By Sue STEPHENSON
This
Drone
By Rachael THORPE
Luke HADFIELD 0408 461 038 luke@newsofthearea.com.au
Kim AMBROSE 0423 226 651 kim@newsofthearea.com.au
Emily GRAHAM 0403 236 898 emily@newsofthearea.com.au
Bill HARROW 0437 776 247 bill@newsofthearea.com.au
Sue STEPHENSON sue@newsofthearea.com.au
Doug CONNOR 0431 487 679 doug@newsofthearea.com.au
Rachael THORPE 0438 876 009 rachael@newsofthearea.com.au EDITOR
Chantelle ANSELL 0431 232 820 chan@newsofthearea.com.au
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Some were sprayed by the barbecue boats as they passed by, others capsized and resorted to swimming.
Scores of people later shared how much fun they had.
“What a fabulous day for our community,” wrote Amber Cassidy.
“A real display of the Australian Spirit.”
Those who missed out have pledged to join the flotilla next year.
q The regatta is a perfect way for kids to take part in Australia Day activities. Photos: Giselle Gahan and Andrew Martin.
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exception.
Held at Laurieton United Services Club, it recorded the largest number of visitors through the doors in the history of the event.
It averaged 150 people per day, and jigsaw puzzles, children’s books and adult fiction proved especially popular.
A new and innovative aspect of the sale was an accessible and quiet hours day, held prior to the official
opening.
Designed for those with mobility challenges and people who needed a quieter environment, it generated substantial positive feedback and will become a permanent feature moving forward.
Rotarian book sale coordinator Caroline Hall told News Of The Area, “I’m extremely pleased with the outcomes we achieved, with all funds raised going to support a diverse range of Rotary projects.”
“It was especially refreshing to see the number of children coming through, and fantastic that so many people still love to read.
“We’re grateful to the community for the huge volume of great quality books that were donated.”
Planning has already started for the next sale in early July.
Book and jigsaw puzzle donations can be dropped off at Big A+ Tile Power, 27 Bayside Circuit, Laurieton, or collection can be organised by calling Rotarian Alan Anderson on 0428 488 417.
LOCAL Australia Day
celebrations provided an opportunity to shine a light on several outstanding community members recognised through Council’s Citizen of the Year Awards.
Part of the Australia Day Awards program, it recognises individuals and groups who make a meaningful and lasting contribution to the community.
Reflecting on Australia Day, Mayor Adam Roberts said the occasion remained an important moment for unity and celebration.
“It’s an opportunity to celebrate all the great things about our nation, and it’s about bringing people together,” he said.
“So whatever our background is, whatever our journey’s been, it’s where we catch up together and just celebrate how good it is being in such a fantastic nation that we have right here.”
He said resilience and
community spirit were defining characteristics of the region.
“My reflections are that we’re a community that’s very resilient.
“When the chips are down, we’re always there to offer support and I think that’s what I like to see fostered in this area: us staying together,” he said.
Among the locals who received nominations this year for Citizen of the Year Award was Karen Sparkes, founder and president of Aussie Battlers Pay It Forward Inc.
Ms Sparkes leads a registered charity supporting vulnerable and at-risk people across the Mid North Coast, including those experiencing homelessness, domestic violence and financial hardship.
Over the past year, she has expanded services in response to rising demand, introducing a mums and bubs initiative and delivering the organisation’s largest Christmas appeal to date.
She has also coordinated support during natural disasters, assisted families with essential items, and strengthened partnerships with organisations including Uniting, YP Space and the Department of Communities and Justice.
Her work has been recognised in Parliament and featured in local media, reflecting the scale and impact of her tireless commitment to ensuring no one goes without.
Also nominated was Robert Scott for his longstanding contribution to community wellbeing and social connection.
Mr Scott has led the Camden Haven Walking Group since 2013, formalising the program with a comprehensive bank of 82 walks spanning locations from Forster to South West Rocks.
Each year, he coordinates around 40 graded walks to suit varying fitness levels, promotes participation through community networks, and liaises with NSW Forests to ensure track safety.
Beyond walking, Mr Scott is an active member of the Laurieton Men’s Shed, where he has helped build a pizza oven and supports events for nursing homes and retirement villages.
Together, these nominees exemplify the spirit of service and community pride celebrated through the Australia Day Awards.
By Rachael THORPE
BETTER By Bicycle Port Macquarie is a Bicycle User Group that promotes social riding and advocates for more cycle-friendly facilities in the Port Macquarie-Hastings area.
An incorporated association since March 2025, the group has 70 members, with an average age range of 40 to 70 years, who ride together every Tuesday and once a month on a Sunday.
The inclusive group is open to beginners and experienced riders alike.
Its current advocacy campaign is focused on an extension of the Googik Heritage Track.
First considered in 2012, the proposal is now back on the drawing board, with NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service seeking public feedback on extending the track as part of a draft plan for the Lake Innes area.
Group spokesperson and treasurer Felicity Forth told News Of The Area, “we
currently have a limited number of areas locally where we can ride safely, so this would be a game changer for the community.”
“A round trip on the track would be approximately 36km through some beautiful scenery which would make it a drawcard for cycling enthusiasts to visit our region, as well as increased opportunities for residents to explore the surroundings.
“We believe it would be great value for money.”
The Googik Heritage Track starts at Lake Innes Nature Reserve, and the proposed extension would see it finish in Lake Cathie, with connections from the trail to Bells Firetrail at Christmas Bell Plains and the Perch Hole picnic area.
More information can be found at www. environment.nsw.gov.au under Lake Innes Nature Reserve, Innes Ruins Historic Site and Lake Innes State Conservation Area draft plan of management.
Submissions are open until 18 February.
By Rachael THORPE
Haven charity Aussie Battlers marked four years in its current premises at the Laurieton industrial estate this month.
From its beginnings in a small suburban garage, the organisation has grown to become a significant source of assistance for the region.
For Christmas 2025, with the assistance of generous donations and willing volunteers, Aussie Battlers produced 195 hampers for residents doing it tough.
The organisation’s secretary, Sandra Pepper, told News Of The Area, “there has been a noticeable shift in the demographics, with a shortage of affordable housing and cost of living challenges we are seeing more adult children still living at home which can put a strain on family budgets.”
“We have more than 200 clients on our books and receive on average two new referrals every week with a growing number of homeless people.”
With storage space always at a premium, the charity has welcomed the addition of a new cool room, which arrived late last year and has enabled it to store drinks and fresh food, greatly increasing its capacity.
This was made possible through donations from Laurieton United Services Club, Wauchope RSL and North Haven Bowling Club, totalling $18,000.
Aussie Battlers experiences strong demand for assistance with furniture deliveries and setting up homes, and its fundraising goal for this year is to purchase a vehicle to facilitate deliveries when required.
To kickstart this effort, the first major fundraiser for 2026 will be a silent auction and fashion parade, with planning already underway.
The community is welcome to visit Aussie Battlers, which has a large amount of information available to assist those in need.
Locals are encouraged to drop in to volunteer for a few hours or simply enjoy a coffee and a chat.
By Sis HIGGINS
AUSTRALIAN Air Force Cadets 333 Squadron in Port Macquarie marks 35 years of operation in the Hastings region.
The squadron forms part of the Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC), a youth organisation supported by the Royal Australian Air Force.
Since its establishment, 333 Squadron has supported the development of hundreds of local young people on the mid north coast.
The squadron operates to provide young people with opportunities to learn about aviation, leadership, STEM subjects, fieldcraft and service.
Cadets also take part in community service activities, which help them build
responsibility and an understanding of service.
Commanding Officer Chris Gibbs said the role has long-term impact on young people.
“I’ve been an adult instructor since 2009 and Commanding Officer since 2014.
“The most rewarding aspect of the service is seeing a wide range of local kids transform from shy kids into confident, self assured young adults, and knowing that my staff and I actively helped with those developmental transformations,” he told News Of The Area.
