Rob Douglas
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Tamworth based reporter for NBN News 🎥 CSU Alumni Have a story idea? Email robert.douglas@nine.com.au
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Articles by Rob Douglas
Operation Ares tackles knife crime in Tamworth
Police have conducted a 12-hour crackdown on knife possession in Tamworth. Operation Ares allowing officers to stop and search people at random on the street.
Tamworth water polo players drop back into pool soon
The return of warm weather means Tamworth water polo players will put their caps back on for the start of the new season. From junior come and try days, to the senior men’s and women’s competitions – there’ll be plenty of action in the pool this summer.
NIAS holds multicultural identification day in Armidale
Armidale may just unearth the region’s next sporting superstar, if the Northern Inland Academy of Sport gets its way. A multicultural talent identification day was held today, with plenty of potential on show.
UNE Tamworth campus on track for 2028 opening
The dreams of Tamworth educators is coming to fruition- with the University of New England’s new campus on track for a 2028 opening. Bricks taken from Armidale and Tamworth were laid today- signifying the relationship between the cities on the project.
Coalition pitches ‘Fuel Price Shield’ to ease pressure at the pump
A North West MP says the Coalition’s pitch to ease pressure at the bowser would be a big win for families and businesses struggling through the cost of living crisis. But the Fuel Price Shield comes with a hefty price tag, and could be years away – as it’s not a policy the Albanese government supports.
T20s head to Friday nights as Tamworth cricket season nears start
There’s just over a fortnight until Tamworth first grade cricket begins – with five teams returning to battle it out on the wickets. Don Lewington has come on board as competition president, while there’s a major change to the T20 draw.
National Parks storage shed destroyed in Armidale blaze
Equipment and vehicles have been destroyed – after a blaze tore through a National Parks and Wildlife Service site in Armidale. Investigations are now underway into what sparked the fire.
Local winners named in Dorothea Mackellar awards
Students from across the country have been recognised for their poetry talents in the annual Dorothea Mackellar awards. From the nine major categories presented in Gunnedah, several will be presented to Tamworth students.
Capital of Country tennis tournament to return to Tamworth
World ranking points and big cash prizes will be up for grabs when the Capital of Country International returns to Tamworth next month. It’s the second year the tennis tournament has been held, attracting strong competitors from around the world.
Inaugural Horseball Australia Cup underway in Tamworth
The typical New South Wales and Queensland rivalry has taken an interesting turn in Tamworth this week, through an unusual sport. The Horseball Australia Cup is on the line for the first time at AELEC.
Teenager killed in fiery crash near Gunnedah
A teenager has been killed in a fiery crash near Gunnedah in the state’s North West. It shut the Oxley Highway for more than seven hours, with police now investigating what happened.
Gunnedah whiz kid Berry chasing the dream in bull riding
He’s not even in high school yet, but Gunnedah’s Chase Berry is already making strides in the world of bull riding. He joins a host of local cowboys for the Hawkesbury Invitational- with national finals in their sights.
Fiona Bell named new Peel SES Local Commander
She’s seen plenty of floods, storms and snow – Fiona Bell is a passionate State Emergency Service volunteer. And the next phase in her career has arrived- named the new Peel Local Commander.
Quirindi High students accelerated to HSC ag studies
Quirindi High School students are breaking new ground as the first in New South Wales to sit their HSC agriculture exam early. NBN News stepped onto the school farm today to see how these ambitious teens are balancing livestock care with state-level study.
Quirindi turns blue and white to welcome Bulls to the Lion’s Den
An army of volunteers is working around the clock in Quirindi to to ensure Saturday’s Central North Rugby grand final delivers something special. The Lions will be fighting for back-to-back titles – with a vengeful Moree Bulls side out to spoil the party.
Carbon reporting future discussed in Armidale
Business and environment experts met in Armidale today to talk new carbon emission reporting requirements. While they agree it has to be done, many argued it’s another burden small businesses shouldn’t have to bare.
