Camden Haven News Of The Area 06 MARCH 2026

Luke HADFIELD 0408 461 038 luke@newsofthearea.com.au

Kim AMBROSE 0423 226 651 kim@newsofthearea.com.au

Emily GRAHAM 0403 236 898 emily@newsofthearea.com.au

Sue STEPHENSON sue@newsofthearea.com.au

Doug CONNOR 0431 487 679 doug@newsofthearea.com.au

Celebrating women in surf life saving

FROM Page 1

Activities, through to patrol captains, IRB drivers and crew, jet ski operators, ECOT members, ART-qualified lifesavers, surf sports officials, education officers, BBQ and bar volunteers and more,” the club said in a statement.

“We are especially grateful to the wives, mothers, daughters, sisters, aunties and grandmothers who support our patrolling members each season - your contribution is just as vital.

“Congratulations to our female Life Members, Patrol Captains, Age Managers, and every woman who gives their time,

skills and heart to our Club.”

One of the club’s tireless female leaders is Director of Administration Nicole Crowe, who paid tribute to the ongoing contributions of her volunteer colleagues.

"We’re a small club, and we’re proud to have had so many women involved over the years,” she said.

“We all love what we do; I started in Nippers and this is such a huge part of my life I really think I’d be lost without it.”

Surf boat crew take bronze

In a major win for the club’s female members, this season has seen the launch of a competitive women’s surf boat crew for the first time in 20 years.

Last week the crew achieved its primary goal of participation at the Surf Life Saving NSW State Championship.

Held on 27 February at Swansea Belmont SLSC, the crew of Karen Bell, Susie Bell, Mel Sanbrook, Cassie Pensini, Brooke Burgess and sweep Peter Bagnall tackled extremely challenging surf conditions to take home a bronze medal.

In a statement to social media, the club said it was “proud as punch”.

“What a year, what a crew,” it said.

“Thanks to Pete [Bagnall] for making this happen and pushing the crew out of their comfort zones.”

The Camden Haven team rowed in a boat that was originally used by Collaroy SLSC and named “Bruiser” in honour of life member Graeme Bruce.

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‘END OF AN ERA’

FROM Page 1

attracting comments ranging from resignation to surprise.

The Development Application for the new property was approved by

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council three years ago. Commanding one of the best coastal views in the area, it will sit above Wauchope Bonny Hills Surf Club adjacent to the public reserve, and will

be fully-fenced.

The BHPA was among those who opposed the DA on the basis that it did not meet the “distinct community character” agreed to in the Bonny Hills Community Plan.

Member Paul Poleweski said the latest plans show it

will feature “five bedrooms - all with ensuites - a games room, cellar, garage, pool with sunken bar, gym and boat shed, first floor library, pool room, bar, cinema, sitting room, dining room” and more. It will also span the length of five properties on Ocean

Drive that currently enjoy the same ocean view.

“Hence why some call it the Taj Mahal,” Mr Poleweski said.

As previously reported by News Of The Area, the DA was lodged by Collins W. Collins on behalf of owners J. P. and E. J. Stevens. The work will be undertaken in three stages, starting with the home and site work, followed by the pool, boat shed and gym.

Detailed designs of the property can be found on Council’s website.

Bid to save wildlife from fishing lines

By Rachael THORPE

WITH its vast array of rivers, lakes, and ocean foreshores, the Mid North Coast region is a magnet for those who love fishing; but there is a dark side to this which often goes unseen.

Nylon fishing lines take 100 years to

break down, and stainless-steel hooks take 50 years, making discarded fishing tackle a significant environmental issue.

A joint project has been launched involving Port Macquarie Hastings Council, FAWNA, and Ozfish to raise awareness of the issue and to encourage water users to be aware of the ongoing effect of line

entanglements to local wildlife.

According to FAWNA, researchers from Griffith and Charles Darwin University have identified that fishing tackle litter poses the most lethal threat of all to coastal birds of prey including Ospreys, Sea-eagles and Brahminy Kites.

Vice President of FAWNA Kym Kilpatrick

told News Of The Area, “All seabirds and wading birds, all marine animals such as turtles, dolphins, sharks, dugongs and whales can be caught in discarded nets and fishing tackle.

“And the result is almost inevitable. If they are lucky, they will have a significant injury, but more often it is a slow and painful death.

“In our rivers, platypus are also vulnerable to being caught up in discarded fishing lines and hooks - with terrible consequences.”

In the last two years the organisation has received 362 calls to assist birds that have been entangled in fishing line and hooks.

The capacity of fishhooks and line to cause severe injury to wildlife both on land and in the ocean is extreme; hooks can become embedded in skin, throats, eyes and beaks/mouths, ripping horrific wounds, causing internal injuries, slow starvation, infection, and poisoning.

The campaign includes posters and specialised fishing tackle waste bins in popular fishing locations.

For more information on the project or to volunteer contact Emma Kark at Ozfish on EmmaKark@ozfish.org.au.

Site plans released for hospital upgrade

A NEW multi-storey inpatient unit will be the centrepiece of the Port Macquarie Base Hospital upgrade, with site plans now available.

The NSW Government is investing $265 million to deliver a major redevelopment of Port Macquarie Base Hospital, representing the largest upgrade of the facility since it was built in 1994.

The release of the master plan and concept design outlines the proposed layout, including new and enhanced patient accommodation to allow for future population growth.

“The unveiling of this master plan means we are one step closer to delivering the largest upgrade since Port Macquarie Base Hospital was built,” said Minister for Health Ryan Park.

“More hospitals, more beds, lower wait times, and better patient outcomes. It’s as simple as that.”

Key features include a new four-storey inpatient unit building, an expansion of the Emergency Department, new Maternity and Neonatal units, and mechanical system upgrades across several existing hospital buildings.

According to Minister Park, the designs have been informed by extensive consultation with clinicians.

Survey works have now been completed inside the hospital and around the grounds, utilising body-worn scanning camera technology to provide precise measurements of the facilities.

Over 20 spaces and the majority of rooms were measured as part of the scanning, along with scans of the hospital exterior which were captured by a drone.

Construction timeframes for the redevelopment will be confirmed once a builder has been appointed.

Mid North Coast Local Health District Chief Executive Jill Wong said, “The expansion of the Emergency Department and delivery of modern birthing services is great news for our community and will have an impact for generations to come.

“It’s exciting to see what’s planned for our hospital and I am looking forward to watching this project progress.”

As part of the redevelopment, local Elders, Traditional Owners, NSW Health staff and the project team came together this week for a walk on Country led by Aunty Rhonda Radley.

“The walk offered time to reflect, learn and connect with the natural corridor behind the hospital, exploring the textures, colours, sounds and stories held in Country,” Mid North Coast Health said in a statement.

“Aunty Rhonda’s storytelling shared the

cultural, environmental and historical layers of the site, insights that will directly guide the design of the new hospital spaces.”

Staff, local residents and health partners are encouraged to review the proposed designs and share their feedback on the redevelopment.

A series of public information sessions will be held in March, providing an opportunity to meet the project team, ask questions and contribute to the planning process.

