Coffs Coast News Of The Area 06 FEBRUARY 2026

Principal’s aid mission in Ukraine

By Andrea FERRARI

BISHOP Druitt College Principal (BDC) Simon Doyle, from Sawtell, spent five weeks of the summer break volunteering in wartorn Ukraine.

His role was to deliver humanitarian aid and support to communities enduring one of the harshest winters since Russia’s full-scale invasion began.

Having previously volunteered with a nongovernment organisation (NGO) in 2024, Simon said this second visit was markedly different and at times far more confronting.

“I’m not sure my first

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Principal’s aid mission in Ukraine

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visit prepared me for the second visit, as this was very different and at times more difficult than before,” he said.

Recent weeks have been especially brutal for Ukraine.

Russian missile and drone strikes, prolonged blackouts and freezing temperatures, dropping as low as minus 20 degrees, have placed immense strain on everyday civilians.

Heating, electricity and water have been cut for long periods, with many families surviving on just a few hours of power a day.

“Entering Ukraine via the historic western city of Lviv, I spent time learning more about Ukrainian culture and traditions.”

Hosted by staff from the School of Free and Caring, and Learn and Teach UA, he visited schools, the Museum of Folk Architecture and Lifestyle, and experienced the traditions surrounding St Nicholas.

Despite the festive atmosphere - handmade Christmas stars, nativity scenes and bustling markets - the reality of war was never far away.

At one school he saw bomb shelters clearly marked, and yard duties included safety monitoring.

Simon experienced the powerful daily reminder of the people’s suffering as the entire country pauses for a minute of silence at 9am every day, to honour lives lost to the war.

“It happened everywhere: on the streets, in shops, even lining up for fuel.

“Even the youngest children stood silently.”

He also witnessed funeral motorcades where pedestrians knelt in silence as

grieving families passed.

A visit to the Field of Mars military cemetery in Lviv left a lasting impression.

“Half used on my last visit, it is now overflowing with graves of volunteers; teachers, mechanics, students and retirees, ordinary people who never expected to go to war.

“The scale is overwhelming.”

“Each grave is deeply personal.

“The grief feels physical.”

Much of Simon’s time was spent delivering aid alongside long-term volunteer Kevin Fisher.

Collecting supplies from a UNHCR warehouse, they transported several tonnes of aid, including food, clothing, medical equipment, heaters and Christmas gifts donated from across Europe, including Scotland, often to eastern regions where aid rarely reaches.

Heavy snow and icy roads meant a perilous 120-kilometre journey could take three hours, with additional delays freeing vehicles bogged in snow.

In Kyiv, their vehicle slid off the road.

“I’ve never experienced anything like it,” he said.

The pair travelled more than 5,000 kilometres, delivering aid to cities including Kyiv, Zaporizhzhia, Kryvyi Rih and Ternopil, working closely with Ukrainian volunteers who then distributed supplies locally.

Among the most impactful items were newborn boxes, containing nappies, blankets and clothing which double as a crib, and wheelchairs delivered to remote hospitals.

In Kryvyi Rih, President Volodymyr Zelensky’s hometown, Simon saw the aftermath of a missile strike on a children’s playground that killed ten children.

“There were no military targets nearby.

“The cruelty of these strikes is unforgiving,” he said.

In the eastern city of Zaporizhzhia, closer to the front lines, conditions had deteriorated since his 2024 visit, with more power outages, fewer people and constant air-raid alerts.

In one Internally Displaced People’s community, families from occupied regions waited calmly for hours in the snow for aid, always allowing those with children to go first.

“Their gratitude that they haven’t been forgotten was obvious,” Simon said.

A highlight was returning to underground School 88, seven metres below ground, where students continue learning despite regular alerts.

Letters and books from BDC were warmly received.

“School continued, even after feeling nearby impacts.

“It was incredibly moving.”

Back in Australia, Simon admits readjustment takes time.

“You stop checking power levels and alert apps, but the experience with the people stays with you.”

He plans to continue volunteering online with Learn and Teach UA and hopes to one day facilitate an educator study tour to Australia.

“The generosity and resilience of Ukrainians is extraordinary,” he reflected.

“But the relentless horror inflicted on civilians is hard to comprehend.

“If you can support humanitarian aid, especially heating this winter it has never been more important.”

The Ukrainian Crisis Appeal and Only Passing Thru are two Australian NGOs supporting Ukraine with heating and aid for winter.

Tax-deductible donations can be made by visiting www.ukrainecrisisappeal.org and www.passingthrough.net.

q Helpers from Molochany Community at the Internally Displaced People’s Centre Zaporizhia.

VETERANS’ SUPPORT

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for Veterans’ Affairs, cutting the ribbon.

Veteran dignitaries in attendance included President of Veterans Centre Mid North Coast Inc, Geoff Harrison; President of the Coffs Ex-Services Club (C.ex) Board, David Doyle; members of the CCVWC Project Team Richard Kelloway, Pat Magann and Steve Sawtell; President of Coffs Coast Legacy, Jeremy Nash; and President of the Coffs Harbour RSL SubBranch, John Lloyd.

Minister Keogh spoke about the proven benefits of having support facilities, such as the Wellbeing Centre, available to the veteran community, their families and carers.

He referred to the 2024 Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, which highlights the positive difference local care models can make.

“But what's also become very clear is that navigating those support systems is becoming increasingly more difficult because of [the] myriad different support systems out there,” he said.

The Department of

Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) is working on improving that navigation.

Minister Keogh also spoke about the collaboration of service types across the region.

He said organisations are working in a “joined up way”, minimising “demarcation disputes around who’s going to do what or trying to do the same thing as each other.”

The partnerships mean that everyone is working for the greater good of the veteran community and their families.

“And that's exactly what we see here,” he said, pointing to the CCVWC.

“When we look at the entire region, from Grafton to Taree, there's some 11,000 veterans.

“In the immediate area, there's some 2,000 veteran families, and we expect that will mean the centre will be able to support some 4,500 individuals.

“That will make an incredible difference to the veterans and their families living across this region.”

Minister Keogh said the Government was very happy to have been able to provide the financial support ($1 million), together with other

partners, including C.ex Coffs Harbour, to get the centre off the ground and up and running.

Founder of the CCVWC

Project Sub-Committee, Richard Kelloway, thanked the long-time support of Legacy Coffs Harbour and noted that “in due course,

the centre will open its doors and facilities to first responders and their families.”

The Minister received

a guided tour of the centre along with numerous Coffs Harbour dignitaries, veterans, business people and members of the public.

Waterfall Way landslip active and unstable

BELLINGEN Shire Council is continuing to work with Transport for NSW and the State Government as the landslip on Waterfall Way near Gordonville Crossing remains active and unstable.

Mayor Steve Allan and General Manager Mark Griffioen have visited the site with NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison and Member for Oxley Michael Kemp, where they received a briefing from geotechnical experts and crews managing the complex recovery effort.

Cr Allan said what they saw confirmed the seriousness of the situation, and that this would not be a simple clean-up job.

“The slope above the road is still moving, with material continuing to fall and large rock faces that remain unstable and could come down without warning," he said.

“That makes it extremely dangerous for both workers and the public.

“We understand how frustrating this closure is, but safety must come first.”

Specialist engineers and geotechnical experts have been working on the 26-metrehigh slope since the initial failure. Hundreds of tonnes of material have already come down, and the site remains highly unstable.

Bellingen Shire Council’s General Manager Mark Griffioen said that because the slip is still active, it is not yet possible to provide firm timeframes for reopening the road.

“We know how hard this is for our community,” he said.

“Families, businesses, freight operators and emergency services all rely on Waterfall Way. But until the slope is stabilised, we are unable to confirm a timeframe on the reopening.

“We ask for the community’s patience while this critical safety work continues.”

Bellingen Council has welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement of a detailed corridor assessment of Waterfall Way and surrounding Mid North Coast roads between Bellingen and Dorrigo to be completed this year.

The review will investigate both shortterm improvements and longer-term upgrades to improve resilience and alternative access when Waterfall Way is impacted.

With Waterfall Way closed, the only viable route connecting Dorrigo to Bellingen is Summervilles Road.

Mr Griffioen acknowledges this alternative presents its own challenges.

“It has load limits, narrow sections and can deteriorate quickly in wet weather.

“We understand the concerns of local residents and road users, and we are working hard to manage safety and maintenance while the road is carrying higher-than-usual traffic.”

The NSW Government has confirmed Summervilles Road will form part of the corridor assessment, including what upgrades may be required to make it a safer and more reliable secondary route in the future.

Council ‘reflects’ on Boambee concerns

By Mike HELY

CITY of Coffs Harbour Council will write to the Chief Executive Officer of Reflections Holidays Nick Baker, to formally raise community concerns regarding the maintenance of local Reflections-managed reserves.

The condition of Boambee

Creek Reserve, which comes under the auspices of Crown Land manager Reflections, was raised in a Notice of Motion by Councillor Paul Amos at the council’s 29 January ordinary meeting. Included in Cr Amos’s motion, which was defeated, was a request for the council to prepare a report examining the options available to alter

the current management arrangements.

He canvassed the possibility of compulsory acquisition by the Council, “or any other practical means of achieving the intended public access and facilities improvements”.

In an alternative, successful motion, put by Mayor Nikki Williams, the

Council resolved to also write to Coffs Harbour MP Gurmesh Singh, seeking his support to facilitate a meeting with NSW Minister for Crown Lands Steve Kamper, during the March 2026 Regional Cities program.

At the proposed meeting, Cr Williams will “advocate for fair, transparent and equitable investment in

all Reflections Holidaysmanaged Crown reserves within the Coffs Harbour Local Government Area, including Boambee Creek and Moonee Beach”.

Key issues identified at Boambee Creek Reserve include the need for: - remediation of the reserve’s creek bank, which has been eroded, - increased investment to address the identified problems, - refurbishment of the reserve’s assets to a level that ensures usability and public safety; - scrapping of the $8 entry fee to encourage public use, and - support for endeavours to have the reserve’s kiosk reopened, or other options to provide food and beverages within the reserve.

Council supports local reinvestment of carbon credits

By Andrew VIVIAN

COFFS Harbour City Council

Council unanimously supported a motion by Councillor Jonathan Cassell at its meeting on 29 January.

The motion supports, in principle, the Improved Native Forest Management (INFM) carbon method, recognising its economic potential and environmental benefits when applied to the proposed Great Koala National Park (GKNP).

Council resolved to note that carbon credit schemes applied to native forests can result in long-term land-use and management obligations, with direct environmental, social and economic impacts and benefits for local communities.

It also acknowledged that any carbon credit approach must address environmental integrity and intergenerational equity.

Council further resolved to support engagement with Traditional Owners, local communities and other stakeholders for any Improved Native Forest Management.

A key aspect of the motion was for Council to lodge a submission to the Emissions Reduction Assurance Committee.

The submission advocates that any carbon credit

framework must ensure reinvestment that guarantees all carbon revenue is directed to directly affected local government areas.

It also requires that revenue is transparently reinvested in environmental management, regional tourism, employment and community resilience.

It seeks to ensure that long-term environmental outcomes and regional employment impacts are addressed.

Cr Cassell said the City’s submission makes a strong

case for reinvesting any carbon revenue back into the GKNP, emphasising that koala protection remains the park’s core purpose.

“Protecting koalas is the primary purpose of the Great Koala National Park,” he said, noting that a carbon credit offset program is not required to achieve that outcome.

He noted, however, that the NSW Government has applied to the Federal Government for a carbon credit scheme and, if successful, it could generate hundreds of millions of dollars.

As a result, Council agreed it was important to have a say in ensuring any revenue

raised is reinvested back into the park.

Councillor Tony Judge supported the motion, highlighting the potential economic and environmental benefits for the region.

“There is potential for the GKNP to generate up to $300m in carbon credits, along with the obvious environmental benefits,” he said.

He said Councillor Cassell’s motion was about ensuring that a portion of that revenue is retained locally to enhance the park, create jobs and grow the local economy.

“I am glad that Councillors put aside the politics for the

benefit of the community we serve,” Cr Judge said, adding that the GKNP presents significant opportunities for the Coffs region.

Cr Cassell said he raised the motion despite having ethical concerns about carbon offset programs, noting that the GKNP will proceed regardless of whether carbon credits are applied.

He said that, if an offset program is introduced, it is critical that the benefits flow back to the local community and environment.

“But,” he said, “it’s worth asking what good will $300m over 15 years bring if it in any way extends the life of the

heavily polluting fossil fuel industry, which is causing catastrophic heatwaves, droughts and bushfires?”

However, the resolution commits Council to lodging a submission to the Emissions Reduction Assurance Committee. It advocates for transparent governance and strong engagement with Traditional Owners and communities.

The resolution also calls for guaranteed local reinvestment of carbon revenue and longterm environmental and employment outcomes for the full duration of any permanence obligations.

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Trapping the Common Myna

By Andrea FERRARI

COMMON Myna birds might be smart and well-adjusted to their adopted home, but they are a threat to native birds. They are making their destructive presence felt in many areas of Coffs Harbour, particularly West Coffs and the northern beaches.

Common Mynas, also known as Indian Mynas, are very aggressive, particularly during the breeding season, and take over nesting sites of native birds, particularly Eastern Rosellas.

One resident in Toormina posted on Facebook, “We are getting overrun…the parrots have vanished and these [common mynas] are taking over.”

This is despite the fact that Coffs Harbour Regional Landcare (CHRL) volunteers, with the support of City of Coffs Harbour Council, have been trapping the pests for many years.

Common Myna birds are chocolate brown with black heads and distinctive yellow beaks, legs and eye patches.

This pest is commonly confused with the smaller grey Noisy Miner, which is a native species.

In the 1860s, they were deliberately introduced in Melbourne to keep down insects in market gardens.

They thrived in their new environment and spread quickly, with devastating effects on native wildlife.

They are intelligent birds, well-suited to urban areas, regularly eating left-out pet food and searching through compost bins for tasty scraps.

They often nest in roof cavities or take over the nesting hollows of native birds, which are already in short supply in urban areas.

Trapping is the most effective way of reducing the impact of these birds.

The Coffs Harbour Regional Landcare trapping program is funded by the City of Coffs Harbour’s Environmental Levy.

“We have a number of trained Myna trappers located in most places from Sawtell to Corindi who are happy to provide a trap,” Coffs Harbour Regional Landcare spokesman Barry Powells told News Of The Area.

He explained that traps help reduce the impact of the Myna birds.

“Please do not leave pet food outside as this is one of the most common sources of food for these birds,” Mr Powells said.

Please contact the Coffs Harbour Regional Landcare office to arrange a trap and obtain

The office is open Monday to Thursday

Foreshores shade a hot issue

By Mike HELY

CITY of Coffs Harbour Council shed light on a hot issue at its ordinary meeting on 29 January, voting to investigate how it could provide shading from the sun at the Jetty foreshores.

Councillor Tony Judge raised community concerns about a lack of shade in the area, saying it impacted the amenity of the foreshores and reduced the capacity for residents and visitors to stay sun-safe.

“It is a particular problem for people with health concerns in the hotter part of the year, but it is also an impediment to optimizing the experience of all visitors to the Jetty Foreshores throughout the year,” Cr Judge said.

In his motion to the council, which was carried unanimously, Cr Judge said the investigation of options should include the council working with the Coffs Harbour Marina and the Coffs Harbour Yacht Club “as part of future redevelopment planning and design”.

He was keen for options to be

‘No

need’ for new Moonee access

By Mike HELY

THE existing roundabout on Moonee Beach Road and the Moonee Beach Estate’s associated road network will be adequate for the next 20 years or so, says a report to City of Coffs Harbour Council.

Councillor Paul Amos unsuccessfully proposed a motion at the council’s 29 January ordinary meeting.

The motion asked the council to support his plan requesting Coffs Harbour MP Gurmesh Singh to “make formal representations to Transport NSW to seek a permanent slip lane solution southbound directly into the new Moonee residential estates from the Pacific Highway”.

Cr Amos also asked the council to “endorse a long-term strategic position of supporting and exploring funding options for a northern entry access point into the new Moonee estates via Tiki Road and a bridge over Skinners Creek”.

His motion, which he said was based around safety and rapidly increasing traffic volumes in the growing estate, was defeated in a five–four vote.

Instead, in an alternative motion presented by Cr Cath Fowler, the council will now “consider the allocation of funding for the upgrade of the Moonee Creek Drive/ Moonee Beach Road roundabout in the next five-year time horizon”.

A staff report to the council said a northern access route into the new estate had been investigated and addressed in 2023, with two detailed independent engineering studies undertaken.

Included in the findings were the high construction costs of a northern access route into the Moonee Beach Estate (around $10 million at the time), marginal benefits with traffic redistribution, issues associated with land acquisition, and impacts to secondary koala habitat and other environmental values.

investigated quickly and considered as part of the 2026/27 Budget and Operational Plan.

A staff report to the council meeting said city officers had responded to recent requests for shade by providing permanent base plates for café-style umbrellas, located on the concrete forecourt.

“To date, the installation of more substantial structures at the northern end of Jetty Beach has not been recommended as they may constrain future development opportunities within the precinct,” the report said.

In 2025, City of Coffs Harbour removed vegetation from adjacent to the Hub Café at the foreshores, adding concrete

Foreshores For All incorporates

By Andrew VIVIAN

THE Foreshores Community group has become incorporated as Foreshore For All Inc.

A spokesperson for the group said, “Incorporation will enable the Foreshore For All campaign to have increased authority and weight when dealing with Government departments and agencies”.

“As well as recognition as an entity if legal action regarding the preservation of the Foreshore public land is required to be initiated in the future.”

