Camden Haven News Of The Area 08 MAY 2026

Community to benefit from grants program

By Rachael THORPE

By Andrew VIVIAN and Sue STEPHENSON

Sue STEPHENSON sue@newsofthearea.com.au

Sis HIGGINS 0488 027 142 sis@newsofthearea.com.au

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

Rachael THORPE 0438 876 009 rachael@newsofthearea.com.au

Bill HARROW 0437 776 247 bill@newsofthearea.com.au

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

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Community to benefit from grants program

FROM Page 1

Highland Gathering, RunHaven, Business Port Macquarie, and the Camden Haven Show.

Council estimates that these initiatives will attract 18,000 attendees and deliver more than $5 million in economic impact.

Jenny Higgins of the Flamin’ Dragons dragonboating club was delighted by the grant.

“We take out young students and people with a disability who find our paddles heavy and difficult to manage; this funding will allow us to purchase lighter paddles, which will be accessible to everyone,” she said.

Individual projects funded encompass the arts, disability, NAIDOC, sport, signage and small infrastructure, as well as New Year’s Eve fireworks.

Penny Small, President of the Beach-toBeach Shared Pathway, was thrilled with the project’s grant of $5,000.

She told News Of The Area that it is “earmarked for a key infrastructure boost near the Dunbogan Boatshed”.

“Planned works include a 14-space

bike rack to encourage cycling along the local pathway; a new public bench for residents and visitors to enjoy the waterfront; and repairs to the retaining wall,” she said.

“These additions aim to enhance the

accessibility and amenity of the Dunbogan area for the entire committee.”

The grants program supports local not-for-profit organisations to fund initiatives that are inclusive and connect the community.

Community meeting on draft plan

By Rachael THORPE

THE Camden Haven community is being invited to attend a town meeting on the Draft Laurieton Town Centre Master Plan, hosted by the Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce.

The meeting will focus on gathering feedback from residents on key aspects of the plan to assist the Chamber in preparing its submission to Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.

It will also provide an opportunity for attendees to learn how to make their own submissions and where to access relevant information.

The meeting will be held on Tuesday, 12 May in the Mountainview Room at Laurieton United Services Club (LUSC) from 5:30pm to 7:00pm.

Hard copies of the plan will be available for viewing on the night.

In addition, LUSC has printed three copies which are currently available at the club for public viewing.

The Chamber has already received feedback on several key issues, including proposed parking reductions, beautification projects, ongoing maintenance, and concerns around planning permissions.

Chamber President Luke Hadfield said the session would aim to cover a broad range of issues.

“We know there are obvious issues residents justifiably have and we don’t want to spend an hour and a half focusing only on parking or similar points of contention,” he said.

“The Chamber wants to address as much as possible to assist us with our submission.”

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council will also

be hosting several community pop-up sessions to engage with residents. These will take place on Sunday, 17 May from 8:00am to 1:00pm at the Riverwalk Foreshore Markets, Tuesday, 26 May from 10:00am to 12:00pm at Coles Laurieton, and Tuesday, 2 June from 10:00am to 12:00pm at Laurieton Library.

Public consultation on the Draft Laurieton Town Centre Master Plan closes on Friday, 5 June 2026.

TOBACCO CRACKDOWN

FROM Page 1

That’s more than in any other coastal area outside Sydney and Newcastle.

Green closure orders stickers have appeared on the shopfronts of the Port Mart in Hayward Street, Port Macquarie; Fusian Asian Groceries and Confectionary in Short Street, Port Macquarie; Wauchope GT Convenience Store; the Port Mart in Wauchope; and the North Haven Tobacconist on Ocean Drive.

Since new laws came into effect on 3 November, 2025, NSW Health has issued 10 closure orders in the Mid North Coast Local Health District.

A spokesperson for NSW Health said that in collaboration with NSW Police, it can issue a shortterm closure order for 90 days to retailers selling illicit tobacco, or illegal vaping goods, or selling tobacco or non-tobacco

smoking products without a valid licence.

A full list of current tobacco closures can be found on the NSW Health website with the tobacco closure orders register updated every Friday after 3pm.

In Coffs Harbour, a News Of The Area reader noticed that shops appeared to have few groceries on their shelves and not much else.

Customers would enter, they said, and the proprietor would go to the back of the shop and return with cartons of what appeared to be cigarettes.

An employee of another store in Short Street, Port Macquarie, who asked not to be named, observed a similar process.

Cigarettes are a source of revenue primarily for the Federal Government, and there is growing concern, including from State and Federal politicians, that illegal tobacco sales are

funding organised crime.

With excise and GST pushing the price of a legal packet of 20 cigarettes to more than $40, a pack-a-day smoker would be paying more than $15,000 dollars a year for their habit.

This is driving the market for illegal cigarettes.

The Australian Border Force (ABF) plays a significant role in tackling the issue of illicit tobacco.

It works with offshore partner agencies to stop illicit tobacco before it reaches Australia, targeting and detecting it at the border.

It also partners with a range of agencies to disrupt domestic distribution networks.

A spokesperson said, “Our objective is to break the illicit tobacco model through an intelligenceinformed approach and by working with other agencies in response to those trading in the illicit tobacco market.

“The ABF are continuing to seize record amounts of illicit tobacco at the international borders.

“Just last financial year, we seized over 2.5 billion illicit cigarettes, over 430 tonnes of loose-leaf tobacco and over 6 million vapes.

“In addition to this, we have undertaken several successful joint agency operations in regional areas.”

According to the spokesperson, NSW Health draws on multiple intelligence sources, including reports from the public, information from

law enforcement partners, and its own compliance holdings, to inform both targeted and broad enforcement activities across the state.

They said NSW Health, supported by NSW Police, actively enforces tobacco retailing legislation using an information and intelligence led risk-based approach.

A closure of premises is one regulatory tool available.

“NSW Health is aware the sale of illicit tobacco and vaping products continues to evolve, with

some retailers attempting to obscure and avoid the enforcement activities of NSW Health Inspectors after a closure order has been issued.

“NSW Police and NSW Health are working together to identify these methods and pivot their enforcement strategies to shut down this activity.”

NSW Health encourages the public to lodge complaints about retailers they believe are doing the wrong thing via the reporting portal on the NSW Health website.

Local support for Human Rights Act

PEOPLE with Disability Australia (PWDA) President Jeramy Hope has used an address to the National Press Club to repeat calls for a Human Rights Act.

He said that without enforceable rights, people with disabilities will continue to be exposed to harm with limited pathways to challenge their treatment.

“Australia’s human rights framework has gaps, and people with disabilities are living with the consequences,” he said.

“PWDA consistently

hears from people who have experienced discrimination, exclusion or harm and are left without a clear, accessible way to have their rights upheld.”

Port Macquarie resident Sarah Eade is a full time wheelchair user who supports the introduction of an Act.

“Everyone deserves similar experiences, services and opportunities,” she said.

“It shouldn’t matter if you have a disability or not, everybody’s life matters and we should be able to make safe day to day life choices for ourselves, while protected by

legislation.”

The 2019 Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability heard evidence of widespread abuse, harm and neglect experienced by people with disability.

PWDA Vice-President Jarrod Sandell-Hay said, “Enforceable rights and clear safeguards are essential, particularly in systems where government decisions have a direct impact on people’s daily lives.

“Our patchwork of legal

protections is simply not effective at addressing or preventing harm to our community.”

Recent NDIS reform announcements including the potential introduction of AI into decision making, have raised concerns that reduced human involvement will result in future harm.

A Human Rights Act defines protected rights, allows courts to interpret laws consistently, and requires public authorities to centre people when crafting policy.

Australia operates under the British Westminster system of parliamentary sovereignty and common law, and well-known disability advocate Noel Hiffernan OAM feels this is sufficient.

“Our current system provides checks and balances, and operates in conjunction with the Magna Carta,” he said.

“As a person

with a disability who has suffered from discrimination, I have found that our legal system has sufficient protections in place.”

Rental demand outpaces supply in Camden Haven

By Sis HIGGINS

REGIONAL rent prices

across New South Wales have held steady over the March quarter, but remain at record highs compared to a year ago.

New data from realestate.com.au Market Insight, shows rents in regional areas rose 4.3 percent year-on-year despite no growth over the latest quarter.

This has pushed the median advertised rent in regional NSW to $600 per week, highlighting ongoing

affordability pressures for tenants.

A spokesperson for realestate.com.au said, “Rent growth remains solid, up 4.6 percent in the past year across the capital cities.

“While still firm, rent growth remains below the peak levels seen in 2022 and 2023, as somewhat improved rental availability, as well as strained rental affordability, has slowed the pace of rent increases.”

On the Mid North Coast, local agents say demand is still outweighing supply

despite some signs of stabilisation.

Stone Real Estate

Camden Haven agent Luke Hadfield said enquiry levels remain strong, pointing to an ongoing shortage in the market.

“Based on the enquiries our offices receive for rentals I would say there is a shortage.

“It always outweighs the level of properties available and days on market are low,” he said.

Mr Hadfield said rental prices continue to respond to demand in certain

segments.

“In some cases, rents increase if there is a particular demand and low supply for certain property types.

“Our local rental market is quite strong and has been holding very well for quite some time.”

He said affordability remains a key challenge, particularly for those with tighter budgets.

“If there was a demographic most affected, I would say it was those looking on a limited budget,” Mr Hadfield said.

“What’s always affordable isn’t always the most suitable, especially for families.

“Students are quite adaptable and shared houses can create a solution for several students looking on a budget.”

Demand is particularly strong for family homes at more accessible price points.

“Rental enquiries are a daily occurrence whether by email, from an advertised property or a walk into one of our offices,” Mr Hadfield said.

“According to our team the biggest demand based on the bulk of the enquiries they have received is family homes under $750 per week.”