Sessions will be held at Settlement

City (Tuesday 10 March, 8am-12pm), Port Central Shopping Centre (Tuesday 10 March, 3-6pm), Kempsey Central Shopping Centre (Wednesday 11 March, 11am-1pm) and Outside Ritchie’s IGA Wauchope (Wednesday 11 March, 3.30pm-5.30pm). Bookings are not required.

Community members can also provide feedback by emailing HI-PortMacquarieInfraUpgrade@health. nsw.gov.au.

Medical interns arrive on the Mid North Coast

THE Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) has welcomed 25 new medical interns to hospitals across the Coffs Harbour and Hastings Macleay clinical networks. Having completed their orientation, the junior doctors are already providing care to local patients and support to the region’s health staff.

MNCLHD Chief Executive Jill Wong said, “These junior doctors will play a critical role in supporting the Mid North Coast community and I wish them the very best as they embark on this exciting next step in their careers.

“We hope that working in regional healthcare in the early stages of their careers inspires them to continue to work in rural, regional and remote areas in the future.”

Interns are medical graduates who have completed their medical degree and are required to complete a supervised year of practice in order to gain general registration.

The new doctors starting their internship will be entering a training program with networked hospitals throughout the state, providing formal and on-the-job training. They receive two-year contracts to rotate between metropolitan, regional and rural hospitals to ensure the diversity of their experience.

The interns also rotate across different specialties during the intern year, including surgery, medicine and emergency medicine.

The 25 junior doctors are part of more than 1,000 new medical interns beginning their careers in public hospitals across NSW this year.

Minister for Health Ryan Park said, “These new medical graduate interns already play an important role in helping to provide high-quality care in our public hospitals.

“We are proud to have them on our team.”

The MNCLHD also welcomed more than 40 new graduate nurses and midwives across the Mid North Coast last week, marking an important milestone in their transition into professional practice.

“Additional cohorts will join us throughout the year across our hospital, community, mental health, maternity, cancer and virtual care services,” MNCLHD said in a statement.

“This year’s group brings a diverse mix of experiences, with some joining us for the first time and others continuing their journey after working in roles across the district.

“Our educators and clinical teams will support each graduate as they build confidence, strengthen their skills and settle into their new roles.”

Suspicious bin fires in Wauchope

By Sue STEPHENSON

FIREFIGHTERS were kept on the run in Wauchope overnight Monday with three separate wheelbie bins set alight, causing damage to buildings.

A spokesperson for Fire and Rescue NSW said that just before 11.15pm, several Triple Zero (000) calls were received about a rubbish fire near the Post Office in High Street.

One truck and four firefighters from FRNSW Wauchope attended and

found the bin alight at the rear of the building.

It was extinguished, with a check of the building showing there was no internal fire or smoke damage.

As crews were at the scene, more calls came in about two other fires in wheelie bins.

One was in Oxley Lane and the other in Hastings Street.

The exterior of the Community Arts Hall in Bain Park was damaged in one of the fires.

FRNSW Wauchope was

joined by crews from Port Macquarie and the Rural Fire Service in ensuring the fires did not spread.

In total, five fire trucks and 20 firefighters had to deal with the fires.

Police also attended.

The fires are being treated as suspicious.

Crime scenes were established with the incidents handed over to police to investigate.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Mid North Coast Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

MP’s

rally cry over Wrights Rd

ONLY 60 people have officially complained about the lack of progress on the Oxley Highway bottleneck in Port Macquarie.

That’s according to MP Robert Dwyer, who is reminding residents to leave feedback via the Transport for NSW “Have Your Say” portal.

“As always, it’s the squeaky wheel that drives much needed change,” he said in a statement.

“If we can get 10,000 petition signatures in less than two weeks, I am positive

we can dramatically boost the data numbers on the website.”

Mr Dwyer said community feedback and formal submissions are key drivers of infrastructure investment decisions.

However, some argue that there are only so many ways they can point out the obvious.

“No one has time to do this over and over and have it fall on dear ears,” one person shared on social media.

“It’s been complained about for years and

submissions like this have been sought many times.”

Mr Dwyer said that over 20,000 vehicles travel the Oxley Highway each day, causing traffic congestion between Wrights Road and Lake Road.

“[It] is not just an inconvenience; it affects productivity, road safety and overall quality of life in our community.

“The Minister for Regional Roads Jenny Aitchison, has assured me that the business case has been completed and will be released in due course,

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but we all need to keep on the case.

“The more people who formally request improvements, the stronger the case becomes for funding and action.

“I strongly encourage everyone who experiences delays or safety concerns on this stretch of road to take a few minutes to have their say.”

Feedback can be provided through the Transport for NSW website at haveyoursay. nsw.gov.au/sritp/northcoast.

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Co-op has eyes on the future

By Bill HARROW

HASTINGS Co-op has celebrated its 110th anniversary during a relaunch attended by MPs Alison Penfold, Michael Kemp and Robert Dwyer, councillors, local business owners, members of the community, and senior staff.

Dubbed its “comeback tour”, the gala day in Wauchope on Saturday 21 February coincided with the

rebranding of its liquor store.

The Co-op started life as a dairy co-operative and diversified into a number of businesses.

Like many, it has not been immune to changes in market conditions and competition.

At its December AGM, new interim CEO Matthew Lumsden outlined ways of taking the Co-op forward and delivering more value to its members and the broader community.

“The Hastings Co-op has been a cornerstone of the Hastings region since 1916,” he told News Of The Area.

“I look forward to partnering with the board, members, and the wider community to strengthen and renew the Co-op’s vital role in this remarkable part of the world.”

Communication and engagement are high on his agenda along with investing in the business and

community.

There has been a rule change to ensure member details are accurate, and there are plans to bring back a simplified Active Member vote as soon as possible.

The restructure of the Coop has led to a shift in focus.

It now has two Ampol service stations, Cedar Service station in Wauchope - where last Saturday’s event was held - and one in the Port Macquarie industrial area.

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There is also the bulk fuel operation located next to Bago Tavern in Wauchope, which supplies fuel to numerous dairies, agri-businesses and other end users.

The bottle shop attached to the service station in Wauchope has been rebranded to Local Liquor and the Redspot car hire service at the Port Macquarie Airport will be retained.

On Friday, 20 February, a new business “The Red

Door on Cameron” opened in premises owned by the Coop.

Proprietor Tina Jakonsson intends to breathe life into a space that has been empty for several years.

“I just love new and preloved homeware and furniture,” she told NOTA. Tina was also excited to find original sawn floorboards under old floor coverings during the shop’s renovation.

The Co-op currently employs 35 local people and has in excess of 10,000 members.

Taking Banjo’s story across regional NSW

By Pauline CAIN

THE crew from Got Ya Back Productions weaved their way through Banjo Paterson country last week, as they began a NSW run of their theatrical production, “BANJO”.

The musical intertwines the life of Banjo Paterson through arrangements of Coldplay’s greatest hits, contemporary dance and the iconic poet’s own verse.

“This unique musical delivers an incredibly moving experience,” said former NSW Arts Minister, Ben Franklin.

From his hardships in rural Australia, his time as a writer and lawyer in Sydney, and his return to the country, BANJO follows Paterson’s story while regaling audiences with tales of Australia in the 1880s.

Early moments of this production were seen in

2018 by Port Macquarie Art Walk patrons under the fig tree on Town Green.

