YOUNG, bright and curious minds from across the region were buzzing with excitement at the 2026 National Science and Engineering Challenge, held at The Crossing Theatre last week.
The popular annual event aims to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders and address the skills shortage in science and engineering.

Engaging hundreds of North West primary and high school students, from Gunnedah to Moree, Narrabri to Burren Junction, the three-day event offers students hands-on, competitive science and engineering activities.

Plans for a new community space in Wee Waa are beginning to take shape.

Locals, collaborating with council to design a memorial precinct paying tribute to ANZAC soldiers – in the heart of town.

The Narrabri Courier, Gunnedah Times and Wee Waa News will return on June 11, a month after publishing what many believed would be their final editions.

The three newspapers, which ceased publication on May 7, have been acquired by Times News Group and are expected to resume serving their communities in the coming weeks.

The announcement brings an abrupt end to fears that Narrabri, Gunnedah and Wee Waa could lose their local newspapers permanently.

For generations, the three mastheads have reported on everything from droughts and floods to council decisions, sporting triumphs, agricultural developments and community milestones.

Burren Junction Progress Association member and farmer Steve Gardiner is calling on Walgett Shire Council to improve the management and maintenance of the town’s well-known bore baths, warning that their condition is affecting tourism, local businesses and community wellbeing.

“Not looking after the bore is hurting our community and tourism,” Mr Gardiner said.

Burren has been described as the ‘home of the bore baths’, which play a vital role in attracting tourists to the region.

For travellers following the popular Great Artesian Drive, the Burren bore baths and campground are marked as one of the places to stop along the way. The Great Artesian Drive is a road-trip route linking artesian bathing spots across North West NSW.

The naturally heated, mineral-rich waters offer travellers a relaxing soak after a day on the road, while the peaceful rural setting and open skies make it an inviting place to stop, unwind or have a chat with other visitors.

Locals also enjoy the benefits of the bore baths after a hard day at work or for a social catch-up.

They are located three kilometres from town, just off the Kamilaroy Highway.