News
City Santa gives to Bush Kids
Taking Santa out of the city and into the bush has proved to be a real eye-opener for staff from Ray White Real Estate in the leafy Sydney suburb of Mosman. They chose to support kids in the bush this Christmas, recognising the reality of the drought...
Fire on the home front
On the afternoon of Thursday, November 7th a fire began on a property near the Single National Park and, with a ferocious westerly wind, quickly spread threatening properties including the home of the Rice family at ‘Wyoming’. The fire sp...
Messages of Hope arrive for farmers
The following messages are just some of those that arrived for the Guyra Branch of the CWA from the students at Birmingham Primary School, Mt Evelyn Victoria. To the brave, resilient person that’s reading this, please stay strong. I know that ...
‘ Into the Dreaming’ resources for MPS
Members of the local Aboriginal community along with staff were presented with the new Aboriginal Health Resource package called ‘Into the Dreaming’ on Tuesday November 26th.This resource has been developed to provide culturally sensitive...
New airport bore supports aerial firefighting
Rural Fire Service aerial activities in the area will be provided with water from a new bore established at Armidale Regional Airport, removing a potential need to source water from town water supplies. The bore came on line last week, as part of tes...
Sarah thanks community ahead of tour
As Sarah Rosten prepares to embark on a soccer tour of the United Kingdom and France in January, she would like to thank the community who have supported her fundraising efforts.Her final fundraising event held at Ben Lomond on November 23rd was a gr...
Christmas arrives in style
The Guyra Christmas party which was held on Friday night attracted a large crowd with an estimated attendance of around 1000 to kick off the festive season. Organised by the Rotary Club of Guyra and sponsored by Armidale Regional Council, it was a ch...
Graduation time for Preschool
Nineteen of the Guyra Preschool and Long Day Care Centre’s eldest students graduated in style on Friday, 29th November at a special ceremony held at the Guyra Bowling Club. The event showcased the children’s adventures through videos and ...
World’s best practice for proposed Guyra abattoir
Three years after a group of New England business people formed a company to formally advance their plans to establish a meat processing facility in the Armidale-Guyra region, the group has now self-funded the development of an advanced concept desig...
Bus service to make detour to Ben Lomond
BEN LOMOND locals will benefit from a new daily coach transport trial starting just in time for Christmas. The pre-existing Tenterfield to Armidale daily return coach service will now call into Ben Lomond, ensuring the community has access to public ...
30th Bowls Carnival underway
It is that time of the year again when the Guyra Bowling Club Showcases its Club and facilities with the running of the annual Bowls Carnival. Play commenced on Tuesday December 3rd with the Open Women’s Triples and the action will continue unt...
Naming honour for former civic leader
The Guyra Community Hall will be renamed the ‘Gilbert White Memorial Hall’ recognising the contribution of the town’s longest-serving Shire President, D.R. Gilbert White OAM. The move follows an approach to Armidale Regional Council...
Choir prepares for Carol services
The Combined Churches Choir are hard at work getting ready for two performances in the lead up to Christmas. The first performance will take place on Sunday, December 15th at St. Columba’s Presbyterian Church commencing at 7.30 pm. The second p...
Swim School underway
This week is an important week for students at Black Mountain Public School as they develop their swimming skills with Mrs Lorraine Brazier, Mrs Sue Reeves and Miss Bronte Stanley. Whilst Monday’s weather proved to be quite challenging, all stu...
Schools Spectacular comes to television
Saturday night is a big night for the tens of thousands of family and friends of the 5500 stars of this year’s Schools Spectacular as they watch their performance debut on national television. Guyra Central School student Savannah Roberts was a...
Test drilling brings positive signs
Initial drilling in the Guyra district has identified seven sites with strong potential to provide adequate quantity and quality of water to supplement the region’s water supply. The seven test bores - at the Guyra water treatment plant, n...
Quicker payments to assist business
Armidale Regional Council will pay local suppliers more quickly to help ease the financial strain being experienced by business during the current drought.Art last week’s Council meeting it was resolved to pay suppliers in the Armidale Regional...
Christmas party in the street
Christmas will come to Guyra on Friday, 6th December with a huge party being held in Bradley Street to welcome the festive season. Armidale Regional Council is sponsoring the event, which is being organised by the Guyra Rotary Club.Rotary President H...
Four words that boosted the bush
It is a social media phenomenon that is taking the bush by storm, and Guyra businesses are among those reaping the benefits of the #BuyFromTheBush campaign. Connecting businesses from regional areas with the city via Instagram and facebook pages, the...
Outstanding feat of survival
Black Adder pulled off an outstanding feat of survival on Thursday November 14th. Despite being held up by an evacuation order due to the threat of ember attack on Saturday 9th, he eventually had his day in court when the play ran in Ben Lomond five ...
Lions Youth of the Year
The Lions Club of Guyra hosted their club’s final of the Youth of the Year Quest at the Guyra Bowling and Recreation Club on Thursday evening November 21st.The quest is sponsored by the National Australia Bank at all levels of the Quest.Guyra C...
Have your say
Bushfire thank you Recently we were impacted by the Wandsworth/Llangothlin bushfires.It has been perfect conditions on the ground for these fires to be fast, persistent and frightening.Without the ready assistance of all kinds of people these fires ...
