A
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By Rachael THORPE
By Rachael THORPE
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
A
Chantelle ANSELL 0431 232 820 chan@newsofthearea.com.au
Phone
FROM Page 1
“I ignored this for several months thinking it was just a sporting injury; I don’t want to see the same thing happen to anyone else.”
Dylan is now doing cycles of chemotherapy and is “just trying to keep everything functioning as normally as possible”.
“That way my family can all live their best possible lives,” he said.
Five years ago, Dylan joined the Bonny
Hills Lake Cathie Cricket Club, despite not having played since he was young.
With his oldest child a dedicated cricketer, it seemed like a natural fit.
He credits club members Anthony McKinlay, Justin Paggotto and Barry Spencer for helping reignite his love for the game, and this group is now at the forefront of a fundraising initiative to provide some financial relief and community support to Dylan and his family.
“Dylan is a much-loved member of the team,” Anthony told News Of The Area.
“He's the first to offer help and the first
to crack jokes.
“He treats everyone with the same level of respect and is incredibly popular amongst the community."
The Do it for Dylan fundraiser is being held at Club Lake Cathie on 18 April at 6pm, with the night including raffles and auction items thanks to generous donations by local individuals and businesses.
Pancreatic cancer purple ribbon caps are being sold by the club for $25, with all proceeds to Dylan.
Enquiries to bhlccc.sponsorship@ gmail.com.
Day, often involving local schools, as well as wellbeing, social, sport and recreation activities for veterans.
I’m very proud of.
We
Buster, tell us about your journey to the Hastings region.
My wife Sandie lived in Port Macquarie for most of her life before joining the Army.
We met in Townsville in 1982 and spent many years holidaying in the Camden Haven and Port Macquarie area.
After 38 years of Army service and moving around Australia during that time, we decided to make Camden Haven our home in 2014.
What inspired you to start getting involved in the local community?
In many ways, volunteering in the community has been a natural continuation of the service ethic that comes with military life.
I feel fortunate to live in a part of the world where community spirit is so strong.
Camden Haven and Port Macquarie are places where people genuinely look out for each other, and that sense of connection is something I’ve always valued.
My involvement grew from simply wanting to give something back.
Like many people, I’ve benefited from the support and friendships that come from living in a close-knit community, and volunteering felt like a natural way to contribute.
Over time, that involvement led me into roles supporting veterans and the broader community through the local RSL sub-Branch and other activities.
What is the focus of your community work and what do you enjoy most about giving back?
Much of my volunteer work has been through the Laurieton RSL sub-Branch, where I currently serve as President.
Our focus is supporting veterans and their families, while also bringing the broader community together.
This includes organising commemorative services such as Anzac Day and Remembrance
We also run community events, support local schools, aged care facilities, and work with other organisations.
What I enjoy most is the people.
Volunteers give their time freely and often quietly, without expecting recognition.
Seeing people come together, support each other, and build friendships is one of the most rewarding parts of community work.
What is one thing you’re really proud of?
Rather than one specific achievement, I’m most proud of helping maintain a strong and active RSL sub-Branch with around 140 members that continues to support veterans while remaining closely connected to the community.
A key part of that success is our very active Auxiliary, a group of dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes raising funds so we can continue assisting veterans and their families.
Many people don’t realise that RSL subBranches are run entirely by volunteers.
Being part of a team that continues to provide support, organise commemorations, and create opportunities for veterans and community members to connect is something
It’s truly a collective effort, and the credit belongs to the many volunteers who quietly give their time and energy to make it happen.
Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the community?
My hope is that the strong sense of community we already have continues to grow.
Regional communities rely heavily on volunteers, and encouraging new and younger people to get involved will be important for the future.
I’d also like to see continued awareness of the needs of veterans and their families, as well as ongoing support for the many local groups and organisations that quietly contribute to the wellbeing of our community.
While we always welcome new members to the RSL sub-Branch, it’s important for veterans and their families to know that they do not need to be members to seek assistance or support.
We meet every Thursday from 9 am to 12 noon, so if you’re in the area, feel free to drop by for a brew and a chat.
The Camden Haven and Port Macquarie areas are wonderful places to live, and communities like ours thrive when people simply look out for one another and are willing to lend a hand.
FROM Page 1
More than 180 people joined Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer, Port Macquarie-Hastings
Mayor Adam Roberts, Council General Manager Robert Fish, and Director of Community Infrastructure Ben Wood to hear an update on the proposed completion.
The room was decorated with artwork from Laurieton Public School students showcasing their ideas around the pathway.
Committee President Penny Small opened the meeting by discussing the
history of the project which, when complete, will result in a continuous off-road route from North Haven to Pilot Beach via Laurieton and Dunbogan.
“This project began in 2013 with a vision of a safe and continuous pathway,” she said.
"If we design for the most vulnerable people, we design for everyone, and research shows that designated pathways can reduce traffic accidents by 57 percent.”
Most residents spoke in favour of the proposal, as did representatives of the Camden Haven Chamber of
Commerce and Better By Bicycle Port Macquarie.
The estimated cost of the final three-kilometre section is $8 million; with the Council representatives present clarifying that the funds would need to be sourced from State and Federal governments.
Due to the significant costs and extensive work required including water main relocation, it is likely that this last section will be done in part lengths rather than all at once.
Several present raised concerns about the danger currently posed by pedestrians and cyclists on the section of Camden Head
By Bill HARROW
BETWEEN 2pm and 4pm on 29 April, Hastings Community Radio presenter Liz Faassen will broadcast her final program of “The Sounds of the Swinging 60s and 70s”.
Liz became a 2WAY FM presenter in 2014 after completing the required training.
She had listened to 2WAY FM for many years prior to this, and was a big fan of “The Dutch Allsorts" program hosted by Lonnie and Ria.
Liz has Dutch heritage and, by chance, her mother knew the program’s hosts.
In her two-hour time slot, Liz played a lot of music from the 60s and 70s, which saw her program evolve into its current form.
Liz also took on the Sunday morning breakfast program, which was a big hit with its cruisy laid-back style and easy listening music.
She leaves behind a big legacy at 2WAY FM.
She assisted with programming and was President for two years, Treasurer for two years and a committee member for seven years.
As an ambassador
for 2WAY FM, she has contributed to the station’s success through hard work and her “yes, we can do that” attitude.
Liz has seen many changes over the years, including the studio moving from playing vinyl records to CDs, digital recordings and the use of USBs, and now
the station live streaming via 2wayfm.com.au.
“I have really enjoyed my time at 2WAY FM,” she told News Of The Area.
“I have made great friends, and it’s been like a big family - along with meeting so many people who have tuned into my programs.”
Liz hopes that all her loyal listeners, and maybe some new ones, will tune in to her remaining programs.
q Liz Faassen at the desk for 2WAY FM.
Road between Scarborough Way and the boat ramp at Gogley’s Lagoon, reaffirming the necessity of the work.
However, a vocal group of residents who reside near that section expressed frustration around the pathway design.
Angus Morrison told News Of The Area, “The hand railing that is being installed in that section will completely ruin the view from those properties.
“We are very much against the proposed railing and would prefer to see bollards installed.”
The Committee stated
that environmental protection, cost, and safety were the main drivers of the finalised design and scope.
By Sis HIGGINS
ONE of the Port MacquarieHastings region’s most recognised organisations, Willing & Able marks 60 years of supporting people with disability, while continuing to evolve to meet the needs of the community.
Despite its long history, many people are still unaware of the full scope of services it provides and the impact it has had on hundreds of local lives.
Established in 1966 as Q Robin, a school for children with intellectual disability in Wauchope, the organisation has grown into a multi-faceted social enterprise focused on creating meaningful opportunities for people with disability.
As inclusion and
accessibility continue to gain momentum across Australia, the organisation is now exploring new approaches to open employment, aiming to create more pathways into mainstream jobs.
“We currently have several business units providing services to the community and jobs for people with disability,” says John Carroll, Willing & Able’s Engagement and Development Manager.
In 1975, services expanded to include adults, with the opening of a sheltered workshop and activity training centre in Port Macquarie.
Over the following decades, the organisation adapted alongside changes in policy and community expectations, including becoming part of the Challenge Foundation of NSW in 1984 and shifting towards supported employment after the introduction of the Disability Services Act in 1986.
This transition led to the development of business arms such as Jindalee Enterprises and Workteams, providing paid employment and skill-
building opportunities.
By 1992, the organisation became Hastings Foundation Limited, before rebranding in 2007 to Willing & Able Foundation Limited, establishing the well-known identity it carries today.
Today, Willing & Able offers supported employment, individual support and group-based activities, helping people build independence and confidence.
“We have our Op Shop, our Return ‘n Earn and
X-rays recycling units, a commercial laundry catering to businesses but also offering doona cleaning for the general public, a woodworking section, a real estate signs business, car washing for local dealerships, and we take on
other smaller projects from time to time,” John said.
“And we’re actively working on expansion plans into other initiatives to offer a wider range of job opportunities.
“We’re at an exciting point in our evolution!”
SENIORS across the Oxley electorate have been recognised for their invaluable contributions to the community, receiving Local Achievement Awards as part of the 2026 NSW Seniors Festival.
Out of the 24 seniors nominated, four were chosen for the major awards, all presented by Member for Oxley Michael Kemp.
“Across the four valleys of Oxley, it is our seniors who have helped build the strong, connected communities we have today,” Mr Kemp said.
“They’re the ones fundraising for hospitals, backing local sporting clubs and giving their time because they genuinely care about their community.”
“To be recognised by your peers is something truly special, and each of the nominees and award recipients should be incredibly proud of the difference they have made.”
Local Senior Achievement Award Winners
• Lifetime Senior Achievement Award: Ray Walkden (Kempsey) - Ray has dedicated more than 37 years of outstanding service to the Macleay Valley, making him a truly deserving recipient of the Lifetime Senior Achievement Award. Through his longstanding involvement with the Lions Club of Kempsey and the NSW SES, Ray has played a critical role in supporting the community in times of need. As Deputy Commander of the Kempsey SES, he has been at the forefront of emergency response and disaster recovery, often among the first on scene during major incidents.
• Female Senior of the Year: Ruth Holmes (Dorrigo) - Ruth is a passionate and tireless advocate for her community across Dorrigo and Bellingen. As a member of the Dorrigo Rotary Club and Mountain Top Landcare, Ruth has consistently worked to
improve local outcomes. Ruth has also played an important role in promoting events such as the Dorrigo Plateau Farm Safety Awareness Day and also actively advocates for Waterfall Way.
