News
Preschoolers graduate top of the class
Guyra Preschool and Long Day Care Centre recently celebrated the successful graduation of its 2023 class in a heartwarming ceremony. Parents, friends, and educators gathered at the Guyra Bowling Club to witness the children’s transition from pr...
Kirk family checks out for final time
The Kirk family have handed over the reins of the Guyra IGA Supermarket to new owners. They would like to express their gratitude to the Guyra community for the years of patronage and camaraderie they’ve shared with their customers.The Kirks be...
End of an era for Donna’s Bistro
When Donna Kennedy was asked to help out in the kitchen at the Guyra Bowling Club she thought it would be a temporary role. She had been working at the club behind the bar and doing some waitressing, so thought she would lend a hand until someone els...
CWA Art Exhibition is on again in January
The CWA Guyra Evening Branch are excited to be hosting our annual Art Exhibition in January 2024 to coincide with the Lamb and Potato Festival. Our Exhibition will again be held in the GALA Centre in Bradley Street. Opening Night will be Friday 19th ...
St Mary's Presentation evening
On Tuesday 5th December St Mary of the Angels had their end of year Presentation evening. Thank you to everyone who attended our presentation and joined us in celebrating the success of our students. Thank you to all our sponsors and special gu...
Bald Blair Public School Celebration of Learning
Bald Blair Public School held their annual Celebration of Leaning and School Concert on Thursday 7th December, with over 100 people in the audience for the evening. We were joined by special guests, Mr Chris Bice, Director of Educational Leadership f...
Family celebration for 60th wedding anniversary
Family travelled from north and south to gather for a surprise 60th anniversary party for Geoff and Bertha Reeves. The surprise was due to their anniversary date was actually 23rd of May but celebrations were delayed until four great g...
Old friends meet again
Rafters hosted a lively catch up of old school friends recently. Being nearly 50 years since the group had been at school there was a lot of news to catch up on...
Dancers end year with Disney performance
A fun year for all for Guyra dancers, ending with their end of year dance recital held at Lazenby Hall UNE. This year Australian Dance Enterprises (ADE) recital theme was “100 years of Disney and Selected Items”, a combined production wit...
Festive community lunch a winner
Beautiful weather, lots of people and a festive feel were the hallmarks of the community lunch at Guyra Neighbourhood Centre last week. The event was the culmination of the year and also a thank you to the services who utilise the centre and the many...
Final preparations for Lamb and Potato Festival underway
Final preparations for the next Guyra Lamb and Potato Festival are currently underway. The Festival will commence on Wednesday January 17th, 2024 and conclude on Sunday January 28th.On each day, the Festival will open at 7.30am with the food kiosk cl...
Colour Explosion School Run 4 Fun
On Wednesday 6th December, St Mary of the Angels students participated in a Colour Explosion School Run 4 Fun. After online fundraising for the past few weeks the students raised a spectacular $8,869 to go towards different sporting and reflective sp...
Progess for Guyra & Community Progress Association
June 2022 saw the beginnings of the Guyra & Community Progress Association by a small group of people with the vision to bring our community together and build a vibrant Guyra. So far I am proud to say we have kicked quite a few goals for our com...
Wildlife Tails
Kangaroos Can’t Jump BackwardsThere will be loads of animals on the move as it’s hot and dry this holiday season. Keep these few interesting fun facts in mind as you enjoy your travels….Turtles are on the move when it rains. They a...
$4.73 million shot-in-the-arm for road repairs in Guyra and Armidale
Armidale Regional Council (ARC) will receive a $4,728,427 State Government funding boost to undertake further road repairs and upgrades across the region.Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall made the announcement last week alongside Armidale ...
Street party heralds festive season
The arrival of Santa’s sleigh drawn by live reindeers was a highlight of the Rotary Christmas Carnival held on Friday December 1st. Reindeers, Santa Claus, train rides, market stalls and one of the biggest crowds in the many years filled...
Black Mountain Public School Mega Band Day
The 3-6 class at Black Mountain Public School travelled to Armidale on Friday, 24th November 2023 to participate in a Mega Band Day at the New England Conservatory of Music. The aim of the day was to celebrate the work that these young musicians had ...
Pothole program reaches record levels with 10,000 potholes filled in recent months
Armidale Regional Council (ARC) has filled more than 10,000 potholes in recent months, thanks in part to a significant grant from the NSW State Government. The Council’s Transport Department has smoothed the way for the region’s drivers b...
RFS Santa’s Lolly run
Santa's lolly run will be happening in Guyra on the 9th of December 2023.RFS vehicles will be assisting santa in giving out lollies starting at 11am at White Park, 11.20am at Claret Ash Park, 11.40am at South Guyra Park , 12pm at Holts Park across fr...
Join the fun at the Christmas Carnival
‘Tis the season to be jolly, and what better way to spread the holiday cheer than the much-anticipated Guyra Christmas Carnival 2023! The carnival takes place this Friday December 1st and there will be a full program of entertainment. As the co...
St Marys peforming arts night
On Thursday November 23rd, St Mary of the Angels students held their Creative Arts Night. They performed exceptionally well, demonstrating their talents and putting on a show that filled the room with joy and excitement. Their enthusiasm was contagio...
Scout Hall to get new lease on life
The Rotary Club of Guyra was last week handed the keys to the former Guyra Scout Hall. Rotary has taken on the role of Crown Land Manager for the hall which has fallen into disrepair over recent years. It is a first for the club, as no other Rotary c...
TroutFest praised in Parliament
The committee behind the Guyra TroutFest are over the moon following a Community Recognition Statement which was delivered in the Legislative Assembly by Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall.The statement recognised the work of the TroutFest ...
Lions Youth of the Year Quest
On Wednesday, November 15th the Guyra Lions Club held the annual Youth of the Year competition. The competition comprises two parts – an interview and a public speaking section.Four contestants competed including Oliver Flynn, Trisha Varley, Br...
90th birthday celebrations
Don Williams marked his 90th birthday on the weekend with a family celebration at Rafters. To top it off Don got to relive his youth by getting a flight in a T9 Texan thanks to Lochie Onslow and Fleet Warbirds. Nothing like looping the loop whe...
Farmers forum unpacks windfarm issues
The growing interest in wind turbines in New England, and the release of draft planning guidelines by the NSW Department of Planning, saw around one hundred people attend a forum in Guyra last week.The Guyra branch of the NSW Farmers forum with the t...
Get your nominations in before it is too late
Guyra’s Australia Day committee are still looking for unsung heroes of the local community to be nominated for Australia Day awards. Nomination forms have been available for a few weeks, however applications have been slow to come in so far.Tim...
Samoan’s sing for Christmas
A group of Costa’s Samoan employees recently performed at the Armidale Town Hall for the Multicultural Christian Christmas Concert. The concert was for all diverse groups and people of all faiths and demographics in our multicultural-multinatio...
Festival celebrates Bush Poetry tradition
The inaugural ‘Poets on the Mountain’ festival held over the weekend proved to be a resounding success, reawakening the spirit of bush poetry and showcasing the talents of both established and emerging poets.The highlight of the festival ...
New yarn in stock at Our Little Gallery
The owners of Our Little Gallery Sarah Hunt and Louise Pearson are passionate about yarn and are always looking for local options. Recently they have begun sourcing a new yarn base from the Fibre Arts Shed, which is milled on the NSW central coast fr...
Demerger hopes rest with Greens MLC
With less than a year to go before the next NSW Local Government Election, communities across the state, including Guyra, are continuing to push for a reversal of council mergers that took place in 2016. There were high hopes with the change of State...
Black Mountain Public School Inspired Readers Festival
The students at Black Mountain Public School had the privilege to attend the Inspired Readers Festival at the University of New England on Tuesday, 14th November 2023. This was hosted by Dymocks Children’s Charities who sponsored the day and pr...
Sky’s the limit for new aviation school
A new flying school - that is equipped with cutting-edge technology and a team of experienced instructors – has taken off in Armidale. White Star Aviation, a flight training academy, has been operating the new school from the Armidale Regional ...
Country Women’s Association backs CMA call for inquiry
The Country Mayors Association of NSW (CMA) is extremely disappointed in moves by the NSW Premier and Police Minister to rule out an inquiry into crime, law and order in regional New South Wales. CMA Chairman, Mayor Jamie Chaffey, said the NSW Govern...
NSW Farmers welcomes $250 million Drought Fund
The NSW Farmers Association has welcomed the NSW Government’s new $250 million Drought Ready and Resilient Fund, designed to assist farmers prepare and respond to drought conditions.NSW Farmers’ President, Xavier Martin, said the clarity ...
Memorial Park now a reality
Seventy two years after it was first envisaged the Memorial Park in Guyra is now complete. The Park, and associated facilities, were officially opened as part of Remembrance Day commemorations on Saturday November 11th.The land was set aside for this...
The story of the Rotunda
Some years ago, Guyra CWA sold our CWA building. This came about because we could not afford to keep up the maintenance on the building. We retained some of the funds for a community project. Over the years there have been suggestions for the use of ...
Christmas vouchers for community
Guyra CWA Evening Branch Vice President Anne Starr and Secretary Sarah Gwilym were pleased to be able to present the Guyra Neighbourhood Centre with $1500 in IGA vouchers this week. The vouchers will be used by the Centre to purchase food, ...
Grandparents Day at St Marys
On the 1st of November St Mary of the Angels students attended Mass with their grandparents also invited. They then joined the students to celebrate ‘Grandparents Day’ with morning tea and open classrooms at the school.“We wanted to...
Free Mulch weekends
Green thumbs and avid gardeners will be able to access free mulch as part of Armidale Regional Council’s water conservation campaign. The free mulch pick-up will be available to all residents on the weekends of November 18 to 19 and November 25...
Remembrance Day ceremony
The students at Black Mountain Public School paused to remember all those who served and continue to serve in the armed forces at Remembrance Day ceremony on Friday. The Year 5 leaders led the ceremony to mark the anniversary of the guns falling sile...
Bald Blair student shines at national competition
Bald Blair Public School student, Isabella Purvis, recently represented NSW at the Bruce Cup, held in Brisbane. The Bruce Cup is a prestigious national school tennis championship open to boys and girls aged 12 and under.A team of seven girls and seve...
Catch fish, not birds
The discovery of fishing waste near the trout dam in Guyra, adjacent to the Mother of Ducks Lagoon, has prompted a warning for anglers to take extra care. Discarded fishing line and tackle is one of the most significant threats to local wildlife popu...
Celebration Time for Year 12 Students!
The final HSC exams took place on Friday, November 3rd, followed by the Year 12 formal held on Saturday, November 4th at Guyra Bowling & Recreation Club. Guyra Central School Principal Michelle Nicholson said: “As we wait for the results of...
New and old get together in Guyra
The Guyra and Community Progress Association (G&CPA) held the first of what they hope will be an annual ‘Welcome to Guyra’ Community BBQs on Sunday.G&CPA secretary Sonya Wallbridge said that it was a fantastic morning.“It wa...
Get ready to unwrap the magic of Christmas
Armidale Regional Council is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated return of the Guyra Christmas Carnival, in collaboration with Rotary Guyra, along with Armidale Christmas in the Mall. The highlight of the Guyra event is the arrival of Santa C...