The Foreshore For All community group formed in 2024 to oppose the State Government’s plan to rezone and sell the fencedoff former railway land.

The group also opposes the rezoning and sale of the currently zoned “Public Recreation” land west of Jordan Esplanade to enable multi-level private residential and tourist accommodation development.

Foreshore For All Inc. will continue to advocate for the preservation of the Jetty Foreshore land as public space for all to enjoy now

and in the future.

In the lead-up to the 2024 local government election, the group encouraged residents to vote “NO” in the poll run concurrently with the election.

The result was 33,161 community members (69 per cent) voting against the State Government multilevel private residential and tourist accommodation at the Jetty Foreshore.

Despite the poll result, the group says the State Government intends to rezone the public land from “Public Recreation” to “Mixed Use”.

The rezoning would facilitate the sale of the public land and the construction of multilevel residential and tourist accommodation development.

Foreshore For All Inc. opposes this rezoning process, advocating for the land to remain in public hands for the benefit of the community.

The spokesperson said the group and its supporters will continue “research and un-earthing of critical information … regarding the State Government’s plans”.

The group says

approximately 1700 submissions were lodged during the “Jetty Foreshore Revitalisation” public exhibition period in June 2025.

While it waits on the results of the submission assessment, it will continue to make representations to State Government departments.

The group notes that a development in the electorate of the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully, was shelved after only 200 submissions were lodged against it.

Its ultimate aim is for

the publicly owned land to be incorporated into the existing parklands and to be enhanced and improved for the benefit of all the Coffs Harbour community and visitors.

As part of the incorporation process, Foreshore For All Inc. is asking its supporters to sign up as members.

The $10 membership fees will be used for event insurance, freedom of information requests, legal advice and actions, print and digital advertising, as well as costs associated with promotional and other campaign activities.

More information can be found at www. foreshoreforall.com.

Celebrations for 104-year-old Enid

ENID Lambeth can proudly boast being the oldest resident of Mater Christi in Toormina.

At 104, she certainly deserved all the well-wishes that came her way during her birthday celebrations on 30 January.

Born in Sutherland in 1922, Enid was one of five children.

Sadly, siblings Gus, Alick, Greta and Will have all passed away.

Enid's father was born in Lithuania in 1880, and emigrated to Australia via Durban and Auckland, arriving in Sydney on a ship named The Riverina in 1914.

It was there he met Enid's mother, Bertha.

They traveled north to marry and live in Sutherland, nearer to Enid's mother, to raise their five children.

Enid's father, who worked as a painter, passed away from lung disease when Enid was just four-years-old.

Bertha was left to raise her family alone.

She needed all her children to help with chores to make ends meet.

They had chickens and

a few cows, plus a veggie garden.

Before school every morning, Enid walked around the many streets of Sutherland delivering fresh milk.

Enid met a shy lad named Vic Lambeth, who lived in Auburn.

They married, and built a small home in Glencoe Street, Sutherland, where they eventually adopted a daughter, Colleen, and then a son, Steven, and a few years later, their youngest daughter Margaret was born.

They built a second home a few miles south in Heathcote, and lived there until all three of their children had left home.

Most of her siblings had moved north to make their forever homes in Sawtell, as Enid did.

Vic was a fisherman of renown when it came to catching Luderick and it was Enid's brother Will, and wife Joyce, who founded Coffs Harbour Blinds and Awnings.

For many years, Enid and Vic lived right next door to the original Police Station.

In later years, they built

and lived in a townhouse in Twenty-Third Avenue, a lovely big block which was bordered by a small, tidal creek.

Greens of the Sawtell Golf course line the other side of the creek.

With the help of her youngest daughter, Margaret, Enid was able to remain in her townhouse for several years after Vic's passing.

She moved into Mater Christi in 2018, where she has since enjoyed a very high standard of care.

At 104, Enid is a most treasured elder in the Mater Christi community.

Enid's family and friends, as well as the staff at Mater Christi, joined in her celebrations with family members taking her on muchloved day trips to the same familiar farm at Crossmaglen, where they fed carrots and bread to the horses and goats, to the headland to take in the coastal view and to visit friends around Sawtell.

Enid has eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, all scattered around NSW, Victoria and Queensland.

Coffs Coast welcomes new school principals

By Andrew VIVIAN

THE school year has begun with several Coffs Coast public schools welcoming new principals.

The principals and their schools are Mark Peterson, Sawtell Public School; Michael Linet, Narranga Public School; Kristina Stewart, Crossmaglen Public School; and Karen Lane, Dorrigo Public School.

The Department of Education says that 80 new principals across NSW have started meeting staff at school development days to inspire the direction they will set for their new school communities.

Students in the Eastern Division returned on 2 February and the Western Division is set to return on 9 February.

Fifty-one of these principals are taking up leadership roles for the first time, and 29 are principals starting at a new school.

Forty-nine are in regional, rural and remote areas of NSW and 31 across the Sydney metropolitan area.

NSW Department of

Education Secretary Murat Dizdar said, “It’s my pleasure to welcome our 80 new principals to their new schools for the start of 2026”.

“Becoming a principal in public education is both a privilege and a profound responsibility.

“Our new principals are stepping into roles where their leadership will shape not only learning outcomes, but the confidence, wellbeing and life chances of thousands of young people and their communities.”

Deputy Secretary, Public

Schools, Deb Summerhayes shared his sentiment and said, “As we welcome our incredible staff back for the start of Term 1, 2026, I want to acknowledge the vital role educators play in nurturing every student’s potential.

“I am confident that under the guidance of committed, experienced and passionate school leaders and teachers, this will be a year where potential and talent are recognised, curiosity is encouraged and every learner can thrive.”

Mr Peterson has previously been principal at Moama and Deniliquin North public schools for 15 years before coming to Sawtell.

He said he worked in Wingham for 10 years, was attracted to the coast and finds the area to be fantastic, with people very welcoming.

Mr Peterson said, “As well as being close to family there is a feeling of coming home to the coast”.

“I hope to work with the school and local community so that every student has opportunities to excel, particularly outside the classroom curriculum.”

Mr Linet has had extensive leadership experience at Bonville, Toormina and Sawtell Public Schools, as well as being Director, Educational

He attended Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga Public Schools and Woolgoolga High School.

Mr Linet said, “I hope to foster a strong sense of belonging in our school community and strengthen the partnerships between teachers and parents”.

“We are already recognised by School Excellence as a school that is excelling and I hope I can keep us continuing on that journey and promote public education as the first choice for everyone.”

Ms Stewart has been relieving principal at Crossmaglen for two-and-ahalf years prior to becoming

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permanent in the position.

Mr Dizdar said school principals are lifelong learners with a continual focus on teaching and learning, who encourage teachers and support students to be the best they can be.

“Getting the right people into school leadership roles is critical for having the greatest possible impact in our classrooms, which is why it’s so important that our very best teachers step into principalship,” he said.

“When the strongest educators lead our schools, the impact on classrooms is profound, and I know this new cohort will be exemplary

Rev. Fa’uhiva inducted into Coffs Uniting Church

By Andrea FERRARI

minister-in-residence at Coffs Harbour Uniting Church will take place at the church on Sunday, 15 February.

The calling of Reverend Fa'uhiva to Coffs Harbour Uniting Church is seen by the church community as a

vital milestone in the future development of the Uniting Church in Coffs Harbour.

Rev Hiva, as he is known, was born and raised in Tonga on the Pacific Islands, as the son of a Methodist minister.

Although he once considered following in his father’s footsteps, he chose instead to come to Australia in 1997 to study theology.

In time, he graduated with a Bachelor of Theology, married, and experienced a significant shift in his career path.

Remaining in Australia, he became a permanent resident and applied to be a candidate through the Uniting Church.

Completing this journey in 2018 led to his first placement at Sydney’s Concord Uniting Church, where he served for eight years before moving to

Coffs Harbour Uniting Church in 2026.

The transition from Tonga and adapting to life and study in Australia presented many challenges.

Nevertheless, the support of an inspiring lecturer and a strong network of family and friends motivated and encouraged him throughout.

“I believe my Tongan heritage would enrich the Coffs Harbour community by sharing traditional values of family and hospitality, fostering warmth and inclusivity,” he told News Of The Area.

“In turn, the diverse community at Coffs Harbour has broadened my perspective and deepened my appreciation for multiculturalism within society.

“Acknowledging the first peoples of the land and working toward climate justice remain collective responsibilities.

“This reciprocal relationship highlights the importance of mutual embrace rather than a onedirectional approach to service.”

Moving to Coffs Harbour was part of his calling to serve in a regional context.

“This marks a new chapter for my family and presents many challenges, yet we trust in God and are confident that I will contribute my gifts and talents to both the church and the wider community.

“My wife and our 11-yearold daughter are joining me, and we have been enjoying the region’s beautiful climate.

“Concurrently, my wife

is ready to begin her role as director at Grafton PreSchool, operated by Uniting.”

Rev Hiva said the family feels empowered and encouraged to collaborate closely with the church and the community, “proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus in ways that we believe will benefit everyone in our town”.

As Rev Hiva and his family embark on this journey together, he invites the congregation to help shape their vision for the future.

“How can we deepen our impact and strengthen our relationships within the community?

“Your insights and ideas are invaluable as we strive to build a vibrant ministry that truly reflects our shared values and aspirations.”

Four young musicians shine at Bravissimo

By Andrea FERRARI

FOUR outstanding Year 12 musicians from Coffs Harbour schools will perform at the sold-out matinee concert for Bravissimo 2026, “Long Way to the Top”.

They will take to the Glasshouse Theatre stage in Port Macquarie on Tuesday, 17 February, in the prestigious regional HSC concert, having been selected from the best Year 12 music performers.

The Coffs Harbour musicians will join 15 other performers from Tamworth, Armidale, Casino, Goonellabah, Gloucester, Tuncurry, Maclean, Wingham and Taree.

The Bravissimo Concert began as an annual event in 2012 and quickly became established as the premier HSC music showcase on the Mid North Coast.

In 2026, over 68 students received a Bravissimo

nomination, a 30 per cent increase for the second consecutive year.

This reflects the growing standard of musical achievement across the region and includes two new participating schools, Summerland Christian College and Maclean High School.

“Not only is the standard of musical performance exceptionally high, but the diversity of styles and genres is equally impressive,” Bravissimo Concert Founder Leanne Johnson said.

Performers draw on a wide range of composers and artists, from Poulenc and Hindson to Chick Corea, Van Halen, Tool and performers’ own compositions.

Makayla Beatty, from St John Paul College, achieved Band 6 in the HSC as a singer.

She is excited to pursue musical theatre at university.

In 2025, as well as

finishing Year 12, she represented Australia in the Music Theatre International (MTI) Junior Aussie All Stars program, training in New York with industry professionals, and competed at the Atlanta Junior Theatre Festival.

Jet Puata, an electric guitarist from John Paul

College, achieved an Encore nomination for his performance in the HSC. He is “so excited” to perform at the Glasshouse.

Noah Yardley, bass guitarist from Coffs Harbour Christian Community School, is also an Encore nominee.

Noah achieved 98.6 out

q Bass Guitarist Noah Yadley from Coffs Harbour Christian Community School.

of 100 in the Music 1 HSC course.

As well as performing at the Glasshouse for Bravissimo, he will join the Encore concert at the Sydney Opera House.

Camble Scott, a clarinet player at Bishop Druitt

College, achieved 50 out of 50 in his HSC Music 2 Extension course, performing a highly technically demanding repertoire with agility and outstanding expression.

Daisy Sully, an electric guitarist at Coffs Harbour Senior College (HSC Band 6), was nominated for Bravissimo 2026 but is unfortunately unavailable to perform as she is heading to university.

Bello Show supports young farmers

By Andrea FERRARI

THE revamp of the Bellingen Show sees the launch of a scholarship to support the next generation of agricultural leaders in the Bellingen Shire.

In 2026, the Bellinger River Agricultural Society (BRAS) will provide up to a total of $5000 to young people who live in the

Bellingen Shire to help them pursue a career in agriculture.

The scholarship may be awarded as a single grant or divided between several people, depending on the calibre of the applicants.

BRAS President Emily Kenny said the scholarship is funded thanks to the incredible generosity of the show sponsors.

“As part of our sponsorship packages for the 2026 show, part of the proceeds from each tier will go towards the scholarship, with the Principal Partner – a new category of show sponsor that has been taken by Warren Weick Real Estate – as the key supporter.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer the opportunity

not only to recognise young people who are passionate about agriculture in our shire, but also to honour the show’s link to our rural community.

“We hope it will nurture the next generation of agricultural innovators and custodians of our region’s future.”

The scholarship is open to Bellingen Shire

residents aged between 15 and 20 who are currently enrolled in, or intending to enrol in, education or training related to agriculture, sustainability, rural industries, land management, or rural trades.

They must demonstrate a clear passion or commitment to these fields through study, community

involvement, or personal initiative. Applications will be assessed on merit and demonstrated passion only; financial need is not a selection factor.

The funds can be used to cover course fees, learning materials, tools or other education and training costs.

Applications close in late March, and the winners will be announced at the Official Luncheon at the Bellingen Show.

"The BRAS Community Scholarship gives sponsors a meaningful way to create a visible, lasting contribution to the community.

“It reflects our shared commitment to education, sustainability, and rural resilience, while building a legacy of genuine local impact,” Ms Kenny said.

“By supporting young people in agriculture and sustainability, sponsors such as Warren Weick Real Estate help ensure the Show’s legacy continues through the next generation.”

Both scholarship and sponsorship applications can be made through the Bellingen Show website at bellingenshow.com.au.

The Bellingen Show will take place on Saturday, 9 and Sunday, 10 May 2026.

Subsidies for future health workers

UP TO $12,000 in financial support is on offer for students enrolled in medical, nursing, midwifery, dentistry, Aboriginal health and allied health degrees across NSW.

The new round of applications for the Tertiary Health Study Subsidies Program opened on 28 January.

This year, support will be available for up to 4,000 students across the state.

“More than 7,900 healthcare students across NSW have already accessed financial support through this Program, and even more will benefit in 2026,” Health Minister Ryan Park said.

The program is designed to create a future pipeline of health workers by supporting students with fees, technology, travel, and other costs related to their studies.

Successful students who are at the start of their degree will receive subsidies of $4,000 per year over three years. Graduating students will receive one-off payments of $8,000 after acceptance of employment for a position within NSW Health.

Students must be willing to make a fiveyear commitment to working in the NSW public health system. There are a limited number of subsidies available, and applications will remain open until all subsidies are awarded.

For details on how to apply, including the full list of eligible workforce groups and locations, visit health.nsw.gov.au/careers/ Pages/health-study-subsidies.aspx.

Council’s Castle Street site hits market

By Mike HELY

CITY of Coffs Harbour’s former council administration building at 2-4 Castle Street will be placed on the open market for sale.

The two-storey building, which is currently vacant, was constructed in 1983 and served as the council’s main administration building until the opening of the $82 million Yarilla Place in September 2023.

The matter was discussed confidentially at the council’s ordinary meeting on 29 January.

Voting in favour of the sale were Mayor Nikki Williams, along with councillors Cath Fowler, Tony Judge, Les Oxford, Gurminder Saro and Julie Sechi.

Voting against were councillors Paul Amos, Jonathan Cassell and George Cecato.

Cr Amos said he thought it was a shortsighted decision, as the old council building was “a rare opportunity” that could be converted into a 700-seat entertainment venue.

“We should land bank this site,” he said.

“The cost of holding the site is overstated if depreciation is discarded and no other site is obvious.”

In 2023, the then council resolved to defer a decision on the sale or retention of the building until a business case was prepared outlining the most beneficial long-term financial benefit to the community.

That business case, canvassing a range of options, was presented to the council last week.

It recommended selling the building and investing the net proceeds into the council’s “Future Fund”.

The business case outlined that while selling the building meant the disposal of a CBD asset from the City’s portfolio and the removal of the site as an option for a potential Coffs Harbour Entertainment Venue (CHEV) and/or Convention Centre, there were significant community benefits in investing the proceeds into a strategic reserve until a priority project was identified.

It noted the building currently costs the City around $264,000 a year, including electricity, security, landscaping, maintenance, insurance and property costs.

The building has a minimum of 89 underground car parking spaces, with 45 directly underneath that would be included in the sale.

Patients vs Profits

Optometry had its origin in pedlars who travelled Europe in 1500s. Clearly, the emphasis was on selling an unsophisticated product which improved sight for some, particularly those who had agerelated failing vision.

Early opticians combined increased knowledge of optics to improve vision for those suffering with more complex focusing errors. However, the emphasis remained on selling spectacles.

As optometry evolved, an ethical code was adopted emphasising satisfying patient’s vision needs rather than focusing on the optometrist’ s financial benefits. The sale of spectacles and contact lenses would therefore be determined by the patient’s vision requirements and not the optometrist’s financial goals.

Some years ago, the government deregulated optometry to permit commercial ownership of optometric practices which resulted in an increased emphasis on retailing.

In some businesses, this has led to Key Performance Indicators putting pressure on the optometrist to generate increased sales. Another technique has been to “up sell” by encouraging customers to purchase more expensive products.

Our focus is on putting the patient’s needs central to decision-making. Patients are given the opportunity to make an informed decision about the benefits and cost implications of more expensive frames and sophisticated lens designs as they relate to their personal circumstances.

For example, the benefit of a dedicated customised lens design for those spending considerable time working on computers would be unlikely to apply to a casual user. Similarly, a professional driver or pilot would also have specific needs which could justify a customised design.