• Male Senior of the Year: Peter Brotherton (Urunga) - Peter has been a driving force behind the continued success of the Lions Club of Urunga. After helping rebuild the club in 2014, he went on to serve as President across multiple terms. Peter is a dedicated volunteer, contributing to the club’s fundraising efforts which return around $7,000 annually to the community. One of his most impactful initiatives has been supporting the Urunga Primary School P&C to fund the school canteen, a contribution that has allowed the canteen to expand its operation from three to five days a week.
• Seniors Community Group of the Year: Kempsey Neighbourhood Centre Bazaar
– The Kempsey Neighbourhood Centre Bazaar has shown a remarkable and enduring commitment to supporting vulnerable members of the community. Through the delivery of essential furniture to households across the Kempsey Shire and providing critical assistance to families impacted by natural disasters, the Bazaar continues to make a meaningful and lasting difference.
Local Senior Achievement Award Nominees
• Aileen Lewthwaite (Kempsey) - 18 years of outstanding service to the Kempsey United Hospital Auxiliary, including 12 as President. She also volunteered at St Vincent de Pauls for 18 years.
• Clare Porter (Gladstone) – Clare has had a lifelong dedication to the Gladstone community, serving the Gladstone Uniting Church for decades, leading the Ladies Church Ais for more than 30 years. Clare is also a life
member of the Smithtown RFS and helped the SES and part of the Gladstone Pool Committee.
• June Boag (Macksville) - June has volunteered for many organisations, including 25 years service to the NSW RFS, 15 years with NSW SES, and membership with the VIEW Club, Macksville Hospital Canteen and the Nambucca Seniors Citizens Club.
• Kay White (Comboyne) - Kay has contributed more than 30 years to the Comboyne Tigers RLFC and has been a dedicated member of the Comboyne Bowling Club. A passionate supporter of the Comboyne Show and local markets, Kay has been awarded Most Successful Exhibitor many times.
• Lorraine Daelman (Gladstone)Dedication to the CWA Gladstone Evening Branch, served as Treasurer and now in her third term as President. Lorraine also volunteers at Gladstone Public School, Gladstone Hall Committee and Scouts.
• Rotary Club of Nambucca ValleyThe Rotary Club of Nambucca Valley supports schools, youth programs and sporting groups, delivers disaster relief, and promotes inclusion through initiatives such as Sunshine Wheels, the Chocolate Wheel and the Rotary River Run.
• The Lions Club of Bellingen – 70 years of service to the community and outstanding fundraising efforts for the Bellinger River District Hospital. Since October 2024, the Lions Club of Bellingen has raised more
than $123,000 for vital medical equipment, while continuing to support local events and initiatives.
• Anne Britten, Annie Orenshaw, Brendon Cox, Geraldine Cox, Helen Arvidson, Lorraine Preston, Malcolm Arvidson, Mareea Geatches, Peta Cross, Philip Preston, Ruth Salmond, Stephen Cox, Tom Grenfell – For their volunteer work for the Kempsey Neighbourhood Centre Bazaar. Providing pickup and delivery of furniture to many homes across the Kempsey Shire and supporting countless families.
THE NSW Government has announced a $15 million investment to extend the AgSkilled program over the next three years.
agriculture.”
NSW Farmers Young Farmer Council Chair Jess Ryan welcomed the announcement, adding it was great to see the NSW Government listening to farmer feedback on the initiative.
“This is a win for NSW Farmers and for every young person and worker looking to build practical skills in agriculture,” Ms Ryan said.
with Port Bus to Newcastle
Announced at the Sydney Royal Easter Show, the funding will support the continued delivery of practical, hands-on training across key agricultural sectors including livestock, horticulture, grains and fibre.
Friday 8th & Saturday 9th May 2026
with Port Bus to Newcastle Friday 8th & Saturday 9th May 2026
The program is designed to give workers job-ready skills without the time and cost associated with full formal qualifications, while also helping farmers and agribusinesses access a skilled and reliable workforce.
Courses are tailored to seasonal demands and delivered locally, making them accessible for workers and businesses in regional and remote areas.
“For three years we’ve been stuck in stopstart annual funding that makes it hard for training providers to innovate, develop new content, or even keep courses running when farmers actually have time to attend, especially through winter.
“Farm businesses are adopting new technology and new ways of working.
“We need a training system that keeps up, so people can pick up micro-skills quickly and keep productivity moving in the right direction.”
Highlights:
Tour Summary:
• Craft, Craft & more Craft!
Craft Alive Newcastle is a vibrant event taking place at the Newcastle Jockey Club, offering a unique opportunity for attendees to learn from world through interactive classes. This event spans over three days, featuring a variety of engaging sessions specifically scheduled for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Whether you are a crafting enthusiast or a professional looking to enhance your skills, there are numerous classes available, each designed to provide hands experience and knowledge from experts in the field.
• Return air-conditioned coach transport.
• Port Bus welcome pack including H20
• Lunch at the Nabiac Hotel
• Craft Store visits on our way to Newcastle
• Dinner at Club Macquarie
• 1 x night at Macquarie 4Star
• Entry to the show
“Today’s investment means our farmers and agribusinesses have a pipeline of skilled workers ready when they’re needed most,” said Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty.
“With long-term funding, this program can adapt to new technologies, sustainable practices, and the changing needs of NSW
NSW Farmers said the move also recognised a key weakness the organisation had raised with the previous funding model: course schedules shutting down and restarting around the winter period, precisely when many producers could take time off-farm to upskill.
CraftAlive is a hands-on event. A chance to learn from world class specialists with interactive classes. Class schedules are released 6 you book ahead to secure your spot.
Each event features both local and national experts with the latest craft supplies, kits and equipment.
Inclusions: Itinerary: Day 1
Highlights:
Departing Port Bus around 08:00 we make our way through Port, Tacking Point, Bonny Hills, Laurieton & Kew. Taree Craft Centre & Knitty Gritty Yarn & More here we come!
• Craft, Craft & more Craft!
Inclusions:
Morning tea is a Devonshire Tea in the Craft Centre. Lunch today is at the Nabiac Hotel. One more shop stop is at Eckersley’s Art & Craft. Time to check in at the Macquarie 4 Star. Dinner tonight is onsite at the adjoining Club Macquarie.
• Return air-conditioned coach transport.
Day 2
• Port Bus welcome pack including H20
• Lunch at the Nabiac Hotel
Checking out at 09:00 we head over to the Showgrounds for Craft Alive2026! You will have until 14:30 there before we commence our journey home. A comfort stop @ Taree South Service Centre before drop offs commencing around 17:30.
• Craft Store visits on our way to Newcastle
• Dinner at Club Macquarie
• 1 x night at Macquarie 4Star
• Entry to the show
Twin $ 607 pp | Single $753 pp $180 deposit pp
Itinerary:
Day 1
02 6583 3330
https://www.portbus.com.au
https://events.humanitix.com/craft-alive-26
Departing Port Bus around 08:00 we make our way through Port, Tacking Point, Bonny Hills, Laurieton & Kew Taree Craft Centre & Knitty Gritty Yarn & More here we come! Morning tea is a Devonshire Tea in the Craft Centre. Lunch today is at the Nabiac Hotel. One more shop stop is at Eckersley’s Art & Craft. Time to
Member for Oxley Michael Kemp said the funding extension was a “great outcome” for farmers.
“We are the producers of this countrygrowing the food, supplying the fibre, and delivering the essential resources Australians rely on every day,” he said.
“Investing in skills and training is investing in the future of farming and ensuring our industries remain productive and sustainable.
“Building up these skills is critical if we want to grow more here in NSW, strengthen our supply chains, and reduce our reliance on overseas imports and other states.”
According to NSW Government data, the program is delivering strong results across regional NSW.
In 2024–25, more than 2,300 participants completed over 770 courses across 188 locations, achieving a 96 percent completion rate.
The previous year saw more than 2,400 participants complete more than 600 courses, with a 96 percent completion rate.
By Pauline CAIN
HASTINGS Valley Fine Art
Society’s Open Art Prize was launched on Tuesday 31 March at the Port City Bowling Club, with over 150 guests attending,
Artists, their family and friends, and sponsors were able to preview the exhibition before all of the category winners were announced.
“The exhibition has
with 226 artworks,” Deputy Mayor Nik Lipovac pointed out when officially opening the event.
“It brings together creatives, families, seniors, volunteers, residents and visitors to enhance the cultural vibrancy of our local area.”
Judge Vivianne Hazenveld, is well-known for her support
of the local art community, especially as the organiser of the Port Macquarie Art Trail.
She was impressed by the high quality and range of the artworks, which she described as “testament to the creative hub in our area”.
“I was looking for originality, brave creative choices, mastery of technique and the emotional impact on the viewer.”
Carly Marchment
won Best in Show with “Amphitheatre Series #4 Bundanon 2025.”
Ms Hazenveld commented on Carly’s “beautiful professional skill, using old master techniques of dark and light with bold lines and a tenderly drawn, vulnerable figure in the front.”
The work was produced at a Bundanon Trust Residency on the South Coast of NSW, with imagery inspired by the
stunning surroundings, and the technique informed by Carly’s physical capacity.
“In this series I explored and experimented with different ways to adapt and move my body to achieve a balanced harmony between chaos and stillness to tell the story.”
First place winners included Jill Cairns in Oil and Acrylic with “Homage to Miss Flynn”; Sarah Spencer
in Water Based Medium on Paper with “Shellys at Dusk”; Jodi Newman in Drawing/ Pastel with “Sanctuary in the Bush”; and Anne de Nooijer in Mixed Media with “All that Skin Against the Glass”. The exhibition runs until this Sunday, 12 April and is open 11am-6pm daily.
Event profits are donated to the Hastings Education Fund which provides financial assistance to young local people to achieve their post-school education and training.
By Sis HIGGINS
YOUNG dancers dreaming of a career on the global stage are being reminded that no matter where you live, it is possible to make it.
Local talent Conor Bann-Murray is currently appearing in the feature documentary Dance For Your Life, which hit cinemas nationwide on Thursday 2 April.
The film follows 10 of Australia’s most promising young dancers as they compete for a coveted position with an international dance company.
It offers a rare behindthe-scenes look at what it takes to turn passion into a profession.
Conor explains what it’s
like to be a dancer.
“You're injured one week and then you're on stage the next week, and then you're in pain the week after, and then rinse and repeat.
“So, I think that's just what we signed up for, honestly.
“We love it so much, we're all crazy.”
Conor joins a line-up of standout performers including breakout star Emily Smith and Max Ostler, who previously appeared on America’s Got Talent.
The documentary captures the dancers’ journey from Australia to London.
Dancers audition for Shapehaus, a new company founded by world-renowned choreographer Dean Lee.
Lee has worked with
global music icons including Janet Jackson, Kylie Minogue, The Pussycat Dolls, Shania Twain and The Jacksons.