Family auction ends 109 year affiliation
An auction of an enormous range of goods at 34 Llangothlin St, Guyra, on 25th November reflects a long association with our town. The Beesley family’s history of main street retailing commenced in 1914, with Hanson Beesley opening a drapery sto...
Save and Grow Guyra awaiting response from Minister for Local Government
Save and Grow Guyra (SGG) are eagerly awaiting a response from the NSW Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig, endorsing the separation of Guyra and Armidale council. The group sees this is a crucial step towards granting local communities control ...
REX: Not goodbye, just see you later
Armidale Regional Council (ARC) welcomes the promised return of services in early 2024 following the departure of the final Regional Express (REX) flight from Armidale on Saturday 28 October. As a long-trusted partner connecting the region through Sy...
Black Mountain Public School Welcomes Practicum Student
The students at Black Mountain Public School are enjoying their time in the classroom with our Practicum Student Teacher Miss Tilly Commens. Tilly is a 3rd year student at the University of New England and is studying a Bachelor of Education in K-6.M...
Guyra Evening CWA creates history
Guyra Evening CWA created history recentlywith not one, or two, but three members of the dynamic branch announced as C=committee members on the CWA State Land Cookery Committee for 2024. Christine Gellie and Rosie Arena joined current committee membe...
Guyra CWA President’s report
Guyra CWA has had a successful year, even though our membership is dwindling. We were all saddened by the death of our past treasurer and generous member Jill Bowden, also Nancy Davidson who had been a member of Ben Lomond branch. Monica Boland trans...
What Living in Guyra has done for us
Ronald, Keskie and Benoni are three of 120 Seasonal Workers currently living in Guyra who are employed by Jobs Australia. These boys come from Vanuatu and are here on a six-month rotation working at Costa Tomato Farm.In recent discussions with Jobs A...
Changes to drought management plan
Armidale Regional Council (ARC) last week approved the early introduction of Level 1 water restrictions ensuring residents won’t be left high and dry in the forecast long, hot summer ahead. Councillors agreed at their general meeting on Wednesd...
Avoiding an energy blunder downunder
Nuclear for Climate Australia founder Robert Parker will make his case for nuclear power and a clean energy future at the Armidale Bowling Club next week. After a career in civil engineering, where he worked on international hydroelectricity projects...
Poets on the Mountain Festival
The Australian Poetry Hall of Fame (APHOF) in Guyra will be hosting the ‘Poets on the Mountain Festival’ from November 12th to 19th.Festival spokesperson Thundercloud said that this festival not only celebrates the Australian bush poetry ...
Memorial Park opening on Remembrance Day
On Saturday November 11th, Guyra Garden Club, community organisations and members of the public will mark the completion of the three-year Guyra Memorial Park project with a morning tea, participation in the Remembrance Day service and a Park Walk. T...
Remembrance Day services in Guyra
Remembrance Day is Saturday, 11th November. The Guyra RSL sub-Branch will hold a brief Remembrance Day service at the Soldiers Memorial Hall in Bradley Street, commencing at 10.45am on Saturday, November 11th.Members of the community are invited to a...
Personal bests at State Athletics Carnival
Guyra Central School students recently participated in the NSW State Athletics Carnival. The event must have been an exciting and challenging experience for them. Lincoln Atkin, who ran in the 12/13 year boys 1500m, and Sammy-Rose Dowden, who ran in ...
Renewable energy projects must provide benefits
A Renewable Energy Community Benefit Framework – that promotes benefit sharing strategies associated with the development of renewable energy projects in the Armidale region –was adopted at last week’s Ordinary Council Meeting. &ldq...
Frocked up for a good cause
The Frocktober event held on the weekend raised over $550 for research in to ovarian cancer. Some of the prizes were donated back to be raffled off at another event later in the year. Thank you to Brisk Trading, Crop Hair Design, Dasha’s Hardwa...
Guyra student’s excel in Statewide competition
Guyra Central School students have had great success in this year’s Premier’s Debating Challenge, with two teams making it to the finals. The primary stage 3 debating team – Sammy-Rose Dowden, Lincoln Atkin, William Collins, and Wil...
Free community BBQ this Sunday
The Guyra and Community Progress Association will host their first ‘Welcome to Guyra - Meet and Greet BBQ’ on Sunday November 5th. A free steak or sausage sandwich along with other delicious goodies and games for the kids is planned. The ...
Tremane joins the Guyra Central team
Guyra Central School is delighted to announce that Mr Tremane Patterson will be working as an Aboriginal Education Officer in both our primary and secondary departments. Tremane joins the Guyra Central School team with a strong connection to our stud...
Petition to restore trains north of Armidale
A crowd gathered at Armidale Railway Station last week to celebrate the successful completion of a petition to the NSW legislative Assembly seeking the restoration of passenger train services from Armidale to Queensland on the Main North railway line...
Are you ready to Frock Up?
Frocktober is Australia’s most fashionable month-long fundraiser, created by the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF) to raise awareness and funds for vital ovarian cancer research. All funds raised are donated directly to the OCRF, ...
Don’t miss this great opportunity
Scott Johnston completed at the top level of American professional cowboy association circuit, in bareback, and saddle bronc. Gaining recognition and dominating as an Elite cowboy alongside the best in the world from 1994 to 2003. Along the way there...
Come sing with us
Christmas is fast approaching and it is time for the Combined Churches’ Choir to warm up their vocal chords for their two annual performances. This year the Presbyterian Church will be hosting the Carol Service in Guyra on December 10th at 7.30...
Picnic in Nature
Saturday 21st October was a good opportunity to take a short walk, observe the recent project accessibility improvement. The low Cor Ten steel bridge structure helps with access across normally boggy ground. Alternatively there was an opportunity to ...
Bringing mental health awareness to the community
Two presentations are being held in Guyra this week, focussing on mental health awareness.The first workshop is for men and will be held at the Soldiers Memorial Hall on Thursday October 26th starting at 5.30pm. Refreshments will be available. The se...
Call for Parliamentary Inquiry to address crime in regional NSW
The Country Mayors Association (CMA) of NSW has joined forces with the Police Association of NSW (PANSW )and NSW Farmers to call for a Parliamentary Inquiry into crime, law and order in rural and regional New South Wales. CMA Chairman, Mayor Jamie Ch...
Black Mountain Public School Transition News
Our five Transition students at Black Mountain Public School are enjoying another great term of learning with their transition leader Mrs Sapphire Roller. Last week, students enjoyed water play and an obstacle course, as they were exploring the lette...
Regional seniors travel card petition tabled in State parliament
Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall has tabled a 10,000-plus signature petition in State Parliament, calling for the government reverse its recent decision and reinstate the popular $250 NSW Regional Seniors Travel Card.The petition will now...
Enjoy a ‘Picnic in Nature’ at Little Llangothlin
The Guyra Landcare Network and the Ben Lomond Landcare Group, invite you to a ‘Picnic for Nature’ at Little Llangothlin Lagoon on Saturday October 21st from 10:30am to 2pm.Communities across NSW will simultaneously host a picnic - in...
Total clearance at working dog auction
The inaugural Top of The Range working dog auction held at Guyra on October 7th saw all 12 lots sold to a top of $6200 with an average of just under $4000. Two of the dogs passed in during the sale, sold immediately afterwards.The Jeff Ritchie-bred K...
Guyra RSL sub-Branch may have to close
Currently, the Guyra sub-Branch of the RSL has only ten service members – that is, members who are serving or have served in either the Regular or Reserve forces. President of the sub-Branch, Hans Hietbrink, explains that to operate as a sub-Br...
TroutFest committee says thanks
Guyra TroutFest committee are very thankful for all of their supporters who helped with the organisation of this year’s event. Over the October long weekend there was an influx of people in Guyra celebrating the opening of the trout season. Vis...
Family needs help in wake of tragedy
Guyra residents - I am reaching out to you for help. My Son Luke Wells (Wells Adventures on YouTube) was killed in a car accident on 30/9/23 at Bingara Road Bundarra. Luke’s Vehicle, Buggy, Trailer and all his personal items were taken from the...
Bald Blair Public School Success at Trout Festival
Bald Blair students participated in the writing and art sections of the recent Guyra Trout Festival with much success. Dustin Turnham, in Year Two, was awarded first prize in the writing competition. Dustin was presented with a $50 voucher sponsored ...
Ingrid in Mexico – September report
After a long break school has finally started for the Mexican School year. I now actively participate in every class, though I still have some minor issues with the language. I am now able to read and write in Spanish relatively well. My favourite su...
New road safety initiative
Armidale Regional Council (ARC) has launched a new road safety campaign to encourage careers to hold children’s hands when near or crossing roads.In partnership with the Little Blue Dinosaur Foundation, Council has launched the safety initiativ...
OPINION: The Lunacy of Climate Cult’s 100 per cent Renewables
I endorse comments by Katrina Humphries “The Land” 5th October 2023 “inherent stupidity of the lily livered dreamboats pushing ideals” indeed!When told this solar or that wind EGW will power 400,000 homes – do you unders...
JUST 1 month until - IT’s in the BAG
Collection points will open up across the country where you can drop It’s in the Bag donations filled with hope and love.Fill a bag with shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, roll-on deodorant, period products, and perhaps some ex...
New plantings and Rotunda now in place
The Mandala Garden, which is part of the Guyra Garden Club’s Memorial Park project has been planted out and the Rotunda has been erected. Project Manager David Kanaley said that this marks the end stages of the project which they have been work...
Progress Association News
The Guyra & Community Progress Association are pleased to announce the purchase of two Defibrillators for our community. One will be placed at the Guyra Showground Community Hall & the other at Nutrien Guyra for the community to borrow along ...
CWA Evening Branch AGM
held their AGM last week. Outgoing President Anne Starr delivered her annual report, summarising a fantastic year for the club. The club welcomed a new committee, which is a mixture of new and old faces. Members also celebrated ‘Frocktober&rsqu...
Nominate a worthy citizen for Australia Day Awards
Nominations are now open and Guyra residents are being urged to put nominations in for the 2024 Australia Day awards. This year the awards are being administered by a group of local citizens and they are encouraging people to put forward names of wor...
GLENRAC continues a proud tradition with the 2023 Rural Women’s Day
GLENRAC has held Rural Women’s Day Events since 2013, attracting women from across our district to gather, learn, share, and connect. Each year GLENRAC seeks guest speakers to inform and inspire those attending to connect with like-minded women...
Spooktacular Halloween event planned
Ghouls, goblins, and gremlins will turn Armidale into a spooky town on Friday October 27, when Halloween celebrations take over the mall. After a hugely successful Halloween celebration in 2022, which attracted more than 2000 people. The 2023 event a...
Black Mountain Public School Busy Start to Term 4
Welcome back everyone to a busy term. The students will be attending an excursion to Deano’s Springwater Trout Farm in Week 2. This excursion begins our week of exploring healthy nutrition.The Paws Up team will be visiting this term with their ...
Yes or No? Cast your vote in the referendum this Saturday
The 2023 referendum is being held on Saturday, October 14.Voting centres will be open on the day for people to vote in-person with locations and opening times on the AEC website. Guyra voters should be aware that the voting venue for the referen...
Rural Aid encourages farmer registrations as El Nino is declared
Australia’s most trusted rural charity is encouraging farmers to reach out for assistance following the Bureau of Meteorology officially declaring an El Nino event. The El Nino weather pattern means hot, dry seasons that trend towards drought. ...