In December 2025, the squadron held its end-of-year parade and cadets were recognised for their service and commitment to maintaining the Air Force Cadets’ presence in the local area.
Leading Cadet Liam Higgins, 14, is entering his third year and says the program has expanded his understanding of aviation well beyond his expectations.
Liam said cadets study a wide range of aircraft used around the world, including how and why they are designed for specific roles.
“We learn about different aircraft and their technical intricacies, which has given me a much deeper understanding of aviation.
“I already had a strong interest in aviation, which is why I joined the cadets, but the training has piqued my interest even further.
“I’m hoping to attend Australian Defence Force Academy after finishing school and work towards becoming an Air Force pilot.”
Patrick Dale, 14, a Leading Cadet and founder of Sweet Tooth Marshmallows said, “The AAFC is a great way for young people to learn more about aviation, and the defence force.”
“From my personal experiences I found that it has forwarded my interests in aviation and it has helped me towards my goal of becoming a pilot as my future career.”
For Leading Cadet Blake Mitchell, 14, the experience is an addition to his other skillsets.
“The skill I gain at cadets compliments my
karate training.”
“Discipline, respect and ceremonial training is practiced in both and these skillsets will help me to excel not just in my chosen activities but also in life and future career,” he said.
The cadets, all school friends, said they enjoy the practical side of the program, like the bivouacs, where they camp in the bush, build new friends, strengthen old ones and learn survival skills.
As it marks its 35-year milestone, 333 Squadron is seeking additional adult volunteers to support its operations.
The unit is particularly encouraging parents of current, former and future cadets to consider volunteering.
Adult volunteers support training, administration and activities, while mentoring cadets.
Volunteers also access training in leadership, instruction and first aid, develop transferable workplace skills, and gain exposure to aviation and Air Force traditions.
333 Squadron continues to operate in Port Macquarie with a focus on youth development and community service while inviting new adult volunteers to join the unit and support the next generation of cadets.
Enquiries can be sent to AAFC 333 Squadron Commanding Officer Chris Gibbs cgibbsaafc@gmail.com
REGIONAL Australia Bank, which has branches in Port Macquarie and Laurieton, has announced its intention to merge with SWSbank.
The banks have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the proposal subject to due diligence and regulatory approvals.
”Both organisations share the same purpose: to support regional Australians, keep branches open, and invest in a sustainable future,” Regional Australia Bank CEO David Heine said.
“By joining forces, we can deliver even greater value for our members, our people, and the communities we proudly serve."
If the merger proceeds, the combined organisation would manage approximately $5.5 billion in assets; serve over 140,000 members; maintain and grow local branches and face-to-face services; and continue investing in digital banking, security, and innovation.
The merger also complements Regional Australia Bank’s ongoing expansion, including its merger process with Summerland Bank, further strengthening its presence and impact across regional Australia with over 50 branches staffed by locals..
The merged entity would initially operate under both brands, with future branding decisions made in consultation with members.
IGA has announced its supermarket and liquor outlet in Port Central will close in mid-February.
In a statement to customers, Ritchies Stores CEO Fred Harrison, said “we have made the tough decision not to renew the lease, leading to closure of the store.
“This is obviously disappointing for the company and especially the Port Central store team.
“We are now working to provide opportunities for the team to work in some of our other stores.”
The company will be in touch with impacted members of its Ritchies Christmas Club.
If anyone has further questions, they are invited to email info@ritchies.com.au.
Mr Harrison said the company did not know what will happen to the space after it exits.
By Sue STEPHENSON
A FUNDRAISER has been launched to repatriate the bodies of the two men who drowned in the Never Never River near Bellingen on Sunday.
Launched on GoFundMe by Sunita Kalkal of Melton West in Victoria, the stated aim is to cover the cost of repatriation to India and funeral expenses, and to support family members - including their elderly parents.
Close to $100,000 of the $200,000 target has been raised.
The appeal reads: “With heavy hearts, we are raising funds after the tragic loss of Sachin and Sahil.”
“They were being responsible and cautious, stepping only into shallow water.
“In an unforeseeable moment, a strong current surged and swept them away.
“What should have been an innocent moment turned into an unthinkable tragedy.”
Emergency services were called to John Locke Place at Gleniffer, north of Bellingen, about 6:45pm on Sunday following reports of people struggling in the water.
Police were told three men, all believed to be aged in their 30's, began to struggle soon after entering the river.
Two were pulled from the water but could not be revived.
The third man was taken to Coffs Harbour Health Campus in a stable condition while a pregnant woman, who was with the visiting group, was treated for shock.
The Mid North Coast’s third drowning over the long weekend occurred the following day, Australia Day, at South West Rocks.
Around 11am, members of the public pulled a man in his 80s from the surf at
Trial Bay Beach.
Officers from the Mid North Coast Police District say they arrived to find the man unresponsive.
An investigation has commenced into the incident.
By Sis HIGGINS MOTORCYCLE
riders of all experience levels are invited to attend a free Survive the Ride safety workshop in Wauchope on Friday, 27 February 2026.
The workshop is aimed at helping riders build safer habits and reduce crash risk on NSW roads.
NSW motorcycle crash data from The Bureau of Transport and Infrastructure, shows a clear and sustained improvement in safety outcomes.
NSW motorcycle fatalities per 10,000 registered motorcycles have steadily declined over the past decade, falling from 3.6 in 2013 to 1.8 in 2023.
While there were minor fluctuations during the period, including a
rise to 2.7 in 2019, the overall trend shows a near 50 per cent reduction in the fatality rate over 10 years.
Survive The Ride Association of NSW Dave Tynan said rider skills remain a critical factor in continuing the positive trend.
“Riders rely on two fundamental types of skills for both enjoyment and avoiding a crash,” Mr Tynan said.
“First, decision making skills to choose the right line and position in the lane for a nice curve or managing traffic and avoid any potential trouble, and second, machine operation skills to be smooth, get around obstacles and get them out of trouble if they happen to make a mistake.”
Mr Tynan said both skill types need regular
refreshing.
“Both types of skills need to be developed and refreshed on a regular basis so we continue to get more enjoyment from each ride,” he said.
“Machine operation skills training helps riders to make the bike do what they want it to do, especially in an emergency.
“Our type of course is an opportunity to think about how little decisions on the road can lead to both
enjoyment and surprises. ”
Road safety researchers attribute the downward trend to a combination of improved rider skills and advances in motorcycle technology, including better tyre performance, braking systems, electronic stability control and overall engineering.
Despite these gains, motorcycles remain one of the most vulnerable road user groups, with riders still overrepresented in serious
injury crashes compared to other vehicles.
The interactive, discussion-based session will run from 6pm to 8:30pm at the Wauchope Community Arts Hall, with a focus on practical strategies riders can apply.
Attendance is free, but registrations are essential and can be made with David Tynan david@ survivetheride.org or text 0438163926.
NEW research, real-time tracking and expanded drone surveillance lead a $4.2 million NSW Government initiative to keep people safer in the water this summer.
The investment follows an unprecedented number of attacks in recent weeks and the need for better education and community messaging on shark behaviour - particularly before and after weather events.
Surf Life Saving NSW (SLS NSW) shark surveillance has been significantly expanded with 30 beaches added to the 50 currently monitored during school holidays.
Nineteen of the new sites are in Sydney and 11 are in regional NSW.
They include Crowdy Head, where a woman was killed and a man was seriously injured in late November.
In the Port Stephens Local Government Area (LGA), drones currently operate at Fingal Bay and Birubi surf life saving clubs.
While, in addition to Crowdy Head, drones in the MidCoast Council LGA are at Cape Hawke, Tea GardensHawks Nest, Forster and Black Head.
Drones will also increase
operations to seven days a week through to the end of the April school holidays.
Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steve Pearce said the new package represents a 90 percent increase on the current shark surveillance drone program, which means an additional 35,000 flying hours from 24 January to 26 April.
"We know our SLS drones are an effective eye in the sky when it comes to early shark detection and warning beach users,” he said.