The data shows regional markets are continuing to outperform capital cities in annual rent growth, reflecting sustained demand for non-metro living.

Looking ahead, the outlook suggests a more moderate pace of increases as supply gradually improves, though affordability challenges are likely to persist.

Community Consultation Port Macquarie Ocean Pool

The Port Macquarie Tidal Pool Committee, formed in 2017 is a local organisation committed to designing and gaining approval for construction of an Ocean pool.

After years of design development, extensive research studies, successful consultation with the Birpai Traditional Owners Corporation and ongoing community engagement, the Planning Proposal was submitted to Port Macquarie Hastings Council in September 2025. This application seeks permission to build the pool at Oxley Beach and is a pre-requisite to the Gateway Determination and Development Application process.

Having received Council staff feedback, the Planning Proposal items have been finalised and the Committee are awaiting the Council staff report ahead of a Council vote expected on May 21 or June 18.

We now believe it is timely to share the submitted details of our Planning Proposal with interested community members.

Join us if you’d like to know more about the Ocean Pool project including summaries of the following:

• Site selection process

• Ecology and Biodiversity findings

• Parking studies and recommendations

• Construction estimate

• Maintenance cost estimate

• The level of community support

• Proposed timing + design details and Cost Benefit Analysis

Club Westport on Thursday May 14 from 5 - 7pm.

Please register your attendance by scanning the QR code or emailing info@portmacquarieoceanpool.org.au (Please add any questions you have also).

Lorelei the turtle makes ocean comeback

By Sis HIGGINS

A JUVENILE green sea turtle known as Lorelei has been successfully rehabilitated and returned to the ocean at Lighthouse Beach, Port Macquarie after almost a year in care at the Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary.

Lorelei was rescued near Crowdy Head in May last year with significant injuries and a complex medical condition known as floating syndrome, which prevents turtles from diving due to a build-up of gas

beneath their shell, leaving them vulnerable on the surface.

“Due to that floating syndrome, she was hit by a boat or a jet ski, and it smashed into the top of her shell and caused damage,” said Sanctuary managing director Tiga Cross.

Due to the nature of her injuries, Lorelei - who is between 10 and 15 years old - remained in care far longer than most turtles.

“They typically only stay in care for three to six

months,” Tiga said.

After almost 12 months of treatment and monitoring, wildlife carers determined Lorelei was ready to return to her natural habitat.

Lighthouse Beach was selected as the release site due to it being the most practical and its proximity to Crowdy Bay where Lorelei was rescued.

“Lighthouse and Town Beach have been two beaches that we've used in the past that have got quite a good direction out to the Solitary Islands and quite a calm beach,” she said.

The Sanctuary rescues around 200 turtles each year.

with Port Bus to Civic Theatre, Newcastle Sunday 24 May 2026

The smash hit musical Footloose, will have you on your feet - it’s bold, it’s electric - and it’s the first time Australia’s seen a professional production of Footloose in over 20 years. Dig out the leg warmers, crank up the neon and get ready to dance as Footloose the Musical hits the Civic Theatre stage in a dazzling production from St Philip’s Christian College Newcastle.

Set in a small Midwestern town where rock music and dancing are banned, Footloose follows Ren McCormack, a teen from Chicago who sets out to challenge the township’s strict rules and bring the beat back.

Highlights:

With the help of his awkward but loyal friend Willard, and the spirited Ariel, daughter of the town’s stern Reverend Shaw Moore, he leads a movement to shake things up.

Inclusions:

Air-conditioned coach transport, H2O, Lunch @ Sunnyside Tavern, chosen Ticket + fees

This high-energy stage adaptation of the beloved 1980s film features powerhouse anthems like Holding Out for a Hero, Let’s Hear It for the Boy, Expect big vocals, bold choreography and an explosion of ’80s charisma from the St Philip’s seniors. With a cast of 86 students from Years 9 to 12, the production has been six months in the making… and it shows.

Itinerary: FOOTLOOSE, Classic Anthems: Holding Out for a Hero, Let’s Hear It for the Boy, and of course, Footloose.

Departing Port Bus around 08:30, we head down to the Sunnyside Tavern for lunch before arriving at the Civic Theatre, Newcastle for a showtime of 13:00. Upon completion of the show, we will load and go with a comfort stop on our way home. with Port Bus

Backed by a live band featuring some of Newcastle’s top young musicians and a creative team committed to excellence Footloose promises to be a magical crowd pleaser.

New arrival of joeys at Guulabaa

KOALA Conservation Australia (KCA) has welcomed a second cohort of koala joeys through its Wild Koala Breeding Program.

Building on the success of the inaugural breeding season, KCA says the recent arrival of the joeys marks an important step forward in establishing a long-term, science-led solution to support wild koala populations.

“This is no longer just a breakthroughit’s proof that the program works,” said Dr Kate Farquharson, Manager of the Wild Koala Breeding Program.

“These joeys represent the next generation of wild koalas, raised with the behaviours and resilience they need to thrive in their natural habitat.”

The joeys are at varying stages of early development, with some expected to start emerging from their mothers’ pouches soon, while others continue to grow under their protection.

In line with KCA’s “wild to wild” philosophy, all monitoring is conducted at a distance using cameras and binoculars to preserve natural behaviours and ensure the best possible outcomes for eventual release.

Joeys will be released into carefully identified habitats in partnership with leading conservation organisations, helping to strengthen populations most in need.

The Wild Koala Breeding Program operates from the purpose-built facility at Guulabaa – Place of Koala, in Cowarra State Forest.

Funded entirely by community support following the Black Summer bushfires, the program continues to rely on public contributions to expand its impact.

AI cameras spotted more than 1000 bushfires over summer

By Jennifer DUDLEYNICHOLSON, AAP

ARTIFICIALLY intelligent cameras detected more than 1100 bushfires in Australia over summer, including some that would have been missed by humans until they posed a greater risk.

One fire outbreak caused by lighting strikes, for example, could have damaged a pine forest if cameras had not alerted firefighters.

Pano AI revealed the findings on Tuesday after installing more than 100 high-resolution cameras across areas of NSW, Victoria and South Australia.

The detections follow a summer of severe heatwaves in several Australian states, and the fourth warmest January recorded since 1910, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.

Pano AI's fire-detecting technology, typically installed on fire towers, uses ultra high-definition cameras to scan for smoke during the day and heat at night.

It compares what it finds to a database of more than three billion images and alerts emergency services if it detects fire with a high level of confidence.

The technology identified 1132 unplanned fires during summer, including 667 in NSW.

Those fires were detected using 19 cameras, Forestry Corporation NSW innovation manager Jamie Carter said, and had proven particularly useful at night when fire towers were unstaffed.

In one instance, fire could have risked a pine plantation if not spotted by the technology and brought under control by fire crews.

q The technology is assisting firefighting forces to monitor more areas and predict the spread of more bushfires.

NSW Rural Fire Service.

"There was a big lightning storm that moved across the Victoria-NSW border and one of the cameras over at Timbillica picked up about six or seven new ignitions after dark," he told AAP.

"Knowing they were there in the evening, a lot of good work got done that night which meant we didn't have big fires developing the next day."

The technology could not replace humans with local knowledge, Mr Carter said, but it was helping to monitor more areas and predict the spread of more bushfires.

"They're definitely having an impact on reducing the number of fires that would get to a size where they'll cause significant damage," he said.

The technology is used by more than 150 government agencies in Australia,

including the NSW Rural

While early in its adoption, Pano AI chief operating officer Arvind Satyam said it had helped firefighters reduce the time needed to call for aerial

support from 30 minutes to five minutes.

"AI is absolutely being applied for good here," he said.

"AI can give you that advantage, can allow you to understand these incidents sooner, gives you the context, allows agencies to respond safely and more effectively." Other efforts to detect bushfires early include Google's FireSat program that will use a constellation of 50 satellites to monitor remote parts of Australia by 2030.

Budget won't be war between generations: treasurer

By Tess IKONOMOU and Andrew BROWN, AAP

POTENTIAL changes to negative gearing or capital gains tax in the federal budget would not be breaking the trust of voters, the treasurer says.

As Jim Chalmers prepares to hand down his fifth budget, the government faces accusations it is coming after "mum and dad"

investors as family trusts join capital gains tax discounts and negative gearing on the list of possible targets for change.

While Prime Minister Anthony Albanese ruled out negative gearing changes ahead of the 2025 federal election, the treasurer said intergenerational pressures would be a focus of the budget.

"The best way to build

trust is to make the right decisions for the right reasons, there are genuine intergenerational concerns and pressures," Dr Chalmers told reporters in Canberra on Monday.

"This budget is not about and never will be about setting some Australians against other Australians, it's about recognising some of these legitimate intergenerational concerns,

which, in my experience, these concerns are often shared by older Australians."

Senior Labor figures have done little to dampen expectations the budget will deliver major changes to the capital gains tax discount and negative gearing for investment properties.

Asked on Sunday if the public would support changes Labor had not taken to the 2025 election, Mr Albanese said voters would make their own decisions about his government's record.

The budget is being finalised later than normal due to volatility in the Middle East affecting economies around the world.

While the treasurer said there would be a range of contingencies for further cost-of-living relief, a decision on whether to extend the fuel excise tax cut beyond the end of June would not be in the budget.

The excise cut wiped 26 cents off a litre of fuel at the bowser and was unveiled as a three-month measure.

"We've made it really

clear that it's a temporary thing," Dr Chalmers said.

"If we get closer towards the end of that three-month period... obviously we've got a range of contingencies."

The treasurer also said the budget would have net savings for the second year in a row.

Dr Chalmers said there would be more dollars in savings than revenue upgrades or tax reforms in the fiscal blueprint.