The production then premiered on stage at The Glasshouse in Port Macquarie in 2018, followed by regional NSW tours in 2019 and again in 2023.

Based in Port Macquarie, Got Ya Back Productions was established by Steph and Tim Maddren, who have been creating theatre and film projects on the Mid North

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Coast for the past decade.

“Right now, we’re down in the Riverina and there is so much love and respect for the show,” Tim said last week.

“It's amazing to feel so far from our home-base, yet they are grasping on to the show as if it was their own.

“Wagga Civic Centre is an almost 500-seat theatre and we will be close to selling out down here this weekend.”

BANJO hits the stage this

week in Albury, Leeton and Cowra before returning to the Mid North Coast.

“We have been making adjustments slowly over the years, and we're taking the show to better places,” Tim said.

“We're so proud of it.”

Mid North Coast audiences will have the opportunity to see the production at the Manning Entertainment Centre in Taree on 6 March, at the Jetty

Theatre

The show retains significant links to the

with Production Manager Hayley Purkis and music arranger Mat Brooker both from Port Macquarie.

Beach access for all

By Rachael THORPE

IN 2021 physiotherapist

Bec Dalzell contacted Port Macquarie Hastings Council with the idea of getting mobi matting onto beaches on the Mid North Coast.

The specially designed matting provides a flat surface to enable people using wheelchairs or scooters to access the beach.

On Friday she saw her dream come to life, as matting was rolled out at Town Beach as part of a four-week trial.

“One of the greatest assets we have in this region are our pristine beaches, and access to them should be available to all,” Mayor Adam Roberts told News Of The Area.

The aim of the trial is to see if it enables independent

and dignified access to the beach for older residents, those who use wheelchairs or mobility aids, and people pushing prams.

Ms Dalzell said she was excited to see everyone enjoy the beach.

“I hope that we can get this matting onto Flynns Beach and North Haven Beach after a successful trial here,” she told NOTA.

“In my role as a physiotherapist, I talk to a lot of people about their goals, and one of the most common responses is that they want to be able to access the beach again.”

Present at the launch were several members of Ms Dalzell’s initiative, the Enable Reference Group. It is made up of residents who have lived experience with a variety of disabilities.

The group has worked alongside Council’s Community Activation Manager Steve Bryant.

The matting was supplied by Beach Access

Australia after an open tender process and is designed to be low maintenance, durable and easy to use. It does not impact

core beach operations and lifeguards are not responsible for installation or maintenance. Council is encouraging feedback from the

Potential gun law exemptions for farmers

THE NSW Nationals have welcomed Police Minister Yasmin Catley’s statement that primary producers will be able to apply for more than ten firearms under the state’s new gun laws.

Passed in December in the wake of the Bondi terror attack, the reforms

introduced a cap limiting individuals to four firearms, with exemptions for primary producers up to ten.

Under questioning in Budget Estimates by Liberal MLC Susan Carter last week, Minister Catley was asked if farmers could apply for permission for more than

ten firearms if required for primary production purposes.

“If they have a genuine reason, as a business or other relevant category that they need one for, then they are entitled to seek an exemption,” Ms Catley stated in response.

“It is not our intention, for those people who genuinely need the firearms to go about their business, their farm, to not allow them to do that.

“If they have a genuine reason then they can seek an exemption.”

NSW Nationals Leader

Gurmesh Singh welcomed Ms Catley’s statement, in particular a clarification that business reasons and primary production reasons can be “one and the same”.

“We look forward to holding the Police Minister to her commitment,” Mr Singh said.

community on the project to allow them to assess its future.

This can be sent to community.activation@ pmhc.nsw.gov.au.

Shadow Minister for Agriculture Brendan Moylan said this was welcome news for farmers across NSW, but further evidence this was rushed policy.

“The Minns Labor Government is clearly making it up as they go,” Mr Moylan said.

Ms Catley stressed that the regulations are still being drafted through consultation.

Balance the scales

THE 2026 International Women’s Day (Sunday, 8 March) theme is “Balance the Scales”, highlighting the urgent need to ensure fair, inclusive, and accessible justice for every woman and girl.

Despite decades of progress, barriers to justice remain deeply entrenched.

One in three women worldwide will experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime – yet most will never seek formal help or justice.

Across Australia, conviction rates for sexual assault cases remain persistently low – with the latest NSW figures revealing just an 11 percent conviction rate, underscoring the immense gap between legal protections and real outcomes for survivors.

UN Women Australia CEO Simone Clarke said, “Balance the Scales is a promise for every woman and girl to be safe, heard,

and free to shape her own future.

“In 2026, unjust laws, policies, and ingrained barriers still stand in the way of fair and inclusive communities.

“This International Women’s Day, we are calling on Australians to join a movement for real action – to transform our justice systems, amplify marginalised voices, and ensure equality is not the exception, but the rule.”

First Nations women face especially complex challenges, including overrepresentation in the justice system, intergenerational trauma, and limited access to culturally safe legal support.

First Nations women are 34 times more likely to be hospitalised due to family violence than non-Indigenous women, highlighting the urgent need for community-led, self-determined pathways

that centre First Nations leadership.

Climate change and disaster displacement also disproportionately impact women and girls –especially across the Pacific – exacerbating barriers to safety, security, and rights.

UN Women projects that by 2050, climate change may push up to 158 million more women and girls into extreme poverty – 16 million more than men and boys – as climate-driven impacts continue to deepen existing gender inequalities.

Australia plays a crucial role in championing women’s leadership and ensuring climate justice is gender justice.

“True progress takes more than words,” Ms Clarke added.

“Together, we have the power to dismantle discriminatory systems, unlock transformation, and deliver justice, safety, and dignity for all women and girls.”

A rare rural masterpiece

175 Ivers Road, Kew 3 bed, 2 bath, 8 car Price guide: contact sales agent

SPANNING an extraordinary 118 acres, 175 Ivers Road is a property that marries rural serenity with modern living, set against some of the region’s most striking natural landscapes.

Nestled at the base of North Brother Mountain, the estate enjoys sweeping vistas over Watson Taylor Lake and a remarkable 695 metres of Camden Haven River frontage. Yet despite its secluded setting, the pristine beaches of North Haven are only a 15-minute drive away - a rare harmony of

country peace and coastal convenience.

The home itself is designed to capture light, space, and the surrounding scenery.

Three generous bedrooms lead into an openplan living area anchored by a contemporary gas kitchen, where storage and panoramic views go hand

in hand. Indoor living flows effortlessly outdoors to a sprawling entertaining area, where rolling pastures stretch toward the mountain horizon.

For lovers of adventure, the property offers direct river access, ideal for swimming, boating, or following the waterways all the way to the ocean.

Sustainability is a standout feature, with a full solar and battery system and a dam supplying ample water, ensuring fully off-grid living.

Practicality and versatility are also well catered for, with a three-bay barn-style shed and a second three-bay shed providing room for workshops, storage, or creative pursuits.

175 Ivers Road is more than a residence - it is a sanctuary, offering the chance to embrace both a sea change and a tree change without leaving modern comfort behind. For inspections or more information contact Gaven Whalley on 0414 424 373 at One Agency North Haven.

By Manny WOOD

Did he have capacity?

MICHAEL has been suffering from chronic schizophrenia since the 1980s and his affairs are under the control of the Trustee and Guardian.