It is important, that patients have confidence that the optometrist is acting in their best interest both with respect to optical correction and eye health.

Day to try walking to work

By Andrew VIVIAN

WALK to Work Day will take place on Friday, 26 March, encouraging Australians to build more walking into their daily routines while raising funds for better mental health outcomes nationwide.

The annual campaign, led by the Pedestrian Council of Australia, highlights the physical and mental health benefits of walking and this year supports the Black Dog Institute.

Every health professional promotes walking as beneficial to physical health, and the Walk to Work Day campaign also draws attention to the positive impact regular walking can have on mental wellbeing.

As part of the refreshed campaign, individuals, workplace teams and businesses are encouraged not only to walk, but to fundraise together between now and 27 March to support better mental health outcomes nationwide.

Pedestrian Council of Australia CEO Harold Scruby said the partnership with Black Dog Institute was a natural fit and an exciting evolution for the campaign.

“We are thrilled to partner with Black Dog Institute.

“Given the benefits a simple walk can have on mental health issues like anxiety, depression and stress – we hope this simple reminder will go a long way in getting Australia’s working population to walk more, not just on Walk to Work Day, but every day,” he said.

The latest research from Black Dog Institute estimates that mental illness costs businesses more than $39 billion each year through lost productivity, absenteeism and staff turnover.

Around one in five Australians experience a mental illness each year, yet almost half will not seek professional help.

Black Dog Institute Fundraising Director Laura Edwards said regular physical activity plays a powerful role in supporting mental health.

“Engaging in exercise has been shown to significantly reduce symptoms of depression, including major depressive disorder, with studies finding that walking for an hour a day can reduce the risk of major depression by up to 26 per cent.

“This is because exercise promotes positive changes in the brain, including neural growth, reduced inflammation and new

activity patterns that support calm, focus and overall wellbeing,” Ms Edwards said.

Ms Edwards suggests workplaces have an important role to play in creating mentally healthy environments.

“Initiatives like Walk to Work Day are a simple and cost-effective way for organisations to prioritise wellbeing while supporting positive, sustainable habits

with their employees.”

The initiative can result in a happier workplace with “significant savings to your bottom line,” she said.

Mr Scruby said Walk to Work Day offers flexibility for people to take part in ways that suit their routine.

Many people can park some distance from work and walk, get off public transport a stop or two earlier, or go for a walk during their lunch

break.

“There are so many benefits to walking more every day,” he said.

“As an added incentive, we’re asking Australia’s workforce to come together to raise funds for Black Dog Institute, using Walk to Work Day as a catalyst for positive change,” he said.

Working Australians are encouraged to get involved by forming workplace walking

groups, introducing walking meetings or lunchtime walks.

Setting personal or team step challenges, and inviting employers, colleagues, friends and family to support their walk through donations is said to make a difference.

Now in its 27th year, Walk to Work Day continues to encourage Australians to build walking into everyday life, with benefits extending well beyond mental health.

More information, including how to fundraise, is available at www.walk.com. au.

q Walking to work can improve mental health. Photo: Walk to work Day.

‘Flying Squad’ recognised

WEDNESDAY marked Primary Health Care Nurses Day with the Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) recognising the expertise of those who play a vital role in keeping the community well and connected to care.

Primary health care nurses support people outside hospitals across a wide range of settings, including community health,

aged care, schools and outreach programs.

Their work spans health assessments, chronic disease management, health education, wound care, preventive health and immunisation.

Their impact is particularly visible in programs like the Aged Care Outreach Service, which enables aged care residents to receive timely clinical support

in their home, preventing unnecessary trips to hospital.

MNCLHD Chief Executive, Jill Wong said primary health care nurses were central to strengthening community-based care and improving health outcomes.

“Programs like the Aged Care Outreach Service show the value of bringing care directly to people in

their home, and nurses play a key role in making this possible,” she said.

“I’m proud to acknowledge the contribution and the positive impact of the innovative work happening across our Local Health District.”

Since its launch in August, the program has supported residents across 26 facilities, with 80 percent safely managed in their

residential aged care homes.

The service is supported by a specialist team of nurses, doctors, and allied health professionals, as well as a registered nurse “flying squad” that provides urgent interventions such as catheter care, wound support, and point-of-care testing.

Primary Health Care Nurses Day is a chance to shine a spotlight on this essential work and recognise the nurses whose commitment strengthens care across the region.

Calling gardeners

By Andrea FERRARI

COFFS Harbour and Woolgoolga Garden Clubs came together for friendship and morning tea on Thursday, 29 January, to celebrate the start of the clubs’ programs for the new year.

Some 20 members from both garden clubs met at a private garden in Sapphire Beach.

The owner of the home, Margaret, has recently moved from owning a large property and flourishing

garden in Korora to a smaller garden with raised beds.

The change is taking some getting used to, she told News Of The Area, but the garden remains her happy place.

“It’s my escape when things worry me and life’s a bit too hard.

“I go gardening by myself, communing with nature.

“Wherever I go I look for plants and I might find them in garden centres or friends’ gardens and I take cuttings.”

Looking at her lifestyle

and forward planning, Margaret wanted to “do away with pots,” as they require the commitment of regular watering.

“And I wanted the herb garden as near to the back door as possible,” for nipping to and fro’ during cooking.

Overall, the garden gets a lot of sun, which put paid to her plans of having a lush garden bed outside her kitchen window.

“We found it to be too sunny.”

With so many walls on

show, Margaret has decided to plant climbers and trailers to cover the brickwork.

At the clubs’ morning tea, guests mingled in the garden, commending choices and commenting on their own experiences, swapping tips and recommendations.

“This is what our garden clubs are all about,” President of Coffs Harbour Garden Club Esther Koreny said.

“We meet to socialise and in chatting we learn things as

we go.

“Occasionally we host a guest speaker at our meetings.”

The Coffs Harbour Garden Club meets every third Saturday of the month at the Botanic Garden in Coffs from 12.30pm to 3pm, starting 21 February.

“We’re home gardeners sharing our experiences,” President of Woolgoolga Garden Club Carol Horner said.

“Sometimes we go on outings to gardens of interest.”

Woolgoolga Garden Club meets every second Saturday at the Seniors’ Centre, Boundary Street, Woolgoolga, from 1.30pm to around 3pm, starting 14 February.

New members are most welcome to both clubs.

Enquiries can be made by contacting Esther on 0409 009 557.

ABS recruiting for 2026 Census

q Field Managers needed for Census 2026.

By Sis HIGGINS

THE Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is recruiting more than 2,700 Field Managers to help deliver the 2026 Census, providing job opportunities on the Coffs Coast.

The roles form a critical part of the Census workforce, supporting communities across Australia to take part in one of the nation’s most important data collections.

Field Managers will work locally wherever possible,

bringing on-the-ground knowledge and community connections to the role.

Each Field Manager will train, lead and manage a team of up to 12 Census Field Officers within their local area.

Census National Spokesperson Emily Walter said local recruitment helps ensure communities receive the right level of support.

“To run a successful Census, we need to reach everyone across Australia, from our capital cities to

our most remote towns,” Ms Walter said.

“While most people are expected to complete the Census online, some will need extra assistance, and Field Managers play a key role in making sure no one is missed.”

Beyond team leadership, Field Managers will also support places where people may be staying on Census night, including hotels, hospitals and caravan parks.

Ms Walter said the roles

suit people with leadership experience who are looking for flexible, temporary work.

“We’re looking for people who have experience training and supervising teams and who are interested in flexible work starting in April 2026,” she said.

The ABS is also recruiting Local Engagement Officers to work closely with diverse communities.

These roles suit people with experience supporting people experiencing

homelessness, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and people who speak languages other than English.

In the coming weeks, applications will also open for Mobile Field Representatives, Remote Area Management team members and team leaders, and Community Field Officers.

The Census workforce plays a vital role in ensuring

New tests for international drivers

INTERNATIONAL visitors must undergo a series of additional tests before hitting Australian roads, after new rules came into effect on 1 February.

Drivers and riders aged 25 years and over, from a broader selection

of countries, are now required to pass knowledge and driving tests before converting their overseas licence to a NSW licence.

The changes close longstanding inconsistencies that led to licences being granted to untested drivers

from “List B” countries, including the US and UK.

Drivers under 25 already undertake knowledge and driving tests, and that requirement will remain unchanged.

Minister for Regional Roads Jenny Aitchison

said the government was pulling every lever to keep people safe.

“This reform lifts standards and ensures everyone driving in NSW understands our road rules and can drive safely in local conditions,” she said.

Third and fourth-grade cricket

By Aiden BURGESS

SIXERS Cricket League Coffs Harbour’s third and fourthgrade seasons continued, with Round 13 matches played across the Coffs Coast. Third-grade.

Third-grade ladderleaders Nana Glen Lizards Blue had a six-wicket win at home against Bellingen District Cricket Club Yellow. Coffs Colts Cricket Club defeated Woolgoolga Cricket

Club Rebels Blue by 101runs in Woolgoolga, Diggers Cricket Club had a 97-run win against the Dorrigo Buzzards at Reg Ryan Oval, and Sawtell Cricket Club beat Bellingen District Cricket Club Green by 52-runs in Urunga.

Third-grade ladder. 1.Nana Glen Lizards Blue. 56 points. 8 wins. 2 losses. 2 no results. Quotient (Q): 2.095. 2.Coffs Colts Cricket Club. 54 points. 8 wins. 3 losses. 1 no

result. Q: 1.412. 3.Diggers Cricket Club. 51 points. 7 wins. 3 losses. 2 no results. Q: 1.212. 4.Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels White. 44 points. 6 wins. 5 losses. 1 no result. Q: 0.986. 5.Dorrigo Buzzards. 41 points. 5 wins. 5 losses. 2 no results. Q: 0.872. 6.Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Blue. 41 points. 5 wins. 5 losses. 2 no results. Q: 0.823. 7.Bellingen District Cricket Club Yellow. 31 points. 3 wins. 7 losses. 2 no

The reform builds on new requirements for long-term residents to convert their overseas licences within six months of moving to NSW.

It also brings NSW in line with other states and territories.

everyone can participate, regardless of where they live or their circumstances.

More information about current and upcoming roles is available at www. census.abs.gov.au/jobs, where people can also join the 2026 Census Talent Community to receive job alerts.

The ABS encourages people across regional, rural and urban Australia to consider applying and helping deliver the 2026 Census.

Service NSW is temporarily increasing its testing capacity with online bookings updated weekly.

The list of impacted countries and testing requirements can be found on the nsw.gov. au website by searching “knowledge and driving test exemptions”.

wrap SPORT

results. Q: 0.801. 8.Bellingen District Cricket Club Green. 31 points. 3 wins. 7 losses. 1 tie. 1 no result. Q: 0.680. 9.Sawtell Cricket Club. 25 points. 2 wins. 8 losses. 1 tie. 1 no result. Q: 0.733.

Fourth grade. Fourth-grade ladderleaders Macksville Bulls had a 91-run win at home against the Urunga Cricket Club.

Sawtell Cricket Club Gold beat Coffs Colts Cricket Club

by 28-runs at Jetty Oval, Sawtell Cricket Club Blue had a 114-run win against the Nana Glen Lizards at Toormina Oval, and the Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels defeated Diggers Cricket Club by four wickets in Woolgoolga.

Fourth-grade ladder. 1.Macksville Bulls. 70 points. 11 wins. 1 loss. 1 no result. Quotient (Q): 2.026 . 2.Urunga Cricket Club. 54 points. 8 wins. 3 losses. 1 no result. Q: 1.357. 3.Sawtell

Cricket Club Gold. 47 points. 7 wins. 2 losses. 1 no result. Q: 1.418. 4.Sawtell Cricket Club Blue. 44 points. 6 wins. 5 losses. 1 no result. Q: 1.201. 5.Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels. 40 points. 5 wins. 7 losses. 1 no result. Q: 0.748. 6.Diggers Cricket Club. 30 points. 3 wins. 9 losses. 1 no result. Q: 0.787. 7.Nana Glen Lizards. 29 points. 3 wins. 8 losses. 1 no result. Q: 0.649. 8.Coffs Colts Cricket Club. 25 points. 2 wins. 10 losses. 1 no result. Q: 0.599.

What’s on this week

By Aiden BURGESS

Cricket: 6 February.

Sixers Cricket League Coffs Harbour’s 2025/26 junior season.

Under 16s - Round 11.

Sawtell Sloggers vs Bellingen/Dorrigo at Toormina Oval. 4.45pm.

Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels vs Diggers Cricket Club at High Street Playing Fields. 4.45pm.

Macksville Bulls vs Coffs Colts Cricket Club at Phillip Hughes Oval. 4.45pm.

Golf: 6 February.

Sawtell Golf Club’s Medley Stableford.

Cricket: 7 February.

Sixers Cricket League Coffs Harbour’s 2025/26 senior season.

First-grade - Round 13. Two-day matches. Day 2.

Nana Glen Lizards vs Sawtell Cricket Club at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park. 1pm.

Diggers Cricket Club vs. Bellingen District Cricket Club at Fitzroy Oval. 1pm.

Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels vs Coffs Colts Cricket Club at the Wiigulga Sports Complex. 1pm.

Second grade - Round 14.

Sawtell Cricket Club vs Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels at Richardson Park.1pm.

Nana Glen Lizards vs Urunga Cricket Club at Len Towells Oval. 1pm.

Third grade - Round 14.

Nana Glen Lizards Blue vs Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels White at Len Towells Oval. 1pm.

Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Blue vs Diggers Cricket Club at High Street Playing Fields. 1pm.

Bellingen District Cricket Club Yellow vs Coffs Colts Cricket Club at Urunga Recreation Grounds. 1pm.

Dorrigo Buzzards vs

Bellingen District Cricket Club Green at Rowe Oval. 1pm.

Fourth grade - Round 14.

Diggers Cricket Club vs Sawtell Cricket Club Blue at Reg Ryan Oval. 1pm.

Coffs Colts Cricket Club vs. Urunga Cricket Club at Jetty Oval. 1pm.

Sawtell Cricket Club Gold vs Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels at Toormina Oval. 1pm.

Macksville Bulls vs Nana Glen Lizards at Phillip Hughes Oval. 1pm.

Sixers Cricket League Coffs Harbour’s 2025/26 junior season.

Under 14s - Round 11.

Macksville Bulls vs Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Lions at Phillip Hughes Oval. 8.30am.

Under 12s - Round 11.

Diggers Cricket Club vs Dorrigo Buzzards at Reg Ryan Oval. 8.30am.

Sawtell Sloggers vs Urunga Cricket Club at Toormina Oval. 8.30am. Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Dolphins vs Nana Glen Lizards at Centennial Oval. 8.30am.

Bellingen vs Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Sharks at Urunga Recreation Grounds. 8.30am.

Macksville Bulls Blue vs Sawtell Sixers at Donnelly Welsh Field. 8.30am.

Golf: 7 February.

Sawtell Golf Club’s Individual Stroke Monthly Mug & Gold Mug.

Cricket: 8 February. North Coast Cricket Council’s Inter-District competition - Round 3.

Coffs Harbour District Cricket Association vs Valleys Cricket at Phillip Hughes Oval. 10am.

Coffs Harbour Over 40s vs Clarence River Cricket Association at Richardson Park. 10am.

Golf: 8 February

Sawtell Golf Club’s Medley Stableford.

Basketball: 9 February.

Coffs Harbour Basketball Association’s men’s summer season at Sportz Central. From 6.15pm.

Cricket: 9 February.

Sixers Cricket League Coffs Harbour’s 2025/26 junior season.

Under 14s - Round 10.

Macksville Bulls vs. Diggers Cricket Club at Urunga Recreation Grounds. 4.45pm.

Touch Football: 9 February.

Coffs Harbour Touch Association’s 2025/26 summer competition at Sawtell Toormina Sport and Recreation Club. From 6.10pm.

Basketball: 10 February.

Coffs Harbour Basketball Association’s women's summer season at Sportz Central. From 6.15pm.

Golf: 10 February.

Sawtell Golf Club’s Medley Stableford.

Oztag: 10 February.

Coffs Harbour Oztag’s

Coffs junior cricket season resumes SPORT

By Aiden BURGESS

COFFS Coast’s junior cricketers returned to the fields after their school holiday break, as Sixers Cricket League Coffs Harbour’s junior season resumed.

Under 16s Sawtell Sloggers and the Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels shared the points after their match at Toormina Oval ended in a tie.

The Rebels scored 7/82 from 20 overs, after winning the toss and electing to bat

Manat Singh top scored with 23 for the Rebels, and Joshua de Groot took 2-3 from two overs for Sawtell. Sawtell were bowled out for 82 in the final over, Busby Hibberd top scored with 24, and Oakley Baylis also top scored finishing on 24 not out.

Jennifer Martin took 2-3 from two overs for the Rebels, Manat Singh took 2-8 from three overs, and Daniel Martin took 2-8 from two overs.

Coffs Colts Cricket Club defeated Bellingen/Dorrigo by 16-runs at Jetty Oval.

The Colts scored 4/92 from 20 overs, after winning the toss and electing to bat

Riley Wood top scored with 40 off 28 balls for the Colts.

Bellingen/Dorrigo finished at 9/76 from 20 overs, Tate Bailey top scored with 36.

Eden Page took 3-4 from two overs for the Colts.

Macksville Bulls had a 21-run win against Diggers Cricket Club at Reg Oval.

The Bulls scored 9/136 from 20 overs, after winning the toss and electing to bat.

Connor Laverty smashed 43 off 27 balls, Quinn Ledger was next best with 24.

Sam Champion took 3-18 from three overs for Diggers, Parker Swan took 2-9 from three overs, and Darcy Franks took 2-27 from three overs.