Wildlife Tails
How to help save injured wildlife If you care for animals/birds and hate to see them lying on the road after a car has collided with them, then before you leave home make sure you have this.Download to your phone the IFAW animal rescue app, it&rsquo...
Role models, friends farewelled
Guyra Central School farewelled the graduating Year 12 Class of 2023 on Friday September 22nd. The school’s Valedictory day started with a traditional ‘Year 12 Breakfast’ hosted by the year 11 students. The ‘Class of 2023&rsqu...
Councillors support Mayor for second term
Councillors have thrown their support behind Mayor Sam Coupland and voted him in to serve a second term as Mayor of Armidale Regional Council. His deputy will again be Cr Todd Redwood. Mayor Coupland said he is thrilled to be re-elected and he apprec...
TroutFest Art Show
TroutFest kicked off on Thursday evening with the official opening of the Art Show. This year’s entries came from Tamworth, Armidale, and Glen Innes. Organiser Lynne Chapman said it was pleasing to see quite a lot of Guyra artists entering this...
Electricity network maintenance
Essential Energy will soon complete crucial maintenance on the high voltage electricity network which supplies power to Guyra and the surrounding areas including Ben Lomond, Llangothlin and Black Mountain.Operations Manager Ranges, Paul McWilliam, sa...
Band Workshop and Learning Kamilaroi Language for Black Mountain students
On Friday, 15th September 2023 the senior class at Black Mountain Public School had the opportunity to participate in a combined school’s band workshop at Glen Innes Public School. Students had the opportunity to demonstrate their skills in the...
Can you help rediscover the Yellow Spotted Bell Frog?
A dedicated team of frog researchers from the Australian Museum, led by Dr. Jodi Rowley, have embarked on a mission to rediscover the Yellow-Spotted Bell Frog (Litoria castanea). This unique frog is a relatively large species that can grow up to an i...
New manager and opening hours for Guyra Pool
Changes are afoot for the new swimming season in Guyra with a new manager, new season opening date and revised operating hours. After more than 20 years managing the Guyra Pool Randy Mulligan has chosen to pursue other opportunities and is stepping d...
Ride for the Chopper passes through
The 2023 Ride for the Chopper has wrapped up, raising close to $90,000 for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (WRHS). The eight day mountain bike ride started in Woolgoolga on September 15 and stopped in Guyra, Armidale and Walcha before finishing...
Costa group agrees to $1.5 billion takeover
The board of the Costa group, owners of the Guyra tomato farm, has agreed to a $1.5 billion takeover offer from a consortium headed by private equity firm Paine Schwartz Partners.Paine, which floated Costa in 2015, acquired a 13.8 per cent stake in C...
Understanding Farm Fire Units
An information evening will be held at the Ben Lomond Fire Station on October 6th to helper farmers understand the new role for Farm Fire Units alongside the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) The RFS recognises that in many parts of the state RFS resource...
Conversations and a cuppa for RUOK? Day
Free cuppas sparked conversations on mental health in Guyra café Juneils and Ebor’s Fusspots on Thursday, September 14. Local non-profit HealthWISE donated more than $6500 to 29 cafes throughout the New England North West and southern Qu...
Reeling in the tourists at new Visitor Centre
A new Visitor Information Centre kiosk has opened at Guyra to help tourists discover the delights of the local area from fabulous fishing locations to exploring the abundance of natural beauty spots. The visitor centre kiosk is located within the Guy...
TroutFest Karaoke Party
The Guyra Trout Festival is excited to announce the upcoming Karaoke Party, to be held on Friday, September 29 at the Australian Poetry Hall of Fame.The party will feature a wide variety of music to choose from, including pop, rock, country, and more...
It only takes one spark to start a fire
Local RFS volunteers were called out to attend a grass fire at Wandsworth which burnt out 16ha on Tuesday afternoon. The fire began when sparks from fencing hot works (welding) ignited nearby grass. The fire was quickly brought under control thanks t...
St Marys attend soccer Gala Day
On Friday September 15th, 31 keen soccer players from St Mary of the Angels travelled to Tamworth to participate in the annual Soccer Gala Day. It was wonderful to see so many students attending and to have three teams representing the school communi...
New Owner for Guyra Rural Services
Established 34 years ago, Guyra Rural Services has now been sold to the current manager, Campbell Wolfenden. The business will remain in its current premises at 173 Malpas Street. Campbell has had a long agricultural association in the Guyra area fro...
Ray White Rural & Livestock Awards
The annual Ray White Rural & Livestock awards were held recently and Ray White Guyra/Armidale were among the winners on the night. The awards were held in Brisbane to celebrate the achievements of the top offices and individuals throughout the ne...
National Emergency Medal presented to local firefighters
The National Emergency Medal is part of the Australian Honours and Awards system. Following the events of the black summer bush fire season of 2019/2020, the Governor-General determined the National Emergency Medal be awarded to persons who ren...
Fruity Fun at St Mary of the Angels
Students from St Mary of the Angels celebrated the start of Fruit & Veggie Month this week with a fabulous fruit inspired dress up. The students creatively made costumes to show off their favourite fruit and veggies. There certainly were some daz...
Raising funds for the Westpac Chopper
The Lions club of Guyra Inc, in conjunction with the Team Guyra bike riders, held a wood raffle on 24th, 25th and 26th September for the ‘RIDE FOR THE CHOPPER’ which the Team Guyra riders are participating in to raise funds for the Westpa...
NAIDOC Week Celebrations
Last week we held a range of activities to celebrate NAIDOC Week. The whole school participated in literacy activities on Understanding Eldership and the Heroes of Change. Our school mural is being redesigned showing our school values of KUKRA &ndash...
Rehydrating Workshop for Landowners
Landholders in the Armidale region who want to understand the water cycle and improve resilience of their rural landscape are encouraged to attend a three-day Rehydrating Your Farm Landscape bootcamp on October 17th to 19th.Armidale Regional Council ...
Aboriginal rangers looking after country
Guyra based Banbai Rangers are working with key agencies and experts to care for Country. Banbai are recognised nationally as leaders in cultural burning, threatened species and cultural heritage protection and are a strong example of an Aboriginal-l...
CWA Step into Spring
CWA Guyra Evening Branch celebrated NSW Women’s Week and the start of CWA Awareness Week with a ‘Step into Spring’ event at the Guyra Bowling Club last Friday night. Around 40 ladies gathered from as far away as Tamworth to enjoy an...
Free information day for farmers
All are invited to attend GLENRAC’s free Fit Farmers information day in Glen Innes on Thursday 14th September. Fit Farmers takes place on RU OK Day each year and is a day that highlights the importance of taking some time to check in on your ow...
Introducing Recycled Style – recycling clothes for a sustainable future
In a bold step towards a more sustainable and eco-conscious future, students from Armidale’s local High Schools are thrilled to unveil their ground-breaking initiative: Recycled Style. This innovative program aims to reshape the way we think ab...
Father’s Day Frisbee Golf Afternoon
Black Mountain Public School students celebrated Father’s Day with an afternoon of activities on Friday, 1st September 2023. The fathers and grandfathers enjoyed Frisbee Golf followed by afternoon tea. Father’s Day gifts and crafts were m...
Book Week Dress Ups
Black Mountain Public School students celebrated Book Week with their annual parade on Wednesday, 23rd August 2023. This year’s theme was ‘Read Grow Inspire’. Excited students and teachers paraded and showed off their favourite book...
TroutFest planning a great long weekend
The organising committee behind the 2023 Guyra TroutFest are putting the finishing touches to what they expect will be a jam packed program of events.Timed to coincide with the opening of the trout fishing season, the festival will take place over th...
New England District RFS members honoured for service
More than 35 members of the Rural Fire Service (RFS) New England District were recognised for their dedication and achievements at a special ceremony in Armidale on August 5th.Superintendent Sean McArdle presented 21 Long Service Medals and nine Nati...
Estimating Herbage Mass with Drought Resilient Pasture Landscapes
How accurate are our visual estimates of herbage mass? Are you worried about how much feed you have available, as conditions dry?University of New England pasture coach Jaimi-lee Edwards said that uncertainty about estimating herbage mass (pasture av...
Celebrating 175 years of Public Education
Last week Guyra Central School celebrated Book Week and Education Week. On Tuesday August 22nd students dressed up as their favourite characters and participated in our Book Week Parade. This year’s Education Week theme is ‘175 years of p...
Residents urged to adopt sustainable water practices
Armidale Regional Council (ARC) is urging residents to adopt sustainable water usage and value water again as we move out of the big wet of the last two years and into a typical climate pattern for the warmer months. The Bureau of Meteorology has dec...
Cyclists seek support ahead of 2023 ‘Ride for the Chopper’
Guyra cyclists are once again taking part in the annual ‘Ride for the Chopper’ to raise much needed funds for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service. Team Guyra’s cyclists this year are Leanne Mayled, David Mills, Michael Kirk, Bill ...
Stolen fuel leads to car chase
Two people have been charged with numerous offences after a pursuit in a stolen vehicle last week following reports a vehicle had failed to pay for fuel at Guyra. About 5:50pm on Wednesday August 16th, Armidale Highway Patrol officers responded and d...
St Mary’s students athletics success
On Friday the 18th August 22 students selected from St Mary of the Angels (SMOTA) athletics carnival travelled to Tamworth for the Armidale Diocesan Athletics Carnival. SMOTA students should be proud of their sporting commitment and level of dedicati...
New England Garden Festival predicted to attract large crowds
The inaugural New England Garden Festival will be held at the Armidale Racecourse in November and is shaping up to be one of the most prestigious events in 2023.The idea to host a garden festival in Armidale, the first of its kind in Northern NSW, fi...
Awards handed out at Black Mountain
On Friday, 18th August 2023, Black Mountain Public School held their first assembly for Term 3. The students received Principal’s Awards and Class Awards. Congratulations to our awardees. It was lovely to see our parents/carers who attended our...
Shearing for beginners
Eight secondary students from Guyra Central School have participated in a pilot shearing program for beginner shearers. The program was hosted by Armidale TAFE with students traveling by bus to a local shed for five full days. The students learnt all...
Bank backs local community with cash
Guyra sporting clubs, community groups and local schools were among organisations recognised and presented with cheques as part of Regional Australia Bank's Community Partnership Program last week.To cap off another successful year of the popular pro...
Successful day for Glenavon Angus
Monday August 7th was a sunny and mild day at Outer Bald Blair for the Glenavon Angus 39th Annual sale. It was a successful day for vendors, Richard and Prue Post and the Glenavon team with 112 bulls and 74 heifers sold to clients throughout Victoria...
Protesters rally outside Tamworth Bush Summit
Protesters rallied outside the Bush Summit held in Tamworth last week to voice their opposition to renewable energy projects. Groups from across the New England joined the rally in the hope of drawing attention to their concerns about the impact...
Sporting program rolls out at St Mary’s
During Term 3, St Mary’s students from K-6 will be participating in a hockey program during Sport lessons. The school was lucky enough to receive a sporting schools grant to offer a coach delivered sporting program for our students for Sport le...
Black Mountain Highland Fling
Last Black Mountain Public School celebrated Education Week with Ben Lomond Public School and Chandler Public School. We held our annual public speaking competition. The quality of speeches was excellent and congratulations to the Stage Award Winners...