Share a coffee and your ideas at a Cafe catch-up
Now is the time for the Armidale region community to share their views and opinions on the future plans for our city, towns and villages to shape our vision for growth and prosperity and give certainty and direction for the next 20 years.Students, bu...
Santa ready to roll out gifts
In previous years, The Hub at Guyra has conducted a Reverse Advent Giving event where they supported community members by providing donated gifts to be chosen and given to others. Last year was the very successful Children’s Gift Selection even...
A gift of water for Guyra
The Guyra community was gifted 20,000 litres of water on the weekend thanks to Coles. In conjunction with Armidale Regional Council and Guyra CWA Evening Branch, they delivered a truckload of bottled water to the town as a gesture of goodwill.The del...
Australian theme for dance recital
Students from Australian Dance Enterprises (ADE) of New England delighted their parents, friends and the general public at their annual dance recital which was held on Sunday November 17th. The recital, which was held at Lazenby Hall in Armidale, fea...
Have your say
Fire on our doorstep. In view of the recent bush fires in our area with thousands of acres of land and property losses reported, now is the time to take action. I urge all landholders and interested persons to write to their local member Mr. A...
Santa’s special run this Christmas
Santa has a list and he is checking it twice to make sure that drought-affected families are at the top. Santa has a little extra help this year from Drought Aid - Feed A Farmer - Armidale, Guyra, Glen Innes & Nearby Towns, who are helping ...
Total Fire Ban declared
A Total Fire Ban has been declared for the New England, Northern Slopes, and North Western regions tomorrow, Wednesday 20 November 2019, due to forecast hot and windy conditions. The Total Fire Ban, commencing at midnight tonight, covers the followi...
A hug in the box for the bush
Jaclyn Bold runs a caravan and camping business in the Sutherland Shire in Sydney. It is a long way from Guyra, but family connections in the area made her all too aware of the struggles of life on the land during the current drought,Following an onl...
Amazing ladies of the CWA get to work
CWA members this week took delivery of six pallets of donated items, which will be packed in to hampers and distributed to farming families affected by the drought and recent bush fires.The donations come from the Drought Aid - Feed a Farmer drive or...
Variety Postie Bike Dash stops at Bald Blair
On Thursday, November 7th, Bald Blair Public School hosted over 80 people as part of the Variety Postie Bike Dash annual fundraising event. Variety is a children’s charity that aims to provide practical equipment and experiences to children who...
Kolora residents evacuated to Inverell
Thirty residents, 12 staff and Tigger the cat, have been temporarily evacuated from the McLean Care Kolora Residential facility in Guyra to the Killean Residential Care in Inverell. General Manager Residential Services Sarah ...
Be prepared to leave
Guyra is blanketed in smoke this morning and residents are being urged to plan ahead. The fire burning near Wandsworth has been elevated to a Watch and Act level. It has currently burnt out 5712 hectares and is out of control. The Whans Rd fire r...
Council bushfire measures
A Guyra Information Hub has been established at the Guyra showgrounds hall to assist residents during the bushfire emergency. Acting on fires in the district and the possibility of extreme fire conditions throughout the region, the NSW Rural Fire Se...
7000 hectares burnt out in Wandsworth & Llangothlin fires
UPDATE: Fire danger for tomorrow is now extreme. Ben Lomond, Black Mountain. Guyra Central. Ebor and Bald Blair schools are on the list of closures for tomorrow. Almost 7000 hectares have been burnt out in fires to the North West of Guyra. A fi...
Paying tribute on Remembrance Day
A short ceremony was held outside Guyra’s RSL Hall on Monday for Remembrance Day, honouring Australians who died in conflict since World War I. While the numbers attending the ceremony was small, the main aim of the service was to acknowledge t...
Wandsworth fire spreading towards Ben Lomond
Strong winds are fanning a fire burning in the Wandsworth area. This afternoon the RFS has issued an emergency warning for the fire which is burning in an easterly direction with spot fires starting ahead of the main fire front. It is now burning tow...
Red ribbon day for Gun Club
VISITING shooters will now have a room with a view when they compete at Guyra following the redevelopment of the Guyra Gun Club’s camping facilities and amenities. Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall has officially opened the new facilities wh...
Costa expansion on hold due to big dry
Concern over water security issues has led to a decision by the Costa Group to pause the 10ha glasshouse expansion at Guyra. The company is also facing challenges in other areas of production due to the prolonged dry and hot conditions.In a trading u...
Black sheep is back with new owner
A new owner has stepped in to ensure that Black Sheep Wool’n’Wares will remain open.Bettina Donohue from Armidale is the new owner, taking over from Margaret Swerdlow who has run the business for the past nine years.Originally from Sydney...
Facelift for GALA Centre
GUYRA locals wanting to improve their computing skills or brush up on their numeracy and literacy will soon have an updated, modern classroom to learn in thanks to a $71,875 State Government grant to refurbish the Gala Centre. The grant will allow th...
Tour de Rocks - on the road again
Members of the Guyra Cycling Community and other bike enthusiasts are again committed to assisting and caring for our community by raising awareness about health and fitness and finding a cure for cancer. Bike riders from all over the New England, th...
