Camden Haven News Of The Area 15 MAY 2026

By Rachael THORPE

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Laurieton locals frustrated at Council no-show

FROM Page 1

business owners.

While two Council staff had been scheduled to attend, Chamber President Luke Hadfield said he received an email on Tuesday cancelling their appearance.

Many in the room expressed their frustration with the no-show, including Dunbogan resident Bruce de Graaf.

“Council aren’t here because we’re the ‘Cinderella’ suburb for the Port MacquarieHastings region,” he said.

Mr Hadfield told News Of The Area, “The Chamber and many members of the community were extremely disappointed by Council’s decision to cancel their attendance at the meeting.

“This was a genuine opportunity for Council staff to hear directly from residents, businesses and community groups in an open and constructive environment, and unfortunately that opportunity has now been missed.

“People came prepared to engage respectfully and provide meaningful feedback.”

Businesses and residents overwhelmingly communicated their concerns regarding proposed changes to parking which include reduced parking spaces, a lack of accessibility, and timed parking.

Many present also expressed that basic maintenance of footpaths and infrastructure, coupled with regular street cleaning, needs to be addressed as a matter of urgency in Laurieton.

In response to this, Mr Hadfield announced a plan by the Chamber to establish a volunteer beautification task force for the area which could undertake small and impactful projects.

However, he cautioned that there were still identified obstacles in working with the Council which needed to be overcome.

Business owner John Harvey agrees.

“Laurieton is a fantastic town. It has a beautiful, wide street with a stunning mountain backdrop but there has been no development there in the last fifteen years.

“I believe any element that involves beautification of the area would be widely supported by the community, however it is crucial that Council provide a clear timeline and budget for proposed projects.

“These types of improvements would encourage private investment and lead to long term benefits for the community.”

While the Chamber will be putting in a collective submission to Council on the draft plan, Mr Hadfield encouraged all present to make their own submissions via the Council’s Have Your Say website.

“It is becoming very clear through the Chamber’s consultation process that several consistent themes are emerging from the community,” he said.

“We hope Council genuinely listens to this feedback and carefully considers the concerns

and ideas that residents and businesses are putting forward as part of this exhibition period.”

Submissions to Council on the plan close at 5pm on 5 June.

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has been contacted for comment.

BUDGET ‘BLOODBATH’

FROM Page 1

Federal Budget, delivered by Treasurer Jim Chalmers on 12 May, Ms Penfold said regional and rural communities like those in Lyne had been left behind.

“Budgets can make or break the ability of our region to thrive, and this Budget lets us down big time,” Ms Penfold said.

Her key concerns are related to the funding of roads, health, water and telecommunications.

“In terms of local services and infrastructure, there is no funding for the roads and grade-separated interchanges on the Pacific Highway, which our communities need.

“They have stripped $21.4 million from regional telecommunications funding making the challenge of addressing mobile and internet blackspots even harder.

“$103 million has been cut from the National Water Grid – the pool of funds that had the potential of providing funds to MidCoast Council for the Kiwarrak Off-River Water Storage Project to secure the Manning’s long term water supply.

“In a funding commitment of $1.8 billion for Urgent Care Clinics, there is no funding for one in Taree despite the clear

case that has been presented to them over the past 12 months.

“There is a pittance for aged care which won’t even scratch the sides of the Support at Home Waitlist, or address provider and workforce shortages in the regions.”

However, Ms Penfold acknowledged several measures in line with her prebudget submission.

These include $2 billion for housing infrastructure such as power, water and sewerage, an additional round of the Stronger Communities Program, further funding for the Growing Regions Program and an extension of the Local Sporting Champions programs.

“A few small positives do not excuse a Budget that has fundamentally forgotten communities from the Hunter to the Hastings,” she said.

Key measures In a joint statement, the Treasurer, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and senior ministers, described the Budget as being about "resilience and reform.”

“It’s all about getting Australians through the global oil shock and building an economy that works for more people.

q

“We’re delivering more cost-of-living help and building a more productive economy, a better tax system, a fairer housing market and a stronger and more sustainable budget,” the statement read.

The Budget focuses on cost-of-living relief, housing tax reform, and energy security.

A $31.5 billion deficit is forecast with $45 billion in improved revenue.

Key measures include:

- Income Tax Cuts: From July 1, 2026, the 16% tax rate for incomes $18,201–$45,000 drops to 15%.

- Worker Offset: A new $250 permanent Working Australians Tax Offset and a $1,000 instant tax deduction for work-related expenses.

- Medicare: Increased Medicare levy low-income thresholds.

- Negative Gearing: Limited to new builds, with existing investments grandfathered.

- Capital Gains Tax (CGT): The 50% CGT discount is scrapped and replaced by an indexation system to target real gains.

- Securing Australia’s near-term fuel and fertiliser security through Export Finance Australia’s $7.5 billion Fuel and Fertiliser Security Facility.

- Strengthening longer term fuel security with a $3.2 billion Australian Fuel Security Reserve.

- Boosting energy sovereignty by making more clean fuels in Australia, promoting electrification, and implementing a 20 percent gas reservation.

- Approvals: $500 million-plus to expedite environmental and project approvals using AI.

Confidence in councils

Australia’s peak local government body, the Australian Local Government Association, says the Federal

Budget is a vote of confidence in the country’s 538 councils to deliver on national housing infrastructure priorities.

But it argues that more needs to be done to address the growing financial pressures threatening local government services across the country.

ALGA President Mayor Matt Burnett said councils were on the frontline of delivering national productivity, housing growth, climate resilience and essential local services, but needed to be backed to deliver.

“We welcome the Federal Government’s trust in local government to support new housing and growing communities, through its announcement of $2 billion over four years to help deliver enabling infrastructure,” Mayor Burnett said.

“However, councils have not been given the same support to meet local community needs through secure untied funding and, in fact, support through Financial Assistance Grants has gone backwards as a share of Commonwealth taxation revenue.”

Mayor Burnett said the ALGA also welcomed the ongoing attention on local government sustainability through the Inquiry into Local Government Funding and Fiscal Sustainability.

Stick a pin in it

By Sue STEPHENSON

HOUSTON Mitchell Drive and M1 drivers are being urged to leave their mark on the NSW Government’s “Have Your Say” campaign.

By going to a map on the Transport for NSW (TfNSW) website, a virtual pin can be placed on the dangerous intersection, adding weight to calls for an overpass.

The interactive map will help the NSW Government refine its North Coast Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan, which sets out infrastructure priorities for the next 20 years.

Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer is hoping for a repeat of the strong public response to “pinning” the Wrights

Road and Oxley Highway intersection in Port Macquarie.

“Thousands of people placed pins on the Oxley Highway, sending a clear message that our community expects action,” he said.

“We now have an opportunity to build that same momentum for Houston Mitchell Drive.”

The Bonny Hills Progress Association has been lobbying for an upgrade for years.

Spokesperson Kathy Regan is appealing to the community to “keep up the push”.

“We had over 16,000 sign the petition. We need you all to help again”, she shared.

“Cover this space with pins to repeat the request and keep this in the sight of

decision makers.

“We have been told repeatedly [that] the speed limit will not be reduced on a national highway and fixed speed cameras are no longer

being installed.

“An overpass is the only long term safety fix.”

To add a pin, go to haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/ sritp/north-coast and enter

New cycling track proposal

the address as Lake Innes.

Ms Regan recommends zooming in on the intersection, where other pins have been added, and leaving a comment calling for

By Rachael THORPE

THE National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS)

Draft Lake Innes Plan of Management (February 2026) proposal to extend the Googik Track to Lake Cathie received more than 300 submissions in support of extending the trail.

This has prompted a local Bicycle User Group [BUG], Better By Bicycle Port Macquarie, to lodge a new proposal to create a cycling link between the Port Macquarie town centre and the Googik Track.

The group believes that their idea to connect existing shared paths to create a continuous route through scenic forest would be popular with locals and attract cycling tourists to the area.

Group President Felicity Forth believes the proposal presents a great opportunity for the region.

“This could be a huge win for the Port Macquarie community,” she said.

“If constructed, the 3.7 km link track would mean people could ride or walk safely from the Town Green or caravan park 10 km to the

an overpass.

Mr Dwyer said he has again met Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison to discuss the intersections.

Ruins Gate almost entirely off road and through lush, forested areas.”

The group calculates that the link trail would require less than 350 metres of shared pathway to be installed, making it a lowcost, high-impact project that would provide practical benefits, and long-lasting value to the region.

In principle support has been given by NPWS, the Friends of Kooloongbung Creek Nature Reserve, and Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dywer.

“I congratulate Felicity and her team for developing this proposal and I will do what I can to support them and any funding opportunities,” Mr Dwyer said.

“A proposal to get bicycles off the roads and onto designated pathways not only improves safety but also encourages riders to better enjoy the great outdoors.”

The group’s next step is to present the proposal to the Council Community Forum on 18 May.

More information is available on bbbpmq.net.au.

Regional issues raised in Sydney

PORT Macquarie-Hastings Council leaders participated in a series of high-level meetings and regional advocacy forums in Sydney last week.

Mayor Adam Roberts and General Manager Robert Fish joined council leaders from across the region as part of a Mid North Coast Joint Organisation (MNCJO) delegation to NSW Parliament.

Discussions were held with senior NSW Government figures including Premier Chris Minns, Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison, Minister for Recovery and the North Coast

Janelle Saffin, Minister for Agriculture and Regional New South Wales Tara Moriarty, and representatives from the offices of Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully and Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe.

Premier Minns also addressed the Country Mayors Association quarterly meeting which was held in NSW Parliament.

Mayor Roberts said the Premier's attendance was a valuable opportunity for regional and rural councils to present a united voice on the key challenges facing regional NSW.

“It was a productive and positive week of advocacy for the Port Macquarie-Hastings and the broader Mid North Coast region,” Mayor Roberts said.

“I appreciated the opportunity to speak directly with the NSW Premier and Ministers about the challenges our communities are facing, but importantly, also the opportunities that exist when regional councils and the NSW Government work together.

“Key issues discussed throughout the meetings included enabling infrastructure to support regional growth and housing,

state road upgrades, disaster recovery funding, housing pressures, waste services, environmental sustainability and long-term resilience planning.”

Mayor Roberts said the delegation reinforced the importance of regional collaboration and ensuring the Mid North Coast remains strongly represented in statewide decision making.

“The MNCJO continues to play an important role in bringing councils together to advocate on shared priorities and deliver better outcomes for our communities,” he said.