"Savings and spending restraint is doing a lot of the heavy lifting in the very responsible budget," he said.

"So much of the heavy lifting here is being done by savings and reprioritisations to make room for those pressures."

Some of those savings have already been flagged ahead of the budget, with Labor announcing at least 160,000 people were expected to be removed from the NDIS by 2030 as the government curbs growth in spending on the scheme.

The move will do the heavy lifting in budget repair, providing more than $35 billion in forecast savings, although states have sounded the alarm about the financial burden of people with disabilities being

shifted onto their health and education systems.

A further $3 billion will be saved by removing the age-based loading for the private health insurance rebate, also announced in April.

In a speech to the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Melbourne on Monday, shadow treasurer Tim Wilson painted the expected changes as a "tax agenda assault on family".

"Their capital gains tax applies to everyday Australians, mums and dads, but probably won't to industry super funds nor foreign investors in renewable energy," he told the business group.

"Labor is building a class of Australians dependent on them being in office. This government is not about a better Australia; it is about securing power."

The government will suspend the commercial broadcasting tax for a further two years as part of the budget, which it estimated would save the industry $111 million through to June 2028.

The move follows announced restrictions on gambling advertising, which are expected to hit many media companies' bottom lines.

150,000 Mulloway and Dusky Flathead released

MORE than 150,000 Mulloway and Dusky Flathead fingerlings have been released into key NSW fishing locations - including the Hastings River - as part of the NSW Government’s Marine Stocking Program.

Over the past month more than 100,000 Mulloway fingerlings have been released into the Georges and Hastings rivers and Lake Macquarie.

In March, some 54,000 juvenile Dusky Flathead were released into popular Recreational Fishing Havens on the NSW South Coast, including Lake Conjola, Burrill Lake and St Georges Basin.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said, “The release of these fingerlings into popular fishing spots is a great example of recreational fishing fees at work.

“This is about building fish stocks, undertaking the research needed to keep as many fingerlings alive as possible and knowing where

and when to release them.”

Both Dusky Flathead and Mulloway are among the State’s most popular fishing species, with Dusky Flatheads relatively easy to target, making them ideal for beginners and families.

Mulloway are notoriously unpredictable and can often be hard to locate.

They make long, strong runs, hooking a big one is a serious test of skill and gear and they are often considered a “rite of passage” for NSW anglers.

To ensure the success of the Marine Stocking Program into the future, Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development scientists have an ongoing research and monitoring program to determine the optimum size of the fish for release, preferred habitats and the rates of predation in the days after liberation.

The NSW Marine Stocking Program is supported by the NSW Recreational Fishing Trusts.

Recreational fishers are

reminded to ensure they have paid the recreational fishing fee and abide the bag and size limits when fishing in NSW.

Mulloway has a size limit of 70cm and bag limit of one.

Dusky Flathead has a slot limit of 36cm-70cm and a bag limit of five.

Support for pet owners facing financial strain

By Rachael THORPE

MORE than 100 people brought their cats and dogs along to the Healthy Pet Day in Port Macquarie on 23 April.

Hosted by the Port Macquarie RSPCA Supporter Group and held at the St Agnes Community Centre, Healthy Pet Day is for owners facing financial challenges.

Their pets receive free vaccinations, vet health checks, engraved pet tags, pet food, and microchipping.

Name tags and microchipping help to ensure a pet is returned home without their owner incurring costs for impounding.

Also involved in the initiative were the North Eastern Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NEAMI), Greencross Vets, East Port

Veterinary Hospital, and Port Macquarie Hastings Council.

RSPCA Branch Manager Brandon Cowan was delighted with the turnout.

“Increasing costs are affecting many, with rough sleepers and those who are unhoused particularly affected,” he said.

“Not everyone is able to access vet care for their animals, and we want to preserve the human-animal bond.”

Parasite treatments and pet food proved very popular, with information also on hand for attendees who needed links to further resources such as housing and mental health support.

“This day would not have been possible without the generosity of our volunteers who gave up their time to be here,” Mr Cowan added.

Inquiry into local government funding visits region

THE House of Representatives Standing Committee on Regional Development, Infrastructure and Transport is holding hearings with more than 20 councils in Wodonga, Wagga Wagga and Taree this week as part of its inquiry into local government funding.

The Committee wants to “better understand the funding challenges faced by local governments across regional and rural

Australia and its workers who provide infrastructure and deliver services to vast areas of Victoria and NSW”.

Committee Chair, Mrs Fiona Phillips MP said, “The Committee is looking forward to learning more about the fiscal sustainability of local government in both northern Victoria and regional NSW and potential solutions to current challenges for fast

growing regional cities and geographically larger shires with fewer rate payers.”

Hearings began in Wodonga on Wednesday 6 May where the committee heard from shire and regional city councils such as Wodonga and Wangaratta.

The Committee explored a range of issues including grant distribution processes, bushfire and flood recovery, workforce

issues, and labour market conditions in regional Victoria and across the border in the Riverina.

The Committee then travelled to Wagga Wagga for hearings on Thursday, hearing from city and shire councils in southern NSW and representatives of Regional Capitals Australia, NSW Country Mayors and NSW Farmers.

The committee travels north to Taree today, Friday

8 May, to hear from a local government representative body from the Hunter and a range of shire and city councils along the Mid North Coast and inland up to the Tweed River.

Discussions will cover financial sustainability, insurance and risk, workforce challenges, and broader pressures facing local government across New South Wales, especially for those councils

contending with recovery from natural disasters.

Public hearings are broadcast live on the Australian Parliament House Streaming Portal.

Details for upcoming public hearings and more information about the inquiry, including the terms of reference, submissions and transcripts of previous hearings, is available on the inquiry webpage.

SHOP LOCAL CAMDEN HAVEN

Lifestyle, luxury and land

360

Bobs Creek Road, Bobs Creek

SET across an extraordinary country landscape, this architecturally designed estate delivers a rare blend of lifestyle, income potential, and natural beauty just 29 minutes from the heart of Port Macquarie.

The property spans approximately 38.85 hectares (96 acres), offering a diverse and highly usable landholding.

A thriving 3.87 hectare macadamia orchard is complemented by approximately five hectares

of open pasture, while an expansive 28 hectares of temperate forest provides privacy, tranquility, and a direct eastern boundary to National Park ensuring your outlook remains forever unspoiled.

The residence itself is a statement in thoughtful design and quality craftsmanship.

Featuring four bedrooms (or three plus a dedicated office), plus a separate library or additional workspace, the home caters effortlessly to both family living and remote work.

The luxurious master

suite includes a walk-in robe and a spacious ensuite complete with spa bath, while the additional bedrooms are generously proportioned with one even offering its own kitchenette, ideal for guest accommodation or dual living potential.

At the heart of the home, a gourmet kitchen showcases stone benchtops and stainless steel appliances, flowing seamlessly into expansive lounge and dining areas.

Elevated ceilings and celestial windows enhance natural light and airflow, while cedar windows and

polished hardwood floors add warmth and timeless appeal throughout.

Step outside to a resortstyle setting designed for entertaining and relaxation.

A stunning concrete inground infinity-edge pool is surrounded by expansive timber decking, alongside a large screened entertaining

area with a beautifully finished timber lined ceiling, perfect for year round enjoyment.

Additional features include solar power, a machinery shed complete with macadamia processing equipment, and a detached double garage with ample storage.

Offering easy access to some of the Mid North Coast's finest beaches, this is a rare opportunity to secure a property that combines rural productivity, architectural elegance, and coastal convenience. Contact Martin Newell at Percival Property Port Macquarie.

Bootlegger boom: big excise fuels black market booze

By Jacob SHTEYMAN and Nick WILSON, AAP

A SPATE of fire bombings could be just the beginning as concerns mount the tax system is driving a burgeoning alcohol black market putting lives and the budget bottom line at risk.

Police have not confirmed whether illicit alcohol was behind 15 incidents at hospitality venues across inner Melbourne since 14 April, but the industry is warning Australia's high excise settings is fuelling organised crime.

Two more Melbourne hospitality venues were attacked in the early hours of Saturday, as police investigate whether they are linked to the broader spree.

A Molotov cocktail was thrown towards a licensed venue on Cecil Street at South Melbourne about 2.20am.

About an hour later, the glass doors of a Docklands

restaurant were smashed before accelerant was used to set it alight, police said.

Three males - aged 16, 19 and 22 - were arrested in relation to the Docklands attack while no alleged offenders have been identified for the earlier incident.

Detectives from Operation Eclipse will investigate whether the incidents are linked to the broader spate of attacks on licensed venues.

If the alcohol excise is left unchecked, the nation could face a second black market scourge, after the explosion in illicit tobacco that has decimated the federal budget's excise take and spurred gang violence.

The experience of the tobacco market was a "cautionary tale", industry body Spirits and Cocktails Australia chief executive Steven Fanner told AAP.

High excise rates equate to more than $30 on a standard 700ml bottle of spirits.

Mr Fanner warns the excise is interacting with the alcohol manufacturers remission scheme - a tax break intended to support craft distillers by allowing small manufacturers to produce their first 8500 litres or so excise-free - to do more harm than good.

The system is being gamed by dodgy operators and opportunistic middlemen, who are exploiting the scheme to buy up tax-free alcohol and undercut genuine manufacturers.

Spirits and Cocktails

Australia and the Australian Distiller's Association have written to the treasurer outlining their concerns over the scheme and calling for stronger integrity measures to ensure it isn't exploited by bad actors.

They estimate tightening the scheme could save the federal budget about $224 million over four years.

Last November, the

Australian Taxation Office estimated illicit alcohol sales were worth at least $767 million, which was more than 10 percent of all spirits consumed legally in Australia, said the National Drug Research Institute.

A spokesperson for Assistant Treasurer Daniel Mulino said the alcohol remission scheme was about supporting Australian distillers.