Talented students to perform at CAPERS
CAPERS takes exceptional talent from public schools across the north of NSW and gives these students an opportunity to perform at a major event. Along with these performers are those from kindergarten to year 12 who simply love to sing, dance and pla...
Old school friends catch up at reunion
Old friendships were renewed when former Guyra Central students held a class reunion on October 26th. The reunion brought together 18 former pupils who commenced their schooling in 1973, completed Year 6 in 1979 and/or finished Year 10 in 1983. Some ...
2019 NSW All School Touch
Guyra Central School participated in the Boys and Girls Year 7/8 NSW All School Touch Carnival at Inverell on Tuesday 22nd October.The girls team participated so well winning their first game against Moree 4-0. In their second game they came up again...
Ready to step into the spotlight
With her HSC behind her, Guyra Central School student Savannah Roberts this week joined other performers in a massed dance rehearsal for the 2019 Schools Spectacular.Schools Spectacular has been hailed as the largest amateur variety act in the world ...
Students inspired by the gift of service
The humility and reward of service for those less fortunate was a profound experience for Guyra district students Samuel Atkin, Tom Gellie and Toby Inglis who volunteered their time to work at Christopher’s Orphanage in Fiji during the school h...
New card system for water filling stations
A new verification and payment process is proposed for two water filling stations established to help rural households during the drought. The altered system is designed to ensure the facilities are used responsibly and by the people they are intende...
Q Fever vaccination program to run again
Guyra branch of NSW Farmers and the Guyra Medical Centre are joining forces for the second time to run a Q Fever vaccination program. The disease is a significant cause of illness and indeed death in the broader community however people working with ...
Regional development visionaries sought
Armidale region residents with strong business knowledge and a broad vision for economic expansion are invited to nominate to be part of an expanded regional development peak advisory group.The advisory committee’s Chair, Councillor Andrew Mura...
Regional development visionaries sought
Armidale region residents with strong business knowledge and a broad vision for economic expansion are invited to nominate to be part of an expanded regional development peak advisory group.The advisory committee’s Chair, Councillor Andrew Mura...
Classifieds
MEMORIAL SERVICE A Memorial Service for Dudley Bullwill be held at theColumbarium Wall of Remembranceat Guyra Cemetery onMonday, 4th November 2019 at 11amBULL; DUDLEY JAMES RETURN THANKS RICHARD (KEITH) TIBBS14.5.1931 - 17.9.2019On behalf of Pat T...
Community Noticeboard
Meals on Wheels Oct. 31st Lyn & Richard Skinner Nov. 1st Lyn & Richard SkinnerNov. 4th Kath VarleyNov. 5th Don & Betty MayledNov. 6th Wendy Lockyer Street Stalls November 1st Masonic LodgeNov. 7th, 8th & 9th RotaryNov. 14...
Sharing the Dignity this Christmas
As you prepare to celebrate the holiday season this year with loved ones, charity organisation Share the Dignity is asking the community to spare a thought for women and teenage girls experiencing homelessness, sleeping rough, or seeking refuge in do...
Year 6 camp a learning experience
On Thursday 17th & Friday 18th October, Year 6 students from St Mary of the Angels attended the Frog Dreaming Environmental Research Camp held by New England Landcare. The students enjoyed learning about how to help locate and care for Koalas in ...
Bushfire appeal boosted by councillors
A community campaign to assist drought and bushfire affected residents in the east of the Armidale region has been given a substantial boost by three councillors who have redirected a portion of their allowances as elected members.Armidale Regional C...
Fun and fashions at Ben Lomond
For those that made the trip to Ben Lomond on Sunday for the fashion parade, it was a relaxed fun afternoon. Organiser June Walker said that she was very pleased with crowd of around 70 people and everybody had a great time. The event raised close to...
Painting brings back fond memories
Spring is in the air at McLean Care Kolora and residents are participating in art activities which will bring colour and life to the facility. They were invited to put the finishing touches on a series of canvases which will join together to form a m...
Leadership positions at TAS
TWO students from the Guyra district have been appointed to key leadership positions at The Armidale School for the coming year. Frederick Nutt of Llangothlin has been elected as a school prefect while Megan Schmitt of Wandsworth is girls’ capt...
Diabetes experts visit Guyra
New England has one of the highest rates of diabetes in the country, and patients have little access to specialists. Diabetes experts from Newcastle visited the region last week as part of its Diabetes Alliance program.Guyra residents were able to pa...
Expo a one-stop shop for water saving ideas
A National Water Week expo in Armidale Mall this weekend will offer residents a one-stop shop to save, reuse and generally make best use of water in and around their homes.Businesses and community groups will join Council for the Water Week celebrati...
Backwater comes under fire
A bush fire near Backwater which burnt more than 1030 hectares on the weekend is now under control. It is the latest in a series of fires that have threatened homes in country to the east of Guyra.The fire started on the western side of Turnhams Road...
Rail trail business case on track
Following the success of the recent local community crowd funding campaign, the detailed Business Case for the proposed New England Rail Trail has been written and drafted by Regional Development Australia Northern Inland (RDANI). The document is now...