During the visit, Mayor Roberts also attended the

Rural and Regional Summit hosted by Local Government NSW.

The summit brought together local government leaders from across regional NSW to discuss the future

of rural and regional communities, with topics including infrastructure investment, workforce challenges, housing, health, economic development and disaster resilience.

Road funding fix needed for rural councils

RURAL residents are crying out for reliable roads, the state’s peak farming body has told an inquiry into local government funding and fiscal sustainability.

Last week, the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Regional Development, Infrastructure and Transport held hearings with more than 20 councils in Wodonga, Wagga Wagga and Taree.

Also present were representatives from organisations such as

Regional Capitals Australia, NSW Country Mayors and NSW Farmers.

NSW Farmers Business, Economics and Trade Committee chair John Lowe appeared during the hearings, urging urgent reform to secure reliable funding for rural councils and critical local infrastructure.

“Councils in rural, regional and remote areas have an enormous network of roads and they need greater certainty to maintain them, which supports farm

businesses and community safety,” Mr Lowe said.

“Roads are the sole connection for many rural communities and farms, but too many councils are being forced to ‘patch and pray’ with unreliable, projectbased funding.”

NSW Farmers called on the Australian Government to restore Financial Assistance Grants to a minimum of 1 percent of total Commonwealth tax revenue, providing a stable funding base for local government

and a stronger foundation for local road maintenance.

At the same time, Mr Lowe said, there needed to be a pause on special variation rates (SVR) and greater scrutiny on these applications.

“Farm businesses cannot keep absorbing sudden, steep and cumulative rate rises as councils scramble to fill funding gaps due to cost shifting from state and federal governments,” Mr Lowe said.

“They need a fairer, more sustainable model that enables councils to have funding sustainability and effectively deliver for communities in the regions, especially roads.

“It’s also critical that all landholders contribute equitably and fairly –increasing property acquisitions and land use changes from National Parks, state forestry, biodiversity offsets by mining companies and electricity generation companies are reducing rateable land which can leave the burden to fall on others, including farmers.”

Last week’s hearings featured a broad crosssection of regional stakeholders, including MidCoast, Port Macquarie-

Hastings (PMHC), Dungog Shire and Maitland Shire councils.

PMHC’s General Manager Robert Fish and Director, Business and Performance, Keith Hentschke appeared in Taree.

In his opening statement to the Committee, Mr Fish said, “Our submission outlines a broader issue - that local government is facing a structural fiscal challenge, not a temporary funding shortfall.

“Over time, councils have been expected to carry broader and more complex responsibilities beyond our core services, which we seek to prioritise, and often were once the responsibility of other levels of government,”

Mr Fish said.

“As well, in the Port Macquarie Hastings region, history has dictated we are prone to natural disasters and this has seen an acceleration in asset deterioration as cumulative impacts on council’s assets mount - roads in particular.

“Severe weather events and flooding in recent years have shown that disaster preparedness, response, recovery and community adaptation are now business-as-usual funding

responsibilities across all levels of government.”

Mr Hentschke added that the Port Macquarie Hastings LGA’s current population of 92,650 was projected to increase to more than 103,000 by 2035.

He said the council was advocating for annual funding programs that support longer term financial planning and the construction and renewal of complex infrastructure.

“To plan for this growth, we have two significant utilities projects requiring an investment of $400 million in coming years, being a water treatment plant at Cowarra that will ensure a reliable supply of filtered drinking water and a wastewater plant at Thrumster to accommodate current and future demand.

“However, this population growth continues while the revenue base available has remained tightly constrained.

“Councils are increasingly reliant on a fragmented system of tied, competitive and short-term grant programs to deliver services and assets that are ongoing and essential.

“Whereas routine annual funding supports local decision-making rather than forcing councils to chase restricted grants for specific projects.”

Coalition rejects rival camp after losing swag of votes

By Andrew BROWN, AAP

THE coalition remains confident its devastating loss at the Farrer by-election will be a one-off, rejecting suggestions it should form a political alliance with One Nation.

David Farley became One Nation's first candidate to be elected to the House of Representatives, breaking more than 70 years of coalition rule in the southern NSW seat on Saturday.

The victory has raised the prospect of One Nation taking other regional seats and targeting outer suburban electorates, which could force the decimated coalition to seek the support of Senator Pauline Hanson's party in a bid to form government.

Nationals Leader Matt Canavan remained optimistic the coalition could reclaim the regional electorate, as well as heading off the threat of One Nation in other electorates.

"This is like a twolegged final, perhaps we played an away match on the weekend, where it was difficult circumstances at a by-election.

“Next time, we might be on a home-ground advantage when the choice of government is up for grabs," he told reporters in Canberra on Monday.

"In terms of lessons, I think it's very different than what we'll see at a federal election."

While Senator Hanson said she would work with Liberals and Nationals to form a government, she said her party would not be part of a formal coalition.

"I will give them supply and confidence... they can form a government with my numbers, I'm quite happy to do that," she told Sydney radio station 2GB on Monday.

"I don't want ministerial positions, because I'm not going to be the tail on the dog... because (the Liberals) have done that with the National Party."

Senator Hanson said she felt vindicated by the Farrer by-election result.

"I've been pillaged and ridiculed and put down, and you know, everything thrown at me," she said.

Senator Canavan ruled

out any coalition agreement with One Nation in order to form a government.

"One Nation itself this morning was saying they have no interest in joining a coalition with us, and the feeling is mutual," he said.

The Liberal primary vote tanked to 12.4 percent, more than 30 percentage points down on the share secured a year earlier by Sussan Ley before her ousting as party leader and subsequent resignation.

But senior Liberals have

rejected calls to enter into a coalition with One Nation to ensure their party's longevity.

Shadow treasurer Tim Wilson on Sunday did not rule out a possible coalition with One Nation, saying it was up to the Australian people to decide who they want to vote for.

But the following day, he said he had never supported the idea.

"The reality is, the leader of that party has already declared that she won't form

a coalition with us and I have no interest in forming a coalition with them," he told reporters in Canberra.

One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce said the party was looking to replicate its success in western Sydney and was already speaking to potential candidates.

"What they've seen is that the polling is not an aberration," he told Seven's Sunrise program.

"It's now been validated by both South Australia and Farrer. There is a strong

following out there."

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the coalition's loss in Farrer was not surprising.

"It's pretty clear that the traditional coalition parties, the Liberal Party and the National Party, don't really stand for anything anymore," he told Cairns radio station 4CA.

"I'm not sure that One Nation's appeal will go beyond the sort of seat that we've seen and where they traditionally have done OK."

Dance challenge to help sick kids

By Rachael THORPE

RONALD McDonald House

has been an institution in Australia since 1981, with the organisation annually assisting more than 89,000 families of seriously ill children.

Jesica Vlahovic spent time in one as a child and has retained an affection for the charity that she has passed onto her children, especially 13-yearold daughter Adrijana Riethmuller.

An accomplished and

dedicated dancer, Adrijana recently undertook a challenge to dance continuously for 30 minutes every day for a week.

Jesica told News Of The Area, “As a mum I am incredibly proud.

“This kind of thing is outside Adrijana’s comfort zone, so she was quite nervous.

“But I love seeing her advocate for things like this, which are so important.”

Adrijana is in her third year of dance across multiple styles and dreams

of dancing professionallyor becoming a pilot.

She was recently selected to represent her school, St Joseph’s Regional College in Port Macquarie, in dancing.

Individual sponsorships, and donations from Camden Haven businesses, enabled Adrijana to raise $1200.

The funds will go towards reducing financial stress on families by providing a home away from home during their child’s treatment.

Trackwork on railway lines

THE Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) will carry out maintenance and improvement works on the Hunter Valley and North Coast rail corridors this weekend to maintain safety and reliability.

The works will take place between:

- Telarah in New South Wales to Acacia Ridge in Queensland from 5:00am Saturday 16 May to 7:30pm Monday 18 May

- Hamilton to Turrawan in New South Wales from 3:00am Saturday 16 May to 3:00am Tuesday 19 May.

The shutdown is part of

ARTC’s annual maintenance program.

Work will be delivered across more than 180 sites on the North Coast and Hunter lines including rerailing, bridge and structural upgrades, a level crossing upgrade at Casino and signalling works.

ARTC says its crews will minimise the impact of the work wherever possible, including positioning light towers to shine away from residences, watering down work areas and limiting the number of machines operating at any one time.

Coaches and buses will

replace NSW TrainLink services during the trackwork period and customers are encouraged to visit Transportnsw. info or call 13 22 32 for assistance in planning their journey.

Information on road closures or diversions and alternative routes can be found at livetraffic.com.

ARTC is reminding motorists and pedestrians to remain vigilant for altered traffic conditions near the rail corridor, pay attention to signage and to obey all road rules at level crossings, with rail

machinery active on rail lines.

Clinton Crump, Group Executive Operations, ARTC said, “The rail network requires regular maintenance to ensure that it continues to play a

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pivotal role in supporting the region’s economic supply chain and travel connections to communities in New South Wales and Southeast Queensland.

“The program of works is designed to minimise

disruption to passenger and freight services, and ARTC would like to thank the Hunter Valley and North Coast communities for their patience while these critical, long-term improvements take place.”

CWA branches debate record number of motions

By Pauline CAIN

THE COUNTRY Women’s Association (CWA) of NSW held its 104th annual State Conference from 3-7 May, hosted by the Mid North Coast Group at Club Forster.

The conference was attended by over 600 delegates and observers.

They spent four days

debating a record number of more than 50 policy and six urgency motions from branches across the state.

Tanya Jolly, president of the CWA of NSW, said the urgency motions that come before the conference each year reflect issues of immediate and high concern to members and their communities.

This year, vulnerabilities around fuel security were front of mind.

“The announcement by the Federal Government this week that the budget will include a $10 billion funding package aimed at increasing Australia's fuel stockpiles is certainly welcome and a step in the right direction when it comes to questions of fuel security,” she said.

“But it’s imperative now that we maintain this momentum, and the CWA of

NSW will be doing all it can to keep our regulators firmly focused on this issue.”

Ms Jolly said it was also gratifying to see the urgency motion on maintaining critical roads over the Great Dividing Range pass unanimously, and the motion related to opposition to compulsory land acquisition for the likes of roads and pipelines.

“Critical road links between the coast and western NSW, like the

Waterfall Way, Oxley Highway and Great Western Highway, have been closed or seriously impacted recently, and in the case of the Great Western Highway across the Blue Mountains, that closure appears to be long-term.