"We take integrity very seriously. The ATO is responsible for compliance and we expect them to crack down on anyone who is doing the wrong thing," the spokesperson said in a statement.

Police were aware alcohol could also be coming into the nation without being taxed, said Victoria Police Detective Superintendent Jason Kelly, although it wasn't clear whether the attacks were the beginning of an illegal alcohol trade war.

"That's the million-dollar question," he told reporters on Tuesday.

"Everything is on the table."

But Det Supt Kelly suggested unknown crime figures were employing the same techniques used in the state's long-running tobacco turf war.

Nationals MP Pat Conaghan wants a review of the alcohol excise, which he says is unsustainable for operators and drives consumers to the black market.

As a former undercover drug operative, he believes enforcement agencies are severely under-resourced and penalties are far too low to act as a deterrent.

Mr Conaghan says there is still time to "break the back" of the illicit alcohol networks before they become entrenched.

"If we don't get on top of it now, it will turn into the same kind of monster that tobacco is," he said.

A vision for shark-deterrent surfboard fins

A CROSS-INDUSTRY collaboration led by Mid North Coast-based Gowings is underway to integrate shark deterrent technology directly into surfboard fins.

Lifelong surfer John Gowing leads the “Sea Surf Force Field” project, with recent shark attacks across Australia bringing renewed urgency to the mission.

John's vision has evolved, over a lifetime involved with the ocean, into a focused effort to design a practical solution.

“As surfers, we accept the ocean comes with risk

but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t keep pushing for better solutions,” said John.

“If we can build protection directly into something every surfer already uses, like fins, we remove barriers and make safety accessible to everyone.”

The core goal is the creation of a commercially viable solution integrating shark deterrent technology directly into the surfboard fin, thus removing the need for additional wearable devices or equipment.

The project partners

include the fin manufacturer FCS, renowned Australian industrial design studio Vert Design, and academic collaborations with the University of New South Wales and the University of Wollongong.

Material innovation is a critical component and additional partnerships with the Australian Composites Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (ACM CRC) will enable the development of advanced, lightweight solutions suited to surfing.

The innovation is

designed to work with the inherent properties of the board, maintaining responsiveness, maximising lightness and ensuring minimal interference for the surfer.

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) supports the use of personal shark deterrents as part of broader shark management strategies to reduce, though not eliminate, bite risk.

Independent testing has shown that electronic deterrents can be effective in deterring white sharks within a close range.

Cut to rail route sparks fury from farmers and regions

By Zac DE SILVA and Robyn WUTH, AAP

A MAJOR freight rail line intended to connect Melbourne and Brisbane will be left half-finished after its cost nearly tripled in six years, sparking anger from farmers and regional leaders.

The federal budget will include plans to pare back the Inland Rail project and instead end it at Parkes in central NSW.

Independent analysis shows the cost has blown out from $16.4 billion in 2020 to more than $45 billion, Transport Minister Catherine King said in a statement.

''We are taking sensible decisions to realign the future of inland rail and build a safe, efficient and reliable network for the future,'' she said.

The 1600-kilometre freight line, made up of new and existing track, was designed to run from Beveridge, just outside Melbourne, to Kagaru near Brisbane, making it easier to move goods along the east coast while reducing the number of trucks on roads.

The government will hold on to land for the rail corridor north of Parkes –roughly halfway between Melbourne and Brisbane –but has no immediate plans to build the second half of the project.

Opposition transport spokeswoman Bridget McKenzie slammed the move, labelling the scaledback plan a ''road to nowhere''.

''This is a direct hit for the businesses and communities and primary producers that had all

geared up for this decadal project,'' she told AAP.

''Primary producers and manufacturers wanted resilience built into the north-south freight network … a project that is from Beveridge to Parkes loses all that additional opportunity.''

Some communities along the line had already raised concerns about noise and towns being effectively cut in two by the route.

The government will also pour an extra $1.75 billion into the east coast freight network in the budget, aimed at upgrading tracks, improving signalling and extending passing loops.

In Queensland, where 345 kilometres of proposed track will now miss out on federal funding, state Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg said the move was disappointing and

shortsighted.

''Recent events have been a reminder of how fragile supply chains are – now is the time to be strengthening them, not eroding them,'' he said.

Queensland opposition transport spokesman Bart Mellish also called the decision disappointing and says he wants to see more money flowing to the state's regions.

''We want to see more investment in regional Queensland from both the state and federal budgets,'' he said.

NSW Farmers president Xavier Martin says the government owes answers to farmers and towns along the northern part of the inland rail corridor, where land has been acquired and sections of track built.

''NSW Farmers policy

supported inland rail because moving freight more efficiently matters to farm businesses, regional communities, and the prosperity of the nation,'' he said.

''Governments can't ask rural and regional communities to carry the burden of disruptive construction, then just change direction without accountability."

Farmers still struggle to get produce to market and are demanding clarity over easements and alreadyconstructed assets north of Parkes.

''Certainty matters, and if the funding is stopping at Parkes then the government must be upfront about what happens next, because real people and real businesses have already paid a price,'' Mr Martin said.

Queensland's Western Downs Mayor Andrew Smith said the decision was hugely disappointing and a missed opportunity for regional growth.

Inland rail could have taken heavy trucks off country roads that are already worn out and underfunded, he said.

''It's not going to hurt us today, but down the track, in the long term, it's devastating,'' he told AAP.

Mr Smith says the cutback comes as regional Queensland is growing strongly in productivity and needs major nation-building projects to keep up.

''Every region in rural Queensland, if not rural Australia, is having issues around road infrastructure that's under-maintained, under-managed and underfunded,'' he said.

Meet Tucker the joey

AS A celebration of Wild Koala Day (3 May), meet Tucker, a joey born through Koala Conservation Australia’s (KCA) Wild Koala Breeding Program at Guulabaa - Place of Koala in the Cowarra State Forest.

Tucker is one of seven joeys born in the program’s first season and is already offering a much-needed dose of hope in efforts to rebuild Australia’s koala population.

Just last week, Tucker had his first health screen with the support of his loving mother, and was deemed fit to transition to a new prerelease enclosure, where he’ll room with two other young male joeys.

As the youngest, he is about one kilogram smaller than the other boys.

However, this hasn’t stopped him from asserting his dominance already.

Small but mighty, Tucker is a feisty boy, which will serve him well when released into

the wild.

With koala populations continuing to face habitat loss and environmental pressures, programs like KCA’s Wild Koala Breeding Program remain critical to long-term species recovery.

Feedback sought on fish stocking plan

RECREATIONAL fishers are invited to have their say on which NSW dams and impoundments they would like to see stocked with their favourite freshwater fish species, as the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) develops its stocking program for the year ahead.

DPIRD Aquaculture Director Ian Lyall said NSW is home to numerous impoundments and reservoirs well suited to freshwater fish stocking, helping create and maintain some of the state’s most popular recreational fisheries.

“Each year, DPIRD partners with recreational fishers and local communities to release key sportfishing species, including Murray Cod, Australian Bass, Golden Perch, Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout into public impoundments across NSW,” Mr Lyall said.

“DPIRD has now drafted a new recreational stocking plan for the 2026–2027 season and is seeking feedback on the proposed sites and species.

“This is a great chance for recreational fishers to directly influence where stocking occurs in future seasons.

“They can even put forward new dams for consideration, provided there is practical public access and fishing is allowed.”

Mr Lyall said all fish stocking activities in NSW are managed sustainably under a Fisheries Management Strategy (FMS) and supported by an Environmental Impact Statement, with all proposals assessed to ensure they align with the FMS.

“Last season, more than 5.2 million fish were stocked into NSW waterways, and more than 3.7 million have already stocked across regional NSW for the 2025-26 season,” Mr Lyall said.

“Recreational fishing in NSW is a significant contributor to the NSW economy, and stocking plans play an essential role in building healthy inland fisheries, delivering fantastic fishing opportunities and supporting regional communities.

“DPIRD operates a network of fish hatcheries across NSW that produce the freshwater species used in our stocking programs, including the Narrandera Fisheries Centre, Port Stephens Fisheries Institute,

Grading success

STORY STARTS on BACK COVER, Page 24

extremely hard and gave their all.

“This determination meant that every student was successful in reaching their next colour belt.”

Mid North Coast Karate is part of the Goshin Ryu Karate Association.

The grading was held at Nambucca Heads with fellow Goshin Ryu students.

“It is great to train with fellow likeminded students and also watch their students' progression,” said Sensei Anissa.

A separate grading was also conducted for students enrolled in the Little Ninja program, designed to introduce students aged three to six to the fundamentals of martial arts.

By Velvaine HARTAS

TUESDAY 5th May

There were 3 rinks playing today. Well it was a nice day today for Our Ladies Bowls, it was warm

LUSC Snooker Club

By Michael EYLES

q Tucker has been deemed fit to transition to a new pre-release enclosure.

q Stocking locations across the Hunter and Mid North Coast. Photo: DPI.

Grafton Aquaculture Centre, and the Dutton and Gaden Trout Hatcheries.

“These annual stockings are a clear example of recreational fishing licence fees being reinvested to improve fishing opportunities right across the state.”

Recreational fishers are encouraged to

SPORT RESULTS

28/4/26 had 18 players compete. The Major Final was won by Michael Banicek, and the runner up was Lloyd Stewart. The Minor Final winner was Ron White who defeated Bob Clark. The Thursday night

Jean Donald, Margaret Ashford Leonie Murphy, Karen Rogan WINNERS CARD DRAW

Janet Hills, Dee Squires, Kim Thompson, Doreen Barr LOOSER CARD DRAW

Mary Nelson, Anne Smith, Jean Donald.

competition held on 30/4/26, attracted 12 players. Michael Banicek won the Major Final, defeating Jim Hopkins. In the Minor Final Ron Phinn prevailed defeating Glenn Kunze.

email their feedback on the draft plan to fish. stocking@dpird.nsw.gov.au by 22 May 2026. To view the NSW Freshwater Fish Stocking Plan and for more information, visit: https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/ recreational/resources/stocking/enhancedfish-production

Advertising within the Camden Haven News Of The Area reaches your local customers. Connect with them from next edition.