Smart water strategies key to business resilience
Armidale Regional Council is working with high water use businesses and the broader business community to develop stronger water saving measures during drought to ensure our region remains resilient and open for business.Like a number of towns and ci...
Charity in action
The Freemasons and Lions have combined to provide much-needed equipment for residents at Guyra’s Aged Care Facility. Last week they handed over a cheque for $4750 for an adjustable podiatrist chair which will allow easier treatment for resident...
OBITUARY Gilbert White 1925 ~2019
The longest serving President of Guyra Shire Council, Donald Richard Gilbert White, passed away on October 7th, 2019 aged 93. Mr White was a councillor for 27 years and served as Shire President for 25 of those years.Better known as Gilbert, he was b...
Visit looks at heritage rail proposal
Shadow Minister for Regional Transport, David Harris MP, spent time in the region last week meeting with advocates of Heritage rail.Mr Harris was invited by Councillor Debra O’Brien to meet with advocate groups, including New England Train Acti...
Drought breaking Show planned for 2020
Following on from a very successful 2019 Guyra Show, planning is now well underway for the 2020 Guyra Show which will take place on February 21st and 22nd. Some sections may not go ahead this year due to the reality of the drought, but the 112th Guyr...
Home grown radio program
Armidale Community Radio (2ARM) FM 92.1 is a not for profit organisation, broadcasting throughout Armidale, Uralla, Guyra, Walcha, Hillgrove and surrounding areas. There are currently around 20 volunteers who present a range of programming with ...
Drilling underway in quest for water
Contractors have completed inspections at a number of test bore sites and have begun exploration drilling to find ground water sources to supplement the Armidale region’s dwindling town water supplies.Hydrogeology consultant Hydroilex shortlist...
Afternoon of fashion, food and fun at Ben Lomond Hall
Ben Lomond Hall Committee is having a Fashion Parade this Sunday October 20th at the Hall in Ben Lomond. The parade starts at 1.30 pm and the cost is $10.Fashion is being supplied by Home Living in Glen Innes. Well-known brands like Black Pepper and ...
Proposed changes to Armidale radio frequencies
Listeners to Armidale based radio station 2AD could soon be enjoying clearer and better quality audio under a proposed move from the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). The proposal will see the station moved from its current AM rad...
TroutFest a winner in tough times
The Guyra Trout Festival is renowned for bringing rain and while a short shower dispersed crowds towards the end of the market day, organisers were blessed with good weather and good crowds. Festival coordinator Lynne Chapman said that the only disap...
CWA helping out in the drought
Country Women’s Association (CWA) branches in Guyra and Kellys Plains-Dangarsleigh have 90 food hampers to distribute to drought-affected households. The food hampers were provided by Foodbank NSW and ACT, part of Australia’s largest...
Water dispensing station at Mother of Ducks now open
With the Malpas Dam pipeline now fully operational there is some good news for rural residents who are on a waiting list for water deliveries. An automated water station at the Mother of Ducks Lagoon is now operational, enabling residents not connect...
Pipeline becomes lifeline
The Malpas Dam to Guyra pipeline has become Guyra’s lifeline and is now the sole source of water for the town. Water in the Guyra dam is now being preserved for emergencies and sits at just 21 days of supply.The $13 million pipeline was officia...
Test drilling for bores underway
Test drilling has begun this week to find ground water sources to supplement the Armidale region’s town water supplies, as the region remains in Level 5 water restrictions.The exploratory drilling will begin in and around Guyra, where a hydroge...
Wash away the drought blues
As the drought continues to bite hard and domestic water for rural residents dries up, a second temporary laundry has popped up in Guyra. Last week the VRA opened their shed up for those who have been struggling to get their washing done as their ta...
TroutFest Fishing Clinic
Twenty-four excited kids were the first to get their feet wet at this year's Guyra TroutFest. They travelled from as far afield as Coffs Harbour, Walcha, Armidale and the local area to take part in the Kid's Fishing Workshop. The clinic is run b...
Schools out for Year 12
Guyra Central School farewelled the Class of 2019 last week bringing to a close 13 years of schooling for the students who began their education in 2007. Students, staff and family celebrated their schooling successes last Friday beginning with a tra...
Fishy weekend coming up
TroutFest, Guyra’s celebration of fishing, is on this weekend and although some activities have been curtailed due to the ongoing dry conditions, there is still plenty of ‘fishy’ things to do and see. In the lead up to the weekend, ...
Gold medal for Deano’s trout
Deano’s Springwater Trout at Black Mountain has won a gold medal at the Sydney Royal Fine Food Show, run by the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW. The locally grown and produced fish was entered in the aquaculture category for smoked trout/smok...
Think pink this October
Two ladies from Ben Lomond have a vision of one day seeing Guyra turn pink. While that may not happen this year, they are throwing themselves behind the McGrath Foundation’s ‘Pink Up Your Town’ campaign during October.Belinda Parkin...
Stock missing from Guyra property
The New England Rural Crime Prevention Team at Inverell are currently investigating 120 missing 2-5 Merino ewes heavy in lamb from the property Rhyanna on Naylor’s Road at Guyra.The missing sheep were part of a mob of 1600 and the loss has take...