Under his mentorship, the dancers are pushed physically and emotionally as they navigate intense rehearsals, fierce competition and the pressure of chasing a lifelong dream.
Directed by multi-awardwinning filmmaker Luke Cornish, the film offers an intimate look at the realities of the commercial dance world.
The story highlights Brent Street, one of Australia’s leading performing arts studios, which provides the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for dancers like Conor to audition internationally.
By Sis HIGGINS
HEADSPACE Port Macquarie is inviting the community to test their knowledge and creativity at a one-night-only trivia fundraising event next week.
The Thursday Night Trivia event will take place on Thursday 16 April, offering a fun and inclusive evening focused on supporting local youth programs.
The event carries a “When I Grow Up” theme, with attendees encouraged to dress as their future selves.
A Best Dressed prize will be awarded alongside trivia prizes on the night.
The event is open to anyone aged 16 and over and is led by headspace Port Macquarie’s Youth Reference Group volunteers, with support from local partners.
Organisers say the night is designed to create a welcoming space where people can meet new friends and enjoy a relaxed social environment.
A spokesperson from the headspace Port Macquarie Youth Reference Group
said, “Trivia is such a great way to bring people together.
“It’s relaxed, affordable and gives everyone a chance to feel included.
“By coming together for a fun night out, we’re also raising awareness and funds to support youth mental health and positive programs in our local community."
The event will be held at The Terrace at The Bowl, located at 159 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie. Team registrations open from 5:30pm, with trivia starting at 6:00pm, followed by social time continuing into the evening.
Tickets cost $10, with all funds raised going towards youth-focused programs and activities in the region.
Participants can register as a team or attend individually, with organisers matching solo attendees into teams on the night.
Food, drinks, music and a lively atmosphere will round out the evening.
Tickets must be purchased prior to entry, with early bookings encouraged on https://events.humanitix.com/ headspace-trivia-night
DETECTIVES have released
CCTV images of a vehicle as an investigation continues into a serious assault in Port Macquarie late last year.
About 10.20pm on Wednesday 12 November 2025, emergency services were called to the corner of Buller and Hollingsworth Street, Port Macquarie, following reports of an assault.
Inquiries revealed that a man was walking along Buller Street when the occupants of a passing car
began to throw objects at him.
A verbal altercation broke out between the man and the occupants of the vehicle, before he was assaulted by a man who exited the vehicle.
The unknown man left in the vehicle a short time later and emergency services were called to the scene.
The 45-year-old man was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to Port Macquarie Base Hospital.
He was later transported to the Sydney Eye Hospital for further treatment of head and facial injuries.
He has since been discharged.
A crime scene was established and inquiries into the incident commenced by officers attached to the Mid North Coast Police District.
As inquiries continue, detectives have released CCTV of a silver Kia Rio hatchback with possible Queensland registration seen in the area at the time
of the incident.
Police wish to speak with the occupants of the
vehicle who might be able to assist with inquiries.
Anyone able to identify
By John KIDMAN, AAP
AUSTRALIAN fruit and vegetable growers are missing out on the sale of up to a million tonnes of produce annually that never makes it to market.
That's a whopping $2.5 billion a year but a figure dwarfed by the costs linked to such a huge loss.
Data shows Australian horticulture experiences average food loss rates of about 20 percent per farm, with growers often wearing the expense of paying for seed, water, fertiliser, crop protection and labour.
This represents an enormous but largely invisible economic risk, costing an estimated $36.6 billion annually, or about 1.4 percent of GDP.
As such, it's one of the largest avoidable sources of productivity loss in the Australian economy.
In response, a new national research program is under way that aims to help farmers tackle surplus and on-farm losses.
Leading the program, End Food Waste Australia says it will put growers at the centre of national on-farm trials designed to measure where losses occur.
Practical ways to lift utilisation from each harvest are also being tested, product specifications reviewed, commercial pathways for surplus and out-of-spec produce identified and farmready resources developed.
The program is funded through Hort Innovations Frontiers with various
government co-investment.
Director of Research, Development and Extension Francesca Goodman-Smith says the project will work with growers on industrywide solutions.
"International trials have shown growers can increase profitability by up to 20 percent through food waste reduction," she said.
"When food isn't sold its not just the food that is wasted, it is also the fertiliser, water, labour and opportunity cost of using that land."
Hort's General Manager of Production and Sustainability
Anthony Kachenko says there's a need to focus on improving profitability.
"Australian growers produce some of the best horticulture products in the
world and work hard to get it to market," he said.
"This national program will support our growers by providing practical, commercially realistic tools to maximise value from each harvest."
A key element will be consumer research examining preferences and product specifications, the cosmetic and size standards that influence sales.
"Just because fruit has a cosmetic defect doesn't mean it's inedible," according to Rowan Little from Victorianbased fresh produce grower Montague Farms.
"We've reached almost 100 percent crop utilisation for our apples through secondary markets to cider and juices, and are looking at
the same for plums.
"If we can unlock value in new markets and sell more from every crop, that's good for growers and good for the whole supply chain."
The research and trials will test what works under Australian conditions using data collected from participating farms.
Outputs are expected to include measurement tools and loss-reduction resources, grower training materials and case studies that set out what options work and what they cost.
The findings will be published in order to make resources easy for growers to find and apply.
By Sis HIGGINS
THE loss of a key mental health program for Australia’s seafood industry has prompted urgent calls for funding to be reinstated.
Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan wrote to the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and
Forestry and the Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, requesting immediate action to restore the “Stay Afloat” Program.
Established in 2020, “Stay Afloat” delivers industry-led mental health support across seafood communities.
Funding ceased in
September 2025 and has not been reinstated.
“At a time when all primary industries are being hammered with uncertainty, we can’t be reducing the services available to those in mental distress,” Mr Conaghan said.
“We all know the brutal statistics around suicide within primary producer communities, and as a Federal Government we can’t be taking our hands off the wheel on this issue.”
Mr Conaghan said the seafood industry,
particularly oyster farmers, had faced compounding pressures.
“The seafood industry in our electorate has been hit particularly hard in recent years, especially our oyster farmers.
“Every minor flooding event sees oyster businesses shut for weeks, if not months.
“And now with so many unable to access fuel, either due to price or supply, the level of stress is at fever pitch.”
The owner of Port Oyster Company Paul Wilson said,
“It’s a backward step when taking funds away from programs.
“It’s quite devastating to see your hard word destroyed in front of you and these programs can help people affected by the disasters to get through it.
“Especially over the past few years and with the situation right now.”
NSW Farmers Oyster Committee Chair and Stuarts Point oyster farmer Todd Graham, raised the issue directly with Mr Conaghan.
“People in our industry
MORE than 60 Councils from across the state have issued a call for the NSW Government to guarantee fuel supplies for local government garbage and waste collections in the face of increasing shortages and costs.
The meeting of councils convened by Local Government NSW (LGNSW) President Mayor Darcy Byrne also proposed that any fuel cost increases incurred by councils for waste
collections be subsidised by the waste levy councils pay to the Government
“Councils across NSW are gravely concerned that without a guarantee of fuel supply, garbage services will be disrupted in coming weeks and months,” Mayor Byrne said.
“That’s why we have today called with one voice for the NSW Government to commit to supplying the fuel we need to deliver basic
services.
“Councils are already at the front line in terms of waste collection and we need the State Government to partner with us to ensure that any increased costs are not being borne by us or our communities.
“Across the state this year, Councils and landfill operators will pay almost $900 million in a waste levy that currently just goes into consolidated revenue.
“That money needs to go back into the system to help soften the blow of increases in the cost of petrol.” Mayor Byrne also met with the Treasurer and with the Minister for Environment, Energy and Climate Change to outline the position of local government.
At the request of the Treasurer, LGNSW will be collating information on experiences and impacts
from local Councils about fuel distribution issues.
“We’re happy to assist the State Government by providing this information direct from Councils on the ground,” said Mayor Byrne.
“In this situation, Councils really are best placed to inform Government responses and policy.”
Moving forward LGNSW will meet with senior representatives from
are really struggling and now have no-one who understands our unique challenges to talk to.
“I actually tried to call them myself last week but received no reply.
“I [have] since found out that the funding was pulled in September and they are no longer providing the service at all in NSW.”
Mr Graham said ongoing challenges continue to take a toll.
“With all the natural disasters in our region since 2019, on top of QX outbreaks in oysters, white spot disease in prawns, and the algal bloom in SA, this fuel disaster is just compounding the issues for farmers already at their wits end.”
Stay Afloat trained 189 volunteer “Trusted Advocates” across more than 70 communities to provide Mental Health First Aid and localised wellbeing support.
The initiative was devised to create programs “For Industry, By Industry” and highlights the vital role community-driven solutions play in fostering resilience.
News Of The Area contacted the Minister for comment but has not had a reply.
waste sector to jointly discuss responsible ways forward for communities, Councils and waste service providers.
Concerns have also been raised over a range of other council services including the operating of council cemeteries and airports, the impact on community events and festivals, and the rising unpredicted cost of materials for ongoing projects, particularly regarding projects covered by Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
By Kate SHELTON
THE official results are in, and the record books have a new entry following the recent Port Macquarie Golden Lure tournament.
Rene Carroll’s impressive 20.30kg Cobia, taken off South West Rocks on 15 January 2026, has been formally recognised as the NSW State Record for the Female Saltwater 10kg Line Class.
The record-breaking catch was a highlight of a high-stakes week aboard the vessel “Still Play’n Up”.
By day four of the competition, the crew had been through the wringer, having lost several black marlin earlier in the week.
Looking for a change in fortune, Rene hooked up and a 15-minute battle that followed was as tense as they come. Given the fish’s aggressive power, the crew initially suspected they were hooked into a shark.
However, Skipper Chris was able to identify the prize as a massive Cobia before it reached the surface.
The excitement on deck reached a fever pitch as they realised they had a potential record-breaker on the line, especially with the ever-present risk of local sharks "taxing" the catch before it could be landed.
Fortunately, the Cobia was gaffed and brought aboard completely whole, sparking an emotional celebration.
Rene, who admitted she almost jumped out of the boat in pure adrenalinefueled joy, was quick to praise the efforts of her crewmates Lisa, Chris, and Len.
Now that the record is official, the 20.30kg catch stands as a crowning achievement for Rene and a standout moment in the history of the Port Macquarie Golden Lure.
q Rene and her record catch. Photos: supplied.
THIRTEEN regional clubs have collectively raised more than $70,000 to support farmers impacted by the devastating floods of May last year.
Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer
said the fundraising effort brought together clubs from across the region with the support of Clubs NSW.
“[It] highlighted the strong community spirit and commitment to supporting those affected
by natural disasters,” he said.