When he passes away, his cousins stand to receive the whole of his estate, on the basis that they understand that Michael did not leave a will and that his estate would be distributed under the laws of “intestacy”.

However, it comes to light that Michael made a Will 20 years before he passed, leaving the whole of his estate to “the Socialist party”.

Michael’s cousins dispute the validity of the will, on the belief that he lacked the mental capacity at the time the will was made.

Michael’s estate is valued at $2.5 million.

The matter proceeds to a hearing in Supreme Court of New South Wales.

The evidence indicates that Michael consulted a solicitor regarding the making of his will, and although the solicitor did not retain the file, he recalls Michael stating that “I have no family, the Socialist party is my family. There is no one else”.

The will appoints an employee of the Socialist party as Michael’s executor, although at the time of the hearing, the employee’s employment had ceased.

The solicitor states that Michael spoke in a lucid manner, and that there was no reason to suspect that his affairs were under the control of the Trustee and Guardian.

When Michael returns to sign his will, he provides his solicitor with a lengthy written statement, explaining his motivations behind the making of his will.

The statement contains profanity and is difficult to follow.

Ten years after making the will, Michael writes a letter to the Protective Commissioner, asking for his will to be destroyed, stating that the solicitor was a “money grabber” and that he wants “nothing further to do with him”.

Ultimately, the Court decides that Michael’s letter to the Commissioner did not constitute a valid revocation of his will and on the basis that it was validly executed and without sufficient evidence as to Michael’s alleged incapacity at the time, declares the will valid.

Email Manny Wood, Principal Solicitor and Accredited Specialist in Wills and Estates at TB Law at manny@tblaw.net.au or call him on (02) 66 487 487. This fictional column is not legal advice.

They are our children and deserve our care

DEAR News Of The Area,

WHAT is the value of Australian citizenship?

After the disgraceful performance of Labor, the COALition and One Notion this week I am seriously starting to wonder.

There are 34 Australian citizens stuck in a squalid refugee camp in Syria made up of 11 women and 23 of their children.

Their plight has been a political football for years now since the collapse of ISIS.

The new Syrian government is wanting foreign governments to repatriate their citizens as it tries to recover from more than a decade of civil war.

This, and the previous, government expects other countries to accept their nationals when we choose to deport them.

It is hypocritical to not accept our own nationals when Syria seeks to do the same.

Whatever one might think of these women and their life choices, bear in mind that a lot of these choices were made by male relatives on their behalf.

Most, if not all, of these men are now dead.

One of these mothers was a child when she was taken to Syria.

Then there are the 23 Australian children who certainly did not “make their bed”.

They are innocent and vulnerable children.

It is not enough to describe them as “unfortunate”.

They are our children and deserve our care.

All of these Australians should be returned home to their families as soon as possible, as is their right.

If the adults have committed crimes then, yes, charge them, try them, and punish them accordingly.

They have all agreed to this stipulation.

But there is no excuse for leaving the children in such terrible circumstances.

Once again the rights of children are being abused in a sordid political game of who can be the toughest cop on the beat.

Again we are being failed by our current crop of political leaders.

Is it really too much to expect any of them to show some moral backbone?

To call out the racist dog whistling and appeal to our better natures rather than our worst fears?

To quote James Baldwin, “The children are always ours, every single one of them, all over the globe; and I am beginning to suspect that whoever is incapable of recognising this may be incapable of morality.”

Regards, Peter SOBEY, Mid North Coast.

Upgrade the North Coast railway

DEAR News Of The Area,

IMAGINE this!

Instead of spending $93 billion on a high-speed railway between Sydney and Newcastle (which will inevitably double or triple or quadruple in cost before completion), imagine that this money is invested in the North Coast railway!

The line would be duplicated so trains could run in both directions without delays.

Steep grades would be reduced with tunnelling, bridges, embankments and viaducts, allowing trains to maintain a higher speed.

Deviations would be built wherever the lines need straightening or the curves need easing, so trains could maintain a higher speed.

The lines would be electrified allowing the new regional trains to run without having to switch to their diesel engines beyond Broadmeadow.

Intersecting roads would have bridges or underpasses to maintain traffic flow and all minor roads would have state-of-the-art level

crossings.

The line would be reopened to Murwillumbah and a dedicated platform would be built at Roma Street in Brisbane.

Trains to the North Coast could depart on the hour alternating between all stations trains and limited-stop expresses. Overtaking loops would be incorporated into the system as well.

Passenger trains would be given priority over freight trains.

This major upgrade to an ancient railway track would revolutionise rail travel with passengers averaging 110km/hr or more in comfort and safety and without having to pay exorbitant fares to reach their destination.

Seniors and pensioners could still enjoy subsidised travel with the money left over from this huge injection of funding. This would be affordable infrastructure spending, boosting employment and the economy, with limited impact on other essential expenditure.

Yours, Geoff RICHARDSON, Port Macquarie

On theCouch

Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au

DEAR Jasminda,

I am doing a complete clean out of my home, but I can't decide what to keep and what to cull.

How do I make these decisions?

Claudia D.

Dear

Claudia,

I am the wrong person to ask about this. When I decide to clean my bedroom, I enter the zone of nostalgia.

Soon, I am surrounded by clothes from the 1990s, boxes of electrical cords that seem important (and yet I have no idea what they belong to), a boxed wedding dress, letters from friends, artworks that no longer suit our decor, but hold fond memories, the kids' baby teeth, orders of service from every funeral I've attended, and childhood teddy bears amongst other items.

No matter how hard I try, I'm unable to take the next step, which is to realise that these are items I will never use again, except to remove them from drawers and put them back with every spring clean.

Marie Kondo would weep over my inability to declutter.

With each item, she would ask if it brought me joy, and I would not have a sufficient answer, except to ponder if joy is really what we are after when we rearrange our belongings.

I suspect it is not the freeing nature of joy, but the sentimental pull of nostalgia.

One of my sons has inherited this sense of longing.

He has it much worse than I do.

A couple of times I have tried to give away some things from his childhood - his Lego, a jar of shells, a size 5 hand-knitted jumper - and he looks at me as though I am trying to sell one of his kidneys.

My daughter, on the other hand, is a Marie Kondo loyalist.

She will throw anything away without a hint of reflection.

Cards, clothes, trophies. She tosses them with abandon.

Whenever she does a cull, I head to the bin and do some surreptitious retrieving.

Somewhere between these extremes is probably where you want to be with your complete cleanout, and there are some great strategies for achieving your goal.

The best one I've found is to clear everything out of the room and then sort your things into four groups: Keep, Move, Donate/Sell and Chuck.

Start with one cupboard and don't move on until you have finished.

If you are trying to work out what to keep, interrogate your reasons.

If it's a pair of shorts, for example, that you've kept for 10 years because you're going to squeeze into them one day, let yourself move on from that thought.

If it's a wedding dress that carries nostalgic memories and you have room for it, you have every right to hold onto it. Make your decisions quickly. DO NOT SIT DOWN (this is important).

As soon as you sit on the floor and open up that box of photos and letters, Coldplay's Warning Sign playing in the background, you're on your way to an emotionally-overloaded situation that no amount of storage boxes and Glen 20 will fix.