Print media has never been so affordable for your business. Call Chan now 0431 232 820 or email chan@newsofthearea.com.au

Camden Haven Eagles Round 2 Player of the week

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Proudly sponsored by Bold Espresso Bar Laurieton

By Manny WOOD

Whose house is it anyway?

FRANK migrated to Australia from Scotland, 30 years ago.

One of Frank’s sons, Sam, still a Scottish national, visits Frank 10 years ago and is concerned that Frank’s rental accommodation has a steep flight of stairs to access the property and feels that it is unsuitable in other respects.

Sam offers to buy a more appropriate house for Frank.

He says that the house will need to be in Frank’s name “because of foreign investment rules”.

He says that Frank will need to leave the house to him in his Will and Frank agrees.

Frank makes a Will, leaving the whole of his estate to Sam and also executes an Enduring Power of Attorney, appointing Sam, to manage his finances, should he lose capacity.

Unfortunately, Sam passesaway unexpectedly.

Frank then decides to change his Will, leaving the whole of his estate to his only other surviving child.

When Frank dies a few years later, Sam’s wife commences proceedings against Frank’s estate, when she discovers that the Will had been changed.

She alleges that Frank’s home is held on “constructive trust” for Sam’s estate, of which she is the sole beneficiary.

To be successful, Sam’s wife must prove that there was an intention to create an agreement, supported by financial contribution, whereby she suffers detriment if the agreement is not enforced.

Frank’s executor says that the purchase of the house was nothing more than a gift.

The Court is concerned by the lack of documentary evidence and in relation to the different versions of the events articulated before the Court, states that “human memory of what was said in a conversation is fallible for a variety of reasons, including the passage of time and perceptions of self-interest”.

At the conclusion of an expensive hearing, the Court finds that the available evidence is sufficient to establish that upon the sale of the property, Sam’s wife is entitled to the whole of the net proceeds of sale.

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.

OPINION & LETTERS

On the Couch On the Couch Dorin's Drawings

By Paul DORIN

Who will social media tax benefit?

By Claire STUCHBERY, Executive Director of the Local and Independent News Association

YOU may have heard that the government is proposing a new levy on tech giants like Google and Facebook to help fund Australian journalism.

Before you look away, thinking ‘what has this got to do with me?’ –a quick question.

What do you like about the website or newspaper you’re currently reading?

Maybe it publishes stories and issues that other news outlets would never cover.

Maybe it represents your culture and platforms voices that too often go unheard.

Or perhaps it tells you what’s on in the community and contributes to making the place you live feel like home.

All those things matter – a lot.

Which is why we are fighting for the funds raised from the new levy on tech giants to make their way to local and independent newsrooms.

Because the concerning thing is, under the government’s current plan, they probably won’t.

To back up a little, what the government is essentially trying to do is ensure Australians still have access to quality news and information.

As advertisers have increasingly moved towards digital platforms, newsrooms – whose work is often read or watched on those same digital platforms – have lost revenue despite still providing a valuable service to the public.

To use a sweet little metaphor, you could say newsrooms are making chocolate, but because the ads are printed on the wrapper, only the wrapper manufacturers are making money.

As a result, many Australian newsrooms have closed, laid off

journalists or simply have not had the resources to dive deeply into the stories that matter.

So the government’s on the right track, broadly-speaking, because protecting news from our own backyard is crucial. But it’s a question of which backyard.

Quality journalism is key to a well-functioning democracy, and democracy doesn’t just happen in Canberra. Or Sydney or Melbourne or any other capital for that matter.

Democracy happens all around us, every day. In the decisions of councils, the actions of local MPs, and the experiences of everyday people. But in news deserts, democracy fights for air.

Australia already has one of the most concentrated media markets in the democratic world. Our democracy has strong foundations in many other ways –think compulsory and preferential voting – but the lack of diversity in media ownership and voices takes us down a rung on the democratic health ladder.

The government’s proposed legislation risks further entrenching this if it doesn’t create a clear path for local, independent and emerging newsrooms to benefit from the levy on tech companies.

A percentage of funds raised through the levy should go to growing diversity in the news media industry, bringing new voices into the public dialogue and addressing news deserts.

The good news is we already have a policy framework in place outlining where government intervention is appropriate and needed through the News Media Assistance Program Policy Framework. Government merely needs to apply its own policy objectives to the estimated $250 million per year the proposed levy would raise for Australian journalism.

Basing eligibility around revenue thresholds, as the current proposal does, will only entrench the status quo, further harm small publishers and volunteer-based

drawing on my memories.

By JASMINDA

DEAR Jasminda,

Last night I made a birthday dinner for my mum.

I decided to make the veggie burgers that I used to love as a teenager because I thought it would be nostalgic.

The dinner was panned by every family member as being 'bland', 'missing something' and 'disappointing'. I feel as though my energy and enthusiasm was completely wasted.

I doubt I'll bother again.

Innes P.

Dear Innes,

In a strange way, this reminds me of a fateful trip to Europe to try to relive my younger days.

Before this, my memories of Europe were of languid afternoons sitting at bars on the top of snowcapped mountains, vigorous clubbing, copious quantities of chocolate, fondue, and, importantly, the joie de vivre one experiences in the giddy throes of youth with a childhood friend.

The return trip had a few key differences.

One: I was decades older.

Two: I was travelling with a family including sulky teens instead of my lifelong friend.

Three: It was a different season, so the snow-capped mountains were replaced with fields of green (still beautiful, but inconsistent with my memories).

Four: There was an inability to bounce back from an overconsumption of food (and Schnapps -- but that's another story).

Sitting now, on my back deck, my mind is travelling back to experiences only accessible by

community media, and benefit the big players (who have an important role to play, but not the only role). It creates further barriers to entry in a field that is already difficult but is so needed to help us know what’s going on around us.

In Australia we have long known there are some extremely valuable public services that cannot be funded by the user alone – think healthcare, education or roads. News and information is no different.

The government's proposed levy on tech giants is a rare chance to move the needle on media diversity and public interest journalism without dipping into its own pocket.

The trick now is to make sure the benefits flow to strengthen publications like this one right here.

And that is the point I am trying to make (if I can pull myself out of the depths of sentimentality).

You can't recreate the past, Innes. I suspect your decision around the veggie burgers was doomed from the start, because it was never about the veggie burgers.

It was about a time of life when dreams and ambitions were within your grasp.

It was about the salt in your hair after a day at the beach.

The smell of coconut oil that you'd plastered all over your body. It was about a time as vivid and evocative as a Don Henley song.

And now it has been replaced with the cold slap of being an adult, (and solar keratoses from too much youthful sun exposure) coupled with an ungrateful family, and, to top if off, an unpalatable veggie patty washed down with alfalfa, a whole grain bun and wilted lettuce.

Heck, Innes, now I'm feeling despondent.

From experience, sharing meals based on memories can be a success or an unmitigated disaster. Either way, no one can hold you solely responsible.

We can't relive the past, and we certainly can't expect others to understand the deeply personal elements of our particular blend of nostalgia.

Instead, they may view something important to you as 'bland', 'missing something' or 'disappointing'. There's nothing you can really do about that.

Well... nothing except perhaps swap out the veggie burger for a baked dinner with succulent roast lamb, potatoes twice-baked in duck fat to give them that satisfying crunch, honeyed carrots topped with sesame seeds, homemade gravy, and a selection of sauces including mint sauce and cranberry (gently warmed).

I suspect that may help your other family members lean into their sense of yearning.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

About the author: Claire Stuchbery is Executive Director of the Local and Independent News Association, a not-forprofit representing more than 170 digital, local and independent newsrooms around Australia.

Hidden payments issue costing businesses money

By Steven WHYBROW, FinTech and payments innovation consultant

WALK down any main street in regional Australia and you’ll find small businesses doing what they do best: serving their communities with pride, hard work, and a personal touch.

Businesses in our regional towns thrive on trust, the kind that comes from knowing the people behind the counter.

But there’s a growing issue quietly affecting many

small businesses, here and across the country.

It’s not rising costs, staffing shortages, or competition from online giants.

It’s something far less visible yet surprisingly damaging.

Sometimes, customers don’t recognise the business name that appears on their bank statement.

It sounds trivial. It isn’t.

Unclear or unfamiliar billing descriptors (the short line of text that identifies a business on a cardholder’s statement) are one of the biggest drivers of unnecessary disputes.

those disputes translate into lost revenue, wasted time, and strained customer relationships. Industry data shows that 35 percent of all card transaction disputes occur simply because the customer doesn’t recognise the merchant’s name.

Worse still, 85 percent of customers go straight to their bank to complain when they don’t recognise a charge.

What begins as confusion quickly becomes a formal dispute, complete with fees and administrative headaches.

These aren’t fraud cases.

They’re misunderstandings and they’re

entirely preventable.

When a customer disputes a charge, the business is hit with more than inconvenience.

Chargebacks come with fees, and even when the business successfully defends the transaction, the time spent gathering evidence and responding to the bank is time taken away from serving customers.

Repeated disputes can also affect a business’s risk rating with its bank or payments provider, leading to higher fees or stricter monitoring.

But perhaps the most damaging consequence is the erosion of trust all because the name on their

statement didn’t match the name on the shopfront.

Businesses don’t intentionally choose confusing billing descriptors.