“It not only impacts NSW residents’ ability to travel across their state and get where they need to go, it has severe economic impacts on the communities in those areas.

“When these major roads are closed, too, the bypasses that are put in place often have to be on secondary roads that aren’t designed to withstand high volumes of traffic, causing major damage and compromising the safety of motorists.”

In line with CWA current Medical Research Project focus, the association also presented $45,000 to Pankind Australia, to assist with pancreatic cancer research.

Heart of the Haven: Dean Noble

By Rachael THORPE

DEAN Noble has only lived in Camden Haven for five years but has already made a huge impact in the community through his role as Operations Manager at Kew Country Club.

A proud father to three children - Damian, Bec and Ben - Dean’s values of care and connection are reflected in both his personal and professional life.

Recently he was appointed Patron of Camden Haven Community at 3 Inc, a charity that has been dedicated to supporting disadvantaged and vulnerable people across the region for the past ten years.

The charity’s mission is “to ensure that no one in the Camden Haven area is without support for their basic and essential needs”.

Dean’s unwavering support has ensured that this has succeeded.

In recognition of his commitment to go above and beyond, Dean has been successfully nominated as a finalist in the Heart of the Community category in the ClubsNSW 2026 Clubs and Community awards.

Theo Hazelgrove, Chairman of Community at 3, told News Of The Area, “Dean is a very caring, kind and engaged man who loves to help homeless and lonely people.

“He is a visionary who has committed to helping us for as long as he can.”

Under Dean’s leadership a culture of belonging and acceptance has been fostered across the organisation, as he has worked to ensure that both the charity and those who utilise it feel valued when they visit the club.

Matthew Haack, General Manager of Laurieton United Services Club, has worked extensively with Dean.

“In my 18 years in hospitality, I have never had the pleasure of working alongside someone as dedicated and committed

Feral pig control

WITH dry seasonal conditions being experienced in many parts of the region, North Coast Local Land Services (LLS) is urging producers to act early on feral pig control.

As feed and water become limited, feral pigs are concentrating around remaining resources, increasing the risk of damage to crops, pastures and infrastructure, and putting

q Landholders are encouraged to seek advice to ensure control programs are well planned and compliant with requirements.

additional pressure on livestock production systems.

North Coast LLS biosecurity staff say these seasonal conditions create a critical window for control programs, where well-

to both their craft and the community as Dean Noble,”

Mr Haack said.

“I have been working with Dean for just over

planned action can deliver stronger results.

Dean Chamberlain, Team Leader for Invasive Pests for North Coast LLS said, “We are working with landholders to deliver large-scale control across priority areas.

“This includes the distribution of free grain to support baiting and trapping programs, supply of traps, the deployment of dedicated feral pig control contractors and coordinated ground baiting programs.”

To stay ahead of population growth, landholders are encouraged to take a strategic approach that combines multiple control methods and aligns with seasonal conditions and farm operations.

Effective programs typically include:

• using free feeding to establish consistent feeding patterns prior to control activities

• selecting appropriate trap types and locations based on feral pig

12 months, and he has demonstrated time and again that nothing is ever too much and no challenge is ever a problem.

behaviour and movement

• combining control methods such as trapping and baiting to increase effectiveness

• following up initial control within three months to maintain pressure on populations

• coordinating control programs with neighbours to maximise impact across the landscape.

Feral pigs are highly adaptable and reproduce rapidly, making ongoing control essential.

A single sow can produce up to two litters per year, with as many as 10–12 piglets per litter, allowing populations to recover quickly if control efforts are not sustained.

Sows can breed as early as six months in favourable conditions.

“Continued control is critical to further suppress populations, particularly as pigs become more exposed and vulnerable due to reduced food availability and

“We are so proud to have him as part of our team.” The Clubs NSW Clubs and Community Awards will be announced on 11 June.

limited ground cover,” Dean said.

Conducting control programs ahead of key production periods, such as crop establishment, can help reduce production losses and protect valuable inputs.

Feral pig control also helps protect biodiversity and reduce biosecurity risks, with feral pigs capable of damaging native habitats and spreading weeds, parasites and diseases.

Local Land Services is supporting landholders through the NSW Government’s Feral Pig and Pest Program 2025–26, which provides access to practical tools and resources to improve control outcomes.

Landholders are encouraged to seek advice to ensure control programs are well planned and compliant with requirements.

For more information or tailored advice, contact your local biosecurity officer on 1300 795 299 or visit the Local Land Services website.

Venue raises awareness of DFV

By Bill HARROW

CLUB Lake Cathie joined other registered clubs throughout New South Wales in a day of action last week focused on reducing the rates of domestic and family violence (DFV).

Aligned with Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, “Purple Friday” is a state-wide social impact initiative that shines a spotlight on the club industry’s role in prevention, early intervention and community support.

On Friday, 8 May clubs across NSW “turned purple”

by dressing staff in purple shirts, hats or badges; decorating venues purple; using digital screens, websites and social media to share awareness messages; and starting conversations about respect, safety and support within their communities.

Clubs NSW say these actions “help amplify awareness, reduce stigma and encourage people to seek help when they need it”.

At Lake Cathie’s bowling club, conversations were actively encouraged, while posters were displayed carrying the details of

available support services.

“We are standing together to raise awareness around domestic violence as it’s something not always talked about,” said Rhys Birrane, Venue Manager of Club Lake Cathie.

“It’s about starting conversations and providing a safe open environment for people to talk about it.”

According to statistics offered by Clubs NSW, one in four women will experience domestic or family violence, while at least 77 women and 26 children were lost to domestic violence in Australia in 2025.

Revitalised regional coach network unveiled

NEW routes and modernised coaches have been unveiled as part of a major upgrade to NSW TrainLink coach services.

A 36 percent funding increase across the NSW TrainLink coach network will lift total funding to $290 million over the next nine years.

From 1 July, 14 coach operators will run 49 routes across the NSW TrainLink coach network, delivering

638 long-distance services each week, up from the current 592 services across 45 routes.

On some routes, the changes will save passengers over two hours in travel time.

The majority of services will be operated by modern coaches featuring wheelchair accessibility, improved seating and seatbelts, mobile phone charging points, onboard defibrillators and toilets.

The new routes will service over 360 destinations across NSW and into Queensland, South Australia, Victoria and the ACT.

NSW TrainLink Chief Executive Roger Weeks said, “After listening to passengers, local operators and the NSW Bus Taskforce, we’ve reshaped the network to make services more reliable, better connected and easier to use, matching service provision to community need.

“Alongside the network review, we’ve overhauled our coach contracts, making wheelchair accessible coaches standard with better passenger amenities like improved air conditioning and toilets standard.”

Changes to NSW TrainLink coach services:

North West:

• A new Armidale–Port Macquarie return route creating an Armidale–North Coast connection for the first time, with a train connection at Wauchope to Coffs Harbour, Grafton, the Northern Rivers, the Gold Coast and Brisbane.

• A new Armidale CBD stop for services to and from Tenterfield and Inverell. New CBD stop for Armidale for routes to and from Inverell and Tenterfield (routes 337 and 338, 327 and 328).

• A new day-return service between Tamworth and Newcastle (via coach and train).

• More services on the Tamworth–Dubbo route. Additional Wednesday service between Dubbo and Tamworth for routes 361 and 362, which will operate Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

• New daily route 352 and 351 between Tamworth and Muswellbrook, for a day-return link to and from Newcastle via rail interchange at Muswellbrook.

North Coast:

• A new Armidale–Port Macquarie return route (creating an ArmidaleNorth Coast connection for the first time). A new route will operate on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday between Armidale and Port Macquarie and return, providing an Armidale to North Coast connection for the first time.

At Wauchope the coach connects with rail services giving access to and from Coffs Harbour, Grafton, the Northern Rivers, Gold Coast and Brisbane.

• An enhanced Port Macquarie - Wauchope service enabling travel to Grafton, Coffs Harbour, the Northern Rivers, the Gold Coast and Brisbane (for the first time). Enhanced service between Port Macquarie and Wauchope, providing both northbound and southbound connections. This enables journeys from North Coast and Queensland centres such as Grafton, Coffs Harbour, the northern rivers, Gold Coast and Brisbane to and from Port Macquarie for the first time.

• Additional Taree - Newcastle services with new stops. Route 135 and 136 Broadmeadow to Taree and return will increase in frequency from Monday to Friday to daily. There will be additional stops at Taree Manning Street and Newcastle Interchange.

• Improved day and night services to and from Ballina, connecting with trains at Casino.

Bream firing and mulloway on the move

By Kate SHELTON

THE Mid North Coast has seen consistent showers over the past week, and while a sprinkle or two is just part of the deal for dedicated anglers, we’re all keeping an eye out for some extended sunshine.

These consistent showers are great for the long-term health of our waterways, though the forecast suggests the damp trend will stick around for the rest of May.

In the Hastings River, the recent weather has stirred up the estuary, turning the water a slight brown.

Because of this, you’ll find the best action toward the lower reaches and the

river mouth where the water is a bit clearer.

Despite the murk, bream fishing remains fantastic; daytime lure fishers were doing well with soft vibes before the showers, while bait anglers are still pulling in solid catches on mullet strips.

Flathead are also biting well in the lower Hastings on both lures and traditional baits like whitebait and prawns.

For those chasing bigger prizes, some massive mulloway (up to 20kg!) have been landed around the Coal Wharf. Meanwhile, the rock fishing scene is all about tailor right now.

Local ledges from Port Macquarie up to Plomer are producing great numbers, with garfish and large lures doing the heavy lifting.

Drummer numbers are

also starting to climb, which is a promising sign for the coming weeks.

Along the beaches, bream remain reliable, particularly during evening sessions on pilchards or slab baits.

If you're hitting North Beach or Lighthouse, worms and pipis are the go-to for bream and the occasional whiting.

Offshore, it’s a bit of a mixed bag.

The inshore reefs south toward Lighthouse have seen appearances from cobia, mackerel and tuna, while those trolling closer to shore are finding plenty of bonito and tailor. Bottom bashers aren't missing out either, with quality snapper and pearl perch reported.

Further south, the Diamond Head ledges are holding quality tailor up to 2.5kg.

On the sand, school mulloway are active around Dunbogan and Lake Cathie.

With the mullet now traveling and tailor numbers holding steady, we expect to see some even larger predators moving in soon.