TAS the kings of Sydney schools third grade rugby
They’re nearly 500 kilometres away, but The Armidale School has been crowned kings of the third grade Sydney schools rugby competition. The side finished the season undefeated- ten years after the trophy last headed up the New England Highway.
Confronting scenes alert young drivers of dangers on the road
Young New England, North West drivers have today been given a confronting look at what happens when things go wrong behind the wheel. A three-day expo is underway in Tamworth, in hopes of reducing a distressing road toll.
Arlo’s American dream run for ‘Aussie Drop Bears’
Arlo Bullock is one of the rising stars in Aussie baseball – and at just 12 years old, has already taken his talents overseas. He’s back in Tamworth after a stint in America – and that’s left him hungry for more.
City of Light Festival a turning point for Tamworth night time economy
Tamworth will soon be thriving after dark, through the new special entertainment precinct trial. It’s aimed at boosting the night time economy – starting with a new festival set to light up the CBD.
Tamworth Thunderbolts ‘miracle on the court’ to claim Waratah League title
Tamworth pulled off a comeback for the ages to clinch the Waratah League championship over Moss Vale at the weekend. The Thunderbolts turned around a 15-point deficit to claim their second title in three seasons.
15 new probationary officers start work in Oxley and New England PDs
15 new probationary officers start work in Oxley and New England PDs More than a dozen new faces have joined the ranks across the Oxley and New England police districts. 15 probationary constables started work this morning – many returning to their home town.
Tamworth Thunderbolts to face Moss Vale in Waratah League decider
They haven’t dropped a game all season but that’s the last thing on the minds of the Tamworth Thunderbolts. The side takes on Moss Vale in tomorrow’s Waratah League grand final – as they chase their second title in three years.
New NSW Farmers president hits the ground running one month on the job
There’s no slowing down the latest New South Wales Farmers president, who was out and about in Gunnedah this week. Moree farmer Rebecca Reardon says there’s a lot of improvements needed in the industry – starting with cash flow and new technology.
Firearms buyback scheme hangs over NSW farmers
Despite the action and fun at AgQuip, there’s a black cloud hanging over the heads of regional residents. The debate over the gun buyback scheme rages on – with both sides of politics butting heads over the controversial plan.
Tech talks, forums and Aussie made products headline AgQuip day two
It was another bumper day at Gunnedah with thousands of producers attending the second day of AgQuip. From forums to demonstrations, locals were hungry to learn how best to improve their farm’s productivity.
Big tech and global launches galore at AgQuip 2026
Boasting big tractors… drones, and everything in between – Australia’s largest field day for primary producers, is now underway in Gunnedah. Tens of thousands making the trip to Agquip – catching a glimpse of some world firsts.
Moore Creek topple Hillvue in NIPL catch-up clash
The race for the Northern Inland Premier League minor premiership is heating up, with the Mountain Goats now second on the ladder. It comes after Moore Creek’s dominant win over Hillvue, where Matthew Rushbrook secured a hat-trick.
Wee Waa Hospital hours extended as community waits for 24/7 service and doctor
It’s the town with the only hospital emergency department that closes in the afternoon… Wee Waa has been facing an uphill battle for some time, to improve services. But there’s some relief on the way, with extended hours starting in October. Frustrated locals say it’s a good start, but more needs to be done.
Tim Coates earns Service to Region business award
A Tamworth business stalwart has been recognised for his service to the region. Tim Coates has been working in the area for more than 40 years – and there’s still no signs of slowing down.
Winter Warrior tests high school students at Lake Keepit
Every skill and technique imaginable was tested for high school students at Lake Keepit today in the Winter Warrior obstacle course. From archery to bike riding, canoeing and the iconic mud run – it was a gruelling but fun challenge.
State of the State forum in Tamworth talks energy, mining and housing
Energy and housing were big talking points at the State of the State Leadership Forum in Tamworth today. Renewables and the future of mining also in the spotlight – among the most contentious issues ahead of the upcoming state election.
Swans take in final round from sidelines ahead of AFL North West finals
It’s a long wait for the Tamworth Swans to get back on the park – with a bye this weekend in AFL North West. The side now gearing up for a qualifying final with Inverell…etching another chapter in their long standing rivalry.