Bradley St expected to reopen on Thursday
Guyra’s main street is set to fully reopen to traffic on Thursday October 3rd, after initial road resealing between Nincoola Street and Ollera Street is completed. The roadworks team encountered some existing groundwater, and the road required ...
Immediate drought assistance available in the New England
Communities across the New England will have increased access to drought assistance, with the Coalition Government rolling out a further $100 million in financial aid to farmers and rural communities. A key component of the funding is an additional $...
Rebates for residential water saving products start October 1st
Residents will be able to get financial assistance to buy a rainwater tank and water-efficient washing machine, toilets and showerheads, under an expanded rebates program starting on October 1st. The expanded program is being introduced by Armidal...
Pool opening despite the drought
Community wellbeing has driven a decision to open Armidale region aquatic centres this summer, during a period of intensified water restrictions for the drought-affected community. Guyra Swimming Pool will open from Monday September 30th and Monckton...
Ever seen or heard an oddgeridoo?
Guyra TroutFest is just a couple of weeks away and have some great plans in place for this year’s event. One of the highlights will be a night of free entertainment starring Rob Day playing some of the most unique and unusual ‘one of a ki...
Savannah set to shine at Schools Spectacular
The Schools Spectacular has been hailed as the largest amateur variety act in the world, and Guyra Central School year 12 student Savannah Roberts is being heralded as one of this year’s biggest stars. Savannah was named among the 2019 arr...
1969 - A victory to remember
On September 28th it will be 50 years since the Guyra Rugby League team won the 1969 Group 5 grand-final against Warialda. It is a victory that remains in the minds of those who witnessed it as one of Guyra’s greatest sporting moments.It was th...
Laundry popping up for rural residents
Help will soon be at hand for rural residents who are struggling to perform basic household chores due to the lack of water. While water restrictions for residents within the town boundaries mean they have to cut back on water use, for rural resident...
Roadworks in full swing
The reconstruction of the Guyra main street has now begun, and is already causing a few headaches for local businesses who are feeling a sharp decline in trade.Road crews moved in on Monday morning and began ripping up the road pavement in preparatio...
End of an era for favourite store
One of Guyra’s favourite stores is closing its doors after 15 years of trading.The owner of Blacksheep wool’n’wares Margaret Swerdlow said that she is sad to see the business close, but it is time to retire and spend more time with ...
Riding for Camp Quality
Two charity bike rides passed through Guyra last Tuesday September 10th, both raising money to support kids with cancer. The Ride for Sick Kids had a brief stopover in Guyra en route from Inverell to Armidale on the first day of a five-day ride raisi...
Polocrosse digs deep for Sammy
Despite the dry conditions and the Guyra Polocrosse Club not being able to host a polocrosse carnival this year, members of the club did not let this affect their fundraising efforts for 2019. Instead they have thrown their support behind a local fam...
Membership drive for ratepayers association
It’s time for the rate payers, residents and community groups within Armidale Regional Council to stand and unite to form a strong and viable voice to assist elected councillors in their policy making at council level.The Guyra/Armidale Regiona...
Open day and sale at Peterson Kelpies
Peterson Kelpies of Glencoe will hold their first open day and working dog sale on Saturday September 21st. Stud principal Peter Hogan said that this is a chance to demonstrate and sell the working dogs that he is breeding locally and give the farmer...
Murray re-elected as Mayor
Councillor Simon Murray has been re-elected as Mayor of Armidale Regional Council for the next 12 months, with Cr Libby Martin chosen as his new deputy.Cr Murray was elected in a ballot which was also contested by Cr Ian Tiley.“I’m ...
Emergency hay for fire affected farmers
The provision of stock fodder and water to landholders devastated by the Bees Nest fire near Ebor will continue this week. More than 700 large bales of hay have already been distributed following the devastating fire had burnt out more than 92,000 he...
Deer Information Evening to explain changes
Major legislation changes by the NSW Government to remove the semi-protected status of deer will be the topic of discussion at GLENRAC’s Deer Information Evening later this month.Under changes to the Game and Federal Animal Control Act 2002, la...
Roadworks underway in Bradley St
The reconstruction of the Guyra main street has now begun, so if you are planning a shopping trip you may want to plan ahead. Parking in the main street is limited, so you may want to consider parking in side streets, the NAB car park or behind ...
Fire chief signs off for last time
Guyra’s Fire and Rescue NSW Station 315 is looking for a new Captain following the retirement of Graham Williamson. Graham, who joined the team in 1974, has notched up 45 years of service with the Guyra brigade 38 years of which were as Captain...
Catching up over Scones
Guyra CWA members marked the organisation's Awareness Week with a gathering at ‘Juniels' to help raise awareness of mental health issues in the bush. Members of both the day and evening branches joined forces to shine a spotlight on the issue a...
One-stop shop rolling in to town next week
Drought community outreach activities are coming to Guyra and will provide a one-stop-shop information service to the local community. The event is open to everyone and is designed to help people access federal and state government funding assistance...
Superhero Day at Bald Blair
On Friday, September 6th staff and students at Bald Blair Public School were encouraged to dress up in their favourite superhero character to raise awareness and funds for Muscular Dystrophy Australia’s programs, services and research.National ...