Bring the children home

DEAR News Of The Area,

THEIR mothers were young and naive when they left Australia to marry ISIS

Kew Bowling Club

By Andrew RICHARDS

1st MARCH, 2026

In Round 3 of Open Pennants, Grade 4 lost to Comboyne 63-45 on the Master Board (1-9). Grade 6 defeated Lake Cathie away 52-51 (8.5-1.5) in a close contest, while Grade 7 defeated Wauchope at Wauchope 53-47 (9-1). Thats two good victories across three grades.

Next weekend, is a double header for Open Pennants, with games on both Saturday and Sunday. Round 4 is Kew Country Club Men’s Veterans Golf

By Laurie HAMILTON

RESULTS 02/03/2026

Monthly Medal Stroke

Sponsored by Allum Property Group.

85 Starters Kew Ladies Bowls

By Velvanie HARTAS

TUESDAY 3rd March Lake Cathie Bowling Club

By Suzanne MILES

SATURDAY, 21st February,

Just when we thought there was no social bowls due to pennants the Ladies managed a social morningMandy Potter & Kay Sallaway/Skip - winners. Hazel Durrant, Glenys Webster & Ann Butlin/Skip Runners-up.

TUESDAY, 24th February, Ladies Social Bowls - with 48 players and Leads playing half a game each.

Fiona Brassey, Anna Innes, Lorraine Baker, Effie Bluming & Cynthia Jones/ Skip - winners.

Louise Mathews, Michelle Cassidy & Barbara Roberson/

LUSC Ladies Social Golf

By Robyn KING

TUESDAY 3rd March 2026

21 players returned to the course this week after a break while the greens underwent renovations. Play was interesting as everyone tried to adapt to the new conditions on the greens.

Welcome back Vel, LUSC Snooker Club

By Michael EYLES

THE Tuesday night competition held on 24/2/26 had 18 players compete.

fighters. They were barely children themselves.

Allowing them to live in filth and squalor is a breeding ground for radicalisation, let

played on Saturday 7th March. Grade 4 plays Wauchope at Wauchope. Grade 6 plays Kempsey Heights at home, while Grade 7 plays Comboyne at home. Round 5 is played on Sunday 8th March. Grade 4 plays Lake Cathie at home. Grade 6 plays Port City Blues at home, while Grade 7 plays Lake Cathie at Lake Cathie.

In Wednesday Social Bowls, Dave Harvey, Frank Raczka, Stewart Rogan and Dave Jones claimed first prize. The Runners Up were Jeffrey Nichols, Keith Collins and Stewart Wellard. Voucher winners were Stewart Rogan,

A Grade winner – Kevin Watts 67 Net.

2nd – Geoff McMurray 69 net.

3rd – Vincent Lyons 70 Net.

B Grade winner- Terry Hurst 70 net. C/B.

2nd – Craig Keen 70 net. C/B.

Well we had a good roll up For our social bowls today Which everyone

Skip - runners-up.

WEDNESDAY, 25th

February, Social Open PairsAndrew Richards & Rod Quirk - winners. Terry McDermott & Larry Selleyrunners-up.

Men's Minor Pairs Club Championship Semi-FinalPeter Gleeson/Paul Dovey V Bob Young/Keith Lawton. Bob & Keith through to Finals. Mike Ryan/Phil Innes V Rob Edwards/Bill Olausen/ 1/3/26.

THURSDAY 26th February, Men's Social TriplesRink 5 - Geoff Delamotte, Alan Bigg & Ted Jobson

Rink 6 - Denis Begley, Charlie Duffie & Bill Pierce

Rink 6 - Peter Tracey, Steve Anderson & Paul Barry - Silver Medal.

Anne and Colleen who returned today after lengthy absences. Members were also pleased to hear the news of the arrival of a new grandchild each for Chris and Jenny.

Div 1: 10 players

Winner: B. Weston 31

R/Up: R. King 33

3rd: A. Canty 36

Gross: R. Banfield 56

Putts: R. King, B. Weston 16

The Major Final was won by Barry Cook, and the runner up was Andy Scott. The Minor Final winner was Charlie Gyomrey who defeated Jim Hopkins. The Thursday night competition

alone shortening their lives due to malnourishment and disease.

They are Australian citizens and above all human

Dave Jones, Ian Hodgkinson and Neil Verner.

In the Friday Cashpot Triples the major prize winners were John Smith, Barrie Isaac and Stewart Rogan with 2 wins and 17 ends. Runners Up were Reg Robb, Ian Hodgkinson and Dean Gemmell, while Jeff Nichols, Viv Gunter and Keith Collins claimed

By Danny LLOYD

THURSDAY Stableford was sponsored by PRD.

3rd – Peter House 70 net.

C Grade winner – Neil Dark 71 net.

2nd – Lou Forster 72 net.

3rd – Peter Johnson 73 net. C/B.

A Grade Scratch winner

– Brian Jenner 35 Pts.

B Grade Scratch Winner

- Rod Gooey 20 Pts. C/B. seemed to enjoy We also had our Trade Table today, so thankyou to all those

FRIDAY, 27th

Scroungers & Skins Fun DayRoy Peasnell - winner. Dennis Hamilton - runnerup.

SATURDAY, 28th

February, Open Gender

Pennants -

Grade 3 - LCBC (away)

V Nth Haven - winners LCBC B/Brd. 63/50 Pts. 9/1.

Grade 4 - LCBC (home)

V Wauchope - draw B/Brd. 65/65 Pts. 5.5/4.5.

Grade 6 - LCBC (home)

V Kew - winners Kew B/Brd. 51/52 Pts. 8.5/1.5.

Grade 7 - LCBC (away)

V Comboyne - Washed Out.

Ladies Social BowlsFaye & Anna/Skipwinners. Mandy & Lynne/ Skip - runner-up. Men's Social PairsWashed Out.

Div 2: 11 players

Winner: J. Muller 39

R/Up: C. Green 40(c/b)

3rd: J. Hurrell 40(c/b)

Gross: J. Hurrell 67

Putts: J. Hurrell 17

Cardies’ Results - 7 players - Congratulations to Barbara Pole who was today’s overall winner after an early lead by Julie Smith.

Next week,Tuesday 10th, will be a Stableford and NTP.

held on 26/2/26, attracted 18 players. Michael Banicek won the Major Final, defeating Michael Eyles. In the Minor Final Graham Palmer prevailed defeating Rick Emmerton.

beings. The children are in this situation through no fault of their own. They need to be with their mothers. That’s all they know.

the consolation. Voucher winners were Dave Napper, Neil Dark, Peter Hope and John Smith.

On Wednesday 11th of March, a special bowling event will be held to celebrate Seniors Week. Everyone welcome. The entry cost is only $5 for Senior Card Holders, which includes a game of Triples

was won by Kevin Brennan ($85). Scratch winners were (A)

C Grade Scratch Winner Howard Hughes 25 Pts. Ball Winners –Steph Sweeney 71, Dave Larcombe 71, Rod Gooey 72, Murray Cowled 72, Brian Jenner 72, Larry Southall 72, Peter Hammer 72, Bernard Poesch 72 & Ted Fargas 73. Nearest to the Pin, who brought items in to sell.