Offshore, Snapper up to 5kg are being caught on bait, with pearl perch and kingfish showing up on the deeper reefs.

The Macleay River is the place to be for luderick fans, as numbers have spiked along the breakwalls.

Green weed is the prize bait, but cabbage and

weed flies are also doing the trick.

Bream fishers are equally happy, with consistent catches coming from Back

Creek and the breakwalls. Aim for an evening session with mullet strips if you’re looking to land the bigger models.

Critical renewable energy projects to be fast-tracked

PROPOSED legislation currently before the NSW Legislative Assembly would allow the Energy Minister to identify the highest-priority renewable energy projects in the planning pipeline and prioritise them for streamlining.

The NSW Government says it would result in more streamlined approvals for generation, storage and network projects that will power homes, industry and economic growth.

However, it also states the proposed law would not remove any environmental or community assessment requirements, with

developers still needing to meet all relevant planning, environmental and consultation obligations.

“Priority energy projects must demonstrate best practice in how they work with landholders and communities, particularly in regional NSW,” the NSW Government said in a statement.

“The Energy Legislation Amendment (Prioritising Renewable Energy) Bill 2026 will also support the effective and consistent implementation of the NSW Benefit-Sharing Guideline, ensuring councils and communities hosting

projects receive associated benefits.”

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said the government is committed to ensuring reliable, affordable energy for heavy industries like the Tomago aluminium smelter, and to power economic growth across the state.

“This new legislation will mean infrastructure projects that are critical for manufacturing jobs, economic growth and energy affordability don’t get stuck in the queue,” she said.

“No matter where you live in this state, you will benefit from us getting on

with the job and delivering quality renewable projects as fast as we can.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said, “With a growing pipeline of energy projects ahead of us, we need a planning system that can support achieving our ambitious energy targets.

“These reforms will also make sure critical projects are not being delayed by objections from people thousands of kilometres away who will never be impacted by them – NSW locals should and will have the loudest voice.”

The move has been

met with discontent from sections of the agriculture industry, with NSW Farmers warning that rushing approvals will deepen community distress, entrench an unfair power imbalance between large developers and landholders, and generate more objections and conflict.

NSW Farmers Energy Taskforce chair Reg Kidd described the government’s new approvals plan as “reckless”.

“Farmers have not been given realistic timeframes to understand proposals and participate meaningfully, or object where necessary,” Mr

Kidd said.

“We've been working hard with EnergyCo and the government to improve engagement and get better consultation and we don't want to derail that process –these issues can’t be rushed.

“Under current arrangements, communities are often expected to respond to highly technical Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) within weeks.

“If this is fast-tracked even more, additional pressure will be put on time-poor landholders already distressed and stretched.”

Forest industry future under review

By John WATTS

THE forestry industry has been a contested space in NSW for many years, with some supporting the continuation of native hardwood logging and others strongly opposing it.

The issue was brought into sharper focus recently with the announcement by the NSW Government of its intention to create the Great Koala National Park (GKNP).

The establishment of the GKNP will result in areas which are presently state forest, where logging is permissible, being converted into national park, where logging is prohibited.

Clearly wishing to find a way forward, the NSW Government is developing a Forestry Industry Action Plan

(FIAP), which it has indicated will address the following issues:

- The sustainability of current and future forestry operations in NSW,

- The environmental and cultural values of forests, including threatened species,

- The community demand for timber products, particularly as relates to NSW housing, construction, mining, transport and retail,

- The future of softwood and hardwood plantations and the continuation of Private Native Forestry in helping meet timber supply needs,

- The role of State Forests in maximising the delivery of a range of environmental, economic and social outcomes,

- Opportunities to realise

carbon and biodiversity benefits and support carbon and biodiversity markets, and mitigate and adapt to climate change risks, and

- Greenhouse gas emission impacts of different uses of forests and assessment of climate change risks to forests.

As part of the development of its FIAP the government appointed a panel, titled The Independent Forestry Panel, to consult with various stakeholders and to then provide a report to the government about the various viewpoints.

In producing its report, the panel consulted with representatives from the timber industry, forest growers, environment groups, unions, Aboriginal communities, local

government, business, related industries, tourism, scientific experts and the Commonwealth Government.

More than 1,700 submissions were received.

“Making this report available to the public is a key step toward modernising forestry in a way that protects biodiversity,” said Penny Sharpe, the Minister for Climate Change, Energy, Heritage and Environment.

“Following the finalisation of the Stakeholder Report, the panel has been tasked to produce a Considerations Report.

“This report will… identify opportunities to ensure the ongoing sustainability of the NSW forestry industry and support jobs.”

This will be through:

- The NSW Government’s

moratorium on logging in the proposed area for the Great Koala National Park,

- Changes to the Commonwealth’s Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

- Opportunities the Australian Carbon Credit Unit Scheme could offer state forestry reform, including potential revenue for the NSW Government.

The Panel’s Stakeholder Report is available online at nsw.gov.au by searching the “independent-forestry-panelstakeholder-report”.

Rare Humpback behaviour discovered

A NEW paper co-authored by Macquarie University lecturer and renowned whale scientist Dr Vanessa Pirotta highlights the importance of ‘citizen scientists’ who have been integral in exposing a newly observed Humpback whale behaviour.

The paper released by Macquarie University on 4 May, ahead of Australia’s annual Humpback Day (6 May), explores the distinct action of ‘gaping’, where whales have been observed opening their mouths widely, without clear reason.

Dr Pirotta says the study, analysing 66 internet and social media instances of gaping, shows how tourists, whale-watch operators and drone users can provide valuable scientific observations.

“Just when we think we know a lot about humpback whales, we don’t,” she said.

“Tourism operators

and citizen scientists spend hours observing whales and are a powerful resource for capturing and reporting on behaviour, using the increasingly high-quality technologies many of us have on hand.”

The gaping was captured by onlookers in a range of situations – from boats (above water) during swim-withwhale activities (underwater) and with drones.

“It was so unusual to see this happen and when I heard the commentary of people watching it, I knew it was rare,” says Dr Pirotta.

It included both adults and calves and was mostly seen when there were other whales nearby.

Notably, it happened outside whales' usual feeding routines.

The research suggests a range of reasons for the behaviour including communication, social/ playful behaviour, exploring ocean debris (particularly for calves) or an incidental jaw stretching or separation.

Regional Australia encouraged to be counted

THE 2026 Census is less than 100 days away, with Census night to be held on Tuesday 11 August 2026.

The Census is an important tool for regional and rural communities, as it shows what local areas need to help them grow, including transport, schools, healthcare, roads and buildings.

Emily Walter, Census National Spokesperson, said the 100-day milestone is an important reminder for regional and rural communities to start preparing for Census night.

“The 2026 Census is a vital opportunity for people in regional and rural Australia to be heard and ensure their communities are accurately represented,”

Ms Walter said.

“Every answer matters to help us understand what Australia needs now and into the future.

“For people in regional towns and remote communities, taking part ensures that local services and infrastructure are planned using accurate and recent data.

“When you complete the Census, you are helping your community get the right support.”

Data from the 2021 Census showed a significant shift in where people live, with more than 184,000 people moving to regional areas over the previous five years.

This growth was driven by moves to regional

Queensland (+63,700), Victoria (+62,900) and New South Wales (+59,000).

The 2026 Census will be the first opportunity to record how these shifting populations have impacted local infrastructure and where new investments in services are required.

The ABS provides tailored support to ensure everyone in regional Australia can participate, regardless of their location.

“We want to make sure everyone in regional, rural and remote Australia is supported to take part because every answer matters,” Ms Walter said.

“If you are in a small country town you can visit us at a Pop-up Hub or call us to ensure you have the support

you need to be counted.

“Additionally, Census staff will be available in remote communities from July to help people participate.”

All information collected in the Census is protected by law and kept private. It is never shared with the police, Centrelink, or any other

organisation in a way that is likely to identify you.

For more information to prepare for the 2026 Census, go to census.abs.gov.au

BUSINESS SHOWCASE

Exposed to asbestos or silica dust?

FOR many in our community, hard work in industries like timber, farming, power generation, construction and mining has been a way of life.

But for some, that work has come at a hidden cost.

Diseases caused by asbestos and silica dust often take decades to appear.

By the time symptoms develop, the connection to past employment may not be immediately obvious.

Yet under New South Wales law, people diagnosed with dust diseases may be entitled to significant compensationeven if exposure occurred

many years ago.

Carter Hawkins Lawyers is a specialist firm dedicated to helping individuals and families affected by dust disease.

With a strong focus on client care, the firm assists with claims through the Dust Diseases Tribunal and the Dust Board (iCare), guiding clients through what can often be a complex and emotional process.

Importantly, exposure is not limited to a single workplace.

Many cases arise from years spent working across local power stations, coal mines, construction sites and industrial employers

throughout regional New South Wales. Even brief or secondary exposure can be enough to cause serious illness.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a dust-related condition, it is worth seeking advice.

Early guidance can make a meaningful differencenot just financially, but in securing support and peace of mind for the future.

Carter Hawkins offer a free in-home consultation to discuss your entitlements.

You can then decide whether to proceed with a claim from there.

SHOP LOCAL CAMDEN HAVEN

Riverside lifestyle

10/63-65 The Parade, Lake Cathie 2 bed, 2 bath, 2 car

Price: $900,000 - $940,000

LOCATED at a sought-after riverside address, this beautiful two-bedroom apartment is the perfect holiday getaway, a solid investment opportunity, or the 'forever home' that you have been waiting for.

Being an all-level walk to cafés, the bowling club, patrolled surf beach and everything that North Haven has to offer, while the regional hub of Port Macquarie is only 25 minutes away.

This unit boasts an abundance of natural light, stunning timber floors, open plan living zones and bi-fold doors that open all the way back to reveal an enormous balcony and amazing views over the reserve and river.

Stand-out features

- Entertainer’s kitchen, with stone benchtops & stainless steel appliances

- Elevated, light filled, open plan living

- Dining area plus breakfast bar

- Stylish timber flooring

- Two spacious bedrooms, master with walk-in robe, ensuite bathroom & balcony access

- Modern bathrooms

- Secure undercover parking for two vehicles (or one for the boat)

- Bonus undercover storage room

- Skylights, air conditioning and ceiling fans

- Laundry with plenty of storage

- Resort style in-ground pool in the complex

- Bi-fold doors opening to large covered balcony

- Beautifully maintained gardens and ground.

Rental return: $600-$620 per week (approx).