"So far in 2025/26, 50
Surf Life Saving NSW drones from Tweed to Bega have completed 29,431 flights over 8044 flying hours.
“During that time 461 sharks were sighted.
"Our lifeguards and lifesavers enacted 170 countermeasures including beach evacuations, beach siren, drone siren, and rescue vessels."
The additional funding follows heightened community concern and recognises the importance of clear, evidence-based safety messaging for swimmers and surfers.
In announcing the new measures, Minister for Agriculture, Regional and Western NSW Tara Moriarty, acknowledged that there is no single solution to preventing shark attacks.
“No government can ever promise to make the water completely safe, which is why we’re using a range of tools to keep people informed and as safe as possible,” she said.
As part of the package, the NSW Government will strengthen community awareness, with an expanded SharkSmart
education campaign, an additional mobile education van, new and updated signage, and increased social media alerts and community warnings during periods of elevated risk.
Shark listening stations will be installed in Sydney Harbour, allowing faster detection of tagged sharks, while focused research on bull sharks in the harbour and other estuaries will be carried out, including tagging and monitoring led by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s
By Rachael THORPE
IN 1976, musician and music lover Bernd Fichtner emigrated to Sydney and attended his first Australian concert, Jo Jo Zep & The Falcons, headed by Joe Camilleri.
A proud member of the Laurieton Ukulele Group, and with many years of experience singing in pub bands as well as playing keyboard and guitar, Bernd is passionate about supporting live music.
Fifty years after that first experience, Bernd watched Joe perform for the 15th time, with the Joe Camilleri and the Black Sorrows gig taking place at Laurieton United Services Club.
Bernd told News Of The Area, “this was a fantastic show.
“The room was packed out, and everyone was up on their feet singing and dancing.
“My wife and I are huge fans, and we had an amazing night.
“It's great to see so many people getting out and enjoying the live music scene.”
The Black Sorrows have sold more than one-million albums worldwide and have been touring since 1984, with this tour celebrating their 55th album release, “The Way We Do Business”.
Joe was joined on stage by the Black Sorrows’, Claude Carranza, guitar and vocals, Mark Gray, bass and vocals, James Black, keyboards and vocals, and Tony Floyd, drums.
They were accompanied by Bryce Wearne, known as Goat Boy, from the Queensland-based mountain music band the Hillbilly Goats, who played harmonica.
The tour concludes in Triabunna on Sunday, 26 April 2026.
(DPIRD) shark scientists. These measures sit alongside the 2025/26 Shark Management Program already operating across NSW, which includes 305 SMART (Shark Management Alert in Real Time) drumlines in 19 local government areas for year-round coverage, and tracking the movements of tagged sharks via 37 tagged shark listening stations, with at least one station in every coastal local government area for yearround coverage.
In December, the Government announced an additional $2.5 million enhancement to its 2025/26 program, with drones starting a week earlier than normal in summer; weekend flights from February to April; an expedited rollout of additional drones and training for Surfing NSW; and, triple the funding for the rollout of community shark bite kits in regional coastal areas.
All drone locations across NSW can be found on the SharkSmart website at sharksmart.nsw.gov.au/.
By Rachael THORPE
CAMDEN Haven Chamber of Commerce will host its first networking event of the year, Business Without Barriers workshop, at Laurieton United Services Club on Thursday, February 12, from 6pm to 8pm.
The free workshop is being delivered to support Chamber President Luke Hadfield’s commitment to ensuring everyone feels welcome and supported in the community.
Facilitated by local accessibility and disability advocates, the workshop aims to assist local businesses in understanding accessibility requirements.
The workshop will provide guidance on how best to create environments that are inclusive of everyone.
Luke told News Of The Area, “This initiative is a positive step forward for the Camden Haven.”
“It shows that our business community is thinking ahead and taking
responsibility for creating a place that truly works for everyone.
“When we invest in accessibility, we’re investing in our future.
“It strengthens our community, supports local businesses, and reinforces Camden Haven as a welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike.”
The innovative event will focus on challenges affecting people with a disability, the elderly, and families with prams as they move around the local area.
It will also offer practical solutions such as inexpensive portable ramps to improve access to businesses.
Attendees will have the opportunity to try out mobility equipment, speak with people who have lived experience, and receive resources to help them navigate the creation of inclusive environments.
Following the workshop, businesses in the Camden Haven area will have the opportunity to sign up for a free accessibility audit
of their premises, carried out by an advocate and a Chamber representative.
Businesses that fulfil the
core criteria receive a tick of approval from the Chamber of Commerce and promotion on its website.
The workshop is open for anyone to attend, but registration is required.
Register at www.
trybooking.com/events/ landing/1523652 or email hello@visitcamdenhaven. com.au.
By Zac DE SILVA/AAP
AS A little girl, Katherine Bennell-Pegg would lie on the dry grass in her backyard, gazing up at the stars and dreaming about reaching them one day.
While she's yet to float in space, the now-41-year-old is
closer than most others could ever hope for.
The first Australian astronaut to train under their own flag, Ms Bennell-Pegg has been awarded one of the nation's highest honoursAustralian of the Year.
The trailblazing space scientist said she was
inspired by Paul ScullyPower and Andy Thomas - astronauts who grew up in Australia but travelled to space as American citizens in the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s.
"When I received my blue flight suit, and right there, bright on the left shoulder was the Australian flag, it was
quite emotional, because it marked something so much greater than myself," she said during her acceptance speech at a ceremony in Canberra.
"It said that the door has opened for Australia to take our place at the forefront of human endeavour."
Ms Bennell-Pegg said she hoped to use the award to inspire young people to chase their dreams.
"It gave me hope - hope that one day more Aussie
flags on spacesuits will follow," she said.
Born in Sydney, Ms Bennell-Pegg grew up on the city's northern beaches and studied aeronautical engineering and physics at Sydney University.
She then studied two masters degrees in Europe and in 2021 was invited to undertake astronaut training with the European Space Agency.
In 2024, she became the first Australian woman to graduate from the program, and the first astronaut to fly under the Australian flag.
While she waits to be called up for space flight, the 41-year-old now calls Adelaide her home, where she volunteers with the West Beach Surf Life Saving club.
In December 2024, she was also appointed as an Air Force reservist.
Ms Bennell-Pegg takes over as Australian of the Year from AFL legend Neale Daniher, who received the honour in 2025, for his work raising well over $100 million for research into motor neurone disease.
Daniher, who suffers from MND himself, didn't attend the awards ceremony at Canberra's National Arboretum because he was too unwell to fly, his wife Jan said.
"We call MND the beast. He's struggled in the last couple of months," she told awards night host Leigh Sales.
"MND has taken away
Neale's ability to move, talk, eat swallow and eventually it will take away his ability to breathe," Ms Daniher said.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the creation of the Neale Daniher MND Clinical Network, a government-funded program to help tackle the neurological condition.
The program will help more Australians access clinical trials, treatment and care, Mr Albanese announced.
"Neale, your courage and advocacy has brought hope to so many, and we will ensure your work continues to change lives," he said.
Awards for Senior Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year and Local Hero were also handed out on Sunday night.
Former electricianturned-ultra-marathonrunner Nedd Brockmann took out the Young Australian category, recognised for running from Perth to Sydney to raise money for a homelessness charity.
Pioneering dementia researcher Henry Brodaty won Senior Australian of the Year for his work identifying cost-effective, targeted interventions to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
The local hero award was given to Frank Mitchell, a Noongar man from Western Australia who has created more than 70 upskilling roles for Indigenous people in the construction and electrical industries.
THE State Government has launched a “Name and Shame” list of real estate agents, property managers and strata managing agents who have faced enforcement action.
Available through the NSW Fair Trading website, it allows homeowners, buyers and renters to check if an agent has been fined, suspended or had their licence cancelled.
It also includes public warnings to protect consumers from highrisk traders, enforceable undertakings and prosecution outcomes.
Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said
the list will lift standards across the sector.