And a big thank you to those who Bought things from

Politicians, you are denying them their constitutional rights as Australian citizens. Having clean water and enough to eat are human rights. Stop this political point scoring at the expense of these women and children who have no voice.

and a sausage sizzle. Prizes are up for grabs to all Seniors Card holders, with all funds being donated to a local charity. Play commences at 12:30pm, so arrive before 12:00 to register. Bowls can also be provided. From 2nd March to 15th March, Senior Card Holders can also get a

Dan Morgan, (B) Bruce Tilley & (C) Charlie Hartshorne. Saturday’s sponsor was M&H MECHANICAL 4WD.

Best singles were William Gregory (43), Terry Case (38) & Daniel Bennison (37).

9th Hole A Grade Steve James, B Grade John Brown, C Grade Peter Johnson.

10th Hole A Grade Theo Vandermeer, B Grade Rod Gooet, C Grade NO ONE 12th Hole A Grade Wayne Moir, B Grade Don Steigrad, C Grade Neil Dark .18th HOLE EGGS. the table. We made $160.00 dollars which was good.

Regards, Julia MERKEL, Mid North Coast.

game of Mini Golf for $5. Bowls this week include Wednesday Social (mufti dress). Friday Jackpot Triples is suspended (due to Pennants Double Header), names in by 11.30 for a 12.30 start. Open Pennants games are played on both Saturday and Sunday.

A Grade Paul Munro, B Grade Rod Gooey, C Grade Neil Dark.

A Grade Putting –Vincent Lyons, Greg Lee & Geoff McMurray 27 Putts each, B Grade Jacob Westerhuis 29 Putts, C Grade Peter Johnson 30 Putts

It was also good to see quite a few members staying for lunch Today.

Go You Reds

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

Aged Care

BEST ON THE BOX

SATURDAY

BLUE MURDER MOTEL

ABC TV, 7.30pm

McLeod’s Daughters co-stars Michala Banas and Brett Tucker (both pictured) reunite for this Kiwi murder mystery with a kooky twist. Recently retired from the Sydney homicide squad for reasons they’re not willing to discuss, married couple Vinny (Banas) and Cole (Tucker) head across the ditch for a fresh start, buying a rundown retro motel in a seaside town near Auckland. It’s not quite the dream they had in mind though – the plumbing’s a disaster, the sign is permanently askew… and there’s a dead body in one of the rooms.

FRIDAY, March 6

TUESDAY

MARRIED AT FIRST SIGHT

NBN, 7.30pm

Rolling green hills, tranquil bird song and luxurious accommodation – it might sound relaxing but there’s no surer way to ensure chaos and conflict among Married at First Sight than the series’ infamous Retreat Week. Like a days-long dinner party, the couples are encouraged to mingle, gain a fresh perspective and find out if their connections really work outside the four walls of their Sydney apartments. This year, it’s a bad joke that has sent the experiment into meltdown – with the fallout isolating Rachel and Steven from the rest of the group. At the final drinks night, Bec (pictured) is caught at the centre of the drama as the lingering tensions reach an explosive conclusion.

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Australia’s Wild Odyssey. (Final, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Muster Dogs. (PG, R) 2.00 Dog Park. (Ml, R) 2.30 In Limbo. (Mal, R) 2.55 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 The Point. (R) 9.05 Singapore Bitesize. (R) 9.25 My Unique B&B. (R) 10.15 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, R) 11.05 The Toy Hospital. 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.55 The Hospital: In The Deep End. (Ma, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Marseille: Birth Of A Megapolis. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.35 Gardening Australia. Tammy Huynh visits a colourful slice of Malta.

8.35 Professor T. (PGa) Professor T is out of prison.

9.25 Tonight At The Museum. (PG, R) Hosted by Alex Lee.

9.55 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (R)

10.25 Dog Park. (M, R)

10.55 ABC Late News.

11.10 Murdoch Mysteries. (M, R)

12.00 Smother. (Mls, R)

1.45 Rage New Music. (MA15+dhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PGadhlnsv)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)

8.30 Fukushima: Days That Shocked The World.

9.25 Fly With Me. (Ml, R)

10.40 SBS World News Late.

11.10 Sisi. (PGa)

12.05 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+v, R)

2.00 El Immortal: Gangs Of Madrid. (MA15+av, R)

3.50 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.20 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Killer Condo. (2022, Mav, R) 3.00 Unfiltered: Cricket. (PG, R) 3.30 Women’s Test Cricket: Pre-Game. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.

8.00 MOVIE: Mamma Mia! (2008, PGls, R) A young woman invites three of her mother’s former boyfriends to her upcoming wedding on a Greek island. Amanda Seyfried, Meryl Streep, Colin Firth.

10.20 MOVIE: Anna. (2019, MA15+av, R) A woman becomes a feared government assassin. Sasha Luss, Helen Mirren.

12.50 Dare Me. (MA15+asv) Addy and Colette feel the heat.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.

THURSDAY CREATIVE TYPES WITH VIRGINIA

“I’m not really drawn to heroes,” admits actor Hugo Weaving. Perhaps most famous The ’s menacing Agent Smith, the Sydney-based star aims to find the humanity within the fractured and complex men he plays on screen and stage – be it English cricket captain Douglas Jardine in Bodyline or monstrous father David in Patrick Melrose. Strolling around Sydney with host Virginia Trioli (pictured left, with Weaving) for this brilliant arts-focused interview series, Weaving shares insights on his career, iconic roles and creative process. A fascinating figure who refuses the Hollywood life, Weaving finds a sense of place and belonging in telling Australian stories.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Romantic Rewrite. (2022, PGa, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 1. Brisbane Broncos v Penrith Panthers.

9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage of the NRL game.

10.45 MOVIE: Sicario. (2015, MA15+alv, R)

An FBI agent is enlisted to help fight the war on drugs. Emily Blunt.

1.00 Next Stop.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

Not Watch This Show. 7.40 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.05 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 My Adventures With Superman. 8.55 BattleBots. 9.45 Gladiators UK. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 9.05 Nanny. 9.35 Addams Family. 10.05 Bewitched. 11.05 Rugby Heaven. 12.05pm Big Rigs Of Oz. 12.35 9Honey Hacks. 12.50 Parental

MOVIES (32)

6.00 10 News+.

6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R)

7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG)

7.30 Jamie Oliver: Eat

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9GO! (83) 6am Limelight. Continued. (1952, PG) 8.10 Discovering Film. 9.00 Agatha Christie’s Crooked House.

This is your invitation to connect with like minded people at a free barbeque at Kew Country Club, 185 Kendall Rd, Kew each Wednesday, commencing at 3.00pm. Enquires and Bus Pick Up telephone Alan on 0412 840 644

This is your invitation to connect with like minded people at a free barbeque behind Laurieton United Services Club each Wednesday, commencing at 3.00pm. Enquires and Bus Pick Up telephone Alan on 0412 840 644 Please help us to help those in need with cash donations, non perishables & new pillows. All can be dropped off to Kew Corner

932000

SATURDAY, March 7

6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Blue Murder Motel. (Premiere, PG)

Follows two married Australian detectives.

8.20 Top End Bub. (Premiere, PG)

A couple’s perfect Adelaide life is interrupted when a family tragedy strikes and they’re forced to return to Darwin. 8.50 Death In Paradise. (Mv, R) Commissioner Selwyn Patterson is shot while celebrating 50 years of police service at the yacht club.