AirBnB/Holiday Rental: Figures available on request.

Strata: $1300 per quarter (approx). Contact Debbi on 0435 677 256 to arrange an inspection.

Aboriginal rangers to play key role in GKNP

By Andrew VIVIAN NSW ENVIRONMENT

Minister Penny Sharpe was in Coffs Harbour on Tuesday, 12 May to outline progress on the delivery of the Great Koala National Park (GKNP).

While the central focus of the visit was on consultation with local Aboriginal representatives, the Minister announced other aspects of ongoing planning.

These included boosting firefighting capacity with the NSW Rural Fire Service and Forestry Corporation NSW through more firefighters,

new equipment and early detection technologies.

She also discussed refining park boundaries for the best conservation possibilities and working with local tourism, council and other partners to unlock new visitor and recreation opportunities.

“The Minns Labor Government has been working closely with the community to ensure planning delivers strong environmental protection, while driving nature-based and recreational tourism on the Mid North Coast,” said Ms

Sharpe.

For the first time, the GKNP will appoint NSW National Parks and Wildlife

Service (NPWS) Aboriginal cultural heritage rangers, aiming to place Indigenous knowledge at the centre of

LOCALSPORT

International opportunity for futsal star

By Rachael THORPE

CAMDEN Haven High School

student Havanah Murie is set to represent her country on the international futsal stage.

The talented goalkeeper, 15, has been selected for the U16 Girls Australian Futsal team which is set to compete in Greece in October.

Playing futsal - a fivea-side, indoor version of football - for just two years, her rise through representative levels has been swift.

While playing for a Far

North NSW team, Havanah was chosen for the U18 Mid North Coast Cougars, which culminated in her eventual national team selection.

Determined to compete at an elite level, Havanah told News Of The Area, “My aim is to always work hard, never give up, and to fight to the end.

“Because it’s never really over until the final whistle blows.”

The rising star is coached by her dad Andrew Murie, an experienced football player who has also participated

in rugby league, cricket, and kickboxing.

“I got her started in soccer, then she branched out into all forms of the game,” said Andrew, who plans to travel with the team to Greece.

“Watching her on the field makes me incredibly proud, and I’m amazed at her talent.”

With an eventual dream to represent the Matildas, Havanah juggles schoolwork alongside 20 hours of futsal training each week.

The cost of the Greece trip will require fundraising, and the family hopes that the local community will help them to fulfil Havanah’s dreams.

park management.

The positions will be created through collaboration with Elders and Traditional Owners on the GKNP’s Aboriginal Advisory Panel.

Ms Sharpe acknowledged the area as a significant cultural landscape for the Gumbaynggirr and Dunghutti peoples, home to places of creation, ceremony and spirituality, traditional camps, resource gathering areas and pathways.

“The Great Koala National Park is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to protect one of Australia’s most important koala populations while recognising the deep cultural connection Traditional Owners have to this landscape,” she said.

Glenn Storrie, Principal Project Officer with NPWS, said, “It’s very clear that the community wants both conservation plus access and use.

“We aim to deliver an amazing national park and manage it for the conservation of koalas but also for the fun and enjoyment of the

community.”

Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin described the GKNP as a landmark investment for the region, which will provide environmental protection while “driving new local jobs and economic opportunities for our communities”.

Legislation to reserve the GKNP will be prepared later this year.

According to the NSW Government, the final creation of the park is dependent on the successful registration of a carbon project under the proposed Improved Native Forest Management method, which is progressing following public consultation in January.

The method is expected to be considered by the Commonwealth Government’s Independent Emissions Reduction Assurance Committee.

After the announcement Minister Sharpe met with the Aboriginal Advisory Panel in Coffs Harbour and toured a section of the proposed park.

NEWS OF THE AREA

Mid Coast FC teams flying in 2026

MID Coast Football Club (MCFC) will compete in the Northern NSW Football (NNSWF) Premier Youth League Boys (PYLB) “League A” competition after finishing fifth in the Phase 1 club championship standings after 11 rounds.

MCFC will now compete in Phase 2 of the NNSWF PYLB League A from June 2026 in a 16 round (home

and away) competition against top sides including Edgeworth FC, Lambton Jaffas FC, Newcastle Olympic FC, Maitland FC, North Coast Football, Lake Macquarie City FC, Broadmeadow Magic FC and Valentine FC.

Based on the Mid North Coast with home ground facilities at Taree, MCFC offers developing footballers from Bulahdelah to South

West Rocks the opportunity to represent their region against some of the best competition in northern NSW.

MCFC enters teams in U18, U16, U15, U14 & U13 Boys age divisions.

The MCFC Premier Youth League Girls (PYLG) are also off to a flying start in 2026, currently sitting on top of the PYLG Club Championship

after 12 rounds.

MCFC competes in the U17, U15 and U13 Girls age divisions.

“The outstanding football performances and consistency of effort by the MCFC youth players across all the age groups during Phase 1 2026 has elevated the standard for the NSW Mid North Coast to a new level and will inspire many

future MCFC players ahead,” MCFC Secretary Hayley De Somma said.

“We are so proud of all the PYLB and PYLG players and their families who commit to travel each week up and down the coast to train and play.

“They are now rewarded with the opportunity to compete at the very highest PYL level for the rest of

2026.

“In recognition of all the time and effort, a special thanks must go to all our individual team and specialist coaches, managers and all our volunteers and committee membersincluding field maintenance and canteen convenors - who help to run the club each week, as well as our sponsors, supporters, duty officers and referees.

“They make each game possible.”

Dancing gold

STORY STARTS on BACK COVER, Page 28

results across all her dance types, attaining first in the Scottish Lilt, second in the Flora, and fourth in the Trophy Highland Fling.

Working in floristry and social media, Christie says her true passion lies in the traditional dance form, devoting a significant part of her week to lessons and practise.

Kew Country Club Men’s Veterans Golf

By Laurie HAMILTON

11/5/2026 SINGLE Stableford04

Sponsored by PRD 83 Starters

Kew Ladies Bowls

By Velvanie HARTAS

TUESDAY 12th MAY

Today we had only one rink of Social Bowls, but was enjoyed by all players until the rain started. Our Triple Matches started today with teams playing. TEAM ..1

Kew Mens Bowling Club

By Frank RACZKA

WEDNESDAY Social Bowls, D Wagstaff, D Squires and R Morrison claimed first prize. The runners up were G Gleeson, L Moran and C Kerr. Voucher winners were N Verner, N Dark, D Harvey and L Moran

Lake Cathie Bowling Club

By Suzanne MILES

TUESDAY, 5th May, Women's Social BowlsRoslyn Stone & Heather Worsfieldwinners.

Susan Malzard, Robyn Jones & Teresa Wise - runners-up.

Today we played Turn-around Triples which was enjoyed by all the Ladies.

WEDNESDAY, 6th May, Open Gender

LUSC Snooker Club

By Michael EYLES

THE Tuesday night competition held on 5/5/26 had 18 players compete. The Major Final was won by Julie Miles, and the runner up was Lloyd Stewart. The Minor Final winner was Fred Farrugia who defeated Ron White. The Thursday night competition held on 7/5/26, attracted 16 players. Andy Scott won the Major Final, defeating Graham Rees. In the Minor Final Graham Palmer prevailed defeating Glenn Kunze.

North Haven Social Golf Club

By Rod BARNETT

WEDNESDAY 6th May we played a single Stableford event and the winner was Peter TATTI with 32 points, and the runner up was James WALSH with 25 points . Nearest the pin winners were Peter TATTI and Laurie HAMILTON. Best putting prize winner was Garry GLEESON. The event for 22nd April is a single Stableford with the starters being Keith TURNER and Rod BARNETT

SPORT

“I have Scottish heritage and have always loved Celtic culture,” she said.

“I couldn’t find anywhere locally to learn, so I do lessons via Zoom with Jacaranda Highland Dancers who are based in Grafton.

“I’m currently dancing at a beginner’s level and I’m working hard to progress to novice level.

“My favourite style is the Lilt as it has very graceful moves similar to ballet,” she said.

Her next competition will be in Armidale in July.

Highland dancing has roots dating back

A Grade Winner – Vincent Lyons 41 Pts.

2nd – Warren Dyer 40 Pts.

3rd – Wayne Fuller 37 Pts.

B Grade winner- Phil McCarthy 39 Pts.

2nd – Deon Lawrence 37 Pts.

3rd – Dave Dundas 35 Pts.

C Grade winner – Greg Watson37 Pts.

Doreen Barr. Against. Ida Bruno

Carol Cheers. Carol Verner

Lorraine Clark. Trudy Douglas

Winners were

Doreen Barr

Carol Cheers

Lorraine Clark

Score 28/9

But a good effort by all players

TEAM ..2

Leonie Murphy. Against Anne Smith

Saturday Cashpot Win/Win went to Marg Ashford, A Hilton and M Ashford. Win/ Loss to J Smith, L Rothe and D Rothe. Loss/ Loss to W Barnes, B Waddington and P Lendrum.

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

Bowls -

Paul Dovey, Greg Isele & Kate Bohlscheid - winners.

Paul Goodacre, Greg Dring & Ian Tupps - runners-up.

THURSDAY, 7th May, Men's Social Triples -

Rink 11 - Brian Smith, Terry Stewart

LUSC Ladies Social Golf Club

By Robyn KING

TUESDAY, 12th May, 2026 was an Ambrose game. There were 12 plays in 6 teams in only one division.

9 Hole Ambrose

Winners: R. Banfield & C. Landsdowne

to the eleventh century where it was predominantly performed by men, and particularly by warriors prior to battle. It was regarded as a way to demonstrate strength, agility, stamina, and accuracy.

Popularised for women by Jenny Douglas in the nineteenth century, it has been in Australia since the late 1800s with standards maintained by the Australian Board of Highland Dancing.

Today is a vibrant part of Australia’s cultural arts scene with annual Highland games and major competitions across the country. q Bonny Hills dancer Christie Rogers.

2nd – John Watt 36 Pts. 3rd – Terry Morrisdsey 33 Pts. C/B. Ball Winners – Wesley Howard ( Howlong GC ) 36, Brian Jenner 35, Dave Haggett 34, Don Steigrad 34, Theo Vandermeer 34, Rod Barnett 34, Michael Laurent 34 & Geoff Bunt ( Howlong GC ) 33 Pts.