The Bulls defended their total keeping Diggers to 4/115 from 20 overs.

Jacka Britton smashed 52 off 27 balls in retiring not

out, and Flynn McInerney finished on 20 not out.

Quinn Ledger took 2-12 from two overs for the Bulls. Under 16s ladder.

1.Sawtell Sloggers. 48 points. 6 wins. 0 losses. 1 tie. 3 no results. Quotient (Q): 1.662.

2.Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels. 46 points. 6 wins. 1 loss. 1 tie. 2 no results. Q: 1.869.

3.Macksville Bulls. 41 points. 5 wins. 2 losses. 3 no results. Q: 1.204.

4.Coffs Colts Cricket Club. 28 points. 3 wins. 4 losses. 2 no results. Q: 0.615.

5.Diggers Cricket Club. 24 points. 2 wins. 6 losses. 2 no results. Q: 1.001.

6.Bellingen/Dorrigo. 14 points. 0 wins. 8 losses. 2 no results. Q: 0.475.

Under 12s

Diggers Cricket Club remained undefeated this season after an 11-run win against the Sawtell Sixers at Toormina Oval, which was their tenth win from as many games.

Diggers posted a total of 5/95 from 20 overs, after winning the toss and

electing to bat.

Sehaj singh Mahal top scored finishing on 28 not out.

Diggers defended their total restricting Sawtell to 7/84 from 20 overs.

Oaklan Jones top scored for Sawtell retiring on 21 not out, and Cillian Kearney took two wickets for Diggers.

Nana Glen Lizards had a 65-run win against the Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Sharks at Len Towells Oval.

The Lizards scored 3/119 from 20 overs, after the Rebels won the toss and elected to bowl.

Louis Harrigan top scored retiring on 28 not out, and Billy Harrigan retired on 22 not out.

The Rebels finished at 3/54 from 20 overs.

Macksville Bulls Blue had a 44-run win against the Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Dolphins in Woolgoolga.

The Bulls posted 2/100 from 20 overs, after the Rebels won the toss and

elected to bowl.

Samuel Bunton top scored finishing on 19 not out.

The Rebels finished at 7/56 from 19.5 overs, Samuel Bunton took 2-3 from two overs.

Macksville Bulls White recorded a nine-wicket win against the Dorrigo Buzzards in Dorrigo.

Dorrigo were bowled out for 35 in the 14th over after electing to bat, Tyler Smith took 2-1 from 2.1 overs for the Bulls, Remy Cartwright took 2-3 from two overs, and Deegan Seubert took 2-15 from two overs.

The Bulls reached the target in the seventh over.

Bellingen were also winners in Round 10, beating the Sawtell Sloggers by seven wickets at the Urunga Recreation Grounds.

Sawtell scored 5/62 from 20 overs after winning the toss and electing to bat, Nate Maguire top scored with 29.

Bellingen chased down the total in the 12th over, Ashton Sutherland retired

2025/26 summer season mixed competition at Coffs Harbour Leagues Club. From 5.50pm.

Cricket: 11 February.

Sixers Cricket League Coffs Harbour’s 2025/26 junior season.

Under 14s - Round 11. Diggers Cricket Club vs Sawtell Storm at Reg Ryan Oval. 4.45pm. Nana Glen Lizards vs Bellingen/Dorrigo at Jetty Oval. 4.45pm.

Coffs Colts Cricket Club vs Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Hawks at Toormina Oval. 4.45pm.

Golf: 11 February. Sawtell Golf Club’s Stroke/Putting Club & GNSW Monthly Medal.

Oztag: 11 February. Coffs Harbour Oztag’s 2025/26 summer season men’s competition at Coffs Harbour Leagues Club. From 5.50pm.

Cricket: 12 February. Coffs Harbour District Cricket Association’s T20 Cup. Semi-finals.

on 28 not out, and Eva Maguire took 2-10 from 1.5 overs. Under 12s ladder.

1.Diggers Cricket Club. 60 points. 10 wins. 0 losses. Quotient (Q): 2.701.

2.Macksville Bulls Blue. 49 points. 7 wins. 1 loss. 2 no results. Q: 3.595. 3.Sawtell Sixers. 41 points. 6 wins. 2 losses. 1 no result. Q: 2.213.

4.Nana Glen Lizards. 42 points. 6 wins. 3 losses. 1 no result. Q: 1.000.

5.Sawtell Sloggers. 35 points. 5 wins. 5 losses. Q: 0.837.

6.Macksville Bulls White. 33 points. 4 wins. 3 losses. 1 tie. 1 no result. Q: 2.105.

7.Urunga Cricket Club. 28 points. 3 wins. 4 losses. 1 tie. 1 no result. Q: 0.664. 8.Bellingen. 26 points. 3 wins. 5 losses. 1 no result. Q: 0.706.

9.Dorrigo Buzzards. 19 points. 2 wins. 7 losses. Q: 0.322.

10.Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Dolphins. 20 points. 2 wins. 8 losses. Q: 0.438.

11.Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Sharks. 9 points. 0 wins. 6 losses. 1 no result. Q: 0.334.

Wins for Nana Glen and Urunga in second-grade

By Aiden BURGESS

NANA Glen Lizards and the Urunga Cricket Club have both been victorious during the latest round of the Sixers Cricket League Coffs Harbour’s second-grade season.

The Nana Glen Lizards had a six-wicket win against ladder leaders the Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels, in their Round 13 match in Woolgoolga.

The Rebels set a total

of 8/159 from 40 overs, after winning the toss and electing to bat.

Dave Szumowski top scored with 38, and captain Mitchell Vidler was next best with 34.

Nana Glen captain Ben Watson was the pick of his side’s bowlers taking 4-32 from eight overs.

Jay Guthrie took 2-29 from eight overs, and Kaleb Bruckard took 2-32 from six overs.

Chasing 160 for victory,

the Lizards reached the total in the 28th over.

Colin Bruckard top scored with 44, Max Morgan was next best with 36, and Glen Pearce (28 not out), and Ben Watson (24 not out) helped to lead their side home.

Prabhjot Singh took 2-17 from five overs for the Rebels, and Kalani Brinkmeier took 2-19 from four overs.

Urunga Cricket Club were also winners in Round

13, defeating Diggers Cricket Club by 19 runs at the Urunga Recreation Grounds.

The home side won the toss and elected to bat, finishing at 7/186 from 40 overs.

Jacob Tarrant top scored finishing on 58 not out, Jaxen Heward was next best with 38, and Peter Snow scored 37.

Praveen Medicharla took 4-26 from eight overs for Diggers, and Noah

Lockyer took 2-40 from eight overs.

Urunga defended their total, bowling out Diggers for 167 with one ball remaining.

Luke Sharkey took 3-35 from 6.5 overs, Jaxen Heward took 2-31 from eight overs, and Nigel Wilbow took 2-10 from four overs.

Archie Townsend top scored for Diggers with 41, and Michael Townsend was next best with 38.

Second grade ladder. 1.Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels. 45 points. 6 wins. 3 losses. 1 tie. 1 no result. Quotient (Q): 1.133. 2.Sawtell Cricket Club. 39 points. 5 wins. 3 losses. 2 no results. Q: 1.174. 3.Urunga Cricket Club. 34 points. 4 wins. 4 losses. 1 tie. 1 no result. Q: 1.196. 4.Nana Glen Lizards. 32 points. 4 wins. 5 losses. 1 no result. Q: 1.396. 5.Diggers Cricket Club. 28 points. 3 wins. 7 losses. 1 no result. Q: 0.483.

Coffs Neuro Physio, moving well at every age

AGE brings experience, perspective, and resilience, but it can also bring new physical challenges.

As we get older, age itself becomes a risk factor for many neurological conditions and for falls, even in people who’ve never had a diagnosis.

Add a neurological condition into the mix, and the journey can feel more complex again.

Founder and

physiotherapist Amanda O’Neill believes preparation and personalised care are key.

“Ageing doesn’t mean giving up the things you love.

“With the right support, people can keep building strength, confidence, and independence at every stage of life.”

At Coffs Neuro Physio, supporting people over 50 to keep moving safely,

confidently, and on their own terms is at the heart of everything they do.

Their team understands that aging with a neurological condition, such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, or balance and vestibular disorders, often comes with added hurdles.

Changes in strength, balance, reaction time, and confidence can all increase fall risk and affect

independence. That’s why proactive care matters.

Staying active, strong, and mobile is important for everyone, but research and clinical experience consistently show that the fitter you are before, and after, a neurological diagnosis, the better you’re often able to cope with its challenges.

Exercise supports balance, mobility, brain

At Community Care Options, we’re proud to support older Australians, people living with disability, and carers in our community with services that help them live independently, safely, and with dignity. We believe that care should be personal, local, and grounded in compassion - not profit. Three decades of continuous service has allowed us to build deep connections, stable teams, and a reputation for reliability within our community.

We exclusively work with participants living in the Nambucca, Bellingen, Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour areas and employ our team directly from these same locations. Being local means we understand the people, the culture and the unique needs of our region. Our local knowledge allows us to deliver care that’s not only professional but deeply personal. Decisions are made here, not in a distant head office, so we can respond quickly, personally, and with flexibility

health, and confidence, helping people stay engaged in the activities that matter most to them.

Coffs Neuro Physio is continuing to build on this philosophy, with new initiatives on the horizon.

A falls prevention program and vestibular screening process are currently in development, designed to help identify risk early and support safer movement as people age.

Looking ahead to 2026, the team is also exploring additional services to meet the evolving needs of the community, including support for people living with dementia and other neurological conditions.

Because moving well isn’t about age, it’s about living your way.

To find out more, phone Coffs Neuro Physio or visit www.coffsneurophysio. com.au.

We don’t operate to make money — our purpose is to provide you with the highest standards of care and to support you to make the most of your allocated funds. Proudly not-for-profit, our focus is always on what matters most: the wellbeing of our participants.

We take the time to get to know you — your story, preferences, routines and goals – and tailor our services to meet your unique needs. We visit with you in person, in your own environment to understand your needs and how we can best work in partnership with you.

We’re proud of the trust the community has placed in us, and we’re committed to continuing our mission with integrity, empathy, and dedication. If you or someone you love needs support to live well at home, we’re here to help. If you’d like to talk through your options, ask questions, or arrange a meeting, please contact us on 6650 2000

Apartments nearing completion

VISTA Projex Pty Ltd was formed to acquire a block of land with an old house on it at 3 High Street, Nambucca Heads, which came on the market in 2021.

Views from the block have been described as world-class..

Zoning for the block allows a four-level apartment building, including a carpark, with the company immediately engaging Casa Koala Architects to prepare plans.

These were submitted to Council in February 2023.

To address

neighbourhood concerns, Council called an on-site meeting at which then Mayor Rhonda Hoban ensured residents were aware of the site’s zoning.

Vista then purchased from the Council a small strip of land along Hill Street.

After nearly two years of consultation, the building is now halfway built with completion scheduled for August 2026.

Vista is the first developer in more than 20 years to build apartments in Nambucca Heads. As a result, the building

is modern, has lift access from the carpark to all levels, includes carspaces and storage areas for all apartments.

It is built to maximise the extraordinary views from most rooms.

Many local people have been employed, from architects and planning consultants to multiple building trades, with over 20 people regularly working on-site.

The majority are locals including Nambucca Formwork Pty Ltd, which have been on-site for six

months.

Around 600 cubic metres of concrete for the job has been locally sourced.

Likewise plumbers, electricians and other trades.

The target market is downsizers, with demand high for new apartments with lift access and modern amenities.

The offering at 3 High Street is high-end. Vista hopes to cater for other sections of the market in the future.

To contact the company, visit vistaprojex.com.au.

COFFS NEURO PHYSIO

Support at Home: delivering simpler, personalised care for older Australians

IN November last year, the Support at Home program commenced replacing previous systems with one streamlined model that improves access and consistency across services.

The Support at Home program offers a simpler, more flexible and more personalised way for older Australians to receive care in their own homes.

Under this new approach, people can draw on a wide range of supports matched more precisely to their needs through eight funding classifications.

The wide range of supports including clinical care, independence assistance, everyday living help and access to assistive technology and home modifications.

As an exclusively local provider, Community Care Options is proud to deliver these services, offering a strong community-based approach that keeps participants connected to their homes, routines, networks and community.

Our team works in genuine partnership with each person to design support that fits their

lifestyle and preferences.

We empower participants to take the lead in managing their supports, make informed decisions, and stay actively involved in their care.

We offer comprehensive clinical support through our in-house team of registered nurses and occupational therapists. We ensure timely access to support and importantly, as a not-forprofit provider, maximise participant’s allocated funding.

With additional shortterm pathways such as restorative care, home modifications, and end-oflife support, the Support at Home program provides targeted assistance when needed. Delivered by Community Care Options, the program creates a more transparent, person-centred system focused on dignity, autonomy, and living well at home for longer.

If you would like support to understand your service

By Manny WOOD

Elder abuse, a cautionary tale

KAREN is concerned that her elderly mother, Mary, is lacking the ability to manage her affairs.

Karen makes an appointment with a solicitor, with a view to drafting a Power of Attorney and an Appointment of Enduring Guardian for Mary.

Karen is present at the appointment with the solicitor and she does most of the talking.

The solicitor obtains instructions to prepare the documents, appointing Karen and her sister, Tanya, jointly and severally.

Mary executes the documents and Karen signs the acceptance, in the presence of the solicitor.

Karen decides that Mary should sell her home and pay Karen $300,000 for the right to stay with her for life. Unfortunately, they do not enter into a formal Granny Flat Agreement.

Contracts for the sale of Mary’s home are exchanged and Karen signs the contract on Mary’s behalf under the Power of Attorney. Karen signs an irrevocable authority for the $300,000 to be paid into her own bank account.

When Tanya hears of the developments, she makes further enquiries.

Tanya discovers that because there is no written Granny Flat Agreement, Mary stands to lose her Centrelink pension.

Tanya makes an application to the Guardianship Division of the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT), seeking a review of the Power of Attorney and seeking orders appointing her as Mary’s sole financial manager.

The evidence before NCAT, indicates that there were no medical reports obtained regarding Mary’s capacity to execute the Power of Attorney and concerns are raised that Mary did not receive the proper advice from the solicitor due to the presence of Karen, during the process.

Whilst she is successful in her application, Tanya discovers that NCAT does not have the power to prevent the sale of Mary’s home and that it is the Supreme Court of NSW that holds the jurisdictional power.

Karen and Mary’s relationship sours as a result of the NCAT application and Tanya looks into Aged Care accommodation options for Mary.

Tanya discovers that if the sale proceeds, Mary could also face increased Aged Care fees.

Tanya, as Mary’s tutor, sues Karen in the Supreme Court.

Email Manny Wood, Principal Solicitor and Accredited Specialist in Wills and Estates at TB Law at manny@tblaw.net.au or call him on (02) 66 487 487.

This fictional column is not legal advice.

Response to Forestry statements

DEAR News Of The Area,

I WRITE to correct the public record about statements by Forestry Corporation (FCNSW) reported in NOTA on 9 January, 2026.

I breed (in the wild) and seek to increase the populations of Endangered Greater Gliders (GGs) and other globally significant biota on my conservation reserves.

In late 2023, FCNSW spent public funds surveying the several kilometre boundary between my private property and the adjoining State Forest (SF).

This was marked with boundary stakes, painted blazes and flagging tape.

FCNSW personnel trespassed with a bulldozer over 15m onto my property and drove within 50cm of a large boundary peg (installed by FCNSW itself) with pink flagging tape and ”boundary” clearly visible on it.

This happened on 8 January 2026 (and 21 February) NOT on 10 January.

The endangered habitat tree on my

property that FCNSW killed was NOT “hazardous” or “overhanging” the state forest and was NOT “supported only by other trees in the state forest”.

There does not appear to be remorse or contrition evident in the statements made by FCNSW about their conduct on my property.

There was no “oversight”, because the boundary of my property was clearly marked by FCNSW and all personnel have GPS enabled devices.

What are FCNSW now “considering”?

The reason that FCNSW was fined $15K was because they trespassed onto my land and illegally destroyed my endangered Greater Glider habitat.

All NSW taxpayers paid for these offences.

FCNSW is a repeat offender with the destruction of endangered native animal habitat.

Fines should have been substantially more and the individual FCNSW personnel committing the offences should be held accountable and made to pay.

Mark Graham Coffs Harbour

Don’t mention the war

DEAR News Of The Area,

THE extraordinary events of the last two months have revealed much about Australian society, status quo politics, and the suppression of our mainstream media.

The shock and horror of Bondi, which will forever define Xmas 2025, has revealed an Australia still living in a global bubble where the realities of the world around us might as well be on some alien planet.

Sadly, this significant event in Australia’s immediate and future history, rather than being the catalyst for an honest, transparent and outward looking debate, with considered change, has only further suppressed healthy public commentary, spawned further irrational anti-Islamic, anti-immigration sentiments from opportunist racist politicians and hate groups, rushed legislation which places even more questionable restrictions on the Australian public and media, and given birth to a costly public enquiry which will be severely hampered by the criminal trial of the lone surviving perpetrator.

The public outpouring of grief, both spontaneous and orchestrated, essential to our dealing with the tragedy, stands in stark

contrast to our seeming inability to grasp what has been happening, and is still happening to tens of thousands of innocent fellow humans, just half a flight to Europe away.

This is not at the hands of a couple of lone actors, but recognised and supported governments and their agencies.

David Wood Boambee East

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On theCouch

Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au

Dear Jasminda, Kids on e-bikes are on the rise. How do we share the road safely with them?

Hayley S.