Guyra Evening CWA represented at State event
Guyra Evening CWA was part of the 2023 NSW CWA Land Cookery Judges accreditation in Bathurst recently. Hosted by the NSW CWA Land Cookery Committee the weekend was an opportunity for members to try their hand at becoming a CWA Cookery Judge. This acc...
New England graziers preparing for the next drought
Graziers from across the Northern Tablelands are keenly interested in preparing for the next drought, based on attendance at a GLENRAC sheep confinement and drought feeding workshop in late July. GLENRAC CEO Kylie Falconer said about 35 graziers and ...
Thomas Mayo to speak at Armidale reconciliation event
One of the key signatories to the Uluru Statement from the Heart will be in Armidale on Monday August 28th. Thomas Mayo is a Kaurareg Aboriginal, Kalkalgal and Erubamle Torres Strait Islander man, who has spent the last six years travelling the count...
New lease of life for butchery
Over the past two weeks, locals may have noticed big changes to the shopfront of the butcher shop that previously traded as Vidler’s Butchery. The shop has undergone a facelift and has now been rebranded as Top of the Range Meat Company. Owners...
Guyra Snow Ball a great success
Saturday night saw 250 people fill the Guyra Community Hall for the Guyra Snow Ball. People traveled from Sydney, Queensland and through out the New England Region to attend a night to remember. It was so wonderful to showcase another Ball in our com...
The ‘bikes’ are back
After disappearing for a couple of months, Guyra’s ‘standing bikes’ were returned on the weekend, after getting a makeover. Each of the bikes now have their own individual colour scheme making the streetscape just a little bit brigh...
Rotary Club begins new term
The Rotary Club of Guyra held their 77th Changeover dinner on Saturday, 5th August at Rafters Restaurant. David Kanaley will take over the role of President for the coming year and was inducted by Past District Governor Bob Ryan from Armidale. Outgoi...
Guyra students perform well in Spelling Bee
The Premier’s Spelling Bee is a fun and educational way for students to engage and improve in their spelling, with 150,000 students state wide participating each year.This year, two primary students from Guyra Central School qualified for the R...
Funky sock fundraiser
Black Mountain Public School and the Snow Gums Learning Alliance of Small Schools will be celebrating Education Week on Wednesday, 9th August 2023. The day will commence with Education Week Awards followed by Junior and Senior Speaking Competitions.T...
Local buyers top bidders at Bridgewater sale
It was a hard day at the office for Bridgewater Angus at their 6th on property sale. Two of the three top priced bulls went to local buyers, they were both yearlings by the same sire Shacorrahdalu New Ground R17 and reached $14,000. Lot 24 Bridgewate...
Glenrac’s Farmer update is back
GLENRAC’s hugely popular Farmer Update information evening is back for another year, with an interesting range of industry gatherings to discuss the future of carbon emissions and what net zero will mean for Australian farmers, farm safety, rur...
Ratepayers urged to get involved
The next general meeting of the Armidale Regional Ratepayers Association Inc. will be on August 14th at 5:30pm in the upstairs function room at the Armidale Bowling Club.The guest speaker will be the Mayor of Armidale Regional Council, Sam Coupland. ...
Call for highway rest stops in the New England
Member for New England, the Hon Barnaby Joyce MP, is calling all truck drivers that use highways in the New England to provide direct feedback to the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts in regar...
100 days of school
Wednesday 26th of July saw 100 days of school for students in Kindergarten at Bald Blair Public School. Students were asked to create a project that symbolised 100 and bring it in to share with their classmates. Their creations were fantastic. Last ...
Bush Fire Danger period commences
The Bush Fire Danger Period (BFDP) for the New England/Northern Tablelands Districts commenced on Tuesday August 1st and covers the Local Government Areas (LGA’s) of Armidale, Uralla, Walcha, Glen Innes Severn, Inverell and Tenterfield. The NSW...
New name, new lease on life
The Malpas Catchment Group, a sub-group of Southern New England Landcare have rebranded as the Guyra Landcare Network. Spokesperson for the Guyra Landcare Network Aggie Seiler said the name change was based on increasing community involvement and acc...
Horticultural qualifications for Costa employees
Colleen Pearson and Aesha Kusunan have obtained a Cert III in Horticulture through an opportunity provided to them by Costa Tomatoes in Guyra. Colleen and Aesha demonstrated outstanding commitment and determination to completing their traineeships. C...
Ingrid in Mexico - July Report
Well, I have officially completed 6 months in Mexico. While not as busy as other months, July has still been draining. This month’s activities began with my Rotary club’s official handover dinner on July 5th.The company Rogelio and I had ...
‘For our Elders’- Local schools mark NAIDOC week
NAIDOC week celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC Week was celebrated by Guyra Central School last week with cultural NAIDOC activities for students including Indigenous scratch art,...
PAWS UP visit Black Mountain Public School
The students at Black Mountain School were visited by the Back Track Paws Up team of dogs on Friday, 28th July 2023. Paws Up stands for Positivity and Wellbeing Skills when Under Pressure. The students will be participating in this program several ti...
Refurbished Men’s Shed officially open
GUYRA’S refurbished Men’s Shed is officially open for business, following two State Government grants.The Guyra’s Men’s Shed were successful in two grant applications over the past few years which helped immensely with the ref...
Ehanced entrances to Guyra now complete
The Guyra and Community Progress Association’s (G&CPA) latest project has been completed, with all four of the town’s entrances now proudly welcoming visitors with enhanced signage. New stone entrance signs have been constructed on th...
Funds boosted ahead of Drover’s Run adventure
Tony and Liz Looker have wrapped up their fundraising in preparation for the Drovers Run Event. A well-attended auction at the Royal Hotel on Friday night added $7242.80 to their total.It is the 8th time that the Drover’s Run 4WD Outback Advent...
Charity Jersey framed
The Guyra Men’s Shed handed over a mounted Super Spuds football jersey to the Guyra VRA on the weekend. The jersey was from the charity auction held by the Guyra Rugby League fundraiser earlier in the year in support of the VRA. The proceeds fr...
Men’s Health Van returns to Guyra
The Men’s Health Education Rural Van (mherv) will make a return visit to Guyra on August 8th and local men are being encouraged to call for a free health check.‘mherv’ is a custom built caravan which travels the state offering free ...
Enormous effort at Cross Country
On Friday the 21st July Flynn McFarlane travelled to Sydney to Represent St Mary of the Angels and the Armidale Diocese in the NSW PSSA Cross Country championships. Competing amongst the best of the State’s runners, Flynn put forward his best a...
Sale O! - Bulls season arrives for local studs
Attending a local bull sale is one of the best events in the livestock calendar and buyers will have plenty of opportunities over the next few weeks to purchase some of the best as bull sale season kicks off. Bald Blair, Eastern Plains, Bridgewater a...
Glenrac welcomes new project officer
The Glen Innes Natural Resources Advisory Committee (GLENRAC) has welcomed a new Project Officer for Sustainable Agriculture to their team, with Katie Barnett stepping into the role.Originally from Kempsey, Katie completed a Bachelor of Agriculture a...
Pete’s new ditty is all about Guyra
If you ever thought that Guyra needed its own song, you don’t have to wait any longer. Singer songwriter Pete Stanley has recently completed his 150th song and it is all about our town. It is called simply ‘In Guyra’. Pete describes...
ADE students perform well at recent Eisteddfods
Guyra students from Australain Dance Enterprises (ADE) performed with outstanding results from the recent eisteddfod in Inverell and Armidale.Molly BrazierInverell eisteddfod (16 years) Modern VHC, Contemporary 2nd, Classical 3rd, Classical improvisa...
Restoration plans for Wandsworth memorial
WANDSWORTH’S District Soldiers and Nurses War Memorial has been given a $6,732 boost to help cover costs for consultation and restoration works. The funding was secured under the NSW Government’s Community War Memorials Fund and will init...
Demerger submission in the hands of Local Government Minister
The Save & Grow Guyra Inc. (SaGG) committee have put their hand up on behalf of Guyra to have their council returned. Spokesperson for the group Rob Lenehan said that they have now completed and sent their demerger submission to the Minister for ...
Drought Resilient Pasture Landscapes update
Farmers who are members of the nine coaching groups of the Drought Resilient Pasture Landscapes project, have spent some time during their third round of coaching sessions looking at their predicted pasture availability for the coming spring.Aside fr...
Local community groups awarded grants totalling $20,000
Nine deserving community organisations have received financial support through Council’s latest round of its Community Small Grants Program. The funding round closed on 21 May 2023 and 21 applications were received from a diverse group of organ...
$110k boost for Arts North West
Arts North West will use a $110,000 State Government grant to renew and activate precincts across the Northern Tablelands to help re-engage audiences during post-covid recovery.Announcing the grant, Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marsh...
Reboot Your Grazing with Soil Land Food
Resilient, healthy and productive grazing landscapes will be the focus of a free workshop series for farmers in the Guyra and Walcha districts over the coming months.The first Reboot Your Grazing workshops are designed to increase farmers understandi...
The Slam Storm is coming to Guyra
Australian Poetry Slam (APS) is a live literary performance program where the audience decides the champion. This year Guyra will host one of 60 heats which are being held across the nation. It will be a great opportunity for slammers to perform for ...
Takeover bid for Costa Group
The Costa Group, Australia's largest fresh fruit and vegetable grower and owner of the Guyra Tomato farm, could be in American hands within months following a takeover bid by Paine Schwartz Partners (PSP).The Costa Group last week confirmed it has re...
Tour council facilities during Local Government Week
Free tours of Armidale Regional Council (ARC) facilities are once again being offered during this year’s Local Government Week celebrations held from the 31 July to 5 August 2023.ARC has been running tours during Local Government Week for over ...
Black Mountain Final Assembly Term 2
On Friday, 23rd June 2023, Black Mountain Public School held their final assembly for Term 2. The students received Principal’s Awards and Class Awards. Congratulations to our awardees.The school choir presented songs that they performed at the...
Ingrid in Mexico - June
June has certainly been an emotional rollercoaster. My first two nights were spent at Rotary events, first was a formal dinner/annual report evening and a Rotary pizza party with all the Toluca students and families. Both nights contained music, kara...
Barnaby speaks to Guyra
Federal member for New England and Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Barnaby Joyce was in Guyra last week to speak to members of the local Nationals branch and other interested people. In his address to the gathering he spoke of the need f...
Students tour Costa glasshouse
The team at the Costa Tomato Glasshouses hosted a school visit on June 26, with around 90 students and teachers visiting the New England Highway glasshouse in two separate sessions.The students from Armidale City Public School are in years 3 and 4 an...
Fiori Musicali Choir to Perform “Love and Nature” in Guyra
The Fiori Musicali Chamber Choir will present a concert of folk song arrangements by 20th century composers Vaughn Williams, Holst, Elgar, and Britten on Saturday, July 22nd at 2:30pm at the Australian Poetry Hall of Fame in Guyra.The concert, titled...
Glenrac stalwart calls time
One of the region’s most familiar faces is calling time on a selfless career serving the community and improving environmental outcomes in the Tablelands. Dr Mahri Koch, project manager with GLENRAC, will be stepping into a well?deserved retire...