Kim Thompson Pat Lendrum

Karen Rogan. Jenny Willard

Winners were

Anne Smith

Pat Lendrum

Jenny Willard

It was a very close match Score 22/20

So congratulations to all players. Winners Card Draw

days.

Club Triples A close game was tied until the 19th end then team Collins broke away to defeat team Verner 24 to 17. Congratulations to I Orr, D Jones and P Collins.

Monday Monthly Magic Nines Our trial went ahead and was well received by players. It has evened the field out with & Ron Bol.

Rink 8 - Gordon Gray, John White & Peter Slattery.

Rink 2 - Mike Ryan, Peter Tracey & Graham Fairburn - Silver Medal. FRIDAY, 8th May - nothing to hand. SATURDAY, 9th May, Ladies' BowlsGlenys Webster, Ann Butlin, Govin 31.5

Runners Up: L. Innes & P. Egan 40 There were 6 cardies playing today with Mary Brown the ultimate winner. Next week’s game will be a Stableford & NTP.

A reminder to all members that our 49th Anniversary Lunch will be held on Tuesday 26th May after a Canadian Foursomes game.

Nearest to the pin Winners

9th Hole A Grade Mark Bird, B Grade Dave Dundas , C Grade Doug MacLean

10th Hole A Grade Gary King, B Grade Deon Lawrence, C Grade. NO ONE.

12th Hole A Grade Chris Campbell, B Grade Steve Hoffman, C Grade Terry Morrissey

Doreen Barr, Carol Cheers , and Lorraine Clark.

Looser card draw

Leonie Murphy, Kim Thompson , and Karen Rogan

Weekly Raffle Winner

Lorraine Clark

Key Draw Winners

Carol Verner, Jenny Wellard, Anne Smith , and Margaret Watts

1 team winning three games and 6 teams winning two games. Results were from 1st to last, I Orr and S Rogan, F Raczka and S McGregor, J Smith and B Clark, C Thompson and M Ashford, W Barnes and D Darcy. Our next event will be Monday June 1st.

Bowls this week include Wednesday Social (mufti dress) names in by 11.30 for a 12.30 start and, Friday Jackpot is up to $312.

O'Meara/Skip - winners.

Consistency SinglesPamela Begley def. Nola Scott - after an extra end was played, a great game.

Open Gender Pairs & TriplesRink 6 - Lynn Gibson, Lorraine Baker, Roberta Henry.

Rink 4 - Rob Edwards & Bill Olausen.

If you have not notified our Captain, Sue, that you wish to attend there is still time to do so. Cost will be $5. Numbers will need to be finalised by next Friday.

INVITATION to any ladies interested in playing social golf - please join us at Kew Country Club at 8am on Tuesdays or after our game for a coffee and a chat (around 11.30am) and we can explain the fees and processes.

QUEENS LAKE SAILING

As we are in our winter break, and servicing all the boats ready for the start of the new season, the committee and all members would like to take this opportunity to give a huge thank you to all the sponsors that have supported our Queen’s Lake Sailing Club.

Your generous assistance has enabled us to purchase new boats as our junior division has grown substantially, also some of our juniors have progressed to the adult racing in the after noon. We are also registering new members to the club.

Your support has enabled us to become one of the strongest sailing clubs on the coast.

Again we thank you.

The Committee, QLSC

By Manny WOOD

Party poopers

AFTER moving into a new home and undertaking a range of renovations and landscaping work, Gary decides to celebrate by throwing a garden party.

Invitations are sent out a month before the event via a Facebook event post. Gary invites 40 guests.

The invitation advises that the party would be on Gary’s property, both indoors and outside, and that there would be entertainment, food and alcohol provided. Importantly, the invitation also states that Gary’s pet dog would be present.

One of the guests asks Gary if he can bring his pet dog along. Gary, a self-confessed animal lover, agrees and the event proceeds with 37 attendees and a guest dog.

The party commences around 2PM and Gary’s guests are having a good time, until at around 5PM, the two dogs start chasing each other around the garden and unfortunately knock over a female guest, Helen.

Gary believes the fall was “gentle” and observes that “she landed on her bottom, without even spilling her wine”.

Sadly, Helen is subsequently taken to hospital by her husband and it is discovered that she suffered a fracture to her lower leg.

Gary attempts to check in on Helen’s welfare during the following couple of weeks, but is met with single sentence texts, and ultimately silence.

Helen seeks legal advice and is informed that she can make a claim for compensation with respect to pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of earning capacity.

When Gary receives a letter from Helen’s lawyers, claiming over $500,000, he immediately engages his home insurance provider.

Witness statements are exchanged, indicating Helen had appeared “unwell” before the incident, and despite recognition of her condition, she attended the party and was observed drinking wine in the sun where the incident occurred.

Three years later, the claim is settled and Gary’s insurer pays Helen $120,000.

Beware, property owners and occupiers: Check the provisions of your insurance policies.

This fictional column is not legal advice.

OPINION & LETTERS

On the Couch On the Couch

By Paul DORIN

Police guard of honour farewells Peter Walsh

By Sue STEPHENSON

A POLICE guard of honour lined Hay Street, Port Macquarie on Friday 8 May, to farewell Retired NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Peter Walsh APM, following his funeral in St Agnes Catholic Church.

NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon APM was among the current and former police officers who joined extended family and friends in remembering the “true country copper”.

Peter Walsh served the state for more than 37 years, from 1965 to 2003, and remained a member of the Police Association for 62 years.

Described as a highly respected leader, he was also known for his “old school” policing values and mentorship of junior staff.

His career included roles in Sydney, Orange, Goulburn, Dubbo and Tweed Heads, and as Northern Region Commander.

He took the lead in responding to the 1995 ambush murders of Senior Constables Robert Spears and Peter Addison at Crescent Head, and the murders of seven people in the 1991 Strathfield massacre.

Known as “Walshy”, he also spent many years as a member of the Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA) and was a flight crew member with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter while attached to the Northern Region.

Following his retirement, he remained involved in the Port Macquarie community.

Married to Narelle, the couple shared sons Justyn and Ian, and nine grandchildren.

“As I look around this church… you should have no doubt of the impact that Peter had on so many," Commissioner Lanyon said in addressing his family.

Peter Walsh passed away on 2 May aged 79.

By JASMINDA

DEAR Jasminda,

I find there are times during my working day when I lack energy or wonder at the futility of an office job. How do I keep my momentum going for the next 45 years?

Melissa W.

Dear Melissa,

I had some general ideas for you and was about to start composing my response when I came to the number at the end of your conundrum. If any of us looked at the sum total of our time doing anything we would be stressed.

There is a wonderful short story by David Eagleman called 'Sum', a fictitious account of the afterlife where everything in a lifetime is grouped.

In the story, the narrator describes how the average person would spend thirty years asleep, experience 27 hours of intense pain in one hit, and 15 months looking for lost items, amongst other things.

The point I am making with this reference is that you cannot envisage the next 45 years of your working life in an office in isolation and remain sane.

You need to break your working

life down into achievable chunks, for example: If you can get through the next two hours, Marie from sales and marketing will bring in a vanilla slice after her weekly bakery run. The sugar hit that releases will give you about 30 minutes of adrenaline and positivity. If you can extend that to 45 minutes by adding a doubleshot coffee, you will probably make it to the 2pm staff meeting where Julie from accounts will drone on about profit and loss stats for about half an hour.

If you can stretch the meeting to 3pm, there is every probability you will make it to knock-off time.

There is also absolutely no guarantee you will be in an office job for the next 45 years. In fact it is extremely unlikely.

Many people have up to seven career changes.

For all you know, in a decade from now you may have retrained to be a dietician or a paramedic or a spin class instructor.

In that final example, you will be so full of exercise-induced dopamine that you'll be positively bursting with energy and enthusiasm.

So, Melissa, try to find the positives in your workday, when you leave work focus on enjoyable life activities that have nothing to do with being in the office, and, if you really do find your current job futile, I'd recommend looking at alternatives. You sound young enough to be in a position to do further education and training. It would be a real shame if you looked back on your working life with regret.

Ocean Pool Committee releases latest survey results

By Bill HARROW and Sue STEPHENSON

THE results of one of two separate surveys about the proposed ocean pool at Oxley Beach have been released.

Commissioned by the Port Macquarie Ocean Pool Committee, the group behind the project, the survey found that 74 percent of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed with the concept.

“Such an endorsement sends a clear message to Port Macquarie Hastings Council that it’s time to proceed with our Planning Application,

the first step in the approval process,” said Committee Chair Fred O’Toole.

The survey was designed and conducted by environmental and social consultancy Umwelt, and was completed by 4,200 locals and visitors.

Results of a second survey circulated by the pool’s opponents, Protect Oxley Beach, are yet to be released.

Both were launched ahead of a critical Council vote, expected during its 21 May meeting.

Councillors must decide if changes to planning controls and permissible land uses

are appropriate before the project can proceed to the development application stage.

Beyond this requirement, Council has previously stressed that it has “a position of non-involvement in the development, funding, or delivery of the Ocean Pool”.

Its stated priority is the redevelopment of the Aquatic Centre.

The Ocean Pool Committee is urging councillors to recognise the level of community support demonstrated by the survey results.

“The benefits to the community are enormous,” Mr O’Toole said.

“Aside from the welldocumented health benefits,

q An artist’s impression

many seniors and younger families with children love to swim in the sea but are afraid of sharks, so they don’t swim at all.

“These results confirm that an ocean pool is a free ticket for a safe, inclusive

swimming environment.”

Meantime, a support rally is being held at the beach on Friday, 15 May, at 10.30am.

Spokesman Paul Adams said, “For many in the community, this is simply too important to lose.

“But it will be lost unless the community shows its support at our rally.”

The results of environmental studies and stakeholder consultations can be found on the committee’s website.

From banking to marine rescues

COURTNEY Greenslade is one of the success stories being shared by TAFE NSW to coincide with Careers Week.

Now living in Port Macquarie, she went from working in the banking industry to being an Inspector with Marine Rescue NSW on Sydney Harbour.

She now manages emergency responses for the Mid North Coast.

“I started marine rescue as a volunteer,” Ms Greenslade said.

“But I knew I liked what I was doing on my own time, outside my banking job, and

when you know you know.”

To turn her passion into a career, she needed to re-skill.

This led to three separate qualifications in maritime operations through TAFE.

“I’ve found a career where professional and personal growth never stops.

“I’m always learning and I think that’s important in any job.”

Stories like Ms Greenslade’s highlight demand for practical, jobready training - one of the objectives of National Careers Week, 11-17 May.

