To have such a terrific facility in Tamworth, is remarkable.

When I was a youngster and - believe it or not - a sprint champion, we had access to the best facilities in my home town of Brisbane.

But I remember the kids from country areas generally missed out on being able to access the tartan track.

Not any more. This new facility gives aspiring young athletes from our region every opportunity to make the grade and mix it with the best.

Continuing the smiles, funding for a new Dungowan Dam, the first new dam to be built in NSW in 30 years.

The $480 million dollar project was announced by Prime Minister Scott Morrison during a flying visit to the region on Sunday.

Granted it won't help with this current drought, but at least it's something for the future.

The question remains though who will own the water, while Councillor Mark Rodda is still keen for a breakdown of the water coming out of Chaffey Dam.

It's even sparked renewed calls around recycled water to supplement our local supplies.

And finally on the big announcements front, news that the new Virgin pilot training facility at the Tamworth airport has cleared its final hurdle (excuse the athletic pun, I'm just so excited).

It'll mean a massive injection into the local economy, and could not have come at a better time for our region, struggling with the current drought as we are.

HSC exams started last week. To those students undergoing their final testing period, good luck, and remember it's not the be all and end all. But it is a reflection of who you are.

And finally, I don't want to dwell on the events of the last few days too much, except to say how terribly tragic it is for the family and the community. Our hearts are breaking and words simply fail.

Fiona Ferguson

Northern Daily Leader editor