Alternative departure gate for smaller aircraft at Armidale airport
An alternative departure gate (Gate 3) is now in operation at the Armidale Regional Airport to cater for airlines that fall beneath the Federal Government’s 40 seat passenger threshold and do not require security screening. From the end of June...
Marshall moves to force split of health district
Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall has introduced a Private Members’ Bill into State Parliament, which will force the split of the Newcastle-centric Hunter New England Health District. The bill comes on the back of his 16,000-strong ...
Steam trains rides returning to New England in August
Transport Heritage NSW, operators of the state’s rail heritage fleet, is returning steam to the New England region from 11th to 20th August 2023. Over 5,500 people are expected to take part in the event, which sees historic locomotiv...
How to protect yourself and friends on FaceBook
Scammers create fake Facebook profiles and request to be your friend to gain access to personal information that you restrict to “friends only.” This information may include your contact information for spamming or other personal informat...
St Mary’s students perform well at Cross Country
On Tuesday 13th June, five students from St Mary’s Guyra travelled to Sydney to represent the Armidale Diocese in the NSWCPS Cross Country. The students had run and qualified at the Diocesan Cross Country held in Barraba back in May.All student...
Parliamentary Inquiry into undergrounding of transmission lines ‘welcome news’
A Parliamentary Inquiry into undergrounding powerlines has been welcomed by both the NSW Farmers Association and Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall. Multiple renewable energy projects proposed or under construction in regional areas will re...
How Tafe Digital helped Heather’s career
Whether it’s helping artificially inseminating a heifer or tending to a pet cat, no two days are the same at Guyra District Veterinary Clinic – and Heather Moran wouldn’t have it any other way.The Guyra local and TAFE Digital gradua...
Five generations of girls
A family spanning five generations of women, separated by 89 years from oldest to youngest, are celebrating the arrival of their newest female member.Aeisha Barraclough, welcomed her daughter Avani Goodall, earlier this month. Avani is a great, great...
UNE calls on farmers to share information about farm crime
In an effort to combat rural crime, University of New England’s (UNE) centre for rural criminology has initiated the first comprehensive study in over two decades.The 2023 Australian farm crime survey aims to gather crucial insights from landho...
Great term of learning for Black Mountain Transition
Our Transition Class at Black Mountain Public School have enjoyed another great term of learning with their transition leader Mrs Sapphire Roller. Last week, students made dinosaur feet and role played What’s the Time, Mr Dinosaur? By counting ...
Care needed for wildlife during winter
Winter is here and for wildlife carers it’s time to relax a bit as the calls for injured and orphaned wildlife slow down. We do get calls for critters caught in chimneys, mainly possums and sometimes birds who are also looking for somewhere to ...
Rafters team welcomes new chef for restaurant launch
Joey and Michelle Arrabal have hit the ground running since relaunching the much-loved local institution that is Rafters Guyra. The couple are well-versed in the hospitality industry and most recently ran a successful cocktail and tapas bar in Brisba...
Council welcomes rate rise decision
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) has approved Armidale Regional Council’s (ARC) application for a 58.8 percent special variation to general income residential, farmland, business or mining land rates over three years. Arm...
Local farmers ‘gutted’ by IPart decision
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal decision to approve a special rate variation of 58.8 per cent over three years for Armidale Regional Council (ARC) has been met with dismay by the Guyra Branch of the NSW Farmers Association. Guyra Bran...
Save and Grow Guyra: Advocacy for separation from ARC nears completion
Save and Grow Guyra (SGG) has announced that they have completed the final stage of their submission to the local government minister calling to separate Guyra from the Armidale Regional Council (ARC).Spokesperson for the group, Rob Lenehan said that...
Transition students welcomed at Bald Blair
Bald Blair Public School have welcomed four transition students to school every Wednesday. Students enjoyed many activities throughout the day where they participated in early learning activities and establishing school routines. If you have a child ...
Black Mountain competing in Armidale Eisteddfod
On Wednesday, June 7th the students from Black Mountain Public School travelled to the New England Conservatorium of Music to participate in the Armidale Eisteddfod. They competed in the Small Country Schools Choir section singing two contrasting pie...
Julie celebrates 18 years with Costa
Julie Driscoll joined Costa when the first tomato glasshouses came into operation in 2005 and this week the team celebrated her 18 years of employment. Julie, who started out in pruning and has done a range of jobs, is now the Packing Supervisor for ...
Garden makeover about to get underway
The gardens of the Guyra Civic Administration Building will soon receive a fresh makeover thanks to a project initiated by the Guyra and Community Progress Association (GCPA) to improve the beautification of Bradley Street. Council’s parks team...
Memorial Park Mandala Garden underway
Construction work has started on the new memorial Mandala Garden opposite McKie Park on the on the corner of Sandon Street and Lagoon Road opposite the early childhood centre. This is a key element of Guyra Garden Club’s Memorial Park project w...
Active and creative kids vouchers to be cut back
The NSW Government has confirmed that Active and Creative Kids vouchers will be halved to $50 and means tested. First Lap swim vouchers will also be halved in value, but the program has been extended for a year and will be available for all children....
Petition to save regional seniors travel card
MEMBER for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall last week officially launched a community petition to fight to save the NSW Regional Seniors Travel Card from being axed in the State Government’s upcoming September Budget, with a large group of loc...
Black Mountain at Storytime
On Wednesday, 24th May 2023 the K-2 students travelled to Guyra Library to participate in National Simultaneous Storytime for 2023. This is an annual nationwide reading event organised by the Australian Library and Information Association. The story ...
Bald Blair PAWs Up Visit
The students at Bald Blair Public School have been enjoying fortnightly visits from the Back Track Paws Up team. This is a fantastic program that gives students the opportunity to build resilience and improve their wellbeing. Students do an emotional...
Karate and Punctuation at St Marys
Kindergarten students from St Mary’s have been working hard learning about punctuation. Putting their learning into practice, the students did a presentation at last week’s assembly illustrating their knowledge through the movement of kar...
Guyra Men’s Shed Yard Sale
The Guyra Men’s Shed will be holding a Yard Sale in conjunction with the official opening of the new extensions by Mr Adam Marshall on Saturday July 22nd.A free Barbeque will also be available. Inspections of furniture, electrical equipment wil...
2023 Lions Club changeover
The Lions Club of Guyra held their annual changeover on the weekend. President Jim Betts, who will continue in the role for a further twelve months, reflected on a successful year for the club in his annual report.Despite being low on numbers, the cl...
Women in leadership program recognised
Armidale Regional Council (ARC) has been recognised with a NSW Local Government Excellence Award nomination for its Women in Leadership Program. Council’s general manager James Roncon established the program after he commenced in 2021 and soon ...
CWA gather in Guyra
Members of the Country Women’s Association from across the Northern Tablelands gathered in Guyra recently to share skills and learn new ones. The Guyra Branch hosted visitors from across the Northern Tablelands, as well as their own members, at...
Region is about to change whether we like it or not
Armidale Regional Council mayor Sam Coupland believes that the release of documents by EnergyCo related to the first phase of the New England Renewable Energy Zone (NE REZ) signals the start of significant change for this region. He says that these c...
Pharmacist speaks out against 60-day dispensing plan
Guyra pharmacist Vu Nguyen has joined a vocal group of pharmacies around the country speaking out against the Federal Government’s plan to allow Australians to buy two months’ worth of medicine for the price of a single prescription.Plans...
Ron Vickress, still volunteering at ninety-seven
After serving in the navy in World War II and working as a teacher for more than three decades, 97- year-old Ron Vickress still derives immense satisfaction from volunteering. Ron, who turns 98 in June, is the oldest Crown land manager volunteer in N...
Uncapped Skymuster Broadband available after successful trial
Rural residents unable to access fibre NBN can now order uncapped satellite broadband services, following a successful trial of NBN Co’s new Sky Muster Plus product to boost internet speeds in rural areas.The new Sky Muster Plus Premium service...
Thunderbolt’s Cave is worth a visit
Are you looking for an adventure close to home? If you haven’t visited Thunderbolt’s Cave, it is relatively easy to access and young kids in particular are fascinated to walk in the footsteps of the notorious bushranger. As part of her wo...
Learning opportunity for youth in sheep industry
At Guyra Rotary’s fortnightly dinner meeting on Tuesday, May 23rd, Ellie Mitchell, and Brooke Grills gave a presentation on their experience at Rotary Youth in Agriculture (RYAG) SheepRYAG Sheep is an initiative of Rotary, and was hosted by the...
Reconciliation Week Celebrations at Black Mountain Public School
On Wednesday, May 31st 2023 we celebrated Reconciliation Week at Black Mountain Public School. We started the day with a Smoking Ceremony. The students planted a Callistemon in our Reconciliation Garden. This was followed by the judging of our colour...
Community Choices $250k funding pool now open
Essential Energy’s fifth Community Choices Program has opened for nominations, with community groups encouraged to nominate their chance to win part of a $250k funding pool. Essential Energy Community Relations Manager, Bronya Pressler, said Es...
Ingrid in Mexico - May update
I believe this has been my biggest month yet and I set off on my biggest adventure since arrival, travelling to Puerto Vallarta.My ‘roommate’ was Ink, a girl from Thailand. Everyone else arrived and got ready. Then began the chaos of 40 i...
Ron, still volunteering at ninety-seven
After serving in the navy in World War II and working as a teacher for more than three decades, 97- year-old Ron Vickress still derives immense satisfaction from volunteering. Ron, who turns 98 in June, is the oldest Crown land manager volunteer in N...
Seniors Mystery Outing
After an interruption of three years, caused by the pandemic the Lions Club of Guyra took 23 senior citizens on a mystery bus trip. They were accompanied by four Lions members, their wives and partners. Also onboard as our first aid officer was Wayne...
Lets Kick Cancer Charity Soccer Day
Our final amount raised was $6320.00 which was proudly presented to Guyra Can Assist at the May meeting , which is a great tribute to the wonderful community we live Guyra A small town with a big heart !Many thanks must go to the many people that mad...
National Simultaneous Storytime at the Guyra Library
It was a wonderful celebration of National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) 2023 on Wednesday May 24th in Guyra. Two million children across Australia shared the picture book ‘The Speedy Sloth’ at 11am. Guyra’s Library Engagement & ...
Monthly Tingha Markets back this weekend
Following a successful first event the Tingha monthly markets will run again this weekend.Tingha Monthly Markets are being held this Saturday June 3rd starting at 9am until 1pm.Organised by Tingha Connect, the monthly markets are being held in Ruby S...
New Rescue Vehicle for Guyra VRA
VRA Rescue NSW have received nine new specialist rescue vehicles worth over $2.75 million. The official handover took place on Saturday, May 27th in Dubbo. The new specialist vehicles will enhance the safety of the highly skilled rescue specialists, ...
High Tea Autumn Ball a hit with Seniors
Guyra Home Support Services (HSS) hosted a fun filled event for seniors at the Guyra Bowling Club on May 16th. The Seniors High Tea Autumn Ball attracted around 90 people who shared some great food, social interaction, and entertainment.The day was o...
Guyra man released on bond for child abuse offences
A Guyra man has been released on a bond for child abuse offences. Wayne Michael Annetts was handed his sentence last week in Tamworth District Court by Judge Andrew Coleman for possessing and accessing the child exploitation material.The Australian F...
