Month: August 2025

Aug
31
2025
By Eve Chappell
Our Local History – Shearing

Our Local History – Shearing

Local News, , , , ,
Local shearing sheds are again echoing to the scuttling sound of hooves on boards, whirr of the electric gear and clank of presses – a far cry from the days of the sheds echoing to the click of the blades (hand shears) as the shearer took the full length of the blade for the cut and the ‘knockers’ met. The record for a day’s blade shearing is 321 merinos in seven hours 40 minutes by Jackie Howe at ‘Alice Downs’, Blackall in Queensland in 1892. However, in 1907 Deepwater local gun shearer John Edward Dean shore 274 sheep in a…
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Aug
30
2025
By Annette Bain
In Conversation with Sweetie Pie’s Nicole and Zaylie Hyde

In Conversation with Sweetie Pie’s Nicole and Zaylie Hyde

Local News, , ,
At the recent 2025 Glen Innes Business Awards, the prestigious Business of the Year Award was won by Sweetie Pie’s Bake Shop, which also won the Hospitality Award. Opened in 2021, this popular bakery is well-loved by locals and visitors for its renowned array of savoury and sweet treats. Sweetie Pie’s is owned and operated by Pastry Chef Nicole Hyde and her wife Zaylie Hyde who is the Business Manager. According to Nicole “Glen Innes weather is a pie maker’s dream. The weather is perfect. In summer it is very hot in the kitchen, but being from the Central Coast,…
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Aug
29
2025
By Marlene Lewis
New Disability Jobs Program Promises Local Boost in Glen Innes

New Disability Jobs Program Promises Local Boost in Glen Innes

Local News, , , , , , , , ,
From 1 November 2025, the Federal Government will launch a new employment assistance program called Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA), replacing the current Disability Employment Services (DES). In the New England region, including Glen Innes, the new program will be delivered by BEST Employment, VERTO Ltd, and APM Employment Services. APM already provides DES in Glen Innes and will continue under IEA. APM CEO Michael Anghie said, “Our deep understanding of the Glen Innes labour market — and our long-standing links with local businesses and community groups — means we’re well placed to match job seekers with the right opportunities.” AimBig,…
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Aug
29
2025
By David Lewis
New Report Stresses Importance of Local News Coverage

New Report Stresses Importance of Local News Coverage

Local News
A new report into regional news audiences has confirmed what communities like Glen Innes already know: local journalism isn’t just about headlines — it’s about connection, trust and community wellbeing. The Engaged Journalism in the Heartland report, led by researchers from the University of Canberra and RMIT University, surveyed almost 8,000 people nationwide and interviewed hundreds more across regional Australia. The findings provide a detailed picture of how country people consume their news, what’s missing from coverage, and why local outlets remain essential despite the pressures facing the industry. "local journalism isn’t just about headlines — it’s about connection, trust…
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Aug
28
2025
By Newsroom
Council Meeting Summary & Highlights – August 2025

Council Meeting Summary & Highlights – August 2025

Council, Local News, ,
Glen Innes Severn Council’s August meeting covered a wide range of issues, including renewable energy, community safety, financial pressures, and future use of public assets. While many decisions passed unanimously, several items sparked debate among councillors. Renewable Energy Submission Council resolved to lodge a submission to EnergyCo NSW calling for the inclusion of existing 132kV transmission infrastructure in the New England Renewable Energy Zone (REZ). The Mayor said this would give Glen Innes Severn greater certainty for renewable energy developers and could unlock local benefits such as jobs, supply chain opportunities and contributions to community schemes. Councillors spoke in support,…
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Aug
28
2025
By Marlene Lewis
Preview: Chapel Theatre’s ‘We Will Rock You’ Set to Bring the House Down

Preview: Chapel Theatre’s ‘We Will Rock You’ Set to Bring the House Down

Local News, ,
The Glen Innes Arts Council is gearing up for opening night this Friday, August 29, with a high-energy production of We Will Rock You. A full dress-rehearsal yesterday delivered polished vocals, a lively mix of acting and music, and a showcase of local talent. Directed by Jenny Sloman, the musical transports audiences into the future to “iPlanet”, a world stripped of individuality and, most importantly, music. Ruling this dystopia is the menacing Killer Queen (Naomi Bain) and her ruthless commander Khashoggi (Kat Sharman). Their empire faces resistance from the “Bohemians”, led by Buddy (Sean O’Hara), who believe a Dreamer will…
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Aug
28
2025
By Newsroom
Council and Glen Industries to Restore Landfill Corridor

Council and Glen Industries to Restore Landfill Corridor

Council, ,
Glen Innes Severn Council has partnered with Glen Industries to deliver the Glen Innes Landfill Revegetation Project during 2025–2026. The initiative is supported by the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, which has provided $20,000 to Council to help restore the site. The project aims to enhance biodiversity, reconnect wildlife corridors, improve ecological and visual amenity, and strengthen slope stability at the landfill. Mayor Margot Davis said, “We are pleased to be partnering once again with Glen Industries on this important project. Their local expertise and commitment to biodiversity make them an ideal partner as we…
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Aug
26
2025
By Newsroom
Monthly Councillor Catch-ups for Glen Innes

Monthly Councillor Catch-ups for Glen Innes

Council, Local News, , ,
Glen Innes Severn Council is introducing a new opportunity for residents to meet and speak directly with their elected representatives. The initiative, Conversations with Councillors, will be held on the third Thursday of each month from 4 pm to 6 pm at the Glen Innes Highlands Hub. The first session is scheduled for Thursday, 18 September. Council said the monthly event will provide a chance for residents to share ideas, ask questions and raise local issues in an open and respectful setting. “Come along and chat directly with Councillors, share your ideas and feedback, ask questions, and discuss local issues,”…
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Aug
25
2025
By Jim Wilson
Chips & Giggles – Social Golf Report 24th August 2025

Chips & Giggles – Social Golf Report 24th August 2025

Sports
Only six members of the Social Club took to the back nine on Sunday, with the course still very boggy in parts. The day’s winner was Col Fletcher, finishing with a nett score of 19.5. There were no runners-up on this occasion. Col also impressed on the greens, recording just 12 putts across the nine holes – helped along by a couple of chip-ins. Well done, Fletch! Nearest to the pin winners were: 11th hole (third shot) – Craig Hulls 17th hole – Mark Morris The Bradmans and T/Bird both went to Jack Kilner. Lucky draws were won by Mark…
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