Often the descriptor defaults to a legal entity name, an abbreviation, or a generic label from the payment provider. In a world where customers skim their statements quickly, clarity matters.

The good news is that it’s easy to fix.

A clear descriptor should use the trading name and correct location that customers recognise.

Avoid abbreviations and match what appears on receipts, signage, websites,

and booking confirmations.

Since moving to the Mid North Coast, I’ve noticed a handful of local businesses whose billing descriptors don’t match the names customers see on their shopfronts or websites.

It’s a common oversight, but fixing it can reduce disputes, protect revenue, and strengthen customer trust.

If you’re a business owner, take a moment to check how your business name appears on a customer’s bank statement.

It’s a five‑minute task that could save you hours of dispute management and fees.

The presumption of innocence

DEAR News Of The Area,

I REPLY to Peter Sobey’s letter titled “Even War Heroes Can Be Held To Account” (17 April edition).

It is evident from Mr Sobey’s letter that one, he has absolutely no concept of Australian Law and Justice i.e. “The presumption of innocence - innocent until proven guilty” and two, has seemingly never put on an Australian Defence Force (ADF) uniform and defended our great country.

I suggest Mr Sobey should let the courts determine the innocence

Kew Mens Bowling Club

By Frank RACZKA

WEDNESDAY Social Bowls, A Hilton, B Carr and N Verner claimed first prize. The runners up were J Smith, G

Kew Country Club

Men’s Veterans Golf

By Laurie HAMILTON

RESULTS 04/05/2026

Monthly Medal Stroke Sponsored by Allum Property Group. 97 Starters

Lake Cathie Bowling Club

By Suzanne MILES

HERE we are again at downtown LCBC with the Ladies' Grade 4 Pennants Team winning the District

KCC Men's Golf Report

By Danny LLOYED

THURSDAYS Stableford was sponsored by TASTE BAKEHOUSE.

Steve James had a blinder to take out A grade

For small businesses, or guilt of Mr Ben RobertsSmith and in my opinion should not carelessly cast aspersions upon him via the media.

He cites the fact that comrades of Ben Roberts–Smith are giving evidence against him.

You fail to mention that Australian SAS soldiers who have admitted to killing detainees in Afghanistan on the orders of Ben RobertsSmith have been granted “transactional immunity” from prosecution for their involvement.

Yes I agree, the two World Wars were horrific (as

Gleeson, and B Clark. Voucher winners were G Wise, N Dark, S McGregor and B Conway.

The Friday Jackpot rises to $312 the consolation winning rink went to D Harvey, P Collins and P Hope and the runner ups to D Squires, R Morrison and L

A Grade winner – Steve James 69 Net. C/B. Even Par )

2nd – Terry Case 69 net. (Even Par )

3rd – Paul Munro 70 Net.

B Grade winner- Tim Sherwin 66 net.

2nd – Tony Denzel 69 net.

Flag now off to the state with their opponents shaking in their boots. Teams were -

Skip /Yvonne Howard, Ann Butlin, Kay Jobson & Pam Begley.

Skip/Lynne Watson, Nola Scott, Marje Peasnell & Susan Malzard/June Wilson with 42 points.

Paul Baker won B grade with 37 and Richard Kightley was best in C grade with 38.

The GAREL GOLF NTP 9th went to Rod Gooey for $92.

Saturday was Monthly Medal day, sponsored by LJ

is any war) and no soldier would suggest otherwise, but may I suggest that if good men stood by and did nothing, you would be living a far different world than you are today.

You say that the United Nations (UN) was formed in 1945 to prevent future conflicts, maintain international peace and promote human rights.

Ask yourself how well is the UN performing and are they effective when you consider the Korean War, Vietnam, the Cold War, Afghanistan, Iraq, Timor, Palestine, Ukraine, Iran, the

Moran. Voucher winners were D Barr, M Ashford, P Hope and B Isaac.

Mens Pennants will start on Saturday 16th May and Sunday 17th May. Please tick your name on the noticeboard sheet to advise your availability to play on

3rd – Ken Dollery 70 net.

C Grade winner – Rene Bolger 70 net. C/B.

2nd – Ron Rolfe 70 net.

3rd – Don Furey 75 net.

A Grade Scratch winner –Steve James 71.

B Grade Scratch Winner – Ken Dollery 87.

C Grade Scratch Winner

- June & Susan

Shared the Lead position as they both experienced health issues throughout the competition. Well done to all these Ladies.

TUESDAY, 28th April, Ladies Social BowlsAnne Anderson, Vera

LANE PRINTING.

Cody Weston won A Grade with nett 66.

Bruce Tilley is B Grade medallist on nett 70.

Sam Ward took out C Grade with nett 65.

Noel Burnett won the NTP for $85.

war on terror.

There have been hundreds of armed conflicts since 1945.

You also stated: “These treaties and the institutions that seek to enforce them have been created and agreed to in order to prevent a descent into barbarity. The fact that they appear to be breached with impunity does not mean that they are ineffective.”

Are you kidding?

I served alongside the UN and in my opinion the UN today is not fit for purpose and has degraded into a highly self-serving,

those days.

Club Triples The last semi final has been played and team Verner defeated team Hammond 33 to 12. The grand final will be held on Tuesday May 5th at 1.00pm between team Collins and Verner and should prove to be Ron Rolfe 100.

Ball Winners –Terry Hurst 72. Kevin Watts 72, Ross Fairhurst 72, Roger Catchpole 72, Michael Laurest 72, Jeffrey Brewer 73, Rod Barnett 73, Rob Craig 73, Murray Godden 73 7 Tim Dimond 74 C/B. Nearest to the Pin,

Hamilton & Roberta Henry/ Skip - winners.

Fiona Brassey, Roslyn Stone & Teresa Wise/Skiprunners-up.

WEDNESDAY 29th April & THURSDAY 30th Aprildue to a technical hiccup the results for these two days

By Rod BARNETT

WEDNESDAY 22nd April

our social club played a Canadian Foursomes event, and the winners were Peter TATTI and Peter RASCHKE.

ineffective bureaucratic organisation that talks and talks with very little action and poor outcomes.

Mr Sobey, are you aware that China is a member on the UN Human Rights Council (it is currently serving its sixth three-year term) and that Ali Bahreini, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, was appointed to chair the 2023 United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).

Both countries have an appalling history of human rights abuse especially towards women and their own citizens. China has been accused of rights

abuses over its treatment of one million Uighurs i.e. reeducation and work camps, systematic rapes and genocide all while the UN stood by and did nothing.

Now, I have no idea as to the guilt or innocence of Mr Ben Roberts-Smith, I would never condone the actions he has been accused of, and will leave such judgments to the courts to determine as I suggest you should.

However, I will fight for his rights and the presumption of innocence that he is entitled to.

Regards, Keith WILKINSON Major Rtd, Port Macquarie.

SPORT RESULTS

an exciting and close game. Bowls this week include Monday Monthly Magic Nines starting at 9am in full uniform, Wednesday Social (mufti dress) and Saturday Cashpot, names in by 11.30 for a 12.30 start.

9th Hole A Grade Michael Laurent, B Grade Phil McCarthy , C Grade Greg Watson.

10th Hole A Grade Terry Case, B Grade Keith Jackson, C Grade NO ONE

12th Hole A Grade Jack O’Hara, B Grade Kevin Anderson, C Grade Lou

have vapourised. FRIDAY, 1st May, The Mixed Fours Club ChampionshipTeam Jobson def. Team Martin.

Team Hamilton def. Team Tupper. The Ladies Consistency

Nearest the pin prizes went to Steph SWEENEY , Brian JOHNSTON , Laurie HAMILTON and Peter TATTI.

Our next game on the 13th May is a Stroke round, and the starters are Neil COLLINS and Laurie HAMILTON.

Magic Nines are a new format on a three month trial as our regular Monthly Monday dropping attendances made it unprofitable and in danger of being permanently cancelled. Please support this new Forster

.18th HOLE EGGS. A Grade Mark Bird, B Grade Tony Denzel, C Grade NO ONE. A Grade Putting – Steve James 25 Putts, B Grade Charlie Hartshorne 23 Putts, C Grade Peter Johnson & Jon Gaylard 32 Putts

Club ChampionshipHelena White def. Ros Stone.

SATURDAY, 2nd May, Social Open PairsSteve Philp & John Atkins - winners. Bob Young & Greg Darcyrunners-up.

SUDOKU

ANTIQUE Skillion over the hooks pendulum weighing scale for cattle. $90. 6585 7393

CARAVAN awning new, cost $135. Selling for $100. Ph 0429 930 022

CARAVAN leveller cost $165, new, never used. $100. Ph 0429 930 022

CARAVAN sullage hose $30. Ph 0429 930 022

FLURO light, 60cm wide w/ 2 globes. $30 Ph 0412 004 970

7 yrs old. 143cm high x 54cm wide x 65cm deep $60. Ph 0410 199 915 F060326

MARILYN Monroe framed picture, standing in doorway 100cm x 70cm $50. 6582 5885 F060226

COUGAR 2 burner gas stove, Pilbara model great used condition includes instructions etc 20” x 1” cooking area $60 neg. Port Macquarie Ph 0414 914 401

BEER brewing kit complete plus 250 bottles. $99. 6559 6656

BIKES Folding, x 2 Dohan, $50 for both 0491 056 604. F200226 SOLD

GENUINE Yamaha fuel tank, 24L. $80 0412 496 827

GROUND sheet for caravan $25. Ph 0429 930 022

IRISH China, Claddagh Design, 2 vases, 1 mug $10 each. 0447 445 319

KNEE scooter used for one week, adjustable seat, brakes and basket Pick up Kendall. $130 Kay - 0407 708 723

OPEL Big Button M phone, 4G, SOS, GPS hearing aid compatible bluetooth, talking keypad BNIB. Paid $79, selling for $50. 6559 6514 SOLD

SOFT red leather ladies zip-up jacket, hardly worn. Bought in Rome Italy. Exc cond. $85 ono 0421 074 086

THE Pierre Trudeau biography by George Radwanski. Hard back $5. 0447 445 319

SIDE mirrors for towing

$20 Ph 0429 930 022

$20. Ph 0429 930 022

TRADES & Services

BEST ON THE BOX

SATURDAY

OOOPS! I BOUGHT A PUB

SEVEN, 8pm

An actor and a teetotal filmmaker walk into a pub… No, it’s not the set-up for a corny joke, but the premise of this charming country adventure that sees Kenny star Shane Jacobson and his mate Dean Murphy (above left, with Jacobson) buy a tired old pub sight unseen and restore it to its former glory as the heart of the community. Their project is located in the tiny Victorian town of Dederang, about halfway between Melbourne and Canberra, where they assemble a colourful team of locals, tradies and experts to pull off the massive renovation.