Grandstand gets go ahead
The Guyra Junior Rugby League Club is on a high after receiving news that they are one of two successful applicants from the Northern Tablelands electorate to get the go-ahead under the My Community Project initiative.They will receive $120,000 in fu...
Start date for CBD upgrade
Preliminary works for the Guyra CBD upgrade will commence on Wednesday, September 11th in preparation for major road pavement works which are scheduled to commence on Monday, September 16th. These works will see the upgrade to the road pavement and m...
Total fire ban declared
A Total Fire Ban has been declared for the New England, Northern Slopes, and North Western regions today, Thursday 5 September 2019, due to forecast hot and windy conditions. The Total Fire Ban, which commenced at midnight, covers the following ...
Father's Day breakfast at St Mary's
Last Wednesday, St Mary of the Angels held their annual Father’s Day Breakfast. It is so lovely to see Father’s, Carer’s and Grandfather’s enjoying a bacon and egg roll with their children and catching up on all the news aroun...
New store a welcome addition
In Theresa Varley’s native Filipino language ‘Mabuhay’ means welcome and she is preparing to do just that with the launch of a new Asian grocery store in Guyra. The idea comes from her own difficulties in sourcing ingredients as a h...
LLS here to help
With the unprecedented drought taking its toll across our region, it is more important than ever that we look to our friends, family and outside services for support. The expertise of the Northern Tablelands Local Land Services team is readily access...
Centenary Celebrations for Bald Blair in 2020
Bald Blair Public School will be celebrating their 100 year anniversary on Saturday 31st October, 2020. Friends and family members, past and present are invited to come along and celebrate this milestone. The school and the P&C would like to invi...
NAIDOC Experience
On Wednesday, 28th August all staff and students from Black Mountain Public School travelled to Wattle Ridge for NAIDOC Week Celebrations. It was the most incredible day, experiencing culture, country and history. Students walked the Knucklebone trac...
Council pursues SRV and harmonisation of rates
At last week’s ordinary council meeting, Armidale Regional Councillors voted to pursue an application for a Special Rate Variation (SRV) and to advise the Office of Local Government that Council wishes to opt-out of the rate path freeze.A tempo...
Planting the seeds for bushfire cooperation
Bushfire fighting services in the region enlisted some valuable back-up this month, when they provided bushfire awareness training to Armidale Regional Council’s heavy vehicle operators. Every plant operator in Council’s roads department ...
Positive results to groundwater study of Guyra area
Preliminary investigations into possible ground water supplies for the Armidale region have identified a number of Guyra sites that are recommended for further examination. A desktop study of the region’s subsurface rock formations and records ...
Start a ‘Sconversation’ on mental health
The Country Women’s Association (CWA) of NSW will mark its annual Awareness Week from September 1st to September 8th and is asking the local community to “Start a Sconversation’ to help raise awareness of mental health issues in the...
Goodwill breakfast and gifts
Sausages sizzled, eggs fried, fruit was sliced and the toaster popped as students at Ben Lomond Public School arrived at school on Friday August 23rd. Students enjoyed a breakfast feast, supported by the Glen Innes Seventh-day Adventist Church, Glen ...
Leadership Induction Ceremony
Guyra Central School held a special Leadership Induction ceremony as part of their Education Week assembly. Congratulations to the following students who have been elected onto the Student Representative Council for 2019-2020Year...
Guyra Gift winners
The ‘Guyra Gift’, an initiative created in 1996 by students in Year 11’s Sport and Recreation class has become a traditional event during Guyra Central Schools Education Week Celebrations. The ‘Guyra Gift’ is a hand...
Every Student, Every Voice
Education Week is an annual event, held during the first week of August, to celebrate NSW public education. The theme for 2019 is Every Student, Every voice. This year’s Education Week Special Award recipients for Guyra Central School were Mrs ...
Restricted access at Kolora due to gastro outbreak
The Kolora aged care facility in Guyra was placed under restricted access on Tuesday due to a suspected gastroenteritis outbreak. In a statement, McLean Care said that it is asking that members of the community refrain from visiting and accessing the...
Inspiring ideas shine
The Northern Tablelands Local Land Services Schools Property Planning Competition gives high school agriculture students first-hand experience in investigating the real-life challenges faced by local farmers. The Competition recognises students for t...
‘Wyldlife’ Camp for Guyra Youth
The Young Life Club in Guyra has been meeting in the Anglican Church hall, weekly, on Monday evenings, for most of this year. Young Life is a mission community of Christ-centred people committed to reaching adolescent youth with the gospel of Je...
September start for main street
Two long-awaited Guyra projects are set to get underway in the coming months. Work on the main street upgrade and the Mother of Ducks Lagoon will begin in September/October depending on the weather and the finalisation of plans. Eleven local resident...
Athletics talents on show
On Friday 2nd August, students at St Mary of the Angels participated in their annual School Athletics Carnival. Students had been busily preparing for these events and were very eager to get started. The day kicked off with the 100m age races with st...
Malpas pipeline in testing phase
Construction work on the Malpas Dam to Guyra pipeline is almost complete, with testing now being conducted. Early tests have uncovered a few teething problems which Armidale Regional Council Mayor Simon Murray said was to be expected.“There is ...