“Publishing serious breaches and repeated noncompliance sends a clear message that accountability matters,” he said.
Key information such as a trader’s name, ABN or ACN, licence number, and suburb are listed, as well as a clear description of the type of action and why it was taken.
Processes are in place to ensure appropriate levels of privacy, according to Strata and Property Services Commissioner Angus Abadee.
“The list has been built with clear publication guidelines and timeframes and processes to correct errors and manage privacy
where appropriate,” he said.
“It’s about transparency that’s fair to consumers and businesses.”
Last financial year, NSW Fair Trading undertook
nearly 500 investigations and more than 300 inspections in the property and rental sector. It issued over 300 penalty notices worth
q Fair Trading Minister Anoulack Chanthivong launched the ‘Name and Shame’ list on 25 January.
minister’s website.
more than $430,000, and carried out significant licensing actions including cancellations, suspensions and disqualifications.
Backed by an $8.4 million investment, the newly established Strata and Property Services Taskforce has also placed additional inspectors in the field.
Together, they have completed more than 186 Anytime, Anywhere inspections with a focus on maintaining compliance standards across the property sector.
This tool follows the Government’s proposed slate of reforms to the state’s underquoting laws.
By Kat WONG/AAP
THE Wolfe Brothers have swept Australia's peak country music awards, winning five Golden Guitars including the top gong for album of the year.
Australia's most decorated country duo were about to chase their American dream when they realised they couldn't call the US home.
The Wolfe Brothers' album Australian Made is a homage to the sunburnt country and the stories of its people, and on Saturday night, it helped the duo sweep the 2026 Country Music Awards of Australia.
Nick and Tom Wolfe won five of the eight Golden Guitar awards they were nominated for including the top gong for album of the year, contemporary album of the year, duo of the year, vocal collaboration of the year, and heritage song of the year at the ceremony in Tamworth.
Asked about almost moving to America, the brothers said they had made the right choice.
"This is our home, this is where our family is, this is the country we care about," Tom told reporters after their win.
"Australian country music is from hereit's from the heart, it's songs about farmers, battlers, real people and us.
"Right now there is this wonderful international country music boom ... the best thing for us is to do our modern type of
By Leanne JOHNSON
“BLOKES Notes” have been raising eyebrows in the Port Macquarie region and beyond since 2009.
Their humour and harmony have entertained and supported charity events and surprised audiences with pop-up flash singing in unusual places.
As a not-for-profit organisation, their performances support the local women’s refuge, Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Services.
Across the nation, more men are discovering that singing in a choir is a powerful way to “man up”.
It builds confidence, discipline and connection, proving that strength comes from teamwork.
Following this week’s Bring a Bloke
country and sing about this place: Australia."
The results bring the duo's career Golden Guitar haul to 15.
Country music veteran Kasey Chambers, who had received the most nominations in 2026, won three of the 13 categories she was up for.
The Divorce Song - a collaboration with exhusband Shane Nicholson - earned Chambers the Golden Guitar for single of the year and song of the year, while her album was awarded alt-country album of the year.
Male artist of the year and new talent of the year went to Wade Forster while Max Jackson took home female artist of the year for the second year in a row.
Two-time ARIA winner Fanny Lumsden and her husband Dan Stanley Freeman won video of the year for Look At Me Now, which encapsulates the past decade and a half of her career through snippets of the life the couple share.
"This particular clip is quite different in that it's not the world of the song, it's the world of our lives," Freeman said.
FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
* Max Jackson
MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
* Wade Forster
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
* Australian Made - The Wolfe Brothers SONG OF THE YEAR
* The Divorce Song - Kasey Chambers
Subject to consultation, the legislative changes will significantly increase penalties for misleading price estimates to $110,000 or three times the agent’s commission (whichever is greater), mandate a price or price guide on all advertising, and require agents to publish a Statement of Information to help prospective buyers understand how the selling price was calculated. For more information and to view the Name and Shame List, visit the NSW Fair Trading website: nsw.gov.au/ departments-and-agencies/ fair-trading/how-weregulate/name-and-shameregister
featuring Shane Nicholson SINGLE OF THE YEAR
* The Divorce Song - Kasey Chambers featuring Shane Nicholson VIDEO OF THE YEAR
* Look At Me Now - Fanny Lumsden ALT COUNTRY ALBUM OF THE YEAR
* Backbone - Kasey Chambers
TRADITIONAL COUNTRY ALBUM OF THE YEAR
* Start All Over Again - Brendan Radford HERITAGE SONG OF THE YEAR
* Australian Made - The Wolfe Brothers VOCAL COLLABORATION OF THE YEAR
* How Many One More Times - The Wolfe Brothers with Zac & George AAP travelled with the assistance of Tamworth Country Music Festival.
Night, men of all ages are invited to experience the power of singing together in a supportive, no-pressure environment.
Turn up on Thursdays at the Mac Adams Centre next to the Port Macquarie outdoor pool, or for more information email realmensinging@gmail.com.
For women, KWYRE is a welcoming and vibrant community a cappella group offering
connection, confidence and the joy of shared music.
Led by the same choir director as Blokes Notes, Leanne Johnson, rehearsals are known for being both uplifting and fun.
“Singing ticks all the boxes for good health,” Leanne said.
“It’s active, social, creative, expressive and activates all parts of our brains at once.
“While many people believe they can’t sing, they’re often surprised by the beauty created in group singing.”
KWYRE meets Tuesday nights from 6.30pm–8pm at Port Uniting, Sherwood Road.
No experience needed. For more information, email kwyre.choir@gmail.com.
Hastings Little Wishes provides these families with gifts of hope, happiness and financial relief.
Its mission is to create a community where every child, no matter their journey, experiences joy, connection, and hope.
Over the last five years, Hastings Little Wishes has gifted many different wishes to lots of local families.
These have included: holidays to Seaworld, themed birthday parties, help with purchasing Christmas presents, hot laps in a supercar, help with household and medical bills, car seats and medical devices, and much more.
It can only do this because of the incredible generosity of locals and businesses in the Port Macquarie-Hastings region who have donated money, organised events to raise funds and contributed towards some very special wishes for some very special children.
If you want to find out more about the charity, make a donation, or if you would like to nominate a family for a wish, please visit hastingslittlewishes.com.au, send an email to hastingslittlewishes@outlook. com and follow on Facebook.
Families will often put their own needs aside during these times and that’s where Hastings Little Wishes steps in.
Hastings Little Wishes was established in 2021 by Irene Mifsud who wanted to start a local children's charity.
The charity supports families in the Port Macquarie-Hastings region including Port Macquarie, Wauchope, Lake Cathie, Laurieton and surrounds.
Funds are directed to families with children and teens up to 17-years of age who have a serious illness, rare disease, chronic and complex conditions that impact families for a prolonged period of time.
CAMDEN Haven and WauchopeBonny Hills Surf Life Saving clubs have contributed to the Mid North Coast’s strong showing at the weekend’s Country Championships in South West Rocks.
They were among 33 clubs competing in the pinnacle event, from communities spanning the Gold Coast to the Far South Coast.
Cudgen Headland SLSC claimed the championships, ending Warilla Barrack Point’s three-year run.
"Nice to get this one back," its president Adam Mills said.
"Our seniors were winning everything, it was really satisfying as a club to come here and take it home again."
The difference between first and second was a
commanding 300 points, with Port Macquarie SLSC beating out Yamba SLSC for third.
Finishing in the Top 10 were Woolgoolga (6th), Coffs Harbour (8th) and Sawtell (9th) with Wauchope-Bonny Hills (18th) and Camden Haven (30th).
Sawtell also won both the Junior and Open March Past.
For all results, visit liveheats.com/ events/436231.
Special offer - register and join before 28th Feb to receive a FREE Uniform and 2 weeks FREE training
Mid North Coast Karate is a Family Friendly Matial Arts Studio which has been shaping students in the Camden Haven for over 30 years.
