Copeton Dam has marked 50 years since its official opening. Inverell Mayor Kate Dight says the dam supports the town's domestic water supply, major industries and flood protection. She said the local economy, including the abattoir, Boss Engineering and a pet food factory, depends on the water security it provides. The dam is 54 per cent full, and the council holds a high security licence with WaterNSW, which owns the dam. Council did not plan any celebrations because it does not own the dam.
Median house prices in regional New South Wales are still higher than a year ago, despite slipping 1.2 per cent to $820,000 in the September quarter. Dungog recorded a 26.9 per cent annual rise, while Inverell and Broken Hill also climbed sharply. Investors seeking cheaper homes have driven some of the growth, but their buying has slowed after recent federal budget changes to investor taxes and high mortgage costs. Local agents in Dungog and Inverell say demand has eased recently, although buyers continue to arrive from the city.
BOSS Agriculture, based in Inverell, has won the Greater Hume Council Award for Best Australian Designed and Manufactured Agricultural Machine at the 2026 Henty Machinery Field Days. The award went to its AXIOM Metering Unit, a fully electric system for broadacre seeding that controls the delivery of seed, fertiliser and other granular products. Chief executive James Haarhoff accepted the award on September 23. The company says AXIOM is now an option on all new BOSS air carts, and it plans to expand its presence at the field days in 2027.
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BreastScreen NSW has recorded almost 390,000 breast screens in the past year, its highest 12-month total on record. The health service is encouraging women to book a mammogram during Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October. Regional New South Wales has the highest participation in the state, with 57.8 per cent of eligible women up to date. A survey found busy schedules were a common reason for delaying a screen. A screen is free, takes about 20 minutes and does not need a doctor's referral. Women aged 50 to 74 are recommended to screen every two years.
October is Small Business Month, and three North Coast businesses are being celebrated. Shiny Side Up Training in Lake Cathie offers motorcycle rider training focused on skill development beyond passing tests. Wild Rivers Distillery in Walcha produces small-batch spirits inspired by Australia's landscapes. The Aesthetic Studio in Inverell provides beauty treatments with a personal approach, emphasising client comfort and confidence.
Three small businesses in New England, NSW, are being highlighted during Small Business Month. The Aesthetic Studio Inverell offers beauty treatments and focuses on client comfort and confidence. Wild Rivers Distillery in Walcha crafts Australian spirits using native ingredients. Shiny Side Up Training in Lake Cathie provides motorcycle rider training based on Transport for NSW principles. Each business is celebrated for its unique contributions to the local community.