Contributing clubs include Club North Haven, Club Old Bar, Club West (Taree West Bowling Club), Kempsey RSL, Kempsey Bowlo, Crescent
Head Country Club, Laurieton United Services Club, Westport Club, Panthers Port Macquarie, Gloucester Memorial Club (Club Gloucester), Club Harrington, Port City Bowling Club and Wingham Ex Services Club.
The total amount raised to date stands at
$70,445.80, subject to final confirmation from the Mid Coast Dairy Advancement Group.
“The contribution will provide much needed assistance to farmers as they continue to recover.
“This incredible result reflects the generosity of our local communities and
the dedication of our clubs.
“We are proud to stand behind our farmers and support their recovery during such a challenging time.”
The funds will be administered by the Mid Coast Dairy Advancement Group
By Alex MITCHELL, AAP
LESS than a quarter of people eligible for a diversion program for minor drug possession incidents are having their matters dealt with outside of court.
Crime statistics analysis from NSW, the last Australian jurisdiction to introduce
a drug diversion program, shows nine percent of nearly 12,000 relevant drug events between February 2024 and March 2025 resulted in a person being diverted from court.
Only about a quarter of that group were eligible for the diversion program, and only 22 percent of those
eligible people received the diversion.
Critics said the Early Drug Diversion Initiative was poorly designed and police discretion was undermining the intent of the program and exacerbating disadvantage.
The data showed 10 out of every 11 eligible Aboriginal people were sent to court
instead of getting a criminal infringement notice (CIN), compared to two out of every three non-Aboriginal people.
A CIN requires a person to complete a telehealth intervention or pay a $400 fine.
The Aboriginal Legal Service said the data showed systemic discrimination within the police force, adding the program was failing First Nations people.
"Even when police have the option to divert an Aboriginal person away from court, they are choosing to charge them and force them to face criminal punishment," ALS acting chief executive Sharif Deen said.
"Whenever police have the power to decide who can access alternatives to court and avoid criminal charges, we see worse outcomes for our people."
Wealthy people received the lion's share of CINs (46 percent) despite making up only a quarter of eligible participants.
Almost all people caught with MDMA and/or at a music festival were diverted, along with half caught with cocaine.
But only 8.5 percent of ice users were diverted for treatment.
Introducing the scheme, NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said it responded directly to expert evidence and recommendations from the state's ice inquiry.
"Drug use and dependence are very much health issues and ones that are far better
addressed through health support outside the courts and criminal justice systems," he said in October 2023.
Mr Deen said the data showed the government had done little to confront police use of discretion concerning Indigenous people.
Uniting's NSW/ACT advocacy head Alice Salomon was similarly scathing, saying the force was policing based on postcode and drug type.
"The scheme's poor design, along with police culture, is undermining the intent behind diversion," she said.
"With non-diverted cases flowing into the courts, the report identified significant potential savings for the taxpayers of NSW if the scheme was better utilised."
People eligible for diversion must have a small amount of non-cannabis drugs and have no prior convictions for serious drug offending, among other criteria.
Drug checking at music festivals was introduced into NSW in 2025.
NEW research suggests most Australians support a simple change that could significantly boost children’s physical activity levels: letting students wear sports uniforms every day.
The majority of young Australians are still not active enough, despite wellestablished evidence that regular physical activity improves children’s physical and mental health.
Schools are seen as an important setting to address this - but some principals have been hesitant to move away from traditional uniforms due to concerns about community expectations.
A University of Newcastle (UoN) study in partnership with Hunter New England Local Health District’s Population Health, published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, analysed nearly 2,000 public responses and hundreds of community comments, finding more than three-quarters of respondents back the daily wearing of activity-enabling sports uniforms in schools.
UoN’s Belinda Peden, of HMRI’s Population Health Research program, said ensuring children obtained adequate amounts of physical activity was important for their physical, social and mental health and could improve their attention and
academic performance.
“Because physical activity patterns established in childhood often track into adulthood, supporting children to be sufficiently active can help prevent chronic disease later in life,” she said.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends children do at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous intense, physical activity each day.
However, global data shows that only one third of children are sufficiently active, highlighting the need for population-wide interventions.
Traditional school uniforms are often formal in design, consisting of a dress or skirt and blouse for girls and trousers or shorts with a button-up business styleshirt for boys, paired with black leather shoes.
Sports uniforms, consisting of shorts, polo shirts and sports shoes are only worn on days with physical education classes or scheduled sport, often requiring children to change at school.
Several studies have identified formal school uniforms as a barrier to students participating in physical activity, especially for girls.
“Reviews have found that traditional uniform policies
more frequently disadvantage girls, students from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds, low-income families, and gender, and sexually diverse students,” Ms Peden explained.
This study conducted a multi method content analysis, examining public responses to media coverage of proposals to allow students to wear sports uniforms in schools.
An article originally published in research-based news and analysis media outlet The Conversation, titled ‘Four reasons Australian schools should let students wear sports uniforms every day’, attracted coverage across television, digital, print and radio news, as well as social media platforms.
The multi method content analysis found the majority of responses to media coverage of The Conversation article (76 percent) supported schools’ permitting students to wear sports uniforms every day with only 22 percent opposed and two percent categorised as unclear.
“This is one of the first studies to really look at what the public thinks - and it shows people are more open to flexible school uniforms than many might expect,” Ms Peden said.
“We found strong support for letting kids wear sports
uniforms every day, which could make it much easier for schools to help students be more active.
“It’s a simple, low-cost change that could have a big impact, especially when we know parents, students and teachers are already on board.”
Ms Peden said themes around equity, inclusion and autonomy also came through strongly across all the data.
“The data showed people felt that letting students wear sports uniforms every day could make a real differencesupporting gender equity and inclusion, giving kids more choice, and simply making them more comfortable.
“We also know from previous research that strict uniform rules can have the opposite effect, particularly for gender-diverse students, impacting both wellbeing and learning.”
While global, national and state level physical activity guidelines recommend increasing opportunities for students to be active at school, uniform policies are often overlooked as an easy modifiable factor that could potentially influence student activity, particularly during school break times.
Ms Peden said the study’s findings could inform strategies to address a barrier to a simple, scalable, population-level intervention
to increase school-based physical activity.
“What this study shows is that the community is ready for change,” she said.
“There’s strong support for more flexible school uniforms, which could help remove a key barrier to getting kids more active.
“When you combine this with support from parents, students and teachers, it’s a great opportunity to rethink uniform policies in a way that supports wellbeing, inclusion, and equity.”
Professor Luke Wolfenden is Editor-in-Chief of the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health and works alongside the research group that developed the paper.
He hopes the research will help settle the ongoing debate regarding community support and perceived benefits of more physically activity-enabling versus traditional school uniforms.
"This study suggests there is broad community support for school uniforms that support physical activity,” he said.
“Hopefully the findings prompt school principals and committees to focus on health when choosing school clothing. It’s a simple change that has the potential to have a big impact.”
HMRI is a partnership between the University of Newcastle, Hunter New England Local Health District and the community.
By Nick WILSON and Tess IKONOMOU, AAP
ELECTRIC bike sales are surging as rising fuel costs push commuters to find a
cheaper way to get around, industry figures say.
While Australian e-bike sales have been climbing for years, retailers say recent fuel price pressures have sharply
accelerated the trend.
"We've seen a massive spike in interest in e-bikes in the last couple of weeks,"
Peter Bourke, general manager of Bicycle Industries
q More people are contemplating buying e-bikes, Bicycle Industries Australia members say. Photo: Darren England/AAP PHOTOS.
NSW PARENTS are embracing a new wave of contemporary baby names, with eight fresh entries joining the state’s Top 100 in 2025.
Newly released data
from the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages shows a growing preference for names that feel meaningful and distinctive.
Boys’ names saw
particularly strong movement, with Fletcher making the highest debut of the year, followed by other new entrants Rory, August and Micah.
Girls’ names that broke
Australia, told AAP.
Sales accelerated as consumers began to expect fuel price shocks related to global supply challenges to stick around beyond the short term, Mr Bourke said.
"It took a few weeks for people to understand the price rise wasn't going to be a one or two week thing," he said.
"That's when shops began to see a lot more foot traffic."
The evidence remains anecdotal, but Mr Bourke insisted e-bike retailers nationwide were seeing more buyer interest.
One such retailer is bike store 99 Bikes South Melbourne, where e-bike sales have roughly quadrupled in recent weeks, manager Jake Shaw said.
into the list in 2025 were Amira, Mabel, Maggie and Celine.
The growing spread reflects a mix of revived classics among NSW parents.
Although several new names emerged, the top of the list remains stable.
"When (petrol) prices hit $2.50 (per litre), instantly we had a jump in sales," Mr Shaw said.
The spike has not yet been as significant as that experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic but is showing no signs of slowing, he said.
"It's getting close," he said.
It comes as experts warn the forces driving up fuel costs are unlikely to ease quickly despite some temporary signs of relief.
On Monday, Energy Minister Chris Bowen announced Australia had secured fuel supply into May, securing orders beyond a previous mid-April horizon.
It followed the federal government's decision to halve taxes on petrol and diesel and an agreement by states to pass on an expected GST windfall.
Noah continues as the state’s most popular boys name, while Charlotte retains the top spot for girls, continuing long running trends seen through the early 2020s.
NSW Births, Deaths & Marriages Registrar
But the combined savings, worth more than 30c a litre, have not offset the impact of high oil prices due to Iran's restriction of supply through the Strait of Hormuz.
US President Donald Trump has flagged strikes on Iran could end within weeks, recently saying core objectives were nearing completion.
In an expletive-laden social media post on Sunday (Monday AEST), Mr Trump threatened Iran to open the "F***in' Strait" or the regime will be "living in Hell".
The federal government has accepted the impacts of the war will continue, even if it comes to a swift end.
The flow-on effects on fuel prices and inflation will have a long tail, Assistant Foreign Affairs Minister Matt Thistlethwaite said on Sunday.
"If (the war) ended tomorrow, there'd still be effects in the coming months, but we're planning for that," he said.
Theresa Fairman said, “NSW’s favourite baby names have changed dramatically over the past seven decades, with new data revealing that almost all of the top names from 1952 have now disappeared from the Top 100.”
FIRE and Rescue
NSW (FRNSW) is offering free fire safety visits to Mid North Coast residents.
Port Macquarie Station Commander Tim George said FRNSW’s Safety Visit initiative is designed to educate the community about common household fire dangers.
“Our Safety Visits are a great opportunity to
q FRNSW fire fighters check a residential smoke detector.
remind residents about fire safety around the home,” Station Officer George said.
“As part of the program, firefighters come to your home and carry out a fire risk inspection, installing a free smoke alarm where necessary.
“People cannot smell smoke when they are asleep, so having a working smoke alarm is crucial.