St Marys celebrate Catholic Schools Week
St Mary of the Angels are delighted to share the wonderful celebration of Catholic Schools Week Mass that took place at St. Joseph’s and Mary’s Cathedral on Thursday, May 25th. This special event brought together students, teachers, and f...
GRIP Student Leadership Conference
On Monday May 15th, the senior class from Black Mountain Public School had the opportunity to participate in the GRIP Leadership program in Armidale. The theme this year was ‘We Lead Everybody’. Students took part in activities which high...
CWA member goes global
Guyra Evening CWA made history last week, being represented for the first time at the 30th tri- annual Associated Country Women of the World Conference in Kuala Lumper. Member Mary Hollingworth had the incredible opportunity of joining 460 women from...
Regional NSW “doing the heavy lifting” as goverments push for energy reform
The Country Mayors Association of NSW (CMA) is calling for State and Federal governments to ease the burden on Regional communities by implementing actions that will see a swift increase in the installations of rooftop solar in the greater Sydney met...
Minister readies NE region for transmission consultation
NSW Minister for Energy Penny Sharpe last week announced that consultation will soon begin on the corridor identifying possible placements for the transmission lines that will carry power from the New England Renewable Energy Zone to the Upper Hunter...
ABRI Chief steps down after 30 years
After 30 years of extraordinary service to the Agricultural Business Research Institute (ABRI) and the wider international beef industry, our Chief Operating Officer, and Manager of the International Beef Recording Scheme (IBRS), Steve Skinner has de...
Entertainment for Senior’s High Tea
On Tuesday the 16th May, students from St Mary of the Angels K-6 attended The Guyra Autumn Senior's High Tea at the Guyra Bowling Club. The students were invited to be a part of this event and perform a dance routine for the guests along with other l...
Northern Schools Prime Lamb Competition
Guyra Central School (GCS) hosted the Annual Northern Schools Prime Lamb Competition at the Guyra Showgrounds on the 17th-19th May. Eleven schools, 260 students and 97 lambs competed in this excellent event. The lambs were judged on the hoof by Andre...
Bald Blair take part in Annual Sports Day
Last Friday, students from Bald Blair Public School attended the annual Finlayson’s Sports Day held at Chandler Public School. All students competed in the school march and track and field events, earning points for our school. The sportsmanshi...
Diocesan Cross Country Trials
On Friday the 19th of May 29 students from St Mary of the Angels Guyra travelled to Barraba to compete in the Armidale Diocesan Cross Country Trials. All students put in their best efforts and we are proud to see Hugo S, Flynn Mc, Scarlett N, Isabell...
Guyra duo shine at NSW Shearing and Wool Handling State Finals
A strong contingent represented Guyra at the State Shearing and Wool Handling Finals, which were held in Dubbo over the weekend. They were amongst sixty-six competitive shearers and wool handlers who were competing for a place at the National Titles....
Ambulance targeted by rock throwers
New England Police District are seeking assistance from the community for an incident at 9pm on Wednesday 17th May 2023, in the vicinity of the New England Hwy (Malpas St) and Tenterden St Guyra. An NSW Ambulance was travelling through the area with ...
Retirement for ABRI Chief
After 30 years of extraordinary service to the Agricultural Business Research Institute (ABRI) and the wider international beef industry, our Chief Operating Officer, and Manager of the International Beef Recording Scheme (IBRS), Steve Skinner has de...
Centenary Celebrations at Bald Blair
It might have been three years late; however, many old friends were reunited at the Bald Blair Public School Centenary Morning Tea Celebration over the weekend. More than 100 former students, staff and community members gathered with the current stud...
Proud to be part of the Shadow Ministry
Guyra based MLC Aileen MacDonald OAM said she is honoured to have been appointed to the role of Shadow Minister for Youth Justice and proud to be part of the team led by Oppostion Leader Mark Speakman.Aileen believes that her previous role working wi...
Guyra represented at CWA State Conference
Guyra Evening CWA was represented at the recent CWA State conference in Bathurst. Christine Gellie and Mary Hollingworth were part of the CWA State Land Cookery Committee, which celebrated record entries and a magnificent competition, while Daria Had...
New permanent off-leash dog park for Guyra
Armidale Regional Council (ARC) is now in the early design stages of a leash-free dog area in South Guyra Park, approved by Council at the May meeting, with some works scheduled to commence before the end of June. Mayor of ARC Sam Coupland said Counc...
Mother’s Day Pamper Afternoon
On Thursday, 11th May 2023 Black Mountain Public School welcomed our Mums for a Mother’s Day Pamper afternoon, to show them how much they are appreciated. Our mothers enjoyed a delicious afternoon tea and a pamper session with the children pain...
Meet Lillianna, the new Gazette team member
Hello, I’m Lillianna Eddy and right now I’m doing a weekly work placement at the Guyra Gazette and learning how the Gazette is made. I am in the Big Picture Program at Guyra Central School where I control what I’m working on and lea...
Growing careers at Costa Tomatoes
Three new apprentices have joined the Costa Tomato operations in Guyra. Neil Ashman, Andrew Pearson and Marty Ryan all come from the Guyra region and have started boilermaking apprenticeships. Neil, Andrew and Marty, will be attending TAFE in Armidal...
An epic two-day line-up for Big Chill Festival
The Big Chill Festival is back in 2023 with an incredible line-up of talent, food, and culture. Thanks to funding secured under the Australian Government’s Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants Program, this year’s festival promises to be...
Flexing Farmers program to run in June
Following on from the success of ‘Pilates For Falls Prevention’, Jess Ahern from Peace out Pilates is turning the focus to farmers. Sharing the common bond of striving toward a better healthier life, the ‘Flexing Farmers’ prog...
Applications open for Community Small Grants
Community groups or organisations in the Armidale region are invited to submit applications for Council’s Community Small Grants program. Applications are now open and offer the opportunity for financial assistance of up to $3000. The grants pr...
Aileen MacDonald named in NSW shadow ministry
NSW Liberal Leader Mark Speakman and NSW Nationals Leader Dugald Saunders this week announced the full shadow ministry. The shadow ministry will include experienced MPs alongside new faces, including Guyra based MLC Aileen MacDonald who has been name...
Home ground upgrades for Tingha Tigers
The Tingha Tigers Rugby League Football Club has received a $167,697 State Government Grant for to undertake upgrades to their home ground at the end of this season. The grant was secured under the last round of the NSW Stronger Country Communities F...
Black Mountain Public School Thalgarrah Excursion
Black Mountain Public School joined the other Snow Gums schools on Thursday, 27th April 2023 at Thalgarrah Environmental Education Centre.The K-2 students learnt about rain fish and how they are created when we throw our litter on the ground. They al...
Workshops to help youngsters ‘bounce back’
Specialised workshops for students who are 12-25 years of age will be delivered by the Australian Leadership and Communication Training organisation, thanks to a $46,500 State Government grant.The workshops would be hosted by expert presenters in the...
Resilient Pasture Landscapes update
The season has changed, and the New England has experienced its first dry summer after three years of La Nina. For farmer participants involved in the Drought Resilient Pasture Landscapes project, navigating this change has been supported by new skil...
Youth week celebrations in Guyra
Armidale Regional Council hosted free activities in Guyra for this year’s Youth Week. Youth in the Armidale region were invited to share their views with Council through a survey and in person at a morning tea with the mayor and councillors. Ar...
Take advantage of your Vouchers before 30 June
Local parents are reminded to take advantage of the hugely popular Active Kids and Creative Kids Vouchers, made available by the NSW Government. This year’s $100 vouchers were released in January and local families have until Friday 30 June to ...
Wagyu Association honours Lock Rogers
Guyra grazier Lock Rogers has been inducted into the Australian Wagyu Hall of Fame, in recognition of his contribution to the breed. He received the honour at the Australian Wagyu Association annual conference which was held in Sydney on April 21st t...
Splendid autumn day for Open Garden
Guyra was looking splendid last Saturday when Di Crossing generously opened her beautiful garden at the Old Manse to raise funds for the Guyra and Community Progress Association. The maples, Chinese pistacias, golden ash and elms shone with red...
Centenary “Reveal, Seal and Launch”
Bald Blair Public School’s Centenary Celebrations Committee will be hosting the “Reveal, Seal and Launch” Morning Tea at the school grounds on Saturday, 13 May, 2023. This event is to celebrate and showcase the completion of the sch...
St Marys Cross Country champions
St Mary of the Angels School held their annual Cross Country event on Thursday April 27th. Student participation was brilliant! Congratulations to the following students:5 Years Boy Champion William Neill, Runner Up Axel Lockyer, 6 Years Boy Champion...
Black Mountain Easter Hat Parade
I hope everyone had a restful and relaxing Easter Holidays. With great excitement, we welcomed back our students and new students to another busy school term. At the end of last term, we held Easter activities including an Easter egg hunt...
Creating pathways for aspiring teachers
The University of New England, in collaboration with Creating Chances, has been awarded a $410,222 State Government grant for a new program designed to support Years 9-11 students’ employment pathways. The program will pilot the Growing Great T...
Cut the cost of living not the New England Budget
Federal Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said this week that the Albanese Labor Government must not strip any more nation-building road, rail, and infrastructure funding in its May Budget for Regional Australia and the New England.Mr Joyce said...
Crowds turn out for Anzac Day
It was a chilly start, but the rain stayed away for the duration of the Anzac Day dawn service in Guyra with around 200 people gathering at the Soldiers Memorial Hall. Commemorations also included a 9am service at the Guyra MPS and the mid-morning ma...
10th Anniversary for Tour de Rocks
The 10th anniversary of the Tour de Rocks saw 345 bike riders head out of Armidale last Thursday. In previous years, the ride has taken the riders from the tablelands to the coast ending in South West Rocks. With the closure of the Kempsey Rd, the To...
Guyra’s grand fleece the supreme of show
GUYRA’S Moray Pastoral Co has been awarded the David Merriman Hodgkinson Memorial Annual Trophy for grand champion Merino fleece at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.The 16.8-micron fleece was from the housed or rugged Merino ram fleece class, where...
Establishment of Leash-Free Areas in Guyra
Armidale Regional Council is expected to endorse a proposal at its April meeting that will see a leash free area established in Guyra for use by dog owners. A report to the meeting, which is scheduled for Wednesday April 26th, recommends council go a...
Thank You Guyra
On behalf of the Guyra RSL sub-Branch, I thank the people of Guyra and district for their attendance and participation in the ANZAC Day services on Tuesday and particularly for their generous donations to support the work of the Guyra RSL sub-Branch ...
Be wary of bitumen bandits scam
New England Police District are urging local residents to remain wary of the bitumen (asphalt) scam. The fraudsters, known as Bitumen Bandits, offer to lay bitumen at what appears to be a great deal however, if a deposit is made, they often don&rsquo...
The Sustainable House Tour 2023
Are you looking for ideas to save energy at home, create beautiful spaces to live in, adapt or extend your present house or just to meet other locals and see how they’ve incorporated sustainable ideas into their house or renovation?Sustainable ...
Youngsters at the Sydney Show
Guyra Polocrosse Club player Alby McKemey competed in youth polocrosse at Sydney Royal Easter Show last weekend with great success. Eleven-year-old Alby is a regular competitor for Guyra, and was chosen to play in the sub junior competition for 12 ye...