9.50 This England. (M, R) Looks at Britain during COVID-19. 10.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.00 Chopped Junior. 8.40 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 9.05 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.10 Abbott Elementary. 10.30 Merlin. 11.15 Late Programs.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Neil And Martin’s Bon Voyage. (Final)

8.25 Travels With Agatha Christie And Sir David Suchet. (R)

9.20 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey. (PGa, R)

10.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Strade Bianche Women.

12.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Strade Bianche Men.

3.15 El Immortal: Gangs Of Madrid. (MA15+av, R)

4.15 Going Places. (PGl, R) 4.45 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 8.00 Cricket. Women’s Test. Australia v India. Day 2. Late afternoon session. 9.00 Women’s Test Cricket: Dinner Break. Takes a look at the day of play so far.

9.20 Cricket. Women’s Test. Australia v India. Day 2. Evening session. 12.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 2. Melbourne Supersprint. Day 1. Highlights. 1.00 Devils. (MA15+av, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Tales Of Aluna. (R) 5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Space Invaders. (PGa)

8.30 MOVIE: Father Of The Bride. (1991, G, R) A family plans a wedding. Steve Martin, Diane Keaton.

10.40 MOVIE: Moonstruck. (1987, PGal, R) Cher. 12.35 Epic Builds. (R)

1.30 Open For Inspection. (R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGad, R) A loving deaf couple try to break through a cavoodle’s separation anxiety.

7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. After years of impasse, an intervention is necessary for a Hunters Hill couple. 9.50 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 11.00 Matlock. (PGs, R) Olympia and Matty each put together their own collateral for Julian, hoping to regain his trust after he makes a shocking discovery. 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.

6.30 Compass.

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Muster Dogs. (Final, PG)

8.30 Dog Park. (Final, Ml) It’s the day of Samantha and Steve’s wedding.

9.00 This England. (Final, MA15+l) The country continues to cope with COVID. 10.05 Blue Murder Motel. (PG, R) Follows two married Australian detectives.

10.55 Top End Bub. (PG, R)

11.20 MOVIE: Partisan. (2015, MA15+v, R)

1.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

4.00 Dream Gardens. (R)

4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

SBS MOVIES (32)

SUNDAY, March 8

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Pompeii: Life In The City With Dan Snow. (Premiere) 9.15 Ancient Empires. (MA15+v, R) 10.55 Roberta Flack. (PGa, R) 12.25 Jackie And Lee: A Tale Of Two Sisters. (Ma, R)

1.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 1.

3.20 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.20 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.

6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Super Monsters. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 The Inbestigators. 8.00 Meet The Hedgehogs. 8.45 Amazing Animal Friends. 9.35 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs.

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Morning Programs. 1.30pm Cool Cars With Dermott And Elise. 2.00

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Movie Show. 6.35 Discovering Film. 7.30 The Remains Of The Day. (1993, PG) 10.00 Alcarràs. (2022, M, Spanish) 12.15pm Mass. (2021, M) 2.20 The Movie Show. 2.55 Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 4.50 Dean Spanley. (2008, PG) 6.35 Robot Dreams. (2023, PG) 8.30 Braveheart. (1995, MA15+) 11.50 Bang Gang (A Modern Love Story) (2015, MA15+, French) 1.35am Black Swan. (2010, MA15+) 3.30 Late Programs. 6am The Movie Show. 6.25 Dean Spanley. (2008, PG) 8.15 Discovering Film. 9.00 Robot Dreams. (2023, PG) 10.50 While We’re Young. (2014, M) 12.40pm The Winter Guest. (1997, M) 2.40 Time Bandits. (1981, PG) 4.45 Mosley. (2019, PG) 6.35 Meek’s Cutoff. (2010, PG) 8.30 The Hurt Locker. (2008, MA15+) 10.50 Million Dollar Baby. (2004, M) 1.15am Braveheart. (1995, MA15+) 4.25 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club UK. (PG) 8.00 Billy Joel Live At Madison Square Garden. (PGl, R)

10.00 The Hunters. (Mav, R) 11.30 Border Security: International. (PGadl)

12.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 2. Melbourne Supersprint. Day 2. Highlights. 12.30 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. (PG, R)

1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

MOVIE:

A Farmer. (2024, M) 4.20

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10.15 Hunting Bundy: Chase For The Devil: Rocky Mountain Murder Spree. (MA15+asv) 11.15 The First 48. (Mav, R)

Wild Cards. (Mv, R)

Ready Vet Go: The Vet Paramedics. (PGm, R)

FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Surfing Australia. 8.30 Surfing. Australian Boardriders Battle. 6.30pm

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls) 8.45 60 Minutes. Current affairs program. 9.45 9News Late.

6.30 10 News+. Comprehensive coverage of the day’s top stories, investigative reports and stories that haven’t been heard. 7.00 Soccer. AFC 2026 Women’s Asian Cup. Group stage. Australia v Korea Republic.

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Australia TV. 4.50 Barney’s World. 5.10 Booba. 5.30 Hop. 6am Children’s Programs. 7.30 Rugby Sevens. SVNS Series Perth. H’lights. 8.30 Surfing. Aust Boardriders Battle. 6.10pm MOVIE: Encino Man. (1992, PG) 8.00 MOVIE: Rush Hour. (1998, M) 10.00 MOVIE: National Lampoon’s European Vacation.

MONDAY, March 9

6am Children’s Programs. 5.35pm Fireman Sam. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Inside The Tower Of London. (Return)

8.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M)

9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M)

10.05 SBS World News Late.

10.35 Other People’s Money. (Ml) 11.30 The Old Man. (MA15+v, R) 12.40 Kate And Larapinta.

1.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 2. 3.15 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.15 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PG)

7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by  Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.

9.10 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (Premiere) An expert panel tackles the biggest rugby league topics.

10.10 The Agenda Setters. (Return) 11.10 Jim Jefferies And Friends. (MA15+ls, R)

12.10 Conviction. (MA15+a, R)

1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

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6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) 9.00 100% Footy. (Return, Mal) Features the latest rugby league news. 10.00 9News Late. 10.30 Outback Opal Hunters. (Ml)

Sight Unseen. (Mav)

Footy Classified. (Return, Ml)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Global Shop. (R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Media Watch. (PG, R) 12.25

Mysteries. (PGv, R) 1.15 Long Lost

(PG, R) 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Kangaroo Beach. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey.

6am Mr. Holmes.

(2015, PG) 6.20 Mosley. (2019, PG) 8.10 Meek’s Cutoff. (2010, PG) 10.05 Oliver’s Universe. (2022, M, Spanish) 12.15pm Discovering Film. 1.05 Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 3.05 Dean Spanley. (2008, PG) 4.55 Anton Chekhov 1890. (2015, PG, French) 6.40 The Lady Vanishes. (1938, PG) 8.30 The Great Gatsby. (2013) 11.10 The Lives Of Others. (2006, MA15+, German) 1.35am Late Programs.

TUESDAY, March 10

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (PGav, R)

8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline.