FRIDAY, May 8

TV (2)

MONDAY 9-1-1

SEVEN, 8.40pm

It’s grim, but rather standard practice these days for an episode of a crime procedural to kick off with a dead body. However, this unusual instalment of 9-1-1 arrive at the police precinct on a bike and ask for Athena (Angela Bassett), intent on reporting his own murder. The confusing situation begins to make sense when he starts coughing and falls to the ground, apparently poisoned. While Athena teams up with Major Crimes on the confounding case, Buck (Oliver Stark, pictured) hits rock bottom and comes clean to Chimney (Kenneth Choi) about his recent reliance on prescription painkillers. In touching scenes, the entire 118 team rallies around as Buck recovers.

WEDNESDAY ALEXANDER ARMSTRONG

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 A Symphonic Odyssey With Professor Brian Cox. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The Assembly. (R) 1.40 Bad Company. (Mln, R) 2.10 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 2.55 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGa) 4.40 Long Lost Family: Born Without A Trace. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 Morning Programs. 10.05 Hidden Beauty Of Spain. (PGa, R) 11.05 Wonderland: Lewis Carol To JRR Tolkien. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.10 The Cotswolds With Pam Ayres. (R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Point. (R) 3.35 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia.

8.30 Patience. (PGad) A monk is found dead in a chapel.

9.20 Gruen. (PG, R) Presented by Wil Anderson.

9.55 Urzila. (Mals, R) Comedic chaos from Urzila Carlson.

10.20 ABC Late News.

10.40 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R)

11.25 Murdoch Mysteries. (Ma, R)

12.15 Love Me. (MA15+, R)

1.05 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)

8.30 Mystery Of The First Temple.

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 The King. (Madlsv)

11.55 Babylon Berlin. (Mav, R)

1.45 Brian Cox: How The Other Half Live. (Ml, R)

3.30 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R)

4.30 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R)

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

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens.

8.00 Sydney Weekender Special. Discovers the best Sydney has to offer. 9.00 MOVIE: Tower Heist. (2011, Mls, R)

A building manager and his staff join forces with a thief to take revenge on a Wall Street swindler. With only days to go before he gets away with his crimes, they must work out how to relieve him of his fortune. Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy, Casey Affleck. 11.10 My Reno Rules. (PGl, R)

12.55 Quacks. (MA15+d)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

8.55

He’s on Australian screens every day as the host of hit game Pointless, but British broadcaster Alexander Armstrong (pictured) can’t be confined to the TV studio for too long. In this new three-part documentary, the well-travelled presenter visits India to explore some of the country’s most famous destinations, gaining a stronger understanding of its rich history, sacred traditions and culture along the way. Wednesday’s first leg sees Armstrong dive headfirst into the glorious chaos and splendour of Mumbai. He gets a well-rounded view of the bustling city, checking out colonial sites, sampling street food and even touring local homes with a real estate agent.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. North Queensland Cowboys v Parramatta Eels.

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

10.45 MOVIE: Snitch. (2013, Mdv, R)

A father makes a deal with the US attorney. Dwayne Johnson.

1.00 Explore TV Viking. (R)

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) 6.00 10 News+. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) A couple disagree on whether to leave Coburg North. 8.30

9.40 Gladiators UK. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.30 Bewitched. 11.30 Rugby Heaven. 12.30pm Premier League Stories. 1.00

(64) SBS MOVIES (32)

(83) 6am The Movie Show. 6.15 The Majestic. (2001, PG) 9.05 The Straight Story. (1999,

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

SATURDAY, May 9

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Rage Vault Guest Programmer. (PG) 12.00 News. 12.30 Death In Paradise. (M, R) 1.30 Patience. (PGad, R) 2.20 David Attenborough’s Galapagos. (R) 3.10 David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef. (R) 4.10 Judgment: Cases That Changed Australia. (Final, R) 5.00 Aust Story. (R) 5.35 Landline. (R)

6.05 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R)

6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 Death In Paradise. (M) A game show contestant is stabbed during filming of the series’ grand finale.

8.30 Silent Witness. (MA15+v) Benjamin is visited by the police who promise to look into Gloria’s disappearance. Nikki performs post-mortems on a couple found in the woods.

10.15 Bergerac. (Mdl, R)

11.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Continuous music programming.

FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 3.30pm Tiddler. 3.55 Children’s Programs. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Emerald. 6.40 Hey Duggee’s Squirrel Club. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.10 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.50 Caper Crew. 9.15 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.40 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.20 Abbott Elementary. 10.40 Late Programs.

SUNDAY, May 10

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean. (PGa)

8.25 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland. (R)

9.25 Jersey And Guernsey. (R)

10.20 The Wonders Of Europe. (PGa, R)

11.20 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v, R)

2.00 Matched. (PG, R)

2.50 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R)

3.50 Colors Of The Islands: The Caribbean. (PGaw, R)

4.25 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am Anton

Chekhov 1890. (2015, PG, French) 7.25 Discovering Film. 8.20 Meek’s Cutoff. (2010, PG) 10.20 The Invisible Fight. (2023, M, Estonian) 12.25pm Moulin Rouge! (2001, M) 3.00 The Straight Story. (1999, PG) 5.05 The Assassin. (2015, PG, Mandarin) 7.05 The Little Shop Of Horrors. (1960, PG) 8.30 Treasure. (2024, M) 10.35 The Piano Teacher. (2001, MA15+, French) 1.05am Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 2.30 The Assembly. (R) 3.20 Judgment: Cases That Changed Australia. (Final, R) 4.10 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 5.00 Back Roads. (Final, PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Wild Prague. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Gymnastics. FIG Rhythmic World Cup. Part Two. H’lights. 3.00 Stories From The Cities. 3.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Liege-BastogneLiege. Men’s race. H’lights. 4.30 Cycling. UCI World

6.30 Compass. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Assembly: Jimmy Barnes. (PGa)

8.15 Bad Company. (M) Julia learns about Margie’s famous sister.

8.45 Bergerac. (Mlv) Bergerac and Barney’s relationship reaches breaking point.

9.30 Death In Paradise. (Ma, R) A game show contestant is stabbed during filming.

10.30 Silent Witness. (MA15+av, R)

12.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

4.00 Dream Gardens. (PG, R)

4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Super Monsters. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Emerald. 6.40 Hey Duggee’s Squirrel Club. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 The Inbestigators. 7.45 Caper Crew. 8.05 Secrets At Red Rocks. 8.30 Animal Park. 9.55 Secrets Of The Zoo. 10.40 Merlin. 11.25 Late Programs.

6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 History’s Greatest Mysteries. (PG, R) 8.20 Bettany Hughes’ Lost Worlds: Nabataeans. (R) 9.20 Tulum: The Last City Of The Mayan Empire. (Ma, R)

10.20 The Kim Dynasty: A Family Affair. (PGa, R) 11.15 MOVIE: Duran Duran: A Hollywood High. (2022, G, R) 12.35 MOVIE: Sheryl. (2022, Ml, R) 2.20 Matched. (PG, R) 3.10 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R) 4.10 Colors Of The Islands: The Caribbean. (PGa, R) 4.45 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs. 8.00 Ooops! I Bought A Pub. (Mal) Hosted by Shane Jacobson. 8.30 MOVIE: Apollo 13. (1995, PGal, R) Three NASA astronauts find their lives in danger after a potentially catastrophic explosion. Tom Hanks, Bill Paxton, Kevin Bacon.

11.20 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Malv, R) 12.20 Devils. (MA15+av)

1.20 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back. (1980, PGv, R)

10.00 MOVIE: Conan The Destroyer. (1984, Mv, R)

11.55 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)

12.45 Tasman Trails. (R) 1.35 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. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

6.30 The Dog House. (PGa, R) A couple are looking for an outgoing pup. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. Newlyweds must decide if their townhouse is suitable.

8.30 Building The Dream. Architectural designer Charlie Luxton helps first-time builders design budget-friendly homes that suit their lifestyles.

MOVIE: Speechless. (1994, PG) 5.50 MOVIE: Space Jam. (1996) 7.30 MOVIE: Night At The Museum. (2006, PG) 9.45 MOVIE: The Spy Who Dumped Me. (2018, MA15+) Midnight Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club. (PGls) 8.00 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.00 Betrayal. (Malnsv) John tracks down an elusive Iranian general. 11.00 24 Hours In Police Custody: Family Secrets. (MA15+a, R) Follows a police investigation.

12.00 A Friend Of The Family. (MA15+a, R)

1.00 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

Sunrise Early News.

Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 The Floor. (PGl)

8.15 60 Minutes. Current affairs program.

Australian Crime Stories: The Investigators: The Golden Hour. (Mavv) Detectives race to find the killer of So Ra Moon. 10.15 9News Late.