Country Cup Champions
Guyra Central School’s under-13 rugby league team are the Small Schools Country Cup champions. The Guyra team faced Junee High School in the final at Bathurst’s Carrington Park last Wednesday and outplayed their opponents 40-10 to claim t...
Drover’s Run raises $250,000 for Rescue Helicopter
THE 2019 Drover’s Run is done and dusted, raising $250,000 for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, making sure no one ever pays to be assisted. It was the biggest-ever trek for the annual fundraiser covering more than 4000 kilometres through...
Avalanche of snow chasers
Guyra has shivered through its coldest weekend of the year but provided a warm welcome for tourists who flocked to the town hoping to see snow. The growing popularity of weather watchers on social media has led to an increasing trend that sees visito...
Community supporting community through Community Partnership Program
Community and sporting groups from Guyra have shared in $28,860.03 which was handed out by the Regional Australia Bank (RAB) last week. The funds come from the Community Partnership Program (CPP) which allows customers to support local organisations,...
Fires claims life in Guyra
An investigation is underway after a body was found inside a house destroyed by fire in GUYRA yesterday. Emergency services were called to the home on Falconer Street, Guyra, about 4pm yesterday (Friday 9 August 2019), and found the house well aligh...
Well deserved recognition
Last Sunday morning members of the Lamb and Potato Festival met to induct new Festival Patrons for 2020 and beyond. It was also a chance to recognise the commitment of our existing patron Gladys Wilson.The committee was deeply saddened by the death o...
OPINION: Water a hot topic for ratepayers
A meeting was held in Guyra last Sunday evening of concerned community members committed to assisting ARC in resolving and planning for the future in relation to the current water crises of both Armidale and Guyra. With this in mind we decided to ask...
Guyra well represented at NSW Farmers Conference
Guyra branch of the NSW Farmers was well represented at the recent State Conference in Sydney by branch chair Callan Schaefer, Mike Mulligan and Jenni Jackson. Many issues were discussed and voted on. Guyra’s motion re sharing the costs of NLIS...
Frockers flock to Ben Lomond
Memories were dusted off and brought out of the closet and into the open last week at Ben Lomond for a presentation by the award-winning Frock Club. Frock Club is a community engagement program based in Alstonville which is travelling to drought-affe...
Guyra Unites for Major Fundraiser
On Saturday the 3rd August the Guyra United Soccer Club held a major fundraiser ‘Old Boys Day’ in support of Darryl and Carol Dowden. The day was a huge success smashing the set goal of $10,000 with the final amount being raised a massive...
Crowdfunding campaign launched for rail trail business plan
A crowdfunding campaign to develop a business plan for a rail trail on the disused section of the Great Northern Railway line between Armidale and Glen Innes was launched on Tuesday by New England Rail Trail Incorporated and supported by...
Supporting our farmers
Guyra GP Dr Jey and wife Indrani passed a milestone in June, celebrating 10 years at the helm of the Guyra Medical Centre. They are serving not only the Guyra community but increasingly find more patients travelling from Inverell and Glen Innes.Indra...
The key to unlocking grazing systems management
Learning how to assess pastures, as well as understanding their quality and quantity, is key to managing profitable and sustainable grazing systems. Northern Tablelands Local Land Services is delivering the renowned Prograze course which provides pro...
Fight to upgrade Malpas Dam goes to Canberra
MEMBER for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall has taken the fight to improve the region’s water security to the nation’s capital, raising the need for the Commonwealth Government to help upgrade and double the capacity of Malpas Dam near A...
Symposium sparks cooperative path
A sold-out business symposium has been told cooperation creates wealth and will be essential for major economic expansion in the Armidale region. Approximately 80 business operators and other invited guests attended the Business Symposium Breakfast, ...
‘Old Boys Day’ Fundraiser
This weekend Guyra United Soccer Club will hold their major fundraiser “Old Boys Day’. Darryl and Carol Dowden have been a big part of the Soccer family for a long time now and the Caspers would like to repay them in their time of need. P...
Meet our latest medical recruits
The career path of two young women with diverse backgrounds has brought them together at the Guyra Medical Centre where they will be working as GP Registrars, training under local GP Dr Jeyakumar. They both say that the reputation of the Guyra Medica...
Exploring wellness in our community
A group of 37 members of the Guyra community answered the invitation to explore what ‘wellness’ means to them. They gathered at the Guyra Bowling and Recreation Club on Thursday July 23rd, using approaches based in conversation and partic...
Byron Bay artist helps out the bush
Zimmi Forest is a fibre artist from Byron Bay who has a passion for sustainability and the environment and she is using this passion to help out in the bush. Zimmi has offered her time and skills to run a workshop at ‘My Rural Retreat’ as...
Bush fire danger period starts
The NSW Rural Fire Service is advising landowners of the start of the Bush Fire Danger Period on August 1st in the Armidale Region.This year being the worst drought on record and with critical water shortages like we have never experienced before in ...
Rehydrating the soil pays dividends
Southern New Englanders will soon have an opportunity to see first-hand how to balance higher production with good environmental outcomes on one of the highest altitude properties in the Malpas Catchment on July 31st. Since finalising their property...
Outback adventure just days away
The fundraising is over and now Tony Looker and Liz Looker are preparing to head to Broken Hill where they will begin the 2019 Drover’s Run Outback Adventure, raising money for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter. The couple held their final fundrais...