Skateboarders learn new tricks
A fantastic and chilly day of skateboarding tuition was held on Easter Monday at Guyra’s Skatepark. Thirty children from Guyra and Armidale attended the workshop conducted by Nixon, Sean and Ethan from Totem Skateboarding. As well as skateboard...
ANZAC Day services in Guyra & Ben Lomond
GuyraOn Tuesday, April 25th, the Guyra RSL sub-Branch will hold services to commemorate ANZAC Day:5.45am – Dawn Service, followed by a light breakfast at the Soldiers’ Memorial Hall.9.00am – Service at the MPS10.00am – Form up...
Security upgrade for Tingha Club
Tingha Sports & Recreation Club is set to have its security and lighting systems beefed up after receiving $10,062 in State Government funding. The money was secured under the NSW Crown Reserves Improvement Fund and would help with the cost of in...
Old school building on the move
A part of Guyra’s history was loaded on to the back of a truck on Tuesday, ready to make a road trip to its new resting place. The old Guyra Central School building, located at the back of the Guyra Council Chambers. was sold as part of a resol...
Bush fire management survey open now
Fire agencies and land managers are developing a Bush Fire Risk Management Plan for the New England Bush Fire Management Committee (BFMC) area, which includes the Armidale, Uralla and Walcha council areas. The community is invited to participate in t...
White Rock Wind Farm Community Grant Fund Applications open
White Rock Wind Farm (WRWF) is seeking written applications from local community groups and organisations within 50 km of the wind farm that would like to apply for grants from the Community Fund. A total of $197,996 is available for projects across ...
Ingrid in Mexico - birthdays, holidays and cliff diving
My March Report I really don’t think the months are getting any quieter. March brought three birthday parties. March 5th was Karin’s dad’s birthday, they celebrated with a big party at the Fotomecanica in Toluca. The second bir...
Tingha markets
Tingha will soon have its own monthly markets on the first Saturday of the month starting in May. Tingha Connect is launching the monthly markets, which will include yummy homemade goodies, books, garden art, antiques, artwork and more. Tingha Connec...
Caspers kick a goal for charity
Soccer players from across the generations came together in Guyra last weekend for some friendly rivalry and to support a good cause. Past, present and future players competed against each other all in the name of kicking cancer. There were also plen...
Saturday Swaps at Guyra Community Garden
Have you been to the Guyra Community Garden at the Neighbourhood Centre on one of the Produce Swap and Sell days? Running from 9am to 12pm on the first Saturday of the month, it’s a lovely chance to see what other locals have growing in their g...
Youth Week - ‘Connect, Participate and Celebrate’
Armidale Regional Council is hosting free activities in Armidale and Guyra for this year’s Youth Week from 20 to 29 April and welcome all young people in the community to be part of the celebrations.Youth in the Armidale region will also be inv...
Tour de Rocks riders prepare to take off
Guyra cyclists are preparing for one of their biggest events of the year. They will take part in the annual Tour de Rocks ride, raising money for cancer research.The event began in 2010, when Jonathon Wheeler organised the ride as part of his Gold Du...
Black Mountain Public School Final Assembly Term 1
Black Mountain Public School Final Assembly Term 1 On Thursday, 23rd March 2023, the students at Black Mountain Public School travelled to Bald Blair Public School to compete in the Snow Gums Small Schools Cross Country. The weather was great. Cong...
Polocrosse Carnival a great success
After a lot of rain and much deliberation, it was decided to run the 2023 Guyra Polocrosse carnival. Although the track in was a little wet, the playing fields were perfect as the Guyra club hosted 20 teams over a glorious sunny Autumn weekend. Playe...
Dinner honours community service
Guyra’s once-annual Community Service Organisations dinner was re-established by the Rotary Club of Guyra who hosted the event at the Bowling Club last Tuesday, 28th March. The dinner was attended by 70 members from a variety of Guyra’s s...
Design work to begin for New England Rail Trail
The New England Rail Trail (NERT) is a step closer to reality following a decision taken at the March meeting of Glen Innes Severn Council (GISC).Glen Innes councillors voted to progress the lease arrangements and commence the design process for the ...
Guyra Central to host Hoof and Hook Competition in 2023
Each year Guyra Central School farm participates in several livestock shows to provide students with opportunities to learn livestock handling skills. This year, they are hosting the Regional Northern Schools Prime Lamb, Hoof and Hook Competition in ...
SRC raise funds for McLean Care Kolora
Last year secondary SRC students at Guyra Central School held a pancake breakfast to raise money for Kolora residents at McLean Care in Guyra. The students raised a total of $150. School captains Harris Dullaway and Nioka Levy were very proud to pres...
‘Art on the move’ to splash paint across the region
Schoools across the Northern Tablelands are set to be painted red with the New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM) delivering outreach art programs under the former State Government’s Children and Young People Wellbeing Recovery initiative.Memb...
Brian Irving Memorial garden opened
Harmony Day at Guyra Central School was marked with the opening of a commemorative garden, the unveiling of new murals in the primary quadrangle and a whole school assembly on Tuesday.The day began with the opening of a commemorative garden which is ...
New and improved look for primary quad
A new and improved look for the primary quadrangle at Guyra Central School was officially launched this week. The design for the quad was the work of primary students at the school, supported by teacher, Ms. Meagan Vidler. The new look includes a ser...
Progress Association talks housing with Costa
Costa Tomato Exchange and Jobs Australia representatives met with the Guyra Progress Association last week to discuss a number of topics including housing. In November last year, Costa and Jobs Australia hosted community drop-in sessions to gauge com...
Marshall returned for fourth term
Adam Marshall has claimed his fourth straight election win in the Northern Tablelands, receiving around 70% of first preference votes and defeating Labor’s Yvonne Langenburg by 83% to 17% of the vote on a two party preferred basis.Mr Marshall w...
Polocrosse carnival this weekend
The Guyra Polocrosse Club will host its annual carnival this weekend at the Richard White Memorial Polocrosse Fields at Bald Blair. The club is hoping to draw many teams from NSW and QLD, as the 2023 is kicking off. The carnival kicks off on Sunday A...
Water security: what matters to you?
A survey seeking views from all residents in the Armidale local government area has been launched by Sustainable Water Futures Armidale Region, a community group within Sustainable Living Armidale.Kate Boyd, Convenor of Sustainable Water Futures Armi...
Keys to the City awarded to architect Tony Deakin
Mr Antony ‘Tony’ Deakin OAM, former Armidale mayor and architect, has been granted the Keys to the City by Armidale Regional Council, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the community.Armidale Regional Council Mayor, Sam Cou...
New design revealed
A new Guyra Billboard has been unveiled on the southern side of Guyra. The redesigned billboard was an initiative of the Guyra and Community Progress Association. They put a call out to the community to submit photos, and the winning entry was submit...
Bursting to be part of the community
Burst Control is a new mobile business servicing Guyra and surrounds. Behind this new business are the dynamic duo of Garren Beattie and Jen Petitt. Burst control offers mobile, onsite hydraulic and industrial hose installation and repairs. If you ha...
2023 Guyra Lamb Show & Sale
The 2023 New England Livestock Agents Guyra Lamb Show and Sale was held at the Guyra Saleyards on Wednesday March 15th, in conjunction with an overall Sheep and Lamb Sale yarding of around 8,900 head. This year’s entrants were judged on pens of...
Candidates in Guyra for pre-election forum
Five candidates running in next Saturday’s election were in Guyra on Saturday night.The Save and Grow Guyra group, organised a Northern Tablelands candidates which was held at the Guyra Bowling and Recreation Club. The event, organised by the S...
$170,959 for ammenities at Malpas Dam
THE Malpas Dam Aquatic Association ( has received $170,959 from the State Government for the improvement of amenities at the dam, including new toilets, showers and a shelter to protect boats,.Member for Northern Tablelands said that the NSW Stronger...
Black Mountain Taronga Zoomobile Visit and Go Mad Leadership Program
On Tuesday, 7th March 2023 the students at Black Mountain Public School enjoyed a visit from the Taronga Zoomobile. Students met some of our country’s most stunning wildlife and interacted with the animals. Everyone discussed the importance in ...
Another big month in Mexico for Ingrid
This month I met Lizzy, began regular school, watched my first ‘football’ game, participated in two Rotary events, met some good people at the gym, tried so much food and had a lot of fun. Lizzy is the 22 year old German girl that was pre...
High tech lids to maximise space at Landfill
Armidale Regional Council has taken delivery of new landfill lids which will create efficiencies through the use of contemporary technology to maximise the amount of air space at the Armidale Regional Landfill site (on Waterfall Way) by at least ten ...
Ladies frock up for Women’s Day
International Women’s Day was celebrated in style with the CWA Guyra Evening Branch hosting a cocktail party at the Guyra War Memorial Hall last Friday night. Over 80 ladies were in attendance for the evening and enjoyed drinks and canapes on a...
Share the Dignity this March
Share the Dignity is worried about meeting the demand of period products for their bi-annual Dignity Drive as the cost of living sees an increase in “The Working Poor”.The rising cost of living has seen an influx of people reaching out to...
Falls prevention workshop
Guyra residents are being invited to attend a Pilates workshop aimed at helping in the prevention of falls. In the workshop you will be educated on how to safely move and be taught exercise for strength, balance and stability. Workshop organiser...
Guyra War Memorial Hall Land Manager
The Guyra Soldiers’ Memorial Hall is managed by a group of Guyra people appointed by the NSW Government to oversee and protect this significant Crown Land War Memorial. Guyra War Memorial Hall Land Manager was previously called a Crown Tr...
Apiarist Industry Visit
On the 9th of March Guyra Central School’s Year 8 Technology class travelled to Michael and Allison Colvin’s property “High Meadow” to learn all about keeping bees and harvesting honey. Students were actively engaged with fram...
New owners for Guyra glasshouse
Guyra’s largest employer, the Costa Group has welcomed the news their 20-hectare tomato glasshouse facility in Elm Street has been purchased for $80m by a property investment fund.Property funds house Centuria Capital has purchased the glasshou...
The World’s Longest Torch Relay visits Tingha
A team of runners from around the world – ranging from elite athletes to Sunday joggers – arrived in Tingha on Saturday March 3rd.The torch of peace left Brisbane on February 28 and is being carried right into Canberra. The Sri Chinmoy On...
Bridge to go from Timber to Concrete
The dilapidated timber Kaurala Bridge (known commonly as Karoola) will be replaced with a new modern concrete structure as a result of a $1.5 million State Government funding injection.The grant, from the NSW Fixing Country Bridges program, will allo...
Farmers reject proposed SRV
The Guyra Branch of the NSW Farmers have unanimously rejected Armidale Regional Council’s proposed Special Rate Variation (SRV). ARC have applied to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) for an average 50% rat...
Guyra Show - Shearing results
We had a very good roll up of shearers this year, Friday night we had 33 shearers and Saturday we had 42 shearers. Friday night we held the speed shear with the following results:Intermediate:1st Jack Hillier (Glen Innes) 35.48 sec, 2nd Clay Bonnici ...
Guyra Show - Woodchopping
This year our event was again well represented with axemen and women from Willowtree, Gilgandra, Kempsey, Grafton, Glen Innes and Nundle as well as our local representatives. All competitors had a great day and enjoyed displaying their sport to the c...