NSW PSSA golf titles tee off in Tamworth
More than 100 junior players have teed off in Tamworth for the P-Double S-A golf titles. They might be the some of the smallest and youngest to hold a club – but they’ve fast proven they can swing with the best of them.
Coalition takes energy election pitch to disgruntled Walcha farmers
The Coalition has taken its opposition to the New England Renewable Energy Zone, directly to Walcha – meeting with disgruntled locals today. The state leaders for the Nationals, and Liberals – also spruiked an alternative policy ahead of next year’s election – shifting the rollout to Sydney and the Far West.
Alstonville claim Regional Super League title over Moore Creek
Alstonville is the king of the Regional Super League – toppling Northern Inland Football’s Moore Creek in the final. The Mountain Goats held the lead after half time- but four unanswered goals sealed the win, and sent the trophy to the Northern Rivers.
Quick times and fast hands at Sapphire Speed Shear
There fast hands and times in Inverell over the weekend, with the annual Sapphire Speed Shear. The event raising funds and awareness for suicide prevention programs.
Ranch Horse NSW Shows draws beginners and veterans
More than 100 riders saddled up for the opening day of the Ranch Australia State Show in Tamworth today. From veterans to first timers, the show encourages competitors to mirror their skills from on the land.
The Armidale School students ready to tackle City2Surf
The Armidale School will once again boast one of the biggest groups in this weekend’s City 2 Surf. Students have been warming up for the big run in Sydney, hoping to set personal best times and enjoy new experiences.
Appeal renewed to identified mystery man in the Northern Tablelands
Police have renewed an appeal to identify a man found dead in the Northern Tablelands, 27 years ago. He was found inside a car near bushland – with no indication, who he was. *image is computer generated facial composite
Region feeling the pinch of fuel excise discount end
The flow-on effect from the end of the fuel excise discount, is already being felt across the New England, North West. That’s drawn the attention of the New South Wales Council of Social Service, now calling for relief at the pump.
NIAS superstars recognised at annual awards
The Northern Inland Academy of Sport is looking ahead to its next round of elite athlete programs. It comes after an Armidale duo took out top gongs at this year’s annual awards.
North West athletes qualify for State titles
It was a taste of the Commonwealth Games in Tamworth today, as hundreds of high school students competed in the North West athletics trials. The best of the best locked in spots for the state public schools titles in Sydney.
Smoke & Soul Project feeds homeless in Tamworth
An Adelaide man is taking feeding the homeless and vulnerable to a new level through the Smoke and Soul project. He’s spent the day preparing a feast of smoked meats in Tamworth- ready to serve up tonight.
Homeless Connect helps vulnerable people in Tamworth
Vulnerable residents were given hope today at the annual Tamworth Homeless Connect event, with access to dozens of service providers under one roof.
A close call for Armidale business as fire breaks out in workshop
Meanwhile, an Armidale business owner is thankful a fire that broke out in his workshop last night, didn’t spread to neighbouring buildings. It was back to work for Ducats staff today, as firefighters continue to determine what happened.
Talking global grains business in Narrabri
Managing overseas markets and profits was the name of the game at a grains business forum in Narrabri today. Producers were told to take advantage of global turmoil, with huge demand for exports.
North West SES staff put through paces in practice emergency exercise
There might not be any current risk to the community, but State Emergency Service crews know they may need to spring into action at any time. This week, staff are being put to the test in mock emergency exercises, so they’re ready when disaster strikes.
Moree Boars keep premiership three-peat dream alive with big win over Roosters
Moree’s push for a third-straight Group 4 premiership took another step yesterday, with a whitewash of Kootingal. While they know the job isn’t done yet, there’s belief the Boars’ past success, is within reach.
Saunders ‘Strictly Dan-cing’ and walking for cancer fundraiser
A Tamworth radio personality is trekking around Tamworth this week for the Cancer Council. Dan Saunders is raising funds ahead of the Stars of Tamworth dance competition.
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