By Manny WOOD
TRACEY died unexpectedly at 56, leaving no will.
Her estate was substantial and was largely made up of investment properties she had acquired over many years. She had no children and her next of kin were her brother, Kieran, and her two sisters.
Soon after Tracey’s death, Tina, a 48-year-old woman, asserted that she and Tracey had been in a long-term de facto relationship that continued right up until Tracey died.
She described Tracey as “my partner in every sense” and told the family it was obvious she should administer the estate and inherit it under the intestacy rules.
However, Kieran says the relationship ended shortly before Tracey’s death, after a serious argument between them. He recalled Tracey telling him she needed “space” and was uncertain about the future of the relationship.
Despite this, Tina moved into one of Tracey’s properties within days of her death.
She paid no rent, allowed a friend to stay with her, and began collecting rent from other properties.
When Kieran raised concerns, Tina said she was being treated “like a stranger instead of family” and expecting her to move out would be “callous”.
As months passed, communication between Tina and the family deteriorated sharply, with each accusing the other of disrespect and delay.
Tina commenced proceedings seeking a declaration that she was Tracey’s de facto partner at the time of death and alternatively sought provision from the estate, arguing she had been financially dependent on Tracey and had organised her life around the relationship.
The Court accepted that the relationship was genuine and significant.
However, text messages and witness evidence revealed periods of separation, strained communication and discussions about ending the relationship.
The Court found that the relationship had broken down before Tracey died, meaning Tina was not a spouse for intestacy purposes.
The Court did, however, find that Tina had been partly dependent on Tracey and had been a member of her household at various times.
An independent administrator was appointed, and Tina received only modest provision from the estate.
Thank you to Ellysha Laklem, for her assistance with this column.
Email Manny Wood, Principal Solicitor and Accredited Specialist in Wills and Estates at TB Law at manny@tblaw.net.au or call on (02) 66 487 487.
This fictional column is not legal advice.
CONGRATULATIONS to the 680 Australians recognised in the Order of Australia in the 2026 Australia Day Honours list, which we the Council of the Order of Australia, recommended to the Governor-General.
This represents the highest number since Australia Day 2024.
The recipients come from all parts of the country and their service, achievements and impact are remarkable.
All are deserving of recognition through our nation’s honours system for their service to the Australian community.
It is particularly pleasing to note the significant number of people being recognised with the highest meritorious award in the system, the Companion of the Order of Australia – and on this occasion an equal representation between women and men.
However, the gender balance of this year’s honours list more broadly is both a cause for concern and, the Council hopes, a prompt for community action.
Honours in the Order of Australia are a result of nominations – anyone can nominate a worthy Australian for recognition.
In previous years the Council has considered an even gender balance of nominations, however, over time, this has led
to a significantly larger pool of nominations for men left to be considered.
Many more nominations are still being received for men than women and the Council must consider the nominations for Australians that are in the system.
There is no doubt there are as many outstanding women contributing to our communities as there are men – the fact an equal number of women and men have been appointed Companions of the Order in this list underlines that.
The Council would like to see this balance reflected across all nominations and, therefore, outcomes at all levels of award.
We need Australians nominating outstanding women for recognition.
Nominating is simple – the form is online and help is available.
Nominators need to provide information about the person they are nominating and three referees who can attest to the person’s service and impact.
We encourage all Australians to look around their community, their workplaces, and the whole of our society, identify the women, as well as the men, who make a difference and whose impact is profound and nominate them so they can be celebrated through the Order of Australia.
On behalf of the Council of the Order of Australia
By Rachael THORPE
CLUB North Haven brought community, competition and charity together on 20 January by hosting a presentation evening for its Community Charity Challenge.
Teams of three competed over five weeks to raise the most money for their chosen cause.
Only one affiliated bowler was permitted per team, and the competitive spirit was intense.
Club Bowls Coordinator Glen Dickson told News Of The Area, “this event was designed to give locals a chance to come together over a bit of healthy competition, enjoy some networking, and most importantly give back to our community through charity.
“Judging by the laughs, the friendly
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
Dear Jasminda,
I was driving up a long and winding road in my ute on the weekend when I passed a cyclist. She seemed to be doing it very tough and wasn't making much progress. Should I have offered her [and her bike] a lift to the next town? I'm now regretting that I didn't stop to assist.
Gerard P.
Dear
Gerard,
One person's torture is another's personal challenge.
Although the cyclist you passed may have been in physical agony (her calf muscles screaming with each pedal push), when she finally reached the crest of the hill, she no doubt felt the elation of achievement, which would have sustained her through the remainder of her ride.
Unless she was sitting on the side of the road with a flat tyre, I think you were right to continue driving (even then, she probably had a repair kit).
Cyclists battle so many obstacles when they ride on roads -- cars that drive past too fast or too close, roadwork, potholes, inclement weather, and passengers getting out of their vehicles without looking -- that they are pretty seasoned (or soon learn to be).
She may have just been riding slowly to conserve her remaining energy.
Still, it was kind of you to be thoughtful enough to reflect on whether you should or shouldn't have stopped.
I'm sure she had a mobile phone in her backpack ready to ring a friend or family member if the going got too tough (unless she was a lone tourist, and then your offer may have been more alarming than the steep incline she was trying to navigate).
If you are thinking of stopping for an exhausted cyclist in the future, perhaps just ask if there is anyone you can call for them or check if they have enough water and provisions to sustain them until their next rest stop.
A simple 'are you okay?' if it is safe to do so would no doubt be greatly appreciated.
Carpe diem Jasminda.
rivalries, and the occasional running race I’d say we nailed it.”
The club generously contributed $500 to the competition, with a total of $1400 donated to local charities.
Maher Legal placed sixth, with $100 going to Community at 3.
Fifth place went to Club Haven Trio, with $100 donated to Hastings Little Wishes.
JA Fashions finished fourth, donating $100 to Camp Quality.
Middle Rock Mariners placed third, contributing $150 to Self Seen.
Second place went to Paragon Accountants, with $350 donated to the Rural Fire Service Lorne.
The winning team, Castleton Plumbing, claimed first place and donated $600 to Ivy Latham, a young local who lives with achondroplasia, the most common type of dwarfism, and Type 1 Diabetes.
The funds will assist Ivy’s mum, Melisa Iping, to meet ongoing medical costs
associated with Ivy’s complex medical conditions, while also helping to ensure her life is as full as possible.
The next challenge commences on 3 March, and Glen hopes to see an even bigger turnout.
For information on signing up to a team, contact the club on 02 6559 9150 or email bowls@clubnorthhaven.com.au.
By Kate SHELTON
ANGLERS are currently enjoying a productive run in the Hastings River, where bream catches remain consistently high.
Prawns and yabbies have been the standout baits while those heading further upstream are finding plenty of flathead eager to strike both surface and diving lures.
The crabbing scene is equally active.
Pelican Island is producing a run of blue swimmers, and the areas around Dennis Bridge and Fernbank Creek are yielding impressive mud crabs.
Along the coast, North Shore Beach has become a prime destination for bream and whiting during the day, with tailor appearing for those fishing evening sessions.
Plomer Bay is seeing a surge in cobia catches from both local and visiting anglers.
Shark interference has become a frustrating new reality, with roughly a third of all fish being lost.
The offshore FAD has been somewhat hit-or-miss, the mahi mahi that have been encountered are of a respectable size.
Meanwhile, reef fishers are bringing in snapper and pearl perch, though strong currents are currently
Kew Bowling Club
By Andrew RICHARDS
25th JANUARY, 2026
Please note that our Dress Standards are, that Wednesday Social is the only MUFTI day for Mens Bowls. Bowls Australia approved attire (shirt with Bowls Australia Logo) must be worn on Friday and Saturday bowls. Full Club Uniform must be worn for Pennants and Club Championships. Bowls
Lake Cathie Bowling Club
By Suzanne MILES
TUESDAY, 20th January, Women's Minor Singles Club Championship RoundLyn Lawson def. Margaret Duhigg. Jenny Taylor def. Chris Baldwin. Pam Begley def. Kate Bohlsheid. Kay Jobson def. Anne Anderson.