Dear Hayley,

Having recently observed two young girls powering across a T-intersection on their e-bikes without looking left or right, and after conversations with friends who have similar stories, the safety issue you raise is a real one.

Figures back up the stories with hospitalisations on the rise (94 young people - up from 60 the previous year - were treated at Sydney Children's hospitals in 2025).

Not obeying basic road rules is dangerous enough, but when kids (sometimes without helmets) are simultaneously chatting and hooning along at 25km an hour, it's a game changer.

I always imagined an e-bike was for people who were getting close to needing a knee replacement, but the e-bike is now ubiquitous with status.

Nothing quite says mum and dad are time-poor entrepreneurs too busy microdosing ayahuasca and holding Zoom conferences to spend time with their kids than an e-bike under the Christmas tree.

And in 10 years' time, for every kid who ends up on the psychologist's couch talking about their poverty-riven childhood: 'It started the year Mum gave me a clapped-out, second-hand pushy she scored off Marketplace ...', there will be another ruminating (perhaps from their wheelchair) on the lifelong injuries they sustained from their e-bike.

Or maybe they will be there to work through the guilt they feel following the injuries an elderly person sustained after they side-swiped them (though some of those mobility scooter riders are like Mad Max extras, so be on the lookout for them too).

Your question asks about the responsibility of motorists.

Being on the road is a shared responsibility, and you are right to seek out how to safely navigate the road with e-bikes. You should treat an e-bike rider the same way you would treat a traditional cyclist.

They wear the same protective gear as a traditional cyclist (bugger all), but their increased speed leads to an increase in the potential for damage.

As a responsible motorist, you should give them plenty of space, take particular care when overtaking, show them the same respect you would hope a motorist would show your own children, and drive defensively, because you can never tell what level of experience or common sense another road user has.

For my part, I'll be sticking to my acoustic bike on designated bike paths where I will continue to channel my passive aggression at e-bike kiddies overtaking me by inwardly chanting, 'Use your legs, you lazy silver-spooner,' to get me up the hills.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

Time to respond to change

DEAR News Of The Area,

THERE has been much to digest in the events of this year's Australia Day celebration, some of it giving little cause for joy.

Watching the flag

hijacked by Australia First, white supremacists and similar groups, was a depressing experience.

I would love to celebrate wearing a silly hat and beach towel sporting the national flag at a barbie at the beach,

but I cannot do this when we all know that January 26 ushered in untold suffering for First Nations people, the effects of which continue to this day.

This date has not only become a running sore

for the whole country but I genuinely fear it has also become a ticking time bomb for real violence.

We have had our warning in the homemade bomb landing in the Invasion Day rally crowds.

It was just luck and ineptitude which [prevented] large numbers of deaths on that day.

While we have time, we need to think seriously about a date and a flag that reflect all of modern Australia.

While I acknowledge that this idea is not popular in all quarters, it could go a long way towards diffusing

Cost of consultants a ‘concern’

DEAR News Of The Area,

WE now hear our independent Mayor Nikki Williams, arguing that the development of a Draft Aquatic Strategy is

well beyond the skill set of Coffs City Council’s planning department.

Furthermore, the Mayor argues that it was cost effective to bring in that expertise rather

than employ someone at Council permanently.

It is my understanding that the consultants were paid just shy of $100,000 for this draft strategy.

To have such little faith

in our local permanent planners employed at Council is most concerning.

Employing outside consultants, unfamiliar with local needs and

Community commitment

DEAR News Of The Area,

I THOUGHT this might be a good story of community commitment.

Three NSW State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers, Jeannie Veitch, Marian Grant and Doug Wigg, who together have close to 16 years of service and also serve as Justices of the Peace, played a key role in a successful multiagency land search at Hernani on Tuesday 27 January 2026.

NSW SES members supported NSW Police throughout the operation, conducting extensive ground and ATV searches across challenging terrain.

Just before nightfall, the missing person was located safe and well, marking a positive conclusion to the day’s efforts. The outcome was made possible through strong collaboration between the NSW

Police, NSW SES, Rural Fire Service, local landholders, and community members, whose collective support and local

‘Well done, Kevin’

WHAT a shame Kevin Hogan is more concerned about what his party room thinks than what is in the best interests of the people in the electorate of Page.

The Nationals, as the junior partner in coalition with the Liberals, were once a party capable of being in Government.

Our Federal member has enthusiastically embraced the process that resulted in the Nationals becoming a minor party of protest.

Unfortunately for Australia, we no longer have an effective Opposition in Canberra.

How can the best interests of the people of Page be served by a local member who will never be able to be part of a Government.

As the headline says, “Well done, Kevin”.

a volatile situation, which promises to become worse as time goes on.

Times have changed and we must respond to the change appropriately. It is not good enough to proceed as though all is fine while closing our eyes to potential disaster.

Margaret England Toormina

aspirations, demonstrates the pitfalls of spending vast amounts of ratepayers money on developing inappropriate strategies that are strongly rejected by the local community.

I wonder what guidelines and briefs these out of town consultants given. Or is that commercial in confidence as well?

Bob Harris Sawtell

Teens save 91yo mauled by dogs

By Andrew VIVIAN

TWO Macksville teenagers are being hailed heroes for saving 91-year-old Shirley Laverty from a horrific ordeal.

Mrs Laverty was leisurely gardening on Saturday evening, 31 January, when she was attacked and viciously mauled by two dogs.

Emergency services were called to Matilda Street, Macksville, just before 5pm.

Officers attached to the Mid North Coast Police District arrived to find Mrs Laverty suffering serious injuries.

She was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics and taken to Macksville Hospital, then to Coffs Harbour Base Hospital.

At the time, Luke Gaffey was visiting his friend Nathan Harju who lives next door to

Mrs Laverty.

He said they were discussing whether or not to head to the local pub when Mr Harju heard a cry from outside.

They raced outside to find two large dogs had Mrs Laverty pinned to the ground.

“The dogs were really vicious and wouldn’t back off at all,” Luke said.

“There was blood everywhere.”

Luke and Nathan helped Mrs Laverty onto her feet while fending off the dogs. By the time they got her inside she was limp and had very shallow breathing.

“We went to work on her legs and used towels to compress the wounds,” Luke said.

“I’m glad that we got to her before the dogs did any more damage.”

The dogs ran off, but were captured and surrendered to council officers.

They were subsequently euthanased.

Karen Clarke.

Refined living

Address: 1/72 Boultwood Street, Coffs Harbour

Beds: 3 | Bath: 2 | Car: 1

Price: $649,000 - $679,000

INTRODUCING a stunning five-year-old townhouse, nestled within an exclusive development of just seven properties.

This architecturally designed, low-maintenance home boasts secure gated entry and is ideally located at the front of the complex, which itself is peacefully situated at the end of a quiet street.

With its prime location near shops, the beach, cafes and public transport, this property is an excellent choice for owner-occupiers, downsizers or investors alike.

The townhouse is flooded with natural light thanks to

its expansive glass features, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Seamless indooroutdoor flow enhances the air-conditioned living and entertaining experience.

While the covered alfresco terrace pairs beautifully with the modern kitchen complete with a stone bench top and stainless steel Bosch appliances.

The private fenced courtyard provides an ideal outdoor retreat.

The spacious openplan living and dining area is bright and airy complemented by an internal laundry that includes a convenient third toilet on the ground floor.

Upstairs you will find three generously sized bedrooms, all with built-in wardrobes.

The air-conditioned master bedroom features its own ensuite in addition to a well-appointed main bathroom for the other two bedrooms.

Key features at a glance include;

- Remote-controlled gated access for vehicles and secure pedestrian entry

- Adjacent to serene

reserve

- Expansive east-facing undercover alfresco area alongside a private courtyard

- High-quality fixtures and fittings throughout

- Three bedrooms all featuring built-in robes

- Elegant porcelain tiles across living spaces with cosy carpet in the bedrooms

- Spacious open-plan living and dining areas

- Contemporary kitchen with a large stone bench top

and stainless-steel appliances

- Main bathroom located upstairs, ensuite bathroom in the master bedroom

- Separate third toilet located in the internal laundry on the ground floor

- Single lock-up garage

- Conveniently located close to Coffs Harbour CBD

- Walking distance to Park Beach Plaza and Northside Shopping Centre

- Short stroll to the surf at Coffs' main beach as well as nearby Bowling Club and hotel

Don't miss the opportunity to own this exceptional townhouse that combines modern living with an unbeatable location.

Agents: Chris Hines 0439 667 719 and Kim McGinty 0432 953 796

Property ID: unre.com.au/ bou1.72.

•

LOCALSPORT

Good start for Bellingen, Sawtell, and Woolgoolga

By Aiden BURGESS

BELLINGEN District Cricket Club, Sawtell Cricket Club, and the Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels have all made a good start on the opening day of their two-day matches during the latest round of Sixers Cricket League Coffs Harbour’s first-grade season.

Sawtell Cricket Club and the Nana Glen Lizards faced off in their top of the ladder showdown at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park.

Sawtell was bowled out for 227 in the 67th over after winning the toss and electing to bat.

Tyh Murphy had a captain’s knock, top scoring with 59, fellow opener Will Bailey scored 40, David Angus-Crouch scored 28, and Jesse Buckle contributed 21.

Nana Glen captain Jonathon Paff was the pick of his side’s bowlers, taking 5-44 from 14 overs, and Josh Bartlett also had a top spell, taking 4-27 from 11.1

overs.

Nana Glen will resume Day 2 at 0/22, as they chase 228 for victory.

Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels posted a first day total of 237 after being bowled out in the 80th over in their match against Coffs Colts Cricket Club at the Wiigulga Sports Complex.

Ian Holder top scored for the Rebels with a knock of 46, Jayden Perrett was next best with 45, Manat Singh contributed 34, and Anu Grewal scored 33.

Simon Hopper was the pick of the Colts bowlers taking 5-94 from 30.4 overs, Patrick Rose took 2-24 from eight overs, and John Lovett took 2-57 from 14 overs.

Bellingen District Cricket Club are in a commanding position after the opening day of their match against Diggers Cricket Club at Fitzroy Oval.

Diggers were bowled out for 112 in the 66th over after Bellingen won the toss and elected to bowl.

Taylor Gilbert took 2-19

from 15 overs for Bellingen, and Kurt Stennett took 2-13 from six overs.

Brad Carey top scored for Diggers finishing on 37 not out.

Bellingen will resume at 1/22 on Day 2.

The first-grade season continues this weekend with Day 2 of the two-day matches.

3.Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels. 46 points. 6 wins. 4 losses. 2 no results. Q: 1.063.

4.Bellingen District Cricket Club. 38 points. 4 wins. 5 losses. 3 no results. Q: 0.955.

5.Coffs Colts Cricket Club. 28 points. 2 wins. 7 losses. 3 no results. Q: 0.661.

6.Diggers Cricket Club. 21 points. 1 win. 9 losses. 2 no results. Q: 0.584.

First grade ladder. 1.Sawtell Cricket Club. 63 points. 9 wins. 0 losses. 3 no results. Quotient (Q): 2.063. 2.Nana Glen Lizards. 49 points. 7 wins. 4 losses. 1 no result. Q: 1.211.

Coffs Harbour win one-day rep match

By Aiden BURGESS

Coffs Harbour District

Cricket Association’s Opens side claimed a 63-run home victory over the Lower Clarence Cricket Association at Fitzroy Oval in Round two of the North Coast Cricket Council inter-district competition.

Coffs Harbour set a total of 7/224 from 50 overs after winning the toss and electing to bat.

Ty Adams top scored for Coffs Harbour with a knock of 70, captain Richie Gallichan was next best with 54, Daniel Craig scored 30, Matt Giri 24, and Jesse Buckle contributed 21.

Coffs Harbour defended their total bowling Lower Clarence out for 161 in the 41st over.

Taj Dosanjh took 4-28 from 6.4 overs, and Prabraj Sidhu took 2-15 from five overs.

Ben McMahon top scored with 58 for Lower Clarence.

It was Coffs Harbour’s

second win from as many matches this one-day representative season.

Coffs Harbour’s Over 40s team went down by one wicket in their representative match against Lower Clarence at South Grafton.

Coffs Harbour finished at 6/189 from their 40 overs, after winning the toss and

Sawtell go top of the T20 Cup ladder

By Aiden BURGESS

SAWTELL Cricket Club

Gold have gone to the top of the T20 Cup ladder with an eight-wicket win against the Nana Glen Lizards, in their top-of-the-ladder showdown at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park.

Sawtell remained undefeated in the T20 Cup, as they ended Nana Glen’s unbeaten run.

Nana Glen set a total of 6/156 from 20 overs, after winning the toss and electing to bat.

Daniel Craig smashed an impressive 82 off 44 balls, while Brodie Bartlett was next best with 29.

Will Bailey was the pick of the bowlers for Sawtell, taking 3-14 from four overs.

Sawtell chased down the Lizards’ total in the 19th over.

Tyh Murphy smashed 66 off 39 balls, Trent Dierick finished on 37 not out, Richie Gallichan contributed 25, and Jesse Buckle finished on 18 not out.

Lincoln Kellett took 2-22 from four overs for Nana Glen.

Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Blue moved into second spot on the ladder with a three-wicket win against Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels White, in their Round 6 match at the Wiigulga Sports Complex.

Rebels White scored 9/111 from 20 overs, after winning the toss and electing to bat.

Raphael Wirth top-

scored with 42 off 30 balls, while for Rebels Blue Prabhjot Singh took 3-25 from four overs, Anu Grewal took 2-20 from four overs, and Brock Hutchinson took 2-12 from two overs.

Rebels Blue reached the total with four balls to spare.

Dave Szumowski topscored with 38, and Aaron Singh scored 28.

Alex Byrne took 3-14 from four overs for Rebels White, and Mitchell Vidler took 2-15 from two overs.

Coffs Colts Cricket Club beat Diggers Cricket Club by 32 runs to win their local derby at Fitzroy Oval.

The Colts scored 9/137 from 20 overs, after winning the toss and electing to bat.

Rohan Hackett topscored with 36 off 26 balls,

Peter Byron finished on 20 not out, and captain Patrick Rose smashed 20 off 11 balls.

Chris Novak took 3-29 from four overs for Diggers, and captain Scott Flynn took 2-12 from two overs.

The Colts defended their total, bowling Diggers out for 105 in the final over.

Simon Hopper was the pick of the Colts bowlers with a top spell of 4-13 from four overs, and Christopher McDonald also had a great spell, taking 3-10 from four overs.

Nick Bennie top-scored for Diggers with a knock of 38, and Troy Britnell was next best with 30.

Sawtell Cricket Club Blue were also winners in Round 6, defeating the Woolgoolga

electing to bat.

Tony Slaviero top scored retiring on 42 not out, Dave Szumowski was next best with 34, and Chris Novak scored 30.

Lower Clarence scored the winning runs off the last ball as they finished at 9/190 from 40 overs.

Ben de Groot took 3-34

Cricket Club Rebels Rhinos by 62 runs at Richardson Park.

Sawtell Blue posted 9/104 from 20 overs, after winning the toss and electing to bat.

Zac Levy top-scored with 28, while for the Rhinos Saurav Adhikari took 2-24 from four overs, Mahendra Chand took 2-25 from four overs, and Bhuwan Bhatta took 2-10 from two overs.

Sawtell defended their total, bowling out the Rebels for 42 in the 14th over.

Denzel Wynne-Primus had a super spell, taking 4-6 from three overs, and Joshua de Groot took 3-13 from 3.3 overs.

The final round of the T20 Cup was to be played on Thursday, 5 February, with the semi-finals scheduled for Thursday, 12 February,

from 6.1 overs for Coffs Harbour.

Coffs Harbour’s representative teams are in action again this weekend, for the third round of North Coast Cricket Council’s InterDistrict competition. Coffs Harbour’s Opens side takes on Valleys Cricket at Phillip Hughes Oval in Macksville, while the Over 40s side host Clarence River Cricket Association at Richardson Park.

and the grand final for Thursday, 19 February.

T20 Cup ladder. 1.Sawtell Cricket Club Gold. 22 points. 5 wins. 0 losses. 1 no result. Quotient (Q): 2.496. 2.Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Blue. 21 points. 5 wins. 1 loss. Q: 1.139. 3.Nana Glen Lizards. 19 points. 4 wins. 1 loss. 1 no result. Q: 2.152.

4.Coffs Colts Cricket Club. 16 points. 3 wins. 2 losses. 1 no result. Q: 1.438. 5.Sawtell Cricket Club Blue. 13 points. 2 wins. 3 losses. 1 no result. Q: 1.037. 6.Diggers Cricket Club. 12 points. 2 wins. 4 losses. Q: 0.844.

7.Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels White. 9 points. 1 win. 5 losses. Q: 0.550. 8.Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Rhinos. 6 points. 0 wins. 6 losses. Q: 0.428.