Costa awards funding to community groups
A total of 19 community organisations, sporting groups and schools will receive funding through the Costa Tomato Exchange Well Grown Community Grants Program for 2023.State Manager NSW Scot MacDonald said there were more than 40 applications for fund...
Black Mountain First Assembly
On Friday, 24th February 2023, we held our first assembly for Term 1, 2023 at Black Mountain Public School. The students received Principal’s Awards and Class Awards. Congratulations to our awardees.The 3-6 band students and K-2 choir presented...
Boost for Mental Health Services
IN a major boost for mental health support and services in the region, 10 new crisis supporters will be trained and based in Armidale, answering calls to the 13 11 14 Lifeline Crisis Support telephone line. A State Government grant of $160,000 for th...
Town features in regional magazine
Guyra has featured in the autumn edition of the Regional Lifestyle magazine. The magazine has devoted 28 pages of coverage to Guyra buisnesses, producers and identities. It is part of a broader feature encompassing the Armidale region.Regional Lifest...
$23,013 to turn Tenterden Hall’s white ants into dead ants
THE army of white ants which has laid siege to the almost century-old Tenterden Hall will soon be eliminated and the damage caused repaired thanks to a State Government grant of $23,013 for essential upgrades and building works.The grant, provided un...
Guyra’s inspiring Young Woman
Jasmin Ramage represented Guyra in the Zone 4 final of the The Land Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Women Competition at Walcha on the weekend. The previous weekend she was sashed as Guyra’s representative in the competition and was front and ce...
Diocesan Swimming Carnival
On Friday the 24th of February, Darcie Campbell, Charlotte Bavea, Christopher Welsh, Fergus Rosser, Hugo Sisson, Darcy Sisson and Flynn McFarlane travelled to Gunnedah to represent St Mary of the Angels at the Diocesan Swimming Carnival.These st...
Black Mountain Public School Show Entries
The students and teachers were busy last week preparing their entries for the Guyra Show. The theme this year was “City/Country Animals”. Congratulations to Dustin Turnham, Year 2 who received first prize for his artwork, the White Crowne...
$3000 windfall for Junior Spuds
New playing strips are top of the list for the Guyra “Spuds” Junior Rugby League Club, after its success in the #GreaterNewEngland Community Funding Program. The Guyra “Spuds” Junior Rugby League Club&...
Sun shines on Show
The official opening of the 115th Guyra Show was a chance to acknowledge people in the community who have made significant contributions to the running of the Show over many years. Frank White was presented with his Life Membership badge by Show cham...
Progress Association lands cash for local projects
The Guyra & Community Progress Association has snared a $157,765 cash-splash to bring more life and activity to the community, with a range of new arts projects and initiatives to be undertaken.The grant, which was secured under the Stronger Coun...
Extended power outage as damaged poles give way
Essential Energy crews responded quickly to an unplanned power outage that affected Guyra and surrounds on Saturday afternoon. Electricity network protection equipment operated automatically after detecting a fault, switching power off to 1,981 homes...
Black Mountain Public School After School Activities Program
Our after-school activities program is once again well supported this term. The students are enjoying tennis on Mondays, hockey on Tuesdays, and on Wednesdays bootcamp and boxing sessions. All these sessions are being delivered by qualified coaches. ...
Labor announces candidate for March poll
A former registered nurse, and candidate for the federal seat of New England in the 2019 election, has been endorsed as Labor’s candidate for the state seat of Northern Tablelands at the upcoming March poll. Yvonne Langenberg currently run...
GP single employer model approved for region
JUST days after a large community crisis meeting in Armidale about the deleterious state of the primary health care (GP) workforce in the region, Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall has announced a major shot-in-the-arm to help turnaround th...
St Mary’s swimming champions
St Mary of the Angels held their annual swimming carnival on Thursday February 9th. The participation from the students was fabulous, all students were willing to have a go and enjoyed the day immensely. Thank you to all of the staff and parent volun...
Lions Youth of the Year
On Saturday afternoon of the 18th February, the Lions Club of Armidale Dumaresq hosted the combined Zone final of the Lions Clubs Youth of the Year contest at the Armidale Bowling Club.The Lions Club of Guyra’s contestant, Dante Lloyd of the Gu...
A year in Mexico for Ingrid
In January, the Rotary Club of Guyra farewelled Ingrid Chilcott-Geere on the adventure of a lifetime. Ingrid will spend this year in Mexico as a Rotary Youth Exchange Student living in the Mexican community and attending a local school. Over the next...
Redevelopment underway at Dumaresq Dam
Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall and Armidale Regional Council Mayor Sam Coupland have turned the first ceremonial sods of soil to formally commence construction work of the $3.9 million Dumaresq Dam Recreation Area redevelopment.Dumaresq Dam wil...
Black Mountain Swimming Champions
On Tuesday, 7th February 2023 students from Black Mountain Public School travelled to the Guyra Pool to compete in the Small Schools Swimming Carnival. They enjoyed the day supporting their fellow students and cheered them on as they participated in ...
“Wildlife Tails" - Little Quoll
At the present time one of the many animals I’m caring for is a special little animal called a Spotted Tailed Quoll. I’ve cared for many quolls over the past 25 years but this little guy is the first baby quoll I’ve ever had come in...
The election is coming get ready to vote
The NSW State election will be held on Saturday, March 25, and the NSW Electoral Commission is asking NSW voters to get ready to vote by enrolling to vote or checking their enrolment is up to date. NSW Electoral Commissioner John Schmidt said th...
Golden Day for Mother of Ducks
The Mother of Ducks Nature Reserve’s birthday was celebrated with some talking, walking, and twitching on the weekend. The event marked 50 years since the lagoon was gazetted into the national parks family on January 12th, 1973. The celebration...
Royal is the right pub, in the right town
The new owners of the Royal Hotel admit they have big shoes to fill, taking over what is a well-established business from local owners. Paul Edwards and Gary Parsons are looking forward to the challenge. While they officially took over less than a mo...
Sunrise comes to Costa’s tomato glasshouses
The Costa Group has teamed up with Coles for the third year in a row to support the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Foundation. To launch the program, Costa hosted Sunrise weather presenter Sam Mac, Coles Ambassador Courtney Roulston and Natasha Grogan f...
Nashos achieve coup with their book
The Armidale and District National Servicemen’s Association Sub-branch have received a major boost for the recognition of their book “NASHO, NATIONAL SERVICEMEN IN WAR AND PEACE”, after being added to the Australian War Memorial Nat...
Leading citizens honoured on Australia Day
Long-standing community leaders and volunteers have been recognised at this year’s Australia Day ceremony with Beth White honoured as Guyra’s Citizen of the Year for 2023. There was a strong field of candidates for this year’s award...
Funding puts watts on the roof for Guyra Sporting Shooters
The Guyra Sporting Shooters Association club house is about to be powered up thanks to a $11,937 State Government grant to purchase and install solar panels on the roof.Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall said Guyra Sporting Shooters Associa...
Free menstrual hygiene products for students
Public school students across the region will return to the classroom this week with access to free menstrual hygiene products, thanks to a new initiative by the State Government. More than 4,600 dispensers had also been installed in public schools a...
Celebrate our wetlands in February
The 50th anniversary of the Mother of Ducks Nature Reserve’s being gazetted will be celebrated as part of the World Wetland Day anniversary celebration.If you’re an avid birdwatcher, join this short walk around these precious upland wetla...
Revised strategic documents to be included in SRV application adopted by Council
At an Extraordinary Council Meeting on Monday 30 January, Armidale Regional Council (ARC) adopted the revised suite of documents which form part of the application to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal of NSW (IPART) for a Special Rate V...
Kayaks out exploring Malpas Dam
Pathfinders and Joeys Adventure Tours delivered free Kayaking Tours during the January school holidays at Lake Inverell and Malpas Dam. The tours were available to young people aged 12 – 18 years and were made possible through funding by the NS...
Big weekend brings festival to a close
Guyra and District Automotive Club had a very successful day on Saturday with over 120 vehicles taking part in the Show and Shine event which was held as part of the 2023 Lamb and Potato Festival. There was a huge variety of vehicles including cars, ...
Vale Brian Irving - ‘a true gentleman’
The Guyra community lost a local legend last month with the passing of Brian Irving at the age of 78. Brian is being remembered as a ‘true gentleman’ whose quiet nature and passion for art endeared him to all in the community. Brian...
Back to school vouchers
Families with school children can apply for three $50 vouchers per student to spend on uniforms, shoes, bags, textbooks and stationery as part of the Premier’s Back to School NSW Vouchers program.Every primary and secondary school student in NS...
Local craft & cooking a hit with visitors
A wonderful display of local crafts by talented local ladies was one of the highlights of the Lamb & Potato Festival. The display, showcasing needlework, knitting, crochet, sewing, hand crafted cards, hand turned pens and cooking, was held in the...
Volunteers left to clean up the mess - again
Vinnies volunteers have once again been left to clean up a mess after a large load of household and personal items were dumped outside the Guyra store. Among the load dropped off this time were three lounge suites in varying states of repair, clothin...
Keep an eye out for pinkeye in livestock
Given the continuing hot and dry conditions, Local Land Services is reminding producers to keep an eye out for the early signs pinkeye throughout summer.The bacterial infection is highly contagious in cattle, causing inflammation and sometimes ulcera...
Golden Mother of Ducks Party
Come and celebrate Mother of Ducks Nature Reserve’s 50th birthday with some talking and twitching at Guyra’s incredibly important wetlands. National Parks and Wildlife Service’s (NPWS) Acting Area Manager Trent Bull said everyone is...
Teenagers arrested after joyride to the coast
Four teenagers have been arrested after allegedly stealing a car and taking it on a joyride before police intercepted it almost 200km away.The teen boys - aged between 14 and 17 were arrested in a foot chase by police in Coffs Harbour. The Nissan X-T...
Festival back after two years
The 2023 Lamb and Potato Festival has been blessed with nice weather, with no showers to dampen anyone’s enthusiasm. After a two year hiatus due to the Covid pandemic, organisers were unsure how the festival would unfold. Any doubts were quickl...
Life membership for Julie Gittoes
Julie Gittoes was presented with life membership of the Guyra Lamb and Potato Festival committee on the opening night of the 2023 Festival. Julie’s involvement with the festival goes back 34 years, 32 of which has been as the main organiser of ...
Respect, reflect and celebrate Australia Day
The 2023 ambassador for Armidale Regional Council is Jarrod Wheatley.The Australia Day Ambassador Program, encourages links between communities across the country. Each local government area is assigned its own ambassador, a prominent person from the...
Costa Tomatoes launches Community Grants Program
The Costa Group is seeking expressions of interest from local groups for donations and sponsorship under the “Well Grown Community Grants Program.”State Manager of Vertical Farming, Scot MacDonald, said that Costas supports a wide range o...
Increased grass fire danger for New England District
The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is warning residents of an increased risk of grass fires across the New England District over the coming months as the weather warms up. NSW RFS Superintendent Paul Metcalfe said that two years of wet weather has ...
Successful opening for CWA Art Show
Around 50 guests attended the opening night of the annual Guyra Art Exhibition hosted by the CWA Guyra Evening Branch last Thursday. Guests enjoyed some wonderful CWA hospitality, meaning that no one went home hungry! Almost 70 pieces of artwork are ...