Ladies Social BowlsOlwen Hulland, Vera
making it difficult to reach deeper waters.
Further south, Crowdy Head and Perpendicular Point have emerged as the premier spots for luderick and drummer, with local reports indicating excellent results.
While tailor are present, they are mostly smaller sizes, though some quality bream are being landed in the early morning.
Activity has also surged around the breakwalls and Henry Kendall, where both cabbage and artificial weed are proving effective for luderick.
For those fishing after dark, these same locations are producing solid bream catches, especially for those using mullet strips as bait.
Heading north to Grassy, the mackerel run is in full swing with both Spanish and spotted varieties on the bite, though anglers are battling persistent sharks and a scarcity of live bait.
Those venturing further out to sea are being rewarded with catches of yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and more mahi mahi.
In the Macleay River, the sand flats near Jerseyville are the place to go for highquality whiting.
Finally, the rock ledges around the Gaol and Hat Head are treating lucky anglers to catches of cobia and kingfish.
Australia approved footwear is also required (a list of approved shoes is contained on our Notice Board).
In Wednesday Social Bowls, 48 bowlers enjoyed a great day of bowls, with John O’Neill, Henry Reynolds and Trevor Boyle claiming first prize. The Runners Up were Dave Wagstaff, Keith Collins and Barry Isaac. Voucher winners were Brett Irwin, Adrian Hilton, Steve McGregor, Dave Wagstaff and Henry Reynolds.
Hamilton & Judi Blackler/ Skip - winners.
Ros Hancox, Susan Malzard & Yvonne Howard/ Skip - runners-up.
WEDNESDAY, 21st
January, Men's Singles Club Championship - Players who have progressed to Quarter FinalsRichard Pierce, Graydon Findlay, John Fuller, Ken Pritchard, Bob Young & Mark Davies.
THURSDAY, 22nd
January, Men's Social Triples and Fours -
The Friday Jackpot saw Ian Orr, Brett Irwin and Dave Napper win the Jackpot. Voucher winners were Viv Gunter, Jean Donald, Terry Miles, and of course, Steve McGregor who has made a full return to form.
Targeted Practice Sessions are being held on Thursday from 4pm to 5:30pm. These are directed training drills, led by Mick Stuttard. Members are encouraged to attend these, in preparation for the Pennants Season.
By Michael EYLES
THE Tuesday night competition held on 20/1/26 had 17 players compete. The Major Final was won by Michael Banicek, and the runner up was Peter Whaley.
Rink 4 - Des Hancox, Ken French, Terry Miles & John Myers.
Rink 6 - Vic Hayhurst, Peter Williams & Vic Austin.
Rink 20 - Doug Rose,
By Danny LLOYD
THURSDAY Stableford was sponsored by PRD REAL ESTATE. Cleaning up in A Grade
Reminders that the Travelling Bowlers AGM is being held on Sunday 1st February commencing at 9am, and Open Pennants commences on Saturday
The Minor Final winner was Ron Phinn who defeated Jim Hopkins. The Thursday night competition held on 22/1/26, attracted 13 players. Ron Phinn won the Major Final, defeating Rocky Davis. In the Minor Final, Graham Palmer prevailed defeating Bob Clark. Michael Eyles
Ingo Model & Gary BevesSilver Medal.
FRIDAY, 23rd January, Scroungers & Skins Fun DayAnne Anderson - winner. Roy Peasnell - runner-up.
was Jason Taylor with 40 pts. Wayne Moir was best in B Grade with 37 and Ian Read took C Grade on 39.
Scott Dawson was closest on the GAREL GOLF NTP 9th for $124.
Saturday Stableford was sponsored by LOCAL
14th February. All Club Championships have been delayed until after the Pennants Season. Bowls this week include Wednesday Social (mufti
North Haven Bowls Golf Club
By Laurie HAMILTON
14.1.26
STABLEFORD
Winner Mark Hullam 31
Runner Up Bob Nixon
SATURDAY 24th January, Ladies Social BowlsAnne Butlin, Ros Hancox & Nola Scott/Skip - winner. Kay Salloway & Susan Malzard/Skip - runners-up.
dress) and Saturday Cashpot Triples, names in by 11.30 for a 12.30 start. Also Practice Drills will be held Thursday afternoon at 4:00pm to 5:30pm.
Open Gender Social Bowls PairsRink 16 - Bob Young & Paul M cNamara. Rink 3 - Des Hancox & Brian Kettels.
nettymitch57 @gmail.com
SUNDAY
DOG PARK
ABC TV, 8.30pm
Studies have proven that dog owners have lower stress levels and an easier time making friends. However, those researchers haven’t met Dog Park’s Roland (Leon Ford). In the grip of a mid-life crisis, the pessimistic Roland recently became solely responsible for his daughter Mia (Florence Gladwin) and family dog Beattie while his wife works overseas, but isn’t particularly attentive to either. One day, a visit to the local park introduces Roland to eternal optimist Samantha (Celia Pacquola, pictured with Ford) and the “Dog Park Divas”, a close-knit group of friends eager to adopt him – whether he likes it or not.
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News Mornings. 10.00 Solar System. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At
1.00 Australia Day Live. (PG, R) 3.00 Would I Lie To You? (PG,
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 All Creatures Great And Small. (PG)
8.15 Art Detectives. (Ma) A Titanic obsessive is found dead. 9.05 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Hosted by Tom Gleeson.
The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (R) A satirical news program.
A Life In Ten Pictures: Alexander McQueen. (PGa, R)
10.55 ABC Late News.
11.15 Smother. (Mal, R)
1.00 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PGadhlnsv)
MONDAY
TEN, 7pm
After 15 years on air, is a quiz show most Australians know like the back of their own hands. But 10’s fresh take on the format hosted by national treasure Rebecca Gibney (pictured) is changing the game.
The Gold Logie winner is the first female to host Hot Seat high-risk, high-reward edition where just one wrong move can mean walking home empty-handed – and brings her bubbly personality, plenty of positivity and compassion to the role.
“I know I have big shoes to fill,” confesses Gibney.
“But I said when I turned 60 I wasn’t going to let fear stop me from trying new things – so here we go!” Six clever contestants try to win $1 million in Monday’s premiere.
TUESDAY NCIS
TEN, 9pm
Keeping viewers guessing by following an enigmatic special agent who plays his or her cards close to their chest is rule no.1 in the playbook. It allows the show’s writers to keep fans hooked by bread-crumbing the audience with tantalising reveals, and it’s also much easier than writing a back story that could cause complicated plot holes down the line. After four years at the helm of the team, it’s finally time we learn a little more about Alden Parker (Gary Cole, pictured). After his father was murdered in season 22’s finale, Parker is more determined than ever to track down the elusive Carla Marino (Rebecca De Mornay), even if it means ignoring the orders of Director Vance (Rocky Carroll) to carry out his personal vendetta.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Great House Revival. (PG)
9.30 Isle Of Wight: Jewel Of The South. (PG, R)
10.20 SBS World News Late.
10.50 Sisi. (Ma, R)
11.40 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+ans, R)
1.30 Silent Road. (Madsv, R)
3.30 Craig & Bruno’s Great British Road Trips. (PG, R)
4.00 Barkley Manor. (R)
4.30 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. Adam Dovile fixes wobbly shelves.
8.30 MOVIE: Kingsman: The Golden Circle. (2017, MA15+sv, R) After the Kingsmen are attacked by a mysterious enemy, Eggsy and Merlin are the sole survivors. Taron Egerton, Colin Firth, Mark Strong.
11.30 Doc. (Mav, R)
12.30 MOVIE: A Sister’s Grudge. (2021, Mav, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Featuring highlights, interviews and opinions.
7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 13. Men’s semi-finals.