Park Beach Women's Bowls Club

By Anne ORR

SOCIAL Bowls Wednesday

28.1.26. L Mitchell, J Stirton, M Gudgeon drew N Barker, K Elliott, J Slater 15-15; M Webb, J Rodwell, R Crestani drew T Thorn, B Bodel, S Hancock 17-17; M England, E Kidd, L Clancy def D Doyle, J Clarke, M Watt 24-15; V Maher, Y Hinsley, J Pearce-Kennedy def A Orr, B Fane, S Willis 18-15; K Walker, M Long, D Futcher def

Sawtell Bowls Results

By Geoff HAMPSON

MONDAY Twilight Bowls 26/1/26

G Chamber, R Redman, J Fleming

DRAW S Fowler, P Day, N Elford

B Tremaine, L Kratz, B Kennedy

DEF M Willis, N Foy, A Day

L Rankin, B Stenchion, S Fleming DEF S Larkem, L Preston, C Christian

C Stenchion, L Mitchell, M Flint DEF R Hampson, L Mitchell, G Hampson

K Mason, S Kennedy DEF R Avery, K Taylor

TUESDAY Ladies Social Bowls

27/1/26

S Mason, N Elford, J Townsend DEF R Cook, M Baguley, N Foy

L Kratz, N Feltrin, E Tindall DEF L Reid, J Wheeler, A Day

J Fleming, K Weir, G Pickard DEF H Muir, M Friend, L Savage

WEDNESDAY Men’s Social Bowls

28/1/26

P Paunovic, K Sharman, A Wagstaff DEF I Muller, L Zecchinati, K Duffy

T Lavelle, N Stahlhut, B Blight

DEF G Peel, R Williams, L Preston

D Wheeler, B Fitzpatrick, B Clugston DEF S Collins, B Martin, P Collins

B Pemberton, B Kennedy, R

Sawtell Golf Results

By Janet O’DOWD

27/1 STABLEFORD Kelvin

Wilton 39, Malcolm Sim 38c/b, Wayne Farrell 38c/b, Allan Burns 38c/b, Greg Semmonds 38, Bill Hobbs 37c/b. Balls to 34c/b. NTP

7 A: Warren Johnstone, B: Jeffrey Vanderwyk, C: Dennis McCann (pro pin). NTP 11 A: Michael

Petterson DEF P Swain, H Slater, G Hampson

G Fisher, D Frost, N Sillar DEF R McLellan. G Hitchin, S Wilkinson

W Bujeya, W Kellam DEF A Jones, M Gibbons

M Flint, D Bond, W Meadows

DEF N Wong, W Vaughn, J Townsend

N McClelland, J Urge, A Sorbello

DEF D Isaacs, R Mitchell, P Cook

P Weir, D Anderson, A Berry DEF N Kotrozos, J Oates, J Tainsh

R Cridge, G Dennis DEF T Brooks, A Baker

C Christian, A Vivian, M Aujard

DEF I Maderic, G Walsh, M Jenkins

FRIDAY Mixed Social Bowls

30/1/26

N Wong W Vaughn, D Anderson

DEF F Sharpe, P Day, M Sharpe

N Kotrozos, J Oates, Jon

Townsend DEF R Stock, J Rice, R Williams

H Snow, S Flint, N Foy DEF H

Mur, P Paunovic, A Baker

J Ritchie, E Tindall, Jan

Townsend DEF T Brooks, R Cridge, S Morgan

J Urge, G Dennis, T Karam DEF J Grebert, D Grebert, Joe Grebert

G Fisher, D Frost, N Sillar DEF R Avery, G Hampson, K Taylor

G Flynn, J Flynn, D Hyde DEF W Kellam, A Jones, M Gibbons

G Staunton-Latimer, M Baguley,

Oates, B: Paul Rowe, C: Ian Finn 29/1 4Ball Stableford Robyn

O'Dwyer & Natalie Oliver 48, Lyn Vidler & Jennifer Ainsworth 47, Jackie Chapman & Kathy LeaneyRalph 46c/b, Pam O'Sullivan & Pauline Barnes 46c/b, Narelle Foy & Lee Farrell 46c/b, Georgia

Perkins & Linda Graff 46c/b. Balls to 41c/b. NTP 7 4: Jennifer Ball. NTP 11 3: Judith Boyle. NTP 15 1: Lisa Guest. Straightest

SPORT RESULTS

E Blanton, P Garner, S Wilson 20-8; D Hargraves, J Farrell, Y Schmidt def T Sullivan, C McVicar, A M Taylor 19-9; M Crawford. C Domjahn, D Walsh def R D MeMeio, A Worboys, L McLeod 27-11. Friday 301.26. E Kidd, L

D Holland DEF T Lavelle, J Brown, B Blight

N Elford, A Day, L North DEF J Brown, J Smithers, R Morris

C Christian, K Stirling DEF L

Loadsman drew C McVicar N McVicar 19-19; J Rodwell, M Starr def R Coffey, C Cutt 22-10; P Elliott, T Brown def R Oakley, V Slater 23-7; K Elliott, J Farrell def M Trengrove, I Trengrove 17-7; G Duffey, D Lindner def A Orr, L Clancy 25-3; D Hargraves, E Schmidt def T Aarts, S Clouten 17-5; D Doyle, C Sheridan def B Edwards, D Francis 21-11; J Woodford, R DeMeio def A Stone, K Read 17-15; R Jupp, M Monck def D Hancock, S Hancock 17-13; A Worboys, M Cutts, L McLeod def Paul, K Blow, D Walsh 17-8.

Read, M Flint

SUNDAY Mixed Triples A Popular Event Get Your Names in Early. Sheet at Club Fun Morning of Bowls followed by BBQ

SUNDAY Results 1/2/26

Winners S Fowler, R Cridge, T Karam

Runners Up L Read, C Christian, W Kellam

Drives Joy Lawrence, Bronwyn Wheeler, Kerry Humphreys, Narrelle Mcmillan. Pro Pin 1,2: Diane Fuller, 3,4: Susan Morgan 30/1 Stableford Pauline

Barnes 38. Balls to 36 31/1 Stableford A: Justin Hughes (Howlong) 42, Will Lloyd 41. B: Chris Ryan 39, Allan Burns 38. C: Rodney Hope 38, Bill Hobbs 37. Eagle on 17 Allan Heffernan. NTP 7 A:

National Physie champs

Woolgoolga Physie classes are held at Sandy Beach Public School on Mondays and Wednesdays, recommencing on Wednesday, 18 February 2026.

Ms Airlie is keen to encourage starters in the discipline.

“We would love you to join us and be part of our Physie family.

“We offer two free trial classes at the start of the year to help learn the “basics” before we commence learning our routines.”

“We’re a small, friendly, family-oriented club and look forward to meeting members old and new.”

The Government’s Active and Creative Vouchers are accepted by the club.

Classes cater for all ages, from four-year-olds to senior ladies, and are designed to build confidence, strength, flexibility and co-ordination, with a focus on fun and technique.

q

Open Advanced

Vincent Butcher, B: Ross Cook, C: James Swilks. NTP 11 A: Grant Martin (pro pin), B: Chris Ryan Ladies Stableford Hermie Maguire 40 31/1 Men's Pennants Division1 had a bye, Division 2 lost to South West Rocks 2/3. Division 3 beat Bellingen 3.5/1.5. Division 4 beat Safety Beach 4/1

Woolgoolga Lawn Bowls

By Sue BRACHER

WOOLGOOLGA only have one day of results due to repairs on the top green, and a new green been put in. Tuesday 27th January 2026. ( Pairs) rink 8: T McKenzie, P Buck

Woopi Monday Vets Golf

By Shirley STRAUCH

MONDAY 2nd. Feb. 2026 16 web footed starters

Winn er Dick Cooper 28

R/U Geoff Thompson 29

2nd. R/U c/b Gary Tolhurst NTP 4th. Tony Innes Sue Kempnich

NTP 7th. Dick Cooper Sue Kempnich

Sawtell RSL Snooker Club

By Ken MASON

TUESDAY 27th January 2026

Main Draw Winners: - Brian Ng - R/U - Laurie Preston Consolation Winners:Dave Lewis - R/U - Richie Hoskins

(D) R Shaw, D Mason. (18/15), rink 11 : A Plain, B Merchant (D) W Gavenlock, (29/7), Rink 12: B Walsh, B Parker (D) G McInerney, Col Davis (24/18). Rink 13: J Thompson, K Costelloe (D) C O’Dwyer, C Butler (30/5).

NTP 9th. Chris Robbo Putting John Ragan 15 c/b

David Hanger got the NAGA for his first game of the year with a 47 & Sue got the Frog with 24 putts.

Congrats all round for the donation of $200 to Riding For Disabled.

Dick took the Top Town Butcher voucher for his win.

ADVERTISING

Advertising within the Coffs Coast News Of The Area reaches your local customers. Connect with them from next edition. Print media has never been as affordable for your business. Call us today 02 4981 8882 or email ads@newsofthearea.com.au

OUTLETS

Bellingen

Bellingen Diggers Swimming Club

29.1.26

WE HAD twelve swimmers tonight.

RACE 1 $ 100m Freestyle

There were four busts in this race, Rachel Browning and Rachael Wallace taking two seconds off their time, Colin Redman taking four seconds off his time and Jane Powell taking a massive eleven seconds off her time.

HEAT 1

Peter Allison flew in coming first, in second was Amanda Vockler and in third was Paul Sheridan.

HEAT 2

Mike Navin came from behind coming first.

FINAL

Peter Allison showed them how

Boambee Football Club

By Mick WEBB

BOAMBEE Football Club Launches Free “Bumble Bees” Soccer Program for Young Beginners Boambee Football Club is buzzing with excitement as it launches the Boambee Bumble Bees, a free four-week introductory soccer program designed especially for young children new to the game. Starting Tuesday, 17 February 2026, the program is open to

CHGC Ladies Results

By Leanne ATKINS

TUESDAY 27th January 2026 - 9 Hole Single Stableford

Overall winners

1. Jo Corrigan 22

2. Marilyn Waterhouse 21

3. Suzanne McOrist 20 NTP

Coffs Table Tennis Results

By Margaret ILES

FRIDAYS 30th January, 2026

Group A (Division 1 & Division 2)

Reece Baker d Alex Kotorov 3/0, Tim Garrad d George Ruaporo 3/2, Troy Prystasz d Bo Zhang 3/0, Yash Park Beach Mens Bowling Club

By Todd BROWN

MIXED Triples Tuesday 27 January 2026

M Cutts, G Stanford, M Flint d M Baker, C Domjahn, H Major R Aitken, J Long, B Johns d P Wirth, Macca, D Wilson

J Barker, E Kidd, C England d K Elliott, P Elliott, AM Taylor

it was done coming first, in second was Amanda Vockler and third was Paul Sheridan.

RACE 2 50m Freestyle

There were three busts in this race, Sue Crossley and Jane Powell taking one second off their time and Rachel Browning taking three seconds off her time.

HEAT 1

Paul Sheridan swam like a bat out of hell coming first, in second was Peter Allison and in third was Amanda Vockler.

HEAT 2

Rachael Wallace ripped her lane apart coming first, in second was Colin Redman and in third was Mike Navin.

HEAT 3

Amanda Lockman held her own race coming first and in second was

children aged 5 to 8 years who have no prior soccer experience. The initiative aims to provide a fun, supportive, and confidencebuilding introduction to football in a relaxed, non-competitive environment. The Boambee Bumble Bees program will be led by senior premier league players from Boambee FC, giving young participants the opportunity to learn basic skills, coordination, and teamwork while being inspired by experienced local players. “We know that trying a

6th hole Karen Webster 700cm and Emma Mayfield-Smith 177cm

Wednesday 28th January 2026 – 18 Hole Single Stableford

Overall winners

1. Mandy Darley 41

2. Kit Goodsell 40

3. Gayle Jones 39C/B NTP

12th hole Caroline Campbell,

Tyagi d Paul Hendriks 3/0.

Division 1

Troy Prystasz d Tim Garrad 3/1, Reece Baker d Yash Tyagi 3/1, Yash Tyagi d Tim Garrad 3/0, Reece Baker d Troy Prystasz 3/1. WINNER: Reece Baker from Troy Prystasz.

Division 2

Paul Hendriks d Alex Kotorov

3/0, Bo Zhang d George Ruaporo

T Brown, T Wisley, S Jones d G Williams, R Beaumont, A Campbell

M Berube, P Booth, J Dunn d S Crawford, R Coffey, G Hinsley

R Gurber, P Wroe, S Dodd d C Weatherall, V Valentine, D Valentine

S Ward, J Thorn, D Condon d W Moore, R Oakley, L Morris

M Star, R Wisley, D Catling d W Grimshaw, J Robinson, C Jones

C McLeod, D Francis, K

Elizabeth Casey. RACE 3 25m Breaststroke

There was one bust in this race, Jane Powell taking two seconds off her time.

HEAT 1

Paul Sheridan held on by the skin of his teeth coming first, in second was Jim Baird and in third was Peter Allison.

HEAT 2

Sue Crossley breezed it in coming first, in second was Mike Navin and in third was Elizabeth Casey.

HEAT 3

Andrew Denham came first only by a fingernail and in second was Rachel Browning.

Amanda Lockman did a time trial.

RACE 4 25m Backstroke

new sport can be daunting for kids and parents alike” Boambee FC President Aaron Banks said. “This program is all about fun first — helping kids build confidence, make friends, and see if soccer is something they enjoy, without any pressure or cost.” The four-week “come and try” format also gives families a chance to experience the club’s strong community culture before committing to a full season. Places are limited, and parents are encouraged to register early.

Bev Miles 15th hole Karen Brown, Jan Silvy, Mandy Darley 22nd hole Carrie Fagan, Janelle Passlow, Carmel Hill 26th hole Karen Brown, Kit Goodsell, Peaches Booth

Saturday 31st January 2026 –Golf NSW Medal Round 1 Ladies Stroke

Overall winners

3/2, George Ruaporo d Alex Kotorov 3/2, Bo Zhang d Paul Hendriks 3/1. WINNER: Bo Zhang from Paul Hendriks.

Division 3

King McKie d Char Berglund 3/1, Sharee Templeton d Terry Baker 3/0, Lulu Zhang d Nick Jankovic 3/1, Lulu Zhang d King McKie 3/1, Nick Jankovic d Terry Baker 3/1, Sharee Templeton d Char

Bienefelt, D Hull d M Ross, S Wilson, N McVicar, L McLeod Triples Thursday 29 January 2026

R Aitken, J Long, K Morrison d P Elliott, J Robinson, G Hinsley J Phillips, M Berube, D Condon d P North, P Booth, J Dunn C Ryan, P Toy, L Morris d S Ward, Goodacre, J Bishop N Dean, G Stanford, G Cunnington d B Worboys, T Wisley, T McCabe

Safety Beach Womens Stableford

By Michelle MERRIKIN

27/01/2025

THIRTY three women came out to play today. Anne Tobin smashed the field with a massive 46, she claims it’s the calming effect of Michelle Wilson. Let’s see what that does to her handicap. First birdy of the day was Carole Stone on the 3rd. Karen Bellamy also had a solid game with a tremendous birdy on the 11th. Meryl Fisher was rewarded with some Birdy juice from her

HEAT 1

Amanda Vockler had her windmill arms on coming first, in second was Jim Baird and in third was Peter Allison.

HEAT 2

Elizabeth Casey swam like the wind coming first, in second was Colin Redman and in third was Sue Crossley.

HEAT 3

Rachel Browning had a tight hold on this race coming first, in second was Jane Powell and in third was Andrew Denham.

A great night had by all, come and join us for some fun and laughter on Thursday night at 5.30.

We would like to thank our sponsors, Bellingen IGA, The Bellingen Providor and Fuller’s Fresh.

2.

3.

Gross winner - Alex Brett 77

Great score – Carrie Fagan –Eagle on 1st NTP

3rd hole Keryn Little 57cm

6th hole Alex Brett 1307cm 26th hole Dinah NutcheyRobinson 214cm

Berglund 3/1, King McKie d Sharee Templeton 3/0, Lulu Zhang d Terry Baker 3/0, Char Berglund d Nick Jankovic 3/1, King McKie d Nick Jankovic 3/1, Terry Baker d Char Berglund 3/1, Sharee Templeton d Lulu Zhang 3/2, King McKie d Terry Baker 3/1, Sharee Templeton d Nick Jankovic 3/1, Lulu Zhang d Char Berglund 3/0. WINNER: Lulu Zhang from King McKie.

Macca, D Wilson, Nicko d G Meyer, B McCudden, B Edwards G Williams, R Beaumont, A Campbell d C McLeod, P Newman, G Wallace

C Lloyd, T Lainchbury, R Alford d R Kelly, P Wirth, I Rose

R Harris, I Trengove, M Flint d M Baker, R Felton, H Major A McKee, Apple d Merchant, Warren

D Catling, T Cooper, B Garner d M Miller, W Moore, S Jones

partner on the 15th. Tania Doyle produced the goods for a birdy on the 14th, which spurred on her partner Dianne Baker to get a birdy on 15th. Jan Wiley had a gobbler on the 15th with a 50m chip. Marnie drove to a meter of the 5th green then chocked and got a bogey. Well done everyone.

Results

1st Anne Tobin 46 points

2nd Karen Bellamy 40 points

3rd Susan Spiller and Aileen McFarlane 37 points

5th Cathy Anderson, Deb Morrison and Leanne Clark 35 points

In Memory

COLLEEN TURNER

10/1/1935 - 8/2/2016

10 years ago you passed away

The rose garden is where you went to stay

To wait for me, I shouldn't be long Don't know what happended, something went wrong But I know that you're waiting, arms open wide For me hopefully to soon join you inside.

Husband Peter, daughter Sue, son Stephen, grandchildren & great grandchildren.

BANKS

Arnold Roy ‘Arnie’

29th January 2026, passed away peacefully at Calvary The Brelsford Nursing Home. Late of Coffs Harbour, formerly of Penrith. Loving husband of Dawn (dec’d). Loved stepfather of Jennifer (dec’d) and Wendy & Jamie. Much loved son of Robert & Mary (both dec’d).