Promoted by the Career

Celebration of a football legend

By Pauline CAIN

AUSTRALIAN rugby league

legend Harry “Dealer” Wells celebrated his 94th birthday on Friday 8 May at Flynns Beach Cellars and General Store, which he has owned since 1970.

Harry - the oldest living Kangaroo - was the 49th inductee to the National Rugby League Hall of Fame in 2007.

He came from Wollongong in 1951 to play with South Sydney and was in the team that defeated Manly 42–14 in the grand-final that year.

Harry then returned to the Illawarra and won selection in the 1952–53

Kangaroos side, making the first of his 21 Test appearances at Headingley in the opening game of the series.

According to the NRL Hall of Fame, Harry was a dominating figure in the third Test against Great Britain in 1954.

He scored the try that sent the Australians on their way to the Ashes.

Well known for his ability to break the line, Harry was a popular footballer.

He returned to Sydney in 1956 to join Wests and stayed six seasons with the Magpies, appearing in 85 games and scoring 33 tries.

He played in three World

Cups and made a second Kangaroos tour in 1959–60.

His career in professional football ended in 1961, but he continued playing, finishing up in Port Macquarie in 1972, at age 40, as captain-coach of the Port Macquarie Sharks.

Tracy Wells, Harry’s daughter-in-law, said, “When Harry went on tour he had to

go by boat - an eight month trip all round.

“He played for Wests but his game numbers are not as high as they should be because of the long tours.

“Yvonne and their three kids had to rent their house out and move back in with her parents to survive.

“They would get a small

Industry Council of Australia (CICA), it aims to shine a spotlight on the economic, social and personal benefits of lifelong learning.

According to Jobs and Skills Australia, total employment is forecast to increase by around 6.5 percent over the next five years, driven by strong demand across sectors including health care and social assistance, professional services, education, and technical industries.

TAFE NSW Managing Director Chloe Read, said workforce change is opening allowance which would be sent home monthly, but nothing like what players are paid today.”

Locals gathered at the table outside the shop on Friday afternoon to chat with Harry and his wife Yvonne.

Matthew Hohnberg used to visit English rugby league legend Phil Jackson in Wagga, and he shared some photos and stories of Phil with Harry.

Harry played against Phil

new pathways for people to enter these high-demand jobs.

“As industries evolve, workforce needs are changing quickly, and training needs to keep pace so people can access emerging opportunities with confidence.”

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan, said this week’s focus on changing careers was a reminder of TAFE’s role in delivering vocational training and education across growing industries.

Jackson in England and also some “bush” football here in Australia.

Jill Gain knew Harry and Yvonne through a local walking group and she has enjoyed many chats about football over the years with Harry.

Councillor Nik Lipovac also joined the crowd of well-wishers along with Tom Lockwood who has worked in the shop for many years.

SUDOKU

Dovida Aged Care

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

CARAVAN awning new, cost $135. Selling for $100. Ph 0429 930 022 F200426

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

sullage hose $30. Ph 0429 930 022

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

FRIDGE - top mounted LG, 7 yrs old. 143cm high x 54cm wide x 65cm deep $60. Ph 0410 199 915 SOLD

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

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

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

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

MARILYN Monroe framed picture, standing in doorway 100cm x 70cm $30. 6582 5885

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

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

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

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

TRADES & Services

CAMDEN HAVEN

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY EUROVISION SONG CONTEST

SBS, 5am (live) and 7.30pm (access all areas)

Music fans turn their attention to Vienna this weekend as the Austrian capital hosts the 70th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest. While die-hard devotees will likely catch the 5am (AEST) semi-final broadcasts live on Wednesday and Friday morning ahead of Sunday’s grand final, casual viewers are best advised to tune in for this access-all-areas pass. Aussie commentators Courtney Act and Danny Estrin present all of the action from the first semi-final tonight, while Saturday’s primetime broadcast includes a dazzling performance from pop powerhouse Delta Goodrem (pictured). Her entry, “Eclipse”, is a quintessential power ballad with an epic key change that’s tailor-made to take on the competition.

MONDAY

THE

FLOOR

NBN, 7.30pm

FRIDAY, May 15

This say-what-you-see trivia game could be the easiest money on Australian TV. There’s no need to tough it out in the jungles of Samoa , spend months renovating a high-end home for or create fine-dining

MasterChef; simply perform well in a few 90-second quiz battles and a $200,000 prize could be yours. Even host Rodger Corser (pictured) appears to be on easy street – a computer screen handles the questions for him. In Monday’s secondseason finale, just eight contestants remain standing on the giant illuminated board. As they face off in both their own specialist subjects and those they’ve inherited from fallen rivals, all bets are off. It’s winner takes all.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Stuff The British Stole. (PG, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The Assembly. (PGa, R) 1.45 Bad Company. (M, R) 2.10 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 2.55 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 Eurovision Song Contest. 7.30 Cycling. Giro d’Italia. H’lights. 8.30 WorldWatch. 10.00 Legacy List. (R) 11.00 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 PBS NewsHour. 2.05 Cotswolds And Beyond. (PG, R) 3.35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. Giro d’Italia. H’lights. 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show.

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Clarence Slockee explores diverse foliage plants.

8.30 Patience. (Final, Mv) Patience and Frankie are held hostage.

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

9.55 Urzila. (Mls, R)

10.20 ABC Late News.

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

11.25 Murdoch Mysteries. (Mav, R)

12.15 Love Me. (MA15+, R)

1.05 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Eurovision Song Contest. Hosted by Courtney Act and Danny Estrin.

10.00 Rock Legends: Chicago. (PGa, R)

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 The King. (MA15+s)

11.55 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+asv, R)

1.50 Syndrome E. (Malv, R)

3.55 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R)

4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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

7.30 Football. AFL. Round 10. Sydney v Collingwood. From the SCG.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the match.

11.15 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.

11.45 My Reno Rules. (PGl, R) Hosted by Dr Chris Brown.

1.20 Quacks. (Mads)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

TUESDAY

SHAUN MICALLEF’S GOING FOR BROKE

ABC TV, 8pm

In his 2020 docuseries

On the Sauce, teetotal comedian Shaun Micallef (pictured) tapped into Australia’s drinking culture, getting hands on with booze for the first time in 30 years. In this new three-parter, Micallef applies a similar approach to another national pastime: gambling. Its appeal is not something the comic has ever understood – he’s never even played the pokies – but with his young sons and their friends bombarded by gambling ads, he decides to take a closer look. Tuesday’s premiere begins with an afternoon of sports betting, before a game of two-up on Anzac Day and discovering how poker machines are programmed to cast a spell on players. For support, call Gambler’s Help (1800 858 858).

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 11. South Sydney Rabbitohs v Dolphins.

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

10.45 MOVIE: Rambo: First Blood. (1982, Mlv, R) A Vietnam War veteran is pushed to the brink. Sylvester Stallone.

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, 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)

Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.55 BattleBots. 9.40 Gladiators UK. 10.40 Merlin. 11.20 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 3.30pm Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: King Arthur: Legend Of The Sword. (2017, M) 10.00 MOVIE: Wrath Of The Titans. (2012, M) Midnight Seinfeld. 12.30 Love Island UK: All Stars. 1.30 The Real Housewives Of Durban. 2.45 Cards And Collectables Australia.

SBS MOVIES (32)

7MATE (64)

9GO! (83) 6am Oink. Continued. (2022, PG, Dutch) 6.25 A Great Friend. (2023, PG, French) 8.15 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 10.20 A Singular Crime. (2022, M, Spanish) 12.25pm In A Land That No Longer Exists. (2022, M, German) 2.20 Vai. (2019, PG) 4.00 Grandpas. (2019, PG, Spanish) 5.50 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 7.35 Groundhog Day. (1993, PG) 9.30 The Full Monty. (1997, M) 11.15 Late Programs.

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) A couple’s house is too small. 8.40 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can

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This is your invitation to connect with like minded people at a free barbeque behind Laurieton United Services Club each Wednesday, commencing at 3.00pm. Enquires and Bus Pick Up telephone Alan on 0412 840 644

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

Please help us to help those in need with cash donations, non perishables & new pillows. All can be dropped off to Kew Corner Store.

Tax deductible donations can be made to: Regional Australia Bank

Account Name: Camden Haven Community @ 3 Inc BSB: 932000 Account No 500187503

SATURDAY, May 16

6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 10.30 Rage Vault Guest Programmer. (PG) 12.00 News. 12.30 Death In Paradise. (Ma, R) 1.30 Patience. (Final, Mv, R) 2.20 David Attenborough’s Galapagos. (Final, R) 3.10 David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef. (Final, R) 4.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 Aust Story. (R) 5.30 Landline. (R)

6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R) Sharon takes a shine to Kel’s best friend.

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Hosted by Tom Gleeson.

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

7.30 Death In Paradise. (PG) The team investigates the death of a business owner.

8.30 Silent Witness. (MA15+) Nikki conducts an unusual post-mortem. DNA evidence forces the team to seek advice from an unexpected quarter.

10.15 Bergerac. (Mv, R) Bergerac and Barney’s relationship reaches breaking point.

11.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Eurovision Song Contest. Hosted by Courtney Act and Danny Estrin.

10.00 The Wonders Of Europe: Schonbrunn Palace. (PG, R) Looks at  Vienna’s Schonbrunn Palace.

11.00 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v, R) Layton and Wilford vie for the upper hand.

1.40 The Kingdom. (Ma, R) Marc Fennell investigates Hillsong.

3.00 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R) 4.10 Bamay: Murrumbidgee River – Ngunnawal, Wiradjuri And Ngarigo Country. (R)

5.00 Eurovision Song Contest.

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

8.00 Ooops! I Bought A Pub. Shane Jacobson buys a rundown country pub sight unseen and attempts to bring it back to life.

8.30 MOVIE: The Day After Tomorrow. (2004, Ma, R) A climatologist tries to save his family after the planet is plunged into a sudden ice age. Dennis Quaid, Jake Gyllenhaal, Emmy Rossum.

11.00 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Madlv, R)

12.00 Devils. (MA15+av)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 11. Parramatta Eels v Melbourne Storm. 9.40 NRL Saturday Night Footy Post-Match.

10.00 MOVIE: City Of Lies. (2018, MA15+lv, R)

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

1.00 Tasman Trails. (R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Global Shop. (R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

6.30 The Dog House. (PGa, R) A bulldog has lost its spark. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A couple must decide whether to move or not.