11.00 Chicago Med. (MA15+amv, R) An infection threatens Marcel’s transplant.
12.00 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)
1.00 Next Stop. (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 GolfBarons. (PG, R)
(83) 6am Morning Programs. 7.05 Finding You. (2020, PG) 9.20 The Four Musketeers: Revenge Of Milady. (1974, PG) 11.20 My Own Good. (2018, M, Italian) 1.10pm That Good Night. (2017, M) 2.50 The Three Musketeers. (1973, PG) 4.50 Robot Dreams. (2023, PG) 6.50 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 8.30 Of An Age. (2022, MA15+) 10.25 Vampire’s Kiss. (1988, MA15+) 12.20am Late Programs.
6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PGa, R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.
7.30 Selling Houses Australia.
6.00 Back Roads: Local Heroes Special. (R)
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 Call The Midwife. (PGa) A solo delivery puts Sister Julienne’s skills to the test.
8.30 Midsomer Murders. (Return, PGav) When a group of rival mudlarkers excavate the Holly Brook river, a dark and deadly past resurfaces.
10.00 The Jetty. (Final, MA15+a, R) Ember tries to uncover the truth about Amy. 11.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses: Women On The Frontline. (PG)
8.40 Swiss Alpine Rail Journeys: The Contrasting Bernina Railway. (R) Looks at the Bernina route.
9.40 The Secret DNA Of Us: Geelong. (Ma, R) The team heads to Geelong.
10.45 Lord Lucan. (Mav, R)
11.45 House Of Promises. (Msv, R)
3.15 Barkley Manor. (PG, R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 MOVIE: The Super Mario Bros. Movie. (2023, PGv) Two plumbers are sent to a magical kingdom. Chris Pratt.
9.00 MOVIE: The King’s Man. (2021, MA15+v, R) Members of a spy agency find themselves pitted against an evil cabal bent on starting a war. Ralph Fiennes, Gemma Arterton.
11.40 Air Crash Investigations: Dream Flight Disaster. (PGa, R)
12.40 MOVIE: Betrayed Within. (2022, Mav, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
6.00 NBN News.
6.30 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Featuring highlights, interviews and opinions.
7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 14. Women’s final.
12.00 Chicago Med. (MA15+amv, R)
1.00 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands Summer Series. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A couple are at a crossroads about their home. 8.30 Sort Your Life Out. (PGa, R) Stacey
6am Children’s Programs. 3.25pm MOVIE: Thomas And Friends: The Mystery Of Lookout Mountain. (2022) 4.25 Children’s Programs. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.00 Chopped Jnr. 8.45 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 9.05 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.10 Abbott Elementary. 10.35 Late Programs.
6am The Bookshop. (2017, PG) 8.10 The Movie Show. 8.45 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 10.25 Nobody Has To Know. (2021, M) 12.15pm Tudawali. (1987, M) 1.55 Discovering Film. 2.55 Storm Boy. (1976, PG) 4.30 The Four Musketeers: Revenge Of Milady. (1974, PG) 6.30 I Kill Giants. (2018, PG) 8.30 The Gunman. (2015) 10.40 My Sole Desire. (2022, MA15+, French) 12.50am Late Programs.
6.00 Grand Designs Transformations: Turkish Queenslander And Newstead Bath House. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Muster Dogs. (Return, PG)
8.30 Dog Park. (Premiere, Ml) A man finds himself adopted by a pack of dog-tragics.
9.00 This England. (Premiere, Ml) Looks at Britain during Covid.
10.05 Call The Midwife. (PGa, R)
11.05 Midsomer Murders. (PGav, R) 12.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
4.00 Dream Gardens. (PG, R)
4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Super Monsters. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 7.50 MOVIE: Yogi Bear. (2010, PG) 9.10 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.50 Merlin. 10.35 Abbott Elementary. 10.55 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Lost Cities Of Genghis Khan. (Premiere)
9.20 Angkor: Hidden Jungle Empire.
10.20 Zelenskyy: Citizens At War. (PGalv, R)
11.15 A Year From Space. (PGavw, R)
12.30 Building The Impossible. (PGa, R)
1.25 The Deadly Bermuda Triangle. (PGa, R)
2.15 Rise Of The Nazis: The Downfall. (Mav, R)
3.20 Barkley Manor. (PG, R) 4.20 Bamay. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.
(31) VICELAND (31)
Jimmy Hoffa. 9.30 Cycling. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race. Elite Men’s. 12.30am Django. 2.30 NHK World News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour.
(32)
6am I Kill Giants. (2018, PG) 8.05 The Movie Show. 8.40 Storm Boy. (1976, PG) 10.15 The Movie Show. 10.50 Juniper. (2021, M) 12.40pm The Space Between The Lines. (2019, M, German) 2.55 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 4.35 The Bookshop. (2017, PG) 6.40 The Efficiency Expert. (1991, PG) 8.30 A Fistful Of Dollars. (1964, MA15+) 10.25 The Secrets We Keep. (2020, MA15+) 12.15am Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Better Homes. 11.00 Harry’s
6am Morning Programs. 11.30 Dipper’s Rigs. Noon Search4Hurt. 12.30 Timbersports. 1.00 Blokesworld.
6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Surfing Australia. 9.30 Big Rigs Of Oz. 10.00 Seinfeld. 10.30 Soccer. English Premier League. Bournemouth v Liverpool. 12.30pm Ice Hockey. NHL. Chicago Blackhawks v Columbus Blue Jackets. 3.10 Seinfeld. 3.40 Young Sheldon. 4.10 LEGO Masters. 5.30 MOVIE: Goosebumps. (2015, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Chamber Of Secrets. (2002, PG) 10.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG)
7.30 John Farnham: Finding The Voice. (Mal, R) A celebration of John Farnham.
9.30 Queen: In Their Own Words. (Mal, R) The story of rock band Queen.
10.30 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+av, R)
12.30 Temple. (Malv)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 6.30 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Featuring highlights, interviews and opinions.
7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 15. Men’s final. From Melbourne Park. 12.00 The First 48: Point Of No Return. (Ma, R) Two friends are found executed in a
Rigs Of Oz. 9.25 Motor Racing. IndyCar Series. Grand Prix of Mid-Ohio. H’lights. 10.30 Soccer. English Premier League. Arsenal v Manchester United. 12.30pm Basketball. WNBL. Sydney v Geelong Venom. 2.30 Snackmasters. 4.00 LEGO Masters. 5.15 MOVIE: Show Dogs. (2018, PG) 7.00 MOVIE: Cool Runnings. (1993) 9.00 MOVIE: I, Tonya. (2018, MA15+) 11.30 Late Programs.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Kangaroo Beach. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 TKO:
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News.
Building The World’s Greatest Castle.
8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (Return)
9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (Return)
10.05 SBS World News Late.
10.35 Like Water For Chocolate. (MA15+v)
11.25 Vigil. (Mav, R) 2.45 Rediscover Victoria. (R) 4.10 Bamay. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am The Movie
Show. 6.35 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 8.35
The Efficiency Expert. (1991, PG) 10.25 Prayers For The Stolen. (2021, M, Spanish) 12.30pm Swan Song. (2021, M) 2.30 I Kill Giants. (2018, PG) 4.30
The Most Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PG, Italian) 6.25 Another Country. (2015, PG) 7.50 Here I Am. (2011, M) 9.30 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, M) Midnight Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGals, R)
8.30 MOVIE: From Roger Moore With Love. (2024)
10.10 Rock Legends. (R)
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 Exit. (MA15+ads)
12.05 DNA. (Mav, R)
1.45 Australia In Colour. (PGa, R)
3.40 Rediscover Victoria. (PG, R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am The Movie Show. 7.00 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, PG) 9.30 Another Country. (2015, PG) 10.55 Here I Am. (2011, M) 12.35pm Welcome Back, Mr. President. (2019, M, Italian) 2.30 Discovering Film. 3.25 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 5.25 Brief Encounter. (1974, PG) 7.20 Out Of Season. (1975, M) 9.30 The Prestige. (2006, M) 11.55 Trespass Against Us. (2016, MA15+) 1.45am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 Australian Idol. (Return, PGl) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.