Aged 86 Years

Keep Smiling Arnie ‘Yeah’

Arnold was privately cremated at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS

FUNERAL DIRECTORS Coffs

NOWLAND

Mark Kenneth

‘The Nut Man’ 31st January 2026, passed peacefully at Legacy Nursing Home. Late of Emerald Beach, formerly of Nana Glen and Coffs Harbour. Beloved son of Ken & Rosalie (both dec’d). Loving father of Carin, Che and Alyssa. Cherished pop of Jacob and Hunter. Reunited with Debbie.

Aged 68 Years

A Unique And Loved Man Who Was Always Making Others Smile

Mark was privately cremated at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS FUNERAL DIRECTORS Coffs Harbour 6652 1999

Penelope 'Penny' Jane Robilliard (nee Allen)

15/10/1955 - 02/01/2026

Aged 70

With full hearts and great sadness we announce the recent passing of Penelope 'Penny' Jane Robilliard (nee Allen).

Her love, care, sense of humour and open arms will always be remembered.

A devoted mother to Ben and Luke. Respected mother in law to Amy and Chloe. Adored grandmother to Koa, Ari, Nya and Wes. Sister to Terry, Lindsey, Meredeth and William.

A friend to many. At rest and forever young.

Audrey Jean McDonald 25.03.1945 - 03.02.2026

Audrey passed away at home in Coffs Harbour in the loving care of her family. Loved & cherished wife of Ron. Gentle and loving mother of Gavin, Warren and Phillip. Much loved mother-in-law of Leanne and Kirsten. Loving grandmother of Jake and Mikala, Zoe and Jay, and Elvis. Greatly loved by her extended family.

Aged 80 years “A Classy Lady.”

Family and friends are kindly invited to attend a celebration of Audrey’s life to be held on Monday, 9th February 2026 at 10.30am in Norm Jordon Pavillion, Coffs Harbour Show Ground. Livestreaming is available from our website.

VICTOR RULLIS FUNERAL SERVICES

(02) 6651 5007 www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au

O’BRIEN

John Emerald

29th January 2026, late of Urunga, formerly of Blacktown and Valery. Beloved husband of Pat. Much loved father and father-in-law of Gerard & Sian, Kathleen, Timothy, Rebecca & Brad, Carey & Dani, Matthew, Sarah, Jacinta and Angela. Loving poppy of Clem, Darcy, Caitlin, Hannah, Chloe, Owen, Rory, Jude, Ivy, Elsie, Quinn and great-grandfather of Phoenix and Ollivander. Dear brother, uncle and friend. John had a long and happy life that revolved around his family.

Aged 91 Years

He Will Be Missed By All

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend John’s Requiem Mass to be celebrated in Holy Name Catholic Church, Urunga on Friday 6th February 2026 commencing at 10.30 am, thence for private interment.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Coffs Harbour 6652 1999

ads@newsofthearea.com.au

COFFS

Revival Centres Church - Coffs HarbourHave you received the Holy Spirit since you believed?

CWA Hall 3 Dalley St, Coffs Harbour Sundays 10.00 am Mobile 0427 949 206 - revivalcentres.org

Garage Sale

GARAGE SALE

various small items plus beds, washing machine buffet and dining suite Sat 7th, start from 8 am 16 Cornish Street, Coffs Harbour 0427 519 290 e130226

SAT 31st, 8am-4pm, 17 Shaws Close, Boambee East, household goods furniture, antiques, DVDs camping gear and gardening gear e060226

LOCALCLASSIFIEDS

For

1930s vintage cane commode chair w/ genuine fowler ware porcelain chamber pot $95. Photo can be supplied. 0490 161 119

1976 F100 guards, doors grills and bonnet from $100. 0499 684 401 F160525

44 gallon drum with lid. $70. 66538337 / 0419 166 688

ACOUSTIC guitar amplifier $90 ph 0493 079 313 F051225

AMPLIFIER, for guitar Magnum, with tuner & lead. $25. 0493 079 313 F141125

BLOOD glucose monitoring system. Ph 0410 313 876

COMPUTER desk. pick up only. 0428 310 384

SUITCASE, VGC, 75 x 45 x 35, ext handle 2 wheels, heavy duty canvas material. Pick up 0421 453 759

FIRE wood, collect. 6653 8337 or 0419 166 688

LEMAIR Wine Cooler

56 bottle. Older model works well. Collect Boambee. Call 0400 095 033.

LOUNGE chair, large 0401 937 687 F01025

SINGLE bed base & mattress 0401 937 687 F101025

Proposed termination of Strata Scheme No 55047 being property situated at 24 Lawson Crescent, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

Notice is given of an intention to apply to the Registrar General for an order terminating the above Strata Scheme and consequent winding up of the Owners Corporation pursuant to section 142 of the Strata Schemes Development Act 2015 (NSW). Any person having any claim against the Owners Corporation of the above Strata Scheme or any estate or interest in or claim against any of the lots comprised in the Strata Scheme is required, on or before Friday 20 February 2026, to send particulars of the estate, interest or claim to Mbt Lawyers, Level 5, 24 Moonee Street, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 or email to info@mbtlawyers.com.au.

Business for Sale

Success for 4 yrs Hi $ Home Based BUSINESS - FREE. Only cost new stock @ HALF price = 2 X mark - up ! Suit Coast Town or Coast Markets, must Sell $2500. Owner Serious Terminal Diagnosis .. V. Genuine Sale. Stock is regarded as very best quality/ price available Suits any age ... Free 8 hrs Training ... Ph 66 524 889 or Email > radorimfire@live.com.au e060226

CLOTHES Dryer Electric oven, Four 16” mag wheels 2 with tyres 0448 802 146 F081125

Plants For Sale

$5, hundreds of plants, lots of hanging plants, open everyday, 11 Sand St, Coffs Harbour

RHAPIS palm 6ft, $70 0447 839 993

STAGHORNS,

AWNING with fittings 910mm x 1300mm W Suits back door. $50 0422 099 142

BABY/child cot/playpen carpenter rebuilt, safe clean, strong $50 6652 3791

BABY Bjorn bouncer $30. 0481 966 840 F101025

BABY jolly jumper, as new $30. 0481 966 840 F101025

BOOKCASES (2), pine 1.0 W x 0.3 D x 1.83 H good condition, $50 each ono, photos available. 0415 669 378

CAMPING chair

Coleman. Ice pouch drink holder, storage net VGC. $35. 0408 223 662

DOUBLE bed, white gas-lift storage, new in box. $99 0415 981 605

For Sale

HERO mobility heavy duty 4 wheel walker 135kg, safe working load exc cond. $95 ph 0490 161 119. Photos can be supplied

HERO 4 wheel walker w/ seat. 136kg safe working load. $85. Photo can be supplied. 0490 161 119

Classifieds 4981 8882

CHICKEN coop 1530w x 850d x 1150h galvanized iron $100 GC Ph 0417 364 582

CHILD’S Bike Seat carrier, child’s bike Helmets x 3. $10 each 0481 966 840 F060625

COCA-COLA

Memorabilia Collection $95. 0409 863 898

FOLDABLE support rail for seniors brand new in box $65 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119

FISH tank w/ food & loads of accesories. 33” L x 16” W x 18” H. $30 0481 966 840

FORD V8 Cleveland and Windsor heads and exhaust manifolds from $75. 0499 684 401 F160525

FR800 honda rotary hoe GC $1,800 ono Ph 0422 288 169 RUS160126

FURRY hood jacket Ladies size 10, toggle front $25 0407 654 879 F010825

COFFEE Machine Expressi Capsule from Aldi model: EXP - 19CCMB, as new exc cond. $40. 0417969322

GARAGE door opener remote control. Merlin Suitae panel door only Less than 5yr old. $100. 0412 776 409 F311025

hanging meat safe $50 0427 544 008

GIRLS Dressing Table Circa 1950’s original mirror & handles $50 0427 544 008

COMMONWEALTH

BABY trailer & jogger pram, two seats. Rain cover incl. Excellent cond $99. 0415 981 605

BABY walker $10. 0481 966 840

BAG, large 22" heavy duty AEG tool bag with wheels, as new $40 Ph 0409 561 719

BAMBOO wireless keyboard. Something different. New in box. $25 Photos available 0490 161 119

BED stick, VGC $50 Ph 0419 224 403

2.0.2 CH 120W Dolby ATMOS sound bar only 12 months old with 2 built in subwoofers. Price $100. 0412 081 950

HISENSE chest freezer H80cm x W52cm x L73cm. $50. 0481 966 840

HONDA compressor 5.5hp $300. Ph 02 6649 1056

HYDRAULIC Bucket 1.2m width, lift and tilt control for small tractor $600 ph. 02 6649 1056

JARS Hexagonal Italian Glass, screw lids, 11 for $55, 1.2 litre clip lid jars $10 each. 0407 654 879 F051225

bank original 1988 $5 coin in mint condition to celebrate opening of Parliament House. $30. 0490 161 119. Photos can be sent.

GLASS jar 'Quattro Stagioni' good lid/seal 1.5 litre. $12. Ph: 0407 654 879

DINING chairs, grey velvet swivel near new 4 available $40ea ono 0400 513 862 F020525

DOG house, smallmedium $15 6656 4700

DOG/cat carriersuit small dog. Near new cond. Safety door. $44.00 Ph 0417 471 225 F051225

BLOODSTONE work boots mens size 11 $50 0491 363 638

DOOR Gym set new $50. Ph 0412 081 950

GOLD frame mirror. 75 x 50cm GC $30. Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119

balls, new, titleist $15 for the dozen ph 0422 940 328

HEALTHCARE heavy duty shower stool 250kg with arms. $85. 0490 161 119. Photos can be sent. F260925

PORTABLE devanti PWM-S-46-BK. Used cond, in working order photos can be sent. Weekend pickup only Coffs Harbour $50 Ph 0456 210 772

PUPPY crate, large. 75cm x 50cm x 60cm H. Only used for 2 months. $45. Photo can be supplied. 0490 161 119

LOCALCLASSIFIEDS

DEADLINE: 12noon WEDNESDAYS E

For Sale

RED overcoat size 10

Jigsaw brand fabric made in Italy 80% wool Never used. Pic ava. $95 0439 682 267

RENAI Gas Heater, GC

$100 ono. 0466 040 154

F260925

ROCKING horse carpenter made, safe enjoyable choice of 2 $40 Ph 6652 3791 F211125

ROOF Top Tent, Kings new, $600. Ph 0438 758 644.

SET of car ramps. $20 6652 8815 F060226

SIMPSONS - large box of character dolls, items & pieces from show. Ex gift for collector $100. 6652 3791 F051225

SINGLE bed, GC $100. 0466 040 154

SNOW skis 2019 Volkyl Flair SC 150cm Black Marker bindings, + free Atomic ski boots (women’s 24.5cm) and poles. $75. 0435 131 589

STAMPS date back to 1900 and prior. First Day Covers unopened 19612004. Offers. Ph Wyn 0417 969 322 F040725

STEAM mop vax, 2 years old, used twice full set of unused microfibre pads shampoo detergent $50. 0410 324 711

STEERING Wheel Lock "Armored Bar" New - Key Locking $50 Fits most vehicles Ph 5633 6352

STOOL seats. Variety size, type and colour. $30 6652 3791

For Sale

For Sale

TWO small wooden childrens wheelbarrows to play or learn planting etc $70. 6652 3791

TEASPOONS large collection as new feat various characters $3-5 per spoon 0403 425 913

TITLEIST Cart 14 golf bag, Pro Golf S20 buggy, both near new $250. 0407 761 441 F060226

TOILET bowl, white Never used, still packaged with seat. Best offer. 0411 527 727F220825

TV 80cm (32”) + DVD player $100 0491 035 704

TWO macrame wall hangers hand made $50 both 0412 254 563

TWO single bed frames round heads & foot rail black. $50 both 0412 254 563 F310125

Ovarian Cancer: Signs & Symptoms

WALKER $20, Wheeled Good cond, Ph 0408 465 886 or quintal@iinet. net.au

WALKER, Mobility 4 wheels, Shopping Basket, GC. $35. 0411 300 156

WALKER, Mobility 4 wheels, Foldable Seat, Storage Bag $40. 0411 300 156

WHEEL barrow suitable for Building site $30. 0411 361 205.

WOODEN chest for Linen, $100. 0411 361 205. F211125

The most commonly reported symptoms of ovarian cancer

Unexplained fatigue

Unexplained weight gain or loss

Urinary changes, such as frequency or urgency

Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation

Increased abdominal size or persistent abdominal bloating

Abdominal or pelvic (lower tummy) pain

Appetite loss, feeling full quickly or indigestion

Boats

3.4m Savage with trailer rego, 6HP and electric swivel seats, cover safety gear, lots of extras ACF724N. L26949 $2,000. 0427 528 084

Caravans

2012 Avan Aspire 499 Caravan, TW-1270kg easy tow, DBL bed combo shower toilet air cond, diesel heater Smart TV, solar, gas elect, 12V appliances new awning, grey water tank, tool boxes front & rear, rego 6/26, very tidy well maintained, worth a look. $30,990. Y35394 0429 696 941 e270226

BEAUTIFUL 19.6 Regent Discoverer Caravan, only two years old. Supplied with shower, toilet, washing machine, full annex, plenty of cabinet space and more! $59,500 ono Coffs Harbour 0408 206 353 or 0402 775 150

Ovarian cancer is Australia’s most lethal female cancer with a 49% 5-year survival rate.

70% of those diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer will have a recurrence within 3 years .

Symptoms of ovarian cancer are often vague making the disease difficult to detect

There is no accurate and reliable early detection test - a pap smear or cervical screening test does not detect ovarian cancer.

Your family history of cancer is important when understanding your personal risk of ovarian cancer.

ONTHEBOX

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY AACTA AWARDS 2026

TEN, 7.30pm

While Australia is generally well represented on red carpets during Hollywood’s annual awards season, this true-blue celebration of local screen excellence is where the stars truly shine. The Gold Coast ceremony is a chance to showcase local talent on home soil. Apple Cider Vinegar and The Narrow Road to the Deep North lead the nominees, with 20 and 12 nods respectively. Succession and All Her Fault star Sarah Snook (pictured) will be recognised for her indelible impact on Australia’s entertainment industry with the Trailblazer Award.

FRIDAY, February 6

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.35 All Creatures Great And Small Christmas Special. (Final, PG) Mrs Hall’s world is rocked by bad news.

8.35 Art Detectives. (Final, PGa) Mick’s father is taken hostage.

9.20 Hard Quiz. (PGa, R) Hosted by Tom Gleeson.

9.50 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG, R)

10.20 Dog Park. (Ml, R)

10.50 ABC Late News.

11.10 Smother. (Mal, R)

12.55 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PGadhlnsv)

FAMILY (22)

6.45

7.00

7.20

Watch This Show. 7.40 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.05 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 My Adventures With Superman. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 TKO: Total Knock Out. 10.35 Late Programs.

schoolteacher Cushla (Lola Petticrew, barrister Michael (Tom Cullen). Their connection deepens before a disturbing discovery in Wednesday’s

second chapter. An intoxicating watch, the four-part romance is rife with betrayal, suspicion and violent consequences as fear seeps into every aspect of Cushla’s life.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Southern Cyprus: Aphrodite’s Paradise. (Premiere)

9.30 Isle Of Wight: Jewel Of The South. (PG, R)

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 Sisi. (MA15+ds, R)

11.50 Babylon Berlin. (Mav, R)

1.40 Silent Road. (MA15+v, 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.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. Juliet Love meets a former textiles teacher. 8.30 MOVIE: Pretty Woman. (1990, Mal, R) A businessman, in need of an escort for the evening, gives a sex worker a first-hand look at the lives of the mega-rich. Richard Gere, Julia Roberts, Hector Elizondo. 11.05 Australian Idol. (PGal, R) 12.50 Dare Me. (MA15+asv)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. (PG, R)

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. A preview of Milano Cortina 2026. 8.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Night. 12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Post Midnight. 3.00 Next Stop. (R) 3.30 World’s Greatest Myths And Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.30 Beyond The Dream: Ice Breakers — Chasing Olympic Gold. (PG, R) 5.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026: Opening Ceremony Pre-Show. The Opening Ceremony of Milano Cortina 2026.

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 AACTA Awards 2026. Honours Australian television creatives and performers. 10.00 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 11.00 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 11.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 12.30

Programs.

ONTHEBOX

SATURDAY, February 7

TV (2)

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Rage Vault Guest Programmer. (PGadhlnsv) 12.00 News. 12.30 Call The Midwife. (PGa, R) 1.30 Art Detectives. (Final, PGa, R) 2.15 All Creatures Great And Small Christmas Special. (Final, PG, R) 3.10 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 4.00 Human. (Final, PG, R) 5.00 Aust Story. (R) 5.30 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. (R)

6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R) Kim moves in with Kath.

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

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

7.30 Call The Midwife. (PGa) Joyce faces a difficult situation when a mother suffers postnatal complications.

8.30 Midsomer Murders. (M) Two teams compete in the local lawn bowls’ championship as the season draws to a close.

10.00 This England. (Ml, R) Looks at Britain during COVID. 11.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Continuous music programming.