“Our Safety Visit program allows us to improve the safety of some of our most vulnerable community members, and make sure they are prepared to respond quickly in an emergency.”
During the safety visit,
urban areas.
“Walkability shouldn’t be limited to urban centres.
firefighters also offer personalised fire safety advice on devices like heaters, power boards and smoke alarms.
Some simple steps to improve fire safety in the home include:
- Check smoke alarms regularly to ensure they are in working order
- If fire occurs, get out, stay out and dial Triple Zero '000' immediately
- Have an escape plan in case of fire and practise it regularly
- Keep a key in any deadlock to assist in an urgent exit
- Never ever leave cooking unattended
- Place drying clothing at least one metre from heaters or fireplaces and never leave unattended
- If you use a clothes dryer clean the lint filter each and every time you use it
- Don't overload power points and switch off when not in use
- Always handle candles or any other open flame with care
- Only use wheat bags for direct application to body aches and pains. Wheat bags can ignite, and are not designed to replace hot water bottles for warming beds
You can book a free Safety Visit with FRNSW at https://www.fire.nsw.gov. au/visits
AMID soaring fuel prices which are prompting Australians to explore alternative transport options, a new study highlights the health benefits of walkable neighbourhoods.
New research shows that regional residents living in walkable towns and centres walk 75 minutes more each week, prompting calls for Governments to invest more in well-connected, safe footpaths to boost community health.
The new paper, led by the Menzies Institute for Medical Research at the University of Tasmania, was published last week in the Australia and New Zealand Journal of Public Health.
It's the first of its kind to show walkability has a bigger impact on the amount of time spent walking in regional communities.
Lead author Dr Sharon Campbell, post-doctoral research fellow in the Environmental Health Research team at the Menzies Institute for Health Research, said that the study highlights the need to enhance
walkability in regional and rural towns across Australia.
“Our study assessed walkability based on how connected and convenient it is to get around an area by foot. For instance, how easily and quickly can you walk to the local shops, schools, parks or public transport,” said Dr Campbell.
“When we merged Tasmanian government health data with geospatial walkability assessments, we revealed a clear link between walkability and residents’ physical activity levels across the state, with an even stronger relationship in regional and rural areas.
“Our research found residents in high walkability regional areas walked 75 minutes more a week compared to those living in low walkability regional areas.
“Even those in regional areas of medium walkability walked over 60 minutes more a week compared to those in low walkability regional areas. In comparison residents in high walkability urban centres
walked 38 minutes more when walkability was high.”
Senior author Professor Verity Cleland, from the Menzies Institute for Medical Research, said that with regional Australian towns experiencing unique health challenges including higher rates of preventable chronic disease, improving walkability could offer a simple, but effective solution to help address health inequalities.
“Imagine if all Australian towns were built with walkability in mind –everyone would be able to travel easily and conveniently on foot, boosting their health while saving money on fuel and protecting the environment,” said Professor Cleland.
“But traditionally government planning and funding has prioritised roads and driving, particularly in regional areas, leading to lack of well-connected footpaths and facilities.
“Our research uncovered a higher number of regional areas that had low walkability compared to
“No matter where you live you should be able to walk around your local area safety and conveniently.
“We need local, state and Federal Governments to do more to set up regional towns with walkable infrastructure to help boost health, particularly in our regional communities.”
Adjunct Professor Terry Slevin, CEO, Public Health Association of Australia said that promoting physical activity across the nation is a public health priority.
"Being physically active has an enormous range of health benefits including reducing the risk of diseases like cancer, diabetes, dementia and heart disease, as well as improving sleep, mobility, strength, confidence and mental health,” said Adjunct Professor Slevin.
“When it comes to health benefits, nothing beats it, and if we could put the benefits of physical activity into a pill, everyone would be taking it.”
Adjunct Prof Slevin said that with less than 25 percent of Australians meeting physical activity
recommendations, more needs to be done to make it easier for Australians to live healthy lifestyles.
“It is recommended adults do at least 30 minutes exercise most days of the week.
“Walking is a convenient, enjoyable and healthy way to get around. It’s something that families can do together, can be done in almost all stages of life and it is free.
“Improving walkability right across the country is a sensible and simple way to boost our physical activity and ultimately protect health and well-being.”
THE NSW Government has inspected just under 1800 petrol stations for fuel price compliance, issuing 93 penalty infringement notices.
Over the last fortnight, the government fasttracked a statewide fuel price compliance blitz to “strengthen fuel price transparency and protect motorists from misleading pricing”.
Around 75 percent of stations in NSW were inspected by the beginning
of April, with around half located outside Sydney.
Retailers who break the rules face on-the-spot fines of $1,100, or Court penalties of up to $22,000 for individuals and $110,000 for corporations.
NSW Fair Trading will continue to update its targets for inspection based on “consumer complaints, intelligence and the changing conditions in the marketplace”.
“The Government
has developed a robust inspection forward plan and expects to physically inspect the majority of NSW’s service stations in the coming weeks,” the NSW Government said in a statement.
“As the program progresses, regional areas will remain a key target.”
To ensure businesses are properly passing on the cost savings promised by the Federal Government’s fuel excise reduction, consumers
are urged to report fuel price issues via FuelCheck - a government site and app which provides real-time information about fuel prices at service stations across NSW and the ACT - or the NSW Fair Trading website.
This includes mismatches between bowser prices and FuelCheck listings, as well as suspected price exploitation following the fuel excise cuts.
Consumer reports are supporting compliance
activity, with NSW Fair Trading issuing 24 user intelligence-based fines last week.
On Sunday, the NSW Government announced a $2.2 million investment to upgrade FuelCheck.
Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said, “Over the past two weeks, millions of NSW motorists have turned to FuelCheck to help find the best fuel price and navigate fuel supply
gaps.
“This funding will allow us to make FuelCheck better for the hundreds of thousands of people who use it daily – through better data collection, stronger analysis, and streamlined user experience.
“These are uncertain times, but we want the people of New South Wales to have the utmost confidence in the real-time price transparency data provided by FuelCheck.”
By Rikki WALLER
BATHED in a sea of pink, purple, and autumn sunshine, the courts of the Wauchope Tennis Club came alive on Saturday, 28 March as players and spectators gathered for the annual Purple Pickleball Tournament, part of the muchloved Lasiandra Festival.
The event, previously postponed due to poor weather, is a highlight of the festival’s program, and brought together a mix of seasoned players and enthusiastic newcomers.
Participants embraced the festival spirit with many donning vibrant outfits that matched the jacarandainspired theme synonymous with Lasiandra celebrations.
“The weather was perfect,” Helen Garrett, Pickleball Coordinator at Wauchope Tennis Club, said post-event.
“The smiles, enthusiasm and atmosphere were amazing.
“What a way to showcase and celebrate our community
spirit that Wauchope Tennis Club and Pickleball is known for.”
While not a stop on the professional pickleball circuit, the tournament carried a lively energy that reflected the sport’s rapid grassroots growth across the Mid North Coast.
Matches unfolded throughout the morning across a series of social and semi-competitive rounds
within five doubles divisions.
Although the atmosphere was relaxed, friendly rivalries echoed between games, with many members of the local club, as well as Port Macquarie PCYC and Westport Tennis Club, enthusiastically egging each other on.
Ultimately, after multiple rounds of quickfire games aimed at scoring as many points as possible, each category champion was crowned: Riley Best (Advanced), Brendan Hansard (Upper Intermediate),
and
Organisers described the day as a resounding success, pointing to strong participation numbers and an inclusive environment that welcomed players of all skill levels.
The club had many people to thank including Coach Aaron Johnson for facilitating the smooth running and flow of the day, as well as all volunteers who assisted.
By Rikki WALLER
IT’S been a decade in the making, but Port Macquarie Boxing Club is ready for the return of fight nights.
More than just punches and pride, Homecoming Fight Night at Port Macquarie Race Club on 18 April is set to be a celebration of local talent, rising stars, and a community deeply rooted in fighting spirit.
“Hosting our first tournament in years and bringing our sport to the viewing public is going to be fantastic,” Mick Eggins, Port Macquarie Boxing Club coach, told News Of The Area.
“From our fighters, coaches, sponsors and supporters, we are pumped
for the 18th.”
Headlining the night is local standout Jess Messina, who is poised to make history.
Already an established name in Australian boxing, Messina will step into the ring against Gold Coast’s Louise Creaven of Matrix Boxing Gym in a high-stakes Australian title bout at a new weight division.
A victory would see Messina crowned a twodivision national champion: a rare and remarkable achievement that could cement her legacy as the region’s finest fighter.
The amateur ranks will be equally electrifying, led by main event contender Charlie Huckson. Originally from
Gloucester in the United Kingdom, Huckson brings international pedigree and grit, having previously claimed the English ABA 67.5kg title.
With over 20 fights to his name, he is now chasing a Northern NSW title in a highly anticipated five-round rematch against his last opponent.
It’s a showdown that promises intensity and redemption.
Local pride continues to run deep throughout the card with Jordon Green, who’s fresh off winning his division in the 2024 King of the Ring tournament.
A proud local with strong family ties to Kendall Central School and deep Birpai
heritage, Green represents both the future of the sport and the enduring connection between boxing and community.
Fan interest is surging around Ryan Campbell as he prepares to settle the score in a high-tension trilogy decider against rival Harper Boyd, with one win apiece.
Alex “Ragnar” James enters the card as a fighter whose journey into boxing is as powerful as his punches.
A former Gold Coast Titans development squad player, his rugby league career was cut short by injury, but adversity forged a new path.
Inspired by the memory of his late friend Jai Green, Ragnar stepped into the ring
and made an immediate impact with a devastating stoppage in his first outing.
Now, he returns as one of the most intriguing and hardhitting prospects on the card.
The heavyweight division will shake the building as Kai Wakley, the reigning Northern NSW Super Heavyweight champion, looks to impose his dominance once again.
Emerging talent Harley Rayment, a 2025 Golden Gloves divisional champion and St Joseph’s Regional School standout, continues his rapid rise in the 67kg division, while Tyler Bennett, a former Port Breakers junior turned boxer, brings fresh enthusiasm and dedication after just one fight - already inspired by time spent alongside IBF
world champion Jai Opetaia.
Rounding out the card are determined fighters like Kurt Green, ensuring a stacked lineup from top to bottom.
After 10 years without a local showcase, the return of boxing marks a new chapter for the club and the wider community.
The message is clear: boxing is back in Port Macquarie, and it’s coming out swinging.
“The whole team knows what they are fighting for; a chance to put on a show in front of family, friends and the Hastings area.
"Everyone has taken their training to the next level and wants to show the public the talent that this area has produced.”
By Manny WOOD
RUTH has five children.
