But here it is a very different story and several journalists around the Northern Tablelands and North West have worked on a story ahead of the changes in the state government's roadmap to easing of restrictions.

In Armidale we hear from UNE vice chancellor Brigid Heywood about what it means for them.

After UNE put in so much time and effort into setting up walk-in vaccination hubs for Armidale, Glen Innes, Inverell and Moree, we can appreciate their frustration at the changes.

There was frustration and confusion elsewhere too, from business owners in Moree and Inverell, to the mayor of Glen Innes. They have all spoken to our journalists, Cady Biddle and Jacinta Dickins, about what it means.

While much of the metropolitan media is focused on why today will be 'freedom day' for Sydney, you can click here to read why freedom day will be a step backwards for our region.

Today I also want to pay tribute to Paul Barratt, an Armidale man who lived an impressive life.

While I never met Paul personally, I was often entertained by his Twitter account, as I'm sure were many of the thousands of people who followed it.

Paul spent 30 years in the public service in Canberra where he rose through the ranks, before returning to Armidale.

Dr Karin von Strokirch, who is an Adjunct Senior Lecturer in Politics at UNE, has written a wonderful account of Paul's life, which you can click here to read.

It is a tremendous tribute. Thank you Karin!

I hope you have a great week. Thanks for reading.

Laurie Bullock

Group Editor, Northern Tablelands & North West