10.00 Rock Legends. (PGa, R)

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 Exit. (Mals, R)

11.55 The Carnival. (MA15+l, R) 1.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 3. 3.15 Safe Home. (Malv, R) 4.10 Bamay. (R) 4.40 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.15 The Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 James May: Our Man In... Japan. 9.30 Into The Void: Life, Death And Heavy Metal. (Premiere) 11.20 Brassic. 1.10am WWE Legends. 2.45 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Movie Show. 6.05 Time Bandits. (1981, PG) 8.10 The Lady Vanishes. (1938, PG) 10.00 The Great Gatsby. (2013) 12.35pm Million Dollar Baby. (2004, M) 3.00 Mosley. (2019, PG) 4.45 Black Narcissus. (1947, PG) 6.40 Summerland. (2020, PG) 8.30 Days Of Heaven. (1978, PG) 10.15 And So It Goes. (2014, M) Midnight Secretary. (2002, MA15+) 2.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Tane makes a huge decision.

7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.10 Doc. (Ma) At Jake’s father’s funeral, grief helps clarify his feelings for Amy. 10.10 Ambulance: Code Red. (Mav) Follows the work of an ambulance service. 11.10 The Agenda Setters. An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics. 12.10 Dirty John. (Premiere, MA15+v) 2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

(64)

WEDNESDAY, March 11

6am Children’s Programs. 6.40pm Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Steven Universe. 8.55 Adventure Time. 9.20 Teen Titans Go! 9.40 We Bare Bears. 9.55 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 10.20 My Adventures With Superman. 10.40 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Sandi Toksvig’s Great Riviera Rail Trip. (Premiere)

8.25 Lost Grail With Alice Roberts. (PG)

9.25 Prisoner 951. (M)

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 Face To Face. (Mals)

11.50 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (Malv)

12.45 MOVIE: Cold Water. (2023, PGa)

1.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 4. 3.15 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.15 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by  Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.

9.10 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.

10.10 Australia: Now And Then. (Ma, R)

11.10 Unfiltered. (Return, M)

11.40 The Agenda Setters.

12.40 No Holds Barred: GWS Giants. (Ml, R)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls)

9.00 Naked City: HITMEN. (MA15+dlvv)

10.00 9News Late.

10.30 Freddy And The Eighth. (Return, Ml)

11.30 A Remarkable Place To Die. (Mlv, R)

12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

THURSDAY,

Eat. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Kangaroo Beach.

SBS MOVIES (32)

March 12

6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Harry’s Practice.

6am Black

Narcissus. (1947, PG) 7.30 Discovering Film. 8.20 Summerland. (2020, PG) 10.15 King Of My Castle. (2024, M, French) 12.20pm Oskars Kleid. (2022, M, German) 2.15 Anton Chekhov 1890. (2015, PG, French) 4.00 The Lady Vanishes. (1938, PG) 5.50 Callie & Son. (1981) 8.30 Dangerous Liaisons. (1988, M) 10.40 Beau Is Afraid. (2023, MA15+) 2am Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Toronto Airport Uncovered. (PG)

8.30 The Hospital: In The Deep End. (Ma)

9.35 A Spy Among Friends.

10.40 SBS World News Late.

11.10 In Memoriam. (Malsv)

12.00 The Hollow. (MA15+v, R)

1.05 Dirty Bird. (R)

1.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 5. 3.15 Silent Road. (Madsv, R)

4.10 Bamay. (R) 4.40 Destination Flavour. (R)

VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)

Adam Hills: The Last Leg. 9.20 Icons Unearthed: James Bond. 11.10 Brassic. 1am Dark Side Of The Ring. 1.55 Tales From The Territories. 2.50 Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 11.00 The Movie Show. 12.10pm WorldWatch.

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

1.50 SBS50. 1.55

6.15

2.55

3.00 WorldWatch. 5.00

7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8

Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 United Gangs Of America. (Return) 10.20 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 11.10 Brassic. 1am Couples Therapy. 2.10 Late Programs.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Movie Show. 6.15 Callie & Son. (1981) 8.45 Days Of Heaven. (1978, PG) 10.30 And So It Goes. (2014, M) 12.15pm Dangerous Liaisons. (1988, M) 2.25 Black Narcissus. (1947, PG) 4.20 Summerland. (2020, PG) 6.10 The World’s Fastest Indian. (2005, PG) 8.30 Unforgiven. (1992, M) 10.55 Defiance. (2008, MA15+) 1.25am Beau Is Afraid. (2023, MA15+) 4.35 The Movie Show. 5.10 Discovering Film.

6am Morning Programs. 10.30 American Resto. 11.00 Storage Wars. 11.30

Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Inception. (2010, M) 11.35 Seinfeld. 12.35am Love Island UK. 1.45 The Real Housewives Of Salt Lake City. 3.30 Nanny. 4.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Highway Patrol. (PG, R)

8.00 Motorway Patrol. (Ml) A driver tries to U-turn on the Harbour Bridge.

8.30 MOVIE: Bridget Jones’s Diary. (2001, Mlv, R) A woman documents a year of her life through her diary. Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth.

10.30 To Be Advised.

12.10 Damnation. (MA15+asv, R)

1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

7MATE (64) 7MATE (64)

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby

6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Motor Racing. IndyCar Series. Grand Prix of Phoenix. H’lights. 9.00 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.00 Bewitched. 11.00 Golden Girls. 11.30 Seinfeld. 12.30pm Golf. Women’s Aust Open. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: The Matrix. (1999, M) 11.15

Seinfeld. 12.15am Rugby Heaven. 1.15 Love Island UK. 2.10 Late Programs.

The

State Cup secured

By Sis HIGGINS

NSW TOUCH Football (NSWTF) has confirmed the Senior State Cup will remain in Port Macquarie for the next two years, following a competitive tender process.

The tender involved Port Macquarie-Hastings Council submitting a “comprehensive and strategically focused” bid that highlighted the region’s proven ability to deliver major sporting events.

Council’s submission also outlined recently completed upgrades to grandstand seating and identified infrastructure options to further improve the Tuffins Lane Sporting Fields.

Mayor Adam Roberts said the decision to return the tournament to Port reinforces the region’s long-

as the spiritual home of touch, so we are absolutely delighted to see the NSW Senior State Cup remain where it belongs,”

Mayor Roberts said.

“This tournament is a key cornerstone of our sporting event calendar.

“It brings thousands of players, officials and spectators to our region, injects millions of dollars into our local economy, and provides enormous flow-on benefits for tourism, accommodation and hospitality operators.

“The Port Macquarie Hastings region has so much to offer as a destination and this attraction continues to bring major events like [the] Senior State Cup back each year.”

NSWTF General Manager Dean Russell said the organisation was pleased to

for our community,” he said.

“We’re especially excited to return in 2027 to celebrate the 50th State Cup, which is a significant milestone for our sport.”

One sports-mad local cheering the

announcement was PMHC councillor Nik Lipovac, who had previously expressed doubts about the region’s ability to retain the tournament.

“As stated previously I genuinely thought our chances were slim

considering the quality of towns and venues vying for the opportunity to host this event and in saying that I apologise that I got this wrong,” Cr Lipovac stated on social media.

“This will make tens of thousands of people very happy!”

The Senior State Cup will be held on 4-6 December 2026 and 3-5 December 2027.

“Thank you NSW Touch Football and PMHC for working together to get this over the line.

• Qantas Flights Ex Newcastle

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