She makes a will leaving the whole of her estate to all of her children equally.
When Ruth passes away, her estate is valued at $1.5 million.
Ruth’s youngest son, Roger, makes a family provision claim against the estate, seeking a right to reside in Ruth’s home for life and in the alternative, the sum of $900,000.
The executor, Ruth’s eldest child is named as the defendant.
The evidence indicates that Roger moved in with Ruth, 15 years before she passed away. She made her last will 10 years before she passed.
The Judge is satisfied that Ruth’s will reflected her intentions and that she intended for her estate to be distributed equally between her children up until the day she passed.
The Judge notes that Roger did not pay rent for five years and only provided occasional support to his mother.
Although Roger adduced evidence that he had several health concerns, the Judge was not satisfied that he was suffering from a “disability”.
The Judge accepts that Roger had no significant assets at the age of 50 years.
Nonetheless, the trial judge decides that in the circumstances, including the fact that her other children were relatively financially comfortable, Ruth had a moral obligation to make greater provision for Roger and rules that he is to receive $600,000 out of the estate, plus legal costs.
This award is made up of the sum of $300,000 to purchase a one bedroom unit and $300,000 to meet “contingencies”.
The rest of the estate is to be divided equally among Ruth’s other children.
Roger is not satisfied with the decision and files an appeal.
The matter is reheard before three Supreme Court Judges and one month later, their decision is handed down.
The Court of Appeal agrees with the trial Judge and declines to increase Roger’s provision.
As a result, Roger is ordered to pay the legal costs of the Appeal, effectively reducing his provision, in terms of the net result, from $600,000 to $450,000.
This fictional column is not legal advice. Ask a question
By Paul DORIN
By Lynne MILES
By Dave RENEKE
HAVE you ever wondered who the first astronomers were?
What an interesting question.
Astronomy is the oldest science, but it’s also the newest.
Everything we know about the night sky has been passed down through history, and we find the oldest continuous culture on Earth, the Australian Aboriginal people, were very likely the world’s first astronomers.
Quite an accolade!
Aboriginal Australians have been gazing at the night skies for thousands of years.
It seems they even pre-dated monuments like Stonehenge, estimated at 3100 BC.
Historians have been studying Dreaming stories and deciphering cave drawings to build a picture of the heavens as seen by these ancient cultures.
Tribes used the sky for navigation, timekeeping and to mark out the seasons.
They ordered their lives by the stars.
Most groups have stories that explain tides, eclipses and the rising and setting times of the Sun and Moon.
In one story, Walu the Sun is a woman who lights her fire every morning and scatters red ochre across the clouds, creating dawn.
She then carries her torch across the sky, creating daylight.
At the end of the day, she descends, puts out her fire, and travels underground through the night back to her morning camp.
Cool, huh?
My favourite Dreaming story is about the Southern Cross, or Crux.
One Northern Territory Aboriginal group believed it was once a giant stingray, with the two pointer stars as sharks chasing it out of the sky.
You can’t beat these stories for sheer drama and imagination.
To groups near the border of Victoria, it represents the four unmarried daughters of a tribal elder named Mulululu.
Star patterns were vital.
For example, the “Emu in the
By JASMINDA
DEAR Jasminda,
THE cost of fuel is ridiculous. How do I make travel arrangements to my work and my gym and my social engagements when it is so expensive?
Leanne M.
Dear Leanne,
It is hard not to feel particularly vulnerable at the moment, when there are many external factors impacting domestically.
A trip around Australia in a Winnebago suddenly seems frivolous, when fuel costs are out of control and news reports are suggesting we take unnecessary items out of the boot to improve fuel efficiency.
While governments are trying not to alarm people, there's a sense of COVID-like economic uncertainty in the air with suggestions like working from home coming into play (which isn't tenable for many occupations).
You know, sometimes I fantasise that this is some grand plot by the 'drill baby drill' brigade to force us to realise how much we need to refocus on local solutions and sustainable options.
Sky,” formed by dark dust lanes in the Milky Way, appears to run or sit at different times of the year.
Depending on its position, some groups knew when to hunt emus or collect their eggs. Neat, huh?
May these stories live forever!
The lure of the night sky has always been powerful. For Aboriginal Australians, it was a living map of law, survival and spirit.
Other civilisations, like those of Ancient Egypt or Mesopotamia, also studied the stars, but often to predict floods, track gods or build calendars.
While many cultures charted constellations, Aboriginal astronomy stands apart in seeing the sky not just as points of light, but as shapes in darkness and stories embedded in the land.
Isn't this just another wakeup call to show that if more money and time was spent on funding ways of life that preserved resources, we'd have a fighting chance?
It's hard to focus on individual commitments to plastic reduction and EV use and market gardens, though, when countries are blowing the bejesus out of each other.
In relation to your personal plight, are you able to access public transport to work?
Are there any car-pooling opportunities?
Could you combine your gym and work travel by riding a bike to work?
With social engagements, local opportunities can offer that muchneeded sense of community and friendship without the high travel costs.
Buying local is another way to save on transport costs and it also gives a boost to regional areas, which currently need all the help they can get.
Earth overshoot day shows that globally we are using natural resources 1.7 times the rate that the earth can replenish them, so clearly our world leaders are doing something wrong.
Now, Leanne, excuse me while I drink some water with a squeeze of lemon through a paper straw while people with too much power and more money than they could ever use make decisions fuelled (no pun intended) by greed that the rest of us will pay dearly for.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
Today, despite satellites and telescopes, the night sky still draws us in.
Whether ancient or modern, we are united by the same sense of wonder - looking up and asking where we came from. So, what’s going to happen to all these stars?
Will our Universe keep expanding forever, or will it eventually slow down and collapse into a “Big Crunch,” the opposite of the Big Bang?
Perhaps the Universe recycles itself over and over.
If so, the answer to “where did the Universe come from?” may simply be - another universe.
Hey, got a question about the night sky?
See Dave’s website: www. davidreneke.com.
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER, Page 24
participation initiatives, all aimed at increasing opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to get involved in sport and active recreation.”
The successful recipients are:
• $2,000 for Port
KCC Men's Golf Report
By Danny LLOYD
THURSDAY Stableford
sponsored by PRD, had 134
Kew Country Club
Men’s Veterans Golf
By Laurie HAMILTON
Results 30/3/2026 Single Stableford
Kew Country Club
Men’s Veterans Golf
By Laurie HAMILTON
RESULTS 06/04/2026
Monthly Medal Stroke
Sponsored by Allum Kew Ladies Bowls
By Velvanie HARTAS
THURSDAY 26th March
Our two pennant teams played Lake Cathie at Lake Cathie Bowling Club.
One of our teams lost by 3 points and our other one team won, giving us the the win of Kew Ladies Bowls
By Velvanie HARTAS
TUESDAY 7th March
It was a very warm day
Lake Cathie Bowling Club
By Suzanne MILES
TUESDAY, 31st March, Ladies Social BowlsOlwen Hulland, Fay Greenwood & Veronia Stewart - winners. Louise Mathews & June Wilson - runners-up. Next Tuesday, the 7th April, Trade Table for Golden Girls will take place, any cooking would be great.
LUSC Snooker Club
By Michael EYLES
THE Tuesday night competition held on 31/3/26 had 18 players
North Haven Social Golf Club
By Rod BARNETT
WEDNESDAY 1st April our
Macquarie Rowing Club to stage the 3 Rivers Mini Marathon
• $3,600 for Port Macquarie Australian Rules Football Club to purchase goal post pads
• $8,370 for Port City Rugby League Football Club to upgrade club equipment
• $5,000 for Hastings Valley Motorcycle Club to
starters.
A Grade winner was Adam Heslop (40pts).
B Grade went to Ian Stokes-Blake on countback from Paul Baker (39pts). Neil Dark continued
Sponsored by Simplicity Funerals
87 Starters
A Grade Winner –Dave Larcombe 42 Pts. 2nd – Vince Lyons 38 Pts. 3rd – Paul Dickson 36 Pts.
Property Group.
91 Starters
A Grade winner – Rob Spring 68 Net.
2nd – Vince Lyons 69 net. 3rd – Mark Bird 71 Net. C/B.
B Grade winner- Steve the Master Board. So well done to both teams.
Tuesday 31st March Our two It was good to see quite a few members today and welcome back to all the ones who have been away. They played funny games today
today but the ladies had a very enjoyable day with lots of laughter and good company. Winners were Jean Donald, Dee
WEDNESDAY, 1st April , Open Pairs & TriplesLarry Wedd & Sharon Stokmanis - winners. B. Crutcher, R. Penrose & A. Anderson - runners-up. Mixed Pairs Club Championship - teams through to semi-finalsTed & Kay Jobson, Ros & Des Hancox, Col & Cynthia Jones, Nolene Holt & Rob Edwards.
THURSDAY, 2nd April, Men's Social TriplesRink 11 - Des Hancox, compete. The Major Final was won by Graham Rees, and the runner up was Jeff Locke. The Minor Final winner was Michael Eyles who defeated Peter Whaley. The Thursday night social club held a single Stableford event and the winner on the day was Life member Peter Raschke and the runner up was Lou Forster. Rod Barnett
enhance the racing circuit
• $3,000 for Port Macquarie Triathlon Club to deliver a junior participation initiative
• $2,000 for Laurieton Tennis Club to establish a free tennis pathway program
• $5,000 for Port Macquarie Swimming Club to install a new electronic scoreboard
• $12,130 for Football Mid North Coast to support football development
the good form taking out C Grade with 42.
Bluey Clenton was closest on the 9th for the GAREL GOLF voucher.
Saturday was Monthly Medal day sponsored
B Grade winner- Ray Goodwin 39 Pts.
2nd – Dave Dundas 38 Pts
3rd – Mick Bevan 37 Pts.
C Grade winner – Lou Forster 42 Pts.
2nd – Paul Alldis 38 Pts.
Hoffman 69 net.
2nd – Murray Cowled 73 net. C/B.
3rd – Kevin Brennan 73 net.
C Grade winner – Rene Bolger 67 net.
2nd – Geoff Nielson 71 which I’m sure everyone enjoyed.
Then they came in for lunch and Some Easter Raffles. Congratulations to all those who won ,and a big thankyou to those who organised the day. There was no pennants played this week cause of the Easter break.
Squires,
Margaret Ashford, and Mary Nelson.
Looser were Maree Cini, Sandra Marsden, June Huges.
Eric Glasson & John Myers.
Rink 19 - Nick Hope, Dave Warwick & Greg Dring.
Rink 4 - Steve Cameron, Graydon Findlay & Mark Davies - Silver Medal.
SATURDAY, 4th April, Men's Social PairsRink 3 - Des Hancox & Danny Murray.