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

9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mms, R) Paramedics respond to a child’s call about a five-year-old stuck in mud, but all is not as it seems.

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6.10am

Grandpas. (2019, PG, Spanish) 8.00 Vai. (2019, PG) 9.40 Oink. (2022, PG, Dutch) 11.05 Delfin. (2019, PG, Spanish) 12.50pm Cat Call. (2023, M, Hungarian) 2.30 A Great Friend. (2023, PG, French) 4.20 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 6.20 The Way Ahead. (1944, PG) 8.30 Crossing Over. (2009, MA15+) 10.35 The Sex Of The Angels. (2012, MA15+, Spanish) 12.35am Late Programs.

SUNDAY, May 17

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.30 The Assembly. (PGa, R) 3.15 Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure. (PGa, R) 4.10 Grand Designs. (Final, R)

6.30 Compass. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Assembly: Dave Hughes. (PGa)

8.15 Bad Company. (PGn) Margie decides to become social media famous.

8.40 Bergerac. (Mal) Bergerac’s pursuit of Monica has severe consequences.

9.30 Death In Paradise. (PG, R) The team investigates the death of a business owner.

10.30 Silent Witness. (MA15+, R)

12.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

4.00 Dream Gardens. (R)

4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Eurovision Song Contest. (PG) Hosted by Courtney Act and Danny Estrin.

12.00 MOVIE: Hallelujah: Leonard Cohen, A Journey, A Song. (2021, Ml, R)

2.05 Matched. (PG, R)

2.55 A Certain Mother. (PGan, R)

4.15 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGa, R)

4.50 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 Euronews.

5.30 PBS News Horizons.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club. (PGls) 8.00 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.00 Child Snatchers: A Day At The Fair. (MA15+a) Looks at the disappearance of seven-year-old Mark Tildesley.

10.50 24 Hours In Police Custody. (Malv, R)

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

1.15 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

Sunrise Early News.

Sunrise.

Helping Hands. (PG, R) 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 The Floor. (PG) 8.15 60 Minutes. Current

MOVIES (32)

6am The Orator. Continued. (2011, PG, Samoan) 7.10 Howl’s Moving Castle. (2004, PG) 9.20 Vai. (2019, PG) 11.00 Oskars Kleid. (2022, M, German) 12.55pm Close. (2022, M, Dutch) 2.50 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 4.30 Delfin. (2019, PG, Spanish) 6.10 Sabrina. (1995, PG) 8.30 Past Lives. (2023, Korean) 10.30 The Talented Mr Ripley. (1999, M) 1am Piece Of My Heart. (2022, MA15+, Dutch) 3.00 Late Programs.

MOVIE: Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure. (1989, PG) 11.50 Gotham. 12.45am Arrow. 2.25 Soccer. English Premier League. Manchester City v Brentford. Replay. 4.25 Lego Dreamzzz. 5.10 Bubble’s

MONDAY, May 18

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 4.40pm Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Expedition With Steve Backshall. 9.35 Chopped Junior. 10.15 Kids Baking Championship. 11.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (PG)

8.40 Ancient Greece By Train. (R)

9.35 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M)

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Sambre: Anatomy Of A Crime. (Mav)

11.50 Gomorrah. (MA15+v, R)

2.45 Off The Beaten Track With Kate Humble. (PGn, R)

3.55 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R)

4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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6am My

Neighbour Totoro. Continued. (1988, PG) 6.25

Castle In The Sky. (1986, PG) 8.40 Delfin. (2019, PG, Spanish) 10.20 The Talented Mr Ripley. (1999, M) 12.55pm Hounds. (2023, M, Berber) 2.35 The Movie Show. 3.10 The Way Ahead. (1944, PG) 5.20 What’s Eating Gilbert Grape. (1993, PG) 7.30 Goodbye Julia. (2023, M, Sudanese Arabic) 9.40 Sweet As. (2022, M) 11.20 Late Programs.

TUESDAY, May 19

Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

5.00 A Bite To Eat. (PG, R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 The Slow Mo Guys’ Big Adventures. (Final) 9.05 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.30 BattleBots. 10.20 Merlin. 11.05 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG)

8.30 Insight.

9.30 Dateline.

SBS World News Late.

Living Black. (R) 11.05 The Negotiator. (Premiere, Mal) 12.00 World On Fire. (Mav, R) 3.15 Off The Beaten Track With Kate Humble. (PG, R)

4.25 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

MOVIES (32)

6am Nausicaä Of The Valley Of The Wind. Continued. (1984, PG) 7.10 Porco Rosso. (1992, PG) 8.55 Francis: Pray For Me. (2015, PG, Spanish) 10.55 UnIndian. (2015, M) 1pm Past Lives. (2023, Korean) 3.00 Hotel Salvation. (2016, PG, Hindi) 4.50 The Bridge On The River Kwai. (1957, PG) 7.45 Shadow Island. (2023, M, Norwegian) 9.30 Ama Gloria. (2023, PG, French) 11.05 Late Programs.

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

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

Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R) 1.10 The Outdoor Room With Jamie Durie. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

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

My Reno Rules. (PG) Hosted by Dr Chris Brown.

House Of Wellness. (PG) A team of industry experts, media personalities and wellness advocates shares insights and experiences to highlight living well.

Ambulance: Code Red. (Mav, R)

Harry’s Practice. (R)

Morning Programs. 3.30pm Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30

We need your help! Even if you can spare just a day or two a week, you can make a real difference. Aussie Battlers are like one big family, and we would love for you to join us! We’d love to have you on board! We are Job Agency and Centralink Approved!

WEDNESDAY, May 20

TV (2)

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.45 Dr Ann’s Secret Lives. (R) 11.15 The Assembly. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.00 Grand Designs Australia. (Final, PG, R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. H’lights. 8.00 WorldWatch. 9.55 Legacy List. (R) 11.00 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. H’lights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

Alexander Armstrong In India. (PG) 8.30 The Trial Of Michael Jackson. (M) 9.25 The Audacity. (M)

10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Rise Of The Raven. (MA15+asv) 12.05 Golden Boy. (MA15+ds, R) 1.55 Classified. (Malv, R) 3.35 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R)

4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 4.05pm Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 9.05 Adventure Time. 9.50 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 11.00 Late Programs.

THURSDAY,

TV (2)

VICELAND (31)

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Hotel

Salvation. Continued. (2016, PG, Hindi) 6.50 Ama

Gloria. (2023, PG, French) 8.25 Open The Wall. (2014, PG, German) 10.10 Discovering Film. 11.05

Goodbye Julia. (2023, M, Sudanese Arabic) 1.20pm Sweet As. (2022, M) 2.55 The Movie Show. 3.30 Gulmohar. (2023, PG, Hindi) 6.00 The 39 Steps. (1935, PG) 7.40 The Tracker. (2002, M) 9.30 Monster. (2023, M) 11.50 Late Programs.

May 21

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Gruen. (PG, R) 10.35 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 11.25 Urzila. (Mals, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Bergerac. (Mal, R) 2.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.00 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 3.55 Frankie Drake. (PG) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

Alice. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 2.45pm The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 4.05 Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Ultimate Vets. 9.05 Animal Park. 10.35 Merlin. 11.20 Late Programs.

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6.00 Morning Programs. 8.00 WorldWatch. 9.55 Piquancy Silent Heroes. (PG, R) 11.00 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.05 Scotland’s Extreme Medics. (Ma, R) 3.00 Living Black. (R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. H’lights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Rick Stein’s Australia. (PGa)

8.40 American Prince: JFK Jr. (Ml, R)

9.30 A Gentleman In Moscow. (M)

10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Under The Bridge. (Madl) 11.55 DNA. (Ma, R)

2.30 Off The Beaten Track With Kate Humble. (PG, R)

3.40 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGa, R)

4.15 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31)

Cats Does Countdown. 8.20 Travel Man. 8.50 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 12. 1.35am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Morning

Programs. 8.50 Hotel Salvation. (2016, PG, Hindi)

10.40 Shadow Island. (2023, M, Norwegian) 12.25pm Four’s A Crowd. (2022, M, Spanish) 2.15

Open The Wall. (2014, PG, German) 4.00 Ama

Gloria. (2023, PG, French) 5.30 The Man Who Knew

Infinity. (2015, PG) 7.30 The Unlikely Pilgrimage Of Harold Fry. (2023, M) 9.30 Eighth Grade. (2018, M) 11.15 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Madlv) A punishment proves too much.

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

9.30 Unfiltered. (M) Hosted by  Hamish McLachlan.

10.00 The Agenda Setters.

11.00 Ultimate Crash Test. (PGal, R)

1.00 Kochie’s Business Builders. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6am Room For Improvement. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Events That Changed Australia. (Ml)

8.30 NRL Origin Stories. (Premiere, PGl)

9.40 9News Late.

10.10 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)

11.10 A Killer Makes A Call. (MA15+av, R)

12.00 First On Scene. (Mav, R)

12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

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6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGl)

7.30 Highway Patrol. (PGl, R)

8.00 Motorway Patrol. (PGl) A car is found overloaded with bicycles.

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

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

11.30 To Be Advised.

12.30 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R)

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

Dreamzzz. 5.10 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Australia ReDiscovered. 10.30 American Resto. 11.00 Storage Wars. 11.30 American Pickers. 12.30pm Pawn Stars. 1.30 Outback Truckers.

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8.00

6am Morning Programs. 2.30pm Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Real Steel. (2011, M) 11.00 Seinfeld. Midnight The 100. 12.50 Love Island UK: All Stars. 1.50 The Real Housewives Of Durban. 2.50 MOVIE: Three Chords And The Truth. (2022, M) 4.30 I Love VIP Pets. 4.50 Lego Dreamzzz. 5.10 Bubble’s Hotel. 5.30 Beyblade Burst QuadStrike.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League.

Rugby Heaven. 12.30am Love Island UK: All Stars. 1.25 The Real Housewives Of Durban. 2.30 Jeopardy! UK. 3.30 Big Rigs Of Oz. 4.00 Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures. 4.30 I Love VIP Pets. 4.50

By Rachael THORPE

Burnie, Wynyard, Cradle Mountain, Strahan, Queenstown, Derwent Bridge, New

Hobart, Mt Wellington, Bruny Island, Port Arthur, Mona, Richmond, Ross, Freycinet, Bicheno, St Helens, Bay of Fires, Pyengana, Bridestowe Estate, Launceston COACH