9.15 9-1-1. (Ma) Athena and Hen face increasing danger in space.
10.15 I Cut Off His Penis: The Truth Behind The Headlines. (MA15+av)
11.15 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+av, R) 12.30 Conviction. (MA15+av, R)
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Return, Mls) 9.30 Forging Champions. (PGl) A look at Canberra’s Australian Institute of Sport. 11.00 9News Late. 11.30 Sight Unseen. (Mv)
12.15 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.05 Hello SA. (PG) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 Australian Idol. (PGal) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.
9.15 Doc. (Mav) A patient forces Amy to confront the realities of medical tourism. TJ helps a veteran with his prosthetic. Joan drops a bombshell.
11.15 St. Denis Medical. (Ms) Joyce brings in a body scanner.
12.15 MOVIE: Broken Ties. (2023, Mav, R) Brianna Cohen.
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
3.00 Living Black: 50 Years. (R) 3.05 Going Places. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Secrets Of The Giant Mammoths. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
Ancient World. (PGa, R) 9.20 Trespasses. (Premiere, Mlsv)
SBS World News Late. 10.55 Face To Face. (Ma, R) 11.55 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (MA15+av, R)
1.40 Golden Boy. (Mlns, R)
2.30 Australia In Colour. (Md, R)
4.25 Bamay. (R)
4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.40pm Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Steven Universe. 9.00 Adventure Time. 9.20 Teen Titans Go! 9.45 We Bare Bears. 9.55 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 10.20 My Adventures With Superman. 10.40 Late Programs.
WorldWatch. 10.30 The Food That Built The World. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Stone Cold Takes On America. 1.20 Mastermind Australia. 3.45 News. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.50 The Fast History Of. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. (Return) 9.20 MOVIE: Paint. (2023, M) 11.10 MOVIE: The Last Samurai. (2003, MA15+) 2am Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie
Show. 6.15 The Most Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PG, Italian) 8.10 Brief Encounter. (1974, PG) 10.05 The Prestige. (2006, M) 12.25pm Discovering Film. 1.25 Another Country. (2015, PG) 2.50 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, PG) 5.20 Time Bandits. (1981, PG) 7.30 Limitless. (2011, M) 9.30 The Fourth Protocol. (1987, M) 11.45 Patrick. (2019, MA15+, French) 1.35am Late Programs.
THURSDAY, February 5
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Barkley Manor. (PG, R) 10.00 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, R) 10.50 Mountain Vets. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 South America With Simon Reeve. (PGaw, R) 3.05 Going Places. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (PG, R) 4.05 Secrets Of The Sabre-Toothed Tiger. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Toronto Airport Uncovered. (PG)
8.25 Robson Green: World’s Most Amazing Walks. (PG)
9.20 In Flight. (Madl)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Before We Die. (Mal, R)
11.40 This Town. (MA15+dl, R)
2.00 Because We Have Each Other. (Mal, R)
3.30 Rediscover Victoria. (PG, R)
4.30 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes.
VICELAND (31)
6am WorldWatch. 11.00 The Food That Built The World. 11.45 WorldWatch. 12.15pm Mastermind Australia. 2.45 Insight. 3.45 News. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.50 The Fast History Of. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 MOVIE: Snatch. (2000, MA15+) 10.30 The UnXplained. 11.20 Homicide. 1.10am Threesome. 2.05 NHK World English News. 5.00 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Time
Bandits. (1981, PG) 8.15 Hajjan. (2023, PG, Arabic) 10.35 The Fourth Protocol. (1987, M) 12.45pm Out Of Season. (1975, M) 2.50 The Movie Show. 3.25 Discovering Film. 4.15 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 5.55 The Amazing Mr. Blunden. (2021, PG) 7.30 Indecent Proposal. (1993, M) 9.40 The Quiet American. (2002, MA15+) 11.35 The Good German. (2006, MA15+) 1.35am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 The 1% Club UK: Rollover. (PGal)
8.30 Highway Patrol. (Return, PG)
9.00 Operation Dark Phone: Murder By Text. (Premiere, MA15+av)
10.15 Air Crash Investigations. (PGa)
11.15 The Disappearance Of Gabby Petito. (Mav, R)
12.35 The Last Weekend. (Premiere, Mav)
1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7MATE (64)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls)
9.15 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026: Let The Games Begin. A preview of Milano Cortina 2026. 10.45 9News Late.
11.15 A Remarkable Place To Die. (Mlv, R)
12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.05 Swimming. Australian Open Water Championships. Highlights.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R)
3.00 TV Shop. (R) 4.00 Skippy. (R) 4.30 ACA. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
(82)
Or
(PGa)
Seat. (PG) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney.
I’m A Celebrity… Get
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
8.30 MOVIE: The Proposal. (2009, PGls, R) An editor gets engaged to her assistant to get a green card so she can continue working in the US. Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds, Mary Steenburgen.
10.50 To Be Advised.
12.35 Dare Me. (Premiere, MA15+asv) The arrival of a new coach threatens the tight bond between two cheerleaders.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R)
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6am Home In WA. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Australian Idol. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 Escape To The Country. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Heartbeat. 8.45 Inspector George Gently. 10.45 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) Australia’s most controversial social experiment continues with plenty of love and drama.
9.05 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Coverage includes curling, South Korea v Italy and ice hockey. From Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy.
12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Post Midnight. 3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Overnight.
5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.
7MATE (64)
By Rachael THORPE
YEAR 10 student Darby Moore has lived and breathed rugby league since he was 10 years old and is sharply focused on becoming a professional NRL player.
His journey started with the Camden Haven Eagles and progressed to the Pathways: Elite Rugby League Academy [PERLA], an initiative of Camden Haven High School.
He is also a member of the Sydney Roosters Development Squad, with previous training as part of the Central Coast Harold Matts Roosters Squad.
The prestigious and highly regarded development squad is composed of talented 17-year-olds, making Darby the youngest team member.
Membership requires weekly travel to Sydney to
participate in training, as well as five scheduled games against other NRL clubs, with the first match against St George set down for 21 February at Henson Park.
Darby’s mum, Amy Moore, told News Of The Area, “I’m an extremely proud mum, Darby not only trains hard in season he is at the gym almost every day and volunteers as a junior rugby league referee.”
“His coach refers to him as a very coachable kid which in my eyes is the best praise he could receive.”
Alongside his dad, Mike, Darby also coaches and mentors his younger brother Hudson’s team, with a love of the sport very much a family affair.
During trials at Coffs Harbour in 2025, he was approached by a sports management agent and has since signed with Ignite Sports to further his promising career. media@newsofthearea.com.au
31 August to 08 September 2026
Join us on this most fascinating adventure through outback
VIC & NSW. Discover Glenrowan where Ned Kelly made his last stand.
Burnie, Wynyard, Cradle Mountain, Strahan, Queenstown, Derwent
Mona,
Experience the excitement of Australia’s Gold Rush at Sovereign Hill, Ballarat & Bendigo. the rich heritage of Victoria with a journey along the Silo Mural Art Trail, the country’s biggest outdoor gallery. We return via The Wagga Canola Trail, a stunning seasonal road trip through the Riverina region of NSW
Pyengana, Bridestowe Estate, Launceston
COACH
COACH DEPARTS: Port Macquarie, Lakewood,
16 Oct to 01 Nov 2026
Burnie, Wynyard, Cradle Mountain, Strahan,
Burnie, Wynyard, Cradle Mountain, Strahan, Queenstown, Derwent Bridge, New Norfolk, Hobart, Mt Wellington, Bruny Island, Port Arthur, Mona, Richmond, Ross, Bicheno, St Helens, Bay of Fires, Pyengana, Bridestowe Estate, Launceston
INCLUDES: Coach Transport, Accommodation, Meals & Tours
COACH DEPARTS: Port Macquarie - Lakewood - Kew