Rink 16 - John Atkins & Steve Phelp.
Hoping all our members of LCBC had an enjoyable Easter.
competition held on 2/4/26, attracted 15 players. Charlie Gyomrey won the Major Final, defeating Ron White. In the Minor Final Peter Whaley prevailed defeating Graham Palmer. won the nearest pin hole and also the putting event. Our next game will be a 2 person stableford multiplier on wednesday 8th April.
• $5,000 for Mid North Coast Veteran Cricket Association to purchase sporting equipment.
Mr Dwyer said the funding will help local clubs continue to grow and provide inclusive, high quality sporting opportunities for the community.
“This investment ensures our local clubs can continue to thrive and support healthier, more active lifestyles across the region,” Mr Dwyer said.
by LOCAL LAWYER & CONVEYANCER.
David Harrington won A Grade with nett 67. Riley Hughes (nett 71) took B Grade in a 3-way countback from Kevin
3rd – Mike Donaldson 37 Pts.
Ball Winners – Don Steigrad 36, Alan Medcalf 35, Phil Long 35, Laurie Hamilton 35, Vincenzo Derrico 35, Craig Lobegeier 34, Dennis
net.
3rd – Peter Johnson 76 net.
A Grade Scratch winner –Greg Lee 73 Pts.
B Grade Scratch Winner –Steve Hoffman 86.
C Grade Scratch Winner
Geoff Nielson 100 C/B.
Ball Winners –
Greg Lee 71, Peter Hammer 71, Roger Catchpole 72, Steph Sweeney 73, Chris
Watts and Gregory Nieass.
Charley Terry (Wauchope GC) edged C Grade (nett 70) on
Roth 34 & Kevin Brennan 34 C/B.
Nearest to the pin Winners
9th Hole A Grade Geoff McMurray, B Grade Wayne Sheargold, C Grade Lou
Bowman 73, Steve James 73, Dave Dundas 74 & Rod Barnett 74 C/B. Nearest to the Pin, 9th Hole A Grade Gary King, B Grade Phil McCarthy , C Grade Peter Johnson.
10th Hole A Grade
Brain Jenner, B Grade Steve Hoffman, C Grade Mike Donaldson
12th Hole A Grade Paul Munro, B Grade Steve
Forster 10th Hole A Grade Brian Jenner, B Grade John Brown, C Grade. Doug MacLean. 12th Hole A Grade Kevin Watts, B Grade Rod Barnett, C Grade Lou Forster
Hoffman, C Grade Mike Angold .18th HOLE EGGS. A Grade Geoff McMurray, B Grade NO ONE, C Grade NO ONE. A Grade Putting – Mark Bird 24 Putts, B Grade Murray Godden 22 Putts, (WTF?) C Grade Gavan Grayston 29 Putts PRESIDENTS AWARD –Greg Lee
Loving
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FRIDAY
A NEW ANZAC
SBS, 8.30pm
In following the redevelopment of the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, this fascinating fourpart series examines the unique purpose of the national monument and its enduring impact on society. First conceived in 1916 as a tribute to the ANZACs buried on the other side of the world, the combined memorial, museum and archive is the only institution of its kind in the world. In a bid to not only honour the first ANZACs but also recognise the servicemen and women who have followed in their footsteps, an immense expansion project has been underway in recent years.
TV (2)
MONDAY
MARRIED
NBN, 7.30pm
There’s been mere days for viewers to recover from this year’s unforgettable final vows – and a moment that will go down in Married at First Sight – but for the participants, this reunion is already one month down the track. Of course, one episode isn’t enough to contain all the drama; after last night’s explosive dinner party, the conflict is still simmering and the scores remain unsettled.
A communal couch session and gentle guidance from experts Alessandra Rampolla, John Aiken and the late Mel Schilling (pictured) ought to calm everything down, right? Wrong. Accusations fly as the cast watches videos of their time on the show and delves deeper into their actions throughout their relationships.
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Compass. (PG, R) 10.30 Stuff The British Stole. (PG, R) 11.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 12.00 News. 12.55 The Piano. (PG, R) 1.45 Can You Keep A Secret? (Ms, R) 2.15 The Assembly. (PG, R) 2.55 Fake Or Fortune? (PG, R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 The Point. (R) 9.05 Bitesize. (R) 9.15 Matched. (PG, R) 10.05 Kew Gardens: Season By Season. (R) 10.55 DNA Journey. (PG) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 The Great House Revival. (R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia.
8.30 Patience. (M) A businessman is shot in a full boardroom.
9.20 Tonight At The Museum. (PGs, R) Hosted by Alex Lee.
9.50 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PGls, R)
10.20 ABC Late News.
10.35 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (PG, R)
11.15 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGa, R)
12.05 Love Me. (MA15+s, R)
12.45 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
THURSDAY GRAND
ABC TV, 8.30pm
Having spent 30 years creating challenging residences for their clients in unlikely places – including a World War II radar station – architect
Howard and interior designer Sarah are not shy of a seemingly impossible project. With their children off to university, the time is finally right to create their own ambitious dream home. For many downsizers, that would mean a hilltop farmhouse or cosmopolitan apartment; but for this couple, it’s a floating metallic “ship” balanced atop an ever-shifting tidal riverbed in Worthing. The enormous undertaking is far from a watertight plan and will require an abundance of clever engineering – and three years’ worth of visits from host Kevin McCloud (pictured) – to get it on the water.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)
8.30 A New ANZAC. (Premiere)
9.30 Orient Express: A Golden Era Of Travel. (PGa, R)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 The King. (Premiere, MA15+av)
11.50 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+asv, R)
1.45 Nordland 99. (Mal, R)
2.45 Mastermind Australia. (R)
3.50 Mountain Vets. (PG, R)
4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Athletics. Australian Athletics Championships.
9.00 MOVIE: Knives Out. (2019, Mal, R)
An eccentric detective, enlisted to investigate the untimely death of a wealthy and renowned crime novelist, must deal with the deceased’s conniving family and a web of lies to uncover the truth.
Daniel Craig, Ana De Armas, Chris Evans. 11.45 Australian Idol. (PGal, R) The top six take to the stage.
1.30 Damnation. (MA15+asv, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 6. Brisbane Broncos v North Queensland Cowboys.
9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage of the NRL game.
10.45 MOVIE: Navy SEALs. (1990, Mlv, R) Charlie Sheen. 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)
And Guess Who? 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 My Adventures With Superman. 8.55 BattleBots. 9.40 Gladiators UK. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.30 Nanny.
6.00 10 News+.
6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) Hosted by Neale Whitaker and Andrew Winter. 8.40 Building The Dream. (Return) Architectural designer
7.30 Blue Murder Motel. (PGl) A local councillor is stabbed in his home.
8.15 Top End Bub. (Md) Ned discovers Lauren’s secret. Taya is given the choice to meet her biological father. Daffy rediscovers her love of music with Dana. 8.45 Death In Paradise. (Ma, R) As the team investigates a murder, they discover a family with skeletons in the closet. 9.45 Frauds. (Ml, R) An unforeseen disaster derails the gang’s plans.
10.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.10pm Tiddler. 5.35 Children’s Programs. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.10 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.10 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 8.50 Chopped Junior. 9.35 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.55 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.40 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Edward Vs George: The Windsors At War.
8.25 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland. (PGn, R)
9.25 Jersey And Guernsey. (R)
10.20 Finding Your Roots. (PGa, R)
11.20 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v, R)
1.55 Matched. (PG, R)
2.45 Mastermind Australia. (R)
3.50 Mountain Vets. (PG, R)
4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Discovering
Film. 6.35 Weekend At Bernie’s. (1989, PG) 8.25
The Fifth Element. (1997, PG) 10.50 Close. (2022, M, Dutch) 12.45pm The Year Of Living Dangerously. (1982, M) 2.50 What We Did On Our Holiday. (2014, PG) 4.40 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 6.40 Buckley’s Chance. (2021, PG) 8.30 John Wick: Chapter 2. (2017) 10.50 Mamacruz. (2023, MA15+, Spanish) 12.20am Late Programs.
6.30 Compass: Surviving Gaza, Seeking Truth. (PGv)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 The Piano. Presented by Guy Sebastian and Andrea Lam.
8.20 Can You Keep A Secret? (Ml) Debbie invites the blackmailer for lunch.
8.50 Frauds. (Ml) Bert and Sam struggle to keep their secrets hidden.
9.35 Blue Murder Motel. (PGl, R) A local councillor is stabbed in his home.
10.25 Top End Bub. (Md, R)
10.50 MOVIE: Windrider. (1986, Mdls, R)
12.20 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 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. (Premiere) 8.10 Secrets At Red Rocks. (Premiere) 8.35 Animal Park. 10.00 Amazing Animal Friends. 10.50 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Rise And Fall Of The Maya. (Premiere)
9.20 Emperor: Rise And Fall Of A Dynasty. (Masv, R)
10.15 Hunting Egypt’s Lost Treasures. (R)
11.05 Elvis’ Women. (Mas, R)
2.30 Matched. (PG, R)
3.15 Mastermind Australia. (R)
4.20 Bamay. (R)
4.55 China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 Euronews.
5.30 PBS News Horizons.
VICELAND (31)
The Greatest Mysteries Of Humanity. 5.50 The Architecture The Railways Built. 6.45 Cycling. UCI World Tour. ParisRoubaix. Men’s race. 1am Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Roubaix. Women’s race. 2.50
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.35 Roxane. (2019, PG, French) 8.15
Buckley’s Chance. (2021, PG) 10.05 Discovering Film. 11.00 Oliver’s Universe. (2022, M, Spanish) 1.05pm Austin Powers: International Man Of Mystery. (1997, M) 2.45 Weekend At Bernie’s. (1989, PG) 4.30 The Fifth Element. (1997, PG) 6.50 A Hazard Of Hearts. (1987, PG) 8.30 Tea With Mussolini. (1999) 10.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Athletics. Australian Athletics Championships.
9.00 MOVIE: The Huntsman: Winter’s War. (2016, Mhv, R) A huntsman encounters his former believed-to-be-dead lover while searching for a missing magic mirror. Chris Hemsworth, Charlize Theron.
11.30 MOVIE: Morbius. (2022, Malv, R)
1.35 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 3. Taupo Super400. Day 1. Highlights.
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Tales Of Aluna. (R)
4.30 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Space Invaders. (PG)
8.30 MOVIE: Legally Blonde. (2001, PGls, R) 10.30 MOVIE: Monster-In-Law. (2005, Ms, R)
12.20 Epic Builds. (R)
1.10 Open For Inspection. (R)
1.35 Explore TV Viking. (R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House. (PGa, R) A family considers a cockapoo pup. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. Anna and Terence have lived in their home in Blackburn South for eight years but have two almost teens who need their own space.