The First 48. (Mav, R) 11.40 American Ripper. (Mav) 12.35 Oz Off Road TV. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 The Garden Gurus. (R)

9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) Follows paramedics as they respond to a seven-year-old boy who is gasping for air. 10.30 Matlock. (PGa, R) An airport ramp operator is accused of negligence. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power. 6.30 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and

SBS MOVIES (32)

(64) SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Movie Show. 6.40 The Assassin. (2015, PG, Mandarin) 8.35 The Little Shop Of Horrors. (1960, PG) 10.00 The Way Back. (2010, M) 12.25pm Anton Chekhov 1890. (2015, PG, French) 2.05 Forever Enthralled. (2008, PG, Mandarin) 4.45 Roxane. (2019, PG, French) 6.25 Joan Baez: I Am A Noise. (2023) 8.30 Janet Planet. (2024) 10.40 Little Loves. (2024, Spanish) 12.30am Late Programs.

3.15 The Summit. 4.45 The Toys That Built The World. 5.45 MOVIE: Scooby-Doo. (2002, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Godzilla Vs. Kong. (2021, M) 9.45 MOVIE: The Iron Claw. (2024,

MONDAY, May 11

6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Gladiators UK. 9.40 Kids BBQ Championship. 10.25 Kids Baking C’ship. 11.05 Late Programs.

TUESDAY, May 12

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (PG)

8.40 Ancient Greece By Train. (R) 9.35 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M)

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 Sambre: Anatomy Of A Crime. (Mav)

12.05 Gomorrah. (Malv, R) 2.45 MOVIE: Fiona Clark: Unafraid. (2021, Malns, R) 4.10 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (PGa, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Glenn And Mick’s Celebrity Intervention. (Mal)

8.40 9-1-1. (Madv)

9.40 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R)

10.40 The Agenda Setters. 11.40 Happy’s Place. (PGa)

12.10 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R) 1.05 The Outdoor Room With Jamie Durie. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Animal Rescue. 9.30 NBC Today. 10.30 Better Homes. 11.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Australia’s Big Backyards. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 Auction Squad. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain

6.00 NBN News. 7.00

MOVIES (32)

6am Morning

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.30 Bewitched. 11.30 Talking Honey. 11.40 Jeopardy! UK. 12.40pm MOVIE: Deadly House Call. (2022, M) 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30

6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 The Slow Mo Guys’ Big Adventures. 9.10 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.35 BattleBots. 10.20 Merlin. 11.05 Late Programs.

Programs. 7.55 Joan Baez: I Am A Noise. (2023) 10.00 Manon Des Sources. (1986, M, French) 12.05pm Man Who Didn’t Want To See The Titanic. (2021, M, Finnish) 1.40 The Assassin. (2015, PG, Mandarin) 3.40 The Little Shop Of Horrors. (1960, PG) 5.05 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, PG) 7.30 The Three Musketeers: Milady. (2023, M, French) 9.40 The Idol. (2015, M, Arabic) 11.35 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (Return)

8.30 Insight. Kumi Taguchi looks at the work-life balance in 2026. 9.30 Dateline.

10.00 SBS World News Late.

10.30 Living Black. (R)

11.05 Exit. (MA15+av)

12.00 Breaking Point. (Mlv, R)

2.35 Primitive Medium. (R)

2.45 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGa, R)

4.30 Bamay. (R)

5.00 Eurovision Song Contest.

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Holy Marvels. 9.20 Soccer’s American Dream. (Premiere) 10.15 Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 10.30 The Movie Show. 12.10pm WorldWatch. 12.40 Homicide. 2.30 The Grudge. 3.00 Brady Vs Belichick: The Verdict. 3.55 News. 4.00 WorldWatch. 5.55 Curse Of Oak Island. 6.45 Jeopardy! 7.40 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.35 Rock Legends: ABBA. 9.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 4. 1.35am Deepfake Porn: Could You Be Next? 2.35 Late Programs.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Forever

Enthralled. (2008, PG, Mandarin) 8.45 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, PG) 11.10 Little Loves. (2024, Spanish) 1pm The Idol. (2015, M, Arabic) 2.55 Discovering Film. 3.50 Joan Baez: I Am A Noise. (2023) 5.55 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 7.35 Hating Alison Ashley. (2005, PG) 9.30 Love And Mercy. (2014, M) 11.45 Sing Street. (2016, M) 1.45am Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Preparations begin for Archie’s birthday.

7.30 My Reno Rules. (PGl) Hosted by Dr Chris Brown.

9.05 Doc. (Ma) While navigating the fallout from Katie’s secret, Amy treats a critically-ill patient with a dark one of her own.

10.05 House Of Wellness. (PG) Insights and experiences that highlight living well. 11.05 The Agenda Setters. 12.05 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

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WEDNESDAY, May 13

6.00

ABC FAMILY (22)

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: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Steven Universe. 9.05 Adventure Time. 9.30 Teen Titans Go! 9.55 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.15 My Adventures With Superman. 10.35 Late Programs.

3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 4. H’lights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Alexander Armstrong In India. (Premiere)

8.30 The Trial Of Michael Jackson. (M)

9.25 The Audacity. (M) 10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Rise Of The Raven. (MA15+asv)

12.00 Blue Lights. (Malv, R)

2.05 Classified. (Malv, R)

3.45 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PG, R)

4.20 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31)

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

7.30 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Madlv) Recruits must maintain their composure.

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

9.30 Unfiltered. (M)

10.00 The Agenda Setters.

11.00 Why Bridges Collapse. (PGa, R)

12.15 Kochie’s Business Builders. (R)

12.45 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R)

2.00 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 Events That Changed Australia. (Madlv) 8.30 Outback Murder Highway. (Mdv) 9.30 NRLW Wrap: Women’s State Of Origin Special. (PG)

10.30 9News Late.

11.00 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)

11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

12.40 Pointless. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy. (R) 4.30 ACA. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

6.00

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Discovering

Film. 6.55 The Boy And The Heron. (2023, PG) 9.10

Hating Alison Ashley. (2005, PG) 11.00 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 12.40pm Post Coitum, Animal Triste. (1997, M, French) 2.30 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, PG) 4.55 Discovering Film. 5.45 Moonlighting. (1982, PG) 7.35 Xanadu. (1980) 9.30 Walk The Line. (2005, M) Midnight Body Melt. (1993, MA15+) 1.30 Late Programs.

THURSDAY, May 14

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Ultimate Vets. 9.05 Animal Park. 10.35 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Rick Stein’s Australia.

8.40 American Prince: JFK Jr: Ladies And Gentlemen, Meet George. (Ml, R) John F Kennedy Jr launches George magazine.

9.30 A Gentleman In Moscow. (Premiere)

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 Under The Bridge. (Madl)

11.50 DNA. (MA15+a, R)

2.25 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGa, R)

4.10 Bamay. (R)

5.00 Eurovision Song Contest.

VICELAND (31)

The Curse Of Oak Island. 6.45 Jeopardy! 7.40 Jeopardy! 8.05 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 5. 1.35am Dark Side Of The Ring. 2.30 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour. 6am WorldWatch. 11.00 The Movie Show. 12.10pm WorldWatch. 12.40 Alone. 1.55 UFOs: Investigating The Unknown. 2.50 Insight. 3.50 News. 3.55 WorldWatch. 5.55 The Curse Of Oak Island. 6.45 Jeopardy! 7.40 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.35 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 6. 1.35am The Nine Lives Of. 2.30 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Discovering Film. 6.25 Xanadu. (1980) 8.15 Grandpas. (2019, PG, Spanish) 10.05 Corsage. (2022, M) 12.05pm Ali. (2001, M) 2.55 Discovering Film. 3.45 Monsieur Verdoux. (1947, PG) 6.00 Golden Years. (2016, PG) 7.50 Monty Python’s Life Of Brian. (1979, M) 9.30 The Commitments. (1991, M) 11.40 Long Story Short. (2021, M) 1.20am Unfaithful. (2002, MA15+) 3.30 Late Programs.

6am Room For Improvement. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Business Builders. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon My Reno Rules. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 House Calls To The Rescue. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Heartbeat. 8.45 McDonald And Dodds. (Return) 10.45

6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Australia ReDiscovered. 10.30 American Resto. 11.00 Storage Wars. 11.30 American Pickers.

6am Children’s Programs. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.30 Bewitched. 11.30 Motor Racing. FIA World Endurance C’ship. 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps. H’lights. 12.35pm MOVIE: Police Academy. (1984, M) 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Tango & Cash. (1989, M) 10.35 Seinfeld. 11.35 Late Programs.

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

7.30 Highway Patrol. (PGl, R)

8.00 Motorway Patrol. (PG) A laptop left on a rooftop causes grief for a sole trader.

8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. Hosted by Ant and Dec.

10.30 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R)

11.30 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Madlv, R)

12.30 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R)

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

(64) 7MATE (64)

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL Women’s State

6am Children’s Programs. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.30 Bewitched. 11.30 Motor Racing. Indycar Series. Sonsio Grand Prix. H’lights. 12.35pm MOVIE: June Again. (2020, M) 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Never Been Kissed. (1999, PG) 10.40 Seinfeld. 11.40 Rugby Heaven. 12.40am Love Island UK: All Stars. 1.40 Late Programs.

Peggy Landon Osteopath

STUDENTS from Mid North Coast Karate at Kew recently undertook their belt gradings, facing a panel of senior instructors to test their skills.

The grading process evaluated the students on their basics and ‘kata’, with those above blue belt also demonstrating their sparring abilities.

All participants successfully advanced to the next level, showcasing their hard work and dedication.

Instructor Sensei Anissa Hilton expressed pride in all her students' determination and effort.

“I am proud of each and every one of our students who attempted their grading,” she said.

“They all trained

Grading success