery
MIDCOAST Council Mayor Claire Pontin has celebrated the announcement of Category D funding for primary producers impacted by recent floods, but said more funding is required for others in the community too. Cr Pontin wants to see increased funding extended to business owners, homeowners, renters and for public infrastructure. “The Category D funding for primary […]
Community Engagement Strategy adopted by MidCoast Council
MIDCOAST Council’s Community Engagement Strategy 2025-2029 was adopted at the June 2025 Council meeting. The Strategy guides how and when residents and ratepayers can have their say on council plans and decisions. “Our teams are consistently speaking with the community about a range of different projects,” said Paul De Szell, Director of Liveable Communities. “We […]
Inquiry launched into conservation hunting bill
AN Upper House inquiry has been established to examine the Game and Feral Animal Legislation Amendment (Conservation Hunting) Bill 2025, a private members’ bill introduced by Robert Borsak MLC of the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers party. The bill proposes a number of amendments to the Game and Feral Animal Control Act 2002, including to abolish […]