9.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows.
10.30 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) 11.30 Elsbeth. (PGalv, R)
(64)
Children’s Programs.
Motor Racing. FIA World Endurance Championship. 8 Hours of Bahrain. Highlights. 9.00 Big Rigs Of Oz. 9.30 Seinfeld. 10.00 MOVIE: The Man In The Moon. (1991, PG) Noon Tennis. Billie Jean King Cup. Qualifiers. Australia v Great Britain. 7.00
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club UK. (PGl) 8.00 Why Planes Crash. (Premiere, PGa)
9.10 Cold Chisel: The Big 5-0. (Ml, R) Takes a look at the band Cold Chisel. 11.10 24 Hours In Police Custody. (Madl, R)
12.20 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 3. Taupo Super400. Day 2. Highlights.
1.20 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGl) The participants return for the final dinner party.
8.50 60 Minutes. Current affairs program.
Power. (Premiere, MA15+dlnsv) A former drug kingpin opens a nightclub.
9News Late. 11.35 A Killer Makes A Call: Terry. (Mav, R) A look at the case of Mark Terry.
12.30 Oz Off Road TV. (PGl, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 The Garden Gurus. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
7MATE (64)
6.00
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.05
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 Inside The Tower Of London. (PG)
8.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M) 9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M) 10.05 SBS World News Late. 10.35 Herrhausen: The Banker And The Bomb. (Mdlv)
11.40 Gomorrah. (MA15+av, R)
2.25 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)
3.25 Mountain Vets. (PG, R) 4.00 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
ABC FAMILY
6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Flower And Flour. 6.35 Big Lizard. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 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. 9.45 Kids BBQ Championship. 10.25 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away.
7.30 Australian Idol. (PGal) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.15 9-1-1. (M) The 118 helps a medical examiner.
10.15 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest rugby league topics. 11.15 The Agenda Setters. 12.15 Conviction. (MA15+av, R)
1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, 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 Married At First Sight. (Mls) 9.30 100% Footy. (Mal) Features the latest rugby league news. 10.30 9News Late. 11.00 Outback Opal Hunters. (PGl) 12.00 Footy Classified. (Ml)
Hello SA. (PG)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
6am Morning
Programs. 8.20 Tea With Mussolini. (1999) 10.30
In A Land That No Longer Exists. (2022, M, German) 12.25pm Two Many Chefs. (2022, M, Spanish) 2.05 The Most Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PG, Italian) 4.00 Buckley’s Chance. (2021, PG) 5.50 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 7.30 The Way Of The Dragon. (1972, M, Cantonese) 9.20 The Big Boss. (1971, M, Cantonese) 11.15 Late Programs.
Roads. (R) 3.00 Grand Designs Transformations. (PG, R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
1.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.35pm Big Lizard. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 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.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (PG, R)
8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline.
10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 Rock Legends. (PGa)
11.00 Exit. (MA15+adlsv)
11.55 Elvira. (PGa, R)
3.05 Mastermind Australia. (R)
4.10 Mountain Vets. (PG, R)
4.45 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Counting Cars. 2.30 Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Taupo Super400.
ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.30 Bewitched. 11.30 Explore. 11.40 Jeopardy! Australia. 12.40pm Australian Ninja Warrior. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Den Of Thieves. (2018, MA15+) 11.20 Seinfeld. 12.20am
(32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Discovering Film. 6.25 The Most Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PG, Italian) 8.20 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 10.00 The Big Boss. (1971, M, Cantonese) 11.50 Dead Again. (1991, M) 1.45pm A Hazard Of Hearts. (1987, PG) 3.25 Tea With Mussolini. (1999) 5.35 The Last Wave. (1977, PG) 7.30 Fist Of Fury. (1972, M, Cantonese) 9.30 Game Of Death. (1978, M, Cantonese) 11.25 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)
7.30 Australian Idol. (Final, PGal) The winner is announced.
9.15 House Of Wellness. (PG) A team of industry experts, media personalities and wellness advocates shares insights and experiences to highlight living well.
10.15 The Agenda Setters.
11.15 Ambulance: Code Red. (Mam, R) 12.15 MOVIE: Fatal Frenemies. (2021, Mav, R) 2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: My Super Ex-Girlfriend. (2006, M) 10.30 Seinfeld. 11.30
TV (2)
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 10.45 Foreign Correspondent. (R) 11.30 Back Roads. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00 Tonight At The Museum. (PGs, R) 2.30 Back Roads. (R) 3.00 Grand Designs Transformations. (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 The Point. (R) 9.05 Destination Flavour. (R) 9.15 Cook Up Bitesize. (R) 9.25 Matched. (PG, R) 10.15 Kew Gardens: Season By Season. (R) 11.05 DNA Journey. (Mls) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.00 The Mayfair Hotel Megabuild. (PGal, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
Chernobyl:
Shocked The World.
recall the 1986 Chernobyl disaster. 9.25 The Audacity. (Premiere) 10.35 SBS World News Late. 11.05 Rise Of The Raven. (MA15+sv) 12.10 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (Malsv)
1.55 Classified. (Mlv, R)
3.30 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)
4.30 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
ABC
6am Children’s Programs. 6.35pm Big Lizard. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 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. 9.10 Adventure Time. 9.30 Teen Titans Go! 9.55 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.15 My Adventures With Superman. 10.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGl, R)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL. 9.30 Unfiltered. (M) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan.
10.00 The Agenda Setters. 11.00 No Holds Barred: GWS Giants. (Ml)
12.00 Kochie’s Business Builders. (R)
12.30 The Act. (MA15+ans, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Events That Changed Australia. (Ma) 8.40 Downfall: The Prince Andrew Saga. 9.40 The Killer Interview With Piers Morgan. (Mav, R)
10.40 9News Late.
11.10 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)
12.05 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.00 Surfing Australia TV. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop. (R) 4.00 Skippy. (R) 4.30 ACA. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
THURSDAY,
TV (2)
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 Can You Keep A Secret? (Ml, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Frauds. (Ml, R) 1.55 Tonight At The Museum. (PGs, R) 2.30 Back Roads. (R) 3.00 Grand Designs Transformations. (R) 3.55 Sister Boniface Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6am WorldWatch. 10.30
7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Clint Eastwood: The Last Legend. 9.30 MOVIE: Heartbreak Ridge. (1986, M) Midnight Late Programs.
(32)
6am Monsieur
Verdoux. (1947, PG) 7.30 Broken Hill. (2009, PG) 9.30 The Last Wave. (1977, PG) 11.30 The Way Of The Dragon. (1972, M, Cantonese) 1.25pm Brother’s Keeper. (2021, M, Kurdish) 3.00 Discovering Film. 3.50 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 5.35 Funny Face. (1957) 7.30 Phantom Thread. (2017, M) 10.00 Empire. (2023, M, Danish) 11.45 The Vourdalak. (2023, MA15+, French) 1.20am Late Programs.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Flower And Flour. 6.35 Big Lizard. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 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.
(3)
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 The Point. (R) 9.05 Cook Up Bitesize. (R) 9.15 Matched. (PG, R) 10.10 Kew Gardens: Season By Season. (R) 11.00 DNA Journey. (Ml) 12.00 WorldWatch.
6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Business Builders.
Morning Programs. 10.00 Australia ReDiscovered. 10.30 American Resto. 11.00 Storage Wars. 11.30 American Pickers. 12.30pm
FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.30 Bewitched. 11.30 My Way. 11.40 Jeopardy! Australia. 12.40pm Australian Ninja Warrior. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: We’re The Millers. (2013, MA15+) 10.45 Seinfeld. 11.45 The 100. 12.35am Love Island UK. 1.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Treasures With Bettany Hughes. (PG)
8.30 Our Medicine. (PGa, R)
9.40 Riot Women. (MA15+)
10.50 SBS World News Late.
11.20 Under The Bridge. (Premiere, Mdlv)
12.10 Bonn. (Mav, R)
2.05 Beyond Signs. (MA15+a, R)
3.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
4.05 Mountain Vets. (PG, R)
4.40 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)
6am WorldWatch. 11.00 The Movie Show. 12.10pm WorldWatch. 12.40 Alone. 1.55 UFOs: Investigating The Unknown. 2.45 Insight. 3.45 News. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.50 Curse Of Oak Island. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 United Gangs Of America. 10.20 The UnXplained. 11.10 Brassic. 12.45am Dark Side Of The 2000s. 1.40 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am A King
In New York. (1957, PG) 7.30 Discovering Film. 8.25 Funny Face. (1957) 10.20 Fist Of Fury. (1972, M, Cantonese) 12.20pm Game Of Death. (1978, M, Cantonese) 2.10 Brief Encounter. (1945, PG)
3.50 Broken Hill. (2009, PG) 5.50 The Lady And The Highwayman. (1989, PG) 7.30 Becoming Jane. (2007, PG) 9.45 Marie Antoinette. (2006) Midnight Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 Highway Patrol. (Ma, R) 8.00 Motorway Patrol. (Mal) 8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) More performers take to the stage. 9.45 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGal, R)
10.45 Soham: Catching A Killer. (Mav, R) 11.45 HMP: Behind Bars. (MA15+a, R) 1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, 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.
6am Children’s Programs. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.30 Bewitched. 11.30 My Way. 11.45 Jeopardy! Australia. 12.45pm Australian Ninja Warrior. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Gran Torino. (2008, M) 11.00 Seinfeld. Midnight Rugby Heaven. 1.00 Love Island UK. 2.00 Late Programs.
NINE sporting clubs across the Port Macquarie electorate will benefit from a combined $46,000 in funding through the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program 2025.
Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer said the program attracted a record number of applications this year, highlighting the strong demand for investment in grassroots sport across the region.
“I acknowledge and thank all clubs that submitted applications for this funding round,” Mr Dwyer said.
“The quality and number of submissions reflect the passion and commitment of our local sporting community.
“The successful projects range from facility upgrades to new equipment and
CONTINUED Page 15
Burnie, Wynyard, Cradle Mountain, Strahan, Queenstown, Derwent Bridge, New Norfolk, Hobart, Mt Wellington, Bruny Island, Port Arthur, Mona, Richmond, Ross, Freycinet, Bicheno, St Helens, Bay of Fires, Pyengana, Bridestowe Estate, Launceston
COACH DEPARTS: Kew - Harrington - Taree
Strahan, Queenstown, Derwent Bridge, New Norfolk, Hobart, Mt Wellington, Bruny Island, Port Arthur, Mona, Richmond, Ross, Freycinet, Bicheno, St Helens, Bay of Fires, Pyengana, Bridestowe Estate, Launceston
COACH DEPARTS: Kew - Harrington - Taree