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.00 Chopped Junior. 8.40 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 9.05 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.25 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.10 Abbott Elementary. 10.30 Merlin. 11.15 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.15 Vintage Voltage. (R) 11.10 Laos: Echoes Of Serenity. (Premiere, PGaw) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Figure Skating. ISU Four Continents C’ships. H’lights. 4.00 Going Places. (R) 4.30 Cycling. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race. Elite Women’s. 5.30 Imperial Crown: The Myth, Mystery And Majesty.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses. (PG)

8.40 Swiss Alpine Rail Journeys: The Tenacious Davoser Railways. (R) Looks at the funiculars of Schatzalp and Parsenn.

9.35 The Secret DNA Of Us: Bathurst. (PG, R) 10.40 Lord Lucan. (Malv, R) 11.45 Outlander. (MA15+asv, R) 2.30 Beyond Signs. (MA15+a, R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31)

SUNDAY, February 8

TV (2)

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 Songs Of Praise. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Landline. (R) 1.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 2.30 Muster Dogs. (PG, R) 3.40 The Piano UK. (PG, R) 4.30 Amanda & Alan’s Italian Job. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 Grand Designs Transformations. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Muster Dogs. (PG)

8.30 Dog Park. (M) Roland guides his daughter through a breakup.

9.00 This England. (M) Looks at Britain during COVID-19.

9.50 Call The Midwife. (PGa, R) Joyce faces a difficult situation.

10.55 Midsomer Murders. (Mv, R)

12.25 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)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 3.30pm Tiddler. 3.55 Children’s Programs. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 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: Space Jam: A New Legacy. (2021, PG) 9.45 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.25 Merlin. 11.10 Late Programs.

6.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. Inglis Millennium Day And Caulfield Charity Family Day. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) Two men keep changing their stories.

7.30 MOVIE: The Mummy. (1999, Mhv, R) A former soldier disrupts the burial place of a 2000-year-old mummified Egyptian priest. Brendan Fraser, Rachel Weisz.

10.00 MOVIE: American Made. (2017, MA15+l, R) A pilot is recruited by the CIA. Tom Cruise, Domhnall Gleeson.

12.20 MOVIE: Daughter In Disguise. (2021, Mav, R) Emily Alatalo.

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’s Academic. (R)

5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Weekend Today. 11.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. H’lights of the Milano Cortina 2026 games. 1.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 Opening Ceremony. The Opening Ceremony of Milano Cortina 2026. Replay. 5.00 News. 5.30 Find My Country House Aust. (PG, R)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 1. From Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Hosted by Allison Langdon and James Bracey.

12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 1 – Post Midnight. From Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Hosted by Leila McKinnon.

3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 1 – Overnight. From Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Hosted by Leila McKinnon, Sylvia Jeffreys and Dylan Alcott.

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (Return) A couple have outgrown their property.

8.40 Sort Your Life Out. (PGa, R) Stacey Solomon and her team help families declutter and transform their lives.

9.50 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) The low blood sugar levels of a 23-year-old type-1 diabetic have led to a dangerous seizure. 10.50 Matlock. (PGa, R) 11.50 Elsbeth. (PGlsv, R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.

9GEM (82)

6am

6am Hajjan.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.05 Laos: Echoes Of Serenity. (PGa) 12.00 PBS News Compass Points. 12.30 WorldWatch. 12.55 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Cycling. AlUla Tour. H’lights. 4.00 Going Places. (PG, R) 4.30 Cycling. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race. Elite Men’s. H’lights. 5.30 The Anti-Soviet Fighters.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Dominic West: Extreme Silk Road. (Premiere)

VICELAND (31)

MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)

8.25 Grand Canal: China And Its Wondrous Waterway. 10.15 Dunhuang: Ancient Frontier Fortress. (MA15+v, R) 11.15 George Michael: Portrait Of An Artist. (Mdls, R) 1.00 Unlocking The Secrets Of The Nazca Lines. (PGa, R) 1.50 Rise Of The Nazis: The Downfall. (Mav, R) 2.55 The Great House Revival. (R) 3.55 Rediscover Victoria. (R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.

5.45 Icons Unearthed: The Lord Of The Rings. 6.40 The Architecture The Railways Built. (Return) 7.35 Abandoned Engineering. (Return) 8.30 Mysteries Unearthed With Danny Trejo. (Premiere) 10.10 Late Programs.

Continued. (2023, PG, Arabic) 7.25 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 9.10 Whale Rider. (2002, PG) 11.05 First Snow Of Summer. (2023, M, German) 12.55pm Gloria Bell. (2018, M) 2.50 The Movie Show. 3.25 The Amazing Mr. Blunden. (2021) 5.00 Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PG) 6.50 Eloise At The Plaza. (2003) 8.30 The Voyeurs. (2021, MA15+) 10.40 Late Programs. 6am The Movie Show. 7.00 Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PG) 8.50 Eloise At The Plaza. (2003) 10.35 Escape From Alcatraz. (1979, M) 12.40pm Dating Amber. (2020, M) 2.20 Whale Rider. (2002, PG) 4.15 Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 6.10 Big Fish. (2003, PG) 8.30 For A Few Dollars More. (1965, M) 11.00 Sundown. (2021, The Voyeurs. (2021, MA15+) 2.40

6am Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30 Cool Cars With Dermott And Elise. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Motor Racing. Alpine Rally of East Gippsland. 4.00 Desert Collectors. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 MOVIE:

6.00 Better Homes. (R) 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under. H’lights. 1.30 Unfiltered: Cricket. (PG, R) 2.00 MOVIE: Close Encounters Of The Third Kind. (1977, PGh, R) 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Sydney Weekender.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Australian Idol. (PGal)

8.40 The Fall Of The House Of Beckham. (Premiere, M) Looks at the public fallout of the Beckhams.

9.40 The Royal Rich List. (Premiere, PG) Looks at royal assets worth £21 billion.

11.10 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+av, R)

12.20 Temple. (Mal)

1.20 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R)

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62) 7TWO (62)

6am Morning Programs. 9.30 Seinfeld. 10.00 Australian Ninja Warrior. 11.50 Soccer. EPL. Liverpool v Newcastle. 1.50pm Motor Racing. FIA Formula E World C’ship. H’lights. 2.55 Surfing Aust. 3.25 Swimming. Aust Open Water C’ships. H’lights. 3.55 LEGO Masters. 5.35 MOVIE: Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed. (2004, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban. (2004, PG) 10.15 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Golf. Jack Newton Celebrity Classic. H’lights. 11.00 Fishing Aust. 11.30 Forging Champions. (PGl, R) 1.00 Beyond The Dream: Ice Breakers — Chasing Olympic Gold. (PG, R) 2.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 1 – H’lights.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls) In the final two weddings, one bride takes a big leap of faith in an experiment first.

8.35 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 2 – Night. Coverage includes women’s downhill alpine skiing, men’s 10km cross-country skiing and men and women’s parallel giant slalom qualifiers and finals. 12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 2 – Post Midnight. 3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 2 – Overnight. 5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.

6.30 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGal) Hosted by Julia Morris and Robert Irwin. 8.30 NCIS: Sydney. (Mv) A car owned by a US Navy cyber engineer explodes just as her teenage daughter is about to take a driving lesson. 9.30 Law & Order: SVU. (Mav) Bruno suspects a bomb was planted to destroy DNA evidence and Benson investigates a connected

6am Morning Programs. 8.30 Swimming. Aust Open Water C’ships. H’lights. 9.00 Seinfeld. 9.30 World Endurance Championship: Season Review. 10.30 Soccer. EPL. Tottenham v Manchester City. 12.30pm Basketball. WNBL. Lightning v Flyers. 2.30 Snackmasters. 3.50 LEGO Masters. 5.00 Young Sheldon. 5.30 MOVIE: Three Men And A Baby. (1987, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Ocean’s Eleven. (2001, M) 10.00 Late Programs.

MONDAY, February 9

TV (2)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Midsomer Murders. (Mv, R) 11.30 Back Roads. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The Great Australian Bee Challenge. (Final, R) 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Would I Lie To You? (Final, PG, R) 3.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 4.00 Love Your Garden. (PG, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Good With Wood. (PGs, R) 10.00 Skeleton’s Serious Kids. (PGal) 12.05 WorldWatch. 1.00 PBS News Compass Points. 1.30 WorldWatch. 2.00 Karnak: The Largest Temple In The World. (R) 3.05 Going Places. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Secrets Of The Killer Mega Shark. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

SBS World News.

7.35 Inside The Tower Of London. (Return)

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

9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M)

10.05 SBS World News Late.

10.35 Other People’s Money. (Premiere, Mn)

11.30 Vigil. (Malv, R)

2.30 The Great House Revival. (R)

3.30 Rediscover Victoria. (Mls, R)

4.00 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Sunrise. 10.00 NFL. Super Bowl LX. Seattle Seahawks v New England Patriots. 3.00 The Chase. Hosted by Bradley Walsh. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. Contestants race to answer quiz questions correctly to avoid being caught by The Chaser.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

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

9.15 9-1-1. (Mav) Athena and Hen navigate their way back home.

10.15 I Cut Off His Penis: The Truth Behind The Headlines. (MA15+av)

11.15 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+av, R)

12.35 Conviction. (MA15+av, R)

1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R)

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) After nine weddings, the next phase of the experiment begins.

9.05 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 3 – Night. Coverage includes men’s team downhill alpine skiing, women’s ice hockey and freestyle skiing slopestyle finals.

12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano

Cortina 2026. Day 3 – Post Midnight.

3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 3 – Overnight.

5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.

6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 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 TKO: Total Knock Out. 9.15 Kids BBQ Championship. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 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

SBS MOVIES (32)

TUESDAY, February 10

TV (2)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Aust Story. (R) 10.30 Planet America. (R) 11.00 Human. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Call The Midwife. (Ma, R) 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 3.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 4.00 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

(3)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.05 Good With Wood. (PGas, R) 10.00 Paddington Station 24/7. (R) 10.50 Mountain Vets. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Queens Of Ancient Egypt. (PGa, R) 3.00 Going Places. (PG, R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Secrets Of The Tasmanian Tiger. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGa, R)

8.35 MOVIE: I Am Raquel Welch. (2025)

10.10 Rock Legends.

10.40 SBS World News Late.

11.10 Exit. (MA15+ads)

12.05 DNA. (Malv, R)

1.50 We Hear You. (PG, R)

2.40 The Great House Revival. (R)

4.35 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

7TWO (62)

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6.00

7TWO (62) VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 7.55 Big Fish. (2003, PG) 10.15 Hive. (2021, M, Albanian) 11.45 For A Few Dollars More. (1965, M) 2.15pm Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PG) 4.05 Eloise At The Plaza. (2003) 5.50 Madison. (2020, PG, German) 7.30 La La Land. (2016, M) 9.50 One Of A Kind. (2023) 11.45 Falcon Lake. (2022, M) 1.40am Sundown. (2021, MA15+) 3.10 Late Programs. 6am A Handful Of Dust. (1988, PG) 7.45 The Movie Show. 8.20 Madison. (2020, PG, German) 10.00 Someone Who Takes Care Of Me. (2023, M, Spanish) 11.50 La La Land. (2016, M) 2.10pm Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 4.05 Roxane. (2019, PG, French) 5.45 Enigma. (1982, PG) 7.35 Walkabout. (1971, M) 9.30 The Blue Caftan. (2022, M, Arabic) 11.45 Fathers And Mothers. (2022, M, Danish) 1.35am Late Programs.

The

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGad)

7.30 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. (PG) From Edinburgh Castle, Scotland. 9.30 Doc. (Ma) A popular weight loss medication reveals the cracks in a couple’s relationship. Two sisters face an unexpected diagnosis.

10.30 St. Denis Medical. (PGal)

11.30 Autopsy USA: Anthony Bourdain. (Madl, R)

12.30 Childhood’s End. (Premiere, Mav)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R)

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) Over two nights, a new task is revealed and the photo ranking returns, where connections and cracks start to form.

9.15 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 4 – Night. Coverage includes short track mixed team relay finals, 500m and 1000m qualifiers, women’s alpine skiing and men’s moguls qualifiers.

12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 4 – Post Midnight.

3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano

Cortina 2026. Day 4 – Overnight. 5.30 Today. 6.00 10 News+. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 I’m A

ONTHEBOX

WEDNESDAY, February 11

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 11.00 All Creatures Great And Small Christmas Special. (Final, PG, R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (M, R) 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 3.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.55 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Destination Flavour. (R) 9.20 Good With Wood. (PGa, R) 10.15 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, R) 11.05 Britain By Beach. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Queens Of Ancient Egypt. (Mav, R) 3.00 Going Places. (R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Race For The Sky. (PGalv, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Saving Yellowstone. (PG)

8.30 Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World. (PG, R)

9.25 Trespasses. (Mls)

10.20 SBS World News Late. 10.50 Face To Face. (Ma, R)

11.40 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (Mav, R)

1.30 Golden Boy. (MA15+s, R)

2.20 The Great House Revival. (R)

4.15 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 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. 8.55 Adventure Time. 9.20 Teen Titans Go! 9.40 We Bare Bears. 9.55 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 10.15 My Adventures With Superman. 10.40 Late Programs.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Movie Show. 6.30 Roxane. (2019, PG, French) 8.05 The Movie Show. 8.40 Enigma. (1982, PG) 10.30 The Blue Caftan. (2022, M, Arabic) 12.45pm Falcon Lake. (2022, M) 2.40 Discovering Film. 3.35 A Handful Of Dust. (1988, PG) 5.45 The Big Steal. (1990, PG) 7.35 My Own Private Idaho. (1991, M) 9.30 Bare. (2015, MA15+) 11.10 Late Programs. 5.50am The Big Steal. (1990, PG)

THURSDAY, February 12

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 The Weekly. (Ml, R) 11.00 Creative Types. (PGv, R) 11.25 QI. (Mls, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Bergerac. (Mv, R) 1.45 Camel Capers. (R) 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 3.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.55 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Destination Flavour. (R) 9.15 Good With Wood. (PGa, R) 10.15 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGl, R) 11.00 Britain By Beach. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Queens Of Ancient Egypt. (PGa, R) 3.00 Going Places. (R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Race For The Sky. (PGa, 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. (Madlv)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 Before We Die. (MA15+v, R)

11.40 Forest Of The Missing. (MA15+asv, R)

1.40 Silent Road. (Ma, R)

3.35 Celebrity Mastermind. (PG, R)

4.35 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGad)

7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGl)

8.30 Highway Patrol. (PGl)

9.00 Operation Dark Phone: Murder By Text. (MA15+av)

10.00 Air Crash Investigations. (Return, PGa)

11.00 The Disappearance Of Gabby Petito. (Mav, R)

12.15 The Last Weekend. (Malv)

1.15 Travel Oz. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R)

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Seven News With Alex Cullen. 1.10 Blankety Blank. (PGas, R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Sunrise. News, sport and weather. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) The latest news and views. 12.00 Golf. LIV Golf Adelaide. Day 1. 5.00 The Chase Australia. Contestants race to answer quiz questions correctly to avoid being caught by The Chaser. Hosted by Larry Emdur. 6.00

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COFFS COAST NEWS OF THE AREA

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) Revelations week sees the couples show some vulnerability as a new task begins.

9.05 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 5 – Night. Coverage includes women’s snowboarding halfpipe and moguls and men’s super alpine skiing.

12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 5 – Post Midnight.

3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 5 – Overnight.

5.30 Today.

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6.00 10 News+. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PGa)

7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) 7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of

6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts.

VICELAND (31)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGad) Harper’s guilt surges.

8.30 MOVIE: Sweet Home Alabama. (2002, PGl, R) A New York socialite returns to Alabama to divorce the man she married and left behind years earlier. Reese Witherspoon, Josh Lucas.

10.50 To Be Advised.

12.30 Dare Me. (MA15+asv) Addy gets closer to Colette.

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

The Fast History Of. 6.15 Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 History’s Greatest Mysteries. 10.05 Brassic. (Return) 12.05am Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Big Steal. (1990, PG) 7.35 The Movie Show. 8.10 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 10.10 Walkabout. (1971, M) 12.05pm My Own Private Idaho. (1991, M) 2.00

Roxane. (2019, PG, French) 3.35 Enigma. (1982, PG)

5.30 55 Steps. (2017, PG) 7.35 St. Vincent. (2014, M)

9.30 The Mattachine Family. (2023, M) 11.20 Some Kind Of Beautiful. (2014, M) 1.10am Late Programs.

5.45 55 Steps. (2017, PG)

4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R)

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 6 – Night. Coverage includes men’s skeleton runs, snowboard cross, moguls qualifiers and finals and women’s super alpine skiing.

12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 6 – Post Midnight. Coverage includes men’s snowboard cross final and women’s 10km cross-country skiing and 5000m speed skating final.

3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 6 – Overnight.

5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.

7MATE (64)

From 10am, enjoy American style food, drinks, giveaways and

News Of The Area

National Physie champs

By Andrea FERRARI

WOOLGOOLGA Physical Culture Club (Physie) has had two of its members crowned National Champions 2025 at the Edith Parsons School of Physical Culture at Sydney Town Hall.

Montana Wright (5 years) and Holly Sanders (Open Advanced Ladies) were awarded National Champions

in their divisions, with Montana also being awarded the overall 5-year class Dance Champion.

Woolgoolga Physical Culture Club Head Teacher

Gail Airlie told News Of The Area, “This was an outstanding achievement from our club, with all 12 representatives working beautifully and delivering a personal best.”

Ms Airlie said she is justly proud of Holly, who has been a

student of hers since she was five years old. The club results are as follows:

- Montana Wright 5 Year Individual Champion and Dance Winner.

- Lara Carriage 7 Years National Grand Finalist.

- Havana Wright 7 Years 3rd Place.

- Ava Rea 8 Years 5th Place.

- Addisyn Smith 12 Years 4th Place.

- Pippa Tucker 12 Years 2nd Place.

- Khloe Wright 13 Years 4th Place.

- Acacia Tucker 16 Years NGF.

- Celine Shih Intermediate Seniors NGF.

- Gabi Dowler Open Seniors NGF.

- Holly Sanders Open Advanced Ladies Group 1 Champion.

- Courtney Wright Open Advanced Ladies Group 3 2nd Place.

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