Preschool sets example with water savings
The drought might be impacting on crop planting throughout the State but Guyra Preschool and Long Day Care Centre is proving it’s never too early to sow the seeds of knowledge.The centre’s educators have been running a number of activitie...
A & J Vietnamese opening
A desire to escape the rat race of the city and provide a better life for their family brought Thi Dinh and wife Vy Pham to Guyra. Originally from Vietnam, they spent 10 years in Sydney before making the decision to escape to the country. After six m...
Head on down to BottomPub for a fun night out for juniors
Guyra Junior Rugby League are holding a family fun night this weekend. This will be the club’s major fundraising event for the year with lots of prizes up for grabs. The rugby league community is renowned for putting on a great event and they a...
Community forums for library strategy
A series of community forums began last week to look at how the Armidale region’s libraries can be enhanced as learning and social hubs for the 21st Century.Council is holding the public workshops to help develop a 21st Century Libraries Strate...
Frock up at Ben Lomond
If you have a passion for fashion, then the award-winning Frock Club fashion presentation coming to Ben Lomond will be an absolute must - and it’s all free of charge!Frock Club is an award-winning community engagement program of Crawford House ...
Troutfest planning underway
TroutFest will be back again in 2019 with a few changes to the popular event which is now in its third year. This year’s event will be held over three days from October 4th to 6th. Last year TroutFest brought over a thousand people to Guyra jus...
GET BEHIND Guyra’s COMMUNITY projects
Three community groups in Guyra are in the running for a share of $24.4m in funding which is being made available through the My Community Project grants programMore than 1800 community groups and individuals across NSW completed applications for the...
Media spotlight on our town
The national media spotlight fell on Guyra on Tuesday morning with the ABC News Breakfast doing a live telecast from a chilly Bradley Street. The drought has been the focus of media attention with Guyra described on the program as ‘Ground Zero&...
Talking dry times in the garden
The Guyra Bowling Club was packed on Monday for their annual luncheon with around 100 people gathering to hear an inspirational talk by Simon Rickard. The garden club has more than 100 members who come from a wide area to share the love of gardening....
Oval named in Ted’s honour
If you were writing the history of cricket in Guyra, one name would stand out from the rest. In recognition of a lifetime’s commitment to the sport, the main cricket oval now bears the name of Ted Mulligan who has been a player, an administrato...
New venture for team Crop
Crop Hair Design is the newest business to open in Guyra, with Cathy Mills and Hannah Williams branching out together for this new venture. Cathy and Hannah previously worked together at Hairy Tales Comb True and were keen to continue working togethe...
Sarah leads the way
Sarah Williams travelled to Sydney on July 5th where she graduated from the 2018/19 Athlete Leadership Ceremony with Special Olympics New South Wales. Sarah, along with Courtney Wilson from Glen Innes and Josh Smith from Armidale, represented the Nor...
Dancers shine at Eisteddfods
Guyra students from Australian Dance Enterprises recently entered into both the Armidale and Inverell eisteddfods. They competed with students all over NSW and Qld, achieving fantastic results.Eight Guyra students competed in 12 years and under ...
Tingha exits to Inverell
THE Tingha community has officially bid farewell to Armidale Regional Council and said hello to Inverell Shire with a long-negotiated local government boundary adjustment coming into effect on Monday. The 800 square kilometre boundary change agreed t...
Deputy Premier visits Malpas Dam
THE push to increase the height of the wall of Malpas Dam is gaining traction with Deputy Premier John Barilaro inspecting the dwindling supply dam and construction progress on the water pipeline to Guyra last week.Mr Barilaro visited the dam with Me...
Councillors divided on Guyra meetings
Armidale Regional Council will continue to alternate meetings between Armidale and Guyra, despite a desire by a number of councillors to abandon Guyra as a meeting venue. At their last meeting which was held in Armidale on June 26th, Cr Jon Galletly ...
Going strong for 100 years
Centenary celebrations for St Mary of the Angels Primary School attracted many former students back to Guyra and the school where they spent their formative years. A small organising committee had put many hours into the event which saw hundreds of p...
Aged Care Needs Up For Discussion
Aged care needs up for discussion The aged care needs of the Guyra community was the subject of a forum held last week by McLean Care. Residents of the Kolora Aged Care facility, their families, and members of the wider community were brought togethe...
Reunion planned for class of 1983
A reunion is planned for the class of ‘83 on the 26th October 2019 from 6pm at the Guyra Bowling Club. We are looking for anyone who was part of our class throughout the years (started school in 1973, year 6 1979, year 10 1983). Please contact...
Untreated water for tomato farm
At last week’s meeting of Armidale Regional Council (ARC) it was decided to move ahead with a proposal to encourage the Elm St glasshouses operated by the Costa group to use untreatedwater from the Malpas Dam Pipeline. First established in 200...
Guyra wool up with the best at Sydney
Guyra wool producers Frank and Pip White of ‘Tangley’ took home the ribbon for the Reserve Champion fleece at the recent Sydney Royal Easter Show, with Mark and Lesleann Waters of Edington Merino Stud, Armidale entering the champion fleec...